standard poodle puppies florida

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key. Welcome to Quivira Goldens Contact us to place a deposit on our upcoming litter The rolling plains of Kansas are where we call home, and we are excited to be able to bring some of the best and brightest of the Golden Retriever breed to our families. We are certain you will fall in love with our Goldens just as we have done. Our health tested parents are a perfect blend of American bloodlines as well as some imported lines from our sires. We have been working at developing a unique blend of healthy, intelligent easy to train Golden Retrievers for nearly 20 years and can't wait to talk with you about our upcoming litters. Many of our Goldens are training or functioning as service dogs or emotional support dogs with veterans, law enforcement and in schools and nursing homes. The easiest way to join the Quivira Golden Family is to complete a puppy reservation form and place a deposit. We encourage all families to call or email prior to completing the form. Puppy spots are held based on the order deposits are received. Now taking deposits for our January litter. Ready to go to new homesin March sometime. Call Soon to reserve your pup. Our never kenneled, well loved puppies make the perfect family dog! We are located in the Kansas City area however our puppies are adopted all over the United States. Five benefits have been observed in canines that were exposed to the Bio Sensor stimulation exercises. The benefits noted were: Improved cardio vascular performance heart rate Stronger heart beats More tolerance to stress Greater resistance to disease At three weeks old we start potty training our pups. We first designate a place in their whelping pen for them to do their business and as they are able to walk farther we gradually move their spot farther away. They are using a dog door to "go" outside between weeks old. Also at three weeks old we start beginning Manners training. That involves learning to sit and be patient before getting to go eat puppy food. The pups are also starting to spend time in an open crate and will graduate to closed crate time as they get older. Sometimes we keep our favorite pups longer to use for our breeding program or to offer a higher level of training for our clients. These pups depending on their age, know sit, stay can hold a stay while I go outside out of sight for at least 2 minutes come and sit at my feet, down, leave it, and on your bed. They are crate trained and also good on a leash. If you are interested in one of our pups in training give us a call. We have one 8 month old male available. Join our wait list Champion blood lines from a trusted breeder There are many options when looking for a Golden Retriever puppy. At Simply Golden Puppies We believe that Golden Retriever puppies and their mommas deserve a lot of love and attention. If you have ever had a Golden, you know that they are happiest when they are with their people. For this reason we keep our breeding program small. Our goldens are pets first. They are never kept in a kennel and spend a lot of time by our sides. We believe that if our momma's are happy the babies are happy too. The litters of Greta and Kate mark our sixth generation of puppies. We know very well how our puppies turn out. Our puppies have championship blood lines from 6 separate countries. That makes their gene pool phenomenal! You can expect a beautiful, healthy, very smart dog with therapy soft fur and blocky heads. They are devoted and loyal with fun personalities! While environmental factors play a big part in the health of your golden retriever you can be sure that we have done our best to ensure your puppy gets the best possible start in life. All of our personal adult goldens have lived past 12 years old with several living to be 16 years old. Our Puppies are vet checked healthy and vaccinated before going to their new homes and are sold as family companions with limited pet AKC registration. Why a Golden Retriever is the Perfect First Dog A golden retriever puppy is an excellent choice for those who are looking to get their first dog. 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. If you are consistent you can teach them very precise things like staying off of the carpet unless they are invited on it, waiting at an open door until they are invited in, not to bark unless there is something important to bark about.Because they are so smart, they can also learn to "work " the system so praise and being consistent is key. Goldens are eager to please and like to work which explains why they respond so well to Positive reinforcement training and are such popular service dogs. Many of our puppies have gone on to be service and therapy dogs. Our Golden Retriever Puppies are loyal — Golden retrievers are extremely loyal dogs. They were born to please you which makes them the best companion dog and another reason that they can be wonderful therapy or emotional support dogs. Our Golden Retriever Puppies are great with kids — Golden retrievers are great with children! They seem to instinctually know how to interact with them. One of our last customers had a one year old who tripped and fell in the grass. Our 12 week old puppy went carefully up to him, bent his head down to his face as if to ask if he was all right. It melted all of our hearts! Long ago my Daughter learned how to walk by pulling up on our first Golden Retriever. Our Golden Retriever Puppies are funny - They have the best personalities! They are loving, loyal, goofy, playful, gentle, and bring so much joy to our golden families! They are bird dogs at heart, so they love a good game of fetch or a swim. If exercise is provided daily, golden retriever puppies can adapt to any type of home, even if it is a city apartment. 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. 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.

Need Prayer? Regular bathing is essential to French Bulldog puppy care , ensuring their overall well-being and happiness. Maintaining proper hygiene for your furry friend offers numerous benefits, from preventing skin issues to keeping them smelling fresh. Pet owners should use baby shampoo for the grooming needs of their pups. This includes caring for their grooming needs, using puppy pads for training, preventing fleas, and providing them with a balanced kibble diet. The recommended age to give your French Bulldog puppy their first bath is an important consideration. Waiting until they are at the appropriate age ensures their safety and comfort during bathing. Here are some factors to consider when determining the right time for their initial bath, including their feeding routine and whether they have been exposed to fleas. This allows them to develop a stronger immune system and ensures they are more capable of handling the bathing experience. At around weeks, puppies explore their surroundings and become more active. By waiting until they are older, you can ensure they have better water coordination and stability. Introducing Water and Shampoo : Waiting until a certain age before introducing your French Bulldog puppy to water and shampoo is crucial. Their delicate skin and developing coat require gentle care. Are French Bulldogs Ears Cropped? Following these guidelines ensures that your French Bulldog puppy, Bishop Jenkins, has a positive bathing experience from an early age. The activity level of your French Bull Dog puppy may determine the frequency of baths they need. Coat condition: If your French Bulldog puppy has a healthy coat, it may require fewer baths than those with skin issues or allergies. Environment: French bulldog puppies, or Frenchie puppies, who spend much time outdoors or get dirty easily, may need more frequent bathing. The general guideline for French bulldog puppy care is determining the bathing frequency based on their lifestyle and coat condition. This applies to all Frenchie puppies, including French and pit bulldog puppies. On average, it is recommended to bathe your French Bulldog puppy once every 2 to 3 months. However, if your French Bulldog puppy gets dirty or smelly, you can bathe them as soon as needed. French Bu, Frenchppy care is important to prevent dryness caused by over-bathing. Frequent bathing can disrupt the balance of oils in French Bulldog puppy care, leading to dryness and irritation. It is important not to over-bathe your puppy unless necessary. Start slow: When introducing baths to your French Bulldog puppy, begin with shorter sessions using lukewarm water and gentle dog shampoo. Monitor their reaction: Observe how your puppy reacts during and after each bath. If they seem uncomfortable or experience excessive dryness, adjust the frequency accordingly. Gradually increase intervals: As your puppy grows older and their coat becomes more resilient, you can extend the time between baths while maintaining good hygiene. Step-by-Step Guide: Bathing a French Bulldog Puppy Preparing the necessary supplies before starting the bath: Gather all the essential items for bathing your French Bulldog puppy, such as mild dog shampoo , towels, a non-slip mat, and a brush. Fill the bathtub or sink with warm water that is comfortable for your Frenchie. Creating a safe and comfortable environment in which to bathe your puppy: Place a non-slip mat at the bottom of the tub or sink to prevent your puppy from slipping and getting anxious. Keep the bathroom door closed to minimize distractions and create a calm atmosphere. Use gentle and reassuring words throughout the process to help your pup feel at ease. Step-by-step instructions on how to properly wet, shampoo, rinse, and dry your Frenchie: Wetting: Slowly introduce your puppy to the water by gently pouring it over their body using a cup or handheld showerhead. Be cautious not to get water into their ears or eyes. Massage the shampoo into their fur using gentle circular motions. Ensure no residue is left behind, as it can irritate their skin. Drying: Use soft towels to pat dry your Frenchie after bathing gently. Avoid vigorous rubbing that could cause discomfort. Use a blow dryer on a low heat setting from a distance to avoid overheating them. Preparing for your French Bulldog puppy Here is the list of things you must have before your puppy comes home: The food that I start my puppies on occasionally changes as I search for the very best products. At this time my highest recommendation is to feed a raw meat diet which consists of muscle meats, bone, organ, vegetables, and supplements to ensure your new family members berst health and longevity. You fill find these in the freezer sections of boutique pet stores. You are welcome to supplement with kibble for those times when the food is not defrosted in time, for travel, and other unforeseeable circumstances. Goat milk kefir or yogurt not cows milk! I wean my puppies onto water by 8 weeks old, however I do recommend to have a quart on hand during the transition period just in case. If not used, it can be frozen for later use or your can drink it yourself. Its very easy to digest and puppies absolutely love it! Instead choose freeze dried raw meat treats. These can be ordered online through chewy. Enzymatic cleaner for tidying up potty accidents. Regular bowls work fine but if you would like to go the extra mile there are special bowls designed specifically for brachycephalic breeds which helps slow down eating and therefore swallowing less gas and creating less gas and less chances for over eating and then throwing up those can be purchased online. Raised bowls are an extra plus! Spending all that time bent over a bowl can be painful on the joints. A raised bowl will keep proper body conformation and promote correct position of joints. Choose durable toys and generally stay away from plushies as these can be easily torn apart and the fluff inside is easy to choke on. Edible chews are okay too, just no bleached rawhide as this is toxic. They make both a vitamin-mineral wafer as well as a joint support wafer. I recommend both. Please use my breeders code for a discount on your order: nuvet. Making food available during specific intervals during the day will make bowel movements more predictable, because they typically poop within 20 minutes after eating. You can start to take away food earlier each evening to have less bowel movements over night. If feeding kibble, I highly recommend taking a moment to boil and mash some carrots. This will help to keep their digestive system settled during the stressful transition between homes. If you choose to add any additional supplements, just follow the packaging instructions. If your puppy eats all of it and seems to still be hungry, mix them another portion. There is no need to measure or count calories at this point. Growing puppies need a lot of energy, just like growing children. I will always and forever recommend only raw unprocessed diets for this breed. If this is the case I highly recommend adding canned food from the same brand. I mix this thoroughly until there are no chunks left and the mixture is uniform otherwise they will pick out the chunks and leave the kibble behind. Try not to mix other cooked meat into your kibble otherwise your puppy will never eat kibble without meat. If you are okay with cooking daily for your puppy, then by all means add cooked meat and vegetables into their kibble. Please do not feed beef or chicken based products. If you elect to feed cooked meat, choose organic turkey only at this young age. I always have clean water available day and night. If your puppy is experiencing separation anxiety and not wanting to eat then you can offer goats milk kefir or yogurt as well as egg yolks. Goats milk kefir and egg yolks are hard for puppies to resist and it will provide both hydration and calories. Your French Bulldog puppy should be kept on the diet they were started on for a few months, as changes from what they are used to can cause stomach upset and diarrhea. I am enthusiastically happy to share any resources and guide you on a diet change to raw meat feeding: French Bulldog Puppy Hygiene Your puppy does not need to be bathed unless visibly dirty. DO NOT allow water to enter the ears! Frenchie ears are erect and open, so its easy to water to get in. In addition to this, ears are dark and warm perfect for bacteria or fungus. Dry the ears thoroughly after each bath and walks in the rain and avoid allowing water near the head in general. For cleaning the ears on a regular basis weekly or more frequently I like to use cotton pads soaked in a specifically formulated cleaning solution called Ph Notix. The Ph Notix does an excellent job of melting the ear wax for an easy wipe away. Though, coconut oil, colloidal silver, and any vet prescribed ear cleaner can be used as well. Clip nails monthly at a minimum. The more frequently nails are clipped, the shorter they will become. Same applies to their tail pocket. Puppies don't typically have tail pockets, but as they matures this feature can develop. The most important step is to very thoroughly dry your puppy whenever they are wet! I check this area with each bath, and completely dry the paws especially in between the toes after each bath and each time they get wet. If you notice redness between the toes, then it is likely yeast. I personally do not brush the teeth of my dogs, and have never had a dental issue. Providing large raw real bones for chewing will naturally clean the teeth and this is something that I give all of my dogs. However if you are keen on doing so, daily brushing will provide additional protection to your dogs teeth. There are special savory flavored tooth pastes just for dogs available to make this task more enjoyable for your puppy. As a preventative measure you can also add a specially formulated probiotic into their water to support dental health called TEEF. I administer these vaccines at home in a single dose containing all five strains of virus. I use the brand name Duramune Max and I special order these to be delivered to be via one-day-air on ice to ensure their viability. This initial dose is given once your Frenchie turns at least 7 weeks old. Please wait a minimum of 3 weeks to give the next booster vaccines. This is very important, I do not recommend the leptospirosis vaccine due to a high rate of adverse reactions. It is not necessary unless your French Bulldog puppy will be in frequent contact with wildlife or livestock and you live in an area where leptsospirosis is rampent. Bordetella can be given at 10 weeks old and rabies can be given once your puppy is a minimum of 3 months old. I also give my adult French Bulldogs a booster of Bordetella kennel cough as well as canine influenza vaccine once each flu season. Deworming Simply due to the nature of puppies, I recommend you submit a fecal sample during your initial vet visit. I deworm the entire litter multiple times before coming home to you. But please understand that puppies are messy creatures. Puppies also put absolutely everything in their mouths including each others paws. So please understand its likely that you may need to continue one last treatment of dewormer when your puppy comes home, even if they are having solid poops. All of my mamma dogs are dewormed before and after having their litters as well to reduce exposure to internal parasites. Additionally I deworm all of my adult dogs twice yearly with a combination of metronidazole and fenbendazole, or drontal plus. Certain parasites like giardia are extremely difficult to eradicate in our cool and wet climate. Giardia will live in the soil and water and can be spread through wild animals coming through your yard as well. Adult dogs with strong immune systems will develop antibodies to giardia and will have no symptoms. Puppies who test positive for giarida may or may not have symptoms. I personally have never had a flea or tick problem with any of my dogs in all my years of breeding and I choose not to treat my pets with pesticides. Pesticides are teratogenic and can cause birth defects as well as neurologic disorders such as seizures. Personally I would only consider one dose of oral NexGuard during the hottest month of Summer when these parasites are most active in my geological area. Each individual dog and household must weight the risks and benefits to use or not to use pesticides based on their personal circumstances and geological area. I understand you might live in an area with a known problem with these external parasites or might be living on a farm where it will be necessary to keep them under control. There are many different kinds of medications that can be used but they treat different things, some are applied topically, some given orally, some work for one month and others up to 8 months, and some medications will also treat internal parasites in addition to external. For puppies under six months old the oral medication NexGaurd can be given for fleas and ticks, as well as off-label for mites. A third kind of treatment is a Seresto collar which is a collar made from a special material that is filled with medication that is slowly released and absorbed by your dog. My brother who lives on a farm finds favor with this method and it can be used as early as 7 weeks of age. Ridgefield, Washington. This is a good question because the answer depends on many factors: the breed of the dog, size, medical conditions, and how active the dog is. If you have a French Bulldog , the2nd most popular dog in the US, the answer becomes much more interesting. French Bulldogs have a single short coat of hair. They get cold quickly. During summer, they are prone to heatstroke because it is hard for them to regulate their temperature efficiently. Also, their skin is too thin, and bathing them regularly can strip their skin of its natural oil. Therefore, it is crucial to have all the necessary information you need to determine how often to bathe your Frenchie. You also need to know how to wash your Frenchie properly and keep them clean between baths. Follow this article for a comprehensive guide. A general rule of thumb Frenchies should be bathed once every 1 to 2 months. Although many French Bulldog owners say they wash them about 5 or 6 times a year, or as needed, most owners find the as needed comes more often than 5 or 6 times a year. If you have a Frenchie that loves rolling in the dirt, you may find that more frequent bathing is necessary; each Frenchie is different. Does it act as messy as a piglet? If you need to clean not only his paws but also his fur when you get back from the outside, then you have full hands of works. As a replacement, you can use a dry cleaning foam and wet towel that will help you remove all the dirt from their fur. Use products suitable for sensitive skin and rich in herbs that provide essential and healthy moisture. Check the section on keeping Frenchies clean between baths for more. Does your dog have dry and flaky skin? Is the skin sensitive? If your dog developed any of the previously mentioned issues, it would be best if you consult with your vet before determining the frequency of baths. If your dog does not have any serious issues, you can bathe them with shampoo and water once per month. Frenchies have numerous folds that require to be cleaned in the meanwhile. They can collect dirt, moisture, and food leftovers that may trigger severe irritations. The flip side is that Frenchies have oils in their skins, just like all dogs do. It keeps their coat healthy and their skin healthy too. What about a French bulldog with allergies? If your Frenchie has pre-existing skin allergies, it would be best to defer you to your veterinarian. They would determine the cause and treatment and what works best for your particular dog. Here are some tips for making bath time a success. Use a dog shampoo for sensitive skin. Clean the ears, and wash any gunk from around the eyes. Make sure you thoroughly dry the wrinkle area. If your Frenchie has tear stains, you can remove them with an appropriate cream. How to keep Frenchies clean between baths Fun fact: your Frenchie dreads bathing just as much as you dread bathing it. Here are some methods to keep him clean and keep the need for bathing down to a minimum. Clean Their Ears — This will prevent odors and painful infections. Clean Their Tail Pocket — Clean the area around the tail, especially if it smells. Doggie Sprays — Doggies sprays are like human perfumes but specially crafted for dog hair. They work great for keeping your Frenchie smelling good. Dry Shampoo — Apply dog-friendly dry shampoo on the dog and brush it out. This is great for keeping them smelling great. A homemade combination of cornstarch and baking soda works just as well. Pet Wipes — Pet wipes are an excellent touch-up cleaning option for French Bulldogs. Watch out for wrinkles and paws - Wrinkles can be a prime area for infections when they are moist, so you should dry them off with wipes or tissue. Also, make sure to dry the gaps between their toes. Takeaway To conclude, how often you bathe your Frenchie is all down to an as and when basis. If your French Bulldog is covered in mud and stinks, he needs a bath — no argument. However, with lighter dirt, just brush it off and possibly use a good dry shampoo product. The less often you bathe your French Bulldog with water and cleaning products, the less their natural oils, skin, and coat will suffer. Frenchies are trainable. Starting them off at a young age can make all the difference in how they accept the bathing process. If you love learning more about French bulldogs, go ahead and sign up for our Frenchie Blog. Puppies of all ages like getting filthy. However, bathing your puppy while it is too young is not a good idea. Only pups above the age of 12 weeks should be bathed. Until they are mature enough, you may have to settle with a sponge wash to clean your puppy. The less water your dog consumes before the age of 12 weeks, the better. Simply use a wet towel to spot clean your pet. Dry your puppy as soon as possible. Puppies acquire cold quickly because their body clocks and inner natural temperature regulating systems in the body are not fully formed. This is especially true for french bulldog puppies, who have just one coat, a topcoat, as opposed to most other dog breeds, which have two coats, a topcoat, and an undercoat, to keep them warm. As a result, two factors must be considered while determining a washing regimen for your French bulldog puppy. The frequency of bathing, first, and a thorough post-bath drying down, second. Dry shampoo is an excellent method to keep puppy cleanliness in between baths. A dry shampoo is an excellent tool, but it is critical to select the proper one. It is not the greatest technique to keep the dog clean; a fast wash is preferable to dry shampoo. Some individuals, however, like it since it is more convenient. For example, if your French bulldog puppy becomes muddy after playing outside, he needs a wash, even if it is an unplanned one. Your veterinarian is a wonderful resource for guidance on bathing frequency. It is highly efficient and easily removes dirt and oil. It is recommended to stick to dog products developed specifically for dogs, such as… Dog shampoos Dog soaps Dog moisturizers You may give your puppy a wash once he or she is above the age of 12 weeks. Depending on the size of your puppy, a sink or large bowl may be the most convenient method to bathe him. Bathtubs are ideal for bigger dogs. Brush your pet well before beginning the bath. This will get rid of any extra dirt and hair. Brushing aids in the removal of shedding hair from the dog. This will also help to avoid knots or matted hair after quite a bath. Prepare the water! Ensure the water is at a mild temperature. Make sure the dog is comfortable throughout the bath. During wash time, the dogs may slip and injure themselves. The shampoo will come next. Your dog should only be bathed using puppy shampoo. These shampoos and conditioners have been created just for your dog. Shampoo and detergent soap designed for humans may be too harsh for your dog. When washing your puppy, be careful not to get soap in their ears, mouth, or nose. Rinse your dog off with warm water. The rinsing procedure will be aided if you have access to a handheld sprayer or hose. Remove your dog from the bath once it has been thoroughly washed. To dry your dog, use a soft towel. It is not difficult to bathe your dog. Ascertain that the bath is a relaxing and enjoyable experience. They may not enjoy bathing, but the easier you make it for them, the less they will mind. Perhaps they will even love a bath! Gums must be pink and healthy. As the french bulldog puppy develops into maturity, this will make brushing and cleaning teeth and administering medicine much easier. If you try to do this with a french bulldog that is not used to it, they may snap at you or even bite you if they are not used to it. COAT The coat of a french bulldog puppy should be glossy and smooth to the touch. While grooming, keep an eye out for parasites, wounds, abnormal swellings, and patchiness. Brushing is also an excellent technique to minimize shedding. NAILS Daily nail clipping is necessary for the health of your French bulldog, as well as the protection of your furniture and your own body from scratches. You may either do it yourself at home with the right pet nail trimming tools or hire a grooming expert to come to your home and do it for you. If you walk your dog a lot, the nails will often be short due to walking on a rough surface. The breed does not have an excessive amount of oils in their coat , which means they do not need grooming as often as other breeds. Pitcher or nozzle to rinse your puppy 3. Positive Reinforcement Treats More than a step, this is a concept to implement. Where to Bathe a Puppy Consistency and positive association are key in this step. You want your puppy to always relate his bathing spot with a happy and fun experience. A puppy will shower just fine in the kitchen sink or bathroom. A walk-in shower or a regular bathtub is the best place for a larger breed puppy. There are also bathing puppy tubs you can purchase. If the weather is hot you can bathe your puppy outside. Just make sure the water from your garden hose or faucet has the appropriate temperature. Puppies will chill rapidly. You can use a tub, baby bathtub, or even a kiddie pool. Avoid the grass or yard for obvious reasons. Brush Your Puppy Often overlooked by pet parents, brushing your puppy is one of the essential parts of puppy bath time. Before even turning on the water, brush your puppy thoroughly to remove tangles and knots. Be gentle when brushing, specifically in areas such as the armpits, groin, or ears. The fur in those areas tends to create firm knots. Brushing without looking can hurt your dog. If a foreign object i. Pro Tip: Brushing time is also the perfect opportunity to check for bumps, wounds, fleas, and other abnormalities that could mean a bigger health issue. So, can I bathe my dog in cold water? Their experience with temperature is different from ours. You need to be gentle. Get your puppy in his bathing spot. Use a very gentle stream of water to wet your puppy gradually. Lightly lather the shampoo in a circular motion. Rub in it thoroughly. Start with their paws and work your way up. Leave face for last. Pay close attention to places prone to dirt such as armpits and tail. Avoid the eyes as much as possible. Be careful with the nose and mouth. Rinse your puppy. Start from the head and work your way down. Rinse more than once until all the suds and shampoo residue disappears. Drying The Puppy After the splish-splash fun is over, immediately wrap him in a dry towel. If you want to speed things up, you might want to use a dog blow dryer. Set the blow drier on a low setting, at a reasonable distance from your dog, and constantly moving to avoid burning your puppy with the hot air. Watch A Puppy Get His First Bath Check out this video to see an experienced dog dad bathe Husky puppies using some of the tricks and techniques in this post. For a puppy to remain calm during bath time, teach him to associate the experience with good things. The first treat should always be given when your pup gets in the tub. You can use treats throughout the entire bathing process. Using a lick pad is an excellent trick to get your pup to sit still during a bath. Just stick the pad to the side of the tub and add peanut butter. This little puppy bathing hack should keep your puppy busy and happy during the shower so you can focus on cleaning. Start with small exposure. Dip your finger into water and let your puppy smell or lick it. If he reacts well, praises him again. Gradually increase water exposure over multiple weeks. A warm cloth or wipes are good tools to introduce water to your puppy. So, how to bathe a puppy without water? There are a few options to contemplate. Use bath dog wipes for a quick and hassle-free bath. These specially-made wipes for dogs will remove bacteria and unpleasant odors. Your second option would be waterless dog shampoos. You can also sprinkle baking soda and rub it gently from neck to paws, not the face. This product soaks up any bad odors. Let sit for a couple of minutes, then brush. While these tips for bathing a puppy seem easy and quick, be careful with your eyes or breathing passages. When Can Bathe A Puppy? The optimal age to bathe a newborn puppy, according to our research and expert groomers, is 6 weeks old. However, you must assess the frequency and establish a proper puppy bathing schedule. Remember not to over-bathe, and use our guide above to bathe your pup correctly. Yes, bathing a 9-week-old puppy is safe. He is old enough and well over the bathing threshold to have full baths. Bathing an 8-week-old puppy is possible. You can use dog wipes or a lukewarm washcloth to clean him up if he is not too dirty. Use our ten-step guide above if you decide to bathe your furry friend. At two weeks old, puppies have just started to be able to regulate their body temperature. Wait a couple of weeks more, ideally until six-week of age. There is no set age. However, they can safely get wet at three weeks old, as puppies can regulate their body temperature after two weeks. We advise you to wait as long as possible to avoid any complications. An all-natural and tearless puppy shampoo that contains oatmeal and aloe vera work best for 8-week-old puppies. Never use human shampoo or soap. Puppies can safely be bathed at one and a half months or two months of age. Improving the hygiene of your puppy is essential, and dogs enjoy being clean, just like people. We hope this guide serves you well to get you on the right track regarding puppy bathing. Puppies can safely enjoy baths at 6 weeks old or older. We invite you to read our CBD oil for dogs guide to learn more. Like It? Pin1 1 Shares Washing and bathing are one of the biggest concerns new Frenchie owners have. How often should you bathe a French Bulldog? Ideally you should bathe a French Bulldog no more than 5 times a year to avoid drying out their natural skin oils. However, this is very impractical in most cases, so the rule of thumb is to bathe them when they are smelly and very dirty but using the right cleaning products. Well, let me give you a personal example. We take Claude for his walks every day, and for half of the year that means a lot of mud. He loves to cool down in muddy waters as you can see in this photo and will always get mud caked up his legs and under his belly. We need to bathe our French Bulldog more often than we would like due to his playing habits! Now, do we then want that muddy Frenchie in our living space and on our bed? No, of course not, so we do have to bathe our French Bulldog more often than we would ideally like. And I am sure that will be the same for you. So, how often do we bathe our French Bulldog in reality? Well, for us, probably a couple of times a month. You spray it on their coat, then wipe them down with a towel — meaning no bath or shower needed. You can see the dry shampoo we use on Amazon. But what does this mean exactly? Well, Frenchies have oils in their skins, just like all dogs do. It keeps their coat healthy, and their skin healthy too. We need to bathe as French Bulldog Claude as often as twice a month — not ideal, but needs necessitate regular washing. What products are best for bathing your Frenchie? With that in mind, we know that the reality is you will be bathing your Frenchie more often than 5 times a year. So, what cleaning products should you use that will help to not just keep their natural oils in check, but also alleviate any itchiness or allergies? It needs to be something that ticks these boxes: PH balanced. How often should I bathe my French Bulldog puppy and what are their grooming needs? French Bulldogs sport a short and smooth coat that should be relatively fine to the touch. You do not want to over wash your Frenchie and dry out natural skin oils. We bathe our Frenchies on an as needed basis which is generally once a month , but we regularly spot clean them with wet washcloths or wet wipes unscented and for sensitive skin. Their behinds occasional need to be wiped clean as well, as does any other breed. The bottom line is that they should be washed as needed, and if your acceptance level of what is appropriate cleanliness is different than ours, it should not be a problem. There is quite a range of latitude in bathing frequency. There are many good dog shampoos on the market and it is really just a matter of personal preference. They can be purchased at any pet store, Walmart, etc. Years ago, when we owned a Yorkie, our vet recommended using baby shampoo because Yorkies tend to frequently get goop around the eyes; and, the baby shampoo allowed us to clean the area around their eyes without irritating them. We still use baby shampoo with our Frenchies since they have lots of folds on their faces that require regular cleaning. If you decide to go with a dog shampoo, choose a mild formulated shampoo for sensitive skin; your vet may have some good recommendations. French Bulldogs are short-haired and have a single coat; so, fortunately, they do not shed as much as most breeds. Brushing their coat regularly with a rubber brush will remove any dead or loose hair — which in turn, will reduce the amount of shedding. The are prone to becoming damp and this is where infection can result. They also can collect dirt and food causing infections also. Utah has a very dry climate, so for us it is sufficient to regularly clean their folds with baby shampoo and then thoroughly dry them with a dry cloth. The frequency of maintenance varies from Frenchie to Frenchie, as well as climatic conditions. Frenchies with large, ropey wrinkling in a hot, humid environment would require the most attention; whereas, a lightly wrinkled Frenchie in a cool, dry environment would require the least. It is recommended that you clean the wrinkles out at least once a week initially and then vary your schedule based on the requirements of each Frenchie. Tear stains appear more prevalent on the lighter color Frenchies. There are many products on the market which claim to remove and or prevent tear stain removal, but the most commonly referred to method is the use of Desitin yes, the same ointment used for the treatment of baby rash. The ointment is spread along the length of the stain and after two or three weeks of application the stains should have disappeared. Care must be taken in both cases to assure that neither gets into the dogs eyes. The nose can be susceptible to drying out. The best way to remedy this is to regularly apply a smear of petroleum jelly Vaseline to the nose. This keeps the nose dark and moist. Our vet also recommended vitamin E just squeeze a little of the capsule , which we have found to work very well. Some people do not feel comfortable clipping their dogs nails and will take them to a groomer or vet. However, if you want to save time and money, it is a fairly simple task that takes only a few minutes. There are two types of of clippers: a guillotine or a scissor type. The guillotine is the easiest to use. The instructions that come with the clippers will guide you on how to use the instrument. Light claws are easier to cut than dark claws as the blood vessels and nerves that supply the toenail, called the quick, is easier to see. Cut the toenail to within approximately 2 mm of the quick. If you cut into the quick, the toenail will bleed and the dog will experience pain — nothing serious, but they might not sit too still the next time you undertake this task. When cutting dark toenails, it is better to cut just a little off at a time. Some Frenchie owners, who have dogs with dark toenails, cut them once every week or two so that they only have to cut off a little at a time, avoiding any fear of cutting into the quick. If you do accidentally cut into the quick, no harm done. Bleeding generally stops within a few minutes it helps to apply pressure with a paper towel. Have More Questions? Bathing a French Bulldog puppy can be a daunting task. Knowing how often to bathe your French Bulldog puppy and how to prepare for the bath can ensure the process is comfortable and stress-free. Regular baths with a gentle canine shampoo should begin around this age. French Bulldogs should generally be bathed around once every two to four weeks. However, how often you bathe your pup may depend on their grooming needs and lifestyle. Puppies with thick coats may require more frequent baths and those with a more moderate coat can get away with having it done less often. During bouts of extreme weather— such as a hot summer or cold winter— more frequent baths may be necessary. Preparing for a Bath Getting your French Bulldog puppy ready for their bath is just as crucial as knowing when to introduce one. Start by deciding what type of bath is best for your puppy. Never add human shampoo to avoid skin irritation. This will help get rid of any built up dirt or debris and prevent it from ending up in their eyes and ears during the bath. If you have a hooded dryer, you can use it to blow mild air over the coat and prevent your pup from getting too cold in the bath. Work up a lather, starting from their head and working your way towards their tail. Remember to keep shampoo out of their ears, eyes, and nose. For a proper lather, you may have to go over their coat a few times. Step 4: Rinsing Rinse their coat thoroughly with lukewarm water. This is especially important with long-haired puppies because shampoo buildup can irritate their skin. You may have to rinse several times to ensure all shampoo residue is removed. Step 5: Drying Using a few towels, dry your pup by gently patting their coat. Make sure their coat is completely dry before allowing them to jump out of the tub or off the grooming table. Step 6: Treats End the experience on a positive note with a treat to reward them for being a good pup. Knowing when to begin bathing your pup and how to get them ready can ensure the experience is comfortable and safe. Paying attention to their age, safety, and overall health during the bathing process is important for their wellbeing. Related Info And Products:.

These dogs are known for their lively personality and cute, furry appearance. Toy Poodles are also intelligent and highly trainable. In addition, Toy Poodles are relatively small dogs, which makes them a good choice for people who live in apartments or other small spaces. If you live an active lifestyle and are seeking a fun-loving and intelligent furry friend, look no further than the Toy Poodle. Toy Poodle Puppies Health Considerations Though generally very healthy and long-lived — with an average lifespan of around 14 to 16 years — our Toy Poodles for sale are not without their unique health concerns. Like every breed of dog, there are a few conditions you should be aware of before you consider purchasing one of our Toy Poodle puppies for sale. Understanding the risks allows you to know the signs and prevent small health concerns from turning into big ones. This is caused by the soft palate becoming irritated, and can be triggered by excitement or allergies. While it may seem alarming, reverse sneezing is not harmful and will resolve on its own. Another common health concern in Toy Poodles is luxating patellas. This occurs when the kneecap slips out of place, and can cause pain and lameness. Luckily, luxating patellas can be effectively treated with surgery. Finding a Toy Poodle puppy for sale from a reputable breeder can dramatically — although, not eliminate — the risk of your dog developing some of these conditions. The coat can be either curly or corded, and it comes in a variety of colors, including black, white, brown, and apricot. Toy Poodles require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and free of mats. Daily brushing is necessary to prevent the hair from tangling, and the coat should be clipped every six to eight weeks. In addition to regular brushing and clipping, Toy Poodles also need to have their teeth brushed daily and their nails trimmed on a monthly basis. By taking care of their coats, Toy Poodles can stay healthy and happy for many years to come. Meet Toy Poodle Puppies for Sale. Life Span Did You Know? Breeders developed Toy Poodles in 18th century England as smaller versions of their German predecessors. The Toy Poodle began to represent social status, and nobles would decorate their dogs in high fashion of the time. They became so popular, in fact, that they were one of the first toy breeds recognized by the Kennel Club. Toy Poodles are smart cookies. Their intelligence is one of their predominant features, and is often showcased during obedience training. These dogs have tremendous problem-solving capabilities that make them ideal for competitions. On the other hand, this same intelligence makes for an easily bored pup. They need mental stimulation, like challenging games and toys , to keep their busy minds occupied. The Toy Poodle may also be suspicious of strangers and slow to warm up to new people. This dog breed can adapt to a wide range of living situations due to their small size. As a matter of fact, they have trouble dealing with any kind of alone time. As such, the Toy Poodle is an excellent companion animal for people who love a little company. There are a few health conditions that Toy Poodles are more susceptible to than other dog breeds. For example, they may suffer from eye disorders, like cataracts, or blood clotting disorders, like Hemophilia. Because of their size, they may also bear the risk of dental crowding, kneecap migration, or trachea instability. With regular visits to the veterinarian, many of these potential health concerns can be comfortably managed. Owners typically have an easy time during obedience training with Toy Poodles. Their intelligence often hastens the training process. However, they can present destructive tendencies when left to their own devices for too long. Toy Poodles have famously low-shedding coats. They lack undercoats, so their shedding is minimal. Their fur is hypoallergenic and mats rather than sheds. These pups will only need to be groomed to prevent matting and increase shine. Usually, brushing your Toy Poodle once or twice a week and grooming every six weeks is sufficient. As a small dog breed, they are more prone to developing dental disease so good dental care is important. Poodles are an active breed in general, and Toy Poodles in specific are just as active. After a few laps around the kitchen, the Toy Poodle will tire out and happily sit by their owners during daily activities. The Toy Poodle stands at a mighty inches at the shoulder. Their weight ranges from pounds and usually averages around 8 pounds. Toy Poodles usually live 12 — 15 years. The Poodle coat is built for the water and even the Toy Poodle tends to have excellent, practically innate, swimming abilities. Featured Toy Poodle Article. Teacup poodles grow to be approximately 3 to 4. Tiny Toy Poodles are between 4. Toy poodles are the largest of the small breed at 6 - 10 lbs at adulthood. Toy Poodles are extremely intelligent and active. This combination of brains and beauty has made them a European favorite. Toy Poodles are easy to train and thrive on pleasing their families when learning new tricks or participating in dog sports. Poodles are a hypoallergenic breed perfect for all family types. Teacup and Tiny toy poodle puppies are for sale in a range of colors including Black Toy Poodles, white, cream, phantom silver, red, and Chocolate Toy Poodle puppies. We also Have the gorgeous and exotic Merle patterns! Merle Toy Poodles for sale. We want our Teacup or Tiny toy Poodle puppies to help your family feel whole! For questions about, don't hesitate to call Collett's at or email us at garygcollett gmail. Projected Adult Weight is 5 - 6 lbs. AKC Registered. Projected Adult Weight is 6 - 7 lbs. Projected Adult Weight 6 - 8 Lbs. Projected Adult Weight is 5 to 7 lbs. Projected Adult Weight 3 Lbs 5 oz. Don't let distance stop you from falling in love with one of Collett's Toy Poodle puppies. We are AKC inspected and approved. You can trust in our healthy, happy puppies! We want our loves to help your family feel whole! Nationwide shipping varies by location. For questions about international shipping, don't hesitate to call Collett's at or email us at garygcollett gmail. Message Us Today! Its coat is a soft, rich color, which may have some natural shading, especially a slightly darker feathering on the ears or tipping on the ruff. When properly groomed and brushed, the coat of a cream poodle is practically luminous. Poodles should be brushed frequently, at least every other day, to prevent their coat from getting matted or snarled. Their ears are particularly apt to need attention, as they frequently take dips into the food and water dishes! Hold the leather of the ear gently in one hand and brush the fur carefully with the other to avoid pulling. Use the same technique on the tail puff. Puppies under a year old should be shaved on the face, throat, feet and the base of the tail, with a pompon on the end of the tail. The face, throat, feet, base of the tail are shaved, as are the hindquarters, except for optional pompoms on the hips. The legs are shaved, leaving bracelets, and there is a pompom on the end of the tail. Because our puppies at Homestead Poodles are completely socialized, they are used to being handled and should be comfortable with grooming. Owners may want to learn how to clip their dogs, but at first, it is best left to a professional groomer. And remember to give your dog plenty of praise and admiration when he or she is freshly groomed. Poodles Info.

Things to do with your English Bulldog Ohio is a great place to live with an English bulldog. The state has a diverse landscape, plenty of outdoor activities, and dog-friendly businesses. Hike the Trails Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. There are many hiking trails in Ohio that are perfect for English bulldogs. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for your dog, and take breaks often. Visit a Campground Camping is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many campgrounds in Ohio that allow dogs. Be sure to bring a tent, sleeping bags, food, water, and other supplies. There are many places to fish in Ohio, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to get a fishing license and follow all the rules and regulations. Go Boating Boating is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many places to boat in Ohio, both on rivers and lakes. Be sure to bring a life jacket for your dog and follow all the safety rules. There are many places to swim in Ohio, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to supervise your dog at all times and follow all the safety rules. Visit a Dog park Dog parks are a great place for English bulldogs to run and play off-leash. There are many dog parks in Ohio, both in urban and rural areas. Visit Pet-Friendly Businesses Ohio has a number of pet-friendly businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and stores. These are just a few of the many things you can do with your English bulldog in Ohio. With its stunning scenery, endless activities, and friendly people, Ohio is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your furry friend. How do you breed for a healthier English Bulldog? Like all things in life, breeding for health is simply a matter of priority. We are blind to many of the breed priorities that distract other breeders from improving the health of the English Bulldog. We focus on health and personality and very little else. We are not interested in winning a blue ribbon in the show ring. Rather, we test for things like elongated soft palates, narrow tracheas, stenotic nares, luxation in the patellar tendons, heart defects, cherry eye, optic cilia, entropion, ect. We focus and prioritize creating healthy bloodlines, therefore our bulldogs are typically much healthier than the breed as a whole. After breeding for health, what other priorities are you focused on? Our true desire is to create the perfect family bulldog. We also believe a bulldog bred for the correct personality is essential to the family unit as well. A Bruiser Bulldog is bred for intelligence and playfulness. We want our bulldogs to be full of personality and some quirk. We believe a full personality along with a little stubbornness is the true North star of the bulldog breed and is what makes the unique among other breeds. We look for these personality traits in our adult bulldogs and continue to create bloodlines that reflect these qualities. What are the steps of your adoption process if I am located in Ohio? Check out our available English Bulldog Puppies page. At times, we have available puppies but almost always have a waiting list as well. A quick look at our available puppies is the starting point to begin the process. Send us an email or give us call .If approved to adopt one of our puppies you are welcome to place a deposit to hold until your puppy is ready to go home. Greetings from the Wysongs! Northern Indiana based, Bruiser Bulldogs offers purebred English Bulldog Puppies for sale to loving adopters seeking to find a higher quality English Bulldog. As English Bulldog breeders , Mitch and Erica Wysong have dedicated themselves to a lifelong journey of changing the culture and societal pressures of poor breeding practices within the English Bulldog Community. Mitch and Erica believe in producing a healthy English Bulldog puppy first and foremost. Through years of research and development, Bruiser Bulldogs is leading a new movement away from the overdone, wrinkled bulldog that has been long plagued by health problems. By embracing a healthier, more athletic look they are able to ensure that each and every English Bulldog Puppy for sale by Bruiser Bulldogs is supported by a platform of health tested, clean genetics. Upon adoption, each family that takes on the responsibility of a Bruiser Bulldog enters into an active and vibrant communal family of bulldog owners. Mitch and Erica believe it is their responsibility to provide emotional and mental support for the lifetime of each and every English Bulldog puppy they produce. To ensure the success of every adoption, Bruiser Bulldogs will always be committed to helping Bruiser Bulldog adopters care for their English Bulldogs to the best of their ability. I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. Questions about Bulldog puppies for sale in Columbus OH? We have answers. How much are Bulldog puppies for sale in Columbus OH? Bulldogs for sale in Columbus can only breed with the help of veterinarians as they have to go through artificial insemination due to their very narrow hips. The pups then need to be delivered by C-section. This can raise their price compared to other breeds. What if there are no Bulldog breeders in Columbus? Are you strict with Bulldog breeders? We look at their facilities, the way they treat their pups, and the health care they give to them. Why is Uptown Puppies one of the best puppy-finder websites? We do this by helping families like yours connect with the best Columbus Bulldog breeders and businesses around. We check these breeders and businesses through and through to make sure they offer you the best pups! What is a Columbus puppy mill like? Bulldogs Columbus puppy mills are like factories where female dogs are forced to breed litter after litter of Bulldog puppies for sale Columbus. Once you bring home your new pup you may find that your new best friend may need many trips to the vet due to health problems. They can also suffer with behavioral problems, and pass away at a young age. I want a Bulldog puppy now. Is it possible? Since Bulldogs for sale Columbus are so popular in the US, the odds are really high that a gorgeous Bulldog Columbus is already wagging its tail, ready to find its new home with you. Start your search with Uptown Puppies today and get the Bulldog pup of your dreams before someone else does! Why were Bulldogs originally bred? This was a bloodsport that thankfully ended. Today Columbus Bulldogs for sale are sweet-natured and their ferocity has been bred out of them. What different sizes are Bulldogs? What are Bulldog personalities like? The Columbus Bulldog for sale is not like the Poodle. Bulldogs are medium in size, and are very heavy with bodies that are low, chests that are broad, and limbs that are very thick. They have very sweet personalities, adore and crave affection, and love being part of a family. Which movies have Bulldogs starred in? The Bulldog for sale in Columbus is quite a famous dog in Hollywood. Are Bulldogs happy in apartments? The Bulldog for sale Columbus can be happy in apartments as long as they get a lot of fresh and cool air, and exercise every day. Gus came to us after being surrendered to a shelter with a female Bulldog. Unfortunately, the female was too sick and even after an emergency surgery, she did not make it. Gus was in a little better shape so we addressed his medical concerns one at a time! The results came back positive for cancer. Fortunately, this type of cancer is generally taken care of once it is removed. However due to this, Gus will need closely monitored for the remainder of his life. He loves attention and being with his people. He loves a good nap on the couch and prefers a pillow so he can elevate his head. He has not been kid tested, but due to his overwhelmingly sweet personality we do not anticipate there would be any issues. Gus does prefer to be the only dog though and would do best in a home without other pets. He is crate trained and doing better with leash walking and house breaking! He is looking for a family to love him, spoil him and to let him take it easy for the remainder of his golden years. Donations can be made via our PayPal account - info prodogsohio. You must be willing to commute to the location that the pet is being fostered in order to be eligible to adopt. We do not ship our pets. We also require that you personally bring the pet back to us should the adoption not work out. All money goes to support our rescue operation. We require your current dog s to be current on vaccines and heartworm prevention. Due to the volume of apps and inquiries, we may not be able to respond to everyone. September 13, , pm.

This comes at no extra cost to you. This is peak puppy biting time and it will get better soon. So to prepare you and help you be the best puppy parent you can be, this article will show you: What to expect from a four-month-old Golden Retriever puppy How big a four-month-old Golden is How much sleep a puppy needs at this age What kind of exercise a four-month-old Golden Retriever needs How to train your four-month-old pup How much a four-month-old Golden Retriever should eat How to deal with teething and chewing 4-Month-Old Golden Retriever Behaviors Oliver at 4 months old! At four months old, your puppy has had a couple of months to learn how things operate around the house. This can make things easier for you because your puppy is likely falling into your daily routine. Now that your puppy is a bit older, they may experiment to see what they can make happen for themselves. This does not mean they are a bad pup! You might observe that your four-month-old puppy has even more energy than when they were three months old. This is normal as they gain better coordination and stamina. Always remember that energy is both physical AND mental. What 4-Month-Old Golden Retrievers Look Like Your week-old Golden might start looking a little gangly with long legs that seemingly sprouted overnight see the video below of Oliver. They might also begin losing their cottony puppy coat, which can cause them to look a bit funny as their more coarse adult coat grows in. The picture above is Oliver at four months old, as is this video below. He was so lanky and goofy! Ideally, you were getting your puppy out and about safely, and giving them positive experiences that will prepare them for life as an adult dog. Remember to keep outings with your puppy fun and positive, and avoid things that might be scary or overwhelming. As your puppy shows more signs of physical maturity, it can be easy to start expecting more from them. Be consistent in teaching them how things work, how to act and what to expect. Keep showing them that you are a kind, trustworthy person who meets their needs and keeps things fun and safe. While your puppy may have been a cute round ball of fluff at two months of age , they should be kept nice and lean at this age. Unfortunately, Golden Retrievers can be prone to joint issues. You should be able to easily feel their ribs without having to dig around too much. Four-month-old Golden Retriever puppies need about 18 hours of sleep per day. Sometimes it can feel like they have tons of energy that you need to burn and it can be tempting to keep them really active to try to wear them out. While they definitely do need exercise and fun activities, too much go-go-go can actually backfire and push the puppy into an overtired state. A puppy that is overtired might be really wild — bouncing off your furniture, barking a lot, and biting you more than usual. Creating a routine around nap time and bed time can really help your puppy relax and fall asleep more quickly. They ate, they pooped, you took them on a nice stroll and played with their favorite squishy ball. You even did some fun training games and they worked on a puzzle toy. Your puppy parent sense tells you that they are ready for a nap, so you take them outside for a final potty. When you come back inside, you grab a frozen stuffed Kong or toppl for your puppy to enjoy in their crate. Puppy goes in the crate and you give them their frozen treat. Then you cover the crate, and turn on a white noise machine to drown out noises while they rest. Any time your puppy is making you pull your hair out, ask yourself when their last nap was. So often, an obnoxious puppy is actually a tired puppy and the solution is sleep! Click here to download the potty training cheat sheet to make potty training much easier! Fifteen to twenty-minute walks are best for four-month-old Golden Retriever puppies, but a general rule is to let your puppy set the pace when it comes to exercise. If they need a break and flop down in the shade, let them take a breather. So while you may hope your Golden Retriever pup grows into a great running or cycling partner one day, keep things short and easy for now. And by four months of age, your puppy probably has all their necessary vaccinations, which is such a relief. This can open up their world a bit more, which means you have more options for exercise. Get a well-fitted harness and a long leash , and hit up a local trail or open space with your puppy. Unstructured time outdoors is ideal exercise for this breed. That means your pup is free to sniff and frolic around, rather than being in a perfect heel position by your side. Golden Retrievers were historically bred to spend a lot of time outdoors, running through the fields and bounding through water. Modern Goldens still love these activities and giving your four-month-old pup some nature therapy will set them up for physical and mental wellness. Neighborhood walks can also be a nice outlet for a pup of this age. Always allow your Golden to stop and sniff on walks. In addition, you can also work on:. But to develop properly, your puppy needs your help and encouragement. This is because the biting peaks at about 4 months old. The exercise needs of a four-month-old Golden Retriever puppy Training for a four-month-old Golden Retriever Feeding four-month-old Golden Retriever puppies How to deal with chewing and biting What to Expect From a 4-Month-Old Golden Retriever Puppy 4-Month-Old Golden Retriever By now your puppy has been in your house for a couple of months and has learned about the rules and the way things work in their environment. This means that your puppy is getting comfortable and falling into step with your daily routine. Because of this, things are a little less chaotic in dealing with your pup than they were when you first brought them home. When your pup pushes boundaries and does new things, this is actually a sign of intelligence and mental development, neither of which are bad things. Your puppy will also have more energy, stamina, and coordination than they had in the previous weeks. Their coat will also look a bit odd. This will result in some random patches of fluff. At 4 months old, your golden should be roughly half of its adult height. When it comes to how much they should weigh, the average is around lbs. There are different types of Golden Retrievers and they come in all sizes. Heredity plays a part, as well. If your pup had small parents, then your pup will likely be a little smaller. And if your puppy was seriously ill for a prolonged period of time, then it may have inhibited its ability to grow properly when compared to healthy puppies. But usually, once the worms have been eliminated, the puppy will start to grow normally again. This means that your puppy will have already learned a lot of the socialization skills it needs to develop properly. The socialization your pup experienced prior to their four-month milestone will affect their behaviors and temperament going forward with their lives. Hopefully, you let your puppy go on adventures into the world and they had safe positive experiences. You should still take them out in public and teach them how to be well-behaved. You still need to keep your socialization light-hearted and safe. Your puppy is a baby animal, and they can become traumatized the same as human infants can. You also need to be more patient with them during this time period. Your four-month-old Golden Retriever puppy will sleep somewhere between 11 and 18 hours per day. While your puppy will be really energetic and hyper and your instinct may be to give them lots of exercises to burn off the extra energy, this can actually backfire on you. To avoid an overly- tired puppy, make sure your pup is getting naps in. You can use a crate or pen to help confine them to their sleep area. Developing a nap time routine is quite easy. Once your puppy has eaten, played, and went potty, you can put them in their crate with a soft toy to chew on. Puppies chew to soothe themselves to sleep. Intense exercise and prolonged repetitive motions can even cause injury to their developing joints and muscles. Not to mention the fact that when puppies are over-stimulated and exhausted it causes them to act up. So, how much exercise should a four-month-old Golden Retriever puppy get? Your pup has more energy than they did last month, so they can now go on walks for 20 minutes at a time. In general, you should let your puppy decide how much exercise they can handle. If your puppy stops and decides to lay down in the middle of the walk, let them. They obviously need a break. By the time they reach this age, golden puppies should be up to date with their vaccinations, which is great because they love the outdoors. The type of exercise that your Golden Retriever puppy will likely enjoy the most involves unstructured play outside. Originally, Golden Retrievers were bred to hunt and do fieldwork, and your golden puppy will likely love the outdoors because of this. You can gently put them in the water, or allow them to get in themselves. People who live in more urban environments will find that their golden pups will enjoy walks around the neighborhood. Smells will engage brains and provide mental stimulation. You should be focused mainly on teaching your puppy to be comfortable with alone time, as well as potty training. Keep treats with you when you take your pup out on walks to reward positive behaviors and a good job on their leash. For instance, if you typically give your pup a treat when they come back inside from going potty, then you can use this opportunity to work with them to sit and stay and wait for their treat. To work with them about being comfortable with being alone, you should put them in their crate or pen and then gradually stay out of their sight for longer and longer each time. This takes practice. So this training is important. For more information about separation anxiety, check out our article about goldens and separation anxiety. For more information about training, check out our article about training golden retriever puppies. Your four-month-old golden pup should be eating 3 meals a day , spread throughout the day. They should be eating about 1 cup of food at each meal. Golden Retrievers have a major problem with overeating. Like us, they find food enjoyable and comforting too. A good rule of thumb to determine whether your pup is overweight is to pick them up. To find out for certain whether your pup is the right weight, you should take them to the veterinarian and follow their recommendations. Four months old is typically the peak chewing and biting period. This makes their gums uncomfortable and painful. You should also make sure that there are lots of chew toy options and chewy treats in your house so that your puppy can get the chewing out of their system without doing anything destructive. Using pens and gates can be really useful during this time. Just walk to the other side of the pen. If you missed the other articles in this series, you can find them here:. Your new furry friend has a lot of growing to do, and you probably have a lot of questions. Your Golden Retriever puppy will go through a number of developmental stages throughout their first twelve weeks. Male Golden Retrievers generally weigh between 65 and 75 pounds and stand from 23 to 24 inches tall. Females are generally smaller weighing between 55 to 65 pounds, and will grow to stand .At 4 months, your Golden Retriever puppy will reach about half their adult height. When it comes to mental development, it can take even longer than that before the Golden Retriever is fully mature. However, every puppy is a unique individual, and these are merely milestone guidelines. Disparities exist between the working and show Goldens, as well as between males and females. Golden Retriever puppy growth can also be quite sporadic. As an overall average, many Golden Retriever puppies will weigh just approximately 1. Golden Retrievers are classified as a gundog breed, and these dogs are often divided into those bred for show and those meant for work. However, the body of the show Golden is typically larger, taller, heavy-boned, and fuller in the chest. Small Parents Like people, puppies inherit physical traits from their parents. And even puppies from the same litter can vary in size. Neither of these scenarios is healthy for a puppy. Larger breeds like the Golden Retriever are more at risk for growth disorders than small breed dogs. This article will give you a lot more information on how much to feed, what to feed, and how often to feed a Golden Retriever puppy. Illness and Puppy Growth If a puppy has been seriously ill for a prolonged period, it may affect their ability to grow normally. However, once the puppy is free of worms, they should continue to grow at a normal rate. The best way to determine if your puppy is too thin or too fat is by how he looks and feels. When looking at your puppy from above, he should have a noticeable waistline. Another way to tell is by putting your hands on either side of his ribcage. You should be able to feel his ribs using a gentle pressure. But if his ribs are visible, he could be underweight. Obesity is a huge problem for many dog breeds. Although there are ways to make your puppy grow bigger, this is not something you should attempt. It could also mean you end up with a fat puppy. One of the best ways to ensure your puppy has a long, healthy life is to ensure he stays at an optimal weight. Hip and elbow dysplasia and other musculoskeletal disorders are associated with excess weight in larger breeds. Having your dog neutered at a young age can also cause them to grow taller. The problem is, this can also cause abnormalities in joint formation. Neutering also makes Golden Retrievers more at risk for certain types of cancers. Typically it will take approximately 18 months for your Golden Retriever to become an adult dog. Even though they can reach their full height at anywhere from 9 to 12 months, it will usually take them longer to fill out to their full weight. Remember that there are wide variations in size within the Golden Retriever breed. If this is the case, you should contact your veterinarian to seek advice. Beginning the puppy development stages before birth Puppy development stages week by week Amazingly, in a way the puppy development stages begin before your dog is even born. Your puppy spends approximately 9 weeks developing inside his Mom. The mother dog has a womb or uterus, that has two long tubes, and the puppies grow in a row along each tube rather like peas in a pod. The puppies are joined to their mother by a placenta which provides all the nourishment they need for those few weeks. To begin with, the puppies have plenty of room to move but they grow fast and as the time for birth draws near they are packed in quite tightly. The one week old puppy Your puppy is born fully furred but with his eyes and ears closed so he cannot hear or see. His front feet are strong and he can pull himself towards his mother with them. He can cry if he is uncomfortable and his mother will respond to his cries by moving him towards her and licking him. Your puppy spends most of his time sleeping or suckling. He cannot regulate his own body temperature and needs his mother for heat, or an artificial heat source. In the first week to ten days of his life your puppy grows rapidly and will double his birth weight. His forelegs are getting much stronger. She licks the puppies bottoms to stimulate a bowel or bladder movement and eats the result. There is no cleaning up for the breeder to do yet. The breeder will begin to handle the puppies more though, and get them used to human contact. She will worm the puppies for the first time at the end of this week. Puppies begin to get their personalities. Your puppy can stand and sit up by the end of the week. Tails can be wagged, ears will be completely open and puppies start play growling and interacting with their littermates. Your puppy can regulate his body temperature more effectively and will start to cut his first teeth in preparation for weaning. The front teeth, canines and incisors are cut first. Toward the end of the week he may have his first tiny taste of puppy food. They also start to move away from the sleeping area to empty their bowels and bladder. They may try to climb out of the whelping box. If she lives indoors, she may rejoin the family for more of each day. Your puppy will cut his back teeth and the breeder will get weaning underway this week and by the end of it, your puppy will be getting quite a bit of his nourishment from puppy food. She will also worm the puppies a second time. If the mother is allowed near the puppies after she has been fed, she may regurgitate her dinner for them. This is completely natural and normal. He is a proper little dog. Rolling around with his brothers and sisters and playing with toys. Teething toys, puppy Kongs, balls and rope toys are big favorites with puppies. He can bark too and some puppies can be quite noisy at this age! He chases after his mother whenever she appears and suckles hungrily, but she is starting to get fed up with it, and may be reluctant to feed her brood for very long. His mother is teaching him not to bite too hard. If he lives in outdoor kennels he should spend part of each day indoors with the family. By the end of the sixth week, most are fully weaned, and eating five or six little meals of puppy food each day. Socialization must begin in earnest. He is now two months old and ready for his new life. It is the time during which they become fearful of anything unfamiliar and need to be thoroughly socialized. This is also the time during which most puppies get to grips with house-training, learning to wait before eliminating and start sleeping through the night without a potty break. It is a busy time for new puppy owners. Your puppy will have his vaccinations during this month. Biting can be a big problem during this stage and you need to be patient and consistent in order to teach the puppy not to hurt people when he plays. Provided you use force free methods, this is a great time to get puppy training under way, and especially to teach a puppy recall, and to get your puppy used to working with food. So, for a 2. You can do the same calculation for medium pups at sixteen weeks and large breed pups at 20 weeks — just divide his weight by his age in weeks before you multiply by .Medium to large pups will reach about half their adult height by the end of the month. If the weather is warm you can get your puppy swimming now. He should be able to come when he is called, in and around your home, provided there are not too many distractions. It all depends on what you have taught him. He may still be chewing a lot and biting too. Use frozen Kongs to help him and give your furniture and fingers a break. Puppies can go for short walks now. By the end of this month your puppy could have a twenty minute walk each day. He may also enjoy fetching a ball and playing with other dogs, but take care to stop before he gets very tired. Less dependence This is the month during which some puppies start to become less dependent on their humans for security. Keep your puppy close to you outdoors by changing direction frequently so that you puppy has to keep coming to find you. And engaging him in games. The foundations of a great recall are often build or spoilt during this month. If your puppy knows how to sit or lie down at home, start some simple proofing exercises with him in public places. A healthy puppy can usually manage on two meals a day from around six months. During this month a Retriever, Spaniel or GSD puppy will reach around two thirds of his adult weight. A Great Dane and other large breeds will have reached about half their final weight and little dogs will have almost completed their growth. Some female dogs will come on heat for the first time during this month, or the next, so keep an eye open now for swelling of her vulva and any discharge. Your dog will become increasingly confident over the next few months so practice, practice and practice that recall! Make it a habit he cannot break. And be generous with your rewards. Small breed pups may now be more or less mature. Your puppy will enjoy half hour off lead walks now, and should be able to walk on a loose lead for short periods with plenty of encouragement and rewards. Keep practicing that recall! These help to slow his growth further and to build his confidence. Make sure you practice good outdoor management on walks to maintain the good recall you have built and work hard on thoroughly proofing all his obedience skills. Read up on neutering before you take this important step, for dogs of either sex. Once your dog is a year old he can participate in more strenuous activities and sports. Now is the time to think about the kinds of activities you would like to do with him — go jogging together for example — and if necessary, to start to get him fit. Puppy development stages — Summary There is huge variation in the way in which dogs develop and mature. The puppy development stages and ages outlined above are a rough guide. We hope you enjoyed them and found the information interesting. When it comes to training, you get out what you put in. Your progress depends as much if not more on you rather than your puppy. If you train your puppy five times a day, six days a week he will learn many, many times faster than a puppy that is trained once a day at the weekend. Enjoy watching your puppy grow and develop. And have fun! Brown 3 lb 13 oz Our chunky Tank got passed up by Patriot and Spirit! Meanwhile, Trooper dropped to the back of the pack. All pups were gaining weight every day which was a good sign. I forgot to mention that before Raven had her puppies we looked for a small scale to weigh the puppies. Most of the scales we came across had a 10 lb limit. We purchased this baby scale and it worked great with all our puppies. I started clipping nails once a week with regular human nail clippers. When cutting nails I only cut to the part where the nail starts to curve. The puppies all did well during nail trimming sessions and it also gave me a chance to handle all four paws getting the pups used to relaxing with humans. Day 26 — Walking On New Surfaces Now that the puppies were stable and walking more normal I started introducing them to new surfaces. We were able to get them out on the dirt, grass, and concrete in the backyard. Golden Pups Week 4 — Puppies exploring new surfaces. We also start introducing our pups to the crate and start working on teaching them calm behavior while in the crate. I took their regular puppy kibble, soaked it in hot water for 10 minutes, and smashed it up into a mush. One of the early problems is making sure everyone gets an equal or close to amount of food. We allowed the puppies to eat their solid food and still nurse throughout the day. We feed the older dogs Wellness Core Grain Free Original Formula so we figured the transition from the puppy formula to the original formula would be easier on the pups when the time came to move away from puppy food. Golden Retriever pups week 4 is in the books! Check out our other Golden Retriever puppy growth week by week blog posts: Week 1 — Six Golden Retriever puppies are born! Week 2 — Pups eyes are opening starting to waddle. Week 3 — First bark! Week 7 — The great puppy escape artists! Week 8 — Our golden puppies head to their new homes. So tell us a little about your experiences. Have you ever had the chance to raise a litter or meet a 4 week old puppy? Tell us about your experiences in the comment section below. Are you expecting a litter of Golden Retriever puppies? Did you just bring home an adorable 8-week-old Golden Retriever puppy? If so, Puppies for Dummies is a great book that will give you the basics on how to raise and train your new puppy. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Which is why a lack of exercise can be the root cause for many destructive behavioral problems for active dog breeds such as Labs. As WebMD. This is a game that combines both mental and physical activity. To start, teach your dog the specific names for his or her toys by pointing at them and repeating the names. Ask your dog to fetch a particular toy. If they bring back the wrong one, throw it back and ask again until you get the right toy. This can be played indoors—as long as you have enough space—or outdoors. And if your Lab especially a puppy grabs any part of you or your clothes, stop the game for a time before trying again. Make a circle of about 20 feet or more with your Labrador square in the middle and take turns calling him or her to you. Praise your dog or give a treat when they come, and then step back to let someone else call. Once your dog understands how it works, call faster and faster for a great doggie workout. You can also have family members in different parts of the house calling to give your Labrador the exercise they need on a rainy day. If you have the room, you can set up the hurdles indoor and have your dog run through them until blissfully tired. You can also set them up in the yard and create a true agility course, complete with jumps, twists and turns. Your Labrador has an incredible nose. Keep it in top shape by hiding treats around the house or yard and asking your dog to find them all. You can hold one treat in your hand and let your Lab sniff it before sending him or her out to search to give an idea of what to look for. Alternatively, you can use people instead of treats and have your dog find your loved ones instead for a twist on the game. Just make sure to have treats on hand to reward your Labrador for their excellent finds. Kong makes some of the most popular models, but you have a lot of options to choose from when it comes to picking the right toy for your Labrador. Designed to help cut down on boredom, food dispensing toys are like puzzle treats for your dog. Click here for our list of the best chew toys for labs and strong chewers. Upgrade Your Fetch Toy To a Frisbee Unlike balls that tend to sink and roll away, Frisbees hold air much longer, making them a very fun toy for your Labrador. See if you can teach your Lab to jump and grab the Frisbee midair for even more of a workout. As for durability, you can choose between soft Frisbees your dog can easily grip with their teeth yes, even puppy teeth! Then you can scatter multiple toys around the house and give the command for your dog to put them all away. Start by having your dog sit and show them a piece of their favorite treat. Hide it under a plastic or Styrofoam cup right in front of them. Once your Labrador has gotten the idea of how it works, rub a piece of treat over three cups to keep your dog from cheating with his nose. Then place the treat under one of the three cup and ask your dog to find it. If your dog is a whiz at identifying the right cup, you can then make things more challenging by slowly rotating the cups. Have you any favorite games you like to play with your Labrador? Let us know in the comments! 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. Labs are very active dogs, especially in the first few years of their lives. They will have a lot of energy to spare every day, so a few long walks will become part of your daily routine. This will not only help exercise your pup, but also keep him happy. Make sure you spend at least minutes walking your lab. Once your dog is a little older and better coordinated, you can try letting him run alongside your bike while you go for a slow ride. This will be a great form of exercise for him, and he will get to spend some quality time with you in the process. Just make sure the leash is loose enough to allow him enough space between himself and your bike. Watch for traffic and take breaks if your dog needs one! Practice caution when riding a bike with your dog. Labs are notorious for their love of water. Everything from tiny puddles from the rain to backyard swimming pools are going to attract them to play. If the weather permits, take your dog for a swim! Labs have a tendency to become destructive when left to their own devices. Provide your lab with plenty of toys to chew on and play with. Strong, durable chew toys are great options. Redirect those chewing habits and behaviors to toys and keep your personal belongings safe from a gnawing pup. Getting your dog working for his food will add enrichment to his environment and increase his mental fatigue. Food puzzles are a great place to start, as there are many commercial options available, but you can also make your own puzzle using something as simple as a towel or an empty container. Fortunately, labs are easily trained. The instructor will help you learn the skills you need to train your dog properly, and help you along the way. Teaching your dog a new trick using positive reinforcement based training is another great way to get your dog to use his brain. This will strengthen your relationship in the process and tire him out, making it less prone to destruction. Labs love to be around people and other dogs, so find a local dog park to check out with your lab. Just make sure your dog is treated for flea and tick prevention to avoid taking any pests home from the park. If you are thinking about adding another dog to your family, labs tend to mesh well with breeds like collies, golden retrievers, beagles, and corgis, as these breeds are also energetic and sociable. Also, consider adding a dog of the opposite sex, as dogs of the same sex might have issues with dominance. Written by Small Door's medical experts Being stuck at home is disappointing for both you and your dog. Check out our tips below for how you can keep your dog entertained indoors. Dog activity requirements Dogs need both physical and mental stimulation to stay fit, healthy and happy. Physical exertion comes from walking, running and playing, whilst many different things can provide mental stimulation. From tracking scents outside, to concentrating hard on obedience training, or attempting to get kibble out of a puzzle toy — tough mental concentration results in a tired, happy dog. Ideas to entertain your dog indoors 1. Practice short bursts of obedience training each day Training your dog provides great mental stimulation. Teach your dog a new trick Try teaching your dog a new trick. A great trick to try is tidying up. Give your dog a stuffed Kong or a food-dispensing puzzle toy Stuff a Kong or a similar toy with pieces of kibble, mixed in with a tasty treat like a spoonful of peanut butter, canned pumpkin or mashed banana. Pro tip — you can freeze it to make it last longer for your pup! Puzzle toys and food dispensing toys are great for mental stimulation as well as dogs who gobble up their meals too fast! Some of our favorite food puzzle toys are made by Trixie or Nina Ottoson. Let them watch the world go by Dogs love to sit by the window. If you can, set up a safe spot for your pup where they can see out of the window, and if you feel comfortable doing so, open the window a crack for them to enjoy the smells and sounds of the outdoors. Teach your dog the name of their toys Teaching your dog the names of their toys is not as hard as it may sound. This can be a great activity, especially if you spoil your pup with lots of toys. Start by playing with one toy and give it a name while you do — tell your dog to fetch the specific toy by name and give lots of praise when they bring back the correct one. Eventually, see if your dog can pick out the toy by name out of a pile of toys. Once they understand the name, try moving onto another toy and repeating the process. Dogs love new things. Hide some toys in a cupboard for a few days, then bring them out again for the novelty factor! Other games you can adapt for indoor play include throwing a very lightweight ball in a safe area for your dog to catch or fetch, provided there is nothing breakable around. When they succeed, make sure to react super enthusiastically and reward them so they know they did a good job and enjoy the game as much as you did! Hide treats around your home and let them sniff them out throughout the day. If you repeat this over several days, make sure to vary the placement of the treats to keep it interesting for your dog. Create an indoor obstacle course If you have enough room, why not set up a homemade obstacle course for your pup? Teach your pup the basics of agility , jumping over some small boxes, weaving through stacks of books, and lying down on a blanket at the end. Another great one to keep kids entertained too, you could even work up to hosting your own dog show with an agility course and obedience category with your kids as dog handlers! Learn scent work Our dogs explore and understand their world through scent, so scent work games are a great way to keep Fido occupied by putting their nose to work. For these games, all you need is some dog treats and various household items. When they choose correctly, open your hand and give them the treat. Muffin tin puzzles: Using a muffin baking tin, tennis balls, and dog treats, place treats in a couple of the tins and cover all the holes with tennis balls. The shell game: Using three to four cups, place a treat under one of the cups for larger dogs, you may want to use plastic cups or even upside down flower pots. Let your dog sniff around and discover what cup the treat is under. When your dog paws at the correct cup, lift it up to reveal the treat while praising them. Box search: Using empty cardboard boxes, put several boxes out on the floor. Place a treat inside one or more of the boxes, while your dog is out of the room. Bring your dog into the room and let them search for the box which has the treat inside. When they paw at or nudge the correct box, reveal the treat and give them lots of praise. Summary of how to keep your dog entertained indoors Just like humans, dogs need a balance of physical and mental exercise. Related articles. How to keep your Labrador entertained Walk it Labradors are a breed that is meant to get exercise on a daily basis in order to be fully stimulated. When they do not get enough exercise it can cause them to behave abnormally and to be more energetic around the home. Generally, it is recommended to give them an hour of exercise per day. If yours is not getting that much it would help to start giving it more exercise. Play fetch One effective way to wear it out quickly is to get it to play fetch which is effective because it gets your Lab to do a lot of sprinting without much rest which will help to wear it out quickly. It will also get it used to interacting with you in a positive way and it will help to make it more responsive to your command. Teach it to swim Another option would be to teach it to swim which is also an effective way to exercise it since it gets it to do a lot of work in a low impact way and it is especially useful in the summer. Most Labradors take to water naturally but there are some that do not. However, there are ways to get it to like swimming that I talk about here. Give it toys One way to keep it entertained without your direct involvement would be to give it toys to play with. By doing so you will be able to keep it occupied with something that you want it to be occupied with. Give it lots of training Another way to keep it stimulated would be to give it lots of training. By doing so you should be able to get it to use up a lot of energy listening to you and to become better behaved. If you have not given your Labrador much training yet, it would help to start by training it the basics such as to sit and stay in an environment without many distractions and then to build up from there. Give it puzzles Another way to entertain it without your direct involvement would be to give it puzzle games to play with. There are a number of puzzle games that you can buy that are designed to make your Labrador think and put its attention into it in order to get the reward. Play tug of war with it Another way to entertain it would be to play tug of war with it. Use a dog walker When you are unable to exercise your Labrador yourself, one option would be to make use of a dog walker. There are apps you can download now that will allow you to find a dog walker in your local area. Walk it with other dogs Another way to wear it out more and to get it to require less entertainment around the home would be to walk it with other dogs. By doing so your Labrador should wear itself out more by running around with the other dogs. Give it chew toys Another way to entertain it would be to give it chew toys to chew on. By doing so you should be able to keep its focus on chewing something that you want it to and to avoid having it do things such as chewing on your sofa. Doggy daycare If you will not be at home for a long time one option would be to take it to a doggy daycare so that you can have them look after it while you are away. If it is a puppy then it will require a lot of attention but you will be limited in how much exercise you can give it. This is because, when they are puppies, their joints and bones are still developing and lots of exercise could damage them. It is also important to remember that it will not be able to control its bladder as well yet so it will be necessary to avoid leaving it for long periods. Ways to give it attention would be to play with it, train it and to give it exercise. Last Updated February 13, .We all love taking our dogs for some good outdoor fun, but depending on the weather or air quality , it can sometimes be a little tricky to go on long walks or trips to the park safely. With a little creativity and motivation, your home can be transformed into a canine playground. Here are some ways you can entertain your companion dog while indoors. Dog puzzle We all know dogs are intelligent, so it should come as no surprise that they love games that require a little bit of problem-solving. There are all kinds of dog puzzles that provide all sorts of benefits such as increased mental capacity, a longer attention span, and better behavior overall. The shell game All you need for this game are treats and two or more opaque cups. Place a treat under one of the cups while your dog watches, then give a cue to turn over the cup with the treat under it. Next, repeat but switch the cups around a few times so your dog has to think. You can repeat this a few times and raise the difficulty level by adding more cups. This game is great for mental stimulation and increasing focus. Dogs love to sniff things fire hydrants, strangers, dirty clothes , and this game will put their sense of smell to the challenge. Not only will it increase problem-solving skills, it will also promote activity and alleviate boredom. There are different apps that focus on different goals, but what all humane ones have in common is the notion that rewarding good behavior positive reinforcement and redirecting unwanted behavior into a positive action will result in a well-behaved dog. If you train with patience, enthusiasm, consistency, and clarity, your dog is likely to have a great time and look forward to each session. Try some agility Inject a little imagination into your interactive games by setting up an obstacle course using different household items. You can teach your dog to jump over pillows, weave through table legs, or run through a tunnel just throw a blanket over some chairs —all for a reward. The more creative, the better! For more ideas, contact your local dog agility group. Playing a short game of fetch or tug-of war or running through some training exercises for five or 10 minutes a few times throughout the day will give you both a boost and is a good way to tire your pup out and dispel feelings of boredom. Hide and seek For this game, your dog has to be able to sit and stay reliably while you go and hide somewhere in the house. You can start out hiding in plain sight like behind a chair and gradually make your hiding places harder and harder such as in closets, under beds, on the countertop, etc. Once discovered, lavishly dole out the treats and praise. Keep away This game requires at least two people, so grab another household member if you have one the more, the merrier! The challenge for your dog is to try to jump up and grab the toy. This is a fun workout—but do make sure that your pup actually gets to catch the toy after every few tosses as a reward! Go for a car ride If bad weather or air quality are keeping you indoors, it might be good to get out of the house by taking your canine companion for a car ride. Riding in the car gives dogs an exciting adventure, allowing them to explore while keeping them out of harsh weather. Subscribe to a YouTube channel for dogs The channel Relax My Dog uploads calming music and TV for dogs, featuring drone footage of wide open landscapes and nature trails that help soothe hyperactive canines. Make homemade treats You can never have too many dog treats, and showing your dog some extra love with homemade treats is a great way to reinforce good behavior. Or if your pup needs something refreshing to cool down, try freezing treats in ice cubes to make dog-friendly Popsicles! For more tips on how to entertain your companion dog indoors, visit Canine Enrichment on Facebook and check out the awesome dog toys on our website that your best friend will love! If you buy something after clicking the Amazon links on this page, a percentage of the qualifying purchase will be donated to PETA and help us protect more animals from exploitation. Follow Us. If you decide to make a purchase from one of the links marked by an asterisk, we may earn a small commission on that sale. This is at no extra cost to you. Mental Stimulation For Dogs As a society, we long ago recognized that animals in captivity of any kind begin to behave differently than those in the wild. This is true even if they were born into that environment and have never known anything else. It even applies if their species came into existence paralleled with domestication, like the modern dog. Much of being a good pet parent and trainer to your dog has to do with recognizing whether or not your home environment and daily routine are meeting the biological needs that your dog has. He chews on anything and everything in the house. He gets into the trash constantly. He follows you around constantly when you are home. Behaviors like these often crop up with a bored dog. You might think he just needs more space, but even zoo animals in huge outdoor enclosures develop problematic behaviors from boredom — called stereotypic behaviors. Enrichment and mental stimulation! What is Dog Enrichment? Enrichment includes a change in scenery, toys, new scents, social interactions, and any kind of mental stimulation. Dog enrichment can include training sessions, going for a walk, playtime with you or another dog, toys, food treats, or even having the radio or TV on for auditory stimulation. In the zoo community, enrichment is a huge component to working with exotic animals in captivity. And, thanks to the zoo community and their push for enrichment research, dog trainers and behaviorists have a deeper understanding of the consequences of bored animals and the benefits that enrichment can provide. What Mental Stimulation Can Do Here are a few generalizations we can now make about the benefits of enrichment, or mental stimulation, for your dog at home: Bored dogs are destructive dogs. These include behaviors like pacing, chewing on non-food items, obsessive licking, and over-grooming themselves or housemates. Bored dogs are hyperactive. Enriched dogs adapt more easily to stress. This is particularly useful information to any who have dogs that deal with anxiety during their daily life: for example, aggression toward the mailman or other dogs walking by, anxiety during thunderstorms or fireworks, or separation anxiety. Under-stimulated dogs can become overweight and suffer more joint problems. Veterinarians agree that providing mental stimulation increases the overall amount of movement in dogs and can raise their heart rate — both of which contribute to the healthy amount of physical activity dogs need to stay fit. So, what are some fun ways to add mental stimulation for dogs? Brain Toys for Dogs The absolute easiest thing a pet owner can do to reduce boredom for her pooch is to leave him with some challenging dog toys. There are tons of new, safe, dog mental stimulation toys on the market! A few of my favorites include these puzzle toys that dispense treats to your dog once he unlocks the mechanism for dispersion. This puzzle has a unique and fun design! The reviews for this one are great. Well worth a try! Ideally, it should take minutes for Fido to retrieve all of his breakfast. Not all dog enrichment toys have to include food rewards. After all, one of the side benefits of enrichment is preventing your dog from gaining weight in the first place, right? The reviews are great for this one! You can drop a few scents in between the layers for Fido to sniff around and discover. Training games, or mind games for dogs, include anything that makes your pooch use his noggin for something other than sleeping or eating. Teach your dog how to learn with the use of a clicker. This game involves you teaching your dog to climb inside a cardboard box, and full instructions on this game can be found here. Nose games are great mental games for dogs to put their sniffer to work. In addition to using various scents with the Snuffle Mat, you can add unique scents inside dog-proof containers around your yard or house. Use safe scents, like lavender oil or scents specifically prepared for dog nose work. These are available online. Present both closed fists to your dog, and only give him the treat when he sniffs the correct hand! Before releasing your dog to the backyard for some afternoon exercise and potty breaks, toss a handful of kibble into the yard. Whenever I do this one with my dogs, they will spend 20 minutes or more investigating the whole yard every day for the next three days! When you need to get Fido out from underfoot at home, take a handful of mini milkbones and place them in random locations around the house. Be sure nothing around the hiding spot is able to be chewed on or damaged by your dog rummaging around. Great places include on the seat of a dining room chair, in the far corner of the room, or on a low windowsill for tall dogs. My German Shepherd loved this game — anytime she would get bored, she would wander the house, sniffing high and low to see if there was anything hiding for her. Mental Stimulation for Dogs A ride in the car is a great way to entertain your pup for a while. More and more cafes are welcoming pets to sit at your feet while you enjoy a coffee, and there are lots of stores that allow dogs on leashes for a stroll Home Depot, Lowes, and Bass Pro Shops are all pup-friendly and very stimulating for dogs. We hope that this information has inspired you with a newfound appreciation of the positive benefits of brain training for dogs! Whether you pick up some puzzle toys, create a change in your routine, or develop some dog brain teasers of your own, any form of enrichment or mental stimulation is great for your dog. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. At-Home Tips for Keeping Your Pets Busy and Engaged April 23, One key to a happy and healthy pet is regular enrichment, keeping their environments safe and exciting and allowing them to engage in their innate behaviors such as sniffing or chewing in dogs. For many pet parents right now, extended and prolonged time at home may be making it difficult to stay engaged and busy, and boredom can lead to destructive and undesirable behavior patterns for some pets. While families are busy working and learning from home, it's important for dogs and cats to do the same! These enrichment ideas are great ways to keep your furry friends happy, healthy and on best buddy behavior while in quarantine. Staying Active In More Ways than One Is Key In addition to physical exercise, there are many fun and free ways to give your dog or cat a mental workout from the comfort of your home. For dogs: Use a snuffle mat for offering treats or dry food or stuff a puzzle toy with yummy food like plain yogurt, peanut butter or their meal for a fun and delicious challenge that will keep your dog busy and mentally stimulated. Cardboard boxes of all sizes , paper towel rolls, PVC pipes with holes drilled into the sides or plastic jugs can be used. Set up a scavenger hunt so your pup can put their powerful nose to work. Hide treats around a room in partial view, or even in cardboard boxes, empty paper towel or toilet paper rolls, cereal boxes or egg cartons, to be discovered. For cats: Offer their meals or treats in food puzzle toys for kitties. Provide objects for them to explore, such as cardboard boxes, paper shopping bags with the handles cut off , bottle caps, packing paper and toys that encourage them to investigate various openings with their paws. Position bird and squirrel feeders outside windows where your cat can observe animals coming and going during the day or even try playing videos of birds and squirrels on your tv, computer or phone! Check out our full list of DIY projects you can craft to help with enrichment for your cat! Preparing Them for Alone Time Again When our regular work and school routines commence again, your dog or cat may be left confused once everyone is rushing out the door instead of spending time at home. Even while you and your family are home, start to prepare your pet by designating time for them to spend alone, comfortably, throughout the day. Tips to helping them adjust: Create a cozy, inviting place for your dog or cat to nap away from all the activity of remote work and school. You can put on some soothing music. When giving your pet time away from you, offer your dog tasty chews to keep them busy. You can purchase all sorts of interesting and easily digestible chews online such as bully sticks, or you can fill a puzzle toy with a tasty treat and freeze it. Both dogs and cats will be entertained for some time with an interactive food-puzzle toy. There are many free game apps for cats to play with on their own. You can also find battery-operated toys online that may keep your cat busy and happy on their own. Leave your home and take a stroll outside without your dog occasionally to practice leaving the house for short durations. Other Ways to Help:. Keeping your dog entertained can be a challenge, and simply trying to come up with new ways to keep your dog entertained can be more exhausting than actually getting up and doing it. By playing with your dog a few times a day you can decrease the likelihood of them developing destructive habits such as excessive barking or chewing. Play a Game of Find The Treats Nose work games are one of the easiest ways to tire out your dog, and they can be played indoors. To play all you have to do is grab some treats and have your dog watch in a stay position as you place them around the room. Have them stay in another room as you hide the treats, and start hiding them in spots they have to sniff out such as under a rug. Play the the Shell Game The shell game is a simple problem solving game for dogs. To play the shell game with your dog let your dog watch as you place a treat under one of three cups. Praise them like crazy, then rinse and repeat. If you want to keep your dog busy for awhile try stuffing a Kong with some of their favorite treats. You can freeze some peanut butter or broth inside, or just put some treats in there and give your dog something to work for. Play a Game of Tug of War Playing a game of tug of war is one of the best ways to engage in meaningful play with our dogs. And contrary to what some people say playing tug will not make your dog aggressive, and letting them win will not make them dominant. Letting your dog win just makes the game more fun for your dog, and it will encourage them to play more. Dogs that play tug with their owners have been found to be more obedient and have higher confidence. If you want to impress all of your friends teach your dog to fetch you something from the fridge. Play Interactive Games To keep my dog busy on rainy days I love using interactive games such as tug, find the treats, puzzle games and fetch. Interactive games are an easy way to give your dog plenty of mental stimulation , and they can help cut down on problem behaviors such as excessive chewing or barking. Make Your Dog Work for His Food We give our dogs a nice comfy life — they get a warm bed, lots of attention, and all their meals for free. But our dogs were bred to work alongside us, and a lot of our dogs are missing out on some mentally stimulating activities. You can make your dog perform some tricks before he gets his dinner, or you can have them eat from a food dispensing toy. Have your dog work for their meals by using food dispensing toys. Start by playing with one specific toy and giving it a name while you do. Once your dog has learned that specific toys name you can test their skills by seeing if they can pick it out among their other toys. Dogs have the ability to learn hundreds of words. As your dog gets better at this game you can make it more challenging by increasing the number of toys they have have to sift through. Keep it fun for them by rewarding them handsomely with a treat or quick game of tug when they succeed. This game will give your dog a great mental workout. Teach Your Dog a New Trick Does your dog know how to weave through your legs and jump through a hoop? Does your dog already know a bunch of tricks? Once your dog knows a bunch of tricks you can step it up a notch and combine their learned behaviors into brand new tricks. Teaching your dog a fun new trick like weaving through your legs. Work on Some Clicker Training One of my favorite tips when it comes to dog training is using a clicker. They costs a few bucks and can help make training easier by ensuring you can capture the exact moment to praise them for doing a new trick or command. When you use a clicker you can mark the exact moment your dog made the right choice. Close your fists and hold them out in front of your dog. When your dog sniffs or paws the correct hand open it up and give them the treat. Tip: Chopped up carrots make excellent treats for scent work games and training. Hide and seek might not seem all that complex or entertaining to us, but a lot of dogs get a real kick out of it. There are a ton of dog puzzle toys available, as well as treat dispensing toys like the Kong Wobbler. If you want to give your dog something to chew on for awhile we love Best Bully Sticks and Benebones. Master the Basics of Obedience Training Does your dog know all of the basic obedience commands? Does he have a reliable recall and stay? Even well trained dogs need a refresher course now and then to keep them sharp. All dogs should have a reliable sit, down, stay, drop it, and come here. You can keep your dog interested in his toys by engaging in a game of tug or fetch. Play a Game of Fetch Most of us do have some extra room indoors for a simple game of fetch, but if you live on the 5th floor with a St. Bernard you should probably skip this game. When it comes to playing indoor fetch hallways, stairways, and big living rooms are popular choices. My dog and I love playing soccer in the basement with her Jolly ball. Master The Art of Doggie Massage Learning how to give a dog massage is enriching for owner and dog alike. A nice massage can help soothe and relax nearly any dog. And dog massages are great for older dogs or those with arthritis, since it helps soothe sore and achy joints. Giving your dog a massage reduces anxiety, relieves stress, improves circulation, and creates a great bond between you and your dog. Tip: If your dog has a hard time settling down for a massage you can practice the relaxation protocol. The basic principle of shaping games is to encourage our dogs to try something new. They get to make their own decisions and increase their mental and physical flexibility. You start out with a box on the ground and without any cues let your dog investigate and decide what to do. Shaping can be used with any item, not just a box. Our dogs need to be brushed, bathed, have their teeth brushed , and have their nails trimmed when they start to get long. Some dogs tolerate grooming better than others, and the more you practice using positive rewards the easier it will become. Play a Game of Tag Playing tag is a fun interactive game for dogs, but it does require a partner. Each of you will sit or stand at one side of the room with a toy or some treats. Take turns calling the dog over and rewarding them when he comes. Make sure your dog is receiving lots of positive reinforcement each time they obey. This is a simple and fun way to reinforce a reliable recall. Have your dog jump over some towels, weave through his toys, and then lay down on a blanket. Use your imagination and come up with a set of obstacles for your dog to follow. Once your dog has learned how to jump over the towels you then move onto the toy weave. Building on prior tricks will keep your dog mentally stimulated and encourages focus. Brushing up on dog tricks, making some yummy treats, and playing a game of fetch are all simple ways to keep your dog busy. And seriously, a few minute sessions of chasing bubbles can work wonders for your dog. You can either buy your dog a new toy to get their enthusiasm going or you can rotate their toys. Instead of giving your dog access to all of their toys all the time give them a couple. Toys take on a whole new value once you get involved and start playing with it as well. Make your own DIY dog toy by braiding some old t-shirts into a tug toy. Make a Doggie Play Date Does your dog have some nice dog friends? Invite them over for some play time. Brush up on Some Old Tricks Just like us our dogs can benefit from a refresher now and then. When was the last time you asked your dog to roll over or play dead? Teach Your Dog to Grab His Leash Before we go for a walk I have my dog go and grab her leash, then she has to fetch me my boots and her harness. This way I can keep her nice and calm, making it easier and quicker to get ready and out the door. Teaching your dog to go fetch their leash or harness is a nice way to give them some extra mental stimulation , and give them a nice simple job to do. Instead of having to get up and turn on the light have your dog do it for you. If you have a small dog you might have to improvise to make it possible for your dog to reach the light switch. Brush up on the basic impulse control commands like leave it, wait, stay, settle, and down. These commands are important if your dog ever gets loose or decides to chase after that squirrel. Instead of handing out a free meal have your dog perform a few tricks before they eat. I love making my own dog treats rather than buying them from the store. Tip: Be sure to check out our list of 25 simple dog treat recipes for some great options. Reward polite behaviors handsomely, with consistency your dog will get into the habit of asking for things in a polite manner. We all need time to unwind, and many of our dogs love to lounge around with us. Before bedtime each night I sit on the couch with Laika for a bit. Play some fun games with your dog or teach them something new. Dogs thrive on interactive play, and it has a big impact on their overall health and well being. We might not be able to provide them with the full time job they were bred for — but we can give them something meaningful to do with a few simple games and tricks. You call to a dog and a dog will break its neck to get to you. Dogs just want to please. Have you read about the recent studies that found a correlation between interactive play and a dogs well being? Does your dog know the name to all of his toys? Do you make your own doggie treats or toys? Does your dog get bored? This post contains affiliate links, if you purchase an item I will earn a small commission.

Kenya Labradors breeds the best, so YOU will live with the best. Kenya Labradors is solely dedicated to "breeding excellence" in order to offer you the most outstanding family pets and champions of conformation, hunting, agility, and obedience. We specialize in English-type chocolate and black Labs of exceptional quality and brilliance. See our website for photographs, pedigrees, and information! Why Labradors? Our home is on 20 acres in the gorgeous Santa Margarita Valley on California's central coast. With all this land, we could have chosen ANY breed of dog.Why did we choose Labradors? We chose to love, train, breed, and show only English-type Labrador Retrievers because we believe no other dog will suffice. These fabulous dogs fulfill our every criterion for the perfect canine companion. They are magnificently built for stamina and agility. They are off-the-charts bright and eager to please — loving, easy to train, and full of personality. Kenya Labradors are filled to the brim with SO MUCH love, devotion and intelligence — sure to become an important member of your family. It was an easy choice for us. World's Most Popular Breed of Dog! That's a BIG title and with good reason! It is also one of the most popular assistance dog breeds in Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, United States, and many other countries, as well as being widely used by police and other official bodies for their intelligence and desire to please. Labrador Retrievers - Central California We started with one dog, as many people do. Read our story. Now we strive to produce the best quality Labs possible, specializing in chocolate and black colors with the English-type conformation. Kenya Labradors are beautiful, bold looking dogs, and especially athletic. They love to swim, play catch, and retrieve, but can just as easily kick back to watch movies with you. Our Labs are super friendly "people dogs" that are good with young children and the elderly, and for announcing to welcome visitors. Please contact us for a phone appointment. We don't post our phone number here because we are often outside with our dogs, and paying proper attention to numerous phone calls became quite a challenge. Establishing a first contact by email allows us to agree upon time where you will receive our full attention. We appreciate your understanding on this. Simply click on "contact us" or fill out the quick form — at the bottom of every page. Unless we are at a dog show or hunt trial, we will get back to you typically within the day. We look forward to meeting you! Sorry, we do not ship. Kenya Labradors does not sell puppies via the Internet or to pet dealers. You must be physically present to purchase a Lab puppy from us. We also do not cross-breed Labs to make designer dogs. We breed amazing English Labradors and take great pride in doing that one thing well. Come and see for yourself. You just might fall in love! Santa Margarita, CA .We rescue abandoned, homeless and neglected Labradors from all over central California and beyond. We wish to end suffering and promote the welfare of labs and lab mixes through direct action and education. We provide each dog with a stable environment, love, companionship, food and veterinary care until a qualified, loving forever home is found. Labrador Retriever Rescue of Fresno believes that all companion animals should be treated with dignity, compassion and kindness. LRRF is supported entirely by our dog loving community. We fix broken bones and provide all needed medical care for the dogs who come into our rescue. We take in senior and special needs Labs. As a direct result of the number of dogs coming into rescue, our resources are severely strained. Through the generous hearts and hands of people like you, we can ensure that the animals who come into our care will never again be alone, hungry, sick, afraid or in pain. Please consider a one time or monthly donation to help us with caring for these dogs. Your donation is tax deductible and greatly appreciated. Donations can be made via our Paypal button below. Box , Clovis, CA

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions from Poodle owners like you. What should I feed a picky Poodle? What should I not feed my Poodle? Human food! You should also avoid toxic foods for dogs like chocolate, garlic, onions, etc. Do Poodle need a special diet? Small-breed dog food is sometimes recommended by vets, but most small breeds can eat regular dog food without an issue. What is the best homemade food for Poodles? Soft dog foods that require little chewing are the best options for Poodles with no teeth. Should I put my Poodle on a diet plan? Unless your Poodle is overweight, suffering from a specific health condition, or has allergies, they should not be put on a diet. Your vet will be able to tell you if your dog requires a new diet, less or more food, or prescription dog food. If your dog needs to lose weight, here are some tips you can try. Sticking with Blue Buffalo, we think that their canned puppy food is a contender for the best dog food for Poodle puppies. What should I look for in a dog food for my Poodle? Look for a dog food that is high in protein, low in carbohydrates, and contains essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals. Avoid dog foods with artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. Should I choose wet or dry food for my Poodle? Both wet and dry food can be suitable for Poodles. However, dry food may be better for dental health as it can help scrape off plaque and tartar. Can I feed my Poodle a homemade diet? Yes, you can feed your Poodle a homemade diet, here are some vet-approved recipes. While dog food specifically formulated for Poodles may be beneficial, it is not necessary. What is the best dog food for a Poodle with sensitive stomachs? Look for a dog food that is made with easily digestible ingredients, such as chicken or lamb. Avoid dog foods that contain artificial ingredients or fillers. Can Poodles eat grain-free dog food? Yes, Poodles can eat grain-free dog food, but it is important to make sure that the food still contains essential nutrients and is not lacking in any areas. How much should I feed my Poodle? The amount of food your Poodle needs depends on their size, age, and activity level. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate amount of food for your Poodle. Should I choose a dog food that is high in fat? No, it is important to choose a dog food that is balanced and does not contain excessive amounts of fat. Too much fat can lead to obesity and other health problems. Is it necessary to feed my Poodle a dog food with added supplements? Can I feed my Poodle a vegetarian diet? Poodles require meat-based protein in their diet and typically cannot thrive on a vegetarian diet unless carefully prepared. Here are some vegetarian and vegan recipes and store-bought foods. Should I avoid dog foods that contain by-products? While by-products are often viewed negatively, they can provide essential nutrients for dogs but not when cooked in with kibble. By-products, such as chicken liver are healthy for dogs. Consistency is important for their digestive health. What is the best dog food for a senior Poodle? Look for a dog food that is lower in calories and fat, higher in protein, and contains joint supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin. Can I feed my Poodle a raw diet? Yes, a raw diet is a great choice. Below are some of the frequently asked questions by Poodle lovers! What is the recommended amount of food for a Poodle? It depends on how active your Poodle is. A very busy poodle will require more food than a sedentary poodle. For example, puppies need more calories than adult dogs, and elderly dogs need fewer calories than adult dogs. The best way to determine how much food your dog needs is to feed them a diet based on their age, weight, and activity level. Consult with your veterinarian if you have any questions about how much food to feed your Poodle. Can my Poodle be fed dry dog food kibble instead of wet food? There is no definitive answer to this question. Some people believe that dry food is better for dogs because it helps keep their teeth clean, while others believe that wet food is better because it contains more nutrients. Ultimately, the best diet for your Poodle will depend on his individual needs and preferences. There are pros and cons to both dry dog food kibble and wet dog food. Ultimately, the best food for your Poodle depends on his specific dietary needs and preferences. It can also be easier to portion control because the kibble can be weighed or measured. Wet dog food is usually more nutritious than dry dog food since it contains more fresh ingredients, and it can be a good choice if your Poodle has difficulty chewing or swallowing. Can poodle puppies eat dry dog food? Yes, dry dog food is safe for poodle puppies. As long as the food is specifically meant for puppies, it will provide them with all the necessary nutrients to grow and develop properly. Make sure to choose a food high in protein and low in carbohydrates, as puppies are naturally carnivores and need more protein than adult dogs. The majority of puppies have little trouble chewing dry dog food. However, you can soften the kibble by adding a little water or wetting it if they do. Until then, continue providing whatever diet is appropriate for his age and weight. If my Poodle has difficulty chewing, what should I do? You can do a few things if your Poodle seems to have trouble chewing. One option is to feed your dog softer foods, like canned food or boiled chicken. You can also purchase a special diet for dogs with dental problems. Finally, you can ask your veterinarian about giving your dog prescription toothpaste or chew toys designed to help clean their teeth. Can my Poodle eat grains? Grains are a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and fiber, but they also contain gluten which can be hard for some dogs to digest. In addition, dogs that are allergic to grains will often have skin problems, digestive issues, and excessive shedding. Can I feed leftovers to my Poodle? Leftovers can make a nutritious meal for your Poodle if they are not too fatty or high in salt. Be sure to avoid giving them any toxic food to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, or onions. You can also give them cooked meat, rice, and vegetables. A balanced diet is essential for keeping your Poodle healthy and happy. Feeding your poodle leftovers can also be unhealthy, as they may not be getting the balanced diet they need. Instead, try to give your Poodle specifically-made dog food tailored to their nutritional needs. This will help keep them healthy and prevent any weight problems from developing. Do I have any options if my Poodle is a fussy eater? You can do a few things to get your Poodle to eat. One is to try different types of food. Sometimes, all it takes is a change in diet to get a dog to start eating again. You can also try mixing wet and dry food or warming up the food slightly before serving it. If your Poodle is particularly fussy, you may have to resort to hand-feeding her small meals several times a day until she starts eating on her own again. What foods are toxic to poodles? Yes, there are a few foods that are toxic to poodles. Chocolate, raisins, garlic, and the artificial sweetener xylitol pose a threat to poodles. Cavities and gum disease are common problems in dogs, and they can cause a lot of pain and discomfort for your pet. The vet will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend treatment. In many cases, cavities can be treated with antibiotics or surgery, and gum disease can be treated with a special diet or surgery. Your Poodle may be having trouble chewing because its teeth are not clean. You might also want to try giving your poodle rawhide bones or chew toys to help keep its teeth healthy and clean. What other foods should poodles never eat? Yes, there are other foods that poodles should never eat. Other dangerous foods for poodles include grapes, raisins, chocolate, and onions. Why not give my Poodle those treats that look like bacon, hot dogs, and pork chops? Poodles are prone to obesity, and these treats are high in fat and calories. Stick to crunchy treats that are low in fat and calories instead. My dog eats the grass in my yard and other plants. How can I prevent this? However, this has yet to be proven. Is fiber necessary for poodles? Yes, poodles need fiber. A high-fiber diet will help keep their bowels regular and help minimize the risk of constipation. Is a low-fat diet for my Poodle appropriate? Dogs have higher fat, and dietary requirements than humans and do not often suffer from the same obesity-related health issues that humans do. A low-fat diet would be dangerous for your Poodle and could lead to deficiencies in essential fatty acids. Feed your dog a balanced diet appropriate for their breed and age, and make sure they get plenty of exercise. Could I feed my Poodle raw foods? There are pros and cons to a raw foods diet for your Poodle. On the one hand, a raw foods diet can be healthier for your dog because it is more natural and closer to what they eat in the wild. However, on the other hand, it can be more expensive and time-consuming to prepare than a traditional kibble diet. If you consider switching your dog to a raw foods diet, it is important to consult with a veterinarian or animal nutritionist to ensure that your pup is getting all of the nutrients they need. A raw foods diet should always include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and high-quality protein sources like meat, poultry, fish, and eggs. Is frozen raw food a good option for poodles? Yes, I do recommend frozen raw foods for poodles. I recommend all dogs eat a diet of at least some frozen raw food. Frozen raw food is the healthiest type of diet you can feed your dog. It contains all the nutrients and enzymes your dog needs to stay healthy and strong. Plus, feeding your dog frozen raw food can help protect them against many common health problems, including allergies, skin problems, weight gain, diabetes, and cancer. Is it okay to feed eggs to my Poodle? How about eggshells? You can feed eggs to your Poodle, but you should take care not to give them too many eggshells. Eggshells are a great source of calcium, but if your dog eats too many, they could end up with an eggshell calcium overdose. A safe dose for a healthy poodle is about 5 grams of eggshells per day. Poodles, do they need supplements? Yes, Poodles do need supplements, and there are a few are particularly beneficial for joint and bone growth. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are two of the most popular supplements for joint health, and they can help reduce inflammation and improve joint function. Omega-3 fatty acids are also important for joint health, as they can help reduce stiffness and pain. Vitamin D is another important supplement for Poodles, as it helps to maintain bone health and prevent osteoporosis. What man-made food can Poodles eat? Raw and cooked carrots are safe for your dog, as are cooked eggs, salmon, and blueberries. However, be sure to avoid grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and anything else that might be harmful to your pup. Conclusion — Final Verdict! Now that you know a little more about the best dog food for Poodles, we hope you feel confident in your ability to choose the right food for your pup. We wish you and your pup all the best in finding the perfect diet! Related Links. Feeding a Poodle Overview Ensuring that your Poodle is on a well-balanced diet is one of the most important elements to keeping your canine family member healthy, both now and into the future. This section will cover all Poodle feeding guidelines including how often to feed a Poodle, serving sizes, dry vs wet, grain vs grain-free, and top recommended kibble. Don't need all of the details and just want to know which brands are recommended? New Puppies - The Importance of Gradually Switching Foods Before you even bring your Poodle home, it is very important to discuss with the breeder or shelter worker if you are adopting a rescue exactly which brand of food they have been feeding to your Poodle. A fast change in food can cause upset stomach and digestive problems. Breeders and shelters are buying food in bulk and have to feed many dogs which is a factor in which brand they choose; so there is a good chance that you will want to offer your Poodle something different. Have both the current food and the new food on hand and make a gradual switch over the course of 3 weeks. Though you will be leaving food out at all times, it is important that the food is fresh. Do not just top it off throughout the day, rinse and clean the bowl as necessary so that old food is not stuck at the bottom of the dish. Puppy: Starting at just about the 3 month mark, Poodles of all varieties should be eating 3 meals per day, plus snacks. Adult: When a pup matures into an adult, this does not necessarily mean that they should suddenly be given only one meal a day. Smaller dogs such as Toy Poodles and Miniatures often do best with 2 or even 3 meals per day. Standards have a bit more tolerance to a single dinnertime feeding, however many can also benefit from having food split up into two servings. Several snacks can be given in between meals and this is particularly helpful is a Poodle is a fast eater. How Much to Feed a Poodle Exact serving size varies quite a bit depending on the type of food. There is a big difference in calories between wet vs dry and low quality vs high quality. And, the amount of food that a Poodle should be eating depends on the dog's age, activity level, individual metabolism, and health status. Even the weather can play a role since dogs tend to eat a bit more in the winter and a bit less in the summer. In regard to calorie requirements, puppies need more calories per pound than their adult counterparts, approximately 40 to 55 calories per pound, daily, compared to adult dogs that need about 35 to 45 calories per pound, daily. S enior Poodles typically have slower metabolisms and reduced mobility and therefore usually require slightly fewer calories, in the 40 calorie per pound range. If you are feeding your Poodle a commercial food, follow the suggested feeding guidelines. These are usually pretty spot-on. Since these are based on both age and weight, do not estimate how much your Poodle weighs but rather know what this is within a pound or two. If you are feeding your Poodle homemade food, a rough guideline for serving size is 1 ounce of food for each 1 pound of body weight, daily. As you can imagine, this can vary quite a bit depending on the exact ingredients. Using the 1 to 1 rule as a starting point, what your Poodle consumes within 15 minutes is usually a good amount for each meal. Wet vs Dry If a Poodle had their way, most would opt for wet food. However, dry food is recommended since this is much better for the gums and teeth. In addition, dry kibble tends to be easier on the stomach and intestines and a diet of all wet canned food can lead to runny stools. Grain vs Grain-free Until relatively recently, there was not much debate on this subject; if a dog tended to have gastrointestinal or allergy issues when on a diet with grains, they were switched to a grain-free recipe. However, this changed when it was discovered that several dogs that were breeds not prone to dilated cardiomyopathy developed that particular heart disease and also happened to be fed grain-free kibble. Lots of pet parents immediately thought that they needed to change their dogs back to grains; however, many more studies need to be done. In fact, the most recent update from the Veterinary Medical Center at Tufts University suggests that 'grain-free' alone may not be the issue at play. For now, it is theorized that a certain diet dubbed a BEG diet may be to blame. This stands for boutique small local brands with exotic meats non-traditional meats like alligator, bison, ostrich, venison, and kangaroo and grain-free along with peas, legumes, or potatoes as one of the top 5 ingredients. Currently there are no recalls of grain-free dog food brands and the FDA is still investigating any possible links including the BEG theory. If your Poodle does not do well with any grains at all, you may wish to stick to a brand that has traditional meats like chicken, turkey, or beef or a fish-based recipes. And, if you are not sure about which grains your Poodle may do okay with, you may wish to opt for wholesome non-wheat and non-gluten grains like rice brown or white , oatmeal, quinoa which is technically a seed. Exact recommendations for the best foods include both grain and grain-free options. Elements to Keep in Mind When Choosing Food for Your Poodle What to avoid: It's no wonder that pet parents have a difficult time navigating the many choices of dog foods in their quest to find the best brand to give their Poodle, there are a lot of ingredients to avoid: Artificial flavoring like MSG which can cause terrible allergic reactions. Artificial coloring. Some of the worst are Yellow 5, Red 40, Blue 2, and Yellow 6 which are linked to very serious issues including neurological and behavioral issues like insomnia and hyperactivity and serious health issues including some cancers. Chemical preservatives. This can be tricky to avoid since these do not always need to be labeled; if these are added to protect 'protein meals' in low levels, you'll never see it listed as an ingredient. These are meats and animal parts deemed unfit for human consumption. Examples are lungs, spleen, spinal tissue, genitals, hooves, beaks, intestines, and more. Generic meats or oils. This can, by law, be any species of animal whatsoever and are usually 4-D animal parts: Sourced from dead, diseased, dying, or disabled zoo animals, farm animals, or even roadkill. These are very common in cheaper subpar brands and are inexpensive ingredients that are added only to plump up the food but offer little to no nutritional value. Examples of fillers include corn, soy, wheat middlings, peanut hulls, oat husks, and cereal grains. Ingestion of fillers is a contributing factor in coprophagia eating feces and is linked to malnutrition. High grain count. Though some wholesome grains may be desired next section , high levels of wheat or gluten can cause upset stomach issues and allergies. What to look for: Knowing what to avoid can help you identify some of the better brands though exact recommendations are below. This means zero artificial additives. Natural preservatives. Wholesome ingredients. For meats and proteins this includes chicken, turkey, duck, lamb, rabbit, beef, and many types of fish including whitefish, haddock, salmon, and cod. You'll also want your Poodle to have some vegetables and fruits which provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Zero fillers. Every ingredient should serve the purpose of providing nutrients and never added simply to bulk up the recipe. The right balance of healthy grains. Though some Poodles will need to avoid all grains, most do very well with select non-wheat, non-gluten options including oatmeal, quinoa, and rice. Added extras. Next, we'll cover exact recommendations that fit all of the above criteria. Best Food for Poodles: Recommended Brands Please note that if you have not yet read ' Grain vs Grain-free ' section, you may wish to do so before continuing. Top recommend food with grains: 1. Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry. For larger miniatures and standards, you'll want to opt for their regular Complete Health. There are also puppy, adult, and senior formulas. All of these have no wheat, corn or other fillers, artificial coloring or flavoring, soy, meat by-products, or chemical preservatives, so you can feel very confident that your filling your Poodle's bowl with truly wholesome, healthy food. These recipes also have excellent levels of omega-3 fatty acids. And, this is made in the USA. Halo Natural Holisitc Dog Food. This top brand has found its niche by offering a purely holistic, organic recipe with non-GMO veggies and fruits and meats with no antibiotics, no hormones, and no factory farming. The protein base is chicken and liver, the two grains in this are oats and barley, and vegetables and fruits include peas, blueberries, cranberries, carrots, and sweet potato. All other ingredients are to naturally preserve the kibble or are vitamins and minerals. This particular recipe is for small breeds, however there is also an original for larger dogs. Halo is made in the USA. Top recommended food without grains: 1. Merrick is a great brand which offers this recipe for small breeds, like toy Poodles and another option for larger dogs which would include miniatures and standards. Protein bases include Texas beef, lamb, chicken, and salmon. There is no corn or other fillers, wheat, gluten, artificial additives, or chemical preservatives. And, there are excellent levels of omega-3 and both pre and probiotics. Merrick is also made in the USA. The CORE formula from Wellness is, by far, one of the very best grain-free foods on the market today. It hits very single checkbox of what you are ideally looking for in a food for your Poodle and it has some superior extras. There are excellent levels of glucosamine and chondroitin, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants. There is both a small breed formula and an original formula for minis and standards as well as puppy recipes and a reduced fat option. Wellness is made in the USA. What to Feed Your Poodle if Home Cooking You will want to have a mix of protein, healthy grains, vegetables and fruits. Proteins can include beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, veal, and fish cod, flounder, salmon, whitefish. Vegetables can include sugar snap peas, green beans, lima beans, spinach, peas, zucchini, carrots, sweet potato, and regular potato. Fruits can include blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, apple, and pear. Extras can include eggs, salmon oil, extra virgin olive oil, certain cheese with low levels of lactose Colby, Monterey Jack, Swiss cheese, and cottage cheese and plain whole white yogurt. Note that if you home cook, you will want to include a daily vitamin and mineral since it is near impossible for any combination of foods to offer a dog every nutrient that they need. Snacks Snacks and treats are also an important part of a dog's diet. Dry treats often labeled as baked or crunchy are best to tide over the appetite in between meals. Moist or chewy treats are best when used as training rewards and to reinforce good behavior. Rapid ingestion of food can lead to gas, vomiting, or upset stomach and is linked to killer bloat. Types of Nuts that a Poodle Can Eat - If you are snacking away on some nuts and want to share them with your Poodle, see which ones are safe and which are not. Poodle Begging Behavior - Giving into begging for table scraps or extra snacks contributes to this bad habit. See how to react if your Poodle won't stop begging. Overly Picky Poodles - Read how to address finicky eaters to make mealtime less stressful for both of you. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share Us. Updated March 4, This post contains affiliate links and we will be compensated if you buy after clicking on our links. Poodle puppies are lively and rambunctious creatures who are ready for anything. The breed has a long history that dates back several centuries. While many people know them for strutting their stuff at a dog show or performing tricks at a circus, most Poodles end up being a lovable member of the family. Good nutrition is crucial for proper development. In a hurry? The first is their size classification. There are three main Poodle varieties. These include Toy, Mini, and Standard. Toy Poodles are the smallest of the bunch, maxing out at about nine pounds as an adult. Standard Poodles, on the other hand, can get quite large. They can weigh as much as 70 pounds. However, most stay around the neighborhood of 60 pounds. All dogs start out small. They experience a significant growth spurt during the puppy stage. Before you know it, your young dog will be approaching their adult size. You need to have a good idea of how big your dog will get to supply them with the right amount of food. With a protein content of 31 percent, your puppy will receive all the amino acids they need to grow strong muscles. To support their changing digestive system, plenty of probiotics are added as well. Buy on Chewy 2. Most of it comes from deboned chicken and chicken meal. The dry food also has plenty of healthy fat to support their growing coat and brain. Healthy doses of calcium and phosphorous are included. These ingredients support bone growth and may be able to help your puppy avoid joint and skeletal issues in the future. Buy on Chewy 3. Chicken, lamb, and salmon all contribute to the high protein content. Because so many animal meat sources are used, your puppy can get a complex profile of amino acids to support their muscles. The kibble is also chock-full of fruits and vegetables. Ingredients like apples, spinach, and blueberries give your puppy a dose of vitamins. This particular formula is ideal for Standard Poodles. Buy on Chewy 4. It supports ocular health, improves their digestive system, strengthens their immune system, and provides plenty of energy. It does this with high-quality ingredients. Chicken and turkey are the main protein sources. Buy on Chewy 5. Chicken meal, turkey meal, and lamb meal are the most prevalent ingredients in the recipe. They make up the 24 percent protein content. The food also has a number of beneficial nutrients. Buy on Chewy nutritional requirements While the Poodle size classifications are vastly different, their nutritional requirements remain the same. The only thing that will be different is the amount of food you provide. During the first year, your dog is developing muscles, strong bones, and healthy organs. Poodle puppies are quite active. This constant activity eats up a lot of energy. Not only that, but their bodies are changing. On average, Poodle puppies will need about 55 calories per pound of body weight. More active puppies may need upwards of 60 calories. On the other side of the spectrum, lazier pups will need about .You can use this general guideline to figure out how much food your puppy will need at various stages of development. If not, you may have to soften the kibble a bit to get them to eat or start with wet food. Compared to their birth weight, Poodles will be surprisingly large for only being a few months of age. Toy Poodles The average weight of a Toy Poodle at three months is about two and a half pounds. Miniature Poodles Miniature Poodles typically weigh about five pounds at this age and need approximately calories to stay healthy. Standard Poodles Standard Poodles are well on their weight to reaching adulthood at three months. They should already weight about 20 pounds. This equates to over 1, calories every day. You should continue to monitor their growth and adjust their diets as needed. Toy Poodles Toy Poodles almost double their weight by this age. They typically weigh in at just under five pounds, thus requiring about calories. Miniature Poodles By six months old, most Miniature Poodles tip the scales at about 9 pounds. Standard Poodles At around 35 to 39 pounds, Standard Poodles will do well with just over 2, calories of food. One Year of Age Take out the birthday candles and some dog-friendly cake! This is a great time to look back on your previous weigh-ins to see how much your puppy has changed. Your Poodle should be close to their target adult weight. They will continue to grow a bit longer, especially Standard Poodles. However, the changes will be a bit more difficult to see. Toy Poodles While it may not seem like much growth, Toy Poodles have come a long way since birth. Your tiny canine companion should weigh in at about six pounds and require about calories of food each day. Miniature Poodles Miniature Poodles have an average weight of about 13 pounds when they are one year old. As a result, you should be feeding them just under calories. Standard Poodles At a year old, your Standard Poodle is probably too big to be a lapdog anymore. Most puppies weigh about 50 pounds. They will need between 2, and 2, calories each day. Young Poodles need to eat many times throughout the day. When their suckling off their mothers, puppies typically free feed. Your dog will have the urge to eat a lot as a result. From there, you need to slowly decrease their meal frequency. When you hit the six-month mark, go down to three meals. At one year old, you should try to work your way down to two meals. Your puppy may not like this very much. If they seem to have a problem with hunger throughout the day, you can continue to feed them three meals for another few months. The time to switch your puppy to adult food will depend on a couple of factors. Some dogs take a bit longer to reach their adult weight than others. They need continued support as they make that last push to adulthood. Switching too early can do more harm than good. This is because they are considered adults at about one year old. The other two classifications continue to grow, albeit slowly, until about a year and a half. Their digestive system is still quite sensitive to changes. You can ease the transition by introducing small amounts of adult food to their puppy formula. Dry food and wet food both have their advantages. Starting off with canned food gives your puppy the opportunity to develop stronger muscles before they move onto something tough. It should be noted that wet food is usually less dense than kibble. To avoid weight gain, you should move onto dry kibble when your puppy is about six months old. Here are some great recipes for young Poodle pups. The food comes in a mash form. It can also be mixed in with dry food for an additional kick of flavor. It comes in a convenient tray for mess-free eating. The recipe is comprised of great ingredients like beef and liver. There are also visible vegetables. Over to You Creating an effective diet plan for a growing Poodle puppy is a lot different than doing so for an adult. They need all the fuel they can get. With a bit of extra knowledge and planning, you can provide your dog with a great diet that helps them grow up to a healthy adult. Here are the steps I took to select the best dog foods for Poodles: I did my research: As a biologist who has interned at a veterinary hospital and studied dog nutrition, I read many books on Poodles and dog nutrition in general. I also consulted with other veterinarians and pet nutritionists on the best dog food to feed Poodles. I considered the unique needs of Poodles: Poodles have specific dietary needs that vary based on their size and activity level. As such, I looked for dog foods that were tailored to the unique needs of Poodles, such as food that is low in fat and high in protein. I read customer reviews: I spent time reading through product descriptions, ingredients used in manufacturing the food, and customer reviews on Amazon, dog food brands, and e-commerce sites selling Poodle dog foods. This helped me get a sense of which dog foods were popular and well-liked by other Poodle owners. I looked for reputable brands: I also made sure to look for reputable brands that had a history of producing high-quality dog food. This included checking for brands that used high-quality ingredients and had a strong track record of producing nutritious and balanced dog foods. I avoided harmful ingredients: Lastly, I made sure to avoid dog foods that contained harmful ingredients like artificial preservatives, fillers, and by-products. These ingredients can be harmful to Poodles and can lead to health problems over time. By following these steps, I was able to compile a list of the best dog foods for Poodles that meet their unique nutritional needs. In the next sections of this article, I will share my top recommendations with you and explain why they are the best choices for your furry friend. Best Dog Foods For Toy Poodles When it comes to toy poodles, feeding them a balanced and nutritious diet is essential to keep them healthy and happy. As a pet owner, you want to provide the best possible food that meets their nutritional needs at every stage of their life. In this section, I will share my recommendations for the best dog food for toy poodles. This section will cover the best puppy toy poodle dog food, the best adult toy poodle dog food, and the best senior toy poodle dog food. Puppies require a diet that is rich in protein, fat, and essential nutrients such as calcium and phosphorus. The poodle dog foods listed in this section are high-quality dry or wet dog food options that are specifically formulated for toy poodle puppies, which are typically small in size to accommodate their smaller jaws. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for toy Poodle puppies. This section will contain the best dry dog food for toy Poodle puppies and the best wet dog food for toy Poodle puppies. It also contains nutrients that promote optimal growth and development. It contains a balance of high-quality proteins and fats. This wet dog food is easy to digest and contains all the necessary nutrients that toy poodle puppies need to grow healthy and strong. Best Dog Foods For Toy Poodle Adults As your toy poodle grows into an adult, their nutritional needs will shift to focus on maintaining a healthy weight and providing energy for daily activities. The dog foods in this section are high in protein but low in fat to prevent obesity and other health issues. Additionally, they contain ingredients such as omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants that can help support healthy skin, coat, and immune system. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for toy Poodle adults. This section will contain the best dry dog food for toy Poodle adults and the best wet dog food for toy Poodle adults. It contains a balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to keep adult toy poodles in good shape. The food also contains antioxidants and other essential nutrients to promote healthy digestion and overall well-being. It contains high-quality proteins and healthy fats, such as turkey and salmon. The dog food is also grain-free, which is ideal for toy poodles that may be sensitive to grains. Older dogs may require dog food with fewer calories and lower fat content to help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of health issues such as heart disease and diabetes. The Poodle dog foods in this section contain joint-supporting nutrients such as glucosamine and chondroitin to aid mobility, and antioxidants to support the immune system. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for toy Poodle seniors. This section will contain the best dry dog food for toy Poodle seniors and the best wet dog food for toy Poodle seniors. It contains high-quality protein, whole grains, and other essential nutrients to support healthy aging and promote optimal health. In this section, I will share my recommendations for the best dog food for Miniature Poodles. This section will cover the best puppy Miniature Poodle dog food, the best adult Miniature Poodle dog food, and the best senior Miniature Poodle dog food. The puppy miniature poodle dog foods I picked are rich in protein, fat, and essential nutrients. I picked these foods because miniature poodles are slightly larger than toy poodles, so they would need dog food with slightly larger sizes to accommodate their growing jaws. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for Miniature Poodle puppies. This section contains the best dry dog food for Miniature Poodle puppies and the best wet dog food for Miniature Poodle puppies. It is specially formulated to meet the unique nutritional needs of small breed puppies, providing them with the right balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to support their growth and development. It contains real chicken that provides essential amino acids for lean muscle development. Additionally, it contains vegetables and fruits, providing antioxidants that support the immune system. Best Dog Foods For Miniature Poodle Adults As miniature poodles reach adulthood, their nutritional needs will shift to focus on maintaining a healthy weight and providing energy for daily activities. Similar to toy poodles, I picked dog foods that are high in protein but low in fat to prevent obesity and other health issues. Additionally, I picked dog foods that contain antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and other nutrients that support overall health. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for Miniature Poodle adults. This section contains the best dry dog food for Miniature Poodle adults and the best wet dog food for Miniature Poodle adults. It also contains antioxidants and other essential nutrients to promote healthy digestion and overall well-being. It is made with real chicken and lamb which provides high-quality protein to support muscle maintenance. It also contains superfoods like kale that provide antioxidants for overall health. Best Dog Foods For Miniature Poodle Seniors Senior miniature poodles require dog food options that are lower in calories and fat to help prevent health issues such as obesity and heart disease. I choose poodle dog foods that contain glucosamine and chondroitin which support joint health and mobility. I also chose poodle dog foods that contain antioxidants and other nutrients that can also support the immune system and overall health in older dogs. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for Miniature Poodle seniors. This section contains the best dry dog food for Miniature Poodle seniors and the best wet dog food for Miniature Poodle seniors. This food is specially formulated to meet the needs of aging dogs, with added glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health, and decreased calories to prevent weight gain. It contains real chicken and brown rice, providing high-quality protein and carbohydrates. Additionally, it contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health in senior dogs. In this section, I will share my recommendations for the best dog food for Standard Poodles. This section will cover the best puppy Standard Poodle dog food, the best adult Standard Poodle dog food, and the best senior Standard Poodle dog food. As with toy and miniature poodles, I looked for Poodle dog foods that are high in protein, fat, and essential nutrients. Because standard poodles are larger than a toy and miniature poodles, I looked for dog food with larger sizes to accommodate their growing jaws. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for Standard Poodle puppies. This section contains the best dry dog food for Standard Poodle puppies and the best wet dog food for Standard Poodle puppies. Best Dog Foods For Standard Poodle Adults As standard poodles reach adulthood, their nutritional needs will shift to focus on maintaining a healthy weight and providing energy for daily activities. I looked for poodle dog foods that are high in protein but low in fat to prevent obesity and other health issues. Additionally, I also looked for ingredients such as omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants that can help support healthy skin, coat, and immune system. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for Standard Poodle adults. This section contains the best dry dog food for Standard Poodle adults and the best wet dog food for Standard Poodle adults. Older dogs may require dog food with fewer calories and lower fat content to help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of health issues such as heart I choose poodle dog foods that contain glucosamine and chondroitin which support joint health and mobility. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for Standard Poodle seniors. This section contains the best dry dog food for Standard Poodle seniors and the best wet dog food for Standard Poodle seniors. Fortunately, there are many options available that cater to specific health concerns. Here are some of the best dog foods for Poodles with health issues: 1. It is formulated with added glucosamine and chondroitin that promote healthy joints and mobility. It contains a blend of antioxidants such as Vitamin C and E to support a healthy immune system. It contains food with a low glycemic index like sweet potatoes and peas that regulates the blood sugar level of your poodle. It is formulated with a balanced ratio of protein, fat, and carbohydrates and is made with high ingredients that support their overall health. But with so many great dog foods out there that cater to specific health concerns, you can rest easy knowing your furry friend is getting the nutrition they need to live a happy and healthy life. They come in three sizes — toy, miniature, and standard — and have a distinctive curly or wavy coat. Poodles are energetic and require regular exercise and proper nutrition to maintain their health and well-being. Choosing the right dog food is crucial for the health and longevity of your poodle. Providing them with a balanced and nutritious diet can help prevent health issues such as obesity, joint problems, and dental disease. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best dog food for your poodle. Understanding Poodle Nutritional Requirements Poodles are a breed of dog that is known for their intelligence, elegance, and curly coats. Essential Nutrients Required by Poodles Poodles are a high-energy breed, which means they require a diet that is rich in essential nutrients, such as protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Nutritional Needs of Poodle Puppies, Adults, and Seniors When it comes to the nutritional needs of poodles, there are some differences depending on their age. Poodle puppies require a diet that is rich in protein and fat to support their growth and development. Adult poodles need a balanced diet to maintain their health and energy levels, while senior poodles require a diet that is lower in fat and calories to support their aging bodies. Understanding the nutritional needs of your poodle at different stages of its life is essential for choosing the right dog food. Types of Dog Foods for Poodles When it comes to choosing dog food for your poodle, there are several types to consider. The most common types of dog food available are dry, wet, semi-moist, raw food, and homemade dog food. Dry Dog Food Dry dog food, also known as kibble, is the most popular type of dog food. It is convenient and easy to store, and it comes in a wide variety of flavors and formulations. Dry dog food is also affordable, making it an excellent choice for pet owners who are on a budget. Wet Dog Food Wet dog food, on the other hand, is typically more expensive than dry dog food. It comes in cans or pouches, and it contains a higher percentage of water than dry dog food. Wet dog food is an excellent option for dogs who have trouble drinking enough water, as it can help keep them hydrated. Semi-Moist Dog Food Semi-moist dog food is a type of dog food that is soft and chewy. It is often sold in small pouches or packets and contains a lot of sugar and salt. It is not recommended as a primary food source for poodles, as it can cause dental problems and other health issues. Raw Food Diet Raw food diets have gained popularity in recent years, especially for pet owners who want to feed their dogs a more natural diet. These diets typically consist of raw meat, bones, and vegetables. While there are potential benefits to a raw food diet, there are also potential risks , and it is essential to talk to your veterinarian before starting your poodle on a raw food diet. Homemade Dog Food Finally, homemade dog food is an option for pet owners who want to have complete control over what their poodle eats. Homemade dog food can be a great way to ensure that your dog gets all the nutrients they need, but it is essential to consult with a veterinary nutritionist to make sure that the food is nutritionally balanced. Factors to Consider When Choosing Dog Food for Poodles When choosing the best dog food for your poodle, there are several factors you should consider to ensure that your furry friend stays healthy and happy. Here are the factors to keep in mind: A. Poodle puppies have different nutritional requirements than adults or seniors. A poodle that is highly active will require more calories than a poodle that is less active. Allergies and sensitivities of your poodle Poodles can be prone to allergies and sensitivities to certain foods. If you notice any issues, consult with your veterinarian to determine if your poodle has any food sensitivities or allergies. Look for dog foods that contain high-quality protein sources, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Brand reputation and recall history When choosing dog food for your poodle, it is important to consider the reputation of the brand and its recall history. Look for dog food brands with a good reputation and a history of producing high-quality dog food that is safe for consumption. Price and affordability Price is also an important factor to consider when choosing dog food for your poodle. While it may be tempting to go for the cheapest option, it is important to prioritize quality and nutritional content. Look for dog food that fits your budget and offers good value for money. How to Read Dog Food Labels When it comes to choosing the best dog food for your poodle, understanding how to read dog food labels is crucial. Here are the key elements to look for on a dog food label: A. Guaranteed Analysis This section of the label lists the minimum and maximum percentages of protein, fat, fiber, and moisture in the dog food. Ingredient List This section lists all the ingredients in the dog food in descending order of weight. Look for high-quality protein sources like chicken, beef, and fish, and avoid foods that contain a lot of fillers or artificial ingredients. Feeding Guidelines This section provides recommendations for how much food to feed your poodle based on its weight and activity level. Ingredients to Look for in Poodle Dog Food When it comes to choosing the best dog food for your poodle, the ingredients list is a crucial factor to consider. High-Quality Ingredients to Look For in a Poodle Dog Food Some of the essential nutrients that poodles need in their diet include protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Protein should come from high-quality animal sources such as chicken, turkey, fish, or lamb. Fats should come from sources like fish oil, flaxseed, or chicken fat. Carbohydrates should come from sources like sweet potatoes, brown rice, or oats. Other beneficial ingredients to look for include fruits and vegetables like carrots, peas, apples, and blueberries, which provide essential vitamins and minerals. Probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes can also help maintain a healthy gut. How to Identify High-Quality Ingredients in a Poodle Dog Food Look for whole-food ingredients that are minimally processed and avoid artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. Instead, opt for brands that clearly list their ingredients and provide detailed information about their sourcing and manufacturing processes. By choosing dog food with high-quality ingredients, you can ensure that your poodle is getting the necessary nutrients they need for a healthy and happy life. For example, some ingredients can cause digestive issues, allergies, or even serious health problems. By avoiding these ingredients, you can help ensure that your poodle stays healthy and happy. Additionally, watch out for ingredients that are listed as artificial, such as artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. These ingredients have been linked to health problems in dogs. Finally, look for natural and high-quality ingredients, such as real meats, fruits, and vegetables that provide essential nutrients for your poodle. Special Dietary Needs for Poodles As much as we want our Poodles to stay healthy and happy, they may face some health issues as they age. Therefore, it is essential to cater to their special dietary needs. Here are some things to keep in mind: A. Overview of Common Health Issues Poodles May Face Poodles are prone to certain health issues, such as allergies, skin problems, sensitive stomachs, and joint problems. Some of them may be genetically predisposed to these issues, while others may develop them as they age. If your Poodle has allergies, for example, you may want to consider hypoallergenic dog food. For Poodles with sensitive stomachs, easily digestible foods are recommended. For joint problems, food that is rich in glucosamine and chondroitin may help to support joint health. Some of the most commonly recommended supplements for Poodles include omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and probiotics. Omega-3 fatty acids can help support healthy skin and coat , while glucosamine can help support joint health. Probiotics can help support digestive health and may be beneficial for Poodles with sensitive stomachs. Pay attention to the ingredients and nutritional content listed on the label, and look for high-quality ingredients like lean proteins, whole grains, and fruits and veggies. Equally important is being aware of what ingredients to avoid, such as artificial colors, preservatives, and fillers like corn or soy. You might consider consulting with a veterinarian to help determine the best options for your furry friend. Every dog is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. With a little bit of research and attention to detail, you can help ensure that your poodle is getting the best possible nutrition to live a happy and healthy life. David Cassiel As a biologist and dog enthusiast, I have gained valuable experience and knowledge through my internship at a veterinary hospital and my personal ownership of multiple breeds. My passion for dogs and expertise in areas such as nutrition, care, and training drives my goal of providing a helpful resource for dog owners through my pet website. Find More Search for: Affiliate Disclaimer We may earn commission from Amazon and other retailers when you make a purchase through our links. You can learn more about our affiliate disclaimer here. Sure, there are various flavors and formulas, but it goes much deeper than that. Poodles are relatively healthy when it comes to health conditions that may affect which food you choose. Diseases like diabetes or allergies may influence which product you give your pooch. In these cases, you can get a prescription diet to feed your Poodle. You should only feed your pet the food meant for the species. Breed Size Poodles come in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. They vary in size from 4—70 pounds. However, even within the breed, there are differences in what you should feed your dog. The reason rests with metabolism. Smaller pups mature much faster than large ones. Whereas the Toy Poodle is an adult at 12 months, the Standard Poodle may take up to 16 months to develop fully. That fact affects the food you should give your pooch. Products for small breeds have more calories to support this rapid growth. The ones for large dogs, on the other hand, have less since they mature more slowly. Feeding your Standard Poodle a diet meant for a Toy Poodle may cause him to gain weight and become obese. Many commercial diets will have this information on the label to help you choose the right one. Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your pet's temperament, activity level and environment. If you have any questions regarding your pet's health, please contact your veterinarian. Transition Instructions We recommend at least a 7 day transition before you begin feeding the new food exclusively. On the 7th day, you can feed the new food exclusively. All of our dry diets are preserved naturally with mixed tocopherols, citric acid, and rosemary extract. Our canned diets are naturally preserved and sterilized during the cooking and canning process. Where do the ingredients in Royal Canin diets come from? Royal Canin is making strides towards sustainability by attempting to obtain sources of raw materials as close to each manufacturing facility as possible. In some cases, we use international suppliers, because only those suppliers can offer raw materials that comply with our quality and food safety standards. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain by-products? Royal Canin chooses ingredients because they deliver high-quality nutrients that support our customized pet food formulas. Using chicken by-product meal instead of chicken meal for example will allow Royal Canin to maintain its highly customized nutrient standards while achieving a more secure and sustainable supply. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain grains? As always, we focus on the nutrients each ingredient provides and grains can provide many important nutrients. How do you ensure Royal Canin diets are safe for my pet? Our Quality and Food Safety systems are state-of-the-art and we continue to invest heavily in new technology to make sure they remain that way. We monitor every load delivered to our plants to verify the safety and quality of the ingredients we use to make pet food. We perform tests on finished pet foods before they are shipped to our customers. How do I know which Royal Canin diet is right for my pet? Based on size, age, lifestyle, and breed, each cat or dog has unique nutritional needs. For healthy pets, use our Product Selector to find the right diet for your cat or dog. If your pet is experiencing health issues, please refer to your veterinarian for more information. Your veterinarian will consider multiple factors when recommending an appropriate diet.

If this sounds like your doodle, he probably needs bathing between grooming appointments. If you have multiple doodles to bathe, buy a gentle shampoo such as one that's oatmeal-based or made especially for puppies. Doodles do not have an undercoat and do not need an extra conditioning or deep-cleaning shampoo. Step 2 Brush your labradoodle out before getting him wet. Doodles tend to mat and if yours has mats, comb or pull them out with your fingers before his bath. If his mats get wet, they will be more difficult to remove and may cause pain or discomfort if they are close to the skin. Use a handheld shower head to wet him completely, making sure you get the hair underneath wet. Pour a dime- or quarter-size amount of shampoo in your hands and squeeze the shampoo through his coat rather than rubbing it in. Step 4 Rinse your doodle off thoroughly, making sure all the shampoo is washed out. If your labradoodle is super curly, rinse carefully: shampoo not washed out can become itchy. Step 5 Watch his ears so they do not get too wet: try to avoid getting water in his ear canals. You may want to put cotton in his ears to keep them dry, or avoid washing around his ears. Labradoodles have floppy ears that are not exposed to air and are often prone to chronic ear infections. After a bath, take a few cotton balls and swab the ear canal to dry it. Step 6 Dry your doodle off with towels and allow him to air-dry so his coat falls naturally. Wait to brush him out until he is completely dry. More Articles. Labradoodles need to be bathed every two to three weeks. This will help clean their fur and allow you to check their skin. Dogs can get dirty really easily, and they need regular grooming to remove dirt and dust from their coats. Bathing your Labradoodle is not only essential to keep them clean and healthy, it helps to prevent hair knots and matting As a single coated and low shedding breed, Labradoodles will require deep rinsing when they are bathed. A small Doodle puppy having a bath Regular brushing, bathing, and groomings are all different things. Grooms include the trimming of the fur, and is usually done together with bathing or directly before. Groom every weeks for most Labradoodle coats Bathing helps with both aesthetics, coat health, and prevention of skin conditions Brushing for a wavy or curly coat LAbradoodle should be at least every few days the more the merrier If you own a straight coat Labradoodle shedding you should consider how much shedding is happening. If it is a higher shedding season, you should bathe and groom your dog more frequently to assist in shedding. Also, if your dog spends a lot of time outside, he gets dirty with sweat, mud, pollens, or sticks. He needs a more frequent grooming routine. This causes your dog to itch. Grooming for Labradoodles like Max after the beach means thorough rinsing with fresh water, followed by a Gentle Shampoo and brush at home. Labradoodle puppies need bathing just the same as full-grown Labradoodles. However a spot clean here and there is usually more appropriate for a puppy. They frequently make messes so a full bath is overkill and can hurt the coat. Puppies love playing in the dirt. This is normal behavior. Puppies often also struggle with potty training Puppies make a beeline toward bad smells and messes So expect a lot of spot cleans and mini baths for your Labradoodle puppy. How Old Should Labradoodle Puppies Be For Bath In terms of a full bath, you can start bathing your puppy when he or she is old enough to understand what is happening. Make sure you do this in an appropriate place, such as a bathtub or sink. Puppies need to learn about water before being bathed, so try to teach your puppy to enjoy baths. Do this by slowly introducing the concept, making it seem fun, and minimizing background distractions. Bathing dogs in a smaller container makes them feel more comfortable. These small gestures all work well together to create and reinforce a positive experience. Instead of using adult Labradoodle shampoo — go for a gentle puppy shampoo or even some baby shampoos if they are Vet and Groomer approved. Straight hair dogs still can have some Poodle-esque snout furnishings. This one needs a bath! A Labradoodle needs to be groomed and trimmed about once every two months. Trimming the hair around the face, butt, and ears is important because this is where most dirt accumulates. Our detailed grooming guide for Labradoodles gives 11 tips for DIY grooming. It is very possible to confidently groom a Labradoodle, but it takes preparation and practice. How to Bathe Your Labradoodle Bathing your Labradoodle takes longer than bathing many other breeds because of their thick coats. You should set aside some time before you bathe your Labradoodle so you can prepare everything you need beforehand. Some Labradoodles LOVE the water and playing fetch At Home Labradoodle Bathing Shopping List A decent shampoo that suits Labradoodle coats does not need to be crazy expensive Towels many, many towels Scissors even though we are not grooming, in case of knots or surprises Rubber gloves I do not use but many do Dog brush optional — I suggest a metal comb as well Small bucket for rinsing Tear stain remover if your Labradoodle has a light coat The Process in the Bath for your Labradoodle Acclimate your Labradoodle to the bath by putting some water in the bottom of a tub and allowing him to stand in it. Turn on the showerhead or hose attachment while petting him. Make sure he sees it is not harmful and allows him to get used to the sound and feel. Rinse first before adding any product. Sand, dirt, debris. Make sure the water gets to the skin level through the long coat. Once you are able to get the dogs completely rinsed off so that there is no visible dirt left on the fur and their coats are entirely wet , you will then want to lather them up with the product of your choosing. Labradoodle Max enjoys a cuddle in a towel after a shower and bath Make sure that this product is safe to use on your dog by checking with a veterinarian or by using products that were specifically designed for your furry friend. Use this opportunity to perform your own health check. Rinse your dog with water from the tap or small bucket and inspect them thoroughly before washing them again. Twice over gives a thorough and great result. This might seem obvious, but make sure there are no more bubbles coming out of the coat. Labradoodle luxurious hair does tend to trap some soap. Dry Time a Challenge Drying a Labradoodle is hard work! You need to use lots of towels, and you need to be careful not to scare your puppy too much. Use a hairdryer if you like, and be careful when turning it on. Also, take extra care to dry their eyes and ears. Most dogs find the noise of a hairdryer overwhelming. Brush a dry dog only. A wet dog can be combed blunt steel comb though, these are so helpful. You should bathe your dog fully when he is 3 months old. Use quality puppy shampoo and conditioners designed for puppies. You can skip the conditioner really — but some owners like this extra step. Before 3 months, you should get him used to being wet and having been washed. Do mini baths or fast baths for the puppy coat until this age. This helps make future baths much easier. Even getting used to the running water and towel dry will help your dog be happier as an adult doodle during a grooming session. The Consequences of too Many Baths for Labradoodles If you wash a Labradoodle too frequently, we risk damaging their adult coat. The coat needs time to grow and develop properly. If you wash your dog too often, you could damage its natural protective oils and leave it feeling rough and scratchy. The likelihood of skin irritation or reaction to cleaning equipment also increased with an over-washed coat. Dry skin, loose hair, and irritated skin need to be monitored. Realistically this will not be a concern for most of us. Our Labradoodle Max does visit the beach often, so he gets washed in Summer FAR more frequently than the other times of the year. We try to efficiently wash him using safe and gentle shampoo — but cut down the repeat lathering. When winter comes round, he bathes far less frequently — but we use more shampoo and later more when he does wash. A happy gray Poodle and Doodle dog. Their fur looks dull and lifeless. The entire coat has an odor If you have a sedentary, indoor Labradoodle — do NOT feel obliged to bathe your dog every 2 weeks. That said, you can help make bath time easier for your Labrador by starting early and introducing him to water gently. Use treats and praises to introduce him to all elements of the bathing process. A dog needs to learn how to take baths, shampoo, conditioner, wash rags, brushes, and blow dryer. It takes time and effort to teach a dog everything he or she needs to know about bathing. Start with a few short baths then gradually increase the frequency. Be patient. Dogs and puppies can take many different attempts to understand and learn a new concept. Should you blow-dry a Labradoodle coat? Start by using a gentle hairdryer setting. I know this sounds ridiculous as even the quiet settings are often very intense. But as possible, build up the settings slowly. Start with the outside of the legs — most dogs tolerate this the most. Then dry the legs. Save the head, chest, and face for the very last. The restraint is calming a bit and safe and makes maneuvering around a displeased Labradoodle much easier. It is the only area that requires you to have a little extra knowledge and to be cautious. We have a guide specifically about ear cleaning. A big number of issues that Labradoodles have with health and odor all relate to the ears. Ear infections are common, as are grime and mites caught in the ear hair. The Curly coat type is particularly prone to this issue. It was the most surprising area of grooming that I have encountered with Poodle Mix breeds. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Australian Labradoodle Grooming Guide Choosing a Groomer Before you bring your Australian Labradoodle to the groomer, ask if they have had previous experience clipping Australian Labradoodles. Show your groomer some photos from our website so that they know exactly how you expect the clip to look. Labradoodle coats require a regular brushing and grooming routine. How often you have your Australian Labradoodle trimmed will depend on how fast their coat grows, your personal preferences in how long you leave them, how much maintenance you want to do at home, and how often you have them groomed professionally. You can expect to bathe and completely blow out their coat every weeks, and plan to have them trimmed approximately every weeks. For an adult Australian Labradoodle, you should allow on average, 60 minutes every two weeks for brushing time. If your Labradoodle is active in the water or hiking in nature areas, you may have to run a brush through them more often to remove debris or loosen hair clumping during the drying process post-swimming. Wait until your dog is dry, then run a slicker through their coat. Purchasing a small grooming table and arm, and training them to stand still during brushing and drying will save your back. But be warned that you need to always have a hand on your dog when they are on the grooming table or attached to a grooming arm. Never leave them or turn away or they can try to jump off the table and injure themselves. When your Labradoodle has short hair, an inch or two, regular brushing with a slicker can work just fine. Once the hair gets longer, it is important to make sure you are reaching all the way to the base of the hair by adding a metal greyhound comb. If loose hair is not removed near the skin, mats can begin to form. In separating your dogs coat with your hand, you can brush and comb all the way to the skin. Work backwards from the feet up to the body, and the tail to the head. Brush in the direction of the hair, but add small amounts of coat to each stroke. At approximately eight months old a puppy coat needs more frequent brushing during its changeover to the adult coat. Bathing: Australian Labradoodles need bathed and brushed out approximately once a month. Puppies can be bathed as needed. If you are going to bath your Australian Labradoodle at home, be sure to brush through the coat completely first. If you do it the other way around, any mats will get tighter when you get them wet. Also, watch that you do not pull on the mat while you are cutting it, and be aware of how closely the skin may be to your scissors. We also use a dematting tool to help break a mat into a smaller piece for easier removal. Then brush, comb, or gently work any mats out. Purchasing a commercial hair dryer is worth the investment and will speed up the drying process. Head: The lovable teddy bear look of your Australian Labradoodle is enjoyed every time you look at them, and every time you take them out and others look at them. No matter what length the body is trimmed, that adorable teddy bear face can make up the difference in winning hearts everywhere they go. A picture is worth a thousand words, so the photos and grooming card below coming soon will help to clarify the following worded instructions you will need to convey to your groomer to get exactly the look you want to see. It is best to print out the grooming card and take it with you at each visit to your groomer. This creates a more natural look and keeps the hair from poking at or covering their eyes. It also makes it easier to clean any matter out from the corner in the morning. Feet: Keeping your Labradoodles paws shaped nicely will help less water and debris attach to their feet as they are coming and going. We start trimming around their paws by around weeks of age to get them used to the action of having their feet picked up and worked with. You want to go around the bottom edge of their paw in a nice, rounded shape, snipping off longer hair so that it does not hit the ground. Your groomer can trim hair from the bottom of their feet with a clipper and a 30 blade. Nails should be trimmed regularly every weeks depending on wear. The hair under their tail should also be trimmed to keep the area clean. It is important to realize that regular brushing, bathing, and grooming are different things. Grooming includes the trimming of the hair, and is usually done in tandem with bathing or directly after but does not need to happen quite as frequently, although you are welcome to do so if you would like. Bathing helps you check in on your Labradoodle, maintain their coat from tangling, and keeps them healthy and clean. Labradoodles should be bathed every 2 to 3 weeks but can go up to 4 or 5 weeks depending on the time of year and their other grooming habits. For example, a dog will shed more in the fall and spring as he or she prepares for the cold or hot weather respectively; you will want to bathe him or her more during this time. Bathing your Labradoodle regularly helps you take care of their hair and also allows you to inspect all areas of their body. You will want to take into consideration the amount of shedding happening as well as the amount of outside time your Labradoodle is getting. If it is a high shedding season, you will want to bathe and groom your Labradoodle more frequently to assist in the shedding process. Similarly, when they spend a lot of time outdoors they get dirtier with sweat, mud, pollen, or sticks and need a more regular grooming routine as well. Since a Labradoodle coat repels dirt anyway, this should not be difficult. Simply follow the standard guidelines, and you should be fine. Labradoodle puppies actually need less bathing than full-grown Labradoodles, except in the case of visible dirt. When a Labradoodle puppy is developing his or her adult fur coat, his or her body will be attempting to regulate the oils that help to prevent dry skin among other concerns. Additionally, it is not until a dog has reached past the six- to eight-month range that his or her adult coat has become more water-resistant. Thus, as your Labradoodle puppy grows and plays, it is important to consider only bathing once per month or unless you can see visible dirt. If you are able to simply brush the dirt away, and your puppy does not have a strong odor, you may consider doing this to spread the bathing process out. Daily brushing is not necessary but will make the scheduled grooming less intensive. Labradoodles are pretty playful dogs all throughout their lifetime, but this may be especially true during their puppy years. Therefore, you may find that your Labradoodle puppy tends to roll around in the dirt more than he or she will in later years. If this is the case, then the basic brushing or rinsing method may be preferable to bathing weekly. Many people wonder when it is safe to first bathe a puppy. Puppies can be bathed as soon as they are ready and able to go home. Keep in mind, though, that bathing a puppy can be a scary process for them, so you will want to consider a few tricks to make the process more fun. For example, you may bathe them in a smaller bin than a large white tub, run the water prior to baths so that the initial process is not as loud, and provide a treat before and after they complete a job well done in the bath. By creating a safe and fun environment and reflecting an exciting personality for them to mirror, your Labradoodle will have a better likelihood of enjoying bath time from the start. How often you groom your Labradoodle will largely depend on your lifestyle and preferences. Many Labradoodles do not need to be fully groomed more than four times per year. You can minimize full shaves by trimming more regularly before a full shave is needed. Keep an eye out for signs of wax buildup and excessive ear hair; these may be indications of ear mites or disease. You put the solution into each ear, massage it for seconds, and then wipe it out using a tissue. Check with your vet for tips on loose hair removal and which solution to use. Labradoodles have a thick, curly type of coat which means it will take longer to bathe them in comparison to other dogs with straight or thinner coat types. Choosing when you will bathe your Labradoodle, as well as having all of your bathing tools ready in advance is important for a successful bath. Do not expect to be done in a few minutes like you would with a short-haired or small dog. One thing to note is that if you want your Labradoodle to have time outside afterward for drying purposes or just to help them be comfortable before bed, you should aim for mid-day so the sun is out and they have plenty of drying time. Otherwise, you may choose to dry them with a towel or blow dryer if they will let you do so. Keep in mind, though, that many dogs are scared of loud noises, so your Labradoodle may take some warming up to a hairdryer if this is the option you choose to go with. Knowing What You Need Getting the right products and equipment is very important for bathing your Labradoodle. Below, I will include a section on great shampoos and conditioners to use with your furry friend. If you are comfortable just using your regular tub, you will not really need much more. Just a couple of towels and maybe a hairdryer for drying as well as a good slicker brush to detangle after will be the essentials! Ideally, you will have a hose or removable showerhead so that you can rinse it easier. If you decide that you would rather use something other than a regular tub, you may need access to other tools to help make this process go smoothly. You may choose to use a bin for them to stand in and a bucket to transport water for rinsing purposes. By choosing something that will require less effort on your part, you will be more accessible to your dog and make this process a fun and routine experience for him or her. The Process in the Bath for your Labradoodle Acclimate Your Labradoodle and Rinse The first thing you will need to do is get your Labradoodle used to the bath and showerhead. A bath is not something that a dog has naturally been bred to understand, so it takes a little coaching and familiarizing on your part. Many dogs quickly acclimate to the process, but it is helpful if you are there encouraging them along the way both in practice and in attitude. To help acclimate your Labradoodle to the bath, put a little water in the bottom of the tub and allow them to stand in it. Making sure it is warm is a good idea to get them a positive first impression. This can be done in a quiet and calm fashion to show your Labradoodle that this is nothing to be scared of or dreaded. After you have gotten them more comfortable with their surroundings the tub plus a small amount of water , try turning on the showerhead or hose attachment while petting them. Let them see it is not harmful and allow them to get used to the noise and feeling. Again, your calming presence and helpful comfort will be helpful if they are more fearful of the bath or bathing devices. Add Products and Check on Their Skin Once you are able to get them fully rinsed off as in there is no visible dirt on the fur and their coat is entirely wet , you will want to lather them with the product of your choice. Please ensure that this product is safe for your dog by checking with your vet or by using products that are designed for your fur baby. When you are lathering them with the suds, it is best to use your hands to do this so that you can feel around under the coat on the skin for any problems such as lumps, bumps, or parasitic ticks. Regularly feeling them including during bath time will help you to detect ticks or abnormalities earlier on and could save your Labradoodle from experiencing much worse pains. This is considered more of a preventative health approach than a reactive one. Keep in mind it is good to avoid ears on Labradoodles when rinsing and using products. Their floppy, large ears are prone to infections and issues. By using your hands to rinse and wash them, you will have much more control over the areas of the body that receive treatment. As they may be excited and moving about more freely, you can help to show them how to stay calm by holding them lovingly as you rinse them. It will be important for you to consider wearing clothes that you do not mind getting wet or sudsy so that you can feel comfortable providing whatever support your pup may need during bath time. Rinse and Maybe Repeat After lathering your Labradoodle with shampoo and inspecting by rustling your fingers through his or her fur, you should thoroughly rinse them off. You will want to make sure to use the hose or showerhead to get all areas of them thoroughly rinsed off. Be sure that there are no more bubbles or suds that are coming off from their hair as you complete the process. This is particularly important because leaving in shampoo by accident can cause worse tangling after the bath. So, rather than helping in the grooming process, this can actually hurt their fur and can become painful for them. Additionally, this can cause the next bath and grooming time to be much more difficult for you as you will have to untangle more fur than you would have had you just rinsed your dog off completely the first time. Drying Drying the coat of a Labradoodle is no easy task! If you know anyone with thick, curly hair or if that is you in this case , then that person can absolutely verify that drying their hair is likely the lengthiest part of the hair maintenance process. When drying off a Labradoodle, you can expect to go through large towels during this. You will want to use towels that have a higher absorbency, but they do not have to specifically be designed for use with a dog. Using a hairdryer if your pup will let you can improve drying time significantly! Many dogs get very excited positively or negatively by loud noises such as hairdryers. If your dog is positively excited about the hairdryer, you will want to hold them more firmly while you dry them off- though be sure that this is still considered a fun activity for your pup. If they are negatively excited by the loud hairdryer, be sure to warn them before you turn it on, calmly approach them, and keep the intervals of use short. Take extra care to dry their ears, using tissue or cotton, to make sure they do not have water caught in there for long. It is important to note that just like humans should not cram a Q-tip into the ear canal as this can actually push and pack wax and other substances further into the canal , you will want to follow the same precautions for your dog. Wipe off any surface of the ear that is visible to the human eye, but do not go any further. Allowing tangles to sit can cause them to become much worse — and the last thing you want is to end up at a groomer after spending time and effort attempting to do this on your own. Similar to human hair, one of the best things you can do is to use a thick bristle comb on the fur while it is still wet. This will ensure that the tangles are removed thoroughly without breaking or damaging the hair. You can find thick bristle combs specifically designed for dogs, or you can even just use one that is designed for human hair as long as you remain cautious and aware of your dog during the grooming process. Brushing with a thin bristle brush or comb before they are dry can cause their hair to break or come out more easily, so waiting to brush them is the best option here. If you are going to attempt to do this on your own, this is also the best time to trim them as well. If you notice they need it and have learned how to do so without causing harm to your dog there are several areas you can learn online then taking off a bit of length can be a great thing for them and you. If you are unfamiliar with the trimming process or do not have the right tools, it is important to take your dog to a professional groomer instead of attempting this and accidentally harming your furry friend. This would absolutely delay their enjoyment of bath and grooming time. Then, the owner can attempt in a small capacity on areas instead of the entire coat that he or she feels comfortable prior to the groomer trimming the rest, and then eliminate the groomer completely. When considering purchasing a shampoo and conditioner for your Labradoodle, it is critical to remember that you must find one that is designed for doggy fur. Sometimes, human baby shampoos can be used on dogs, but it is best to purchase one that is designed specifically for use with animals. Here are a few to consider: 1. Ph Balanced! Made In The Usa! Buy With Confidence! Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site s , as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. One of the things that I love about using this brand of shampoo is the fact that it makes untangling so much easier afterward. I am not positive as to why this is the case, although I assume it has something to do with the oatmeal. Either way, it definitely feels great for their fur. Healthy Breeds Pet Shampoo is a great product that is also economical. This brand is a great, safe choice if you are looking for a shampoo to try out for the first time! They do not require frequent baths because too much bathing can strip away necessary oils in their skin and fur. If your Labradoodle has a curly coat, you probably take them to the groomer on occasion for a trim, and they can be washed there. However, as any dog owner knows, dogs love to roll around in gross things, and your playful pup may not shy away from a mud puddle. Dogs are the same way. Also, when long fur gets wet, it will stretch more when you pull on it, resulting in rips and tears that will make their coat look worse. Let your dog test the water before you turn on the shower head or start dumping it on them. The last thing you want to do is create an aversion to bath time. Labradoodles tend to enjoy water, so they are likely to be fine in the bath. Choose the right products There are so many dog shampoos and conditioners on the market. It can be hard to choose which one is best for your Labradoodle. With this breed, simple products without a lot of scents or colors may be best. While the Labradoodle is considered to be a hypoallergenic dog, this does not mean that the dog cannot suffer from allergies. Labradoodles are prone to environmental allergies, which can extend to grooming products. If your shampoo makes your dog itchy and uncomfortable, they will probably scratch themselves excessively, which can cause skin problems. Also look for products that are non-toxic, because it is hard to stop your dog from licking himself. Look for a gentle shampoo, perhaps even one that is made for dogs with allergies. The goal is to remove the dirt and bad odors, not completely strip their skin and coat of necessary oils. There are also shampoos on the market that are designed to make white coats appear whiter. If your white Labradoodle looks yellow or discolored, you may want to try one of those shampoos. Conditioners are also available for dogs with especially dry coats, but they are not necessary for bathing. We use Madden pin brushes on our labradoodles and have found this brush to be excellent quality. If you catch them in play mode during the day, you will only be reinforcing that brushing time is something to get all riled up about. Nail Clipping Clipping their nails is also a good exercise to do when you find them tired out. They tend to care a lot less about things. You can start by just clipping the nails on one paw. This way your pup learns this is quick and no big deal. It also gives you the opportunity to practice this exercise 4 days in a row, rather than once and then having to wait for them to grow again. When clipping, clip just the tip of the nail where it starts to curve downward, holding the nail clippers parallel to the bottom of the paw. Be careful not to clip too much, otherwise it will hurt and the nail will bleed. Lean towards clipping little bits more often than trying to get a lot off all at once. Ear Cleaning Ear cleaning is something that labradoodles need since they have those long ears that trap and hold in moisture. Check their ears every few weeks and if you notice they look dirty, then get a cotton ball or makeup remover pad, etc. Never push anything down in the ear, you could damage the ear and cause your puppy pain. Do the other side, and finish with an ear drying powder. In fact, over bathing can harm this quality in their coat, and actually cause you to need to bathe more often. If they get dirty, let them dry and simply brush the dirt right out. It is good to get them used to getting wet though, and when you do use shampoo, we recommend a tearless shampoo specifically designed for dogs as their PH balance is different than humans. A good minute walk daily will meet this need your new family member has. Up until then, their joints are developing and jogging on pavement would not be good for their joints. However, this does not mean you have to limit their activity. Running across the yard chasing a ball at their own pace and will is good for their developing body, and talking walks through the neighborhood is an excellent way to meet their exercise needs. Helping them get accustomed to the bathing and drying process will make it easier when they are bigger. The specific method used to bathe a Labradoodle will vary from one dog to the next, because their coat types can vary significantly. Some may have the tight curls of the Poodle, whilst others have straighter, thick Lab coats. Is Labradoodle Bathing Important? While many Labradoodle dogs are easier to manage than other breeds or mixes thanks to their low-shedding fur, they still need routine grooming. And yes, this sometimes includes a scheduled bath. Labradoodles are energetic, playful, and fun-loving breeds that love spending time outdoors and in water. And, playtime outside almost always involves some splashing in puddles and rolling in dirt. When this happens, your doodle dog will need a bath! This could also be the case if your pet develops a skin condition that needs to be treated with a medicated shampoo. So, you may find the event happening more often than you first expected. Even if you take your dog to the groomer regularly, there will be times where you need to clean them after a particularly messy walk. This is especially true if you have a first- or second-generation Labradoodle crossbreed. Their fur sheds less and produces less allergy inducing dander than many other types of dogs. All dogs shed and shed most during shedding season, including the Labradoodle. Along with being low shedding, the Labradoodle also has a dirt-repellent coat that tends to be much easier to manage. You can begin bathing your Labradoodle once he reaches three months of age. Try using a quality shampoo and conditioner that is designed for puppies. This is a part of socialization and can help make future bath times much easier. Once you begin bathing your Labradoodle, you may be tempted to do it more often than needed. But, over-bathing your Labradoodle can actually be damaging to their skin and fur. Once your Labradoodle reaches at least three months of age, you can begin bathing him once every two to three weeks. Doing so could have a negative impact on their skin and coat. All dogs produce natural oils that help aid in skin and coat health. Over-washing them can hinder this natural production of oils they need in order to keep their fur healthy. Overproduction or underproduction of these oils can cause an increase in skin problems. Including allergies, dry skin, patchy fur, and can even increase shedding. Luckily, Labradoodles are not known to carry much doggy odor. Still, if you want to help keep your Labradoodle smelling fresh between bath time, you always have the option of using grooming wipes or coconut oil. Some owners find this helps to reduce dry skin, soothe allergies, and keep their Labradoodle smelling lovely. However, be aware there is currently little evidence in scientific studies for these claims. You can then gently rub in your chosen shampoo, working it through their curls gently. Make sure the shampoo is fully rinsed out before moving onto the conditioner. Once again, make sure all conditioner is fully washed out afterwards. Dry them off with a towel at first, gently patting them dry and squeezing water out of the fur. Use your hand to soften the intensity of air. Tips for Getting Your Labradoodle Used to Bathtime Getting your Labradoodle puppy comfortable with being bathed at an early age can make all the difference when it comes to routine bath time. We should note that most dogs do not like being bathed. Even dogs who love water often tuck their tails when it comes time for a good wash. That said, you can help make bath time easier for your Labradoodle by starting early and introducing them to water gently. Use treats and praise to introduce them to all elements of the bath including: The bathtub. Labradoodles are a wonderful dog breed and opening up your home to one of these pups is going to bring so much joy into your life. With that being said, Labradoodles also require a considerable amount of maintenance and upkeep — with bathing being an easy thing to overlook. How to bathe a Labradoodle To bathe a Labradoodle, start by brushing them to remove any loose dirt, set your bath water to a lukewarm temperature, and gently help your dog inside. Lastly, dry your Labradoodle with a towel and blowdryer. A Labradoodle combines the incredible personality traits of the Labrador Retriever and the Poodle. This makes Labradoodles both unique and expensive , as you get to have the playful nature of a Labrador combined with the intelligence and cleverness of a Poddle, which is why so many pet owners are hopping on the Doodle trend. However, this kind of pup needs to be approached with careful consideration as it has unique qualities that make it stand out among other dogs. One of the first characteristics you will notice with your Labradoodle is that your pup has a different type of coat. Unlike most dog breeds that have fur, a Labradoodle has hair, which means that you need to bathe it properly if you want to keep its coat healthy. To help you understand this further, we are going to take you through our 5 step Labradoodle bath time routine. After extensively researching Labradoodle maintenance, I have been able to gather enough information to determine how to properly bathe this breed. My research has shown me that you need to follow the Labradoodle bathing procedure carefully if you want to get the best results from their coat. Keep in mind, you can always get your dog groomed by a professional groomer. Depending on who you ask, you will get a few different answers on this but as a general rule of thumb, you should bathe your pup once per month. With that being said, each Labradoodle is different and you may find that you need to bathe your dog more or less often depending on its lifestyle and environment. If your Labradoodle has a pretty stable routine at home and goes out for casual walks in urban areas, then you can probably get away with bathing your dog every 5 to 6 weeks. On the other hand, if you have a very active Labradoodle out in the countryside or simply one that tends to get messy at dog parks, you may need to wash your pup as often as every 3 weeks. You also need to consider that there is a difference between bathing and rinsing. Bathing is a thorough cleaning process where you give your Labradoodle a deep wash that targets its coat fully, as well as its skin. Rining is simply washing off your dog after they get a little bit muddy or dirty. When you bathe your Labradoodle, you want to do it routinely and systematically so that you can keep its coat as healthy as possible. Whereas rinsing is something that you can do quite regularly when needed — with some owners giving their dog a rinse multiple times a week after rugged play sessions at the park. Before you commit to a routine bathing schedule for your Labradoodle, you should try to observe its habits and behavior so that you can find an optimal timeframe that suits your pup. As we said, each Labradoodle is a bit different and you should decide on a schedule for your dog based on its lifestyle. Labradoodle Bathing Supplies Before you can begin bathing your pup, you first need to gather all of the right supplies for the job. Simply spraying your Labradoodle with your backyard hose is not going to do the trick. These are the bathing supplies that you need to get before you can start washing your dog. Given that this breed does not have fur, you need to buy a shampoo that is specifically meant for hair. There are a lot of different shampoo products out there and it is easy to feel overwhelmed when you consider your options. Some products have been made just for Labradoodle coats, which are going to deliver the best end results. Check Price One thing you always want to watch out for are shampoos that contain a lot of additives and chemicals. Much like with human hair, a Labradoodles coat is going to benefit most from natural ingredients — so read labels carefully and try to rely on trusted brands. Some products have been known to cause skin irritations, which is something you want to avoid at all costs. Whenever picking out a new shampoo, always do a test first to see how your dog responds. If you see that the coat is healthy afterward and that their skin is not irritated, you should be good to go. The coat of a Labradoodle will require a thorough drying process, which is why it is best to have at least two towels handy before you begin washing. A blow dryer with multiple settings is also recommended so that you can expose your Labradoodle to it slowly, which will keep them from getting frightened and intimidated. Exfoliated Dog Bathing Gloves Your hands should suffice for bathing your Labradoodle but by using exfoliated dog bathing gloves , you will find that the cleaning process is much more thorough. These gloves were designed for cleaning dog coats and having them on can make a huge difference in how effective the bathing process is. They are texturized to remove more hair, which will ensure a minimal amount of shedding, and they will also help get rid of any dead skin on your Labradoodle. This dog breed has a very specific type of coat that needs to be looked after carefully, as it can easily get messy if you forget to keep a consistent cleaning schedule. These are the steps that you need to follow to bathe your pup. Step 1: Hair Brushing Before you begin washing your Labradoodle with water, you want to get as much dirt and debris out of its coat as possible by using a brush Having a reliable brush for your Labradoodle is going to be a must for maintaining its hair — regardless of washing. You will be amazed by how much cleaning time you can save by doing this properly. In addition to dirt and debris, you also want to remove any loose hair from the coat, as this is also something that will hinder the bathing process. With that being said, we always find that it is better to take care of as much of the prep-work beforehand so that you can avoid a rough transition when the time comes to bathe your pup. The first thing that you want to do is make sure that all of your necessary cleaning supplies are nearby so that you can easily reach them. You want to make your Labradoodle as comfortable as possible when getting bathed which is why you should set the temperature of your water before throwing them into the tub. Lukewarm is generally the most ideal temperature setting for washing a dog. Step 3: Help Your Dog Get Into the Bath Again, each pup reacts differently to getting washed and you want to make the experience as pleasant as possible for them. If your dog is willing to hop right in for their routine bath, then great. However, not all Labradoodles are like this and may feel intimidated or dislike getting washed altogether. You can either usher your pup into the bath so they can hop in on their own or you can gently pick them up and place them inside. You must approach this with care so that they are not frightened by the idea of getting clean — especially if they are puppies and still getting used to the idea of bathing. Once they are inside, make sure that they feel comfortable and secure before you begin cleaning. Allow 30 seconds to a minute of adjustment time without the water on so that they can gauge their environment. This is always a good time for a pet, a pat, and a treat to reassure them that they are in good hands. You should be able to get a substantial amount of cleaning done with water alone, which will wash out the majority of the dirt, dust, and any kind of debris that is embedded into their coat. After you have gone through with the initial rinse, turn the water off if possible especially if they find it unpleasant. Go through their entire coat gently yet firmly and scrub all the way down to their skin. A lot of dogs actually enjoy this part of the bathing process, as it is essentially a massage. Once the product has been properly applied, let it soak into the coat for at least a couple of minutes. You can then rinse out the shampoo while giving them another quick scrub, which should remove any remaining dirt or debris. Given the curly and shaggy nature of their hair, a quick pass-through with a towel is not going to be enough to properly dry them. With your Labradoodle still inside the bath, use a towel to remove as much water as possible from their coat. You will find that the town soaks up quite a lot and it will likely become wet very quickly. Having a second towel handy is always a good idea when drying your Labradoodle, as you are going to need it. Now, that the initial drying process is done, use a blowdryer to remove the remaining moisture. Dogs typically do not like blowdryers at first and may even be afraid of them. Get your Labradoodle used to the blowdryer by gently exposing them to it. Use it from a further distance on a light setting and gradually work your way closer. The perfect combination! But how often should you bathe a Labradoodle, anyway? And how to do it? First of all, regular grooming and brushing is crucial to prevent matting and tangling, which can quickly turn into a matted mess if left unattended. And believe us, no one wants to deal with a miserably tangled pup! Speaking of bathtime, regular bathing helps to remove dirt, debris, and any lingering odors that your pup may have picked up on their outdoor romps. With a little TLC and some time spent in the tub, your Labradoodle will smell fresh, which is obviously nice for both of you. Just make sure to use a dog shampoo, as human shampoos can strip their skin of precious oils and cause unwanted skin irritations. Did you know that you can use special shampoos for targeted care? So grab that brush, fill up the tub, and show your pup some grooming love today! Labradoodles come in either curly, wavy, or straight coats, depending on which genetics they inherit from each of their purebred parents. Curly coats tend to trap in dirt, debris, and loose dog hair, which can quickly lead to stubborn knots and tangles inside the fur. Then we have the wavy combination coat, that may shed some hair, depending on whether they have an undercoat or not. These pups usually come with a double coat, which means that some shedding may be present. Fortunately, you can keep this at a minimum by regularly brushing your Labradoodle. It goes without saying that Labradoodles really shine with their long and fluffy coats, giving them that signature Doodle look. However, long hair also requires more brushing and bathing. This helps prevent matting, but also get rid of any build-up dirt, dander, loose dog hair, and debris from the coat. On the other hand, shorter hair is usually easier to manage and maintain. And for other pups, washing them every two months is perfectly enough! But if your Labradoodle struggles with skin dryness or irritations, then bathing them too often could lead to more problems down the line. We recommend you start bathing your Labradoodle as soon as possible. In fact, many reputable Labradoodle breeders already start basic grooming, such as brushing, nail trimming, and bathing even before adoption. Just make sure you continue with this at home so that your pooch can get used to it. For this step, we recommend you also get a dog detangler spray , which will help you get the job done much faster. The next logical question would be — how to brush a Labradoodle? First, you want to run your fingers through all areas of the fur. If you find any knots, first work on each of them individually with a sturdy metal comb. Make sure you never pull on the hair! Start from the feet and paws, moving your way up towards the belly and neck, and finish with the back. Be sure to start brushing from the tip of the hair and then moving up towards the root to prevent any tangles getting worse. One of our favorite methods for Doodles is line brushing — say goodbye to any knots and tangles! Start out by putting a little bit of warm water in the bottom of your bathtub so that your pup can just stand in it. You might even want to let them sniff and inspect it first. If your Dood seems all good, you can turn on the showerhead while petting them at the same time. Having a few tasty treats at hand can also be helpful here! For the ears, we recommend putting cotton balls right at the opening of the ear canals. This will prevent any water from getting into the ears. Make sure that the water temperature is just right — not too hot and not too cold. By thoroughly rinsing the coat beforehand, the shampoo can also lather up nice and easy. Apply a generous amount of your chosen dog shampoo and lather it up all over the coat. Make sure you properly massage the shampoo into the fur so that you can get all areas clean. Also, be mindful of areas like the armpits and groin, as some people tend to overlook them. This is also a great opportunity for you to check for any lumps and bumps under the skin. Again, make sure you use warm water and thoroughly rinse off all areas of the fur, especially armpits and groin, where the suds tend to collect. For obvious reasons, we recommend a tearless dog shampoo for the facial area. You might want to pay some extra attention to areas that tend to get dirty, such as the muzzle and beard. Since the face can be a bit tricky, it might take some time to thoroughly rinse off all that shampoo. Apply a decent amount of conditioner with your hands all over the fur. Although conditioning the head and face is optional, it is recommended for curly-coated Labradoodles. This way, the product gets into all areas of the fur, but also prevents tangling. Again, pay extra attention to those hard-to-reach areas that we tend to overlook. Before you jump in with a towel, let your pooch shake all that excess water off themself. Then, you can gently squeeze out any excess water from areas with longer hair with your hands. Then, take your towel and start gently, yet firmly patting your Labradoodle dry all over. You should start with the lowest power and temperature settings. If necessary, you can gradually increase the settings, but the temperature should never get too hot. Also, keep in mind that some pups can get scared of noisy blow dryers. You can also use a leave-in dog conditioner or a dog detangler spray and brush it through the fur to keep the coat tangle-free and luscious for longer. We recommend you use a specially formulated dog ear cleaner for this step, as Labradoodles and other Poodle mixes are prone to ear infections due to the restricted air flow inside their ears. It goes without saying that you should never use a human shampoo on your pooch, as it could lead to skin irritations, dryness, and a host of other issues. We recommend you check out our in-depth guide on the best shampoos for Labradoodles , where we have some excellent recommendations for different skin and coat concerns.