0

Must-Have Pet Supplies for Small Dogs

Whether you’re excitedly welcoming a new puppy into the household or are rescuing an older small dog, you have so much pleasure and joy to look forward to!

Despite their pocket-sized appearance, small dogs still need plenty of space, exercise, and love to live a happy and healthy life.

Prepare yourself for the new arrival by picking up some of these must-have pet supplies for small dogs. Check out companies such as Chasing Tails for all your tiny pup’s needs, and you’ll be sure to have a new best friend in no time!

Dog bed

A designated dog bed is an excellent way of showing your new arrival that they are a member of the family with their own bed and personal space. Beds coated in (vegan) fur are great because they remind your pup of their mom’s fur. A donut dog bed is excellent for providing a relaxing spot that supports the dog’s head and neck.

Leash and collar

Even the tiniest of pups needs plenty of walks to stay happy and healthy. But before you take your dog outside, it’s vital to get a properly fitting collar and leash. This is particularly important in states that legally require you to keep your dog on a leash in public places, but is essential for all new dogs.

Washable food and water bowls, and a food mat

We’re sure you know that your dog will require food and water and should have separate bowls for each! Many dog bowls are even dishwasher safe, so cleaning them up is a breeze!

In addition to (multiple) food and water bowls, it’s a great idea to get a food mat to place these on. Dogs can be incredibly messy eaters (even the ones with little mouths). A food mat with rimmed edges will help contain the mess to an easy-to-tidy-up location.

Pet sling or stroller 

Although all dogs need exercise, super-long walks can get a bit much for tiny legs! Investing in a pet stroller can be an excellent option for smaller or older dogs who might get tired, so you don’t need to take an exhausted pup home at the first sign of struggles.

Pet slings are even better! Perfect for small dogs, these innovative products hang across your body like a purse and are perfect for tired pups. They’re also a great option if your pup suffers from anxiety as it keeps them close to your side where they feel safe.

Car seat

Dogs love varied walking routes, and a car journey can be an incredibly exciting experience for many animals! That said, car journeys can be frightening for some dogs, and a pet carrier/doggy car seat can allow them to feel more secure. Doggy car seats also connect to the seatbelt to keep your pup safe on the road.

Travel bowl or bottle

For longer walks or hot days, a travel bowl or bottle can be a lifesaver for keeping your dog hydrated on the go.

It’s also a good idea to take treats on your walk, especially while your pup is still training, plus a small container of food.

Plenty of toys! 

Obviously, your pup is going to want plenty of playtime with you! Getting a good range of different toys is key to keeping your puppy active in body and mind. Kong toys are great, as are any treat-distributing toys that require your dog to solve a puzzle to get to the treat inside.

In addition to puzzle toys, you should be sure to get some durable balls, ropes, and plush toys to play with. Be careful, though; poorly constructed toys can be a choking hazard for small dogs and won’t stand up to chewing or games!

Waterproof and machine washable toys are also well worth the investment for literal mucky pups!

Shampoo 

Big or small, dogs have an annoying tendency to roll in fragrances they find appealing… Unfortunately, these smells tend to be far less appealing for unfortunate humans who have to live with them! Getting some quality shampoo and conditioner for your pup ahead of time will be a dogsend when the time comes for an emergency bath!

Crate 

If you’re rescuing your pup, chances are they’re already crate trained. If not, you may wish to go through this process yourself. Crate training is brilliant for giving your dog a safe space and minimizing anxiety when your dog is left alone.

Poop bags

We’ve all been out for a walk only to discover the pavements littered with dog poop from disrespectful and selfish owners. Don’t be one of those people; make sure you always take biodegradable poop bags on every walk. Keep them close to the dog’s leash, so you don’t forget and always be sure to have a decent supply: you never know when they might come in handy.

0

What is Periodontal Disease in Pets?

Gingivitis is common in our dogs and cats and if not controlled it leads to periodontitis

According to the ‘2019 American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) Dental Care Guidelines for Dogs and Cats’ there is critical role vets and vet technicians play in client education and effective, preventive oral healthcare. It’s important for pet owners to understand that by maintaining their dog and cat’s oral health they will prevent the adverse effects and pain of periodontal disease. Our Healthy Smiles expert vet technicians work closely with clients to ensure they understand the ins and outs of oral health. They explain that the prevention of gingivitis is the same as its treatment: plaque removal and control.

Periodontal disease is infection and inflammation of the periodontium (the tissues that surround and support the teeth) due to plaque bacteria and the pet’s response to the bacterial insult. Gingivitis is common in dogs and cats and refers to inflammation of the gingiva. This will lead to periodontitis if not controlled.

Did you know that dental disease can cause more than just bad breath and tooth loss? Periodontal disease can cause liver, kidney, and heart problems.  With that in mind, prevention is key.  

According to the VOHC, studies have shown that dogs with severe periodontal disease have more severe microscopic damage in their kidneys, heart muscle, and liver than dogs with less severe periodontal disease.

Signs of periodontal disease 

Your dog or cat may lose their appetite or even drop food from its mouth while they eat. Their gums may be irritated and pet owners may notice bleeding gums.

• Red swollen gums
• Bad breath
• Discolored teeth
• Bleeding gums
• Cats will frequently stop eating, this is a sign that you need to visit the vet.

If you see any of these red flags, make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Treatment of periodontitis

Many pets, oftentimes middle-aged and older cats and dogs, require periodic professional scaling in addition to on-going plaque control.

For patients with periodontal disease, the treatment goal is the removal of plaque and calculus from the teeth. General anesthesia is necessary to provide access to the subgingival areas, where bacteria can contribute to local and sometimes systemic inflammation.

What about preventing periodontal disease? The good news is you can prevent periodontal disease in a healthy dog or cat with regular non-anesthetic dental cleanings. You will be able to determine with the help of your vet whether or not a non-anesthetic dental cleaning is appropriate for your dog or cat.

A veterinarian may not want to anesthetize a medically compromised pet, and they will instead use a non-anesthetic procedure to clean a dog or cat’s teeth. You can have your pet’s teeth cleaned without anesthesia whether they’re young and healthy or have health issues.

What about prevention?

There are steps and ways to manage gum disease in our dogs and cats.

Did you know that tartar starts to form within a few days on a tooth surface that is not kept clean? The rough surface even enhances plaque accumulation. Tartar is really difficult to remove without dental instruments but brushing helps prevent gum disease.

• If the surfaces of the teeth are cleaned weekly, the gums will stay healthy.
• Even pets need daily oral hygiene. There are many ways to positively train your dogs and cats to enjoy having their teeth brushed.
• The goal of non-anesthetic dental cleanings is to prevent periodontal disease. These anesthetic-free cleanings are not meant to replace dental surgery for pets with severe gingivitis, fractured teeth that affect the roots, abscesses, stomatitis, tumors, root exposures, and severe tooth mobility. These are maintenance cleanings for pets and they’re meant to complement anesthetic cleanings to prevent periodontal disease.
• Daily chewing activities can also be effective in maintaining oral health. Two recommendations are included below.
• Healthy Smiles recommends a veterinary examination of the mouth and teeth of your dog or cat. 

Three most common dental diseases in cats?

Stomatitis, gingivitis, and tooth resorption. According to Cornell’s Feline Health Center, tooth resorption is a process in which the tooth structure breaks down, beginning inside the tooth, and often progressing to other parts of the tooth. 

When the inflammation goes well beyond the mucogingival junction, it’s called stomatitis. This may be due to a variety of causes but it’s most commonly immune-mediated. Cats are often affected and will have a decreased appetite or anorexia, halitosis, dehydration, and blood-tinged saliva.

Full-mouth extractions or nearly full-mouth extractions for treatment of feline stomatitis have been shown to provide resolution of oral discomfort in approximately 80% of cases.

Top products recommended by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC)

The top products we include in the below list have a variety of benefits and may even reduce the tartar on your cat and dog’s teeth. You can also use these dental treats when brushing becomes a more challenging task.

Best overall for dogs: GREENIES Senior Aging Care Natural Dental Dog Treats

Best overall for cats:   FELINE GREENIES™ Dental Treats Oven Roasted Chicken Flavor

Top takeaway

Periodontitis is the most common disease of animals. Yet it often gets confused with gingivitis. Gingivitis refers to inflammation of the gingiva and this represents the earliest stages of periodontitis.

Periodontitis describes inflammation of not only the gingiva but other structures of the periodontium (ligaments, gingiva connective tissue, and alveolar bone forms the tooth socket). Once advanced periodontitis occurs the changes are difficult to reverse!

Dental experts at Healthy Smiles visit local pet businesses such as groomers, daycares, boarding facilities, and vet clinics to serve their clientele. We also make house calls for pet parents who value convenience or pets who require special care. We’re currently located in X, X, X.

<Maria: Do you want to add a boilerplate for Healthy Smiles here? Maybe we mention where there are locations/regions? Their audience looks broad, I didn’t see anything local.>

0

How Old Is An Adult Cat?

For humans, 18 years of age is the stepping stone to adulthood. But that’s not the same with cats, dogs, and all other animals of course. How old is an adult cat? The answer to this is often a confusing topic of discussion among pet owners. Whatever the case, there is one correct answer. Because cat years, like human years, are unchanging and not at all subjective.

It’s only natural to want to know when your feline has grown and matured fully. More often than not, the question arises because you want to make the switch from kitten food to adult cat food.

Even though cat years are unchanging and fixed, there’s no particular age where your little creature stops maturing and growing. Meaning there’s no such definitive age. But then there are general or common age ranges in terms of a cat growing and reaching adulthood.

That said, here’s the information you might be looking for…

How Old Is An Adult Cat – Cat Age Timeline

1. Birth to 6 Months – Kitten

The initial six months of a cat’s life is all about kittenhood. This is when adorable little kitties undergo both mental and physical development. And it’s during this stage that their ears and eyes open after birth. To be more specific, it happens when they’re 2-3 weeks old.

Similar to human infants, kittens are exposed to smells, sounds, and sights. So every time an object, person, or another animal comes close, they help in forming the personality of the kitten. Speaking of which, socialization skills are also developed during this phase. As a result of such exposures and interactions.

When the kitten turns 2-3 months old, she starts to detach herself from the mother. And tends to get more curious and independent. That means chewing on things she shouldn’t be chewing. And causing trouble she shouldn’t be causing. The chewing part and playfulness, no doubt, are only common. The former continues until adult teeth begin to grow.

Talking about growth, physical growth happens pretty quickly during kittenhood. A 6-month-old kitten, after all, is the feline version of a 10-year-old human.

Vaccinations are also necessary during this time. And it’s around the same time that kittens are neutered or spayed.

2. 6 Months to 3 Years – Young Adult Cat

As I mentioned earlier, a kitten that’s 6 months old has already hit the double-digit age in human years. Once your kitten turns 1 year old, she has reached her adult size. Along with her adult habits, preferences, and the like.

A year-old feline, psychologically speaking, is 15 years old in human years. That means a cat that’s 2 years old has reached a state of mental maturity of a human that’s 24 years old.

During this stage, dental cleanings, regular check-ups, and occasional grooming are necessary. They ensure that your cat lives a long, happy, and healthy life.

3. 3 Years to 6 Years – Prime Adult Cat

Not yet a senior cat, a prime adult cat is between the age of 3 years and 6 years. In terms of health, there are no concerns to deal with. Unless your feline has congenital or chronic health conditions that demand medical attention.

Prime cats benefit a great deal from supplements that promote joint health. These keep the knees and hips in good condition. I can’t stress enough that annual check-ups and regular vaccinations are mandatory during this stage.

As for cat age in humans years, a 5-year-old feline is like an adult human in his/her mid-30s.

4. 7 Years to 10 Years – Mature Cat

Did you know that felines typically reach their late teens? And that’s why a cat between the age of 7 and 10 years isn’t labeled as senior yet. Meaning their retirement age has not been reached so far. Nevertheless, an aging cat demands proper nutrition. Mainly because obesity during this stage is very common among felines.

It’s during this particular period as well that you should keep a close check for dental diseases and kidney problems. Therefore, regular or annual blood tests are essential. Just to make sure all the organs are functioning properly.

5. 11 years to 14 years – Senior Cat

Senior cats are those that have passed the 11-year mark. One of the most common health conditions during this time is associated with the joints. Even the functioning of organs in the body starts to deteriorate. And that means a more vigilant check on bloodwork and vet visits.

During the senior years, dietary changes are also highly recommended. Because olders cats have different nutritional needs as their bodies are changing.

If your feline, after the age of 11, becomes a little crabby. Then chances are likely that he’s experiencing some form of joint pain or discomfort. Confusion and brain changes are also a common occurrence among senior cats.

The best thing to do is to speak to your vet. Allow him/her to observe changes in your cat’s blood work and overall health.

6. 15 Years to 20 Years and Above – Geriatric Cats

How long do cats live? Some of them reach the mark of 100 in human years. That means 20 in cat years. Because a 15-year-old feline is like a human in his/her mid-70s. So cats above the age of 15 are categorized as geriatric. And they require professional vet attention once in every 6 months.

No doubt, geriatric cats should be fed special or medicated foods as well as supplements. After all, the bodily systems, at this point, demand special support and care. What’s common among geriatric felines is poor vision and hearing abilities. And it’s only common for them to sleep for the most part of the day.

A decline of cognitive capacities is also typical. Much like humans after the age of 90. Cognitive dysfunction includes defecating or urinating anywhere, crying at night, and other such unusual behavior.

The End

How old is an adult cat? How old is my cat in human years? Along with cat behavior by age. I have discussed everything you might need to know about the age of cats. A year of a cat is equal to 7 human years.

On top of that, felines also age faster in comparison to humans. And with age comes the onset of medical and health concerns.

The aging-related illness you cannot avoid. But you certainly can make your adorable little creature feel comfortable. Simply by doing your part. And by that, I mean taking care of her nutrition and following regular vet visits.

0

How To Travel With A Disabled Dog

Traveling with a specially-abled dog is no less wonderful than traveling with any other pet. It should not be that you restrict your dog from enjoying a trip with you, just because he is disabled. Many dogs with disabilities travel and have fun with their owners. The only thing required is a little extra care.

Traveling with your canine companion involves a lot of pre-planning. But not to worry, as there are methods to overcome all the hassles of a trip. Plan appropriately and you are all set to have a more relaxed time with your furry mate.

Definitely, dogs are such cute and adorable friends as they offer you absolute faith and love. And undoubtedly, disabled dogs develop a strong understanding of responsibility in us. But what we require is some extra preparation. Let’s check how to experience an amazing journey with your cutie canine with disability.

Prepare Before You Travel With A Disabled Dog

Caring for a disabled dog (or I should say differently-abled dog), is a tough job. It requires complete dedication and a lifelong commitment. Taking your dog on a trip will be a big reward for him and he will always be grateful to you.

But before you leave for the trip with a disabled dog you will require to make some early preparations. Collect all the required medicines for an emergency. You can carry a sheet or a dress that smells homely so your dog does not feel homesick. Moreover, do not forget to take your dog’s favorite toy along.

Furthermore, do not forget to

Visit Your Vet

A vet visit is definitely required before a domestic or international trip with a furry friend.

• You should talk to your vet that you are planning to travel with a disabled pet.
• Obtain a health certificate from the veterinarian.
• Give your dog proper vaccinations(for rabies) through the vet. You will have to carry a certificate of vaccination if you’re traveling to another state or country.
• Get the expert’s advice on what diet your dog must follow on the trip.
• Do not forget to ask for painkillers or relaxing medicines for severe situations.
• Most importantly, if your dog is not healthy enough to travel, do not take a risk of taking him along on the trip.

Book A Hotel That Welcomes Disabled Pets

After having the veterinarian’s permission what you need is a hotel that allows a differently-abled pet. At times, it can be very challenging when traveling with a special-needs dog. So, it is best to book your hotels before you leave for the destination.

• Look out for a pet-friendly hotel and talk to them about your dog’s breed and size.
• Tell them about your dog’s disability in detail.
• Confirm whether the hotel charges an extra fee for pets or not.
• Check if they have wheelchair facilities.
• Dogs with disabilities due to a spine injury, need special beds that you require to carry along. You will, therefore, need some space in the hotel room to adjust your dog’s bed. Talk about the same when you book a hotel so they can rearrange the furniture accordingly.
• Once you feel affirmative, book a hotel that best suits your needs.

Pack The Essentials

Once you are done with packing the drugs and booking hotels, you should start packing some essentials. Requirements for a disabled dog slightly differ from those for a normal one. Read on to understand how you can make your journey easy by having the necessary stuff.

Pack The Cleaning Essentials

Most of the dogs with disabilities are unable to groom themselves appropriately. Therefore, cleanliness becomes a matter of concern. While planning a trip, do not forget to pack hygiene-related items for your pet’s health and comfort.

• Do carry baby wipes for cleaning up your dog’s fur and keeping his skin hydrated. Wipe off his urine and poo, after he is done, to avoid skin burns or infections.
• Carry dog diapers so he does not mess the seats during the journey.
• You might need to carry waste bags to throw used diapers and wipes.
• Carry at least two bedsheets for your dog and wash them regularly. You can use one while you wash another.

Pack Your Dog’s Wheelchairs And Harnesses

A wheel-chair gives your canine friend the freedom to move around on its own. This is extremely helpful in keeping their mental and physical status healthy.

However, a few dogs might require your help to move them around. In such cases, a harness could be really useful. You may wrap a harness specially designed for disabled dogs under your canine and you can lift him a little to move him around.

Though, ask a veterinarian first about which harness to use. If a harness is not used properly then it can cause harm to your dog by hurting his legs or other body parts.

Carry Other Necessary Things

You will also require a few other things which will be greatly helpful for you and your dog both.

• Buy a crate your dog best fits in. It should be comfortable and nicely ventilated so the dog does not get suffocated. However, let your dog become familiar with the crate prior to your actual traveling date. Let him willingly sit and play inside the crate for any number of hours daily.
• If your dog has a disability due to a spine injury, then make sure to carry his bed. Sleeping on other beds can increase his pain for sure.
• Carry your dog’s food, a food bowl, and a water bottle. Prefer to use only bottled water. Drinking water from different places can disturb your dog’s stomach.
• You will also need leashes to put a hold on your canine. Other requirements depend completely on the type of disability your dog has.

If you are traveling by road you can carry almost anything as needed. Whereas, if you have planned to travel on a flight then you must follow the rules strictly.

Air Travel With A Disabled Dog

Traveling by flight includes many complexities. You will require plenty of information, study, and paperwork before flying with a pet with a disability.

Do The Paperwork

Paperwork might not sound interesting to you. But if you expect a peaceful trip then you have to pass through this documentation phase. Preparing necessary papers before time can avoid a lot of problems while flying.

If you aren’t sure about what to do, call the airline and ask the procedures. You have to carry your dog’s health certificate and vaccination proofs which you have availed from the vet. Each state and country has its own rules that you should meet to take your dog along. For instance, you will need to microchip your dog in some cases.

You also have to get a pet passport for your furry friend. This paper contains the particulars about you as the owner, information of the dog, details about his disability, identifying marks, and medical certificates.

There can be other requirements too depending on the country you are traveling to. You should start planning paperwork for at least two months prior to the travel date.

Take Your Dog In The Cabin Or Ship Him In Cargo

A few flights are quite pet-friendly that allow pets to travel with you inside the cabin for shorter distances. You need to place your dog in a good dog crate under your seat on these flights. Moreover, the crate size should be checked with the airlines.

However, if you have a huge dog or you are traveling internationally then you have to ship your dog as Cargo. Professional pet-shippers have the training to take care of the pets and ship them safely. They can also help you do all the necessary paperwork.

The pet’s area in the flight is typically under temperature-control and does not require extra medical attention. Whereas if your dog requires extra preventive care then you must prefer to choose a road trip if it is not an international tour.

Road Travel With A Disabled Dog

Road trips are simply enjoyable. At times it can be more convenient traveling by road with a disabled dog. You can take along whatever you require. Moreover, your dog can enjoy your company throughout the journey. However, consider the following tips when you are willing to travel by road with a disabled dog.

• Do not forget to stop at regular intervals to let your dog pee or defecate. Every time he completes defecating and peeing clean him with baby wipes. You require to do this as disabled dogs might not be able to clean all of their body parts.
• If you have a small dog, you can take a baby-carrier. You can easily roam around by hanging him on your chest in the carrier. However, consult a vet first.
• Make sure to get the car serviced. Double-check that all safety features of the car are properly functioning, especially the air-bags. Keep the car temperature balanced and notice whether the dog is relaxed or not.
• Do not leave your dog alone in the car, even if he cannot jump out the window. He might get scared or get suffocated inside the car.
• Check the climate before leaving home. You definitely do not want to get stuck in the middle of a hail storm or a hurricane.
• Like humans, dogs too feel motion sickness. Take regular stops every 3-4 hours to avoid car sickness.

Final Note

Conclusively, traveling by road with a disabled dog is comparatively more convenient than any other means. It will only need some prior planning and arrangements. Whereas, for International travel, you will have to travel with him by air. Just follow proper procedures and make your trip a pleasant and memorable one.

0

How to Train A Dog to Walk on A Leash? (5 most useful tips)

If you find yourself at your wit’s end about this, don’t give up. You can finally get your dog to walk on a leash after reading this article. It’s natural for your dog to want to take her own way. There’s just so many distractions and dogs don’t see the world like us.

For them, a bird sitting on top of a bench is probably more interesting than you. But if there’s good, there’s also bad, right? Your dog may not know how and when to cross a busy street bustling with cars. You’re responsible for their well-being.

Enter the best training method to get your dog to walk on a leash. As you explore your dog’s natural instinct to smell the plants, pavement, and people around her. You have to make sure she’s safe and happy.

How to Train Your Dog to Walk on A Leash

It’s not true that getting your dog to walk on a leash is difficult. It’s easier than most people think. And it doesn’t have to be impolite either.

You only have to step out into the street to know how badly your untrained dog could get injured. By stepping out on the road, crashing into chairs or stalls, or getting hit by a cycle on the way.

It’s a skill that needs time and effort in training. This is what all dog training experts swear by. How to train your dog to walk on a leash with the help of these tips.

1. Introducing a Reward

In other words, this means teaching your dog a cue. For example, you let your dog practice a skill and there’s a treat waiting for her afterward.

But you have to do this very slowly.

Start off by getting your dog used to wearing a collar or body harness. If she seems irritated by it at first, distract her with a reward. This could be a treat, a game, or a toy.

However, don’t just hand her a toy or treat after being calm. You can use a clicker or make a sharp sound. Like a sound that would make your dog look at you. Once she does that, then you can give her a treat.

Associate that same sound to rewarding her when it’s the right time. So this develops a habit to avoid common dog behaviour problems.

Habit is always a good choice for training. Keep rewarding her every step. And in no time, you’ll know how to train a dog to walk on a leash.

2. Let Her Come to You

Dogs are creatures of habit, no doubt. But some are also very, very stubborn. And giving into that stubbornness is the worst thing you can do while training. Once your dog understands the concept of rewards, let her come to you.

Whether you’re calling her with the clicker or a special sound. Make sure she’s coming to you with her leash or collar on. So as to get used to wearing it and not being bothered by it.

If you go to her, you’re giving in. And this mistake can cause her to steer you on your walks. And not the other way around. It’s a common mistake and can happen to anyone. But it’s for the better if you stay away from it.

3. Practicing Indoors

In other words, eliminate distractions. Always train your dog in a quiet and calm environment. It’s enough of a challenge for your dog to walk around in a leash for the first few times. It’s new territory. And if you choose to do it outdoors, it can be mentally disturbing for them.

Allow your dog to adapt to the new change at home. Find where she’s most comfortable, calm, and stress-free. A positive training environment is just as important as a positive trainer. So make sure you keep calm and patiently allow your dog to get used to the leash.

4. Walking Outside

The first days are always tough, am I right? Once your dog gets used to walking on a leash inside the house. Taking her outside is the only way to do it right. Start by walking her around your neighborhood.

She’s getting used to smelling the different smells. She might even get scared of the car noises or the people walking past all around her. This is the perfect time to whip out a rewarding habit. Make sure your dog focuses only on you and your voice.

Give her a treat every now and then to keep her happy and engaged. If she passes by a loud café or doesn’t sniff a dirty rag on the side of the pavement, give her a treat. She should walk alongside you on a leash and not pull you in all directions.

Don’t wrestle if they do. Just stand in one place and wait for her to stop tugging. She will come back to you eventually. All thanks to the first step of how to train a dog to walk on a leash.

5. Never Encourage Pulling

If you think it’s okay, it’s not! If your dog is walking a few steps ahead of you, pulling you in every direction, it’s a bad habit. You should be walking at least a step ahead of the dog. Or even beside her, if you like it.

Pulling can lead to over-aggression or uncontrolled excitement. And it also leaves your dog to injuries or accidents. Because it’s harder to protect or shield her when she’s not within your reach.

Don’t reward her for pulling you everywhere. Make sure she listens to you and comes back to you every time you call her. Let her do this a few more times until it becomes a habit. The best way to get your dog to walk on a leash is practice and consistency.

It can do wonders if you decide not to yell at your dog. If your dog makes a mistake or is disobedient, it’s not due to your dog’s lack of understanding. It’s on you and your training skills as a responsible pet parent. So be patient and compassionate when training your dog to walk on a leash.

Conclusion

See how easy it is to learn how to train a dog to walk on a leash. Teaching her how to walk by your side and never pulling can make both of you happy. Walking is essential for dogs. It ensures better sleep, fewer health problems, and overall well-being.

If your dog is too restless or has a difficult time getting and staying asleep. Train her on how to walk calmly and obediently on a leash and exercise her body and mind outdoors. It’s seriously the best thing you can do for your dog.

0

How To Remove Pet Hair From Furniture, Floors & More

Having pets in your home can be an absolute joy, but there’s no getting around the fact that they can shed hair that gets everywhere. If you’ve been struggling with ways to remove pet hair from furniture, floors, and your clothes, you can check out our useful tips below. 

You can also learn about some handy tips on how to prevent your dog or cat from shedding so much air in your home. By the end of this post, you’ll be able to have an easier time keeping your home clean while enjoying time with your pets. 

Cleaning Pet Hair From Floors

When it comes to getting rid of pet hair from carpets, we recommend using a rubber broom. Rubber brooms can make it a lot easier for you to remove pet hair that has become lodged deep down in carpets and rugs. 

Once you’ve used the broom to dislodge the more stubborn pet hairs, you can gather it up and dispose of the hair into the trash. After using the rubber broom, you can grab a vacuum to start sucking up the smaller pet hairs. 

Powerful vacuums will be able to reach deeper into carpets to suck up smaller pieces of hair that brooms can’t access as well. While vacuuming your carpets, be sure to go over areas multiple times and use varying directions. 

This is the best method to suck up the pet hairs that are extra stubborn and stuck on the fibers of your carpet. Ideally, you’ll want to use a vacuum that comes with a HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter as they can target the microscopic pet hairs so that you can achieve a deeper clean. This is a huge benefit for people suffering from allergic reactions to dogs as there are fewer microscopic hair particles to agitate you. 

According to SpotlessMag, these are the most important things to consider if you plan to buy a pet hair vacuum:

• A motorized brush roll can detangle long strands of pet hair so that the vacuum can still have plenty of suction power and not be clogged with pet hair. 
• Using a vacuum that comes with accessories allows you to provide your floors with a deeper clean. In particular, crevice tools can be used to remove pet hair from the corners and edges of your carpets. 
• Find a vacuum with lots of suction power so that you can remove pet hair from your carpets without having to do so many passes over the same area. 

As far as hardwood, laminate, and tile floors go, using a microfiber mop would be a great option. Microfiber mops work more effectively than regular mops because they’re able to capture more hair rather than push it around. 

You may also opt to use a wet mop to remove pet hair from hard floors. Damp mops are excellent for picking up pet hair and ensuring that there’s none left on the floor afterward. Damp mops are also simple to use as all you need to do is rinse the mop with water to remove the collected pet hair. 

Ways To Get Rid Of Pet Hair From Furniture 

The rubber glove method is a super popular and effective way of removing pet hair from your upholstery furniture. It involves putting a rubber glove on and making it damp with water. You can then rub your hand across the top of your furniture to collect pet hair. 

You may be surprised to discover just how much pet hair a damp rubber glove can attract. When the glove is full of pet hair, you can simply rinse it with water and continue the process until you’re happy that your furniture is clean. 

For quicker spot cleans to remove pet hair from furniture, using a dry rubber glove can also be an effective cleaning method. Some people also use a fabric softener to spray onto their upholstery before using a cloth to wipe the surface clean. 

To remove pet hair from wooden furniture, you can use a special dusting spray or furniture polish. Spray down the furniture and use a soft cloth to wipe the surface to pick up the pet hair. 

Special dusting sprays, such as anti-static ones, get rid of the electrical charge which makes it super easy for you to remove pet hair with a cloth. Not to mention, spraying furniture with these types of sprays is a great preventative solution to stop hairs from sticking so easily. 

Getting Rid Of Pet Hair From Clothes

When you’ve got ready to leave the house in the morning, it can be frustrating to see that your clothes are covered in pet hair right as you’re about to step out of the door. An easy remedy for this is to keep a lint roller handy and in a place that’s easy to access at the front door. 

Lint rollers are an incredibly quick and easy way to remove pet hairs from your clothes to make sure you look presentable. It would also be a good idea to stock up on multiple lint rollers because nothing’s worse than trying to use a lint roller that’s completely covered in pet hair. 

Using lint rollers are great for quick pet hair removal, but for the cases where your clothes are covered in a ton of pet hair, you may need to resort to putting them into the dryer. You can put a dryer sheet into the machine along with your clothes so that it attracts more of the pet hair from the clothes that you want to wear. 

Ways To Prevent Excess Pet Hair Shedding 

One of the best ways to prevent your pets from shedding an excessive quantity of hair in your home is to regularly brush them. Ideally, you’ll want to groom your pets at least two times per week. 

After just two brushes a week, you’ll notice a huge difference in how the quantity of hair that they shed is reduced. It would also be a good idea to brush your pet outdoors to make sure that the excess hair doesn’t shed in your home and give you an even more difficult cleaning job. 

Conclusion 

Now that you know more about some of the best methods to remove pet hair from your clothes, furniture, and clothes, you can begin to implement the aforementioned tips to make your cleaning tasks a breeze. You can make your cleaning jobs even easier by brushing your pet at least twice a week and ensuring that they shed much less hair. 

Hopefully, you can use the information in this post to enjoy spending more time with your pets and less time stressing over how to clean up their hair. 

0

5 Funny Photoshoot Ideas for Your Pet Calendar

0

How to Euthanize A Dog at Home Without A Vet? (safety factors you need to know)

When you get a dog, he/she becomes a part of your family and home. Your precious little pet went from being a cute little puppy to a full-grown adult dog right in your home. That’s more than 10-12 years. So when your furry companion is nearing the end, it’s only natural to ask such a dreaded question. How to euthanize a dog at home without a vet?

Many dog-lovers these days prefer carrying out the euthanasia procedure at home. Some wish to do it with a vet while some without.

The thing about putting down your dog without professional guidance is that it can be a risky process. So I highly advise you to speak to your vet about it first. This is for nothing but the benefit of your dog. A peaceful, pain-free death is what he/she deserves, am I right? Don’t forget to get a dog memorial painting from photo before you Euthanize your furry friend forever.

How to Euthanize A Dog at Home Without A Vet – Introduction

The decision of euthanasia is not something any dog owner is able to make. But, at such times, you should understand that keeping your pet alive when there’s no hope for him/her to lead a healthy, happy life is a selfish move. You have to show mercy and let your furry friend rest in peace.

So here are the most common medical conditions that degrade the quality of life in dogs. Euthanasia is an option when these significant factors take form. But, once again, talking to your vet will give you a better, more well-informed understanding.

• Terminal illnesses like cancer.
• Paralysis or a severe injury or damage due to an accident.
• Old age, which is often accompanied by the inability to perform daily tasks.
• Untreatable or very painful physical conditions.

It’s during these times that euthanasia comes up as an option. In most cases, it’s the last resort. So the best thing you can do in such scenarios is to take your dog to the vet clinic to have him/her fully examined. And then let the medical professional decide what’s in the best interest of your adorable pet.

How to Euthanize A Dog at Home Without A Vet – Common Reasons

I have already mentioned that the conventional way to go about it is to take your dog to the vet. And let him/her perform the euthanasia procedure if required. As a responsible pet owner, this is the only safe approach.

Even so, here are some very common reasons why so many dog owners want to euthanize their pet at home without a vet…

• Not everybody has access to a vet clinic. Maybe you’re staying in a rural region or the vet is miles away from your home.
• Another common reason is that many dogs are terrified of car rides or veterinarians themselves. So you don’t want your precious furry companion to feel even more distressed.
• Then there are some dog-lovers that want the procedure to be performed at home with the family. After all, even the dog is a part of that house.

To be honest, if it’s possible to take your dog to the vet clinic, then you absolutely should. But if it’s just not happening, then you can consider euthanizing your pet at home without a vet.

Just make sure you speak to the vet at least to figure out your options and other important matters. For all you know, the vet might be able to come to your house to carry out the procedure. In that case, you’ll be euthanizing your dog at home only but in the presence of a trained, trusted professional.

Is It the Cost You’re Worried About?

The cost of euthanasia varies from one vet to another. Even the cost of having the vet come to your home to perform the procedure varies. Irrespective of how small or big your dog is. And irrespective of how far he/she has to travel. But one thing is for sure. Having the vet come home is comparatively cheaper than going to the vet’s clinic.

Even then, there are many people who simply opt for euthanasia at home without a vet. Due to the lack of financial resources or access. The only major concern here is the safety of your dog. When doing it yourself at home, the possibility of your pet feeling pain during the procedure is not eliminated. Also, without a vet, you might not even get access to suitable medication.

How to Euthanize A Dog at Home Without A Vet – Factors to Consider

What Happens After

Whatever approach you decide to take in terms of euthanasia, the aftermath is going to be quite difficult to deal with. Only a few dog owners choose not to be in the same room during the process of euthanasia. But the most that do find it very emotional.

When you perform the procedure at home, you’re highly likely to find it even more challenging to deal with the death of your dog. That’s because you keep seeing the place or room where your pet was put down. And carrying this image in your head daily is not easy to handle.

So doing it at the vet’s clinic seems like a less devastating choice. At least you don’t have to be reminded of it on a daily basis. Nevertheless, it’s hard to cope with the loss of a pet. There’s no denying that.

Medical Assistance

If you’re leaning more toward euthanizing your dog at home without a vet, then please understand that it might get complicated. Medical assistance at every step of the way is very important at this point. Otherwise, your pet ends up suffering for your mistakes. Proper sedation before the last drug is given is crucial to the procedure.

If that doesn’t happen, side effects like vomiting, pain, and seizures are common. So you have every reason to take your dog to the vet’s clinic for euthanasia.

State Laws

There’s no point in deciding whether or not you want to euthanize your dog at home without a vet if the laws in your state don’t permit it. You should know that it’s illegal to carry out the procedure of ending life without proper medical training or license. The only legal method is to let the vet do it. Most animal shelters employ well-trained staff for this very reason.

In the majority of US states, only certified technicians and vets are allowed to perform euthanasia. Only a few states have legalized carrying out the process by non-veterinarians but with the supervision of a vet.

And it’s not just the procedure that you have to worry about here. Even the drugs are not easily available without a proper medical prescription. Most states allow only licensed professionals to store the drugs commonly used for euthanasia. In my opinion, this is a very responsible move. Since drug control ensures that these drugs aren’t abused or misused.

So you have to also check if the medication you want to inject is legal and accessible in your state.

How to Euthanize A Dog at Home Without A Vet – Steps to Take

#1 Consult with the vet first

I know I keep mentioning again and again that you should speak to your vet first before you decide to do anything. But that’s because it’s very important you do so. The vet will examine your furry companion. Only after a thorough examination can any medical professional decide if euthanasia should be the last resort.

You can even call up the clinic and ask if the vet performs home procedures. And if yes, then ask how you should go about it and the arrangements to be made.

#2 Prepare your family

So the decision of euthanasia has been made. Now is the time to emotionally prepare yourself as well as the members of your family. Your pet passing is not an everyday or pleasant occurrence. So, at such times, what goes a long way is talking about the situation. And offering support and care to one another.

Be very careful and sensitive toward children. You have to explain what’s about to take place. And let them share their feelings and emotions with you. Speaking of children, it’s best your child not be in the same room as your dog when he/she is being euthanized. But if your kid isn’t too sensitive or young, then it’s alright.

#3 Make your dog comfortable

Your precious pet has brought so much joy, happiness, and love into your life. So now is the time for you to show how much you care. Make your dog’s last moments as comfortable and enjoyable as you possibly can.

You can do so by making sure he/she is lying down in a comfortable, warm space. Use extra blankets and pillows. Feed some of his/her favorite treats. And most importantly, shower your pet with loads of kisses and hugs.

And in the final moments, make sure that at least one loved one is present with the dog. It’s important that your pet doesn’t feel alone during this time.

#4 Get the sedatives required for the procedure

For a peaceful and pain-free send-off, you should choose one of the following medications. These are common anesthetics vets use for mercy killing.

• Telazol

It’s a combination of zolazepam and tiletamine. Zolazepam offers valium-like properties. And tiletamine works as a dissociative anesthetic. Individually, both medications are low in terms of pain relief. But when combined, their effect reaches full potential.

• Ketamine

Here’s another dissociative anesthetic. What the drug does is allow your dog to experience the brain and body separately. The result of this is immense pain relief when combined with valium-like drugs.

• Medetomidine

It’s a sedative that provides pain relief for dogs. But it’s expensive for larger breeds.

• Propofol

This one’s quite effective when it comes to working as a sedative. It’s not a widely abused form of medication, thus more accessible to get. However, propofol is quite expensive.

• Acepromazine

It’s a cheaper alternative to medetomidine. Most vets administer acepromazine on aggressive dogs.

But, obviously, before you decide what to pick, consult with your vet. What I am doing here is just giving you a vague idea about the sedatives. The final decision should be made based on the advice of a medical professional.

#5 Perform the procedure

The preparation part is in place. So now it’s time for the inevitable.

First Injection

The first injection consists of propofol, telazol, and ketamine. This you should administer intravenously. IV injections are preferred because they tend to have an effect quicker. Plus, they’re easy to administer. This is very useful in case you’re inexperienced or not a professional.

Don’t inject telazol, propofol, and ketamine intramuscularly. It ends up hurting the dog, at least in the majority of cases. But you can administer acepromazine and medetomidine intramuscularly. The former does sting though. So it’s best to do the IV method for this too.

Another thing to keep in mind is the right dosage. So my advice to you here would be to talk to your vet about the amount of pain-relieving sedative you should inject during euthanasia. The goal here is to heavily sedate your dog.

Second Injection

Now come the anesthetics, meaning barbiturates. These trigger cardiac arrest in less than a minute after injecting the medication intravenously.

At this point, don’t be surprised or alarmed if your precious little furry companion moves. The movements don’t imply that your dog is in pain. Or that the procedure is failing. They’re just the canine’s last few electrical impulses before the brain shuts down completely.

#6 Handling your dog’s remains

Once your dog breathes his/her last, you can start thinking about the funeral service. Most dog-owners go for a simple burial.

Handling your pet’s remains is also a very emotional part of the experience. But you can find some solace in knowing that now your dog is resting in peace. And that he/she is not going through any pain or suffering.

How to Euthanize A Dog at Home Without A Vet – Final Words

I know that reading this guide must have been hard for you. But you have to understand that your dog deserves nothing but the best treatment from you. Even during his/her last moments!

So you have every reason in the book to perform the euthanasia procedure at the vet’s clinic. Avoid doing it at home if possible. Such important decisions and procedures should be undertaken only by well-trained medical professionals. Only they have the proper knowledge to assess the situation. And then provide the most appropriate form of treatment.

Trust your vet, even if your instincts tell you otherwise.

0

The Complete Guide to Border Collie Lab Mix (all you need to know)

The Border Collie Lab mix, also popularly known as Borador, might not sound like the name of an actual dog breed. But it is one; in fact, it’s one of the most reliable breeds. The canines are loving and intelligent. The love comes from the Lab parent. And the intelligence is all Collie.

The cross-breed responds very well to training with rewards and positive reinforcements. After all, food rewards are not new to Labradors because of their scavenging nature.

Needless to say, the mixed breed is incredibly energetic. So daily exercise is a must. The dogs are also very friendly beings. Meaning perfect for families!

Now it’s time to get into the most specific details. Like where the breed comes from, how to care for them, what to expect from them, etc.

Border Collie Lab Mix: An Overview

Borador puppies are a mix of Border Collie and Labrador Retriever. The dam and sire are interchangeable. This means the father can belong to either breed.

Both parents come from a working background. Even so, Border Collie Lab dogs are not registered with major Kennels. So the cross-breed is labeled as a designer or companion dog.

It was brought into existence to combine friendliness and intelligence. The former coming from Labradors and the latter from Collies. It goes without saying that a Border Collie Lab mix is an ideal breed for a family to adopt.

Speaking of which, if you’re deciding to pay for the pup, then the cost is anywhere between $200 and $500. And in a single litter, you’ll find at least 6 to 9 puppies.

Now you should also know that Collies and Labs have been around for a very, very long time. But their offspring has only been active for the last 10 to 20 years. So let’s find out where the mixed breed comes from.

Border Collie Origin

Border Collies were bred after the invasion of Britain by the Vikings. This took place around the Roman Empire dissolution. So the invasion brought the breed into the country. The mating of Viking’s dogs with Roman dogs produced the breed Border Collie.

The dog community was agile with an exemplary work ethic. Border Collies took some time to venture further beyond Britain. And it’s only in 1995 that the breed received recognition by the AKC (American Kennel Club).

Collies are known for athleticism, speed, and intelligence. But it’s their striking intelligence that makes them so popular when it comes to work ethic and training.

A Border Collie that doesn’t receive the required amount of physical and mental stimulation tends to become destructive. Much like most other dog breeds! They get bored quite easily. So if you live a busy life without enough time to take your dog outside, think again before adopting a pet.

So the Collie side of the cross-breed is highly athletic and intelligent. Now it’s time to get to know a little more about the Labrador parent.

Labrador Retriever Origin

I think you already know that Labradors are quite popular with Kennel Clubs and as home, family pets. The chances are you know at least one person or family that has an adorable Lab in the house.

Labrador Retrievers go all the way back to 1800s. This breed from Newfoundland was a part of rich English communities fond of waterfowl hunting. As for receiving recognition by the Kennel Club of England, it happened in 1903. And by the Kennel Club of America, Labs were registered in 1917.

Working dogs; that’s what Labrador Retrievers were used as. But that’s not what it looks like today. They’re more suited for family companionship. Needless to say, the breed is people-oriented and super-friendly.

The furry creatures are also very happy and energetic by nature. They love playing and just being outdoors. But that doesn’t mean you won’t find a Lab chilling comfortably on a couch after the completion of a hectic day.

On top of that, since Labrador’s have a people-pleasing nature, they are very easy to train.

So what’s the moral of the story? That a Border Collie Lab mix is a very intelligent, friendly, happy, and energetic cross-breed. Families would be truly lucky to have a pet like this.

Border Collie Lab Mix: Appearance

The thing about designer dog breeds is that their pups develop distinctive features and characteristics from both parents. In that case, Border Collie Lab puppies are no exception.

The happy face of a Lab, with slightly shorter ears and body much like that of a Collie. This is what the hybrid looks like. Also, the dogs have dark, piercing, and striking eyes. It’s what sets the breed apart from the rest.

Labrador Retrievers have a solid black, brown, or yellow coat. As for Border Collies, their coat is more double or triple-colored. But there are beautiful full black Boradors as well.

What about the length of the hair? This feature is much like the Collie parent, maybe slightly shorter. But medium in length on the whole.

Border Collie Lab Mix: Weight

To tell you for a fact, the body of the mixed breed is more like a Collie than Lab. At least size and shape-wise! So even the weight is pretty much the same as that of a Border Collie.

But you should know that Labradors are big dogs. This means your Border Collie Lab companion is very likely to be heavier than Collie.

An adult Border Collie weighs around 30-45 pounds. So the adult cross-breed can weigh 5 pounds heavier than that. Even 50 pounds is possible for an adult, full-grown male canine.

Now you know exactly what you should expect in the areas of appearance and weight. So it’s time to delve deeper. It’s time for discussing the personality.

Border Collie Lab Mix: Temperament

There’s no doubt that both Labs and Collies have a positive and unique personality. The uniqueness in the latter is their extreme intelligence. Did you know that the mental abilities of a dog are much the same as those of a 2-year-old?

As for Labrador Retrievers, you can think of them as toddlers. They are also plenty smart. But that’s not their unique characteristic. The trait that stands out here is an easy-going, happy, and kind attitude. So when you combine this with intelligence, what you get is a cross-breed with an incredibly positive temperament.

The hybrid is loving, attentive, friendly, and even unchallenging to train. The training part is easier than you can imagine by the way. Thanks to the Lab parent’s desire to please.

Here’s another important thing to note. Border Collies, originally, were bred for gathering sheep. So the canines are fond of obedience training. In fact, they’re the happiest when told what to do.

Speaking of training, let’s talk about an aspect that brings into action proper training.

Border Collie Lab Mix: Socialization

Learning to socialize during the early stages of life is crucial if you want your four-legged companion to be outgoing, healthy, and happy. So expose your little pup to as many dogs as possible. And even to other people.

This you should do from a very young age to prevent the dog from becoming aggressive or fearful around new crowds. By a very young age, I mean when the puppy is 3-14 weeks old.

Now, in terms of Labs and Collies, the breeds have a kind, easy temperament. So you won’t have a hard time teaching your hybrid pup to socialize. After all, I’ve said it enough number of times that training this cross-breed is comparatively easier.

Caring for a Border Collie Lab Mix

Diet and Food

The mixed-breed requires top quality food, no doubt. You get to choose from raw, dry, wet, and dehydrated food. Whatever you decide to feed, make sure the servings and type of food meet your dog’s daily nutritional requirements. And obviously, the nutrient requirements of a puppy are not the same as that of an adult dog.

Here’s a table you might find very useful:

Weight	Daily Calorie Needs of a Puppy	Daily Calorie Needs of an Adult Dog	Daily Calorie Needs of an Adult Dog in Winter
60 pounds	3600	1200	2400
50 pounds	3400	1000	2000
40 pounds	2000	800	1200

Generally speaking, a pup’s daily allowance can be divided into 4 meals. When he/she turns 6 months old, reduce to 2 meals a day. The majority of dogs stay healthy and happy with only 2 meals for as long as they’re alive.

Apart from that, make sure your furry creature drinks plenty of fresh water. So keep that option easily available for him/her. Particularly if your dog is on dry food!

Now is the time for me to bring to your attention that Boradors have a tendency of gaining weight quite easily. This is because of the scavenger gene they inherit from their Lab parent. So please keep a check on how much they eat. And also on how much exercise you’re providing them with. As long as you’re able to feel the ribs, it’s all good.

Exercise

You already know by now that both Labs and Collies are very active breeds. So this should suggest their mix is going to be pretty much the same. That means more than an-hour-long walks daily is a must.

The cross-breed is fond of hiking up mountains, exploring woods, playing ball out in the backyard, chasing fellow four-legged buddies in the park, etc. They’re all equipped to make sure you’re on your toes.

The mixed-breed takes after its Collie parent when it comes to excelling in agility, obedience, flyball, and rallies. So how about you introduce a fun hobby into your dog’s life to keep him/her busy and active? Don’t let those working genes go to waste.

Your bonding sessions with your furry companion are also going to be brilliant. And it’s because of how intelligent and loving Border Collie Lab puppies and adult dogs are. You can use food to entice or encourage them to play brain games.

Training

Like I already told you, Border Collie Labs are not difficult at all to train. When it comes to responding to a routine that’s consistent, you can expect good behavior. Particularly with the help of positive reinforcements and rewards.

The practice of punishment doesn’t work. So refrain from using negative coercion or punishment-based training. It just causes anxiety and fear in dogs. And that, in turn, results in aggression.

Whenever your little pooch follows your orders, feel free to reward him/her. Either with food or a toy!

When training a puppy, establish a consistent plan of routine. After every meal, take him/her out for a walk. It even prepares them for toilet training. Apart from that, regular walks throughout the entire day are a must.

The temperament of the parents does matter when it comes to training. You already know that, don’t you? But what also plays a major role is the environment. It’s very important for you to introduce your dog to new things and people slowly and safely. This means encouraging the canine to socialize from a very young age.

Introduce your pet to all kinds of a crowd. Let his/her curiosities run amuck. Don’t keep them from not investigating loud noises. Instead, reward them if they do so in a calm manner. It’s imperative for your dog to understand that exploring is a good, positive thing.

Border Collie Lab Mix: Shedding

Have you ever had a breed with long hair? If yes, then you know how shedding is a part of the whole experience. Unfortunately, a Collie is a long-haired creature. So the chances of your Collie Lab mix also shedding are not unlikely. Even so, this shedding might not be as voluminous as in the case of a purebred Collie.

Just expect to find fine to medium length dog hairs scattered across your home. Instead of having to clean larger tufts all the time!

Border Collie Lab Mix: Grooming

Like I already told you, shedding doesn’t seem like such a major concern. So you don’t need to devote a lot of time and energy into grooming your Border Collie Lab mix. At least not as much as the exercising aspect!

You can use a pin or bristle brush to do the grooming. I would say 1-2 times a week is good enough. If there are any mats to clear out, feel free to use the slicker brush for that.

The cross-breed’s grooming requirements are perfect for someone who doesn’t have a busy schedule to keep up with. However, daily exercise requirements say the opposite.

Also, don’t forget to clean his/her ears and eyes along with trimming the nails. Cleaning the teeth is also necessary from a very young age. It’s because the idea of getting your puppy used to such regular checks makes the same tasks easy to carry out during adulthood.

Border Collie Lab Mix: Health Concerns

Let’s not forget that all breeds run the risk of developing certain illnesses. But some of them are more susceptible to specific medical problems. So as a responsible and caring pet owner, it’s important for you to be well aware of such concerns at the time of getting a pup.

In that case, why would a Border Collie Lab puppy be any different! So to better understand the potential risks associated with the cross-breed, let’s have a look at both parent breeds’ specific health issues.

Labrador Retriever Health Concerns

The most common medical problem Labs have to deal with is elbow and hip dysplasia. Along with osteochondritis, arthritis, and knee dislocation. These issues are either directly or partially linked to the weak joint formation. Let’s dive deeper!

Hip/Elbow Dysplasia

The condition dysplasia involves the elbow or hip joint. It occurs when the elbow or hip socket fails to perform properly. The result of which is painful arthritis, as well as lameness in some cases.

And, unfortunately, Labradors are likely to get affected by this particular joint ailment. Not only that, the medical condition becomes a part of their DNA. Meaning even their offspring are prone to developing it.

Other Issues

Labs are also genetically inclined toward the formation of retinal atrophy. It’s a disease that causes blindness.

The next common medical condition is cancer. But, on the bright side, Labrador Retrievers are less likely to develop a tumor. In comparison to purebred canines!

Retinal atrophy and hip dysplasia are detectable from a young age. However, cancer is not as it can take control later during the adulthood stage. Even if your dog is well taken care of!

On the other hand, conditions like obesity are easily avoidable. Proper diet and regular exercise are important if you want to keep your dog from becoming obese.

Border Collie Health Concerns

Now let’s talk about Border Collie.

Epilepsy

The most tragic part here is that Collies are highly susceptible to epilepsy. The breed is likely to suffer from seizures. This means long-term care and medication are required.

One major risk connected with the condition is injury at the time of a seizure. So if your little pooch has that gene in him/her, it means you’ll have to practice more attention and care. Leaving your dog alone for long hours is a bad idea at such times.

Eye Problems

Both Labs and Collies are prone to developing eye diseases like primary lens luxation and Collie eye anomaly. The latter, as the name suggests, takes form very quickly in Border Collies. It develops when the puppy is 5-8 weeks old. Only an ophthalmologist can detect it. This means all the more reason to not neglect regular check-ups with the veterinarian.

As for primary lens luxation, the condition occurs when the eye ligaments responsible for keeping the lens in position become weak. Sometimes it’s just the outcome of trauma. But, more often than not, the disease is inherited.

Both the eye-related medical issues lead to complete blindness in a Border Collie.

Deafness

Congenital deafness is another cause for concern among the Collie community. It happens when cochlea-related blood flow problems and vascular malformations occur. In simple words, the inner part of the ear doesn’t receive any blood flow. And this is why your dog cannot hear properly.

The problem is very likely to affect four-legged creatures with blue eyes and white heads. Such dogs’ gene pattern is double merle, which is highly linked to the deafness disease.

Also, elbow dysplasia and Collies are no strangers. However, deafness is the most common condition that affects Collies.

Border Collie Lab Mix Health Concerns

You might not know this; healthy dogs contain the best genetic diversity. The more the diversity, the less the amount of bad genes being passed on. This means the chances of developing serious ailments are quite low.

So as far as diversity is concerned, what matters the most is selective breeding. Several generations are what it takes to eliminate potential medical conditions from the breed’s gene pool.

The science about breeding is a very confusing topic to understand. But just know one thing; when you adopt a pup, the little creature contains bad genes that are taken from both purebred parents. Meaning the health concerns in common with both the mother and father are a part of their offspring too.

In the case of a Borador, these health concerns include eye diseases and hip dysplasia. You can even test your pup for medical conditions that are most commonly found within that breed. Even so, there’s no guarantee your Border Collie Lab won’t have to deal with serious health concerns.

Border Collie Lab Mix: Life Expectancy

A long, happy life is a part of the picture here, fortunately. Generally speaking, the life expectancy of a Collie and Lab is not the same though. The former lives for the longest time, which is 13.5 years. As for Labrador Retrievers, their average lifespan is 12.5 years. So that’s about 13 years for a Border Collie Lab cross-breed.

Now here’s a fun fact. Mixed breeds have a tendency of living for a while longer than purebred parents and dogs.

Does a Border Collie Lab Mix Make a Good Pet for a Family?

If the breeder is caring, qualified, and experienced, you can rest assured knowing that your pup is going to be the best.

Collies and Labs are very energetic dogs, right? So would you rather get a hybrid that’s as active as the parents? Or a canine that’s slightly low-key? More often than not, the most favorite choice is the former. But that’s only when you know you’ve got the time to keep up with the high energy levels of your pet.

An incredibly active Border Collie Lab is a great option for a family with several children. So the kids can play with the dog too. To top it off, the mixed breed is just what you and your adventurous family might demand during those frequent weekend trips.

Dogs love playtime and adventures. So it’s a win-win situation for both parties. Just make sure you prioritize health when choosing a pup and during your whole time with him/her. This brings me to a very relevant part of the article.

Border Collie Lab Mix Breeders

Many breeders work with pure breeds for creating mixes. But only the responsible ones understand congenital health concerns that are likely to be transferred to offspring via the gene. And for this reason, make sure to ask for the medical history of both purebred parents.

There are some breeders that actually go through the trouble of DNA testing. This they do to eliminate concerns associated with health issues being passed down. In fact, if you want to make sure you’re to-be pet is the healthiest Lab Collie mix, then a DNA test is the most effective method to do so.

Similar Breeds like the Border Collie Lab Mix

If the Borador cross-breed’s not suited for your lifestyle or personal requirements, there are many other such mixed-breeds that contain the Lab gene.

• Basset Hound Lab mix
• Golden Retriever Lab mix
• Boxer Lab mix
• German Shepherd Lab mix
• Lab Pointer mix

But you know; if you’ve got the time and you’re dedicated toward caring for your pet, then I don’t see any reason why you shouldn’t choose a Border Collie Lab mix.

Amazing Facts You Probably Don’t Know About Border Collie Lab Mix

#1 They like to eat a lot of food

Now there’s a difference between snacking and chowing down food at every opportunity you get. And border Collie Lab dogs belong to the latter. Expect a heavy food bill once you invite this cross-breed into your home. But please make sure to keep their food intake under control as they’re very likely to gain weight very fast.

The dogs are ridiculously energetic. So it’s only natural to want to eat more when you’re utilizing all that energy from food for chasing, jumping, fetching, etc.

The best advice I can give you at this point is to buy breed-specific dog food. It’s packed with the right kind and amount of nutrients for your Collie Lab mix. Now I don’t mean searching for food that’s specially created for only Border Collie Labs. However, many manufacturers specify the names of breeds the food is suitable for.

#2 The cross-breed is unclassified

It’s not such a useful fact getting to know that the mixed breed is not classified. But that’s because we don’t give the matter the importance it deserves. Two different parents imply the offspring is a product of two separate classes. So the final result doesn’t belong to any one particular class.

However, this is not necessarily a bad thing. And that’s because the cross-breed can do what both parents are capable of doing. So that’s 2 sets of different traits, qualities, and characteristics. And 2 is always better than 1, is it not?

In the case of a Borador, it means the intelligence of Collies and friendliness of Labs.

#3 They are very social animals

Now it’s true that most dogs simply can’t get enough of romping around in the park with fellow furry creatures. But there will always be exceptions that don’t enjoy it as much. And those who love it more than the rest of them like the cross-breed Border Collie Lab mix.

You can take your little pooch just about anywhere and at whatever time of the day. The former includes both human and dog parks. He/she is going to end up being the life of the party with generous slobbery kisses and a happy, wagging tail.

#4 They love to play fetch

It’s fun playing fetch with your dog. But the fun part gets jeopardized if the dog doesn’t bring back that toy. But this is something you don’t need to worry about if your pet is a Border Collie Lab. It feels like it was this particular breed that invented the game in the first place.

The Lab side of the hybrid ensures that he/she brings the toy back to you every single time. After all, Labradors were born to fetch. But you might have to buy more than 1 or 2 toys as the canine is also very fond of tearing up the toy when bored. And you can’t play the game all day long now, can you?

Wrapping It Up

“Most friendly canines” is the best way to describe this particular mix between Labrador Retrievers and Border Collies. The hybrid is the most loving, stable, and reliable pet to have in your home. Plus, the dog is not at all difficult to train. Such qualities are perfect for a family looking to get a new pet.

Collie’s intelligence and Lab’s friendly nature; the mixed breed is a wonderful blend of two separate genes. The impressive intelligence responds well to training and a consistent exercise routine. The former should include positive reinforcements along with rewards.

Daily exercise, as well as mental stimulation, is a must. Otherwise, this is what awaits; destructive behavior, incessant barking, and aggression. Also remember that bored dogs equal to unhappy dogs, no matter the breed.

As for the easy-going attitude the mixed breed picks up from its Lab gene, it makes the dog more socially active.

In all, expect a Collie Lab mix to keep you busy all the time. At the same time, look forward to receiving a lot of love, affection, and loyalty from the cross-breed. So are you ready to buy one? Have you thought about adoption instead?

0

Husky Lab Mix – A Detailed Guide You Need to Know

The Husky Lab Mix is also known as Siberian Retriever and Huskador. The parent breeds are nothing but a huge bundle of delight. Loving, intelligent, loyal, and highly energetic; a Husky Lab puppy fits perfectly well into just about any active household. Provided you’re okay with regular grooming.

Are the dogs just like purebred Labradors or Huskies? No, they’re not. So don’t even expect them to be. Rather the hybrid is a very unpredictable mix of America’s 2 most favorite dog breeds. So let’s get to know everything about this adorable cross-breed.

Husky Lab Mix: Origin

Obviously, a Husky Lab comes from one Siberian Husky and one Labrador Retriever. Either can be the mom or dad. What’s important instead is that both parents should be purebred dogs.

Now if you want to understand the history and origins of Husky Lab mix, let’s delve deeper.

Labrador Retrievers

The breed seems to have originated from Newfoundland, which used to be a British colony. This explains the dog’s English origin. Even though Newfoundland now is in Canada.

Labrador Retrievers are labeled as working dogs. They are Retrievers, after all. Meaning retrieving is a part of what they do. Back in the days, Labs worked with hunters for flushing out and collecting captured prey.

They are loyal dogs that are simply great around people. As pets, the breed offers abundant love, affection, and playfulness. And they’re great with children too!

Siberian Huskies

I don’t need to tell you that Siberian Huskies come from Siberia in Russia. This breed too also consists of working dogs. Traditionally speaking, the job of a Husky was to pull sleds for transportation. Along with helping out with gathering firewood, food, etc. and hunting.

Siberian Huskies were specially bred for cohabitating and collaborating with people. They’re good with both adults and children. And as pets, the breed is very protective, loyal, and simply wonderful.

Husky Lab Mix

Choosing a cross-breed almost always seems like a risky gamble. And that’s because you don’t know which parent’s traits the hybrid might inherit the most.

However, both sides share nearly the same characteristics. So you can expect the product of a Lab and Husky to be energetic, affectionate, loyal, highly protective, affable, hardworking, smart, and eminently trainable.

Husky Lab Mix: Appearance

It is a cross-breed after all, right? So the appearance of each puppy is going to be a unique combination of both a Labrador Retriever and Siberian Husky.

The most common coat colors include black, brown, yellow, copper, grey, and white. A beautiful blend of colors is also a possibility. Much like in the case of Huskies.

One other common trait in terms of appearance is heterochromia. This is when both eyes are different colored. It’s a very natural condition and not harmful in any sense.

Since most Huskies and Labradors are of the same size, your Labsky is going to grow into a medium size dog. With either droopy or upright ears. The former is a part of the Labrador breed while the latter is found in Huskies. Whatever the case, the hybrid looks stunning.

Weight and Height

Like I said, Husky Lab mix is a medium size dog. The height they achieve when fully grown is somewhere between 20 and 25 inches. As nature dictates, males are slightly larger and taller than females. But on average, the weight is around 40-60 pounds.

Colors

A combination of colors taken from both sides of the lineage is what you get. The different shades include brown, black, yellow, grey, copper, and white.

But that doesn’t mean your Husky Lab puppy can’t have a block-colored coat. As that of his/her Labrador parent. It’s not always a possibility that the puppies are going to be a wonderful blend of different colors like Huskies.

Coat

The length of the coat is either short or medium. But straight in all scenarios.

One downside of being a descendant of Huskies is the shedding of hair. If you’ve seen a Husky up close, you know the breed has a double layer of coating. These layers are what kept the dogs warm when the temperature dropped in freezing Siberia.

So if your pup inherits the double coat, shedding only comes naturally. This means you’ve got to be okay with regularly brushing your dog and his/her undercoat off the floor.

Buying Husky Lab Mix

It’s very important to buy from a well-known breeder. Meeting your future pet’s parents or at least the mother to see how they interact with their puppies is certainly a memorable experience. This way you also get an idea as to what traits your pup might inherit and develop.

My advice to you would be to pick a breeder who favors working-dog traits over aesthetics. When breeders do that, they’re making sure the puppies have a calmer and healthier temperament.

On your part, make sure the cross-breed comes from 2 pure breeds. You can even request to see some documentation. Popular breeders also offer medical records of not only the puppy but also the parents. In the case of the former, it includes vaccinations, flea treatment, deworming, and more such steps taken until you collect the little playful creature.

You can even check your puppy on your own. Clean ears and eyes and good health are great indicators that the breeder really cares. And doesn’t just want to make money off you. Also expect the breeders to direct questions at you too. After all, the most genuine ones are concerned about where their puppies go.

Choosing Husky Lab Mix Puppies

When it comes to picking the most suitable puppy for your home, there are many factors you might want to take into account. From gender and appearance to temperament and genetic testing.

For a tropical climate, a pup with short hair seems like a more thoughtful choice.

Now you should know that there are many show breeders that unknowingly or knowingly give importance to appearance. Instead of strength, temperament, and good health. So make sure you keep this in mind at the time of choosing your puppy.

Interact with both the parent dogs, if possible. So you get an idea of what the temperament and personality are like. But if the breeder doesn’t allow this, know that something is not right.

Examine the eyes, mouth, ears, paws, skin, tail, tongue, and underside. Make sure they look healthy and clean. You can also request for the medical history of your Husky Lab puppy. And if there’s a veterinarian, get his/her name and address too.

Husky Lab Mix Cost

Good breeders charge you around $400-$800 for Husky Lab mix. As for adopting one from a shelter home, the price range is much lower. It’s between $50 and $100.

In terms of monthly costs, you’re looking at quite a few steep expenses. The food intake of Huskadors is pretty high. So you’ll be spending a lot on that. Along with general maintenance and insurance! So the round-up is somewhere between $120 and $140 per month.

Husky Lab Mix: Temperament

It’s not easy determining the exact behavioral characteristics of a Labsky. And it’s because the breed comes from two different breeds. This means the traits can be a mix of both parents.

So in order to understand your dog better, why not read about the temperament of both Labs and Huskies!

Labrador Retriever Temperament

Did you know the Labrador breed is America’s most favorite? And there are enough reasons for that. The dogs are intelligent, eager, and loyal. This means they make excellent companions. Even if you have other pets and children.

The breed is very gentle and loving toward family members. And all they want to do is bring joy and happiness into your life.

As far as training a Labrador is concerned, the process is not very challenging. Labs train easily and quickly. But do keep in mind that they mature slowly. So you’ll notice puppy-like behavior even into adulthood.

You might also want to know that Labradors are prone to boredom and chewing. It’s a very bad combination indeed. So it’s entirely in your hands to prevent your dog from getting bored and chewing. Make sure proper physical and mental exercise is a part of his/her daily routine.

Siberian Husky Temperament

Huskies have earned a reputation of being very energetic and agreeable. The breed is family-oriented after all. The background here combines work and companionship. And this is what makes them such friendly pets to have.

A Siberian Husky demands social interaction. With you and with other dogs! So leaving them alone at home for a long time is not such a great idea.

The dog has a lot of energy to expend. So a backyard with secure fencing is the perfect place for such a canine. He/she should have the opportunity to play and run around as much as they like. Huskies love to chase as well. So don’t forget the leash when you’re out with your dog.

The breed loves kids and even other fellow four-legged creatures. You can also expect them to greet and interact with strangers quite easily. They see just about everyone as friends.

In short, a Husky might not win the award to the best watchdog. But he/she definitely bags one as the most loving, caring, and friendly furry companion.

Husky Lab Mix Temperament

Labradors and Huskies are known about for their energy and endurance. So if you’re planning on getting a Huskador, be prepared to meet the demands of an energetic canine.

Your cross-breed is a highly social creature who enjoys company. The breed is people-oriented indeed. This suggests it’s the perfect choice for a family.

But you’ll have to buy a lot of toys and make sure your pet receives a lot of mental stimulation and exercise. Otherwise, don’t expect the dog to feel or spread any joy. And when that happens, destructive behavior is inevitable. No wonder adequate exercise is always encouraged by veterinarians, dog owners, and the like.

Obedience training and early socialization are also recommended by professionals. In the case of this particular breed or just about any dog breed. Husky Lab puppies are highly excitable, but slow in terms of maturing. The latter part is inherited from their Labrador parent.

When obedience training and early socialization take place properly, they reduce the level of anxiety. Such daily practices also promote good behavior, adaptability, and calmness in your dog. No matter the situation!

Husky Lab Mix: How to Train

Does a Labsky respond well to training? Fortunately, the answer is a big YES. Positive reinforcements work best in this case. And that’s because the cross-breed is very intelligent.

Let me bring to your attention that Labradors are quick to train. They have a wonderful eagerness when it comes to pleasing the ones they love. So you should hope for your Husky Lab mix to inherit this particular trait from its Labrador parent.

But if that doesn’t happen, you’re looking at the Husky temperament. At least as far as training is concerned, Huskies are very stubborn. They are much more difficult to train. Since they like to follow their own instructions and ideas. However, you can combat this stubbornness with consistent, repetitive, positive reinforcement training.

What you can also do is encourage your dog to socialize with other people and furry creatures. When that happens, mental stimulation receives a boost. And this helps in keeping your pet entertained and well-behaved. So include a lot of play dates in your dog’s weekly schedule.

Mental stimulation is crucial if you don’t want the dog to get bored. Especially if the breed is known for its intelligence.

Also, Huskadors benefit from dog puzzle toys. Did you know that? You might have to practice a little bit of patience with them. But they’re pretty much well-equipped to handle such games and be occupied by them.

Husky Lab Mix: Caring for Them

Regular grooming twice every week is a must. Along with normal tasks such as nail clipping, ear cleaning, and flea treatment. So yes, caring for this cross-breed requires much effort.

Apart from grooming, the dog demands tons of exercise, both physical and mental. So if you have a backyard, it’s a huge plus. The hybrid thrives in company, meaning it’s people-oriented. It’s perfect for an active, social family. With one person at least at home for the most part of the day!

Exercise

For Husky Lab mix, 60 minutes of daily exercise is a given. There’s no debating that. But you can split this into many sessions. Apart from giving him/her the opportunity to run around off-leash throughout the day. If you’ve mastered the skill of recalling your dog, then feel safe to remove the leash even during walks.

Even the puppies are going to be intelligent and highly energetic. So if you know of any agility classes for dogs in your locality, sign up your little creature.

The dogs also enjoy swimming. This activity ranks as one of the most effective forms of exercise. Even for you, there’s nothing more fun and memorable than watching your pet swim in the pool. Just make sure you’re standing at a distance when they shake off the water. Husky Labs have a double layer of coat, which means it can hold lots of water.

Grooming

Getting a Husky Lab cross-breed means agreeing to groom your dog twice every week. The grooming part includes thoroughly brushing. As this reduces the coat from shedding!

Now you already know that Huskies have a double coat. The double layer increases the chances of the dog shedding profusely during the Fall and Spring. So there’s no reason why Husky Lab mix is going to be any different. This is when professional groomers come to the rescue.

Also don’t neglect ear cleanliness, bathing, and nail clipping.

Diet

The chances are you’ve got a puppy from the breeder or local adoption shelter. So the dog is already following a set diet. So it’s best to maintain that before slowly transitioning into a new one. Mix some of his/her old food with the new food. And then gradually increase the amount of the latter.

Puppies usually feed 3-4 times a day. But once they turn 6 months old, you can reduce this to 2 times only. And give them puppy food till they turn 1 year old. The difference between puppy food and adult food is that the former contains more protein.

As for an adult Husky Lab mix, about 2 and half cups of dry food is more than enough on a daily basis. Choose dry foods with higher protein content. 1/3rd of your dog’s diet is supposed to be protein. And avoid foods with corn, wheat, gluten, rendered fats, and artificial coloring.

Husky Lab Mix: Health Concerns

Inheriting diseases from parents happens in humans and animals, of course. So why would dogs be an exception, even if cross-bred! This is why health screening at an early age is so important. It helps you prepare for and avoid future health problems your four-legged companion might have to face.

So let’s get to know the potential health conditions that affect both Siberian Huskies and Labradors.

Siberian Husky Health Problems

When it comes to a Husky, the breed is susceptible to all common health concerns that affect all dogs. Such as skin disorders and dental disease. But Huskies are highly prone to developing skin issues. Like zinc-responsive dermatosis, pemphigus foliaceus, and follicular dysplasia.

Dermatosis leads to hair loss and skin crusting. Along with having a negative impact on the chin and eyes of the dog. Even pemphigus foliaceus causes hair loss and crusting. As for dysplasia, it’s canine alopecia. The condition results in skin flaking, abnormal growth of hair, and hair loss.

Let me tell you that Siberian Huskies are also inclined toward more serious health concerns. That may or may not pass down to their offspring.

• Eye Conditions

Ophthalmological issues are no strangers in the case of Huskies. These include corneal dystrophy, retinal atrophy, and cataracts.

Cataracts usually affect older adult dogs. They are marked by filmy, cloudy looking eyes. And what the condition does is impairs vision. So when not treated, it can cause complete blindness.

Even young Huskies (2 years old) are more likely to develop cataracts.

Retinal Atrophy is a progressive eye disease, which also results in blindness. The condition affects dogs 3 years or older. Once it sets in, the little furry creature can lose his/her eyesight within 1-2 years.

Unfortunately, there’s no cure. However, you can do genetic screening in the parent breeds.

Corneal Dystrophy comes in three different variations. And all three cause eye opaqueness. This too is inheritable by nature. And it strikes from the age of 6 into adulthood.

In some cases, the condition doesn’t give rise to troublesome symptoms. But there have been scenarios where the dog has had to deal with impaired vision and painful ulcers.

• Hip Dysplasia

Mainly found in larger breeds, dysplasia is caused by obesity. The condition is the result of the bone of the leg not fitting into the socket of the hip. Such misalignment causes friction and further joint deterioration. Thus, giving rise to arthritis.

Symptoms of hip dysplasia include stiffness, restricted range of movement, and trouble in climbing stairs, running, and jumping.

As for the treatment, weight management, exercise limitations, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medicines, or surgery are recommended.

• Hypothyroidism

When the thyroid gland hormone production is insufficient, hyperthyroidism takes control. The thyroid is responsible for managing important bodily functions like temperature regulation and metabolism.

The list of symptoms includes hair loss, weight gain, irregular heartbeat, lethargy, etc. Huskies or any other breed with hypothyroidism is also very susceptible to developing ear infections.

You can diagnose the condition with a simple blood test. And treat the problem with medication.

• Epilepsy

Idiopathic seizures are the most common among Siberian Huskies. Without any specific common cause! Epilepsy can occur from anywhere between the age of 6 months and 3 years. And, obviously, medication helps in managing the condition.

Labrador Retriever Health Problems

Just like Huskies, Labs are also prone to retinal atrophy, cataracts, and corneal dystrophy. Along with epilepsy and hip dysplasia!

Here are some other health issues you might want to know about in the case of Labrador Retrievers:

• Gastric Dilation

What’s the precise cause of this bloating condition in Labradors? The cause isn’t known yet. But one thing is for certain. That gastric dilation affects larger breeds only. It is marked by the stomach expanding and then rotating. So all the food and gas get trapped inside the stomach. With no exit route!

Bloat can be very painful. In fact, when no medical intervention takes place, a dog can even die due to this serious condition.

Some of the most common symptoms include panting, distended stomach, pacing, inability and refusal to lie down, and foamy saliva but with no vomit. When you spot these signs, contact the vet immediately.

You can decrease the chances of bloat formation by feeding your dog more frequent, smaller meals.

• Elbow Dysplasia

The most unfortunate news is that Labradors are prone to both hip and elbow dysplasia. The latter occurs when a part of the cartilage or bone breaks off around the joint. The condition wears down that joint and leads to osteoarthritis.

Puppies as young as 4-6 months old have also had to deal with this painful medical condition.

• Exercise-Induced Collapse

Known as EIC, such circumstances are very common among Labrador Retrievers. And they occur even if your dog is healthy. In fact, the condition becomes evident only when intensive exercise is performed.

So it’s best to stick to a moderate exercise plan. And by moderate, I mean less than 5-10 minutes. Since EIC takes just 15 minutes of vigorous activity to give rise to the symptoms. 15 minutes or less by the way.

And what happens is the dog starts to become extremely weak in the hind legs. Due to which he/she collapses, even though awake. Just not able to move. But the symptoms keep worsening for as long as 5 minutes.

In most cases, dogs recover once 10-20 minutes have passed. The condition affects dogs from the age of 5 and above.

Husky Lab Mix Health Problems

So a Husky Lab cross-breed is likely to develop any health condition that affects either breed. And if both parents share a common disease, it’s possible that your hybrid puppy has inherited it from them. This means medical conditions like epilepsy, hip dysplasia, retinal atrophy, and cataracts are more common among Husakdors.

What you can do is, at the time of buying from the breeder, make sure he/she provides proof of your pup’s health testing. If the breeder is any good, you will have access to your future pet’s parents’ hereditary health problems.

Husky Lab Mix: Life Expectancy

The typical lifespan of a Lab is 10-12 years. And that of a Husky is 12-14 years.

More often than not, mixed breeds have the same life expectancy as their parents. So you can look forward to your Lab Husky mix living for 10-14 years.

Does Lab Husky Mix Make A Good Pet?

The short answer is YES. Huskadors make fantastic family pets.

Here’s the long answer. The cross-breed is gentle, loyal, and friendly. And this is because both parent breeds are like that. Not just with people but also with other pets. The dogs simply love company. So they’re a great choice if you have an active family. In that case, a spacious backyard is a huge plus point.

But I would like to add one more thing. A Husky Lab adult dog is quite big. So if you have small children in your house, the dog’s rambunctiousness might seem to be a bit much. Knocking over your child is a possibility when he/she is too excited or playful.

Husky Lab Mix: Comparing to Other Breeds

American Eskimo Mix

When the American Eskimo and Siberian Husky get together, the cross-breed is not so different from Husky Lab mix. At least as far as exercise requirements, temperament, and coat care are concerned.

Both the breeds were sled dogs that loved spending time with people too. This is why the hybrid doesn’t like to be left alone at home very often. Much like Huskadors, American Eskimos are excellent family pets. Gentle with other furry creatures and children!

So what’s the difference? The weight and size are not the same. This particular breed is smaller with a weight of 60 pounds. In fact, the size gets as small as a miniature toy. So you get many options in terms of size with a mixed breed like this.

Labrador Akita Mix

Photo credit: https://www.petfinder.com/

The coat of a Husky Lab cross-breed is the same as that of a Labrador Akita mix. Even grooming needs are quite similar. But the latter is much larger in size. The weight goes up to around 130 pounds.

Both the parent breeds are loyal, energetic, and intelligent. But if the puppy inherits more from his/her Akita side, then the tolerance level toward children reduces. Then you should also know that Labrakitas are not friendly toward other smaller pets. And it’s because the Akita breed comes from hunting dogs.

Similar Breeds as That of Husky Lab Mix

If you’re really interested in a mixed breed like Huskador, then you might find the following cross-breeds also quite appealing.

• Springer Spaniel and Labrador Mix
• Labrador and Poodle Mix
• Poodle and Husky Mix
• Husky and Australian Shepherd Mix
• Husky and German Shepherd Mix
• Labrador and Golden Retriever Mix

Final Say

Is the breed Husky Lab mix the right choice for you?

It’s perfect for anyone looking to get a loving, loyal, and intelligent pet. The dog is simply the best for both singles and families. But if you’re not ready to invest some time and effort into training, exercising, and grooming the furry creature, then don’t take it into consideration.

The hybrid is a very active pet that demands lots of physical and mental stimulation to be happy and fit. In that case, if you have a spacious, fenced backyard, you’re a good fit for this cross-breed.

As long as the Huskador receives his/her daily dose of workout and the freedom to run around all day, everything is going to be fine. However, if you don’t have the time or energy to keep up with the high energy levels of the dog, then go for a smaller breed.

Also important to note here is that regular brushing is a part of the experience as well. So you should be willing to walk the extra mile.