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Golden retrievers are friendly, happy dogs, who want to greet and play with everyone they meet out walking. This leads to leash pulling, and it can happen in puppies as well as adult dogs. It can start to feel like there is nothing you can do to stop your dog from pulling at the leash, except go along with it, or reduce the number of walks. We're here to help. Let's look at some tips to stop your golden retriever from pulling at his leash. Train Them Young When you get a puppy, you should start leash training right away. Many people make the mistake of not doing so, but the sooner good leash manners are instilled in your little Golden, the better. Even if he is just 8 weeks old. Far better to start with a puppy than a 60 pound growing dog. Have the Right Tools With any task that you do, things will be easier if you have the right tools and this is no different. If your golden retriever is still learning how to walk, it is best to not use a retractable leash. If you use a retractable leash, your golden cannot learn what distance he can go that is within his accepted boundaries. It is much better to use a fixed length leash. Another good alternative is our Sierra Dog Leash. A front lead harness like our Adventure Harness , Sports Harness or Urban Harness can also be helpful because as your dog starts pulling, a front lead harness will gently redirect his force to the side, so that he cannot go where he wants to go. He will soon learn that pulling doesn't get him to where he wants to go. A harness and leash aren't magically going to make your dog not pull, but the right tools will go a long way to helping you train your golden retriever. Teach Self Control Golden retrievers have a lot of energy, and have to be taught self control. Knowing and obeying commands will help your dog stay calm and cool while out on a walk. Starting with basic commands like, sit, stay, go to bed, etc, are all good ways for you to work with your puppy on self control. Don't Play Tug With The Leash If your dog is in the habit of pulling on the leash, it is very important to not pull back. Big dogs like golden retrievers tend to respond to pressure on their leashes with even more pressure, leading to a tug of war between you and your dog. That's taking a bad habit and making it worse. Instead, stop and wait until your dog comes back to your side, or call him back by name. Don't reel him in, but keep the leash slack and relaxed and wait for him to come. Reward Correct Position Rewarding your dog for good behavior is important. Whenever your golden retriever is walking calmly by your side with a loose leash, make sure to reward him. Turning it into a game, something golden retrievers love, will make it a fun learning process for him. Rewarding him with his favorite treats, toys or praise, whatever he likes, will ensure that he repeats the good behavior. Golden retrievers tend to get more excited than most other breeds. Try tiring your dog out before taking him for a walk. You might find that it makes a difference. Easy ways to do this is to play fetch with them, or make them chase their favorite toys. Sometimes, your dog might even be too tired to go for a walk. Keep in mind that your dog may become overly tired with the walking and the learning, so be sure to keep the sessions short and fun. Dogs will repeat behavior that gets reinforced, so it's important to ensure that your golden retriever is not being rewarded for pulling on his leash. For example, if he pulls on the leash because he wants to sniff at a bush or greet a person on the street, and you let him do it, then he will continue to pull. You have just reinforced his bad behavior. So if you feel your golden retriever pulling you in one direction, you need to plant your feet and not move, until he returns to you. If your dog is very strong, you can start walking in the opposite direction. As soon as he is walking next to you calmly, you can turn around and go in the direction he wants. Dogs are smart creatures, and golden retrievers are no exception. They are quick learners, and eager to please you. The tips in this article, coupled with patience and determination, not to mention treats, will help you train your golden retriever not to pull and make your walks enjoyable for the both of you. Related Products. If you click on a link and choose to make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no cost to you. Making sure your Golden Retriever gets plenty of exercise is vital to its health and well-being. Physical exercise ensures your Golden Retriever has healthy muscles and bones, that its heart and lungs get stronger, and it helps maintain a healthy weight. However, for your Golden Retriever to be well-balanced, it also needs mental stimulation and socialization. Boredom in dogs can often lead to destructive behaviors. So, what are some good activities for Golden Retrievers? Good activities for Golden Retrievers incorporate physical exercise and mental stimulation and should include training and socialization whenever possible. Physical activities help burn excess energy and maintain physical health, while mental-focused activities aid in cognitive skills and problem-solving. The game also works on recall skills as a bonus. Fetch is simple and cheap. You throw it an item such as a tennis ball, frisbee, or practically anything your dog can comfortably carry, and your Golden gets it and brings it back. Or, if the weather is lousy, you can play a shortened version in the house. The tug game is widely recommended by most science-based trainers and animal behaviorists. Begin by showing your dog a toy that they like and that is suitable for the dog. You may have to really wiggle it and shake it around if your dog has never played before. The goal is to get their interest peaked, and movement usually does it. Every game has its rules, and this applies to a game of tug too. Your dog cannot make contact with skin or clothes, and you decide when the fun begins and ends. Rules for us humans are that no aggressive pulling is allowed, nor is pulling aggressively up at steep angles or side to side. The tug of war game is an excellent way for your dog to learn and reinforce skills such as let go, sit, and go-play commands. The tug game can be combined with fetch as well. Teach your Golden to let go and ask for a sit. Mixing it up keeps it more exciting and mentally stimulating. Follow the Leader Follow the leader is a great training game that teaches your dog to follow you while having fun. If your Golden goes right, you go left; if your dog runs ahead of you, you slow down; if your Golden slows down or stops, you run. The rule is that he follows you. It can be a quick activity to start or end a play or training session, and it works well as an add-on to other activities. I usually like playing follow the leader before a fetch game. Puzzles and Games Many pet stores and online retailers carry puzzle games and lick mats, so if your budget affords it, these can be fantastic options to keep your dog mentally stimulated. Puzzle feeders can be used with your kibble, while lick mats work well with peanut butter, yogurt, or dehydrated foods such as beef liver treats. All dogs need mental stimulation, especially higher intelligent dogs such as the Golden. Many games engage a Goldens brain and include anything from hiding treats in toys to commercial puzzle games. Or we put a treat or two in a muffin tin, put tennis balls on each hole, and the goal is for our Golden to find the reward. Or create a foraging box. Keep some boxes in various sizes, such as cereal boxes. Sprinkle some treats in each box and then place the smaller box inside a bigger one and those inside an even bigger one. Your Golden has to use its nose to locate the treats and must figure out how to get the goodies out. Kong toys work well also. You can put some loose kibble in there for your Golden to locate, or you can soak the kibble, put it inside the Kong and freeze it for the next day. Your Golden will need to figure out how to get the tasty reward out. You can use make-shift pylons any object will do , use Hoola hoops, small jump obstacles like cardboard boxes, stairs, brooms, rolled-up blankets, and whatever you think of. Teach your Golden to run through the obstacle with you. Have your Golden run-around, over, and under the obstacles. Find a hiding space. Someplace where your dog cannot see you, but your Golden should still be able to hear your when you call. Once you find the right spot, say behind a curtain or door, call his name. Your Golden will find you pretty quickly unless you are a great hider , but they love seeking you out and finding you. Another variation is using treats. You can do this activity indoors or, if you have a yard, then outdoors. Use cheese, boiled chicken, apples, or any high-value treat your dog loves. You may have to show them the first few treats, so they get the hang of the game, but they catch on quickly. Bubble Game Cheap, fun, and no training is required. Great for kids as well. Get a bubble blower. Blow bubbles. Your Golden Retriever will chase the bubbles and jump up, snapping at bubbles to break them. Just make sure the bubbles are pet friendly yes, they make bubbles for dogs , and off you go. You can use a PVC pipe, an old fishing rod, or a sturdy stick think hockey stick, eh. Attach a long rope or string, and now add a furry toy, a rag, or a dog toy, and you have a flirt pole. The flirt pole is excellent for physical activity and mental stimulation. Your Golden has to run, jump, and anticipate changes of direction and plan for what will happen next. It also benefits those dogs with a more innate prey drive by stimulating that instinct. The rule is, though, you must let your Golden catch the lure or toy on occasion. It also prevents frustration. Not allowing a dog to catch its toy is teasing and can cause behavioral issues. Once your Golden catches the lure, now you can transition into a game of tug. All handy things for your Golden to learn. And, the teaching moment is all wrapped up nicely in a fun play activity. Just remember, dog training is supposed to be fun, so keep it that way. It can be fun and still accomplish the goal at the same time. The best teachers know how to do both. Or teach your Golden an invisible boundary, so it stays out of the kitchen or stays back from the door. Not only are these complex skills a great way to invigorate the mind, but it teaches skills that benefit both them and you. Activities That Require Classes Obedience Training Formal obedience classes are a wonderful activity and one that I consider essential. It combines socialization, mental stimulation, and training. Your Golden gets to meet new dogs and people, learn basic commands, and do all this in a distracting environment. Obedience classes ensure your Golden gets a great foundation of obedience and manners while simultaneously building and strengthening communication between your Golden and you. You each must learn to work together as a team. Hold up. Are you looking for a good online training program for your Golden Retriever? I recently wrote an article comparing some of the most popular online dog training systems. Canine sports classes are especially suited for dogs with high energy or dogs with very ingrained instinctual drives like herding dogs. Scent Work Scent work training is excellent for dogs. Scent work is also great for fearful and reactive dogs as it teaches them to focus and be confident. Nose work starts by teaching your dog how to seek out treats and toys, kind of like puzzle games and hide and seek. Then it expands and increases in difficulty to entire rooms, outdoor areas, and vehicles. Scent detection is actually a competitive canine activity. If you and your dog have an interest, then competitive events are an option. Doggie DayCare Doggie daycare is great for puppies and older dogs alike. Just like children need to play with other kids their age to get exercise, mental stimulation, and to learn how to socialize — your Golden is no different. So, you get a day to relax or run errands. It also helps teach your Golden Retriever to be away from you, which can reduce separation anxiety. If you work and have your Golden in there every day, then you know your pup is getting exercised along with plenty of social and mental stimulation. This a tired pup — physically and mentally. A shout-out to his best friend Milo for the fun times. Strictly Outdoor Activities Swimming For this one, you need a body of water. Golden Retrievers are bred to retrieve waterfowl from lakes, and their coats are designed for the water. Golden Retrievers are very well adapted to tolerate cold because of their double coats, and they dry off quickly. The result? Goldens are ideally suited to the water and love to swim. Body of water includes lakes or ponds, pools, and even slow-moving rivers or streams. If swimming is done in a pool, be mindful of pool chemicals and chlorine. Give your Golden a good rinse after a pool swim. Did you know that overbathing can be bad for a Golden Retriever? Dock Diving Of course, with this one, you need both a lake and a dock. Once your Golden is comfortable with the water, just run and jump off the dock. Chances are your Golden will follow. Dock diving incorporates swimming plus diving plus fetch all rolled in one. Make sure you put a life jacket on them, though. Kayaking and especially canoeing are easier for your Golden, but paddleboarding will take training for the both of you. These activities can involve swimming too if you decide to take a dip with your Golden sometimes that may be unavoidable. However, the real benefit is mental stimulation new sights, sounds, and smells and the time you spend together. Hiking Hiking is an excellent activity for people and dogs alike. It usually incorporates inclines depending on the terrain and offers a host of other sights and sounds for your dog. Not all trails allow dogs, so check in advance to be sure. And if the trails do allow dogs, then most will require that you keep them leashed. Keeping your Golden on a leash is a good idea anyway since if you lose your dog in a thick brush or a forest, you may never get them back. Also, you want to be mindful of any encounters with small animals like squirrels or porcupines or bigger critters like bears. Just keep them leashed to be safe. Rocky and ungroomed, jagged trails can cause issues with their paws, so be alert to the type of landscape on the hiking path. Make sure to bring water and snacks for you and your dog. Also, throw a small backpack on and take some essentials just in case. Bring a first aid kit along at a minimum. Remove any you find and be thorough. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are not unlike walking or hiking in that it gets your Golden Retriever outdoors and trotting beside you. Usually, groomed trails or shallow snow is best, or your Golden may have difficulty navigating itself through the snow. Bike Riding Biking can be an excellent exercise for you and your dog if you have a well-behaved and well-trained Golden. You want your dog to trot beside the bike, which means you need to keep the speed reasonable. It would be best if you had excellent control of your dog, so training your Golden gradually with the bike beforehand is a good idea. You should also wear a helmet. Be very mindful of temperature in the summer; your Golden can overheat quickly. Bring water and snacks for your dog. If your Golden falls behind, then it may be tiring. Turn around and walk your Golden back home. Yes, you can over-exercise a Golden Retriever. Walking During walks, your dog is exposed to the world outside his home. He gets to experience various sights, sounds, smells, and environments, which mentally engage him. Walking is the foundational exercise for all puppies and dogs, which is no different for Golden Retrievers. Walking should be the staple exercise for your dog throughout most of its life. Dogs love to walk, and walking helps bond your dog to you. You may find your dog wants to stop frequently and check things out. A solution is to mix up your walking sessions. One that focuses on fast walking for exercise and another where your Golden gets time to smell and investigate his environment. One is more physical, the other more mental. Both are social. Running Running is a great cardio workout for both humans and dogs. However, refrain from running with your Golden before 14 to 18 months of age due to developing joints, muscles, and bones and the impact of running on those. And be sure to get a thumbs up from your vet first. Every so often, stop and ask your Golden to sit or change directions and vary the terrain. Keep it fun and your dog guessing. If running in the summer, be cautious of not overheating your Golden, so stick to cooler mornings or evenings and bring water for the both of you. The article details the age they can start, how much they can run, how fast and how far, and much more. Check it out here: Need a Running Partner? How About Your Golden Retriever? Read the full disclosure here. Keep in mind that healthy adult golden retrievers should get about an hour of exercise a day , with some needing more and others maybe less. If you are looking for fun ways to exercise your golden retriever, consider these 14 options that will help keep your pooch happy and healthy. The list starts with outdoor activities before transitioning into indoor options that you can do on rainy or cold days. Walking Or Running The most obvious way to exercise with your golden retriever is to simply take them for a daily walk. Your pooch will gladly walk alongside you for an hour or more a day since this breed is very athletic. If you enjoy jogging or running, take your dog with you next time. Because of their build, goldens have no issue keeping up with human runners, even those who go running regularly. As a bonus, walking or running with your retriever will help you stay active as well. Fetch Another obvious but fun way to give your golden retriever exercise is to play fetch. Go to your backyard or the local park and throw their favorite toy. Wait for them to bring it back and throw the toy again. Remember to give your dog breaks and think about their personality. If, for example, your golden tends to get easily distracted, try playing fetch in an enclosed area to keep them concentrated on you. Also, make sure to choose an appropriate object for the game. Avoid sharp or heavy objects that can hurt your retriever; instead, stick to balls, squeak toys, small sticks, ropes, or other vet-approved toys. Best of all, you can also play fetch on a smaller scale inside if the weather is bad or you feel too sick to go outside. Hiking If you are tired of simply walking or jogging around the neighborhood, then plan a more exciting trip and take your golden retriever hiking with you. Always be sure to check whether the trail or park you plan on hiking in is dog friendly and whether your canine needs to be on a leash while there. Remember that hiking requires a great deal of athleticism and can be very tiring. If your golden retriever is sick, young, or old, ask your vet whether they are up to the task. Be sure to bring plenty of water and a bowl with you and let your golden pause to drink at regular intervals. During the hike, try to aim for soft terrain and stay clear of dense underbrush and sharp rocks since these can damage paws. When you get home, give your retriever a thorough bath or brush out and check for fleas and ticks. Although they are now frequently family pets with humans who have no intention of hunting, this is still part of their genes. You can take advantage of this, get outside, try something new, and let your retriever do what they were bred to do. They will truly enjoy field retrieving and hunting with you and this will ensure they stay in great physical shape with strong muscles. Hunting with your golden will also promote bonding. It also helps you build a bond with your golden as you work together towards a common goal. Depending on where you live, it should be easy to find an agility group. You can even adjust this activity for inside play on rainy days. Set up items like tables and hula hoops and get your retriever to go around, under, or over them. You can even work on balancing on top of smaller items. Swimming Swimming is another great way to exercise your golden retriever and it will let you both stay cool on a hot summer day. Retrievers tend to be natural swimmers and because of their special coat, do not feel the cold and dry off quickly so can partake in cold winters as well. You can even just invest in a small kiddy pool, fill it up, and watch your dog go crazy. If you do plan on swimming with your golden, remove any collar or other apparel they may be wearing and always keep an eye on them to make sure they are safe. While these dogs are typically excellent swimmers, accidents can happen, especially with a collar getting snagged. You can even find a doggy life vest if you want to be extra safe. Also, make sure to give your dog a thorough bath after swimming in a lake or pool to get rid of chlorine, dirt, and other items that can cause irritation. Many dogs can be trained to get comfortable on a treadmill. Start off by simply having them in the same room as the machine while it is on so they can get used to the sounds and sights. You can then turn off the treadmill, get them to stand on it, and give them a treat. After they seem comfortable, turn it on at a very low speed and encourage them to stay on with treats. Over time, you should be able to increase the speed of the treadmill to the point where your golden retriever can eventually get a good workout on it. If they have problems getting used to it, try standing in the front of the treadmill and giving them the occasional treat for motivation. Remember to always supervise your dog when they are on a treadmill and never tie them to it. This is simply a combination of swimming, diving, and fetch. Grab a floating toy that your dog loves and throw it into the water. Wait for them to swim and retrieve it, then repeat the action. Many areas even have dock diving groups and you only need a safe area for swimming. Before dock diving with your golden retriever, make sure they are a confident swimmer and check the area for potential dangers such as hidden rocks or other objects in the water. In reality, dogs such as golden retrievers can have plenty of fun with these toys as well. Simply shine it around the room or any other indoor space and watch them follow and chase the red dot. If this happens, it can lead to retinal damage. Hiding Treats All dogs love treats and you can take advantage of this to give your golden retriever some exercise on a rainy day. Take some of their favorite treats or testy dry dog food and hide them around your home in various places. Consider putting them underneath rugs, behind chairs, under tables, or behind doors. Your dog is likely to get exhausted looking for the treats and get a great workout in the process. Your golden retriever may even get enough exercise from a toy that dispenses treats when they solve a puzzle, but it depends on the animal. Just remember to restrict yourself to a reasonable number of treats. Giving them too many can make them sick or defeat the point of exercising by leading to weight gain. For some dogs, this will trigger aggressive or predatory behavior that is not good in a domesticated animal. If you notice these issues, stick to a different form of exercise for your retriever. Playing Hide And Seek If you are concerned about giving your golden retriever too many treats, you can adjust the above game to hide yourself instead of treats. Distract your pooch by giving them their favorite toy to play with. As soon as they get distracted, go to another area of your house and hide. They will start to run all over the place looking for you, mildly exercising themselves. Suddenly the game is not only exercise, but it also reinforces training. Jumping Jumping is another way to get your dog to burn plenty of calories even if you are stuck inside. You can encourage your dog to jump in plenty of different ways. Tap them on the nose so they know you have it, then stand up and hold the toy over your head. They will jump up to try to reach it. As a bonus, this method also lets both of you work on your leg muscles. An alternative is to encourage your dog to jump up and down with the help of bubbles. Just make some non-toxic bubbles like you would for your children or buy a pre-packaged solution. Blow the bubbles up high into the air and watch your dog go for them. This exercise method has even caught on enough that you can find bubbles for dogs in fun flavors like peanut butter and chicken. If you use bubbles, always make sure to pick non-toxic ones that are safe if they are ingested. Conclusion No matter which method you choose to exercise your golden retriever, the goal is to have fun, keep them healthy and mentally stimulated. Always make safety a priority and find an activity that you both enjoy doing. Soon you will look forward to play time as much as they do. You May Also Like. Playful Biting: Expect some playful biting as your Golden puppy explores the world around them using their mouth. Factors Influencing Golden Retriever Energy Levels While Golden Retrievers are generally high-energy dogs, several factors can influence their individual energy levels. Puppies and adolescents tend to be the most energetic, while adult and senior dogs tend to be calmer. Some Golden Retrievers may inherit a more relaxed demeanor, while others may be naturally more energetic. Healthy dogs usually have more energy, while dogs with health issues might be less active. A well-trained and socialized dog may be better able to control their excitement and energy. But the good news is, they do eventually calm down. First, for short periods and then good behavior kicks in. Daisy, our Golden as an adolescent. She was starting to calm down. But she was still very active…and cute! Most Golden Retrievers start to show signs of calming down around the age of 2 to 3 years old. Individual dogs may take a bit more or less time to mature and settle into a calmer demeanor. Some puppies may naturally be more relaxed, while others might remain more energetic even as they age. Physical Activity: Regular physical activity is crucial for helping Golden Retriever puppies burn off their excess energy. Mental Stimulation: Mental stimulation, such as puzzle toys and training, can also help tire out your energetic puppy. Providing mental challenges for your puppy can help them stay engaged and focused. Consequently, this makes them less likely to act out with hyperactivity. Training: Consistent, positive training from an early age can help teach your Golden Retriever self-control and good manners. This leads to a calmer demeanor over time. This will help your Golden Retriever mature into a calm, well-behaved adult dog. Most Goldens start to calm from their adolescent phase to adulthood around 2 to 3 years of age. This is a gradual process. During this time, you may observe a decrease in hyperactivity in your dog. At the same time, you may see an increase in focus and self-control. This is because your dog is now able to better manage its energy levels. Stay patient with your Golden Retriever. Provide consistent training and exercise. This will help them reach their full potential. They will become a calm and well-behaved adult dog. Are Golden Retrievers Calm? When do Golden Retrievers calm down? They still maintain an enthusiastic and playful attitude. But they are better able to manage their energy levels, making them more predictable and easygoing. By understanding and addressing these factors, you can help your dog reach their full potential: Training your Golden Retriever should be consistent and positive. Reinforcement-based training from an early age can help teach self-control and good manners. Regular Exercise: Ensuring your Golden Retriever receives adequate daily exercise will help burn off excess energy, making them more relaxed and content. Mental stimulation is important for dogs. Puzzle toys, training and interactive games can help keep them engaged and prevent boredom. If a dog is bored, it can lead to hyperactivity. Socializing your Golden Retriever can help them become more confident and adaptable. This makes them better able to stay calm in different situations. Introduce them to various environments, people, and animals from a young age to ensure they have the best start. Creating a daily routine for your dog can help promote a calmer demeanor. This routine should include regular feeding times, walks, and training sessions. This structure can provide your dog with a sense of stability and security. Address these factors and maintain a nurturing, supportive environment. This will give your Golden Retriever the best chance to develop into a calm, well-behaved, and happy adult dog. No worries! Use calming aids: Try calming sprays, diffusers, or calming treats to help your pup relax. Massage time: Gently massaging your Golden can help release tension and promote relaxation. Keep it low-key: Dim the lights, play soft music, or use white noise to create a soothing atmosphere. Mental stimulation prevents boredom: Engaged dogs are less likely to act out or become hyperactive. Practice impulse control: Teach your dog to wait patiently for treats, toys, and attention. Remember, patience and consistency are key to helping your Golden Retriever become a calmer, happier companion. You can do it! Every dog is different, so their energy and time to calm down can vary. Keep up with training, exercise, and fun activities to help your dog be the best they can be. Enjoy every moment with your Golden Retriever as they grow into a well-behaved, relaxed, and loving friend. More Posts You Will Like:. Without adequate exercise, few puppies will be able to control their energy. Families see an out-of-control puppy and immediately think exercise is the answer to their problem. Often it is, but exercise can also be overdone. There is a balance. The information below has exercise guidelines for large breed puppies along with a broad range of various ways for your puppy to get that exercise. Make sure that you have a fenced area or that you are far from any place that cars or other dangers might be. For off-leash strolls, let the puppy set the pace. If he lies down, let him rest. Here are a few general guidelines. Keep in mind that puppies that are used to active lifestyles can handle longer excursions. Conversely, puppies that have not had opportunity to exercise off leash need to start off at a slower pace. For your average puppy, start off with minutes for an 8-week old puppy. Increase to up to 20 minutes for week old puppies. By the time your puppy is 6 months, the time can be increased up to as much as 45 minutes and for a month-old puppy, you can go for as long as an hour as long as you are going at a slow pace with plenty of opportunities for your puppy to sniff around. If you miss a week or two of the work, decrease your distance when starting back and gradually build up the distance again. This long distance exercise must be off-leash so that your puppy can take breaks and slow down as needed. The puppy must set the pace. Forced running on a leash is never good for a growing puppy. Leash Walks as Exercise for a Golden Retriever Puppy Leash walking can be a good form of exercise when certain criteria are met. First puppies need to be trained and socialized to the environment. Second, leash walks need to be done in a certain way. Leash walking can be overdone. One of the biggest causes of growth plate and soft tissue injury in young puppies is repetitive exercise. Leash walks for puppies must be broken up with training sessions or opportunities for free off-leash play or time to sniff around on the leash. At 3 months, you can go for 20 minutes and at 6 months, you can walk up to 30 minutes. You must be much more careful with leash walking since you and not the puppy control the pace. Leash walking provides an excellent way of combining a little bit of physical exercise with mental exercise, obedience training, socialization, and environmental desensitization. It is a fantastic way to introduce a puppy to his world. It gives a bit of exercise while at the same time giving opportunities for socialization and training. However, strolls on a leash are not enough. Puppies must have an opportunity to run and play. Again, off-leash walks are best if your goal in your walk is to provide adequate exercise. A week old Golden Retriever puppy will have a neck that is about 12 inches. Get a collar of any brand that includes 12 inches in the size range. An adult female will have about an 18 inch neck. A male adult will need a collar that fits a 20 inch neck. Similarly running on a treadmill or any other types of forced running are not appropriate forms of exercise for a golden retriever puppy. Free Play as Exercise for a Golden Retriever Puppy Free play is always an excellent form of exercise for a golden retriever puppy. Dogs and puppies of all ages can play as long they like in your safely contained yard. If your puppy is playing with another dog in the family, make sure you supervise their play until you are sure that they play well together and that the older dog is not too rough. End the play if the other dog is getting too rough, if your puppy is starting to annoy the other dog, or if your puppy shows signs that he is ready to quit playing. Strange dogs are not worth the risk. Getting on the ground or running around with your puppy can be one of the best ways to exercise your puppy. Fetch and tug can be options if played within certain guidelines. Whether you are playing tug or fetch or just running around with your puppy, there are a couple of rules that need to be followed. Instead, ignore him. Wait until your puppy is behaving. Then, once you begin playing with your puppy, periodically, stop the game and make him gain control of himself before resuming the game. Ask him to do a simple behavior such as a sit or a down. Then start playing again. We recommend teaching your puppy the game of fetch at a young age. Going and getting a toy, bringing it back, and giving it to you is easier to teach when they are young. Chasing balls causes puppies to twist, roll, jump, and tumble while trying to grab a moving ball. Instead, use toys. Then, combine your game of fetch with a game of tug. Tug is discussed in detail in another section. Once your puppy has learned to tug, teach your puppy a release command. Save longer throws for your dog until after he is over 2 years of age. Teach The Wait Command Once your puppy has learned to bring a toy back to you reliably, you can begin teaching your puppy to safely retrieve a ball. Before moving from a toy to a ball, teach a wait command. Playing fetch with a dog with a wait command is a tremendous exercise. It not only provides physical exercise, but it also provides a super opportunity for a puppy to learn self-control. Here is how to teach it. I like to use what is called a pull tab. A pull tab is a very short leash that you attach to a collar. Pull tabs are typically 6 inches or shorter. A pull tab is long enough to give you control over your dog, but short enough for the dog to be able to run and play with it dangling from his collar. Once the dog relaxes and I require a sit as well , throw the ball. When the dog is dependable with regard to waiting on the release, you can do away with the tab. Having a dog wait before chasing a ball is a necessity with puppies because it eliminates the problem of the dog twisting, turning, and diving for a moving object. Fetch is a great exercise for an adult. Once a dog is over 2, you can begin throwing balls and even add a Chuck-it ball thrower to your game. Tug as a Form of Exercise for a Golden Retriever Puppy Tug is a very good exercise for dogs of all ages except for during the stage when puppy teeth are coming out and new adult teeth coming in to replace them. Make sure you stop before he looses his first teeth at around 4 months. Tug can then be resumed when all adult teeth are in. The most current training recommendations for tug no longer include the idea that the dog can never win and that you must always be in charge. This is not true. Consider a child racing his Dad down the street. The Dad lets the child win and the child beams. It gives the child confidence and makes him want to be faster and better. The same holds true with puppies. Let them win when they do a good job! The Release Once a puppy is tugging vigorously and understands the game, you can teach a release cue. Teach this by making the tug toy become motionless and no fun. Just keep the toy still until the dog opens his mouth on his own. Then immediately give the toy back to the dog and start the tug game again. Begin integrating the release into your play session in such a way that you are giving the toy back far more often than not. The dog needs to associate his releasing the toy with a restart to the game, not an end to it. It encourages forced running, jumping, and twisting, all bad for the growing puppy. Frisbee throwing can be dangerous for any dog, but especially for a puppy. We personally never play frisbee with our dogs. There are many other better exercise choices. Digging Digging is actually a very good exercise for a puppy though it may not be so good for your lawn! If you should have a place that your puppy can dig, maybe a soft spot in the corner of your yard, train him that that place and only that place is his digging spot. Puppies Should Avoid Full Flights of Stars Your Summer Brook puppy will be trained shortly before changing homes to safely navigate a set of 3 or 4 steps. If your set of steps is more than half a full flight, we require that you carry him up them until he is 4 months old. Even after this, we recommend keeping him off the steps as often as possible. Dogs tend to get excited and fly down them, often leaping over 4 or 5 of them at a time. This can result in injury. As with so many other repetitive or impactful activities, we highly recommend waiting until growth plates are closed. Baby gates can be a huge help until that time. Swimming Swimming is super exercise for a Golden Retriever puppy and most dogs enjoy playing fetch in the water. See our website page on teaching a puppy to swim for more information. This includes jumping up on and off of furniture until he is fully grown and growth plates are closed. Growth Plates and Exercise We have mentioned quite a few times on this page the importance of limiting certain activities with your puppy until his growth plates are closed. Some of you might be wondering what growth plates are and why they matter with regard to exercise. What Are Growth Plates? Growth plates are soft areas that are at the ends of the long bones in puppies. These growth plates gradually get thinner until they completely close. The closure of growth plates is brought on by hormonal changes during puberty. When growth plates close, they harden as they calcify and the rapid cell division stops. The growth plates become what is called an epiphyseal line. The epiphyseal line is sturdy and not so prone to injury as the growth plates. These are collectively referred to as soft tissue. In an adult, when there is a soft tissue injury, a sprain will result. However, in a puppy, the soft tissue is stronger than the growth plates. An injury that would only cause a sprain in an adult dog could cause an injury to the growth plate in a puppy. The soft tissue can actually pull the growth plate apart. Growth plate injuries can sometimes not heal properly and keep a dog from growing straight and strong which can subject him to problems for his entire life. Conclusion Although you need to be much more careful with the type of exercise you provide your puppy, exercise is still very important to a growing puppy. Appropriate exercise is key to building strong bones. Another key to good puppy development and a relaxed puppy is mental exercise. Give your puppy appropriate physical exercise and give your puppy a long life with healthy bones and joints. For more information on our puppies, see our page on Golden Retriever puppies. Primary Sidebar Breeders and Trainers of English Golden Retrievers We focus on breeding and training beautiful English Golden Retriever puppies with health tested champion parents, great pedigrees, and fantastic temperaments.

You can use the information on dog.Show more How much grooming does a Golden Retriever need? Golden Retrievers do shed so you'll generally need brush them a few times a week. Golden Retrievers are also likely to need professional grooming. What size crate do you need for a Golden Retriever? When inside their crate, your dog should have plenty of space to: sit and stand up at their full height turn around without touching the sides lie down fully stretched out.To find out more about potential health issu.Are Golden Retrievers easy to train? You can teach any breed of dog new tricks! Find out what your dog loves so you can use this to reward them after a success. Just like you, every dog is an individual with their own personality and prior experiences. So every Golden Retriever temperament is different. As dogs grow from puppies, they learn all about the world. They develop t.Show more Are Golden Retrievers good with children? Every dog has their own unique personality that has been shaped by their own experiences of the world. However, there are som.Show more. History Where are Golden Retrievers from? One of the best documented and most fortuitous efforts to produce a breed resulted in the Golden Retriever. The man responsible for the breed was Lord Tweedmouth, who lived just north of the Scottish border along the Tweed River. How big do Golden Retrievers get? Goldens can reach a weight of 55 — 75 lbs, and a height between .A Golden Retriever has a dense, straight or wavy outer water-repellent coat, which sheds heavily twice annually and lightly throughout the year. Groom a Golden Retriever weekly to maintain the double coat and control shedding. What are the Golden Retriever colors? The breed was first considered to be a yellow variety of Flat-Coated Retrievers but was recognized as a separate breed, the Yellow or Golden Retriever, in .What makes the Golden Retriever dog so popular? The breed was valued for the hunting abilities so ably produced by the careful blending of foundation stock, and only later became popular as a pet. How long do Golden Retrievers live? Golden Retrievers have a lifespan of 10—13 years. What are some Golden Retriever facts and information? Facts Golden Retrievers are best known to: Push through heavy vegetation.

Located in beautiful Southern California, we strive to breed superior quality family dogs that will not only make great companions and protectors for your family but that also represent the German Shepherd breed well with the exceptional temperament the breed is known and loved for worldwide. We breed only top German V and VA bloodlines that possess superior health and temperament through generations of hip and elbow certified and temperament tested dogs. Additionally all of our dogs are tested for Degenerative Myelopathy to be sure we are producing puppies safe from this disease. Additionally all of our dogs are DNA tested Clear for the MDR1 gene that can cause mild to severe reactions to a variety of medications. Please visit our testimonials page to read review from many of our clients through the years. Also be sure to visit our Dogs For Sale page to see retired females and males we currently have available to the right homes. Check back often as we are always updating photos of our available puppies. With keeping a small number of dogs we have time to give plenty of love and individual attention to them and the puppies when we have them. Our dogs are not kept in kennels, they live with us as part of our family, with room to roam outside on our one acre property and a warm spot inside to sleep. All puppies are raised inside our home in a clean and healthy environment. All whelpings are supervised by us and assisted as needed to ensure the best start and to protect the health of the mother and her puppies. All puppies are well socialized with small children, cats and our other dogs. Temperament is very important to us, our breeding dogs have wonderful temperaments that they pass on to their puppies. Puppies are temperament tested so that we can help you to find the perfect fit for your family and your needs. We actively show our dogs on the local, national and international level thereby striving to breed dogs of quality bloodlines and structure that adhere to the German SV standard for the German Shepherd dog. We make every effort to continue to learn and to improve our bloodlines by importing dogs of superior quality with top German VA bloodlines to bring you the highest and best quality puppy for you and your family to enjoy. Our hope as breeders is that we can provide the best quality German Shepherd puppy with an outstanding temperament that will in turn make a lasting impression on you and your family like they have in ours. I have so many customers that have been lifelong fans of the German Shepherd, that have grown up with German Shepherds and long for that companionship again with the dog of their childhood. I look forward to providing the dog of your dreams to you and your family! Call today to begin your future with a great German Shepherd Dog of your own. Call or email for an appointment to visit us and to meet our dogs and puppies. Join and learn directly from Nadelhaus founder Traci Needles, who has over 25 years of experience breeding and training German Shepherds. Over 50 videos on the following topics covering German Shepherd puppies, housebreaking, crate training, obedience, feeding, grooming, wellness, and much more. New videos to be added every month. Our customers come from all over including Sacramento, the Central Valley, the Bay Area, Southern California, and even from out of state. Not only do we breed German Shepherd puppies, we offer puppy and dog training , dog boarding , and can import fully-trained German Shepherds. What makes Nadelhaus German Shepherds different from other dog breeders? This is the breed club founded in by Max von Stephanitz, who set the standards of the German Shepherd dog breed. The quality of dogs bred to the rules of the SV is second to none. A West German dog is regulated for its sound mind and body. We focus on breeding our dogs for structure, movement, workability, trainability, hips, elbows, pigment, and coat. Our goal is to to produce the best quality German Shepherd again and again, aiming to better the breed every time we breed our dogs. What is the price to buy a Nadelhaus German Shepherd puppy? Our Puppy Application page will provide you with more information on the application, deposit, and matching process. Once you have read through these steps, you can click through to the application form and view the prices for both Nadelhaus German Shepherd puppies as well as import German Shepherd puppies. If I buy a German Shepherd puppy, can you ship it to me? If you are not able to pick your puppy up from our facility in Northern California, we can ship a puppy to you. Shipping rates vary by location and include a health certificate vet visit, transportation costs, and an airline approved crate. Contact us for shipping details. Do you sell long-haired German Shepherd puppies? Nadelhaus breeds German Shepherds puppies all year round and while the majority of puppies we sell are short coat aka short hair , we do have occasionally have long coat long hair puppies. Learn more about long-haired German Shepherds. Can I have a German Shepherd puppy or dog imported from Europe? Puppies bred at Nadelhaus sell quick and even with a deposit, there is generally a wait list for our puppies. If you are interested in skipping the wait list, consider having a puppy imported from Germany. Importing a German Shepherd puppy is a special opportunity to acquire a very beautiful dog with special bloodlines. Both the female mother and male stud are often top V and VA dogs in Germany and come from very popular and highly sought after bloodlines. If you are interested in importing a puppy, simply fill out the same puppy application and click the checkbox that you would like to import a puppy. Will my German Shepherd puppy have its shots and vaccines? All of our puppies receive their vaccinations and are de-wormed to date. They are vet checked at six weeks old. Visit akcreunite. Owners must complete their portion of the paperwork and mail in the registration to the AKC along with the proper fee. We have some puppies born to German imports, so we must mail the paperwork to owners post-purchase. How much should I feed my 8 week old German Shepherd puppy? Our article covers care from the moment you pick up your puppy at the Nadelhaus kennels, to feeding, common issues, introduction to other dogs in the home and more. Our trained driver can transport your German Shepherd to our kennels for puppy purchases, dog training or dog boarding. Trust that your German Shepherd will be transported with care: our driver is knowledgeable about the breed, trained in dog handling and transport, and our transporting service is bonded and insured. This service is exclusive to Nadelhaus purchased German Shepherds. We do not transport dogs that were not purchased or imported through Nadelhaus. Pricing below are estimates only. Our transportation services are generally limited to Northern California, but we encourage you to contact us with any inquiries for your location or for a price quote. Rest assured when purchasing a dog from us that years of breeding and training experience have gone into the development and selection of your German shepherd dog or puppy. Black, Dark Sables, as well as Red and Black German shepherd male and female puppies are available by reservation. Martin Z. Riverside is over an hour drive from me in the valley, but; the puppies that come from the breeder are worth the drive and more! My all black German Shepard "Sirius" is an absolute dream! The breeder and his family truly care for the dogs and their upbringing. Arsalaan constantly checks in to see how me and Sirius are doing and is there to answer any questions you may have. Whether it's your first dog or not give him a call! He'll walk you through the steps and be there with you for guidance. Gavin U. Arsalaan and his family are very kind, caring breeders! When I first reached out to him, he was very quick with a response and easy to communicate with. He truly takes great pride in his pups and is very helpful to answer any questions that may arise. I brought Bear home with me on Dec 16 and he was nice, clean, and healthy upon pick up. Arsalaan provided Bear's list of shots as well as his pedigree and some other additional documents. You will not be disappointed working with him, highly recommend him and his family to help you bring home your newest family member! Mitchell K. Very responsible breeder, I came from Arizona and couldn't be happier. Very helpful before and after receiving my puppy. I highly recommended. Jimmy M. I call Arsalaan whenever I have questions and he is always very helpful with training tips and advice. I get a lot compliments on her looks. Elvia B. I am so grateful for all of the help I got from Arsalaan, and we also appreciate him following up on our puppy "Rexie". He's given us great advice even before we decided to get Rexie. Although he's up north about a 90 minute drive from us, it was definitely worth it. He kept our puppy even after her 8 weeks we couldn't bring her home because it was a Christmas gift. When I took Rexie to her first vet visit the vet said " this breeder definitely knows what he's doing ". Rexie came with up to date vaccinations and AKC forms paid for just have to finish writing them up. Our new family member is a happy and healthy puppy! Plus she sleeps through the night quietly from day one. Amazing Thank you Arsalaan.

Website: appleridgegsd. They have been deeply committed to the breed for over a couple of years, and they are one of the only breeders in the state to have both AKC and SV German Shepherd Dog Club of America breeding permits. They are a small, family-run kennel that breeds German Shepherds for companionship or working purposes. They breed German Shepherd dogs that are versatile, stable, loving, loyal, extremely smart, and trainable from the best West German lines in the world. Their breeding stock is all OFA certified for hips, elbows, heart, and diabetes. Their breeding stock is also VWD-free, so their puppies will not contract the disease. They strive to breed German Shepherds that are healthy, happy and have good temperaments. They also have a small number of retired adults who are looking for loving homes! Please contact them if you are interested in adopting one of these pets. You are guaranteed lifetime support and coaching! Provided at no additional cost. Emial: mechezarreta yahoo. They breed German Shepherds and provide a stud service, drawing on the best genetics acquired from Germany to achieve their success. Their puppies come with a health guarantee, which makes them one of the few breeders who do so. If you decide to purchase a German Shepherd puppy from them, they can assist you with the full process of bringing your new pet into the country in order to make it as seamless as possible for you and your loved ones. A hereditary hip and elbow guarantee, current vaccinations and deworming, a microchip, and AKC registration papers are all included with every puppy purchased from Puppy Heaven. The puppies are available in two sizes: small and medium. According to their owners, a number of championships, including Best In Show, have been won by their Shepherds at both the regional and national levels. If you are looking for a reputable and reliable breeder of German Shepherds in Florida, then these 11 breeders should be at the top of your list. Each of them has a long history of breeding healthy, happy, and beautiful puppies that make excellent family pets or working dogs. We hope this list will help you decide which of these kennels are best for your family and pets. Do any of them sound like a good fit? What other factors do you think should be considered before making this decision? Remember, this is one of the most important decisions that you will make in your life, so take some time to research these breeders before contacting them. The German Shepherd makes a wonderful companion dog, as well as a guard dog if trained properly. The breed has been used in many roles throughout history, including therapy and search-and-rescue. If you have any questions about the breed or their temperament then feel free to contact your local German Shepherd rescue for more information on how this amazing dog can enrich your life. Are there any other Florida German shepherd breeders that should be on this list? Please let us know by leaving a comment below. I've been breeding German Shepherds of sound body and mind for over 30 years and specialize in providing families with loving companion dogs, and dogs for emotional support therapy, for veterans suffering PTSD, and for other special needs. I'm trying to share my extensive knowledge on breeding and training the perfect German Shepherd with the wider community. We offer lifetime guarantees on health and temperament. Our bloodlines started out of the top 2 bloodlines in the world, Vom Arlett and Bad-Boll. As I continue this blog I will help you learn how to assure you are picking a healthy and happy pup for your next family companion. Recent Posts. For the complete list please see our area listing of German Shepherd Breeders page. The price of German shepherd puppies in Florida can vary greatly depending on the age of the puppy. These are pretty standard prices across the country. The club will be able to put you in touch with reputable breeders in your area. The AKC maintains a list of accredited breeders on its website. These breeders have met certain standards of quality and care and are therefore considered to be reliable sources for puppies. Whatever route you decide to take, always do your research before buying a puppy. Buying a German Shepherd puppy is a big decision, and you want to be sure that you are making the right one. A responsible German shepherd breeder will offer you all of the necessary documentation for your puppy, including a health certificate that will verify that the puppy is free from any major health problems. When you are looking for a German Shepherd breeder in Florida, it is important to find one who is reputable and responsible. By doing your homework and asking the right questions, you can be sure that you are getting a healthy, happy puppy. Meeting the parents of your puppy allows you to see what he will look like when he grows up, and also gives you an opportunity to ask questions about the breed and meet any other dogs that are being bred. This type of personal interaction can be invaluable when buying a German shepherd puppy for sale in Florida. Visiting the breeder in person is also important for assessing any risk factors. Also, ask to see where your puppy will be living before you take him home; if he is being kept in an outdoor kennel, does it have plenty of room and adequate shelter? It can be difficult to find a reputable German shepherd breeder, but with some effort, it is absolutely possible. If you follow our guide to responsible breeders, you should be able to find healthy German Shepherd puppies for sale. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your German Shepherd Breeder in Florida A responsible German shepherd breeder will always be able to provide you with references from past customers. This is an opportunity for both parties to tell their respective sides of the story, so take advantage of it. When your potential German Shepherd puppy breeder provides you with names and contact information for previous buyers, make sure that you do some research on them before making your decision. A good sign is if they come back to report how happy they are with their purchase; a bad sign is if there is no return contact at all. A German Shepherd puppy can be a wonderful addition to your family, but make sure that you are dealing with a reputable breeder before you make the purchase. For more information about finding a responsible breeder, contact your local breed club or visit the American Kennel Club website. A reputable breeder will never hesitate to provide you with references from past customers. By contacting these references, you can get a better idea of what to expect from your potential German Shepherd breeder in Florida. By following these tips, you can be sure that you are getting a healthy, happy puppy from a responsible German Shepherd breeder in Florida. If possible, meet with them for yourself and ask about their experiences with the breeder that you are considering. An honest answer is always best; if they say that they had a good experience, but wish they had done more research beforehand, this is better than having no contact at all. Make sure that your potential German Shepherd puppy breeder in Florida has nothing to hide before making any final decisions. Also, keep in mind that there is such a thing as too many questions. If your breeder becomes impatient or irritated, this is not a good sign. German Shepherds can be wonderful family pets, but only if you get them from a responsible and reputable breeder. A good veterinarian is essential for the health of your new German Shepherd puppy. Ask your potential breeder if they have a vet they use and are happy with. If not, ask for a recommendation. It is crucial that you find a veterinarian who is experienced in dealing with dogs, as well as puppies. This way, you can be sure that your pup will get the best possible care. A veterinarian will be able to give your German shepherd puppy a full examination and talk to you about the best foods, vaccinations and exercise routines for your new companion. A responsible breeder will have a good relationship with a veterinarian. This person should be able to answer any questions you have and give you advice about the best ways to take care of your beautiful German Shepherd puppy. If you suspect that your breeder is acting unethically, here are a few signs to look out for: Always ask where your puppy came from and whether or not the parents have been tested for genetic diseases. A responsible German Shepherd breeder should provide documentation on medical history as well as registration forms. Choose a breeder who is willing to meet with you at least once, if not several times before the sale goes through. A responsible breeder will screen their puppies for genetic health problems and will be upfront about any potential health concerns. If the answer is no, walk away. There is no excuse for not testing parents for genetic diseases, as this could lead to your new puppy developing serious health problems down the road. It is also important to get your new pup from a breeder who offers a health guarantee. This way, if your dog does develop any health problems down the road, you can have them treated by a qualified veterinarian. Make sure that you have room for a crate, as puppies need a place to sleep and go to the bathroom. Set up a feeding area and water bowl. Buy plenty of toys, treats and chew bones to keep your pup entertained. Be prepared for lots of messes. Puppies are learning how to control their bladders and bowels, so there will be accidents. Be patient and consistent with house training. Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible. The vet will want to do a full examination and set up a vaccination schedule. With a little bit of preparation and research, you can find the perfect breeder and bring home a healthy, happy pup. Potty Training Your New German Shepherd Puppy Now that you have your new German shepherd puppy, it is important to start potty training him as soon as possible. Take the puppy outside every hour, on the hour. Reward your pup with a treat when he goes potty in the right spot. Be patient and consistent. It may take a while for your pup to learn where he should go potty. Just clean it up and start over with the potty training. Puppy obedience training is also important at this stage. You can start by teaching your pup basic commands such as sit, stay and come. This will help to establish a strong relationship. Congratulation on the purchase of your new German Shepherd puppy from a breeder in Florida. Remember to treat them like family. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. Hi Linda, I just want to give you an up date on Storm. He is doing great!! I will be going for his BH in December and hopefully soon after that for his Schutzhund one. I had a guy offer to buy him. I told him no! I was also asked if I wanted to breed him to their female. I told them, I will have to get the okay from the breeder. I am sending you some pics on his bite work. I will let you know information on next meeting which is next month. The trial is going to be held in the club field. I cant wait for you to see him! Storm received his BH — Congratulations!!! Bella is growing like a weed and I thought you might like to see how she looks at 7 months. She weighs .She has really bonded with my husband, David. She follows him everywhere. I think she will be his running companion when she gets older. She has been through training with private lessons at home and socialization at Pet Smart. Our vet is very impressed with her good nature. At our last puppy check up, Bella actually jumped into her lap. Her bark when she is playing has a high pitch. But when she sees something that should not be there it changes to a very low bark with her hair on her back standing up. Thanks for such a wonderful puppy. She really fits into our family very well. Enjoy the pictures. Mary Pizzi Hope this note finds you both doing well and enjoying the Christmas season! Well, Bella is now 1 year old. Hard to believe — she has grown so much. She is such a bright spot in our lives. We hide a toy then ask her to search. Boy, the nose goes to the ground and air until she finds it. She also gives the local squirrels a run for their money. She walks through the yard like she is a member of Seal Team Six — then she runs after them while they jump into the trees and take off. She will lay at the bottom of the tree and wait, thinking that is their only way back down. Sending a couple of pictures to show you how pretty she is. Just Beautiful! Guess we will need to take her on longer walks. Midnight is doing SO wonderfully! What a super, super dog. He is 8 months old now and around 70 pounds. He gets compliments all the time on his excellent behavior. When I walk him, sometimes other neighborhood dogs are running around loose and they come up to him. He is always looking to be friendly and meet new dogs. Even if he is provoked, he does not attack other dogs. He always looks to me for a command, and he is very focused, with excellent eye contact. He is a pleasure to walk and play with. We go down to a nearby field in my subdivision and throw balls. I sometimes wonder if any of the water makes it into his mouth!!! I yelled for someone to get her parents so they could get her to stop hurting the dogs. He was so patient and good. The other dogs yelped and snapped at her, but he was so generous with the child. We can take him for walks along Park Avenue in Winter Park, where it is very dog friendly, and he stays with us at the restaurant while we eat on the patio and enjoys a milk bone or chew toy. German Shepherds get a lot of attention. I just wanted to update you on our wonderful puppy. My mom routinely checks your web site for new puppies in case you have any females who are more tan than black. She likes the Rin-Tin-Tin style. Hope you and Emma are well! Rich Linda, I just wanted to drop you a note to tell you how happy we are with Jager. He gets compliments everywhere I take him. One woman stopped in the middle of traffic to ask me if he was old enough to breed yet! The kids line up to pet him, and he loves the attention. Thanks again for a great dog. Marion L. She had 10 beautiful puppies that included Black, Sable, and Black and Tan pups!! Thank you again for everything!! I thought you would like an update on Thora! We purchased her from you last June. I have attached a picture. She is doing great, and is sweet, silly girl. She is approaching 70 pounds at 11 months old. She absolutely loves ALL kids and other animals. She is my companion on my daily walks and has always walked very well on a leash. We had her hips x-rayed and they are perfect. Her temperament, attitude and behavior is indicative of excellent breeding and she is definitely NOT our Last Shepherd from you! Have a great weekend!

Be wary of significantly low prices, as this usually indicates a puppy mill or backyard breeder. We recommend asking around for local breeders that can prove their experience and credibility, including being able to see the facilities and records of the dogs being bred. The bear coat is the coarsest and shortest coat, which can surprisingly cause hives due to its sandy texture. The brush coat is longer and softer than the horse coat, while the bear coat is the longest and fluffiest. Although not proven as a fact, there is a theory about their coats: some believe that the shorter the coat, the more dominant the temperament. In , a German Shepherd named Buddy was officially recognized as a service dog for the blind. Buddy was trained at a school in Switzerland. The service dog training school become so successful that another one was opened in the United States, still training blind service dogs to this day. Some German Shar-Pei dogs are suspicious of strangers, so introducing them to people while young is important. They require a dog owner who either has dealt with big dogs in the past or has experience with Chinese Shar-Pei dogs. The best way to get an idea is to look at the German Shepherd and the Chinese Shar-Pei temperaments: German Shepherd comes from herding and guarding backgrounds, mentally sharp dogs with a working dog temperament. They are obedient dogs that enjoy work and training but will only follow a handler that is relaxed and confident. GSDs can be animal aggressive and same-sex dog aggressive, depending on the bloodlines and socialization. Requiring hours of exercise, German Shepherds can be great dogs for active families that have lots of space in the home. Chinese Shar-Pei dogs prefer the company of their families, bonding closely with them and being affectionate with them. Sometimes a challenge to train, Chinese Shar-Pei are quick to shut down if pushed too far. Are These Dogs Good for Families? While they can be playful and enjoy some rough-housing, Shar-Pei dogs like to have their quiet time and may get moody with rambunctious children. Also, younger children may not understand how to be gentle, which could lead to a German Shar-Pei snarling or even snapping if pushed too far. On the flip side, German Shar-Pei dogs are protective of their families and will usually watch over the household. They may be protective of the children if unfamiliar people and children are around, especially in larger crowds. German Shar-Pei dogs may not be the best choice for your household if you plan on having lots of social gatherings in your house, but it depends on the individual dog in the end. Shar-Pei dogs were once pit-fighting dogs, while German Shepherds are herding dogs that tend to have animal aggressive tendencies. Also, German Shepherds have high prey drives, so smaller pets could be a possible trigger. A Shepherd Pei usually has a short coat with a distinct amount of skin folds on the head and shoulders. This hybrid is confident, brave, intelligent, curious, and loyal. A German Shepherd Shar-Pei mix makes a very good household companion. A Shepherd Pei is highly curious and intelligent; thus, it may be difficult for first-time owners of this hybrid to tame this breed. However, sufficient training and mental stimulation can keep a Shepherd Pei occupied. The personality, physical characteristics, social behavior, and temperament of a German Shepherd Shar-Pei mix may vary a lot. However, it can be expected that a Shepherd Pei will be a source of great joy for everyone. It is believed, though, that the idea of crossing these two canines emerged from the demand for designer dogs. German Shepherd dogs were particularly bred as working dogs in Germany in the late 19th century. They were excellent shepherding dogs, gathering and guarding livestock. Today, they are also well known for their service to perform K9 functions due to their natural abilities that fit the role. Shar-Peis , on the other hand, have been in existence in China since BC, making them an ancient Chinese dog breed. They came close to extinction in the s but were eventually revived and recognized by the AKC in .Today, the hybrid of these two, the Shepherd Pei, is getting more attention, and more breeders are beginning to show interest in this unique canine hybrid because of its appealing looks and lovable personality. The stance is strong, athletic, and sturdy. German Shepherd dogs have double-coated fur, while Shar-Peis have short and smooth fur. These distinct differences in the coating can result in an unpredictable coating in their cross. Most Shepherd Peis take on the short and smooth coat of the Shar-Pei. In terms of color, Shar-Peis have 18 standard colors , while German Shepherds have around .As a result, Shepherd Peis have a wide variety of coat variants. The eyes of a Shar-Pei and German Shepherd mix may also vary based on the eye colors of the parents. Shar-Peis have small, almond-shaped, brown eyes, while German Shepherd dogs commonly have brown eyes. While the skin folds will not be very dominant in the face, Shepherd Peis may have folds on their shoulders and heads. As a result, the average height of a Shepherd Pei ranges from 18 to 26 inches, and its weight can be anywhere between 45 and 60 pounds. A Shepherd Pei adapts a strong and powerful physique from its parents. As with many other physical traits of a Shepherd Pei hybrid, it is difficult to predict the actual size and weight of the dog. Even puppies within the same litter may differ based on which parent they take after. Additionally, this hybrid is smart, confident, alert, resilient, very energetic, highly inquisitive, and brave, especially if it takes after its German Shepherd parent. However, it may also be cautious towards strangers in this case. Given some notable differences in the traits of a German Shepherd and Shar-Pei, expect the Shepherd Pei mix offspring to exhibit the right balance of the traits and qualities of the parents. Hence, it is best to know some of these issues early on. Below are some of the common health issues that are common in Shepherd Peis: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: Hip and elbow dysplasia are conditions where the elbow and hip joints and bones do not fit perfectly, resulting in pain, lameness, and osteoarthritis in dogs. Dysplasia is a hereditary health issue that is much more common among larger breeds like the German Shar-Pei. In this condition, gas in the stomach causes it to twist, blocking both the entry and exit ways of the organ. Urgent surgery is needed to correct this condition. Due to these health vulnerabilities exhibited by German Shepherd Shar-Pei mixes, it is best to have scheduled visits to your local vet to prevent these from developing. Further, it is best to get pet insurance coverage for your dog, as it may come in handy in the event of a medical emergency. Further, grooming, training, and exercise are also critical considerations that owners of a German Shepherd Shar-Pei mix should be aware of. Food and Diet Large dog breeds have unique metabolic requirements for them to maintain their healthy state for their size. A Shepherd Pei must be given food with a high protein concentration, followed by fats and fiber. There are commercially available dry and wet dog foods formulated for large dog breeds, but owners are advised to check the ingredients to make sure they are complete and balanced. Home-made meals using fresh ingredients such as lean meat and small portions of animal organs, vegetables, and select herbs are also recommended. This is best done with the help of a pet nutritionist or a veterinarian. Cleaning and Grooming Owners of a Shepherd Pei mix should first consider the type of coat of their dog. However, expect a Shepherd Pei mix to shed heavily at least once or twice a year. During this period, more frequent brushing may be necessary to keep the coat managed. Further, Occasional baths must be given to rid the dog of dust, pollen, and other irritants that can cause skin allergies. Nails must be trimmed as needed, too, to prevent injuries or nails from separating from the quick. Also, observe for possible irritation on the skin surrounding the toes. Owners must always check for possible signs of skin irritation as both German Shepherds and Shar-Peis are genetically prone to skin allergies. The face of a Shepherd Pei mix must likewise be cleaned regularly, focusing on the folds of the skin to avoid the accumulation of dirt and small particles between the folds. The ears of a Shepherd Pei mix must also be cleaned regularly with a mild cleanser. Training and Exercise A Shepherd Pei mix must be given sufficient physical activity. German Shepherds are inherently active dogs. Similarly, Shar-Peis are curious and playful. Hence, keeping Shepherd Peis active is vital for its well-being. Daily exercise helps prevent Shepherd Peis from getting bored and stressed. This will provide them with the necessary mental stimulation while also keeping them preoccupied. Obedience training is highly recommended to be included in the daily exercise and activity of a Shepherd Pei. This must begin while a Shepherd Pei is still young to prevent it from being stubborn as they grow. A Shepherd Pei is a good outdoor adventure companion too. Going on a nature tour can provide the opportunity for this dog to get acquainted with a variety of environmental conditions. As with other dogs, the pricing for these dogs may be influenced by the pedigree of the parent dogs, location, and reputation of the breeder. Apart from the cost of the puppy, there are also recurring costs that owners need to allocate. The table below summarizes the initial expenses associated with owning a German Shar-Pei mix: Type of Expense. Any puppies that qualify as a German Shepherd Mix are a cross between a German Shepherd and another dog breed. In a mixed breed, you can get any mix of characteristics in the parent breeds. German Shepherds tend to be strong-willed, intelligent, playful, and loyal. To get a full idea of what to expect in your puppy, be sure to ask the breeder about the other dog breed in the cross and check out the mother dog in-person to get a general idea about size and temperament. On the German Shepherd side, you have an independent dog with high intelligence and a playful spirit. German Shepherds make great family pets and are born protectors. Because of their protective instinct, they can be suspicious of strangers. Socialization early and often can help curb this suspicion and make them more open to new people and situations. German Shepherds also tend to be loving and have a lively personality. The German Shepherd Mix can have any or all of these characteristics plus any characteristics from the other parent breed in the mix. Before buying a German Shepherd Mix puppy and bringing them home, be sure to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed. If the puppies are being family-raised around children, you should be able to get an idea of how they will do in a family setting that includes children. The German Shepherd is a moderately adaptable working dog that was bred to guard, work, and herd. They do not tend to do well in apartments and are best-suited for houses with yards. GSDs prefer to be with their families and do not like to be alone. They also tend to prefer cooler climates as they are sensitive to heat. With a German Shepherd Mix, you could get a moderately adaptable dog that is just like a purebred German Shepherd. You could also end up with a dog that is more like the other parent breed. Talking with the breeder about the other parent breed can give you a good idea of what to expect. German Shepherds can be prone to elbow and hip dysplasia. You will need to ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the cross to get an idea of any other health concerns to be aware of in your German Shepherd Mix. Health screenings, clearances, and the genetic history of the parents can help allay concerns about potential health conditions. On the German Shepherd side, training and obedience classes are highly recommended for novice dog owners. Although GSDs are highly intelligent, pick up on things quickly, and train fairly easily, they can be stubborn with an independent streak. Regardless of the other parent breed in the cross, you should be prepared to enroll in obedience and training classes with your German Shepherd Mix. The experience will be beneficial to both you and your puppy and will also offer some opportunities for socialization. You will still want to ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the cross to get an understanding of what to expect during the training process. Professional grooming a few times a year and the occasional bath is also recommended. Regardless of the coat type, your German Shepherd Mix will need to have their nails trimmed monthly and their teeth brushed regularly. Not every dog will allow you to do this, so try to get a tooth brushing session in at least a few times a week to reduce tartar buildup. This will help prevent dental problems like tooth decay and gum disease. Plus, it will help cut down on bad breath! German Shepherds tend to have a high activity level. They were bred to run, herd, guard, and protect, so they are used to working and having a job to do. They are definitely not a lazy dog breed! Be sure to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix. You will still want to go in prepared for a high energy dog with the understanding that your German Shepherd Mix puppy may have an activity level closer to the other breed in the cross. If both are high energy dogs breeds, expect to end up with a high energy dog. A German Shepherd is a large dog breed that generally weighs between 55 and 90 pounds. They also usually stand between 22 and 26 inches tall at the shoulders. The other dog breed in the cross could result in a smaller or larger German Shepherd Mix. A German Shepherd generally lives for years. You should be able to expect a similar range in your German Shepherd Mix, but the other dog breed in the cross could affect this range. Featured German Shepherd Mix Article. When you bring home a Shar Pei mix for sale from a reputable breeder, always check over the dogs during the entire mating process. German Shepherd Shar-Pei Mix For Sale The German shepherd, known as simply the Schipperke, is a medium-sized dog with a well-built muscular body and a long strong skeletal frame. German Shepherd star peis are often characterized as strong dogs due to their short legs. However, the dog also has a very soft underbelly which can cause discomfort in some owners. German Shepherd star pies are also very sociable dogs, making them ideal companions for families or groups. The German Shepherd is a medium-sized dog with a well-built muscular body. The average Schipperke weighs approximately forty pounds in standard breeding and reaches up to fifty pounds in a large breed. They have a long strong chest, a lower chest, and an easy to identify, almost arched, stand. Despite their strong and muscular frame, the Schipperke is not an overly powerful dog, but rather more delicate and needs plenty of attention from both the owner and other members of the family. German Shepherd Sharpe mix for sale are usually bred by amateur breeders, so there is always the potential that you will find a high-quality dog in this category. As with any breed though, if you do not take care of your dog properly they will eventually outgrow it and become overweight. There are several things you should keep in mind before purchasing a dog of this type. These include the age of your dog, whether you plan to breed him, and where he will be raised. There is always a possibility that he may be aggressive towards people and animals. You need to consider this before buying your pet and make sure that you know what your dog will be like before you even get started. German Shepherd Sharpe mixes for sale are great pets for those who love dogs and want to be part of a family and socialize with other dogs and people. If you choose to breed your dog, remember that there is still a chance that he could turn into an aggressive dog which can be quite harmful to other members of the family. If you plan to use a shepherd for protection, you will need to choose a breed that is temperamentally suitable for this type of activity. As with all dogs, you should look at how the dog will react to a new environment. A good German Shepherd is likely to be intelligent and friendly. If you choose to use a shepherd for protection, he will be one that you can trust and not a dog that you have to constantly reprimand for bad behavior. You should also consider the health of your dog before making a purchase and do a little research on the subject of whether the dog has had any problems or medical issues in the past. If you choose to buy a shepherd that is not good for protection, you may find yourself in a lot of trouble when you decide to leave your dog alone. It will give you years of loyal and energetic enjoyment of your dog. It will also save you plenty of money because a puppy is a lot cheaper than a full-grown dog. The Shar-Pei mix is a very intelligent dog that is eager to please its owner. Because of this, it is used as a performing dog in dog shows all over the world. When you adopt a German Shepherd from a reputable breeder, the breeder will assess to determine if the puppy is a good fit for you. If the breeder has the time and patience to devote to getting to know you and your family, then he should be able to help you make the right choice. This is great if your goal is to have a purebred German Shepherd with no faults or temperament problems. But if you want a dog that is prone to develop behavior issues because it has been abused or bred improperly, then a purebred Shar-Pei might not be right for you. A reputable breeder will work closely with their human owners to match the personality of the puppies to those of their customers. They will have the intelligence to understand that human families differ, so they will customize the German Shepherd puppy mix for sale to better suit the needs of each family. A good breeder will also be prepared to go out of his way to find you a German Shepherd that is a little bit different. When a German Shepherd puppy is born, he is all white. But as he grows up, his color will change and he will turn one of several colors including dark silver or steel blue and the standard gray color. This is normal and should never cause any alarm, but you may be concerned about the color and whether it is a healthy color. A reputable German Shepherd breeder will have the puppies tested and give you information on the color that is common for the dog and the temperament characteristics of each. When you start looking for a German Shepherd puppy for sale, you will notice that many are sold in packs. If you are unfamiliar with German Shepherd breeding, these dogs are usually separated before breeding. Because of their size, they are usually less likely to mix if they are bred together. When you go to purchase your German Shepherd puppy for sale, you must get to know the breeder very well. The breeder should have a history that shows the family has maintained a good breeding program for many years. If the parents have both passed the American Kennel Club AKC and are registered with the state as purebred German Shepherd pups, you know you are in good hands. You will find that breeding one German Shepherd with another to create a German Shepherd Shar-Pei mix for sale is not unheard of, but it is not the best practice. There is a tendency for one Shar Pei to put on some pounds fairly quickly, so it may be necessary to breed the pups in pairs. If there is not a proper diet available, the puppy will be prone to several medical conditions, such as severe obesity. A Shar Pei is often wary of human contact, so you must establish the best relationship possible with your new dog. If you are not comfortable with other people, it is always advisable to have someone friendly watch your puppy while you and your dog socialize. A responsible breeder will give you the information you need to ensure that you are getting a healthy, happy adult dog. If you are considering adding a Shar Pei to your family, research the breeding methods used by professional Shar Pei breeders to ensure that your puppy will grow into a healthy adult. Share this:.

Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers are a very popular kind of dog. When the breed was first created, they were used for hunting. Now, they are sometimes used for hunting, but a lot of people like to have them as pets because they are very friendly. People also like them because their face looks like they are smiling all the time. Because they are so friendly, Golden Retrievers cannot be used as guard dogs , but they are good as drug dogs at airports and very good as service dogs for the blind People who cannot see. They also like people, so when they are left alone for too long, they get very sad. Golden retrievers make very good pets because they are friendly and playful. They are known for having a "soft mouth," and some have even been seen carrying raw eggs in their mouth without breaking them. They are great family dogs and provide good companionship. They are very smart and eager to please, which allows them to be easily trained. Golden Retrievers are very active dogs and need a lot of exercise. Goldens make wonderful pets, but they must exercise regularly to prevent weight gain and improve overall health. They require a great deal of grooming, as they shed hair daily. Goldens also enjoy the cool water. Temperament[ change change source ] Goldens are reliable, outgoing, intelligent, energetic, playful, and loving, especially when socialized well from a young age. This makes them popular family pets for many. Known for their trainability, loyalty, and easy-going nature, they make a great candidate for working dog roles, such as hunting workers, assistance dogs, guides for the blind, great swimmers, therapy dogs, search-and-rescue dogs, and even bomb detectors! Look[ change change source ] Golden Retriever relaxing A good Golden Retriever has a strong body and a long coat that is mainly yellow or gold. Their fur even stops water because it has two special layers, one short and one long. They always have brown eyes and can show a lot of emotions with them. When they get old , their face turns white , but when they are young , they should not have any white on them. A normal male dog weighs kilograms pounds and a normal female dog weighs kilograms pounds. From their front paws to their upper back , they are about centimetres inches tall. Coat[ change change source ] From light cream to almost red, goldens come in all shades of gold. In fact, identifying their color is one of the ways how Golden Retrievers can vary from each other. There are slight color variations between Goldens. Unlike Labradors that has three very distinct colors, Goldens tend to stay within a limited spectrum. There are generally three classifications of gold. These include light golden including cream-colored , golden, dark golden but not red. This spectrum is strict, particularly for show dogs. If a Golden falls outside of this color range, it will not be registered with the American Kennel Club or it cannot compete. Activities[ change change source ] As said earlier, Goldens are used a lot for people who cannot see, but they are also used for obedience trials and as assistant dogs for people who have seizures or cannot hear. They are very good at smelling things, so they are also good for hunting. The second part of their name, retriever, is very true because they love to fetch things for their people! Goldens love to catch tennis balls and frisbees. Goldens also enjoy the water. Kinds[ change change source ] There are two different kinds of Golden Retrievers: show dogs and field dogs. Show dogs have very long hair and a lighter color , but field dogs have a lot more differences. They have short hair and can have any shade of hair. Because they have shorter hair, it is easier to brush them because they do not get as many things caught in it. A big problem for Goldens is hip dysplasia , which makes the dog's bones hurt at its hips. Also, a lot of Goldens have skin allergies , so people have to be very careful to not wash the dog too much and make sure that it does not get fleas. It is also important to clean a Goldens ears regularly because their long ears do not give the ear canal a chance to breathe. Goldens also have problems with their eyes sometimes, but it's mostly when they get older. It is important when purchasing a new Golden Retriever puppy to review the medical history of their parents. Oftentimes "backyard breeders" have been known to over breed or breed dogs with health problems. A reputable breeder should be able to supply the most current health records for the dogs which they are breeding. He took a yellow dog and another dog called a Tweed Water Spaniel , which is a dog that does not exist anymore. All Golden Retrievers are related to these two dogs. The breed was created to be stronger than other retrievers but more gentle with people so they could be trained very easily. Because of their popularity, the breed was shipped to America and Canada. There, they were evolved further, leading to cosmetic differences in the breed. Each country developed them to their liking. The Golden Retriever became the most popular breed in the U. A little later, the Golden Retriever Club of America was founded in .Template:Infobox Dogbreed The Golden Retriever is a large-sized breed of dog bred as gun dogs to retrieve shot waterfowl such as ducks and upland game birds during hunting and shooting parties, [1] and were named 'retriever' because of their ability to retrieve shot game undamaged. Golden Retrievers have an instinctive love of water, and are easy to train to basic or advanced obedience standards. They are a long-coated breed, with a dense inner coat that provides them with adequate warmth in the outdoors, and an outer coat that lies flat against their bodies and repels water. Golden Retrievers are well suited to residency in suburban or country environments. Although they need substantial outdoor exercise, they should be housed in a fenced area because of their instinctual tendency to roam. The breed is a prominent participant in conformation shows for purebred dogs. The Golden Retrievers' intelligence makes them a versatile breed and allows them to fill a variety of roles — common ones being guide dog for the blind, hearing dog for the deaf, hunting dog , detection dog , and search and rescue participant. The breed's friendly, gentle temperament means it is unsuited to being a professional guard dog, but its temperament has also made it the third-most popular family dog breed by registration in the United States, [3] the fifth-most popular in Australia, [4] and the eighth-most popular in the United Kingdom. Characteristics[ edit ] The Golden Retriever is a large, strongly built breed with a dense, water-repellant wavy coat. However, all Golden Retrievers are blonde, yellow, or gold in colour and all subtypes are susceptible to the same health problems. British type[ edit ] The Golden Retriever was first bred in Scotland. British-type Golden Retrievers are stockier than North American varieties, with thick coats and larger weights. British-type Golden Retrievers are prevalent throughout Europe and Australia, [9] and are distinguished from the North American lines by the official breed standards. The muzzle of the British dog is wider and shorter, and its forehead is blockier. Its legs are shorter, its chest is deeper, and its tail is slightly shorter. Due to these features, a British type usually weighs more than an American or Canadian. Males stand between 56 and 61 cm 22 and 24 in at the withers; females are slightly shorter, between 51 and 56 cm 20 and 22 in. Acceptable or expected weights are not specified in the UK standard, but the Kennel Club standard calls for a level topline and straight hindquarters without the slight rear angulation found in American lines. A Golden Retriever of British breeding can have a coat colour of any shade of gold or cream; red or mahogany are not permitted. Originally, cream was an unacceptable colour in the UK standard, but the standard was revised in to include cream. At the time of this revision, the exclusion of cream as a colour was agreed to as a mistake, as the original "yellow" retrievers of the 19th century were actually lighter in colour than was permitted by the standards used before .As with American lines, white is an unacceptable colour in the show ring. American type[ edit ] American Golden Retriever American Golden Retrievers are taller than the British type, but retain its thick coat. The American Goldens are lankier and less stocky than British types. Males stand between 23 and 24 in 58 and 61 cm in height at the withers ; females are .Their coats are dense and water-repellent, and occur in various shades of lustrous gold with moderate feathering. When trotting, they have a free, smooth, powerful, and well-coordinated gait; as the dog runs, its feet converge towards the center of the line of balance. American breeders of Golden Retrievers sometimes import their dogs from Britain to take advantage of the temperament and appearance of the British types. Canadian Golden Retriever Canadian type[ edit ] The Canadian Golden Retriever has a thinner and darker coat and stands taller than other varieties. As with American Golden Retrievers, Canadians are often taller and leaner than their British counterparts. Coat and colour[ edit ] As indicated by their name, their coats occur in light golden to dark golden colours. The topcoat is water-resistant and slightly wavy, and sheds in small amounts throughout the year. The undercoat is soft and keeps the retriever cool in summer and warm in winter; it sheds in the spring and fall. The Golden's coat should never be too long, as this may prove to be a disservice to it in the field, especially when retrieving game. This leaves the outer ranges of coat colour up to a judge's discretion when competing in conformation shows. Therefore, "pure white" and "red" are unacceptable, as is black. The Golden's coat can also bea mahogany, referred to as "redhead", although this is not accepted in the British show ring. Puppy coats are usually much lighter than their adult coats, but a puppy with darker ear tips may indicate a darker adult color. Golden Retrievers vary in colour, with a fair-haired dog shown here beside a mahogany one The coat is "rich, lustrous golden of various shades" A four-month-old white golden retriever A light golden puppy Temperament[ edit ] The Golden Retriever is instinctively fond of swimming, owing to its history as a game retriever. The temperament of the Golden Retriever is a hallmark of the breed, and is described in the standard as "kindly, friendly and confident". Golden Retrievers are also noted for their intelligence. The breed ranks fourth in Stanley Coren 's The Intelligence of Dogs — following the Border Collie , Poodle , and German Shepherd — as one of the brightest dogs ranked by obedience-command trainability. Typical Golden Retrievers are active and fun-loving animals with the exceptionally patient demeanour befitting a dog bred to sit quietly for hours in a hunting blind. Adult Goldens love to work, and have a keen ability to focus on a given task. They will work until they collapse, so care should be taken to avoid overworking them. Other characteristics related to their hunting heritage are a size suited for scrambling in and out of boats and an inordinate love for water. Golden Retrievers are exceptionally trainable—due to their intelligence, athleticism and desire to please their handlers—and excel in obedience trials. They are also very competitive in agility and other performance events. Harsh training methods are unnecessary, as Golden Retrievers often respond very well to positive and upbeat training styles. They are particularly valued for their high level of sociability towards people, calmness, and willingness to learn. Because of this, they are commonly used as guide dogs , mobility assistance dogs, and search and rescue dogs. Newborn Golden Retriever puppies , shown here suckling : Golden Retriever litters typically contain five to 10 puppies. They excel at dog agility. The average lifespan for a Golden Retriever is about 11 to 12 years. Golden Retrievers are known to have genetic disorders and other diseases. Hip dysplasia is common in the breed; when buying a puppy, the pedigree should be known and be examined by the OFA or by PennHIP for hip disease. Obesity is also common in the breed because Golden Retrievers love to eat. Puppies should eat about three cups of food a day and adults three to five cups, depending on the food and how active the dog is. In addition to the heavy shedding they experience and their constant lighter shedding throughout the year , Golden Retrievers can suffer from skin diseases; the most prevalent skin problem is allergies often leading to acute moist dermatitis or " hot spots " , with the most common allergy being to fleas. Haemophilia [24] and Lyme disease is possible, although the latter is not typically detected until the dog reaches the late stages of kidney failure. Grooming[ edit ] Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers require regular grooming and occasional baths. They should be bathed every two months. Their coats shed somewhat during the year, but are known to shed profusely twice a year. They also need to have their ears cleaned regularly, or ear infections might occur. While shedding is unavoidable, frequent grooming daily to weekly lessens the amount of hair shed by the animal. Severe shedding resulting in bald patches can be indicative of stress or sickness. Such cream Golden Retrievers are frequently being touted as being healthier, of having better temperament, of having stronger longevity and the implicit suggestion is that they therefore are more valuable than the more golden-colored Golden Retrievers bred in North America. Due to these common marketing ploys the average puppy buyer sometimes mistakes such light-colored Golden Retrievers for being a separate breed. Nothing could be further from the truth. There is only one Golden Retriever breed, governed by the breed standard endorsed by various recognized Kennel Clubs around the world. The Golden Retriever Club of America would like to emphasize to breeders and puppy buyers alike that the cream color has always been part of the full spectrum of colors found in our breed. Feathering may be lighter than rest of coat. With the exception of graying or whitening of face or body due to age, any white marking, other than a few white hairs on the chest, should be penalized according to its extent. Allowable light shadings are not to be confused with white markings. Predominant body color which is either extremely pale or extremely dark is undesirable. Some latitude should be given to the light puppy whose coloring shows promise of deepening with maturity. Any noticeable area of black or other off-color hair is a serious fault. The photo below furthermore illustrates the common shades of cream and gold found on this continent and all of these particular dogs are bred right here in North America. This broad range of color is not only commonly found around the world, but both light and dark shades can also occur in the very same Golden Retriever litter, with full siblings varying in color from very light cream to a rich gold. Some breeders favor different styles of Golden Retrievers and some may even have a personal preference for a lighter or a darker golden, but good breeders never focus exclusively on a specific color, since this would unnecessarily narrow the gene pool and may cause genetic predispositions towards hereditary health issues to become magnified over time. Good Golden Retrievers of differing styles should, however, all possess strong breed type. They should be readily recognized as Golden Retrievers, whether they are a rich gold or a pale cream. All Golden Retrievers across the world are descended from this original Scottish stock. You can also find very dark colored Golden Retrievers overseas, just as you can find very pale cream North American bred Goldens. It is our position that a breeding program which focuses mainly on color should be viewed with some skepticism. If claims are being made that the light creams are more valuable or healthier than darker colored Golden Retrievers, then the buyer should be aware that such statements are blatantly incorrect. We instead urge all new puppy owners to carefully review all recommended health clearances and ask the appropriate questions about longevity in the pedigree of any puppy. It is never the color of a Golden Retriever that determines its temperament and working ability or its health and potential longevity. Instead the quality of a Golden Retriever will be determined by the care the individual breeder has taken, by adhering to the standard when breeding, as well as by doing careful pedigree research and screening for soundness in mind and body. Consider contributing to The Golden Retriever Foundation. More Information. Labrador Retriever with pheasant American Water Spaniel To carry out the duties of a gun dog, a retriever should be trained to perform these tasks: Remain under control: Retrievers are typically used for waterfowl hunting. Since a majority of waterfowl hunting employs the use of small boats in winter conditions, retrievers are trained to remain under control sitting calmly and quietly until sent to retrieve. Steadiness helps to avoid an accidental capsizing, disrupting the hunter's aim or the possible accidental discharge of a firearm which could cause serious harm or death to others in the hunting party or to the dog itself. Mark downed game: Marking is the process of watching for a falling bird or multiple birds. When the command "mark" is given, the dog should look up for incoming birds and remember where each bird falls. Well-trained retrievers are taught to follow the direction the gun barrel is pointing to mark where the birds fall. Once the game is downed, the handler will command the dog to retrieve the game. Perform a blind retrieve: When hunting waterfowl, a retriever's primary job is to retrieve downed birds. At times, a dog will not see the game fall, so retrievers are trained to take hand, voice, and whistle commands from the handler directing the dog to the downed game for retrieval. Precision between the dog and handler is extremely useful and desired so as to minimize retrieval time and limit the disturbance of surrounding cover. Retrieve to hand: Although some hunters prefer to have a bird dropped at their feet, the majority of handlers require the dog to deliver the game to hand, meaning once the dog has completed the retrieve, it will gently but firmly hold the bird until commanded to release it to the handler's hand. Delivery to hand reduces the risk of a crippled bird escaping, as the bird remains in the dog's mouth until the handler takes hold of it. Honoring: When hunting with multiple dogs, a retriever should remain under control while other dogs work, and wait its turn. This is important because having multiple dogs retrieving game simultaneously can cause confusion. This is one reason why many handlers use the dog's name as the command to retrieve. Shake on command: Following a retrieve, a well-trained dog will not shake off excess water from its fur until after the delivery is complete. A dog shaking water from its fur in a small boat at worst risks capsizing the craft in cold winter conditions and at best will most likely shower hunters and equipment. Also, a dog shaking while still holding the game in its mouth could damage the bird to the point of making it unfit for the table. To avoid these mishaps, trainers use a distinct command releasing a dog to shake. Quarter: Retrievers are often used in a secondary role as an upland flushing dog. Dogs must work in a pattern in front of the hunter seeking upland game birds. The retriever must be taught to stay within gun range to avoid flushing a bird outside of shooting distance. Remain steady to wing and shot: When hunting upland birds, the flushing dog should be steady to wing and shot, meaning it sits when a bird rises or a gun is fired. It does this to mark the fall and to avoid flushing other birds by unnecessarily pursuing a missed bird. Although most individual retrievers have the raw capacity to be trained to perform as a gun dog, a significant amount of thought and effort is given to breeding in specific desired traits into dogs from field bred lines that greatly enhance the training process. When breeding retrievers for field work, extensive consideration is given to: Biddableness: Because producing a well-trained retriever capable of performing the tasks outlined above requires a significant amount of time and effort, an intelligent, controllable, and open-to-learning biddable retriever is of utmost importance. Most notably, they demonstrate the desire to retrieve almost to the point of manic behavior and take on significant obstacles to make a retrieve. Marking and memory: Eyesight and depth perception are of paramount importance to a dog's ability to mark downed game. Remembering each fall is also critical. Nose: Dogs are led primarily by their nose. A good retriever uses its nose to find downed game in heavy cover and while quartering a field to locate and flush upland game birds. Soft mouth: A soft-mouthed dog is needed to ensure retrieved game is fit for the table. A soft-mouthed dog picks up and holds game softly but firmly on the retrieve. Hardiness: Waterfowl hunting is a cold-weather sport undertaken across a wide variety of locations and conditions, from thick, flooded timber in the south US, to icy and ice-covered ponds in the Midwest to frigid seas along upper the New England coast. A good retriever willingly re-enters the water and makes multiple retrieves under these and other extreme conditions. Lifespan[ edit ] The average lifespan of a retriever is about 10—12 years. Some may live up to 15 years. The average life span for a Golden Retriever is 11 to 11 years. A responsible breeder will proactively minimise the risk of illness by having the health of dogs in breeding pairs professionally assessed and selected on the basis of complementary traits. Golden retrievers are known to have genetic disorders and other diseases. Hip dysplasia is common in the breed; when buying a puppy, the pedigree should be known and be examined by the OFA or by PennHIP for hip disease. Common diseases A golden retriever at 15 years old Cancer, the most common being hemangiosarcoma, followed by lymphosarcoma, mast cell tumour, and osteosarcoma. Cancer was the cause of death for .Lyme Disease is unseen until the late stages of kidney failure in the breed. Their coats shed somewhat during the year, but are known to shed profusely twice a year. They also need to have their ears cleaned regularly, or ear infections might occur. While shedding is unavoidable with Golden Retrievers, frequent grooming daily to weekly lessens the amount of hair shed by the animal. Severe shedding resulting in bald patches can be indicative of stress or sickness in a Golden Retriever. Activities The Golden Retriever's eagerness to please has made them consistent, top performers in the obedience and agility rings. Plus with their excellent swimming ability they are great at dock jumping. Their natural retrieving ability also sees them excel in flyball and field trials. Moreland's Golden Tonka. It continues in that role today, along with the Leonberger, Newfoundland and Labrador Retriever dogs; they are used at the Italian School of Canine Lifeguard. Ford, was a Golden Retriever. References 1. Retrieved on November 30, .Retrieved on December 7, .Retrieved on February 4, .Retrieved 3 August .The Kennel Club. Retrieved 1 August .Cool Retrieved on February 4, .Retrieved on December 16, .Retrieved on December 8, .Retrieved on January 27, .Retrieved 4 August .Retrieved on February 7, .Daily Mail. August 27, .Retrieved January 15, .See Terms of use for details. Wikipedia is a registered trademark of the Wikimedia Foundation, Inc.

More than twice as many Labs were registered than any other breed making it a likely leader for many years to come. In a recent article, a licensed professional counselor for more than twenty-five years, explained how owning a Lab can help produce healthier, happier, more well adjusted children. Here is an excerpt from her article: Regular dog-walking increases social interaction for children—especially those who have just moved to a neighborhood and are feeling homesick for their former home. A child who might not want to go out into the neighborhood alone, feels that he or she has a purpose in walking the dog, and therefore can face unfamiliar faces or places more easily than when alone. Walking the dog could be the perfect way for a shy or awkward adolescent to meet new friends in the neighborhood. Be sure to read the rest of her seven part article, Ten Reasons to Own a Dog. At Twin Lakes Kennel, we have been breeding and training world class Labrador retrievers for more than thirty-five years. Our second-to-none Puppy Guarantee makes buying a pure-bred Labrador retriever one of the wisest decisions you will ever make. Read the personal testimonials from prominent Lab owners from around the country. And visit our Puppy Page or call Woody or Judi for up-to-date puppy information at .Did you know… Montpelier was settled relatively late in comparison to other Vermont towns. The first permanent settler was Colonel Jacob Davis in .Since in Vermont roads follow rivers, they explain, the coming together of many roads caused it to become a meeting place for both government and commerce. Our world class Labrador Retrievers puppies for sale! Our Latest Happy Clients! Become A Happy Client! If you live in Vermont or nearby states and are planning to bring home the Labrador of your dreams, you are at the right place! All these breeders are AKC-registered to ensure that you bring home a happy and healthy dog. They breed black, yellow, and chocolate Labradors with the advocacy: No to silver Labradors. The puppies are dewormed and vaccinated. They have regular health checks and timely visits to the vet. The breeding parents complete an 8-disorder genetic check to lower the threat of producing puppies with genetically transmitted diseases. Puppies play around with over 20 acres of space. They make great hiking, hunting , and family companions. The breeder ensures quality and health for each puppy you bring home. The dogs are known for their calm temperament and sharp skills. They are examined yearly to ensure good health and suitability for breeding. If you are looking for a hunting partner, a hiking buddy , or a loving canine family member, you know where to go. However, since this breeder is highly selective in the dogs they breed, puppies may not always be available. Address: Moretown, VT Darling Hill Farm This breeder has been breeding English Labs since , prioritizing the health of both the puppies and the adopting family. The puppies are vaccinated and dewormed and can be microchipped for added security. This breeder also advocates: No to silver Labs. Although having a kennel is just a hobby for the breeder, it puts great emphasis on quality and care and produces Labs from health-tested bloodlines. The puppies grow with their family and are well socialized with people and other animals. These Labs proved to be the perfect hiking and hunting buddies. The dog parents are selected based on temperament, intelligence, and aesthetics to ensure quality puppies. McCoy breeds black, yellow, and chocolate English Labs. All the puppies are vaccinated and covered for congenital malformations or hereditary diseases in their first year. In the rare case that anything goes wrong, the breeder will compensate up to the purchase price of the pup. The breeder undertakes careful research and emphasizes quality instead of quantity, thus breeding only one or two litters a year. All their puppies are vaccinated to ensure good health. They are cleared by OFA and certified with normal hips and good elbows. You can find both English and American styles at his kennel. The Labrador puppies are known for their intelligence, calm temperament, and beautiful appearance. To ensure good health, all the dogs are dewormed. The breeder guarantees that your dog will not receive a grade of mild, moderate, or severe hip dysplasia from OFA until the age of 26 months. Breeders labrador breeders labradors. We are proud to offer sound family pups, loved in our Southerwestern Vermont pastoral farm house by AKC standards for conformation, intelligence and natural instincts with a great balanced disposition for years of mutual companionship. Our pups are born and raised in our home from birth day to Gotcha Day. Pup immersion into daily family life experiences is top on our early development Lab rearing priority list. All our Labs are our family members with generation after generation of health testing, proper nutrition, Vet care, and OFA clearances. Our Labs are not only pretty faced show and accomplished field champions but proud gold medalist couch potatoes and snuggle buddies! Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole. Monty was our first Red Barn Farm Labradors lab. He seemed to be a bit of an old soul after his first year, and when we heard Mel may be having more puppies, I knew Monty would love a RBFL brother. Our Gus could not be any more different from his big brother Monty. Gus is a young whippersnapper who spends his time hunting in the yard while our old man Monty basks in the sun. Mel has the most beautiful personality and kind disposition, and I swear her positive energy was absorbed by the pups. Bruin left some big ole puppy shoes to fill. Our hearts felt empty with out a Lab, so we reached out to Mel Maryellen. When the litter of pups we were anticipating were born, everything felt very meant-to-be. Prior to the litters arrival we decided upon a black boy pup. Out of an entire litter of 5 there was one little handsome male pup, and he was black! Insert our Charlie boy here! Charlie has filled those puppy shoes beyond what we imagined. Charlie has the gentle loving eyes of an old soul with the playfulness of a healthy pup. He is beyond smart, and is currently learning to hunt! Charlie immediately had an extra strong bond with our 4 year old daughter, which has warmed all of our hearts from day one. We feel so lucky to have a RBFL in our family to love. Red Barn Farm Labradors was recommended by word of mouth. Our adoption experience and our Lab, Libby AKA Liberty Bell have been the best experience and the best adoption experience we have ever had. At four years old, Libby is still the sweet, socialized, healthy dog we chose as a puppy. Mel Maryellen is knowledgeable, informative, and fair to all new perspective puppy families. Mel loves those puppies long before you know which pup to choose. Highly recommended! We Love Our Libby! We have formed such a great connection with Mel ever since our first phone interview with her. It was apparent from the beginning how much she loves these dogs and cares about placing them in a good home. From meeting the puppies as a litter and getting to select our special pup to Gotcha Day at 8 weeks old, with a take home bag including a comfort Momma scented lovie blanket and toy, Mel was fantastic! You can tell the puppies are well loved from day one! I will always go to Mel for my Labs! She is an amazing breeder. She is also willing to answer any questions or concerns at any time. She truly loves them and takes great care of them and knowing our puppy would be loved so fully for her first 8 weeks of life meant the world to us! Remi has been everything we hoped for and more, she has the best temperament and personality for our lifestyle. Driven and energetic while being cuddly and loyal through and through. We love our RedBarnFarm lab and would highly recommend her to anyone looking for a wonderful addition to the family. We found Red Barn Labs though a friend and from the moment we had our first phone interview we knew we found the right place to adopt our next lab from. Maryellen loves her dogs and all her pups. She has been available anytime we have a question or want to share our fun lab moments with her. We love staying in touch and following the extended RBL family online. Our pup is healthy, intelligent, and beautiful. She is a great dog! She has a lot of spunk, has great bird instinct, loves to play and loves being part of our family. She makes us so happy, and we are thrilled to have Maryellen, and RBL as part of our family now too. That is what Mel Maryellen excels at and it is a selfless act not many can do well. My experience with Mel was so smooth and personable from day one and still is to this very day. It is an honor to be able to have one of her pups. When going to pick out our puppy, we knew all of his litter was extremely well cared for and loved before we brought him home. Maryellen carefully listened to what we were looking for in a family dog, and helped guide us to goofy boy, Woody. Almost two years later, we know we can reach out to her for anything dog related- even just to show her a silly picture of our boy! Ad for our big boy, he is everything you can want in a Lab. He is playful, loyal, and an easy going brother to his dog sibling and human sibling and an excellent dog in our active family. We will never get a dog from another breeder! She immediately stole our hearts with her sweet and fun-loving nature. Our Red Barn Farm Labrador came to us full of love which was due to the loving care she received from day one. She is very smart, confident, silly, loyal and full of personality. We love her beautiful coat which is black as night and soft as velvet. She spreads the love of Labs that stems from the passion for amazing dogs at Red Barn Farm! From the moment we pulled up to her magical Vermont home we were in love with both her and our new family member, Benelli. We love being part of the Red Barn Farm Labradors family and would recommend them to everyone! He is a pup of Eva and Chip. There are working hunting dogs on both sides of his breeding and it shows! Maryellen puts in a lot of hard work to produce high quality dogs for their loving owners. From the time the pups are born until they go home to their new owners, Maryellen takes care of them around the clock beyond the expected to socialize them with their littler mates as well as other humans, animals, and various other stimuli they may encounter out in the world. We also appreciate how RBFL likes to check in on their pups via IG to see what kinds of adventures they are experiencing. Bode was the Fox Red male from sweet momma, Annie and super stud, Chip. Maryellen is the most wonderful, caring, kind, and thoughtful breeder I have ever met. The sincere communication, attention to mother, father and pups were of utmost importance to Maryellen. Our Bode is a hunk of burning love, fun and silliness. His personality is as big as he is and we love all of him! He spends his days with his older brother Chocolate Lab, Tucker hiking, ripping up stuffies, snuggling, and begging for treats. When the day comes to get another four-legged addition, we will calling Maryellen at Red Barn Farm Labradors!

What About My Miniature Poodle? The only difference between each size is, well, its size. Meaning both a inch tall standard poodle and a 9-inch tall toy poodle are both judged in the same way overall in dog shows, given that both are judged to have proportionate physical features according to size. What really matters to the American Kennel Club is a host of characteristics that suggest pure poodle-hood. Are Poodle Mixes Included? Oodle-ology A woman brushing a chocolate color Poodle For instance, although there are about 70 types of oodles , you can expect to pay quite a bit more for a Goldendoodle or labradoodle compared to a purebred and AKC-recognized poodle. This discrepancy may be explained by overall dog breed popularity, i. Take the different generations of Goldendoodles. The AKC question is merely a question of where the standards are coming from. Poodles are smart and social — and a prone to separation anxiety. This can lead to problem behavior like excessive barking. You may be wondering how much AKC papers really matter if doodles are also carefully bred for their traits and fetch a higher price than their poodle relatives. It may simply be a matter of time before your Maltipoo is considered AKC. Ultimately, though it may be a dog breed authority, the AKC can and has changed its mind about which dog breeds belong in its registry. Standards make sense on one hand to give legitimate breeders some credibility; a certified purebred will be more likely to be like the generations before her than her accidentally-conceived cousin mutt. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Standard Poodles! Poodles are goofy, social, fun-loving, intelligent, highly-trainable, and desire human companionship. It is thought that the Poodle originated in Germany as far back as the Middle ages. Taking its name from the German word pudeln, which means "to splash in water". The Poodle was once exceptional at retrieving ducks from the marshes. The versatile Poodle is among the most intelligent and capable of breeds. It is easily trained and remains a popular family pet to this day. Our Poodles are all from Standard lines and are regal and calm, though they love to play. They bark to alert when someone arrives at the house, but are not barkers without purpose. Standard Poodles love to be near their family and are wonderful with other dogs and children. We produce solids, parti-factor or abstract, as well as Parti Standard Poodle Puppies! Our Parti Standard Poodle Puppies range from red and white, apricot and white, brown and white, black and white, and sable parti puppies. Our Poodle Dams and Sires are AKC Registered from excellent bloodlines and have obtained extensive health clearances prior to being bred. All three varieties have the same build and proportions. We do not currently offer miniature or toy puppies. Poodles can be black, red, white, apricot, brown, cream, Cafe Au Lait, silver beige, silver or blue, and may be a combination of these colors. Poodles carry the color patterns brindle, sable, ticking, abstract, tuxedo, parti, and phantom. They require brushing a few times a week, plus clipping and shaping every months. This longer clip though does require more frequent brushing at home to prevent matting of the Poodles curly coat. According to Slate Magazine, Poodles were originally used as foul hunting dogs. An unshorn Poodle's thick coat could weigh it down in the water. With the bottom half of its body shaved, the animal was more buoyant and could swim more freely. The long mane and hair around the chest were left intact to keep the poodle's vital organs warm in the cold water, and owners also kept the hair around the joints to protect them from cold and injury and to help prevent rheumatism. Shaving the hair around the face left the poodle's mouth and eyes free so it could fulfill its retrieving responsibilities, and tying the hair on a poodle's head into a "top knot" also kept hair out of its eyes. Owners eventually tied these knots with brightly colored ribbons to help them identify their dogs from afar. Daily walks are a must if you don't have a safely enclosed area for them to run freely. They love games and many are attracted to water and love to swim. As with any dog, socialization and training should start while the dog is still a puppy and continue throughout its life. Look for a puppy kindergarten class locally or join the AKC S. Puppy Program , training based on positive techniques. Find a class here. This is a great place to start socializing and training. A well-socialized, well-trained Poodle makes a wonderful family companion. Early socialization and training establishes those lifetime bonds between the family and puppy as these programs teach you how to communicate with your new puppy and get started on the right foot. A copy of the PCA illustrated breed standard may be purchased at the website store. Official Standard of the Poodle The Standard for the Poodle Toy variety is the same as for the Standard and Miniature varieties except as regards heights. General Appearance: Carriage and Condition — That of a very active, intelligent and elegant- appearing dog, squarely built, well proportioned, moving soundly and carrying himself proudly. Properly clipped in the traditional fashion and carefully groomed, the Poodle has about him an air of distinction and dignity peculiar to himself. Any Poodle which is 15 inches or less in height shall be disqualified from competition as a Standard Poodle. The Miniature Poodle is 15 inches or under at the highest point of the shoulders, with a minimum height in excess of 10 inches. Any Poodle which is over 15 inches or is 10 inches or less at the highest point of the shoulders shall be disqualified from competition as a Miniature Poodle. The Toy Poodle is 10 inches or under at the highest point of the shoulders. Any Poodle which is more than 10 inches at the highest point of the shoulders shall be disqualified from competition as a Toy Poodle. As long as the Toy Poodle is definitely a Toy Poodle, and the Miniature Poodle a Miniature Poodle, both in balance and proportion for the Variety, diminutiveness shall be the deciding factor when all other points are equal. Proportion — To insure the desirable squarely built appearance, the length of body measured from the breastbone to the point of the rump approximates the height from the highest point of the shoulders to the ground. Substance — Bone and muscle of both forelegs and hindlegs are in proportion to size of dog. Head and Expression: a Eyes — very dark, oval in shape and set far enough apart and positioned to create an alert intelligent expression. Major fault: eyes round, protruding, large or very light. The ear leather is long, wide and thickly feathered; however, the ear fringe should not be of excessive length. Cheekbones and muscles flat. Length from occiput to stop about the same as length of muzzle. Strong without lippiness. The chin definite enough to preclude snipiness. Major fault: lack of chin. Teeth — white, strong and with a scissors bite. Major fault: undershot, overshot, wry mouth. Neck, Topline, Body: Neck well proportioned, strong and long enough to permit the head to be carried high and with dignity. Skin snug at throat. The neck rises from strong, smoothly muscled shoulders. Major fault: ewe neck. The topline is level, neither sloping nor roached, from the highest point of the shoulder blade to the base of the tail, with the exception of a slight hollow just behind the shoulder. Body — a Chest deep and moderately wide with well sprung ribs. Major fault: set low, curled, or carried over the back. Forequarters: Strong, smoothly muscled shoulders. The shoulder blade is well laid back and approximately the same length as the upper foreleg. Major fault — steep shoulder. Forelegs — Straight and parallel when viewed from the front. When viewed from the side the elbow is directly below the highest point of the shoulder. The pasterns are strong. Dewclaws may be removed. Feet — The feet are rather small, oval in shape with toes well arched and cushioned on thick firm pads. Nails short but not excessively shortened. The feet turn neither in nor out. Major fault — paper or splay foot. Hindquarters: The angulation of the hindquarters balances that of the forequarters. Hindlegs straight and parallel when viewed from the rear. Muscular with width in the region of the stifles which are well bent; femur and tibia are about equal in length; hock to heel short and perpendicular to the ground. When standing, the rear toes are only slightly behind the point of the rump. Major fault — cow-hocks. Coat: a Quality — 1 Curly: of naturally harsh texture, dense throughout. A Poodle shown in any other type of clip shall be disqualified. The face, throat, feet and base of the tail are shaved. The entire shaven foot is visible. There is a pompon on the end of the tail. In order to give a neat appearance and a smooth unbroken line, shaping of the coat is permissible. The hindquarters are covered with a short blanket of hair except for a curved shaved area on each flank and two shaved bands on each hindleg. The entire shaven foot and a portion of the shaven leg above the puff are visible. The rest of the body is left in full coat but may be shaped in order to insure overall balance. The hindquarters are shaved with pompons optional on the hips. The legs are shaved, leaving bracelets on the hindlegs and puffs on the forelegs. The entire shaven foot and a portion of the shaven foreleg above the puff are visible. The rest of the body, and legs are clipped or scissored to follow the outline of the dog leaving a short blanket of coat no longer than one inch in length. The hair on the legs may be slightly longer than that on the body. In all clips the hair of the topknot may be left free or held in place by elastic bands. The hair is only of sufficient length to present a smooth outline. This is the only area where elastic bands may be used. Color: The coat is an even and solid color at the skin. In blues, grays, silvers, browns, cafe-au- laits, apricots and creams the coat may show varying shades of the same color. This is frequently present in the somewhat darker feathering of the ears and in the tipping of the ruff. While clear colors are definitely preferred, such natural variation in the shading of the coat is not to be considered a fault. Brown and cafe-au-lait Poodles have liver-colored noses, eye-rims and lips, dark toenails and dark amber eyes. Black, blue, gray, silver, cream and white Poodles have black noses, eye-rims and lips, black or self colored toenails and very dark eyes. In the apricots while the foregoing coloring is preferred, liver-colored noses, eye-rims and lips, and amber eyes are permitted but are not desirable. Major fault: color of nose, lips and eye-rims incomplete, or of wrong color for color of dog. Parti-colored dogs shall be disqualified. The coat of a parti-colored dog is not an even solid color at the skin but is of two or more colors. Gait: A straightforward trot with light springy action and strong hindquarters drive. Head and tail carried up. Sound effortless movement is essential. Temperament: Carrying himself proudly, very active, intelligent, the Poodle has about him an air of distinction and dignity peculiar to himself. Major fault: shyness or sharpness. Major Faults: Any distinct deviation from the desired characteristics described in the Breed Standard. Disqualifications: Size — A dog over or under the height limits specified shall be disqualified. Clip — A dog in any type of clip other than those listed under coat shall be disqualified. Parti- colors — The coat of a parti-colored dog is not an even solid color at the skin but of two or more colors. Value of Points General appearance, temperament, carriage and condition……. F1b have one purebred parent and one cavapoo parent. All our F1b have a poodle parent and a cavapoo parent. If it were a cavalier parent and a cavapoo parent the puppies would shed and may look like mix breed spaniels. Same for cavapoo to cavapoo. I like silly hair cuts! I try to get a photo of each new way I trim their coats. The unique! My affinity for unique color prompted me to look for my favorite color of all time which is blue merle. Chocolate is even more popular and dilute so Cappuccino will produce blue merle cava-poo puppies, and maybe chocolate if the genes are there for the dilute in the Cavalier. Cavapoos are proving to be one of the favorite crosses families are looking for. Cavaliers are super sweet and snuggly so adding a bit more brains, and eliminating shedding makes for a terrific companion! The Maltese are full of themselves and so tiny. Perfect for those who want a really small dog that has some spunk, so crossed with poodle they are very easy to train! We wont have any Maltipoo until when Angelica, Angels daughter, is old enough to have puppies. Bubba is our red AKC miniature poodle from terrific health tested bloodlines. He is very smart and just a cuddle bug. Everyone who visits loves Bubba. They are shocked to learn he is a poodle. He has changed many peoples impressions of poodles, raised with lots of socializing and children like most poodles in that situation a friendly outgoing dog, super smart, and looks like a teddy bear, or lion, or whatever strange thing I have turned him into with silly hair cuts! Also pictures of him as a tiny 13 ounce puppy. He is another dog that proves you cant go by the poodle chart to know how big a puppy will actually get, he should have stayed about 6 pounds if the chart was accurate. I like to trim him like a teddy bear, and experiment with different ways to trim his coat. Some hair cuts are so goofy looking I didn't take any photos of them, but lately I decided to add the whole range to the slide show, even Bubba still wet form a bath! I like the lion cut the most, although the big eyebrow cut is much easier to keep groomed! Bubba has been health tested. He has OFA hips, eyes, and had a DNA test which checks things, which showed he was clear for everything tested, but a carrier for one thing. Carriers can't have the problem. My ex-mother-in-law turned 90 in March .Her dog had passed away a few months earlier. She was set on a dog who did not need to have hair cuts. Kim, my daughter, now goes every week to take her shopping, and on outings. I had done my bossy thing and told her to convince her to get a non-shedding, hypoallergenic dog. She isn't able to clean house well anymore, she has allergies, even though she denies it. Plus there was talk about going into a senior residential community, which I know she would love. Shes a social person. She tried getting 2 cats who needed a home. It didnt work, rubbing on her legs the one was going to knock her down, and they were getting into her many houseplants. I dont even want to think about the litter box situation, older home and plumbing and she was convinced you can just scoop it into the commode.In the outings with Kim she kept pointing at cute little dogs. Kim kept pointing out, Granda those dogs have cute hair cuts, it doesn't grow that way. Kim wisely suggested bringing over a different dog of the varieties she could borrow from us. Then she could meet them see what they are like and maybe keep one. Kim took Bubba first. He hopped in her lap. Before you know it shes asking if he would sleep with her. She never had a dog sleep in the bed due to the fur issue. Bubba slept with us. Kim said she wasn't planning to leave him, she will bring him back and bring the next dog. Edna asked to keep him. So Bubba was her 90th birthday present from us. He is not formally retired but will be as soon as our new red male is old enough and passes his health testing. Bubba adores her. Nothing better then to have a furry best friend. We of course also care for Edna and why I suggested Bubba. I knew she needed a best friend and Bubba is such a great dog. Bubba Bubba and his black poodle son. Bubba, as a puppy. Teddy red Cavapoo, and Bubba when a little baby. Bubba 3 months old, at a dirt bike race. He didn't mind the noise at all. Hunter, super smart 2 year old boy who just loved baby Bubba! Bubba with his fro. No man cometh unto the Father, but by me. I hope your visit to our site is fun, emotional and informative. Are you a Standard Poodle owner, or have you ever owned a Standard Poodle in the past? If you qualify as either of the above mentioned people, you know how loyal and loving the Standard Poodle is. The intelligence of this amazing breed is common knowledge for you. With each look of devotion from your Standard Poodle you have felt the goose bumps and familiar feeling each time they snuggle so close. If you do not own nor have ever owned a Standard Poodle you have so much to look forward to with one. These dogs will amaze you with their endless understanding of the human language. Whether you have been gone from home ten minutes or eight hours, the greeting you will receive will be exuberant. Their companionship will always be a comfort to you. The Standard Poodle is a large breed but the soft, feather like touch they have will surprise you. When your Standard Poodle jumps up to give you a hug it will be so gentle compared to the heavy touch or push from other large, but gentle breeds. Obviously your search for a new family member has led you here, to our Family Affair Standard Poodle website. Since you are here we hope our knowledge and our 30 plus years of experience breeding will help you find the perfect Standard Poodle puppy for you and your family. Each page is designed and written to help you and your families make a well informed, confident decision to purchase your Standard Poodle puppy here at Family Affair Standard Poodles. You will see slide shows of Holley and me including childhood pictures. You will also see us as we are today, with our own families. You will get to see pictures of our facility, which we are very proud of. In addition, you will see slide shows of the sires dads and dams moms of the younger litters of our Standard Poodle puppies that will be ready in the near future. There will also be a video of the entire litter. You can view slide shows, testing results and pedigree information on the canines, Ladies and Gentlemen of Family Affair Standard Poodles. In addition we have posted the color and approximate height and weight of each of our canine Ladies and Gentlemen at Family Affair Standard Poodles. You will also get to meet all the humans involved in this Family Affair. We retire all of our adult Standard Poodles between the ages of six and seven. Occasionally we will have a younger adult up for adoption or a puppy with special needs. This page will give you an idea of what to expect from these retiring girls and guys as new family members. You will be able to read letters or notes from previous people who have adopted our adult Standard Poodles. These are questions you need answered prior to the decision to adopt or purchase and after the arrival of your new Standard Poodle Puppy or Adoptee. Questions about the health issues and the wide range of colors in the Standard Poodle breed will be addressed. There will be training and grooming tips and lots more. We have provided an explanation of how the purchase process works from the deposit until the payment in full is made for your Standard Poodle Puppy or Adult or Special Needs Adoptee. These contracts serve as your guarantee, medical record and receipt all in one. Each contract has specific instructions at the top on how to fill out and submit these contracts. It will explain how our Standard Poodle Puppies are shipped and put your mind at ease concerning shipping. You can read about our personal delivery service, the advantages of this service and the fees involved. There are also pictures and letters concerning successfully shipped or delivered puppies. There are certain things you need when you take your new Standard Poodle puppy home. This package will have almost everything you need when you take home your Standard Poodle puppy. These packages will start with your correct size crate and end with the grooming shampoo and tools and everything in between. On this page we pay honor to the people in our lives that have made all of us who we are today and those who have helped to make our dream a reality and worked side by side with us through the good times, as well as the hard times. We also recognize the animals that we have been blessed to know throughout our lives and who have passed on to Rainbow Bridge and are sorely missed. Some of these people have been gracious enough to allow us to list their emails so you can email them directly for a reference. We also have a link to view a letter from our annual AKC inspection. You can view letters of our previous vet of 15 years and our present vet who we have been with since .It also has groomers and vets as well as trainers listed. This is where the puppies are raised. In our opinion the most versatile breed anyone could ask for is the Standard Poodle. Standards are very happy on a farm, hiking, swimming, hunting and playing games. They are also very content to be a couch potato in an apartment with brief outings to play. They enjoy homes with a houseful of children, older couples or a single human companion. They do great with other pets as well. Enjoy your visit to our Family Affair Standard Poodles website. We hope to hear from you soon so that you can become a part of our Family Affair.

Our AKC Goldens are family members first and live inside right along with us. Our six children happen to be pretty awesome, built in, puppy socializers. The babies are raised using puppy culture and Avidog methods with early neurological stimulation starting at just 3 days old. Each puppy is loved and cared for as if it were my own. I set my standards high and continue to educate myself on the best practices to raise the best possible puppy. I strive to give your new family member the best possible start in life so that you can enjoy a happy, healthy dog for many years to come. All of our breeding dogs have OFA clearances hips, elbows, eyes and heart and have complete full genetic panels. I will do my best to update this site with planned breedings, stud services, expected and previous litters, and the occasional adult golden looking for a retirement home. Happy, Healthy Bloodline Each of our dogs have pedigrees full of health tested dogs. Each puppy comes with a 2 year health guarantee and my lifetime breeder support. A Furever Friend Golden Retrievers are meant to be a part of our families. They are as intelligent as they are beautiful, with a desire to please and eagerness to love. Every child deserves to grow up with a golden and no home is truly complete until you have welcomed one or two or three into it! Sign Up For Updates Be the first to hear about new litters, availability, retired adults, trained young adults and even helpful pet advice. Email Address. We stand by our pups, which is why we work alongside licensed veterinarians to ensure that our puppies are healthy and always up to date on their deworming and vaccination protocols. We also offer a 2-year genetic health guarantee on all of our puppies. That way, you can rest easy knowing your puppy is healthy and free from genetic defects and congenital diseases. Our mission is dedicated to connecting healthy, beautiful puppies with their forever families. No Puppies of this type are available right now, to see the puppies currently available visit: Our Puppies About Show Golden Retrievers Dog Group: Sporting— meaning, they are especially trainable and good natured. Size: inches tall and lbs— so essentially a very large Teddy bear. Lifespan: of the best years of your life! Energy Level: Active Coat: Thick, long, and luxurious. Shedding: Moderately heavy. Hypoallergenic: Unfortunately, Show Goldens are not hypoallergenic. What is a Show Golden Retriever? These dogs are sought after for their lovely appearances and how well they perform in dog shows. Basically, a Show Golden is a natural variation of the Golden Retriever breed. Show Goldens gained their namesake as a result of, well, their competition standards. They are quite remarkable in appearance and have wonderful coats. The original Goldens came to be as a result of cross-breeding between various different breeds including: Water Spaniels, Yellow Retrievers, Irish Settlers, and Bloodhounds over several generations. In other words, all Golden Retriever subtypes including the British Golden subtype , are members of the same family, or breed. The Show Goldens belong to any of the 3 of the Golden subtypes. Because their temperament is friendly, fun-loving, and obedient just like normal Goldens. These pups are known for being loyal, eager to please, and attentive. Like all Goldens, they are playful and excitable. In short, their great, balanced temperament makes them a great addition to any home! Oftentimes, cheaper golden retriever puppies can ultimately cost you a LOT more money in the long run because they are more likely to have health issues. Are Show Goldens more expensive? Because of their desirable coats and specific standard, Show Goldens can be more expensive than certain other subtypes of Golden Retriever. What is the difference between Show Goldens and Golden Retriever? A Show Golden is a type of Golden Retriever. The Show Goldens do tend to sport slightly longer coats overall and have bigger bones on average. The main difference is easily their care requirements. Their long coats must consistently be maintained and brush to keep their appearance. How big is a full grown Show Golden Retriever? The weight range for these sweet pups can be from pounds for full-grown males, and pounds for full-grown females. Additionally, these babies tend to stand at about inches tall, with males being on the taller end of the spectrum. They are typically large-boned and have a more broadhead than an average Golden. Do Show Goldens shed? Yes, all types and variations of Golden Retrievers shed, and this is entirely normal for the breed. However, it is worth noting that because the Show Goldens often have a coat that is slightly longer than Standard Golden. More brushing is required to maintain their lovely coats. Are Show Golden Retrievers aggressive? The good news is— no, Show Golden Retrievers are not aggressive dogs by nature. In fact, due to their training they are very obedient. Just like standard Goldens they are sweet, calm, and lovable. They make a fantastic addition to any family including yours. Are Show Goldens more calm? When compared to other subtypes of Golden Retrievers, the main difference is simply their training and appearance plus care requirements. Due to their training they are more eager to please and faster to listen to commands. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for New York Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in New York? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in New York? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. I have combined the two for easier navigation of all of my services and breeding program. I welcome you to my home on the internet and encourage you to browse around to see all that I have to offer. My name is Chrissy Harp, I have been in business for 18 years now. I want everyone that purchases a golden to have the same great experience of owning a well mannered, healthy, lovable puppy as I have. Everyone should own a golden retriever once in their lives, there is nothing like it!! My line has been in our family for 26 years, so I know the health history and it speaks for itself. I stand behind every puppy with a 2 year health guarantee. My whole mission behind spending all this time and money finding the perfect breed able dogs, is so an average family can have a high quality, healthy pet. As it becomes available, I will post information about my puppies as well as dogs that I have available for sale. You may sign up for my email newsletter. I try to send one out when I have a litter expected, a dog that is trained and ready to be placed, a possible therapy dog, a retired dog needing a retirement home, or if something is new. Additional photos are always available. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me by e-mail at puppies opkgoldens.

bernedoodle dog puppies ohio - View All Articles in Labradoodle Breeders Location Depending on your geographical location, you can expect to pay more money in certain areas. Naturally, the Labradoodle price is usually tied to the overall cost of living in that area. Of course, you might be tempted to adopt a puppy from a different state. Any of those can add a few hundred dollars to your total Labradoodle price. Breeder Stock Another factor that influences the Labradoodle cost is breeding stock. Breeding different generations of Labradoodles requires a certain set of parent dogs. For example, F1 or first-generation Labradoodles are often less expensive than F1b or F1bb Labradoodles. See Also: Click the image Demand Needless to say, the high demand can also hike up the price of Labradoodles, especially in more populated areas like major cities. The best reputable breeders have waiting lists that filled 6 months in advance, sometimes even up to a year or two. This in turn means that breeders will charge higher rates to keep up with the demand while not overbreeding the mama dogs. Size, Color, and Coat Type Another thing you should keep in mind is that certain sizes, colors, and coat types can cost you some extra money. For instance, some breeders charge more for Mini Labradoodles compared to Standard Labradoodles. Usually, the most hypoallergenic Labradoodles are found in F1b, F1bb, F2b, and F2bb generations, which also require more genetic testing to achieve. See Also: Click the image Breeder Reputation Lastly, reputable breeders also charge premium rates for their Labradoodle puppies. Ethical, reputable breeders put a lot of time, money, and effort into breeding and raising healthy and well-rounded pups. All of this reflects in the Labradoodle price. Professional breeders have learned all about health and genetic testing. See Also: Click the image In addition to that, reputable breeders know the importance of early socialization , training, and other enrichment methods. Ethical breeders also follow breeding guidelines set by established organizations we mentioned above. Many of them are also affiliated with the organizations and continuously keep educating themselves on the best breeding practices. How much does a Labradoodle cost when adopting a puppy from a professional, ethical breeder? Of course, there are many backyard breeders who have the best intentions in mind and only want to share the joy of this adorable crossbreed. However, oftentimes, these breeders might not conduct all the necessary health and genetic testing on their breeding dogs. Nor can they provide proper health guarantees for their puppies. Additionally, many backyard breeders do not choose new homes for the puppies as carefully as professional breeders. When a litter is born, they just sell all the puppies on a first come first serve basis. How much are Labradoodles when adopting from a backyard breeder? Puppy Mills Finally, we have the worst of the bunch — puppy mills. Unfortunately, these breeders only work for their own financial gain. More often than not, they neglect the wellbeing of their breeding dogs and puppies. Beware of pet stores, as well, as they often source their puppies from puppy mills. Puppy mills usually overbreed their mama dogs and keep them on tight schedules to produce more and more puppies. Meanwhile, the dogs and puppies are kept in unsafe and unclean environments, often in small cages and kennels. Moreover, these pups often come with serious health conditions. How much does a Labradoodle cost when adopting from a puppy mill? Above all, we urge you to avoid these breeders at all costs. As a general rule of thumb, larger, Standard Labradoodles require more calories per day compared to smaller, Mini and Medium Labradoodles. All of them are tried, tested, and recommended by Doodle owners. Training Training and early socialization both play a key role in raising well-rounded Labradoodles. Vet Visits One of the most expensive parts of owning a dog is taking your pup to regular vet visits and wellness checks. And to be prepared for those unexpected vet visits, we recommend you choose a trustworthy pet insurance company. During the first year, you should make sure that your puppy is up to date with all of its vaccinations and preventative care for worms, fleas, ticks , and heartworm. Grooming You might already know that Labradoodles are high-maintenance when it comes to grooming and coat care. Time Investment Like any other pet, Labradoodles require a lot of time and effort from your part. Other Costs In addition to all the Labradoodle costs we mentioned above, there are other everyday items that your dog will need. These include food and water bowls, dog beds, dog crate, a collar and a leash, toys and chew toys, and poop bags. So, you know with absolute certainty that the Labradoodle is the right pup for you. But how can you find quality Labradoodle breeders? As fellow Doodle owners, we know how difficult it can be to find ethical, reputable breeders in your area. Why Are Labradoodles Expensive? Ethical Labradoodle breeders charge higher prices for their pups, as they carefully screen the breeding dogs through extensive health and genetic testing. In addition to that, they provide their clients with genetic health guarantees and implement various forms of enrichment methods when rearing the puppies. How Much Does A Labradoodle Cost: Final Thoughts Adopting a dog is not just a huge emotional commitment, but also requires you to think whether or not your finances allow you to take care of another living being. Hopefully, this article has managed to answer all of your questions about the Labradoodle cost of adoption and the ongoing costs throughout their lifetime. Avoid making the mistake of choosing the wrong Doodle temperament for your family, lifestyle, or current living situation. A close up face image of Labradoodle puppy Max The price depends on many factors and can vary from breeder to breeder. While this might seem like a hefty price to pay for a puppy, the low prices that you find on social media or other ads are usually from puppy mills that try to over-breed these beloved animals in inappropriate and unethical ways. Low-quality living conditions notwithstanding, puppies from such places have a high probability of suffering from ailments and issues caused by genetic mutations occurring from rapid breeding. Labradoodle costs around the world In Australia the average prices for non-shedding Labradoodles ranged from AUD. There were some niche breeders that charged much more. Depending on how unique the coat color is, the price will vary. Parti-colored Labradoodles like Tuxedo Labradoodle or Phantom Labradoodle cost significantly more than a solid-colored cream, black, or gold Labradoodle. Sometimes, depending on your location, you may have to shell out extra dollars if you specifically want a multi-colored Labradoodle. Coat texture is another influencing factor. Shiny, sleek coats are more attractive and an indication of a superior bloodline. Hence, they are going to cost more. Curly and wavy-haired Labradoodles will be more expensive than straight-haired ones as they are almost non-shedding and hypoallergenic. Blue-eyed Labradoodles can be even more expensive, owing to their rarity and beauty. Labradoodle Size As they are crossbred, there are no specific breeding standards for Labradoodles. Most breeders classify Labradoodle puppy sizes as standard, medium, and miniature. Toy, teacup, miniature, and maxi are some other terms used to describe the size of Labradoodle dogs. The smaller the puppy size, the higher its price. This is because of the increased demand for smaller-sized dogs. Some breeders have their own standards and classifications when it comes to dog size and weight. While some breeders consider pound dogs as petite, others see them as miniature. Micro and petit are other terms that are used, both interchangeably and independently by different breeders. Usually, petit dogs fall in the pounds range, and micro dogs under 10 pounds. Age Typically, most people prefer buying a young puppy rather than a full-grown dog. Hence, prices are higher for puppies than dogs. For instance, a 6-month-old puppy is going to cost less than a 6-week-old one. A rich Apricot coat Labradoodle at the groomer. Generation Type Another determining factor is the percentage of each parent breed in the Labradoodle puppy. F1B generations have a purebred Poodle and an F1 generation Labradoodle as their parents. While this is a rarer generation, they are cheaper as their chances of being hypoallergenic is lesser than that of others. Generally, F1B Labradoodles are the most expensive generation as they have the highest chance of being hypoallergenic. Location and Demand The Labradoodle breed is one of the most popular crossbreed dogs, a close second to the Goldendoodles. This has significantly increased their value and demand. Dog breeders of bigger cities will have a large client pool and higher earnings. They usually have a hard time keeping up with the demands and hence have to increase their price. Breeders from rural areas have comparatively lower demand and charge less for their puppies. Nevertheless, the demand for low-shedding, hypoallergenic dogs is high everywhere, regardless of the size and popularity of a place. While it might be cheaper to buy your Labradoodle puppy from a rural breeder, you might still have to beat your budget to travel the extra distance or to have the puppy transferred to you. Although the low prices advertised at puppy mills might be tempting, getting a Labradoodle puppy from a reputed breeder is always a better option. Besides being spayed, neutered, and vaccinated, puppies from reputed breeders will also be appropriately socialized. This will make it easier for them to adapt to their new home. Most reputable breeders establish their prices based on their experience, investment, knowledge, credentials, and reputation with previous customers. Some breeders even incorporate training from a young age, and some puppies are potty trained at just eight weeks old. Reputed breeders also have health certificates and genetic records of both parent dogs in place. These certificates are proof that your Labradoodle is in the best of health and hygiene. Other Costs Associated With Labradoodles The preliminary cost of a Labradoodle will be substantially less than the total expenses involved throughout its life. Additionally, you might have to spend more on training foods and treats. Grooming The grooming needs of Labradoodles may vary depending on the type and length of their coat. Although Labradoodles are almost hypoallergenic, they need regular brushing and bathing. Medical Costs Most crossbreed dogs are usually less prone to ailments and diseases. Their larger gene pool also reduces their risk of inheriting diseases. One of the most common health issues with Labradoodle is hip dysplasia. And the surgical procedure to fix this is expensive, which is especially necessary for older Labradoodles. Besides this, there are other health care costs like vaccinations and regular veterinarian check-ups Ohio State Veterinary School source. It safeguards you against any unforeseen situations that may arise in the future with regard to its health. Training and Boarding Costs Although Labradoodles are very intelligent and highly trainable, it is advisable to enroll them in a professional training program to ensure their all-round development. It also helps address their excessive barking and jumping, which is common in Labradoodles. Labradoodles are high-energy dogs that can turn destructive when left alone for a long time. So whenever you go on trips, you will have to leave them at a doggie care center. Can Labradoodles smile? Ideally, you should purchase an adjustable crate whose length you can adjust as and when your puppy grows. Labradoodles are highly energetic dogs who need toys to maintain their mental stimulation and to keep them from getting destructive due to boredom. You might also have to make a one-time investment on a good quality bed as they often tend to chew and scratch at it. Labradoodle Adoption Price While you may want to get your Labradoodle puppy from a shelter, the chances are slim as Labradoodles are highly sought-after breeds that are usually kept in tight breeding groups. This is usually done to cover the cost of medical and maintenance care. Adopting a puppy from a rescue shelter is a noble idea, but you must also prepare to deal with any possible future problems with their health and temperament, as rescue dogs usually have health and behavior problems. My Miniature Labradoodle Max wearing a stylish rain coat Avoiding Disreputable Breeders The pet business has now emerged as one of the biggest industries worldwide. Unfortunately, this has also birthed unethical puppy mills, backyard breeders, and online pet stores, who have little to no knowledge about raising and nurturing puppies. Often, unsuspecting pet lovers trying to save some money fall prey to these tricks and end up with an unhealthy puppy with health and temperamental issues. This leads to them spending a lot of money on the treatment and maintenance of these puppies down the road. So, is there a way to distinguish between good and bad breeders and avoid paying exorbitant prices by accidentally supporting these puppy mills? Start by doing plenty of research on the breeder and consciously avoid backyard breeders, pet stores, and online stores. Additionally, look out for these red flags: Unusually low-priced puppies. The breeder refuses to show the living conditions of their dogs and puppies. Adult dogs are kept in harsh conditions and small cages. Puppies seem reserved, edgy, and nervous around people. The breeder has no health certificates of puppies and its parent dogs. Breeder refuses to provide any paperwork. Here are some standards and conventions practiced by trustworthy breeders: They breed puppies indoors and will take equal care of the parent dogs. They offer ample space and freedom to their puppies and dogs to run, play, sleep, and do everything they desire. They periodically clean and groom the dogs. They promote a healthy bonding of puppies with their mother and littermates. They try to gauge if you are capable of raising a particular dog breed. They offer tips and tricks on puppy care and maintenance. They have health and vaccination certificates from a licensed veterinarian. They offer proper legal protection like providing a guarantee for puppy replacement after around 1. Going through previous testimonials and customer reviews is another way of determining the credibility of a breeder. Find out how long the breeder has been in the business. Have a proper conversation with them and get all your puppy-related questions answered before you decide to get your puppy from them. With their love and affection, these bundles of joy can not only turn your bad days into wonderful ones, their high intelligence and alert minds also make them great guard dogs. Before purchasing a Labradoodle puppy, make sure to research the breeder and never get puppies from breeders who cannot provide health certificates for the puppies and their parents. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Our New Puppy Checklist gives you an easy way to keep track of items you already have and ones you still need to pick up. You will save you time, money, and loads of frustration…take my word for it! Get Your Copy Today! Everything that goes into making a good breeder adds value and factors into the price you pay. We recommend working with a quality breeder when getting a Labradoodle. We explain ways to identify reputable breeders and questions to ask in this article. Caring for the Puppies This goes beyond simply making sure the puppy has food and water. What kind of food are the puppies being fed? A good breeder will be able and willing to tell you this it also helps you prepare for bringing your puppy home. Puppies are like human babies — they are prone to getting sick early on. Smell the puppies! The puppies smelled clean and freshly bathed. Are the puppies receiving the proper vaccinations when they should be? Puppies have a schedule of preventive vaccination and immunizations they should be getting in the first year of their life. What about once you take the puppy home? Socialization and Stimulation Dr. This is so true! And it starts early on. From birth, the puppy should handled and all of their body parts touched paws, mouth, tail, stomach, ears, arms, and legs. This includes laying them on their back. Once a few weeks old, they should be getting exposed to people in a controlled environment our breeder has three kids, which are great puppy socializers. They should be exposed to different surfaces, noises, and encouraged to explore their surroundings, while not startling them too much or endangering them. Giving them this foundation makes training your puppy easier down the road and also makes them a much more adaptable pup. Be sure to head over to this article for valuable tips on continuing socialization after you bring your puppy home. Responsible Breeding Practices A quality breeder puts the overall well-being of their puppies far beyond the money they make from breeding. Get ready to fill out some paperwork! This goes back to their commitment to the overall well-being of the dogs they home. Visit this page to find a Labradoodle breeder near you. Quality Of The Breeding Stock Determining the quality of the breeder is pretty easy, while understanding the quality and genetics of the breeding stock takes a bit more research. Breeding Stock Genetics This part is expensive but is critical to the breeding process for Labradoodles, because certain health conditions often appear within the breed. If a breeder starts with a sire father and dam mother with poor genetics or disease and health problems, what effect will this have on their litter? This part is usually overlooked or neglected by non-reputable breeders because it involves costly genetic testing and screening done by organizations like the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals source. Our breeder offered an month replacement guarantee, which was really great see below. We checked the social media accounts of different breeders we were considering to see what others were saying. Talk to the breeder in advance. See how knowledgeable they are about the breed. Come with some good questions that you know the answers to, and compare their responses. Ask the breeder what all goes into the cost of their Labradoodles. Ask them what they do with the puppies regarding socialization. Related Questions: Should I visit breeders before making my decision to purchase a Labradoodle? We highly recommend that you schedule a visit to see any and all breeders you are considering getting a Labradoodle from. Will the breeder require a deposit for the puppy? They may also ask you to pay another portion of the total cost once the puppy is born, to help with costs of caring for them. Why are Labradoodles such a popular breed? Labradoodles are popular and highly regarded for many reasons, including their great personalities , family and allergy-friendly nature, and their low-to-no shed coats. After all, they do become part of the family, right? Grab your copy today! Related Posts:. Due to the nature of our program and careful attention to the development of each puppy, they are usually reserved before they are born. For your convinience, we accept the following means of payment: cash at the time of your puppy pickup Venmo and Zelle you can use our phone number or email address texasdoodles gmail. Therefore, if, for whatever reason you do not receive a puppy from the litter you made a reservation for, or you are unable to take the puppy home at the time of puppy pickup, your deposit will transfer to the next litter of your choice. It is your responsibility to let us know which litter you are interested in and you would like your name to be added to. The adoption price of your Authentic Multigenerational Australian Labradoodle includes the following: 1. Microchip 2. De-worming and Age-Appropriate Vaccinations 3. Important Puppy Care Information .A Lifetime of Support pertaining to questions you might have regarding your Authentic Multigenerational Australian Labradoodle .Puppy Gift bag: Snuggle Puppy Toy with the scent of their litter mates and parents. However, some pups exchange hands for even more, if they have something which makes them especially desirable examples of what that might be coming up! You may also see Labradoodle puppies advertised for far less. This should be a red flag. A good breeder spends a great deal of money to produce a healthy litter. The costs of breeding a healthy litter include: Health screening for the parents. Travel and accommodation to meet a suitable stud dog. Veterinary costs for mom and her litter. Extra food. Whelping supplies, such as a whelping box, heat mats, and bedding. Time off work to look after mom, and start socializing her puppies. Backyard breeders, puppy mills, and online sellers may offer puppies at bargain prices, but only by cutting their own costs first. So their puppies are more likely to leave home with inherited health problems that require expensive treatment later. Or with behavioral problems like separation anxiety or stranger-directed aggression, which are difficult or impossible to overcome. Lots of people are overwhelmed by the upfront cost of a well bred puppy. Adopting a dog from a shelter is one way to find a dog for less, but without supporting unethical breeding practices. And some regions even have dedicated rescue organizations which specialize in rehoming Labradoodles and other Poodle crosses. This is a much less expensive route and adoption fees often cover things like initial vaccinations and microchipping. Such as whether they carry any late-onset inherited diseases, or are reactive to certain triggers. What Factors Determine Labradoodle Cost? There are a number of factors which may make people willing to pay more for a Labradoodle. Breeder Good breeders are rarely in it for the money. Even if they sell their puppies for a more money than they spent on them, the profit divided by the number of hours they spent caring the dam and her litter works out in cents! All breeders have their own personal philosophy on pricing pups. They might have a reputation and a waiting list which means they can charge more than the competition. They might also charge highly to deter people from buying their puppies on impulse. Provided you ask politely, a reputable breeder will be happy to explain how they arrived at the cost of their puppies. But a breeder who refuses to discuss how they set their price at all may be attempting to cover up the fact that their puppies have been very poorly raised and are not worth the asking price. Breeding Stock Breeders who invest in meticulous health screening of their sire and dam may pass the cost of that onto their buyers, and they have every right to do so. Puppies from thoroughly health tested parents cost more upfront, but they are likely to cost less in lifetime veterinary fees. Labradoodle puppies from parents with show or field titles may also be advertised at higher prices. The puppies of Labradoodles that have been backcrossed with a purebred Poodle will have a greater chance of inheriting the Poodle coat. Other factors There are other things which might affect Labradoodle costs too. For example, in cities and urban areas, miniature Labradoodles might command higher prices than standard Labradoodles. Some factors have nothing to do with the dog at all. For example, many reputable breeders avoid producing litters around Christmas time to avoid buyers passing them on as gifts to other people, or buying them on impulse without really thinking it through. Low quality breeders on the other hand, tend to push their prices up at this time of year. The Cost of Owning a Labradoodle in the First Year Whether you go a shelter or a breeder, adoption fees and purchase price are only the beginning of what it costs to own a Labradoodle. The first year will typically be the most expensive because this is when most major expenses occur. Such as Having the dog spay or neutered. Training classes. Accessories like a crate, bedding, toys, collar and leash. Labradoodles have a high frequency of joint disorders such as hip and elbow dysplasia, which may require expensive monthly prescriptions to manage. Bringing a puppy into your life comes with the responsibility to keep him healthy and happy. From food to medical costs, from toys to grooming, there a number of regular expenses that come with owning a dog. Food is such an essential part of ensuring your dog is healthy and there is a wide range of commercial dog foods available. You can spend tens, or hundred of dollars per month! Always choose a good quality food that lists animal protein as the first ingredient and avoid brands that include meat by-products, fillers, and artificial ingredients that can cause gastrointestinal problems and allergic reactions. This article on feeding a Labradoodle puppy can guide you. Feeding your dog a healthy diet and ensuring an active dog like the Labradoodle gets enough exercise will go a long way to reducing medical costs. However, any dog can develop health issues that require treatment that can run into thousands of dollars. Health problems that the Labradoodle can be susceptible to include: Hip and elbow dysplasia.


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bernedoodle dog puppies ohio - Here are some things to consider: Size Do you want a big or a small golden? Sex Do you want a male or a female? Style Or a stocky, blocky-headed golden retriever? Color Do you want a dark gold or red golden , a cream-colored golden , or something more in the middle? Personality Do you want a calm golden or more of an energetic one? Nobody will be able to tell you what you want out of a dog but yourself. Consider your lifestyle, home, whether or not you have kids , what you like to do on the weekend, etc. If you want to get a good feel for what a puppy will be like, look at their parents. Temperament and health are hereditary and no puppy test or observation will be as accurate as what their parents are like. So that being said, pick a good breeder that is breeding dogs that resemble what you want. There are two important things here: Talk to the breeder and tell them what you want Observe the puppies and look for the puppy that resembles what you want Talk To The Breeder The breeder has spent the last eight weeks with the puppies and knows them best. By telling them what you want they can help you decide the right one for you. But assuming the decisions lays in your hands, this next section will help you out. Selecting A Puppy From The Litter When we went to pick our puppy from the litter we knew exactly what we wanted: a big, calm, sweet boy. He had probably worn himself out trying to impress them because two days later we were wondering what happened to that calm puppy as a fluffy little tornado was tearing around our apartment! Are they submissive? This might give you some insight into their personality. Take note of their energy levels. Consider how your puppy interacts with people. How are they with you, whoever is with you, and the breeder? Are they fearful? A friendly dog will be outgoing and interested in you. Toss your keys or a toy. Put the puppy on their back. Either cradle them in your arms on their back, or roll them on their back on the floor. A dominant pup may squirm a lot, but a well-adjusted pup should calm down shortly. They should be ok with being handled. Shoutout to Vet Street for a few of the tips above. In addition to choosing the right puppy, you also want to choose a healthy puppy. Now even if you have your checklist and run each pup through these tests, it may all go out the window if a puppy picks you. But as we tried to give each puppy a chance and interact with all of them, Oliver kept coming back to my wife and nuzzling his nose into her to tell her that he was the one. Conclusion When picking a puppy you first want to decide what you want. Then pick a breeder that breeds dogs that resemble what you want. When it comes to actually picking the puppy from the litter, talk to the breeder about it and try to see which puppies match up with what you want. However, know that puppies may be different than how they initially appear. And finally, you might not even need to worry about picking the right puppy because the right puppy just might pick you. Have any questions about picking a golden retriever puppy from the litter? Let me know in the comments below! And if you know someone who is about to pick up a puppy, please share this with them! Related articles:. However, picking the right puppy from a litter can be overwhelming and stressful. So, what is the easiest way to pick a golden retriever puppy from a litter? An excellent way to see how your potential puppy will turn out is to take a look at his parents. Most importantly, ask the breeder a lot of questions before adopting. This article may contain affiliate links and loyalgoldens may earn a commission if a purchase is made. Unlock your goldens natural intelligence and see just how quickly problem behaviors disappear. This is the best at home dog training I've ever used! A responsible breeder is your best bet for a healthy puppy. A dog breeder like this will cut corners and overbreed in order to get as many viable Golden retriever pups to sell to unsuspecting puppy buyers as possible. Even if the price for a golden retriever puppy appears to be less initially, the potential long-term health and behavioral problems involved with a puppy from a genetically unhealthy litter will quickly surpass the cost of a puppy from a good breeder. Some of the best ways to find a quality golden retriever puppy breeder is to get referrals from your local veterinarian, a good friend, or a local golden retriever club. You can also find an excellent golden retriever breeder by attending professional dog shows. When you look each puppy over, you want to look specifically at their eyes, coat, build, and skin. Look at their eyes. They should look focused and clear. You want to keep an eye out for any golden retriever puppies that rub their eyes or appear to struggle with their vision, such as squinting. Touch their coat. The coat of your new perfect puppy should be shiny and healthy. Examine their build. Take a look at the overall shape of each puppy. Check to see if they are favoring one foot more than another foot. These could be signs of a more serious health issue. Check their skin. You want to keep an eye out for any flaky skin or skin with bald patches. Look for redness or signs of irritation. There are also instances when a puppy with anxiety will chew or scratch at their skin until the fur falls off. Things to look for when choosing a puppy from a litter. Even the runts are going to be bigger than a lot of other breeds. Many people wonder if the runt of the litter is a good choice when choosing a golden retriever. The runts are typically the pups who are weaker and smaller than the others in their litter. The mother produces the nutrients the litter needs to survive. The runts will be at greater risk of having weaker immune systems and getting infections. Choosing a medium-sized puppy will reduce your chances of getting a runt, an overeater, or a bully overly dominant pup. When it comes to temperament and size, there are differences between females and males. The most significant difference is going to be their size. A male dog will get slightly longer and taller than females, but they will also weigh more. There are also small differences in their faces. They can also come across as more territorial, but this is a very slight difference as well. While the females will still love you unconditionally, the males will be twice as doting and loving. Watch the way each member of the litter interacts with the others. This will tell you how your puppy will react to the other dogs or animals in your home. Extremely shy puppies may not have been socialized well so far, and could grow up to become distrustful dogs that are full of anxieties. Speak with the breeder or the owner of the litter. Ask them tons of questions about how socialized the puppies have been with other dogs and pets so far in their young lives. Make Sure the Golden Retriever Puppy Is the Correct Age Golden retriever puppies should stay with their mothers for eight weeks before being adopted and taken home. As mentioned earlier, the mothers produce vital nutrients that a new puppy needs to survive. If the puppy is taken away too soon, it puts them at greater risk of infections and other complications. It can also increase their anxiety, aggression and make them over-protective of their toys and food. Discover how to train your Golden Retriever by playing games : 21 games to play with your Golden that will make them smarter and better behaved! Before seeing the litter, research what a golden retriever puppy of eight weeks looks like. It will vary depending on the dog, but this will help you establish a clear idea of what the puppies will look like when you see the litter. The size and temperament of the parents are passed down to their offspring. What is the temperament of the parents? How does the puppy in question behave around dogs outside their litter? What kind of food are the puppies used to eating? Have the puppies all been dewormed? Are the puppies socialized with other animals besides dogs, such as cats or birds? Summary Adopting a puppy is a significant milestone for a family. They are simultaneously wonderful family pets—thanks to their friendly, tolerant attitude—and capable, intelligent working dogs. These sturdy, medium-sized dogs grow to about 55—75 pounds and typically live to be about 10—12 years old. Outgoing, trustworthy, eager-to-please, and easy-to-train, they are especially popular with families with young children. Goldens often maintain their fun-loving puppy attitudes and signature smile into adulthood. Part of the sporting dog group, golden retrievers are active dogs that require at least an hour of daily exercise. They live up to their name; they love retrieving just about anything thrown for them. This makes them excellent hunting companions and skilled service dogs. They love to eat, run, spend time with their owners, and even participate in obedience and agility events. Their coloring ranges from light golden to cream, and dark golden to golden, and their physique can vary from broad and dense to leaner and more sporty. According to AKC standards,goldens move with a smooth, powerful gait, and the feathery tail is carried, as breed fanciers say, with a "merry action. Thanks to their breeding as hunting and waterfowl-retrieving dogs in the Scottish Highlands,their outer coat is dense and repels water. They also have a thick undercoat. Their coats can vary in texture from wavy to straight. Heavy feathering appears on their chest, the backs of their legs, and tail. Temperament In general, golden retrievers are outgoing, playful, and gentle. They are also friendly, intelligent, and devoted. As they get older, most golden retrievers become docile and calm. Bred to be working retrievers, goldens have a lot of energy and require a lot of activity. They are best suited for owners with an active lifestyle and they thrive in a home where someone is around during the day to spend time with them. They don't do well when left at home on their own; they love their humans too much. Their happy demeanor often draws attention from other people when you are out and about—goldens get along well with strangers and other dogs. While they are not considered good guard dogs—they'd be more likely to show an intruder where the treats are than send the intruder running—golden retrievers are excellent service dogs thanks to their loyalty, intelligence, and stable temperament. They see themselves as part of the family and need to be treated as such. Luckily, goldens are not bothered by noise, commotion, and activity, making them very tolerant of children. Golden retrievers also take a "the more the merrier" approach to having other pets in the home. With proper introductions and training, goldens can be trusted with other dogs, cats, rabbits, and other animals. A golden retriever would do well reigning over a large fenced-in yard , so if you don't have a lot of outdoor space or you live in an apartment, make sure you get your golden outside regularly. A lot," Steen says. Owners should get used to having a fair amount of dog hair on clothing and furniture around the home. They have a thick, water-repellant double coat that sheds moderately in the winter and summer, and heavily in the spring and fall. However, if you brush your golden daily, you can prevent tangling and remove some dead hair before it covers everything in sight. Baths can also help and are recommended about once a month, but make sure the golden is fully dry before brushing begins. Golden retrievers will also need their nails trimmed about once or twice a month. A good indicator of when they need to be trimmed is when you can hear them clicking on the floor. Teeth should also be brushed at least two or three times a week. Ear checks are important as well; goldens have fold-over ears, which create an environment that encourages bacteria and fungus to grow. Look for redness or a bad odor and simply wipe out the outer ear with a cotton ball dampened with gentle, pH-balanced ear cleaner to help prevent infections. Exercise is an essential part of a golden retriever's day. At least one hour a day of rigorous activity is necessary, even if that happens over several different outings or play times throughout the day. Goldens can be taken on long runs , bike rides, hikes, and swims. They also enjoy hunting trips, field trials, and other canine sports like agility, obedience, and tracking. A golden that doesn't get enough exercise is likely to exhibit undesirable behaviors like digging and chewing. Mental challenges, such as learning tricks and playing with puzzle toys, are also appealing to goldens, but should never replace physical activity. Take it easy with exercise in a golden retriever's first two years of life, as their growth plates are still forming. Don't go for long, strenuous runs or hikes until the dog is fully grown, and always opt for grass over concrete. Early socialization and puppy training classes are important with golden retrievers. Puppies should be exposed to a wide variety of people, places, and situations to help them become well-adjusted in their young life. When it comes to feeding time , owners need to help golden retrievers manage their intake; they have a tendency to become overweight. Food should be measured out and given twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. Dog treats should be given in moderation. If you're unsure whether your golden retriever is overweight, give him the eye test and the hands-on test. First, look down at him. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on his back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see his ribs without having to press hard. If you can't, he likely needs less food and more exercise. Chat with your vet about the best course of action. According to Steen, they are a generally healthy breed, but goldens are at a slightly increased risk of hip dysplasia and cancer when compared to other dogs. Other health conditions, although not particularly common, include elbow dysplasia, cataracts , progressive retinal atrophy —or gradual deterioration of the retina—hypothyroidism, gastric dilatation-volvulus otherwise known as bloat , and allergies. Golden retrievers should also have their ears checked often and teeth brushed regularly for optimum health. History Dudley Marjoribanks, the first Lord of Tweedmouth, developed golden retrievers in the mid-to-late s. Although at one time a rumor indicated that golden retrievers descended from Russian sheep dogs, they were, in fact, bred in the Scottish Highlands. Marjoribanks bred the dogs for more than 50 years to create an ideal gundog—he was an avid hunter of waterfowl. Tweedmouth wanted a dog suited to the rainy climate and rugged terrain of the area, so he crossed his "yellow retriever" with a breed that is now extinct, the Tweed water spaniel. He also wanted the dog to be even-tempered in the home. A golden retriever was first shown at the British dog show in .The Kennel Club in England officially recognized the golden retriever as a distinct breed in .At that time, they were classified as "retriever — yellow or golden. Fun Facts Considered one of the most beloved dog breeds, golden retrievers gained popularity with American families in the s when President Gerald Ford had a golden named Liberty. Tucker Budzyn is currently the most recognized golden retriever on the Internet, with more than 3 million followers across YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook. Golden retrievers are regulars on big and little screens. Golden retrievers love tennis balls. Just ask this 6-year-old golden named Finley , who is the Guinness World Record holder for carrying the most tennis balls in his mouth at a time. He can hold six! Was this page helpful? January 24, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? What does it take to be considered ideal for a family dog? How do you know if the Golden Retriever is the right fit for you and your family? A Brief Background on Golden Retrievers! Bred in the highlands of Scotland by Lord Tweedmouth in the mid to late s, Goldens are a cross between a Yellow Retriever and an extinct dog breed, the Tweed Water Spaniel. Lord Tweedmouth wanted the ideal gundog to accompany him during fowl hunting and be able to withstand the rugged terrain and rainy conditions. Aside from being able to retrieve fowl, Lord Tweedmouth wanted an even-tempered dog to have at home when not hunting. And so, the Golden Retriever was born. Later in the s, they soon became a popular breed amongst American families when President Gerald Ford had a Golden named Liberty as his family dog. Golden Retrievers, like their name states, are golden! Their luxurious coats come in a variety of light to dark shades, ranging from light like the white Golden Retriever or English Cream to dark golden colors, even close to chocolate. Their coats feature feathering down their backs, chest, belly, hindquarters, and tails. Goldens have soft expressions combined with floppy expressive ears that give them a puppy-like appearance even as adults. Another thing to note of the Golden Retriever is that those fluffy coats are actually what are known as double coats. A strong water repellant coat on top coupled with a dense undercoat to regulate their body heat. This all means these pups can be heavy shedders! What are Golden Retrievers Personalities like? There is something to be said about being named a perfect family dog. The Golden Retriever breed is loyal, affectionate, playful, and gentle. If brought into a home with children, your Golden Retriever puppy will be a great addition for help introducing your new Golden Retriever pup to your kids and how to play together, check out our blog! But being a great family dog doesn't mean they are easy! Goldens have lots of energy which can come out in more jumping and being more mouthy, especially as puppies. Check our training tips for raising a well-mannered Golden at the end of this blog! Two to three daily walks are a must, and throw in fun activities like hiking or going for a swim, your pup will stay golden! Golden Retrievers are eager to please type of breed. They generally have happy go lucky demeanors which lends itself to affection and friendliness, including toward strangers. If you wanted a pup that could eventually become a service dog, a Golden Retriever is a great choice and make for excellent working pups! As a high-energy breed, Golden Retrievers do best in a home that will provide them ample access to romp around. Homes with fenced in yards or access to a park or field on a daily basis where they can run and fetch to their hearts content are the best environment for Goldens! These pups, with consistent early socialization, can adapt and thrive to living in a home with other dogs, or pets, and children! They love to play and make great playmates. That being said, their social nature can lead to dependencies on their owners and family. Golden Retrievers may develop separation anxiety if left alone and not properly trained from an early age. Golden Retrievers may also contract heart disease called subvalvular aortic stenosis SAS that with early diagnosis and treatment can allow for a regular life-span. When you are looking to add a Golden Retriever puppy, make sure you are working with a reputable breeder that cares for the health quality of the dogs they breed. Take advantage of that natural drive and eagerness to please by setting foundations at home. Start your puppy a regular daily puppy schedule to create structured routines in the home. Include consistent feeding, nap, play and obedience training times throughout the day to help your Golden pup learn what to expect and build confidence at home. During their puppy training focus on their obedience commands to help your puppy learn to look to you for guidance, build their communication with you, and solidify a trusting relationship! Since Golden Retrievers love to work, positive reinforcement and food rewards will be valuable motivators to get your puppy focused and listening. In-person and online puppy training programs will walk you through how to teach the commands, exercises to help your puppy learn them, and troubleshoot when your puppy needs it! Teach Your Golden Retriever How to Greet New People and Dogs While their open friendly disposition will help your puppy make new friends where ever they go, make sure to teach your puppy the right way to do so! Some overly energetic and friendly pups can get excitable around new people and dogs. That can result in some unwanted whining, lunging, and jumping. When done correctly, socialization helps teach your puppy the proper way to greet people, other dogs and create boundaries. During socialization sessions, you can work with your puppy on those common over-excited behaviors when meeting strangers. And if you're not sure how to do this on your own, hire a local puppy trainer or join an online puppy training school to help set you up for the best success! Do Calming Obedience Exercises With all their high-energy and high-drive, teaching your Golden how to be calm in everyday scenarios will help tame that wild side! Great calming exercises include having your puppy learn to wait for their food bowl and in thresholds each time you enter or leave a space. This also extends to activities like fetch. Goldens are a natal for this! This can be done simply by having your pup drop the toy when they return and pausing for a few moments giving them a chance to settle before throwing it again for them to retrieve. Teach Them to Walk Nicely on Leash Many high-energy pups have a tendency to lunge toward exciting new things! Couple that with a social nature, and you may encounter that your Golden Retriever puppy will start to pull on leash. Focus on teaching them proper leash manners including how to walk in Heel position and how to pass other people and pups without lunging, jumping and excited whining, barking or nipping at them! That can greatly help possible bad encounters with strangers and other dogs while teaching them great habits! Did you recently bring home a Golden Retriever puppy? Are you still planning and not sure what breed fits your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! Check out these blogs related to puppy training and more! Hunters looking for an intelligent, shorter-coated retriever that will hunt from dark to dark need to research field-bred goldens. By Tony J. Peterson With a charming, eager-to-please personality and looks to match, the golden retriever has plenty to offer. Yet its skyrocketing popularity is the reason golden retrievers have become victims of their own demand. It's also why those in search of a hard-working golden need to be very careful when choosing a pup for hunting purposes. Advertisement A Rich History Among the many reasons for the golden retriever's popularity is the rich history of the breed, which, according to the American Kennel Club, dates back to the early s. Europe is responsible for a good number of our current sporting breeds including goldens, which came into being in England and Scotland well over years ago. During that time, a medium-sized sporting breed was an asset for obtaining food both in the waterfowl and upland gamebird worlds. Throughout the s the breed became even more desirable, and in it was recognized by the AKC. Goldens soon became one of the go-to breeds for many hunters and folks looking to run a dog in an obedience or field trial. They also started showing up in television shows, as well as print and television advertisements, and one needs only look at a single golden to understand why. Very few breeds are as photogenic or as easy to work with as goldens, which contributed further to their popularity. This also led to division in the breed, with an ever-increasing portion of the litters born each year to less stringent standards. Show dogs with their long flowing coats became much more common and they were bred to field-bred dogs as well as other show dogs. Advertisement It has been a couple of decades since the breed hit its high-water mark and since then we've witnessed a decline in the health and hunting-drive of the breed overall. That's not to say that excellent pedigrees don't exist, because they do. They just aren't as easy to locate as a run-of-the-mill, mystery-bred golden. If there is one person that understands this more than most, it's Jackie Mertens. Mertens has owned and operated Topbrass Retrievers since and is undoubtedly one of the most respected names in the world of golden retrievers. Every once in a while, I get to meet someone who was put on this earth to work with dogs, and Mertens fits that category. From her schoolgirl days, Mertens knew she'd work with animals, and as soon as she could she got her first golden. That dog, Ch. Mertens recalls, however, that she almost lost Torch before it all started. Advertisement "Torch had a lot of desire, she was fearless, and she was a good producer — and she did it all on three legs after getting caught in a fox trap," Mertens recalls. She had survived by eating snow and pawing up any plants she could reach. Since then, Mertens has been at the forefront of field-bred goldens, and when someone wants a great housedog, a great hunter — or both — they go to her. And it's all about the breeding. Hunters looking for a waterfowl and upland dog will often steer toward Labs for obvious reasons, but the right golden will fill the role just fine. A field-bred golden with a proper water introduction will bring ducks to hand all day long. They look a bit different and they will exhibit the right drive and retrieving desire. Now, I hear people say all of the time that their dog was the best ever, but they are comparing it to maybe a few other dogs they've owned. To have the best chance of getting a truly good hunting dog, it's field-bred or nothing. There are so many issues that can come up with poor breeding, that it's a process to ensure a healthy litter these days. For us that means looking at all health clearances like hips and elbows, of course, but other things. We use a canine ophthalmologist for eye clearances, a canine cardiologist for heart clearances, and also conduct a litany of DNA tests to ensure proper breeding. Having gone through the heartbreak of losing a golden to kidney failure when she was only six years old, I am particularly sensitive to proper health clearances. All breeds can suffer unfortunate medical issues, but goldens are exceptionally prone to them given the amount of unchecked breeding. Another golden retriever expert I asked to weigh in on this issue is Theresa Bilava, who operates Platte River Retrievers with her son Nick. She started with goldens as a child and has been raising and breeding them for 22 years. Having over two decades of experience devoted to the breed has given Bilava a unique perspective on the current state of the golden retriever, and she was more than willing to offer advice to anyone looking for a pup. Like Mertens, Bilava makes sure all of her Platte River dogs are health checked in all manners. Now people think they can pick up any golden puppy and it will hunt, but that's not the case. With us, we're breeding for athletes, not models. Our dogs are field-bred, and quite frankly, a lot of the people that contact me about getting a dog don't even know what a field-bred dog is. We want dogs that want to play the game and that will have the right temperament. All of our dogs will be companion dogs, and some will be used for agility or therapy, but many of them end up being upland and waterfowl hunters as well. As long as they are well-bred they'll become people-pleasers that will take to training and look to make you happy. A good sign of a dog that is working for you not for itself is if the dog checks back often and looks you in the eye. Goldens are well known for this trait, especially in the field where it matters most. They aren't wired the same as a Lab that might be able to run the same drill times in a row. They are different, and have to be trained differently. When I asked him why he chose to hunt with goldens he responded by saying, "The golden is a gentleman's dog. He will give you percent if you are fair to him. And he can turn it on and turn it off, which is something other breeds struggle with. When a good golden is asked to hunt, he'll give you his all. When the hunt is over, he'll transition back into that lovable housedog. They need to be introduced to water properly, and if you do it wrong it's like pushing a rope — it doesn't work. Goldens will work for you, but if you lose your cool they'll shut down. It has to be fun for them, and you've got to work with their intelligence by keeping it interesting and positive. They respond to teaching, not pressure. Finding a well-bred golden puppy that has all of its health clearances and is a true hunting dog is a different story. The right pedigree takes time to locate, and it will cost more than a run-of-the-mill dog. The upside? You'll get an amazing hunting and family dog. Nick Bilava has spent plenty of time hunting South Dakota roosters for himself and for clients while he was guiding, but his dogs can do much more than hunt ringnecks. They can hunt anything and handle any new hunting situation provided you've got them prepared. I hunt doves with my dogs, ducks, everything. They can do it all, and will, if you ask them with respect. When my pheasant opportunities disappeared with the loss of habitat, we switched gears to ruffed grouse, doves and eventually ducks. And just for fun, I threw in shed antler hunting to see how she'd do. As long as my golden got to retrieve something for me and earn a little praise, everything was just fine. This willingness to please is without question one of the greatest reasons to own this breed. Nick Bilava got into golden retrievers in no small part because his mother, Theresa, has been breeding field-bred goldens for years. Together they operate Platte River Retrievers, where they focus on producing a few litters each year that are bred to be smart, athletic and will hunt everything they are asked to hunt. For the hunter looking to have a rock star in the field and a good-looking house pet all in one dog, they are the ideal choice provided they come from a breeding program that has focused on health concerns and strong hunting instincts. Picking A Golden Puppy When shopping for that perfect golden pup, here are some things that prospective owners should be mindful of. That's the going rate, and it is worth it for the peace of mind you'll have from getting a truly high-quality, healthy pup. Your job doesn't end with research and writing a check, however. Trust Your Breeder After that, it's a matter of being honest with your breeder and allowing him or her to pick the right dog for you. Jackie Mertens stressed this by saying, "I don't let people pick their puppy. I pick it for them. Some people don't like this, but I've already spent seven weeks with the puppies and have watched how they act, and interact, so I know their personalities well. Too many people want to pick their own puppy, and they often take the first dog to run up to them but that is often a bad deal because that puppy might be the most dominant in the litter. It's better to put your faith in the pedigree and the breeder to match you up with the best bet out of a litter. You won't regret it. More Articles From How-To.