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He is beautiful, loving, funny, and smart, and comes from a strong and healthy lineage. Marcellus was wonderful and supportive throughout the whole process. We love Buckeye Golden Retrievers so much! Marcellus is very responsive and professional! The facility is very clean and cozy. I would recommend Buckeye a million times over! Our Charlie girl is smart, cute, and such a joy in our lives! He is a spirited, loving, and playful boy who has brought so much joy to us all. I knew we were going to get a great puppy from the first time I spoke with them. Thank you so much! The 1 year health guarantee covers any major genetic defects such as a heart murmur. It does not cover treatable health issues. The remaining balance is due at pickup. We find great satisfaction in raising healthy, happy Goldens and placing them in your loving home! One of the most popular breeds in the United States, Golden Retrievers are eager to please and are great with children and other dogs. Additionally, Goldens are intelligent and skilled in whatever they do, whether serving as a therapy dog, aiding search-and-rescue, or being a devoted companion. Max Max is our handsome boy, an imported Jr Champion from Ukraine. Top of the line genetics and champion bloodlines make him an incredible addition to our breeding program. Max is intelligent and friendly, complementing his incredible physique and beautiful white coat! Max is available for stud service to qualified females. Skye comes from a long line of champions and is genetic tested clear. Skye has a happy go lucky personality and is a wonderful mother to her beautiful little snow white babies! She is truly a stunning European Golden Retriever! This mama is really great with children and other dogs and has been a wonderful asset to our breeding program. We kept two of her girls Maple and Bella to continue her incredible bloodline. Zoey loves nothing more than exercising and getting belly scratches! Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Golden Retrievers of Foxwater Farm Hi! I'm Mary English Cream Golden Retrievers For my husband and me, golden's have been near and dear to our hearts since and we've been breeding them since .That same year we began our search for a family dog. In the age before the internet, we conducted our search through conversations with other dog owners and veterinarians; as well as researching AKC literature on different dog breeds. We were looking for a laid-back, easily trainable, social dog that would be good with small children. The Golden Retriever appeared to be the perfect choice. We visited breeders and soon came home with our very first fluffy furry puppy, a Golden Retriever we named Joshua. The Golden Retriever turned out to be the most perfect choice! Since that day we have always had Goldens in our life. For the last 40 years we have been advocates for this breed and its beauty inside and out. We actively work to create the healthiest genetic line of Golden Retriever. Foxwater Farm is located just outside of London, Ohio. Our picturesque acre property is bordered by Oak Run and overlooks a small pond that has been great for fishing. The property also houses multiple mini tree orchards, an old Christmas tree farm, and seasonal gardens. We are so blessed to have dogs from different parts of the world in our current Golden Retriever family lines. We continue to keep a healthy line of dogs that are easily trainable as therapy dogs, capable of passing the Canine Good Citizen programs with ease and proven competitive in dog competitions such as Agility, Disc, Rally and Obedience. Additionally, we are proud to announce that one of our puppies has become an International Champion in the competition ring.

Often occurs in old age. Nervous disorders Nervous disorders are manifested, for example, by disturbances in perception, neurological abnormalities such as tremors, apathy, convulsions, paralysis, tilting of the head, uncontrolled urination and defecation, and behavioural abnormalities. Eye infections Chronic eye infections can be very painful in dogs and can be treated with medication. In rare cases, the cornea must be treated. Epilepsy Definition: Dog has epilepsy if, for example, at least two epileptic seizures occur more than 24 hours apart. Kidney disease Symptoms of kidney disease in dogs: increased urination polyuria increased water intake. Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the mouth. Loss of appetite Wobbler syndrome In veterinary medicine, this is the name given to a complex of symptoms caused by nerve damage in the area of the spinal cord or spinal cord nerves in the area of the cervical spine. Cardiomyopathy In large breeds of dogs, dilated cardiomyopathy DCM is by far the most common cardiomyopathy. FAQ What are the characteristics of box heelers? This hybrid breed is adaptable, intelligent and loyal. They are energetic, active and playful. They are very attentive and usually try to protect everything that is important to them. With what kind of activity should the box heelers be supervised? They are known to need a lot of exercise and activity. It is important to give them regular long walks to keep them busy. It is also helpful to train them and educate them consistently so that they are tested and encouraged. What can I expect from a Box Heeler breeding? This cross is a hybrid breeding, which combines the properties and characteristics of the parents. Therefore, different results can be obtained in the breeding. Therefore, one expects a unique combination of the characteristics of the Boxer and the Australian Cattle Dog. It is best to study the parent races in depth, as well as consider consulting professionals for any questions you may have. What is the life expectancy of my Box Heeler? Life expectancy is usually between 10 and 12 years. Author Sissi Author Sissi is a blogger since , came on the dog .Since then she struts daily her steps with Loki through the world. The Beagdor Labrador-Beagle mix is a therapy dog for children and also accompanies her to schools. Secretly she fancies a French Bulldog as a second dog. Sissi is a blogger since , came on the dog .Useful Articles. Although these dogs should always live in the house with their families, they are a mixture of breeds that thrive on lots of activity. These dogs are responsive to training but could be challenging to manage on a leash if they reach the pound mark and are untrained. These dogs are susceptible to a few health problems that can have serious consequences. Box Heelers may show aggression toward dogs from outside the household, a trait inherited from both parent breeds. Although these dogs usually do well with others when carefully introduced, some will not get used to other pets. Although these dogs have an energy level perfect for children, the Heeler side of their family makes them inclined to bite or nip. You might end up seeing your dog attempting to herd your children and their playmates! If you live in an apartment or otherwise lack access to a yard, one of these dogs may not be the best fit for your lifestyle. These dogs require access to a fenced yard and are unlikely to be satisfied with just a daily walk. These dogs have moderate feeding requirements not easily met with low-quality food. Cheaper food does not necessarily provide everything these dogs need for optimal health. You may save some money with more affordable food at a minimal benefit to your dog. These dogs are also quite energetic. These dogs are ideal working dogs ready to face any challenge head-on. Although there is always a possibility of health issues, most dogs are healthy. A healthy diet, regular veterinary care, and regular physical activity will help prevent some problems like obesity. Whether these dogs inherit a Boxer or Heeler coat, they require less grooming than many other breeds. Weekly brushing using a traditional bristle brush will help keep the worst of the shedding under control. Box Heelers tend to be somewhat wary of unfamiliar people. Strangers coming into your home and strange dogs in your yard get the same suspicion. These dogs can easily keep pace with you and will enjoy the chance to be outside and around you. Although these dogs are not very tall, they will have a long body shape. This dog will fall on the medium to the large side of things in size. When a Box Heeler is in motion, he will have an agile gait, also easily described as purposeful. These dogs are always ready for action, and their appearance shows how much they want to jump into everything. The coat colors that are most typical of this mix include Brindle and Blue. These dogs have hair that is of medium length and straight, with a reasonably dense coat. All of these dogs have brown eyes and noses. This designer crossbreed will likely enjoy an average lifespan of about ten to 15 years. Although purebred Heelers are among some of the most long-living dogs, Boxers often have a shorter lifespan because of common health concerns. These dogs have a lot to give their families, making them one of the best choices overall. However, if you should see a breeder that provides these types of puppies, you will want to ensure the breeder uses humane practices. For example, breeders who breed for quality will use dogs that come from healthy lines—keeping the health of dogs from both sides of the family increases the chances of breeding much healthier puppies. When breeders use dogs that come with better pedigrees, there is a greater chance that you will pay more for a puppy. Some breeders select their breeding stock from among dogs that have shown exceptional working ability and figure this into their pricing. One of the best ways to avoid less-reputable breeders is to avoid breeders who conduct all their business online without vetting prospective buyers. Although this designer mix is not as familiar as some others, there is a chance you might come across one in a local shelter. Sometimes, shelter workers have to guess what mixture of breeds a dog in their facility is. Regardless of the coat length, these dogs often have thicker hair that requires at least weekly brushing. Bristle or pin brushes usually do their best to remove loose fur and prevent matting. During the spring and fall months, you might need to increase your time brushing your dog to keep up with the extra hair. Bathing should take place every three months, at the most. These dogs have skin and coats susceptible to problems if their coats are stripped of natural oils from overbathing. This painful condition is known as bloating and involves stomach twisting because of trapped air and gas, a medical emergency. These dogs may develop eye problems that include cataracts or glaucoma. Some canine eye conditions will result in eventual blindness, which owners must prepare to help their dog through. Cancer, including skin and bone cancer, may occur in these dogs, particularly in their senior years. Hip dysplasia, which involves the hip joints being out of their sockets, is another problem affecting older Box Heelers. Degenerative myelopathy, a spinal disease leading to hindquarter paralysis, is a condition that may affect dogs of any age. Cardiomyopathy, a type of heart disease, is also somewhat common in many larger breeds, including these designer crosses. The best foods will be formulated for the needs of larger dogs with high energy levels. Ideally, your food choice should also sustain a working dog. Free-feeding is bad for these dogs because such practices can lead to a dog eating more than is healthy. Most of these dogs will consume three cups of food a day or the equivalent. Your dog should eat in two or three separate feedings. Working dogs will have the highest energy levels. However, if they perform tasks daily, their work satisfies this need. Pets, however, will require daily exercise because they do not work. Their weekly walk length should average around nine miles. Because these dogs have working dog ancestry, they are eager to please their owners. The dog will want to know what to expect to please you better. Sometimes, these dogs can be stubborn, requiring you to demonstrate gentle but firm leadership. Avoiding rough handling or raising your voice is a good idea when the dog misbehaves. Harsh treatment will only help make your dog fearful or aggressive. Whenever you bring one of these dogs into a setting with children, careful introductions are always helpful to prevent any problems. Although these dogs can adjust to other pets as adults, the introductions must be carefully done for the best results. A well-socialized dog will look forward to new things instead of showing fear. Unique pets are an essential part of that equation. Gerard James Gerard James is a highly experienced veteran and dog lover who has dedicated his life to Rottweiler dogs. Gerard has been passionate about this particular breed since he was a child. He has extensively studied their characteristics and behaviors and acquired in-depth knowledge of their training requirements for optimal performance. He has devoted his time to volunteering in this field. Lifespan Sociability The price of Box Heeler puppies, as with any crossbred mix, is influenced by the cost of the parental breeds. If the pedigree of the parents is high quality, then the puppies, although hybrids, will be more expensive. If one of the parents is simply a more expensive dog breed, then the price of the puppies may go up, although it will always be much lower than any purebred would be. Another factor that goes into determining the price of your new pet is the breeder from which you buy it. Make sure you find a reputable breeder who treats their dogs well. Although they are not as common as some other designer dog breeds, if this specific dog is the one you are looking for, check out your local animal shelters to rescue your Box Heeler pup instead. Box Heelers may be intolerant of hot weather. The extremely short hair on a box heeler often means that it is more difficult for them to self-regulate their temperatures and they are more prone to sun damage. Dogs with a moderate amount of hair have more protection from harmful rays and can insulate themselves, both from the heat and colder weather. If you have a Box Heeler or are interested in purchasing one, be sure that you can provide areas of shade for them if they are outside during hot days. Boxers were developed in Germany for dirty jobs. Many designer breeds were not bred until recently. This lack of history often means that there is not much information on their shared characteristics. One of the parents of the Box Heeler is the Boxer, initially bred in Germany in the 19th century. Many believe that the German created the dog from a broad mix of other dogs, including Bulldogs, Mastiffs, Terriers, and perhaps Great Danes. The goal was to breed a dog of a moderately large size and muscular build, but an athletic body to work as bull-baiting dogs. Nowadays, Boxers are commonly used as working dogs, having been one of the first breeds trained as a police dog. They also make for wonderful companion dogs and have even been trained as seeing-eye dogs and to aid those with other disabilities. Both parents have strong prey drives bred into them. The Box Heeler often has the same high prey and herding drives associated with both of the parental breeds. They may even try to herd people around the house. This prey drive comes from the cattle herding history of Boxers, and the herding drive is from the Blue Heelers of Australia. Your Box Heeler puppy can make the perfect hunting companion or be ready to herd anything that walks if trained the right way. They are known to be patient dogs, although they are often stubborn and have strong independent streaks inherited from their Blue Heeler parents. Since Boxers may be hostile around new animals and people, it is vital to socialize your Box Heeler puppy early on. By participating in early socialization, you set your dog up for a more calm and content life, easily getting along with new dogs and being less hostile around other animals in general. Both of the dogs involved in parenting the Box Heeler are quite intelligent and inquisitive. To satisfy a Box Heeler, they need physical attention and mental stimulation. Consider taking them to a dog park or training them on dog courses. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Although they can be independent at times, they like to feel as though they are a functioning part of the pack, which is what you and your family will be to them. Box Heelers are quite gentle around things smaller than them as long as they are introduced well. Still, for one territorial animal to get along with another, they need to experience other animals and strangers often. Socialization helps them respond positively to newcomers, no matter how fluffy they are. Look for foods that are high-quality and meant to feed large dogs with high amounts of energy. If they are treated as working dogs, they will need even more food to give them the endurance they need throughout the day. Do not free-feed Box Heelers, to keep them from overconsumption. On average, an active adult will need around 3 cups of high-quality food a day. Try to sync this schedule with your eating schedule, or change it to morning and evening if that is easier. A working dog is fit and accustomed to large energy outputs daily. However, this is taken care of by their daily routine. If the dog is a family pet, they need a moderate amount of exercise a day. Generally, take multiple walks around 30 minutes in length. They should be walked an average of 9 miles a week to keep them happy and healthy. They want to know the right thing to do and how to do that thing well. They can have stubborn and independent streaks. A Blue Heeler can have fluffier coats with moderately long hair. The grooming of a Box Heeler depends on the coat that it has inherited. They often have short hair that is quite dense. Fur like this needs to be brushed at least once a week to limit any shedding. Use a pin brush or a firm bristle brush to get the job done. Bathing a box heeler should only be done if absolutely necessary to keep its skin healthy. It is a cross between the Boxer and the Blue Heeler. The best way to determine the temperment of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross. It is possible you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generational crosses. Please review individual breeds for potential health issues. Boxer Breed Description - Cross 1 The Boxer is a medium to large, short-haired dog breed of mastiff-type, developed in Germany. The coat is smooth and tight-fitting; colors are fawn, brindled, or white, with or without white markings. Boxers are brachycephalic they have broad, short skulls , have a square muzzle, mandibular prognathism an underbite , very strong jaws, and a powerful bite ideal for hanging on to large prey. The Boxer was bred from the Old English Bulldog and the now extinct Bullenbeisser, which became extinct by crossbreeding rather than by a decadence of the breed. The first Boxer club was founded in , with Boxers being first exhibited in a dog show for St. Bernards in Munich the next year. Based on AKC statistics, Boxers held steady as the seventh-most popular breed of dog in the United States for the fourth consecutive year. According to the AKC's website, though, the boxer is now the 11th-most popular dog breed in the United States. Behavior Boxers are a bright, energetic, and playful breed and tend to be very good with children. They are patient and spirited with children, but also protective, making them a popular choice for families. They are active, strong dogs that require adequate exercise to prevent boredom-associated behaviors such as chewing, digging, or licking. Boxers have earned a slight reputation of being "headstrong", which can be related to inappropriate obedience training. Owing to their intelligence and working-breed characteristics, training based on corrections often has limited usefulness. Boxers, like other animals, typically respond better to positive reinforcement techniques such as clicker training, an approach based on operant conditioning and behaviorism, which offers the dog an opportunity to think independently and to problem-solve. The Boxer by nature is not an aggressive or vicious breed. It is an instinctive guardian and can become very attached to its family. Like all dogs, it requires proper socialization. Boxers are generally patient with smaller dogs and puppies, but difficulties with larger adult dogs, especially those of the same sex, may occur. Boxers are generally more comfortable with companionship, in either human or canine form. They are very patient and are great to adopt as family dogs because they are good with children and people of all kinds. The Boxer can make a good house dog, but he must be given a considerable amount of exercise. His short coat requires little care. Health Leading health issues to which Boxers are prone include cancers, heart conditions such as aortic stenosis and arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy the so-called "Boxer cardiomyopathy" , hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia, and degenerative myelopathy and epilepsy; other conditions that may be seen are gastric dilatation volvulus also known as bloat , intestinal problems, and allergies although these may be more related to diet than breed. Entropion, a malformation of the eyelid requiring surgical correction, is occasionally seen, and some lines have a tendency toward spondylosis deformans, a fusing of the spine, or dystocia. Other conditions that are less common but occur more often in Boxers than other breeds are hystiocytic ulcerative colitis sometimes called Boxer colitis , an invasive E. Stillbirth is the most frequent cause of death, followed by infection. Mortality due to infection increases significantly with increases in inbreeding. According to a UK Kennel Club health survey, cancer accounts for .The breed is particularly predisposed to mast cell tumours, a cancer of the immune system. Median lifespan was .Responsible breeders use available tests to screen their breeding stock before breeding, and in some cases throughout the life of the dog, in an attempt to minimize the occurrence of these diseases in future generations. As an athletic breed, proper exercise and conditioning is important for the continued health and longevity of the Boxer. Care must be taken not to overexercise young dogs, as this may damage growing bones, but once mature, Boxers can be excellent jogging or running companions. Because of their brachycephalic heads, they do not do well with high heat or humidity, and common sense should prevail when exercising a Boxer in these conditions. Blue Heeler Breed Description - Cross 2 The general appearance is that of a strong compact, symmetrically built working dog, with the ability and willingness to carry out his allotted task however arduous. As the name implies the dog's prime function, and one in which he has no peer, is the control and movement of cattle in both wide open and confined areas. Always alert, extremely intelligent, watchful, courageous and trustworthy, with an implicit devotion to duty making it an ideal dog. The female Blue Heeler measures approximately 43—48 centimetres 17—19 in at the withers, and the male measures about 46—51 centimetres 18—20 in at the withers. The dog should be longer than tall, that is, the length of the body from breast bone to buttocks is greater than the height at the withers, in a ratio of 10 to 9. An Blue Heeler in good condition weighs around 18—25 kilograms 40—55 lb. A puppy whose colored hair has not yet developed will grow through the puppy's white coat as it matures. There are two accepted coat colors, red and blue. Blue dogs can be blue, blue mottled, or blue speckled with tan on the legs and chest and white markings and a black patch or "mask" on one or both sides of the head. Red dogs are evenly speckled with solid red markings and similarly to the blue dogs can have a brown red patch "mask" on one or both sides of the head and sometimes on the body. Both red dogs and blue dogs are born white except for any solid-colored body or face markings and the red or black hairs show from around 4-weeks of age as they grow and mature. The distinctive adult coloration is the result of black or red hairs closely interspersed through a predominantly white coat. This is not merle coloration a speckled effect that has associated health issues , but rather the result of the ticking gene. A number of breeds show ticking, which is the presence of color through white areas, though the overall effect depends on other genes that will modify the size, shape and density of the ticking. In addition to the primary coloration, an Blue Heeler displays some patches of solid or near-solid color. In both red and blue dogs, the most common are masks over one or both eyes, a white tip to the tail, a solid spot at the base of the tail, and sometimes solid spots on the body. The mask consists of a black patch over one or both eyes for the blue coat color or a red patch over one or both eyes for the red coat color. Depending on whether one or both eyes have a patch, these are called, respectively, "single" or "half" mask and "double" or "full" mask. Dogs without a mask are called plain-faced. Any of these are acceptable according to the breed standard. In conformation shows, even markings are preferred over uneven markings. Behavior When on home ground, the Blue Heeler is an affectionate and playful pet. However, it is reserved with people it does not know and naturally cautious in new situations. Its attitude to strangers makes it an excellent guard dog when trained for this task, and it can be socialised to become accustomed to a variety of people from an early age as a family pet. It is good with older, considerate children, but will herd people by nipping at their heels, particularly younger children who run and squeal. By the time puppies are weaned, they should have learned that the company of people is pleasurable, and that responding to cues from a person is rewarding. The bond that this breed can create with its owner is strong and will leave the dog feeling protective towards the owner, typically resulting in the dog's never being too far from the owner's side. The Blue Heeler can be the friendliest of companions although it is quick to respond to the emotions of its owners, and may defend them without waiting for a command. The ACD was originally bred to move reluctant cattle by biting, and it will bite if treated harshly. The Blue Heeler's protective nature and tendency to nip at heels can be dangerous as the dog grows into an adult if unwanted behaviors are left unchecked. While an Blue Heeler generally works silently, it will bark in alarm or to attract attention. It has a distinctive intense, high-pitched bark. Barking can be a sign of boredom or frustration, although research has shown that pet dogs increase their vocalisation when raised in a noisy environment. It responds well to familiar dogs, but when multiple dogs are present, establishing a pecking order can trigger aggression. It is not a breed that lives in a pack with other dogs. Health The Blue Heeler carries recessive piebald alleles that produce white in the coat and skin and are linked to congenital hereditary deafness, though it is possible that there is a multi-gene cause for deafness in a dog with the piebald pigment genes. Around 2. The Blue Heeler is one of the dog breeds affected by progressive retinal atrophy. It has the most common form, progressive rod-cone degeneration PRCD , a condition that causes the rods and cones in the retina of the eye to deteriorate later in life, resulting in blindness. PRCD is an autosomal recessive trait and a dog can be a carrier of the affected gene without developing the condition. Hip dysplasia is not common in the breed, although it occurs sufficiently often for many breeders to have their breeding stock tested. The Cattle Dog has a number of inherited conditions, but most of these are not common. Hereditary polioencephalomyelopathy of the Blue Heeler is a very rare condition caused by an inherited biochemical defect. Dogs identified with the condition were completely paralysed within their first year. Based on a sample of 69 still-living dogs, the most common health issues noted by owners were musculoskeletal spondylosis, elbow dysplasia, and arthritis and reproductive pyometra, infertility, and false pregnancy , and blindness. A study of dogs diagnosed at Veterinary Colleges in the United States and Canada over a thirty-year period described fractures, lameness and cruciate ligament tears as the most common conditions in the Blue Heelers treated.

A dog is not just a pet, but a lifelong friend and companion. English Bulldog is one such breed who is extremely loyal, friendly, brave and have a strong sense of dedication towards their owners. They will stick to you like glue throughout their lifetime. How to teach an English bulldog not to bite? Bulldogs can bite for several reasons, but mostly they bite when they feel provoked or threatened. Puppies bite because they have not yet learned how to play properly with humans. Here are step by step instructions to teach your bulldog not to bite. Sit down and play with your bulldog. Let them bite your hand. Your bulldog should be startled, release, and step back. You can spray something bitter in their mouth to further the consequence if your bulldog is not starting to understand after going through steps a few times. An English bulldog looks scary and grumpy but is very calm and amiable. Many people are afraid of the English bulldogs because of their somewhat aggressive appearance, but they are the friendliest of all breeds. They are lovers and not fighters. Bulldogs make wonderful apartment pets and are mainly low-endurance dogs. But all dogs can have the bad habit of biting. An un-socialized adult English bulldog will also nip and bite. Under these circumstances, you should keep your English bulldog away from other dogs and people. It is important to make sure your bulldog learns not to nip and bite as biting will further the stereotype that bulldogs are dangerous, when they are really not dangerous at all when they are loved, trained, and socialized. How to Teach Your English Bulldog Puppy to Not Bite Every English bulldog goes through the puppy stage and learns to interact with others by biting, nipping, and licking. Biting occurs when your puppy is growing and exploring their environment. Your English bulldog puppy may not hurt you intentionally, but as a puppy he is still capable of inflicting harm to you. If this behavior is not rectified and controlled, your puppy can carry this into adulthood. No, And Here's Why! Your puppy might grow up thinking that there is nothing wrong in biting and nipping humans. As their teeth grow and their weight also increases, the harmless biting which you once found cute can turn into rough bites and play. An English bulldog is not aggressive by nature but like other dogs can show aggression if provoked. They are ferociously protective of their owners and others in the family. If they feel their owner or loved ones are threatened, they can turn defensive and show signs of belligerence. English bulldogs are calm and gentle with their owners but are chary of other dogs and strangers. Therefore, it is imperative to socialize your bulldog properly and make them feel safe around other dogs and people. There are chances that if your English bulldog is inadequately socialized, he will react fiercely to what he sees to be a threat to your safety or their own. Your puppy bites because he does not know how to play with humans and needs to be trained to stop biting. You can hire a dog trainer to do that or can do it by yourself. You should train your dog that it is unacceptable to bite and encourage them to play games with toys. Learn more in our article Help! Bulldog Teething and Biting When your English bulldog puppy is 3 to 6 months old, there are chances that your puppy may be teething. At this time your puppy will put virtually everything in his mouth. They do this because they need something to chew on, to alleviate the pain and discomfort. You can give him ice cubes to numb his gums and mitigate the pain. When your puppy is teething, you can also give him things he can chew on. You can give him old washed rags kept in the freezer, hard rubber balls, or nylon bones. When your puppy bites you hard just yell as loudly as you can and pretend to be hurt. This will startle your puppy and ensure that he releases pressure. You must continue this until your puppy starts refraining from nipping and biting. This way your puppy will learn that biting can be a hazard to their friends and humans. They will learn that skin is sensitive and should be only pressed down lightly. Eventually your puppy will become gentler to you during their playtime. When your puppy bites you stop playing with him. Avoid petting, talking and even looking at your puppy. Never show aggression or give physical punishment to the puppy while training him. He will become defensive and grow up to be more aggressive. Remember to praise your puppy for good behavior. Socialize your English bulldog puppy to be more comfortable around strangers also. Socializing will help stop your puppy biting your feet and the feet of visitors. You can walk your puppy to dog parks and public places. You can also visit your family and friends with your English bulldog puppy to help him develop trust with them. English bulldog puppies easily get excited with movements. So, if your puppy sees you moving your feet or any sudden movement, he will swoop into attack. Stop right there and this will make your puppy settle down. When puppies see children running around, they also want to run and play with everybody else and could bite their feet. Use dog commands like Sit, Stay, and Down. Always keep treats in handy while training your puppy to motivate him. If this does not work, then simply walk away. To discipline your adult bulldog, you must leave him alone. Still, if your dog persists to bite, you can seek professional help to curb his habit of biting and nipping. Lastly, do not try to put your adult English bulldog into situations he is not very comfortable in or those which will provoke him. If you know your dog does not like other dogs, keep him away from those dogs. You can also use a spray bottle to spray something with a bitter taste into their mouth when your bulldog bites. I have seen people use lemon juice. Be aware that excessive lemon juice will cause an upset stomach and possibly diarrhea for dogs, so find something else with a bitter taste that is safe for dogs to teach them a negative consequence for biting. The bite force of the English bulldog is pounds per square inch psi. Psi shows us how much pressure is exerted on one square inch of space. This is enough to cut muscles and break bones. English bulldogs have extremely strong jaws and muscular and sturdy bodies. English bulldogs also have a very low center of gravity and can easily take you down. They were bred specially to fight the bulls. Their powerful jaws can cause a lot of damage. With appropriate training and by acting properly around your puppy, you can help him grow out of his habit of biting. Training your adult English bulldog will take some time. Training an adult English bulldog will be relatively difficult, but it is not impossible. So, be patient and try to build up this new behavior with trust and love. Persistence and hard work will go a long way. You will surely see results and all your efforts will yield a very obedient and loving companion for life. Pup pup hooray! Post Views: 2, Contact Why do Bulldogs Bite Feet? And What to Do! When you look at a French or English bulldog you see innocence, intelligence, and a pleasant demeanor. When you look at an American bulldog it is easy to see aggression and strength. However, American bulldogs have similar characteristics as its fellow bulldog breeds. They are loyal and loving companions. But regardless of bulldog breed, all bulldogs have a flatter face with a more defined jaw. This jaw is extremely powerful and the bulldog will use it to protect its family or as a cautionary warning if a stranger spooks it. Bulldogs can bite and they bite very hard. Why do bulldogs bite feet? This is typical of adolescent bulldogs that are going through a learning phase. Biting can occur while the pup is growing and learning how to interact with others. The problem with feet is their accessibility to a bulldogs mouth. Whether walking, sitting, or resting on the floor this leaves feet open to be bit or nipped. This action can be corrected. Luckily, a bulldog can be taught to not bite the hand or foot that feeds it. Any bulldog can also be socialized to be more comfortable around strangers as well. Meaning sniffs and seeking attention. On the flip side, if positive reinforcement along with thorough training is not given, your bulldog may carry on a tendency to bite at feet or bite at others. Especially if it is weary of strangers and easy to provoke. Why do bulldogs bite so much Even though a bulldog can grow to be a loyal and dependent companion, it will go through the puppy stage. All dogs go through the puppy stage where it is learning what habits are good or bad. Biting is a very common stage among all breeds of dogs as a puppy. This stage is commonly known as teething. The puppy is learning its boundaries and adapting to its new environment. During this teething stage, you will be bit by your puppy. There is no question about it. Also, sudden movement can trigger the natural dog in it to pounce. Example: you stand up quickly and go to the kitchen to grab a snack. I mentioned it being powerful, but this specific feature was bred with a purpose into the bulldog. Imagine the bulldogs flat nose equating to a pair of flat nose pliers. Flat nose pliers are much stronger than needle nose pliers. They easily latch onto things and have a firm grasp. This is similar to a bulldog. Because they have a short jaw and flat nose, they can firmly clamp and latch onto whatever they bite. The muscles in the jawline and a bulldogs muscular body physique only strengthen the bite and pull. Not to strike fear in you though, bulldogs are normally loving and gentle animals once they have been trained. They are known to be great around small children, watchful of others, and patient. Just because a bulldog has this powerful bite should not distract you from their natural ability to protect and remain steadfast as a companion dog to their family. Regardless, when a bulldog bites feet, it can hurt. This is typically never done with a violent tendency but is rather a learning stage. I have been bit by dogs, heck, my kids bit me while they were teething. When this happens you still love them and you bite your tongue to not become outraged. Young bulldogs need to be nurtured and corrected with kindness. If your young bulldog sees your sudden movement and swoops in to attack, stop immediately. This movement attracts a bulldog like bees to honey. I recommend that you be cautious in your movements from place to place, nothing that could draw excitement. For young kids running around the home it will be next to impossible to slow them down. Your bulldog puppy will easily get excited and will want to run and play with everyone else, with possible biting at the feet. To reign in the uncontrolled biting, be sure to purchase several chew toys. It is handy to even carry a chew toy with you in the rare case that a bulldog puppy attempts to surprise attack your feet. Use the toy to redirect the bulldogs attention and energy. You can hand the toy out for the bulldog to bite onto. Once your bulldog its off playing with the toy proceed to move. Know that this is only a temporary phase for your bulldog and it will grow out of it as you act appropriately in the household and train your bulldog correctly. Training your bulldog impulse control through specific commands will significantly help in the young puppies growth and throughout its life. These basic impulse control commands include: sit, wait, and down. These exercises will help your bulldog to control its natural tendency to jump and get excited. Socializing your bulldog is another important step in stopping your bully from biting your feet or the feet of visitors. To socialize your bulldog, take frequent visits to public places and dog parks where it can learn to be comfortable around strangers and other pets. Visit friends and family members with your bulldog so it can grow bonds of trust with them. A well socialized bulldog will: Become more comfortable around other people and pets Have a significant reduction in stress and discomfort around strangers Gain significant control over biting from fear or over excitement. The key takeaways to teaching your bulldog to stop biting feet are: Slow, cautious movements. If bit, show disinterest and walk away. Your bulldog wants to play and will notice your lack of enthusiasm. Redirect energy with a chew toy. Teach impulse control with these dog commands: Sit, Stay, and Down. Frequently socialize your bulldog with other pets and people outside of your home. Praise your bulldog for good behavior. Your bulldog can control its tendency to bite as your patiently train it in good behavior. Best Chew Toys for Bulldogs Your bulldog wants to bite your feet and maybe more. To protect your feet and furnishings during teething or while training your bulldog impulse control I recommend the following Chew Toy on Amazon. Each chew toy is created with durable, high quality ropes for medium to large dogs. Its been battle tested for dogs that are in the biting and chewing phase. Related Questions Why do French bulldogs bite? A french bulldog can bite while in its teething stage as a puppy, out of fear, excitement or during separation anxiety. By building confidence in your Frenchie through training, you can control these common reactions. Why do French bulldogs bite their paws? French bulldogs can bite their paws due to burrs wood slivers, grass seeds, and small rocks being imbedded in their tiny paws and even infections or other irritations. Some French bulldogs just like to bite and lick their paws for the fun of it. If this is an ongoing habit that is leading to sores, bleeding, and infection from your Frenchie biting the paw, I would quickly seek the assistance of a veterinarian. Why do English bulldogs bite feet? English bulldogs bite feet primarily in their adolescence when teething. But English bulldogs can also have a tendency to bite in adulthood if there is a lack of affection in its home and if there was never training given to correct this habit. If your English bulldog bites feet, practice the key takeaways listed in this article to provide impulse training and redirect your English bulldogs energy. Show love and praise when your bulldog shows obedience to affirm a job well done. Post Views: 1, Manydogs said: This is normal puppy behavior-some are worse than others. Replacing the arm with a Nylabone, or a chew to that he can not swallow any parts of, NO rawhides a good idea. You could try a spray bottle of water,it works with some-and always say "no bite" with any method. A can with rocks in it,that makes noise, is also another method,used to distract them from biting. If he has something in his mouth, and you pull at it,to him it's a game, and he will pull back. If he has a grip on something that he shouldn't, you could try having a small treat to give him if he lets go,when you say "no bite"then give him something he can bite on! I know it is very hard when you have young children and a pup,and EBD pups are worse than most other pups,when it comes to biting. It will take a lot of patience,and being persistant to get through this, but it will all be worth it. Until he learns,and has lost his baby teeth, do not let anyone play tug of war with him,because that would encourage him to bite more. Hang in there-we have all been through this,and it does get frustrating at times. My pups were obsessed with my shoes while I walked,so I got a pair of tennies on sale,and gave the pair to the pups! This,too, shall pass but not for awhile! I have never used their crate as punishment,as I did not want them to hate it. They sleep in their crate at night. I had a small pen it folds up that I put them in when I needed a break. Sometimes when they get tired,they get wound up,like kids do. Pin1 1 Shares When Claude the French Bulldog was a puppy, he had this annoying habit of biting at my heels. Thankfully he seems to have grown out of it and it was probably due to his teething stages. But with other dogs, they can be obsessed with feet and even bite ankles. But why do dogs nip at your heels, and can you stop it? Why does my dog bite at my feet when I walk? Ankle and feet biting can will often be a hereditary trait from when dogs used to be used for herding or guarding livestock. Biting feet is emulating the herding behavior they were initially bred for. It can also be due to puppy teething, or for the dog to assert authority over you. Why does my dog bite my feet when I walk? Some dogs will develop a fascination for human feet and ankles at an early age. As they start to teethe, they develop a liking for using their mouth instead of their paws to pick and move objects. Handy Hint: For more information on teething, read this guide to the different stages of teething and what to expect from your puppy. This might be cute at first but may grow into an aggressive and harmful behavior as they develop into adults. As I also described earlier, dogs have been used to herd animals and livestock, and this was how they used to herd animals around. Some people believe this is still buried deep within their psyche, and a hereditary trait from earlier times. Why do dogs nip at your heels? Puppies will often bite your feet when you walk, and most will grow out of it. Dogs spend a lot of time investigating, chewing, and playing with objects. This behavior is often cute and harmless when the dog is less than seven weeks old. After that, it becomes endearing. Remember that hitting and slapping your dog for nipping may cause him to bite more aggressively. Avoid subjecting him to any forms of punishment such as whacking on the nose, scruff shaking, and sticking fingers down his throat. These may scare him. A tiny break, tear, or puncture on your skin increases the chances of infection. Wash the injury immediately before applying any antibacterial ointments. Use a sterile bandage to cover it. If you experience any swelling, pus, or redness, consult a medical expert. Deep bites that do not stop bleeding may require stitching. For some dogs, biting can be a form of aggression that develops out of frustration or fear. Your dog may feel anxious when someone passes him on the street. It may not be easy to differentiate between biting that results from aggressive behavior and one that is playful. Playful dogs have a relaxed face and body. Their biting is also less painful and less serious. An aggressive dog will have a stiff body accompanied by quick and painful bites. For example, you could ask him to stay or sit when a person approach. You may need to carry treats during practice. The idea is to eventually treat your dog once the person has passed. Biting in adult dogs is harder to solve than in puppies. This is because the former are less sensitive to reactions and more difficult to control due to their large physical size. Here are five solutions that worked for me and my dog: 1. However, when the mouthing turns into painful bites, the dog on the receiving end yelps to stop the other one from biting more. You can emulate this by making a yelping sound whenever your dog bites you. Once it releases, ignore it for about twenty seconds before going back to play. You can substitute the yelping sound with an alternative verbal deterrent. Keep still Moving or jerking your feet encourages your dog to keep biting. The more you resist, the more your dog wants to bite. Stop in your tracks when you see your dog approaching. Resist any sort of movement. You become less exciting to play with. This prevents the dog from latching on you or treating you like a tug toy. If he starts to bite your feet, stop moving and wave the chew toy at him until he gets distracted. Once he grabs or latches at the toy, continue moving. It might because they have nothing else to chew on! Provide different and safe chew toys that he can gnaw instead of clinging to your feet all the time. Here are some great teething toys I recommend for ankle and heel biters. Non-contact play Rather than wrestling with your dog and engaging in rough play, encourage games that have little to no contact. This can either be tug-of-war or fetch. A game of tug-of-war prepares your dog to deal with frustration and arousal. Once you can play safely, carry tug toys that you can use to redirect your dog to whenever he starts to bite your feet. Spray it on areas of your clothing and body that your dog is fond of biting. Once he starts nipping at your heels, stay still and wait for him to experience the bad taste produced by the deterrent. Praise or reward him once he lets go. Use the deterrent for a period of at least two weeks. After multiple experiences with the bitter taste, your dog will most likely stop with the biting behavior. Taste deterrents can either be spicy hot or bitter. Watch how your dog reacts to them. Look out for drooling, retching, or shaking of the head. Why is my dog obsessed with feet? Your dog may spend much of its time at your feet as an indication of submissiveness and domesticity or, as an attempt to show you that they love you and want your approval and attention. This foot obsession is more common than you might think. Sometimes, your dog may want to gather information by noting your scent and sweat. Other times, it may be to look for food or relieve stress through the release of endorphins. Why does my dog lay on my feet? Dogs may lay on your feet to mark their territory. In the wild, dogs sleep close to each other as a way of staying warm and protecting themselves. Often, the leader of the pack has the best spot and the rest will lay as close as possible to him. When your dog lays close to you, he perceives you as the leader. You might also be interested in the following guides:. Or chew on furniture? Although known for their sedate behavior, bulldogs can sometimes have a tendency to bite people, especially strangers. This aggressive behavior can be curbed. If you want to stop this show of aggression, it is essential to understand why they are doing it in the first place. Why do bulldogs bite? All bulldogs go through a biting phase when they are puppies due to teething pain. Eventually, bulldogs grow out of this phase. If a bulldog does not stop biting by 12 months of age, it usually reflects a lack of training or signs of owner protection or jealousy. Photo by The Bulldog Blog How to get bulldogs to stop biting? Here are some reasons why your bulldog might be biting people: 1. Lack of training: If you have recently welcomed an English bulldog to your home, especially one that might be older, they might not have the training yet to not bite, or know that it is a bad behavior. Owner protection: English bulldogs are fiercely protective of their owners. When they detect any threat, they often bite. Jealousy: English bulldogs often crave the attention of their owners. And, if they are unable to get that attention, they might attack whatever object or person is detracting your attention from them, which can be another person or a dog. Now that you know what is causing your bulldog to bite and act out, here are 14 guaranteed strategies to help reduce this behavior: 14 confirmed strategies that will stop English bulldogs from biting In this post, we will discuss not one or two, but 14 verified strategies that can help you prevent your English bulldog from biting. They might not all work for you, but we hope that some of these strategies will be helpful in nipping this behavior in the bud. And the best way to show them that you are upset or displeased by their behavior is to yell at them. Use a stern voice and be forceful. While this strategy might not produce results in the first or second attempt, your bulldog will slowly understand after a few scoldings. Use a squirt bottle A quick squirt in the face whenever your bulldog starts to bite should quickly reduce this bad behavior. Walk Away Bulldogs, like children, can crave attention. And sometimes it can be effective to deny them that attention and just walk away. They will learn to soon associate that bad behavior with you walking away, and stop doing it. Work on socializing your dog One of the reasons why English bulldogs bite is because they are not familiar with the people or dogs that they are snapping at. So, to decrease that anxiety, start introducing your bulldog to other people, children, and animals early on. Socializing them with other dogs and people will help them better identify threats as well. Neuter your dog You might be thinking, how can neutering stop your dog from biting people? Neutered dogs are less aggressive, that is why the probability that they will bite someone or another dog is on the lower side. Be sure to check with your vet on the right time is to neuter your dog. Curb the habit when they are young One of the best ways to prevent your English bulldog from biting is to curb this behavior when they are young. And while it might be cute at the beginning when puppies bite and snap, you should learn to shut down this behavior early on, so that it does not grow into a bad habit. Showing that when they bite you, you get hurt, will help them understand that biting is a strict no-no. In these cases, giving them something else to chew on can be helpful. As a result, there will be no need for the dog to bite or chew on anything else. Help your dog expend energy Sometimes bulldogs might exhibit aggressive behavior because they have pent up energy that they are trying to release. When you play with your dog or take your dog outdoors frequently, it becomes easy for the dog to expend energy and will likely lead to them being less aggressive. Whenever the dog is unhappy or afraid due to someone invading its territory, the likelihood of a bite is on the higher side. You have to look out for body language. If you notice these signs, it is better to give your dog some space, and separate them from any strangers, human or otherwise. It is also helpful to talk to them sweetly and try and alleviate those fears by comforting them. Show your dog who is boss At the end of the day, you are the pack leader, and your dog needs to know that. When your bulldog recognizes that you are the alpha dog in this relationship, he or she will respect you better and will follow your rules. Sometimes the best way to do this is to isolate them for a short time, to show them your displeasure. This is only effective if it is done immediately after the wrong behavior, so that they associate that behavior with this punishment. Opt for professional training Another way is to opt for professional obedience training. But, we do recommend that owners attend some of these classes, as you might learn some tricks as well! Consult a vet If your dog is persistently aggressive, and is not showing signs of improvement, you might consider taking them to the vet. Aggression is a symptom of a lot of diseases and ailments that your English bulldog could be suffering from. Be patient Training takes time, and you need to give your dog and yourself the benefit of the doubt. You have to let your dog absorb things and understand what behaviors are good and what are bad.

Black Black and tan Once the breed becomes standardized, these coat colors may become official. But, for now, the goal is to create the blue version as much as possible. Blue Bay Shepherd Temperament Though Vicki was aiming for the lupin look with these dogs, she will sacrifice the look for the temperament. Her primary goal was to create a family pet though getting them to look like wolves was a close second. Regardless, she succeeded at both. Blue Bay Shepherds have a sweet, loving temperament without the aggression and aloofness of their wolf ancestors. But the dogs naturally tend to be sociable, gentle, affectionate, and playful. You can even trust them around livestock and other animals! Can you trust this dog that looks so much like a wolf with other pets? Owners report that their Blue Bay pups have done well with other dogs and cats. They should be properly socialized and raising them with other pets is best. However, this is common amongst dogs in general — not just ones that look like wolves. Their sweet, affectionate nature makes the Blue Bay Shepherd a great family pet. But they will do best in a specific type of home. They also tend to be huge. So a home with a large yard and lots of space to run is an ideal place for them. Are you looking for a simple way to keep track of your dog's daily activity? It has never been easier to monitor your dog with the Fi smart collar. With this slender, smart collar, you can count your pup's steps and set daily, weekly, and monthly goals. You can keep an eye on Fido's fitness routine with it, almost like a FitBit for your dog. Blue Bays can also be prone to separation anxiety, so an active family that will be spending lots of time with the pup is best. Homes with small children may not be the best choice for them purely because of their size. They are gentle, but they are still big and energetic which means they can accidentally harm tiny family members. Wondering if your home would be a good fit? The best way to find out is to ask Vicki herself. However, because the breed is so new, there are no established health patterns and no way to know if there are common problems. Dogs with wolf blood in general tend to be healthy and have a long life expectancy. However, counter this with the tiny gene pool. All Blue Bays come from the same place and the breeders at Southern Breeze Ranch have to be cautious to avoid inbreeding and the problems this can cause. Vicki specifically used the old-style German Shepherds to avoid the modern GSDs' sloped back and the hip dysplasia that commonly comes with it. Plus, the Shepherds she used may still pass down issues like epilepsy, degenerative myelopathy, pituitary dwarfism, and eye abnormalities. To help prevent this, avoid feeding within 30 minutes of exercise — either before or after. You may also consider using a slow feeder bowl if your dog tends to eat too fast. And wolf dogs are exactly the same. A Blue Bay Shepherd requires daily brushing during the worst seasons to keep this shedding under control. The rest of the year, you can get away with brushing them times a week. Regular brushing will also help keep their long hair free of tangles and give it that shine that makes them so beautiful. Regardless, brushing your dog is a great way to bond with him and helps him to feel safe and loved in your home. Since they are so active, Blue Bay Shepherds will generally wear down their own nails running around on hard ground. If not, you should have clippers on hand to keep them from overgrowing. Note that ear infections are common in German Shepherds. Since there are so few and the breed is still in development, there is commonly a one or two-year waiting list for these pups. The pups can also be quite pricey, though less than you might expect from an exclusive breeder. This innovative collar offers real-time GPS tracking, ensuring that you can easily locate your furry companion whenever needed. It goes beyond just tracking by providing valuable insights into their daily exercise levels and sleep patterns. With its sleek design and durable construction, the Fi Smart Collar seamlessly integrates into your dog's lifestyle. Prioritize your peace of mind and strengthen the bond with your Blue Bay Shepherd. Invest in the Fi GPS Smart Collar and the Fi app today and experience a new level of connectedness and care for your beloved furry friend. Final Thoughts Do you love the idea of adding a blue wolf German Shepherd-type dog to your family? The gorgeous Blue Bay Shepherd could be a great option for you. Plus, you would become part of the development of a new breed! Vicki keeps in contact with all the owners of her pups to monitor their development and behavior over time. She wants to create and maintain a standard with her new breed and well as make improvements with each new generation. If you become the lucky owner of one of these pups, you will join a new adventure that is more than just getting a new dog. Plus, you will be the lucky recipient of more love and loyalty than you might have bargained for! The link has been copied! You might also like. The German Shepherd resembles a wolf in appearance, to begin with, so you can count on the hybrid to be large, with a long face, thick coat and pointed ears. The coat of the Wolfshepherd can be gray, sable, white, black, or a mixture of these colors. It will most likely inherit the thick fur that is standard for both parents and is known to shed heavily. You can take a closer look at this Wolfdog mix in the video. Is a Wolf Shepherd dangerous? If a Wolfdog is uncomfortable, it can attack out of defense. This has earned them a reputation for being dangerous and they are banned in several US states. Wolves build dens and roam frequently. They also have a strong pack and predatory instincts. These traits translate into destructive behavior for the Wolfdog, such as digging holes in the garden and chewing up wooden furniture. They also may urinate more frequently than other dog breeds to mark their territory. It takes one who is passionate and willing to devote time and energy to a German Shepherd Wolf dog. Because of its unpredictable nature, it is advised that this crossbreed should not be left alone around other pets and especially children. Black German Shepherd Wolf mixes in particular, are known for being less tolerant towards children. They have been known to react by biting and shaking. This is a natural response of the Black GSD when correcting puppy behavior. With rigorous training, a Wolfdog makes a protective and loyal companion. They are strong, intelligent, playful, and affectionate towards family. Are Wolf German Shepherd Mix health issues common? As we mentioned above the life expectancy of a German Shepherd Wolf Mix is up to 14 or even .However, the German Shepherd breed is vulnerable to serious genetic diseases that can get passed down to this particular Wolfdog hybrid. Hip Dysplasia : A painful hip joint deformity that causes loss of mobility and lameness. Elbow Dysplasia: A joint deformity that affects the elbows and can cause pain and loss of mobility. Bloat: A build-up of gas in the stomach that can cause it to twist and lead to shock or even death. Cancer: Abnormal cell growth that can spread throughout the body. Feeding time Since the Wolfshepherd is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia , it is important to keep her on a strict feeding regime to avoid obesity. Aim for 2 to 3 cups of meat-based dog food divided between meals each day. Remember that every dog has different health needs. Exercise time The German Shepherd Wolf hybrid needs daily activity to thwart destructive behavior and keep physically fit. A house with a large fenced-in yard is the most suitable environment for this crossbreed. They need room to stretch their legs and roam. If you live in an apartment, you might want to consider a smaller dog breed or perhaps a dog that resembles a wolf. Not only is an apartment too small a space, but this mix prefers to spend time outdoors, like its Wolf parent. Playing fetch with a ball or tugging games can help get that chewing habit under control. Can you train a Wolf Shepherd? This is the only way to lessen the inclination towards aloofness, fear, and an unpredictable temperament. Training needs to start at the puppy stage to be effective. Be prepared, because Wolfdogs are not easy to train and require time, patience, and consistency. Dominance is one of the main German Shepherd Wolf mix characteristics that you will have to focus on. As the owner, you must be confident and assert that you are the leader of the pack. If attention wanes during a game or your Wolfdog decides to ignore commands, stay positive yet firm and above all — do not let them dominate you. Socialization is key to helping a Wolfdog accept other pets in the household. Walks around the park can help, but always keep your pup on a leash. Supervise them when other dogs are present. When searching for reputable German Shepherd Wolf mix breeders, look for someone that is open to you visiting and will provide health clearances. They should be able to answer questions about the parents, especially regarding medical history. This results in a high number of them being left at rescue shelters. Here are 3 Wolfdog rescues where you can look for a German Shepherd Wolf mix along with other Wolfdogs. As their name suggests, this mix is made up of a German Shepherd and a Wolf, these hybrids crossbreeds are often called Wolfdogs or Wolf-Shepherds. Whilst there are many types of German Shepherd Wolf mixes, the Saarloos Wolfhund is the most notable. They were created by Leendert Saarloos back in when he crossbred a German Shepherd with a Eurasian wolf. The aim of this cross-breeding was to bring back the natural traits the GSD had lost when domesticated. You should also keep in mind that they are illegal in several areas across the US, so do your research before keeping one. The German Shepherd already resembles a wolf, so this hybrid does not look hugely different. Due to the genetic diversity, there is no way to tell what a specific pup will look like when they mature. However, there could be a pup that will look more like their German Shepherd parent, rather than their Wolf parent, and vice-versa. Wolfdogs tend to have smaller skulls than the common wolf, they have pointed ears and brown almond-shaped eyes. Height and Weight A German Shepherd can weigh around lb male and lb female. Males stand at around inches and females between inches. So depending on age, sex, diet, and genetics, the German Shepherd Wolf mix can weigh anywhere from lbs. Colors Pups can be found in a number of colors as the classic German Shepherd has 11 different official colors, with the most common being black and tan. But they can also have colors such as sable, black, white, and gray. Wolves can be mottled gray in color, but occasionally can be nearly pure white, red, brown, or even black. Coat German Shepherds have a thick double coat that is medium length. They have a dense outer coat with straight hair that lies close to the body. They have short undercoats and long, coarse outer coats. The GSD and Wolves have very similar coats, so it is fairly likely that their mix will have a double coat and medium-length fur. They will also shed annually, getting rid of their winter coat when the days become warmer. It is safe to say that this crossbreed should not be kept in warmer climates. German Shepherd Wolf Mix Personality and Temperament Both German Shepherds and Wolves have very different personalities, so it can be difficult to predict what their mix will be like. But we will do our best below to explain some behaviors which should be expected. Wolves are pack animals, meaning they are very protective and loyal to their family — they will do anything to protect their kin. They are den-dwelling animals, meaning that your mix is likely to dig anywhere they want. Being wild animals, Wolves are reserved when it comes to unfamiliar surroundings, people, and inanimate objects. They may be very protective but will cower at the sight of strangers. It should be said that the German Shepherd Wolf will be unpredictable in social situations, they can become aggressive when fearful. This can be avoided by giving them lots of socialization as a young pup. They are also very curious and will try to escape whenever opportunity strikes, so make sure to keep your backyard securely fenced. This hybrid will have a strong prey drive, as the GSD was bred to herd livestock and the wolf is a natural predator, so your Wolfdog mix will chase anything and everything that moves. They are also prone to howling as this is how they communicate in a pack. This is not a dog that should be living with small children. This dog should be kept by experienced keepers who are firm and disciplined with their pooch. If they favor their German Shepherd parentage, they will be eager to please dog training will be easy. Either way, you should be training them with positive reinforcement. Give them rewards when they follow your command or when they stop unwanted behavior. Many people believe that dominance training is the way forward with this dog as wolves are pack animals, but studies show that this training method leads to further aggression and reduces the quality of your relationship with your doggy friend. This is a dog for someone who has experience training strong-willed dogs before — you need to be firm and consistent. Do not let them think they are the boss of you. Socializing a dog like this is very important as the wolf can be reserved and unpredictable. Make sure to socialize them with a range of people and different situations. Mental stimulation is very important if you do not want your Wolfdog to get bored and chew everything in sight. You can give them lots of toys and play with them, playtime can decrease their stress levels and make them more confident. Caring for a German Shepherd Wolf Mix Owning a German Shepherd Wolf mix is not something you should take lightly, there are specific laws on owning Wolfdogs, so you should check your state regulations. This cross breed needs an owner who is experienced in training difficult dogs that need lots of attention and care. You will also need a large backyard which has very secure fencing. You should not own a Wolfdog in heavily populated areas, as they have a habit of howling a lot. There are many other responsibilities that you will have when owning this hybrid so keep reading to learn more… Exercise Requirements This is a very energetic dog, as wolves can travel up to 30 miles a day. They will need around hours of exercise each day to keep fit and healthy. Not getting their exercise will result in them destroying your furniture and anything else they can bite. It is also recommended to let them roam around in a fenced backyard, so they can play, dig and explore. You should not take your Wolfdog to dog parks and make sure to keep them on a leash and harness. They will need regular brushing to avoid matting and tangles, and more when shedding season comes along. Do not bathe this dog too much as it can strip away the natural oils that make the coat healthy and shiny. As with every dog, dental hygiene is important so brush their teeth once a week. You should also cut their nails, to avoid overgrowth and splitting. Feeding and Diet Deciding what to feed your Wolfdog is not an exact science, but you should be feeding your dog a diet rich in protein. Avoid buying traditional store-bought dog food as these are rich in carbohydrates and artificial ingredients. You will need to do research into what type of meat-based diets you would prefer your dog to eat. Be mindful of how much you are feeding your dog, too much food can lead to obesity. Keep an eye on their weight by using a body condition score. Known Health Problems Wolfdogs are generally healthy animals, but they are still prone to certain health issues. Having pet insurance could save you from the headache of going to the vets with reimbursement for every vet bill from now on! Wolf vs. While these are generic numbers, they can still give you a better understanding of the ideal size to expect. Of course, note that your German Shepherd has to be a purebred, and the mating needs professional intervention. Below is a photo of a Czechoslovakian Wolfdog , which was initially bred from working line German Shepherds and Carpathian grey wolves in .This hybrid has a special diet requirement. Look for high-quality dog food that contains real meat as the first ingredient, and avoid fillers like corn, wheat, and soy. Some options include: Dry kibble: This is the most common type of dog food and is convenient and easy to store. Look for brands that offer high-quality protein sources like chicken, beef, or fish. Wet food: This type of dog food is more palatable than dry kibble and can be a good option for picky eaters. Look for brands that use real meat and avoid fillers. Raw food: Some dog owners prefer to feed their GSD-Wolf Mix a raw food diet, which consists of uncooked meat, bones, and organs. But why do I stress it under the diet section? Hip dysplasia: This is a genetic condition that affects the hip joint and can cause pain and mobility issues. To help prevent hip dysplasia, make sure your dog maintains a healthy weight and gets regular exercise. To help prevent these issues, feed your dog a high-quality diet and avoid table scraps and other human foods. Joint problems: Because of their size and activity level, GSD-Wolf Mixes are also prone to joint problems like arthritis. Multivitamins: A multivitamin supplement can help ensure that your dog is getting all the essential vitamins and minerals they need to stay healthy. Here are some tips to help you keep your GSD-Wolf hybrid healthy and happy. Grooming Your German Shepherd-Wolf Mix has a thick, dense coat that requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and shiny. Here are some grooming tips to keep in mind: Brush their coat at least once a week to remove loose fur and prevent matting. Bathe them as needed, but not too often, as it can strip their coat of its natural oils. Trim their nails regularly to prevent them from getting too long and causing discomfort. Clean their ears regularly to prevent infections. These are only a few tips. Ideally, once you get a German Shepherd Wolf Mix, you may encounter new requirements based on their health conditions as well. Nevertheless, regular grooming is mandatory! Combining the power and strength of a German Shepherd and a wolf, this mix is inherently stronger. Here are some exercise tips to keep in mind: Aim for at least 2 hours of exercise per day, including walks, runs, and playtime. Provide plenty of mental stimulation, such as puzzle toys and training sessions. Consider enrolling your dog in agility classes or other activities to keep them engaged. Training Your GSD-Wolf Mix is a smart and independent breed that needs consistent training and socialization to thrive. In fact, they can understand and grasp commands faster than usual because of their mix. Here are some training tips to keep in mind: Start training and socialization early to prevent behavior issues. Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, to encourage good behavior. Be patient and consistent in your training approach. Consider working with a professional trainer if you need help. Maintaining a German Shepherd Wolf Mix requires a bit more effort than other breeds, but with the right approach, you can keep your dog healthy and happy for years to come. By providing them with plenty of exercise, training, and health care, you can enjoy a strong and rewarding bond with your unique and beautiful German Shepherd Wolf Mix. They have a natural instinct to protect their loved ones and can be fiercely loyal to those they trust. Your German Shepherd Wolf Mix is a smart and inquisitive breed that thrives on mental stimulation. They are quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement training techniques. Similar to their parents, your GSD-Wolf hybrid is an independent breed that can be stubborn at times. They may not always follow commands or listen to their owners and may prefer to do things their own way. However, this hybrid needs early and consistent socialization to prevent behavior issues. They may be wary of strangers and other animals if they are not properly socialized from a young age. Your GSD-Wolf Mix has a strong prey drive and may be prone to chasing small animals like squirrels and rabbits. A German Shepherd Wolf Mix is safe for people professionally trained to handle wolf dogs but is not safe for ordinary pet owners, first-time dog owners, and families with children. Three primary reasons move people to interbreed wolves and German Shepherds, or any other dog breed: The desire to create the attractive wolf look in a wolfdog. The expectation is that breeding a German Shepherd and a wolf will produce an exceptionally hybrid pup with a balanced blend of the domestic and the wild traits in the two canines. The attempt to tame the wild in the wolf and create a fiercer guard dog than the purebred German Shepherd. Unfortunately, these expectations rarely materialize. Instead, German Shepherd Wolf hybrids can manifest extreme aggression and stubbornness for several reasons. Dogs sexually mature by 6 to 8 months, but they also have less aggressive hormonal changes and a more stable behavioral pattern in the years of sexual maturity. In contrast, wolves only mature sexually at around 1 to 4 years. The species-specific roles that come with sexual maturity, such as fighting their place in pack roles, can generate aggression and stubbornness and make their behavior patterns extremely unpredictable. Inheriting the unpredictable behavior of a wolf can make German Shepherd Wolf Mixes challenging to manage. And pruning out the wolf traits in the Wolf Shepherd can be tricky, even with training. That means having to deal with a difficult-to-manage pet. A Wild Prey Drive Prey drive is the instinctive tendency of carnivores to pursue and capture prey, also known as predatory behavior. Both the wolf and the German Shepherd have a strong prey drive , the first more than the second. This behavior can make your wolfdog threaten the safety of livestock and other animals when you walk with them or even try to escape to meet this instinctual hunting drive. Territoriality Wolves are a territorial species, a trait that German Shepherd Wolf Mixes can inherit. Wolfdogs often show territoriality through urine marking. But being territorial especially means that the wolfdog will be possessive of things and spaces in the home. As a result, the Wolf Shepherd will tend to be aggressive and defensive when other animals and people approach areas and things they consider to belong to them. Winter Wolf Syndrome Winter wolf syndrome, or seasonal aggression, is the aggression that characterizes wolves and wolfdogs around the mating season. The manifestation of the winter wolf syndrome can vary from wolf to wolf or wolfdog to wolfdog. Some wolves and wolf dogs may just show a bit of grumpiness, while others can show outright aggressiveness and extreme possessiveness. In German Shepherd Wolf hybrids and other wolfdogs, the extent of the winter wolf syndrome behaviors may vary with: Wolf content: The amount of wolf in a German Shepherd Dog. Sex: Males show protective behavior towards females, and females may show aggression towards their fellow females. In both cases, the wolfdogs can direct this aggression toward the owner or other persons. According to the Colorado Wolf Sanctuary , because of the natural element in the winter wolf syndrome, wolves and wolfdog owners should be aware that it is unsafe to interact directly with their pets in the five months or more around the mating season. The resulting question from the discovery that wolfdogs can be unsafe is whether governments allow people to own wolfdogs, even though they can turn violent. In some states, owning a wolfdog is illegal. Others regulate the ownership of wolfdogs with the same laws set for the ownership of wild animals, while others regulate wolfdogs in the same way as dogs. When owning a wolfdog is permitted by law, some states and local laws may specify the permissible wolf content in the wolfdog or require owners to get additional permits. A good number of states, including California, Montana, Idaho, and Florida, have both local and state restrictions on wolfdog ownership. Fewer states like Alaska, Georgia, Michigan, and Illinois completely outlaw wolfdogs. No state in the US is without restrictions on wolfdog ownership. As laws are constantly changing, please contact your city, county, and state governments before purchasing a wolf dog. In other countries like the UK, you require a license to own first-generation F1 wolf dogs, which are regulated by the Dangerous Wild Animals Act .However, it is legal to own a wolfdog as long as it is 3 generations F3 from the parent wolf. In other words, you can own a German Shepherd wolfdog if it is born of second-generation wolfdogs or a second-generation wolfdog and a German Shepherd. Going forward, you should check the safety and legality associated with the mix before you decide to get one. Even if you possess adequate knowledge in raising one, this hybrid is pretty challenging and can pose complexities on the go. Related Posts You May Like:. Many places have laws against owning any sort of wolf mix, including a German Shepherd-Worf hybrid. This is because, unlike dogs, wolves are completely wild animals, and while they can be domesticated to a certain extent, that wild streak is likely to live on. It just means that in extreme circumstances, these dogs are likely to be less predictable than those without wolf DNA inside them. The appeal is undeniable, but you still need to do your homework before adding one to your pack. Most experts would contend that a wolf mix is one with a purebred wolf in its bloodline within four or five generations. They act just like canine puppies for the most part. However, once they start to grow up, the wolf-like tendencies begin to emerge. They can start slowly in adolescence before becoming extremely apparent in adulthood. Many people have fallen in love with a wolf mix puppy, thinking that it has the features of a wolf but the sweetness of a dog. That may be true in some cases, but in others, the animal grew up to be quite a fearsome pet indeed. They Can Be Quite Unpredictable You would think that a wolf mix would be proud and fearless, never backing down from anyone or anything. The fact of the matter is that while these dogs can certainly be ferocious, they also tend to be extremely shy and skittish. Wolves are scared of people and for good reason, sadly. That means that while your German Shepherd Wolf mix would readily sacrifice their own lives to protect their family, they usually also prefer to cower and hide when strangers arrive. That can lead to dangerous situations, especially with children. If you push these dogs past their breaking point, the wolf will eventually come out — and that can have tragic results. Some of these animals take after their canine parents, while others favor their wolf lineage. Generally speaking, though, you can expect your German Shepherd Wolf mix to be fiercely loyal and protective of their families yet wary of outsiders. Due to the wolf in them, these dogs tend to be more pack-driven than other pups. You may even want to give them a canine companion, although this can have its own set of challenges. That intelligence makes them capable escape artists, though. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Little ones will often push a pet too far, and you never know when the wolf will come out. If you do bring one of these animals into a home with little kids, never leave them unsupervised. You should also teach your kids how to deal with the dog, making sure they know not to mess with their food or toys or abuse them in any way. Older kids may be able to get along with them, though, so if your children are a little more mature, you might be able to bring one of these dogs home without issue. All of this assumes that you know how to handle one of these animals, of course. They get lonely easily and may become depressed if left alone for long periods of time. However, they may be prone to aggression with other dogs as well. Pack culture is a much bigger deal for wolves than for dogs, so your mix may be prone to dominance. Other pets, however, are likely a bad idea. Cats and smaller animals will most likely be seen as food rather than friends, so you should keep your German Shepherd Wolf mix as far away from them as possible. All of this also means that you need to be absolutely certain that your mix is kept on a secure leash and collar or harness during walks. You may not feel up to the task once you realize how much is involved with raising one of these animals. That will affect how much they eat, but you can expect them to have a healthy appetite regardless. These are energetic pups, so they need as much long-lasting energy as they can get. Avoid problematic ingredients like soy, wheat, corn, or animal by-products, as these can make your dog fat without giving them much in the way of nutrition. Many dogs have trouble processing these ingredients as well. In addition to feeding them a proper diet, you should exercise strict portion control and never allow them to free-feed. As a result, expect to provide your pet with plenty of exercises. They can easily destroy your entire lawn if not properly tuckered out. Long walks are a good idea, but you should also play fetch or something that requires more energy every day. Just be careful not to make them run and jump too much, as it puts quite a bit of strain on their spines. Mental stimulation is equally important. You can give them puzzle toys, play hide-and-seek, or put them through extensive training sessions. They respond best to positive reinforcement, so try to convince them to cooperate by offering them treats or affection. The problem with this is that eventually, those emotions will boil over. That could lead to unpleasant consequences for you. The shedding becomes extreme twice a year when the dogs blow their coats. You should only need to bathe them if they get visibly dirty, but you will need to brush their teeth and trim their claws regularly. Be sure to keep their ears clean as well, as they can be prone to infection. This reduces the risk of spinal issues later in life. Still, there are a few things to be aware of. Minor Conditions. Prone to shedding. Lifespan: 12 - 14 years. They can have several health issues including joint problems and cancer. No - definitely not recommended for families with young kids. Unpredictable temperaments. Although GSDs are easily trainable, wolves are wild animals. These hybrids should be reserved for very experienced dog owners. They need a ton of exercise, which is easier said than done. Once they reach a certain age and level of strength, walking your wolfdog in public can be difficult. In most places in the United States, it is illegal to own a wild animal like a wolf unless you have a special and expensive wildlife permit. GSD-wolf mixes walk a tightrope between being considered wild animals or domestic pets. Because of the wolf parent or grandparent, the law considers the resulting mix not reliably domesticated, and thus prone to acting dangerously. Therefore, if you want a wolf-dog mix, you may have to do a lot of research to even find a place in the world that will let you do so. Some proponents of wolf-dog mixes claim that some dog breeds have more grey wolf parent DNA than other dog breeds. If these breeds are allowed, then so should GSD and wolf mixes. According to Science Trends. These breeds include the Finnish Spitz, the Shar-Pei, the Siberian Husky another breed often crossed with wolves , and the Greenland dog. However, the ancestors of these breeds branched off from wolves thousands of years ago, and not simply one or two generations ago. Over one hundred years ago, German shepherds were popularly called Alsatian Wolf Dogs, since they were bred in the Alsace region of what is now France and looked like wolves. However, no wolves were actually involved in creating German Shepherd mixes. Other breeds mistakenly thought to have wolves in their recent ancestry include Siberian Huskies and the Alaskan Malamute. Although descended from wolves, the last wolf in their pedigree was thousands of years ago. Even puppies in the same litter can act in vastly different ways. Wolves tend to ignore people and do what they want. Any wolf-dog mix will be prone to unpredictable behavior at times, and will tend to act more like a wolf than a dog. Wolves are intensely territorial creatures. They attack any predator in their home range, including wolves not in their packs. This behavior has convinced some people that GSD-wolf mixes make better guard dogs than dogs. This, however, is a myth. According to the International Wolf Center, dogs have been bred for thousands of years to bark when intruders appear. Wolves on the other hand stay silent. This is because large dogs age faster than small dogs. Why this happens in dogs and not other species is not known. The future health of a wolf mix is harder to predict than the health of a purebred dog. After decades of study, it is now known what health problems certain breeds are prone to. Because German Shepherd — wolf hybrids are a genetic toss of the dice, you have no way of knowing what health problems these animals will be prone to. A wolf mix needs to be well-behaved in order to be treated for an illness, but the mix may even be too dangerous to treat. Never assume that all vets will be willing to take in a German shepherd wolf mix as a patient. All the vets in your area may refuse to work on such an animal, and this is not due to prejudice against wolves. Although all vets are trained to help domestic animals like dogs, very few are trained in the care of exotics. One problematic area for vets and exotic animal owners is that of vaccination. Rabies vaccines are crucial for dog owners. Because of the threat of rabies and the problems of the rabies vaccine working on wolf-dogs, any wolf-dog that shows signs of rabies or has been exposed to a rabid animal needs to be euthanized. The two most common medical problems with any wolf-dog mix are complications from being overweight and hip dysplasia. Being overweight can also contribute to hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is very common in German shepherds and in most large dog breeds. Hip dysplasia symptoms like limping start when the dog is young, and gets worse over time if left untreated. This is a very painful and chronic condition that may require surgery to treat. Depending on the genetic roll of the dice, a GSD wolf puppy may be looking at a very short, unhealthy life. GSDs are also prone to a deadly and incurable condition called degenerative myelopathy that hits GSDs seven years of age and older. However, this can become quite complicated since wolf-dogs cannot be walked and played with like normal dogs. Puppies may be able to walk on a leash in the beginning. Sadly, a lot of wolf-dog hybrids wind up staying permanently in an outdoor pen because they cannot be walked or trained. Despite the endless unknowns surrounding a GSD wolf mix, their size is actually predictable. The smallest hybrids will be as small as a GSD — roughly 49 pounds. The largest will be about pounds, which is the size of a large male Mackenzie Valley wolf, the largest known wolf species. As is common in most wolf species and dog breeds, females tend to be smaller. GSDs are as tall as small wolves, but wolves can actually reach heights of 34 inches tall at the shoulders. GSD wolf mixes come in a wide variety of colors, but most have two or even three tones to their coats. Common two-toned colors include black and tan, grey and white, silver and white, brown and grey, and tan and grey. Puppies of dogs, wolf-dog mixes, and even wolves can be trained and easily handled. However, once the wolf-dog hybrid becomes physically and sexually mature, all bets are off. Just when a GSD wolf mix matures differs from puppy to puppy. Dogs mature a lot faster than wolves. A German shepherd wolf mix could mature as early as six months, when a GSD matures, or as late as four years old when a wolf typically matures. However, these are not wolves. However, if you want an animal that obeys commands all the time, why not just save yourself the time and money, and go with a dog? They also ask people for affection. They have to be taught to hunt by their older pack-mates. They grow accustomed to being given food at predictable times. All wolf hybrids, including GSD wolf mixes, have severely bitten or attacked people and pets in the United States. Wolf-hybrids often attack children more than adults because children make noises resembling small prey animals. More often, wolf-dog mixes will attack other pets than people. These are very territorial animals. If any other animal is perceived as being on their turf, a GSD wolf mix may not only attack but kill a dog, cat, or other animal. Not only will you have to pay restitution and possible court costs, but depending on your local laws, your GSD wolf mix may be confiscated and euthanized. Your chances of appeal are very small, and will involve significant legal expenses. The only known factors are that this is a large animal with the ability to inflict serious damage on pets, livestock, wildlife, and people, especially children. You may have to keep the animal in a pen for the rest of its life. You may never be able to find a vet willing to look after the GSD wolf mix. You may have laws banning the ownership of such an animal where you live. A GSD wolf mix puppy or adult costs thousands of dollars. You will need plenty of land, fencing, and legal advice in order to keep it. When it comes to any wolf-dog mix, leave it alone. Get one of the safer German Shepherd mixes instead. German Shepherd wolf mix breeds are one of the biggest dogs you can get, averaging to around 24 inches tall. In terms of weight, they average to around 60 lbs heavy when they are fully grown. While this is slightly smaller than the average German Shepherd, this is still large for a dog. Remember, their personality will make them seem even larger than they physically are. This mix breed is highly unpredictable. This means that while German Shepherds are generally bigger than the wolf mix breed, they are much more obedient. A larger and more obedient German Shepherd will seem much smaller than a GSD wolf mix that has an unpredictable and potentially dangerous temperament. Even though GSD wolf mix breeds might grow to be slightly smaller than a regular German Shepherd, the average lifespan of both is the same. They are both considered medium-large breeds, which means that they can come with a variety of health issues including joint problems and cancer. What percentage of German Shepherds are wolf? Technically speaking, every dog derives from wolves. They were never bred with wolves. It all depends on the genetics of the German Shepherd, as some might have come from a background that bred wolves into the family. Instead, German Shepherds descend from the Canidae biological family in the same way as other domestic dogs do. This biological family includes wolves, foxes, and dingoes. Other breeds of dogs like Siberian Huskies and Finnish Spitz are more closely related to wolves as their ancestors had been wolves for thousands of years. How can you tell if your German Shepherd is part wolf? German Shepherds were never bred with wolves when the breed was standardized in Germany in the s, which means that there is no element of wolf in their DNA. Still, they are part of the Canidae family in the same way as other domesticated dogs are. However, you can still commit to a genetic test to see if your German Shepherd has come from a family that attempted to breed a wolf into the genetic line. Also, when buying or adopting your GSD, the seller should make you aware of if the dog is part wolf. Serious applicants only. Potential homes will be vetted for proper placement. Every breed has different requirements, whether the space they must have or the amount of exercise they need. If you are not certain yet, check out our essential Wolfdog breed info to find out everything about the Wolfdog. How to find Wolfdog puppies for sale? When buying a puppy, it is important to consider not only the pet but also the breeder. Because a responsible breeder will ensure their dogs come from the strongest bloodlines and have the best start to life. Ask about the health and temperament of their Wolfdog pups as well as their living environment. But also find out about the breeder's practices and commitments. A good breeder will be happy to answer everything before you decide. After all, they will want to ensure that their dog goes to a good home. When you have done your research and got all the info you need, you can then choose the right breeder with confidence. To help ensure you choose a responsible breeder, all the Wolfdog kennels you see listed here are verified by Pets4You. You will also find that the best breeders will provide a guarantee with their dog. This information, and more, is available on the breeder's website within Pets4You. Browse through our dog breeder directory with complete breeder profiles and current puppies for sale to find your dream dog. Disclaimer It is the duty of every person that is considering buying a puppy or dog to confirm all the information provided to them by the breeder is accurate. Pets4You makes no warranties, expressed or implied, as to the condition of any dogs offered for sale, the standards or practices of any breeder, the quality of their canines, or the accuracy of any information contained within our site. Pets4You does not endorse, recommend, or guarantee a particular kennel, breeder or dogs listed on the Pets4You website. For Buyers.

Puppy pads Create a Schedule German Shepherd pups would do well with a schedule. Dogs live with a routine, and they are easy to train by having one. For this reason, make a schedule of the things you need to do regularly. Eventually, your pup will learn the routine events and will make itself adept at them. It will help you prepare for your pet, especially in the first few days of living together. As you allow your pet to adjust, do your best to create a stress-free environment for it. Always supervise it as it familiarizes itself with its new home. Still, it would be best to prepare yourself for loud noises when your pet is asleep. Moderate Training German Shepherds are highly trainable. It simply means they respond well, especially to positive reinforcement. Squeaky Toys Out of all toys, your pet will love the squeaky ones. For this reason, prepare for a lot of loud squeaks every time your pet is active. Thus, in picking your pet, you may want to consider getting it from the best. Tells you any health problems A good breeder will tell you any significant health problems in any of the dogs he or she bred. Asks more questions than you A good breeder would ask for more items from you than you would for him or her. Not in a hurry to send off A good breeder is not in a hurry to send the puppies off and get your money. He or she will even show you other breeders and veterinarians caring for their dogs. Requires expectations on both sides A good breeder will create a contract that offers not only what he or she expects from you. More than that, he or she will also show what you can expect from him or her. Sends puppies properly A good breeder will never send a puppy in a compartment and without any responsible person to go with it. Works only with one or two breeds A good breeder works only with a single or a couple of species. Shows breeding experience A good breeder shows her dogs in recognized confirmation shows. He or she will also join his or her breed in other breed-related performance events. Other states. City Directory, Social Media.This is southern living at its best. This is how life is supposed to be. From the houses on the bluffs overlooking the Tennessee River to the beautiful and historic homes in the city's downtown area, life in Florence is full of beauty.Find what you need in Florence or report your concerns.Starting or doing business with the City of Florence has never been easier. You'll be able to receive all of the City of Florence service information you need to expand or start a business, plus more. To remove the legwork from our business clients, the program offers you one point of contact for assistance and information. The City of Florence offers residential and commercial curbside pickup of Recycling and Solid Waste, as well as a variety of other services.The City of Florence is committed to the safety and well-being of our citizens, as well as our animals.Florence Utilities provides you with the utmost friendly, professional, and expedient customer service. We are here and ready to talk or interact with you when you need us. Use the Contact Directory below or contact us via social media. We will respond as soon as possible.

Be honest and get help! Having a new puppy in the house is generally predicted to be a happy time; full of endless fun, games, and cuddles - and for many this is true. However, there can be a darker side to the arrival of a new puppy in your home, which not everyone is prepared for. As a result the owner may feel exhausted, panicky, resentful, or just completely overwhelmed by the responsibility of a new puppy. Feeling resentful of a new puppy is more common than you think. The puppy keeps weeing and pooing in the house , even after they have just been taken outside. The puppy whines and cries whenever they are left alone or are in their crate. The puppy won't settle when you want them to. The puppy keeps nipping and biting your hands and ankles. Content continues after advertisements Why you might be stressed by your new puppy You have never owned a puppy before. Either you have never owned a dog before getting your new puppy or have only had older dogs before getting your new puppy. You are grieving the loss of an old dog and you think that the new puppy will never by like your old dog. You feel that your new puppy is not living up to all the behavioural expectations that you had when you brought him home. You have read too many books or manuals on raising perfect puppies relax - these don't exist! You feel your puppy is harassing or upsetting other dogs you may have relax again - it nearly always works out between them in the end. Your new puppy is a particularly challenging breed or breed combination. Be aware that how manic, energetic, challenging, destructive, bitey, or chewy, a puppy is can all be down to genetic factors. So do your research on breeds well before you get your new puppy. If you are particularly house proud, you may be frustrated by the mess that the new puppy is making of your house or garden. How you can cope with your new puppy Don't have really high expectations of your new puppy - all puppies are individuals and learn at different speeds. Understand that a young puppy has only just left its mother and what they need most is warmth, comfort, security, and a calm atmosphere - not an owner who is always stressed and pulling their hair out each time the puppy wees on the floor or when the puppy chews the carpet. Set daily activity and rest time routines for puppies from day one, which they soon get used to. Not only do young puppies need lots of sleep to grow properly, but owners also need sufficient daily breaks from their puppies, in order to stay sane. Understand that puppies are usually at their most manic when they are most tired, and will keep on going as long as they are being stimulated. Seek advice from a behaviourist if you feel that the puppy's behaviour is getting out of hand or dangerous and you really can't cope with the new puppy's behaviour. Similarly, stick to the same morning and evening toilet routine with your puppy. It's a good idea to let your puppy out just before you go to bed and then first thing in the morning so he learns to hold his bladder. He may have some accidents at first, but this is normal. Realise that when time passes the bond between you and your new puppy will slowly grow and strengthen. You won't necessarily love your puppy straight away and this is normal. One day, buying a puppy might be the best thing you ever did! Too many owners try to suppress or deny their feelings of hate or annoyance towards their new puppy, because they feel guilty about them. Not only will they not get the help they need but there is also a higher chance that their suppressed negative feelings will be targeted on to their puppy in some damaging way. So it's important to understand that anxiety, resentment, and panic, are pretty common feelings when you bring a new puppy home as your whole life will change and the puppy will be demanding. It is OK to accept these early feelings, which nearly always change with time, but also critical to get professional help if you continue to feel that you can't cope with your puppy. Other articles you may find useful:. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Golden retrievers are such great family dogs. And they tend to have some behavior problems because of their great characteristics. Most goldens want to be near their people. And they love to be petted and get attention. They may jump, grab our hand or arm, or engage in some destructive behaviors. Many of these are normal dog behaviors that can be modified through training and exercise. Normal Dog Behaviors Versus Abnormal Behaviors Dogs naturally dig, bark, express fear in certain situations, mark territory, chase small animals, and jump. They may steal food. Or want to be with us all the time. Goldens were bred to be sociable, high-energy dogs. My rescued golden Spencer almost always had to carry something in his mouth. So I made sure there were safe toys for him to happily tote around. Unfortunately, many dogs are given up to shelters because of behaviors that can be modified. To have a great companion takes a lot of work, patience, and time. And to meet those needs. These should be dealt with by behavior specialists who can evaluate the individual dog and determine the best behavior modification plan. These abnormal behaviors include aggression to those around the dog, obsessive-compulsive disorders, shutting down, and severe separation anxiety. Why Behavior Problems Develop There is no one reason why some behavior problems occur. Unfortunately, goldens are so popular—the third-popular breed ranked by the American Kennel Club—they are often poorly bred. There are too many back-yard and puppy mill dogs who are more likely to not be the examples of what the breed should be. Jumping on People Golden retrievers usually love everyone and never met a stranger. Goldens are the greeting committee of the dog world. Many dogs want to jump on people when greeting them. The golden can, of course, unintentionally injure someone, knocking them over in his exuberant greeting. Engaging in Destructive Behavior In addition to friendliness, goldens were bred to hunt. They have energy to spare. And they were bred to retrieve and have something in their mouths. They may dig up the garden. Or chew up our furniture. Or they may steal the food on the counter. And the food they eat may be toxic, such as chocolate or raisins. Or they may get a blockage from ingesting a towel or sock. A bored, under-exercised golden can get very creative in meeting his needs. They often need to have something in their mouths. That is, he may constantly try to hold our clothes, arm, or hand in his mouth. Biting is a natural canine behavior. But puppies should be taught bite-inhibition. And it can be dangerous. Someone can be badly bruised or even pulled down. Pulling on the Leash Goldens love to go places and greet all their new admirers. But they want to get there sooner rather than later. Many dogs pull on a leash, but not all are as friendly as goldens are known to be. And they can be lazer-focused on getting where they want to go. Being a rather large dog, a golden pulling on a leash can injure someone. An owner can be pulled down and get injured. Or the dog himself can get free and get lost or injured—or worse. Demanding Attention Because of their natural friendliness, goldens may want to be the center of attention. They are so family-oriented, they love to be with us. Some goldens may bark at you for attention. They may nudge you and grab your arm to be recognized. Some may even engage in unwanted behaviors like taking something off the table. Even negative attention is attention. Hyperactivity Some goldens seemingly bounce off the walls. They are like a hurricane passing through the living room. Tables are cleared of bric a brac. Pillows are shredded and on the floor. But your happy golden is furiously wagging his tail, looking for the next item he can use to help expel his excess energy. Separation Anxiety Because of their innate friendly, family-oriented behavior, goldens may suffer from separation anxiety at a higher rate than some other breeds. Their need to be with us can lead to some unwanted behaviors. Dogs with mild separation anxiety may drool, pace, whine, and generally behave in a distressed manner. Dogs with severe separation anxiety may become very destructive. They may try to get out of doors and windows, feverishly digging at door and window frames. They may even severely harm themselves in their attempts to get free. Dogs with separation anxiety may need professional behavioral help. We owe it to our goldens to do all that we can do to meet their natural needs. A bored, untrained, under-exercised, unsupervised golden is going to develop some problem behaviors. Some of the tips below will even help your golden from developing any of the potential problems cited above. I wrote the ways to help fix a problem separately from the problems because it will probably take more than one item to successfully change an unwanted behavior. All of the favorable interactions we have with our goldens also help further our bond with them. Physical Exercise Goldens were bred to hunt. They are highly-energetic dogs. Walks, fetching, jogging, agility, and swimming can all be great ways to physically exercise your golden. A vet check-up is advisable prior to starting any exercise program. Physical exercise can help decrease or eliminate the above-named problems. Of course, you want to exercise your dog enough but not over-tire them. Dogs who have been sufficiently exercised are less likely to jump or engage in destructive activities such as digging or chewing. Also, dogs who are exercised and calm before we leave are less likely to develop separation anxiety. Obedience Training Obedience training helps us communicate with our dogs and informs them what behaviors are desired. So we can teach them to sit before they receive attention. Or to lie down next to us and settle. And we can show him what toys he can put in his mouth rather than destroying items or turning us into his chew toy. Redirection works. And we can teach them to not pull on a leash and to walk on a loose leash. Part of the training should include how to leave your dog alone. This will help prevent separation anxiety from developing. Start with short sessions. Make leaving a happy opportunity—when great things appear. Leave a frozen, stuffed Extreme Kong with him as you leave. If your dog has already shown signs of separation distress, get the help of a qualified behavior specialists. As far as your golden inappropriately seeking attention is concerned, you can ignore your dog. Turn away or get up and leave. But do give him the attention he needs on your terms by calling him over to you occasionally. Pet him. Have him do a command or trick. Praise, pet, and treat. You should also play games with him. Teach him to tug a toy like a rope or long fleece to and give. You can have him play fetch. You can play hide-and-seek where you go and hide and call him to you. Make a big deal when he reaches you YES! Good boy! And not at all with a dog who has separation anxiety. But, to goldens, this is what they often enjoy most. Everyone is a potential friend. Goldens will thrive if they are fed the same times each day, are exercised as needed routinely, and receive attention from their people every day. No dog should be just put aside like a statue. Goldens especially need attention through positive daily interactions—play, training, exercise. If ignored, their sweet, golden personality will wilt. Final Thoughts Golden retrievers are such happy, affable, family dogs. But they are prone more than some breeds to certain problem behaviors because of their genetic purpose to retrieve and their desire to be with people. By doing so, their lives—as well as ours—will be full and happy. Does your golden engage in any unwanted behaviors? How have you handled them? Please tell us about it in the comment section below. Related Article:. Thinking about a Golden Retriever as a pet? Imagine if you left your children alone most of the time until they reached adolescence. The wild child you are picturing is similar to what will happen to a Golden left alone that much. Goldens also need regular grooming to keep their skin and coat in good condition. You can easily learn to do this yourself or have your dog professionally groomed, but grooming time is something to factor into the amount of time you will need to spend caring for your dog. If you really see nothing funny about waking up to a cold, slobbery tennis ball in your face or a puppy that decides that a. They need regular exercise, especially as puppies, or they can become destructive and unhappy. If your longest walk in the past month was from the couch to your bed — perhaps a more sedentary pet would better suit your needs? Dog ownership is a commitment for the life of a dog. If you figure your dog will head for the pound once the kids are in school — please reconsider getting a pet! Golden rescue is full of dogs that have lost their homes as a result of changes in life circumstances. Some are not preventable and the dedicated volunteers who care for these dogs are ready and willing to help — but the changes that ARE predictable should be taken into consideration BEFORE making a commitment to a dog! This is a dangerously easy place to make friends. It is also impossible to walk down the street with a beautiful Golden dog and NOT be stopped by strangers. Goldens are people magnets. Got a problem with this? Maybe a something in the guard dog family would serve you better? Most of these dogs wound up in rescue because their owners had little idea of the time, commitment and effort it takes to own a dog. These rescue dogs are a testament to the fact that there are too many carelessly bred Goldens. If you consider the possible problems you may encounter, it is easy to see why breeding is NOT a money-making venture! They will be eager to assist the thieves that are breaking into your home; probably even helping them carry out the silver. This is a lot of dog. As an alternative, there are several wonderful smaller breeds many without tails! A Golden retriever and a child often form a loving, inseparable bond. However, the ultimate responsibility for any living, breathing creature must always fall to an adult. Children can be wonderful dog groomers, trainers and best friends, but they need adult guidance. You should also remember that Goldens are big enough - even as puppies - to knock down a small child. Chief among these are Canine Hip Dysplasia - a sometimes crippling joint disease; sub-aortic stenosis - a usually fatal heart defect; several inherited eye diseases that can blind or disable a dog; epilepsy, early onset cancer and temperament problems ranging from hyperactivity to aggression. It is essential that you seek out a responsible breeder if you are looking for a puppy or an established rescue group if an adult dog would fit your needs better. This time it's personal. Usually when our dog runs away, the sound of his Prozac brings him home, and tonight is no exception. He streaks down the street like a bolt of lightning, skidding to a stop in front of our house. I met Fig when he was twelve weeks old, a recent transport to New Jersey from a kill shelter in Georgia. But when our eldest was born, we were living in a foreign country fine, England in a fifth floor walk-up 86 stairs! How hard could it be to raise a puppy? When I first laid eyes on Fig, he was 12 weeks old, in a windowless room, in a cage by himself—the canine equivalent of solitary confinement. His own brother wants to kill him. Our life together flashed before my eyes: long walks, meaningful gazes, lazy afternoons on the porch—basically an extended Viagra commercial starring a midsize orange dog and me. Fig rode home on my lap, trembling and shedding half the fur on his body. Within an hour of arrival, he had shredded every roll of toilet paper in our house. When we put him in his crate, he cried so loudly—a keening, human-sounding scream—that one of neighbors called to ask if we needed an ambulance. He went on hunger strikes and chewed through three leashes two canvas, one leather. Eventually we got rid of our hose. The perpetrator, Fig Newton. Courtesy of Elisabeth Egan At his one-year check-up, the vet had to enlist two brawny technicians to wrangle Fig onto the scale. Is he always like this? But Fig Newton turned out to be the Ironman, a double black diamond, and an ultra-marathon all rolled into one. Meanwhile, I signed up for a sweat-free stroll in the park. The vet watched as Fig gnawed on his leg like a drumstick, the whites of his eyes visible. Can you imagine living with such a miserable creature? One night, he knocked a pot of meatballs off a lit burner and rolled into the tomato sauce before doing the wet dog shake all over our newly-painted kitchen. He will jump out the window of a moving car into traffic. When we light a fire, Fig sleeps so close to the flames, you can smell his fur burning. He knocks over the Christmas tree every year, sometimes multiple times. And this is with medication! Most Popular. At all. A surprising number of people have written on the internet that they hate their dogs. I wanted to share my experience, to say that even professional dog trainers mad at their dogs. Even trainers like me, who are all about compassion and help other people with dog aggression every day. The backstory…I adopted this Labrador Retriever teenager a month ago for my fiancee. He really loves the Labs and besides, Zuki was pining for a new dog friend after we lost Bean to a coyote last year. Joey was being trained to be a service dog and he washed out because of his fears. As a puppy, they had always kept him in working mode when out and about, rather than really interacting naturally with lots of people and dogs. Joey also spent a lot of time in a crate before I got him, to the point that his hind end was weak. A lot of dogs are really under-socialized right now. Whatever the cause, my dog is terrified of people barks like mad , timid around most dogs, and generally only trusts other Labs on sight. This week we urgently need a petsitter to attend a funeral in Chicago. Having Joey instead of just Zuki makes it super difficult. As I left the house, I thought maybe I should bring the full treat pouch and have him wear a harness, just in case. I settled on carrying a leash, just in case. And then we ran into a bear. Not a real bear, the bear sculpture in the middle of the field. Joey is terrified by humans anyway, and an intentional approach is the worst, so and barks his head off at them. So she walks straight up to us, Joey barking his fool head off, to politely tell me to keep my dogs quiet during nap time. I was trying to end the conversation as quickly as possible, wanting to sink into the ground in shame and exasperation with these clearly untrained dogs by now, Zuki was also barking. I know that I used a lot of expletives. I got home and cried, then took a nap. Can I please just trust that things will sort themselves out? At the very least, I still have to keep my dog from barking his head off at the neighbors. My prefrontal cortex is still slightly online. I remember that I have more information and reasoning than I can access from a reactive state. I can help the border collie in my head find calm. I Belong. I breathe. Then in for 4, hold for 7, out for 8. My rational mind comes back online. Black-and-white thinking fades back to understanding nuance. I regain my capacity to think things through. Hi there, empathy, glad to have you back! I can be angry at Joey AND still love him. And I can be angry without being aggressive. I can have this white-hot fury at my dog and simultaneously not follow the recommendations of that side of me, that frustration that cares not for consequences, the Giant Monster that wants to grab my dog and throw him feet away, into the river, never to be seen again. I know, in my decades as a dog trainer, that yelling or pinning the dog down is likely to just erode his trust in humans and make his fear worse, but that little part of me that has suddenly become a Giant Angry Dragon is actually willing to do harm to get my dog to stop. This is why they make you sign a paper, when you get a baby, that you will never shake the baby. Then I breathe. The moment passes. I note my emotion and let it flow. Treat and Retreat. Playing with toys. I was angry for the same reason Joey was barking — we are both being over reactive, using antisocial behavior to address something uncomfortable that seems out of control. I was just angry, at that time, and I want the very best for him. I have the tools to keep him safe, but only if I really accept that he is reactive and needs my help, and own my own feelings around this. Joey needs time to get to know people, starting at a distance he feels safe, and working his way in. Going for a walk and following them, slowly catching up, works great I use a long line and the BAT leash handling skills so he feels as off leash as possible while still being safe. With some more foresight, I can have fewer moments where he is suddenly too close to a human. I can give him a food puzzle and meet guests farther from the house until we have time to do set-ups. Like any relationship, the dogs that bring out anger in us often have the most to teach us — about how to relate to them and to the parts of ourselves with which we have trouble. Thanks, Joey! This dog is going to teach me a LOT. He did beautifully! I put him on leash, just in case. I had a toy and handed it over and he just walked around, sniffed her, no big deal. Then she even sat on the ground and gave him some treats and he gobbled them up. If you want to learn more about Joey search for the hashtag JoeyTheLablet on social media. Get Help! Moreover, not all Golden Retrievers will behave this way. This is often a trait that comes with dogs from backyard breeders BYB. Some of the nagging behaviors with Golden Retrievers include barking, especially when they have not received enough exercise and mental stimulation. So, ensure you exercise your Golden Retriever to release the accumulated energy. For mental stimulation, you can opt for puzzle games. What Are the Disadvantages of Golden Retrievers? High Energy: Golden Retrievers, being a high-energy breed, demands an active lifestyle to thrive. Unlike most other dogs, that are calm and quiet, you may find it challenging to cope with the constant need for physical and mental stimulation. Golden Retrievers are known for their playful and energetic nature, but this aspect of their temperament can be overwhelming for individuals who prefer a more relaxed and laid-back companion. Growling and Stubbornness: Golden Retrievers exhibit growling behavior when faced with tasks or situations they dislike, and they can also be stubborn in complying with commands. You may feel frustrated and anxious about addressing these behavioral issues effectively. Thus, you may worry about the safety of the smaller dog during these intense play sessions. Golden Retrievers have a strong retrieving instinct, and if not adequately exercised, they may resort to rough play or destructive behavior as a means of releasing their pent-up energy. Responsibility: The stress level in the household has escalated due to the lack of support from owners. Therefore, you may feel resentful about the uneven distribution of pet care duties. Lack of Affection: You may have had expectations of a more affectionate and loving relationship with their Golden Retriever, akin to your previous experiences with dogs. Attention-Seeking Behavior: Golden Retrievers constantly demands attention, hindering your ability to relax or spend quality time handling your other duties. This neediness can be emotionally draining and challenging to manage, particularly if you have other responsibilities or need personal downtime. As a result, you may feel a sense of loss or nostalgia for those shared experiences, adding to your frustration and discontent. Although many Golden Retrievers typically start to mellow out around the ages of two to three years, others may take until they reach four years old to exhibit a more composed demeanor. The calming process in Golden Retrievers varies from one individual to another and depends on various factors, including genetics, early socialization, training, and overall health. Generally, as they mature, they tend to become more settled and less hyperactive. Consistent training, adequate exercise, and mental stimulation can contribute to a smoother transition into a more relaxed adulthood. One significant aspect to consider is their need for vigorous exercise. These dogs thrive on physical activity and require a substantial amount of it daily. A minimum of minutes of exercise is essential to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. Without adequate exercise, they can become restless, prone to weight gain, and may develop destructive chewing habits. Failing to provide sufficient exercise can lead to behavioral issues and an unhappy dog. Moreover, Golden Retrievers have a propensity for being affectionate and loyal, which can also be seen as a weakness. They thrive on human interaction and may struggle with being left alone for extended periods. Additionally, their friendly and trusting nature, while endearing, can be a weakness in certain situations. They may not make ideal guard dogs due to their tendency to befriend strangers rather than being protective. Furthermore, Golden Retrievers have a relatively high shedding rate. Their thick, water-resistant double coat sheds seasonally, requiring regular grooming to keep their fur in good condition and to minimize the shedding around the house.

Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Labradoodle Highlights Friendly and intelligent: Labradoodles are known for being friendly and intelligent dogs. They are good with children and other animals, and they are easy to train. Hypoallergenic: Labradoodles are often considered to be hypoallergenic, which means that they do not shed as much as other dogs. This makes them a good choice for people with allergies. Active and playful: Labradoodles are active dogs that need regular exercise. They enjoy playing fetch, going for walks, and swimming. Loyal and devoted: Labradoodles are loyal and devoted dogs that make great companions. They are always happy to see their owners and they love to cuddle. Versatile: Labradoodles are versatile dogs that can be trained for a variety of tasks, including therapy work, obedience, and agility. They can be expensive to purchase and maintain. They require regular grooming, especially if they have a curly coat. They are prone to some health problems, such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Overall, Labradoodles are wonderful dogs that make great companions for people of all ages. If you are looking for a friendly, intelligent, and hypoallergenic dog, a Labradoodle may be a good choice for you. Labradoodle History Wally Conron, who was in charge of the breeding program for the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia, purposefully crossbred a Standard Poodle and Labrador Retriever in to develop the Labradoodle as a hypoallergenic guide dog. The first cross produced Sultan, a dog with a hypoallergenic coat, aptitude, intelligence, and personality suitable for being an effective guide dog. Sultan worked successfully with a woman in Hawaii. Other breeders saw the merit of crossing these two breeds, and the Labradoodle quickly rose in popularity like its Labrador Retriever parent. These dogs are often produced by crossing a Labrador Retriever with a Poodle, but multigenerational breeding has begun in an attempt to produce a viable and recognizable breed. The Australian Labradoodle Association and the International Australian Labradoodle Association are taking steps to move this designer breed into registered breed status in the next few years. These groups have made great efforts to bring breeders together so that they are working to achieve the same standards through multigenerational breeding. Labradoodle Size The Labradoodle comes in three size variations, depending on the size of the Poodle used for the first-generation breeding. The three sizes are Standard, Medium, and Miniature. The Standard Labradoodle should be 22 to 24 inches in height for a male and 21 to 23 inches in height for a female, while both can range in weight from 50 to 65 pounds. The Medium Labradoodle should be 18 to 20 inches high for a male and 17 to 19 inches high for a female, with both weighing from 30 to 45 pounds. The average size for a Miniature Labradoodle is between 14 to 16 inches and 15 to 25 pounds. All of that said, there is a lot of variation in Labradoodle sizes. Some can be smaller or larger than expected. Labradoodle Personality The Labradoodle is an intelligent dog who can make the ideal family pet if properly trained. They are friendly and accept and treat everyone like their best friend. They can be gentle, but they can also be joyful, showing their happiness through exuberant jumping and playing. They also tend to be easygoing, since the Labradoodle was bred not to be aggressive. Temperament is affected by a number of factors, including heredity, training, and socialization. Puppies with nice temperaments are curious and playful, willing to approach people and be held by them. Meeting siblings, parents, or other relatives of the dog is also helpful for evaluating what a puppy will be like when they grow up. Socialization helps ensure that your Labradoodle puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Enrolling them in a puppy kindergarten class is a great start. Inviting visitors over regularly, and taking them to busy parks, stores that allow dogs, and on leisurely strolls to meet neighbors will also help them polish their social skills. Here are a few conditions to watch out for: Ear Infections: These can plague Labradoodles because of their floppy ears. The ears trap moisture and should be regularly checked. X-ray screening is the most certain way to diagnose the problem. Either way, arthritis can develop as the dog ages. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Elbow Dysplasia : Similar to hip dysplasia, this is also a degenerative disease. The disease varies in severity: the dog could simply develop arthritis, or they could become lame. Treatment includes surgery, weight management, medical management, and anti-inflammatory medication. It can cause mild or severe seizures that may show themselves as unusual behavior—such as running frantically as if being chased, staggering, or hiding—or even by falling down, limbs rigid, and losing consciousness. Seizures are frightening to watch, but the long-term prognosis for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy is generally very good. Allergies: Allergies are a common ailment in dogs, and the Labradoodle is no exception. Treatment varies according to the cause and may include dietary restrictions, medications, and environmental changes. Diabetes Mellitus: This is a disorder in which the body cannot regulate blood sugar levels. The dog will lose weight because food is not being used efficiently. Symptoms of diabetes are excessive urination and thirst, increased appetite, and weight loss. Diabetes can be controlled by diet and the administration of insulin. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA : This is a family of eye diseases that involves the gradual deterioration of the retina. Early in the disease, affected dogs become night-blind; they lose sight during the day as the disease progresses. Many affected dogs adapt well to their limited or lost vision, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Hypothyroidism : This is a disorder of the thyroid gland. It is treated with medication and diet. They require about 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day and would do better with a fenced yard in which to expel some energy. Some Labradoodles, especially in the first generation, can require even more exercise. The Labradoodle makes an excellent jogging companion but also needs some time off-leash to burn off steam. The Labradoodle is an intelligent and eager-to-please dog. Training should be easy as long as consistency and positive reinforcement are the methods. Socialize them from puppyhood, since they tend to hurl themselves headlong into canine situations without regard to the feelings of other dogs. This can lead to some problems if the unknown dog is aggressive. Despite their activity levels, a Labradoodle can adjust to living in suburban or city environments and can do well in rural settings. A crate is also a place where they can retreat for a nap. Crate training at a young age will help your Labradoodle accept confinement if they ever needs to be boarded or hospitalized. Never stick your Labradoodle in a crate all day long, however. Labradoodle Feeding Recommended daily amount: 1 to 2. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on their size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. Keep your Labradoodle in good shape by measuring their food and feeding them twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at them. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on their back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see their ribs without having to press hard. For more on feeding your Labradoodle, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Labradoodle Coat Color And Grooming Although a Labradoodle can have one of a range of coat types, the desired length is four to six inches. They have a single coat with hair ranging from straight to loose curls. There are three types of texture: The Hair coat, which is similar to fur in shedding breeds, is the least popular. Hair coats shed and usually have a normal doggy odor. This coat is seen in first generations, although breeders try to avoid it. The Fleece coat has a silky texture often described as an Angora goat texture. This coat ranges from straight to wavy. Labradoodles are considered to be non- to low shedders, especially those with a Fleece or Wool coat. Hair coats tend to shed just as they do in other breeds, ranging from very low to average shedding. The Labradoodle comes in a wide variety of colors. They can also have parti-colored coats, which consist of brindles, phantom, patched, or sable colors. Grooming requirements vary depending on the length and type of coat the dog has. Generally speaking, you can expect to brush a Labradoodle about once or twice per week. Some can be clipped or trimmed every six to eight weeks to keep the coat easy to maintain. Like Labs, Labradoodles can be prone to ear infections, so take a little extra time caring for their ears. Dry and clean them after a swim, and check them once a week for dirt, redness, or a bad odor that can indicate an infection. Then wipe them out weekly with a cotton ball dampened with gentle, pH-balanced ear cleaner to prevent problems. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Dog toenails have blood vessels in them, and if you cut too far you can cause bleeding—and your dog may not cooperate the next time they see the nail clippers come out. Handle their paws frequently—dogs are touchy about their feet—and look inside their mouth. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. Labradoodle Children And Other Pets The Labradoodle does well with children and can be an affectionate and gentle companion for any child. They can also be exuberant and might knock down smaller children, but they will love them with all their heart. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Labradoodles usually get along well with other dogs and pets. Like most dogs, they need training and socialization for optimum success at living with and visiting other animals. Labradoodle Rescue Groups Labradoodles are often brought home without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. Many end up in the care of shelters or rescues because of this. It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Labradoodles because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Labrador Retriever or Poodle breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have both health and behavioral issues. More Info For You. Lifespan Sociability As puppies, Labradoodles look like tiny, fuzzy teddy bears. In reality, this cross-breed can be a great deal to handle for first-time dog owners or those looking for a more hands-off canine companion. What does this mean? The Lab Poodle mix awkwardly straddles the worlds of purebred and mutt. On the one hand, Labradoodles are purposely bred and sold for tons of cash. On the other, the cross-breed is not recognized or regulated by any major dog organization at least in the United States. Many breeders also turn to in-breeding to achieve desirable puppies. Yes, Labradoodles can make incredible pets, and there are countless well-intentioned breeders out there. Unfortunately, this also means many Labradoodles end up causing discomfort for misinformed households. The Labradoodle might boast a Poodle-like coat, but hair type has nothing to do with canine allergens. Instead, your allergies are probably triggered by the dander a. If you or a family member requires a hypoallergenic dog, then the Labradoodle might not be the best option! While the regular Labradoodle is just a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, the Australian Labradoodle includes genetics from the Cocker Spaniel and other unknown breeds. Labradoodles come in a variety of colors and patterns, from stark white to tri-colored. In this regard, the Labradoodle definitely takes after the Poodle. Despite what many lovers of the cross-breed believe, Labradoodles can also have more than one type of fur. While the most popular coat texture is wavy, you can also find puppies with extremely curly and straight fur! With consistent socialization and training, though, these traits can be easily managed. A well-adjusted Labradoodle is friendly, mellow, and ready for anything the world has to offer. Labradoodles who have not been taught to manage their excitement, especially around strangers and other dogs, can quickly cause issues. Before bringing home a Labradoodle puppy, take note that poor genetics often lead to behavioral and temperamental issues. While this is true for any dog — purebred, hybrid, or full-on mutt — it is a well-documented problem within the Labradoodle community. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Most Labradoodles are fairly large, reaching up to 65 pounds, so these eager playmates will easily mow down small children. Labradoodles are bred to be friendly and relaxed around strangers, making them terrible guard dogs. Because of its generally low prey drive, the Labradoodle is a great option for households with cats or small dogs. Please reference the feeding guidelines of your chosen food — every formula has slightly different serving recommendations. You should also aim to go on two long walks per day. While puzzles are a great way to meet these needs, adventure walks meandering walks or hikes where your dog can sniff and explore a new environment are also an excellent choice. A lack of room to run around and burn excess energy can rapidly breed destructive habits. The combination of high intelligence and overall friendliness makes the Labradoodle great for experienced and first-time dog owners who are willing to invest in lifelong training. Even naturally friendly dogs can suffer if not properly socialized from an early age. Like Poodles, Labradoodle coats can be cut in a variety of functional and fashionable ways. However, the lack of standardized breeding and immense popularity means many Labradoodles carry poor genetics. Labradoodles are most affected by conditions common among Labrador Retrievers and Poodles. Regular vet visits can help keep your pup healthy and catch early signs of disease. Here are the most common health conditions known to affect Labradoodles: Minor Conditions. And the most common health problems of Poodles are: Hip dysplasia The autoimmune skin condition sebaceous adenitis Hypothyroidism Bloat Problems with eyesight Some of these conditions are inherited, and tests are available to screen dogs being considered for breeding. A Labrador and Labradoodle mix puppy should always comes from parents who have been health tested for hip and elbow dysplasia, heart disease, eye disease, thyroid disease and exercise induced collapse. Examples include allergies, eczema and sebaceous adenitis. Finally, ear infections, obesity and bloat can be largely controlled by lifestyle choices. Labradoodle Labrador mix grooming Pedigree Labradors need relatively little grooming. Their medium length, straight coat is too short to tangle. But, a regular habit of brushing, and occasionally bathing, your Lab can help a lot with managing shedding. It needs daily brushing from root to tip, to remove dirt and debris, and prevent painful mats forming. Is a Labradoodle Labrador mix hypoallergenic? Dogs of all types produce allergens in their saliva and to a lesser extent their sweat and urine , not their hair or dander. In fact, non shedding coats can be more problematic than shedding coats, because of the time you need to spend up close with your dog brushing them every day. If you have allergies, ask to spend time with a puppy on several occasions before you bring them home. Do Labradoodle Labrador mixes make good family pets? The first deliberate Labradoodles were bred as service dogs, but more recently they have surged as companion dogs for families of all sorts. Labradors and Poodles are both affectionate and devoted to their human families, and known for their patience with children. Very young children should be supervised with dogs at all times, but a Labradoodle mixed with Labrador is a great fit for a household with older kids and teenagers. Since they are very playful and thrive off lots of interaction and engagement every day, a household with lots of people to help out, or a retired household with plenty of free time is their perfect environment. F1b Labradoodles are not well suited to being left alone for several hours a day. Labs and Poodles were both bred to be team players and very focused on their handler. Withdrawing the target of that instinct you! Finding a Labradoodle Labrador mix puppy Labradoodles, second generation Labradoodles, and even backcrossed Labradoodles are increasingly popular with pet buyers, and they are getting easier and easier to find. The Labrador Labradoodle F1b combination is a little unusual though. Puppies reared on puppy farmers are more likely to have chronic hereditary health problems that require expensive lifelong treatment. And they are more likely to have behavioral problems as a result of inadequate socialization, or being separated from their mom too early. This article can help you identify and avoid puppy farmers. Have documents proving their sire and dam were health tested. Want to know all about you, and how you picture a puppy fitting into your life. Cons Unpredictable coat Needs a lot of mental stimulation and physical activity Popular with puppy farmers, so you might have to discount a lot of bad breeders before you find a good one. Pros Likely to be friendly and affectionate Easy to train Labs, Poodles and Labradoodles are all popular for a reason — they tend to be all round good dogs! What kind of owner would you recommend them to? Let us know in the comments section down below! But, occasionally, some may backcross a Labradoodle with a Labrador, to create the Labradoodle Lab mix! This mix will usually have a straight, double layered coat. They tend to be moderate shedders, but their fur can be less prone to tangles than a curlier Labradoodle mix. Some breeders will backcross Labradoodles, creating f1b or f2b mixes. In most of these cases, the breeder will backcross a Labradoodle to a purebred Poodle. Most breeders will choose to backcross to a Poodle in the hopes of passing on the genes that cause curly, low shedding fur. Backcrossing to a Labrador increases the chances of a mix puppy having Labrador traits. But, the outcome of mixed breed dogs is always a little unpredictable. So, Labradoodle and Labrador mix puppies can still be quite unique! A Labradoodle Labrador mix will usually be a medium to large dog. Their height will most often range between 18 and 24 inches, whilst their weight tends to be anywhere from 50 to 80 lbs. Labradoodles are usually smaller than Labradors, and puppies will most often fall between the sizes of their parents. On top of this, females are usually smaller than males. But, if you want a large dog, look for a male puppy. Coat Type and Colors Labradoodles are usually described as hypoallergenic, but no dog breed is truly hypoallergenic! However, a Labradoodle with curly hair is less likely to shed as much around your home, thanks to the Poodle influence. A Labradoodle Labrador cross will usually have a straight, double layered coat like their Lab parent. Their coat might be dense like a Lab, or slightly thinner. Colors can vary in this mix. Though Labradors come in three standard colors black, yellow, and chocolate , Labradoodles have a very wide variety of colors. Take a look at the Labradoodle parent to see what your mix puppy might inherit! Labradoodle Labrador Mix Temperament Like appearance, temperament can vary in a mixed breed dog. But, there are plenty of traits that we can predict in a Labrador Labradoodle mix. Both parents are known to be energetic and people-oriented dogs. This mix is likely to get along with everyone, as long as you socialize them properly from a young age to new experiences, animals, and people. They are eager to please, and have plenty of energy to burn every day. This mix is very intelligent. Given their intelligence and eagerness to please, they often take well to training. But, they can also become easily bored. And, a bored Labradoodle Labrador mix may display unwanted and undesirable behaviors like digging, chewing, barking, stealing things, and so on. And, dedicate time every day to playing together. But, when your puppy is older, you can really get creative with the types of exercise you try. This mix will usually enjoy retrieving games, like fetch. But, they may also enjoy swimming, hiking, scent-work, running with you, rally, agility and more. Ensuring your Labrador Labradoodle mix gets enough exercise each day will go a long way towards keeping them happy and healthy. Training a Labradoodle Labrador Mix Since this mix is eager to please and intelligent, they will usually pick up new cues quickly. A Labradoodle Lab mix will usually be very eager to work for training treats! Keep your training sessions relatively short, and always consistent. And, remember that every dog will be different, so some may take a little longer to grasp some cues than others! As a medium to large dog breed, basic obedience is a must. This will prevent any jumping up at potentially fragile or nervous visitors! They often have double layered coats, but the density and length of their fur will vary from one dog to the next. Generally, this mix will shed moderately all year round, and slightly higher in summer months. Since their fur is straight, any shedding hairs will fall straight out, so you may have to clean them from your house more regularly than you would with a typical Labradoodle mix. Regular grooming can help you keep on top of shedding. You may want to increase the frequency of this during heavy shedding periods. The best grooming methods will depend on the type of coat your mix inherits. Many owners prefer going to a professional groomer for this! Studies have shown that mixed breeds live, on average, longer than purebred dogs. Labradors live an average of 12 years, so you can expect a healthy Labradoodle Labrador mix to live to around this age, if not longer. However, a Labradoodle Labrador mix can still be prone to a number of health conditions, including those common in the parent breeds. Here are some of the major issues that this mix could be prone to: Arthritis. Black, cream, white, apricot, gold, caramel, chocolate, red, tan, sable Suitable for: Active families, families with children, those looking for a playful and active dog Temperament: Affectionate, intelligent, friendly, energetic, playful, easy-going While Labradoodles are known for being sweet, their consistency in other characteristics is lacking. The demand for these dogs contributes to irresponsible and hasty breeding, and the results are litters of puppies with varying personalities. Not all Labradoodles are exactly alike but they do share similar characteristics. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. Labradoodle Puppies Image Credit: Danii Brown Photography, Shutterstock Labradoodle puppies are highly intelligent and social, and tend to be good with children and other pets. They are also known for being easily trained and make great family pets. Labradoodles come in a variety of sizes, coat types, and colors, which can range from straight to curly and from black to cream. Labradoodles, like all hybrid breeds, can exhibit a range of physical and behavioral traits from both parent breeds, so it is important to research the background of the individual dog to get a sense of what to expect. These are smart and loveable dogs that enjoy following commands and completing tasks. This is another reason that Labradoodles are used as service and therapy dogs. Their gentle dispositions combined with their intelligence and love for people make them ideal for anyone, from first-time dog owners to those with a house full of pets. They are low-maintenance dogs that are happy to spend time with their families. They can suffer from separation anxiety if they are left alone for too long. This can manifest through barking, howling, pacing, urinating in the house, and being destructive. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They get along well with kids, but their large size and playful natures could overwhelm small children. If this breed is properly trained and socialized, they make loyal companions that are devoted to their families. Labradoodles love people and other animals alike and get along well with other pets in the home. Their gentle and accepting personalities make them ideal for a home with other animals. The best way to ensure that your Labradoodle will be friends with the other animals in the household is to raise the animals together. Puppies will grow to love and accept other housemates as family. Adding a Labradoodle puppy to a house with other pets is easier than adding an adult Labradoodle to the mix. That said, while it may take longer for the adult dog to become familiar with everyone, they will be happy to do so. Training and socialization when the Labradoodle is a puppy, though, are crucial to their success living with other animals. However, there are several requirements to be aware of when welcoming this dog into your home. Here are a few things to consider about owning Labradoodles. When you bring your puppy home, they should be kept on the same diet that they were eating previously. This will help you avoid any digestive distress from a sudden change in food. A high-quality, protein-packed kibble will work well for puppies and adult Labradoodles. There is no one universal dog food that will offer the same nutrients to every dog. Just like people, different dogs need specialized diets suited to their needs. Treats are always welcome by Labradoodles and are motivators during training. A handful of dry kibble offered piece by piece will also work, depending on how food-motivated your dog is and how much they enjoy their food. They can go from sleeping on the sofa to up and waiting at the door to go outside in seconds. They require exercise to be healthy and happy but also to avoid them becoming bored. A bored Labradoodle will make up their own activities, and these may not always be the things that you want them to be doing. A minute play session per day in a fenced-in area where the dog can run or chase a ball will provide the mental and physical stimulation that they need. However you choose to do it, your Labradoodle will enjoy the exercise and the time with you. They like learning new things and following commands. Their trainability makes them reliable and competent service dogs. If you welcome this dog to your home as a pet, there are a few things that you can do to help them be the best they can be. Socializing your new puppy is the most important step to take from the time that you bring them home. This encourages your dog to not fear new experiences, people, or places and instead, to be intrigued by new things. A puppy socialization class is a good place to start. Playdates with your friends and their dogs will help your dog learn to make friends. Obedience classes will teach your dog basic manners and how to follow simple instructions. From there, you can move on to agility classes, to help your dog get the exercise that they need while focusing on an activity. Patience and repetition are required from you so your dog associates learning with a positive experience. If you get this done professionally, it will include a haircut, nail trim, and bath. Regular nail trims are important for paw health. Overgrown nails can be painful and make walking difficult for your dog. In addition, the popularity of Labradoodles has increased, leading to overbreeding and irresponsible breeding. If you have a Labradoodle, these are potential issues that could arise down the road. Regular veterinary exams are important for the prevention and detection of these conditions. Minor Conditions. Those with Lab-type coats are lower maintenance than those with wavy coats. Wavy fur is more likely to knot and tangle, particularly if it grows long, like a fleece type Labradoodle. No matter what fur type your mix has, the Labradoodle Lab mix will likely shed more than a standard Labradoodle mix. Shedding hairs are less likely to get caught in straight fur. But, no matter what type of fur your mix has, grooming can help to control and remove shedding hairs. Start grooming from a young age, to ensure your mix is comfortable with all aspects of the process. Are Labradoodle Lab Mixes Hypoallergenic? However, studies into hypoallergenic dogs draw mixed conclusions. But, others find no different between hypoallergenic and non-hypoallergenic breeds. Generally, Labradoodle Lab mix dogs will not be hypoallergenic dogs. The best way to see if a certain dog triggers allergy symptoms for you is to spend time with them before committing and bringing them home. You can also enforce a strict cleaning regimen, and recruit someone else in your home to complete grooming tasks. The Labrador and Labradoodle mix can make a great family companion in the right home. These dogs are people-oriented, eager to please, and playful. They are very social dogs that do best in homes where they have lots of company. This is also a very high energy dog. Daily training and exercise are a must. But, since they are likely to have a more Lab-like coat, they may not suit people who suffer from dog allergies. Finding a Labradoodle Lab Mix Puppy Labradoodles are popular dogs, so finding a Labradoodle breeder who backcrosses their dogs is not likely to pose a challenge. However, finding a breeder who backcrosses to the Labrador is going to be harder. Most breeders will backcross to Poodles in order to achieve a low-shedding, curly coat. Some breeders may have litters, or will at least be able to point you in the direction of someone who can help. Puppy mills, pet stores, and backyard breeders tend to jump on trends like the Labradoodle to make a quick profit. But, the puppies they sell are often poorly cared for and much more likely to have health and behavioral problems. So, above all else, you should prioritise finding a reputable breeder. Puppy prices will vary from one location to the next. Factors like demand for a certain breed, puppy colors, coat type, and so on, can all influence puppy price. The Labradoodle Labrador mix is less common than a Poodle backcross. And, much less popular. So, whilst they might be harder to find, they also tend to cost less. Rescuing a Labradoodle Labrador Mix An alternative option to buying a puppy from a breeder is to search for one in rescue centers. Puppies from rescue centers are often cheaper than those from a breeder. They might be slightly older, but this can be an advantage, as many will have some basic training. The major disadvantage of rescue center mixed breeds is that staff might not know exactly what parentage the dogs have. These dogs are best suited to families that have plenty of time for training, exercise and mental stimulation. They may be too energetic for apartment living, unless you have access to an open, safe space to give them exercise and a chance to stretch their legs a few times each day. Do you have this uncommon backcross at home already? Or are you still considering whether this mix is right for you? Let us know your thoughts and experiences in the comments! Readers Also Liked. Both breeds are popular choices as working dogs, and their friendly demeanors and trainability also make them great therapy dogs. Labrador Retriever vs. Labradors are a purebred dog breed, while the Labradoodle breed is a genetic hybrid of two purebred breeds: Labradors and Poodles. Both of these dogs are intelligent and loyal, so it makes sense why this hybrid dog breed was created: With the right cross of parents, an excellent outcome was almost guaranteed. He was assigned to generate a hypoallergenic guide dog with a winning personality for a blind woman whose husband was allergic to dog hair. So, the Poodle, a hypoallergenic dog that hardly ever sheds, was bred with the Labrador, a classic guide dog—and the Labradoodle was born. The Origin of Labradors Labradors have a history that goes back farther — they were originally bred in the s by fishermen in Newfoundland. These fishermen combined a local dog, the St. These dogs quickly gained popularity, and so the English colonists transported them to the United Kingdom before they were then popularized in the United States some years later. Labrador vs. Labradoodle: Which is Better? If you ask a Labrador owner which breed beats out which, their opinion will be unanimous: Labradors are the best. Of course, Labradoodles feel just as passionate about their pooches. Regarding their personalities, health, grooming needs, and other important aspects of dog ownership, some differences may lean more towards your personal preference. Learn all you need to know about the differences between Labradors and Labradoodles below. Appearance: Labrador vs. Labradors are almost unmistakable in appearance: Their stockier, larger build is complete with a thick coat that is long, straight, and coarse in texture. Because of their longer, softer, and curlier hair and more petite, elegant body, Labradoodles look pretty different from their close cousin, the Labrador. Labradoodles also have a more comprehensive range of coat colors and types, colors, with acceptable coats being yellow, brown, black, blonde, charcoal, and apricot. Size: Labrador vs. Labradoodle Unlike Labradoodles, all purebred Labradors—no matter their parents or genetic makeup—grow up to be a standard size. They will typically weigh between 55 and 80 pounds, with females weighing less and males weighing more. Keep in mind that the size ultimately depends on the size of the poodles used: Mini Labradoodles: 15 to 25 pounds Medium Labradoodles: 30 to 45 pounds Standard Labradoodles: 50 to 65 pounds Typically, a standard Labradoodle will be slightly smaller than a purebred Labrador, so if you prefer a smaller dog in size, then Labradoodles may be perfect for you. However, if you like the sturdiness and energetic gait of a Labrador, then Labs might be for you instead. Temperament and Personality: Labrador vs. The good news: Both Labradors and Labradoodles have great personalities. So, producing an heir of the mix will increase the likelihood of excellent temperament. They are favorite family pets, are good with children, and are almost always friendly with other dogs, as long as they undergo training. Poodles belong to the non-sporting group: A diverse background made up of very different breeds of dogs. Some of the most common characteristics shared across the breed are active, smart, and affectionate. They are good with children and sometimes good with other dogs. Intelligence: Labrador vs. Labradoodle Labradors and Poodles are among the most intelligent and trainable breeds in the world. So as you might expect, Labradoodles are some of the most intelligent hybrid dogs thanks to their genetic ties to Labradors and Poodles. The Labradoodle takes important qualities from both genetic ancestors, where Labradors have a natural, intuitive IQ, and Poodles are observant and quick to learn. However, since Labradoodles are so intelligent, they need to be mentally and physically stimulated. So, while Labradoodles are extremely smart, they require a certain level of mental stimulation, whereas Labradors may need less stimulation. Coat and Grooming: Labrador vs. Labradoodle Poodles are a well-favored breed for their short, curly coat that hardly ever sheds, making them one of the best hypoallergenic dogs in the world. But although Labradoodles were bred explicitly for those who are allergic to dogs, the other parent breed, the Labrador, is not hypoallergenic. In spring, the Labrador loses the winter coat for the warmer months. And in the fall, they grow a thicker coat for the cold weather ahead. Between these two significant sheds, they require plenty of brushing and grooming throughout the year. However, F2s are more prone to genetic health problems than F1s. Training: Labrador vs. During puppyhood and young adolescence, they are more than willing to please people around them, and once you establish a relationship, they are great listeners. Labradors are highly trainable and often recommended for first-time dog owners. Exercise: Labrador vs. Labradoodle Both the Labrador and Labradoodle dog breeds are considered energetic dogs which means that they need to be physically and mentally stimulated to avoid whining, anxiety, and destructive behaviors. Both breed types need heavy socialization from an early age to further prevent behavioral problems. Labradors and Labradoodles need around the same amount of daily exercise, with adult Labradors needing at least 60 minutes. Labradoodles need a range of 30 to minutes which averages 60 minutes. Exercise can include jogs, two long walks, playing in the yard, or a mix of all three. Keep in mind that these are just averages and what your dog need may differ based on age, size, and temperament. Health: Labrador vs. Lifespan Both Labradors and Labradoodles are large-breed dogs, meaning their life expectancy is typically a couple of years shorter than smaller breeds. A healthy Labrador may have a life expectancy between 10 and 12 years , with 11 years being average. Similarly, a healthy Labradoodle will typically live between 12 and 14 years , with an average of 13 years. Health Problems Some common health conditions that may affect Labrador Retrievers are joint issues like: Canine hip and elbow dysplasia Osteochondritis dissecans Patellar luxation when the knee cap rides outside the femoral groove Some common health conditions that may afflict the Labradoodle hybrid breed are issues that affect both Labradors and Poodles, such as: Hip dysplasia. I went to meet Mike to talk about an upcoming litter and Bailey was sitting by herself. I pretty much changed my mind and wanted her immediately. She was introduced to a 6 year old cocker spaniel with and IVDD condition and they became best friends. Great Temperament, Incredibly smart and absolutely beautiful addition to my family. Mike has been following up since I got her checking to see if I had any issues. His training packet was detailed and if you follow the crate training and feeding regiment you will have no problems. Angelica I brought home an F2 labradoodle from here. My pups has already learned several commands within a few weeks of having him. The breeder has plenty of space for the pups and you can tell that there is a lot of care put into the environment. My dog has a great temperament and deals with people well. Upon the first meeting my pups was excited to greet people you can tell he had been socialized well. Mike does well with communication and answers any questions. Highly recommended! Javier Sanchez Got my black lab from Mike trained. He is very good and is comfortable with a crate, walking and great temperament. Overall an awesome dog from a great breeder! Maura Eaton My 12 year old son did all the research on Mike and his company. He had 5 star reviews across the board. Once we saw the picture of Zoey, a Chocolate Labradoodle, we knew we had to meet her. Mike's business is clean, the dogs are all loved by him and well trained. Zoey was Stage 1 trained. This is my first dog as an adult and Mike was excellent in providing advice and recommendations. After we adopted Zoey, Mike would periodically check-in on how Zoey was adjusting to her new family and home. As you can see in the pictures, she is very happy. Mike knew her personality well - smart, sweet and social. A perfect fit and addition to our family. He worked on training with the puppy before we brought him home, which was a big help in the adjustment! I would recommend Mike to anyone looking for a labradoodle puppy. Our puppy has been the best addition to our family and we have enjoyed working with Mike. John Schmadeke We were looking for a labradoodle puppy from a reputable and experienced breeder. Mike was super helpful, and we really appreciated that he cared so much about things like genetics and DNA testing for the dogs. Mike has always been available to answer our questions and to give advice. Tom Riniker We found Mike to be very professional, knowledgeable, and helpful when we purchased a puppy from him. His kennels are clean and organized, and his puppies are well cared for. He really loves his career and it shows! He has followed up with us on numerous occasions regarding the health and well-being of our puppy, and I always know I can reach him if I have questions. Thanks for everything, Mike! Yunhua Chen I have bought a stage 2 F1 labradoodle from Mike. His name is Zen, and just like his name, he is a well-behaved and well-trained little man. He only cried about 15 - 30 minutes during the first few nights and later he was sound asleep. I highly recommend Mike as a breeder because not only he deeply cares about the dogs, but also he has the expertise to make the dog the perfect match for you. Michelle Balchunas Mike was absolutely wonderful to deal with and very helpful with adding a new puppy to our family. If you are looking for a lab to add to your family we would highly recommend working with Mike. Charles Arnold Mike was a great help with our new puppy, Archie. Great experience… and a great dog. Junie is gentle, kind and very loving. She's also extremely athletic and smart. Working with Mike was a very smooth process and his "dog siting" service has proved helpful as I do travel on occasion. Having someone I could trust to care for Junie is super helpful. Mike James I recently had the fortunate privilege of working with Mike to find my next pup. For multiple reasons, the breed is perfect for me - the temperament, lifestyle often on the water , and hypoallergenic fits a tough lifestyle. I without hesitation recommend you work with Mike if you are looking for an amazing pup and great support network. Charlie is so gentle. He was just outside getting petted by his fan club, the neighbors. He licks. I got him the week of July 4th he was outside during that noise. He looks at noise. One of his other puppies was the same way, gentle. Day one he knew the trail through the woods back to our house. Charlie is a beautiful Chocolate lab with the softest hair. I got him at 16 weeks. You have no idea how helpful that is. Of course you want a healthy dog. Took the shots like a champ. The Vet remarked how firm his joints were. Yes he lets you brush his teeth! He goes to the door when he has to go. Another reason I wanted a 16 week pup. Peanut butter to continue gentle licks on my fingers. He always gets small chicken or liver for COME. You should see him come. Is Charlie gentle because some hunting dogs have a gentle mouth or is he gentle because Mike treated him right? Oh do exactly as Mike says on the take home instructions, he knows his dogs! Highly recommend! We brought our pup home with all the documentation of his superior genetics. Mike also sends several handouts which help prepare you for puppy ownership and ensure a smooth transition for your pup to his new home! In addition to his exceptional breeding he is exceptionally well-trained. We opted for a stage 2 puppy and not only does he sit, lay down, stay, he has an incredibly calm demeanor and his additional exposure to other dogs was also incredible. He is so well-tempered and well-behaved due to his additional training. We are so happy and in love with our sweet boy! Brent Viditz-Ward We were looking for a chocolate lab puppy for a long time from a reputable breeder and our experience with Mike was wonderful. He took time to get to know us and make sure that the dog was going to a good home and is always available to answer questions, give advice, etc. I highly recommend Mike and his puppies! M Fowkes Mike is a fantastic breeder. We got an F1 puppy from Mike. She is a sweet beautiful girl. Before she was born Mike knew what the puppies would look like generally, and was really easy to communicate with. He is very responsive when I had a lot of questions. He is like that even now that my puppy is 4 months old…available to answer questions and be supportive. Josie Palma-Aurelio We stumbled on this website when we were looking for our next fur baby. All the reviews speak truthful about Mike. He calls us to check on Nala for updates and gives us pointers on how to take care of her. Nala is such a lovable puppy and we are so happy to have her. We highly recommend! Juan Tellez Mike was a great helping my family and puppy get adjusted to our home. You can tell Mike has a lot of dedication and love towards his dogs. Snoop has been a great addition to our family! We are first time pet owners and Mike handheld us through the entire adoption process. His reference material, responsiveness and his genuine care for the puppies has helped us navigate the critical period of 12 weeks smoothly. The puppy is super smart outwitted me in a game of hide n seek when he was 10 weeks old! He is a bundle of joy! We are first time pet owners and had a lot of questions! He is always enthusiastic in answering any questions we have and supporting us before and after getting the pup! He cares about his dogs and pups and it shows in the research he has done and the knowledge he has about them! He has a lot of information on his website about the breed, food, toys and snacks! He also gives a couple of handouts when we book a pup with him and some when we take them home! Those helped a lot in the preparation for our pup! When you take them home, he also gives you details about the breed, vaccination records, and DNA testing done for the litter! Our girl, Shuri, is very energetic and curious! She does really well when we train her and has already learnt so much! For anyone looking for a labradoodle, Mike is the best! Jocelyn I highly recommend Mike. We are first time dog owners and he made the process so easy for us. Our labradoodle has made an excellent addition to our family!

Life Span Did You Know? The Olde English Bulldogge is a mixed breed that originated in Pennsylvania. David Leavitt of Coatsville is credited with founding the breed, which he started back in the early s. The goal with the Olde English Bulldogge was that they would be taller with longer legs and longer snouts than the modern English Bulldog. Achieving this would also help to reduce many of the health issues associated with the modern English Bulldog as a result of their flat face, short snout, and short stature. Olde English Bulldogges tend to meet these standards. They also tend to have a friendly temperament, an athletic build, and are loyal to their families. Olde English Bulldogges may look tough, but they tend to have a docile and gentle nature with a sweet disposition. Much like the English Bulldog, they love their families and are total sweethearts. They get along well children, other dogs, other pets, and also strangers. They have a protective instinct, but tend to be friendly and outgoing with everyone unless they sense a real threat. Because of this, proper socialization and training are very important. This dog breed is highly adaptable. They thrive in larger homes with room to run. But, they can also adapt well to apartment living as long as they are given enough attention, mental stimulation, and exercise. As with any dog breed, the Olde English Bulldogge is sensitive to heat and is still more sensitive to heat than some dog breeds. However, due to their longer snout and larger frame, they do not have the breathing problems common to brachycephalic breeds. As such, they do well in most climates. They do not like to spend a lot of time alone because they bond closely with their families and love to be around them. Although the Olde English Bulldogge was bred to reduce a lot of the health issues common to the modern English Bulldog, there are still some potential health concerns to be aware of, as with any dog breed. With the Olde English Bulldogge, potential health concerns include hip dysplasia, eye problems, and elbow dysplasia. Reputable breeders will screen their stock to avoid passing on issues to puppies. They are also at a higher risk for bloat, which can quickly become dangerous. Knowing the signs of bloat in dogs as well as tips for how to prevent it can be a big help. Olde English Bulldogges are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them a highly trainable dog breed. They can have a stubborn streak that is common to Bulldogs, which can sometimes be challenging for first-time dog owners to handle. Puppy training and obedience classes can be a big help for dog owners of any experience level. Plus, they often offer opportunities to socialize a puppy. This dog breed has a short coat that will shed moderately year-round, but is relatively low-maintenance. Good dental care for dogs is also essential. Due to a lack of good dental care in dogs, gum disease is one of the most common canine health problems. An Olde English Bulldogge has an athletic build, an energetic personality, and moderate exercise requirements. Daily walks plus some playtime and extra activity are plenty for this dog. When their bones are still developing, you want to keep strenuous exercise and jumping to a minimum as this can damage their developing joints. Your vet can help you track this better during puppy visits and give you a better idea of when your Olde English Bulldogge is ready to take on more strenuous exercise. A fully-grown Olde English Bulldogge usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. An Olde English Bulldogge generally lives years. Featured Olde English Bulldogge Article. Ohld ing-glish Bool-dawg Description The Olde English Bulldogge is a muscular, medium sized dog of great strength, stability and athleticism. He is well balanced and proportioned, with no features exaggerated or standing out. He has the appearance of a dog capable of doing his original job, bull baiting. The OEB head is prominent and dramatic. The cheeks are large, well developed and display powerful jaw muscles. A slightly wrinkled forehead is acceptable. There is a crease from the stop to the occiput. It has a narrow skull and domed forehead. The muzzle is square, wide and deep, with definite layback. Distance from the tip of the nose to the stop does not exceed one-third of the distance from the tip of the nose to the occiput. Height of the muzzle from the bottom of the chin to the top of the muzzle is equal to or greater than the length of the muzzle, thus producing the deep, square muzzle. There is slight to moderate wrinkle on the muzzle. Flews are semi-pendulous. The bite is undershot and horizontally straight. Lower jawbone is moderately curved from front to back. Eyes are round to almond-shape and medium sized. They are set wide apart, with the outside corner of the eye intersecting with the outside line of the skull and are set low, at the level of the muzzle, where the stop and muzzle intersect. Eye color is brown, with black pigmented eye rims. Canine teeth are large. Broken, chipped or extracted teeth are acceptable. There are 6 corn row teeth between canines. Nostrils are wide with a line running vertically between nostrils from the tip of nose down to the bottom of the upper lip. Nose is large and broad in relationship to the width of the muzzle. Nose color is black. Ears are rose, button or tulip, with rose preferred. They are set high and to the rear of the skull. The ears are positioned as wide as possible on the outside of the skull. They are small to medium in size. Neck is medium length, wide, and slightly arched. It is a little smaller than the head where the two meet, and gets wider from that point to the shoulders. It is slightly loose from jaw to chest, forming a double dewlap. They are broad, heavily muscled and have a separation between shoulder blades. The scapula shoulder blade should be at an approximate degree angle to vertical and form an angle approximately degrees to the humerus forearm. Scapula and humerus should be roughly equal in length. A vertical line drawn from the point of the scapula top to the ground will pass directly through the elbow. The elbows are not turned in or out. The legs are set wide apart, coming straight down from the shoulders. They are straight vertically on inside of legs and well-muscled, giving a bowed appearance of front quarters. The forelegs have medium bone and are in proportion to the body. The pasterns are medium in length. They are straight, strong, flexible and nearly perpendicular to the ground. Body is sturdy and powerful. The length from tip of breastbone to rear thigh is slightly longer than the height from ground to withers. The back is wide and muscular, showing power. Topline has a slight roach or wheel back. There is a fall in the back, to its low spot behind the shoulders. From this point the spine rises to the loin. The high point of the loin is a little bit higher than the shoulders then there is a gentle curve, forming an arch, down to the tail. Loin back of ribcage to hips is muscular, medium in length and slightly arched. The chest is wide and deep with a muscular brisket. Ribs are well sprung and rounded, being at their fullest directly behind the shoulders. Shoulders to forelegs are well muscled. Hips and thighs are strong and muscular. Hind legs are well muscled and slightly longer than the forelegs. In a natural stance they are straight, parallel and set apart when viewed from the rear. Distance between hind legs is less than distance between front legs. Angulation is moderate. Stifles have a gentle convex curve when viewed from the side. Stifle angle roughly matches the angle of the pelvis. Hocks are perpendicular to the ground when viewed from the side and back. They are parallel to each other when viewed from the back. A line drawn from the rear-most part of the buttocks, perpendicular to the ground, should fall to the front of the toes. They are straight when viewed from the front. Rear feet are smaller than front feet. Tail should be set low and tapering from base to end. It can be pump handle or straight, with pump handle being preferred. Tail should reach the hocks or be slightly shorter and carried down or horizontal. Some breeders choose to dock the tail. Coat is short, close and of medium density. It should be shiny, showing good health. Color can be brindle of red, gray, fawn or black; either solid or pied with white. Solid white, fawn, red or black; solid color or pied. Temperament Olde English Bulldogges are docile, but capable and protective, fearless and athletic, fierce-looking, determined and courageous, bold and friendly around their family and friends, but fearless adversaries to anyone who threatens their masters or property. This breed likes to chew and should be supplied with plenty of toys and bones. Nylabones and rubber Kong toys are highly recommended. Rawhides, soft rubber and stuffed toys are unsafe, for they are easily shredded or swallowed whole. Olde English Bulldogges are so eager to please that they may overexert themselves in an effort to do whatever is asked of them. An owner who displays a natural authority toward the dog, socialization and obedience training are important. It is best to channel high energy individuals to some type of work and exercise. The objective in training this dog is to achieve pack leader status. It is a natural instinct for a dog to have an order in its pack. When we humans live with dogs , we become their pack. The entire pack cooperates under a single leader. Lines are clearly defined and rules are set. Because a dog communicates his displeasure with growling and eventually biting, all other humans MUST be higher up in the order than the dog. The humans must be the ones making the decisions, not the dogs. That is the only way your relationship with your dog can be a complete success. This breed tends to drool and slobber. Height, Weight Height: Males 17 - 20 inches 43 - 51 cm Females 16 - 19 inches 40 - 48 kg Weight: Males 60 - 80 pounds 27 - 36 kg Females 50 - 70 pounds 22 - 31 kg Health Problems May be susceptible to bloat —a painful and often fatal condition that can be brought on by too large a quantity of food consumed at one time. As with all large breeds, hip dysplasia sometimes occurs. Breeders are working hard to keep it out of the Olde English Bulldogge; therefore, no dog with bad hips is bred. Living Conditions Olde English Bulldogges will adapt to almost any lifestyle. They should be protected from the extreme cold and heat, although they are not as susceptible as the AKC Bulldog. Exercise This breed needs to be taken on a daily pack walk to satisfy its migration instinct. When properly conditioned they can be active dogs, however, they are equally happy with moderate exercise. They can stay in relatively good shape with good muscle tone with only light exercise. These dogs are naturally slow, and because of their unique structure, they should not be encouraged to jump or engage in strenuous exercise as young pups. This breed is an average shedder. In he became disenchanted with English Bulldogs due to their breeding and breathing problems. David's goal was to produce a dog with the looks of the 18th century bulldog, with the temperament of today's English Bulldogs, yet healthy, without breathing problems, or all the other aliments today's English Bulldogs are prone to. This new breed can now breathe. Cesarean section births are not necessary. Artificial insemination, due to male ineptness and lack of drive, has been replaced by natural ties. Lifespan is over eleven years. All breeding stock has had hip x-rays. No dog with bad hips is bred. David says he is now achieving his goal of producing a Bulldog with the health and temperament to be able to serve people, instead of forcing people to serve him. David Leavitt is breeding them to more of a working lines type dog, while OEBKC is breeding the dogs as more of a family oriented dog.

Comfortable for dogs with sensitive skin Cons: Can be more expensive than other collar types Not the best option for puppies prone to chewing May require regular maintenance to keep the leather in good condition Martingale Collars: Secure and Adjustable Martingale collars , also known as limited-slip collars, are designed with a unique loop that tightens when the dog pulls on the leash. This feature provides more control for the owner and prevents the dog from slipping out of the collar. Martingale collars can be made from various materials, including nylon and leather, and are suitable for both adult and puppy golden retrievers. Pros: Provides more control and prevents dogs from slipping out of the collar Adjustable for a perfect fit Suitable for adult and puppy golden retrievers Available in different materials, such as nylon and leather Cons: May not be suitable for dogs with respiratory issues Not ideal for off-leash play or swimming, as the collar may tighten unintentionally Choosing the Right Accessories and Customizations for Your Dog When selecting accessories and customizations for your dog's collar, it's essential to keep their comfort and safety in mind. Avoid anything that may be too heavy or cumbersome, as this can cause discomfort or even injury to your dog. Additionally, ensure that any personalized information, such as ID tags or nameplates, is clear and easy to read. By exploring the various collar accessories and customization options available, you can create a collar that is not only functional and comfortable for your dog but also a true reflection of their personality. Take the time to consider which options would best suit your dog's needs and style, and enjoy the process of creating a unique collar that your furry friend will love. Maintaining and Caring for Your Dog's Collar Now that you have chosen the perfect collar with accessories and customization options for your dog, it's essential to maintain and care for it properly to ensure its longevity and effectiveness. Here are some tips on keeping your dog's collar in top shape: Regular Cleaning Depending on the material of your dog's collar, it may require periodic cleaning to keep it looking fresh and free of dirt and grime. For fabric or nylon collars, you can often hand-wash them with mild soap and water or even toss them in the washing machine on a gentle cycle. For leather collars, use a specialized leather cleaner and conditioner to maintain the material's suppleness and prevent cracking. Inspecting for Wear and Tear Regularly inspect your dog's collar for signs of wear and tear, such as fraying, broken stitching, or damaged hardware. If you notice any issues, it's important to address them promptly to ensure your dog's collar remains safe and secure. Replacing Collars as Needed Even with proper care and maintenance, dog collars will eventually need to be replaced. Keep an eye on the overall condition of your dog's collar, and be prepared to replace it when necessary. This is especially important for growing puppies or dogs that are particularly active or rough on their collars. Storing Collars Properly When not in use, store your dog's collar in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. This will help preserve the material and prevent any damage that could occur due to exposure to harsh environmental conditions. The Importance of Collar Maintenance and Care Proper collar maintenance and care are essential to ensure your dog's safety and comfort. By regularly cleaning, inspecting, and replacing your dog's collar as needed, you can keep your furry friend secure and stylish while enjoying your walks and adventures together. Selecting the right collar for your dog, along with suitable accessories and customization options, is crucial for their comfort, safety, and overall well-being. By taking the time to measure your dog's neck size, explore various collar styles and features, and maintain the collar properly, you can provide your furry companion with the perfect accessory that meets their needs and showcases their unique personality. Teaching Your Dog to Wear a Collar and Leash Once you've chosen the perfect collar and accessories for your dog, it's important to teach them to wear the collar and leash comfortably. This will ensure a positive experience for both you and your dog during walks and other outdoor activities. Here are some tips to help your dog become accustomed to wearing a collar and leash: Start with the Collar Before introducing the leash, allow your dog to become comfortable wearing the collar. Put the collar on your dog for short periods, gradually increasing the duration as your dog becomes more accustomed to the sensation. Remember to use positive reinforcement by offering praise, treats, and affection when your dog is wearing the collar. Introduce the Leash Once your dog is comfortable wearing the collar, it's time to introduce the leash. Attach the leash to the collar and allow your dog to explore their environment while dragging the leash behind them. Supervise your dog closely during this process to ensure they don't become tangled or injured. Practice Walking Together As your dog becomes comfortable wearing the collar and dragging the leash, practice walking together. Start in a quiet, familiar environment, such as your backyard or a quiet park. Hold the leash and encourage your dog to walk by your side, using praise and treats as positive reinforcement. Gradually Increase the Challenge As your dog becomes more confident walking on the leash, gradually increase the challenge by introducing new environments, distractions, and longer walks. Remember to be patient and consistent, offering plenty of praise and rewards as your dog progresses. Address Leash Pulling If your dog tends to pull on the leash, consider using a no-pull harness or headcollar to help manage this behavior. Training techniques such as "red light, green light" or "turning in the opposite direction" can also be effective in teaching your dog not to pull on the leash. You can even start with teaching your dog to heel. Final Thoughts Understanding your golden retriever's neck size is crucial for ensuring their comfort and safety. By measuring your dog's neck and choosing the appropriate collar size, you can avoid discomfort, injury, or even choking hazards. Additionally, it's essential to monitor your dog's weight and adjust their collar size accordingly. As with any pet-related matter, consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns or questions about your golden retriever's neck size. With proper care and attention, you can help your furry friend live a healthy, happy life. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. This is appropriate if you intend to replace a worn-out or damaged collar and are certain that the replacement will be the same size. Measure from the center of the buckle to the current sizing hole for the most accurate results. If your dog has had not any collars before, use measurement tape. If you lack a loose tape measure, you can use any available string, yarn, or ribbon. Now, let go and mark the location on the string where your finger met the end of the string. Then, use a tape measure to determine the length of your string measurement. Not only will a puppy require time to adjust to their new collar, but you will likely need to replace it multiple times to accommodate its growth. You want your dog to develop a bond with their collar and view it as a normal, comfortable part of their life, so take care to select the proper size to facilitate this. Choose The Right Materials Of The Collar Collars for dogs are constructed from a variety of materials that prioritize comfort, aesthetics, and longevity. Golden Retrievers are medium to large dogs who put their collars through the wringer, so durability should be a top priority. The widest variety of designs, colors, and widths can be found in nylon and polyester, the most popular materials. Polyester and nylon are highly flexible and relatively simple to clean fabrics. Cotton Fabric Cotton is highly durable, insulating, and capable of controlling moisture. In addition, they are simple to clean, cost-effective, and simple to maintain. Numerous collars are made of cotton in a variety of patterns and hues. Some collars have an inner fabric sleeve wrapped around a nylon band to increase their durability. Bio Thane Some dog collars are made of the waterproof material Bio thane. Bio thane is composed of polyester and polyurethane and polyvinyl layers. Its waterproof qualities make it ideal for Golden Retrievers, who are likely water-loving canines. Leather Leather is an organic material that is both durable and versatile. They are an excellent option for Golden Retrievers with allergies or sensitivities, despite being more expensive. In contrast to collars made of synthetic materials, it is easy to clean and can be used for years without fading. Neoprene Neoprene is a rubber-based material that has a wide range of applications. It has exceptional water resistance and does not retain moisture, which can lead to odors or mildew growth. Neoprene dog collars combined with nylon or polyester are extremely sturdy and long-lasting, able to last for years. Polyester Or Nylon Due to their popularity, nylon or polyester collars typically have the greatest variety of styles, colors, and sizes. Polyester and nylon are highly flexible synthetic fabrics that are also easy to clean. Different types of collars are necessary for thick and thin furs. The collar size and style are influenced by factors such as hairstyle. These are some tips for selecting the appropriate collar for your puppy. Little Fields Farm is the place to go if you want to find additional dog collar options. This list is not exhaustive, but it does contain some examples. Rope Collars: Rope collars are both comfortable and durable without irritating the skin. Flat-Front Dog Collars: These are the most common collars that are used daily. They consist of a flat, fabric-based collar with a plastic or metal buckle. Safety Considerations When it comes to choosing a collar for your pet, safety should be a top priority. Here are some safety considerations to keep in mind: Choose a secure buckle or clasp: The collar should have a buckle or clasp that is secure and will not come undone easily. This will help prevent your pet from escaping and getting lost or injured. Avoid choke chains and prong collars: These types of collars can cause pain and injury to your pet, especially if they are not used correctly. Check for proper fit: A collar that is too loose or too tight can be dangerous for your pet. Make sure the collar fits snugly but not too tightly, and can be adjusted if needed. Consider breakaway collars: If your pet spends time outdoors or unsupervised, a breakaway collar can be a good option. These collars are designed to come apart if they get caught on something, reducing the risk of injury or strangulation. Choose a collar made of safe materials: Some materials can be harmful to pets, such as those that contain toxic chemicals or are easily chewed or swallowed. Choose a collar made of safe materials, such as nylon or leather, and avoid those made of cheap or unsafe materials. Your dog should wear a flat collar at the base of its neck. Golden Retriever puppies will grow quickly, so get a collar that can be adjusted, is easy to put on and take off, and, ideally, has a place for a nametag. It would be enough to have a flat collar with a buckle made of soft, long-lasting materials. No matter whatever option you go with, your four-legged companion needs plenty of exercise and opportunities to run around and play in order to remain healthy and content. When it comes to puppies, particularly short-haired breeds, you should look for a soft collar made of a non-abrasive material. Fabric collars are a good option, and collars made from a breathable fabric that is also machine washable are even better. When should a puppy wear a collar? Even if your puppy is still too young to go outside for walks, getting them used to wearing a collar is a good idea and will prevent any tiny tantrums further down the road! Collars should be worn most of the time, even around the house, but taking it off every so often to let the skin breathe is recommended. Try leaving the collar off for a couple of hours every time you brush or bathe them. Can an 8-week-old puppy wear a collar? Responsible breeders recommend puppies should not be brought home until 8 weeks old, and you can start getting them used to their collar shortly after this. It may be a good idea to let them settle into their new environment before introducing something new, but getting them used to their collar in their second week at home is a good idea. Should puppies wear collars at night? Most dog collars are designed to be non-abrasive, and perfectly safe for pups and older dogs to sleep in. This can also help puppies get adjusted to wearing a collar for the majority of the time. However, many vets also recommend including a contact telephone number, in the event your dog goes missing. Although microchipping has been mandatory for pet dogs since , tags are still a legal requirement and provide a quicker way to get in contact with you if your dog is found, without their microchip needing to be scanned first. We hope our puppy collar size guide has been helpful, as well as our dog collar FAQs! If you enjoyed our puppy collar size guide, you might like our other article, What do I need for a New Puppy? The idea of a lost puppy is terrifying, but an ID tag will help them return home. Although this silicone ID tag is more expensive than standard tags, I love that it is silent and attaches right to the collar. Crate and or containment gate Puppies are curious creatures that often need boundaries. You can accomplish this with a crate and containment gates. Crate training can be a lifesaver, and most dogs fall in love with having their own space. I recommend a crate with an adjustable divider so you can give your puppy more room as they grow. Another option is to use a Cumbor containment gate to limit access to certain areas of your home. Food and water bowls There are endless options of food and water bowls. If your dog eats fast, I recommend adding slow feeder attachment. These aids in proper digestion and reduce overeating behaviors. Food and treats Your vet is probably your best source of information for selecting the right food. They create personalized plans for your dog and deliver the food right to your door. I shared my journey of picking the right food in this blog and video. Toys and chews All dogs have slightly different preferences in toys, so I would start with a variety of items to see what interests your puppy most. Ellie still has her first toy, Dino, from 5 years ago! The safest way to deliver bully sticks is to use a Bow Wow Buddy safety device so they cannot swallow or choke on the last end. Check out this blog for all things grooming. Bonus Recommendation! Online Access to Dog Training We recognized the need for convenient and effective dog training solutions, which is why we created The Hapco. Within our app, you'll discover a wealth of resources, including: video tutorials. Small to Medium 1. Dog collars are made from a variety of materials that are built for comfort, aesthetics, and durability. Golden Retrievers are medium to large dogs that can put their collar through the wringer, so durability should be one of the top things on your list! Nylon or polyester are the most popular materials and offer the greatest range of designs, colors, and widths. Nylon and polyester are highly flexible fabrics that are also relatively easy to clean. Cotton Fabric Cotton offers great durability, insulation, and the ability to control moisture. Many collars are made of cotton in a number of different designs and colors. Some contain a cloth sleeve on the inside around a nylon band to increase the longevity of the collar. Biothane Some dog collars are made of Biothane , which is a waterproof substance. Biothane is made of polyester and layered with polyurethane and polyvinyl. Its waterproof properties make them ideal for Golden Retrievers that are more than likely, water-loving dogs. Leather Leather is a durable, organic material with plenty of styles. Although they are more costly, they are an excellent choice for Golden Retrievers with allergies or sensitivities. Unlike collars made of synthetic materials, it is simple to clean and may be used for several years without fading. Neoprene Neoprene is a rubber-based substance that is used for a variety of applications. It has exceptional water resistance and does not retain moisture, which can lead to the development of odors or mildew. Neoprene dog collars combined with nylon or polyester are incredibly strong and durable and able to last several years. Polyester or Nylon Nylon or polyester collars often have the greatest range of designs, colors, and sizes due to their popularity. Nylon and polyester are highly flexible, synthetic fabrics that are also relatively easy to clean. However, unlike slip or choke collars, you can set the limit to which the collar can close. Rope Collars: Rope collars are both comfortable and long-lasting, without being abrasive on the skin. Flat Front Dog Collars: These are your everyday collars that are the most commonly found. They are a flat, fabric-type collar that fastens with a plastic or metal buckle. Training or Aversive Collars This group of collars includes: Shock collars Prong collars Slip collars or choke chains They are designed to give a firm correction in the form of discomfort or pain when an undesirable behavior is displayed. A shock collar delivers an electric shock, or vibration which is controlled remotely. This is a form of correction to a specific behavior, and while their use is justified in some adult dogs that have aggression, they are not suitable for use on puppies that need positive reinforcement. And the most common training collar is the slip collar or choke chain. It does exactly that if used incorrectly, choke the dog. When it comes to puppies, there are a lot of things that people get wrong. These collars are not meant for beginners and should be used with care by experienced trainers only. You should avoid using them on young pups and only use this as a last resort when all other training methods have failed. If your pup is exhibiting behavior severe enough to warrant a stern correction, it might be better for you to seek help from a professional. We use the 8mm size for our dogs. Alvalley is a high quality brand for all lengths. For an adult dog, use an 8 mm or larger. For a young puppy, an 8 mm leash works fine, but I prefer the smaller 6 mm Alvalley Snap Lead one for ease of use when working at home. This size fits easily into the outside pocket of a treat bag. If going for a walk, use a more substantial leash such as the 8 mm Alvalley leash. For at-home use, a 6 mm collar is fine. I like to attach a snap lead permanently to a martingale collar for ease of use. The collar and leash can easily be slipped off and on as needed. Puppies and even some dogs like to chew the plastic ones. At 10 weeks of age, we are using very small bowls for ease of use during training. Golden Retrievers tend to act like they are starving and eat too fast, even at their correct weight. These bowls slow them down so that they will come closer to chewing their food than inhaling it. I like to use buckets instead of bowls for water. Puppies love to dig in their water which makes a mess out of it. Hang the bucket on the outside of the crate by the handle that is on the bucket. Then attach the clip for security by using only one side of the clip to attach the handle to the crate. Leave the other end of the clip just hanging. Never put water inside a crate with a dog. I recommend the 2-quart size for one or two big dogs. This size is also a good size for a puppy. I use two snaps to stabilize the bucket. Though wire crates usually have a divider so that you can size the crate down, we recommend that you go ahead and purchase a 24 inch wire crate along with the correct size for your dog when he is grown. Most puppies can use the 24 inch crates for about 2 months after they are weeks of age. It is also helpful to have a smaller crate when traveling. If you want this option with a Summer Brook puppy, you can have a small icrate shipped to our home address for you to pick up when you get here. The best size crate for adult girls is a 36X24X27 inch wire crate. For an adult boy, use either a 42X28X30 or 36X24X27 inch wire crate. We prefer wire crates in most cases because they give more ventilation and Golden Retrievers like it to be cool. Midwest Life Stages : These are heavy duty and come in both double or single door options. I prefer the crate with the double door because you will have the opportunity to use it turned sideways with the entrance on the side as well as the end. The Icrates are also two inches shorter and two inches narrower than the Life Stages crate. They are larger at the bottom than the top so they fit better in the back of an SUV or van. They are crash tested and have excellent safety records. These crates are a bit difficult to set up and take down so we only recommend them for those that want a crate that stays in a vehicle most of the time. They are perfect for families that take their dogs with them a lot and want a somewhat permanent fixture in their vehicle. This crate is very lightweight and sets up and folds down quickly and easily. We love these crates for motels and dog shows. Wood Crate Denhaus Townhaus : I recommend this crate if looks are important to you. This crate looks just like a nice end table. Though it was expensive, mine has held up well for several years. Crate Pad Primo Pads: These are my favorite crate pads. They are made of a heavy-duty vinyl and I have yet to have a dog chew one up. The vinyl is cool so that my dogs like them even in the summer. They come in a big variety of sizes so that they will fit your crate like a glove. These pads are not sold anywhere except from the manufacturer. Order your Primo Pads here. This is a raised cot-like bed that is cool and comfortable. There is a new Kuranda Bed that we have not tried ourselves but it looks amazing. It is a raised cot like the aluminum bed that we have loved for years but it is sized to fit perfectly into a crate! We have purchased both the aluminum as well as the less-expensive PVC Kuranda beds. Our aluminum beds still look brand new but our PVC beds are starting to warp a little after a few years. We like the Ballistic Nylon fabric which has held up for us for several years. The large is the correct size for both boy and girl Goldens. We have two of them and they are as comfortable as many human beds. We have the extra-large size but a large would be plenty big enough for a girl. At first, your puppy will have to be watched almost every minute when they are out of the crate or pen in order to establish good potty habits and also to teach them not to chew. Until you teach them otherwise, some puppies will try to chew everything, including the furniture and even the woodwork on the walls so I have found the pen to be a huge help. If you get a pen, you need to begin training your puppy not to jump on the sides right away. Never pet your puppy or let him out while he is jumping. Reward him for sitting. They open and close easily and in both directions. The Richell Pens look really super nice. They also can be set up as room dividers. We own at least a dozen sets of these pens and have used them in a large number of configurations. However, like most exercise pens, many puppies will eventually learn to climb or jump out of them. Families must be on top of training their puppy not to jump on the sides. Unlike the Richell pen, most, if not all pens have doors that open in only one direction. If you get one of these pens, set your pen up so that the door opens to the outside. If you are getting your puppy from a breeder other than Summer Brook, plastic pens are a good option for a 7 to 10 week old puppy. It is easier to house train if you start off not allowing your puppy in too large of an area. It also has the added convenience of being able to be easily removed by simply pushing a button that locks it in place. However, this gate must be mounted to the wall. Baby Gates that are Mobile Regalo Extra WideSpan Walkthrough Safety Gate : This gate can span a space inches For a pressure-mounted gate, the Regalo gates do very well and are a good simple solution if you only want a gate for a few months until your puppy is house-trained and can be given the full run of the house. However, understand that many puppies cannot be totally trusted in large areas until they are over 6 months of age. It takes some until they are close to a year. Doggy Door Why to Use a Doggy Door If you are able to put a doggy door in, this is by far the easiest way to house-train a puppy. Also, it provides an ideal way to leave a dog when they have to be alone. I teach our puppies to use a doggy door before they go home. In the last days before they go home, I section off a small area inside next to our kitchen with free access to a doggy door that leads to our side yard. When I keep a puppy past 8 weeks, I gradually increase the size area of the indoor area as they show dependability. I reserve the times when they are free in the house to the 30 minutes right after they have pottied. We highly recommend it. If you have a particularly aggressive chewer then I would buy the Extreme Kong but if your dog is average then I would use a Classic Kong. Bob-a-lot : You can fill this toy with a lot of food; the dog has to work at getting the food out by pushing it around. JW Pet has other great toys too. If you have a particularly aggressive chewer then I would buy the Extreme Kong but if your dog is an average chewer then I would use a Classic Kong. Puppies love them and they keep our puppies happy in their crates. Toys for Month Old Puppies.