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Characteristics Life Span As pointed out in the intro paragraph Shepradors generally live between 10 and 12 years, and sometimes they can reach the age of .However, they tend to be cautious with strangers, thanks to their German Shepherd ancestors. Caring Grooming: their shorthaired coat needs regular brushing: every day in the shedding season spring and autumn and three-to-five times a week in the rest of the year. Activity level With two highly energetic parent breeds, these dogs need an active life, so be ready to spend several hours a day keeping your pet busy. A Labrador Shepherd is generally 20 to 26 inches tall cm. Besides being active, you should have a large house, with a yard to provide her with enough space to move around. The Labrador Shepherd likes cold climates rather than hot weather, so be sure to have the ability to keep her comfortable all year. Further Reading Top 10 Dog Sports 2. They have it in their blood, and can successfully do police work, including searching, tracking, rescue, or guard work. If you care about your flowers and plants, you should also consider building an enclosure to keep your dog away from them. When you bring her inside, provide her with toys and games to keep her busy. She will enjoy any activity that stimulates her mind, such as dog puzzles or training sessions. The vacuum cleaner will be your new best friend German Shepherd Lab Mix is a double-coated breed, which means they have an undercoat next to the skin with longer hair over the top. Dogs from this crossbreed shed a lot, especially when the seasons change. If you want to keep her hair shiny and healthy, you should take time to brush her for at least minutes, three-to-five times a week. A consistent brushing schedule will help you reduce the amount of hair around the house. Besides brushing, you should include in your schedule: cleaning her ears once a week , brushing her teeth at least three times a week , and cleaning her eyes when needed. While this sounds like a lot, on the other hand, she only needs to take a bath about once a month. Exercising her on a concrete surface could help you keep her nails in good shape and reduce the number of visits to the vet. Always buy non-toxic toys, and substitute them with new ones as soon as they start deteriorating to avoid accidents. Your dog will need some strong toys, adapted to her age. Most hybrids tend to have a balanced personality, but as your puppy could be the result of more crosses , she may not inherit the exact characteristics you want in a dog; your future dog is prone to a series of health issues, caused by her bloodline. Obesity, hip and elbow dysplasia, eye diseases and diabetes are a lot more common with these dogs, but she could also develop epilepsy, skin allergies, bloat or cardiovascular diseases, these being common among Labradors and German Shepherds. From my point of view, most estimations work well for average dogs. You should buy your dog from a responsible breeder In most cases, a Labrador Shepherd has high potential and is a great candidate for the title of the perfect family dog. However, as mentioned before, hybrid dogs could have unpredictable coat colors, personalities, and health issues, so buying your puppy from a reliable source is as close as you can get to a clear image about your future dog. Generally, this hybrid can be 26 inches 66 cm tall and can weigh up to 88 pounds 40 kg. Taking into account the height and weight of its German Shepherd and Labrador mix parents, this crossbreed is a medium to a large-sized dog. So measurements can still vary more or less from that range. Good news for you! It will shower you with love and loyalty, and make you proud with its intelligence and playfulness. Do you think you can deal with this? Shepradors has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, but some of them can reach this age. We all want our pets to live longer and spend more years with us, so read this section to avoid and better prepare against genetic illnesses. Conclusion As you could see above, when buying a Sheprador you get the best of two great breeds. I think that this mix of German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever makes for the perfect family dog — kind, loyal, patient with children, and protective. However, they have endless energy and require a lot of time and attention, which makes them suitable for active families only. So are you ready to handle such a dog? Leave us a comment below and tell us about your personal experience with this unique crossbreed. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. But I adopted my little Hank recently and he seems both very playful and very cuddly. He likes to snuggle a lot but is very active too. Just wondering if I should expect him to go crazy one of these days? We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. It is, therefore, no surprise that some breeders are starting to mix the two. Considering whether a German Shepherd Lab Mix is right for you? Read on for everything you need to know about this amazing mixed-breed dog. Lab German Shepherd Mix Overview Size — 22 to 25 inches tall and 50 to 80 pounds Coat — Medium length, double coat, color varies Shedding — Yes Temperament — Intelligent, active, and loyal, but can be wary of strangers Trainable — Highly, but prone to destructive behavior when bored Activity — Highly active needs two hours of activity per day Best For — Families and people with active lifestyles and lots of time to spend with them What is a German Shepherd Lab Mix? As these dogs are roughly the same size, the mother can be of either breed as long as she is larger than the father, to ensure against any difficulty in the birthing process. Sheprador Appearance As is the case for most mix-breed dogs, it is a bit of a gamble what you will get when these two come together. They might have the pointed ears of a German Shepherd or the floppy ears of a Labrador. There is nothing to do but wait and see. But luckily, both German Shepherds and Labradors are attractive dogs, so however they turn out they should be handsome. That said, we can make a few generalizations about the appearance of Shepradors. Size As both German Shepherds and Labradors are medium- to large-sized dogs, you can expect their mixed offspring to be the same. German Shepherds are the larger of the two and are usually between 50 and 90 pounds and 22 to 26 inches tall. Labradors are only a little bit smaller, at 50 to 80 pounds and 22 to 25 inches tall. So expect your German Shepherd Lab Mix to stand between 22 and 25 inches tall and weigh 50 to 80 pounds. You can narrow this range down a bit by looking at the size of the parents. Color The color of these gorgeous mixed-breed dogs is also highly variable, and you might end up with a pooch of a solid coat color, like Labs, or striking mixed coloring, like German Shepherds. A lot of this depends on the color of the Labrador parent, whether they are yellow, black, or chocolate. As a general rule, the darker the lab parent, the darker the coat of the pup. But you also get white German Shepherd Dogs, which can result in striking white Shepradors. Coat When it comes to coat length, you should expect in most cases that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will have a shorter coat, like that of a Labrador. This seems to be a dominant gene, and the vast majority of German Shepherd Lab Mixes end up with this type of coat. The dog will certainly have a double coat, as this is a feature of both breeds. The undercoat will be soft and fluffy, and the guard coat rough. This does mean that they shed—a lot. This is not the type of dog to have at home if anyone in the household suffers from allergies. Shepherd Lab Mix Puppy Lab German Shepherd Mix Character While temperament is again unpredictable with mix-breeds, both German Shepherds and Labradors are intelligent, active, and loyal dogs, so you can expect their offspring to share these traits. German Shepherds are very intelligent and have a natural protective instinct. They have a tendency to guard whatever they consider to be theirs. Labradors were originally bred as gun dogs, to retrieve the wild game of hunters. As such, they are very obedient and tend to be pleasers, and they like nothing more than spending time with their humans. As both breeds are intelligent and highly trainable, you can expect these characteristics to appear in a Sheprador. However, whether they will be a guard dog that can be aggressive with strangers, or a pleaser that is great with children, you will have to wait and see. While dogs are a mix of nature and nurture, if you want to take a Lab German Shepherd mix into a family home, or if you are a first-time dog owner, you will want to be careful about which individual dog you choose. Activity Levels However their personality turns out, you are going to have a dog with a lot of energy. These larger dogs that are used to working need around two hours of exercise each day. Their intelligence also means they get bored easily, and when they do get bored, they can have a tendency toward destructive behavior, which means digging and chewing. They do best with active owners with whom they can go walking, hiking, and running. Whether these dogs will like swimming is a coin toss. While Labradors love the water, German Shepherds are a bit more wary. But their size and adventurous nature mean they can be trained to love the water. So you have a good chance that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will be a swimmer. These dogs are loyal and love being around their humans. You will find them at their happiest and healthiest when you make them part of the family and shower them with love. Exercise Ideally, your Sheprador will need around two hours of exercise per day. This might be more than just a long walk, as their high energy levels mean they will like to run as well. They will enjoy tackling tough trails with you at their side, and the retriever nature of Labradors also means this breed is likely to enjoy a good game of fetch. Bear in mind that these dogs will need this level of exercise rain or shine, or they will become frustrated and start engaging in destructive behavior. This is not only bad for them in general, but can put excess pressure on their hips, which are also prone to issues. Intellectual Stimulation German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs are invariably highly intelligent, which makes them easy to train but also means they get bored very easily. When they do get bored, they are smart enough to find trouble, and you may come home to quite the scene. These dogs need to spend time with people to occupy their minds, and they also benefit from intellectually stimulating games. But expect them to make short work of these challenges, as they are chewers. You will be getting them new games quite often. Companionship Labradors need a lot of companionship, and this is a trait their offspring with German Shepherds are likely to share. Not only will they get bored and start acting up, but they can become depressed. Grooming Both German Shepherds and Labradors are shedders, so you can be sure their Sheprador offspring will be as well. This is just a fact of life with Shepradors. They will need to be brushed at least twice a week, and as often as once a day during the shedding seasons fall and spring. As well as brushing, invest in a good quality vacuum cleaner that has special functionality to help you pick up dog hair. These dogs are also likely to enjoy jumping up on the couch for a snuggle and a snooze. Invest in coverings and be sure your swanky vacuum cleaner has an attachment for upholstery. Their coat is not the only part of their grooming to attend to. You need to clean their teeth three times a week, with a brush or with dental treats. Finally, trim their nails every three months. This is both for their health and the health of your home, as their nails can damage your floors. For a big dog like this, it can be a good idea to take them to the vet to get their nails clipped. But if you feel confident to do this at home, check out our list of the best nail clippers. Diet German Shepherd Lab Mixes are big dogs that have lots of energy, but they also have a tendency toward obesity, which means they have to get their energy from good sources. This means high-quality protein and fats over carbohydrates. Preferably this means meals made from quality meats rather than meals or byproducts. When looking at the ingredient list, look for named meats at the first ingredient. Lab German Shepherd Mixes also benefit from novel proteins in their diet, as they can be prone to allergies. Dogs tend to develop allergies to the meats they eat the most, which often means beef and chicken. When they are puppies, Shepradors should be fed three times a day, and this should be cut down to two times a day from about four months of age. As a rule, dogs need 25 to 30 calories per pound of their weight per day, though you should watch their individual weight and energy level to see if you need to adjust their meals up or down. You can also check the label on your dog food to get a rough estimate of how much you should be feeding your Sheprador. Of course the amount will also vary depending on how often you exercise your dog. Known Health Problems While there is no limit to the number of health problems that a dog of any breed can develop, or they might not develop any at all, some dog breeds are more prone to some conditions than others. German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs have the potential to develop the health problems that are common in goth German Shepherds and Labradors. These include: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia — This is a condition where the hip and elbow joints do not develop normally and that can cause extreme pain and arthritis in later life. For more information check out our list of Glucosamine for Dogs. Progressive Retinal Atrophy — This is a group of degenerative diseases that affect the eyes and can lead to blindness. Shepradors are also prone to eat whatever is put in front of them, so you need to be conscious of what you are feeding them. Gastric Dilatation Volvulus — Poor diet can lead the stomach to dilate and expand, in turn leading to a twisting of the stomach that is life-threatening. It can block the flow of blood to the abdomen, leading to rupture of the stomach walls, and put pressure on the diaphragm thereby inhibiting the lungs. Degenerative Radiculomyelopathy — This is a condition that affects the spinal cord and leads to progressive weakness of the hind limbs, and eventually paralysis. Panosteitis — This is an inflammation of the outer surface of the long bones in the legs, resulting in a shifting lameness and making bones more susceptible to breaks. Allergies — Dogs can be born with allergies or develop them over time. Dogs often develop allergies if they eat the same foods consistently. Underactive Thyroid — The thyroid manages hormones, and an underactive thyroid is unable to secrete the required hormones. This can result in weight gain, lethargy, and cold intolerance. At this time, their energy levels will drop and they will need some changes in their diet and exercise. GSD Lab Mix Puppy But no matter how well trained they are, if they are left to get bored for too long, they can engage in some pretty destructive behavior, such as digging and chewing everything in sight. You have been forewarned. The highly assertive nature of German Shepherds means they do not respond well to domination training. They are likely to revolt when subjected to punishment. The best way to train a Labrador German Shepherd Mix is through positive reinforcement. Labradors are pleasers that love to make their humans happy. This means their offspring are also likely to feel the same way. So they will respond rapidly to training based on rewards for positive behavior. Deal with this behavior early, with specific training for dealing with children and strangers. They are very active and need lots of attention, so they need to be in households that support this. But they do great with adults and kids, so they can be a great family pet. Remember that German Shepherd Labrador Mixes need around two hours of exercise every day, so they need someone who can commit to that level of activity. But at the same time, it means they are the type of dog you can take on all of your adventures if you like hiking and trailing. They also need attention and stimulation throughout the day. If anyone in the house suffers with pet hair allergies, this is another reason Labrador German Shepherd Mixes are not the right dog for you, as they shed a lot. Consider something like a Labradoodle or Goldendoodle instead. Also, ask for medical records of the parents, to see what health conditions the pup might be prone to in the future. If you decide to adopt a mature dog, spend a bit of time with them to see what their temperament is like. History of the Breeds German Shepherd German Shepherds originated in Germany in the late 19th century as a sheep herding dog. But, because they are very intelligent, trainable, obedient, and strong, they have since moved into many different working roles including police, military, search and rescue, and disability assistance. German Shepherds can have a reputation for being aggressive, but they are more alert and wary than aggressive. They can have a tendency to become overprotective of family and territory. But if socialized and trained properly, this tendency should be highly manageable. German Shepherds are the second-most popular dog in the United States and the seventh-most popular dog in the United Kingdom. Labrador Labradors, also known as Labrador Retrievers, were initially used in Newfoundland as fishing dogs to retrieve fish that had gotten away. Because they are incredibly friendly but also intelligent and therefore easy to train, today Labradors are favored as disability assistance dogs, often helping individuals with blindness, ptsd, mobility issues and autism. Labradors are the most popular dog breed in the United States. They are intelligent and therefore easy to train, and loving and loyal, so they will quickly feel like part of the family. However, they do need a lot of exercise and attention, so adopting a Sheprador into your family is a commitment. German Shepherds have a reputation for being aggressive, but it is not really deserved. They are natural watchdogs and reserved around strangers, but they are not aggressive dogs that are likely to attack. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which means easy to control. Beagles, Poodles, Boxers, Golden Retrievers and Spaniels are all extremely friendly dogs as well, many specifically bred to be companions. They do best with active people or families who are full of people to love them. Like all dogs, they will do their best when they are cared for properly. This means training them appropriately, exercising them, keeping them mentally stimulated, and feeding them well. But these loyal pooches will repay your care and commitment with a lot of love and affection. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. There is no way to find out if your puppy will develop any of these conditions. All you can do is to take care of your dog properly to prevent some of these severe medical conditions. Your growing dog should maintain a healthy weight because extra weight can be an additional weight on its spine. The ideal dog nutrition will also depend on any nutritional needs of your dog. If you are training your dog, never give treats as a reward. This encourages obesity and will only cause more problems for your dog. Here are top dog food brands that your German Shepherd Lab will surely love. Its core ingredients include ground brown rice, lamb meal, white rice, and chicken. It is all natural and contains no preservatives. Even a picky puppy will surely love this dog food. Precise Holistic Complete Large Breed Adult Formula Precise Holistic contains chicken, brown rice, chicken fat, and oatmeal and is considered the best organic dog food for large dogs. This comes with extra calcium and phosphorus needed by dogs to achieve its full, large size. This is a portion of irresistible dog food for large breed dogs such as your Lab German Shepherd mix. Just like any other dog, never give your German Shepherd Lab the following human food. Not all human food is safe for dogs. Alcohol Chicken bones or cooked chicken bones Grapes or raisins Salty foods and junk food Chocolate, coffee, or tea Onions, chives, and garlic If you want your dog to grow strong and healthy, you need to give them the best care in the world. So, start with their nutrition! That means you need to stay away from the worst dry dog food, and try out the best dry dog food instead. Your hairy friend comes from different parents and therefore you can experiment with the best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food. Our puppy friends need nutrition that is full of proteins and easy to digest. You can look for some ideas in the best puppy food brands. Senior dogs, in their grandpa style, need food which contains moderate protein levels as in the best senior dry dog food. Because of this, you need to spend ample time in a day to exercise and to walk this dog otherwise; it can develop destructive behavior. Play with your dog regularly to develop a strong bond with your pet. Remember that this dog will love to swim because of its Labrador Retriever lineage. A local dog pool or a pond would work great with your dog. If you have a large yard, an old, large vat will work great just for him to play and cool off. All dogs love to fetch and play Frisbee. Use other kinds of toys like large ropes so you can play pulling games. Use a giant ball for fetches like an old football or a tennis ball. Here are a few ideas 1. This is available in six sizes so you will surely find the best size for your medium to large-sized Lab German Shepherd mix. It is indestructible so your dog will undoubtedly spend hours playing with it. It is made from durable materials that will never break or chip. This is indestructible, and your dog will surely love to play with this over and over again. It is soft but is made to be indestructible. Your pet will surely love to chew on this soft bone. This will be his favorite toy in no time. Lab German Shepherd Mix Training The Lab crossed with a German Shepherd is a brilliant dog, but it may need more than simple traditional training techniques to train this dog. The following tricks will help you make your dog obey you in no time. The Clicker Technique Learn how to train your dog using a clicker. Press this, and you will hear an audible click, a sound that dog loves very much. The clicker may be used in all kinds of tricks, but the most common is for positive reinforcement. Just click the clicker when your dog can follow the trick and then click again if you want to repeat the behavior. Invest in a good clicker which is available in most pet stores online. This can contribute to obesity and other health problems related to being overweight. Reward good behavior by patting your dog, playing with him or giving him a good scratch. Tell your dog what a good dog he is and combines this with a lot of pats as reinforcement. Every dog takes his time so you must be patient. His bed should at the same place where he found it the first time while his food bowls should also be in the same area. Consistency is the key to training dogs important stuff. Also, consider talking to everyone at home regarding your rules and commands to reinforce consistency in training your dog. Train Your Dog In A Familiar Environment Dogs like the Lab are easily distracted; therefore you must train your pup in a quiet and familiar environment first before you take him out for further training. Start inside a quiet room with only you and him. You can train him outdoors once he is less distracted to noise and the presence of other pets and people. You may also opt for professional training for your Lab German Shepherd mix dog if you want your pup to grow up and become a service dog or police dog. German Shepherd Lab Mix and Families Lab German Shepherds can be great family dogs because these dogs love to be with their masters and to please them every way they can. These are patient with children and will never roughhouse or bite. They can even tolerate toddlers and very intense games like dress up and role play games. Lab German Shepherd mix dogs will love to be with other pets and even other dogs. They are not domineering and will never cause a fight. The Lab German Shepherd mix may become anti-social and may become aggressive with people or other dogs when they are not introduced to people and other pets early on. Your dog should be trained first and exposed to other dogs and people to prevent this untoward behavior. German Shepherd Lab mix puppies German Shepherd Lab mix dogs are a combination of energetic friendliness and natural protection. As well trained adults they have the potential to make great herding, hunting, retrieving, therapy, service or pet dogs. German Shepherd Lab mixes are affectionate with their family, but need plenty of exercise, shed heavily, and can be destructive if left alone for long periods. That is, they have one parent of each pedigree. So there is huge variation in how they look, and no standard appearance. Some have the telltale muzzle and tall ears of the German Shepherd, others more resemble a Labrador. The color of their coat will depend on the coloring of their parents. For example, a black Lab German Shepherd mix is likely to have a dark coat, and a German Shepherd yellow Lab mix is likely to have a mid-toned coat. There are even arresting-looking white German Shepherd Lab crosses. An ultra-warm undercoat and a coarse outer coat to protect them from the elements as they work outdoors. This is because the gene for long coats is recessive and very unusual among Labs. Gathering up their lost hair will be a never-ending task! A good vacuum cleaner is essential. This might be reason enough to choose a different crossbreed if you have a busy family or someone with allergies in the home. German Shepherds are large dogs. They stand 22 — 26 inches tall at their shoulder blades, and weigh 49 — 88 pounds. Meanwhile, Labs are a medium sized breed, 22 — 25 inches tall at their shoulders, and 55 — 80 pounds on the scales. A Labrador German shepherd mix could be as petite as their smallest parent or as big as their largest parent. Your German Shepherd Lab mix could weigh anything from 55 pounds to 80 pounds. As usual, the lower end of the range is typically made up of female dogs, and the top end is dominated by the boys. They love to interact with people, show their affection, and get on well with children. Also, the German Shepherd is confident, courageous and smart. They are loyal and full of life. Furthermore, Labradors and German Shepherds are both fast learners and eager to please. German Shepherds in particular need productive ways to channel their intelligence, or they will get into mischief to stave off boredom. Your German Shepherd Lab mix could inherit any combination of the traits of their parents, which is why meeting both parents before committing to bringing home a puppy is so important. Socialization Socialization is the process of making a dog comfortable with other animals, people, places and activities. Even for breeds that are known to be friendly and easy-going, like Labradors, socialization is very important. German Shepherd Lab mixes are likely to inherit a love of people and company from both sides of their family tree. But socializing them properly as puppies will be vital to give them the confidence they need in meeting new people. German Shepherds, despite their great loyalty to their family, can be wary of strangers. So thorough socialization from puppyhood is essential, even for a mix. For instance, Socialization can involve having new people call over to the house regularly so your pup gets used to new faces and voices. It can also involve introducing your puppy to new dogs, cats, children and other animals so that they do not become fearful or territorial. A young dog in good health could require even more. They will also need human company for much of the day, and training to keep those big brains from getting bored. They are working dogs at heart. Highly motivated to learn and impress you with their ability to follow instructions. Like with any dog, training them is an ongoing commitment that lasts a lifetime. But with your ultra smart dog it should be a satisfying and rewarding one. German Shepherd and Labrador Health Magnification of health problems in pedigree dog breeds has become a well-documented problem. Labrador Health One of the biggest health problems facing Labradors today is hip and elbow dysplasia — looseness in the joints that eventually leads to painful arthritis. Another is progressive retinal atrophy, a gradual failure of the retina at the back of their eyes that can ultimately leave them blind. Also, Labs are also notoriously greedy, and prone to obesity if their penchant for snacking is indulged too often. Another less serious but common issue in Labs is ear infections. These are easily treated but may require veterinary care and frequent inspections. In addition, they are more than usually prone to: Gastrointestinal diseases. Origin of the Black Lab German Shepherd Mix Designer dogs — the result of deliberately crossing two different pedigrees — are a relatively recent phenomenon. But the Labrador and German Shepherd pedigrees both go right back to the 19th century. And understanding their individual histories provides important insights into German Sheprador temperament. Labrador history Labradors were originally bred as hunting dogs, to retrieve fallen waterfowl from the water. Breeders selected breeding dogs for traits which made them great at this job: a strong build, a thick waterproof coat, and an enthusiasm to learn and work in a team with their handler. The best Labs were also gentle and chilled out companions once the hunting day was over. Which is why Labradors exploded so successfully onto the pet scene, and into service roles as well. Unlike Labs, GSDs needed to be able to work confidently at a distance from their handler. They also used to double up as watch dogs and guard dogs, alerting their owner to the arrival of anything unfamiliar, which might be a threat to their flock. Like Labradors, they also proved to be remarkably versatile, and succeed in a wide variety of roles — including police work, military work, narcotics detection, and service roles. What to Expect From a Black Lab German Shepherd Mix The whole purpose of establishing pedigrees for purebred dogs is to ensure that all the puppies descended from that pedigree look and behave in a reliable way. Inevitably, mixing breeds creates possibilities for unpredictable results. Puppies inherit traits from both of their parents at random. Designer dogs with parents who have a lot in common are easier to predict. Puppies from parents who either look very different, or were bred for very different purposes, are more variable. Black Labs can also carry the genes for chocolate and yellow coloring. Some Labs also silently carry the genes for markings like tan points. These genes hark back to when Gordon Setters contributed to the foundation of the breed. So a black Lab German Shepherd mix puppy might be black or dark brown, and have markings including sable shading or tan points. How big do German Shepherd black Lab mixes get? Labradors and German Shepherds are both medium to large sized dogs. Labs weigh 55 to 80 pounds, and GSDs weigh 50 to 90 pounds. For both breeds, females tend to occupy the bottom end of the weight range, and males the upper end. So, a black Lab German Shepherd mix could weigh anything between 50 and 90 pounds too. Their weight will be partly determined by all of the following: the general parameters of the breed the size of their parents their sex and environmental factors, like receiving adequate nutrition in puppyhood. Do black Lab German Shepherd mix dogs shed? Labs and GSDs both have thick double coats — ideal for insulating them against harsh weather conditions whilst working. So, one thing we can say for sure about the black Lab German Shepherd is that they too will be high-shedding dogs. Regular brushing, and seasonal grooming with specialist tools like a Furminator can help to keep your house clear of discarded fur. They also have a strong retrieving instinct — or in other words they like to carry things around in their mouths! Black Labs in particular have traditionally been favored for working roles, so they tend to be focussed and easily motivated to engage in training. German Shepherds are often described as courageous and loyal. They have strong herding and guarding instincts. Part of this is an innate distrust of unfamiliar people. Although, they are devoted and affectionate to their human family and regular guests. They are also very smart, and capable of picking up new cues quickly. But they are both talented problem solvers and quick learners. Sheprador puppies are sure to be smart and trainable too. So, the training and socialization you do with them while they are young will be very important. Puppies under 12 weeks old readily form positive associations with new things, if they have a good first encounter with them. Socialization is particularly important for German Shepherds and their mixes, because they are naturally inclined to be wary of strangers. It gives them the confidence to interact calmly with the world when they are older. Typically friendly breeds like Labs still need socializing too. And very friendly individuals will also need teaching how to greet people calmly, without jumping up or getting over excited. German Shepradors also need methodical leash training from a young age — being dragged along the sidewalk by a large dog is no fun! Exercise Labs and GSDs are both athletic dogs which have been bred to be mentally and physically active for several hours a day. An adult Lab GSD mix dog needs at least 2 hours of walking per day. At home, they enjoy additional games of fetch, tug and scent work. Training and puzzle feeders like Kongs and sniffle mats are valuable for providing mental exercise. A Sheprador is also likely to enjoy dog sports like fieldwork and advanced obedience training. Black Lab German Shepherd Mix Health Just like in every other respect, Sheprador health is a mixed inheritance from both of their parent breeds. Labrador Health.
The below picks are toys for Golden Retrievers that are fully grown. For most Goldens, the toys I have recommended below will be great choices. If your dog is known to destroy and chew up his toys, skip to the section below on toys for chewers. Reminder, as a veterinarian I have to point out that even non-chewers should not be left alone with a toy. The large size Bob-A-Lot from Starmark can fit up to 3 cups of food so you can serve a whole meal in the toy. The toy method of feeding is great for smart dogs like Golden Retrievers and keeps them from eating too fast. You can also add treats to the inside to encourage them to play with it. It is easy for your Golden to pick up and carry. All of this makes this one of the best toys for Golden Retrievers which is why I usually have a couple rolling around my house. This plush stuffed critter is one of our favorite toys for Golden Retrievers. It is fairly sturdy so it can handle a lot of shaking and a little bit of tugging. Plus it is just really cute and will pose well with your pup for all sorts of photos. They just love it so much that I keep buying it. However, the topic of toy destroying leads to my next section on toys for Golden Retrievers who are chewers. Many companies claim their toy is chew proof but there is no such thing. All dogs should be watched carefully as they play with their toys so that you can take them away if they start eating the pieces. However if your dog is a moderate chewer, here are two that my toy destroying dogs enjoy. The good news is that inside the toy is a Kong toy so even after they remove the fabric, your pup will still have a great toy to play with. The Wubba is great because they or you can throw it around, play tug, or just carry it around the house. They do come smaller for young puppies. These balls dispense treats or dog food and can hold up to some moderate chewing remember no toys will outlast a really aggressive chewer. My dogs love these types of toys. This will keep them entertained for a bit and the larger the pieces you put into it, the longer it takes them to get them out. Best Toys for Golden Retrievers — Puppies Puppies have special needs in each part of their development. Although they can of course play with all of the toys listed above, we have chosen a few that are just for the little ones. Just like human kids, Golden Retriever puppies lose their baby teeth and gain adult teeth. This happens from 12 weeks to about 6 months of age for a Golden Retriever puppy. The linked product is a 6 pack of fun shapes so they can have one in every room. These toys are durable, but you should always watch your puppy carefully as they chew and play with toys. If your pup starts getting some string loose, take it away immediately because string can cause GI problems. After they get used to the noises, they really enjoy tossing this around to get it to make the sounds. Lesson learned: Do not give the Giggler to your puppy and then get on a conference call with work, enough said. Best Stuffed Puppy Toy. Plush toys Puzzle toys Each of these types have a specific purpose and benefit, and can help with training in a different way. This is where chew toys come in. You need to have a rotation of chew toys that serve as safe outlets for your pup to take out their chewing needs. And in addition to helping satisfy this natural desire to chew, chew toys also help with teething. Chewing helps relieve the pain and pressure of their adult teeth coming in , and throwing a chew toy in the freezer before you give it to them can also help alleviate teething pain. Now most chew toys are made of rubber or plastic and the list below has a few different materials to select from. He would run around the house swinging them, and then when he was tired he would lay down and chew on the keys. The rubber is tough, yet bouncy and has some give, so your puppy will love it. For crate training , durable chew toys are great for keeping them occupied in the crate. Interactive Toys Interactive toys are toys that let you and your dog play together, such as frisbees, tennis balls, or tug ropes. You can get this rope from Amazon here. To teach drop it with a tug rope you simply stop tugging, hold the rope very still, and wait for your puppy to eventually get bored and let go. Praise them for dropping it and then after a minute or two of tugging, do it again. I also like to reinforce commands like sit and down while playing tug. Plush Toys Plush toys are soft, fuzzy toys that often have a squeaker inside. Zippy Paws Avocado. Your golden retriever will lean towards toys that appeal to their highly energetic and fun-loving nature. So, what toys do Golden Retrievers like to play with? Toys that golden retrievers like to play with fall under three main groups — plush, interactive, and chew toys. Plush toys are used to play a game of fetch, while interactive toys let you and your dog play together, and chew toys are helpful, especially when dogs are teething or left home alone for the day. This article may contain affiliate links and loyalgoldens may earn a commission if a purchase is made. Unlock your goldens natural intelligence and see just how quickly problem behaviors disappear. This is the best at home dog training I've ever used! Plush Toys For a golden retriever, plush toys mimic the feel of carrying waterfowl in their mouths which is, of course what they were bred for. These soft, fuzzy toys often have a squeaker inside that make these toys more attractive to golden retrievers. Soft plush toys, however, may not be the most ideal for golden retrievers who have a tendency to chew and rip things apart. Some retrievers show this inclination, especially in cases where the toy squeaks. Plush toys, on the other hand, are ideal for goldens who are gentle chewers. Golden retrievers are able to hold things in their mouth without damaging them. Due to this gentle nature of the breed, they love to play with plush toys and enjoy carrying them around in their mouth. These plush toys are extra tough, guaranteeing a longer life in the hands er, mouths of your golden retriever. It will be fun to play a game of fetch with your retriever using this toy! It could also be used as a comfort toy for your furry friend to cuddle up with. Discover how to train your Golden Retriever by playing games : 21 games to play with your Golden that will make them smarter and better behaved! This soft and cuddly plush toy is very popular among dogs. Marvin is available in extra-large size as well, making it the perfect cuddle buddy for your golden retriever. The fact that this toy also squeaks makes it a very attractive plaything for your golden. There is also minimal stuffing in this toy to help ensure that the mess is kept at a minimum if your furry friend decides to eventually rip it up. The toy is designed for gentle chewing, and normal wear and tear. This toy is also machine washable, making life easier for you as the dog parent. You can get the Marvin the Moose plush toy here at Amazon. This small toy is cute to look at and has a vibrant green color that your retriever would love to chase. The toy features adorable character details and has different textures from the polka-dotted feel on the exterior to the corduroy lines on the interior. They also have cute smiling faces to boot. My favorite part and your goldens too is the avocado pit inside is a tennis ball! This avocado dog toy also makes a lot of squeaky sounds that your golden would love to chase and romp around with. It is ideal for a foraging style of play. Outward Hound Invincibles Dog Toy This is one of the most popular squeaking toys around and will keep your retriever entertained for a long time. This toy is durable and can easily withstand moderate chewers. Nevertheless, if your golden retriever does manage to rip it apart, the fact that there is no stuffing inside will ensure that there is no mess for you to clean up afterwards. You can also build a bond with your dog by playing a game of toss or fetch with them both indoors and out. Flying Squirrel Toy Golden retrievers love to swim and engage in a game of fetch in the water. Even the medium-sized one, which is 10 inches by 10 inches, is large enough to play frisbee with your golden retriever. This spinning toy is aerodynamic and perfect for playing fetch in the yard or park as well. The bright color of the toy attracts the attention of the retriever, making it possible for your dog to see it from a distance. The durable canvas exterior makes it easy to keep this toy clean as it resists dirt and dog slobber. The curved sides on the toy make it easy for your dog to easily retrieve the toy. Get ready to bond with your golden retriever over a game of frisbee with this Chuckit toy. The Chuckit! Flying Squirrel Amazon is a ton of fun! Due to the lifelike features, this will engage your golden retrievers hunting instincts, and your dog will love to play a game of chase with this wildlife rabbit toy. This soft plush toy is made with chew guard technology that makes it resistant to aggressive chewing by your golden retriever. A very popular toy among dog owners and can soon be a favorite part of your dogs toy chest! Pick up the goDog Wildlife Rabbit here Amazon. Squirrels activate the innate hunting instincts in your golden. This life-sized grey squirrel plush toy is a very realistic looking toy. At the end of a long day of chasing and chewing your golden can also use it for cuddling. This soft plush toy measures around 8 inches tall and is made of superior plush materials with impeccable attention to detail. Your golden will really love this squirrel! Interactive Toys Interactive toys are those that help you bond with your golden retriever by letting you and your dog play together. These toys help to use up your dogs wild energy. Frisbees, tennis balls, and tug ropes are some examples of interactive toys. Some of these toys also double up as chew toys for your golden. For instance, the tug rope is not only an interactive toy, but your dog can also use it by themselves. Interactive toys also provide mental stimulation to your dogs. These days the market is flooded with puzzle toys for your dog. These toys usually contain hidden compartments for hiding treats for your dogs. Then it becomes a mental challenge for them to figure out how to extract the treat from the puzzle box. This trait makes the Outward Hound an ideal puzzle toy for your dog. This toy can also be used as a training tool where you teach your dog to sit and wait before you allow him to go ahead and search for the treats. Outward Hound is made to look like real wood but is made of composite material that makes the toy resistant to damage and easy to clean. The wood-like appearance is especially appealing to the dogs. The toy does have moving pieces, but they are built in such a way that none of the moving pieces come out. To play this game with your dog, simply place dog treats in the compartments and swivel the flippers to cover the food. Your golden retriever will know in an instant that there are treats hidden in the compartments and start poking the toy to figure out a way to get to them. It is made of non-toxic materials and is free of BPA and phthalate. Your golden retriever can play and chew with this toy for as long as it wants. They are much more durable than normal tennis balls and are resistant to heavy chewing. When not being used in a game of tug of war, golden retrievers love carrying it around in their mouths. Kong Jump N Jack Dental Dog Toy This toy can be used for a game of fetch, and due to its design, it has the added erratic nature in its bounce, which makes its unpredictability enjoyable for your golden retriever. The strategically designed ridges help to clean teeth and gums for improved dental hygiene. This toy is sure to keep your golden stimulated for long hours. All you need to do is fill the tree trunk with the three stuffed squirrels and toss it at your golden. Classic Kong The Classic Kong is a versatile toy ideal for keeping your puppy entertained. Fill it with treats or peanut butter and freeze it for an added challenge. Teething toys are essential for puppies because they relieve teething discomfort. You can help your puppy through this challenging phase while protecting your home with suitable teething toys. Chewing on toys relieves sore gums and can help prevent destructive chewing behavior. To keep your puppy engaged and satisfied, provide a variety of textures and shapes. How To Choose The Best Toy Your Golden Retriever Puppy There are several factors to consider when choosing teething toys for puppies to ensure your furry friend gets the best toys for their needs. Here are some key points to remember: 1. To soothe their gums, for example, at weeks, you can select a Nylabone teething ring or a Kong Natural Teething Rubber Puppy Toy filled with frozen treats. You can introduce adult chew toys such as rope or fetch when they are past the teething stage around 24 weeks. The Type Of Toy Numerous teething toys for puppies are available, but some of the best options include sturdy rubber toys that provide both safety and durability. Bully sticks are also a good option for teething puppies. Many puppy teething toys are softer than adult toys because they are gentle enough for developing teeth but firm enough to withstand chewing. Look for durable rubber toys that can withstand chewing without breaking apart and posing a choking hazard. You can choose the best toys for your furry friend by keeping these factors in mind, allowing them to get through their teething phase easily and comfortably. Chewing is an innate need in dogs because it releases endorphins, which make them feel good and relaxed. Unfortunately, this can lead to destructive chewing of household items. In addition, chew toys are crucial for puppies during the teething stage. Their mouths become sore as their adult teeth emerge, and chew toys can provide relief. Furthermore, Golden Retrievers are known to be a mouthy breed. Because their breeding history includes carrying hunted birds in their mouths, they are accustomed to using their mouths frequently. As a result, chew toys are an essential tool for satisfying their needs while protecting your belongings. There is no wrong time for a puppy to pick up a chew toy and begin gnawing. Chew toys are beneficial during crate training because they can keep your pup entertained and focused on something that makes them happy rather than feeling lonely in their crate. If your dog is tearing around the house, a peanut butter chew toy or a bully stick can be a great way to distract them and get them to focus on something else. Additionally, chew toys can help a hyper puppy relax. Your pup will be ready to nap after a chewing session and a quick potty break. Supervising your puppy when using new chew toys is critical because some are less durable than others and can be easily chewed through. If your puppy chews through the toy quickly, the pieces may be swallowed or choked on. Here are some valuable tips to help your puppy learn to love their chew toys: Treat them with peanut butter: Most puppies adore peanut butter, and smearing some on a new chew toy can instantly make it more appealing. As they lick and chew the toy, they associate it with the tasty treat and develop a fondness for it. Toy rotation and storage: Because puppies enjoy new toys, try rotating and storing their chew toys in a toy bin. Toys that are too small can pose a choking hazard, whereas toys that are too large may be difficult for your dog to grip and chew on. Put toys in the freezer: When your puppy is teething, their mouth may be sore and hot. Put their chew toys in the freezer for a few minutes to cool them down and provide extra relief for their sore gums. Praise them for chewing: Positive reinforcement is essential for getting your puppy to enjoy their chew toys. Chewing is an entirely normal behavior in dogs, but it can become a problem when it becomes excessive and causes damage to household items such as shoes, carpets, and clothing. To prevent this, provide your Golden Retriever with a safe chew toy they can enjoy. Another cause of excessive chewing in dogs is a lack of attention from their owner. Training is also essential in reducing excessive chewing habits. Teach your dog not to chew on anything they come across by rewarding good behavior with positive reinforcement. Finally, exercise is essential. Golden retrievers are active dogs who require moderate to vigorous exercise regularly. They may become destructive and aggressive chewers if they do not get enough exercise. So give them plenty of opportunities to run, play, and let off steam healthily. The frequency at which you need to replace the toys will depend on how aggressively your puppy chews and how often they play with the toys. As a general rule of thumb, you should replace teething toys when they become damaged or start to show signs of wear, as this can pose a choking hazard or lead to ingestion of small pieces. Can I give my Golden Retriever puppy frozen teething toys? You can give your Golden Retriever puppy frozen teething toys. Frozen toys can provide additional relief for sore and swollen gums during the teething process. Be sure to monitor your puppy when they are playing with frozen toys and remove them if they become damaged or if your puppy seems to be having difficulty chewing. Golden Retriever puppies, like all puppies, will go through a teething phase during which they may be more prone to biting and chewing on objects around the house. Providing appropriate teething toys can redirect their chewing behavior to appropriate objects and help prevent destructive chewing of household items. Additionally, consistent positive reinforcement training can help teach your puppy appropriate chewing behavior. Toys that are designed to promote dental health often have ridges, bumps, or other textures that can help scrape away plaque and tartar as your puppy chews. Some toys may also contain enzymes that break down plaque and tartar, reducing the risk of dental problems. Harder toys made from materials like nylon or hard rubber can also help clean teeth and exercise the jaw. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. A soft fetch toy designed to fly like a Frisbee, the Flippy Flopper floats in water, allowing it to be used on land or lake. Sturdy enough for outdoor use, this toy is not meant to be chewed and dogs should not play with it unsupervised. This toy is also ideal to get future sporting dogs used to retrieving objects from the water. While all the toys we listed could be used by any age dog, some will likely suit certain age groups better. Puppies, for example, may be more likely to destroy their toys than an older dog, even those not meant to be chewed. Older Goldens may get less use out of the more active toys like the ChuckIt! Many of the toys we listed, even those designated as chew toys, are still vulnerable to destruction by aggressive chewers. Do you need a toy you can hand off to your dog and allow them to entertain themselves without help from you? A Kong or an activity board might be your best bet. Or are you searching for a toy you and your dog can play with together? Consider a ChuckIt! Something like a Kong Jumbler might do the trick. Do you want a toy that your kids can use to play with your dog? Classic allows you to help your dog expend energy without needing to use much yourself. Our best toy for the money, the Mammoth Rope Tug , serves multiple play functions all in one reasonably priced object. No matter what style of play your dog prefers, you can find a toy that fits. Hopefully, our reviews of these 10 toys gave you some helpful guidance on your quest to find the perfect toy for your Golden Retriever. See also:. Safe for both adult and puppy Tempting beef scent Carry on reading to discover why we made these choices, and lots of tips and buying advice to ensure you get the right product. As well as potentially choking on them, broken toys can cause a host of internal problems for you golden, too. Safe Materials The best chew toys are fairly hard and durable, but there are a few other things you should look out for when making a decision. If possible, always opt for toys made of non-toxic materials. That way, if they do chew off and swallow any of it, the internal damage can be somewhat mitigated. Be Prepared To Pay For Quality Not all expensive dog toys are high quality, but most high-quality dog toys are more expensive than the run-of-the-mill toys you can pick up at your neighborhood dollar store. Spending a little more money now to get a durable, safe and fun toy that will last is ultimately less expensive in the long run than having to continually replace cheap toys that your dog can destroy within hours. As with any product, the best materials will necessarily cost a little more. Certain materials lend themselves to durability — one of the most important features of a high-quality chew toy for golden retrievers. Favorite brands like KONG and Goughnuts make some of the toughest and most durable chew toys on the planet, and they use special formulations of hard rubber to achieve this. Rope Toys A close second to hard rubber is the huge balls of rope that many dogs love playing tug-of-war with. The plush fabric can be torn apart easily and swallowed. Any stuffing and squeakers can be swallowed, too — a definite choking hazard and something that could cause internal damage. Like a plush toy, they can easily be chewed apart in a few hours by a power chewer, and the likely included squeaker can, again, cause health problems if swallowed. Plastic While plastic is often just about hard enough to withstand the jaws of a heavy chewer, it scratches up easily and — if it does break — could see your dog swallowing sharp bits of plastic. These toys will keep your pooch entertained for hours, and hopefully your belongings intact and safe for far longer. Incredibly tough and durable, these toys are able to withstand a lot of pressure from gnashing teeth and can last for years. The idea is to stuff it with treats or kibble and let your retriever toil to get it out; keeping them busy for a few hours. First, they need to control the wobbling toy and stop it from rolling away from them! Top Features Great for dogs that eat too fast — the unpredictable dispenser helps them slow down, work for, and savor their food and treats It wobbles unpredictably, keeping your dog interested and challenged Can be used at mealtimes as an alternative dog bowl or for treating your dog Made in the USA Made of FDA-approved, high-strength plastic polymer Dishwasher safe with a twist-off dispenser Click Here For Price West Paw is another brand that specializes in high-quality dog chew toys. This Hurley bone chew is the perfect toy for golden retrievers that love to play fetch and gnaw on rawhide. Brightly colored so you can spot them outside Very durable and able to withstand heavy chewing Made in the US.
Welcome to the Michigan state page on TrustedPuppies. Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, Michigan is renowned for its stunning lakeshores, vibrant cities, and variety of dog-friendly activities. Our goal is to connect you with the most exceptional English Bulldog breeders and puppies for sale in the region, ensuring you find the ideal companion for your family. Our site features a wide variety of reputable Michigan breeders who specialize in raising healthy and happy puppies. Our MI breeders are committed to raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations and veterinary checkups to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide ongoing support and advice to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new furry friend. Discover the dynamic dog-friendly scene in Michigan, featuring inviting restaurants, spacious dog parks, and engaging dog shows. For those passionate about dog shows, events like the West Michigan Harvest Cluster Dog Show provide an opportunity to appreciate the elegance and charm of English Bulldog canines while connecting with fellow enthusiasts. Michigan claims the 7th position in U. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our reputable English Bulldog breeders provide safe and affordable flight delivery, complete with a dedicated flight nanny who accompanies your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring their safety and comfort as they travel to their new home in Michigan. Many breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery, utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option allows your English Bulldog puppy to be transported directly to your door by a professional who understands the unique requirements of pet transportation. Begin your search for the perfect English Bulldog puppy on TrustedPuppies. English Bulldog English BulldogT Known for their loose-jointed, shuffling gait and massive, short-faced head, the English Bulldog is known to be equable, resolute and dignified. A medium-sized dog, they are not your typical lap dog, but would like to be! They are one of the most popular breeds according toAKC Registration Statistics due to their lovable and gentle dispositions and adorable wrinkles. The English Bulldog may be brindle, white, red, fawn, fallow or piebald. The original bulldog had to be ferocious and courageous, and almost insensitive to pain. When dog fighting became illegal in England, fanciers set to the task of preserving the breed by eliminating the fierce characteristics. Within a few generations, the Bulldog became one of the finest physical specimens with an agreeable temperament. Temperament English Bulldogs are recognized as excellent family pets because of their tendency to form strong bonds with children. They tend to be gentle and protective. The breed requires minimal grooming and exercise. Their short nose makes them prone to overheating in warm weather, so make sure to provide a shady place to rest. Generally, Bulldogs are known for getting along well with children, other dogs, and pets. They can become so attached to home and family, that they will not venture out of the yard without a human companion. Bulldogs do better with positive training. They love getting rewarded with treats! Here at Petland, we have many different types of training treats because we know all the pups love them! Ranging in size from 40 to 50 pounds. Family companion. Apartment is fine, also small condo Low activity indoors, due to their snouts thrive in moderate climates.
Our names are Davianna and Mirta Olert. Our family has lived in Anchorage, Alaska since and have always been very much dog centered. We started our mother-daughter run German Shepherd adventure with Atari from Chinook Valley Farm in , and quickly realized how special he is. Atari is a trained service dog, International Champion, shows at AKC registered dog shows, and is a beloved family companion. This special dog inspired us to pay forward how lucky we have been with him and to share the results of his excellent bloodline with others through careful and limited breeding. We are a small operation intentionally. We only breed the healthiest dogs with the best possible bloodlines to ensure each mating pair has the greatest aptitude for producing excellent family, companion, service, working, obedience, and protection dogs. Our dogs are family members first, they mingle with us daily, from outings and training classes to lounging at home on the couch watching TV. We mindfully place puppies in homes that will suit their emerging personalities and the needs of their new families the best. We are committed to placing puppies in homes where they will thrive and where you will get to experience the same joy our Atari, Ana, and Kali give us everyday. Get new content delivered directly to your inbox. Type your email…. 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. The average cost of a German shepherd dog in the U. Depending on the breeder, this detail could affect the price of the dog as well. The best way to find German shepherd dogs for sale around you is by searching online. The website PuppiesForSale has a list of registerable puppies for sale in Alaska. You should always avoid buying a pup from someone who does not belong to a reputable kennel club. More specifically, you should ask prospective breeders to provide information about their dogs. The internet is one of many useful tools that will aid you in finding a reputable breeder. You may use search engines to find a list of breeders in your area. Before you purchase a pup from someone, it is best for you to speak with them first. If possible, you should schedule an appointment so that you can meet the breeder and their dogs in person. If you have any questions regarding German shepherd puppies, please contact the breeder via email or telephone. During this meeting, the breeder will provide you with important documents and information. You should ask them about their breeding practices and explain why you want to buy a German shepherd dog from them specifically. Look at the temperament of the dogs kept by your prospective breeder. The dogs should be well-mannered and friendly. They should also behave appropriately around you, your family members as well as other people they meet during the visit. Are the German shepherd dogs kept in a clean area? An unclean kennel may be a sign of careless breeding. Your breeder should take good care of their dogs and make sure that they are clean at all times. An onsite visit is best for selecting your Alaskan German Shepherd breeder. You may contact these individuals and ask them about their experiences with your breeder. What was the temperament of the puppies they received? Were the pups healthy upon delivery? How long did it take for their pup to be trained? What was the overall experience like as a whole? You may contact these individuals directly and ask them about their experience with your breeder. If you are purchasing a German shepherd pup from a breeder in Alaska, ask them if they provide their dogs with proper veterinary care. A responsible breeder will ensure that their dogs receive the medical treatment they need to be healthy and happy. What vaccinations does your Alaska German Shepherd Breeder give their pups? What is included in this vaccination schedule? Ask your prospective breeders to give you information regarding the immunizations they give their dogs as well as a schedule for these immunizations. While Alaska state laws do not require dog breeders to give German shepherd puppies vaccines, responsible breeders will vaccinate their dogs. If they refuse to give references from past customers. If your breeder in Alaska chooses to hide information about their dogs, like where they come from or how old they are. If you visit the kennel and the dogs seem extremely skittish or fearful of human contact. If you notice any of these signs, it is best to search for another German shepherd dog breeder if you want to buy a healthy puppy from a responsible breeder. Your new Alaskan German Shepherd should be a happy healthy puppy from a reputable breeder. An honest and reputable breeder will provide you with a complete health history on your new German shepherd puppy. Ask the breeder if their dogs suffer from any of these common diseases: Hip Dysplasia: This genetic disease makes it difficult for the dog to move around normally because their hip joints have been malformed. It may be related to the actual size of their joints or even a genetic defect. Depending on how much hip dysplasia your dog has, they may be more prone to further injuries and arthritis as they age. Elbow Dysplasia: Elbow dysplasia is another genetic disease where the elbow joint becomes deformed making it difficult for dogs to walk normally. The joint will pop out of place easily when the dog moves around which makes it difficult for them to move comfortably. Eye Problems: Dogs may be born with this disease or acquire it later in life when their eyesight gets worse. Most dogs develop cataracts in both eyes, while others might only develop one eye. This will affect their eyesight and cause them to scratch their eye or face more. Once you have located a German shepherd breeder in Alaska, make sure to ask the right questions before settling on one dog breeder. If you find an ethical breeder who breeds healthy Alaskan German shepherds, you are one step closer to becoming the proud owner of a German Shepherd. Your first step should be to make sure you and all members of your family are prepared to love and care for the new puppy. Is everyone on board with getting a brand new member into the family? Are they willing to dedicate time and patience in order to train this new addition? If everyone in your family agrees they are ready for a dog, you will need to make room in your home or backyard for the new puppy. This includes making sure the entire family is prepared with any necessary supplies like food bowls, towels, and brushes. If you have other pets at home, you will also need to make sure your entire household is prepared for the introduction to the new puppy. A dog bed small enough for your puppy to fit comfortably in will teach them that this space is where they are allowed to relax. Introduce Your Puppy to Their New Home Before you introduce your German shepherd puppy to their new home, it is important for them to meet the other members of the household first. You will need to have patience when introducing your puppy to any older dogs or cats in the house because they may not understand this. Potty Training Your New German Shepherd Puppy Potty training a puppy can be a long and arduous task, especially if you have a new puppy that is not fully potty trained. Be prepared for this process to take at least three weeks before your German shepherd will start going to the bathroom outside instead of in the house. Clean up after them immediately — if the smells remain in the house, they may be easily distracted and go potty indoors. Take them out at regular intervals — set a schedule. If your puppy knows they will be taken outside every two hours, they will begin to expect it and hold their bladder longer. Praise them when they do go outside — this helps with their training and makes them feel happier about going in the right spot. Try A Potty Training Bark Collar If you need some extra help throughout your potty training process, you might consider purchasing a bark collar to help get your German shepherd puppy on track. A bark collar works best for puppies who are not yet potty-trained and know when to go outside. These collars can be effective, but they may not handle smaller dogs as well. Because the collar goes off whenever your puppy is barking, they will most likely learn to hold their bark, causing them to be even quieter when going potty indoors. No matter what method you choose for potty training a German shepherd dog, if you are consistent and patient, they will learn how to go outside in the appropriate areas. We hope you are excited about bringing home your new member of your family. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. View more We offer an unmatched 5 year health Guarantee on all our puppies. The best breeding stock and bloodlines in the World. Germany, Serbia, Ukraine and more. The best a consumer can look for and ask for. For all things major, including hips, elbows, eyes, degenerative Myelopathy etc… Love's German Shepherds German Shepherds bred with the mystique and grandeur of Alaska in mind. We breed only the finest German Shepherd bloodlines. Our goal is to produce dogs which are strong, healthy, and possess stable temperaments making them the finest dogs for family companions, show, sporting and protection. Our German Shepherd puppies are bred for Alaska and have large heavy bones, rich pigmentation, Black and Red, may be plushy with undercoats. Excellent drives, clear heads, stable nerves and impeccable character. Consisting of only the finest German bloodlines, our Western German Shepherds are very balanced dogs; they possess a calmness and stability in their temperament. These dogs have been bred to excel in show, sports and protection. Our main goal is to produce a dog that can handle the Alaska outdoors, to be a companion at your side on a hike thru the wilderness, a dog that has the poise, intelligence and body awareness to follow you across a log over a stream, play in the snow with the kids or bound with you on a glacier. The result is a dog possessing high energy and endurance, fiercely loyal and protective with a proud and beautiful gait. Temperament, health, working ability, brains and looks So now that you know who we are, here is what we do. Fill out the puppy application and we will see if we can match you with one of the finest German shepherd puppies in Alaska. If you are from a large family or have seen a large family, then you know that each child has their own temperament. The same applies to litters. There are many temperaments in a litter and our goal is to match you with the puppy that suits your needs, but more importantly our goal is to find the best home to match the puppies needs. A happy puppy is a happy home. One Minute Puppy Videos.
German Shepherds are a very good breed and are known for being alert, loyal, and energetic. They have an outgoing, friendly nature that makes them fun to be around. However, in Asheville NC, these puppies may not be able to stay with you long because of the high cost of boarding. You can find German shepherd puppies for sale at almost any pet store , and they can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to upwards of one thousand dollars. Most people who are interested in owning one of these dogs purchase them from puppy mills. Puppy mills are typically places that breed dogs for profit and do not take care of them or provide them with adequate shelter. You could also be purchasing a puppy that has been used for breeding purposes. Although you will most likely pay more for a purebred German Shepherd puppy, it is important to research the dam and sire before purchasing the puppy to ensure that the dam has been carefully tested for health problems and is free of disease. You should be prepared to pay an outrageous price for these puppies because they are very rare and because breeding them is difficult. There is a high chance that the puppy you are purchasing has a genetic predisposition to be sickly or defective. Because of this, breeders usually only allow show champions in breeding their dogs. German Shepherd breeders that only allow champions or dogs that pass all conformation standards would be the best choice to go with when purchasing a German shepherd dog for sale in Asheville NC. German shepherd puppies for sale in Asheville NC will be full of health problems if they are born there. The chances of a litter of healthy puppies are extremely slim, which is why it is so important to choose a reputable breeder. You should never pay money for puppies from a pet store. German Shepherd puppies that come from puppy mills or uncertified places are often sickly and unhealthy. Ask the breeder about the health history of the breeding pair you are considering. German shepherd puppies for sale in Asheville NC are usually bred at a commercial kennel where they live in puppy mills and are used for breeding purposes. Puppy mills are places that are often dirty, unkempt, and overcrowded. It is impossible to find an apartment complex that is large enough for a large dog such as a German Shepherd puppy. Your best option would be a home that allows the puppy to have more space to play and roam. It is important to ask the breeder about the kind of diet the German Shepherd puppies are receiving. A German Shepherd puppy should be offered a well-balanced diet, including plenty of protein, fats, carbohydrates, and vitamins. Do your research and only purchase German shepherd puppies that are being cared for responsibly. Dogs that come from puppy mills are prone to several illnesses including ear infections, allergies, and broken bones. Before purchasing any puppy, be sure to research its health history thoroughly. Ask the breeder to show you the medical reports and certificates. German shepherd puppies for sale in Asheville NC are great pets and great companions. Your new best friend will be with you for many years, so make sure you are making the right decision when purchasing a puppy. With proper care and love, your new best friend can become a faithful friend or a loyal life companion. They are loyal, protective, and have a love of kids. German Shepherd puppies can grow up to become sweet, loving, lively adult dogs. How to adopt German shepherd puppies Asheville, NC is the perfect city for finding these unique animals. German Shepherds were originally bred and raised in Germany. They have a short coat that is beautiful and long. They make very good watchdogs because of their strong sense of smell. They also do not shed much. These dogs can live for up to twelve years if cared for properly. How to adopt German shepherd puppies Asheville, NC has German Shepherd breeders who raise these dogs lovingly and responsibly. Puppies are tested for temperament before they are brought into the world and usually go into foster homes before they are fully grown. Breeders do not leave their purebred puppies in cages. They are given up to families that need them. German Shepherd puppies come in different colors including white, tan, chestnut, black and brown. You can choose a color that is best for you or that fits your family. German Shepherd puppies come with a health guarantee, so you are sure that your puppy is healthy and happy. Their grooming takes only minutes a day and you can brush and bathe them daily. You will notice that after they have had a bath, they are so clean and you will not find any dirt or grime in their fur. German Shepherd puppies are extremely smart and eager to please. They can be very demanding when it comes to working. They are very affectionate and do not need much exercise. They have an active and playful nature and are very playful. They are very protective of their owner and they can become extremely aggressive if they feel that someone is infringing on their territory. If you have small children living with you then you must make sure that there is always adult supervision when your German Shepherd puppy is around children. They are very jealous and will attack anyone that attempts to get close to the dog. This behavior can last for several minutes but sometimes can take longer. German Shepherds are very loyal and will follow their masters to the best of their ability. This dog will respond very well to training. Training sessions should be conducted when the puppy is still a puppy because they are very responsive at this time. When your puppy is older, the training process becomes more difficult but it can still be done successfully. If you decide that you would like to bring a puppy into your home then you may want to go to an animal shelter to look for one. Some shelters allow pet owners to adopt the puppies free of charge and others require a minimum deposit. When looking for Asheville German Shepherd puppies for adoption, you should make a deposit and meet with the shelter in person to determine if the puppy they have available is suitable for you and your household. You should also ask the shelter if they have any recommendations on local breeders in your area so you can go and visit them and if possible meet the breeder personally to ensure that you will be getting a healthy and happy puppy. They have a long and strong back and good agility, which make them excellent in any kind of environment. They also have a thin hair coat that can become dry and brittle. Their coats need to be brushed regularly but you should not brush too hard as this can cause damage. As long as you can keep your puppy clean and well-brushed he will stay healthy. German Shepherd puppies can become territorial, once they are fully grown. So you must socialize and train your puppy to accept all members of your family. It is also a good idea to get your puppy used to other animals and different smells. When your puppy does begin to go out, there are certain things that you can do to help him develop these skills. For example, you can take him out every couple of days to the park and introduce him to different people and dogs so that he will become more comfortable around them. You should also take him to the vet so that you can get any health problems fixed up early. The last thing that you will want to do before bringing your puppy home is to get him used to his crate. You should take him to the park and let him go through it with you, making sure he goes through it quietly and without a fuss. He will also learn to understand that his crate is his sleeping area. You should also let him stay in his crate for at least one hour after dinner to accustom him to how long he should rest. Share this:. Hi everyone! I am looking for a family that would love me as much as I will love them! I was unfortunately in a car accident a few months ago that left me with some gait instability. At first, I was paralyzed in my hindlegs. But I underwent two spinal surgeries and after some long, hard recovery, I am now able to walk short distances! With some help with my balance, I can go even further! Not to toot my own horn, but I quickly became a neighborhood favorite! My other challenge is occasional bladder and bowel incontinence. When the accident happened, at first, I lost complete control of both, and needed to be expressed. But I appreciate you being understanding about my recovery. When I pee, I need a little help from someone holding my waist as I walk around the backyard to relieve myself. When I poop, I usually need a sling under me for mild support. I love everyone I meet dogs, cats and children! I do fine when left home alone. I wander the house and am smart enough to know not to go into rooms I am told not to be in, not to jump onto any furniture, and not to chew up any toys. But I prefer spending most of my time with my family if possible. And I enjoy that time even more if we spend it together outdoors. I am smart, adapt quickly, and learn new rules and routines well. Please give me a chance! Please contact my family today at to arrange to meet me. Contact the foster parent or Mountain Pet Rescue at pets mpravl. Please note that visual breed identification of companion animals has been proven to be unreliable, so for most of our animals we provide a best guess at predominant breed or breed mix. We get to know each of our animals as an individual and do our best to describe and place pets based on personality not breed label. September 14, , pm.
All dogs pant to regulate their body temperature, buy why do Golden Retrievers seem to pant so much more often? Golden Retrievers pant so much due to their excitability, high activity level, and heavy coats. However, anxiety, illness, or allergies may also cause a Golden Retriever to pant excessively. Keep reading to find out the specific reasons Golden Retrievers pant so much, and what you can do about it. This article may contain affiliate links and loyalgoldens may earn a commission if a purchase is made. Unlock your goldens natural intelligence and see just how quickly problem behaviors disappear. This is the best at home dog training I've ever used! Instead, they pant through their mouths to release excess body heat. Having said that, not every dog breed has the need to pant as heavily or as much as a Golden Retriever. A panting Golden Retriever can literally have their whole tongue hanging out of their mouths, dripping saliva everywhere! Under most circumstances this is completely normal panting behavior, and is most likely cause by one of the following reasons. This is especially common on hot afternoons when the temperatures become too hot for a Golden to handle. Your Golden Retriever will start panting as a way to cool down during those extremely hot and sunny days. Their love for physical play makes the breed susceptible to excessive panting, especially after a training session or daily exercises. This is because panting is a natural response to physical exertion. An excited dog will pant more due to an increased heart rate. The panting is a way to supply additional oxygen to the bloodstream. Excessive Panting in Golden Retrievers Besides the above-mentioned causes for normal panting, Golden retrievers can also pant due to several other more serious reasons that may need your attention. Below are factors that can lead to excessive panting in Goldens. But that excitability can turn to extreme anxiety. An anxious or fearful Golden Retriever will pant in a worried or manic fashion. You may experience this type of panting while waiting at the vets office or during a car ride. In addition, some Goldens are prone to fear caused by loud noises, which can provoke panting as well. Therefore, if you notice your Golden is panting excessively, you should check for signs of illness such as vomiting, pale eyes, or low energy. You should also check if your Golden is limping or has a bruise somewhere if his panting behavior becomes increasingly irregular. Allergic Reaction Induced Panting in Golden Retrievers As a naturally adventurous breed, it is highly likely that your Golden Retriever can eat or interact with something containing allergens. Allergic reactions can lead to swellings, irritations, and a change in mood. In case you suspect an allergic reaction, taking your four-legged friend to the veterinarian is highly recommended. See how heavily this Golden Retriever pants after some vigorous exercise. This fast breathing is normal, and will calm down after several minutes. If your Golden Retriever has been exhibiting excessive or abnormal panting not caused by warm temperatures, recent exercise, or excitement, there may be an illness, injury, or behavioral issue to blame. These are serious concerns and should be diagnosed as quickly as possible. Intense and constant panting could indicate a breathing issue or possibly even a behavioral one. Either way if the panting persists without stopping or your dog is experiencing labored breathing, you should take him to the veterinarian immediately. As an example, it makes sense if your Golden is panting heavily after a game of fetch. But if your furry friend is panting for extended periods without stopping, and there is no reason that you can attribute it to, this is a sign that it may be time to call the vet. Triggers like high temperature, physical exertion, and excitement more often than not lead to panting in dogs. However, if your Golden Retriever pants excessively without any trigger, then he could be injured, in pain or battling an underlying illness. If you notice the panting increases without stopping, then you might want to get him to the local vet for an emergency assessment. Luckily you can fix the problem by consulting a dog behaviorist or by training the dog yourself if the anxiety is minor. Ignore you Golden for a few minutes after arriving home, then calmly give them attention. When you leave, give your Golden some clothes or a blanket that smells like you to help keep them calm. This is for relatively minor panting due to separation anxiety. Panting Combined With Abnormal Behavior in Goldens If the panting patterns become abnormal and your Golden starts exhibiting unusual symptoms like vomiting, excessive tearing, and a change in attitude, then you should take immediate action. In these cases your Golden may have a serious injury or infection that requires immediate attention. Oftentimes these medical issues will lead to excessive panting and other abnormal behavior. Discover how to train your Golden Retriever by playing games : 21 games to play with your Golden that will make them smarter and better behaved! Provide cold water. Giving your Golden Retriever cold water can help him cool off, and stop panting. A cool bath might help. A cool bath is also a good way to reduce the chances of heat stroke and heat exhaustion if your Golden has been out in excessively hot temperatures. This is especially a concern for a puppy or a senior dog Shade usually helps. Provide a well-shaded area for your Golden Retriever to relax outdoors on sunny afternoons. You should provide shade for your Golden when playing, walking, or training on extra hot days. Walk your Golden at night. Turn on a fan. A hot Golden Retriever appreciates a cool breeze just as we do. Turning on a fan will help to remove any excess heat from their body. This is especially helpful if your dog pants at night, and is keeping you awake. Comfort your Golden. Golden Retrievers love attention anytime, but it is especially important if they are feeling anxious. Comforting your dog will help soothe and calm him down, consequently returning his breathing to a normal level. Be aware of allergen triggers or injuries. As a result, you should always examine your dog, especially after an afternoon out. Call your local vet in case you notice any unusual behavior. Should You Worry? Wrapping Up Golden Retrievers are naturally active dogs. This type of panting is perfectly normal, however, if your Golden is panting excessively or without any obvious trigger it could be a sign of an emotional or medical condition requiring attention. If you click on a link and choose to make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no cost to you. If you have a Golden Retriever, you have inevitably noticed it panting at times. Sometimes Golden Retrievers will pant more, other times less. But, often, it can be concerning if it seems to be out of the ordinary. So, why exactly do Golden Retrievers pant so much? Golden Retrievers pant to cool themselves and oxygenate the blood. Dogs have far fewer and less efficient sweat glands than humans, and exercise, play, stress, pain, and sickness increase oxygen demand and body heat. Panting increases oxygen intake while cooling the dog using evaporative heat loss. All dogs pant. So, for the most part, panting is typical for Golden Retrievers and nothing to be overly concerned about. However, as a pet owner, it is essential to understand panting to know when the behavior is typical and not out of the ordinary and when panting might be a cause for concern. What Is Panting? So, all dogs pant. Golden Retrievers pant. Even humans can pant. But what is panting, and what purpose does it serve? Panting is breathing with short, quick breaths with an open mouth. With dogs, the tongue most often protrudes. Humans most often pant to catch their breath after intense bursts of energy like a sprint. Panting serves two purposes. First, panting is a way to get oxygen into the blood. For example, when your dog runs and plays with another dog, its body uses more oxygen than resting. To cope with the extra demand and to keep the muscles oxygenated and going, respiration increases, and the dog pants to draw in more air. Stress and excitement can also increase the heart rate and the need for more muscle oxygen, thereby increasing the respiratory rate panting or heavy breathing to meet demand. Second, panting in dogs is a cooling mechanism. Unfortunately, some mammals, including dogs, lack the same sweat glands that humans do. And that makes them ineffective at cooling themselves because they cannot sweat to the same degree we do. So, dogs pant to cool themselves. Panting is a cooling method for dogs using evaporative heat loss. Cooling happens from the exchange of hotter air from the lungs with cooler external air and from water evaporation in the lungs, mouth, and nose. Panting as evaporative cooling expends a large amount of water. So, it is vital to ensure there is plenty of water on hand to rehydrate so it can maintain effective heat regulation. Next, we explore instances when panting is normal. In mammals that do not sweat, panting is how they cool themselves and supply additional oxygen to the lungs, muscles, and heart upon increased demand. Normal panting can occur in various instances, including cooling, happy excitement, during play, and in reaction to stress, anxiety, or fear. Cooling Off As discussed, Golden Retrievers pant to cool themselves. Panting as a cooling mechanism can often be seen during hot weather when the Golden Retriever attempts to regulate its body heat. However, anything that causes an increase in body temperature will cause an ensuing rise in respiratory rate and panting to induce evaporative heat loss. Happy Excitement Dogs can pant slightly when happy or excited. Happy panting is due to the anticipation of something good happening to your dog. It could be a walk, a treat, or doggie daycare. The slight increase in panting is due to the higher heart rate and a corresponding slight increase in the need for oxygen and cooling. Often this panting is so slight that you may not even notice it. Exercise and Play Golden Retrievers are highly active dogs that love to burn energy through play and physical exercise. Often, you will see a Golden Retriever panting after a walk, run or romp with his best doggie friend. We work up a sweat during exercise, and our Golden Retrievers work up a pant. Different process, same purpose — cooling and increased oxygen demand. Play is physically demanding and increases the oxygen demand on the heart and muscles. It also increases core body temperature. You sweat, your Golden Retriever pants. Both are for the same purpose, to cool your body. Your Golden Retriever loses heat through water evaporation from its lung, mouth, and nasal passages. Stress, Anxiety, or Fear Panting often occurs when your Golden Retriever is stressed, anxious, or stressed. Common triggers could be separation anxiety, loud noises, vet visits, or anything that may elicit a stressful or fearful response. Whereas excitement from a car ride or trip to doggie daycare can elicit a heightened response in a happy way, stress, anxiety, and fear trigger a flight or flight response. If you have ever seen your dog run and cower due to fireworks, this is a fear response triggered by flight or flight. That stress response can trigger a cascade of stress hormones that produce well-orchestrated physiological changes. However, it also creates a host of other reactions that increase the demand for more oxygen in the muscles and heart. And as discussed earlier, dogs pant to regulate body temperature and increase the supply of oxygen to muscles and the heart. Similarly, in humans, when we are experiencing anxiety or fear, we may also sweat and breathe heavily for the same reasons. The flight or flight response is typically a normal response to fearful stimuli. The flight or flight response enables people and other mammals such as dogs to react quickly to life-threatening situations. Source Some forms of stress are milder, such as separation anxiety, which does not elicit a full-blown fight or flight response. In turn, a loud clap of thunder may cause a full-on flight response with a very scared dog that most likely runs and hides. In either case, the dog will pant as a normal reaction to that stress to cool and calm itself and to bring the body back into homeostasis. BAR had major stress and anxiety from neuter surgery, and he hated the cone, so he panted a lot Age As your Golden Retriever gets older, you may notice it pants more. Elderly dogs may have more difficulty getting around due to joint issues such as arthritis. An older Golden Retriever may also have more difficulty going up and down many stairs, staying cool, and exercising. As a result, your elderly Golden may pant more due to discomfort and the normal effects of aging. In most cases, the additional panting during older age is not a concern; however, if you believe your Golden Retriever is having pain or other issues, it would be beneficial to discuss solutions such as pain medications and supplements with your vet. In contrast, puppies may pant due to the youthful exuberance of being a puppy. Puppies are easily excited, very playful, and very active, so they pant a lot. Golden Retriever puppies can be especially crazy at times and are known to be one of the most active dog breeds. So how crazy are Golden Retriever puppies? However, there are instances when panting may indicate something concerning or that requires intervention. Therefore, abnormal panting is discussed next. Pain Dogs are very good at hiding pain. In the wild, hiding pain is a valuable survival tactic. It prevents other animals from perceiving weakness, which could be detrimental to an injured or sick animal. However, hiding pain can be problematic to the health and well-being of domesticated animals like dogs. Excessive panting for no apparent reason can be one sign of pain in Golden Retrievers. Pekingese Boston terrier Because of their short muzzles, these breeds have shorter or flattened throats and breathing passages, which can make them have breathing problems, including excessive panting at night. Check for signs of inadequate oxygen, like turning blue or purple cyanosis as this constitutes a veterinary emergency. Anxiety Panting at night is just one of the many signs of anxiety in dogs. This type of behavioral panting has nothing to do with feeling overheated; it's just how their body is reacting to a stressful situation if your dog has anxiety. These are the common causes of anxiety in dogs: Noises: Dogs have much better hearing than you do. Something that's loud to you can be incredibly loud to your pet, so loud noises can give your dog anxiety. For example, if you've ever burned food in the oven and your smoke detector went off, your dog might get anxious every time you cook because they're afraid of the loud noise your cooking caused last time. Dogs also commonly are afraid of storms and fireworks because they're loud, and your dog doesn't know where the sound is coming from or how to get away from it. Luckily, there are products on the market that can help soothe your pet during times of stress. You may even choose to talk to your vet about anxiety medication for stressful situations. Separation anxiety: Separation occurs when you leave your dog alone in the home after being used to you being around for a majority of the day. Many dogs get separation anxiety, but you can help train your pet to stay calm while you're gone with behavioral training, which can help them relax when you're not around. Changes to home environment: As we've discussed, a new environment can be stressful for dogs because they're creatures of habit. Changing your dog's environment can cause anxiety for a short period of time, but eventually, your pet should get used to your new home. Dogs that are adopted may be more anxious than dogs that have been raised in the same home since puppyhood. Dogs that have gone through multiple homes and shelters typically don't feel like they have a home until their new owner proves it to them. New dogs can be anxious because of a new environment and new people. Generalized anxiety: Panic attacks: 4. Anemia Another common reason why your dog is panting at night is anemia. Anemia is when the number of red blood cells decreases either by destruction, loss, or lack of production. Anemia causes an increased heart rate, which can make your dog start panting. When you work out and increase your own heart rate, you begin breathing heavily; the same thing happens to your dog when their heart rate increases. Dogs with anemia typically have energy loss, weakness, and a loss of appetite, along with panting and an increased heart rate. Age Many senior dogs pant at night for a number of reasons, which can include health conditions like anemia and Cushing's disease. Older dogs can also suffer from cognitive dysfunction, which disrupts their sleep-wake cycle, causing them to be restless at night. Older dogs may also be more anxious because they're not able to move around as much, or they may experience pain when walking or standing. Combined with changes to their daily life, dogs can become stressed more easily as they get older, which may result in panting. Heart Disease Dogs with heart disease and heart failure pant more because their heart is working harder to pump oxygen throughout the body. Rapid breathing is just one indication of heart failure in dogs because of fluid buildup in the lungs. Dogs can get heart disease from heartworms or heartworm disease, so it's important to keep your dog protected by getting heartworm prevention medication from your vet. Luckily, heartworm is both preventable and can be treated if it's caught early. Obesity Just like in humans, obesity can lead to a wide range of health complications for dogs, including heavier breathing at panting. Dogs with obesity typically suffer from arthritis, heart problems, and joint problems. Obesity causes excessive panting because your dog is working harder to do everyday activities, which means exerting more energy and increasing their heart rate. It's important to feed your dog a well-balanced diet and exercise them daily. You can usually tell if your pet has gained a little weight, but many pet owners don't know how much their dogs should weigh. If you're not sure how much your pet should weigh, you can consult a vet who can help you find the right diet for your pet and help you maintain or lose their weight. Pain Dogs in pain have a higher heart rate, which can lead to faster, heavier breathing and panting at night. Pain can come from internal problems, such as a disease or illness, or external problems, like a hurt paw from jumping off the couch. If you notice your dog is in pain, seek the help of a veterinarian immediately. For example, if your dog is limping and panting, they may require a trip to the emergency vet for a potential sprain or broken bone. Unfortunately, you can't see every injury, but your dog can be in pain whether it's visible or not. Clear indications your dog is in pain is panting accompanied by yelping or avoidance when you try to touch them in a certain area or reluctance to move. For example, if your dog has allergies, your vet might prescribe them allergy medication, while if your pet has anxiety, they might benefit from behavioral training or behavioral medication to help them calm down. If your dog is panting because they're hot, you can cool them down with a wet cloth, offer them cold water or an ice cube, or turn the air conditioning up for a few minutes. For more serious reasons why your dog is panting at night, you should always consult your vet. If your dog is panting due to heart disease or pain, your pet will benefit from medication and treatment. Final Notes Your dog could be panting at night for a variety of reasons. However, it's always best not to panic. Unless your dog has been diagnosed with a medical condition, they're likely panting because they're too warm or they have anxiety. In most cases, you'll be able to rule out whether your dog is panting due to heatstroke or their genetics easily. In other cases, panting at night might be an indicator of a serious physical health condition. When it comes to your dog, remember you know them best. Always use your best judgment to help you determine when it's time to take them to the vet. For example, if your dog pants excessively every night and your home isn't warm, a vet might be able to tell you if they're suffering from a serious physicalmedical condition. Luckily, you don't have to leave your home to get quality advice from a professional. Dutch offers non-emergency telemedicine for pets that can help you uncover the cause of your dog panting at night. Whether your dog is suffering from anxiety, allergies, or anything else, you can talk to a licensed veterinarian who can help you stop your dog's panting and make them happier and more comfortable. As always, if you're worried about your pet and believe their panting at night is an emergency, take them to the nearest emergency vet as soon as possible. Published on Jun 14, and updated at Apr 05, .Tom Thorpe Blog When was the last time you have encountered your golden retriever panting at night? Also, how often is it? Is it more than usual? There could be underlying reasons as to why your golden retriever is panting. Another cause can be linked to anxiety, and their panting is like an outlet for them. But what really is the cause? To answer briefly, there is no definite answer to conclude right now. But as you dive deep further in this article, you will eventually shed a light or even have some knowledge as to why your golden retriever is panting at night. We will also provide some tips on how to overcome them. Because this question is somehow related to the main topic. This behavior is a cooling mechanism for dogs. Basically, if dogs feel the heat within their body, the natural response for them is panting. That is to say that canines use the moisture that is evaporated from their mouth and acts as a cool breeze. This also exchanges the hot air coming from their lungs with the outside cool air. Although dogs have sweat from their paw pads albeit little, this alone is enough to let them cool off. This is because of the euphoria that the dog is experiencing much like humans when feeling excited. Once your dog has calm down, the panting also will decrease and eventually will stop. Mild panting with mouth open and tail wagging along with bright eyes means the dog is relaxed. Some even considered that this kind of panting is a doggie smile. Stress or Excitement Panting in dogs may not be just to cool off. Dogs pant because of some other things and one of these is being stressed or feeling excited. Common causes are fear, stress, and anxiety. Other causes are vet visits, separation anxiety, car rides, fireworks, and other events that are stressful for dogs. You can give him some anti-depressant or you can just cuddle them just to minimize their panting. Maybe this is the reason why your golden retriever is panting at night. Changes in the environment Golden retrievers and any dogs can be affected by stress and it can be harmful to them if the stress is unbearable. One example of this is the change in the environment. This can result in anxiety and distress and one aspect of their way of venting is through panting. So whenever your dog is panting it could be because of their body heat and also because there is some underlying illness. Look for other symptoms or pain such as diarrhea, lethargy, vomiting, pacing, limping, and behavior changes. Common findings of heavy panting include lung ailments, heart failure, and digestive issues just to name a few. In addition, if the unusual panting continues to persist, your dog might have excessive urination and thirst, may develop a pot-bellied appearance, and their coat and skin will become thinner. The best way you do is to call your vet immediately. Reasons why your golden retriever is panting at night Golden retriever panting at night must have reasons. As I mentioned earlier that panting has various causes and most of them are nondangerous such as panting just to cool off, because of anxiety or fear, or just happiness. This time, we will look into the possibility the dangerous reasons as to why your golden retriever is panting during the night. Heart Issues One of the common causes why your golden retriever is panting at night that is more than usual is probably he is suffering from a heart ailment. A heavy panting can be a precursor or sign of many underlying health conditions be it respiratory ailments or heart failure. Also, check your dog if he is panting excessively after an hour of walk or two from your outdoor activity. An ailment like this can be linked to valve disorders, cardiomyopathies, arrhythmias, heartworm disease is among the examples of health conditions that can cause the heart to malfunction. In this case, this may cause some heavy breathing and panting to dogs be it night or day. Obesity Obesity is a result of overfeeding. Maybe because you have to spoil your golden retriever too much and eventually ended up gaining weight that is way over the normal height of golden retrievers. This factor can also be associate with heavy panting at night and it can also link to other ailments such as heart ailments. Overweight can also trigger multiple health problems like heart complications, arthritis, and others. Bear in mind that you need to stick to the routine no matter what. In addition, give him adequate exercise. Respiratory Disease Besides heart disease, respiratory disease is also one of the factors leading to your golden retriever panting at night. The respiratory disease usually makes breathing difficult and it can lead to excessive panting because they needed some proper airflow. But the problem is that there can be some elements that block the valves which makes the oxygen difficult to enter. Some of the respiratory diseases are Laryngeal paralysis Laryngeal paralysis is common among medium to large-sized dog breeds. Dogs who have this have problems with the nerves that operate the opening and closing of the larynx and also the entry of the windpipe. They will have some difficulty in breathing. That said, dogs cannot pant efficiently leading to dangerous events. Tracheal collapse This condition can cause the trachea or windpipe to narrow. Conditions like this are common among small breeds and rare in medium to large size dog breeds. This is likely the cause of an increase in cortisol level which is produced by adrenal glands. How to treat it The most effective and right thing to do is to go to your vet immediately. This response is the best possible response you can do. This is to prevent any guessing game and to find out the diagnosis as soon as possible. The longer you delayed your trip to the vet, the possibility of severity of symptoms is very much likely. Allergic reactions Allergic reactions can appear in many ways and one of them is panting. Some factors that cause allergies in dogs came from food allergens, environmental, and seasonal. This can be quite tricky at first because allergies have shared common symptoms but the causes came from the three mentioned allergies. This can be the reason why your golden retriever is panting at night. Other things you can do is to: Keep your dog as relaxed as possible. Try talking to them and cuddle them, or maybe give them a warm massage of your hand to ease the situation. This is the simplest and yet powerful therapy that dog can have. Balanced diet. However, if you are underfeeding him or overfeeding him, this will only cause harm than good. As much as possible give them high-quality kibble food that features wholesome ingredients and also aids digestion. Final Thoughts These are some of the reasons why the golden retriever is panting at night. Lethargic or disoriented Collapse Golden Retrievers are at a greater risk for heatstroke because of their large size and their thick long fur. If you suspect heatstroke in your dog, you need to act quickly to cool them down and seek veterinary attention immediately. Heatstroke can be fatal! Normal panting occurs when your Golden Retriever is hot, after exercise, or when he is excited. Heavy and excessive panting is different and considered abnormal, and you will recognize abnormal panting as follows: It happens at odd times, even when your Golden Retriever is resting or cool. Panting sounds loud, abrasive or harsher than normal. Panting is excessive. Your dog shows other symptoms. Your dog is lethargic or unresponsive. Abnormal panting in your Golden Retriever should never be ignored, as it could indicate a health issue or medical emergency. Always consult your vet when you suspect your Golden is panting more than normal. Remember, your dog wears a fur coat, and easily gets overheated. You may also want to consider using a cooling vest during walks or outdoor activities to help keep your pup comfortable. Be sure to check out my top recommended cooling vests for double-coated dogs. That means in just one hour, the inside of your vehicle is 40 degrees hotter than outside! When it gets hot outside or too hot inside, they become uncomfortable, which leads to excessive panting! Keep them cool by always having fresh cool water to drink, and keep them indoors in the air conditioning, or near a fan during hot days. Oftentimes, just talking calmly and petting your dog is a great help. In some cases, your vet may be able to prescribe anxiety medication. If you suspect any abnormal panting, never hesitate to see your vet. The quicker you act, the better the outcome for your dog. Final Thoughts While it may seem like your Golden Retriever is panting a lot while he is hot, after exercising, or from excitement, this type of panting is short-term and completely normal. Does your Golden Retriever pant a lot? Share your thoughts and comments below. I would love to hear from you! Jenny I am the proud owner of a Golden Retriever named Ellie. She keeps me busy, and when she is resting, you can find me working on my blog. She is always close by though. I live in Stirling, ON Canada with my husband, and we both enjoy the never a dull moment life with our Ellie. Spread the love. There are several reasons why your Golden Retriever is panting at night; some are nothing to worry about and can easily be remedied. Such causes include environmental changes, excitement, and your Golden Retriever feeling too hot. More serious reasons why your Golden Retriever is panting at night include allergies, heart disease, respiratory disease, and other illnesses. The Golden Retriever breed has thick fur coats that can help them withstand the cold of winter and protect them from freezing. However, those fur coats can be to their detriment in Summer. If your Golden Retriever is panting a lot in Summer, they feel too hot and are trying to cool down by panting. When your Golden Retriever feels too hot, they develop a medical condition. Environmental Changes Moving from a new home is not only stressful for you but also for dogs. Your dog may be distressed because they were removed from their comfort zone and placed in a completely new and unknown environment. Dogs are territorial animals, and a new place can cause them discomfort, and they will pant a lot as a result. In such cases, your Golden Retriever would be experiencing anxiety or stress. However, when they do, they tend to become anxious or fearful at night. Depending on what is happening in the house, Golden Retrievers can express their fear and anxiety by panting during various times of the day. Noise and other types of commotion can cause your Golden Retriever to be fearful or anxious. Thunderstorms are a common example of types when your Golden Retriever would be panting because they are afraid or anxious. As you see your dog in different circumstances and monitor their reactions, you will learn to identify things that cause your Golden Retriever to be fearful or anxious. Excitement Golden Retrievers pant so that they can cool off. Golden Retrievers pant when they are excited; that is their way of trying to cool off. Your Golden Retriever will pant because of car rides, walks, the park, or even before a meal or treat. If you are not sure whether your Golden Retriever is excited or in distress, examine their body language. By examining your Golden Retriever, you would be able to identify the reason why they are panting. General Pain This is not a common reason why Golden Retrievers pant; however, it is still a cause for alarm. It may be a bit more challenging to identify that the reason why your Golden Retriever is panting is that they are experiencing general pain. If your Golden Retriever jumps down from your porch and begins to limp , it may indicate that they are experiencing acute pain. Your Golden Retriever may also be experiencing arthritis or pain from an old injury known as chronic pain. An effective way to go about it to identify that your Golden Retriever is experiencing general pain is to eliminate other possible causes. If your dog pants throughout the day, it may indicate that your Golden Retriever is in pain. If you have any doubts and cannot identify why your dog is panting, you should take your Golden Retriever to the veterinarian. Allergy If your Golden Retriever is panting a lot at night, they may be experiencing an allergic reaction. Your Golden Retriever could be experiencing an allergic reaction because of the food they ate or the environment. When you take your Golden Retriever to a veterinarian and prescribe medicines for your Golden Retriever, you should ask your veterinarian which side effects you can expect from the medication. Heart Disease Your Golden Retriever could be panting a lot because they have heart disease. Excessive panting is a common symptom of heart disease. If you take your Golden Retriever for a walk and they are still panting an hour after your walk, it could indicate that your Golden Retriever has heart disease. The heart delivers oxygen to the rest of the body by pumping blood; this is a crucial system in the body. Respiratory Disease The respiratory disease could be the reason why your Golden Retriever is panting a lot at night. As a result, your Golden Retriever will pant excessively in an attempt to get sufficient oxygen. This narrowing of the trachea causes your Golden Retriever to cough and pant more. This means that your dog will not be able to breathe properly and have to pant to get enough oxygen. Illness An endless list of illnesses can cause your Golden Retriever to pant a lot at night. Obesity is an illness that can cause your Golden Retriever to pant a lot at night. Your Golden Retriever will become obese if you feed them too much food. Another illness that can cause your dog to pant a lot is Lung disease. In this case, you should try getting your Golden Retriever back in a comfortable environment or make the environment comfortable for them. If you have moved to a new home, give your Golden Retriever their old blanket or bed and spend time with them. You should make your Golden Retriever feel safe, and after some time, they will become accustomed to their new home and recognize it as their territory. They need time and affection from their owners, or else they will become anxious and stressed. Golden Retrievers are known for experiencing separation anxiety when separated from their owners for too long. You need to play, walk and spend time with your Golden Retriever. Good nutrition can also help you keep your Golden Retriever in good shape and prevent them from becoming obese. Obesity is a cause that can be fixed from the comfort of your home. Your Golden Retriever should exercise for at least an hour a day. If you do not have enough time to walk your dog, you can hire a dog walker, or you could ask your friends and family to walk your Golden Retriever. Talk To Your Vet As you have noticed by now, there is a long list of reasons why your Golden Retriever could be panting a lot at night. It would take too long for you to observe your Golden Retriever and think of possible reasons why they are panting a lot. I would suggest going to your veterinarian as soon as you notice that your Golden Retriever has been panting a lot at night. Your veterinarian would be able to diagnose your Golden Retriever and give you solutions accurately. Consulting your veterinarian will save you and your Golden Retriever a whole lot of time, effort, and discomfort. Golden Retrievers tend to get excited quite easily. Your dog may be excited because you took them on a car ride, took them for a walk, or to the park. When your dog is panting a lot in such circumstances, you can assume that they are simply excited. It is also normal for your dog to pant a lot after doing some exercise. If your Golden Retriever frequently pants at night, then you should assume that something is wrong with your Golden Retriever. It is also abnormal for your Golden Retriever to still be panting one to two hours after exercising. When your Golden Retriever pants and moves a lot at night, it means that they are anxious. This could be because there is a lot of movement inside or outside the house or thunderstorms or fireworks. When your Golden Retriever pants heavily at night, they are likely getting too hot, and they need to cool down. It would be best to open the window or adjust the AC temperature to cool down your Golden Retriever in such situations. If your Golden Retriever puppy is panting a lot at night, it could be because they are getting too hot or feeling uncomfortable in their current environment. This is especially true if you adopted your Golden Retriever puppy and are still new to the family. It will take them some time to feel comfortable in their new home. There are several reasons why your Golden Retriever is restless and panting at night. Causes may include heart disease, respiratory disease, stress and anxiety, obesity, or general pain. Since there are so many different reasons, you should consult your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis. Conclusion Suppose you notice that your Golden Retriever has been panting a lot at night. You should consult your veterinarian; your veterinarian will accurately diagnose your Golden Retriever and tell you precisely what you should do to help your Golden Retriever. Spare your Golden Retriever the discomfort by having them diagnosed early. Is It A Problem? Jan 18, Mar 7, This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Have you noticed that your golden retriever pants more frequently than other dog breeds? Dogs normally pant to regulate their body temperature, but you may be wondering why your dog seems to pant so much more. This results in your dog panting more when they need to cool down. Furthermore, when should you get concerned? All dogs pant to cool down, with some breeds doing it more frequently than others. Dogs with short snouts such as bulldogs and pugs tend to pant heavily and more often. Breeds with dense fur like your golden will also pant more to stay cool, even during winter. Unlike their human owners who sweat through their skin to cool down, dogs pant to release excess body heat through their mouths. However, not all breeds pant as much as golden retrievers, who sometimes even have their whole tongue hanging out, drooling while panting! This leads to another question often asked by golden owners: why do golden retrievers drool excessively when panting? The answer to this is normally that your dog is overheating and needs to cool down quickly, which this messy behavior helps them to do. Panting in dogs is normal behavior for another good reason besides cooling down and regulating body temperature. It also helps to draw more oxygen into the bloodstream when your dog pants with their mouth open. In most cases, panting and drooling are normal behaviors for your golden retriever. However, what is considered normal or abnormal panting and when should you get concerned? Raven by far pants more than the other two. The following circumstances normally cause your golden pooch to pant more than usual. Overheating With its beautiful, long, heavy coat, your dog will naturally store more heat when the outside or indoor temperature is high. This could result in overheating, and your goldie will pant more and drool to cool down quickly. In most cases, heavy panting is a natural response to intense physical training and activity. Excitement Goldies are naturally excitable dogs, resulting in a faster heart rate, which increases the need for more oxygen to the bloodstream. This makes your four-legged friend pant more while keeping their blood oxygenated when overly excited. There are also a number of more concerning reasons why your golden could be panting more than normal. Anxiety And Fear If your golden retriever is stressed, fearful, or anxious, they will pant excessively. This results in various physiological responses such as a rapid heart rate, higher body temperature, heightened senses, and increased panting or breathing. Scared dogs pant to cool and calm themselves down while bringing their body back to a normal state. Other signs of dog anxiety include drooling, urinating or defecating in the house, and pacing or restlessness. Learn more about how you can handle separation anxiety when you leave your Golden home alone. Our Golden Retriever, Raven is very sensitive to noise especially fireworks and thunder. When she hears these sounds the fear and anxiety kick in and she starts panting. However, your domesticated golden retriever may start to pant more frequently because of pain caused by an injury or illness. If you notice any of the other signs accompanying abnormal panting, your dog could be in pain: Decreased appetite Lethargy and no interest in activities Decreased mobility Whining or moaning Changes in behavior such as snapping or growling Limping, vomiting, and diarrhea are other symptoms that could indicate your dog is battling pain and is feeling traumatized. Obesity Overweight pet dogs are common, with obesity in golden retrievers being a problem for many dog owners. However, this also increases their panting rate! Being overweight also makes activities more strenuous for your dog, resulting in more frequent panting. Obesity can give rise to other medical conditions such as heart disease that contribute to abnormal panting. Unfortunately, I have to admit our black Lab, Stetson was obese and tended to pant more as he got older and heavier. We put him on a diet and exercise program to try and control his weight. As your dog slows down you need to watch their weight, exercise your dog regularly and monitor the amount of food and treats you are giving. Allergies If your golden retriever often goes for walks in the local doggie park or spends time playing games in your garden, they could be exposed to environmental allergens. These include dust, mold, and pollen, which are seasonal but can cause your dog to have uncomfortable symptoms. Food allergens can also cause itchy skin or unpleasant gastrointestinal problems, while bee stings and vaccines can lead to severe allergic reactions. While increased panting could be one symptom of dog allergies , others include the following: Itchiness and excessive scratching or rubbing Hives and swelling of body areas such as the face Sneezing or coughing Chronic ear or eye infections Constant licking All of the above-mentioned symptoms are enough to make your dog pant more frequently. Heart disease in dogs, for example, often results in less oxygen getting around the body, while the same happens with respiratory issues such as pneumonia. Cancerous growths or fluid build-up in the lungs can also result in your goldie panting more than usual. Alternatively, if your golden retriever eats too fast or exercises immediately after having a meal, they may experience bloat, which causes the stomach to distend abnormally. This life-threatening condition results in your dog panting excessively due to the pain of its stomach twisting. Your vet will run some blood tests to diagnose this disease and prescribe medication to manage the condition. Unfortunately, we noticed this in our Aussie mix, Linus. Towards the end of his life he was diagnosed with congestive heart failure. He developed an ugly cough along with more panting then normal especially as the disease got worse. Age When caring for your senior golden retriever , you may notice your pooch is panting more than they used to. While excessive panting is a normal side effect of getting old, there could be other reasons why your aging goldie is panting heavily. Arthritis and aching joints associated with older dogs can also make them pant abnormally. Elderly dogs may battle to cool down as efficiently after exercising or on hot days and will pant more to compensate. Keeping your pet indoors during the hottest times of the day helps, as well as running a fan. Taking your goldie for walks in the early mornings or late evening when the temperature drops minimize the risk of overheating. Letting your dog take a dip in a pool or lake can help to keep your pooch cool on hot days. And why not organize a game with the kids in the lawn sprinkler? Getting your dog an outdoor swimming pool is a wonderful way of mitigating heat strokes and reducing heavy panting when the temperatures start to soar! Provide Plenty Of Drinking Water Providing your dog with plenty of cool, fresh drinking water is vital for their overall well-being. This also helps to reduce excessive panting on hot summer days or when indoor temperatures are high. It replenishes liquids lost during excessive drooling while panting to regulate body temperature when overheating. Placing a PetSafe Drinkwell Dog Fountain in your home or backyard provides a constant flow of fresh, aerated water for your dog, keeping them hydrated and healthy. Watch Out For Toxins Certain fruits and vegetables can trigger a bad reaction in your dog and should be avoided at all costs. These include: Grapes and raisins.
These hybrids were the ancestors of the Labrador Retriever, and they were owned and used by fishermen in dragging nets filled with fish out of the sea to the boats. Not only that, but the Labrador Retrievers were also trained to recover fish that got away from the nets or from fishing hooks. The dogs continued to function in that capacity in Newfoundland until the news and deeds of the breed got to the Earl of Malmesbury in the early s, and he brought them to England, where they were used for shooting sports. This breed is fast in movement, most especially when they are running. In addition to their agility and strength, Labrador Retrievers are homely, easy-going, outgoing, intelligent, affectionate and friendly to humans and other animals also. Dog lovers who have children are always keen on getting this breed because of its endearing and non-aggressive nature towards children most especially. Due to its origin and history, this breed is not a breed that sits in a place for a long time. It is a breed that enjoys roaming and hunting, and can also thrive in both warm and cold weather. The Labrador Retriever breed is full of exuberance, boisterousness, and energy, and as a result of this, it needs a lot of training and exercise to keep it active and agile at all times. Therefore, the Labrador Retriever needs as much as minutes worth of training and exercises daily. You need to pay attention to its teeth and nails. Make sure the teeth are brushed from time to time and nails clipped frequently. Our Labrador Retriever puppies for sale come from either USDA licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell. Labradors are shedders and they shed seasonally during the shedding season, and that is why Lab owners are advised to make adequate plans concerning hair disposal when their Labs start to shed. How is it possible for Labradors to swim and play in deep water? Kindly note that Labradors have the tendency to get obese, so it is important that you watch what they eat and how they eat. Where can I buy a Labrador Retriever? Contact us today to learn more about the availability of our Lab puppies. Are Labradors sniffers? Yes, of course. Based on their penchant for wildlife, is it safe to have a Lab around my children? Labrador retrievers are a warm and friendly breed that enjoy playing with children. Do Labrador Retrievers have health challenges? Unfortunately, Labradors also suffer from health challenges just like every other dog. But the illnesses peculiar to their breed include joint problems, obesity, heart diseases, cataracts, and ear infections. Do Labrador Retrievers bark like other dogs? Yes of course. All dogs bark with the inclusion of the Labrador. Half of the time, they are quiet. Can I put my Labrador in a crate? Why not? Keeping your Labrador in a crate is one sure way of training them to feel safe when they are alone by themselves, and also to keep them safe from external forces. Is it true that a Labrador was jailed once? Most definitely yes. Pep spent ten years in jail. Are you interested in purchasing a Labrador Retriever? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible. We have answers. What's the most interesting thing about Labrador Retriever puppies for sale near Fort Myers? Labrador Retrievers are incredibly unique due to their intelligence, loyalty, and friendly nature. As one of the most popular breeds in the United States, Labradors are known for their ability to learn any task quickly and successfully, from fetching and dock diving to being an invaluable assistant to law enforcement officers and search-and-rescue teams. They are adored by their owners due to their loving and devoted personalities, and they also make excellent family dogs. Are Labrador Retriever puppies for sale in Fort Myers non-shedding? Labrador Retrievers are considered to have a moderate amount of shedding, although this can depend on factors such as overall coat length, grooming, and health. They have a double layer coat that consists of a dense, water-resistant undercoat and an outer coat that does the shedding. This outer coat usually sheds out completely twice a year spring and fall. Moderate levels of brushing and grooming can help keep shedding under control and should be done regularly. Labrador Retrievers are not considered non-shedding breeds, but they make great family pets because they tend to be wonderful, friendly dogs. Do Fort Myers Labrador Retriever puppies for sale have special dietary needs? Yes, Labrador Retrievers have special dietary needs. They require a diet that contains a balanced combination of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and water. As puppies, they need a higher percentage of proteins and calcium to help them grow and develop. As adults, it is important to continue to provide a quality diet with the right combination of nutrients to ensure their health and well-being. Quality and frequency of meals are also important factors in their dietary needs. Labrador Retrievers should receive two to three meals a day with water always available. Do Labrador Retriever puppies in Fort Myers have any kind of special requirements? Yes, Labrador Retrievers have some special requirements. Firstly, they need plenty of exercise every day. Typically, a few walks or play sessions are essential to help keep them healthy and fit. This also helps to keep their minds mentally stimulated. Secondly, regular grooming is also essential to keep their coat from becoming matted and tangled. Brushing them a few times each week can help with this. Thirdly, they may need nutritional supplements to meet their needs. This could be either a balanced commercial dog food or adding individual dietary supplements to their existing diet. How fast do Labrador Retrievers for sale in Fort Myers grow? Labrador Retriever puppies will generally reach an average size of inches at the shoulder, when fully grown. However, size can vary ever so slightly depending on your puppy's full genetics, as canine height and weight is largely determined by genetics. Additionally, depending on the diet and quality of nutrition your puppy is receiving, it's possible for them to reach sizes larger or smaller than the average. A Labrador Retriever should be walked for a minimum of 30 minutes a day. However, this can depend on your particular dog's age and activity level. Generally, Labradors need more exercise than the average dog—either in the form of a long walk or other physical activity. To keep your pet active and healthy, it is recommended that you provide your Labrador Retriever with at least 60 minutes of exercise per day. This should include structured activities like running, swimming, and agility exercises, as well as leisurely strolls and time spent playing fetch. Are Labrador Retrievers in Fort Myers good for first-time owners? Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds, and therefore make a great choice for first-time owners. They are intelligent, friendly and are easy to train, making them an ideal pet for a new puppy parent. They're also very affectionate and loving, forming strong bonds with family members. Labradors have moderate exercise needs, making them an ideal breed for those who don't have lots of free time to dedicate to their pet. They are also known for their loyalty, making them a great companion for first-time owners. Training a Labrador Retriever is most successful when it begins at a young age. It is important to be consistent with your training and maintain a positive atmosphere during training sessions. Start by teaching the basic commands such as "sit," "down," and "stay. It is also recommended to enroll in puppy training or obedience classes to help socialize your dog and work on commands with an experienced instructor. Exercise is important for Labradors as they are full of energy and require a good amount of exercise each day.
However, not all of us live in a suburban house with a white picket fence in the backyard, and urban living can turn a simple call of nature into a test of the emergency alert system! Besides the obvious problem of stained carpets and damaged wood flooring, we all know that the comfort of our animals matters most. Regular potty breaks are proven to support training efforts as well as the physical health of dogs. Accidents do happen, but what if there was a way to bypass those messes and give your pup autonomy over their bathroom habits? It enables your dog to go to the bathroom on their own schedule, keeps odors in check, and makes cleanup a simple and hygienic snap. The intentional visual appeal of the City Loo dog litter box fits into every environment. The City Loo is designed to blend in with your decor, because a solution that ruins your interior design is no solution at all! Dogs Deserve Options If your dog depends on regular walks to relieve themselves, it can be challenging to meet those needs consistently. With City Loo, your pup can manage that problem for you. Also, people living in snowy or rainy climates often struggle to get their pooch to go outside in bad weather understandably so! A City Loo litter box for dogs takes those challenges out of the equation, and empowers you to reinvent apartment living with a pet. Mobility issues could make trips to the yard a painful problem, or perhaps your pup is just so stubborn that they refuse to use the doggy door. With a City Loo, your dog never has to worry about how, when, or where to go. All pets deserve a little sanctuary space in your home, and their own special litter box offers just that! Finally, for better or worse, every pooch is a special and unique little personality, and potty training is about teaming up to figure out how this partnership works best for both of you. Reclaim walking for the fun, refreshing exercise that it is by embracing a new arrangement for potty breaks, and make your busy urban life easy to share with your best friend. Consider Using Deodorizing Litter Cats have famously used litter boxes for a long time, so pet product manufacturers have developed many unique products that absorb pee effectively and suppress odor. By offering your old dog accessible litter boxes, you can almost eliminate the possibility of accidents, all while empowering your aging dog. By giving your dog a huge amount of praise and an immediate reward, you can override any other thoughts they may have, like a compulsion to mark. Watch for Digging or Coprophagia Dog owners encounter some of the most common issues when litter box training their dogs are digging and coprophagia. Unfortunately, the best way to address these issues is using a different potty training method. Buy a Litter Box With High Sides To avoid accidental spills, you should consider buying a litter box made of sturdy material with high sides. These prevent spills with male dogs since they can block any splashing. A flat litter box tray has drawbacks but is significantly better for large dogs. Generally, you will have an easier time litter box training a smaller dog, as a large dog will have difficulty containing their mess in a cat litter box that is entirely too small for their body. If you are set on litter box training a large dog, you will need to get creative with what you use as the litter box itself — using a large metal tray or a shallow plastic storage bin may be your best bet! A small dog can use a standard large litter box and keep the mess in the potty area. High sided litter box, intened for dog use 4. While litter box training a dog is not for everyone, you can teach your dog how to use one with persistence, treats, and positive reinforcement! How useful was this post? Click on a star to rate it! Submit Rating Please give us feedback on this post: Let us improve this post! Tell us how we can improve this post? Throughout the site, you will find a variety of helpful dog training articles, insightful dog behavior tips, and truthful product reviews from nationally-recognized canine trainers and professionals. Post navigation. Photoshopped Indoor Potty Systems This Omeuamigo potty tray may seem like a good option at first glance until you realize that the featured pictures are photoshopped. Additionally, this product has very few reviews, and the ones that do exist are fairly negative. Some dog litter boxes come with a material inside for absorbing liquids while others require you to select the filler of your choice. Litter: The traditional choice of cat owners, regular litter can also be used with doggos. You can sift litter, making it easy to clean, but dogs will often end up tracking it around the house. And some puppers may even be inclined to chew or eat it. We really only include it to be thorough. Consider the size of your dog. Choose between disposable vs reusable options. Think about how you will clean the litter box. Figure out your budget. However, if you do have some disposable income to throw at the problem, you can consider fancy options, such as self-cleaning models. Some of the most common situations in which they may help include: Owners with mobility issues. Dogs with bladder-control issues. Some dogs simply have more trouble holding it than others — particularly small breeds with tiny bladders. While belly bands may provide some help with this issue for male dogs, an indoor bathroom facility will often be more convenient to use. Owners living in high-rise apartments. Even if you have an elevator, bathroom trips are still quite an ordeal. Young puppies going through the house-breaking process. Not only do they help teach your dog that there are right and wrong places to relieve themselves, they also help contain the inevitable messes that accompany the process. Owners who live in areas with inclement weather. If you live in an area with long, cold winters or sweltering summers, you may find a litter box or some other type of indoor potty to be very helpful. Owners who are away from the home for long periods of time. While it is never ideal to leave your dog alone for lengthy periods of time, it is sometimes unavoidable. Indoor potty spots help keep your dog from having to sit cross-legged all day long, waiting for you to get home. Dogs who are recovering from illness or injury. If your dog has been battling illness or recovering from an injury, your vet may recommend keeping him as calm, quiet and still as possible. By utilizing an indoor bathroom of some type, you can reduce the number of trips your dog needs to take outdoors. Dogs who are afraid of the outdoors. If your is dog scared of going outside , you may want to try an indoor potty while trying to build his confidence. It is also worth mentioning that most litter-box-style products work better with smaller dogs than larger dogs. Nevertheless, many owners of dogs in the to pound range find indoor bathrooms effective. Having a backup potty option can provide you with valuable peace of mind and is worth considering if you have the space. In the event that your dog does need to go inside, at least it will be in a contained space. Most litter boxes and indoor bathrooms are appropriate for 1 or 2, although some handle poop better than others. Keep in mind that litter boxes are not designed to completely eliminate trips outside — they are designed to reduce the number of trips you must take. Accordingly, most owners still take their dog out to poop once or twice a day, and primarily use the litter box as a place to tinkle. Unfortunately, dog urine can contain leptospirosis bacteria which is zoonotic, meaning it could be passed on to people and other species. Make sure your pooch is safe and secure so that you can focus your attention on thoroughly addressing the mess. Remove as much waste as possible. Be sure to check out some of these dog poop disposal ideas before you settle on a solution. Immediately cleaning up doo-doo is doubly essential if your dog has a bad habit of eating dog poop — yikes! Rinse down the potty with hot water. Rinse or wipe out any residue using hot water. Make sure you get rid of disposable potties as needed. Puddle Spread to your floor? Here are some strategies that might make it easier for Fido to go inside. Bring the outside in. If possible, it may be helpful to bring this plant inside and place it on top of the indoor potty. It could be enough of a cue for your furry friend. Place the potty near the door. If your pooch is used to going outside, placing the indoor potty near the door may make for an easier transition for Fido. You can also try bringing the indoor potty outside, have your dog go on the potty outside, and then move the potty inside. A potty trained pooch may not understand that he can go on the indoor dog potty. You could try leashing up your pooch and taking him on a walk around your home, only to stop for sniffing by the dog potty. Praise your pooch! Whenever you do catch your dog using the indoor dog potty, be sure to reward with lots of praise and treats. Try another texture. Some dogs may naturally take to one potty type over another. You may have to tinker with different potty styles before landing on the ideal solution for your furry friend. Typically a bathroom in the main portion of your house is the best option. What kind of litter is best for dogs? Some pet parents have success with paper pellets, while others prefer clay litter or dog-safe wood shavings. Try out small batches of litter to see what works best for your dog. Is litter box training a dog a good idea? Litter training your dog is helpful if you often work long hours or if your dog struggles to hold his bladder. An indoor pottying area like a litter box offers your pup a place to safely and comfortably do his business without ruining your floors or furniture. Is there a dog version of a litter box? Yes, there are several dog litter boxes available, ranging from the standard bins you may envision for a cat to those that are more pad-like in design. Each has its own list of pros and cons to consider. The most important aspect is to choose a dog litter box that works for your pup to ensure he actually uses it. Can dogs learn to use a litter box? Yes, dogs can learn to use a litter box like a cat. When he potties in the litter box, offer praise. Lather, rinse, and repeat until he happily trots over on his own to do his business every time. How did it work for you? Was your dog comfortable using it, or did he fail to understand the point? Like it? Share it! We all know cats are typically the fur family members to use a litter box. But what about dogs? Are there any good arguments for litter box training your canine friend? A dog litter box? Or an artificial grass pad? So I rarely advise pet parents to skip this opportunity. That said, there are a few instances when using a dog litter box is preferable. Is it right for your dog? This is especially true if you have a small dog, or tiny tinkler as I call them, since they often have more difficulty holding their urine than bigger dogs. This leads to more accidents in the house and bigger frustrations, which puts a damper on your relationship. I wrote an entirely different article that goes into more detail about why your dog is peeing in the house. But if you live in an area that sees several feet of snow or is primarily paved and gets very hot, an indoor dog litter box might actually be safer for your pet. You or Your Dog Have Mobility Issues If you or your dog have mobility issues, dog litter box training might be a good idea. Some companies, like doggybathroom. All you need to do is change out the pads and keep the inside clean. This can be a good option for medium-sized dogs that raise their leg to pee. The downside is the cost. The pee pads are disposable and will need to be replaced frequently. If you want to use dog litter, the sides of the litter box should be low enough for your dog to easily step over but high enough to contain the litter. Now what about artificial grass pads? The initial investment for a grass pad like this one is minimal. Can Dogs Use Cat Litter? Yes, technically, dogs can use cat litter. However, cat litter can be harmful if ingested, which is a risk since our canine friends are known to eat strange things from time to time. Dog litter typically consists of larger, more absorbent pellets, which are safer if ingested. Some are also made with recycled material, like wood or paper. Pin me! Whether you choose a litter box or a grass pad, will your dog really use it? This is the million doggie bone question. Can pet parents actually get their pups to use a dog litter box? In many cases, the answer is yes, you can. Trying to contain a Bull Mastiff in a box while they do their business would be quite a feat! And large dogs tend to raise their leg to pee, so the sides of the dog litter box would have to be very high to avoid soaking surrounding objects. Step 1: Find the Right Spot When house training dogs, we usually bring them outside. Do this by getting a paper towel or pee pad containing a little of their urine and placing it where you want them to go. Step 3: Praise Them for Using the Right Spot Again, just as you would do if training a dog to go outside, be sure to give them lots of praise and some training treats when they do their business in the right spot. But with time, your dog will understand how to use their new pee spot. And of course, you want your home to be sanitary. In this section, we will discuss these considerations, as well as provide useful tips that will make the process of buying a dog litter box easier. It is difficult for you to take your dog outside due to mobility issues. You want to start house-training your puppy. You want to use it during times of inclement weather. You have a dog who has trouble controlling its bodily functions. You are away from home for most of the day. Types of Dog Litter Boxes Conventional Litter box These are recognizable litter boxes, as well as those that are simple in design and use. Certain ones can be used for cats and other animals as well, but what makes this useful for a dog is the three high sidewalls and a side that is a low entry. They are not filled with traditional litter but instead, paper pellets made out of recycled newspaper. The conventional litter box is usually more affordable and easy to clean and comes in a variety of sizes. On the downside, you will have to keep changing the pellets out so they do not become odorous from urine. Plastic Crates These have a floating grate along the bottom, where urine drains through onto an absorbent pad and any solid waste will sit on the top which will have to be removed and discarded. If they have sides, they are usually not that high. Real Grass Dogs love to do their business on real grass, so these litter boxes provide a patch of live grass that is held in place by a low-walled cardboard box. The box will most likely be lined to prevent liquids from saturating the cardboard, allowing it to last longer. You do have to water the grass to keep it lush, and it will last approximately one to two weeks, depending on how often your dog uses it. You will have to clean the grass of the solid waste, but the urine will be absorbed by the dirt. These systems tend to be on the pricier end. Considerations Cost: We always want to provide the best for our pets, but most of us are on a budget and need to take into account the expense of a dog litter box, as well as the continued cost of replacing grass, pellets, or absorbent pads. Dog size: The size of your dog will determine the size of the box you need to purchase. Dogs like to circle before they go to the bathroom so they will need adequate space to move around. Most systems are ideal for small to medium-sized dogs. Materials: You will want a system that is durable and holds up to frequent use. If you have a puppy who likes to chew, keep the type of material in mind. Design: If you have a puppy or a smaller breed, a high-sided box may be difficult for them to get in and out of. Some surfaces are easier to wipe down than others, and with certain systems, there are options to purchase liners separately. Tips A dog litter box should be functional, hygienic, and comfortable for your dog to use. Consider features such as drainage holes and waste trays. Some dogs may not like to use a litter box, especially if they were not introduced at a young age. If your dog prefers to urinate by lifting a leg, it may miss the litter box entirely. Training guides are beneficial when introducing a box to your dog. Did you know the border collie, the Havanese, and the miniature schnauzer are some of the easiest dogs to train? We offer complete guides for these breeds — check them out below:.
Use tab to navigate through the menu items. I have always enjoyed an active lifestyle and grew up raising show livestock in the F. Future Farmers of America. Among my projects were roaster hens, hogs, even a steer, but my passion was always for my lambs. Raising and breeding Standards in many ways is how I have been able to continue my love of raising and showing livestock. What I learned back then taught me how important Genetics are for a strong foundation to begin with. Also, that an excellent feeding program is vital for my dogs to reach their full potential. Finally, I learned everything I know about grooming from my agriculture teacher. I am proud to say I personally groom all of my own dogs. July I suffered an injury to my spinal cord that left me paralyzed from my waist down. They found homes by way of my then mentor. This was a great relief for my family as the focus was now on my recovery. The number one reason was driven to not give up was my dogs. Life kept moving on and I came to realizations that I am still able to give them what they need to thrive and that my support system is there for helping me achieve each challenge that I face. I am proud to say that Extraordinary Poodles successfully Sired two litters in .The results were nothing short of expectations. I continue to groom all of my own dogs and keep in touch with families of past puppies. My happiness has always depended on having something good to do, and at Extraordinary Poodles there is plenty of that to go around. Current Litter sired by Sam looking for wonderful homes. Begin your journey into the world of standard poodles here. Standard Poodles! Standard poodles are the most versatile dog in the world. You will see different variations in these tones. They are good with children if socialized with them and are not inclined to bite, but they do make good alert dogs. In other words, "They give you time to get your gun. People with allergies have a high tolerance for the poodle, making them well known as the ideal breed for people with allergies. Visit our litter page to see available puppies. Training High energy combined with lots of smarts lends itself to excellent companionship when properly trained. How to Train? Start early, using treats as a lure. How to Care? Companionship, quality puppy food, socialization. How to treat? A healthy puppy needs a nutritionally complete puppy food, fresh water, companionship, love and regular vet checkups to stay on top of things How to feed? We recommend Purina pro plan puppy How to walk? Do not pull or drag your puppy. How to equip? A light leash and narrow collar Decided? Questions about Poodle puppies for sale in Houston TX? We have answers. Give me an overview of Poodle puppies for sale in Houston TX. Uptown makes sure that you can afford a Poodle by giving you the option of breeders, companies and businesses that can offer different prices to you according to the size, color and experience of the breeder. Do your breeders arrange travel for Houston Poodles out of state? Of course! Since the businesses, breeders and companies are highly professional in what they do, finding the perfect families for their pups is the number one goal they have in mind. Therefore, they are used to organizing travel arrangements for the puppies that they love - and that includes transport by plane. How do you screen miniature Poodle breeders in Houston? We are really strict with breeders, companies and businesses that want to be affiliated with us. There is a strict screening process that they have to pass, they have to take a Breeder Pledge and we have the absolute strictest of standards in place. We look at how professional the breeders are and how well they take care of the dogs and puppies. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other miniature Poodle breeders Houston? We are different because we care so much. All that matters to us is that puppies connected to us through breeders, companies and businesses end up in happy homes where they will be well looked after for life. What is a puppy mill like for miniature Poodle Houston? Most people see dogs as lovely companions and members of the family. But, not puppy mills. The owners of these places look into the eyes of dogs and just see dollar signs. They stick dogs in cages, wait for them to produce litter after litter, and take the puppies away from their mothers when they are too young, causing many health complications. Are there any miniature Poodle puppies Houston for sale now? You just need to tell us a little bit about yourself as well as what you are looking for in your perfect pup and, in no time, you will have your perfect pup by your side. There are many different varieties to choose from, so just think carefully about the Poodle type you want, and it will be yours. What kind of dogs are mini Poodle puppies Houston? Poodles actually come from Germany and France. It has water as well as herding roots, which makes it a wonderful hunter in the water. How do I know I can trust you with miniature Poodle puppies in Houston? We are well aware that there are people out there wanting to sell you sick puppies for high prices. We pride ourselves on making sure that good relationships are achieved with both our customers as well as our breeders, companies and businesses. All we care about is that healthy puppies, end up in happy homes - for life!
best toys for bernedoodle puppy - Aug 18, Share German Shepherds have a distinctive look that includes alert, erect ears. For most pups, the ear cartilage begins to harden around week 20, or when the pup is finished teething. At that point, it can take up to 20 weeks for the ears to stand up fully. This can vary by the individual, however. Like human ears, dog ears are made of cartilage. As they grow and gain nutrition, German Shepherds develop stronger and stronger cartilage to support those ears. Typically, puppies at weeks will have floppy ears that occasionally stand up but quickly fall back down. Around week 20, or 5 months, your pup is done teething and its ears will begin to harden and stand. Your vet may have some suggestions to help the process along. If your pup reaches 8 months and still has floppy ears, the chance of them standing on their own is slim. Some breeders try to breed for larger ears, leading to ears that are too heavy to stand up. If strong, alert ears are important to you, be sure to look for a pup with parents that have erect ears. If the ears sustain trauma during that time, it can cause permanent damage to the cartilage. If your puppy gets parasites, it can impact healthy development, which includes the hardening of its ear cartilage. Be sure to take your puppy to the vet regularly and have routine fecal exams to check for worms and other parasites. Your vet can recommend an appropriate deworming protocol for your growing puppy and treat parasites if they occur. However, if you want your puppy to have strong, alert ears, you can help the process along in a number of ways. In an effort to move ear development along, some owners will add supplements like calcium. Chew toys are also good for teething and keeping your puppy occupied. German Shepherds are strong, even as pups, so be sure to choose solid, durable chew toys that are safe and appropriate for your puppy. It should only be used as a last resort, however. If you use tape too early, it can hinder natural development. That said, if you wait until the seventh or eighth month, it may be too late to help. Glue the ends of the popsicle stick to the tape on both ears, horizontally. Once a week, remove the popsicle stick, foam, and tape. If the ears stand on their own, leave them. Related Reads:. However, some adult German Shepherds will have floppy ears. There are several causes for this. There is also a genetic trait in some German Shepherds to have floppy ears. When one or both of the parents has floppy ears, there is a strong chance that the offspring will inherit this trait. If this is the case with your dog, there is not much you can do about his floppy ears. Rough play. GSD puppies play rough , and a lot of times, this can affect their ears through nips and bites. Cartilage is not like the skin because it is not highly vascularized. You can support the healing times by offering him a healthy, balanced diet. You may even consider food specially formulated for German Shepherds. Ear infections. Because they have such dense fur, German Shepherds are highly susceptible to ear infections. The coat interferes with the air circulation of the ear canals, setting up the perfect circumstances for infections and mites. Signs of these problems include shaking the head and pawing the ears. The ears may go up for a bit during the teething process and then return to the floppy position. After more time passes, the ears should return to the upward position again. However, even after nine months, there are several methods that you can try that will assist in training his ears to stand. When your puppy reaches eight months old and still has floppy ears, you can try giving him chew toys to work out his jaw muscles. Chewing on toys will work his temporalis muscle, which is one of the muscles involved in supporting upright ears. Ear taping can be done at home, while surgical implants will need to be administered by a veterinarian in a sterile environment. The ear may be set in its position at this stage, and the procedure may not have much effect. Discard the hard plastic clip from the inside of each roller and only keep the spongy foam parts. Steps to Follow The first step is to insert the pencil into one of the rollers roughly one inch to create a handhold. Ensure it is well-covered, but do not use it so much that it oozes or drips off the roller. Then tape the ear into a fairly firm roll in an upright position. The roller must be placed inside and near the bottom of the ear flap. Remove the pencil from the roller. You will have to keep your puppy distracted for a few minutes until the glue has time to dry. The rollers will fall out on their own in roughly a week. You can remove them before this if you need to. Taping is intended to provide support to the cartilage of the ears so that it can form adequately and be strong enough to make the ears stand up. It is a painless procedure, but it can cause some discomfort for your dog. Additionally, if your German Shepherd is genetically predisposed to having floppy ears, no amount of taping will override his genes. His ears may perk up and flop back down during teething, which begins around 3 months old. Once teething is over, his ears will once again perk up. At this stage, they may be somewhere in the middle. One ear may be standing while the other is floppy, or both may be half-standing. You may even have a German Shepherd who has both ears fully upright at this age! If they are not, you will have to visit your veterinarian or breeder for advice on what to do. German Shepherd Ear Positions There are several German Shepherd ear positions that you will observe as your puppy grows from a newborn to 8 months old. First, he will have teensy ears from birth to 7 weeks of age. This is when his ears will flop to both sides. His ears will experience the flying nun position from 10 to 14 weeks. For this position, his ears will still be flopped to the sides but will be slightly lifted. Starting at around 14 weeks, his ears will be in the comb-over position where both ears will flop to one side of his head or the other. Anywhere from 15 weeks on, his ears will go into the seashell position. This position has the ears mostly upright but not quite all the way. At some point, one ear may flop over while one is upright in the one-up ear position. This position may be concerning because an ear that was previously upright suddenly flops over. However, it is temporary, and the ear will return to normal. Finally, once these stages have been cycled through, the ears will go into the perfect upright position. Note that not all stages will be experienced by every dog. Age in weeks. Bright eyes, strong profiles, and of course, those perky, attentive ears! When you first bring your German Shepherd puppy home, its ears will probably be floppy and droopy — at times, those ears may try to make a stand, only to fall back down again. What gives!? As your German Shepherd grows and gets the right nutrition among other things , the cartilage gets stronger and stronger. And voila — straight, pointy German Shepherd ears! But is it really that simple? Sometimes, yes. Sometimes, no. German Shepherd puppy ears can be unpredictable! The key is to be patient and give those ears time to develop on their own before stepping in. Those ears should perk back up after teething is over. If you want to learn more about the timing of teething and what to look for, check out this article on German Shepherd puppy teething. When went to visit my German Shepherd, Allie pictured above at 7 weeks old , her ears were floppy and undeniably precious. I brought Allie home at 8 weeks, and those ears still had their ups and downs, but by 10 weeks old, her ears were up permanently. So, the key is to catch it in time. This flip-floppy stage is completely normal. Genetics can also come into play when some breeders try to breed specifically for German Shepherds with larger ears. As a result, those big, oversized, heavy ears may be too much to stand up. If pointy, perky ears are important to you, then choose your breeder and puppy carefully. Make sure to check out the parents — how do their ears look? Any significant trauma to the ears during this time can cause permanent damage — which may also cause droopy ears. Try to have everyone keep their hands off those adorable ears as much as possible. Parasites: Yuck. Puppies need chew toys, as it exercises their jaw and their head and neck muscles. Those muscles are important for perky puppy ears. So, let your puppy chew, chew, and chew on the right things of course. If you need some ideas for durable dog toys that can withstand those chomping jaws, then check out this article for my picks of the best tough German Shepherd chew toys. Stick to a high-quality, natural diet instead. Cottage cheese and yogurt both have plenty of calcium without overdoing it , and chicken feet are a natural source of glucosamine, which helps strengthen cartilage. Give those ears time to develop on their own before you resort to taping. At the end of the article are some sources that go over common methods of taping. Note: There are several options that you can use for this — there are even foam dog ear forms. Thin, white surgical tape that tears easily. A 2-inch wide tape works well, and you can also get this at Walmart, CVS, or somewhere similar. Note: Do NOT use duct tape or electrical tape — these will do way more harm than good! An unsharpened pencil or popsicle stick. Adhesive — either skin bond adhesive or eyelash glue are good choices. Give those ears plenty of time to develop and get stronger before taking action. How old was your German Shepherd puppy when its ears finally stood up? Let me know below! I get a lot of emails about taping German Shepherd puppy ears. The majority of these emails come from people who are jumping the gun and worrying too much. By that, I mean their pups are 3 or 4 months old and they are starting to panic because their puppy's ears are not standing. I tell these people that they need patience, they need to wait until their pup has finished teething. I caution these people not to jump the gun and tape the dog's ears too early or in the wrong way. I know people who have screwed their dog's ears up for life by doing this. I have had puppy customers who go ballistic on me and panic. So I issue a word of caution here. With that said, the other side of the spectrum of taping ears is something that many people do not take seriously until it's too late. When ears are taped at 7 and 8 months, there is very little chance of it working. This is an unfortunate fact of life. German Shepherd puppy ears can come up between 8 weeks and 6 months. If they are not up when the dog is through teething this varies from dog to dog but in general between 16 weeks and 20 weeks of age , I tell my puppy customers to get very interested in their ears. While it's not time to panic, it is time to sit up and take notice. The first thing to do is make sure that your puppy is in good health. This means no intestinal parasites. Take a stool sample to your vet to have it analyzed. It's also important to make sure the pup is getting good quality food. We feed and recommend a raw diet but if you do feed a commercial diet, I strongly recommend researching all the options available and feeding the highest-quality food you can afford. View our list of all-natural kibble alternatives. In fact, a lot of times, a pup will have both ears up and all of a sudden, they will come back down when the pup starts to teeth. Many owners panic when this happens. But not to worry, I have never seen a pup whose ears did not go back up when this happens. If a pup does not have his ears up by 5 months, I strongly recommend that you get involved with taping your dog's ears. Use the thin white surgical tape the kind that's paper-thin and tears easily. The 3M Micropore tape, 2" wide, works well. I like to use women's hair rollers. Take the plastic out of them and just use the foam. Wrap the ear around the foam and tape them into a tight roll. In a vertical position. Take a popsicle stick and attach it to the top part of both ears. In a horizontal position. The pup is going to tear the tape or stick off the ears several times. The key is to continue to re-tape the ears. Sooner or later, the pup will forget the tape and ignore it. About once a week, take the tape off and see if the ears will stand on their own. Continue to re-tape until the ears stand. If the ears are not up by 7 or 8 months, they are not going to come up. The ears should look like this once taped. The same dog with ears now up. I have seen ears that did not stand, which in my opinion would have stood had they been taped. So this process is not something to take lightly. I also need to say that many ears will be a little weak right after taping but with time, they will strengthen. So when an ear does not stand perfectly after taping don't panic. Just have patience and see what happens. You will really not have an idea exactly what you have until the pup is 12 months old. When ears do not stand, there are ear implants that can be surgically added. I have no experience with this and do not know anything about them. If you are unlucky enough to have a dog whose ears will not stand, I would point you toward a vet that has some experience in this area. I don't think it's something that normal small animal vets know how to do well. In my opinion, too young to tape. The material to use to tape German Shepherd Ears The pup with its ears taped I prefer taping German Shepherd Dogs ears after the dog has finished teething. This usually means the dog is older than 4 - 6 months. Maybe waiting another month would have been a better idea for this puppy.
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best toys for bernedoodle puppy - Life Span Did You Know? Chi-Poos are compact and energetic little dogs that love their families. They tend to be energetic and playful, and love nothing more than being around their favorite humans. Although the Chi-Poo is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other notable canine organizations. A Chi-Poo tends to be sweet, loving, and affectionate with their families. They tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. They can be initially wary of strangers and strange dogs. But, as long as they have been well-socialized, they tend to warm up quickly. Chi-Poos are fantastic watchdogs because they will alert you to things, people, noises, etc. Because of this, they can be prone to barking a lot. If you start to train your dog to stop barking early on, you can keep this from becoming a nuisance behavior. Chi-Poos are highly adaptable dogs. They do well in apartments as well as larger homes with or without yards. These little dogs do well in most climates. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat. Due to their small size, they may also need to bundle up with some winter dog products to stay warm while out on walks when the temperatures drop. Because these little dogs bond closely with their families and crave attention from them, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. This also means they can be prone to developing separation anxiety. So, you will want to make sure you socialize your dog and spend some time making sure they can be comfortable when you are not around. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Chi-Poo include glaucoma , luxating patella , hypoglycemia, and overactive tear glands. As a small dog breed, the Chi-Poo is more prone to developing painful dental diseases later in life. Gum disease in dogs is one of the most common health issues and has serious consequences. Chi-Poos are highly intelligent dogs that are eager to please and pick up on things quickly. Inconsistent training can make them stubborn. But, as long as training is kept consistent and focused on positive reward and praise, they are a good fit for owners of all experience levels. Puppy training classes are still an option. Aside from the training, there are several other benefits of puppy training classes. If they take more after their Chihuahua parent, they will shed a little year-round, require weekly brushing, and need the occasional bath. If they inherit the Poodle coat, they may not shed, but they will need a lot more grooming. Daily brushing is required to remove tangles and prevent mats from forming. In addition, professionally grooming and clipping are needed every weeks. If you are visiting a dog groomer regularly, they may be able to help out with some things, but you will still need to do maintenance at home between visits. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep them from growing too long and causing issues. Weekly ear checks with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Dental diseases can be prevented later in life with consistent dental care. Daily brushing or use of an enzyme toothpaste in addition to cleanings at the vet as needed are ideal. Although a Chi-Poo will be energetic when they play, they are small dogs and will tire themselves out quickly. Usually, daily walks plus some playtime are enough to keep this little dog happy and healthy. Because they thrive being around you, they may be up for more activity if you are. Just make sure you keep an eye on them to make sure they are not overexerting themselves trying to keep up and be prepared to potentially have to rest or carry them. A fully-grown Chi-Poo usually averages inches tall and pounds in weight. Chi-Poos generally live for years on average. This mix is usually called a Chi-Poo. Other nicknames include Choodle, Poochi, Chipoodle, and Poohuahua. Featured Chi-Poo Article. The resulting dog is smart and confident and is gaining popularity thanks to its high trainability and low-shedding coat. In this guide, we will study everything you need to know about this gorgeous designer dog breed. What is a Chi-Poo? As the name indicates, these cute small dogs with soft wavy hair are obtained by mixing a Miniature or Toy Poodle with a Chihuahua. A Chipoo or Chidoodle may be a small dog but it is cute, smart, loyal, and highly protective of the people it loves. Origins Every breed of dog, even the ChiPoo, has wolves as its ancestors. Humans started domesticating and training wolves nearly 14, years ago. Mostly, people wanted animals to do various jobs and, over the years, they bred different species of wolves which created different dog breeds. The Chihuahua breed originated in Mexico and is one of the ancient dog breeds known to exist since the time of the Toltec tribes. Aztec paintings depict the Chihuahuas as much larger and heavier. Soon the Aztecs started breeding smaller and smaller Chihuahuas and even considered them as their treasure. Today, the smart Poodle is ranked second in the list of most intelligent dog breeds and is also extremely popular due to its hypoallergenic, low-shedding coat. In the s, the demand for cross-breed or designer dogs increased when the first hybrid dog- a Labradoodle — was created by crossing a Poodle with a Labrador Retriever. People loved the Labradoodle for its high intelligence and low-shedding coat. Soon dog lovers were demanding smaller cross-breed dogs. The exact origin of the Chi-Poo is unclear but it might have been existing for nearly 3 decades. Chi-Poo Physical Attributes Chipoo owners are curious to find out how big a Chipoo will get when they first bring home this sweet pup. Chidoodles are not purebred dogs so there are no standards as far as their physical attributes are concerned. Most ChiPoos weigh between 5 and 20 lb. They measure between 5 and 15 inches .Chidoodles have medium coats which can be straight, soft, long, short, or curly. The coat colours seen in the designer breed are cream, white, brown, black, brindle, silver, grey, blue, merle and fawn. Chi-Poos will need different frequencies of grooming based on the kind of coat they inherit. In general, you might want to brush your dog every days and wash or bathe it once a month. Is the Chipoo hypoallergenic? Like most Poodle mixes, the Chipoo sheds a lot less than the average dog breed. Therefore, if an individual is highly allergic to pets, then even the supposedly hypoallergenic Chi-Poo or any Poodle mix for that matter could still trigger an allergic reaction in them. Chi-Poo Temperament and Personality Chidoodles are known to be very smart like their Poodle parent although the Chihuahua is also quite bright. They are confident, highly trainable, and assertive dogs; sometimes overly so. This can hinder training so they need a consistent and experienced dog owner who will show them how to behave appropriately by rewarding their good behaviour. ChiPoos are sure to make excellent pets for families with slightly older children. It is important to understand that these small dogs are quite fragile so it is best not to have very boisterous kids playing roughly around them. Chidoodles make excellent lapdogs. This makes them ideal pets for elderly people but they still need a walk or two every day. This is important to prevent obesity in these small dogs. Are Chipoos yappy? Since Poodles and Chihuahuas are both very reactive and tend to bark at everything in their surroundings, the Chidoodles are also quite the barkers. You might find your little dog barking at every sight or sound. To curb this barking habit, you must train your dog to only bark on cue. You also need to desensitize and socialize your little pet to various experiences from an early age. This is very important to prevent separation anxiety , fear, and other behavioural issues in your Chipoo. Are Chi-Poos aggressive? Like their Chihuahua parent, Chi-Poos can have a wide range of personalities. Like terrier breeds, some Chipoos are in-your-face aggressive but others could be shy or timid. In general, aggression is not an inherent trait in the Chidoodle breed and, as such, must be nipped in the bud. No dog owner must tolerate aggression and must use training, socializing, and desensitization to ensure that their ChiPoo puppy turns out to be a friendly, loving adult dog with a sound temperament. The rates are not standardized or regulated so you will find a lot of variation. In addition to considering your Chi-Poo puppy price, you must also consider the lifetime costs that come with dog ownership. What is the Best Food for a Chipoo? Like all dogs, your Chipoo needs a balanced diet consisting of proteins, healthy fats, and vitamins and minerals. You can choose between high-quality kibble or go in for canned or wet food. In general, kibble may be a better choice since, like all small dogs, the Chi-Poo is prone to dental issues. Kibble with the proper texture can help eliminate plaque and tartar to some extent although your pet will also need daily oral care. You can divide this into 2 or 3 smaller meals although puppies will need at least 4 meals. This is important to prevent digestive issues in your young pet while it is still adjusting to the new surroundings. As your dog passes through different life stages, discuss with your vet the right diet to feed it. Some Chi-Poos are known to have food sensitivities so you may have to choose hypoallergenic dog food or special prescription diets to prevent symptoms. How Long Does a Chipoo Live? What are the Common Health Issues in the Breed? ChiPoos are known to have a lifespan of nearly years. The breed is quite healthy but, like all designer dogs, there is a chance that it inherits afflictions commonly seen in the parent breeds. From time to time, the following health issues are seen in Chidoodles: Idiopathic epilepsy — Since Poodles are known to suffer from idiopathic epilepsy, your Chipoo could inherit this disease. It is characterized by seizures, often without a cause. Luxating patella — Both Chihuahuas and Poodles are known to have this issue. It causes the knee cap to pop out of its normal position causing lameness. Legg-Calve Perthes disease — This results in the degeneration of the femoral head. Hypoglycemia — this condition is seen in Chihuahuas. It causes low blood sugar which can lead to lethargy or dizziness in the affected dogs. Tracheal collapse — this condition is also seen in Chihuahuas and it causes shortness of breath and a permanent honking cough. To minimize the chances of your having to deal with these health issues, only buy your ChiPoo from a reputable breeder. Good breeders conduct appropriate health checks on their parent dogs and only breed ones that have received the appropriate health clearances. Subscribe for free poodle mix breed information and exclusive offers on the best products for your pup! Leave this field empty if you're human: Share this.