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Share via Email Is your dog a toy enthusiast? Would your furry friend rather be playing with their toys than doing anything else? Read on for our dog toy storage box recommendations and more! However, there are some practical and safety reasons you might choose a toy box solution for your home. This advice is especially relevant if your dogs are heavy chewers or curious chewers since the basket itself can become a point of interest. Here are a few things to consider when purchasing a toy box for your dog: Size: How many toys does your dog have? Are they big or are they small? Lidded vs. Open: Lids are great for pups with tons of toys, since spillage can be a real pain to clean up. For dogs with fewer toys, an open toy box will do just fine. Materials: Dog toy boxes, bins, and baskets come in a variety of sizes, shapes, colors, and of course materials. Ultimately, the material you choose should be one you like the look of. Made from painted alloy steel, this is a lightweight option that can easily be tucked away in a closet. Thanks to the short profile, this is a good option for small dogs who like to get toys from their toy box. Bone Dry Paw Print Dog Storage Bin Practical and large enough to hold toys for big dogs, this simple storage bin also features sturdy rope handles for easy carrying. If you have a super chewer, this might not be the best option since it sort of resembles a rope toy. Are you looking for a way to keep your small dog or puppy entertained and happy? Do you want to store their toys in a neat and convenient way? The Small Bite Toy Box is specially designed for smaller dogs and curious puppies who love to play. It is perfectly proportioned to fit their toys and accessories, and it has a lovely soft inner material that protects them from damage. This Small Dog and Puppy Toy Box also has a collapsible design that makes it easy to store away when not in use. You can simply fold it flat and tuck it under your bed or in your closet. No more clutter or mess! This Small Toy Box measures 40x30x26cm, which is ideal for small spaces and cosy corners. It is made of durable and lightweight fabric that is easy to clean and maintain. It is also eco-friendly and safe for your dog. The Small Toy Box from Ancol is the perfect gift for your small dog or puppy, or for any dog lover in your life. It will make their playtime more fun and enjoyable, and their home more organized and tidy. Order yours today and see the difference it makes! Click Here Also consider.
The link has been copied! What do you get when you mix the two smartest dog breeds in the world together? You get an incredibly adorable ball of fluff called the Bordoodle. Or, if you want to get more technical about it, it could be called the Border Collie Poodle mix. These two breeds top the list of intelligent dog breeds and their looks are a winning combination. Interested in bringing a Bordoodle home? In his quest, he crossed the hypoallergenic Poodle with the super smart and trainable Labrador Retriever to end up with the Labradoodle. Through a marketing gimmick, he popularized the funky name and the whole Doodle craze took off from there. Now, breeders have created a whole line of designer breeds including the Goldendoodle, the Shepadoodle, the Cavapoo, the Bernoodle, and even some interesting combos like the Boxerdoodle. And, of course, the Bordoodle is one of them. However, studying the parent breeds gives you an idea of what to expect. Border Collie The Border Collie was developed on the border between England and Scotland, which is how it got its name. The breed was descended from the Viking Spitz-type herding dogs mixed with the old Roman herding dogs. As you might guess, these dogs were developed with a job in mind, herding sheep. This requires lots of energy and smarts to keep those sheep in line with minimal direction from the shepherd. The official Border Collie breed developed mostly from one dog in the s. Old Hemp, a sheepdog with the aforementioned heritage became known for his obedient and intelligent nature. All the shepherds wanted a dog just like him and people began bringing their dogs to breed with him. All in all, Old Hemp fathered around puppies and that was the basis for the breed as we know it today. Now the Border Collie is known for its incredible smarts, boundless energy, and loyal and obedient nature. Originally developed in Germany, their tightly curled mop of hair served a purpose for their job. Their thick hair served to protect them from the cold. From Germany, they traveled to France where people fell in love with the fluffy little pups. The aristocracy began breeding them smaller to be more manageable as house pets. Nowadays, there are three officially recognized Poodle sizes four if you ask the Europeans. French Poodle and German Poodle clubs throw a fourth category in there between the Miniature Poodle and the Standard called Moyen or Klein respectively. Plus, because of the size variations of the Poodle, Bordoodles can come in various sizes as well. However, the most common cross is with a Standard Poodle. This yields a dog between about 16 - 22 inches tall and weighing between 35 - 65 pounds. Some breeders will also mix the Border Collie with the Miniature Poodle to create a more pint-sized package. As far as looks, they tend to have athletic builds — both their parents are energetic athletes after all! They usually have thick, curly or wavy hair and are typically black and white like the Border Collie, though not always. Some Bordoodles inherit the interesting heterochromia trait from their Border Collie parent, which means they have two different colored eyes. For example, they may have one blue eye and one brown one. If not, the Bordoodle usually has dark brown eyes. You would be forgiven for this mistake as they look quite similar. They are loving, energetic, super smart, and loyal. Bordoodles adore their families and will happily play with small children for hours on end. Give them a job to do, and they are content to perform that as well. Though they still need training like any dog, their willingness to please makes the task much easier. If you want a dog that you can teach a bunch of cool tricks, the Bordoodle is a great choice! They can tend to be a little standoffish with strangers, but as long as they are properly socialized as pups, they are not aggressive. And eventually, their Poodle side kicks in and they become a little more friendly. Both the Border Collie and the Poodle are energetic dogs. Their intelligence also requires plenty of mental stimulation. If they get bored, they may find other ways of entertaining themselves — which usually spells disaster for your furniture. They will have medium-length hair that is wavy or loosely curled. They usually end up black and white, taking after the coat color and pattern of the Border Collie. However, the Poodle contributes a variety of other colors as well. You can find Bordoodles in brown, silver, cream, red, white, black, apricot, and any combination of these colors. They can live in apartments or houses with small yards as long as they are given the opportunity for at least 90 minutes of exercise daily. They enjoy spending time with their families and are overjoyed when you want to play or teach them a new trick. But ideally, Bordoodles love a house with a yard. They love the opportunity to romp around, playing and entertaining themselves with the sights and sounds of the outdoors. Bordoodles are fantastic with little kids and you can count on them to help wear each other out. However, if your Bordoodle starts getting bored, he may try to herd kids or other pets, which can be annoying for the other animals or intimidating to small kids. This, plus his willingness to please helps make training a breeze. But it still takes work. Along with all the regular manners and commands, Bordoodles require lots of early socialization. They are naturally suspicious of strangers and can become overly shy or overprotective if not accustomed to guests entering the home. Make sure you introduce him to both humans and dogs early on — both by having them come over as well as going out for walks or to the dog park. The Bordoodle requires a significant amount of grooming to keep his medium-length hair tidy and tangle-free. To make the experience more pleasant for both of you, be sure to introduce him to grooming early on and accompany it with treats and other pleasantries. The Health of the Bordoodle In general, hybrid dog breeds tend to be relatively healthy. By mixing the gene pools, there is less risk of dogs inheriting the typical health issues of their breed. However, though the likelihood may be lower, designer dog breeds are at risk of inheriting common health problems of either parent breed. In the case of the Bordoodle, both parent breeds can suffer from hip dysplasia and eye conditions. Most commonly, they are affected by collie eye, progressive retinal atrophy, and cataracts. Without treatment, loss of eyesight can follow. Each individual is different, though. Plus, regular trips to the vet, vaccinations, and other routine care will help keep the Bordoodle healthy. A well-cared-for Bordoodle can easily live a long life of about 11 to 16 years. Bordoodles as Family Pets Bordoodles are excellent as family pets. They get along well with small children and will happily play with them for hours. They may try to herd them once in a while, but as long as you correct this behavior early and firmly, they will learn it is not tolerated. They need about 45 minutes of vigorous exercise each day and plenty of mental stimulation. With various people in the house for them to play with, they usually get enough but it can be hard to keep up with a Bordoodle if you live alone. Though energetic, he can be calm and just enjoy being with you. Mixing it with other dog breeds has produced some interesting and beautiful results. Is the Bordoodle Right for Me? If you have the time and energy to dedicate to play and training, the Bordoodle could make a wonderful addition to your family. You definitely have to be on your toes to keep up with this smart little pup. But their loving, affectionate natures make them wonderful family dogs. The look of remorse on their cute little faces will melt your heart and spark forgiveness all at once! Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! You might also like. The short answer is: smart. This medium-sized , relatively new crossbreed mixes the border collie with the poodle , thus combining two of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world into one super cute, family-friendly package. Because she's such a new mix, potential pet parents should keep in mind that there's not much breed consistency, so everything from your bordoodle's size and behavior to health and coat texture can vary depending on how much the puppy is influenced by her parents' genes. But it's safe to assume this hybrid will be bright, athletic, and affectionate, although her size can differ dramatically based on whether the poodle parent is a standard or miniature poodle , which may be used by some breeders to attempt to breed a mini bordoodle. They're likely to be fairly energetic, though the poodle genes might tamp down some of that famous—or infamous—border collie intensity. Still, families bringing home a bordoodle should be prepared to provide consistent daily activity, some level of grooming, and a whole lot of devotion. Appearance While cuteness is pretty much guaranteed, the bordoodle's coat and overall appearance is full of uncertainties. Even within one litter, you may find a variety of coat types stretching from wavy to curly, incorporating nearly all colors, and with shedding levels ranging from high to non-shedding. The dog's size will depend heavily on the size of her poodle parent because standard poodles and miniature poodles offer such an enormous size range. But, typically, bordoodles will be medium-sized pups. The product of a purebred border collie and a purebred poodle is considered an F1 bordoodle , which typically has a wavy or slightly curly coat and sheds lightly. When an F1 bordoodle is bred to either a purebred border collie or a purebred poodle, it's considered an F1b bordoodle the b stands for "back" to the parent breed ; in this case, breeding them back to a purebred poodle is usually the chosen path because that leads to a more consistent dog with a wavy or curly coat. A bordoodle's eyes are generally brown, but you'll occasionally find one with one brown eye and one that's blue. Temperament How's your ego? If it can handle the idea of a dog who might be smarter than you, you're in luck with the bordoodle. Both border collies and poodles have a reputation for being whip smart, and that makes them highly trainable —for the right family. However, the border collie side of her can be rather aloof with strangers, so you'll need to work with your pup to teach her that it's OK to warm up to new people, too. Pet parents should be aware that, although both border collies and poodles can have a lot of energy, they have completely different work ethics. Poodles tend to be more playful. They like to work, but they also like to rest or just have fun," Askeland says. You might have one that has a big work ethic, or they could have less need for stimulation or a job. It's not that she's trying to be naughty, of course; she just might not understand what to do with her pent-up energy. Living Needs In case it's not yet clear, this crossbreed can be an excellent choice for families—especially those who are willing to incorporate their bordoodle into their daily lives, whether that includes car rides , hiking trips , or other dog-friendly activities. Living in an apartment probably isn't ideal for her, but if you're committed to including your pup in your routine and giving her fun activities to do each day, it may be possible. Of course, because the bordoodle is a new mix breed and her temperament isn't entirely predictable, her ability to be happy in a small home with no yard depends a great deal on which parent breed she takes after—a poodle is no problem, but the border collie in her could be a challenge in that environment. But either way, she's unlikely to be a total couch potato. Some walking , maybe some running , playing fetch and Frisbee , and then, of course, a little training and obedience along the way. Another way to keep the bordoodle's paws and minds moving, Askeland says, is by teaching them new tricks. And that must not be tolerated with children—or other pets, for that matter, although these dogs tend to be good with other animals including cats! Getting her involved in something like lure chasing, where she can chase safely, is an option. But if you don't have a mechanical lure chasing set up near you, herding behaviors may be something you want to teach her to avoid entirely. Care Grooming needs will vary from dog to dog because the bordoodle's coat can be furry like a border collie's or more like a poodle's curly hair. But it's a safe bet she'll need her coat brushed at least a couple of times a week. And if she's more in the border collie coat camp, brushing and the occasional bath as needed, may be all the grooming she requires—although the downside is she's more likely to shed. If her coat takes after her poodle parentage, shedding is likely to be low , but regular and professional grooming may be required to keep that fur from matting. Keep an eye and ear on her nails; if you can hear them tapping on the floor, it's time to trim them. And those cute, floppy ears may need a little help staying clean, so check those regularly , too. Courtesy of rosie. The bordoodle shouldn't have her border collie parent's insatiable drive to work nonstop, so a couple of nice walks each day should suffice—especially if you pair that with some fun brain games, like training her to do tricks using positive reinforcement. That being said, if you live a more active life, she may make for an engaging running or biking partner , so don't hesitate to bring her along. Early socialization, along with training, will help ensure the friendly, curious nature of your bordoodle is first and foremost and that any aloof or wary tendencies don't take over. Health Just as temperament and appearance can vary greatly with a recently created mix like a bordoodle, so can the potential inherited health issues. Still, there are some things she suggests discussing with your breeder and veterinarian. Depending on the size and shape of the dog you end up with, bloat also known as gastric dilation volvulus may be an issue, as it's seen commonly in deep-chested standard poodles. Brown-Bury suggests chatting with your vet about whether a prophylactic gastropexy procedure might be a good idea. Addison's disease is also something seen more in poodles than other breeds, so it's wise for poodle mix owners to be familiar with warning signs and symptoms. And, because this is likely to be an athletic pooch, she recommends staying on top of any injury. Hip dysplasia may also be a concern, but Brown-Bury notes that, although it is genetic, it's not a simple inheritance because there are multiple genes that impact it. As is the case with most designer mixes, it's likely that border collies and poodles have been unintentionally mixing for ages, but it's only been in recent years that breeders have begun working to standardize the bordoodle. And no wonder! This mix of two wildly intelligent, fun, and friendly breeds has real appeal, and the bordoodle is currently recognized albeit as the "borpoodle" by the American Canine Hybrid Club , the Designer Breed Registry , the Designer Dogs Kennel Club , the Dog Registry of America , and the International Designer Canine Registry. Still, when considering this crossbreed—or any dog that's being sold as a designer mix by a breeder— make sure to thoroughly research any bordoodle breeder due to the prevalence of puppy mills in the designer dog market. This might not be a purebred dog, Brown-Bury says, but, "the usual recommendations apply. If at all possible, meet the parent dogs, see where they are housed, where the puppies will spend the first few weeks of their lives. Keep an eye out for these red flags to ensure you don't fall for a puppy mill scheme : There are multiple mixed breeds for sale from the same breeder. The website offers wait times for puppies. The breeder offers to ship puppies. It's difficult to identify breeder contact information no phone number, contact email, etc. Fun Facts Bordoodles can inherit heterochromia, where one eye is blue and the other is brown, from their border collie parent. This has absolutely no bearing on her eye health, although it sure makes her look cool. It's easy to mistake a bordoodle for an Aussiedoodle , which is a poodle mixed with an Australian shepherd. And that's understandable, as border collies and Australian shepherds look a great deal alike! Bordoodles are also sometimes called borderdoodles, borpoos, or borderpoos. It's up to you whether you prefer the doodle or the poo suffix. Add a little more cuteness to your timeline by following bordoodles including Rosie , Molly and Dougal , and Griffey on Instagram. Was this page helpful? They love to play games, go on hikes, and be part of the family. Bordoodles love kids and get along well with other animals. They don't usually bark, except to warn of a stranger on your property. Bordoodles are usually hypoallergenic and are low to non-shedding. Bordoodles also excel in agility sports and are super desirable as service dogs due to their high I. We ask that you provide detailed answers whenever possible. Our Bordoodles are very smart, patient, intuitive, and level-headed. These are the ideal traits required in all service dogs regardless of the modality. In addition to our breeding program, Mountain Rose also owns the largest training operation in Utah. In our 8, sq ft facility, located in Morgan, Utah, we specialize in training Bordoodles as well as Sheepadoodles. If you are in need of a service dog, we can help you select a Bordoodle or Sheepadoodle puppy that displays the temperament traits consistent with those found in proven service dogs. You can obtain more information about Bordoodles and Bordoodles service dogs by browsing this site. If you would like to learn more about Sheepadoodle service dogs you can visit www. He can also be a bit stubborn but overall a complete joy. He rings his bell to go out to potty, at only 17 weeks can sit, stay, go down, roll over, leave it when treats are placed on his paws very impressive for a little guy , shake a paw or high 5 and has the best and most entertaining personality. He loves people and from what little interaction he has had with other dogs, seems to love them as well. We couldn't be happier with our newest family member. We really enjoyed meeting all the dogs, especially Flower and Finn. Of course, we also enjoyed the chance to speak with you and your trainers Colton and Daniel. Mountain Rose exceeded our expectations. After getting to play with the dogs in person, learning more about your program and seeing for ourselves how the puppies are being raised, we are even more excited about getting a puppy from Mountain Rose. Our fingers are crossed that Flower comes into heat soon! We also enjoyed seeing the Bordoodles at your daughter's house. Jonathan was very accommodating in showing us all five Bordoodles. They were very excited and fun to meet. Thanks again for your hospitality. She originally had reservations about us buying a Bordoodle. She said that she was unfamiliar with this breed and cautioned us and even advised that we may wish to look at a "purebred" dog. We just wanted to share that with you. He has really fit into our family and it's so fun watching him learn our routine.He's made friends with lots of the neighborhood kids and is super friendly with everyone. I take him to puppy school once a week with our son Carter he's 9 because Carter was having some trouble being the "pack leader" when we first got Gussie, but the puppy school has been great and Gus lights up the second Carter gets off the school bus each day. I attached a couple of pictures for you to see how much he's grown! She's so smart that at 4 months old she can play dead when she is shot with a "bang", she can heal like nobody's business, and she sits like a lady waiting for us to open the door before she goes out or comes in. She gets her treats in her bowl after dinner.All in all she's pretty terrific. He is definitely part of our family and we love him so much. He's such a smart dog! I remember when we first got him, his color was black. You said he would likely lighten up. Here's what he looks like now. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Bordoodle Highlights The Bordoodle is a mixed breed dog. They are not purebreds like their Border Collie or Poodle parents. Bordoodles come in a range of coat colors and patterns, usually incorporating a mix of black, white, gray and brown. Brushing your dog one or two times a week should suffice. These dogs are extremely smart, but that intelligence can sometimes manifest itself in destructive behavior if the dog is left alone or not properly trained. Children and Bordoodles are a great mix. A couple of walks every day, totaling around 45 minutes, should do the trick to keep the dog happy and healthy. But if you take a look at the history of their parent breeds, you can start to understand where the Bordoodle comes from. The Poodle breed can be traced all the way back to ancient Egypt times. After that, the dog became popular in France as a duck hunting dog. The Bordoodle has become known as a designer dog breed, but many of them unfortunately end up in shelters. Bordoodle Size The Bordoodle is usually described as a medium-sized dog. Although, as is always the case with newer dog breeds, exact size standards might vary. Most weigh in at 30 to 60 pounds and range in height from twelve to 22 inches. This is true. The mixed breed usually gets along great with families and will love to become a part of daily activities and routines. Just be warned that this same intelligence can sometimes manifest itself in destructive behavior if the dog is left alone or not properly trained. So make sure to let the Bordoodle become a central part of your family and enjoy a great dog! Also be aware that the Bordoodle will quickly become protective towards the family that adopts them. While the mixed breed might not look like a classic guard dog, they will prove wary of strangers. Bordoodle Health Bordoodles are generally considered to be healthy dogs; although, the mixed breed can be predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Border Collie and Poodle face. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. The Bordoodle is a dog with medium energy and exercise needs. Consult your regular vet if you need advice on how best to carry out canine teeth cleanings. Make sure to check their ears for debris or pests and clean them as recommended by your vet. Bordoodle Feeding An ideal Bordoodle diet should be formulated for a medium breed with medium energy. Shedding is on the lower side of things—brushing the dog one or two times a week should suffice. In general, the Bordoodle is an adaptable dog when it comes to climate. Also, during hotter months, make sure shade and fresh water are always available during outdoor play and activity sessions. Bordoodle Children And Other Pets Children and Bordoodles are a great mix—just be sure to follow the usual guidelines of ensuring proper socialization and training takes place at an early age for both kids and dogs. When it comes to existing household pets, the breed is usually fine. But always supervise those first interactions and make sure that boundaries are set if necessary. Ultimately, early socialization really pays off with this breed. Make sure to reward your Bordoodle for good behavior and adhere to a proper training regime when you bring them home to your family. Bordoodle Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Bordoodles because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Border Collie or Poodle breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Keep in mind that Bordoodles can be found in shelters too. Like any dog, Bordoodles require time, energy, and attention from their owners. Potential owners should be prepared to spend time training, playing, and walking on a regular basis. Fun, adventure, and lots of snuggles should also be expected. But their luxurious coat makes it fun to groom the Bordoodle. The long coat is easy to style in several ways, so your Bordoodle could sport a short coat during the summer and a fancier long style when the winter months arrive. They Inherit the Best of Both Worlds The Bordoodle tends to inherit the best traits of their parents, while the lesser desirable traits are muted. This dog thrives in a training environment and tends to excel at the art of obedience. Bordoodles have a long attention span, a solid work ethic, and a bubbly personality. This breed loves praise and will do just about anything to get it. They are motivated by food, which makes treats an excellent tool to use during training time. Bordoodles are very sociable and can get along with anyone who is gentle with them. Because the Bordoodle is protective of their family, socialization as a puppy is a must to ensure positive interactions with houseguests. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They enjoy trips to the dog park where they can meet new friends on a regular basis. There are a lot of considerations to make before taking the plunge and adopting a pup of your own. The amount could be anywhere from one to three cups. With medium energy personalities, this breed can do well lounging around in an apartment or taking daily hikes in the woods. The more active your dog is, the more food they will require to fuel their energy needs. A high-quality food that contains no fillers like fructose, corn, or soy should be offered for optimal health and longevity. Additional foods such as beef, eggs , and shredded carrots can be offered occasionally as a treat for additional nutrition. Bordoodles should drink about an ounce of water for every pound that they weigh. Offering a never-ending supply of fresh clean water will help ensure that they get all they need. A day can be skipped here and there if the schedule is too packed, but more than a missed day could lead to boredom. So, in addition to a minimum of several walks each week your Bordoodle should be exercised indoors with the help of training toys and obedience games. Some playtime in the yard or park with other dogs is also a good idea to help burn some energy and keep this breed socialized. Luckily, their intelligence makes it a breeze to teach them obedience. In fact, even children can have success in teaching a Bordoodle how to sit and stay. Bordoodles do so well with obedience training that they tend to be regular participants in obedience competitions. Agility training is doable. But unlike their Border Collie parents, the laid-back personality of the Bordoodle may inhibit a serious interest in the sport. Focusing on the basic obedience commands will produce a well-rounded pooch that it is to work and live with. In addition to weekly brushing, occasional nail clipping and teeth brushing, and weekly ear cleaning, most Bordoodles need a haircut now and then to keep their coats from matting and knotting up. Without a good haircut, this breed can quickly start to look homeless. Owners should be prepared to take their pooch to the groomers every couple of months unless they want to learn how to do the job themselves. The good news is that haircuts tend to be a fun task because different styles can be created each time. Minor Conditions. The latest from Oregon Bordoodles! Check us out on Facebook for the latest news, upcoming litters and fun antics. Testimonials Wilder, now 3 month old, is awesome. He loves all of us, loves to please, and loves to explore and learn. Several neighbors and friends are jealous, and others have asked to help them with theirs. However, we met one of your older dogs at a restaurant last year, asked the owner about him, and immediately began researching Oregon Bordoodles. She is the most personable, intelligent dog I have ever owned. When we started looking into getting a Bordoodle we were fortunate to find Danielle, who answered all our many questions and worked closely with us throughout the process of picking a puppy and finally bringing our baby home. He is a spunky, energetic, loving dog. He loves to play and he is very brilliant. He can learn tricks in 10 minutes and will remember them forever. All of our lives have changed with his presence, but we would not trade him for any dog! It has been pure ease and love on every step of our journey. Lassie Grace is a love, with over the top energy and enthusiasm for life, hikes miles easily, with daily mile walks. Strong, muscular, guardian of her domain, still very puppy with ongoing training as she matures, never met a stranger human or canine , shining star at the vet and groomer they all love her disposition and they send me compliment notes on the joy she brings into their work space. She is high test energy yet mellows and melts right into you for love, confidently submissive, a total kid dog. The puppies were happy and at play in their warm and loving farm environment. We picked our female, red merle pup and named her Daisy. Danielle has provided us with excellent technical and emotional support as Daisy has grown. We love our year and half year old Bordoodle. Daisy is extremely cheerful, freindly and smart. She enjoys all ages of people, especially children. She is low shedding and rarely barks. As a very active dog, she requires consistent and lively exercise and play. Daisy is a great addition to our family and we love her dearly! Are you wondering what a "Bordoodle" is? Bordoodles are extremely intelligent, friendly and eager to please. They get along well with other dogs and children and are very easy to train. Bordoodles are often referred to as a "designer breed" or "Poodle Hybrid" which is not, technically, true, as all dogs are the same species. They are a crossbreed between the Border Collie and the Poodle, combining the intelligence and herding abilities of the Border Collie with the hypoallergenic coat and charming personality of the Poodle. The exact origin of Bordoodles is still being determined, as with most designer dog breeds. They are believed to have been first intentionally bred in the late 20th century, primarily in Australia and the United States. Breeders aimed to create a dog with the desirable traits of both parent breeds, such as intelligence, trainability, athleticism, and a low-shedding coat. Bordoodle Generations Over time, different generations of Bordoodles have been developed, each with its own set of characteristics and traits. Since both parent breeds are distinctly different, the puppies from this cross exhibit a wide range of traits in appearance and temperament. They may inherit more characteristics from one parent breed over the other or display a balanced blend of features from both breeds. Breeders often backcross with a Poodle to increase hypoallergenic qualities and reinforce herding abilities. F1b Bordoodles tend to have higher predictability of traits compared to F1 Bordoodles. There is a greater chance for traits to stabilize and become more consistent. F2 Bordoodles can still display variations in appearance and temperament due to genetic recombination. Some dogs may resemble one parent more strongly, while others may show a balanced mix of traits. This generation is often sought after for its potential to produce puppies with a more predictable set of traits. By introducing another backcross, breeders aim to refine specific qualities in the offspring, such as coat texture, size, or temperament. Multigenerational Bordoodle A multigenerational Bordoodle refers to a dog that is the result of breeding two or more generations of Bordoodles. Breeding multigenerational Bordoodles aims to establish a more consistent breed standard while retaining the desired traits from the parent breeds. What Does a Bordoodle Look Like? They have a sturdy and athletic physique, combining the agility and grace of the Border Collie with the elegance of the Poodle. They have a moderate yet strong bone structure, giving them a sense of athleticism and agility. Their head is usually rounded with expressive eyes and floppy or semi-erect ears. One of the standout features of the Bordoodle is its coat, which can vary in texture and length depending on the genetic traits inherited from its parents. As for coat color, Bordoodles can have a wide array of variations, including black, white, cream, brown, merle, and combinations thereof. How big will a Border Collie Poodle mix get? Bordoodle typically falls into the medium-sized category. On average, they can reach a height ranging from 12 to 22 inches 31 to 56 cm at the shoulder. The weight of a Bordoodle usually falls between 30 and 60 pounds 14 to 27 kg , depending on various factors such as genetics, diet, and exercise. They inherit traits from both parent breeds, creating a unique blend of characteristics. The Border Collie is renowned for its intelligence, energy, and herding instincts. These dogs are highly trainable, diligent, and thrive when given tasks to perform. They are known for their loyalty and strong bonds with their families. Border Collies are generally alert, responsive, and highly active, requiring regular mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and potential behavior issues. Border Collie Conversely, Poodles are highly intelligent, versatile, and often have a balanced temperament. They are known for their friendly nature, adaptability, and eagerness to please their owners. Poodles are usually quick learners and enjoy participating in various activities, such as obedience training, agility, and even water sports. Combining these two breeds in a Bordoodle can result in a dog with a wonderful temperament. Bordoodles are intelligent, eager to learn, and responsive to training. They excel in sports and activities due to their athleticism and agility. They thrive when given mental challenges and excercise. Training a Bordoodle should involve positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewards, praise, and treats. These dogs are highly motivated by positive feedback and will respond well to consistent and structured training methods. Early socialization is crucial for Bordoodles to ensure they develop good manners and become well-adjusted members of society. Are Bordoodles good family dogs? Yes, Bordoodles can be excellent companions for the right family. Their intelligence and trainability make them suitable for families willing to invest time and effort into their training and mental stimulation. However, their high energy levels may not be the best fit for families with a sedentary lifestyle or limited time to dedicate to their exercise needs. Generally, Bordoodles can get along well with children if properly socialized and introduced from an early age. They have a playful nature and can be patient and gentle with kids. However, supervision is always recommended to ensure both the dog and children interact positively and safely. Are they good with other pets? Bordoodles can generally be good with other pets, especially if they are socialized and introduced to them at an early age. Hip Dysplasia: This is a common health issue in many large and medium-sized breeds, including Border Collies and Poodles. It occurs when the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to discomfort and potentially causing arthritis. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding excessive jumping or strenuous activities can help prevent or minimize the impact of hip dysplasia. Consult your veterinarian for further advice; surgical intervention may be necessary in severe cases. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA : PRA is an inherited eye condition that leads to the gradual degeneration of the retina, ultimately resulting in blindness. Regular eye check-ups by a veterinarian can help detect early signs of PRA. Epilepsy: Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurring seizures. While the exact cause is often unknown, it can sometimes be inherited. If your Bordoodle exhibits seizures, consult with a veterinarian who can help diagnose and manage the condition. Allergies: Both Border Collies and Poodles are known to have allergies, and Bordoodles may inherit this predisposition. Allergies can manifest as skin irritations, itching, ear infections, and gastrointestinal issues. Identifying and avoiding allergens, such as certain foods or environmental triggers, can help manage allergies. Your veterinarian may recommend a special diet, medication, or other interventions to alleviate symptoms. On average, Bordoodles have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. However, individual dogs may vary, and factors such as genetics, overall health, and lifestyle can influence their lifespan. Providing proper nutrition, regular exercise, routine veterinary care, and a loving environment can contribute to a longer and healthier life for your Bordoodle. How much exercise does a Bordoodle need? Bordoodles typically benefit from at least one hour of exercise per day. This can include activities such as brisk walks, jogging, playing fetch, and engaging in interactive games or training sessions. Fortunately, the Bordoodle is highly adaptable to apartment living, which means you need not worry even if you reside in an urban area with limited access to extensive outdoor spaces. Since Bordoodles have a herding background from the Border Collie parent, mental stimulation is also important for their overall well-being. Puzzle toys, obedience training, and agility exercises can help meet their intellectual needs. How often should you groom a Border Doodle? Bordoodle has a low-shedding coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting and keep it looking its best. Aim to brush their coat at least two to three times a week, using a slicker brush or a comb to remove any tangles or loose hair. Additionally, regular bathing is recommended every six to eight weeks or as needed, using a mild dog shampoo to keep their coat clean and healthy. Pay attention to their ears, teeth, and nails as well, ensuring they are clean, free of wax buildup, and properly trimmed. What should I feed my Bordoodle? Bordoodle requires a high-quality, balanced diet specifically formulated for active and medium-sized breeds. Look for dog foods that list real meat or fish as the primary ingredient, without fillers or artificial additives. The portion size will depend on factors such as age, weight, and activity level. How Much Does a Bordoodle Cost? Remember that the initial cost of acquiring a puppy is just one aspect of pet ownership. There are additional expenses to consider, including veterinary care, vaccinations, grooming, food, training, and general supplies. These platforms allow you to search for Bordoodle puppies based on location and other preferences. Breed-specific Websites: Some breeders have their own websites dedicated to Bordoodles. These websites provide detailed information about their breeding practices, available puppies, and often include photos and testimonials from previous buyers. Local Dog Shows and Events: Attending dog shows, agility trials, or breed-specific events can be a great way to connect with reputable Bordoodle breeders. These events provide an opportunity to meet breeders in person, ask questions, and potentially see their dogs in action. Check local event listings or contact your nearest kennel club for information on upcoming events. Bordoodle Rescue Sites In addition to purchasing a Bordoodle from a breeder, you may also consider adopting a rescue Bordoodle. Here are a few rescue organizations that specialize in placing Bordoodles in loving homes: Doodle Rock Rescue Texas, USA : This is a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating Doodles, including Bordoodles. They have a thorough adoption process and ensure that all rescued dogs receive necessary medical care and behavioral assessment before being placed in suitable homes. They have a network of volunteers and foster homes across the United States, making it possible to adopt a Bordoodle regardless of your location. The Bordoodle breed, a cross between a Border Collie and a Poodle, offers a unique combination of intelligence, energy, and affection. They are highly trainable and excel in various activities, including agility and obedience. They have a low shedding coat, making them a good option for people with allergies. Their friendly and loyal nature also makes them wonderful family pets and therapy dogs. Their high energy levels and intelligence require regular mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They thrive in an active household that can provide them with ample exercise and mental engagement. Furthermore, their grooming needs may require regular attention and maintenance to keep their coat healthy and mat-free. If you have any thoughts or questions about Bordoodles, we encourage you to share them in the comments section below. Feel free to discuss training tips, health concerns, or any other topic about these wonderful dogs. Cess Gamas Cess is a seasoned dog enthusiast and expert in the field of canine care. With over 5 years of experience in the Pet Industry, she is a go-to resource for dog owners seeking expert guidance. As the Head of Content Writing at Border Collie Health, Cess shares her extensive knowledge through informative articles and practical tips. Beyond her professional role, she actively volunteers at local shelters and enjoys participating in dog-related events. Life Span Did You Know? The Bordoodle is a designer dog breed. They are a cross between a Border Collie and a Poodle. Although a hybrid breed can take on any combination of characteristics of one or both of the parent breeds, the Bordoodle tends to be a friendly, affectionate, and loyal family dog. The Bordoodle is a playful, loving, and affectionate family dog. They get along well with children, other pets, and other dogs. They can be protective and initially wary of strangers, but do not tend to be aggressive as long as they have been properly socialized. As with any dog breed, poor socialization or training can result in poor behavior including fear-based aggression. But, these dogs generally have a lively, social, and friendly disposition. Although the Bordoodle tends to have a lot of energy, they can adapt well to just about any living situation. They will do well in large homes with room to roam as well as apartments as long as they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. They also do well in most climates. As with any dog, they are sensitive to heat and extreme cold. Because Bordoodles bond closely with their families, they thrive on attention and affection. This, paired with the fact that they are easily bored, means they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. A mixed breed can inherit the potential health concerns of one, both, or neither of the parent breeds. For the Bordoodle, potential health concerns to be aware of include allergies, epilepsy , hip dysplasia, and progressive retinal atrophy. Responsible breeders will screen their stock to ensure preventable issues are not being passed on to puppies. Bordoodles tend to be highly intelligent. Although they are eager to please and tend to pick up on things quickly, they are also easily bored. This can pose a challenge for some first-time dog owners. But, overall, the Bordoodle tends to be highly trainable and a good fit for dog owners of all experience levels. They are eager to learn and respond best to positive methods focused on praise and rewards. Puppy training classes are always an option and are a great way to socialize a puppy too. When it comes to coat care, the Border Collie is lower maintenance than the Poodle even though they shed more. You need to be prepared for either type of coat or anything in between with your Bordoodle. The Poodle coat may be low-shedding, but it requires daily brushing and almost monthly grooming in order to stay healthy. The Border Collie coat sheds moderately year-round with heavier shedding sessions twice a year as the seasons change. Brushing a Border Collie is on a weekly basis and bathing is as needed. Weekly ear checks with careful cleaning as needed can help prevent ear infections. The Bordoodle can range from moderate to high energy. Daily walks plus some playtime and time to run should be sufficient to keep this dog happy and healthy. Trips to the dog park, playing frisbee, hiking, running, swimming with your dog , and more can all be great activities for you and your Bordoodle to do together. A fully-grown Bordoodle usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. A Bordoodle generally lives years. Bordoodle Puppies for Sale.
Please keep in mind that these are estimates to give you a general idea of how tall your French Bulldog puppy will be. At what age is a French Bulldog fully grown? A French Bulldog will reach close to their full weight around eight to twelve months old and maximum height around nine to twelve months of age. French Bulldogs will continue to slowly fill out anywhere between nine to fifteen months of age. They are considered fully grown around 12 to 14 months old, but may continue to put on muscle until they are two years old. How big should a 6-month-old French Bulldog be? A male French Bulldog will weigh between 17 and 22 pounds at six months old and have an average weight of .A six-month-old female French Bulldog will weigh between 13 and 20 pounds with an average weight of 17 pounds. Both male and female French Bulldogs will stand around seven to nine inches on average. Learn all about your puppy's physical characteristics, breed history, personality traits, and more in our comprehensive guide. French Bulldogs usually reach their full height when they are between nine and twelve months old. As short dogs, French Bulldogs barely double in height from three months of age to 1 year old. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, this is a telltale sign that they are still growing! What is the size of a full-grown French Bulldog? Most female French Bulldogs will weigh about 17 to 24 pounds, while male French Bulldogs weigh about 20 to 28 pounds. Both male and female French Bulldogs will stand 11 to 13 inches tall and have a muscular, heavy-boned build. How do I make sure my French Bulldog is healthy? As a purebred dog breed, French Bulldogs are more prone to genetic health problems. In particular, French Bulldogs are predisposed to skin problems, ear infections, diarrhea, eye problems, spinal injury and respiratory distress caused by their brachycephalic syndrome. Brachycephalic syndrome causes them to have a flat nose and shorter esophagus, creating a heightened risk of breathing problems. The Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine found that about half of French Bulldogs have significant breathing problems and .In addition to this, French Bulldogs are prone to obesity , which can lead to type 2 diabetes, osteoarthritis, disc disease, high blood pressure, heart disease, and further respiratory issues. Pro Tip: Compare pet insurance plans to save on veterinary expenses and ensure that the cost of care never interferes with the essential treatment your pet deserves. Most French Bulldogs do well with a leisurely walk or active playtime. Be careful with taking your French Bulldog out in hot weather though as their brachycephalic syndrome makes them prone to overheating and heat stroke. As a general rule temperatures over 80 degrees should be avoided for French Bulldogs. As loving pet parents, we never want to think the worst could happen to our furbaby. However, we must prepare for both everyday costs, like vaccinations and veterinarian appointments, and emergencies. Dog Insurance is here to help you with emergency costs, as well as expected costs like veterinarian care see the wellness options many pet insurance plans offer. Only .Pet insurance can help you provide your pup with quality routine and emergency care. Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance. Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top providers so you can find a great deal with great coverage. Key Takeaways On average, French Bulldogs weigh between pounds at age one, with inches in height. French Bulldogs stop growing around months old, so pet owners should be mindful of weight gain after their first birthday. As a breed, French Bulldogs are exceptionally prone to obesity, which can worsen breathing problems and lead to a number of secondary health concerns. Use our French Bulldog growth chart to monitor your puppy's weight and ensure they stay within a healthy range. Pet insurance promotes positive veterinary care and offsets the cost of services should your Frenchie get sick or injured at any point in life. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Read more about the pups that are currently up for adoption. Read More… Foster Dogs FBRN is being faced with an increasing number of dogs who are ill, handicapped, or need expensive veterinary care before being placed. Meet our Foster Frenchies and please consider sponsoring one of them to ensure that they receive the care that they need. Read More… Surrender a Dog Life has thrown you a curve ball and you must surrender your French Bulldog… we are here to help! Read More… Volunteer We welcome you to join us in our efforts to rehabilitate and rehome needy French Bulldogs. We have many options for you to choose from, depending on your circumstances, time and resources. Our organization is composed solely of volunteers who nurture and foster these dogs as well as provide education and training. Our goal is to place healthy and happy French Bulldogs into forever homes. Read More… Contact Us Learn about the many ways that you can get in touch with us. He has a Staffie sister, Lettie, who he adores and who has taught him so much with her gentle patience. He has doggie friends at daycamp he sees once a week. He is the best snuggler ever! He used to be a resource guarder, but will now bring you his toys for a treat! He loves our daily walks and meeting people. Thank you FBRN for picking us to be his family- we love him so much! Despite being mostly blind and deaf, Ham is thriving in his golden years, especially with his folks now working from home. Thank you FBRN for our goodest good boy! We are so grateful for every day with him. She had cherry eye surgery in March right before Covid quarantine and the surgery was a success. A gigantic thank you to FBRN for allowing me to adopt this perfect little nugget. All Rights Reserved. A c 3 Non-Profit Organization. Tax ID: .Powered by Geeks4Rent. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic French Bulldog Overview Bat-eared but oddly beautiful, the French Bulldog has a unique appeal. Aesthetically, other breeds undeniably are more glamorous and showy, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder and what many behold in the French Bulldog are the attributes that make this breed one of the best companion dogs in the world today. The French Bulldog is small but substantial in build with a powerful muscular body. He sports a short easy-care coat to accompany his easygoing personality. The Frenchie likes to play, but he also enjoys spending his days relaxing on the sofa. That love of play and relaxed attitude carry over into their training sessions. French Bulldogs are intelligent, and training them is easy as long as you make it seem like a game and keep it fun. They are free thinkers and are not an ideal breed for competing in obedience or agility although some have risen to the challenge. This freethinking approach can also lead to a stubborn nature, and if they decide to dig in their heels there is no budging them. Frenchies are loving companions who thrive on human contact. If you want an outdoor dog who can be left alone for long periods, the Frenchie is not the breed for you. This is a dog who enjoys lavishing love on his human companions as much as he loves the same treatment in return. They generally get along well with everyone, including children. They can, however, be territorial and possessive of their people, especially in the presence of other dogs. Socialization is a must for this breed, but with their easy companionship this is an enjoyable task. With a nature that is both humorous and mischievous, the French Bulldog needs to live with someone who is consistent, firm, and patient with all the antics and idiosyncrasies that make him both frustrating and delightful. They can be protective of their home and family and some will try to defend both with their life. French Bulldogs do not need a lot of room and do very well in apartments or small dwellings. A couple of minute walks per day should keep them from becoming overweight. Keep the Frenchie in cool, comfortable surroundings. This is not a dog who can stay outside on a hot day. French Bulldogs are wonderful companion dogs with a gentle nature. If you work at home, the Frenchie is happy to lie at your feet all day or follow you from room to room. French Bulldog Highlights Friendly and playful: French Bulldogs are known for their friendly and playful personality. They love to cuddle and play fetch. Low-maintenance: French Bulldogs are relatively low-maintenance dogs. They only require moderate exercise and grooming. Good with children: French Bulldogs are good with children and other pets. They make great family dogs. Intelligent: French Bulldogs are intelligent dogs and can be easily trained. Adaptable: French Bulldogs can adapt to different living conditions. They are a good choice for apartment dwellers or people with active lifestyles. Healthy: French Bulldogs are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to some health problems, such as brachycephalic airway syndrome and cherry eye. Overall, French Bulldogs are great dogs for people of all ages and lifestyles. They are friendly, playful, and low-maintenance, making them a perfect addition to any family. They were originally bred to be bull-baiting dogs, but this practice was outlawed in England in .French Bulldogs were then imported to France where they became popular as companion dogs. In France, French Bulldogs were often kept by lacemakers and other artisans who worked in small shops. The dogs were prized for their gentle nature and their ability to adapt to cramped living quarters. French Bulldogs also became popular with the French upper class, and they were often depicted in paintings and sculptures. French Bulldogs were first brought to the United States in the late s, and they quickly became popular with American families. The dogs were known for their friendly and playful personality, and they made great companions for children. French Bulldogs also became popular with celebrities, and they were often featured in movies and television shows. Today, French Bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. They are known for their friendly and playful personality, their low-maintenance coat, and their adaptability to different living conditions. French Bulldogs make great companions for people of all ages and lifestyles. The French Bulldog thrived in France and Europe, and his charm was soon discovered by Americans as well. Males weigh 20 to 28 pounds, females 16 to 24 pounds. French Bulldog Personality This is a smart, loving dog who wants and needs to spend lots of time with his people. Hip dysplasia can exist with or without clinical signs. Some dogs exhibit pain and lameness on one or both rear legs. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Ask the breeder for proof that the parents have been tested for hip dysplasia and found to be free of problems. Brachycephalic Syndrome : This disorder is found in dogs with short heads, narrowed nostrils, or elongated or soft palates. Their airways are obstructed to varying degrees and can cause anything from noisy or labored breathing to total collapse of the airway. Dogs with brachycephalic syndrome commonly snuffle and snort. Treatment varies depending on the severity of the condition but includes oxygen therapy as well as surgery to widen nostrils or shorten palates. Allergies: Allergies are a common problem in dogs. The medication for inhalant allergies depends on the severity of the allergy. It is important to note that ear infections often accompany inhalant allergies. Hemivertebrae: This is a malformation of one or more vertebrae that causes it to be shaped like a wedge or triangle. This malformation can occur on its own or with other vertebrae malformations. Hemivertebra can cause no problems, or it can put pressure on the spinal cord. This can lead to pain, weakness, and or paralysis. There is no treatment for the condition unless there is spinal cord pressure. It is caused when the patella, which has three parts — the femur thigh bone , patella knee cap , and tibia calf — is not properly lined up and slips in and out of place luxates. This causes lameness or an abnormal gait the way the dog moves. The rubbing caused by patellar luxation can lead to arthritis, a degenerative joint disease. There are four grades of patellar luxation ranging from grade I, an occasional luxation causing temporary lameness in the joint, to grade IV, in which the turning of the tibia is severe and the patella cannot be realigned manually. This gives the dog a bowlegged appearance. Severe grades of patellar luxation may require surgical repair. When the disc pushes into the spinal cord, nerve transmissions are inhibited from traveling along the spinal cord. Intervertebral Disc Disease can be caused by trauma, age, or simply from the physical jolt that occurs when a dog jumps off a sofa. When the disc ruptures, the dog usually feels pain and the ruptured disc can lead to weakness and temporary or permanent paralysis. In some cases surgery can help, but it must be done within a day or so of the injury. You may also want to ask your veterinarian about physical rehabilitation. Treatments such as massage, water treadmills and electrical stimulation are available for dogs and can have excellent success. It affects the clotting process due to the reduction of von Willebrand factor in the blood. Occasionally blood is found in the stool. This disorder is usually diagnosed in your dog between the ages of 3 and 5 and cannot be cured. However, it can be managed with treatments that include cauterizing or suturing injuries, transfusions of the von Willebrand factor before surgery, and avoiding certain medications. Cleft Palate : The palate is the roof of the mouth and separates the nasal and oral cavities. It is made up of two parts, hard and soft. A cleft palate has a slit that runs bilaterally or unilaterally and can range in size from a small hole to a large slit. A cleft palate can affect both the hard and soft palate separately and together and may cause a cleft lip. Puppies can be born with cleft palates, or a cleft palate can occur from an injury. Cleft palates are fairly common in dogs, but many puppies born with a cleft palate do not survive or are euthanized by the breeder. The only treatment for a cleft palate is surgery to close the hole, although not all dogs with a cleft palate require the surgery. It is important to get a diagnosis and treatment recommendation from your veterinarian. Elongated Soft Palate: The soft palate is the extension of the roof of the mouth. When the soft palate is elongated, it can obstruct airways and cause difficulty in breathing. The treatment for Elongated Soft Palate is surgical removal of the excess palate. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site offa. Regardless of how healthy your dog is when you first bring them home, you should prepare for any issues that may come up throughout their life. French Bulldog Care French Bulldogs do not need a lot of exercise. They have fairly low energy levels, although there are exceptions to every rule. To keep their weight down, however, they need daily exercise through short walks or play times in the yard. Many French Bulldogs enjoy playing and will spend much of their time in various activities, but they are not so high energy that they need a large yard or long periods of exercise. This breed is prone to heat exhaustion and should not be exercised in hot temperatures. Limit walks and active play to cool mornings and evenings. When training a French Bulldog, take into account that although they are intelligent and usually eager to please, they are also free thinkers. That means they can be stubborn. It is important to crate train your French Bulldog puppy even if you plan to give him the freedom of the house when he reaches adulthood. French Bulldog Feeding Recommended daily amount: 1 to 1. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. For more on feeding your Frenchie, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. The skin is loose and wrinkled, especially at the head and shoulders, and has a soft texture. French Bulldogs come in a variety of colors, including fawn, cream, various shades of brindle — a coat patterned with specks and streaks of light and dark markings — such as black brindle and the striking tiger brindle, and brindle and white, known as brindle pied. French Bulldogs can be any color except solid black, liver a solid reddish-brown with brown pigmentation on the lips and nose , mouse a light steely gray , and black with white or tan. Run from any breeder who tells you that a particular color is rare and thus worth more money. Having your heart set on a fawn female is a recipe for disappointment when the litter contains only cream and brindle males. French Bulldogs are fairly easy to groom and need only an occasional brushing to keep their coat healthy. They are average shedders. Begin grooming your Frenchie at a young age and teach your puppy to stand on a table or floor to make this experience easier on both of you. When you are grooming your Frenchie at any stage of life, take the time to check for any scabs, skin lesions, bare spots, rough, flaky skin, or signs of infections. You should also check ears, eyes and teeth for any discharge or bad smells. Both are signs that your Frenchie may need to see the veterinarian. Clean ears regularly with a damp warm cloth and run a cotton swab around the edge of the canal. Never stick the cotton swab into the actual ear canal. If the edges of the ears are dry, apply mineral or baby oil sparingly. The oil can also be used on a dry nose. French Bulldogs do not naturally wear their nails down and will need their nails trimmed regularly. This prevents splitting and tearing, which can be painful for the dog. Keep the facial wrinkles clean and dry to prevent bacterial infections. Whenever you bathe your dog, take the time to thoroughly dry the skin between the folds. Bathe your French Bulldog monthly or as needed, and use a high-quality dog shampoo to keep the natural oils in his skin and coat. French Bulldogs should be easy to groom, and with proper training and positive experiences during puppyhood, grooming can be a wonderful bonding time for you and your Frenchie. That said, no dog should ever be left alone with a young child. When they are socialized to them during puppyhood, Frenchies can get along well with other dogs and cats. French Bulldog Rescue Groups French Bulldogs are often acquired without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one, and these dogs often end up in the care of rescue groups, in need of adoption or fostering. All dogs will need veterinary care at some point in their lives. French Bulldog Breed Organizations Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have health problems and behavioral issues. Below are breed clubs, organizations, and associations where you can find additional information about the French Bulldog. It appeared in Paris in the mid-nineteenth century, apparently the result of cross-breeding of Toy Bulldogs imported from England and local Parisian ratters. History[ edit ] From the beginning of the nineteenth century bulldogs were bred in the United Kingdom for purposes other than traditional blood sports such as bull-baiting, which were banned in .By , there were few Toy Bulldogs left in England, such was their popularity in France, and due to the exploits of specialist dog exporters. The dogs were highly fashionable and were sought after by society ladies and Parisian prostitutes alike, as well as creatives such as artists, writers, and fashion designers. As it changed, terrier stock had been brought in to develop traits such as the breed's long straight ears. One of its ancestors was the English bulldog. Americans had been importing French Bulldogs for a while, but it was not until when they were brought over in order to set up an American-based breeding program. They were mostly owned by society ladies, who first displayed them at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in .The judge in question at the dog show, George Raper, only chose winners with "rose ears"—ears that folded at the tip, as with the standard for Bulldogs. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed quickly after the breed club was formed, and by the French Bulldog was the fifth most popular dog breed in America. The Kennel Club initially recognized them as a subset of the existing Bulldog breed rather than an entirely new breed. Cousens, a meeting was held to set up a breed club in order to seek individual recognition for the French breed. According to the American Kennel Club, the French Bulldog has overtaken the Labrador as the most popular breed of dog. Before , Labradors had held the top spot for 31 years. Keep on reading to learn everything about French Bulldog puppies! French bulldogs All you need to know about Frenchies: a short summary History in a nutshell French Bulldogs were first bred as a smaller version of the English Bulldog in the 19th-century England. They were particularly popular among lacemakers in Nottinghamshire, who initially kept them to chase rats but soon fell in love with their small size and calm, friendly nature. After the Industrial Revolution, they had to move to southern France where lacemaking was still done by hand and took their dogs with them. Frenchies soon got popular in the circles of French artists, actors, writers in Paris as well as rich Americans visiting the city. In fact, they loved Frenchies so much that they took them to the US, where they finally got recognized by the AKC in .Frenchie Characteristics French Bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds thanks to their fun, adaptable, friendly nature and distinctive look. You can easily recognize them by their flat, heavily wrinkled faces and large, erect bat ears, which make them absolutely adorable. Despite having the strong, muscular body of a bulldog Frenchies are small in size: adult males usually weigh 20 to 28 pounds while females are 16 to 24 pounds. Frenchie Colors Frenchies come in a wide variety of different colors and patterns. There are standard French Bulldog colors like black, fawn, cream and patterns like pied and brindle, which are considered common for the breed. Rare and unique colors like blue and lilac, as well as patterns like tan and merle have gained more popularity in recent years. Frenchie Personality French Bulldogs probably have the biggest personality among all the dog breeds. They are funny, friendly and insanely affectionate, making them the perfect companions for anyone. They are also highly intelligent and need a fair amount of mental stimulation. Frenchies are like small children: simply irresistible! Giving only high- quality food, ensuring regular training and exercise, finding a good vet and not exposing them to too much heat is also essential to provide a long and happy life for your French Bulldog. They are little clowns who always do something silly to make you laugh! They are amazing companions who get along with everyone in the family from small kids to older people, other dog breeds and even cats. Shall we go on?! The exact amount usually depends on various factors like the color, gender and age of a puppy as well as the breeder you get your puppy from. Breeding Frenchies requires a lot of time, effort, care and money, so those who are dedicated to only having high-quality and healthy French Bulldog puppies will ask a larger sum starting from 4, USD. Colors and patterns considered common for the breed like black brindle and fawn have the lowest prices ranging from 4, to 5, USD, while blue, lilac and merle which are more unique and harder to produce come at a higher price as well ranging from 6, to 8, USD. Isabella and fluffy Frenchies are the rarest, most valuable and most expensive from 8, to 30, USD. When it comes to age and gender, younger female Frenchies usually cost a couple of hundreds more than older male puppies. What's included in the price? Vocality level 3 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. Temperament The French Bulldog is a clown in a lapdog. They enjoy playing and entertaining their family, as well as cuddling and snoozing with their favorite person. They are amiable, sweet, companionable, and willing to please. A short walk on lead is sufficient to meet most of its physical needs. Frenchie snores and may wheeze and drool. Require minimal coat care Facial wrinkles should be regularly cleaned. Brachycephalic syndrome stenotic nares, elongated soft palate Intervertebral disk disease CHD seldom causes symptoms or problems Allergies History Where are French Bulldogs from? In the nineteenth century, the Bulldog was fairly popular in England, especially around Nottingham. The French women, especially, were attracted to these little Bulldogs, especially those with erect ears a common but disliked feature in England. Dog dealers brought more of the clownish little dogs to France, where they soon became the rage of Paris. The dogs were dubbed Bouledogue Francais. How big do French Bulldogs get? Some Bulldogs are quite small weighing less than 25 lbs, however, dogs in this breed on average, weigh 28 lbs. What are some French Bulldog facts and information? Facts French Bulldogs are best known for: Bat ears. Life Span Did You Know? While the name of this breed is the French Bulldog, their origins cannot be credited to only France. One of the facts about French Bulldogs is that the idea and reason for the creation of the breed originated in England. This adorable dog breed, which has always been meant to be a companion, started as a miniature version of the English Bulldog. This mini-version accompanied lace workers across the English Channel and into France during the Industrial Revolution. Once the dog breed became prominent in France, the subsequent successful crossbreeding of the English Bulldog, Pug, and Terrier led to the creation of the modern-day Frenchie. The French Bulldog we know today originally came to the United States with groups of wealthy Americans who came across them and fell in love while touring Europe in the late s. The French Bulldog was recognized by the American Kennel Club in and is a member of the non-sporting group. The French Bulldog is an easygoing, affectionate, and playful dog that loves their family and gets along well with children. They also love to make new friends, which means they get along well with other dogs, animals, and people. Intelligent and affectionate, this small dog breed certainly wins over hearts and earns its status as a popular companion dog. Frenchies are not known to bark much, unless you train them into it, but they are naturally alert and make excellent watchdogs. As long as they are well-socialized and trained, they tend to have an open and friendly nature. The Frenchie is a highly adaptable dog that pretty much adapts to any living situation that includes plenty of love and attention. Being a short-snouted, snub-nosed dog breed, they do not tolerate heat very well and are also sensitive to cold. This tends to make them one of the dog breeds that hate winter and you will want to make sure to bundle them up to stay warm while out on cold winter walks. Because Frenchies bond closely with their families and thrive on attention from them, they do not tolerate long periods of time alone. They can also be prone to developing separation anxiety if they are poorly socialized or you do not work with them on this when they are young. Potential health concerns to be aware of in French Bulldogs can include cataracts, cherry eye, and entropion. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances. Heart and joint certifications are recommended for this breed. Playful and happy, the French Bulldog is a great fit for a novice dog owner. They are sweet-tempered, eager to please, and eager to train. Occasionally, Frenchies can be stubborn and they do tend to have big personalities. Although this can sometimes be a challenge for first-time dog owners, it can usually be overcome with consistent and patient training. Puppy training classes are always an option and offer plenty of benefits aside from training. Standard coat colors for Frenchies are Brindle, Cream, Fawn, and combinations of these. They have a short coat that will shed a little year-round. Nail trims once or twice a month keep nails from growing too long and causing issues. Weekly ear checks, along with careful cleanings as needed, can help prevent ear infections. As a small dog breed, the Frenchie is more prone to developing gum disease. Daily dental care plus cleanings at the vet as needed can help prevent this and other painful dental diseases later in life. You will also need to take care of the wrinkles. Frenchies have hereditary face wrinkles and it is important to keep them clean and dry to prevent skin irritation or possible infection. The French Bulldog is an easygoing companion breed. They can be one of the laziest dog breeds that are couch potatoes. Frenchies will often be energetic when they play and will try to match their activity to yours. So, if you live a more active lifestyle, you need to be careful that your French Bulldog is not overexerting themselves trying to keep up with you. As a Brachycephalic or snub-nosed dog, they cannot cool themselves as easily and are extra sensitive to heat. They can also get winded easily, so be aware of this when playing with your dog or puppy and watch for signs of overexertion. There are safe ways to exercise flat-faced dogs and you can work with your vet on specifics for your Frenchie if needed. French Bulldogs usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Frenchies generally live for years on average. With this dog breed being so popular, there are plenty of celebrities who have chosen the French Bulldog as their companion, which also means there are plenty of famous Frenchies out there. Also, French Bulldogs cannot swim, at least without a life vest. They can be taught to swim while wearing one, but they should never be left unattended around bodies of water or swimming pools and require constant supervision while in the water. Featured French Bulldog Article.
Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? Table of Contents Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.All French Bulldog Insights French Bulldog Breed Info If you're seeking an adorable companion with a charmingly squashed face, an easygoing personality, and a distinct penchant for lounging on the couch, the French Bulldog could just be your perfect match. With their signature bat ears and expressive eyes, French Bulldogs, or "Frenchies" as they are lovingly known, have captured the hearts of many dog lovers around the globe, consistently ranking among the most popular breeds. Renowned for their easy maintenance and the ability to thrive in apartment living, French Bulldogs are a city dweller's delight. Their small size, typically weighing under 28 pounds, makes them perfectly suited to compact urban spaces. However, their charming personalities and heartwarming companionship are universally loved, irrespective of city or countryside living. This breed's laid-back nature does not mean they're devoid of fun and play. On the contrary, French Bulldogs can be quite playful and are known for their often comical and entertaining antics, which only further endears them to their owners. Their affectionate demeanor, combined with a remarkably low barking tendency, makes them a joy to have around the house. French Bulldogs are sturdy, compact, and stocky, with a powerful muscular build that contradicts their small size. They have a smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, from fawn and brindle to white and grey. Their facial expressions are human-like, and they're known to "talk" using a complex system of yawns, yips, and gargles. However, owning a French Bulldog does come with responsibilities. Their brachycephalic short-nosed nature makes them prone to certain health issues and less tolerant of extreme temperatures. Despite their muscular appearance, they are not the best swimmers, and care should be taken around bodies of water. The breed actually originated in and around Nottingham, England, which was the center of lace making. This small bulldog was a companion to the lace makers and ratter-in-chief. As the Industrial Revolution took hold in England, cottage industries such as lace making were threatened by mechanization, and many lace makers relocated to France. Toulouse-Lautrec even put a Frenchie in several of his paintings. French Bulldogs are surprisingly good watchdogs. City dwellers love Frenchies. Besides snoring, they make all sorts of snorts, grunts, yips, and other odd noises. If only Rosetta Stone taught Frenchie-language! French Bulldogs can be very stubborn and hard-headed. However, even after they learn a trick or behavior, they may do their own interpretation of it. They may circle the coffee table or jump on and off the furniture, and it will always be exuberant. French Bulldogs have a huge celebrity following just like Toy Poodles for sale. French Bulldogs are sensitive just like Dachshunds for sale. With a mischievous sense of humor, Frenchies are enormously entertain .Of course, children need to be taught how to play with a dog, regardless of breed. Plan on buying lots of toys; a Frenchie is a toy terminator, and enjoys ripping out stuffing and squeakers. Be careful what toys you choose for him and avoid ones that could be choking hazards. Their personalities are as large as their big bat ears. Adaptable, loving, smart, and mischievous, the French Bulldog is pretty much irresistible! We were reluctant to put a deposit because we almost got scammed before and the sell was so trustworthy he held our puppy for us. And when we were ready, he shipped the puppy over as he promised. Thank you guys for everything and making our family complete Ann Belcher Here is a picture of our Heavenly Deja, the day she was delivered to our home from Lovely home French Bulldogs by Thomas.
German Shepherd Dogs in the Wales looking for homes Some of these dogs may not be available. Please go to our Welsh Dogs database Page 1 Page 2 Lucky - Barry This lovely young girl is Lucky, We named her this as she is Lucky GSDR stepped in to help her, she is approximately 8 months old, is fully vaccinated, entire young bitch, she is a lovely Sable coloured short coated girl, very loving, lives with other dogs at present in her foster home, do not like cats, don't know about other small furries as not tested, she do however have a seperation issue which is caused by her up bringing but will be over come with an experienced GSD owner, she would benefit from one to one training due to her seperation issue, this is the only issue she has and once this is over come she will be a great girl. Lucky will give per cent back in love and with a little patience will be a great addition to your home. She is currently in Foster in Barry South Wales. Petra Petra is 5 and unspayed. She has never lived with children but was fine with young children she met out. Petra does not like little dogs or cats, and she will stand up for herself with larger dominating dogs. She has been living with a male GSD and her two 5 month daughters. Friendly with people who are friendly to her. Her recall is good as long as she is not distracted. Petra does have a joint problem on her right rear leg and will struggle if walked more than about 4 miles in a day. Poor Petra has had a horrible start in life. The owner used to beat his wife and no doubt at some stag Petra too. She is very nervous of lighters and matches! She will need confident and understanding owners. Last owner had rehoming as mobility issues walking all of the dogs! Petra has been moved to kennels to keep her safe from this monster, who we believe also beat her. Yetti This lad is Yetti, he came to us with his sister Duchess but it was felt it was better to seperate them so she is also up for rehoming, he is 4 yrs old and a big boy, he is black and tan short coated, he is not up to date with his vaccinations but is nuetured, he will need an experienced gsd owner as he has been shown no bounderies, although he is much better since being in our care, he loves to play ball, is strong on a lead but again getting better, his recall has improved also, he is house trained and with training would make a loving pet, we will not home him with children due to his size but he is very good with other dogs and has in the past lived with cats. He is currently in kennels in Newport, South Wales. Ruby Let us introduce you to the lovely Ruby, she is a stunning black semi coated entire 2 yr old Bitch, Ruby was very well behaved when our assessor went to meet her, she gets excited to start but soon settles, our assessor says Ruby is a very well behaved girl, who loves other dogs and has lived with various other breeds, she will not bother cats, loves children and adults alike, she travels well in the car, likes to have her tummy rubbed, she likes bath time and even likes having her teeth cleaned. Ruby's owners have had her since 8 weeks of age and is only rehoming due to a relationship break up and her present owner working away through the week. Ruby's Booster is due, Ruby will make a fantastic addition to any family and her present owners have done her proud so far. Izzy - gorgeous big blue sable girl with a big personality This is the gorgeous Izzie. She is currently in foster, is very well house trained and has good basic commands but needs work on her recall. She is vocal with people coming to the house when her people are at home; otherwise she is quiet when on her own. She walks well on a check chain or halti. Does get on with some dogs but would be best to be rehomed as an only dog, definitely no cats and ideally with older children. Izzie is crate trained and will travel well in a car in a crate. She has an undershot lower jaw but eats well and picks up her balls, toys with no problems. She has no food, bed or toy aggression. Izzie would ideally suit an experienced home who will provide her with the love and care she so deserves. Check out our gorgeous Izz Wizz Buddy - Hereford comes with a free ball! Buddy is a very large but very skinny 5 year old male who is a victim of neglect out of ignorance. Buddy was bought as a puppy by disabled people in their 70's and consequently has not been given the attention and exercise that such a large dog needs. He came in seriously underweight with chronic diarhoea, sore ears, runny eyes and overgrown claws. He weighed just 29kg when he should probably be around 45kg for his size. He has had problems with his digestive system which is being treated although Buddy may have an underlying allergy to some foods so will need to be fed either raw food or a sensitive dry food. He is a wonderful example of the breed with a super temperament. He ignores other dogs, loves people and even greets the postie with a big waggy tail. He pulls a little on the lead and he always wants to carry his ball with him. He is a very large shepherd and when up to his full weight he is going to look magnificent. Page 1 Page 2 "He is your friend, your partner, your defender, your dog. You are his life, his love, his leader. He will be yours, faithful and true, to the last beat of his heart. You owe it to him to be worthy of such devotion. We also accept Paypal payments - just click on the Paypal button below. Please help support the rescue Please help us by making a donation so that we can help re home more unwanted German Shepherd Dogs. Thank you. German Shepherd Puppies are lovingly home raised and socialized at our modern 5 acre park like Kennel Facility in Florida Jacksonville. These are just a few words that describe our German shepherds. Life with a German Shepherd is a joy that one must experience to appreciate and understand, and the intelligence of these great dogs must be seen to be believed. AKC Registered Puppies In Lake Wales Our dogs have provided countless individuals and families with a loyal pet that has a high aptitude, as well as the ability to provide protection. Each of the German shepherd puppies we have for sale are AKC registered and come from a superior lineage. Notably, our German Shepherds go through rigorous testing to qualify for breeding, as our dogs are bred with top sires that have at least a V or VA show rating. German Shepherds are well known for their character and temperament. Poised and confident, our pups are faithful and intelligent companions. They are also great protection dogs, as many safeguard homes, property or livestock. Our breeding program has earned the the highest level of accomplishments that a kennel in the United States can achieve. All of our German Shepherds come with a written guarantee and have been vet-checked, socialized, vaccinated to date, temperament-tested by a professional dog trainer, and above all, have been very much loved. Our German Shepherds are gorgeous Black and Red color, big boned, and correct structure. This price is determined by the size of the puppy, and includes the flight ticket, pre-flight vet exam, a crate the perfect size for your puppy, and travel to the airport. Every year we hand select dogs to add to our breeding program to improve the breed. Breeding top producing west German Sieger show Line German Shepherds is number one in producing quality German Shepherd puppies for sale. Being a German Shepherd dog breeder requires breeding high quality German Shepherds from some of the top rated German Shepherds in Germany They are superior in health with parents being x-rayed with clear hips and elbows by the OFA or the SV. These German shepherd litters of puppies for sale will make great companion dogs as well as excellent conformation, show and working dogs. Their inclination towards making their masters happy, their mental soundness and their high degree of intelligence have made this dog a successful working dog and masterpiece companion for their owners. Our breeding male shepherds are from top pedigrees. You can also visit us on our Facebook page to see recent news. Visit our website, at any moment you may feel you need more information than what we supply here feel free to Contact Us. Our main goal is to produce dogs that will become very special to you. Contact Us with any questions you have about our puppies or anything else. More Use tab to navigate through the menu items. We had our Maltipoo Holly from Hywel and Elaine at the end of having had a difficult year during the pandemic. From the moment I saw the advert to the time of collecting her both Howells and Elaine were brilliant. They kept us updated with the puppies progress sending photos and videos. When the big day came to collect our new fur baby, we were given great advice on what care she would needs for the next few weeks and onwards along with a puppy pack. On getting her home she settled in almost immediately. Now 6 months old she is beautiful, loving and always ready to play. We are so glad we went to Hywel and Elaine. From the moment we first spoke, their passion and commitment for their dogs shone through. When we visited to meet our girls, then aged 3 weeks old, we were given a warm welcome and as much time as we needed to get to know them. Regular updates and videos followed until they were ready to leave their lovely mum, Pepper, aged 8 weeks old. Elaine and Hywel did a marvelous job in preparing the puppies for their new homes - they are the most relaxed, happy, confident puppies, well used to being handled and loved, thanks to the excellent start in life they experienced. They have fitted in so well into our homes and they are so thrilled to see each other when we meet up every few weeks. We are delighted with them! Bernadette and Noelle - Kent We first had Thunder A black German Shepard from Elaine and Hywel last year and was so impressed with the love and attention they give to their dogs and pups. We now have had another from them Lightning A white German Shepard. We would recomend them to anybody who wants a puppy that has been looked after and cared for from birth. Julie - Glamorgan "The day I went to fetch Inca we got out of the car and were greeted by his mum who bounded up tail wagging and licked us to death, we said hi to Elaine, she put my puppy down from her lap and he walked right up to my mum and sat on her feet. There was no question that he was the puppy for me. He arrived at his new home and strolled in, looked round and settled down, he was so relaxed it was unbelievable. He never cried at night or did any damage as you would normally expect from a new pup in a strange place. We took him out and he made friends with everyone dogs and people alike. He is calm, friendly [to the point where he has been bitten on the nose and not even reacted to it! A useful information sheet and a wonderful folder of photos of his parents and information about them. I have kept in touch with Elaine as I know many of the others who have her dogs have, I do not know of any other breeder who has ever asked me to keep in touch and actually meant every word. This lady is a genuine breeder, for her the most important things are the dogs health and happiness and that they go to really good homes. There are bad breeders and good breeders, then there are people like Elaine, the exceptional breeders, who you are very fortunate to ever meet. If you are lucky enough to be able to get the chance to have one of her puppies grab it with both hands, you will never regret it and you will get one of the best dogs you will ever have and meet a truly wonderful family in the process". Fleur - West Midlands From our initial contact with Elaine and her family nearly 3 years ago, first to collect Buddy our white German Shepherd, then a year later another visit to bring home our blue and gold baby Balou, and even up to this present day Elaine still keeps in contact and is truly like no other breeder I've encountered. Elaine genuinely loves and cares about each and every one of her puppies as her own. Both our boys who are now 2 and 3 years old, have never had any health problems and are always so happy, content, ultra intelligent and both have unbelievable loving temperaments. Elaine loves to hear how they are both doing and is always on hand should we need any advise. We exchange regular updates as some of Elaines family are siblings and of course parents to our boys, plus I always love to see any new litters Elaine might have as she has most amazing colours of GSD puppies I have ever seen. If I had room for any more of Elaines gorgeous babies I wouldn't hesitate. Natasha - South Wales Elsie was bought for me as a gift by my daughter and her family for my 60th birthday in November .My husband and I had retired from a busy pub life and she was to keep us active by having to walk and exercise her. She is such a beautiful natured dog and is totally in love with our grandchildren as they are her. My daughter had chosen Elsie from a few weeks old and had been following her progress. She came from a wonderful home and Elaine cares for all her dogs and makes sure that they all go to special homes. Elsie is now two and a half years old and i still keep in touch with Elaine as she still takes an interest in the dog s progress. Unfortunately my husband passed away 8 months after we had Elsie and she s the best thing that could have happened to me- i don t know what I'd do without her as she's such a sensitive and loving dog. If I was ever in need or asked about purchasing another puppy I would not have any qualms about buying another puppy from Elaine and her husband as they are such caring and special breeders. Annie - Ceredgion "We had provisionally booked to view a white German Shepherd from Elaine until we saw this beautiful girl at just 10 weeks of age in July .We named her Ezra and she has grown into a wonderful girl with the most loving and loyal temperament. Ezra loves our grandchildren and want to be involved in everything we do, she comes up the stables with us and to all the horse shows. Her temperament I'm sure is a result of her breeding having a wonderful Sire and Dam at now 2 years of age we love her dearly". Sarah - South Wales "Indi is 16 months old and lives in Devon, She is a outdoor dog and has a companion that she loves playing with. I saw beautiful white and black pups running outside with the cat. I thought that was perfect for me as I have a cat. When we arrived to pick our pup I did not know which one to choose as they were all adorable. I let them decide. I sat down with them and one of them would not leave me alone. She was pulling my shoe laces and licking me all the time. I knew then she was the one. I called her Skye and now she is my best friend and companion. Skye also plays an important role at my company Language4life school where she joins the lessons to help the students relax. It is said that spending time with animals is good for your health. If you pat a dog for a couple of minutes , your body releases hormones that make you feel happy and can decrease the amount of stress in your system. If you are looking for a good breeder you have found the perfect place. Elaine is very supportive, helpful and knowledgeable. Dee - Blackpool "We bought Billy in February when we had snow we chucked him into a snow drift he loves fun and people a distructive dog loves his many soft toys. He has boundless energy and will run for his ball all day. He is very loving and affectionate. He greets me I put his collar on and feed him after massive hugs. He goes out in garden, does his toilet, then greets Mitzi half an hour later paws on shoulders and lots of licks. He gets brushed every two days and has regular appointments at groomers. All told he is a very well rounded dog". He is a lovely, friendly dog who has been a fantastic addition to our family. I cannot speak highly enough of these breeders and we have already put in a request for another puppy next year! Kaye - Suffolk Our girl is such a fun and playful dog, even as a puppy she was really curious and confident. She is always keen to investigate new places and say hello to new people and dogs. Whilst being confident, she is submissive, she will greet new dogs often low to the ground and usually goes belly up, even with small dogs, so she's never means to be intimidating. She is now 2 and a half and still is super playful and loves to play tricks. She's very attentive and loves a cuddle and her temperament is great with other dogs. Madi - Leicestershire In I finally made the decision to get a cockapoo to add to my family, Elaine and her family were so helpful and very helpful with advice getting him settled in at our home. Doodles is 4 now and he's our baby we couldn't be without him! I always highly recommend this breed to friends and family as they're such fun loving, intelligent and caring dogs. Thank you Elaine for my gorgeous fur baby. Cockapoos are very intelligent dogs and I would highly recommend this breed to anyone. Samantha - Pembrokeshire A surprise visit to Carmarthenshire for our engagement one morning ended up with a small ball of fur named 'Blue'. He is the most caring, loving and intellectual dog a family could ask for. We loved to visit the puppies every week with our 2 young boys and we seen how well they were raised, and on persuasion my brother decided to buy one and now, 12 months on from picking up Blue we helped pick up 'Ghost' - they're brothers and I'm sure they will be the best of friends - especially when we can meet up with another member of their family, past puppy 'Elsie'!!
Pettable Academy is designed to bring out the best in your pet Access Guided Dog Training Today If you live with a disability, a golden retriever service dog may help you obtain more independence while increasing your happiness and overall satisfaction with life. When it comes to service dogs, golden retrievers are one of the most common choices. Golden Retriever Service Dogs Golden Retrievers are often trained as service dogs to assist individuals with disabilities such as autism, hearing loss, or mobility issues. These intelligent dogs are also popular as therapy dogs due to their friendly and patient nature, making them great companions for those in need of emotional support. Bottom Line What are service dogs? Why Golden Retrievers as service dogs? They are friendly, loving, and excel at training. How to get a Golden Retriever as a service dog? Then you will need to train the Golden Retriever as a service dog, which you can do at home by taking our online PSD training program. What's the difference between a service dog vs. A service animal is any canine that has been specially taught to carry out duties for the benefit of a person with a disability, including one that is physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or mental. In order to display their abilities to others, service dogs must wear vests. An assistance dog increases the level of independence a disabled person can have, and no other species, regardless of whether they are domestic or wild, trained or untrained, are regarded as service animals. An individual's handicap must directly relate to the task s that the service animal is performing. Among others, the following are some examples of such tasks: Assisting individuals who are blind or have low vision with navigation and other tasks Alerting individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing to the presence of people or sounds Providing non-violent protection or rescue work Pulling a wheelchair Assisting an individual during a seizure Alerting individuals to the presence of allergens Retrieving items such as medicine or the telephone Providing physical support and assistance with balance and stability to individuals with mobility disabilities Helping individuals with psychiatric and neurological disabilities by preventing or interrupting impulsive or destructive behaviors. Types of Service Dogs Service dogs come in various types, each of which is trained to assist people with certain needs. Here are a few of the popular categories of outstanding service dogs. Service Dogs Guide dogs aid those who are blind or visually handicapped in navigating their surroundings. Deaf and hard-of-hearing people can be alerted to critical noises by hearing dogs. People who need wheelchairs or walking aids or have balance problems might benefit from the assistance of mobility dogs. Medical alert dogs perform a variety of tasks, including warning the user of allergies, detecting the start of medical issues like a seizure or low blood sugar, and many others. Psychiatric Service Dogs Assisting people with disorders including schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder is the work of psychiatric service dogs. Psychiatric service dogs may be used for tasks including halting repetitive behaviors, reiterating the need to take medicine, or entering a dark area and putting on a light to lessen stressful situations. Pettable offers a no-cost consultation with a qualified mental health expert to certify your dog as an official psychiatric service dog, enabling you to get a PSD letter of certification for your dog right away. You can read more about PSDs here. Did You Know? Psychiatric Service Dogs PSDs are protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act and are legally granted access to places where pets are prohibited, such as airplane cabins, storefronts and restaurants. Golden Retriever History Golden retrievers originated from the Scottish Highlands, where they were used primarily as hunting dogs. The Scottish estate owners needed a dog to retrieve birds in water or on land because their hunting grounds had many ponds and marshes. As guns were improved, retrievers were required to be able to bring back birds from farther distances. To develop the ideal retriever, the Baron of Tweedmouth, Dudley Marjoribanks, crossed a Tweed water spaniel with a yellow-colored retriever. The four pups were then used in further breeding with lines including the Irish setter, bloodhound, St. John's water dog, and black retrievers. He kept detailed records throughout the later years of the 19th century, showcasing the goal of developing a dog with a soft mouth for retrieving the game that was also strong and active. During the early 20th century, golden retrievers were introduced to North America as both hunting dogs and a companion. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the golden retriever in .Presidential golden retrievers include those owned by Gerald R. Ford and Ronald Reagan. Why Golden Retrievers Make Great Service Dogs When choosing a service animal, there are a lot of breeds to choose from, but among them, the golden retriever remains one of the most common service dog breeds. Golden retrievers make good service dogs because they have the necessary qualities to excel at training. Friendly Disposition Golden retrievers are known for their friendly disposition. Your dog may have to accompany you in public spaces, such as grocery stores, public transportation, entertainment events, etc. Unfriendly dogs may be wary or reactive to strangers. A golden retriever is a loving dog, eager to please its owner and happy to meet new people. People may attempt to approach your service dog or touch him. In these situations, your dog cannot be quick to react negatively. While you can instruct people to steer clear of your dog, you cannot guarantee that no one will touch him. For this reason, you cannot have a dog that acts aggressively or anxiously towards strangers. Loyal Personality Some of the best therapy dogs and service dogs are the ones that do not leave their owner's side. Even pet golden retrievers tend to follow their human around. Many people use the term velcro dog when referring to goldens because they want to be close to you at all times. When a dog trusts you, he follows you everywhere. They may be service animals that help you, but they also look to you for approval. Trainable Temperament Goldens are a trainable breed. Historically golden retrievers were hunting dogs, so it is natural for them to work alongside humans. Dogs bred for work tend to be more obedient than other breeds. They are trainable because they are one of the most intelligent breeds. However, this does not always mean that it's easy to train your service dog without a professional's help. Professionally trained service dogs are more likely to pass their tests. Golden retrievers are people-pleasers and food motivated. These two qualities make them eager to learn. Extra-large dogs may take up too much space in your home or require too much food for your household. A medium-sized dog like a golden retriever, on the other hand, has enough strength to support you with his body, open doors, and push buttons. A golden usually performs well when you need a service dog to perform height and strength actions. Golden retrievers stand from 20 to 24 inches tall and weigh between 55 and 71 pounds. Active Energy Level Golden retrievers have a lot of energy and require activity and plenty of exercise. They thrive the most when they are in a home with someone for most of the day. They may become lonely, frustrated or feel pent up when left alone for long hours. As a service dog, your golden would be at your side most of the time. Working provides the dog with the stimulation he needs. Additionally, he has the energy level to perform tasks as required. Drive to Work Golden retrievers are known to have a high drive to work on any task they are given to please their owner. Golden retrievers are extremely intelligent, aware, reliable, obedient, and have a strong work ethic. They are obedient dogs which make them popular service dogs. They find great purpose in retrieving items in exchange for a good old pet or pat on the head. Intelligence Golden retrievers are very intelligent dogs. This makes them excellent service dogs, as they can quickly learn any task given to them by their owner and are smart enough to detect when their owner's blood sugar is low or if a panic attack is coming. They can learn more than a hundred words and their intelligence is comparable to that of a toddler. Your dog has to be able to perform tasks that help you function in your daily life to qualify as a service animal. The following are a few examples of service dog tasks performed by golden retrievers, one of the most common service dog breeds. Guiding Guide dogs help those who have visual impairments. Guide dogs help determine whether there are obstacles or unsafe conditions in a person's path. Keep in mind that a golden retriever service dog is not a GPS. The dog cannot read traffic lights, but it can see the vehicles crossing. Often, the owner has to listen for signals. The person can then command the dog to cross the street, and the dog decides how safe it is to move forward. Retrieving If you have mobility problems, teach your service dog to retrieve your items. For example, dogs can bring you your medication. They can also help you with daily chores. If you need to carry an object to the garbage, your dog can help. Comforting Therapy dogs are companions to their owners. For people with mental illness, a dog's presence can be comforting. A trainer can teach a therapy dog to comfort others. For example, if a person has a panic attack, the dog can use his body weight to ground the person. Alerting Canines have a strong sense of smell and the ability to detect various medical conditions. For example, service dogs can alert to low blood sugar for diabetics, heart abnormalities, and seizures. Your service animal can learn to nudge, paw at, bark or jump to alert you of a medical emergency. Blocking Blocking is a standard command for a therapy dog. If a person begins to feel uncomfortable in a crowd or around people, the dog can put himself between his human and any stranger. Medication Reminders Since golden retrievers are easy to train, they can be trained to remind their owners to take their medication every day, every four hours, or at any interval a person needs to take their medicine but may be forgetful or lose track of time due to their disability. Physical Support Golden retrievers can offer physical support to those with disabilities. This can include pushing a wheelchair, leading a person to a bathroom or bed, fetching an item that fell or is out of reach for a person, or any other duties that may assist a person living with a disability. Pettable has a simple process to schedule a consultation with a licensed professional. Though not required, you may opt to get a PSD letter from the therapist to certify your need for a psychiatric service dog. Then, you will need to ensure that your service dog is correctly trained. There is no requirement that a professional trainer be involved in the process and self-training is perfectly acceptable. Complete Our Assessment To help us analyze your circumstances and your needs for a psychiatric service dog, you must first complete our brief assessment. You will then state the PSD option you require, such as lodging, transport or a mix of both. Consult With a Therapist After completing the assessment, you'll be matched with a licensed mental health professional and provided a link to schedule a live consultation with them after completing our privacy and permission papers to allow our doctors to work with you. To find out if you are eligible for a psychiatric service dog, you will visit a mental health professional for an examination. Train Your Dog You will need to train your Golden Retriever to perform tasks that assist you with your disability. You can pay a professional trainer to do this or you can opt to train the dog yourself. If you want to self-train a psychiatric service dog you may benefit from our online PSD training program. The program is delivered through video lessons and can be completed on any timeline. If you are not satisfied with the training program within 7 days of purchase we will completely refund your money. A Golden Retriever may be taught to serve as a service dog, you can opt to hire a professional trainer or train the dog yourself. Having patience with your dog if you plan to train your service dog independently is crucial because the process might take a while. Training a service animal can be a laborious but extremely worthwhile process if you're sincere about your devotion to it. It's important to keep in mind that training is necessary for service animals before they can be considered a PSD, whether it's done independently or a qualified expert. Golden retrievers can be adopted at neighborhood shelters or breeders, just like any other service dog or ESA. Regardless of where the dog originated from or even whether it is an existing pet, any dog can be certified as a service animal. This option will require owners to train their dogs, satisfy certification requirements, and establish a bond with them. The adoption of service animals who have already received training and need a new owner is nonetheless possible through various services. A certified mental health expert must be consulted in order to determine your eligibility for a Golden Retriever service dog. But there are several mental and emotional conditions that frequently make someone eligible for a service dog, such as: Depression and Depressive Disorders. Our Story Like every family, we have a story. Golden Rule Retrievers was born from our family's life-changing experience with Piper. Piper came to us at only five weeks. She was a gift to our daughter, Gracie, on her 14th birthday from her grandparents. At only five weeks, Piper was very intuitive and intelligent. She was a one-time learner and she quickly mastered some fun tricks. We used signs with her as we gave commands and she did the basics over and over. On command, Piper sat, army crawled, yawned, spoke, and even gave high fives. Inherently, of course, Piper fetched. She chose tennis balls over anything else and she loved it when we hit them with a tennis racket! She would track back and forth right to left, stop, look to us for a hand signal, and go in the direction we pointed, not once coming back without the ball. All day, everyday, Piper wanted to fetch, solve doggie puzzles, play hide and seek in the house; anything that kept her mind busy. She was a problem solver. At night, Piper slept at the foot of our bed. Soon, she began to alert to my shortness of breath and the silence that came when I didn't breathe at all. I was diagnosed in with Tracheal Stenosis, a chronic illness that continually grows scar tissue along the inside of the trachea and narrows the pathway through which we get air. At several points, my airway was only 2 millimeters. Yes, two millimeters. We were very blessed to be treated by Dr. Steven Zeitels at Massachusetts General Hospital, who, over the years, performed many surgeries, eventually stabilizing through a transplant and chemotherapy. Even with all the treatments and procedures, my airway remains very small, usually around 6 millimeters. Because our bodies tend to relax when we are sleeping, my greatest risk is at night. Piper began to nudge me when she noticed a change in my breathing. We were SOLD! While some of Piper's actions are inherited traits and behavioral characteristics, we have continued to work with her in other areas. Piper is now a certified therapy dog. She has experience working with children in public school classrooms, autistic and Downs Syndrome, physically handicapped, Hospice, and she has helped children in counseling. Piper also has aided in Domestic Violence Victims' Advocacy. Our little Piper became a big hit and eventually we decided to add to our number. Bella, an English Cream Golden Retriever, came to us in and was a happy and very busy little bee. When Bella came home, she had doubled in size and was absolutely a big, fluffy snuggle bunny! She immediately started going to counseling sessions and into classrooms to lighten Piper's load. Still, the more we volunteered, the more we saw the necessity for canine helpers in our community and surrounding towns. Sam is a lovable gentleman who adores Piper. His dark red coat and willingness to please with that dashing golden smile plastered across that beautiful face- Piper and Sam had a litter of nine puppies, all of which were healthy, happy and very easy to train. And again, the more we worked with them, the more we saw the need for well-trained Goldens that could be of service to those in need. Our family knows and understands what a working dog can do for a sick patient. We also have been down that road that is littered with medical bills, electricity cut-off notices and travel expenses due to the huge costs of a family member's declining health. It's during times like these that a dog with manners can be most helpful to a patient and family, yet coming up with the money to buy and train a dog can't be on the priority list at such a trying time. Our family decided that one way to make our corner of the world a brighter place, we would share our experiences and our Goldens. Piper and Bella became more and more involved with children, the elderly and those who are ill. We have since added other dogs to our brood. Every Golden family member lives inside our home and is a part of our family. Each Golden has many hours of public access and works regularly with teachers and their classes, attends community events and provides comfort when it is needed. A Duke University study showed that the action of petting a dog releases oxytocin from the brain. Scientists have known for a while that when the brain lets go of this chemical, stress is reduced and patients feel comforted. Our Golden Rule mission is to provide and train Golden Retrievers and Goldendoodles for the main purpose of training in therapy and service. We have searched far and wide for our precious Goldens, from the west coast, along the Gulf Coast and to the Pacific Ocean. While almost all of our dogs have hunting in their immediate pedigrees, our main purpose is not to foster hunting behaviors, but to reframe them in such a way that each Golden Rule dog can be helpful to their partners and families as they grow. Each dog exhibits positive characteristics we look for in therapy and service dogs as well as good companion dogs. Not all Goldens are cut out for service or therapy, but every single golden we have raised or trained is teachable. Some are better suited for families with small children or more lively home environments while others find comfort in simply being present with their human partner. We assess our dogs on working and behavioral scales as they grow to determine with whom they will bond and which homes are best suited for their temperaments. No matter where you go to choose a Golden Retriever, please take the proper steps and ask the right questions to determine which dog is best for you. One size doesn't fit all - it takes the right puppy, the right behavior and the right timing to make things work with a new dog. We wish you much luck and joy in your search! Life is truly Golden! You love me when I am not lovable. You find me in the darkness. You keep my secrets and lick my tears. You teach me to live like someone left the gate open. As far as companion dogs, this breed is a huge hit. The Golden Retriever has many amazing qualities and is a top dog breed for a nearly endless list of reasons. What sets Golden Retrievers apart is their friendly demeanor and gentleness. Goldens are outgoing, trustworthy and eager-to-please pups who do well with pretty much anyone. The Golden Retriever maintains a puppy-like zest for life all throughout adulthood and is very receptive to obedience training, service training, and pretty much any type of training or correction. Goldies are one of the most common service dog breeds for individuals with disabilities. Their size helps them overcome physical challenges, their temperament makes them a perfect match for their human partners, and their loyalty makes them amazing assistance dogs. Service dogs must be intelligent, well-focused and friendly, all of which are traits the Golden Retriever possesses. In fact, perhaps the most famous Golden Retriever service dog , Sampson, is a fine example of why Golden Retrievers make excellent service animals. Sampson was trained to work in a lab at the University of Illinois with his owner, Joey Ramp. He even wears his own PPE while he helps his disabled handler do work in his lab. What are Service Dogs? The definition of a service dog according to the U. There are many different types of service dogs, which we will discuss later, but all undergo a vigorous training process and are a valued member of society for the assistance they provide to their person. Examples of such work or tasks include guiding people who are blind, alerting people who are deaf, pulling a wheelchair, alerting and protecting a person who is having a seizure, alerting owners to a panic attack, reminding a person with mental illness to take prescribed medications, calming a person with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder PTSD during an anxiety attack, or performing other duties. A service animal can help with many things, but in this category, it is most often pups offering assistance with physical disabilities or impairments. Guide dogs: These dogs are also known as seeing-eye-dogs and help people with vision loss navigate the world. A guide dog will help their handler avoid obstacles, ensure they step over any holes or curbs, help them cross roads, open doors, etc. They undergo vigorous training and can accomplish dozens of tasks. Hearing dogs: These talented pups assist their deaf handlers in a world of sound. They are trained to help their owners with ensuring they receive vital cues of sounds they cannot hear themselves. They will guide their owner to the sound or to safety, depending on the situation. Medical alert dogs: These service dogs help owners suffering from seizures or epilepsy prepare for an upcoming episode and keep them safe during it. Another type of service dog under this category is a diabetic assistance dog, who helps alert their owner when their blood sugar is low or can seek medical assistance if necessary. Mobility assistance dogs: A mobility assistance dog is a type of service dog that helps humans with spinal injuries, leg injuries, or any injury that makes walking, standing or balancing difficult. These are typically larger breed dogs since they provide balance support for their handler. They help their human stay standing , open doors, retrieve items, etc. Psychiatric service dog: This special service dog assists people with mental disabilities. They have all the same rights as all the above mentioned service dogs, but undergo specialized service dog training to perform tasks their owner needs assistance with. An example of this could be including medication, or providing comforting touches. These service dogs help with mental health issues rather than mobility issues. Someone who suffers from depression, anxiety attacks, PTSD or other mental disabilities could greatly benefit from a psychiatric service dog. Click the below video to learn more about psychiatric service dogs. Therapy dog: A therapy dog is not a service dog, but instead a loyal pet that helps provide comfort to people in stressful situations. This is often a hospital or nursing home, but can also be schools, natural disaster sites, etc. There are even different types, such as hearing impairment therapy dogs, school therapy dogs, etc. They undergo specialized training, including passing an American Kennel Club Good Citizen test, then visit anyone who could need comfort. Emotional support animal: An emotional support animal is a companion animal that provides emotional support to their owner. They do not undergo any special training, and are not a service animal. Emotional Support Dog vs. These dogs undergo specialized training and have federally protected rights, such as the right to accompany their owner anywhere, including businesses, schools, non-pet friendly housing, on airplanes, etc. To get a psychiatric service dog, you must be diagnosed with a disability and prescribed a service dog who undergoes vigorous training to support you. An emotional support dog only requires a letter of recommendation from a doctor. They are a pet who offers mental and emotional benefits to their owner. It is very important to recognize the difference between these two types of dogs. Service dogs wear vests to set themselves apart, as they have a very important job and should be recognized as working dogs. It makes life for people with disabilities much harder, and poses a challenge to service dog owners, making the conditions of service dogs worse. Why Golden Retrievers? So why Golden Retrievers? To summarize, Golden Retrievers make excellent companion animals, but also great assistance animals, because of their size, temperament, friendliness, and intelligence. Golden Retrievers on average weigh about 55 to 75 pounds and stand between 22 and 24 inches tall, making them a medium to large sized dog by the public. They have multiple color variations, but all fall under the golden category: cream, dark golden, light golden, etc. Their average life expectancy is years. A Golden Retriever has a stockier build, but is still agile and beautiful. Their fur falls at a beautiful length, making them true stunners. They are considering a sporting dog, and as the name retriever implies, have a tendency to retrieve items and things, much like their sister breed, the Labrador Retriever. But energy level wise, the two are very similar. Goldens are loved for their permanent puppy attitude and their general zest for life and ability to remain calm and friendly in all circumstances. Goldens are extremely trusting and loyal. They aim to please, making them great mobility assistance dogs and service dogs. Golden Retrievers do well in public, are easy to train, have a lovely personality and make a great best friend. He was on a mission to find the best gundog to use at his estate. Over 50 years, he bred different variations of dogs in search of the best breed possible. Through this breeding, the Golden Retriever was created to fetch waterfowl from hunts, hence the name retriever. By , they were in dog shows and making their way into America. First off, their size gives them an advantage to help people with physical needs, such as balance support, opening doors, etc. They exude a quiet confidence and a general love for life. They strive to provide help for human needs, and do well in a breeding program, which makes it great for ethical breeding needed for healthy service dogs for an adult candidate. Good news, Golden Retrievers are very commonly bred for this sole purpose. They begin training as a puppy and are trained to be excellent service companions. Service dogs are only given to people with disabilities that hinder their quality of life. For a psychiatric service dog, you must consult with a licensed mental health professional. This is the only legitimate way to acquire a service dog. For physical disabilities, you must consult with a doctor in your area. If they recommend a service dog, the next step is finding a service dog for you. Look at rescues in your local area to see if they have any Golden Retrievers or Golden mixes available, or you can purchase a Golden from a breeder or service dog organization. If you adopt one or purchase one from a breeder, you will want to work with a service dog trainer or service dog program training to make sure your pooch becomes the best assistance dog possible. This is the best way to ensure you get a Golden Retriever that is healthy and has all the characteristics we love about the popular breed. Conclusion Now you see why Golden Retrievers are such a beloved breed, not only as pets, but also as service animals. Their gorgeous coat and all-star personality make them an easy candidate to become service dogs. Are you looking for a psychiatric service dog? Here at CertaPet , we can help. CertaPet is an online telehealth platform that improves access to mental health care in the U. We are currently coordinating with dog trainers who specialize in the service animal space and who will soon work in tandem with our network of licensed mental health professionals to make the process of getting and training a psychiatric service dog affordable, convenient, and hassle-free. Golden Retrievers are highly intelligent, friendly, loyal, obedient, driven and much more, making them a great service dog. How do I get a psychiatric service dog? First, you must consult with a mental health professional to see if you qualify. If you are diagnosed with a mental disability, you will begin your search for a dog and begin training What can a Golden Retriever service dog do for me? This breed is very versatile! They can be trained to do anything: calm anxiety attacks, fetch medicine, work as a seeing eye dog, alert to seizures, and much more. You may also like. Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds worldwide, that have been ranked No. Why so many people love the representatives of this breed so much and what qualities the breed representatives have as service animals, are some topics that we would like to discuss today. If you would like to read more about the ADA regulations in regard to service animals, you can click here. As you can tell from the definition, only dogs can be recognized as service animals. However, some states allow handlers to have miniature horses as service animals as well, so you should keep this in mind. Dogs and service dogs in particular should be evaluated based on their individual traits. Some people are still biased, that certain breeds are not allowed to become service dogs or just can not become good service dogs. The ADA states, that service animals must not be discriminated based on their breed, and all kinds of breeds can be trained as service animals. However, there are qualities, that every service dog should possess to be reliable enough to perform specific tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability. Among these qualities are: Intelligence, trainability, eagerness to learn and please their owner, friendly personality, loving nature, balanced temperament, loyalty. The Golden Retrievers are ranked one of the most affectionate dog breeds that can strongly attach to their owners. They can interact with family members, new people, and other animals with ease! If you have small children, you can be confident, that they will find a loyal and playful buddy that they can spend such a pleasant time with! The Golden Retrievers are considered one of the most intelligent and trainable breeds as well. They are known as quick learners, able to retain a lot of information, and obedient dogs, eager to please their owners. Of course, there is no complete happiness.Our lovely paw friends tend to shed moderately during the summer and the winter. During the spring and autumn, you can expect them to shed more actively. Those of you who decide to have a representative of this gorgeous breed at home should be prepared for a certain amount of hair on their furniture and clothes at all times. Luckily, these cute doggies require a moderate level of grooming, so you do not have to invest so much time to keep their lovely double-coat neat. If you are in love with this breed, you should be prepared to spend enough time to keep them physically and mentally fit. The Golden Retrievers are quite energetic and playful. These amazing doggies are not considered barkers. They bark occasionally as vocalization is a type of communication not only in humans but in dogs as well. In general, we can say that the Golden Retriever is one of the most popular breeds as both pets and service dogs due to its indisputable qualities. Mobility and Balance-Related Tasks The female representatives of the breed can reach up to kg, while the male representatives- up to kg in weight. Their height can reach up to 51—56 cm in females, and cm in males. Considering their size and personal traits, these dogs can become great mobility dogs. They can be trained to pull a wheelchair or support a person having balance issues. There is a certain type of harnesses equipped with a robust handle, that enables mobility service dogs to fulfill this task. Guide Tasks The Golden Retrievers can become great guide dogs as well. They can be trained to assist a person with visual impairments navigate in the surroundings. As guide dogs, these canines can alert their owner about an obstacle on their way or ensure that there will be enough distance between their owner and passersby. Retrieve Tasks As the name of the breed indicates itself, these dogs are great at retrieving objects. This ability can be traced back to the reason for their breeding and namely- to retrieve shot upland game birds like partridge and goose. If you have impaired mobility, or you often feel disoriented and light-headed due to a certain condition or as a side-effect of prescribed medication, you can rely on your Goldie to bring to you all items you need. Since they are medium to large in a size, they are not suitable for jumping on your lap. However, they can paw you, nudge you, place their chin on your shoulder, arm or lap to calm you down when you need. Also, they can guide you to a safe place, when anxiety episodes arise. There are the following options available for that: 1. Contact a training organization or a personal trainer, specializing in service dog training. You can arrange a consultation online or in person at your home or at the training facility so that your dog can be evaluated and a training program can be recommended. You can contact an organization engaged in service dog training and get a trained service dog. These two options will give you confidence that your dog or the dog that you will be provided with, has been professionally trained and has acquired the necessary obedience and social skills. However, these options can be prohibitively expensive for some people. Training your own dog with the help of a trainer or a training organization is more affordable, however, a training session in-person, that takes about an hour, may cost you a hundred dollars or more. Some training programs, especially those designed for more advanced training can reach thousands of dollars. Contact a non-profit organization. This option is the most affordable one. However, in this case, you are likely to be placed on a waiting list and you may need to wait for a year or two to get a trained service dog. You can train your Golden Retriever to become a service animal yourself. In this case, you can focus on the tasks that you actually need your paw friend to perform. Also, you will be actively engaged in the training process and will be able to strengthen your bond. The biggest disadvantage of this option is that you may lack the experience and skills to conduct training yourself. Also, you will have to invest a lot of time and effort. Patience, discipline, and consistency are other words that you will need to always keep in mind if you decide to go that way. Enroll in an online course. By choosing this option you will get access to learning materials and support from a tutor support by a trainer is often calculated in the price of many online courses. Also, you will be able to make your own schedule instead of complying with a schedule set by a professional trainer. Training at your home and at your own pace are other benefits of this option. Needless to say, you and your doggy will develop an even stronger bond, as you will spend much time together and will know each other better. If you consider this option the most suitable for you, we would recommend that you take a look at the online courses that Service Dog Training School International offers: Online Courses. Essential Principles of the Training Process If you decide to train your Golden Retriever to become a service animal yourself, you should consider some basic training principles. You should be very patient and consistent and not give up if difficulties arise. Also, you should remember that each dog is an individual and you need to take the personality and temperament of your canine into account when conducting training. Keep the training sessions short and always reward and praise your paw friend when they perform a certain task. Do not rush things. As we mentioned above, this breed is deemed highly energetic, so you should not forget to exercise and walk your doggy on a regular basis. Physical and mental exercises will also help your canine spend their excessive amount of energy, and will reduce the possibility of behavioral issues occurring due to lack of activity. The ADA does not require service dogs to wear any type of service dog gear, including vests, harnesses, or ID tags. That way passersby are less likely to initiate contact, which may distract your dog. No wonder, that the Golden Retriever is one of the breeds that most people welcome. Such lovely doggies! Things You Need to Know Before Deciding to Train a Golden Retriever as a Service Dog If you see a dog in a place where normal dogs do not have access and it always stays at the side of its handler, there is a good chance that you have just come in contact with a service dog who works hard. Service dog breeds are diverse. One of the most popular breeds for service dog work is the Golden Retriever because of his trainability, intelligence, loyalty and willingness to please. These service dogs must be able to enter public places and behave gently in all private environments. They must be trained to ignore any distractions around them and always accompany their disabled handlers. Most Golden Retriever service dogs are carefully selected either at the puppy age or after a character test. In addition to the rigorous obedience training, they must master some special tasks for different needs. For example, the guide dog should learn how to open and close a door for blind people. And people who are paralysed need to use a wheelchair with the help of a service dog. Can my Golden Retriever be a service dog? Golden Retrievers possess several characteristics that make them excellent service dogs. However, not all Golden Retrievers are qualified to be a service dog. These are the most important pieces of determining whether or not your Golden Retriever will make a Service Dog candidate. When should I start training my dog? The Golden Retriever service dog you saw may look strong and vigorous, so does that mean that every service dog has to go through training until he grows up? But you have to start the training as soon as possible. And it is ideal to start the training of a puppy from the age of six months, although an adult candidate is also suitable for studying and training. A puppy less than six months old is too young to endure service training and build good habits such as barking. The service dog training will take at least hours, so you need to spend a lot of time on it. This is a challenge not only for the dog but also for the owner. To make sure your puppy is a good service dog candidate, you better do a temperament test. Only if the result shows that your dog is not aggressive, fearful, timid, or nervous will it be easy for him to be trained and behave gently. Well done, if you can confirm that your dog is confident and easy-going! You can now train your puppy. It is necessary to get some tools together, including leashes, treats or toys for a reward, and water for outdoor training. There are two phases of the training: initial training and access to the public. Phase 1: Initial Training 1. Choose a reward For the primary exercise, you should encourage him to accomplish the tasks by giving him treats or a toy. Assume that your puppy is a child. He is easily motivated and attracted by treats or snacks. Find out what he prefers and reward him for good behavior and progress. Prepare the training list Make a plan before you start the exercises. Decide which commands you want to teach your puppy every day. Reduce distractions Find a peaceful and quiet place where there are few people or animals, or objects that can distract his attention, so he can listen to your command. Practice in context After learning these commands, you should give your puppy a context in which to execute them, such as picking up the objects, heeling aside you while being off-leash at home. Create some entertainment Make your training funny. Do not put too much pressure on your dog. Teach the commands like a game with subsequent rewards. Obedience should not be an additional burden on your dog, as this is the key to service dog work. Practice frequently To strengthen his memory and deepen the instructions, you should repeat the exercises frequently with your dog. Prepare ongoing tasks for a full day, but take a break from time to time. Phase 2: Access to the public 1. Socialize early and often In order for your dog to behave in public like a service dog, you should take him to meet other people and dogs. It is important that he comes into contact with strangers, children, aggressive dogs, and other unpredictable situations as he is now able to listen to your commands. Switch to different places In addition to the normal public places, you can take your Retriever to places where dogs are normally not allowed, such as restaurants, stores , and libraries. Protecting the owners in these places is also a task for service dogs. What kinds of jobs are suitable for a Golden Retriever? Conclusion In short, Golden Retrievers have many traits that match the Service Dogs' characteristics — be stable and calm in all situations and environments, willing to learn, and have the intelligence to learn complicated behaviors. They have to readily do the same thing, day in and day out. Read the full disclosure here. Dogs have always shared a special, unbreakable bond with human beings. For people from all walks of life, owning a dog can make a huge difference in how you go about your day-to-day routine. Owning a dog, especially a service dog like a golden retriever, is especially important to those who are disabled, chronically ill, or have other special needs. Right from the name, you can learn a bit about this wonderful breed and why these dogs make such great service animals. Golden retrievers were originally bred to gently retrieve a kill after a hunt without damaging the animal. A few years down the line, goldens have proven to be so much more than mere hunting companions. Thanks to their high level of intelligence, friendliness, and people-pleasing nature, golden retriever service dogs are perfect for people with special needs and disabilities. They can carry out a variety of tasks that prove difficult throughout your daily routine. Keep in mind, though, that it takes a lot of time, planning, commitment, and professional observation to successfully train a service dog. Adopting a fully trained service dog is no cheap endeavor, either. Fortunately, owning a golden retriever is already half the challenge! Let me walk you through the step-by-step process of how to make sure your furry friend is service-ready. Step 1: Prepare Your Dog For Training Before you begin training your golden retriever, here are a couple of things you will want to figure out first as far as the logistics of their training. However, adult golden retrievers are equally quick learners. Naturally, these friendly dogs are calm yet confident. This valuable trait makes golden retrievers a suitable candidate for emotional support and service dogs. Note that not all breeds have what it takes to handle the special duties of a service dog. An easy-going temperament ensures your dog can comfortably carry out special tasks in any environment without shying away or being easily distracted. You can learn more about this breed by reading Golden retriever training books. Dogs respond well to treats! A tasty treat is a great way to reinforce positive behavior and motivate faster progress. Golden retrievers are packed with energy and enjoy having a toy or a few of them to chew on and paw around. Next, be sure to get a nice, strong leash with a soft, padded collar. Include a name tag for easier identification. Remember, service dogs in training have a special responsibility and should stand out. Consistency is key in maintaining high levels of performance from your service dog. What makes your dog leap for joy and wag its tail endlessly? Finding out what your dog loves is key in using it as an effective reward system. Goldens are very perceptive and will soon realize a reward will only be presented if they perform an intended task. Learn what kinds of treats and toys your dog loves most for best results. Outline The Level Of Obedience For Specific Tasks While your furry friend is more than happy to receive a reward, fully trained golden retriever service dogs need a high level of obedience. An obedient dog is willing to follow your instructions, whether simple or complex, and be able to perform necessary tasks flawlessly without fail. Does your dog sit when you instruct it to? You can create different situations where you issue different instructions in quick succession. Observe how your golden retriever performs under pressure. Perfecting your level of communication is a proactive way of working out any problems and makes your routine second nature. Take time to practice with your dog in a variety of scenarios. For example, take a walk or go for a morning run with your pup. Pay close attention to how your service dog reacts in certain scenarios and think about what you can do to make things easier to understand for them. Also, try taking a route with moderate traffic. How does your dog respond to fast-moving cars and people walking by? Exposing your retriever to such environments is beneficial in smoothly transitioning from a controlled environment to how things actually work in the real world. Above all else, loosen up your training program and keep it as fun as possible. Dogs are only serious when they need to be! A professional approach would be to balance both structured and unstructured activities in your training schedule. Have an effective reward system put in place. Goldies love a challenge and will push through any hurdles just to get that tasty treat and make you proud. Have your dog sit by you as you read a book, make a cup of coffee, or watch your favorite TV show. This will reinforce your bond with them. Golden retrievers have a couple of unique traits beneath their paws, such as their easygoing temperaments and people-pleasing natures. These traits make them the perfect service dogs for a variety of settings, such as: Guide Dogs — Guide dogs are an indispensable accessory if you are visually or hearing impaired. Are you using crutches or need help pulling your wheelchair? If so, you can definitely benefit a lot from a service dog. Therapy Dogs — Therapy treatment has come a long way. Children with special needs have shown a lot of improvement just by being near a certified therapy dog! Patients with certain mental health disorders also progress a lot more when a therapy dog is included in treatment plans. Emotional support dogs usually visit healthcare facilities that need a boost in morale and spirits, such as hospitals, retirement homes, psychiatric facilities, and funeral homes. Be sure to write down a detailed list of the kinds of things you would love your golden retriever service dog to be great at. This will help you keep track of what tasks your dog has been trained to do and what tasks they still need more training in order to complete reliably and consistently. Add any other task that you can train on later as you think of them. Go through each instruction one after the other. Take it one day at a time and focus on mastering previous instructions when progress is slow. Allow your pup to rest from time to time, and offer them plenty of treats as positive reinforcement. Get Your Dog Used To Public Areas Any publicly accessed area is the ultimate testing ground for your golden retriever emotional support or service dog. Does your dog give you its undivided attention despite all the distractions and noises around? Slowly work your way up from less populated areas like parks to more busy areas. That said, please note that fully trained service dogs should have certification from respective authorities. All dog breeds portray a certain level of intelligence and the ability to learn both simple and complex tasks. However, not all breeds are suitable candidates to become service or emotional support dogs. Thankfully, though, most but not all golden retrievers tend to do very well in these positions. From a young age, your golden retriever should have a good temperament, have a high level of obedience, and show a willingness to follow the most basic instructions. What area of service does a golden retriever excel in most? Considering the many unique traits golden retrievers have, they have a lot of potential to serve even before you put a formal training program in place. From being guide dogs to offering assistance, therapy, and emotional support, golden retrievers can generally switch between any of these roles effortlessly. This automatically makes them a top-tier breed that performs exceptionally well under any area of service. With a comprehensive training plan based on the above guidelines, you are good to go. Just keep the following tips in mind moving forward: Start training early when your golden retriever is still a pup 6 to 12 months old. Stick to the basics and use them as a solid foundation for your more complex tasks. Remember, training your service dog will be a mutual learning experience. Take time to enjoy each level of progress. Best of luck as you embark on training your golden retriever to be a service dog! You May Also Like.
Just like with human babies, teething is a normal but sometimes painful process all puppies go through. Teething puppies are more mouthy than usual as their baby teeth fall out and their adult dog teeth replace them. But when does teething start and when does that mouthiness stop? The baby deciduous teeth start erupting when puppies are around 3 weeks old. This is also when puppies can start eating solid food in addition to nursing. The premolars—the teeth used for chewing—follow. When Do Puppies Stop Teething? Typically, large- or giant-breed dogs erupt their adult teeth sooner than small dogs. The baby incisors are the first to fall out, and adult teeth push through the gums to take their place. The incisors and canines erupt first, around months. The premolars follow when a puppy is months old. The adult molars grow in last, at months of age. While puppies only have 28 baby teeth, adult dogs have 42 teeth. That said, teething pain may cause your puppy to become more mouthy or more destructive at home. This is a temporary period, and puppies need to be redirected to appropriate chewing opportunities, like toys. How to Care for a Teething Puppy Taking care of a teething puppy involves offering lots of options for chewing—particularly soft toys, rubber toys, and chilled or frozen toys. Your puppy may prefer harder or softer items, depending on his teething pain. Cold items can help soothe any pain and inflammation, so try giving your pup chilled or frozen treats, like blueberries, green beans , or carrots. The Best Teething Toys for Puppies To keep your puppy from chewing your furniture, give him a few toys that are great for teething, such as:. Most of the time, people assume that they are just being destructive. Actually, we need to understand that puppies are chewing, more often than not, to relieve some discomfort. There are some important lessons your puppy needs to learn in these stages that will make life much easier as they get older. You can expect your puppy to stop teething when they are 6 or 7 months old. Puppy Teething Timeline If you are new to the puppy experience, you definitely anticipated some of the fun playtime and cute cuddling. However, there are probably other things that you did not anticipate that may drive you crazy. Behavior problems like chewing and biting are one of the most common reasons that people get rid of their dogs. When it comes to teething biting and chewing , you should understand what the puppy is going through. Knowing when your puppy will transition from one stage to another will help you have patience when you get the most frustrated. Weeks 2 to 4 Your Lab puppy was born, like most mammals that I can think of, without any teeth. He will still be with his mom, so there is not much you need to know about this period. At this stage, his teeth will still be too gentle for dry food—so he will still be nursing throughout this stage. Weeks 5 to 6 By this point, your puppy will have all 28 baby teeth. With his teeth in place, your Lab puppy should be introduced to soft, wet dog food. Lots of breeders will just use the same dry dog food they plan on feeding as the dog gets older. Click here to see how I like to prepare dry dog food for puppies in this stage of tooth development. Just use the puppy food you will be transitioning them to before they go home. When you are ready to use the soaked dog food, place it in a blender or food processor. Blend the mixture until it is the consistency of baby food no lumps. When you are ready to feed the puppies, you can mix it will some warm water or put it in the microwave for just a few seconds to take the frigid edge off. This is also when your puppy will start dropping his baby teeth. It will not be uncommon to find little, rice-sized puppy teeth around your house. On the other hand, you may not see the teeth if your puppy swallows them while eating. No big deal. This is because his mouth hurts. The gums are irritated and chewing on stuff gives some momentary relief from that discomfort. Anyone that has cared for a baby understands how miserable the teething process can be. It is no uncommon for a baby that is teething to be very miserable. They develop a fever, become very cranky, lose sleep, start to drool uncontrollably, rubbing their cheeks, etc. Especially his mouth. Puppies chew on everything… even you! Anything to get some relief from the teething process. Your vet will appreciate your helping your dog get comfortable with having his mouth handled. The frustrating part of this stage is how often you will get bit. It is just a part of the puppy game. And, when you do get bit, it hurts because his puppy teeth are like little needles. They do not need to bite down hard to cause some serious pain. Although the purpose of this article is not to get your dog to stop biting, here is a video that will help you through this stage. If you notice any puppy teeth remaining with the adult teeth, you should contact a vet and have them pulled. Problems in Labrador Puppy Teeth There are lots of different problems your puppy can experience in conjunction with teething. Retained puppy teeth are the most common. The puppy tooth is considered retained if the adult tooth has emerged. The adult tooth does not have to be fully grown in order for the tooth to be considered retained. As I mentioned above, make sure that you get your dog to a vet to consider having it pulled. Missing teeth are not necessarily a problem. If the adult teeth are starting to come in, it is possible to find a spot where the puppy tooth has fallen out, but the adult tooth is still just below the gum surface. Also, the angle helps you get anything that might be caught between the tooth and the gum. Pet Republique Finger Toothbrush This is the instrument you need if you want to really focus on a specific tooth and give direct attention. That stuff can cause serious problems for K-9 teeth. You can check Chewy. I about died. I grabbed a bag of these and within one month, I could visibly see the difference in the plaque buildup on her teeth. I am not exaggerating. The next time I took Lady to the vet, he could not believe the change. Now, he suggests them to all of his clients that have dogs with plaque build-up. Click on this image or this link to see what these are selling for today at Chewy. Best Toys for Labrador Puppies that are Teething There are a number of toys that you can get to help your puppy deal with the discomfort of teething. The benefit of getting some of these is that you can start training your puppy what is okay to chew and what is not. If you do not have one or more of these toys close at hand, you will find it very difficult to get your dog to stop chewing on your stuff. I think they are some of the very best dog toys on the market. Make sure you check out this video on how I use KONG toys to help with crate training and training my dog to be quiet. You can grab them from Chewy. This might be the most useful dog toy on the market. The polymer is completely safe for your young dog. The nylon rope relieves the discomfort from teething. Puppy Proofing Your Home Puppy-proofing your home is more about avoiding the point where you start to resent your puppy. Remember He is only a puppy and his mouth hurts. Any relief at all is going to be welcome as far as he is concerned. The frightening thing is how fast your puppy can destroy your favorite stuff. Puppy-proofing your house is as much about keeping your stuff safe as it is about keeping your puppy safe. So, make sure that electrical cords are tucked out of sight. Baby gates or doors are a great way to control where your puppy can and cannot go in your house. These are a great way to limit where your puppy can go in your home and thereby reduce the number of places you have to puppy-proof. Check out this metal gate from MidWest. It is a great option and will bring you some peace of mind. Provide Puppy Teething Toys Puppies love to chew! Your hands: Many puppies at this age are learning bite inhibition aka the ability to control the strength of their bite. Freezing Treats and Toys Cold treats can ease the swelling and pain of tender teething gums. While ice cubes may be too rough on their teeth, frozen carrots cut into small, chewable chunks, are an easy solution. Puppy-proof Your Home Your puppy wants to chew everything, including your shoes, sofa and lots of other things that will be aggravating to replace. Here are a few simple strategies from our experts to try: Hide personal possessions or put them out of reach. You pup is going to be especially drawn to anything that smells like you their favorite thing in the world. Shoes on the floor of a closet, laundry in basket, your phone of the couch— these items are simply too enticing for a teething puppy. Put them out of reach for safety and know that teething does not last forever. Protect electrical cords. Cords, whether electrical or from your blinds or curtains, that are on the floor or within reach, are another temptation for chewing. Move cords out of reach upward, of course or utilize tools such as cord covers if moving cords upward and out of reach is not an option. Install child-proof safety locks on drawers and cabinets. It might feel like overkill but installing child-proof safety locks on lower drawers in the kitchen can help prevent a chewing puppy from getting into foods or linens stored within. Use gates to close off rooms that you do not want them to explore and find fun thing upon which to chew. Learn how to puppy proof without sacrificing your sense of style. Redirect the Behavior Chewing is going to happen. Getting angry and scaring your pup is not a solution. Be prepared to distract them from gnawing on your prized possessions by providing appropriate toys under supervision such as those listed above. Of course, accidents are going to happen. Positive reinforcement will go a long way to teaching your puppy. Practice Proper Dental Care For now, you can skip the dog tooth brushing. More on this here. Instead, pet parents can start familiarizing their pups with elements of tooth brushing without actually scrubbing their super-sensitive! This will help put your pup on the road to good dental health, avoiding trouble like periodontal disease. When to Call Your Vet For most puppies, teething is mildly uncomfortable—but routine. Sometimes, though, a call to the vet might be necessary. If you spot these issues, give your vet a call. As a pet parent, you can help during this transition by providing appropriate dog toys, introducing dental health habits, and watching out for signs of trouble. If you suspect your pet is sick, please call your vet immediately. For health-related questions, always consult your regular veterinarian when possible as they can make the best recommendations for your pet. Read our puppy stages guide to learn more. Most puppies are born without teeth and go through a process known as puppy teething. From birth to six months, sharp puppy teeth erupt from the gums in the jaw in a predictable timeline. Puppies go through teething stages during the development of their teeth, including sore gums, and eventually—the eruption of 28 baby teeth. During teething, puppies may target all kinds of unexpected objects to gnaw and chew on, like baseboards and shoes, to relieve the discomfort. However, most dogs never outgrow the urge to chew. Pet owners are encouraged to learn about how their puppy's teeth grow in so they can best handle their dog as it ages. During the first two weeks, you'll notice your puppy nursing and first opening its eyes. Weeks 2 to 4 In the front of the mouth, narrow-edged teeth known as incisors will begin to emerge. The incisors are the first to appear at about two to three weeks of age. Puppies have six incisors on both the top and bottom jaw. Premolars and molars also begin to grow behind canines the pointed teeth between the incisors and premolars at three to six weeks of age, with three on the top and bottom of each side. Four needle-like canines appear at age four weeks and frame the incisors, one on each side, top, and bottom. Weeks 5 to 8 The last molars appear by six to eight weeks of age. When the deciduous teeth don't fall out on time, puppies may appear to have a double set of teeth. Retained baby teeth should be extracted by a veterinarian so that permanent teeth have room to grow. Sometimes, a crowded mouth pushes teeth out of alignment, resulting in difficulty eating or poor dental hygiene which can lead to periodontal disease. All of your puppy's 28 baby teeth are expected to come in by this time. This is when puppies start to learn how to eat moist and soft puppy food. Weeks 12 to 16 Breeders often let their puppies go to their new owners' homes around eight weeks. Baby teeth will begin to shed, and permanent adult teeth will start to come in. This process is painful for dogs, so providing puppy safe chew toys is recommended. This is a good time to socialize your dog more, look and touch the inside and outside of its mouth, and prepare for teeth brushing. If there are any baby teeth left, let your vet know so it can be removed. Permanent teeth replace the milk teeth tooth-for-tooth and add four premolars and 10 molars. Most pups will have 42 permanent teeth in place by about seven months of age. Signs to Keep an Eye on During Teething While it can vary somewhat between breeds , there is a progression you can expect as your puppy develops new teeth. It's important to begin handling your puppy's mouth while it's young so you can periodically check for any potential tooth problems. Any type of facial swelling, changes in eating habits, unexpected night awakenings, or rubbing of the face are signs of possible oral discomfort. You'll want to take your pup to the veterinarian if you see: Two teeth occupying one spot in your puppy's mouth. This can cause the adult tooth to come in crooked, possibly causing later problems. These are common symptoms of periodontal disease, a large oral issue for dogs. Broken or cracked teeth. This can cause the nerve of the tooth to expose itself, causing your dog pain or infection. Crooked teeth or malocclusion misalignment of the upper and lower jaw. While some breeds have a trademark bite, unusual ones could cause chewing issues. Loose adult teeth. Most often, this is caused by trauma to the mouth or from gum loss due to advanced periodontal disease. It could also be a sign of illness. How to Keep Teeth Healthy Schedule a visit with your veterinarian for an initial dental exam for your puppy. This examination will include a look at the teeth, gums, and oral cavity. Ask your vet to demonstrate how to clean your pup's teeth. This way, you'll know what brushes, toothpaste, and techniques to use. Get your pup used to the idea of tooth brushing around six months when its adult teeth start to come in. Regular brushing will prevent plaque, stinky breath, disease, and other medical problems. It's ideal to brush your puppy's teeth daily, but once or twice a week will work. The Purpose of Each Dog Tooth Different kinds of teeth serve various functions, based on the position of the mouth and the shape of the tooth. With some breeds, the shape of the jaw impacts how each type of tooth functions. Most dogs have V-shaped upper and lower jaws which allow the mouth to be opened very wide for grasping and capturing prey—or grabbing and holding toys during play. There are several ways dogs use their teeth: Dogs use their incisors to rip and scrape meat from bones. They also use them as a grooming tool to nibble burrs or dirt from their fur. Dogs use their two canine teeth, found on each side of the jaw on the top and bottom , as pointed daggers to inflict stabbing and slashing wounds. Dogs have eight premolars in the upper jaw and another eight in the lower jaw. They also have four molars in the top and six in the bottom. The extra molars are designed to crush and are used to process vegetable foods and bones. Dogs have specialized carnassial teeth composed of premolars and molars. As they pass each other during the mouth's closure, these teeth act like scissors. The carnassial teeth are innovations of the carnivorous animal that requires shearing action to process flesh. A normal bite looks like this: The lower canine teeth are situated in front of the upper canines. The upper incisors overlap the lower incisors. The upper premolar points fit into the spaces between lower premolars. The upper carnassial teeth overlap the lower ones. Malocclusion refers to the abnormal "bite" or fitting of these teeth. Malocclusion can be normal for certain dog breeds due to differences in the shape of the jaw and mouth. For instance, the flat-faced brachycephalic dog breeds like Bulldogs have a normal malocclusion because their lower jaw is longer than the upper. However, this allows the teeth to fit incorrectly, which can cause mouth damage as the dog chews. Thus, a veterinarian or veterinary dentist with orthodontic correction should be aware of malocclusion. How to Bathe Your Puppy Article Sources The Spruce Pets uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. A time when puppies lose their baby teeth and the adult ones start to emerge. With any luck, teething will go smoothly for your pup with minimal hiccups during that time. The majority of dogs, however, get in a great deal of discomfort when they are teething, which is when chewing comes in handy. It is common for puppies to develop sore gums during the teething process, as their adult teeth begin to poke through the gums. To alleviate teething discomfort, chewing helps soothe the teeth. As your pooch grows, it is normal for them to nibble and chew. Here is a guide to lab puppy teething, including information on when or what you can expect from the teething process with just a few symptoms as their adult teeth develop. Puppies teeth begin to appear around the time of weaning, which usually occurs between weeks of age, but depending on the breed, they can appear as late as 8 weeks of age. Beginning with their first tooth, a puppy gets 28 teeth, temporary teeth, referred to in different ways like milk teeth, deciduous teeth, or just simply puppy teeth. At this stage, your puppy loses his baby teeth and replaces them with permanent ones. After 3 months, puppies begin to lose their baby teeth. At around 4 months, it is likely your puppy will have some missing teeth. These teeth are remarkably sharp, designed to help them successfully adapt to carnivorous life after tasting meat for the first time. A few of the theories regarding sharpened teeth are associated with introducing solid food and assisting the pups in controlling their biting instincts. Once the root is fully reabsorbed the tooth becomes loose and is easily knocked out when the lab Puppies eats or chews his toys. Teething Gels For Puppies Fairly speaking, there are those who favor teething gels made for puppies. Our recommendation is to speak to your veterinarian if you are considering teething gels. There is disagreement regarding the efficacy or even the danger of teething gels. Like how do you know if your puppy is teething or not? What if your puppy is going through mental turmoil, chewing everything she encounters. Chewing Puppies chew by nature, however, if he suddenly shows a significant increase in her chewing behavior, it may indicate that he is teething. Make sure to give him his own toy because otherwise, you will regret it. Constant Drooling Puppies that are teething experience intense gum pain which leads them to constant drooling. When chewing, it gets even worse. Turn Into A Slow Eater As soon as the puppy starts to teeth, his mouth starts hurting and it gets even worse as he tries to eat. As a result, his eating rate slows down. Some may even stop eating. If possible, give him something softer and less chewy to eat during this time. Consult with your vet to get a list of soft foods that are suitable for him. Frequent Whining Every puppy whines while it is young. However, if you observe unusual whining even after he is past the whining stage, such behavior may be indicative of teething. Moreover, lab puppies who are teething often whine as they chew on toys as well as when they eat. Swollen Gums Plus Bleeding If you find blood on your puppy toy, do not panic. Unless the toy is drenched in blood and the puppy keeps acting the same, there is no need for further concern. Remember — It is possible for swelling and discomfort to persist for some time, so do not be shocked if the symptoms persist. However, if the bleeding seems excessive compared to normal teething, consult your veterinarian right away. Look Out For The Lost Teeth Most puppies lose their teeth while playing, so keep an eye out for teeth in his toys after he chews them. Owners of lab puppies often save their teeth to preserve their memory. If you wish to do the same, simply wash it, dry it well, and keep it in a safe place. This would be a great contribution to a memoir about your pet. Ideal Teething Toys for Lab Puppies As the lab puppies starts to teethe, the majority of pet parents are devastated to see their beloved puppies tearing up their house, devouring shoes, TV remotes, couch cushions, or digging through the garbage. We have listed some of the best toys that you can gift your pooches to cheer them up. Nylabone Key Ring Toy. Does teething make puppies ill or aggressive? Puppy teething can make biting worse , but your puppy also bites in play and he needs to learn to be gentle with his mouth. Chewing is also a natural behavior for teething puppies. It also helps the puppy to shed those teeth that are loose and ready to come out. As well as suggested toys for teething puppies. How long does puppy teething last? With human babies, we tend to associate teething with sleepless nights and grumpy infants. With puppies, our concerns tend to focus more on biting and destructive chewing behavior. How many teeth do dogs have as adults? Labradors are lucky. Unlike some modern dogs breeds, they have a full sized jaw bone with plenty of room for their teeth. Most adult labs have a beautifully designed set of forty-two teeth. This is a perfect mouthful for crushing bones and for ripping and tearing up meat! Just like people, dogs can have problems with their teeth. Tooth decay is common and teeth can get broken. Usually this is one of the premolars that sit between the long canine tooth, and the big molars at the back of the mouth. How many teeth does a Labrador puppy have? Like human babies, Labrador puppies are born without teeth. And, like human babies the first set of deciduous baby teeth are lost during infancy. These are replaced by bigger, stronger grown up teeth. This means your puppy will only have twenty-eight teeth until he cuts his grown up ones. When do Labrador puppies start teething? That first stage in the teething process involves the cutting of the first teeth through the sealed gum. In addition, this phase is pretty much over once you collect your puppy at eight weeks old. When do puppy teeth fall out? At this stage your pup loses his baby teeth and replaces them with permanent grown up ones. Loss of baby teeth begins after the puppy is three months old. The chewing may help to relieve the discomfort in his gums, but you need to watch him carefully. Make sure he is not swallowing bits of blanket or toys that have come apart. Some people claim that their puppies are more irritable during teething but I have not personally found this to be the case. How do puppies lose their teeth? Once the root is fully reabsorbed, the tooth becomes loose and is easily knocked out when the puppy eats or chews his toys. However, his gums may be a bit irritated or sore. But a word of caution before you rush out to buy some. Puppy teething gels Understandably, some people want to use puppy teething gels. However, we recommend you have a chat with your vet before using puppy teething gels. As opinions vary as to whether or not gels are effective or even harmful. You might also come across a cracked tooth. This may need to be seen to by a vet to avoid the risk of infection. Infection can be quite painful. It simply means he has knocked one of his loose teeth out a bit roughly, before it was quite ready to fall out. Most of the time, your puppy probably swallows his baby teeth along with his dinner, or while playing. You may occasionally find a baby tooth, which you can keep as a memento, but they are tiny and quite hard to spot! What are the best chew toys for teething puppies? Without doubt, the most useful toys you can buy your teething puppy are Kongs. You need to fill the hollow center with mushy food and freeze them. Your puppy can then spend up to half an hour of bliss removing the frozen contents. This soothes his mouth and relieves boredom another common cause of chewing. You can buy lots of other chew toys but I find these to be the best. When will my puppy stop teething? Many puppies will be done with teething by about seven months and almost all puppies will have a full set of adult teeth at eight months old. This is because there are reasons other than teething for the enthusiastic chewing that so many Labradors seem to have. Does teething cause diarrhea or fevers? There are a great many claims for the effects of teething in children, from fevers to rashes and upset tummies. These claims, tend to be associated with that first stage in teething. In other words when the baby goes from no teeth at all, to a set of deciduous teeth. This stage is over in puppies before you bring your own puppy home. Over the next few months, your pup will lose his baby teeth and grow his adult replacements. This is the equivalent of what happens to older school-aged children, not what happens in human babies. If in doubt contact your vet In addition to this, there is little or no evidence to suggest that teething causes anything other than teeth in puppies. It is really important not to delay veterinary attention to small puppies that are not well. A small, sick puppy can become seriously ill very quickly. However, there are problems that puppies can have with their teeth. The first is to do with the structure of the jaw. The second is to do with the position of the teeth as they grow through the jaw. If you are looking for a puppy to raise as a working retriever, or for the show ring, this is something worth checking for. Sometimes teeth that look slightly misaligned will level out when the adult teeth come through, and vice versa. Periodontal Disease is a common and sometimes severe problem in dogs. Just like in human, dental hygiene is important in dogs! Have your puppy checked by your vet if you think he still has some deciduous teeth left in his mouth at six months old. Retained baby teeth can impede the growth of the adult teeth and cause problems for your puppy later on. The power of puppy teeth Despite a lack of molars puppies still have powerful jaws and very sharp teeth. From an early age, puppies are learning to harness that power and not to use it when playing or interacting with other dogs and people. This is a process called bite inhibition. Does teething cause biting in puppies Puppies tend to bite a lot when they are teething. But the teething itself is not the only cause. However, biting and growling is an important part of puppy play, that is often mistaken for aggression. Small puppies often bite too hard because the process of bite inhibition that we talked about earlier is not complete. They have learned how hard to bite their furry litter-mate and mother, but not how hard to bite on human skin. Teaching this is one of your roles. But once his adult teeth come through, it is a different story. His permanent teeth have to last him the rest of his life. For example, he may break a tooth. Therefore, he must be happy to have his mouth examined. This is something you can start when he is really small. Get him used to having his lips lifted up, and his teeth examined now, using food as a reward. If so, you may notice your new family member chewing on almost everything you and your family owns. Until then, keep in mind that this is all part of the life of a growing dog and is a very common symptom of puppy teething. Puppies will begin going out of their way to find items to chew on as they start growing their adult teeth. The sooner she gets the idea that she has her own belongings and you have yours, the better your relationship will be throughout her life. Frequent Drooling Puppies who are teething tend to have a lot of pain in their gums and mouths. Because of this, they usually drool more often than they did in their earlier days. Slow to Eat When a puppy is teething, her mouth hurts, and it hurts even more when she goes to eat. Because of this, another symptom that your puppy is teething is that she may start eating slower, even if she has been a voracious eater up until this point. Some puppies who have a lot of pain while teething may stop eating altogether. Although they usually will eventually eat something, you may need to speak with your veterinarian for some suggestions. Your vet can let you know what soft foods are safe for your puppy to eat at this stage in her life as well as any other supplements or ingredients you should consider to help her through her teething process. This is just part of the process of her body getting rid of her baby teeth and growing her new adult teeth. Just like with humans, this is all natural, and unfortunately some pain is involved. If you notice your puppy chewing on something for a long time and then see some blood on the toy or item, this is normal. If you do feel like your puppy is bleeding too much for normal teething, be sure to speak to your vet for more information. Additionally, puppies who are teething tend to whine while chewing on toys and while eating as well. This is also due to their sensitive teeth and gums at this time. Visible Lost Teeth Finally, one of the most common symptoms of puppy teething is visible lost teeth. For example, if your puppy chews frequently on her favorite toy, look for her baby teeth to be left behind in it after a good chewing session. If you want to do this, just clean off the tooth, let it dry thoroughly, and store it somewhere safe. Talk to a Vet for More Information About Puppy Teething Symptoms Remember that puppies go through the teething process twice in their lives, as opposed to human babies who only do it once. Newborn puppies have no teeth and start getting them at around 2 weeks of age. At around 8 weeks of age, puppies lose their baby teeth and grow their adult teeth, which is usually the stage that causes the most problems for puppy owners. It takes anywhere from four to six months for puppies to completely finish teething. This timeline varies depending on the puppy. While this is not a dangerous process for your puppy to go through, your vet will be able to offer additional advice on how to help your puppy go through this stage of life. Recent Posts.
We are located in the NW corner of Arkansas at the base of the Ozark mountains. We share our life with Eagles, Deer , Hawks and various other wild critters. .It is never dull here on the mountain. .I believe in breeding only the very best, for the betterment of the breed. I have searched the world over for the finest in Red standard poodles. Focusing on dogs that can have the temperament to become service dogs. .Having produced several emotional support animals and several medical Alert animals. My babies are born in my home and have my full attention until the day that they leave , I then have a private group on facebook to offer a lifetime of support and advise. My job does not stop when the puppy leaves it is just the beginning The Red standard poodle is my passion. .Very rare , thus my focus is to preserve the bloodline , keeping diversity in mind as well , not easy , but definitely worthwhile.I believe that you should do one thing and do it right. I have searched the world over and have what I feel is the best in Red standard Poodles today. .I have a vision , I have a dream.Please do not contact me if you are a doodle breeder. I reserve the right to refuse to place a puppy in a questionable home. All of my dogs live in the house with me and are part of my daily life Please feel free to contact me regarding my Poodles. I am passionate about the Red Standard Poodle and especially the reds, no dyes no lies. .So get a beverage and sit back and enjoy. .I hope you love it as much as I loved creating it.Do not be fooled by smoke and Mirrors.There is after all just me, and of course my gorgeous red Poodles. Poodles are Labrador Retrievers with a college education. My Poodle will do anything your Lab will do. After a day of retrieving in the field, your Lab wants to curl up and snore in front of the fire. My Poodle wants to be a fourth at bridge and tell naughty stories! Home of Exceptional Red standard poodles Where every baby is raised with the love and care that you would expect from a knowledgeable , at home , hands on preservationist breeder. .Palmares is an AKC registered name. Photo Gallery. Our breeding goals include health, intelligence, temperament, conformation, uniformity, and beauty. Our breeding facility is located in a nice secluded, wooded area about 15 minutes from Little Rock, Arkansas airport where Smith Standard Poodles have plenty of room for exercise, and ample time for socializing with each other. We socialize them also with adults and children. Standard Poodle Breeder Every single one of our pups for sale come with a two-year guarantee. All our pups are birthed from quality, health certified Standard mothers and fathers. We strategically breed our dogs to enhance genetic strengths and subvert undesirable traits including common health problems within the breed. Our puppies come to you well socialize and absolutely doggie door trained. Our Standard Poodles have now found homes in every state in the US, and in fifteen other countries. These colors and patterns include Parti, Brindle, and Phantom Standard Poodles along with most of the solid colors available. Let us know if we can help you with your Poodle pondering, or with any questions, you may have about our beautiful dogs. We have years of experience, and the willingness to share. God Bless, Questions about Poodle puppies for sale in Arkansas? We have answers. Give me an overview of Poodle puppies for sale in Arkansas. Poodles come at different prices. Different things to consider are their height, size and weight, color as well as experience of the professional breeder. You will be able to afford one! Can breeders arrange travel for Arkansas Poodles out of state? Yes they do! The breeders, companies and businesses in our network know that perfect families do not always live close by, and sometimes far-distance travel arrangements have to be made. You may even be able to pick up your pup from an airplane close by or even around the corner - it all depends! How do you screen miniature Poodle breeders in Arkansas? We really care about puppies and their well being, so it is of the utmost importance that anyone who wants to be connected to us is screened under strict rules - and then they have to take our Breeder Pledge. The health of your puppy-to-be, its wellbeing, the way it is taken care of, the place it is brought up in - all of this matters to us. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other miniature Poodle breeders Arkansas? The internet is available to absolutely everybody - and that includes scrupulous breeders who are out there just wanting to cash in by selling puppies. We care deeply for dogs and puppies and we love connecting good and honest breeders with families who just want to open their homes to a new and wonderful puppy. What is a puppy mill like for miniature Poodle Arkansas? A puppy mill is an awful place that is unfortunately legal. Dogs are treated terribly and all their owners want from them are their puppies which they make money out of. Are there any miniature Poodle puppies Arkansas for sale now? We just need to know a little bit about yourself and exactly what you are looking for. Then begin your search and find the Poodle of your dreams. There are breeders, companies and businesses out there that are really excited to place their beautiful puppies in your home. What kind of dogs are mini Poodle puppies Arkansas? Poodles are actually part of a group of formal dog breeds. The Poodle is available in Toy size, Miniature size and large, regal, Standard size. They are highly intelligent and their origins belong to both Germany and France. How do I know I can trust you with miniature Poodle puppies in Arkansas? It is hard to monitor all the puppy scams that happen daily on the internet so we make sure that we have a secure Breeder Pledge and a strict screening process, in order to create the best of relationships between our customers and our breeders, companies and businesses. Our reviews reveal all!
Just a few months ago, your little ball of fluff was tumbling around, getting into mischief. This article will help you determine when to switch your puppy to adult dog food, how puppy and adult dog foods differ , how to select the best adult dog food, and how to transition foods smoothly to ensure that your pup is set up for a life of good health. According to AAFCO, puppy foods should be higher in protein, fat, calcium, and phosphorous than adult dog foods. These macronutrients and minerals help support lean muscle and bone growth. They also provide enough caloric density to enable the puppy to grow and perform basic bodily functions such as breathing, digestion, and movement. Many puppy food manufacturers also include higher amounts of compounds like omega-3 fatty acids to support proper brain and eye development as your puppy ages. Large-breed puppies need specially formulated puppy foods that contain less fat , calcium, and phosphorous to moderate their rate of growth. This helps prevent skeletal diseases such as elbow and hip dysplasia that can result from growing too quickly. You need to ensure that your puppy has the extra protein, fat, and minerals they need to support their growth and development and prevent various bone, joint, brain, and eye disorders. But aside from breed size, you also need to consider whether they are spayed or neutered or if they are a highly active dog that needs more calories. Breed Size Because of their faster growth rate, smaller breeds such as Chihuahuas , Yorkshire Terriers , and Pugs reach adult size sooner than larger breeds such as Golden Retrievers , German Shepherds, and Dalmatians. The guidelines below will help you to determine when to start feeding adult dog food: Small breeds under 25 pounds when fully grown reach adult size at months of age. These breeds will be ready for adult dog food at months of age. Medium-sized breeds such as English Springer Spaniels , Australian Shepherds , and Border Collies are pounds when fully grown, and they reach adult size at months of age. With growth rates between those of small breeds and large breeds, medium-sized dogs will be ready for adult dog food around months of age. Large breeds are over 50 pounds when fully grown. There are many large breed dogs, from the Boxer to the Great Dane , so the point at which these breeds reach mature size and weight can vary between 15 and 24 months of age. With the wide range of breeds under this category and a generally slower rate of growth, these dogs will need to stay on puppy food until they are months old to ensure they have enough protein and other nutrients during this stage. They also need to get those nutrients in the proper ratio to support the growth and proper development of their larger skeletons. Activity Level Athletic dogs may benefit from staying on puppy formulas longer, as the extra protein supports lean muscle growth and function, and the extra fat and higher caloric density can allow energy for high-intensity activities. Spaying or Neutering Breed size is not the only factor when determining when to transition your puppy to adult dog food. Because puppy foods contain a higher calorie density, feeding the correct amount during the remaining months of puppyhood is very important to prevent obesity as the puppy matures into an adult. Spaying or neutering does not usually slow the growth rate of your puppy, but it may affect the growth plates in the bones of large breed puppies, setting them up for joint problems later in life. In addition, unspayed female dogs who will be bred early in life may need to stay on puppy food longer to support gestation and lactation following whelping. Switching Too Early or Too Late Because the timing of switching your puppy to adult dog food is so important, there can be negative consequences from both switching too late and switching too early. Dogs that are taken off puppy food too late may be more predisposed to obesity and associated health problems later in life, given the fact that puppy formulas have more fat and calories per cup than adult dog formulas. The extra protein and calories in puppy foods can also increase the rate of growth in certain dog breeds if they are not fed a breed-specific puppy food formula. If these breeds are left on puppy formulas too long, they can be more predisposed to developing joint problems in the future. Similarly, if your puppy is taken off a puppy formula too early, they may suffer from nutritional deficiencies and growth abnormalities, failing to reach adult size around the expected time and increasing their risk of future bone, joint, brain, and eye issues. How to Pick the Right Adult Dog Food When it is time for your puppy to transition to adult dog food, how should you go about selecting the best adult formula for them as they become young adults? The young adult stage is typically considered years of age, as middle age starts by year in many dog breeds. While most dogs are generally quite healthy during this stage in their lives, feeding them appropriately during their young adult years can help lower the risk of obesity, arthritis , and dental disease as they age. Choosing a Brand The many adult dog food companies are not all equal in terms of quality. Dry Food vs. Wet Food The next step is to decide whether you would like to feed your dog dry food, wet food, or a mixture of the two. Both types of food have positive and negative aspects, and the choice to use one, the other, or both depends on the specific needs of your dog. For example, wet food: Has a higher moisture content than dry food and may be better for dogs that do not drink much water. Has a lower calorie density per volume than dry dog food, allowing dogs to feel fuller on fewer calories, which helps control their weight throughout their lives. Is often more palatable and appetizing than dry food, so it may be a great option for picky eaters or for stimulating the appetite of dogs that are less interested in food. Can be beneficial for dogs with oral abnormalities or dental disease, as it is easier for them to chew. By contrast, dry food: Can be a more economical option than wet food. Is a great option for easier portion control and for dogs that tend to graze throughout the day rather than consume a full meal in one sitting, as dry food will not spoil as rapidly if left out for long periods of time. Is beneficial for dental health, as the crunchy pieces act as an abrasive against the teeth during chewing and help prevent tartar buildup and thus tooth and gum disease. Can be easily used as a tool in puzzle toys for enrichment and mental stimulation. Is be used in slow feeders for reducing the rate at which dogs are able to consume their meals. When your pup eats more slowly, the risk is lower of them swallowing too much air and developing bloat, a potentially dangerous condition. Nutritional Requirements The final step in selecting the best adult dog food diet is to examine the Guaranteed Analysis panel on the bag or can of food and ensure that the formula meets a few major nutritional requirements. Other formulas have glucosamine for joint health or probiotics for gut health. Some dogs are sensitive to chicken and do better on beef- or salmon-based formulas. If you are unsure of the additional needs for your dog outside of the key ingredients and nutrients listed above, consult with your veterinarian. This will help ensure gut regularity with less physical activity. Remember that dog treats and other sources of calories in the diet need to be included when determining the appropriate amount of food for your young adult dog. How to Switch Your Puppy to Adult Dog Food Once you have selected the best adult dog food for your puppy, you are ready to transition them slowly onto their new diet. Because rapid diet changes can cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs, such as vomiting and diarrhea , it is recommended to introduce the new food slowly over a period of five days or so. Continue to feed your puppy as many times per day as they are used to throughout this process. If your puppy develops vomiting, diarrhea, or lack of appetite, stop feeding the adult dog food and see your veterinarian. How Often to Feed Your Dog For large-breed puppies, it may be best for them to continue to eat three times per day. For medium-breed puppies, they should continue to be fed twice daily when they have been transitioned to adult dog food. For small-breed puppies, you may consider transitioning them to eating twice daily instead of three times per day after they are fully on adult dog food. This may involve providing more attention and playtime for your dog as they become accustomed to fewer feedings per day. Consider extra walks, extra playtime, or brushing to distract them from feelings of hunger. Some dogs may benefit from high-fiber adult dog food to increase feelings of fullness between meals. Your dog may also enjoy cleaned, raw fruits and vegetables such as sliced carrots, cucumbers, or apples without the core or seeds. If you have any questions about transitioning your puppy to adult dog food, contact your veterinarian. In addition, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist can be a great resource for any issues that come up, and they can help develop the best diet and feeding schedule for your new family member. Featured image: iStock. Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? Once he has reached maturity, you can switch to adult dog food. Not all breeds reach maturity at the same age, however, so this can make it harder to know when to switch. How Long to Feed Puppy Food Puppies need a complete and balanced puppy food until they reach maturity. For dogs, adulthood depends more on breed size than their age. Because large and giant breeds take longer to mature, they need to eat puppy food longer than small- or medium-sized breeds. Medium Dog Breeds: Medium-sized dogs weigh between 21 and 50 pounds at maturity. They tend to reach maturity around 12 months of age. They need to eat puppy food longer than small- and medium-sized breeds. They can tell you when to switch to an adult dog food and help make it a successful transition. Leftovers in a bowl could signal that your puppy is getting full and needs less calories throughout the day. Continuing to feed puppy food past the point of maturity could cause him to become overweight, which can lead to other health problems. Choose a complete and balanced adult dog food formula once your puppy reaches maturity to help him maintain his ideal body condition. When to Switch Puppy to Adult Food Once you know when your puppy will reach maturity, you can decide when to switch to adult food. If your puppy will be full grown at 12 months, you can start transitioning him to an adult formula around his first birthday. How to Transition Puppy to an Adult Dog Food When you stop feeding puppy food, you must change more than just the food he eats. The number of meals and portion sizes will shift, too. Most puppies eat three meals a day , but adult dogs can eat just two meals per day. A gradual transition helps prevent stomach upset. Days 3 to 4: Serve half puppy food and half adult dog food. Days 8 to Serve only adult dog food. If your dog resists eating the adult food or experiences an upset stomach, extend the transition time as needed. Consult with your veterinarian for more help if needed. For more information and tips on puppy and dog nutrition from our experts , visit our Pet Expertise page. Related articles. Those are good as a rough guideline, but not entirely accurate. Active Goldens eat puppy food longer than the calmer ones. Because adult dog food is not as rich as the puppy version, he can only rely on the puppy food to meet his needs until his behavior changes to adult behaviors. Once your dog has almost reached maturity, his behaviors will automatically change. This change in behaviors is another sign your Golden puppy is ready to transition to adult food. Some of those signs are: Your puppy begins to sleep more and becomes less energetic. Your puppy starts losing interest in their puppy food. Your puppy often has stools after eating his puppy food. When your puppy is growing, he needs more calories and protein than an adult Golden to support his growth. That is why puppy food is designed to have more calories, calories, protein, and other nutrients beneficial for his development. But once he reaches maturity, his puppy food, although beneficial during the puppy stage, can do more harm than good. Because of the high-calorie content, if an adult Golden eats puppy food regularly, in the long term, it can cause him soft stools or diarrhea, and obesity. How to Transition Your Golden from Puppy Food to Adult Food After deciding it is the right time to switch your Golden puppy to adult dog food, the next thing to consider is how you will go about it. The best way to transition your puppy is to gradually mix in more adult food to your puppy food until he is ok with having only adult dog food in his bowl. For most dogs, the whole process usually takes about 7 to 14 days. After a few more days, continue to increase your adult dog food intake while reducing the amount of puppy food. At the end of days, if your dog can eat adult food without any problems, then you can eliminate the puppy food completely. The general rule is to switch your Golden Retriever puppy to adult food once they reach physical maturity. For Golden Retrievers this is between the age of 12 to 18 months. Puppies have different nutritional needs than adults and need to stay on puppy food until they stop growing. Switching too early can have a negative effect on the growth and development of your pup. Golden Retrievers are considered a large breed and reach their physical maturity much later than small breeds do. All dogs differ as to when they reach maturity, which is why there is no one size fits all answer to this question. Can switch to adult food at 9 to 12 months. Medium Breeds: 20 to 50Lbs. Can switch to adult food at 12 to 14 months. Large and Giant Breeds: Weigh more than 50Lbs. Can switch to adult food at 12 to 24 months. He will continue to fill out until the age of 2 when he reaches his adult weight. Keeping your Golden Retriever pup on puppy food until the age of 12 to 18 months is a good guideline to follow. But, there are other ways to tell if your Golden is ready to make the transition. Here are some other signs that will let you know your pup is ready for adult food: Skipping Meals or Leftover Food Puppy food is designed specifically for growing puppies. It is higher in fat, calories, protein and nutrients to help support growth and development. Once your puppy reaches adulthood, he no longer needs as many calories. You may notice that your puppy is skipping meals or leaving food in his food bowl because he is still full. This is a good indication that your puppy is ready to make the switch. Puppies typically eat 3 meals a day, when you make the switch to adult food, you can also reduce the number of meals per day down to 2. Decreased Activity Level We all know that puppies have a ton of energy, and Golden Retriever puppies seem to have even more! But, with age comes a decrease in activity level. Once your puppy starts to mature, you will notice they also start to calm down. Weight Gain Once your Golden Retriever puppy is fully grown, they no longer need high-calorie food. If you continue feeding puppy food to your adult Golden Retriever, you may notice excessive weight gain. Weight gain is a clear indication that your Golden Retriever is past the puberty stage and is ready to switch to adult food. The transition to adult food is important, as puppy food can quickly pack on the pounds. Weight gain is usually seen in Golden Retrievers who are spayed or neutered because owners continue feeding them the same amount of food as before. The age of spay or neuter lines up to around the time your Golden Retriever should transition to adult food, which is when they are finished growing. Puppies require a higher amount of calories, protein, nutrients and fats in order to fuel their growth. While puppies need the proper food to grow and develop, adult Golden Retrievers require food to maintain their bodies. Puppy food is: Smaller in size, making it safer to chew and swallow. Softer in texture, catering to the softer and smaller teeth of a puppy. Contains nutrients and fats essential for bone growth, muscle development, and energy. Carefully balanced for growing puppies. Feeding properly balanced puppy food is important, and large breeds like Golden Retrievers benefit from specially formulated large-breed puppy food. Most vets and nutritionists consider a pup a large breed if they weigh between 55 to Lbs when fully grown. Large breed puppy food is lower in fat and calories than regular puppy food, and it has a carefully balanced ratio of calcium to phosphorus. This allows for slow and steady growth, supporting joints and bones. For more information on large breed puppy food, check out this article from PetMD. Different quantities and ratios of nutrients are ideal for different life stages. Keeping your adult Golden Retriever on puppy food can lead to obesity and other health issues such as faster growth, which can lead to hip and elbow dysplasia. Puppy food is too rich and dense in nutrients which not only causes significant weight gain in adults but could result in stomach upset and diarrhea. It could also lead to an overdose of vitamins and minerals. Adult dog food contains nutrients that are suited for dogs who are passed their growth stage. Adult Golden Retrievers need food that helps them maintain their optimal health and weight. The switch to adult food needs to be gradual, over a period of 7 to 10 days. This will prevent any stomach upset in your pup. Basically, the best way to transition your puppy to adult food is to buy a bag of adult food when you purchase the last bag of puppy food. Gradually mix the two foods together, increasing the amount of new food over a period of 7 to 10 days. By day 9 or 10 your Golden Retriever should be eating his new adult food. If at any time during the transition period your Golden Retriever experiences an upset stomach or diarrhea, or simply resists the adult food, you can extend the transition time as needed. Final Thoughts So, as you can see there is a right time and a wrong time when you should switch your Golden Retriever puppy to adult food. Golden Retrievers grow and mature at a slower pace than smaller breeds do, and require the essential nutrients found in puppy food for much longer. It is recommended to keep your Golden Retriever puppy on puppy food until the age of 12 to 18 months. You want to gradually introduce the new food in order to avoid any stomach upset. Is your Golden Retriever puppy ready for adult food? At what age did your Golden Retriever start eating adult food? 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. One day they are smaller than your hand, and the next day they are too large to sit in your lap comfortably. But there comes a time which you should switch from treating them like babies to treating them like adults. This included switching their diets and the food they are eating. So, when and how to switch your golden retriever to adult dog food? This process seems simple enough, right? You can tell if they are ready or not for the transition by their weight. Using the following table: You can simply follow the chart guidelines and decide when you should start the transition based on this chart. You can also recognize the signs that they are ready for adult dog food when they start skipping meals, tasting different things around the house, or showing other signs that they are looking for more nutritious, solid food. Did you notice that the weight can slightly differ between males and females? What to look for in adult dog food for puppies? When you are buying adult dog food for your pooch, you need to look for a few things, first of all, you should always read the food label. Look for a product that comes with whole-food protein ingredients at the top of their list Foods where that the top ingredients are turkey, chicken, beef, or lamb are your best bets Avoid products that their ingredients begin with poultry, animal, and meat. You can also consult their vet before you start switching their food to avoid any issues in their stomach if you are worried it might happen. What is the best dog food for a golden retriever? Here are some quick recommendations for good foods for adult golden retrievers that I have tried and tested over the years with no issues. They are not perfect, but they are very good.
english bulldog puppies near me for sale - Discover the online program that more than 57, dog owners have used to rapidly transform their dog into a well-behaved, obedient furry friend. There are many things you'll need to stock up on before bringing your new puppy home. We'll try and list as many as possible to help you plan ahead. Below you will find a list of many of the most commonly used things you will need to make your life with your new GSD puppy as comfortable as possible. Any or all of these puppy supplies will make the transition into his new home as simple as can be and will be well worth the effort to have them on hand BEFORE you need them. Puppy Food and Water Bowls Important things to consider: glass and ceramic puppy bowls can be very pretty but they are also easily breakable; puppies love to chew and plastic bowls are easily chewed up and some dogs may even have an allergic reaction to plastic. Stainless steel is the best puppy supply choice of all for your German Shepherd puppy. A 2-quart bowl is a great size for dry dog food and a 2-quart pail is an excellent size for water for your German Shepherd puppy. Here's one great food bowl to check out. This also helps to keep the dog food fresher for longer and keeps other "critters" out of the dog food. A dog food scoop is a good choice to help you portion control your puppy meals each time and both of these puppy supplies can be found at almost any pet, hardware or larger dog retail department store. Dog Crate puppy supplies A German Shepherd dog crate made of wire or heavy duty molded plastic will definitely make your housetraining process go much easier, and with less incidence, and is a very important GSD puppy supply that each dog owner should own. Dogs are den animals and the crate serves as a safe haven for the GSD puppy. Dogs are also highly social animals who love to spend time with their human families. For this reason it is best to place the crate in a area near where family members spend a lot of time. Wire and molded plastic dog crates are both very acceptable to use with your new German Shepherd puppy. Wire Crates are lighter to transport and ventilate much easier while the Plastic Kennels are usually sturdier, safer and more comforting to your dog. Some owners get one of each for their GSD puppy and for different uses. Usually dogs will not eliminate in their bedding area. It is best to keep the crate area where the GSD puppy actually sleeps large enough for the GSD puppy to move about and to turn around in, but not so large that it can sleep in one area and "relieve itself" in another part of the crate. You can easily buy dividers to help separate the crate area into smaller areas while your German Shepherd puppy is growing so that you can purchase one crate large enough to accommodate your puppy once it is an adult. Never crate a German Shepherd puppy for more than 2 or 3 hours except at night when it is sleeping. Your new GSD puppy needs lots of opportunities to exercise it's body and mind and overuse of the crate can easily lead to terrible behavior problems for bored or lonely German Shepherd puppies and dogs. If you get a wooden gate, watch your GSD puppy carefully to make sure that it doesn't chew it. Remember, with time the German Shepherd will grow large enough to easily jump over a regular baby gate once it is an adult. This is exactly where all that early training comes in. Collars as puppy supplies can easily be lifesavers! In an emergency you can easily grasp the collar and restrain him as necessary. The most important thing about the collar however is that it carries that very important ID tag, another important puppy supply. In case the dog is lost or stolen, many times this is the first thing someone who finds a stray dog will look for. It is also what helps many dogs get returned to their correct owner. Make sure that the information on the puppy ID tag is current and up to date. There are many different types of collars on the market. Buckle types are one choice, however, I prefer the quick release collars with the plastic clips. There have been a few instances where my GSD's have gotten caught up together while playing and these types of collars have been truly lifesaving. One press of the clip and the puppy collar is off. That would not have been the case if the dogs had been wearing buckle type or some other style of dog collar. I do not suggest ever leaving a choke collar on a dog or puppy full time. Neck injury or worse could easily happen if the German Shepherd were to get caught up in something. If put on incorrectly, and many people do, strangulation could easily occur to your GSD puppy. Here is an example of the quick release collars with the plastic clips that I mentioned earlier that are excellent dog collar choices. GSD Puppy Bedding Fabric bedding that keeps it's shape and is easy to vaccum is a great choice of bedding puppy supplies. Bedding that has a liner that can be taken off is another great plus so that you can wash it whenever necessary and put it back on later. Puppy Doggie Door Supplies If you have the great fortune of having a securely fenced yard for your German Shepherd puppy, then a doggy door is an invaluable puppy supply and aid in the puppy house training process. They can be purchased in several sizes large should be fine for the adult GSD and most can also be locked when you do not want your GSD puppy to go outside. German Shepherd Pooper Scooper puppy supplies Several varieties are available of this particular puppy supply and they are indeed a back saver and a nose saver as well when you are picking up after your GSD. However, if you can't get one, plain old plastic grocery bags work just as well and are basically free. Large kitty litter scoops are good choices of puppy supplies also for this particular purpose when you're in a pinch. GSD Puppy Head Halters These "easy lead" halters are an alternative to conventional puppy collars - the thinking behind them being that if you control and lead the head, that the body will follow. These restraint supplies are very similar to what horses have worn for centuries. It is really important that the fit be correct and that this not be worn without human supervision. Different types of brushes used on a GSD may include any or all of the following - pet shedding blade especially helpful while shedding , a slicker brush and a Rubber Curry Brush. Do not choose anything with small removable parts - and once the toys begin tearing apart go ahead and throw them away. Do not choose balls that are small enough to be swallowed by your puppy - it is best to choose balls bigger than your puppy can easily handle to cut down on this problem. Good choices for German shepherd dog toys are Nylabones , rubber bones , squeaky toys, hard rubber toys like Kongs , balls and plush faux wool toys. Given the suggestions for best puppy toy choices, keep in mind your dogs chewing habits. Aggressive chewers need one kind of toy but destructive chewers need something different all together and each of these dogs would require a different kind of toy. Stick type dog chews are not the best idea since they may become lodged in the German Shepherd's puppies throat. Overall, don't buy too many dog toys. It's a good idea to rotate the puppies toy selection to keep the puppy from getting bored, and from tearing them up quite so quickly. Also, this will help you to see what kind of toys your German Shepherd puppy prefers. Puppy Harnesses Some people prefer these puppy supplies, especially for puppies, and they are also quite good for dogs that are more skittish to head halters or traditional dog collars. Keep in mind that while these puppy supplies are actually quite safe that they do offer much less control than other types of dog collar restraints. Every GSD owner should have several 4 -6 foot leashes, preferably made of leather , but nylon or cotton types work also - they just don't last as long as the leather. All materials have their good and bad points and in many cases it simply comes down to an issue of supply preference as well a economic issue. Other choices are long training leads and show type dog leashes. The German Shepherd puppy will probably fuss with it at first but should soon get used to it. Keep an eye on the puppy while the leash is attached to make sure that it doesn't get hung up on something else. Also make sure that the GSD puppy doesn't chew it up while wearing it. When you do finally grab hold of the end of the dog leash, follow where the German Shepherd puppy goes while holding the end of the leash. After a bit you can take the lead and have the puppy follow you. Call the GSD puppy to you and reward him generously when he comes to you on lead. After a bit of training and practice the German Shepherd puppy should follow you easily. Don't struggle with the puppy at this point and if he resists lure him to you with a cookie or a treat of some sort. You do not want to get into a tug of war and you do not want to give in to the GSD puppy either. Keep luring the puppy to you with a treat and he'll eventually learn that it is good to do what he is asked to do and the GSD puppy will be rewarded for doing as asked. Here is one great leather leash to check into investing in. Chewing is also a very important factor in helping their incoming adult teeth settle properly. As the owner it is your job to help direct your new GSD puppy as to what things are healthy to chew on and which ones are not. Anti chew spray is just one of the helpful puppy supplies to help control destructive chewing by applying a very bad tasting spray on the object to discourage the dog from chewing on it. It is best to restrain your GSD while traveling to protect both your dog, your passengers and you. This is one of many important puppy supplies you will need for your new puppy. Puppy Health Insurance Puppy Insurance plans cover pets for thousands of medical problems and conditions relating to accidents, illnesses and injuries. One puppy insurance plan is listed for you below to check out at your convenience. Puppies bring a lot of joy to the family, but they also need a lot of attention. You must be prepared with all the supplies your puppy needs before he arrives home. Some of these supplies are basic while others will depend on your lifestyle. Some of the essentials that a German shepherd puppy needs include; leash, food, beddings, toys, insurance, collar, microchip, id tag, food, crates, treats, poop bags, grooming tools, among others. It helps to locate you if your puppy goes missing. Collar Find a sturdy collar for your puppy. It should be adjustable to accommodate growth. Do not tighten the collar so much; there should be a space where two fingers can fit in well but no more than that. Leash A recommendable leash for a puppy should be stretchable to about 6 to 10 feet in length. Always buy a leash made of dog-friendly materials. Crate When your new puppy gets home, he does not know what is expected of him. He will poo or pee anywhere that he wants, and this means a lot of cleaning work for you. A puppy dog crate will spare you all that stress; let me stay in the crate and let him out only when he needs potty breaks. Never force him to enter a crate. Buy a big crate which will still be useful as he gets old. If you like traveling a lot, buy a crate that can easily be folded for easy transport. Bedding A crate without a bed is very uncomfortable. Buy washable and comfy bedding materials that will fit in the crate. Bedding that does not allow leakage has an added advantage as your puppy will pee on it once in a while. Check out these dog beds that you can buy for your German Shepherd. Puppy Food On many occasions, the breeder or rescue center will give you the leftovers or tell you the puppy food brand that the puppy was feeding on. It is important to continue feeding the same food for some time before introducing a new diet. Consult your vet for advice. Treats Healthy puppy treats are important when potty training your puppy, convincing him to enter the crate or when training basic commandments. Refer to your vet for advice on the ideal treats for your puppy depending on his health. Food and Water Bowls Buy food and water bowls that are easy to clean and heavy to prevent being dragged everywhere by your dog. Make sure that you clean them daily to avoid your puppy feeding and drinking contaminated food and water. Always have them in pairs in case you want to travel. Poop Bag Poop bags are needed when you go out with your puppy either in the park, swimming, hiking, or long walks. Microchip A microchipped puppy will be easily traced whenever he goes missing. It takes less time to reunite the owner and the puppy compared to the Id tag method. Buy the one with clear sides to see the remaining food. You should also buy Food scoops to help you to measure the right amount of food to feed your puppy to avoid overfeeding. A Dog House An outdoor dog house should be well sheltered to offer protection for your puppy. It should be big enough to allow him to stand and stretch comfortably. You should not keep your valuable carpet inside as he will shred it as he plays. Do not keep your puppy in the dog house in the first days of arrival, keep him inside a crate, and keep it near your bedroom. This will make him feel your presence hence reducing the night cries. Toys Buy all types of toys for your puppy like; tug toys, teething toys , toy balls, puzzle toys, and plush toys. They will help in entertaining, distracting, and mental stimulation for your puppy. Grooming tools To ensure that your puppy is neat and attractive, buy nail cutters, shampoo, canine toothbrush and toothpaste, towels, dog wipe, dog mouth wash, and combs. Reliable Vet Have contact details for a reliable vet for emergency cases and normal checkups. A Groomer and Trainer A groomer is necessary to assist you in keeping your puppy looking nice. A professional trainer will assist in training and giving remedies for some bad puppy behaviors. If you need to travel or go to work, a pet sitter and boarding facility will take care of your puppy in your absence. Always keep their contact details. Insurance Pet insurance reduces the cost of medical bills in case your puppy gets ill. Carol is a paw parent, and her love for dogs started when she was just 5. She adores her two German Shepherds and a Bengal cat, who she says, "life would be incomplete without" Recent Posts. Feeding and grooming 1. Traditional leather collars with an engraved tag are a popular choice. They can be personalised with up to 25 characters of information which will help someone return your pup to you. But here at Happy Puppy HQ, we love them! If your puppy reaches the end of their leash quite suddenly, a harness distributes the impact over a large area of predominantly muscle, rather than concentrating it on a small area of delicate throat tissues. And they make it easier to safely control your puppy during training. Travel Restraint Most people want to be able to travel with their dog. But there are some things to buy German Shepherd puppies that will make this easier. Puppies who travel unrestrained in vehicles can be somewhat mischievous however! It can be all too tempting to try and climb into your lap or your footwell, for a bit of attention. Furthermore, unrestrained dogs are more likely to sustain serious injuries in a collision. However, if your GSD puppy is a destructive chewer, this kind of crate might not last long. Another Alternative A great alternative is anchoring their harness securely to the seat belt plug. This will keep your puppy in place, and distribute the impact of a crash as safely as possibly over his body. So one of the things to buy a German Shepherd puppy is a leash. Young puppies are very receptive to new experiences, so teaching them to accept wearing a leash is easiest while they are still young. Most GSD puppy parents find that they need two types of leash. The Two Types First, a short lead for keeping their dog under close control near traffic and whilst walking on the sidewalk. Crate People tend to have mixed feelings about dog crates. But used responsibly, they have heaps of advantages. They can become a cosy den for your puppy, which he will learn to associate with being safe and relaxed in. They can make toilet training quicker and easier. And they prepare your dog for being unavoidable crating in the future, for example if they ever need to stay at the vet, or travel by air. Our crate training article is all about how to choose the best crate, and use it correctly. And this article is all about choosing the right size for a German Shepherd. So add some bedding to your list of things to buy a German Shepherd puppy! If you decide to move onto something more supportive as they grow up, our review of the best beds for German Shepherds will help you find the perfect next step. Many of them are available in standard crate sizes too — perfect for making the bottom of a crate as luxurious as can be! Puppies are curious, playful, and at times even total trouble-magnets! Creating a safe place in your home where you can leave them for a few moments to visit the bathroom or answer the door protects them from harm and gives you peace of mind. Your puppy zone should ideally have wipe clean floors in case of toilet accidents, and you should invest a little time teaching them to associate it with good things — by leaving treats in it for them to find, and returning their favorite toys there when they leave them lying around. Toys Like all puppies, German Shepherd pups have stacks of energy. So, toys should be a priority on your list of things to buy a German Shepherd puppy. They love to play, and playing plays a valuable role in developing their muscles, motor skills and coordination. In fact, GSDs have pretty tough teeth and jaws, even from a young age. So we recommend choosing toys designed with durability in mind. Food and Water Bowls All puppies need access to clean, fresh water. And whilst we recommend using most of their daily food allowance as rewards during training, you might also like to give them small meals in a bowl. In fact it is estimated that bloat causes the death of approximately 1 in 7 GSDs. Food Your puppy should come home with a modest supply of the food they were weaned onto by their breeder. This will minimize the possibility of them etting an upset tummy. Our article on the best diets for German Shepherd Dogs will give you some food for thought. Are they just the start of a slippery slope towards canine obesity? Well, we think treats have an important role to play in successful German Shepherd training! But the best way to capture a new behavior, or advance an established area of training to the next level, is by offering a high value food reward at first. Pieces of cooked chicken or small cubes of cheese are equally effective. Some we Like You may need to experiment with a few brands to find out which your GSD will work the hardest for. These basics belong in every dog owners kit: A brush, for removing loose hair, debris, matts and tangles — German Shepherds need their coats brushing at least two or three times a week. Shampoo, for when they roll in in something stinky. Toothbrush and Toothpaste These could be considered part of general grooming supplies. Medical procedures such as setting broken bones and corrective surgery for bloat cost several thousand dollars. Most insurance plans have the added bonus of including public liability cover. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own.
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english bulldog puppies near me for sale - Origin and history of the Labradoodle To fully understand the history of the Labradoodle, it's best to have a look at both parent breeds. History of the Labrador Labradors originated in Newfoundland, a large island off the east coast of Canada. The island is actually part of the Newfoundland and Labrador province — which is where these pups get their name from. They're closely related to St John's Water Dogs, a breed that no longer exists and eventually divided into two breeds — the larger Newfoundland dogs and the original Labrador. These pups were incredibly talented at helping fishermen retrieve nets, long lines, and fish that had managed to escape. In the s, European settlers saw how impressive these dogs were and decided to take them back home with them. They were then bred with local hunting dogs to create what we know as the adorable Labrador Retriever today. History of the Poodle Poodles are an ancient breed. In fact, poodle-like images have been found on Egyptian and Roman artifacts and tombs. This naturally makes it more challenging to know precisely when these pups originated and where they come from. Most experts agree that Poodles originated in Germany but were further developed in France. Some think that they are the result of crossbreeding various different European Waterdogs and others believe they arrived in Portugal in the 8th century and originated in Asia. What is sure is that they're a very old breed and that Miniature Poodles and Toy Poodles were further bred in France. Standard Poodles were used for hunting ducks, Miniature Poodles to hunt truffles , and Toy Poodles as cute little companion dogs for the French elite. History of the Labradoodle Often, with mixed breeds, little is known about the exact origin because it's difficult to pinpoint whether a pup was first bred naturally or not. That's not, however, the case with the Labradoodle. They were first bred in the s in Australia by a guide dog trainer named Wally Conron. He specialized in breeding hardworking Labradors and Golden Retrievers but wanted to breed a hypoallergenic one that could help blind allergy sufferers too. Poodles are well known for being great non-shedders, so Wally decided to breed these intelligent canines with his working Labradors. The result was a great success! Many people, however, didn't want a mixed breed assistance dog, and it took him many years to prove how great these dogs are. Both the Australian Labradoodle Association and the International Australian Labradoodle Association are trying to incorporate more intergenerational breeding so that these pups can officially be recognized as purebred. Temperament and personality of the Labradoodle Labradoodle puppies and adult dogs are adoring and devoted. They're very sweet-natured and love to be around their whole family. Playing is a huge part of any Labradoodle's day, and they'll love to spend time running after a ball or working out a particularly difficult puzzle toy. These fluffy dogs are very sociable and confident around strangers. They get on well with children, dogs, and other pets and love to make new friends. In all likelihood, they'll be the first to run up to other dogs in the dog park and introduce themselves. These hybrids are very energetic and need a good amount of space to explore and run around in. They're also just as happy to snuggle up with you on the couch and enjoy a good film. Training a Labradoodle Just like the purebred Poodle and Labrador, Labradoodles are very intelligent. They excel in all sorts of dog sports and training classes and really benefit from new and exciting things to do. These intelligent dogs love to please their owners, make them laugh, and are keen to do as they're told. For example, if taught from a young age not to bark unless they need to Labradoodle puppies are pretty quiet dogs. Lots of socialization is important for Labradoodles — they'll love playing with other dogs in a puppy kindergarten class and will benefit from learning for older pups. In fact, Labradoodles generally enjoy everything they do — including training! Because they're so affectionate, they can be a little sensitive. They also respond best to exciting training and positive reinforcement and don't like being told off or raised voices. If you want your Labradoodle to learn, it's essential to encourage them rather than scold them. They also respond well to the odd treat! Appearance of the Labradoodle As well as their loving and affectionate personalities, the unique appearance of a Labradoodle is something else that makes them very popular. These dogs look like little teddy bears! They have large, wide eyes and a happy and curious expression. Because there isn't a standard for this dog breed yet, they come in all different shapes and sizes, and their coat color and texture can vary quite a lot. How big do Labradoodles get? We really have to consider the purebred dogs behind this amazing hybrid to know this. Labradors are always medium to large canines , stand at roughly 23 inches tall, and weigh between 55 and 70 pounds. Poodles, however, come in 3 different sizes standard, miniature, and toy. Because a Labrador Retriever is mixed with a Poodle, the Labradoodle also comes in 3 sizes standard, medium, and miniature. Just like the Miniature Poodle, the miniature Labradoodle is especially cute. These little dogs can be between 14 and 16 inches tall, the medium 17 and 20, and the Standard Labradoodle can grow to be inches. Depending on which Labradoodle you adopt, they can weigh between 15 and 65 pounds. Generally speaking, male Labradoodles will be a bit bigger than female Labradoodles. Labradoodle color The American Kennel Club recognizes 3 Labrador colors — black, yellow, and chocolate. But these pups can also come in red, silver, and white. On the other hand, Poodles come in many different colors everything from black to apricot. So, as you can imagine, Labradoodle puppies can be many different colors and combinations too. Some are caramel, chocolate, black, red, chalk, gold, and sable. Labradoodle coat Whether you get a chocolate Labradoodle or a particolored one, their coat texture can vary a lot. There are three main types of coat: Hairy: this coat is usually shorter and wirier think Terrier. It's likely to shed a little more and will smell when your pup inevitably goes for a swim. This coat type is found in first-generation Labradoodles puppies with Poodle and Labrador Retriever parents. Wooly: this coat is dense and very soft, kind of like a sheep's or Poodle's. Fleecy: a Labradoodle with a fleece coat will have long, wavy hair. In many people's opinion, this is the most attractive coat. Are Labradoodles hypoallergenic? No dogs are fully hypoallergenic; they all shed at least a little bit. But many Doodle breeds Poodle mixed breeds were originally bred specifically because Poodles are low-shedders. Labradoodle breeders wanted the fun personality of a Labrador but with the low-shedding coat of a Poodle. If you suffer from allergies and don't want dog hair all over your furniture, the Labradoodle could be a really good choice. Grooming a Labradoodle Labrador Retrievers have a double coat and therefore shed quite a lot — especially before the seasons change, and they need to grow a warmer or cooler one. Luckily, Labradoodles inherit the single coat of their purebred Poodle parent and therefore shed less. Even though they don't shed as much as other dog breeds, it's still worth giving your pup a weekly brush to remove any loose hairs and dirt. This helps their coat stay sleek and smelling good. Depending on whether your Labradoodle inherits a fleecy coat or not, you may need to trim the hair around their eyes and in between their toes, so it doesn't irritate them. You might also want to consider taking them to a professional groomer every so often. Health of a Labradoodle A mixed-breed adult dog is usually healthier than a purebred pup as the gene pool is a little bigger. To ensure you get a healthy Labradoodle puppy, make sure you do your research and get them from a responsible and ethical breeder. Even if they're cheaper, avoid puppy mills at all costs. Unethical breeders don't care about the health or welfare of your Labradoodle, and you can't be sure they've been properly tested. Taking your standard, medium, and miniature Labradoodles to the vet regularly can help catch any conditions early on. That being said, depending on the parent dogs and your Labradoodle size, some pups can suffer from the following conditions: Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia common in both Labrador Retrievers and Standard Poodles Ear infections. But, occasionally, some may backcross a Labradoodle with a Labrador, to create the Labradoodle Lab mix! This mix will usually have a straight, double layered coat. They tend to be moderate shedders, but their fur can be less prone to tangles than a curlier Labradoodle mix. Some breeders will backcross Labradoodles, creating f1b or f2b mixes. In most of these cases, the breeder will backcross a Labradoodle to a purebred Poodle. Most breeders will choose to backcross to a Poodle in the hopes of passing on the genes that cause curly, low shedding fur. Backcrossing to a Labrador increases the chances of a mix puppy having Labrador traits. But, the outcome of mixed breed dogs is always a little unpredictable. So, Labradoodle and Labrador mix puppies can still be quite unique! A Labradoodle Labrador mix will usually be a medium to large dog. Their height will most often range between 18 and 24 inches, whilst their weight tends to be anywhere from 50 to 80 lbs. Labradoodles are usually smaller than Labradors, and puppies will most often fall between the sizes of their parents. On top of this, females are usually smaller than males. But, if you want a large dog, look for a male puppy. Coat Type and Colors Labradoodles are usually described as hypoallergenic, but no dog breed is truly hypoallergenic! However, a Labradoodle with curly hair is less likely to shed as much around your home, thanks to the Poodle influence. A Labradoodle Labrador cross will usually have a straight, double layered coat like their Lab parent. Their coat might be dense like a Lab, or slightly thinner. Colors can vary in this mix. Though Labradors come in three standard colors black, yellow, and chocolate , Labradoodles have a very wide variety of colors. Take a look at the Labradoodle parent to see what your mix puppy might inherit! Labradoodle Labrador Mix Temperament Like appearance, temperament can vary in a mixed breed dog. But, there are plenty of traits that we can predict in a Labrador Labradoodle mix. Both parents are known to be energetic and people-oriented dogs. This mix is likely to get along with everyone, as long as you socialize them properly from a young age to new experiences, animals, and people. They are eager to please, and have plenty of energy to burn every day. This mix is very intelligent. Given their intelligence and eagerness to please, they often take well to training. But, they can also become easily bored. And, a bored Labradoodle Labrador mix may display unwanted and undesirable behaviors like digging, chewing, barking, stealing things, and so on. And, dedicate time every day to playing together. But, when your puppy is older, you can really get creative with the types of exercise you try. This mix will usually enjoy retrieving games, like fetch. But, they may also enjoy swimming, hiking, scent-work, running with you, rally, agility and more. Ensuring your Labrador Labradoodle mix gets enough exercise each day will go a long way towards keeping them happy and healthy. Training a Labradoodle Labrador Mix Since this mix is eager to please and intelligent, they will usually pick up new cues quickly. A Labradoodle Lab mix will usually be very eager to work for training treats! Keep your training sessions relatively short, and always consistent. And, remember that every dog will be different, so some may take a little longer to grasp some cues than others! As a medium to large dog breed, basic obedience is a must. This will prevent any jumping up at potentially fragile or nervous visitors! They often have double layered coats, but the density and length of their fur will vary from one dog to the next. Generally, this mix will shed moderately all year round, and slightly higher in summer months. Since their fur is straight, any shedding hairs will fall straight out, so you may have to clean them from your house more regularly than you would with a typical Labradoodle mix. Regular grooming can help you keep on top of shedding. You may want to increase the frequency of this during heavy shedding periods. The best grooming methods will depend on the type of coat your mix inherits. Many owners prefer going to a professional groomer for this! Studies have shown that mixed breeds live, on average, longer than purebred dogs. Labradors live an average of 12 years, so you can expect a healthy Labradoodle Labrador mix to live to around this age, if not longer. However, a Labradoodle Labrador mix can still be prone to a number of health conditions, including those common in the parent breeds. Here are some of the major issues that this mix could be prone to: Arthritis. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Labradoodle Highlights Friendly and intelligent: Labradoodles are known for being friendly and intelligent dogs. They are good with children and other animals, and they are easy to train. Hypoallergenic: Labradoodles are often considered to be hypoallergenic, which means that they do not shed as much as other dogs. This makes them a good choice for people with allergies. Active and playful: Labradoodles are active dogs that need regular exercise. They enjoy playing fetch, going for walks, and swimming. Loyal and devoted: Labradoodles are loyal and devoted dogs that make great companions. They are always happy to see their owners and they love to cuddle. Versatile: Labradoodles are versatile dogs that can be trained for a variety of tasks, including therapy work, obedience, and agility. They can be expensive to purchase and maintain. They require regular grooming, especially if they have a curly coat. They are prone to some health problems, such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Overall, Labradoodles are wonderful dogs that make great companions for people of all ages. If you are looking for a friendly, intelligent, and hypoallergenic dog, a Labradoodle may be a good choice for you. Labradoodle History Wally Conron, who was in charge of the breeding program for the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia, purposefully crossbred a Standard Poodle and Labrador Retriever in to develop the Labradoodle as a hypoallergenic guide dog. The first cross produced Sultan, a dog with a hypoallergenic coat, aptitude, intelligence, and personality suitable for being an effective guide dog. Sultan worked successfully with a woman in Hawaii. Other breeders saw the merit of crossing these two breeds, and the Labradoodle quickly rose in popularity like its Labrador Retriever parent. These dogs are often produced by crossing a Labrador Retriever with a Poodle, but multigenerational breeding has begun in an attempt to produce a viable and recognizable breed. The Australian Labradoodle Association and the International Australian Labradoodle Association are taking steps to move this designer breed into registered breed status in the next few years. These groups have made great efforts to bring breeders together so that they are working to achieve the same standards through multigenerational breeding. Labradoodle Size The Labradoodle comes in three size variations, depending on the size of the Poodle used for the first-generation breeding. The three sizes are Standard, Medium, and Miniature. The Standard Labradoodle should be 22 to 24 inches in height for a male and 21 to 23 inches in height for a female, while both can range in weight from 50 to 65 pounds. The Medium Labradoodle should be 18 to 20 inches high for a male and 17 to 19 inches high for a female, with both weighing from 30 to 45 pounds. The average size for a Miniature Labradoodle is between 14 to 16 inches and 15 to 25 pounds. All of that said, there is a lot of variation in Labradoodle sizes. Some can be smaller or larger than expected. Labradoodle Personality The Labradoodle is an intelligent dog who can make the ideal family pet if properly trained. They are friendly and accept and treat everyone like their best friend. They can be gentle, but they can also be joyful, showing their happiness through exuberant jumping and playing. They also tend to be easygoing, since the Labradoodle was bred not to be aggressive. Temperament is affected by a number of factors, including heredity, training, and socialization. Puppies with nice temperaments are curious and playful, willing to approach people and be held by them. Meeting siblings, parents, or other relatives of the dog is also helpful for evaluating what a puppy will be like when they grow up. Socialization helps ensure that your Labradoodle puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Enrolling them in a puppy kindergarten class is a great start. Inviting visitors over regularly, and taking them to busy parks, stores that allow dogs, and on leisurely strolls to meet neighbors will also help them polish their social skills. Here are a few conditions to watch out for: Ear Infections: These can plague Labradoodles because of their floppy ears. The ears trap moisture and should be regularly checked. X-ray screening is the most certain way to diagnose the problem. Either way, arthritis can develop as the dog ages. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Elbow Dysplasia : Similar to hip dysplasia, this is also a degenerative disease. The disease varies in severity: the dog could simply develop arthritis, or they could become lame. Treatment includes surgery, weight management, medical management, and anti-inflammatory medication. It can cause mild or severe seizures that may show themselves as unusual behavior—such as running frantically as if being chased, staggering, or hiding—or even by falling down, limbs rigid, and losing consciousness. Seizures are frightening to watch, but the long-term prognosis for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy is generally very good. Allergies: Allergies are a common ailment in dogs, and the Labradoodle is no exception. Treatment varies according to the cause and may include dietary restrictions, medications, and environmental changes. Diabetes Mellitus: This is a disorder in which the body cannot regulate blood sugar levels. The dog will lose weight because food is not being used efficiently. Symptoms of diabetes are excessive urination and thirst, increased appetite, and weight loss. Diabetes can be controlled by diet and the administration of insulin. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA : This is a family of eye diseases that involves the gradual deterioration of the retina. Early in the disease, affected dogs become night-blind; they lose sight during the day as the disease progresses. Many affected dogs adapt well to their limited or lost vision, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Hypothyroidism : This is a disorder of the thyroid gland. It is treated with medication and diet. They require about 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day and would do better with a fenced yard in which to expel some energy. Some Labradoodles, especially in the first generation, can require even more exercise. The Labradoodle makes an excellent jogging companion but also needs some time off-leash to burn off steam. The Labradoodle is an intelligent and eager-to-please dog. Training should be easy as long as consistency and positive reinforcement are the methods. Socialize them from puppyhood, since they tend to hurl themselves headlong into canine situations without regard to the feelings of other dogs. This can lead to some problems if the unknown dog is aggressive. Despite their activity levels, a Labradoodle can adjust to living in suburban or city environments and can do well in rural settings. A crate is also a place where they can retreat for a nap. Crate training at a young age will help your Labradoodle accept confinement if they ever needs to be boarded or hospitalized. Never stick your Labradoodle in a crate all day long, however. Labradoodle Feeding Recommended daily amount: 1 to 2. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on their size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. Keep your Labradoodle in good shape by measuring their food and feeding them twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at them. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on their back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see their ribs without having to press hard. For more on feeding your Labradoodle, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Labradoodle Coat Color And Grooming Although a Labradoodle can have one of a range of coat types, the desired length is four to six inches. They have a single coat with hair ranging from straight to loose curls. There are three types of texture: The Hair coat, which is similar to fur in shedding breeds, is the least popular. Hair coats shed and usually have a normal doggy odor. This coat is seen in first generations, although breeders try to avoid it. The Fleece coat has a silky texture often described as an Angora goat texture. This coat ranges from straight to wavy. Labradoodles are considered to be non- to low shedders, especially those with a Fleece or Wool coat. Hair coats tend to shed just as they do in other breeds, ranging from very low to average shedding. The Labradoodle comes in a wide variety of colors. They can also have parti-colored coats, which consist of brindles, phantom, patched, or sable colors. Grooming requirements vary depending on the length and type of coat the dog has. Generally speaking, you can expect to brush a Labradoodle about once or twice per week. Some can be clipped or trimmed every six to eight weeks to keep the coat easy to maintain. Like Labs, Labradoodles can be prone to ear infections, so take a little extra time caring for their ears. Dry and clean them after a swim, and check them once a week for dirt, redness, or a bad odor that can indicate an infection. Then wipe them out weekly with a cotton ball dampened with gentle, pH-balanced ear cleaner to prevent problems. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Dog toenails have blood vessels in them, and if you cut too far you can cause bleeding—and your dog may not cooperate the next time they see the nail clippers come out. Handle their paws frequently—dogs are touchy about their feet—and look inside their mouth. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. Labradoodle Children And Other Pets The Labradoodle does well with children and can be an affectionate and gentle companion for any child. They can also be exuberant and might knock down smaller children, but they will love them with all their heart. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Labradoodles usually get along well with other dogs and pets. Like most dogs, they need training and socialization for optimum success at living with and visiting other animals. Labradoodle Rescue Groups Labradoodles are often brought home without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. Many end up in the care of shelters or rescues because of this. It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Labradoodles because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Labrador Retriever or Poodle breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have both health and behavioral issues. More Info For You. And the most common health problems of Poodles are: Hip dysplasia The autoimmune skin condition sebaceous adenitis Hypothyroidism Bloat Problems with eyesight Some of these conditions are inherited, and tests are available to screen dogs being considered for breeding. A Labrador and Labradoodle mix puppy should always comes from parents who have been health tested for hip and elbow dysplasia, heart disease, eye disease, thyroid disease and exercise induced collapse. Examples include allergies, eczema and sebaceous adenitis. Finally, ear infections, obesity and bloat can be largely controlled by lifestyle choices. Labradoodle Labrador mix grooming Pedigree Labradors need relatively little grooming. Their medium length, straight coat is too short to tangle. But, a regular habit of brushing, and occasionally bathing, your Lab can help a lot with managing shedding. It needs daily brushing from root to tip, to remove dirt and debris, and prevent painful mats forming. Is a Labradoodle Labrador mix hypoallergenic? Dogs of all types produce allergens in their saliva and to a lesser extent their sweat and urine , not their hair or dander. In fact, non shedding coats can be more problematic than shedding coats, because of the time you need to spend up close with your dog brushing them every day. If you have allergies, ask to spend time with a puppy on several occasions before you bring them home. Do Labradoodle Labrador mixes make good family pets? The first deliberate Labradoodles were bred as service dogs, but more recently they have surged as companion dogs for families of all sorts. Labradors and Poodles are both affectionate and devoted to their human families, and known for their patience with children. Very young children should be supervised with dogs at all times, but a Labradoodle mixed with Labrador is a great fit for a household with older kids and teenagers. Since they are very playful and thrive off lots of interaction and engagement every day, a household with lots of people to help out, or a retired household with plenty of free time is their perfect environment. F1b Labradoodles are not well suited to being left alone for several hours a day. Labs and Poodles were both bred to be team players and very focused on their handler. Withdrawing the target of that instinct you! Finding a Labradoodle Labrador mix puppy Labradoodles, second generation Labradoodles, and even backcrossed Labradoodles are increasingly popular with pet buyers, and they are getting easier and easier to find. The Labrador Labradoodle F1b combination is a little unusual though. Puppies reared on puppy farmers are more likely to have chronic hereditary health problems that require expensive lifelong treatment. And they are more likely to have behavioral problems as a result of inadequate socialization, or being separated from their mom too early. This article can help you identify and avoid puppy farmers. Have documents proving their sire and dam were health tested. Want to know all about you, and how you picture a puppy fitting into your life. Cons Unpredictable coat Needs a lot of mental stimulation and physical activity Popular with puppy farmers, so you might have to discount a lot of bad breeders before you find a good one. Pros Likely to be friendly and affectionate Easy to train Labs, Poodles and Labradoodles are all popular for a reason — they tend to be all round good dogs! What kind of owner would you recommend them to? Let us know in the comments section down below! Lifespan Sociability As puppies, Labradoodles look like tiny, fuzzy teddy bears. In reality, this cross-breed can be a great deal to handle for first-time dog owners or those looking for a more hands-off canine companion. What does this mean? The Lab Poodle mix awkwardly straddles the worlds of purebred and mutt. On the one hand, Labradoodles are purposely bred and sold for tons of cash. On the other, the cross-breed is not recognized or regulated by any major dog organization at least in the United States. Many breeders also turn to in-breeding to achieve desirable puppies. Yes, Labradoodles can make incredible pets, and there are countless well-intentioned breeders out there. Unfortunately, this also means many Labradoodles end up causing discomfort for misinformed households. The Labradoodle might boast a Poodle-like coat, but hair type has nothing to do with canine allergens. Instead, your allergies are probably triggered by the dander a. If you or a family member requires a hypoallergenic dog, then the Labradoodle might not be the best option! While the regular Labradoodle is just a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, the Australian Labradoodle includes genetics from the Cocker Spaniel and other unknown breeds. Labradoodles come in a variety of colors and patterns, from stark white to tri-colored. In this regard, the Labradoodle definitely takes after the Poodle. Despite what many lovers of the cross-breed believe, Labradoodles can also have more than one type of fur. While the most popular coat texture is wavy, you can also find puppies with extremely curly and straight fur! With consistent socialization and training, though, these traits can be easily managed. A well-adjusted Labradoodle is friendly, mellow, and ready for anything the world has to offer. Labradoodles who have not been taught to manage their excitement, especially around strangers and other dogs, can quickly cause issues. Before bringing home a Labradoodle puppy, take note that poor genetics often lead to behavioral and temperamental issues. While this is true for any dog — purebred, hybrid, or full-on mutt — it is a well-documented problem within the Labradoodle community. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Most Labradoodles are fairly large, reaching up to 65 pounds, so these eager playmates will easily mow down small children. Labradoodles are bred to be friendly and relaxed around strangers, making them terrible guard dogs. Because of its generally low prey drive, the Labradoodle is a great option for households with cats or small dogs. Please reference the feeding guidelines of your chosen food — every formula has slightly different serving recommendations. You should also aim to go on two long walks per day. While puzzles are a great way to meet these needs, adventure walks meandering walks or hikes where your dog can sniff and explore a new environment are also an excellent choice. A lack of room to run around and burn excess energy can rapidly breed destructive habits. The combination of high intelligence and overall friendliness makes the Labradoodle great for experienced and first-time dog owners who are willing to invest in lifelong training. Even naturally friendly dogs can suffer if not properly socialized from an early age. Like Poodles, Labradoodle coats can be cut in a variety of functional and fashionable ways. However, the lack of standardized breeding and immense popularity means many Labradoodles carry poor genetics. Labradoodles are most affected by conditions common among Labrador Retrievers and Poodles. Regular vet visits can help keep your pup healthy and catch early signs of disease. Here are the most common health conditions known to affect Labradoodles: Minor Conditions. Those with Lab-type coats are lower maintenance than those with wavy coats. Wavy fur is more likely to knot and tangle, particularly if it grows long, like a fleece type Labradoodle. No matter what fur type your mix has, the Labradoodle Lab mix will likely shed more than a standard Labradoodle mix. Shedding hairs are less likely to get caught in straight fur. But, no matter what type of fur your mix has, grooming can help to control and remove shedding hairs. Start grooming from a young age, to ensure your mix is comfortable with all aspects of the process. Are Labradoodle Lab Mixes Hypoallergenic? However, studies into hypoallergenic dogs draw mixed conclusions. But, others find no different between hypoallergenic and non-hypoallergenic breeds. Generally, Labradoodle Lab mix dogs will not be hypoallergenic dogs. The best way to see if a certain dog triggers allergy symptoms for you is to spend time with them before committing and bringing them home. You can also enforce a strict cleaning regimen, and recruit someone else in your home to complete grooming tasks. The Labrador and Labradoodle mix can make a great family companion in the right home. These dogs are people-oriented, eager to please, and playful. They are very social dogs that do best in homes where they have lots of company. This is also a very high energy dog. Daily training and exercise are a must. But, since they are likely to have a more Lab-like coat, they may not suit people who suffer from dog allergies. Finding a Labradoodle Lab Mix Puppy Labradoodles are popular dogs, so finding a Labradoodle breeder who backcrosses their dogs is not likely to pose a challenge. However, finding a breeder who backcrosses to the Labrador is going to be harder. Most breeders will backcross to Poodles in order to achieve a low-shedding, curly coat. Some breeders may have litters, or will at least be able to point you in the direction of someone who can help. Puppy mills, pet stores, and backyard breeders tend to jump on trends like the Labradoodle to make a quick profit. But, the puppies they sell are often poorly cared for and much more likely to have health and behavioral problems. So, above all else, you should prioritise finding a reputable breeder. Puppy prices will vary from one location to the next. Factors like demand for a certain breed, puppy colors, coat type, and so on, can all influence puppy price. The Labradoodle Labrador mix is less common than a Poodle backcross. And, much less popular. So, whilst they might be harder to find, they also tend to cost less. Rescuing a Labradoodle Labrador Mix An alternative option to buying a puppy from a breeder is to search for one in rescue centers. Puppies from rescue centers are often cheaper than those from a breeder. They might be slightly older, but this can be an advantage, as many will have some basic training. The major disadvantage of rescue center mixed breeds is that staff might not know exactly what parentage the dogs have. These dogs are best suited to families that have plenty of time for training, exercise and mental stimulation. They may be too energetic for apartment living, unless you have access to an open, safe space to give them exercise and a chance to stretch their legs a few times each day. Do you have this uncommon backcross at home already? Or are you still considering whether this mix is right for you? Let us know your thoughts and experiences in the comments! Readers Also Liked. Black, cream, white, apricot, gold, caramel, chocolate, red, tan, sable Suitable for: Active families, families with children, those looking for a playful and active dog Temperament: Affectionate, intelligent, friendly, energetic, playful, easy-going While Labradoodles are known for being sweet, their consistency in other characteristics is lacking. The demand for these dogs contributes to irresponsible and hasty breeding, and the results are litters of puppies with varying personalities. Not all Labradoodles are exactly alike but they do share similar characteristics. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. Labradoodle Puppies Image Credit: Danii Brown Photography, Shutterstock Labradoodle puppies are highly intelligent and social, and tend to be good with children and other pets. They are also known for being easily trained and make great family pets. Labradoodles come in a variety of sizes, coat types, and colors, which can range from straight to curly and from black to cream. Labradoodles, like all hybrid breeds, can exhibit a range of physical and behavioral traits from both parent breeds, so it is important to research the background of the individual dog to get a sense of what to expect. These are smart and loveable dogs that enjoy following commands and completing tasks. This is another reason that Labradoodles are used as service and therapy dogs. Their gentle dispositions combined with their intelligence and love for people make them ideal for anyone, from first-time dog owners to those with a house full of pets. They are low-maintenance dogs that are happy to spend time with their families. They can suffer from separation anxiety if they are left alone for too long. This can manifest through barking, howling, pacing, urinating in the house, and being destructive. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They get along well with kids, but their large size and playful natures could overwhelm small children. If this breed is properly trained and socialized, they make loyal companions that are devoted to their families. Labradoodles love people and other animals alike and get along well with other pets in the home. Their gentle and accepting personalities make them ideal for a home with other animals. The best way to ensure that your Labradoodle will be friends with the other animals in the household is to raise the animals together. Puppies will grow to love and accept other housemates as family. Adding a Labradoodle puppy to a house with other pets is easier than adding an adult Labradoodle to the mix. That said, while it may take longer for the adult dog to become familiar with everyone, they will be happy to do so. Training and socialization when the Labradoodle is a puppy, though, are crucial to their success living with other animals. However, there are several requirements to be aware of when welcoming this dog into your home. Here are a few things to consider about owning Labradoodles. When you bring your puppy home, they should be kept on the same diet that they were eating previously. This will help you avoid any digestive distress from a sudden change in food. A high-quality, protein-packed kibble will work well for puppies and adult Labradoodles. There is no one universal dog food that will offer the same nutrients to every dog. Just like people, different dogs need specialized diets suited to their needs. Treats are always welcome by Labradoodles and are motivators during training. A handful of dry kibble offered piece by piece will also work, depending on how food-motivated your dog is and how much they enjoy their food. They can go from sleeping on the sofa to up and waiting at the door to go outside in seconds. They require exercise to be healthy and happy but also to avoid them becoming bored. A bored Labradoodle will make up their own activities, and these may not always be the things that you want them to be doing. A minute play session per day in a fenced-in area where the dog can run or chase a ball will provide the mental and physical stimulation that they need. However you choose to do it, your Labradoodle will enjoy the exercise and the time with you. They like learning new things and following commands. Their trainability makes them reliable and competent service dogs. If you welcome this dog to your home as a pet, there are a few things that you can do to help them be the best they can be. Socializing your new puppy is the most important step to take from the time that you bring them home. This encourages your dog to not fear new experiences, people, or places and instead, to be intrigued by new things. A puppy socialization class is a good place to start. Playdates with your friends and their dogs will help your dog learn to make friends. Obedience classes will teach your dog basic manners and how to follow simple instructions. From there, you can move on to agility classes, to help your dog get the exercise that they need while focusing on an activity. Patience and repetition are required from you so your dog associates learning with a positive experience. If you get this done professionally, it will include a haircut, nail trim, and bath. Regular nail trims are important for paw health. Overgrown nails can be painful and make walking difficult for your dog. In addition, the popularity of Labradoodles has increased, leading to overbreeding and irresponsible breeding. If you have a Labradoodle, these are potential issues that could arise down the road. Regular veterinary exams are important for the prevention and detection of these conditions. Minor Conditions.