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Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Take back control of their behavior using these quick and easy solutions to stop German Shepherd biting that actually works. Even better, have a set of toys that are only used when you want to engage in play with your puppy. Hide these toys in a basket or box after your game of play. This makes them extra special. They are under your control and your dog must give them back to you. Special toys are more fun for your pup to bite than you. When in doubt of what special toy your dog likes, choose from this specially-curated list of what toys German Shepherds love for interactive toy ideas to keep your dog entertained. Say OUCH! When your pup bites you, say OUCH firmly. This simple technique catches the attention of many puppies when done correctly and can train a German Shepherd puppy to not bite you. You could also make a YIP sound instead, just like their little brother and sisters would make a yipping noise when playing too rough. If they continue to bite and nip, say OUCH again and then get up immediately and leave the room for a few moments. You may return to play but keep repeating this simple process until they learn to keep their teeth on their toys. This will only encourage them to continue their unwanted behavior. Use Puppy-Safe Partition Gates Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent your German Shepherd from jumping over. If your pup bites you aggressively when you and your family walk past you, then use an exercise pen or this German Shepherd-sized pet safe partition gate to contain them. Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent and discourage your German Shepherd from jumping over to continue to try and bite you. Use the items during busy times in your home to keep your dog calm and out of areas that might increase their excitement and biting and nipping you. Puppies tend to bite and chew when their teeth are coming in. They do this to relieve the pain and help soothe themselves. Freeze a durable large Kong with their favorite treats and kibble and have them on hand for times when your dog is acting out and biting you. Give them a Kong to gnaw on and bring icy relief to their gums. Plus, chewing has been shown to help relax and calm dogs. Redirections are actions that keep your pup from engaging in unwanted behavior by showing them appropriate behavior. For example: When your dog nips you, find their teething toy to bite instead. When your dog jumps on you to bite your hands or ankles, look around for a Kong to give to them to bite on. Squeaky toys like this toy that continues to squeak , even after a puncture, are ideal to distract your dog from your hand to another object. These toys differ from their special toys mentioned above because these redirection toys are ones you leave out for your pup to chew most of the time. So, be sure to have them nearby! Use Daily Leadership Skills How many times a day do you teach your German Shepherd to listen to you and offer them leadership? Use daily interactions as an effective way of teaching your dog about leadership. Have them sit before you take them for a walk or exiting a door. Ignore them altogether. Only offer them interaction and come back to them when they show you calming behaviors. Our dogs love our attention. And German Shepherds crave it! An overfed dog that is under-exercised may display destructive behaviors because of boredom and lack of energy needs being met. Get up off the couch and go outside for a walk and sniff party. Low impact activities and free-running off-leash running are best. Choose from a list of fun and gentle, age-appropriate German Shepherd puppy exercises to keep your pup healthy and better behaved. Stop roughhousing with your dog before it frustrates them. Use appropriate, puppy-safe toys instead of play sessions. This way, your pup can bite the toy instead of your fingers, hands, or arms. You may also stress out your GSD by engaging them rough of play. For your pup to either keep up with the play or stop you from too rough play, they may bite you! From day one, avoid play that involves mouthing or teeth on the skin. Use toys to provide your dog a way they can bite to release their energy… Without nipping you! And this game is great because it teaches your dog a necessary life skill. Practice the game: multiple times a day for 2 to 3 minutes at a time Your pup learns impulse control during the game and this transfers over to their ability to stop themselves from biting you. Read below for the easy-to-follow directions. If your dog gets too worked up and then bites, then teach them this Rev Up and Cool Down game. After a few running steps and before your pup gets too excited, stop running and walk slowly. Keep moving slowly until your dog also slows down. When you see them slow down, take a few more steps calmly and peacefully. Continue with steps one through three. Each time your dog should slow down sooner and quicker. If your puppy knows any of these basic German Shepherd commands , incorporate those commands to make the training more interesting and fun. The link above will also easily explain how to teach over ten commands! The point of the Rev Up and Cool Down game is to teach them to settle and stay calm without nipping and biting you. You need to keep your pup exercised, mentally stimulated, and show them what calming behavior is. Be fair and understanding. A Shepherd is a joy to own when given the direction they desire and the commitment they need. Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. German Shepherd puppies , like all puppies, go through a teething phase, and their biting behavior can continue until they are around 4 to 6 months old when their adult teeth have fully grown in. But how do you get German Shepherd puppies to stop biting, and when should you seek out more help? We dive into everything that you need to know here. German Shepherds are herding dogs, and as such, they love to go after anything that moves. This could be cats, kids, hands, fingers, or just about anything else. The more they get away with it, the more acceptable the behavior seems in the future. Addressing the problem early and consistently is vital. Just like babies need something to chew on when their new teeth are coming in, your German Shepherd needs something too! First, it stops when they get their adult teeth. Second, if you try to redirect them to something that they can chew on, most German Shepherd puppies are receptive. At this time, they should have all their adult teeth, which means no more teething to worry about. But at least you know the root of the problem and can start implementing the necessary strategies to address it. Instead, get them a few chew toys, bones, and other acceptable things to chew on as they teethe. You can also throw a few of these toys in the fridge or freezer to cool them down, and this will offer even more relief for your pup when they need it! While there are plenty of techniques to try, we recommend redirection and positive reinforcement. The method is simple. If and when they start chewing on the toy or other appropriate object, give them praise. German Shepherds love to please their owners, so this is typically an effective way to train your puppy. Therefore, you should have levels of concern. If they are still chewing and nipping at the 9-month mark, you should seek obedience training or talk to a vet to see what you can do. So, get on it early and often, and stick with it! Because with just a little work and dedication you can get your German Shepherd puppy to stop biting in no time. Check Price on Amazon 4. Use Positive Reinforcement Positive reinforcement means giving something pleasant to your German Shepherd when they perform what you want them to do so that they learn to associate the correct behavior with the reward. The more this is repeated, they will remember and do it more often. The reward is a reinforcing motivation. In the above example of redirecting your GSDs biting to a chew toy, once he accepts the toy and starts to chew or play with it, you then offer lots of enthusiastic verbal praise and reward with a treat. Again, timing is important, and this must be done instantly so that your German Shepherd will recognize or associate his behavior with the correct action. You can give other rewards, but these may be more suited to older pups, adolescent dogs, or adults. Alternatives could be giving them a special toy, playing their favorite game, such as fetch, or taking them on their favorite walk. Always use lots of verbal praise in parallel to the reward you choose. You will, no doubt, soon get to learn where your dog prefers to be pet. Go here for more guidance on where to pet your German Shepherd. This is also useful when your German Shepherd starts to put his mouth around your possessions or furniture, ready to have a good gnaw! Using a time-out can effectively discipline a German Shepherd for biting and other undesirable behaviors. A great way to do this is to grab their collar, push their bum down, and make them sit. The idea is that your German Shepherd will quickly learn to associate that the fun stops when his nipping starts! As always, timing is critical, so your pup learns what he has done wrong at the precise moment. For very young puppies, you should only put them in time-out for a few seconds, between 7 and 10, and no longer than 30 seconds. At the end of the time-out, redirect your pup back to play and use lots of verbal praise or offer a training treat for good onward behavior. You must time the click at the exact moment your pet is doing what you want to reinforce. If you quickly reward your dog with a positive experience such as a treat, he will soon learn to associate the noise of the click with great things. The idea is that you condition your German Shepherd so that when he hears the sound of the clicker, he knows he has done something to please you. In the case of puppy biting, we are simply rewarding the puppy for choosing not to bite. You can achieve this by using the distraction technique described above. When the puppy makes the right choice and starts to bite on his chew toy, he hears the click and gets his treat. Look out for other symptoms such as drooling more than usual, bad breath, loss of appetite, or sneezing. If you are consistent and patient with your methods, you will achieve great results. Be firm but fair, which also helps to strengthen the loving bond between you and your dog. It leads to fear, avoidance, hurt feelings, guilt, stress, anxiety, and lack of trust. Owners should use positive reinforcement methods as much as possible. In another year-long study by the University of Pennsylvania, researchers found that using confrontational or aversive methods to teach aggressive dogs did not work. The dogs continued to be aggressive until the training methods were changed. The same study found that punishing techniques and dominance-based training, such as hitting or kicking, growling, or yelling at your dog, can cause aggression, as stated by Meghan E. An even more recent study in companion dogs suggests that using even mild punishments like yelling and leash-jerking can stress dogs out more than dogs taught using reward-based training. This stress causes negative consequences and poorer welfare. Alpha rolling is a controversial and outdated technique that physically puts your dog on his back or side in a submissive position to show that you are dominant or the Alpha. This old-fashioned technique is a form of positive punishment and was often used to house-train pups. Many people will have used this method decades ago without success, but at the time, they believed it was the right thing to do. For a positive punishment to work, the problem is that it has to be administered during or immediately after the act within 2 -3 seconds ; otherwise, the dog will not make the connection. Sometimes puppies naturally get over-excited and overtired. When this happens, instead of using the crate as a punishment, lure him into the crate with a treat offering lots of praise and letting him go down for a nap. If you feel sorry for your German Shepherd after disciplining him, you must never reward him out of guilt. Again, this only confuses your dog. Remember to be firm but fair. While a muzzle can prevent your dog from biting, it is not a solution to the underlying behavior issue. Muzzling your German Shepherd without addressing the root cause of their biting can lead to further behavioral problems and may even make the situation worse. Is it ever too late to discipline a German Shepherd for biting? It is never too late to discipline a German Shepherd for biting, but it may take more time and effort to modify their behavior if the biting has become a habit. Start with identifying the root cause and then take the guidance of an expert to set boundaries and train better to eradicate unwanted behavior. Final Thoughts Puppy biting is natural in all dogs. However, you now know the importance of disciplining your German Shepherd as soon as he starts to exhibit biting, nipping, and chewing behavior and how to do it. This is especially important with the German Shepherd breed as they quickly grow into big strong dogs. That could end in disaster for all concerned. No matter what you are teaching your German Shepherd, try to train him when young; 8 weeks old is a great time to start. Make sure you properly socialize him and give him lots of exercise and training will be much easier. Related Posts You May Like:. Puppies Have you ever reached down to play with a German Shepherd puppy, only to have that adorable little fur-ball pierce your skin with its razor-sharp puppy teeth? When I brought Allie into the family, she was fully in the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — so that first month was tough! Unfortunately, biting is an inevitable phase of puppyhood — it comes with the territory when you decide to be a puppy parent. My goal with this guide is to get you through the biting stage with as few battle scars as possible. Why do German Shepherd Puppies Bite? Up until this time, your puppy was with its littermates, and playtime meant lots of mouthy, nipping fun. Accordingly, this is the only way your GSD knows how to play! A German Shepherd puppy also uses their mouths to explore different things like toys — or hands, ankles, furniture… pretty much anything they can get their mouth around. Your puppy could also be teething, which can increase their mouthy behavior. Just be patient as you work through the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — give your pup time to learn to be gentle when playing or seeking your attention. Nothing is worse than an ankle-biter! I was very lucky not to have this problem with Allie. Why does your German Shepherd puppy target the ankles? Because your GSD is a working dog trying to do its job — herd you around the house like livestock. German Shepherds were originally bred for herding flocks of sheep. Your furry pal may also think heel nipping is just a really fun game. Using a toy as a distraction and keeping your pup active will help nip ankle nipping in the bud! Because she was too busy biting hands! There are lots of reasons why a pup may decide to start biting your hands. For one, good things treats, toys, love, attention come from hands. Also, hands are almost like swinging toys from the perspective of a playful pup — too enticing to pass up! How to Discourage Biting Behavior While the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is a rite of passage, there are some ways you can discourage bad biting behavior without harsh discipline. This is one of the most effective ways to teach your German Shepherd bite inhibition — or how to be gentle with her teeth. Think about when your pup was rolling and playing with their brothers and sisters — if your GSD was too rough, their sibling would let out a yelp. This trick worked great with Allie! Just make sure to be consistent until your pup gets the idea and learns to master the power of her jaws. Puppies will be puppies! Redirect the biting to an appropriate toy. For example, when your fuzzy friend latches onto your ankles, give a little puppy-like yelp, and then whip out a toy and encourage your dog to chew on that instead. Tug-of-war is the perfect game for the puppy biting phase. Socialize your puppy as much as possible. Other dogs are great at teaching your puppy that they playing too rough and biting too hard. Try a deterrent to prevent your dog from chewing or biting. If all else fails, there are lots of products designed to deter your dog from bad biting behavior. How do they work? Well, they taste awful. But if used correctly, they can definitely work. This is still attention — your puppy bites, your puppy gets attention. Otherwise, your pup may see this as a fun new game, kind of like tug-of-war but with your hands or feet as the toy. You want your furball to love playing with you! The goal here is to encourage your German Shepherd to play as much as ever but to play gently. As a pup, Allie thought she should greet everyone by jumping in their face and nipping — kind of like a kiss hello, but with teeth. And as she got bigger, it was harder to control. But trust me, it got old quickly. Be proactive. If I knew someone was coming over, I would put Allie in another room or in her crate. Once our visitor was in the house and the initial excitement had passed, I would let her out. By keeping her from greeting people right when they walked through the door, I could minimize her overzealous behavior. This is a simple command that teaches your dog to stay in her place until you give a release command. This is another way to allow the initial excitement to pass and your German Shepherd to calm down a bit before greeting anyone. Redirect attention to a toy like I talked about earlier. Fold your arms and turn away. Keep turning until your GSD stops jumping, then praise them and use a treat as a reward. What to Do If Biting Becomes Aggressive Although puppy mouthing is normal, there can be cases where biting can signal problems and possibly even aggression. Look for physical differences in your pup. If your puppy is having a moment of aggression, their body may stiffen when snarling, and bites will typically be more painful than during regular play. Also, if your GSD puppy is biting out of fear or frustration, you may need to take action. These types of behavior are not something your pup will just grow out of. While the biting phase will inevitably end, you may find yourself asking the infamous question — when do German Shepherds calm down!? I asked myself and our vet this question more than once! It honestly just depends. Sure, she had her calm moments thanks in part to her training , but she was still very hyper especially in more excitable moments. The type of German Shepherd dog is yet another variable that plays a role in its energy levels. So when do German Shepherds calm down? It really depends on your individual German Shepherd. Final Thoughts Unfortunately, the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is something all GSD puppy owners will go through, but it will pass. Try the tips above to help keep your sanity during this phase. Or any tips to help the rest of us? Please share! Since puppies lack the dexterity that you and I have, they use their mouths to explore the world around them. By understanding the behavior of biting itself, you can begin to see just how normal biting is in German Shepherd puppies. Just because biting is a normal behavior in a puppy does not mean we should tolerate it or promote it. Since biting is a form of communication for German Shepherd puppies, there are many things our puppies could be trying to say! So why do Shepherd pups bite? Puppies often communicate with their siblings through biting and pawing, especially when they are trying to incite a play session. Your pup may gnaw on your hand as if it were a chew toy, especially when you are a moving target. Puppies play and bite their siblings from the moment they are old enough to do so. This is why the behavior is so common, and why our Shepherd pupswill need to learn how to transition to playing with appropriate chewing options. Not only are our hands and feet tempting enough, but even more so when a puppy has a high prey drive. A prey drive is an ingrained need to chase after moving objects, whether it is appropriate or not. A swinging hand as we walk by can be extremely tempting for a growing pup, causing them to jump up and nip. If it seems like your Shepherd puppy is always biting you when you are in motion, it may be due to their high prey drive! They Are Curious As we mentioned above, German Shepherd puppies use their mouth to explore the world around them. Biting can help them examine and understand an object, and our hands and feet can fall into that category as well! If you catch your puppy gnawing on everything around your home, it may be their curiosity getting the best of them! A dog quickly learns what behavior gets a reaction, causing them to do it over and over again. Even if their bites result in a negative reaction from you, it still counts as attention. They Are Teething Similar to teething babies, a German Shepherd puppy experiences teething pain as well. If your Shepherd pup seems to find relief when chewing on objects, they may be biting you due to teething discomfort. They Are Herding You If your German Shepherd puppy is constantly biting at your ankles, they may be displaying some herding behaviors. German Shepherds are ingrained with a need to work, especially in dogs with a working bloodline. If your German Shepherd is always nipping at your feet, running to your side when you are moving, or showing signs of anxiety or frustration when you are moving around your home; it may be herding behavior. So how can you stop this normal puppy behavior? Redirect The Behavior One of the most effective ways to stop your German Shepherd puppy from biting is by redirecting the behavior. An effective distraction is a wonderful way to end the behavior without punishment, and show them how much fun the alternative to biting can be. The next time your Shepherd pup is displaying undesirable nipping, try to pull out their favorite toy. Since this will need to be a toy that your dog enjoys, be sure to offer them the option that they find most exciting. This can be a Kong toy , rope, bone, or any other chewing option that your dog loves. By doing this each time your Shepherd puppy begins to bite you, they will begin to understand that they would much rather play with an acceptable chew option. Having a variety of chew toys can alleviate their need to bite our hands and feet, and offer them the relief they seek in this uncomfortable transition. There are so many toys created for teething puppies, that it should be easy to fill your home with plenty of appropriate options. One of our favorite chew toys is the Kong Teething Binkie. Any attention can validate the behavior, causing them to make it a habit. This shows them that the behavior is unacceptable, and does not involve any harmful negative reinforcement. Our attention is important to a puppy, and they do not want to be ignored. By showing them that biting will only result in us pulling away, they will learn to ditch the undesirable behavior. Interrupt The Behavior Sometimes a Shepherd puppy needs a sharp and sudden sound to pull them out of a bad habit. By giving a quick interrupter cue ouch, yip, eek , you can pull your puppy away from the action and gain their attention. Because of this, it is so important to offer plenty of mental and physical activities throughout your home. For example, if your puppy nips at strangers each time they walk in the door, it may be best to limit their time around the guest and send them to a separate play area. Once they begin to understand that biting is unacceptable, you can refrain from using their separate play area as often. Similar to what we discussed above about being proactive, a separate play area can help them calm down and collect themselves. Once your German Shepherd puppy begins to mature and understand that biting is unacceptable, they should require less time away. Just as there are effective methods in canine training, there are counterproductive actions as well. Do Not Hit Or Yell Since biting is a normal behavior that puppies must learn to grow out of, it is not productive to hit or yell at your puppy when they bite. Doing this can show them from a young age that interaction with you results in something negative, and can hinder your training process. By using other distractions and training methods when they bite, you can turn every bite into a learning experience for your pup! This can seem like a fun game to your pup, and can actually encourage the behavior. Try your best to go limp when they bite you, and pull your attention away from the pup. By doing this, you show them that this behavior does not offer them any extra fun. Extra attention can validate their undesirable behavior, making it challenging to break. Try your best to refrain from reacting to a bite outside of your interrupter cue, and pull your attention away from your furry friend afterward. Biting is a normal behavior in puppies of all kinds. Puppies begin to bite their siblings from the moment they can move, and will continue this behavior until they learn otherwise. A biting German Shepherd puppy is to be expected, and should not result in any discouragement on your part. As long as you are following the tips we mentioned above, your puppy should shy away from this behavior in no time! Biting in puppies is not usually a sign of aggression. Mild biting is usually a form of play, and should be easily corrected. However, there are some rare cases where biting in German Shepherd puppies is a sign of something more. If your pup is displaying any snarling, growling, ears pinned back, stiff posture, or any other signs of canine aggression, your pup may be biting in reaction to fear or pain. If you are unable to make any progress within a month of implementing the tips we discussed above, it may be time to contact a dog trainer. A trainer can not only help your pup refrain from biting, but offer other obedience training as well. Final Thoughts As you can see, biting is a normal behavior for our beloved German Shepherd puppies. Be sure to review the tips we discussed above on proper canine training, and you can banish puppy biting for good! Hopefully, we will have the answers to all of your questions in this guide. But, all that cuteness quickly disappears when the biting phase starts. Puppy biting is normal in all breeds, including the German Shepherd. And, luckily, we have some great tips and tricks to minimize the painful biting period. In fact, it could have a number of causes. Here are a few of the most common reasons, in a little more detail. Teething One reason why puppies of all breeds may bite is teething. This stage often starts at around 3 or 4 months of age — only a few weeks after your puppy will arrive at their new home. Luckily, it only takes a few months for your puppy to have their full set of adult teeth. So, biting from teething is not permanent. If your puppy is biting or chewing because of teething, you may notice other symptoms like drooling, irritability, and going off their food. Boredom or Getting Attention Bored puppies may learn that biting gets some fun responses from you! Just like barking can. If your puppy has learnt that they can get some attention from you when they bite, they may do it to alleviate boredom. This can explain why puppies concentrate most of their biting on one family member — the person who gives the most fun response. Natural Play Biting is a natural part of puppy play — as much as some owners might not want to hear it! German Shepherd puppies, just like any other breed, will bite whilst they are playing with you or with other dogs. If this behavior continues into adulthood, the biting can be more problematic. Responding to Rough Play Some people like to play with German Shepherd puppies in quite a rough manner. This can include pushing them, or rolling them over. Behaviors like this can make puppies very excitable, and encourage biting during play. Encourage calm play between your family members or friends and your puppy. Herding Instincts The German Shepherd breed has a history as a herding dog. The creator of the breed, Captain Max von Stephanitz, bred the German Shepherd in an attempt to create the ultimate all-round herding breed. This was all the way back in the late s. Although the history of the breed has changed over time, from herding to working dog, their origins remain the same. Many herding dogs are prone to natural chase instincts. They may chase small children or other animals — particularly those that are making lots of noise. And, these herding behaviors can include nipping at heels. Once again, your behavior can minimize biting from this cause. Exploration Another common explanation for young German Shepherd biting is their natural curiosity. And, they may do this partly with their mouths. What you really want to know is, when will it stop? However, you can minimize the period by making a few easy changes to your behavior when biting occurs. The best ways to stop puppy biting and minimize the biting period are training and prevention. This means training your puppy to be gentle with you and other people, and taking away opportunities for your excited puppy to bite humans. You may need to go as far as to completely separate your GSD puppy from small children and people who insist on rough play with puppies. We know that this can only encourage biting. Remove Yourself Calmly If your puppy starts to bite you, during play or any other time, the best solution is to calmly and quietly remove yourself. You can use tools like baby gates to keep your German Shepherd in a puppy-safe room. In fact — your puppy will learn that biting during play or cuddles only results in you leaving, and them ending up on their own! Not only will this help to show your puppy that biting is not an acceptable part of playtime, but it can also help your own sanity to remove yourself from those sharp teeth occasionally. Think About Clothing You should also think about the type of clothing you wear around your puppy. Loose, hanging clothing can be appealing to your puppy, and provide something easy to grip on with their sharp teeth. Wear tight fitting clothing to minimize the number of things your puppy can bite at. Use Distractions If you, or young children in your household, are keen to pet your puppy without being bitten, you should make the most of distractions like treats or toys. You can hold a chew for your puppy to keep their attention and mouth distracted whilst someone pets them! Often, puppy owners only think about biting whilst their puppy is actively gnawing on them. One method is to reward them with treats when you are petting them and they are not biting you. Another is to reward them for calm behavior around the house. This way they learn that acting calmly and letting you touch them without biting will earn them good things! One popular method to stop puppy biting is to squeal, squeak, growl, or make another loud noise. Some people claim that this method replicates natural puppy play and tells your GSD when they are being too rough. For some owners, this may work. If this is the case, making a noise when your puppy bites will act as a reward, and encourage your German Shepherd puppy to bite you even more. This is one reason why puppies biting children is so common. Many children will make lots of noise, especially if a puppy bites them, which can lead to further nipping. This is similar to the method above, if used alone. This is why training has to be done in small stages — first you must teach the puppy what action you want, and then you can give the action a name, or command. Punishment Methods The best methods to stop your puppy from biting involve positive rewards for the behaviors you want. Studies on dog training and behavior have shown that punishment based methods are often associated with an increase of problematic behaviors. Punishing your puppy for biting can lead to distrust and fear from your puppy. The causes of puppy biting that we looked at earlier in this guide apply to all GSD puppies. In fact, they apply to all puppies of any breed. Biting and chewing is a normal puppy behavior, and a normal part of play. As long as you react to this behavior in the right way, it is a period that will pass. The biggest fear for most German Shepherd puppy owners is that their puppy is aggressive when it bites. German Shepherd puppy biting can be accompanied by ferocious growls or snarls. It can even draw blood. So are behaviors like snarling and growling. And, if your puppy is biting hard enough to injure you, they may not have learnt proper bite inhibition yet. This is the process where your puppy learns to be gentle with his teeth on your skin. The positive reward methods we discussed earlier in this guide are the best way to teach your puppy bite inhibition. Remove yourself calmly and quietly whenever your puppy bites. And make sure to reward any calm behavior — including when your puppy lets you pet it without biting. Speak to a Behaviorist If you think your puppy is exhibiting aggressive behaviors, such as guarding their resources, you may want to speak to a behaviorist. They will be able to look at your puppy as an individual case, and analyse their behavior properly. Do Adult German Shepherds Bite? The German Shepherd breed is known for being aggressive in some circumstances — they make popular guard dogs, and are number one candidates for working dog roles in the police and military.

The first vaccination for your Golden takes place between 6 to 8 weeks. Since everything is new to your pup, he might be timid and get easily scared. Golden puppies just left their source of security and are away from their littermates and mother for the first time. Bring your pup out to relieve him after every meal. Divide it into four small meals throughout the day. This is also the recommended age to start training. Housebreaking is especially important to avoid bad habits from developing. If you want him to be friendly to all, socialization at this age is also essential. This will help him grow familiar with strange sights, smells, and sounds. For the diet, stick to feeding him four small meals a day with the same amount mentioned for 7-week Goldens. After the vaccines, keep your Golden pup away from other pets for at least two weeks. Golden Retriever at 3 months This allows them to have full immunity, especially against the fatal parvovirus. They are becoming more curious, and you might have a problem with biting. Stay calm and teach him gently but firmly that he is not allowed to chew on you or anything else, except his chew toy. You can also acclimate him to grooming. Get him used to being combed and his paws handled. Introduce him to the blowdryer and praise him when he stays calm. You can start to be more serious about training. Spread 2 cups of kibble over the day, and cut one meal out by the end of the week. He should also be picking up basic commands. If your pup is quick to learn, kick it up a notch by teaching him a few tricks. Golden Retriever at 5 months Offer some chew toys that you can cool in the fridge to alleviate him discomfort. You may also start exercising him for 20 minutes a day, as this is the stage where he should show excitement for the outdoors. Swimming, fetch, and walking are great to start things off. Some Goldens are potty-trained around the 4-month mark, although accidents might still occur. He will have the body of an adult, but the legs and tail of a puppy. Golden Retriever at 6 months Also, his nose and ears will grow faster, so you end up with a goofy-looking pup. You need to be careful with him for the next six months because this is when they are most vulnerable to developing hip dysplasia. Avoid long walks, going down the stairs, and stopping suddenly while running. The pressure from those activities might cause joints to deform. Your Golden may also start to display signs of sexual maturity in the next few months, if not neutered or spayed. Some of them never grow out of it and will stay young at heart into their old age. To be sure he is free from hip dysplasia, have him checked by the vet when he is two years old. When do Golden Retrievers stop growing? Golden Retrievers grow the fastest between 3 to 6 months of age. Around the six-month mark, their growth starts to taper off. This will prevent him from reaching his full potential. If left untreated, it can cause lasting damage to their bones, muscles, immune system, skin, and digestive system. Being ill for an extended period might also affect his development. Your puppy may be stunted due to malnutrition. Dangers of stunted or accelerated growth Some people prefer bigger Goldens, but some like them small, like Mini Golden Retrievers. This might lead to under or over-feeding, neither of which is ideal. Accelerated growth can cause hip or elbow dysplasia. It can also be responsible for bone disease and arthritis. Stunted Golden puppies, whether by illness or under-feeding, are generally weaker, and make them susceptible to falling sick. What is the best age to spay or neuter your pup? You can spay Golden Retriever puppies as early as 8 weeks old, but any time before they reach sexual maturity is preferred, which is around one year old. This will prevent undesirable behaviors such as marking, territorial behavior, or a fixation with toys. All of which are hard to correct when they manifest. For breeds that are predisposed to hip dysplasia, vets recommend spaying around the 6-month mark. Will neutering or spaying your Golden pup affect his or her growth? Yes, fixing a Golden before they reach sexual maturity generally causes your dog to grow bigger. This is because sex hormones suppress growth hormones. Without growth inhibition, your Golden will continue to grow. Aside from joint problems, there are also a few issues connected to spaying or neutering. They can become more prone to some forms of cancer. Some dogs also experience a change in behavior after the operation. The lack of estrogen can make female dogs more aggressive. Male dogs may also experience an increase in fearfulness. Sexual maturity usually occurs in Golden around 8 to 12 months. This gives you ample time to decide whether to sterilize or not. How heavy is a newborn Golden Retriever puppy? But, puppies as small as 10 oz at birth have been recorded. They usually leave their mom at 10 lbs. Also, bigger litters generally have smaller puppies, but they should all catch up by their 8th week. How to identify an overweight Golden Retriever? Use your eyes and hands to assess if your Golden is overweight or not. A survey in showed that .While it might look cute or funny, overweight dogs actually have shorter lifespans. Being excessively chubby shaves off two years and causes health issues. Do Golden Retriever types have different growth rates? Show dogs are often heavier than working dogs. Aside from other factors we mentioned, a nutritious diet and an active lifestyle will help keep your Golden healthy and happy. Remember, their final size will vary from one another, depending on variation and pedigree. Your new furry friend has a lot of growing to do, and you probably have a lot of questions. Your Golden Retriever puppy will go through a number of developmental stages throughout their first twelve weeks. Male Golden Retrievers generally weigh between 65 and 75 pounds and stand from 23 to 24 inches tall. Females are generally smaller weighing between 55 to 65 pounds, and will grow to stand .At 4 months, your Golden Retriever puppy will reach about half their adult height. When it comes to mental development, it can take even longer than that before the Golden Retriever is fully mature. However, every puppy is a unique individual, and these are merely milestone guidelines. Disparities exist between the working and show Goldens, as well as between males and females. Golden Retriever puppy growth can also be quite sporadic. As an overall average, many Golden Retriever puppies will weigh just approximately 1. Golden Retrievers are classified as a gundog breed, and these dogs are often divided into those bred for show and those meant for work. However, the body of the show Golden is typically larger, taller, heavy-boned, and fuller in the chest. Small Parents Like people, puppies inherit physical traits from their parents. And even puppies from the same litter can vary in size. Neither of these scenarios is healthy for a puppy. Larger breeds like the Golden Retriever are more at risk for growth disorders than small breed dogs. This article will give you a lot more information on how much to feed, what to feed, and how often to feed a Golden Retriever puppy. Illness and Puppy Growth If a puppy has been seriously ill for a prolonged period, it may affect their ability to grow normally. However, once the puppy is free of worms, they should continue to grow at a normal rate. The best way to determine if your puppy is too thin or too fat is by how he looks and feels. When looking at your puppy from above, he should have a noticeable waistline. Another way to tell is by putting your hands on either side of his ribcage. You should be able to feel his ribs using a gentle pressure. But if his ribs are visible, he could be underweight. Obesity is a huge problem for many dog breeds. Although there are ways to make your puppy grow bigger, this is not something you should attempt. It could also mean you end up with a fat puppy. One of the best ways to ensure your puppy has a long, healthy life is to ensure he stays at an optimal weight. Hip and elbow dysplasia and other musculoskeletal disorders are associated with excess weight in larger breeds. Having your dog neutered at a young age can also cause them to grow taller. The problem is, this can also cause abnormalities in joint formation. Neutering also makes Golden Retrievers more at risk for certain types of cancers. Typically it will take approximately 18 months for your Golden Retriever to become an adult dog. Even though they can reach their full height at anywhere from 9 to 12 months, it will usually take them longer to fill out to their full weight. Remember that there are wide variations in size within the Golden Retriever breed. If this is the case, you should contact your veterinarian to seek advice. Beginning the puppy development stages before birth Puppy development stages week by week Amazingly, in a way the puppy development stages begin before your dog is even born. Your puppy spends approximately 9 weeks developing inside his Mom. The mother dog has a womb or uterus, that has two long tubes, and the puppies grow in a row along each tube rather like peas in a pod. The puppies are joined to their mother by a placenta which provides all the nourishment they need for those few weeks. To begin with, the puppies have plenty of room to move but they grow fast and as the time for birth draws near they are packed in quite tightly. The one week old puppy Your puppy is born fully furred but with his eyes and ears closed so he cannot hear or see. His front feet are strong and he can pull himself towards his mother with them. He can cry if he is uncomfortable and his mother will respond to his cries by moving him towards her and licking him. Your puppy spends most of his time sleeping or suckling. He cannot regulate his own body temperature and needs his mother for heat, or an artificial heat source. In the first week to ten days of his life your puppy grows rapidly and will double his birth weight. His forelegs are getting much stronger. She licks the puppies bottoms to stimulate a bowel or bladder movement and eats the result. There is no cleaning up for the breeder to do yet. The breeder will begin to handle the puppies more though, and get them used to human contact. She will worm the puppies for the first time at the end of this week. Puppies begin to get their personalities. Your puppy can stand and sit up by the end of the week. Tails can be wagged, ears will be completely open and puppies start play growling and interacting with their littermates. Your puppy can regulate his body temperature more effectively and will start to cut his first teeth in preparation for weaning. The front teeth, canines and incisors are cut first. Toward the end of the week he may have his first tiny taste of puppy food. They also start to move away from the sleeping area to empty their bowels and bladder. They may try to climb out of the whelping box. If she lives indoors, she may rejoin the family for more of each day. Your puppy will cut his back teeth and the breeder will get weaning underway this week and by the end of it, your puppy will be getting quite a bit of his nourishment from puppy food. She will also worm the puppies a second time. If the mother is allowed near the puppies after she has been fed, she may regurgitate her dinner for them. This is completely natural and normal. He is a proper little dog. Rolling around with his brothers and sisters and playing with toys. Teething toys, puppy Kongs, balls and rope toys are big favorites with puppies. He can bark too and some puppies can be quite noisy at this age! He chases after his mother whenever she appears and suckles hungrily, but she is starting to get fed up with it, and may be reluctant to feed her brood for very long. His mother is teaching him not to bite too hard. If he lives in outdoor kennels he should spend part of each day indoors with the family. By the end of the sixth week, most are fully weaned, and eating five or six little meals of puppy food each day. Socialization must begin in earnest. He is now two months old and ready for his new life. It is the time during which they become fearful of anything unfamiliar and need to be thoroughly socialized. This is also the time during which most puppies get to grips with house-training, learning to wait before eliminating and start sleeping through the night without a potty break. It is a busy time for new puppy owners. Your puppy will have his vaccinations during this month. Biting can be a big problem during this stage and you need to be patient and consistent in order to teach the puppy not to hurt people when he plays. Provided you use force free methods, this is a great time to get puppy training under way, and especially to teach a puppy recall, and to get your puppy used to working with food. So, for a 2. You can do the same calculation for medium pups at sixteen weeks and large breed pups at 20 weeks — just divide his weight by his age in weeks before you multiply by .Medium to large pups will reach about half their adult height by the end of the month. If the weather is warm you can get your puppy swimming now. He should be able to come when he is called, in and around your home, provided there are not too many distractions. It all depends on what you have taught him. He may still be chewing a lot and biting too. Use frozen Kongs to help him and give your furniture and fingers a break. Puppies can go for short walks now. By the end of this month your puppy could have a twenty minute walk each day. He may also enjoy fetching a ball and playing with other dogs, but take care to stop before he gets very tired. Less dependence This is the month during which some puppies start to become less dependent on their humans for security. Keep your puppy close to you outdoors by changing direction frequently so that you puppy has to keep coming to find you. And engaging him in games. The foundations of a great recall are often build or spoilt during this month. If your puppy knows how to sit or lie down at home, start some simple proofing exercises with him in public places. A healthy puppy can usually manage on two meals a day from around six months. During this month a Retriever, Spaniel or GSD puppy will reach around two thirds of his adult weight. A Great Dane and other large breeds will have reached about half their final weight and little dogs will have almost completed their growth. Some female dogs will come on heat for the first time during this month, or the next, so keep an eye open now for swelling of her vulva and any discharge. Your dog will become increasingly confident over the next few months so practice, practice and practice that recall! Make it a habit he cannot break. And be generous with your rewards. Small breed pups may now be more or less mature. Your puppy will enjoy half hour off lead walks now, and should be able to walk on a loose lead for short periods with plenty of encouragement and rewards. Keep practicing that recall! These help to slow his growth further and to build his confidence. Make sure you practice good outdoor management on walks to maintain the good recall you have built and work hard on thoroughly proofing all his obedience skills. Read up on neutering before you take this important step, for dogs of either sex. Once your dog is a year old he can participate in more strenuous activities and sports. Now is the time to think about the kinds of activities you would like to do with him — go jogging together for example — and if necessary, to start to get him fit. Puppy development stages — Summary There is huge variation in the way in which dogs develop and mature. The puppy development stages and ages outlined above are a rough guide. We hope you enjoyed them and found the information interesting. When it comes to training, you get out what you put in. Your progress depends as much if not more on you rather than your puppy. If you train your puppy five times a day, six days a week he will learn many, many times faster than a puppy that is trained once a day at the weekend. Enjoy watching your puppy grow and develop. And have fun! Mini Golden Retrievers Golden Retriever size matters. In this article we are going to help you to work out whether your dog is a healthy weight and height for their age as they mature. All dogs are individuals, including Golden Retriever puppies. Keep in mind that your puppy could be above or below the average size and still be within a healthy range. If a puppy falls well below the small end of the typical size range, it could be the runt of the litter. How big will your puppy be when it is ready to leave its mother and go home with you? At this age, your cute Golden Retriever puppy will be around 10 pounds. By the time your puppy is four months old, its weight will be around 30 pounds. At eight months, your adolescent Golden Retriever could weigh 50 pounds or more. Expect your puppy to reach its full adult height although not full maturity between 9 and 12 months of age. As a responsible owner, you can encourage healthy growth in your Golden Retriever puppy too! Average Height A healthy adult male Golden Retriever will stand 23—24 inches tall at the shoulder. You can expect an English male Golden to stand around 22—24 inches tall and a female to be around 20—22 inches tall. Healthy Adult Weight The weight range for an adult male Golden is 65—75 pounds. The weight range for an adult female is 55—65 pounds. Most dog breed size charts place the Golden Retriever size in the medium-large range. The average Golden Retriever weight at maturity is 70lbs for a male and 60lbs for a female. Golden Retriever Weight By Age Although a 1 year old Golden Retriever will have reached their full grown height, they should still be quite slim. Weighing up to 55lbs. But a 2 year old or 3 year old Golden Retriever will also be at their final adult weight too. At this stage they should have reached full maturity too. How big will your Golden be when fully grown? Golden Retrievers are sturdy but elegant medium to medium-large size dogs. Golden Retriever size can be influenced by genetics, whether your dog is male or female… and even where you live! Because they have been bred from different lines, English Goldens tend to be slightly stockier than the taller American Goldens. The average English Cream golden Retriever size will be larger than the average working adult American Golden Retriever. Sex differences are linked to size in Golden Retrievers, with males being 1—2 inches taller and around 10 pounds heavier than females. Size-based sex difference in animals is known as sexual size dimorphism. In dogs, these differences tend to be more noticeable in larger breeds like the Golden Retriever than in small or toy breeds. They can fall anywhere along the vast range of lbs in weight! At this stage, nipping bad behaviors in the bud is more important than imprinting positive ones. Instead, just redirect them to positive behavior and reward them accordingly. By this point, your puppy should have already been given their distemper and parvovirus vaccinations. By this point, they should be fully housetrained or close to it. Your dog will be likely to gnaw and bite on anything they can get their chompers on—including you. Stay calm and redirect their attention to appropriate objects like chew toys. Your Golden should be fully accustomed to their new kibble at this point, and you should feed them three to four times per day. A 3-month-old dog should also get a DHHP booster, which protects them from parvo, distemper, parainfluenza, and adenovirus. You can play with your pup as much as you like, but take care not to put too much stress on their joints. Avoid a bunch of running and jumping, especially on hard surfaces. Your dog can transition from four meals per day down to three at this point, but the meals should probably be larger. This can cause digestive issues until your dog gets accustomed to it, so be prepared to clean up a few messes. Training should continue, although your primary focus will likely be convincing your pup to chew on something besides your shoes. Your dog will need another DHPP booster at this point, as well as a rabies vaccination. Other optional vaccines include Bordetella, Lyme disease, coronavirus, and leptospirosis. This could cause a brief burst of intense biting and chewing, so power through it. Make sure your pup has plenty of chew toys available to them. Stairs in particular should be avoided. Your pup is likely to start asserting itself at this stage and may start to mature sexually if not spayed or neutered. There are no vaccinations required at this point. Everyone knows how much fun it is to raise teenagers, right? This can lead to undesirable behaviors like aggressiveness, increased tendency to roam, and destructiveness. As a result, you may think that your dog is too skinny, but resist the urge to increase their rations. While most breeds have a puppy coat that they eventually grow out of, Goldens do not. Instead, their puppy coat becomes their undercoat, so you may notice your dog becoming increasingly fuzzy. The teenage rebelliousness should be wearing off by this point, and your dog is ready to begin training in earnest. You should still be feeding them twice daily, and they should stay on puppy kibble for at least another 6 months. Goldens reach their full height between 9 and 12 months old. Females tend to get there faster, but males will be taller in the end. You may also need to cut back on the amount that you feed them. It depends on the individual dog, but females generally reach maturity first. Spaying or neutering your dog has its pros and cons. The pros are fairly obvious: less marking, reduced misbehavior, and zero chance of getting an unexpected litter of puppies. Spaying and neutering can also protect against certain cancers. You may want to wait until your dog is at least 12 months old before getting them fixed. This also leaves the window open longer in which they can suffer skeletal damage, though, so be careful about how active you allow them to be. However, stunted growth and growing too quickly can cause serious health problems, so you should check with your vet to make sure your dog is growing on schedule. Stunted growth is usually caused by malnourishment or a medical problem. You should have your pup tested for parasites like hookworm or ringworm, and consider switching them to a higher-quality, calorie-dense food. If left untreated, malnourishment can lead to weak bones, muscles, and immune system. As you might expect, growing too quickly is often caused by feeding your dog too much. American and British Goldens are similar. However, American Goldens tend to be less stocky and muscular, instead having a leaner appearance. They may weigh a bit less as well. They tend to be taller as well, often standing an inch or two higher than their counterparts. Conclusion Golden Retrievers make excellent pets, and we understand how hard it is to resist the temptation to bring a puppy home. If you do, though, you should understand what to expect from your new dog. Steady growth is what you want to see, without too many peaks or valleys. This sets your dog up for a long, healthy lifespan. Every dog develops at their own pace, so as long as you feed your pup an appropriate amount of high-quality puppy kibble and get them vaccinated regularly, you should be fine. See also:. By Tom Massey Mar 02, Adopting a golden retriever is one of the best decisions you can make. These loving dogs are constantly praised for their gentle and calm, yet playful nature, making them perfect dogs for all walks of life and types of families. So when you do finally bring your Golden Retriever puppy home, you want to do everything you can to give them a long and healthy life for years to come. This is a wide range, so keep in mind that the weight of your Retriever will vary depending on genetic factors and sex. For example, female Golden Retrievers will weigh closer to 55 pounds while Golden Retriever males are heavier and will weigh closer to 75 pounds. Females also typically reach their full size by their first birthday, while males may continue growing through their second year. You can usually tell the size males and females will be based on what their parents look like, which is why Snowy Pines encourages meeting the parents or browsing through their photos and biographies online. Then, calculate 1. What to Expect: This age is crucial for mother-puppy bonding since he will depend on his mother for food, cleaning, and socialization. Image Source Weeks months Golden Retriever Male Weight: Between 8 to 12 weeks, your male puppy will average between 10 to 22 pounds. Golden Retriever Female Weight: Although females will grow to be smaller than males, they are typically around the same weight at this age group. The puppies become very playful, curious, and discover their voices little by little. Introductory training like house training is essential. Socialization is also important, which is why Snowy Pines ensures that all puppies stay with their littermates until adoption. For female puppies, 6 months is a little over the halfway point to their full-size, and males are essentially smaller versions of their adult bodies. Remember, at this age, you can multiply by two to determine their adult weight! What to Expect: Socialization is still crucial at this age, and more intense training can also begin. The puppy should also be kept in happy and safe environments, as any exposure to something fearful at this age may impact him long-term. This is entirely normal: Think of your puppy as a teenager who is going through adolescence and waiting for the rest of his body to catch up. They may get territorial and challenge you and other pets for dominance. Most Golden Retrievers will be fully grown by 24 months old, although this varies. Golden Retriever Female Weight: In most cases, females are finished growing before 16 to 24 months. Whatever their nature is like at the to month mark is likely what it will be throughout their adult life. They are loyal, friendly, and calm, making them the perfect companion for small and large families alike. However, Goldens are susceptible to certain illnesses and diseases that are common in bigger breeds that are typically caused by overfeeding, stunted or accelerated growth, and genetic issues. One of the most common diseases that goldens experience is Osteochondritis dissecans OCD. OCD is a developmental disease that affects large-breed dogs because of the accelerated growth they experience. It is an inflammatory condition that causes abnormal cartilage development on the end of a bone in the joint. This can lead to joint problems like arthritis and hip dysplasia which commonly appears in the elbow, hip, and knee. Image Source The good news is that, although larger breeds like golden retrievers are prone to joint issues like this, you may be able to help prevent it through proper practice. OCD is a specific disease that is more common in dogs that receive too much energy and calcium in their diets. Other common factors are genetics, rapid growth, and hormonal factors. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, and all that extra weight can leave your puppy with skeletal abnormalities that put too much weight on joints. Another way to avoid accidentally stunted or accelerated growth is to ensure your golden retriever puppy is getting fed appropriately and receiving the right amount of calories. Image Source Months Between 2 and 4 months old, your puppy should eat 4 times per day with 2 ounces per meal. This will add up to 7 to 9 ounces per day, depending on how much he willingly eats. Keep him on puppy food through his first year before switching to young adult food. They must receive regular exercise every day. However, this depends on their age. As previously covered, the more your puppy grows, the more susceptible to common diseases like joint problems. Breeders with years of experience, like the team at Snowy Pines, work hard to keep pure bloodlines so that all of the parents and their litters are as healthy as they can be, which helps guarantee a lifetime full of happiness without any issue. Share on. Not all goldens will grow to the same size and at the same rate. The size of the parents is always a good indicator of whether your dog will be above or below average in size. However, while natural variation is nothing to worry about, stunted growth or accelerated growth is. If a golden retriever puppy is malnourished or suffering from an unidentified medical condition usually hookworm or ringworm , their natural growth can be compromised. This can lead to serious medical issues in later life, as it can leave them with weak bones, weak muscles, and a weak immune system, as well as a tendency to develop both skin and digestive issues. Growing too quickly, largely as a result of overfeeding, can also pose a major health risk. As well as leading to obesity, carrying too much weight at the development stage can leave your golden retriever with skeletal abnormalities, hip dysplasia, and osteochondrosis , a condition that affects the joints. With these tips, you will help fight off those genetic health disorders as well. Appropriate Diet Start off by speaking to your vet for guidance on foods to use for the different life stages. At the very least, you will need a nutritionally complete and balanced diet made for large breeds. Good food will help your pup gain the right amount of weight, look healthy, and have enough energy. Proper exercise will build their muscle and bone strength, prevent obesity, increase their agility, stop destructive behavior, and help them release pent-up energy. Vaccines will help to prevent infectious diseases such as hepatitis, parvovirus, rabies, and distemper, all of which could affect the growth and overall health of your puppy. This will be a plus for her overall health. It would also be great to have your vet do routine health checks on your puppy. This way, no issue will go unnoticed, and treatment can be administered early for better outcomes. A shiny coat and bright eyes are a plus. Alternatively, if you notice rapid weight gain or loss, unusual bumps and lumps on their skin, digestive issues, changes in behavior, and visual or hearing complications, take your dog to the vet right away. Compared to other breeds, Golden Retrievers, especially females, grow pretty quickly. Males could take up to 18 months to achieve the same milestone. However, both will still need an additional year to fill out the chest fully. Adult height, on the other hand, will be reached between 9 and 12 months. As always, females will get there a bit faster than males. You can get a rough idea of how big your golden retriever will grow by first studying the parents. Take note of the size that both of the parents and previous litters have had. Rarely will a puppy grow larger than its parents, so the measurements you gather will give you a better idea of how tall and heavy your golden retriever will get. Full-grown, healthy, male golden retrievers have a height of between 22 and 24 inches while the females are 20 to 22 inches tall. In terms of height and body structure, the Canadian golden retriever has no rival. Spaying and neutering specifically affect the development of bones and also ligament and tendon strength. In fact, some studies report higher incidences of cranial cruciate ligament tears and hip dysplasia among golden retrievers that went through this procedure. Therefore, consult your vet when deciding if and when to spay or neuter your dog. The weight of your golden retriever is a good indication of their healthy development. While male and female Goldens will have different weights and show goldens tend to be heavier than working goldens, overall, they should be hitting the weights listed in the growth and weight chart above. If your dog is not hitting these milestones, consult your vet about malnutrition, possibly caused by worms, and excessive golden retriever growth, which is often the result of overfeeding. If you feel like your pooch is missing any of them, again, it is time to consult your vet. In general, good nutrition and a loving home is a recipe for a happy and healthy golden retriever. If you want to know more about your golden retriever, you can do a DNA test, too. You can choose one of the tests below:.

Apply to Adopt A little about us.Genuine Australian labradoodle puppy breeder since .Located in Monterey, California just two hours south of San Francisco. We are a small in-house breeder specializing in breeding miniature to medium labradoodles from the seeing eye dog Australian lines. We do not ship our puppies but will meet new owners at the airport. We average four to five litters a year. This gives us the time to complete early neurological stimulation starting at three days and desensitizing to fireworks, thunderstorms, etc. We give each litter and each puppy the love and attention it needs during those first irreplaceable eight weeks of your puppy's life. We take great responsibility in giving every puppy the best start in order to grow into a well-adjusted, highly socialized, and healthy member of your family for many years to come. Our puppies are born in our bedroom, raised in our kitchen and get the best of care and lots of handling from their first day. We not only guarantee genetic health but also have very strict requirements for the temperaments of the breeding dogs in our program. Puppies are examined by a veterinarian, vaccinated, and micro chipped before going home. About Australian Labradoodles.Australian Labradoodles are beautiful, healthy, allergy and asthma friendly. They were originally bred to be service dogs and not a 'designer' pet. The Labradoodle breed started with a request over thirty years ago by a family needing a seeing eye dog but who also had a family member with asthma. After some research and years of breeding by leading service dog breeders, Tegan Park and Rutland Manor in Australia, the Australian Labradoodle was born. Our top goal is excellent health, fantastic temperament, and service qualities. Just like any other breed that becomes popular, though, some breeders have started breeding for the popularity of these dogs and not for the benefit of the breed itself. So here's how to make sure you're getting the dog you want. Here are some helpful tips to understand what a breeder means when they are using these phrases. The multi-generation Australian Labradoodle, which is the original Labradoodle, has a foundation stock including six different parent breeds. These dogs were developed in Australia, and hence the "Australian" in the name of the dogs. This was a breed that was developed with goals in mind for a low shedding service dog, not a designer dog. The multi-generation Labradoodle has only poodle and lab in its heritage. It does not include the other parent breeds that were originally used by the creators of the breed. These have been primarily developed later in the U. These dogs tend to shed their coat since they are more closely related to the Labrador and often have a wire hair look to them. The "Back Cross" or "F1B" is a dog from an F1 see above mated back to a poodle usually for coat correction. These dogs have not had the multiple generations of Labradoodle mated with another Labradoodle nor the addition of Australian Labradoodle foundation stock or multiple parent breeds. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Deer Creek Comfort Dogs Shaping future companions for families and those in need of comfort Our family has been raising puppies for over 20 years. Our children have always had a passion for dogs which began our journey and now our grandchildren enjoy growing up with our wonderful dogs by their side. Deer Creek provides emotional support dogs, therapy dogs, service and therapy prospects, canine good citizen dogs as well as family pets. Deer Creek assists our families with puppy selection to help ensure the families get the puppy that will work well with their needs. Someone once said, "Acquiring a dog may be the only opportunity a human ever has to choose a relative" and we hope you choose one of ours. If you are interested in finding your new family member, fill out our puppy application and we will be thrilled to work with you. We recognize that our dogs have the capability of changing peoples' lives on a therapeutic level. Many of our Doodles have become therapy dogs at funeral homes, children's advocacy centers, hospitals and nursing homes, and others have found homes as anxiety, PTSD and emotional support dogs. Learn more about our nonprofit organization Deer Creek Paw Prints at www. Learn More Molly, Rhys, and Beau! View fullsize Both our chocolate Labradoodle and our Poodle are beautiful dogs with excellent temperaments. They are our family pets. Because we begin with a Labradoodle and a Poodle, rather than a Lab and a Poodle, our puppies are much more likely to have the non-shedding Poodle coat. A F1b Labradoodle has been back-crossed to a poodle in an effort to insure a non-shedding coat. Even though most f1b Labradoodles shed very little or not all, it is impossible to guarantee that any dog even doodles or purebred poodles will not shed at all. Hypo- means less hypothermia is having a lower than normal body temperature. No dog can be said to be completely non-allergenic. Studies have shown that doodles are less likely to cause allergies, particularly f1b doodles. The ideal is to keep as much of the Lab head shape and super-friendly personality as possible while getting the non-shedding Poodle coat as well as the dignified, less vocal characteristics of the Poodle. Our Labradoodle methodology is quite simple. First, we get quality dogs. This is why we wanted to have pick of the litter for our Labradoodle and our Poodle and why we only obtained puppies from reputable breeders that we knew we could trust. Second, we try to treat our dogs Labradoodle and Poodle well. We feed our Labradoodle and Poodle high quality food with plenty of protein, and give them wonderful socialization and opportunities for exercise. We have 12 acres along the Enoree River with trails, additional property next to a Greenville state park, and property on Lake Hartwell giving us the opportunity to take the dogs kayaking. We recognize the importance of socializing young Labradoodle puppies so they will not be fearful as they mature. Our Labradoodle puppies have lots of opportunities to play with our children, and water games are definitely on top of the list. Labradoodles love the water and so do my kids, as you can see below. Third, we try to find appropriate families for our Chocolate Labradoodle puppies. To learn more about our process, check out this resource that gives a step-by-step guide between the application to receiving your puppy! A Chocolate Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle is not for everyone, and a puppy is not for everyone. If your family is not prepared for a Labradoodle puppy financially, time investment, etc. When can you get your puppy? Because we have only one Labradoodle mother and a couple guardian homes , puppies are available only occasionally. Contact us nathan crockettdoodles. We have a flexible waiting list and offer your deposit back if we do not have the ideal Labradoodle puppy for you within a certain window of time. Sometimes with mini Labradoodles we prefer to wait until they are a little older than 8 weeks because accidents tend to happen more easily with really small puppies. We will take several pictures of you with your Labradoodle puppy. We will send you the pictures for free place them on a USB thumb drive for you , and you will have full copyright privileges to all of the pictures to use at your discretion. You have the option of whether or not the photos appear here on the ChocolateLabradoodlePuppies. Although we never ship puppies, we will sometimes personally deliver puppies for a reasonable fee. Why should you consider getting a Chocolate Labradoodle from us? If a Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy is right for your family, and if you are within driving distance of Greenville, SC, you may want to consider getting a chocolate Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle from us. If you read our Labradoodle puppy methodology and like what you read, you should consider adopting one of our puppies. We have a three-year health guarantee on each of our puppies if the forever home continues to feed TLC one year health guarantee on all others. How can you get a Chocolate Labradoodle or Labradoodle mini from us? If you think your family would be a good match for one of our Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppies, then start the conversation by emailing us at nathan crockettdoodles. You will have full access to all pictures and hold the copyright to make as many pictures as you desire. You keep all the pictures. We give your Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy a quality collar. We give your Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy a quality leash. We give you a bag of high quality dog food. We believe that you should give your new Labradoodle puppy or mini Labradoodle puppy the best food. Instructional materials about crate training and house training. Our goal is to do everything we can to assist in the house training and crate training process. A Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy or any puppy cannot be completely reliable in the house until the puppy is about 6 months old. The simple point is that no matter what some breeders tell you you will be partially involved in the house training process unless you buy an older Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle , but we want to help you with that process. A one-year health guarantee; extended to three years for all who continue to feed TLC. We are concerned with finding really good homes for our Labradoodle and mini Labradoodle puppies. Labradoodle Color To see a list of available colors, check out this page. At ChocolateLabradoodlePuppies. Ultimately we cannot completely control the color of puppies. Even though chocolate is the most desirable color, we sometimes have puppies of other colors even occasional merles. These puppies, will of course, also make excellent pets. These non-chocolate Labradoodle puppies are also available to great families, but we know that Chocolate Labradoodles are the most desirable. The Labrador Retriever has a short coat that sheds. By breeding the F1 Labradoodle back to an unrelated Poodle, the chances of getting the highly desirable non-shedding Poodle coat increase exponentially. Some F1B Labradoodles are bred back another time to a Poodle in an effort to guarantee a Poodle coat. If high quality dogs are chosen to breed that have the head shape of a Labrador Retriever it is possible to get a puppy that is very similar in many ways to a Labrador, but has the beautiful non-shedding Poodle coat. Both Labrador Retrievers and Poodles are highly intelligent dogs, helping Labradoodles excel in smarts, train-ability, and a general desire to always please their owner. If you desire a family-friendly, kid loving, medium energy dog that is comfortable inside or outside, that loves the water and the land, you should definitely consider a Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle. For more info about Labradoodle puppies or mini Labradoodle puppies, please email nathan crockettdoodles. Check out our sister site miniLabradoodlePuppies. We specialize in Chocolate Labradoodles and mini Labradoodles, but often we have other colors as well. Occasionally someone travels from Atlanta, Columbia, Raleigh-Durham or Knoxville, but our proximity to North Carolina and the popularity of Labradoodles in North Carolina make Charlotte and Asheville our most serviced locations. We also have some who are interested from distant states, but we primarily serve the Southeast U. With 17 years of experience in breeding Australian Labradoodles, we pride ourselves on selecting only the best dogs for our breeding program, which in turn ensures that we are producing the best puppies imaginable. We work closely with our licensed vet to perform health testing, including hip and elbow testing; eyes, heart, skin, and patella testing; and a series of genetic tests, on all of our breeding dogs. We provide a temperature controlled, in home my master bedroom environment, with sound therapy to expose your puppy to lifes sounds from an early age. This helps desensitize your puppy to the sounds of life traffic, fireworks, outdoor machinery, crying baby, misc appliances, automobiles, etc. We start crate training at 5 weeks with a soothing heartbeat snuggle puppy to comfort them as they transition to sleeping alone and all the puppies love it and sleep better with minimal crying. We add nutrients and special additives for puppies to their drinking water. We add probiotics to their food for a healthy GI tract and immune system. We make special liver water, gruel, with puppy supplements, dog milk formula to their nutritionally dense food to support eyes, ear, bone, joint, coat and heart health. We expose your puppy to sunlight daily on the deck right outside the puppy nursery area. There is always a plush bedding for their cozy comfort in their play areas for those impromptu naps puppies love. Our puppies are held and played with while being bathed and exposed to water, in our walk-in shower, which builds a positive experience, with water, for their lifetime. Bath time is with a human sitting in this large shower allowing plenty of space for your puppy too roam around and enjoy water in a nurturing experience. The puppies love it instead of being in a sink with a dry human just washing them. Water is actual playtime while they get clean and build positive experiences with being wet. Instead we utilize Puppy Culture, Badass Breeder protocols and tons of love from humans that are passionate and dedicated to what they do. Please feel free to contact us with any questions. We look forward to providing you with your fury best friend! When full grown, these health tested, Australian Labradoodle puppies will be approximately pounds with wavy fleece coats, curly fleece coats or the occasional straighter hair fleece coats. Our puppies can go home as early as 8 weeks old. We can also hold back a puppy if you are interested in training services. Sugar Pine Doodles on Facebook. Would you like to be a guardian for one of our breeding doodles? Please click for our Guardian Home Program to learn more. Find the Next Member of Your Family. Their adorable curly fur and expressive faces make you want to cuddle them — and these little guys love nothing more than a good squish. All this and more makes our labradoodle puppies for sale one the most in-demand in our center. Activity-loving families adore these dogs for their propensity towards sports, and anyone who prefers low-shedding pooch benefits from their wooly or fleecy fur. Labradoodle puppies for sale are so cute and come in such a wide range of colors that it makes choosing your new best friend super-hard! While spearheading the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia breeding program, he conducted the crossbreeding of a standard poodle and Labrador retriever in view of it being a hypoallergenic guide dog for blind people. The first example of this type of dog, called Sultan, went to live with a lady in Hawaii, where other breeders saw him as an inspiration and this is how Australian Labradoodle puppies started. Both the International Australian Labradoodles Association and the Australian Labradoodles Association of America are working hard to incorporate more intergenerational breeding so these dog breeders can register this type of dog as a purebred dog. Its gentle, obedient and intelligent personality combined with a hypoallergenic coat make it ideal for family members with allergies, but it also makes an excellent service or therapy dog. Labradoodle Puppies Lifespan When properly taken care of, healthy dogs tend to live anywhere from 10 to 13 years. The lifespan of our Labradoodle puppies for sale is slightly above average at 12 to 14 years. Here are the life stages of multigenerational Australian Labradoodles: Puppyhood: First five months Adolescence: Between five months and two years Adulthood: Between two and three years Middle age: Between seven years and 10 years Senior: Over 10 years Labradoodles need the most attention and care in the first and last stages of their life. During puppyhood, their minds are highly impressionable, which is ideal for training. During their senior years, Labradoodles are more susceptible to health problems, which means owners need to keep a watchful eye. Labradoodle Size The size of labradoodle puppies for sale directly relates to the size of their parents and which generation of breed Labradoodle breeders chose. The larger the puppies, the larger the adult dog will be, and the faster their growth will be coming out of the puppy stage. A standard labradoodle puppy will weigh from pounds by the time it reaches two months of age. By a year old, it will have grown dramatically to up to 80 pounds, depending on the size of its parents. Medium Labradoodles occupy a spectrum of sizes between standard and mini Labradoodles, with the specifics depending heavily on the details of the breeding pair that birthed them and the breeding program they come from. Labradoodle Puppies Temperament While Labradoodle breeders originally bred the Australian Labradoodles as therapy dogs, their fun, friendly personalities made them popular pets. Now you can find these sociable dogs in homes across the globe. Here are some of the top personality traits of our Labradoodle puppies for sale. They tend to do best in active households where they can work off all that pent-up energy. You can fulfill their needs through the following activities: Walks or jogs: Labradoodles make great walking companions and can even keep up with you during a jog. Playing in the yard: Enjoy a game of fetch with your furry friend in the yard or just let it loose on its own. Dog sports: If you stay active through sports, consider making your labradoodle a part of your routine. Bring it on bike rides, go for a run together or kick a ball around in the yard. Obstacle courses: Set up an obstacle course for your dog using household items. Scavenger hunt: Creating a scavenger hunt for your canine is a great way to exercise its body and brain. In general, Labradoodles need anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes of exercise a day. You can also enroll them later at a Labradoodle puppy alumni school for proper training. Friendliness What makes Labradoodles the perfect puppy compare to other dog breeds is their ability to get along with just about anyone. They inherit this trait from their Labrador retriever parent, a breed also known for its outgoing nature. You can trust your labradoodle to form friendships with everyone, from children and older adults to strangers and other puppies. Thanks to their affectionate, sociable personalities, Labradoodles make great pets for first-time owners, families, or anyone looking for a companion. Intelligence Thanks to their poodle parent breeds, Labradoodles are incredibly intelligent dogs. Because Labradoodles are intelligent, they often crave mental stimulation. Labradoodle Puppies Grooming Our Labradoodle puppies for sale have a variety of coat textures that dog owners enjoy, but in general, their low shedding coat needs brushing at least twice a week. Not only does this keep them tangle-free but it also removes excess debris from their coat, keeping them fresh and hygienic. Regularly trim the hair around their eyes and in between their paws to prevent these problem areas from causing irritation. Pooches with fleece coats tend to have longer fur and benefit the most from going to a professional groomer — although every dog loves getting pampered once in a while. At Pride and Prejudoodles, we send a can and a bag of the foods we use for free with your hand-delivered bundle of joy. If you need to change it for any reason, it must be done gradually to avoid stomach upsets. Just bear in mind that a diet is such a crucial aspect of wellness that feeding them good quality food will add years to their lives compared to opting for low-quality feed. Pride and Prejudoodles is here to help. We hope you found our guide informative. Please contact us with any other questions you have about our Labradoodle puppies for adoption. Why get a labradoodle puppy? Labradoodles are smart, loving, child-friendly dogs. They have light to non-shedding, allergy-friendly coats, and they do not have the dog smell associated with other breeds. They are highly trainable, fun loving, family companions. Labradoodles also come in miniature, medium, and standard sizes. We breed all sizes of labradoodles, but concentrate mostly on mini labradoodles and medium labradoodles with an ocassional litter of large standard size labradoodles. We have found the miniature and medium sized labradoodles to be the perfect size for families on the go. They are wonderful companions and are just the right size for a snuggle on the couch, sleeping at the foot of the bed, or riding in the car running errands. On a personal note, our family fell in love with labradoodles when we saw what a patient, loyal companion a labradoodle was for our 6 year old son with autism. By breeding labradoodles, it is my hope to provide this type of loving companion for other families. Why choose Pacific Rim Labradoodles? Located in Southern Oregon, Pacific Rim Labradoodles takes pride in being a very reputable and ethical breeder of Australian and American multigeneration labradoodles. We are a family that has fallen in love with the labradoodle breed. We began breeding labradoodles in so that others could experience the joy of labradoodle ownership. Every labradoodle puppy is born and raised at our home. We are a small Oregon breeder that believes in quality before quantity. Our goal is to breed wonderful labradoodle puppies for companion and family dogs while continuing to advance the labradoodle as a breed. All of our breeding stock undergoes genetic testing for soundness of hips and eyes. The temperaments of our breeding dogs is also very important to us. We breed only labradoodles with phenomenal temperaments since the disposition of the parents is the best indicator of the disposition of your puppy. We back up all of our labradoodle puppies with a 2 year genetic health warranty and our continued support for the lifetime of your dog. The climate and low population of our gorgeous Oregon coast means that our dogs and puppies have 36 acres of trails and forest land to play on. Our labradoodles are kenneled only for safety issues when necessary. Our goal is to provide you with a happy, healthy labradoodle puppy and an enjoyable puppy purchasing experience. We look forward to working with you to find you the perfect new addition for your family.

Usually, they have a white base with light and dark gray markings. Often, there are also patches of tan and black on their coat. The shades make them appear to have dusky-looking fur. Note that fawn, a light tan or yellow color, may have many different shades, ranging from a pale tan to a deep deer-red. Specifically, brindle stripings are visible on the top of the head and the chest or back area. Usually, these appear to be blue and fawn stripes with various white markings. Blue-grey English Bulldog The blue-grey English Bulldog has a dilute bluish-gray coat, from dark grey to light grey. Their coat usually goes with white or tan color around the face and the chest. These dogs made their first appearance in the United States in the s. They may have patterns including brindle and solid colors white, fawn, red, or black , with or without white markings. A full-grown blue English Bulldog ranges from 12 to 25 inches in height and can weigh around 40 to 50 pounds. They are generally short, compact which adds to their whole appeal. Their size makes them suitable for small living spaces such as apartments, considering they do not need a lot of room to move around. Unlike large dog breeds, their average size makes them less intimidating and easier to manage. Like other breeds, a blue English Bulldog is expected to be fully grown at around one year. Most likely, you can expect your new furry friend to reach its final weight and height after one year and up to 18 months. In most dogs, a blue-colored coat is due to a recessive gene known as the dilution gene. Different color variation in English Bulldogs occurs as genes modify eumelanin to create other colors, including blue grey. For blue English Bulldogs, the genetic locations or Loci is called D for dilution. It is responsible for diluted pigment that lightens coats from black or brown to gray, blue, or very pale brown. The d-d genotype makes up the blue English Bulldog variations: blue brindle, blue fawn, blue with tan points, blue sable fawn, etc. Hence, d-d is a dilution that affects black pigment and black-colored hairs. Are Blue English Bulldogs Rare? Yes, blue English Bulldogs are extremely rare. Typically, you will pay a premium for one because of its uniqueness. Blue Bulldogs are considered one of the rarest colors in the breed, alongside black, chocolate, and lilac. Only a few blue English Bulldogs exist in the world. They are notably tricky to breed to a great degree, making them more costly than standard Bullies. If you find a blue Bulldog pup, ensure that it is a purebred English Bulldog with proper AKC documentation before making a purchase. It would also be best if you affirm that the breeder is reliable and knowledgeable. Most blue English Bulldog puppies do not entirely change color as they grow. When Bulldogs grow, the shade of their coat may change, making them look darker or lighter, but their color usually stays the same. For instance, when blue Bulldog puppies are born, they may look black at first. The coat color may fade over time until they take on a blue or grey coat in their adult years. Different types of lighting may also play an important role in how your Bulldogs appear to the naked eye. Hence, their color can certainly look different in specific lightings. However, the skin and coat of your dog may sometimes change later in life, becoming lighter or darker. It may be due to several reasons such as their nutrition, infectious diseases, cancer, inherited health conditions, bruises, or ear or saliva staining. The different causes of a pigment change in your blue English Bulldog pup may vary. It is better to contact your vet for a diagnostic assessment. However, many kennel clubs do not recognize rare colored Bullies such as the blue English Bulldog. In particular, the American Kennel Club AKC is yet to acknowledge this color along with some other non-standard varieties like merle, lilac, or chocolate. Thanks to their sweet and gentle disposition, the blue English Bulldog makes for a brilliant family pet. Rest assured, their rare coloration does not affect their general temperament in any way. They also have the well-loved sweet disposition of the English Bulldog breed. Some female Bullies tend to display maternal instincts with kids and toddlers around. Hence, they will watch over them and become protective. However, some may act aggressively toward other dogs and cats. Prospective owners must prepare for possible animal aggression. With Strangers: These dogs are typically shy and timid around strangers, especially if not trained to socialize at a young age. If you want your blue English Bulldog to act well around other people, expose them early towards new presences. Before you adopt or buy a blue English Bulldog puppy, get to know the dog so you can assess its overall disposition. It will help you figure out whether the puppy fits your lifestyle or not. The average lifespan of blue English Bulldogs ranges from about 6 to 8 years. They were once considered very healthy dogs with an average lifespan of 10 years, but their expected dog years changed over the years of breeding. Due to inadequate and improper breeding practices, some blue Bullies may develop genetic health problems. An initial sign to look out for is the gradual onset of a dry and dull hair coat. Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome: This pathological condition affects short-nosed dogs such as the blue English Bulldog, leading to severe respiratory distress. Some telling signs include Dyspnea or difficulty breathing, stress and heat intolerance during exercise, and collapse. Severe Skin Problems: Your blue English Bulldog may be prone to several skin allergies, hot spots, eczema, and dry skin. The breed is known to be at risk of severe skin infections or recurrence of disease within skin folds. Degenerative Spine Disease: This progressive disease of the spinal cord targets older blue English Bulldogs between 8 and 14 years old. It starts with a lack of balance Ataxia in the hind limbs, causing the affected dog to wobble, knuckle down, or drag his feet while walking. Eye Problems: This condition includes cherry eyes, dry eyes, and more. Eye and eyelid problems are common in blue English Bulldogs, which presents with redness, discharge, and frequent rubbing due to pain. Hip Dysplasia: This common orthopedic condition in blue English Bulldogs results from a malformed hip joint. Thyroid and Heart Disease: Hypothyroidism occurs when your blue English Bulldog is not secreting enough thyroid hormones. This condition is also linked to seizures, heart and blood vessel problems, and infertility. Ensuring your blue English Bulldog has a proper diet, adequate exercise, and treatment are essential in preventing these health problems. Remember that Bulldogs quickly overheat and have breathing problems in hot weather. Hence, never leave your blue Bulldog out in the sun unattended or without access to shade and water. Photo from bigsbythebully IG Blue Bulldog puppies are so rare and hard to produce, which makes them very expensive. The price depends on their coat type, color, and generation. For those wondering if blue puppies are more expensive than other Bulldog colors, the answer is yes. It is quite cheaper than the price range of blue Bulldog puppies. It is going to be very rare to see a blue English Bulldog in any rescue center. Your only chance of owning one of these expensive and rare breeds is by looking for a reputable breeder. Moreover, the high and life-long expenses only start when you bring home these adorable blue English Bulldog puppies. By Mac Daniels Lilac Bulldogs are black bulldogs that have been diluted twice. The chocolate gene came first, followed by the blue gene. The coat of a lilac bulldog is notably glossy and silky, resembling a grey hue in several lighter and darker tones. With their noticeable appearance, they have piercing blue eyes that will never go unnoticed, But, Do all lilac English bulldogs have blue eyes? All Lilac English bulldogs have blue eyes. Blue-eyed dogs are exceedingly rare, and they are usually the consequence of a recessive trait that no breeder can control. Since Lilac Bulldogs are black bulldogs that have been diluted twice. The chocolate gene came first, followed by the blue gene, this applies to their coat and eye color, and unlike typical English Bulldogs, lilacs have only light-colored eyes depending on the brand variant. Lilac tri coats have either brilliant blue or green eyes, while the Lilac tri coats are complimented with aqua, sky blue, or green eyes. With short silky hair and a low-slung physique, the Lilac English Bulldog is a medium-sized dog. They have limbs that are robust and a muscular physique. English Bulldogs have a big head with a flush nose that is virtually flat, floppy ears, and many creases and folds on the face. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, and their coats are all short, silky, and shiny. With bright azure blue eyes, they have a distinctive champagne coat hue. Sometimes their eye colors can be icy blue or ice green; Sable Lilac bulldogs have a reddish pigmentation with fawn coloring. Their hue might range from a light tan to a deeper shade. Black and black-tipped hairs are also found on sable pups. One of the most unique features a breeder may have is their coat. Tri Lilac English Bulldogs Lilac tri is one of the most difficult colors to create. They have a chocolate base coat with a blue gene that makes it champagne. Their eyes are the most vivid of the uncommon hues. Aqua blue with occasional flashes of blazing green or icy blue. They have tan points on their legs, chest, and face. One of the most uncommon breeds of English bulldog is the lilac tri-colored English bulldog. While there is no one gene that creates the lilac hue, it does require the presence of two dominant genes—one for chocolate and the other for blue—in order for it to exist. Lilac English Bulldogs are not AKC-recognized; Breeders and pet owners must use the colors when registering their animals. Merle Bulldogs are also not registered with the AKC. It is critical for dog owners, particularly potential breeders, to register their pets with the American Kennel Club AKC. The American Kennel Club AKC accepts bulldogs for registration, however, this does not apply to lilacs and other breed variants, as lilacs are not recognized by the AKC. Black bulldogs that have been diluted twice are known as Lilac Bulldogs. What are the normal eye colors for Lilac English Bulldogs? The normal eye colors for lilac English bulldogs tend to be either of the following: blue, aqua, sky blue, and on rarer occasions, green. The Lilac English Bulldog is a medium-sized dog with short silky hair and a low-slung body. They have powerful limbs and a strong body. Lilac Bulldogs are black bulldogs who have been diluted twice, Lilacs have only light-colored eyes depending on the brand variety, and the chocolate gene arrived first, followed by the blue gene. This relates to their coat and eye color, and unlike ordinary English Bulldogs, lilacs have only light-colored eyes. Lilac tri coats feature either dazzling blue or green eyes, while aqua, sky blue, or green eyes complement the Lilac tri coats. You can also check this full guide to Blue-eyed bulldogs here. How can you tell if your dog is a lilac? The Sable Lilac is a bulldog breed variation that comes in a range of coat colors, some darker than others. They have a unique champagne coat color and beautiful azure blue eyes. Lilac tri has a chocolate base coat with a champagne-colored blue gene. Their eyes have the most vibrant of the unusual colors. Aqua blue with intermittent flashes of ice blue or flaming green. Their legs, chest, and face are covered with tan spots. Related Questions What color eyes do English Bulldogs have? Eye colors of English Bulldogs are normally brown and dark brown, The AKC, on the other hand, does not define other hues as a standard eye color for Bulldogs. What is the most expensive bulldog? The price tag goes back to their differentiated and captivating appearance with their champagne coat and piercing blue eyes How much does a Bulldog cost? How much does an English Bulldog puppy cost on average? Our Picks for English Bulldogs Tested by the bulldogs themselves The Best shampoos and conditioners for English Bulldogs options for puppies and bulldogs with sensitive skin included Helpful Resources. By Mac Daniels English Bulldogs are one of the most well-known dog breeds in the world. The English Bulldog is a small, robust dog that is approximately a foot tall. They have a unique appearance, with short snouts and fat cheeks as the most obvious feature; their heads are big and spherical, with a flat nose. They feature sagging jowls and skin all across their face, as well as big, broadly set jaws. But Do Bulldogs have blue eyes? The eyelids should cover the white of the eyeball. In a straight line, the eyes should be located low in the head, far away from the ears. Do Bulldogs have blue eyes? Blue Bulldogs are a distinct variation of the English Bulldog. Their coat is generally blue-grey, with blue eyes on rare occasions. Blue-eyed Bulldogs are distinct from the brown-eyed breed standard. Unlike brown and white English Bulldogs, blue English Bulldogs have a grey and white coat combination. The second distinction, and the one that most individuals looking for Blue English Bulldogs are looking for, is their blue eyes. There are other breeders, however, that specifically try and breed blue-eyed bulldogs and charge a premium price for them. Why do some English Bulldogs Have Blue eyes? Some English Bulldogs have blue eyes as the consequence of a recessive genetic mutation. Dogs with blue eyes really have no pigmentation in their irises. The blue hue is caused by light refracting and dispersing in their irises, giving them a blue look. Some bulldogs have blue eyes when they are born. Albino Bulldogs have another uncommon incidence of blue eyes, however, this is the rarest of possibilities. Their muzzles are flat and their skulls are big and round. Generally, they will grow to between 12 to 15 inches at the shoulder. In most cases, they will weigh between 40 to 50 pounds. With wide shoulders and stocky legs, they have a short and thick physique. Other breeders, on the other hand, specialize in breeding blue-eyed bulldogs and demand a premium for them. English Bulldogs with Blue eyes personality and Temperament Despite their intimidating look and history, they are among the most docile canines on the planet. Despite this, they remain loyal and courageous, making them excellent watchdogs. They are not easily scared and will do more than bark if they detect an intruder. You can learn why Bulldogs are friendly here and how you can expect them to react around strangers, kids, other dogs, and animals. They do, however, have a proclivity for developing health problems later in life, necessitating special care. Reddened eyes, blindness, deafness, and corneal ulcers are all potential dangers for these puppies. They may develop skin allergies as well. These can lead to more serious health problems for your dog in the future, so make sure you take them to the doctor on a frequent basis. Do Bulldogs Eyes stay blue? Because the pigment melanin in the eyes has not fully developed, all puppies are born with blue ish eyes. Although this may appear to be extremely attractive, the color will most probably shift unless their parents had blue eyes, in which case it will be inherited. The majority of adult bulldog canines have brown or dark brown eyes. Breeders should, in my view, aim to attain the breed standard in order to produce the most archetypal and healthy Bulldogs possible. Blue eyes, on the other hand, might be the consequence of the Bulldog inheriting a recessive genetic trait or of breeders attempting to breed blue-eyed bulldogs and charging a premium for them. If more people adopted pets instead of buying them, the number of animals killed would drop dramatically. When you adopt a pet from an animal shelter or rescue group, you are helping to save the lives of two animals: the pet you adopt and a homeless animal who can be rescued as a result of the space you provide upon adopting from the shelter. Related Questions How much is a blue-eyed Bulldog? There are just a few blue English Bulldogs in the world, and they are exceedingly difficult to breed! Should English Bulldogs have blue eyes? They might be the result of a recessive genetic feature in the Bulldog or by breeders aiming to produce blue-eyed bulldogs and charging a lot for them. What is the rarest eye color in dogs? The rarest eye color in dogs is Green eyes; the reason for this is that creating a green-eyed canine is only possible in a few pure breeds. Dogs usually have a variety of eye hues, including a brown that comes in various tints. Our Picks for English Bulldogs Tested by the bulldogs themselves The Best shampoos and conditioners for English Bulldogs options for puppies and bulldogs with sensitive skin included Helpful Resources. Tells me there's something in the blood line that should send you running. Thats why they get the prices they do, because your paying a little more up front for healthy, rather than on the back end for the vet bills, and I promise you, paying a vet is like having a gun held to your head!! The last thing I want to say, I have a daughter, nothing to do her but to purchase a Blue Pitt Bull, This girl is Gorgeous, white star on her chest, most wonderful disposition, Gentle and I mean loving and snuggly, She's 3 years old now, Her problem is her Tummy, She is constantly sick with an upset tummy, always has been always will be. Every shot she gets makes her sick, and I don't mean Pepto Bismal sick, I'm talking about Vet prescribed medication sick. 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Introducing a new puppy to your home The importance of early training How to give instructions The importance of socialization How to socialize your puppy Basic commands - sit and stay Basic commands - come and lie down Training your puppy to heel Training your puppy to fetch and retrieve Rewarding and disciplining your puppy Training your puppy with a leash Your puppy and other people Your puppy and other animals House training Barking - and how to prevent it Biting and chewing Why choose a German shepherd? Congratulations on your choice! German shepherd dogs are the only dog breed to have the word dog as part of their official name. Not many dog breeds have as unique and proud a heritage as the white German shepherd. The breed had its beginnings in Austria in the 19th century when the Queen of Hapsburg reputedly wanted white dogs - to match both the white dresses and the white horses used by the family. German shepherd dogs are popular for several reasons their distinctive appearance, their reliability and their suitability for families. According to the American Kennel Association, in , the breed was the second most popular in the United States only the Labrador Retriever was more popular. Its no wonder that German shepherds are so popular apart from their distinctive appearance, they are also considered to be among the easiest breed of dog to train. Many breeders claim that they are one of the top three most trainable breeds, along with the Australian sheep dog and the Labrador retriever. White German shepherds are also well known for their loyalty and devotion it isnt unusual for them to form a strong bond with a trainer or handler. And not surprisingly, entering them at dog shows and obedience competitions can be rewarding German shepherds enjoy more than their fair share of success. Because they are so easy to train, German shepherds are widely used around the world for various tasks. In France, they are used to track criminals and to search for avalanche victims. Switzerland has a large number of German shepherds in it police force - and in the UK, German shepherd dogs were regularly used by world famous Scotland Yard up until the s. Apart from their suitability for law enforcement, German shepherds are used in other lines of work. In , the first Seeing Eye dog was a German shepherd today, the breed is still the most popular for the job. And the German shepherd is also a great choice for such tasks as herding sheep, pulling carts or acting as watchdog. However, training a dog can be time consuming, frustrating and hard work you will need to have patience and a routine. The task of training your puppy will be a lot easier if you begin the process at as early an age as possible - a younger puppy has generally not had the chance to learn too much negative or destructive behavior. The following pages will tell you how to train your puppy for most situations - house training, biting and barking, and interacting with other animals and people. You will find that the job of training your new friend is a rewarding and happy experience. Introducing a new puppy to your home Training your puppy should begin as soon as you get your puppy home and should ideally be undertaken by just one family member. At the same time it is important to make sure that everyone else in the house as well as any other pets are comfortable with the new arrival. Unlike some dog breeds, German shepherds prefer to live indoors, rather than outside. If possible, bring your new puppy home during a calm time and when you have the time to concentrate on training him. It isnt a good idea to bring home a new puppy during a hectic time when your routine and his will be disrupted, such as holidays or when family are visiting. Try to introduce a new puppy to family members one at a time so it isnt too overwhelming. When bringing your puppy home for the first time, make sure you are organized. Dont forget to have food in the house, as well as bowls specifically for food and water. At first, try to buy the type or brand of food that the dog is eating now you can always switch his food gradually. A sudden change in food can often have unfortunate results - diarrhea or an upset stomach. Apart from food and water, you will also need some toys for your dog if you are bringing a puppy home, its particularly important to have something for him to chew on. And your puppy will need somewhere to sleep many owners find that having the dogs bed close to them particularly at first - can make training easier. You may want to puppy-proof your home, just as you would make it baby-proof. Put any things out of reach you dont want to be chewed, such as shoes. Some rooms may be off limits and you may want to install a gate across the bottom of your stairs. If your puppy will be outside, make sure the environment is safe and secure and he cant slip out anywhere. Ensure that he doesnt have access to such things as paint, medicine and cleaning products. When introducing your new puppy to his new home, immediately start enforcing rules. If he jumps up on furniture, make sure that he understands not to do that using a treat as a reward is more effective than discipline at this point. House training should be undertaken at this time. You may want to make a point of showing your puppy that the family eats before he does and dont start feeding him from the dinner table, otherwise he will routinely expect that. Its surprisingly easy to overlook his water make sure he always has plenty and that its fresh every day. The first few weeks a puppy is in your home can be hectic but important. German shepherds live a long time generally from between 12 to 14 years, so you and your family have many happy years ahead. The importance of early training When it comes to successful dog training its important to start early. The first few months are particularly important as any behavior that has been learned will stay with your dog throughout his life. A young puppy has hopefully not had the chance to learn negative or destructive behavior. Ideally, this learning process should continue for up to two years. If you are the proud owner of a new German shepherd puppy, try to begin training as soon as the dog is in your home - just as you would immediately start teaching a newborn baby how to behave around other babies or animals. All family members should learn to handle the new puppy and be comfortable with the new addition to the family, however only one person should undertake most, if not all of the training. Dogs thrive on a routine, so try to have one that works around your job and other commitments. Its a good idea to introduce a new puppy into your home during a quiet time, and not at the holidays, for example. Training at this stage should include both obedience and hygiene, as well as eliminating any bad habits, such as chewing shoes or begging for food at the dinner table. The first few months in your home are some of the most important to a puppy many of an older dogs behavioral problems can be traced back to this period. Experts say that a dogs experiences between the ages of three and twelve weeks are the most critical and the ideal age to acquire a puppy is at about eight weeks old. This includes getting the animal used to any other pets and family members, as well as house training and teaching your dog to use a lead effectively. And any routines which will become part of your dogs later life should be introduced at an early stage, if at all possible. During much of your puppys early training, the two most widely used words will be no and his name. You should also make a point of exposing your puppy to different objects, as well as people. Introduce your puppy to such everyday but potentially scary things as toys, bicycles, large boxes, and even an umbrella. Its also recommended to take a puppy for short car rides, letting the window down occasionally. A dog is a lifelong commitment. Begin your training early and you have a better chance of avoiding problems later in life. The importance of giving instructions while training You will be giving plenty of instructions and commands while training your German shepherd puppy and its important to know how to give them. When training your puppy, instructions should be given in a firm and clear voice it isnt necessary to shout or become angry. As mentioned before, German shepherds are considered one of the easiest breeds of dog to train. The breed is also known for its patience and an instinctive desire to please an owner or trainer. They also have a keen sense of timing and are admired for their overall agility. It isnt necessary to give lengthy instructions to your puppy. Most of your instructions will consist of just two words your dogs name and the particular command. You will soon learn the importance of being able to effectively give the basic commands to your puppy come, sit, stay and lie down. You may want to master some of those commands before moving on to the command to heel. The secret to successful training is to give your puppy instructions in what you want him to do and not what you dont want him to do. Make sure that your commands are realistic and your dog is able to easily and safely carry them out. Never give a command or instruction unless you actually want it carried out. Much of your training should be done with the lead at first, and later without the lead. If your dog doesnt do what is asked always correct or discipline him immediately as dogs dont retain information for more than a few seconds. If you correct him after the fact, he will have forgotten what it is that he was asked to do! The same principle applies when rewarding your puppy. Remember, you are giving your puppy commands and instructions and not becoming angry or impatient with him with practice, your training will be easy and effective for both of you. The importance of socialization White German shepherd dogs are considered to be among the easiest dogs to train, making them particularly suitable for families with pets and children. Once you have chosen your pet, have taken him home and introduced him to your family, one of your next steps is to learn how to socialize your dog. Experts consider that the most important socialization period for a puppy begins at around three weeks of age and lasts until around twelve weeks. The period during which a puppy is most influenced by socialization is supposedly between six and eight weeks of age. Regardless of how old your puppy is when you get him, you may well have little or no knowledge of his previous life. Socializing your dog includes various things getting him used to other dogs as well as other people and also everyday sights, sounds and smells. And you shouldnt find it too difficult to find friends and neighbors who want to come over to admire your new puppy! Try to bring your puppy home when you can establish a routine and spend some time training him. Socializing is important as it can help to prevent serious behavioral problems in your German shepherd such as aggression, timidity and shyness. A dog that has been exposed to other animals such as cats and horses is better able to interpret their intentions, potentially avoiding a conflict. And a dog that has been thoroughly socialized is less likely to have behavioral problems in the future with other dogs or children. Some trainers even advise that a puppy should meet strangers and visit 50 new places all before he is three months old. You may not be able to do all that but it illustrates how important it is to thoroughly socialize your puppy. If you find socialization difficult, you can actually take your puppy to socialization classes ask at your local vets for details. Try to avoid taking your puppy to training classes that put an emphasis on punishment techniques. Simply the act of taking your puppy to the vets is a form of socialization and it also helps him prepare for future visits. Socializing your puppy correctly can take time and patience but the end results are well worth it and you will understand why white German shepherds are such a delight to own and train. How to socialize your puppy Socializing your puppy is important and will have a major influence on his behavior - start out slowly with socialization training begin with one on one situations with a friend or neighbor. Work your way slowly to more demanding situations with perhaps several people and pets. Make sure you are in control of the situation the object isnt to frighten your dog, simply to get him used to things. Try to ensure that your puppy meets different types of people young and old, loud and quiet. If your puppy only encounters people of a specific appearance for example, young girls he may be fearful or aggressive when he later encounters other types of people. If you dont have small children in your home, try taking your puppy to a park or playground. Try to avoid taking your puppy to areas where unvaccinated dogs may be found, unless your puppy has had all its shots. You may want to deliberately walk where you may encounter other dog walkers or even arrange for a friend to walk their dog at the same time. Your puppy should be exposed to different objects, as well as people things that we all take for granted. Introduce your puppy to such everyday but potentially scary things as bicycles, large boxes and childrens toys. You should also take your puppy for short and then longer car rides, letting the window down occasionally. You should also expose your puppy to things that make noises or move quickly. Try exposing your puppy to such everyday things as the vacuum cleaner, television, washing machine and doorbell. Start out slowly until he has got somewhat used to these things for example, leaving the vacuum out before switching it on. If you live in the country, or on a quiet street, take your puppy to a noisy or crowded area. Likewise, if you live in the heart of the city, take your puppy to the countryside or to a farm to experience such strange creatures as hens, ducks and cows. Dont let your puppy chase other animals during this time. A small puppy treat makes an appropriate reward when socializing your puppy. At first you can reward him every time you meet another pet or person; then progress to the point where you are rewarding him only for non-fearful interactions. If your puppy seems fearful or nervous around people, ask other people to crouch down this helps to put a nervous dog at ease. Dont be discouraged by the term socialization. If you are taking your puppy out and about, meeting people and interacting with other pets you are basically doing that anyway. Basic commands sit and stay Sit is one of the most basic and important commands that you will teach your puppy. Typically, a puppy is ready to learn this command at eight weeks old. And you will also discover that its one of the most difficult commands to enforce - as puppies of course, tend to be naturally playful. The good news is that even the liveliest puppy can be successfully trained. You should train your puppy to obey these commands before any others. Begin your training in a quiet part of the house with no distractions. Some trainers suggest training by the front door a puppy who sits easily by the front door is more manageable when you have visitors. Try to limit each training session to around 15 minutes and be sure to use a firm tone of voice and offer praise and reward when he gets it right. To successfully train your dog to sit, you may want to have him on a lead at first and then progress to training without the lead. Once you have given him the command to sit, gently help your dog to sit by folding his back legs under his bottom repeat this as necessary until he gets the idea. The command stay is often used in conjunction with sit and will help you control your puppy when its necessary. Once your puppy has learnt to sit, practice walking away while giving the command to stay. If he gets up before he has been told to, you should persuade him to sit again, by using the technique above. You should gradually walk further and further away, leaving him to stay for longer periods in general, it takes a week or so to train a puppy to sit and stay for a couple of minutes. After a few months it should be possible for your puppy to stay while you leave the room, for a period of around 15 minutes. You can also use a hand signal to instruct your puppy to stay, for example a raised hand. At first, this should be done using the lead; then you can progress to doing it without the lead. Once your puppy has got used to these commands, you should be able to command him to sit and stay, by using hand signals alone. With a little patience, your puppy will soon master these basic commands making for a better relationship between the two of you. Basic commands come and lie down Generally, you can start to teach your German shepherd basic commands once he has reached the age of six months. Try to have everybody in your family take part in these lessons everybody will need to use the commands at some point and keep lessons short, ideally around ten or fifteen minutes. As with other aspects of training, you should reward your puppy with affection and perhaps a treat when he does well. If he isnt learning quite as quickly as you had hoped, then you can withhold the reward. Dont punish your dog for not obeying these basic commands he will then associate that particular command with punishment. All the commands that you give your puppy at this stage should consist of just two words your puppys name, followed by the command Rover, come! When giving commands to your dog, make sure that you use a tone of voice thats both firm and enthusiastic. Be sure to praise your puppy when he gets it right. You should start training your puppy to obey the word "come" just as soon as you have brought him home the first time. To train your puppy to come, you should use the lead at first. Extend the lead distance as far as it will go and then use the command while at the same time tugging gently on his lead. If you dont see positive results at first persevere. Make sure you are crouched down on the same level as your dog and are using the word come in a positive, firm way and not angrily. Praise and reward your puppy dont be cross if he doesnt get it right the first time. After he has got the idea, take the lead off and repeat the procedure. To train your puppy to lie down, first command him to sit. Lower one of his favorite food treats between his front paws and say down or lie most dogs will lie down to get at the treat. Once he is lying down, you can then give him the treat. Try to practice the command to lie down from different positions from both a standing and a sitting position. Dogs tend to lie down in two different positions flat where the hips are rolled and the legs are to one side; and sphinx in which his hind legs are tucked underneath. Training your dog to lie down helps to show him who is in command it can also be helpful in a busy or dangerous environment. And a puppy thats lying down is usually a quiet puppy! Training your puppy to heel One of the supreme tests of obedience is to train your puppy to heel. Heeling is the act of walking with your dog close beside you - paying attention just to you and not being distracted by anything else. Once you have trained your puppy to do this, its an easy and safe way to walk through crowded or unfamiliar places with your dog. Ideally, you should first train your dog to sit on command before you start training him to heel, and you should use the lead at first. You should begin training your puppy to heel in a quiet room, with minimum distractions a long hallway or corridor is ideal for this - and you should not lead him to the door or outside at first. Begin your training with your puppy sitting on your left side. Assuming that you are right handed Hold the lead in your right hand, but hold the lead close to your dogs collar with your left hand. Start to walk slowly, using your dogs name and the command to heel. Remember, while training, most of your commands will consist of just two words the command and your dogs name. Give your commands in a firm authoritative tone dont become angry with him if he doesnt get it immediately. Try to keep your puppy close to you and once you have gone a few steps, you can reward him with a treat. If he starts to move away from you, a short sharp tug on the lead will get him back at your side. Once you have done this a few times, you should be able to walk further with your dog by your side eventually without using the lead. Twenty paces is a realistic goal. Once your puppy can walk to heel, the next step is to train him to turn around when you turn. To turn with your dog, put your hand on his collar while you turn and give the command to heel again, practice with the lead on at first, then off. Puppies can be lively and playful and you may not find this training easy. Persevere and the end result will be well worth it. Training your puppy to fetch and retrieve A puppy that runs to retrieve objects is not only getting physical exercise he is also getting mental stimulation. Playing fetch and retrieve is a chance for your dog to get some exercise as well as practice his instinctive hunting skills. And throwing and fetching objects can also keep children happy for quite some time! Before you are able to train your dog to run and fetch objects, you must first train him to hold objects in its mouth. Dont use squeaky toys for this as your dog will then want to chew them! While training your puppy to hold things in its mouth, reward with verbal and physical praise, rather than treats. You can begin training your puppy to fetch things and bring them back to you, once you have taught him how to hold things. Trainers advise that the ideal age to teach a puppy to hold and fetch things is at around six to eight weeks old. Most puppies will learn this fairly easily and quickly, although as with other aspects of training, it depends on the animal and how much time you can devote to it. German shepherds are not generally selectively bred for retrieving, although they can easily be trained. As with other aspects of training, things may not always go smoothly. If your puppy is reluctant to fetch, try to get him excited by throwing a squeaky toy and running with it yourself. If your dog seems reluctant to bring the object back to you, you may have to continue working on the command to come. If your puppy runs to the object but doesnt pick it up, you may need more lessons on the command to hold. And the same applies if he picks it up but then continually drops it while bringing it back make sure your puppy is proficient at holding objects before you begin fetch and retrieve training. Its an easy thing to overlook - dont give your puppy items to retrieve and hold that are too big to comfortably fit in his jaws. Your puppy may bring the retrieved object some of the way back to you but doesnt quite understand to bring it to you. One solution to this is to say no firmly, then retrieve the object yourself and bring it the rest of the way back. And some dog owners say that if your puppy watches other dogs fetch and retrieve, he will get the idea. Training your puppy to fetch and retrieve can give you and your puppy hours of fun but dont force it. Some dogs just seem to enjoy it more than others. Rewarding and disciplining your German shepherd While training your German shepherd, you will soon realize the importance of offering rewards for good behavior or for learning something quickly. German shepherd dogs are quick to learn, are reliable and obedient and it isnt unusual for them to form a strong bond with their trainer. Rewards actually fall into three basic categories verbal praise, treats and physical contact. You may find that your dog is motivated by one, rather than the other. In this case, physical contact would mean stroking your puppy. Be sure to give him long strokes along his body, rather than patting him on the head which your dog may see as a dominant gesture. Its a natural thing to want to use treats as a reward during training but you should be careful not to overfeed your puppy. Many treats are actually rich and fairly unhealthy. If you are using treats as a reward, one solution to overfeeding is to make sure the treat is part of your dogs daily food allowance. Try not to use treats as a reward for your puppy all the time over time you should gradually start to praise good behavior instead of rewarding with a treat. Eventually, during a training routine, you should offer the treat as a reward every other time, and then every 2nd or 3rd time, and so on. Your puppy will need constant praise and encouragement while being trained its a good idea to keep some treats easily accessible. If you are walking or playing outside, keep them in a pocket or backpack somewhere you can easily get to them and then immediately give them to your puppy. Good timing is also essential when you give your puppy a reward you must offer the reward at the same time that the dog has done whatever you commanded, or at least within a few seconds. Dogs are only able to retain information for a few seconds. If you reward your dog for sitting, but he has already stood up again he wont quite get the message. Some effective but humane methods of disciplining your dog are as follows. A puppy that misbehaves can be isolated from other people, for no longer than a few minutes. A squirt with a water pistol filled with water or lemon juice can be an easy way to stop a dog in its tracks. And a stern and commanding voice, along with the word no sometimes works best of all. If you are training your puppy to do something, such as sit or come on command and he is a little slow, repeating the exercise several times from the beginning may also help to reinforce the message. While training, use a firm but enthusiastic voice and offer rewards when applicable you may find you wont need to use discipline much at all. Training your puppy with a leash It is of course, one of the most indispensable items you will have when it comes to training your new puppy his leash, or lead. A properly used leash ensures your dogs safety as well as the safety of other animals and people. In fact you should never allow your dog to run free unless you are in an enclosed and protected area you may even have leash laws in your neighborhood. You should actually use two types of leash for training a long houseline with a bolt snap for indoor training, and a standard leash for outdoor use. Collars come in different styles and colors a well-fitting collar should allow you to slip two fingers underneath it with comfort. If you are choosing a collar and leash its a good time to make sure you have identification on your puppy, too. Most dogs particularly German shepherds dont have a problem wearing a collar and leash, although some dogs take longer than others to be completely comfortable. If your dog seems a little bit slow it doesnt mean he is are any less intelligent, he just needs a little more time. Start out by simply training your puppy to be comfortable with the leash. Let your puppy smell the leash and inspect it. Have your dog wear his collar and leash while eating, over a period of a few days this way, your dog associates his leash with the somewhat enjoyable task of being fed. During this time, the puppys leash should just trail on the ground. After a few days of this routine, you can start to lead your dog around the house while hes wearing the leash - then repeat the exercise outside. Gradually begin to walk longer and longer distances ideally, in a quiet environment with few distractions. Your dogs leash should not be too long between four to six feet is ideal. Some dog owners think the retractable lead is a wonderful thing this type of lead lets your dog roam up to 30 feet away, but still be under your control. However, be careful when using the retractable lead alongside busy roads. One of the problems you may encounter with a boisterous puppy is that of climbing up the lead or trying to jump on you. Train your puppy not to do this by saying no firmly and moving away or commanding your dog to sit. If necessary, repeat the exercise that you were practicing before he started jumping. One of the biggest challenges you may face while training your German shepherd to use a leash is that of pulling on the leash. If your puppy does this, he may be excited or bored. Try praising him if he remains at your side. Keep the leash loose at all times if your puppy starts to run off, abruptly change direction so that hes suddenly behind you. If your puppy is pulling on the leash, dont pull him all the way back again give a quick tug and then immediately release and make the leash slack again. With a little bit of perseverance, youll find that your puppy is comfortable with his leash after all, most puppies usually love to have their leash put on as it means they are going outside! Your puppy and other people Perhaps one of your most important considerations will be successfully training your new German shepherd puppy to interact with other people especially if you are bringing your dog home to a large family. Fortunately German shepherd dogs are not only easy to train they make an excellent choice for a family with children or pets, as they generally get along well with both. As with all aspects of training, try to begin this training when your puppy is less than four months old. These first few months are particularly important as any behavior that has been learned will stay with your dog throughout his life. This process should continue for up to two years. Training your puppy to comfortably interact with people, other animals and situations is known as socializing your dog. Socializing is also important as it can help to prevent serious behavioral problems in your German shepherd - such as aggression, timidity and shyness. A puppy often barks at strangers this is actually your dogs way of protecting or warning you. Try to get your dog as familiar with strangers as possible by introducing him to people who call at the house and having them give your puppy a treat. If this is still a problem, you may have to leave blinds or curtains closed to eliminate distractions from outside. German shepherds tend to be dependable with children; however you should still exercise caution. Babies tend to figure largely in a puppys life if you have a baby or toddler in your home, its important to make sure they get used to each other. You should allow your puppy to inspect the baby, but hold him on the leash while you do it the first time. Never tease a dog with a baby. Young children can be almost as challenging as babies. A puppy just cant help joining in if theres a group of small children running around and playing. Playing is acceptable, but make sure your children don't tease your puppy - teasing a dog is actually the major cause of children being bitten by a pet take it seriously if your child is jabbing or sticking fingers into the dogs face. Older children are better with a puppy the ideal age for a child to have their first dog is between the ages of 8 and .Youll soon discover that even the most responsible child generally needs some reminding to help look after their puppy. Children this age actually make excellent trainers for a puppy they tend to lack the self-consciousness of adults and are of course, learning themselves. Aggression towards people is an extremely difficult thing to correct. German shepherd dogs are known for their placid nature and their ability to bond with people, so you may never have this problem. To effectively deal with an aggressive dog, you first have to try to determine why he is aggressive he may be frightened or being teased. Fear biting is a possible symptom. Training your puppy to interact effectively with people can be hard work - fortunately you have one of the friendliest breeds that there is. Training your dog to get along with other animals Training your German shepherd to interact with other animals can be a challenge, as most dog owners know only too well. However, German shepherd dogs are considered to be one of the easiest dog breeds to train they also tend to get on with other animals and people particularly well. Try to create a relaxed atmosphere when you bring a new puppy into your home for the first time its all too easy to have a frantic environment which just makes the dog excitable. Your puppy will find himself the center of attention and its easy to forget the basics of training him. You will find it easier to get a puppy used to other animals and people socialized, as it is known if your puppy is less than four months old. A puppy thats older than four months may find if difficult to fully socialize with other animals and you may find it more difficult too. If your home has other animals, such as cats or guinea pigs, it can be effective to first introduce your puppy to the smell of the other animals. As far as your puppy and cats are concerned, you should keep them separate for the first few days. At the first meeting, hold your puppy securely on a lap or floor and allow the cats to smell the puppy with no contact. Once the animals have all inspected each other, you can allow the puppy to walk around the room with the cats be sure to keep an eye on all the animals. If your puppy chases the cats or barks at the cat, a firm no should persuade him not to do that you may also want to give him something to chew on. After a few weeks of this, your dog and cats should be able to live together peacefully. Another effective way to achieve harmony is to put a small piece of the other animals bedding near the place where your puppy will be sleeping. A new puppy is far more likely to accept the other animals as harmless family members if he first becomes accustomed to their smell. If you are walking your puppy, you may have trouble when encountering other dogs. A puppy that has been socialized exposed to other dogs, people and things will generally have fewer problems in this respect. You should start getting your puppy used to other dogs just as soon as you can, by taking him to parks, playgrounds etc or allowing people with dogs to come and visit you. Fortunately, German shepherds are well known for their ability to get on well with most other animals so you should have no serious problems achieving a peaceful environment for all your pets! House training Once you have your new puppy home, one of your most important considerations will be house training your puppy. As with most other aspects of puppy training, its best to begin as early as you can expect the training to be complete only when your dog reaches six months old. Nearly all dogs respond to house training fairly well the German shepherd is one of the most receptive breeds. Perhaps the first thing you need to know is how frequently your puppy may need to go. On average, a three month old puppy needs to urinate every three or four hours, while a puppy that is five months old urinates every four to five hours. Generally speaking, as a dog grows older, it can go that much longer before having to urinate. There are certain signs that your puppy may need the bathroom after a while, you will be able to spot them and anticipate. If he suddenly puts his nose down and sniffs intently, its usually a signal. Your puppy may appear agitated, or begin to whine or pace if he needs go. He may also run behind a piece of furniture, squat down or raise his leg. If your dog urinates in the house when left alone, this is actually a form of separation anxiety. Its caused by stress and the dog usually does this shortly after being left alone. One solution is to train your puppy to feel comfortable with his crate and to leave him there the problem may go away after a few weeks or months. Other than that, try to leave your dog alone as casually and with as little fuss as possible. One of the biggest problems for a dog owner is the dog who goes to the bathroom in the house but wont go outside. There may be several causes of this: a dog that has been confined indoors for at least a month has simply got used to relieving himself indoors he doesnt know any better. If your dog goes to the bathroom indoors, rather than out, make sure you are taking him outside as often as he needs. A puppy should be taken outside several times a day immediately after waking, and after eating or playing. While walking your dog outside, try to be alert to any signs that he needs the bathroom. If your dog has an accident inside the house, immediately and thoroughly clean the area so your puppy wont assume that spot is for going to the toilet. And if your dog goes in an approved spot in your yard or outside leave the droppings there, if practical. The next time your puppy sniffs that spot he will be encouraged to do his business there. House training may not be the most glamorous aspect of training your puppy but as most of us would point out, it is one of the most important. Barking and how to prevent it All dog owners are going to have a problem with unwanted barking or howling at some point although German shepherds are easier in this respect than many other breeds. In fact, a lot of German shepherd owners firmly maintain that their dog only barks when absolutely necessary! To deal effectively with barking, you first need to determine why the dog is barking. A puppy barks for several reasons. He may need exercise or he may need to use the bathroom. He may simply be bored and need attention. And some puppies bark because they are excited or theres just too much going on around them. A bored dog tends to bark a lot. If you feel your puppy is barking because hes bored or neglected, try not to give your dog attention as soon as he starts to bark. By doing this, you are then saying that its acceptable to bark and that barking leads to a positive thing your attention. Instead, you should make sure your dog is getting enough attention when hes not barking Your puppy may bark if left alone for too long although you might not know this unless the neighbors tell you! If you do have to leave your puppy alone, make sure he is exercised before you leave him and that he has plenty of water. Some owners even advise putting some music on for the puppy. If your puppy barks for no other identifiable reason, he may simply need to go to the bathroom. On average, a three month old puppy needs to urinate every three or four hours, while a puppy that is five months old urinates every four to five hours as he gets older, he will go less frequently. A dog shouldnt be punished for too much barking or howling which is after all, an instinctive thing. Any action you take to stop a dog barking must be undertaken at the time that they are actually barking and not sometime afterwards. Dogs are not able to retain information for more than a few seconds. If your puppy is barking for no apparent reason, simply try silencing him with a firm no. If you are desperate, you can purchase a no bark dog collar manufactured by several different companies. When your dog barks, it triggers a harmless spray of lemon liquid which supposedly stops the dog from barking. The disadvantage of the collar is that most dogs are too clever they will sooner or later learn to bark without the spray affecting them. An alternative to the spraying collar is the shock collar. As the name suggests, this device triggers a mild electric shock whenever your dog barks. The shock collar is completely humane and most experts consider it to be generally more effective in stopping barking than the no bark dog collar. A puppy that barks too much can certainly be annoying. But keep in mind there may be occasions when you want to hear your dog barking - noises outside in the yard, or a smoke alarm, for example. After all, German shepherds do make excellent watchdogs. Biting and Chewing Biting and chewing may be annoying to us sometimes but they are perfectly natural activities for your puppy. A puppy that bites does so instinctively and has probably learnt to do so from his siblings over time, your puppy will outgrow this behavior. However, there are some steps you can take now. Biting is most common with young puppies although most young puppies do not bite often, and if they do, something has caused them to bite. Ideally, a puppy should be trained not to bite before he is four months old. Normally, a puppy learns not to bite from his mother or other puppies if he is an only dog he learns from his owner. Many people think puppies are just playing when they bite, but in fact puppies can bite for several reasons. They may be teething puppies teeth for about a month, usually at four months old - or trying to strengthen their fairly new jaws and teeth. A puppy that bites may be exploring, or trying to compensate for an unbalanced diet - or he may just be bored. If your puppy is biting due to teething, the good news is that he will outgrow this. You can also buy toys designed specifically for teething dogs that help soothe the discomfort. A puppy may also be biting because he doesnt get to bite enough while eating - in this case your puppy will appreciate a nice bone. Chewing is also a common problem with puppies - be prepared to deal with your puppy chewing as soon as you bring him home and have plenty of chew toys in your home and ensure they are accessible. Some trainers recommend having up to 20 different chew toys available and rotating them periodically, to add an element of surprise and to keep your puppy interested. As with biting you shouldnt punish your puppy for chewing. Instead, you should gently remove the object and substitute something he can chew on such as a chew toy. Be sure to praise your pup for using the chew toy. German shepherds are well known for being easy to train and communicate with. However the breed is particularly prone to what is sometimes called fear biting which is sometimes genetic. Fear biting also sometimes results from having been ill-treated or from inadequate socialization of a puppy. A fear biting dog also often suffers from low self esteem, is often nervous or apprehensive and can frequently cower when introduced to strangers. You may need to get a professional to help train your dog to overcome fear biting, but there are some steps you can take. You need to gradually expose a fear biting dog to the things that hes afraid of. Its rather like the process of socialization all over again. Another technique you can try is to have a friend walk away from your dog with a dog treat and hold it out in the palm of their hand. The dog should be allowed to walk up and take the treat, and you should gradually progress to eye contact, verbal praise and stroking the dog All it takes is 15 minutes a day for a well trained dog. Have fun! Calm older dogs are good for this one. Most importantly for German Shepherd puppies, it will give you a chance to work with them around other people, and different dogs from a young age. Settle on a mat German Shepherds are incredibly curious, which can make it difficult for them to relax while out and about. Leash walking — no one wants a large breed of dog pulling them down the street, so be sure you teach loose lead walking and how about some heelwork too? Recall games — Play a game of tennis with your pooch! Calling them from person to person with treats on either side. Get started with grooming and brushing sensitive areas — In long-haired German Shepherds, this is typically the case with the face, legs, and ears, which become tangled the most and may hurt when brushed. Remember to brush carefully, do a little bit of brushing on a sensitive area while feeding them treats or letting them have a lickimat, and then brush an easier to brush area. For socialisation, start working on items that are vital to your lifestyle this week, such as if you have a horse and want your puppy to be comfortable with horses, or if you enjoy sailing, having them near water will be important to you. Getting your puppy exposed to new experiences early on can help them accept them much more easily. Socialization exercises to do this week Training to do this week Husbandry Tasks to do this week — Go to the pub — you deserve it! Remember that settle training you did before, take your mat and get your German Shepherd puppy to settle on it with a nice stuffed kong. Alone training: increasing time alone is important for your puppy. It gives them essential coping skills. Recall — Practise this outside, using a lead, and lots of rewards. Lead walking — Take this outside. Make sure you keep a strong pace going, since German Shepherds enjoy walking quickly, and praise often to keep your puppy interested. Pretend Nail Clips — simply holding a claw, pretending to clip , and rewarding your puppy with a treat is enough. Following on walks — Bring special toys, like the Tug-E-Nuff Pocket tugger, with you on walks to ensure your German Shepherd puppy enjoys hanging out with you. Playing with them will make you irresistible! Week 7 — Training your German Shepherd puppy The 7-week itch! Nah not really. I bet your German Shepherd puppy is doing wonderfully and growing rapidly! Tick 3 things off your personal socialisation checklist — How about taking your German Shepherd to a city farm, letting them watch from afar and rewarding them for being such a calm puppy? Teach your German Shepherd puppy to stay — this will be a great one to show off at the park, trust us. So, first, take a walk with a dog that your German Shepherd puppy has already met. At first, it may be difficult for your puppy not to get distracted, so keep the rewards coming and try to keep them interested in you, rather than the other dog! Recall — off the lead Make sure you do this in a secure and confined area and bring plenty of smelly treats, a fun toy to play with, and your silly high-pitched voice so you can call your German Shepherd puppy back regularly. Remember, German Shepherds enjoy learning! Tick 3 things off your personal socialisation checklist — maybe take your German Shepherd for a swimming lesson? Practice exercises in different locations — how about a train station, or in a shopping centre or mall? Teach a hand target — This is a favourite among pups and their owners. Hand Targeting or touching is the foundation for additional trick behaviours like leg weaving and closing doors. Introducing nose work to your puppy — We mean it when we say your German Shepherd puppy has a better nose than you! Play a game of hide and seek with their favourite toy to bring out those excellent search skills. Looking for more great puppy training tips? Check out our overview of when to start teaching your puppy anything , next. It will be fun they said. We go the extra mile for you. If you want a stress free puppy experience, get this downloaded! Worth every single penny! This app is very helpful. It helps you to understand and gives you a path to follow. The coaching support is excellent and super speedy. Download the app now. For serious owners only: If you want to master potty training, stop jumping, and everything a new dog owner needs to teach their dog, check out The Ultimate Puppy Training Bundle by SpiritDog. When should I start training my GSD puppy? You can start training your German Shepherd puppies as early as they are 8 weeks old. Crate training and potty training are the very basic skills your puppy will need once she gets home. You can start right away when she comes home. How is it different to train German Shepherds? German Shepherds are very intelligent and they learn fast. This makes training very easy. Many GSDs are play-motivated in addition to food-motivated, which makes it very easy to train new behaviors with a toy or ball as the reward. Timing is VERY important If you want to reward your puppy for doing the right thing, you must do it right after she exhibits the desired behavior. It is therefore extremely important to have your reward treat or ball ready in your pocket so you can give it to your pup immediately. Rule of thumb: Keep training sessions short After all, your puppy weeks old is still a young child at this age. She has a limited attention span and may get distracted easily. It is suggested that you train your puppy the same trick several times a day, repeating times in each session, preferably minutes each time even shorter sessions puppies. Your pup will quickly learn what she needs to do to please you. Voice Always praise your puppy with a lively and happy voice when she does something right. Treats Treats are essential when it comes to training a dog. It works especially well with food-motivated puppies. Playing or Petting If your dog is not food-motivated, you can reward them with their favorite toy or petting as an alternative. When you first started, you may need to try on different treats based to see which one your pup likes. The treats should be in bite-size and easy for your pup to chew. Cheese cubes, cooked chicken, or small bread cubes are quite popular with young puppies. To further motivate your pup, you may also like to have different kinds of treats in one training session. This will keep your puppy looking for more. What to Expect? Not only will these training sessions prepare your puppy to exhibit the desired manner, you will also take advantage of the time spent bonding with her. The more you practice with your puppy, the better and faster your puppy will learn. There will be accidents and at times your puppy may just turn around from you. After all, she is only a baby, you need to give her love and patience. Are you ready? Table of Content.

Listed below are answers to the most common questions I receive as you are preparing to take your puppy home: 1. What is my puppy eating? We are feeding your puppy PawTree. They have a multitude of other flavors you can try out after your puppy comes home too. You can buy this food by clicking the PawTree picture at the bottom of any page on our website. You can find out more information at www. We also encourage you to set your order to their EZship so you never run out. They also offer personalized food by filling out a pet profile so we encourage all families to head over to fill out their pet profile for personalized food plan as well as personalized bags of dog food when they arrive. How many times per day should my puppy be fed? We feed puppies, weeks old 3 x per day. We try to keep them on a schedule such as: a. Once the puppy reaches 12 weeks, we cut them back to eating 2 x per day, eliminating the noon feeding. Increase the amount you feed based on the recommendations you will find on the dog food bag as suggested by weight of the puppy. We do not recommend free feeding — give your puppy about 20 minutes to eat, then pick it up and put it away. Water should be provided at all times, except during the night. Wet the food for about 30 minutes prior to giving it to the puppy so it softens to aid in digestion. However, if you see loose stools it is almost assuredly overfeeding so back it off until the stool is firm and then slowly add back in. When can I start training my puppy? We like to see training start as soon as you pick up your puppy from my home, or your puppy arrives via car or airplane. We recommend transporting your puppy home in a crate that is lined with a bath towel. Feeding time is a fantastic opportunity to train as you can spend a few minutes several times per day with teaching the basic commands of sit, stay and come. We provide a helpful training booklet with detailed information on training on our Puppy Tips page. What size crate should I buy for my puppy? Most puppies that will mature to a medium size will need a large crate once they have reached maturity. Plastic crates are an option as well. If you have any questions please ask us. What type of collar and leash do I need and what size is best for my puppy? We like to buy the less expensive, adjustable-type of collars and a nylon leash. We do not care for the expandable leashes that allow the puppy to walk way out in front or way off to the side of you. The smallest setting for the collar would be about 8 inches and expanding out from there. We use small carabiners to attach the stretched chain between the collar and the leash. This will prevent your puppy from chewing your new leash. If you are reserving a small size pup then I would suggest an XS collar. Another option while they are very young is a slip leash style. Some families like to train in harnesses. This is also a tool you can use. Sizes will vary from company to company, but most go off of weight. Ask us the estimated weight of your future puppy at the time they will go home so you will have a rough idea of what to purchase. It is never a bad idea to weight to buy until you can size your puppy in person though as each harness will fit differently. You can play the radio softly if your puppy is in a different room from you as this is how they were raised with us. You have to find a system that works for you. However, keeping consistent for the first few nights will build a sleep pattern in your dog you will enjoy for its entire life. How many times per night will my puppy need to go out to go potty? We suggest you feed your puppy dinner no later than p. Make sure that you see puppy go potty and poop before putting him to bed for the night. If your bedtime is p. Then only if puppy is whining, let him out very methodically to potty no playing and put him right back to bed. How many times per day should my puppy need to go potty? Puppies will always go potty right away after they wake up and after they eat. If you take puppy out right after eating, see him go potty, then allow about 30 minutes of some free time in your home before making his world small using a temporary fence or leash. On average they can typically hold their bladders for 2-hours, but every puppy will react differently to stimuli in your home. Should my puppy have contact with other vaccinated dogs? We like to make sure other dogs have not only been vaccinated, but are also free of parasites. Worms of all sorts can live in feces and it just take a quick second for your puppy to ingest enough to get a parasite. This product should be alternated every 6 months. There are countless natural remedies as well as chemical based options you can find at your vet. We always prefer natural options first, but in some cases the chemical based products are needed. Check with your vet or trainer for their recommendations in your area. We strongly suggest topical or collar options only. How often should I give my puppy a bath and what should I use? We do not bathe our puppies unless they are dirty and we use baby shampoo or something gentle. We usually suggest people decide what they like in the look of their Labradoodle. Do you like the longer, shaggy look, or do you like the shorter, more manicured coat? If you leave the coat longer, you will need to keep it combed out and mat free. Do you have recommendations for where to stay when we pick up our puppy? We are located only 20 mins from Lebanon, Oregon. There are numerous hotel options in Albany, Springfield, or Eugene that you can explore. The difficult part is deciding which one will have the greatest positive impact on their well-being. The following are some of the top options for dog foods for your Labradoodle: Dry Food: Due to its affordability and accessibility, dry dog food is a preferred option for Labradoodles. The nutrients in high-quality dry food are appropriate for a different life stage of your Labradoodle. Dry food has the greatest shelf life when compared to other types of dog foods. Wet Food: Wet food or canned food is another option for owners. Labradoodles enjoy the variety of flavors in canned food that come in interesting shapes like other meaty foods. Owners may combine wet food with dried food because wet food alone is typically more expensive than dry food. While it can be costly, doing so guarantees that their pups receive high-quality food. If you only give the same food to your Labradoodles, they could develop picky eating habits. Hence, it makes sense to follow the advice of the majority of veterinarians to combine kibble and wet food with a ratio of 20 to .Make sure the food you choose is sustainable and highly recommended by experts. Ensure that it will suit your needs, those of your dog, your financial situation, and your way of life. The average price of a Labradoodle is already costly. Hence, it is important to choose the kind of diet that will also suit your budget. Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Labradoodle Dog owners must be aware of the foods that can be harmful, poisonous, or trigger an allergic reaction in their Labradoodles. The following is a list of some harmful or poisonous foods that you must never give your pet Labradoodle: Alcohol: There is no enzyme that can digest alcohol in Labradoodles. Hypoglycemia , metabolic acidosis , respiratory difficulties, or central nervous system CNS impairment could result from ingestion. Avocado: Avocados contain the fungicidal toxin persin , which has been linked to the death of many dog breeds, including Labradoodles. It can cause vomiting, loose stool, and heart damage when taken in large doses. Chocolate: The major alkaloid in cocoa and chocolates, theobromine , cannot be broken down by an enzyme found in the stomachs of Labradoodles. As a result, even small quantities of chocolate can cause toxicity. Additionally, they could become uncontrollable, have convulsions, throw up, and have diarrhea. Grapes and raisins: As a result of the tartaric acid found in grapes and raisins, Labradoodles experience diarrhea , vomiting, dehydration , and kidney failure. Unfortunately, even one full grape can cause fatal injuries and irreversible harm to Labradoodles. Onion, garlic, leeks, and chives: All of these vegetables contain N-propyl disulfide , which robs red blood cells of their ability to carry oxygen. Consuming these veggies over time may cause hemolytic anemia. It is frequently present in toothpaste, gum, candies, and syrups. Listed below are foods that may seem harmless but are actually hazardous for Labradoodles: Cooked bones: Cooked bones are prone to shatter into shards. They can hurt your Labradoodle as well as obstruct its mouth, throat, and stomach. High-sugar foods: Your Labradoodle is more likely to develop health issues, including diabetes, obesity, and teeth damage, if it consumes too much sugar from other dog foods. Avoid cheap dog food, which usually contains too much salt. Consuming too much salt can result in seizures, renal failure, diarrhea, and vomiting. If ignored, this results in gastrointestinal blockage and death. Bring your Labradoodle to the nearest veterinary clinic immediately if you think they have accidentally ingested any of the aforementioned foods. A smart technique to make sure that their nutritional demands are being satisfied is to switch to a new food. If you want to gradually introduce a new food to your Labradoodle pup, make sure to introduce it in little amounts every day. The timeline provided below will help you introduce a new food to your Labradoodle: Days. Be sure to measure the food using a standard 8oz measuring cup, which holds 4. The Importance Of Water Intake Adequate water intake is crucial for the overall health and well-being of your Labradoodle puppy. Water plays a vital role in various bodily functions, including digestion, absorption of nutrients, circulation, temperature regulation, waste elimination, and maintaining proper hydration levels. To ensure that your Labradoodle puppy gets enough fluids to meet its nutritional needs, you should provide clean and fresh water at all times. One guideline suggests providing an ounce of water per pound of body weight daily—for instance, if your pup weighs 10 pounds; it would need about 10 ounces of water each day. Keep an eye on the water bowl throughout the day and refill it when necessary. Age And Weight Labradoodle puppies have different nutritional needs than adult Labradoodles, and their age and weight play a huge role in determining how much to feed them. Puppies younger than 12 to 18 months old require higher levels of protein and fat to support their growing bodies. Large breed puppies, including Labradoodles, should not be overfed because too much food can lead to obesity or other health problems later on. On the other hand, underfeeding can also cause issues such as stunted growth or malnourishment. Activity Level The activity level of a Labradoodle puppy is an important factor to consider when determining how much food to feed them. Active puppies burn more calories than those who are more sedentary, so they may require larger portions. For example, if your Labradoodle puppy enjoys long walks or playing fetch in the yard, they will have higher energy needs compared to a puppy that prefers napping on the couch all day. This assessment helps determine whether they are carrying excess fat, which can lead to obesity and other related health problems. It is important for Labrador owners even more so because this breed has been known for gaining weight easily when not fed right and exercised regularly. Puppies with sensitive stomachs or allergies may require a specialized diet that excludes certain ingredients. Dogs with medical conditions like diabetes, obesity, or gastrointestinal issues will have specific dietary requirements. Instead, opt for high-quality commercial dog food or homemade meals that meet their nutritional requirements while avoiding excessive calorie intake. Nutritional Requirements Labradoodle puppies have specific nutritional requirements that must be met to ensure healthy growth and development. These pups need a balanced diet with macronutrients such as protein, carbohydrates, and fat, along with micronutrients like vitamins and minerals. Look for commercial dog foods formulated specifically for growing puppies that meet the minimum protein and fat requirements. Feeding Guidelines For Labradoodle Puppies Establish a feeding schedule for your Labradoodle puppy and measure the amount of food to maintain balanced nutrition, with wet and dry food options available. Types Of Food Wet, Dry, Homemade Labradoodle puppies can eat different types of food such as dry, wet, semi-dry, raw, dehydrated or freeze-dried food. It is essential to note that not all dog foods are created equal — some contain artificial additives while others may lack essential nutrients necessary for optimal growth and development in puppies. Meal Frequency Labradoodle puppies have specific dietary needs that must be met in order for them to grow and develop properly. Meal frequency is an important consideration when feeding your Labradoodle puppy. Puppies under the age of four months should be fed small, frequent meals throughout the day, as their tiny stomachs cannot handle a large amount of food at once. Generally speaking, most Labradoodle puppies should be fed three to four meals per day until they are six months old, after which time two meals per day will suffice. Many owners choose wet or dry dog food that comes with detailed recommendations on how much food should be given based on these factors; others opt for homemade diets or mixtures of both types of food. Here are some best practices for managing their weight and ensuring proper development: Choose a high — quality puppy food brand that is specially formulated for their growth needs. Measure out the appropriate amount of food based on their weight, age, and activity level. Avoid overfeeding, as this can lead to obesity and other health problems. Stick to a consistent feeding schedule, with small meals per day until they are around six months old. As they grow older, you can reduce the frequency to two meals per day. This involves assessing their body shape and feeling their ribs without excess fat. Consider supplementing with omega — 3 fatty acids or other nutrients if recommended by your veterinarian to support healthy joints and brain development. By following these best practices, you can help ensure that your Labradoodle puppy is getting the nutrition they need for optimal growth and development while avoiding potential health problems in the future. Tips For Feeding Your Labradoodle Puppy Consult with a veterinarian to determine the best diet for your Labradoodle, monitor their weight and adjust food intake accordingly, stick to a consistent feeding routine, avoid overfeeding and feeding table scraps, and consider training treats as part of their overall daily food intake. Consultation With A Veterinarian It is important to seek advice from a veterinarian when determining the appropriate feeding guidelines for your Labradoodle puppy. Regular check-ups can ensure that your Labradoodle stays healthy throughout their life stages, receiving all necessary nutrients while avoiding overfeeding or undernourishing. Here are some tips on how to monitor and adjust their food intake: Use a Digital Scale: Weigh your puppy every few weeks using a digital scale and keep a record of their weight. Also, note if they have noticeable waist or tuck up. By monitoring their weight regularly and making adjustments as needed, you can ensure that your Labradoodle puppy receives the right amount of nutrition for healthy growth without becoming overweight or underweight. Stick To A Consistent Feeding Routine Labradoodles thrive on routine, making it essential to establish a consistent feeding schedule. Feeding your puppy at the same times every day helps them maintain healthy digestion and prevents accidents in the house. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and other health problems down the line. Make sure everyone in your household knows when mealtime is so that nobody gives your pup any extra treats or scraps outside of those designated times. Giving in to their begging eyes with occasional treats is fine, however, too many high-calorie snacks or meals from the table can lead to obesity, which can cause joint problems and shorten their lifespan. Instead of giving in to those pleading brown eyes with human food or extra treats that are not part of their balanced diet, try rewarding them gradually throughout training sessions. Choosing low-fat dog treats that are healthy for your pup provides an appropriate way to reward good behavior while keeping them on track towards healthy growth. Training treats provide an excellent incentive for good behavior — they can reinforce positive habits such as potty training or leash manners. However, overfeeding these treats can lead to weight gain and other health concerns in puppies. FAQs: 1. The amount you feed your Labradoodle puppy will depend on their age, weight, and activity level. As a general rule of thumb, puppies under six months old should be fed three times per day while those over six months can be switched to two meals per day. It is recommended that you give your Labradoodle puppy high-quality dog food specifically formulated for puppies. Look for foods that contain a balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to meet their nutritional needs at this stage in their development. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and other health problems while underfeeding can result in stunted growth and malnourishment. Some signs that you may be overfeeding include excessive weight gain or difficulty breathing while underweight dogs may have low energy levels or seem lethargic. Conclusion Feeding your Labradoodle puppy the right amount of food is crucial for their growth and development. With the help of a veterinarian, you can determine how much to feed your furry friend based on their age, weight, activity level, and nutritional needs. Establishing a feeding schedule with appropriate portion sizes and meal frequency is also important. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. From left to right here are some examples of faucet lixits, an adapter to allow for a Lixit to always be on a faucet without need for removal, and then indoor or traveling Lixits. Over the years, with many conversations with Vets, that I respect, I've learned that puppy food is essentially a marketing ploy. In fact, when we first found Life's Abundance they didn't even have puppy food. It was redundant for them to carry puppy food. However, after pressure from so many customers that had decades of "Puppy Chow" commercials engrained in their heads, Life's Abundance decided to include a puppy food. If you prefer to feed the puppy food for the first couple of months we understand and feel is your decision to make and we do support you. We just ask that you stay with Life's Abundance as it's the best dog food and it's what your puppy has been consuming it's entire life, as well as, it's mother's entire pregnancy and life. This video is a great video to explain how to compare dog foods. First, I have strong opinions about most things, it's just my personality. I'm a Momma Bear type with my doodles. Some of my insanity I was just born with and the other sixty percent was gained by enduring some tragedies I don't ever want any of my families, including you, going through. In case you don't know, Life's Abundance, the company that makes all our food, supplements, treats, grooming products, and cleaning products are all delivered right to your front door for a very affordable amount. Life's Abundance food is very affordable and I will include a video at the bottom for you to watch. The dog food is made fresh every two to four weeks then immediately shipped out so your doodle's food isn't sitting on some shelf, on some semi-truck, in some warehouse, who knows where , and for who knows how long. Instead, we know where the food is being made and it's then on our front door step. Why does this matter? Well, your doodle can't say to you, "Hey, my food tastes moldy and I think it's why my liver and kidneys are hurting me but you won't know until I have bloody urine or I'm really sick. Do you think you could get me some fresh food? Many years ago I had a lab mix that was getting really sick and after being diagnosed with terminal liver problems did we realize the food was moldy. Next, one of our doodles many years ago got into a bag of China made chicken treats and ate more than the recommended serving and within four days she was dead. It was the worst tragedy that even writing about it now makes my stomach ache and my eyes tear up. My doodle was a normal, happy, fun loving doodle then suddenly the next morning she was so severely ill we had to go straight to the vet. Our doodle had no appetite, didn't want to move, was non-stop vomiting, with increased diarrhea with blood in it, she kept drinking water despite her belly looking so full, and she was constantly peeing and it was text book for poisoning from these treats. Telling this story has done me in for the night and I'm going to continue with my site later. I only explained this to help you from experiencing the heartbreak our family endured. From our experiences we searched long and far for a USA made dog food that never had a recall. When we did this search we found Life's Abundance. I checked and double checked this company. We learned it was started by a Vetrinarian which really impressed me from the beginning. Our doodles tested the food and loved it. We tried all the products and loved them. I searched all the dog food review websites and found rave reviews with an average of 4. I love that it was made fresh and never sat in a warehouse or on a store shelf for months, in most cases. I've heard of some big box companies buying tons of food from different companies to get discounts and most of the food sits and waits, in some random warehouse that isn't temperature controlled, for the food to sell so it to can make in onto a shelf at your local store to then be purchased by you. The question remains, how long has that food sat from when it was first made? With Life's Abundance, I know the answer, it was made fresh then shipped to you and I. Without a doubt, I will continue to find good products for our doodles and I will passionately share them with you, our doodle families. If for some reason Life's Abundance changes their quality or their product goes downhill or there is a better product then I will change our website and I will tell you why. I take being a "Full Service Breeder" seriously. I believe that my job begins once you adopt one of our doodles. When you adopt your doodle and take it home you are also gaining a doodle friend and confidant that you can call and get support from for life. I'm here to help you so you can just enjoy your doodle and come to one place for sound, honest advice. As my mother used to say, sometimes I'm too honest so be careful what you ask : lol. As they grow you will move from four meals per day at 8 weeks old, to just one or two in adulthood. And you will want to use as much of their daily kibble as you can in training. Helping to strengthen the bond between you, as well as to teaching them which behaviors you want to see in your home. Feeding a Labradoodle Puppy When it comes to feeding your new Labradoodle puppy there are plenty of options to choose between and a number of things to consider. Puppies grow up fast. The first thing to keep in mind is that puppies have different dietary needs to adult dogs. Getting too much of some nutrients, and not enough of others can lead to developmental problems. Growing pups digest food and absorb nutrients differently than adult dogs too. Their gastrointestinal system also works much faster than that of an adult dog. Puppy Nutrient Requirements Puppies need more calories than adult dogs, relative to their size. In fact, they need about twice as many calories in relation to their body weight compared to that of a full grown Labradoodle. Compared to mature dogs, puppies also need: more protein to support growing muscle more fat to fuel growth and a different mineral balance to aid in the rapid development of their bones. For example, one study showed that puppies fed a low phosphorus diet suffer from impaired appetite and growth, diminished skin and fur quality, and a disturbed musculoskeletal system. Too much calcium can also negatively affect bone development, by accelerating it. This is a serious joint condition that leads to painful arthritis and lameness. The smaller and younger your puppy is, the more often they need to eat, since their stomachs are too small for big portions. Labradoodle puppies that are 4 months or younger should have their food split into 4 meals a day. When they reach 4 and 6 months old this can be reduced to 3 meals. Knowing how much to feed your Labradoodle puppy can be tricky. So the feeding charts on the packaging are a good place to start. This basic pet calorie calculator can help determine how many calories a puppy needs. Overfeeding Labradoodle Puppies Canine obesity is a big problem for many dogs and the Labradoodle is no exception. Some Labrador Retrievers are known to have a genetic mutation that causes them to have an insatiable appetite. But there are plenty of genetically normal dogs who will always want more food. If your puppy is constantly hungry you can try giving him smaller, more frequent meals. In fact, for training purposes we recommend using as much of each of the meals rations as you can as training treats between meals. These days there are a lot of brands vying for space in the dog food market. So deciding what to feed your Labradoodle puppy might be the most difficult question of them all. Puppies that are 8 to 12 weeks old should continue eating the same food they were eating at the breeders. If you want to change their food, wait until they are fully settled at home. Then transition gradually to a different diet to avoid causing an upset tummy. You can do it over the course of a week, like this: Feed 1 part new food to 3 parts old food on the first two days. Equal parts old food and new food on days three and four. And three parts new food to one part old food for two more days after that. Feeding a Labradoodle Puppy Dry Food Most puppy parents choose one of the many commercial dry puppy foods available. There are many reasons why these diets also known as kibbles are so popular. They are. Is kibble, cans, raw or homemade food better? Swapping Puppy Food Brands Moving into his or her new home is a challenging and exciting time for your Labradoodle puppy. Keep feeding what your pup is used to for at least two weeks. Then, slowly start mixing in the new food you have chosen for your pup. Labradoodle Puppy Diets Puppies have lots of growing to do. This means that they need more of certain minerals and nutrients for example calcium and phosphorus for bone growth. Your labradoodle pup will also need a higher amount of good quality protein. This is definitely not the case, though. This—among other things—can cause joint problems, such as hip dysplasia. Labradoodles are a cross between two breeds that are both already at high risk of developing hip dysplasia. The most important thing of all is to avoid overfeeding a Labradoodle puppy, as we will see later in this article. This is called hypoglycemia. Generally, a feeding schedule for your Labradoodle pup can look like this: 2 — 4 months: 4 meals daily 4 — 6 months: 3 meals daily 6 — 8 months: 2 — 3 meals daily Older than 8 months: 2 meals daily. Just make sure to divide the total daily amount onto multiple feedings. You can make slight adjustments to these amounts if your pup is looking a little slim or chunky. The number of calories your pup needs will also change as he or she gets older and heavier. There are a couple of different options out there. Commercial dog foods offer complete and balanced nutrition for your growing pup — this means that they have all the right nutrients in all the right amounts and ratios. If a puppy is fed an inappropriate diet, this could lead to long-lasting growth defects or other malnutrition diseases. Feeding a Labradoodle Puppy Kibble Kibble is the most popular type of dog food out there. There are only two things you need to pay attention to when choosing kibble: It should be designed specifically for puppies, and it should be high-quality. Research shows that higher-priced dog foods tend to have higher nutrient digestibility than lower-priced kibble — so it might be worth spending a bit more. Choose a kibble that contains a meat protein source as the first ingredient, and steer clear of ingredients like corn, soy, and cereals. Due to its high water content, the aromas and taste of the meat unfold better, making wet food the most palatable food there is. This comes at a bit of a cost, though: Wet food tends to be more expensive than kibble, and of course it spoils more easily. To get the best of both worlds of commercial dog foods, you can combine or alternate between kibble and wet food. The BARF diet consists of lots of raw meat and bones, as well as some veg and fruit. Supporters of raw feeding think that it will make your dog healthier, although there is no solid evidence for this yet. Raw meats are often contaminated with bacteria such as Salmonella or Campylobacter. These bacteria could potentially cause diseases in your pup. However, this is extremely rare, as the digestive tract most dogs can handle these bugs just fine. This means that there is a lot less danger of bacterial infections from raw meats. Keep in mind that cooking for a dog is not the same as cooking for yourself. Avoid spices, onions, garlic, cooking oils, and too much salt. These are dogs that will always want more food and are prone to obesity. It can help to space out meals or add one or two feedings a day if your dog is constantly hungry. Another option is to make your dog work for small amounts of food throughout the day — be it with puppy training, food balls, or puzzles. The possibilities are endless.

When looking to purchase a merle make sure you are insuring the Australian Labradoodle breeder is having responsible husbandry practices regarding the merle gene. Any breeder of merle multigenerational Australian Labradoodles should be willing and able to discuss all the facts regarding this genome. Click HERE to learn more from our geneticists. Single carrier merles will live a healthy productive life just like any other dog. To ensure that we only breed single copy merles we verify testing of all outside studs or dams used with our breeding dogs since some dogs carry a hidden merle gene, called phantom merle. They are just as strong, silly, and full of adventure or snuggles, and capable of being a service dog as any other Australian Labradoodle! The problem comes down to greed or skipping testing. But doing so can come at a risk of causing serious health issues. A "double merle" known as a homozygous merle have significantly higher risk of being born deaf or blind. To set a president that ill managed breeding practice is not allowed, which is respectable. A German study found .Double Merle can also cause Merle ocular issues. Regarding the blue color in the eyes sometime can lead to full blue iris or increased inclusion of the eyes and blindness. Even though the blue eyes are beautiful we prefer to breed black or brown eyed single merle dogs to reduce the tendency for any health issues. As a merle breeder it is our responsibility to create health happy animals through preventive DNA tests and yearly OFA eye exams. Which, looks like someone had fun painting your dog and no two dogs have the same exact pattern. This rather exotic wild pattern comes in multiple color variations. Merles labradoodles can come in various color pallets; chocolate merle, blue merle, red merle and can be paired with parti, white mis-marks and phantom. Red or cream dogs in a merle litter have a higher rate of phantom merle. Every puppy from our merle litters are dna tested for merle before going home. Our girl Tiffany is considered a "classic" merle where Ranger is a "Tweed" merle. We only know this from extensive genetic testing from Paw Prints Genetics other companies such as Embark don't go as detailed with Merle testing. So all Merle related testing is done with Paw Prints. The Merle gene creates multi-color patches in a solid coat and the dogs that carry merle gene can often have blue eyes. The labradoodles with Merle gene and color patches are called Merle Labradoodles. It is one of the most complicated gene but very fascinating. Merle Genetics Merle is actually a heterozygote of an incompletely dominant gene. To avoid these common health issues, knowledgeable and responsible labradoodle breeders mate a merle with a non-merle dog. In this way half the puppies will be merles, and none will have the vision or hearing defects associated with double merle dogs. So, when you adopt a Merle labradoodle puppy make sure to check with the breeder that one of the parents is a solid color only. The UK Kennel Club has acknowledged the health risk associated with homozygous merles and stopped registering puppies produced from merle to merle breeding in .Research indicates that the majority of health issues occur in dogs carrying both piebald and merle genes. Labradoodles who are homozygous for the merle pattern gene often have visual and auditory deficits. Ocular defects include microphthalmia, conditions causing increased ocular pressure, and colobomas, among others. Double merle labradoodles may be deaf or blind or both, and can carry ocular defects in blue or colored eyes. A study by German researchers found partial hearing loss in .Certified labradoodle breeders will only breed one merle with a non-merle to produce normal healthy merle labradoodle puppies. Merle Labradoodle Colors Merle labradoodles are absolutely gorgeous and because of the color patterns on their coats they look rather exotic. Merle Labradoodles come in various colors patterns like chocolate merle, blue merle, black merle, red merle or brown merle. It also possible to have merles in other colors such as sable, fawn, yellow and diluted reds. Blue Merle Labradoodle Blue Merle labradoodles are the most popular among all the merle labradoodles. Blue Merle labradoodles have irregular black patches by gray. The grey or the lighter part of the coat can also vary from a very light powder blue to very dark steel blue. Select Page Merle Australian Labradoodles, what are they? There are many color variations in the merle coat, chocolate, red, blue, parti and phantom are some common colors we produce. The true Australian Labradoodle was designed in the s for the purpose of providing a service and therapy dog to families that suffer from illness or allergies. The breed is allergy-friendly they produce little to no dander, however, some individuals are allergic to the saliva a dog produces. Wally Cochran was the driving force behind this program, and the goal was to produce a non-shedding guide dog. The diversity of these bloodlines have the potential to safeguard the breed from genetic health problems of inbreeding. The result of these crosses produced intelligent, easily trainable puppies that were the beginning of the Australian Labradoodle as we know it now. Chocolate Merle Australian Labradoodle Merle Australian Labradoodle Coat Types The result of these crosses produced intelligent, easily trainable puppies that were the beginning of the Australian Labradoodle as we now know it. Crossing these breeds together compliments the Australian Labradoodle giving these wonderful dogs a hybrid vigor and a variety of coat types: The Wooly Coat: Somewhat poodle like which requires regular grooming is non-shedding and allergy and asthma friendly. The Fleece Coat: The ultimate coat that is easily maintained, non-shedding, allergy and asthma friendly and somewhat like that of an Angora Goat. The Hair Coat: Anything from flat and straight to curls down that back and possibly wavy and minimally shedding, that is less likely to be allergy and asthma friendly. You will usually see this coat in American bred Labradoodles first and second generation bloodlines. A fun loving, quiet, calm yet comical loving companion Overall, the Labradoodle is a fun loving, quiet, calm yet comical, loving companion for families as well as a fantastic service animal, being easily trainable, loyal and intelligent. The Labradoodle is not a recognized breed as yet, however, many breeders are working towards developing a breed standard for the future recognition of the Australian Labradoodle. Blue merle Parti Labradoodle puppy Merle Australian Labradoodles Merle can affect all coat colors in many different breeds. Some dogs are affected by merle, but the patches are either hardly seen or not visible at all. This is why it is essential to have all dogs in a merle breeding program tested for coat color, DNA or blood testing can be done. Combinations such as brindle, sable, phantom or parti merle colors also exist. In addition merle colored dogs have blue and green eye coloring. In the Labradoodles this gene has been brought into the Australian Labradoodle from the merle poodle and or the merle cocker spaniel. We have been breeding merles Australian Labradoodles for 20 years and all of our breeding dogs have been full tested since day one. We work to breed every dog better than the first, always breeding a healthy well balanced dog with a happy disposition and a non shedding allergy friendly coat. Merle Australian Labradoodles come in three primary colors The three main colors are: Blue merle which is a blue-gray color that is carried over through black Chocolate merle which is a diluted color from chocolate Red merle which is a diluted color from red Variations on these three colors can also include a parti gene making the dog have large patches of white mixed with the color and a phantom gene giving the dog tan points. In addition, these great dogs are hypo-allergenic and non-shedding, Merle Australian Labradoodles have their characteristically wavy fleece coats, their intelligence, their upbeat nature and their incredibly friendly temperaments. As such, it is no surprise that these dogs are fast becoming among the most beloved breeds available. Our goal at Just A walk Home Kennel is to bring a new life into your family in the way of a happy, healthy puppy whether it is a Standard size Labradoodle puppy, or a miniature size labradoodle puppy we want this to be a wonderful experience for your family. We offer visits with your new puppy and a two year genetic warranty on your fully vet checked family member before they leave. Our Labradoodle puppies are bred for a good disposition along with a non-shed coat that will help for a allergy free home. We also breed for a range of sizes to fit every home. The Labradoodle puppies for sale come in many colors, they are chocolate, chocolate and white parti labradoodles, black, black and white parti labradoodles, apricot, cream, brindle, sable, white, and silver. Our Australian labradoodle puppies are well socialized and are produced out wonderful natured parents to ensure that your dog will be a wonderful family addition, we are able to answer all of your questions concerning your new puppy and to help you decide on the coat and size that will fit your family needs. Bree Dannielle Murner Common Questions.What's a Labradoodle? We breed multi-generation labradoodles directly from Australian breeding stock as well as first-cross-backcross litters F1B. An F1B is a first cross labradoodle that has been bred back to a poodle to enhance the non-shedding, allergy friendly coat. Why Labradoodles and Goldendoodles? Labradoodles and goldendoodles are smart, loving, family-oriented dogs. They have light to non-shedding, allergy-friendly coats, and they do not have the dog smell associated with other breeds. They are highly trainable, friendly companions. Who Are We? We are a family of "doodle-lovers" that breed labradoodles that are Australian and American lines so that others can experience the joy of Doodle ownership. The pups are born and raised at our home. Our children are the "socialization crew" and our dogs are our family pets. We are a small breeder that believes in quality before quantity. Our goal is to breed wonderful companion and family dogs while continuing to advance the labradoodle as a breed. We provide loving Labradoodle puppies — both Standard-sized pups ready for adventure or miniature buddies looking for cuddles. Whatever the size, it's sure to be a pawsome experience Quick Links. Merle Labradoodles are very rare. The gene is not naturally occurring in Labrador Retrievers or Poodles so it has to be introduced into the lineage of one of the breeds at some point before breeding a Merle Labradoodle. Alternatively, they cross a Merle Labradoodle with a non-Merle Labradoodle. Two dogs that carry the merle gene should never be bred together as many puppies in the litter will be double merles. If you want to compare the price of Merle Labradoodles to other coat colors of Labradoodles you should read our in-depth Labradoodle price guide here. Another great way to keep up to date with Merle Labradoodle prices is to regularly check dog breeder advertising websites like PuppySpot. Check out the adorable Labradoodle puppies that are currently available here! PuppySpot is a dog adoption website that connects breeders with prospective pet owners. They have a zero tolerance policy for puppy mills which is why they screen every breeder annually! They have placed over , puppies in homes and offer various trusted, USDA-certified transportation options to deliver your puppy to your home safely! A Blue Merle Labradoodle features blue black , grey, white and tan colors in their coat in a distinct mottled pattern. Usually most of their coat is grey and blue with smaller white and tan patches throughout it. Blue Merle Labradoodles usually have black noses and can either have brown or blue eyes. They would have originally had a solid black coat but the merle gene diluted sections of it into these lighter colors. Blue Merle is the most common merle coloring for Labradoodles. Are Blue Merle Labradoodles Rare? Blue Merle Labradoodles are very rare as the gene is not naturally occurring in Labrador Retrievers or Poodles. The merle gene has to be introduced into the lineage of one of the breeds at some point before breeding a Blue Merle Labradoodle.

The toy that lets them be who they are.Tearribles are the first line of innovative dog toys that cater to dogs' prey instincts. They are interactive toys that your dog can "tear apart", and you can put right back together in seconds. Why Tearribles? The problem dog owners face is that an average plush toy usually meets its demise within minutes or hours at best of getting into the paws of their eager, happy dog. This creates two problems: 1. What happens next is one of the main reasons shelters are filled with dogs. Read More Have you ever wondered how some dogs are perfectly happy, calm, and well behaved, while others destroy couches, develop obsessive behaviors, and become unmanageable? The reason is very simple: They are bored and frustrated. Providing your dog with opportunities to do what they enjoy is as important to their health and wellbeing as providing them with proper food and healthcare. Depriving your dog of play time results in the same exact outcome as in humans- they become bored, unhappy, anxious, disruptive, and destructive. This is where Tearribles come into play. Aside from allowing them to exercise their natural instincts, playing with Tearribles has many benefits: it helps build their confidence, improve their wellbeing, and provides you and your dog with a fun way to build and strengthen your bond. Designed with Dogs in Mind 1 Removable parts designed to simulate dismembering their prey. Removable parts designed to simulate dismembering their prey. Designed to ensure the pockets stay within the body. Centrally located within the main body providing maximum protection. Interior construction provides support of triple stiched velboa lined with mesh. What are the other dogs in the park saying? Promising review: "Our 2 year old pup loves it! A retractable hanging tug rope for your tug-of-war obsessed tank. This toy keeps any sharp parts away from your dog's mouth so they can tug without fear! The strap wasn't large enough to wrap around our mature trees. And, we didn't want to attach it to the smaller branches of our smaller trees as we felt our dogs were too strong and could easily break the branches. So, we attached it to a pull up bar structure my son uses in our backyard. The dogs love it! Super sturdy. We have left it out in all types of weather and it has done well so far. Promising review: "This is such a funny toy. It keeps my puppy entertained. It makes the funniest noises; I laugh every time I hear my dog playing with it. At first my pup was kind of scared of it, but now he's super curious and loves to push it around with his nose to hear the sound. It's hilarious! A Barkbox rip-and-reveal plushie with a rippable outer layer, revealing another toy inside as well as a squeaker — so it's like buying your tear-happy pooch three toys in one, all of which they can't technically destroy. Amazon, amazon. A tooth-cleaning toy that does it all: bounce, squeak, last through your crazy dog's chewing, and brush their teeth for you while you breathe a sigh of relief and put your feet up. I spread a little dog toothpaste on it after brushing his teeth and give it to him as a reward. A 2-in-1 Kong Jumbler ball that produces a limitless combination of ways to play with your active pup: hold by the handles for tug-of-war, press down for the squeaker, or simply let them go to town on the tough exterior with the promise of the tennis ball inside. Chewy Promising review: "This is probably the favorite toy ball of at least one of our Australian Shepherds. She runs around with it like it is her baby. We throw it and she loves to go after it. It has lasted outdoors in the winter and summer heat of the south for almost three years. We just purchased a new one. Wouldn't be without one. Wild One Promising review: "This toy is great for high energy and strong dogs like my own who tend to obsess over toys and chew through them in a day. The toy is still in tip-top shape and my dog absolutely loves it! I couldn't be happier! The colors are also identical to the photos, which was very reassuring. I got mine in the deep blue and it's so cute. A fleece snuffle ball combining two of your pooch's favorite things: eating snacks and snoofling around like the inquisitive little truffle pig that they are. Promising review: "The snuffle ball arrived quickly. It is adorable, and really soft. My 30 lb. She is very rough on toys, but this is holding up well. Highly recommend! A flopping fish toy that yes, is technically for cats, but just scroll through these dog owner review photos and tell me that these pups aren't having the time of their freaking life! Tap to play GIF amazon. It flips and flops every time he touches it. A doggie bubble wand and solution formulated to be completely canine-friendly, so you and your special furry friend can chase bubbles together like you're re-enacting your nightly dreams. Promising review: "My dogs adore these! After getting them used to the bubbles popping so it didn't scare them anymore, they now go absolutely wild when I pull them out and say 'bubbles. A rechargeable self-moving ball engineered to roll and jump on its own and set to three interaction modes for your pup to tire itself out on. It's even waterproof! Cheerble Promising review: "I have two Frenchies, and I got them each a ball, and they won't play with two at a time, they wanna play with one together, which is fine with me. You get about two hours per charge, and it tires them out and keeps them entertained. My pups become obsessed with this ball, I literally have to take it away for them to leave it alone. I would highly recommend this product to any dog owner. A tooth-cleaning ball that's like a toy of all trades: a treat dispenser, a fun brain puzzle, a bouncy toy, and a dental chew your doggie will treasure instead of shy away from. The balls are sturdy and bouncy and even hold up to aggressive chewers. Also, the side slits are perfect for inserting small treats and it keeps the dogs entertained trying to pick them out. It's a play toy and treat toy in one and you cannot beat the price. I would definitely recommend this. A light-up ball alluringly made to catch their attention and keep them occupied for hours. Especially fun for senior doggies who have trouble spotting regular balls, so they can feel like a puppy again. Just like Lady desperately tried to lift the lid off her box by herself, these surprise interactive pups will nudge and push against the cardboard box in order to lift up the lid, separate the sides and BURST their way out out of their packaging! Predicted to be a top 10 must have toy for Christmas which lets face it, needed SOMETHING fun to happen , we were lucky enough to be able to complete a Present Pets Review with Spin Master prior to their 1st October release date and the girls were quite literally bouncing off the walls! I have to admit I was too. Hopefully the pics and our full unboxing video below will give you a good idea of Present Pets and what to expect! Here we showcase not only the live unboxing process but also visual demonstrations of each of the different interactive modes. How does the Present Pets Unboxing work? The girls were so excited when they learned we were doing a Present Pets review. Step 2 — Pull on the gift tag on the box. Once the outer layer is lifted away a small Instructions pack drops out and it is recommended that you read these first to know what to do next. The second step is to pull on the gift tag. This is impossible to miss as it is clearly marked with the word PULL! As the tag is pulled away from the Present Pets box, it triggers the automatic unboxing process. You can then sit back and watch in awe as your Present Pet unboxes from the packaging to reveal which puppy is hidden inside! Step 3 — Watch as your Present Pet Unboxing Begins As soon as the tag is removed your Present Pets toy puppy springs to life and you can hear the audible barks and yelps from inside the box as well as movements that physically move the box from side to side. .The Present Pet puppy then starts to poke and prod at the cardboard packaging, poking away 3 perforated paw prints to create holes in the box and reveal a little glimpse of what your puppy looks like! The most impressive part of the Present Pets unboxing is when not only do the paw prints get poked away by the Present Pet but the sides of the box start to be ripped away too, before the two sides split apart completely and drop open on their own to reveal the interactive Present Pet puppy sitting happily inside. The Present Pet puppy plays a happy little song as the final unboxing moments take place. First Impressions of our Present Pet Once the Present Pets box had burst open, the girls first set their sights on Cocoa, our adorable pup sitting inside. She has a large fabric shimmery ombre bow attached to her right ear, sparkly blue expressive eyes with a heart shaped patch of fur over her right eye and a cheeky sticking out tongue. She is wearing a removable collar with her name on and has super soft plush fur. After her unboxing, the Present Pet puppy is barking and already making lots of fun interactive sounds, but before play, she needs to be removed from her fixed point on the base of the box. The Present Pets pup is held in place on the base of the box by two small bone fastenings at her feet, which need to be twisted to move them into the unlock position, after which your Pup can be pulled away. What do the Present Pets do once open? The Present Pets instructions are pretty overwhelming, and I have to be honest, I really wish that toy manufacturers would use nice bright colour leaflets with good pictures or photos to make life a little bit easier for us parents! Instead, the instructions for Present Pets are quite a daunting black and white photocopy which obviously comes in lots of different languages. Despite there being a quick start guide with illustrations, it still felt a bit tricky to understand some of the elements of the interactive play. After lots of trial and error however, we have now successfully got to grips with all the play modes — there are a number of interactive options for playing with your present pet which create different modes of play. Cuddle Mode The first mode is Cuddle Mode. Erin loved pulling Cocoa in for a cuddle and tapping the back of her head. After some extended play, we found the Cocoa responds best when her head is patted firmly in a stroke like action rather than a pat or tap. To trigger excited mode you simply tickle, touch or tap the Present Pets pup on her tummy. Here she lets out of happy little yelps, licks, laughter and excited barks as her legs flick rapidly backwards and forwards, just like a child does when they are tickled! To trigger the trick mode, you need to press on the back button and tap the head. When you bark or speak to the puppy, it will respond to you and imitate you in barks. After 3 exchanges of listening and responding, the puppy will return back to standard play autonomous mode. She made some lovely little sounds when Erin spoke to her, and you can see examples on our video above. The important thing to note here is that some of the sounds are confirming whether you got it right, and are NOT part of the sound for you to copy — this caused a bit of confusion with us at first. There are two rounds in game mode and if you want to skip to Round 2 you can quickly press the back button again. Otherwise just wait and listen out for the first barks to begin. If you get it wrong bark too little or too many times, he will make a frustrated grrrr noise. There are 3 stages to round 1 and each time your child has to copy back a particular number of barks. My video footage shows this a bit clearer, so please do check this out if you want to see it in action. The puppy will start by barking a short rhythm and waiting for you to copy it by barking back the same rhythm. Again, there are 3 stages and they progress in difficulty. After a short initial rhythm the puppy then barks a medium length rhythm and waits for you to copy again. Finally the puppy barks a long rhythm and if you are able to copy it correctly the game is won! As with Round one, he makes a happy sound if you get it right, a growl if you get it wrong, and a happy dance when you complete the round. You can quit the Game mode by pressing the back button again. I will be honest, at times it did feel like they were both girls and our Present Pet were just making lots of noise and I am not sure how quickly the novelty of game mode would wear off, but both my girls were happy regardless! Present Pets toys can make over sounds and actions — we have had ours almost a week now and are still discovering new reactions. Present Pets Volume Control — Parents will be pleased to know that Present Pets do come with an off button thank you toy gods! There is however only one volume setting and no present pets volume control as such. In my opinion it is a touch on the loud side, particularly if your children are early risers! Present Pets toys require 6 AAA batteries batteries are included and these can be changed by unscrewing the paw prints on her feet 3 batteries in each paw. Our Overall Present Pets Review What we loved about the Present Pets toys: Present Pets toys have a really fun unboxing process — the Present Pet Pups really DO unbox themselves by poking and prodding their way out of the cardboard, and need absolutely NO assistance from children other than pulling the tag to trigger and start off the process. The rest is cardboard. This is a real positive, as the majority of the packaging can easily be recycled. The girls Neve in particular have played with her lots since. For parents who may need to keep things quiet when working from home or may get bored of the barking — there is the welcome addition of an off button!! How could Present Pets toys be improved? As is often the case, some of the instructions for Present Pets are a little overwhelming and I wish there was just a simple colour sheet which outlined each mode and what it did. There is a quick start guide in the instruction leaflet but even the sight of all that text is enough to put any parent off, particularly when you have an excited child raring to go! I assume more videos including mine will emerge to make it easier for you guys so hopefully that will help! Neve however, who is just under the recommended age at 4, did find this more of a difficult task. A few people have asked me since my review was published whether Present Pets toys only come in the puppy variety. At the moment, yes there are only four different puppies available, but it may be that future waves of Present Pets feature other animals like Cats and Rabbits — that would be pretty cool too!

Imagine you could come home to a lovable, dedicated, companion for life! If you knew what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy, you could find your next best friend. Before you buy your new best friend, read this information so you know what to look for in buying a healthy, quality German Shepherd puppy. I group them into major categories. Will you show him in conformation? Do you want to work with him in Schutzhund or herding? Or do you want a confident and alert companion? Know exactly what you want from your puppy. These dogs are the least costly since they have a trait that prevents them from winning in conformation competitions. These flaws rarely matter to most pet owners. And many minor faults like flat withers or slightly smaller offset ears will probably go unnoticed by most owners. The vast majority of GSDs are family pets. These dogs make great pets as long as they have sound temperaments! They breed some dogs for certain traits that are highly desirable but considered a fault. For example, long-coat or plush-coat GSDs. Show-quality dogs have good temperament and health. You usually buy them for their breed standard qualities that make them able to compete in confirmation or show events. A show-quality dog may cost significantly more if they have the traits desirable to win at a show. This group comes from Championship show lines with a long history of winning. If you plan on showing your Shepherd this is the quality you want. Beware of any breeder who claims they only raise competition-quality dogs. Even the best breeders produce many pet-quality dogs and if a breeder says they only breed perfect dogs, this is a red flag to not buy from them. The GSD is a herding breed, and the working-quality dogs excel at working trials such as scent competitions and Schutzhund. Other work includes climbing and jumping competitions or searching and tracking. They need mental stimulation to keep them occupied and take a lot of time to handle properly. These dogs are better with experienced handlers since you use them for high drive working and competition. They require hours and years of training and preparation for you to have total control during competition. We base this decision on preference. With the correct upbringing and training, both sexes are loyal companions and good with children. They may grow into more dominant dogs, so a confident handler is more desirable. Males may hike their back legs to mark their territory. This can occur on any object — chairs, walls, couches or even your leg. I suggest an extra bout of socialization during this stage, especially with other well-behaved dogs. So they may be better for the first-time owner. Unspayed females come into season every 6 months, so they must receive monitoring and watch to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Their season time can vary from as little as every 4 months to every 9 months. They can attract males to your property and on walks that will harass them if not spayed. Certain breeders and organizations will deal only in a certain coat length and color. The standard coat length is a short coat with double layers. Guard hairs on the top cover a softer underlayer of hair that provides warmth and protection. But there are many coat lengths available depending on your liking. Look online at the different GSD coat lengths to get an idea of what type of fur you want your dog to have. The longer the fur the more grooming involved. The color you choose is a matter of individual taste. Keep in mind the color of many Shepherds alters from their puppyhood to around 2 years of age. Your dog may become lighter or darker. Perhaps they will lose some of their markings as the color fades into the adult pattern. The best way to know what color and patterns your dog grows into is to see the parents of the litter. If the father is unavailable, then ask for photos. Why should you care where your dog comes from if you only want him as a pet companion? You want to get a dog that will live a long and healthy life from a source that has quality puppies. These tips will help you make the best decision on what type of pup fits in your life. Newspaper and Internet Classified Ads Newspaper and internet ads are in abundance. Many backyard breeders hide behind ads online or in local papers. But some breeders who use newspapers and classified ads are reputable and knowledgeable. The problem is you need to visit them to find out, and this can take time to sift through them all. Try the following more reputable suggestions to save yourself time. Dog Care Professionals Ask dog professionals for recommendations. Check with your local veterinarian, groomer, and boarding kennel personnel if they know reputable breeders in town. These professionals are good sources of quality leads. Use the same caution that you will for a classified ad. Verify their suggestions. Many of these organizations regularly receive puppies they need to re-home. While you might not know the full pedigree of the dog, purebred GSDs find themselves in shelters and rescues from no fault of their own. These organizations are a good resource for your first pup. Before adopting, find out as much information as you can. Was the puppy exposed to children? Did he live with other dogs or cats? A well-organized shelter or rescue helps you choose a German Shepherd match for your lifestyle. Start with looking online for GSD rescues and local shelters. Dog Clubs Dog clubs are local and national. These groups put you into contact with registered breeders through their own programs. They can give you the name of the GSD club contact closest to you for breed contacts. Dog clubs also have dog shows open to the public. This is a good time to watch the breed in action and to ask around for quality breeders. While using a dog club to connect you with a reputable breeder is not the only choice, it is one of the more reliable. If you are using a breeder to choose your German Shepherd puppy, this section will help you know the good from the bad. Use these tips to stay safe. Are selling overpriced or under-priced dogs. Lie to you and say you can make money off your new puppy by breeding them, despite them having flaws. Tells you that the GSD is a dog for everyone, with no disadvantages. Breeds multiple types of dogs and claims to be an expert on them all. If a breeder lets their mothers get pregnant more than once a year, this affects the quality of the puppies, so ask how many litters the mother has. These breeders selling unhealthy puppies also will refuse to take bag their dogs if you need to return them for any reason and have no contracts. They have healthy puppies and will answer your questions and have you make multiple visits. Openly show you where the mother and pups spend their time, including their garden or yard. Tells you the up and downs of owning the breed. Have all pedigree and vet paperwork on hand for your review. Specializes in breeding only GSDs source. They openly share this information with you. They have screened their dogs for health issues and can confirm this with documentation which they proudly give you a copy. Healthy mothers are given rest from breeding, and a reputable breeder gives their mothers time off from reproduction. Ask if your breeder if they are willing to take back their dogs if you cannot keep them, as this is standard for a quality breeder with a good reputation. Make sure your breeder has a written contract with detailed information and health guarantees. These are expected for safe breeding practices. How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy Following this guide gives you the best chance of buying a German Shepherd puppy that suits your lifestyle. Know what you want from your GSD and where to find quality dogs. Learn what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy to stay safe from a sick pup and a bad breeder. German Shepherds have their own unique set of challenges. They are a large, active, and intelligent breed that requires an understanding owner who is willing to train their GSD using positive techniques. Devote yourself to their overall health to see the best results and help give you and your dog a lifetime of happiness. Remember, your pup will need mental stimulation to keep their brain active , a gentle exercise program , and need daily love and affection. Buying a German Shepherd puppy is a choice for your whole life that will bring you many years of joy and excitement! Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. So, while this is not a reason not to get a GSD, it is a reason to look for adequate breeders, to ask for health certificates, to take good care of your dog, and to go to routine vet check-ups. German Shepherds can also be costly to take care of not just to purchase The regular vet visits, the high need for exercise, and the extra-space requirements all make the GSD a relatively expensive dog to take care of in terms of money as well. German Shepherds are very smart but that also makes them easily bored — they require lots of mental stimulation As with all smart dog breeds such as retrievers and other shepherds, the high intelligence of the GSD can be a curse as much as a blessing. So, what can be done to avoid boredom? Toys and time. However, an inexperienced dog owner can find a GSD to be more than a handful. Why is that? Simple — because they are so smart! Yes, their intelligence means that you can train them a lot but it also means they can be temperamental, manipulative, and stubborn! This breed is cute and cuddly at home but socially awkward in public German shepherds are incredibly cute, social, and loving animals. They are loyal to their family and would do anything for those close to them. What does this mean for you? Even if you just get a random GSD and not give it any special training or socialization, the dog may still get along just fine with a cat or a newborn baby. However, in general, the social awkwardness and guard-dog nature of GSDs means that they often need to be socialized well if you want to make other additions to the households down the line. Make sure that you teach your growing GSD to get along with other dog breeds in the dog park or at home. If you have a cat or are thinking of getting a cat, make sure your German Shepherd is accustomed to interacting with cats without any aggression. One of the best and easiest ways to avoid most of the problems above is to just get a second German Shepherd! Yes, we did just say that this breed can be a handful. However, a second dog usually brings much more benefits than negatives: The second dog will join the first in the playtime, meaning that both will exercise with each other very often and minimize the need for your involvement. Having a second GSD also means more mental stimulation for both dogs — again, less work for you and more fun for them. As natural guard dogs, German Shepherds may need to be trained not to bark Unfortunately, GSDs are especially bad for apartment owners not just because they are big but also because they tend to bark at strangers. They are guard dogs after all. This can be avoided, of course, there are ways to train any dog not to bark at strangers or at outside noises. There are several reasons for this: The frequent barking we mentioned above. Yes, you can train that behavior away but your landlord may still forbid you from getting a GSD. Getting a carpet or another type of floor insulation will help here. Giving your dog enough playtime outside will also alleviate this problem. But you may still get in trouble with your neighbors. They are just a large breed and many people, including parents of small children, are afraid of large dogs. Not only are GSDs not hypoallergenic, but they also tend to shed a lot! There are two main reasons for this: The aforementioned health concerns that some German Shepherds have and that get more and more likely as the dog gets older. The simple fact that the GSD is a large dog breed and larger breeds just have a shorter lifespan than smaller ones. As you can see, there are lots of factors to consider before getting a GSD. In general, the right GSD owner can be characterized as such: Has a larger-than-average home, a yard, and a nearby dog park. Has enough time to spend with a German Shepherd. Knows how to train and socialize a GSD properly. Has the financial means to support a German Shepherd. Wants a second dog to play with the first one. How to prepare for getting a German Shepherd? Just like soon-to-be-parents before their first baby, there are lots of books and research to comb through if you want to give your future German Shepherd the care, upbringing, socialization, and care it needs. So Make sure your home is ready for a large dog to soon start springing through it. Make sure you have the time and daily schedule to play with a GSD. Consider owning a Cairn Terrier! In this article, we explore who would benefit them as furry friends! Check them here! Read on to discover nine types of people who should consider owning this unique breed. Check this article to learn more about the types of people who are perfect for owning a Poodle dog! Before you bring this dog home, there are a few things to understand about the German Shepherd breed. They are highly intelligent. German Shepherds are animals that catch on quickly to almost everything. Your daily routine, commands, and household expectations are all things that are a breeze for them. With intelligence comes a lot of stubbornness. They require mental stimulation. Long walks are enough to tire out a lot of dog breeds, but with their intelligence, these dogs need more than just physical activity. German Shepherds are working dogs, and they benefit when there is a mental challenge as well as a physical one. If you genuinely want to tire them out, you must incorporate physical exercise with mental exercise. They have a lot of energy. Many German Shepherds benefit from agility courses to give them the appropriate amount of exercise. When you keep them stimulated, they are less likely to act out and cause destruction around the house. Image Credit: Niels Hansen, Pixabay 4. German Shepherds fiercely love their owners. German Shepherds tend to bond more closely to one family member than the rest. Still, they are lovers instead of fighters. They want to spend just as much time cuddling with you at night as they want to be out working during the day. They are great listeners. What else would you expect with those enormous ears perched on top of their heads? Those radar ears are listening to even the most minor sounds, and they are always eager to hear your voice. Image Credit: Capri23auto, Pixabay 6. German Shepherds were bred to be guard dogs. German Shepherds were originally bred to guard the fields of sheep and cattle. Whenever an intruder or predator came onto their land, they immediately alerted their keeper. Without the proper training, this behavior is sometimes territorial and can be aggressive towards other dogs and strangers. However, with the proper training, it makes you feel at ease whenever you go to bed at night. They are clingy. Not every German Shepherd is clingy, but this breed is known for following people everywhere they go. They are known to bark and howl when left alone for long periods. They are better suited for experienced dog owners. German Shepherds are a handful. These dogs require constant training and dedication. Without it, they could be aggressive or destructive. Image Credit: nori jaafer, Pixabay .They do better in pairs. Owning a dog is a better experience when it is mutually beneficial to both of you. Related Reads:. May not even be aware of the breed standard. Breeds to any convenient dog. Strives towards the ideal. Often helps to define it. Does not need to promote establishment; sells to brokers, pet shops, etc. Often rescues only to attain more stock. Rarely attends shows or trials. Shows and trials to objectively test breeding stock. Often judges, provides seminars, writes articles, and willingly mentors serious Hobby Breeders. Knowledge Often pretends to know some. May share false or incomplete information. Studies continuously. Impacts the breed for many decades with knowledge of dogs over many generations. All pups sold have full breeding rights. Yes, and diligently follows up on progeny. Keeps up with health and temperament issues affecting the breeding and provides in-depth guarantees No need to; mostly supplies brokers and pet shops. Meets minimum standards as required by state law. May refuse to acknowledge most problems. Maintains a solid support system — accepts full responsibility for every puppy produced. Performs health testing for all breeding stock for genetic diseases affecting the particular breed. No interest, may offer papers as proof of quality. Papers alone are not proof of quality. No interest. May provide undocumented paperwork for appearances sake. Is unfamiliar with health testing usually statements of good health are stated to impress consumers. Intensive testing always a priority. Often initiates club sponsored seminars and clinics. Maintains records on all dogs in gene pool including progeny. Often supplies brokers and pet shops, records unavailable. Dogs and puppies are often auctioned off in lots, records unavailable. Focuses mostly on current dogs, no records or knowledge of genes. Attempts to continuously track every puppy produced. Bases entire breeding program on extensive gene pool data. Clean environment always maintained Minimum standards vary greatly in cleanliness. Minimum standards maintained for state inspections. Conditions may vary greatly depending on available income, usually makeshift accommodations. Clean, healthy and mentally stimulating environment. Expected longevity with any particular breed Will continue as long as the sales are coming. Depends on popularity of specific breeds. Unrealistic expectations — easily disillusioned. On a mission-plans to stay for the long haul. Health guarantee provided No, it cuts into profits. No health guarantee beyond proof of first set of vaccines, if that. Not qualified to give advice if a problem arises. Offers written guarantee and is available to answer questions to new owners. Good knowledge of history in dogs. Extensive knowledge of health history, offers replacements to owners of genetically affected dogs. Ability to meet the parents of the litter If available, may be in poor physical condition. If available, dogs are not used to contact with people. May or may not be well loved and cared for companions, often unwilling to show entire litter or parents to buyer. Shows friendly mother and entire litter in clean environment; stud dog too, if in residence. Helps buyer choose appropriate puppy. Can explain how breeding was planned to emphasize specific qualities and can speak at length about how puppies compare. What you can expect after purchase Nothing, may not be able to contact at all. No concern for dog after sale is final. Available for questions, and wants to keep in touch. Will take back dog or puppy at any time. After purchase will help with training and grooming, available for all questions and knows the answers. Price Priced according to market, but is marked up from original source for profit. Mid-range to move puppies quickly. High end of mid-range. Price will not reflect all that is invested. Use only physically sound, mature dogs of stable temperament for breeding. These characteristics are rarely, if ever, determined before the age of two for females. Continue to educate themselves regarding genetic diseases pertinent to the breed including, hip and elbow dysplasia. Documentation of hip and elbow screenings should be available to prospective puppy buyers. Apply the same high standards to outside bitches sent to their stud dogs as they apply to their own breeding stock. Temperament testing of a litter before puppies are offered for sale is encouraged. Take appropriate steps to have each puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian for general health prior to placement. Each puppy should be vaccinated and de-wormed by a veterinarian. Endeavor to gain personal knowledge of the temperament and health of every dog they breed, or to which they breed, in order to gather information on which to base future breeding decisions. They share this information fully and honestly with other breeders and with prospective buyers. Sell breeding prospects to knowledgeable, ethical and experienced persons or are willing to help educate and guide novices. Do not engage in misleading or untrue advertising and do not use GSDCA membership as a marketing tool. Do not sell, supply, donate or surrender any dog for which they are responsible to a pet shop, catalogue house, wholesale dealer in dogs, Humane Society or to a laboratory. They should have reasonable assurance that each individual receiving a dog will provide a home with appropriate shelter, restraint, control and responsible care. Encourage puppy buyers to go to puppy obedience classes to help their puppies to become better canine good citizens. The achievement of a Canine Good Citizen certificate should be encouraged. Since homeowners insurance and local laws vary greatly, a refusal to let you visit the kennels may not, in and of itself, be a bad sign. You should ask for and receive a satisfactory explanation. The puppies are not social or look sickly. How to read those ads. A few more things to look out for. Anyone can buy a puppy from a champion, but it does not mean that they have any other interest in the breed but to bank on the name and make money. Having a Champion in a pedigree is like having a billionaire relative. AKC registration does not guarantee quality. AKC papers are much like the title of a car; papers are issued to the junked Chevy on blocks in your yard just as easily as they are on a brand new, shiny Jaguar. AKC does not control breeding, approve litters, or guarantee temperaments. AKC Registration is automatic if you buy from a reputable breeder — they will provide all necessary paperwork when you buy a puppy. There are several groups that are registering dogs, even mixed breeds, for a fee. This registration means nothing, and is of no value to you. Are there too many defects for the animal to be bred? Shop with care. Rarely will a good breeder have the luck to own both dogs for the perfect litter. There are some good and very reasonable reasons to have both parents on site. However, you need to ask the right questions and understand why this is true. They might be, they might not. Are they too big to be cute anymore? Need more money? Is there a problem? Usually because there are more on the way. Be very wary of this one. Will a Breeder Ask Me Questions? Conscientious breeders want the best available home for their puppies. This determines the amount of time you will have available for your new addition. There are very important items that should be supplied by the breeder. Breeders will typically give you the following items: A signed pedigree A current Health Record; including de-wormings and vaccinations. American Kennel Club registration papers or application Sales contract. The type of contract varies and must be mutually agreeable to the breeder and buyer. Much depends on what you expect from the puppy show, pet, or performance. Feeding schedule including the type and amount of food. Copy of OFA certification of sire and dam, if available.