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Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. We even have all types of golden retrievers for sale! At My Golden Retriever Puppies, we pride ourselves on our golden retriever price being fair and affordable for high quality puppies. Location Information for Michigan Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Michigan? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Michigan? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Read about little Eeyore! Adopt a Golden Retriever Give a golden retriever dog a loving home. We rescue golden retriever dogs from select areas of Ohio, Michigan and in Indiana. Adopt today! See them all. Help Golden Retrievers We rely strictly on your donations to make a difference in the lives of so many loving, deserving golden retriever dogs. You can play a major role in helping us survive! How can I help? Sponsor a Golden Retriever Be a Golden Angel Sponsor or help a golden retriever with extraordinary, critical medical needs. Get all the details and have your name listed next to your sponsored dog. Become an angel. Volunteer or Foster a Golden Retriever Tuck a dog in at night or help show off golden retrievers at our adoption events. Whether you want to provide a temporary loving home or just want to help at events.Be part of rescue. We also adopt golden retrievers to the southeast area of Michigan and the northeast area of Indiana. We adopt to areas within Ohio, Michigan and Indiana where we can do a home visit by a trusted volunteer. Please contact us to see if we can service your area. We work hard to find the right home for the Goldens we receive from various situations. Our Goldens typically come from owner surrenders and shelters. After we take in a Golden, we ensure proper vetting and, if necessary, behavioral training. If you are interested in adopting one of our Goldens, please complete our pre-application form at www. An interviewer will contact you to help you find the perfect Golden! If you are interested in volunteering with Great Lakes Golden Retriever Rescue, please visit our volunteer page at www. Once you fill out the pre-application, on our website, you will be sent a detailed form with our entire adoption process and policies. After those two steps are complete, you will be given a password to our online application. You can then complete the online application and once it is received, it will be assigned to an interviewer. The interviewer will check vet references and contact you within seven business days. Once your application is approved, the interviewer will send you a roster of our available Goldens via e-mail. Your interviewer will be there to answer any questions and aid in any way that she can. Great Lakes does not post all of our available Goldens on this website or Petfinder. We first offer available Goldens to our approved applicants. When you adopt a Golden from Great Lakes, your Golden will have been examined by a veterinarian, spayed or neutered, updated on necessary vaccines and heartworm and fecal checked. When you adopt a Golden from Great Lakes your Golden will have been spayed or neutered, up to date on necessary vaccines, and looked over by a vet. Please note that it is extremely rare that we get puppies under 6 months of age, and we do not have a waiting list.

Your puppy will be born and raised in our busy household. Our passion is to produce wonderful family pets with gentle loving temperaments that will bring a lifetime of happiness. We are extremely proud that the foundation of our lines have been trained as canine partner dogs and many of our puppies are therapy dogs and visit schools regularly. We have been breeding for a number of years and over these years we have seen many clubs come and go and we have been a member of some of them. We breed authentic Australian Labradoodles with lines that have been verified. We are content to follow our own path with strong ethics. We have an excellent reputation and we adopt the highest standards so you can be assured your puppy is an authentic Australian Labradoodle with bloodlines and health testing that has been verified. We follow a socialisation programme and temperament test all of our puppies before puppy pick day so we can help you make your choice. Temperament and health is always our first priority. We purchased our first Australian Labradoodle in and have been hooked ever since. Our dogs are our much loved family pets or live with their guardian families. Please contact us via email for more information. Access to our private puppy family area. A WhatsApp group for your litter. Both parents have been fully health tested with certificates available to view. Been bred in our family home by a 5 star council licensed breeder. Temperament tested and advice provided at puppy viewing. Call us today on Health Guaranteed All our puppies leave us with a full vet health check and a 2 year genetic health guarantee. Health Tested All our breeding Australian Labradoodles are fully health tested. We give our puppies the best start by following a tried and tested programme. Ethical Breeding We have the highest welfare standards which is why we hold a 5 star council licence. We believe every dog deserves a good life and this starts with the breeder. What our customers say.We travelled far to find her, and her knowledge, expertise and love for all things ALD is exceptional. After only a few days, Willow is already a huge part of our lives and so we are very glad that we chose Judy and RIpley's. Our dogs are very much our family pets. We are not a kennel, all our Australian Labradoodles have wonderful fulfilling lives either with us or our guardian families. Our dogs are for life and not just for breeding. The health and temperament of Australian Labradoodles is our number one priority, of course we breed exceptionally lovely puppies but our puppies health and temperament will always be our first priority. The Australian Labradoodle breed originated in Australia in the 's. The focus has always been on temperament, coat and quality through good health testing and planned matings. Our Australian Labradoodles are multigenerational, meaning both parents are Australian Labradoodles. Australian Labradoodles are very people focussed, they have a strong desire to please. Australian Labradoodles come in 3 sizes, miniature, medium and standard. Within my breeding programme I concentrate on miniature and mediums. Our Australian Labradoodles are extremely clever, sociable , comical and joyful. They are energetic when free and quiet in the home. We test their hips, elbows, eyes and genetics. When you purchase a Ripley's Australian Labradoodle you can be assured we have tested everything possible. We provide a 2 year health guarantee but we ask that our puppy families not give ingestible flea and worming treatments. We breed Superior Quality Miniature, Medium and Standard Australian Labradoodles throughout the year in varying colours from chocolate, black, cream, red, apricot and gold. We have imported some of the very best Australian Labradoodles in the world for our breeding program offering top quality puppies from fully health tested parents. Please enjoy browsing through our Website which will give you a good idea of the look and feel of the Genuine Australian Labradoodle. Find out about our current litters , and our planned litters here. You can also find out about the purchase and reservation process here. What our customers say Gaia has been with us for 8 years and she is a fantastic girl. Thank you Davina for allowing this beautiful meeting. She illuminates our life and I hope for a very long time yet Fabrice Poirot We have now had Cooper home with us in Scotland for a week. Davina made the process of buy Cooper very simple and was happy to answer all our questions. Both our vet and ourselves were very impressed with the pack of documents and advice sheets Cooper came with. This has helped us a lot in the first few days. Kerry Stanners We picked up our new puppy on Saturday from Courtlands. We were recommended Davina by friends who had one of her beautiful puppies 6 years ago. Ours is called Digby and is 10 weeks old. The whole buying process was made easy by Davina. She kept us informed and my endless questions did not phase her at all! Digby is gorgeous we all adore him already. Communication was really fast and Devina was very professional throughout the process. Our puppy is absolutely stunning, healthy and very happy! I got in touch with Davina and she had 2 puppies I could choose from. I liked the fact that we had a good conversation about why I wanted a dog, whether I worked and how the pup would live. Thankfully Davina thought a was a suitable owner and I brought Poppy home. I remember so clearly, hearing myself laugh properly, for the 1st time in 5 years. Poppy taught, teaches me, to enjoy simple pleasures. So much so that 9 months later I brought home Poppy's half sister, Truffle. Total joy and Courtlands, Davina, is amazing. I would recommend to everyone and thank you from Poppy and Truffle. Liz Bauer If Carlsberg made dogs xxx. She is perfect!!! What a Fantastic dog he has turned into. Dianne Liptrot Brought our puppy to Belgium. Our pup, lotti, is just such a delight and so easy to train. She is great with our children, other children and just anyone she meets! Thank you so so much Davina! Many people keep asking where we got Lotti from so I think you can expect some Northumbrian customers in the future? He is the most perfect little bundle of joy you could ever ask for! Marley-Blue comes to school work with me every day to support children as a therapy dog. He has a perfectly calm temperament with a cheeky mix of playfulness. Courtlands were great, we picked our puppy from a beautiful litter, we were sent regular updates until he was ready to live with us. We got lots of information to take away and digest too. On his first visit to the vets for immunisation, the staff were vey impressed by the paperwork I had from the breeders. Shareen Bailey Our puppy came to live with us at the end of July. Davina had clearly done an excellent job with early socialisation. Obi is a delight every day. He is such an easy puppy and such a joy to have around. Behind us in this picture are loads of people flying kites. No shedding, super calm, good with everyone and patient!!! Michelle Burgos We are so happy with our new puppy Huey. Davina has been so helpful and supportive all along and her step by step guides make everything so easy to follow and understand that it takes any stress away. A great service and amazing dogs Louisa Johnson Welcomed our handsome, bundle of fluff, in May, into our family. Constantly complimented on his appearance. Just been such a wonderful calm dog, super mannered and I put it down to his breeding. Henry Gittins Probably the best place to get your good natured Australian labradoodle Ian 'Iggy' Joynson Hamish is fourteen months old now and is an absolute joy! Really happy with all the support Davina gave us in making the right choices and her advice has been absolutely spot on. I look forward to finding a brother or sister for Hamish very soon?? Matt Beard Wow. What a fabulous experience. The knowledge we left with when we picked our Freddie up at 9weeks old was superb. Totally professional with the best interest of our puppy paramount. We have a healthy happy puppy. Thank you Davina. He is a fluffy little bundle of joy and great with our children. Davina knew he had a long drive home to Scotland and had good advice to give us. He was great and not bothered at all. Collection was easy and all paperwork was in order and gone through with us. A delightful addition to our family. Thank you! Suzanne Thom. We were introduced our first labradoodle more than 15 yrs ago and fell for the labradoodle dog breed. Immediately there after we came to be a guardian home of a breeding labradoodle puppy for Puppy Love Labradoodles and embraced our very own labradoodle almost twelve years ago. All of our labradoodles grow up with us in our home or in Guardian families which we have very carefully picked. We think our labradoodle family members do best when they are just one of us and treated like family. We travel with our labradoodles even if it is simply just to the supermarket. Each one of our newborn labradoodles are whelped in our bed room and live there with their mom for the initial 2 full weeks. This is where our mother labradoodles really feel most safe and precisely where we can keep a close eye on the baby labradoodles. Shortly after they are 2 weeks old we relocate them to the family room where they are revealed to everything that takes place in family everyday living. Labradoodle Temperament, Training and Health London, Ontario Labradoodles For Sale We have 8 children which support in interacting socially and looking after our labradoodle puppies. The labradoodle puppies have the ability to see, hear and smell all the things that goes in our house. When they are prepared to see their forever families they have already been for countless car rides and have had a great deal of hours of leisure and cuddles. London, ON Details The location could not be found.

Breeds The link has been copied! Creating dog hybrids is a practice that started several centuries ago. The Catahoula hybrid is one such hybrid that has emerged over time. Some historians hypothesize that its origins date back to the mids and specifically to French emigrants that settled in Louisana with their Beauceron dogs. Over time, the French emigrants crossbred their Beauceron dogs with Native American swamp wolfdogs in their bid to create a family dog that not only has better work and hunting attributes but is also comfortable with and friendly towards children. Catahoula Bulldog Breed Appearance When it comes to appearance, Catahoulas have varying physical characteristics. But a typical Catahoula has a muscular intimidating appearance with a spotted coat and rectangular-shaped body. Their usually large head includes drop ears and a tough muzzle that is slightly tapered. The Catahoula has a thick and muscular neck while its tail is long and curved. They have varying color attributes such as brindle, solid coat colors, blue merle, and red merle. Some Catahoulas with solid coats often come with other colors e. Though deeper colors are usually preferred and white coats often discouraged, coat color tends not to be a major consideration since the Catahoula is primarily a working dog. Catahoulas tend to have a single smooth short coat but may also have a coarse medium coat. The former seems almost painted in appearance while the latter may include an extended "feathering" on the chest, hind legs, and tail. They may have a single eye color or a mixture of colors such as brown, blue, amber, or green. The hog dog nickname was coined by their earliest breeders because they were intended to be wild pig hunters. In those days, legend has it that what is now Louisiana was home to a large number of wild hogs. They are popular elements of American history and culture. They also have enhanced hog-hunting capabilities, just like the Catahoula Leopard dog. At the end of the Second World War, American bulldogs were nearly extinct. Because of the myriad of duties they performed, breeding them again in larger numbers was a challenging project. They often exhibit minimal or no shedding because of their smooth, short coat characteristic. Shedding usually arises if situations that lead to stress occur. They are also not known to exhibit drooling. Hence, brushing it once a week will do. Brushing helps remove hairs from your furniture, clothing, and other areas. Long unkempt nails can induce pain and may even alter the way it walks or runs which can result in injuries with time. If your dog is not a fan of having their nails trimmed, you can try introducing a Scratch Board. Bathing should be discretionary and only done when you deem it an absolute necessity. However, American bulldogs are an exception to this rule. This is because dirt and bacteria can gather quickly on the folds and wrinkles in their skin. Hence, these wrinkles and folds should be under careful observation with a view to constantly cleaning them up to ensure they do not lead to infections. Using very mild shampoos made for dogs will help keep their skin and coat healthy. If well-trained, these energetic dogs can be very intelligent, which is why they are valued as working and hunting dogs. However, it is essential to commence training at an early age. Though the Catahoula Bulldog has a somewhat wild temperament, they are always tame and will rarely exhibit aggression, especially toward those they are familiar with. They are fairly sensitive and cautious or not so friendly with strangers. In summary, Catahoulas are an obedient and playful breed that tends to be sometimes misunderstood, thanks to their spotted coats and being linked with Pitbulls. These dogs are not only extremely attentive and alert but are also not easily distracted from the instructions provided to them. Catahoula Bulldog Activity Requirements Even with their loyal and obedient nature, Catahoula bulldogs can be stubborn at times. This trait can make it a bit challenging for anyone trying to train them effectively. But this is something you can easily overcome. Apart from this stubborn streak, Catahoulas are eager-to-please dogs that enjoy potty training and typically respond well to instructions. As noted above, early initiation of training is necessary. It will enable your Catahoula to get used to training and also develop a fondness for all aspects of it. Be sure to include positive reinforcement as part of your training techniques because it will help build trust between trainer and trainee in addition to ensuring that training becomes an activity that your dog will eagerly anticipate rather than fear or loathe. The main takeaway here is that though Catahoulas can be very receptive to training, they can also be stubborn sometimes. Catahoula Bulldog Health Problems Catahoula Bulldogs are famous for their relatively strong health and lack of genetic predisposition to health problems. The main health problems to watch out for in your Catahoula are bloating and the possibility of some allergies. Cancer may also be a challenge, especially in old age. Apartment Living with a Catahoula Bulldog Being high-energy dogs can make some Catahoulas difficult to manage in an apartment. This is another reason why early training is important. If they are properly trained, their high-energy drive can be effectively managed to ensure that they are not destructive in-house. Lifespan of a Catahoula Bulldog The average lifespan of Catahoulas is years, which is not bad when compared to other medium to large-sized dogs and a fairly decent lifespan for a dog that weighs between 75 and pounds. Moreover, with extra vet care, good dieting that guards against obesity, and improved hygiene, you can get a few extra years of life for your beloved pet. This energetic breed is not only very effective for working and hunting but also a highly protective and loyal family dog. Training them is easy, though they can exhibit signs of stubbornness that can be easily subdued. In all, this is one nice dog breed that any pet lover will love to have. Little wonder the US state of Louisiana formally passed a bill to declare the Catahoula as its official dog! For more helpful articles about pet-parenting tips, check out the Off Leash blog at TryFi. Want to know more about TryFi. This is the fastest way to find your dog after an escape. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. Back then the ranchers needed a multi-purpose dog that would have the size, strength, and weight of American Bulldogs along with the endurance and agility of Catahoula Leopard Dogs so that it could be used for herding, catching hogs, and hunting bears. As a result, the Catahoula Bulldogs were developed. Temperament and Behavior The Catahoula Bulldog though works aggressively in rounding up hogs or cattle, is quite gentle towards humans. Being devoted, loving, and protective with family members, it makes a great companion animal that is always eager to please its people. Even though it is calm and laid-back, it keeps a watchful eye on its surroundings. It is always suspicious of strangers and will warn its owner when it senses danger. The dog is typically at ease with kids and can get along well with other dogs when raised with them. Care Exercise Give your Catahoula Bulldog a minimum of minutes of daily exercise. Aside from taking it on daily walks, engage its mind with fun activities such as play and training sessions in a solidly fenced yard. Do not tie it out and leave your pet dog on its own in the yard. Grooming Bathing it times a year and brushing its coat once a week will take care of its minimal grooming needs. Make sure that its nails be trimmed, and the teeth are kept clean. Health Problems Although no breed-specific diseases have been reported, the Catahoula Bulldog can get affected by any of the health issues commonly seen in its parent breeds. These include canine hip dysplasia, deafness, cherry eye, ectropion, entropion, bone cancer, problems of the kidney, and thyroid disorders. Training Catahoula Bulldogs respond well to training because of their inherent smartness and devotion to their owners. Socialization: To make it friendly towards other animals, especially dogs, early socialization is needed. You can enroll your puppy in socialization classes, but make sure that you take your pet to parks, dog-friendly stores, and events where you can introduce it to other people and their pets. Leash Training: In order to control its hunting instincts, begin leash training and let it wear the harness and leash for short durations. If your dog pulls in the opposite direction, stand still and do not jerk the leash. Start moving once your dog settles down and comes to you. Do not drag your Catahoula Bulldog along with you. Feeding Ensure that your Catahoula and Bulldog mix is on a nutritious diet. You can give it four to five cups dry dog food on a daily basis. Interesting Facts Catahoula Bulldogs shed more when they are stressed or excited. They can use their ears in such an expressive way that it is believed that they can communicate with them. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Catahoula Bulldog Highlights Catahoula Bulldogs are mixed breed dogs. Catahoula Bulldogs come in a range of colors. They can be all white or all dark, or they can come in a mix that also includes gray and brown. These dogs posses short, dense, and straight coats that are often described as looking glossy. Weekly brushings will suffice for the breed. Shedding is very low, too. Catahoula Bulldogs are some of the most loyal dogs around. This is not a a dog that will do well living in an apartment—and destructive behavior might occur due to boredom and restlessness. The breed has a record of being a very popular dog in the southern states of the USA, mainly due to their ability to hunt down and catch bears and hogs and herd cattle. Although, as is always the case with newer dog breeds, exact size standards might vary. Most weigh in at 75 to pounds and range in height from 24 to 26 inches. It goes without saying that such a powerful and energetic dog needs to be socialized properly from a young age. While the breed can form strong bonds with children, correct training is key. Catahoula Bulldog Health Catahoula Bulldogs are generally considered to be healthy dogs—although the breed can be predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Catahoula Dog and American Bulldog face. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Catahoula Bulldogs require lots of exercise—as with any dog, obesity can become an issue if suitably satisfying walks are not maintained. If you have access to very large, open outdoor spaces, this dog will enjoy running alongside you. Catahoula Bulldog Feeding An ideal Catahoula Bulldog diet should be formulated for a medium to large breed with high energy. Catahoula Bulldogs posses short, dense, and straight coats that are often described as looking glossy. Weekly brushings will suffice for the breed—the likelihood of developing mats is exceptionally low. Thankfully, for a dog who loves to spend so much time engaging in energetic pursuits outside, the Catahoula Bulldog rarely suffers from any odor issues. If you live in a place with harsh winters, the Catahoula Bulldog is not likely to appreciate the environment. Also, make sure to teach your children how to properly act around the dog. This might not be the best dog to bring into a house already ruled over by a couple of cats. As with all dogs, early socialization pays off—so make sure to reward your Catahoula Bulldog for good behavior and adhere to a proper training regime when you bring them home. Catahoula Bulldog Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Catahoula Bulldogs because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Catahoula Leopard Dog or American Bulldog breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Lifespan Sociability With these dogs being steeped in such history, they are a popular family pet. If you have an active family with a large and spacious backyard, have the time and patience for training, and are up the challenge of taking on such a powerful animal, they are not a difficult puppy to find. They are frequently bred with each other as opposed to being first-generation mixes, which makes them a healthy and robust breed with few genetic health issues. Catahoula Leopard Dogs were originally bred to hunt pigs. This somewhat unflattering name was bestowed upon them by their original breeders due to their original purpose of hunting wild pigs. The story goes that when the first settlers came to what is now known as Louisiana, it was overrun by wild hogs. The Catahoula Leopard Dog must have done its job well, as the dogs were so revered that they were named the official state dog of Louisiana in .American Bulldogs also have a history of pig-hunting, and so if hunting is your thing, Catahoula Bulldogs may just be an ideal choice! There are different breed lines. These massive dogs can weigh in at up to pounds. The McMillin line in particular is known for stunning glass-blue eyes. These three lines have mixed back and forth over the years and caused a massive variation in the size and coloring of the Leopard Dog breed as it is today. American Bulldogs were almost extinct at the end of World War II, and re-establishing the breed posed a challenge due to the wide array of different functions that the American Bulldogs were typically used for. American Bulldogs have large litters of puppies With most medium-sized dogs, you can expect a litter size of around five or six puppies, eight at the most. But American Bulldog females are known to routinely have nine or 10 puppies per litter and in some cases, up to 16! An American Bulldog crossbreed clinched the Guinness World Record for the largest litter of puppies ever , giving birth to an incredible 21 puppies. Despite these intimidating looks and somewhat wild temperament, these dogs are rarely aggressive. They are gentle and sweet animals that are wary of strangers and are known to be fairly sensitive pooches. They are also highly intelligent dogs, which is what makes them such valued working and hunting dogs. In general, they are a loyal and playful breed that is often misunderstood due to their spotted coats and association with Pitbulls. They are highly attentive and alert dogs that are not easily distracted from their given directives. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They are gentle and sweet dogs that love children and are rarely, if ever, aggressive toward them. These are dogs that you can count on — loyal protectors of the family that will stay cool and calm unless absolutely necessary. Both the Catahoula Leopard Dog and the American Bulldog have traits that will translate well into family life, so you can be sure that this hybrid descendant will be a firm favorite in the family. They do have a strong prey drive due to their hunting heritage and may see smaller dogs and family pets as prey. But the right training is sure to keep this instinct at bay, as these dogs are highly intelligent and obedient. She has one blue and one brown eye. She's the best dog I've ever had, great personality, good calm easy going dog. LOVES tennis balls but easy to calm down. Great house dog, great around livestock, amazing with kids. Everyone wants to steal her from me, lol. She's 55 lbs of amazing. He is a 9-month-old Catahoula Bulldog. He loves to play.He is really laid back, especially for a male puppy! He does great around the kids and our other dogs, even the neighborhood dogs! She was from our last litter and she is a doll! He is a Catahoula Bulldog with the most unique colors I have seen in them. He can play in the yard and be very watchful of my daughters at the same time, but friendly to "invited" guests as well. He is also a very aggressive hog hunter who gets down and dirty as one of the best catch dogs I know, that can also trail the hog. Puppies can come in a wide range of coloring from merle to white with eyes being brown, green, ice blue, gold, or a combination of these. Not only are these dogs excellent all-around dogs, but they are truly beautiful to look at with their rainbow of coloring. This is Wilson's Shugah. She is a wonderful dog, full of fun! She loves kids and playing with other dogs. She especially loves puppies. She is very motherly, and will clean the puppies and take care of them, even though they are not hers! She is the Bomb! Less - The Catahoula Bulldog is not a purebred dog. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. The Catahoula Bulldog has tight skin and a very short, smooth coat. In most cases the Catahoula does not have an undercoat but may develop one if it is living in a seasonal or colder climate. Ears come in rose type or button over and are sometimes cropped for a noble look. Eye color can come in brown, ice blue, gold, emerald green or a combination of all of these. Coats come in a wide variety of colors from merle to pure white. Though utilized as a hunting, working, and guard dog , Catahoula bulldogs are often companion animals. They are said to be loyal and devoted to their people and to have strong protective instincts; they are generally calm though also alert to their surroundings. History Less - Catahoula bulldogs have been around for over years, for the most part in the southern United States. It is reported that ranchers wanted a dual-purpose dog for herding and catching hogs as well as for hunting bears. While the Catahoula Leopard Dog was very skilled at luring a hog to a pen then escaping over the back of the pen, it was not large or rugged enough by itself to catch a hog. The American Bulldog had the extra size, weight, and strong jaw as well as being an excellent catch dog, while the Catahoula Leopard had the intelligence, speed, endurance and the instincts of hunting and herding. Catahoula bulldogs are one example among many of niche working crossbreeds as opposed to "designer dogs" crossbred for appearance that are in development. Others often with pseudo-archaic names have been dubbed the Olde English Bulldogge recognized as a breed by UKC and Perro de Presa Mallorquin "saved" from extinction by extensive crossbreeding , among more experimental crosses. Although a mixed-breed dog can take on any combination of traits from one or both parent breeds, a Catahoula Bulldog tends to be a loyal, loving, and hard-working dog that can take on a variety of jobs and still fit right in at home with their family. The American Kennel Club does not currently recognize the Catahoula Bulldog, but other notable dog organizations do. Catahoula Bulldogs tend to have a calm demeanor and sweet disposition when they are at home with the family and are focused and determined while working a job. They tend to get along well with children and other dogs in the family. They also have a high prey drive, which means they need extra socialization and training when it comes to smaller pets in the household. They are fiercely loyal to their families and are protective of them, which makes them naturally suspicious and wary of strangers. Socialization and training early and often are even more important with this dog breed because of their protective instinct. A Catahoula Bulldog is a moderately adaptable dog breed. Their larger size and high energy level make them a better fit for homes with a fenced-in yard where they can run. But, they can adapt to apartment living as long as their exercise needs are met. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat. Their thin coat can also make them sensitive to cold. So, they may need to dress up with some winter dog products to stay warm when the temperatures drop. They also do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. Also, because they tend to have a high prey drive, they also have an urge to chase and follow interesting smells. Even if they are well-trained off-leash, they may still ignore your recall commands when faced with an interesting smell or chase. They can inherit none of the health conditions common to their parent breeds or they could inherit a combination of them or even all of them. With a Catahoula Bulldog, potential health concerns to be aware of include hip dysplasia, eye conditions, thyroid issues, and kidney disease. Deafness in one or both ears and blindness can also be common in older dogs of this breed. You can also ask to see the results or clearances from any health tests that have been done. The Catahoula Bulldog is highly intelligent and eager to please. This means they are generally obedient and pick up on things quickly. But, they can be stubborn at times and are intelligent enough to get away with things if you let them. These classes offer a bunch of benefits, including opportunities to socialize a puppy , so they tend to be a good idea regardless of your experience with dogs. Catahoula Bulldogs have a short, smooth coat that can come in a myriad of colors and color combinations. They shed a little year-round. Weekly brushing and the occasional bath as needed is usually enough to keep their coat healthy and looking great. Plus, if anything is happening, you can catch it early and get to the vet. You also want to practice good dental care for dogs to help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste daily is ideal. Catahoula Bulldogs are high-energy dogs. They are also working dogs, so they need a job to do to be happy. Daily walks plus plenty of playtime, time to run, and other activities will keep this dog happy and healthy. They are a powerful and athletic dog breed, so once puppies finish growing , you can try a bunch of different activities with your Catahoula Bulldog. Playing frisbee, hiking, swimming, training for dog sports, and more can all be fun things to try with your dog. You could end up finding a new favorite activity! A fully-grown Catahoula Bulldog tends to stand inches tall and weigh pounds. A Catahoula Bulldog generally lives for years. Currently, we do not have any Catahoula Bulldog puppies available, but we can alert you when new Catahoula Bulldog puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! Please enter a valid email address! Related Breeds.

How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. They are intelligent, loyal and energetic dogs when grown, but require lots of training and stimulation to avoid boredom and become well-adjusted socially. While loving to their owners, they are often distant with strangers and can suffer from separation anxiety when their owner is away. It is highly unusual for the puppy's owner to care for them during this time and is best left to a responsible, reputable breeder. Your puppy's body will double in weight as their muscles, organs and bones develop. Nutrition During the neonatal stage, your German Shepherd puppy will get most of their nutrition from their mother's milk. At around 4 weeks you may wish to introduce a few kibbles mixed with warm water. Health During this time it is important to monitor your GSD for any infections, diseases or birth defects. Puppies are unable to urinate or defecate by themselves initially, so their mother helps them but may additionally require your assistance. Keep your vet's contact details close by and educate yourself thoroughly on this stage of puppy development. By the end of this period, your puppy will be mobile and will explore the world mouth first — be sure to keep choking hazards and toxic foods out of their reach. Behaviour During most of this time your GSD will be asleep or inactive, but they will soon be playing with their brothers and sisters. After weeks they will go through as much sensory development as a human baby does in a few months. It is important to avoid disturbing the puppies' mother as she will be likely be protective, but some interaction with the young pups is normal so they become used to human touch. This is a formative time for your puppy and will be when they learn to walk, play, bite, hold their bladder, and interact with others. In this time your GSD will develop a trusting relationship with you and will respond negatively to harsh treatment, so be sure be assertive and establish your dominance but avoid shouting. Nutrition During the weaning stage, you should slowly introduce into their diet a nutritionally complete dog food which is appropriate to your German Shepherd's large size and young age. This breed tend not to be gluttons and quickly work off any weight during exercise, but this time is crucial for developing healthy bones and joints so feed them the best quality food you can. You should also familiarise yourself with lists of toxic foods and plants to avoid and hide as your puppy will soon find ways to get into places it shouldn't be. If your GSD is a long-haired variant you should make them familiar with brushing early as this will become a daily necessity for their entire life. You must be careful to monitor play and not allow your puppy to play too rough or they may irreversibly damage their sensitive back legs and shoulders. Behaviour Due to the changes in their environment, your GSD will likely be under a significant amount of stress. It's important that you provide lots of attention and build your relationship early, but be careful not to allow your puppy to become dependent on your attention and presence. GSDs are often described as aloof since they are shy with strangers — it is important to socialise them with strangers early so that they do not become aggressive towards people and dogs they are unfamiliar with. Your GSD will be full of energy and already require lots of time exercising, playing and in training. Your dog will likely do well at puppy training school and will benefit from obedience training to help control them in public. Nutrition Your German Shepherd puppy's diet should be based around a high quality, nutritionally complete puppy food. It is particularly important that you make sure your pup has the right diet at this time to help them grow properly and avoid joint or bone problems later in life. Your GSD has a double coat which changes with the seasons: the bottom layer sheds in the warmer weather, but will need daily or weekly brushing to help it along. After around 8 weeks your puppy will be due for some vaccinations, so they will need a checkup at the vet and to arrange for boosters after that. Studies showed that dogs supplemented with a diet of bovine colostrum had a quicker and stronger immune system response to CDV vaccine as compared to dogs fed a control diet. Colostrum supplemented dogs maintained a higher antibody level even after 40 weeks. A diet supplemented with Colostrum helps bridge the immunity gap in puppies that occurs between 3 weeks and 5 months of age. Behaviour German Shepherds are unendingly loyal to their family but are distant with people they don't know, so familiarise them with friends, strangers and other dogs early. It is vital to teach your pup early to be patient with children who may not respect their boundaries and might otherwise provoke aggressive behaviour. It is important to provide your GSD with lots of sturdy, entertaining toys to stimulate them — a bored German Shepherd will destroy your furniture and backyard for fun. Recommended Articles. Why do German Shepherd puppies need the best dog food? German Shepherd puppies need dog food designed for large breed puppies to ensure controlled joint and bone growth. This is because large-breed puppies are prone to certain health risks like hip dysplasia and other Orthopedic conditions. The best dog food for German Shepherds will ensure your puppy grows healthy, strong, energetic, and with lovely skin and coats. Nutritional requirements for German Shepherds puppies German Shepherd puppies require a balanced diet that contains four types of nutrients below. These ingredients will ensure that your pup grows and develops optimally for a longer quality of life. Proteins Proteins help the puppies in building up their body tissues. Proteins can be found in chicken, salmon, beef, lamb, eggs, and dairy. Fats Fats are important for healthy skin, fur, brain, and vision. The recommended fat level per dry matter basis is 8. Fats can be found in fish oil, chicken fat, and beef fat. Digestible carbohydrates Because puppies are incredibly energetic, they need digestible carbs to provide them with energy. Digestible carbohydrates can be found in rice, sweet potatoes, potatoes, and whole oats. Micronutrients In addition to these key nutrients, German Shepherd puppies also need micronutrients like calcium, phosphorus, DHA, and omega-3, and vitamin A. They also need fiber to promote digestion and bowel movement and clean water to help with bodily functions. For large dog breed only: Foods specially formulated for German Shepherd puppies: Veterinarian and pet advisor Dr. Choose a dog food that is specially formulated for German Shepherds puppies or large breed puppies can ensure your pups are getting the nutritional requirements at every stage of their growth. The opposite side is giving your pup the wrong food that may lead to serious growth and digestive problems. Things to consider before choosing dog food for German Shepherds puppies 1. Their growth Puppies may need different nutrients at different stages depending on their growth rate. For instance, a puppy in the weaning stage between three to four weeks will need more antioxidants which are found in foods containing Vitamin C and E. In contrast, a teething puppy will need wet dog food which is easily digestible food on its tummy to minimize intestinal upset. For instance, a younger puppy may have difficulty eating larger food pieces than an older puppy. Teething If your dog is teething, which starts at around three weeks, you may want to consider food that contains calcium like dairy and bone broth for strong and healthy teeth. On the other hand, if the dog has teething problems, wet food may be a better option than dry food until they recover. Alternatively, you add wet canned food to their kibble to make it soft and palatable. The body weight An underweight puppy has different dietary requirements from an overweight puppy. You do not want to underfeed or overfeed your puppy. Activity Level Puppies that are extremely active require foods high in carbohydrates to keep up their energy levels. If your dog is not as active, you want to keep the carbs down to avoid obesity. With all the many dry foods out on the market, it can be hard to choose the healthiest for your pups. Step 1. The Association of American Feed Control Officials developed nutrient profiles to establish minimum and some maximum nutrient concentrations for dogs and cats. These profiles are updated when new findings from research in pet nutrition become available. They provide practical guidance for pet food manufacturers. Adult Maintenance: Dog foods formulated for adult maintenance have the nutrients adult dogs need. Dogs over the age of one are considered adults, except for some large and giant breeds who do not fully mature until age two. You may see variations of these nutrient profiles on dog food packaging. Step 2. Read the food label The label is the most important thing you should check when deciding which puppy food to pick. Here are the 3 things you would like to read on the packaging: a. List of ingredients The list of ingredients should have the main ingredient as the first ingredient then followed by the rest according to their percentage. For instance, in the label below the first five ingredients, are chicken as the main ingredient, ground whole grain corn, chicken by-product meal, ground whole grain sorghum, corn gluten meal and dried plain beet pulp. Feeding guidelines This will show you how much food and how many times you should feed your puppy. Watch this video if you want to better understand the wording on a dog food packaging means: Step 3. Are there any claims of pups reacting to the food? Do the users recommend or warn against the food? Of course, you want to go with what the majority of the reviewers say. You can also check dogadvisor. Step 4. The vet is in a better place to advise on what type of food to go for or what ingredients to avoid. Best dry foods for German Shepherds Puppies There are hundreds of dog foods out there with fancy names and ingredients, which make it so hard for dog owners to find the right food for their pups. To help you narrow down your search, we asked a couple of vets to suggest the best dog food for German Shepherds puppies. Purina Pro Plan — For sensitive skin and allergies Why do we like it? This dog food is ideal for all large breed puppies weighing over 50 pounds, GSD included. It is specially formulated for puppies with sensitive skin and stomachs. It is made with real chicken, among other high-quality ingredients. This dry food has optimal calcium levels to promote proper joint and bone growth. It helps prevent forms of hip dysplasia. Ideal for German Shepherd puppies of all ages. Delicious dry food for large breed puppies like GSD. It is specially formulated for superior vision and healthy brain development. This is an all-natural dog food specially made for large-breed puppies of all ages. It is made with real, wholesome ingredients. Making the right food choice will ensure that your puppy grows healthier, stronger, and more energetic. Weaning for a GSD puppy should start at around 6 to 8 weeks while still maintaining nursing. Complete weaning should be from 8 weeks when the puppy is fed on puppy food only. How is puppy food different from adult dog food? Puppy food contains more protein and fats, and certain minerals than adult dog food to support their growing brain, vision, nervous system, immune system, bones, and joints. When should German Shepherd puppies transition to adult dog food? German Shepherd puppies should transition to adult dog food from 12 to 24 months. The transition should be gradual, and the puppy should be constantly monitored. More posts on feeding your German Shepherds Must read:. What is the Best Food for a German Shepherd? Subsequently, in February , I significantly revised it and then refined the article further with additional thoughts and experiences in February .I own and feed six German Shepherds. Feeding the best food for German Shepherds is a long-time passion. Most pet owners feel the same way. I want my dogs to live long, healthy, and happy lives. Hence, besides enough physical activity and mental stimulation, I ensure they eat the best food I can provide. I lost two dogs to cancer in the past. Both were about fourteen years of age at the time. As a result, I became very focused on preventing that going forward. Did you know that cancer is the number one cause of death in dogs? Certainly, the reasons for this are debatable. However, looking at the ingredients in dog food, I am pretty sure I know where most of the blame lies. The Challenges Certainly, no one means to feed crappy food. But how do you know which dog food is better? Most dog food in bags contains by-products, meats with growth hormones, and antibiotics. Those become sugar upon digestion. Certainly, none of that is good nutrition. In short, most dog food is pretty bad for dogs. In the same way as living on a fast-food diet of burgers and fries. Undoubtedly, dogs are omnivores but more on the carnivore side. Further, if you think the dog food your vet wants to sell you is better, I have more bad news. That is not the best food for a German Shepherd either. Much food in grocery aisles—manufactured by mega food companies—is not healthy for people. I want to ensure I feed my dogs the best food for German Shepherds. But like everyone, I also have to watch the price tag. So, I advise feeding the best food you can afford and doing better when you can. Feeding a dog food appropriate and healthy for each breed matters. This article addresses the basics of German Shepherd nutrition and gives you additional resources to learn about the nutritional needs of other breeds. All information is based on years of research, feeding my dogs, and the advice of the late canine nutritionist and animal advocate William D. Cusick published breed-specific nutritional guides, including recipes. Consequently, these form the basis for feeding the best food for a German Shepherd. His books are very informative. A free copy of his previous best-selling dog nutrition guide can be found here: Canine Nutrition. This information is for educational purposes only, and you should always consult with a canine nutritionist not a vet before making any significant nutritional adjustments or have any concerns or questions. Furthermore, if you want to take a deep dive, or get a raw recipe formulated from scratch for any breed, check out Raw, Fed and Nerdy. The official name for this breed is German Shepherd Dog, although it is usually called German Shepherd or just Shepherd. The German Shepherd is unique because it has a very short colon compared to other breeds of the same body weight. This high-fiber diet will result in a larger stool but better assimilation of the food. The environment for the Alsatian Region of Germany provided this breed with primary food sources of beef, wheat, and leafy greens like cabbage and alfalfa. Thus, I recommend a blend of these food sources as the ideal base diet for the German Shepherd. Conversely, I feel the worst commercial food blend for the German Shepherd Dog would contain fish, soy, or rice. In their original habitat, they would consume these types of things naturally. However, they would not walk up to some spinach plant and start chewing. They are dogs, and dogs eat and NEED meat; dogs are omnivores. In nature, they hunt down any smaller animal, kill it and eat it. So, I decided to purchase William D. My German Shepherds love their food and thrive on it. My German Shepherds are very healthy dogs! Clearly, feeding the best food for a German Shepherd makes a difference. Food matters! It took about 2 hours including clean-up to prepare 14 portions and box them. We have a small refrigerator in the garage dedicated to their food. I had my dogs on a twice-a-day feeding schedule. The following table is for reference purposes only. You should NOT start mixing up dog food without a proper recipe. The right amount of each ingredient is essential for it to be healthy. So please, get the recipe referenced above if you are serious about feeding the best food for a German Shepherd. The Nutrition. Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your pet's temperament, activity level and environment. If you have any questions regarding your pet's health, please contact your veterinarian. Transition Instructions We recommend at least a 7 day transition before you begin feeding the new food exclusively. On the 7th day, you can feed the new food exclusively. All of our dry diets are preserved naturally with mixed tocopherols, citric acid, and rosemary extract. Our canned diets are naturally preserved and sterilized during the cooking and canning process. Where do the ingredients in Royal Canin diets come from? Royal Canin is making strides towards sustainability by attempting to obtain sources of raw materials as close to each manufacturing facility as possible. In some cases, we use international suppliers, because only those suppliers can offer raw materials that comply with our quality and food safety standards. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain by-products? Royal Canin chooses ingredients because they deliver high-quality nutrients that support our customized pet food formulas. Using chicken by-product meal instead of chicken meal for example will allow Royal Canin to maintain its highly customized nutrient standards while achieving a more secure and sustainable supply. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain grains? As always, we focus on the nutrients each ingredient provides and grains can provide many important nutrients. How do you ensure Royal Canin diets are safe for my pet? Our Quality and Food Safety systems are state-of-the-art and we continue to invest heavily in new technology to make sure they remain that way. We monitor every load delivered to our plants to verify the safety and quality of the ingredients we use to make pet food. We perform tests on finished pet foods before they are shipped to our customers. How do I know which Royal Canin diet is right for my pet? Based on size, age, lifestyle, and breed, each cat or dog has unique nutritional needs. For healthy pets, use our Product Selector to find the right diet for your cat or dog. If your pet is experiencing health issues, please refer to your veterinarian for more information. Your veterinarian will consider multiple factors when recommending an appropriate diet.

One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. One or both of this puppy's parents is OFA Heart certified. This puppy has had early neurological stimulation exercises. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Nashville Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Nashville? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Nashville? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. We have answers. Finding a new Golden Retriever for sale in Nashville has never been easier - no matter where you live! Why is Uptown Puppies different from other places? Are Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Nashville ready now? Golden Retrievers for sale in Nashville are available right now - but not for long! Some breeds have a higher demand than others and the Golden Retriever is no exception. How do you secure yours? How does Uptown Puppies view transparency when it comes to breeding Golden Retriever puppies Nashville? Do you sell the cheapest Golden Retriever puppies in Nashville? When you see discounted pups, they usually come from inhumane puppy mills or backyard breeders that simply want to peddle them for a quick buck. How do I know that my puppy will be healthy? Is it enough to walk Golden Retriever puppies for sale Nashville, or do they need more exercise? These pups generally require a living space that has a safe area for them to run free in. Fenced-in backyards or secluded, open fields tend to give them enough space to properly stretch their legs. Do you recommend specific food for my dog? Nashville Golden Retrievers for sale love people more than anything, but eating is a close second! To keep them at healthy weight, you should curate a diet that is rich in vegetables and meats. Generally, canned and bagged dog foods work well as long they come from a reputable name-brand. Which kinds of breeds are best for families? This pup is often depicted as the ultimate family dog in movies for a reason! What are some of the most intelligent and easy to train breeds? Nashville Golden Retrievers for sale were originally bred to be gun dogs and hold an innate drive to work that helps them learn new tricks and commands with relative ease. Working with your Golden also keeps it mentally stimulated and helps prevent any misbehavior.

Begin by drawing the dog's face. Use two curved lines to sketch each eye. Then, shade a circle within each eye to form the pupils. Draw an irregular rounded shape for the nose , and use curved lines to draw the snout around it. Connect the nose to the front of the snout with a short line. Next, draw the sides of the dog's head, complete with tufts of fur. Use long and short lines that meet at jagged points. Use a curved line for the lower jaw, and contour the nose with another curved line. Shade two small circles on the nose to indicate the nostrils. Draw the shepherd's triangular ears. Use long curved lines. Note the furry texture at the base of the ears, created using a series of curved lines that meet at jagged points. Connect the ears at the top of the head using a curved line. Then, use thick, overlapping curved lines to draw the eyebrows. Contour each ear with a long curved line and a series of short "U" shaped lines. Then, begin drawing the dog's furry chest. Outline each side using a series of long and short curved lines that meet at jagged points. Draw the dog's leg and paw using a series of curved lines. Note the jagged furry pattern at the elbow and the overlapping lines that form the toes. Then, extend a curved line on each side of the paw. This will become the pup's chew toy or dog bone. Draw the remaining leg and paw using a series of overlapping curved lines. Contour the chest with jagged series of curved lines. Draw the rear leg using a series of curved lines. Notice the furry texture on the front of the leg. Don't forget the short line between the front and rear legs that encloses the belly. Draw a long, curved line from the shoulder to outline the back and the top of the tail. Then, use a series of short curved lines that meet at jagged points to indicate the furry underside of the tail and finish enclosing the figure. Give the German shepherd a furry texture. Use a series of lines around the eyes and across the chest, side, leg, and tail. Most German shepherds are black and tan. Some are solid black or solid white. Others have patches of white, blonde, or reddish-brown. You may find it easier to follow the step-by-step drawings below the video. The new lines in each step are shown in red, so you'll know exactly what to draw next. You may want to open the video in a new tab and use both drawing methods. Take your time and draw at your own pace. Written step-by-step video tutorial: For the first few steps, don't press down too hard with your pencil. Use light, smooth strokes to begin. Step 1: Draw two small ovals for the cartoon German shepherd puppy's eyes. Sketch lightly at first to get the shapes right. Space out the eyes. Don't draw them too close together. Shade in the ovals but leave a couple of circles blank inside each oval to represent glare. The eye on the right should be a tiny bit smaller than the eye on the left. Step 2: Below the eye on the right, draw a small sideways oval for the nose. Make the bottom edge of the nose a bit pointy instead of curved. Shade in the dog's nose but leave a thin strip blank at the top for shine. Step 3: Draw a curved line on the right side for the muzzle. The German shepherd's muzzle starts to the right of the nose, then curves down and to the left. Draw a short, curved line for the mouth near the bottom of the muzzle. Step 4: To the right of the eyes, draw a line that curves up and to the left for the front of the puppy's head. The top edge of the head should be high above the eyes. Use jagged lines at the top for fur. Step 5: On the top, left side of the head, draw a big, triangle-like shape for the German shepherd puppy's first ear. Within the ear, on the right, draw a long line for structure. At the bottom, draw some jagged lines for fur. The online tutorials are easy to follow; they teach you the how to draw basics while showing you how to draw animals step by step. Each animal has a video drawing tutorial option, as well as step-by-step photos and written text to follow. The Time-Lapse Speed Drawing video: To draw a German Shepherd Head step by step, follow along with the video tutorial below and pause the video after each step to draw at your own pace. You may find it easier to follow the step-by-step drawings below the video. The new lines in each step are shown in red, so you'll know exactly what to draw next. You may want to open the video in a new tab and use both drawing methods. Take your time and draw at your own pace. The Written step-by-step video tutorial: For the first few steps, don't press down too hard with your pencil. Use light, smooth strokes to begin. Step 1: Draw a big circle as a guide for the German shepherd dog's head. First make four small marks to indicate the circle's height and width. Then connect the marks using curved lines. Sketch lightly at first so that it's easy to erase if you make a mistake. If you're struggling to draw the circle, trace the outer rim of a glass, a bowl or any other object with a circular edge. For a more detailed guide on the different ways to draw a circle check out this tutorial: Four simple ways to draw a circle. Step 2: Draw a long, curved, horizontal line across the circle for a construction line. Draw this line slightly higher than the middle. Add a curved, vertical line on the top, left side. These lines will help you place the German shepherd dog's facial features later. Step 3: Draw a smaller circle on the lower, left side of the head as a guide for the German shepherd dog's muzzle. Use the four-marks technique to draw this circle too. Almost half of this circle should be outside of the first circle. Pay attention to the position and size of this circle. It should be about one-third the size of the first one. Step 4: On the top, right side of the head, draw a big triangle-like arc as a guide for the dog's first ear. German shepherds have big ears, so don't make this guide too small. Notice how far down it goes on the right side. Step 5: Draw another big triangle- like arc on the top, left side of the head as a guide for the dog's other ear. German Shepherd Drawing Tutorial The image below is the final german shepherd sketch that you will achieve by the end of this tutorial. German shepherds have quite a unique physiology, with their sloping back legs, large ears, and long muzzle. The coloring of a german shepherd is also unlike many other dogs. Nailing these physiological and color characteristics will guarantee you a realistic german shepherd drawing. Every artist has their own unique style, and this should always show through in your final product. As such, do not expect your german shepherd sketch to look exactly like ours. You can use any medium of your choice to complete this tutorial. Whether you use a graphic tablet, or you prefer the allure of watercolor paint , you can simply adapt the instructions to suit your techniques. Step 1: Constructing the Main Body of Your German Shepherd Sketch For all of our animal drawing tutorials, we always begin by using construction lines to lay down the basic shape and proportions of our animal. Beginning with the largest part of the german shepherd, we are going to use an elongated oval to represent the main body shape. In this very first step, you need to be aware of the final shape of your german shepherd sketch. The german shepherd is facing to the left of the canvas, and as a result, this side of the oval should be higher than the other. This slope will help you nail the sloping hips in your german shepherd drawing. Our top drawing tip for this first step is to make sure that your main body construction oval is at the very center of your canvas. You will be adding legs and a head to this oval, so you need plenty of space! Step 2: Constructing the Head of Your German Shepherd Sketch This second step in our realistic german shepherd drawing tutorial is very simple. For the head, you can use a construction circle that is ever-so-slightly oval. Place this head circle just above the right end of the main body oval. You can see on our example below that our circle is slightly oval and that it is angled downwards, with one end facing the bottom left of the canvas. Step 3: Constructing the Muzzle of Your German Shepherd Drawing If you take another look at the finished drawing at the top of this tutorial, you will see that the mouth of the german shepherd is open slightly. In this step, we are going to use construction lines to lay the foundations for this muzzle. Step 4: Constructing the Ears of Your Dog One of the most characteristic features of german shepherds is their large and upright ears. The ear towards the front of the head is further away from us, and it will therefore be slightly narrower than the back one because it appears smaller and because the base will be slightly hidden by the ear closest to us. To capture the joint for this realistic german shepherd drawing, you are going to use a total of six lines for the leg closest to us, and four for the back one. Once again, we need to remember to consider the perspective of our drawing in this step. The leg that is closest to the left side of the canvas is further away from us, and it is therefore slightly shorter and the majority of it is hidden by the leg closest to us. Begin with the whole leg, which is the one that is closest to us. This line can be slightly angled, but not too much. Now, draw a smaller line that angles slightly towards the front of the german shepherd. To complete this leg, take another line down from the main body at more of an angle, and then draw a matching short line. You can separate the top and bottom parts of the leg with a single line, and then draw an oval at the end of the leg to represent the foot. For the second leg, simply draw the far-left line that curves slightly at the top as it leaves the main body oval. Start with the back leg that is further away from us, using a line that curves slightly towards the back of the canvas. Add the ankle joint using a short line that curves towards the front of the canvas, before finishing the leg with a longer foot oval, as this foot is side-on. Complete the back lines of this leg in the same way. For the very back leg, you can simply repeat these steps, making the leg thicker and more curved. The ankle joint can also be less curved towards the front of the canvas. At the end of this step, you will see the german shepherd shape coming through quite clearly. In the next step, you are going to use this basic shape to create the final outline of your realistic german shepherd drawing. Step 7: Drawing the Final Outline In this step, you can use all the previously drawn construction lines to help you outline the final body of your german shepherd drawing. Begin with the head, using a curved line to hide the ear that is furthest out, and then outlining the ears with a more realistic shape. Add some inner curved lines to create the inner eardrum. You can trace the muzzle construction lines quite closely and add a small nose patch. Add some bulges to the bottom neckline, and then take this line down to the legs and paws. You can trace the legs quite closely, but use some short strokes along the back of them to create the impression of fur. You can continue to use these short strokes to trace the belly of your german shepherd sketch into the first back leg. Use the same short fur strokes to outline the front of the very back thigh and adding in a fluffy tail between the back legs. Finish outlining the back legs in a single line and then take this line all the way up the back to join with the head. When you are finished with this step and you are happy with your outline, you can erase any of the remaining construction lines. Step 8: Adding the Detailing and Fur In this step, you are going to add fur detailing throughout the body of your german shepherd sketch. You can also add some shading details to the teeth and the edge of the tongue. To create additional realism in the face of your german shepherd drawing, you can add some shading around the eyes and in the ear curves. To draw the fur, it is important to consider the shape of your german shepherd. You want the hairlines to flow in the same direction as the body does. For example, the hair on the neck and back should flow downwards towards the back of the canvas. On the belly, tail, and back legs, you can direct the flow of the fur downwards. For the most realistic german shepherd drawing, make sure that the hair lengths on the head are the shortest, and as you move down the body, they should get longer. Step 9: Adding the First Coat of Color To get a realistic coloring for your german shepherd drawing, you need to layer up a few different shades. We begin by adding a single light base color, and then we will add a second color coat and shading, and highlights to create depth and dimension. For the base color of your realistic german shepherd drawing, choose a light shade of brown or caramel. You can use this shade to color the entire body of your german shepherd. Step Adding Shadows For this step, choose a slightly darker and warmer shade of brown to add some shading to your german shepherd sketch. Step Adding Highlights The highlight shade you want to use for this is a light beige color. Use a soft brush to apply this highlight around the top of the ears, just above the shoulder, along the back of the back leg, on the belly, and on the tops of the paws. You can also add a few patches of this highlight shade throughout the body. Step Adding the Second Coat of Color The second coat color you are going to use to create your realistic german shepherd drawing is black. Color the nostrils with a lighter shade of grey, and use this same grey to add shading to the inside and outside of the ears, and around the eye. Step Finalizing the Facial Details For this final detailing step, you are going to need a shade of light red, white, and brown. Begin by coloring the tongue with a light shade of red and adding a small highlight to the side with a touch of white. Color all of the visible teeth with your white shade, and add a little dot to the eye. Finally, for the last facial detail, use your shade of brown to color in the eyes of your german shepherd. Step Finishing Your Realistic German Shepherd Drawing For this very final step, you can make your drawing even more realistic by removing the outline and tracing over your fur strokes with your paint. Use the color that corresponds to that particular part of your german shepherd, and cover any outlines or fine lines that disrupt the realism of your drawing. Congratulations for finishing your realistic german shepherd drawing! We really hope that you have enjoyed the drawing process and that you are happy with your final sketch. Now that you know the basic process of how to draw a german shepherd, you can modify the tutorial to draw other types of dogs. This dog typically has long, pointed ears and a medium-length, bi-colored fur coat. German Shepherd dogs are particularly known for their intelligence, courage, and loyalty to their owners. Because of their gorgeous physical features, they are an extremely appealing subject to draw. Thus, it has created a huge demand for a free German Shepherd drawing tutorial. Finally, we present to you—a step-by-step tutorial on how to draw a German Shepherd in a nutshell. This tutorial consists of 9 easy and simple steps that come with visual illustrations. Have fun putting your imaginary pet dog into paper! Step 1 Starting on the upper left portion of your paper, draw a sideways oval shape to outline the head of your German Shepherd. In order to make sure that your German Shepherd will be drawn proportionally, create reference lines by drawing an intersecting horizontal and vertical line across your paper. These lines should divide your paper into four square spaces. The one on the upper left is where you should draw the oval shape. You can structure the body any way you want, and make it as thick or as thin as you want. Afterwards, get rid of the lines overlapping in the legs using an eraser to keep your drawing neat and tidy. Create the hind legs of your dog by drawing a curved line with a folded leg right underneath at the bottom of its body. Bear in mind that since the dog is facing sideways, only one leg is going to be visible. We think a furry tail looks best when drawing a German Shepherd, but feel free to draw the tail any way you like! The standing pointed ears, as seen in the illustration, is actually one of the most distinctive features of a German Shepherd. You can absolutely draw folded ears, droopy ears, or any form of ears you like! Step 8 — Add Patterns and Marks All Over its Coat German Shepherd dogs typically have more than one color, so we will be drawing lines all over its body to help us in coloring its coat later on. Draw another line across the body and the tail, as shown in the illustration. Step 9 — Finish Off by Drawing the Facial Features Finalize your German Shepherd artwork by drawing its eyes, nose, as well as the outline of its inner ear. Next, draw a pair of eyes right below its forehead. Now, complete its facial features by drawing a half upside down triangular shape on its snout to form the nose. This is the part where you can show off your artistic skills and your ability to mix and match various colors. German Shepherd dogs are generally black, grey, or sable in color. There are also some with a combination of the colors black and tan, red and black, and black and silver. This gives you a lot of color options when coloring your drawing. Enjoy coloring your German Shepherd and watch as your drawing ultimately comes to life! Do this to take your German Shepherd drawing to the next level Find out how to make this German shepherd drawing even more amazing! The cartoon style of this German shepherd sketch is really cute! If you want to really challenge yourself, you could try to draw a more realistic rendition. To do this, try looking up some photos of German shepherds, and then use these photos to help you with the details. The ears, paws, facial details and body shape would be the most important aspects to change. If you know someone who has a German shepherd, that would be even better! Whether you stay with this style or make it more realistic, we think this cute dog deserves some toys. You could draw all kinds of fun dog toys beside it for it to interact with. Maybe you could draw a ball, a small rope toy or maybe a squeaky toy. Instead of toys, drawing objects like a food bowl or a water bowl would also be options. Any of these would add some more details to admire in this German shepherd drawing. They would also give you the chance to add lots of color! If you have more favorite dog breeds, we think it would be cute to add them to this drawing of a German shepherd. For example, maybe you love poodles! By looking up some pictures or using a real one, you could draw one done in a similar style to the German shepherd. What are some breeds you would add to this image? Lastly, we would recommend drawing a background for this one. There are so many places a German shepherd could be, from a backyard to a fun dog park. These are some more conventional ideas, but you could also get more creative with it. Maybe the German shepherd could be at a dog party with those other breeds you may have added in the previous tip! What are some fun background ideas you have for this drawing? Your German Shepherd Drawing is Complete! We hope you enjoy this step-by-step German Shepherd drawing tutorial. This guide is designed for beginners and experts alike who want to learn how to draw an adorable German Shepherd dog. This is definitely an enjoyable activity for anyone who loves dogs or animals in general. We are regularly uploading brand-new drawing tutorials, so make sure you keep re-visiting our website so you can keep learning how to draw something new. Make sure to show off your work of art by sharing it on our Facebook page and Pinterest.

Articles The English Bulldog is, unarguably, one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. But regardless of its popularity, the cost of acquiring a Bulldog can be considerably high. They are infamous for health issues related to the stomach and brachycephalia, but these made them popular for farting, snoring and drooling. People find that cute and would pay a high price to own a Bulldog. English Bulldogs with rare coat colors are in high demand, and they typically cost way more than pooches with the regular coat coloring. Apart from the initial amount required to purchase this pooch, the English Bulldog is also quite expensive to maintain. English Bulldogs are available in a variety of colors, and the most expensive pooches are those that come in rare and highly sought after colors. Bulldogs with a Merle colored coat typically have mottled patches of colors on a solid or piebald coat, and which is complimented by beautiful blue or odd-colored eyes. English Bulldogs with a Merle coat typically come in chocolate merle tri, blue merle tri, lilac merle tri or black merle tri. Lilac Tri Bulldogs with Lilac Tri coats are extremely rare and difficult to breed. Bulldogs with this coloring typically boast dark brown and white coats with tan points on the face and legs, and hazel or green eyes. Lifespan A typical English Bulldog is expected to live for an average of between 8 to 12 years. Despite the fact that the Bulldog is a relatively expensive pooch, this is one dog that is prone to several health conditions — most of which are genetically inherited. Additionally, the Bulldog has a unique physical structure, which unfortunately, makes it prone to several health problems. That said, some of the health issues that Bulldogs commonly face include: Hip Dysplasia Simply put, hip dysplasia in Bulldogs is a medical condition that is characterized by the deformation of the hip and socket joint located in the hip region. Bulldogs are predisposed to this condition due to their heavy weight. And a canine suffering from hip dysplasia typically goes through a great deal of pain, lameness in the hind leg, loss of thigh muscle mass and movement difficulties. Brachycephalic Syndrome The Bulldog is common for its pushed-in face, but unfortunately, it is this feature that places the pooch at a higher risk of suffering from a respiratory disorder known as the Brachycephalic Syndrome. It is also worth noting that the Brachycephalic syndrome in Bulldogs typically becomes worse with excessive weight gain or obesity. Minor Health Concerns. Do you want a Bulldog? Wondering if an English Bulldog is the right dog for you? Learn everything there is to know — good and bad — about the English Bulldog. English Bulldog Colors Red English Bulldog Red English Bulldogs display a rich, warm, and vibrant color, ranging from a deep, rustic red to a lighter, coppery shade. Their coat may be solid, or it could come with patches of white. This color variant often displays a mask around the eyes and muzzle, which is usually a darker shade of red or even black. The overall impression of a red English Bulldog is striking and exudes a sense of strength and nobility. Some Fawn Bulldogs may have a solid coat, while others may have white markings or a slight brindle pattern. Fawn Bulldogs often present a softer, more gentle look compared to their red counterparts. This color is highly desirable among enthusiasts for its elegance and subtlety. As you can see, Fawn is similar but a bit lighter than Red. Brindle English Bulldog Brindle English Bulldogs showcase a patterned coat, which is often a mix of dark and light strands resulting in a tiger-stripe or patchwork kind of look. The primary color may range from a light color to red or fawn, with darker streaks or patches. The dark brindling can be minimal or so heavy that the body appears almost black. Brindle English Bulldogs have a unique, standout appeal due to this intricate coat pattern. Also known as a Platinum English Bulldog. White English Bulldogs may be prone to deafness You may be wondering how the color of the coat could affect hearing. A lack of pigment cells The reason for this is that these genes are associated with a lack of pigment cells which give the appearance of their coats. This affects the small hairs in the ear There are small hairs in the inner ear that are called cilia, and when there is an extreme lack of pigment cells, the cilia may not develop properly, resulting in deafness. Hearing tests can rule out deafness If you are interested in a platinum or white English Bulldog or are just concerned about the possibility of your new puppy being deaf, be sure to ask your breeder about performing a BAER test. Test for Health Issues. What Is a Merle English Bulldog? Therefore, a merle English Bulldog is not a separate breed but only refers to a Bully having a distinct, speckled coat that comes in various colors. They can also have variations in terms of patching and dilution. Most owners describe the merle coat of an English Bulldog as a splotch painting or even a scoop of your favorite cookies and cream ice cream. In any case, these dogs are a product of their unique gene pool that gives their eccentric but loveable appearance. Are Merle English Bulldogs Rare? Merle English Bulldogs are the rarest color variation of the breed. Because they are produced through selective breeding, they are not as common as other Bulldog colors. Merle is also a result of a recessive gene, so there is a lower probability of passing on this trait to the subsequent offspring. It just goes to show that if you buy or adopt a merle Bully, you are one of the lucky few who can own this one-of-a-kind dog. However, regardless of their rare status, there is still a merle Bulldog variety that stands out among others. Their coat is covered with small gray or dark gray patches, scattered unevenly throughout their body. These colors can be exhibited as piebald or tri-color. Another notable feature of merle Bulldogs is their eyes. Due to their merle gene , these dogs will almost always have blue eyes. In rarer cases, they can also have heterochromia like the famous David Bowie. Compared to regular Bulldogs, their nose has light pink or mottled black and pink skin instead of pure black. Aside from these differences, a merle English Bulldog will look like your average Bully in terms of build and size. The head is large while the muzzle is short, giving them a squished look. Their pinchable cheeks are round and always protruding sideways. Contrary to their large head, their ears are small and thin, flopping forward comically. Their muscular bodies are covered with loose skin and hang heavily, forming thick wrinkles and folds on the face and neck area. Merle English Bulldogs also have short and stocky legs with good muscle definition. Their thick, stubby tail can either be straight or slightly skewed. Do you want to know what they look like as puppies? A merle Bulldog will grow up to have the same height and weight as an ordinary English Bulldog. They are considered a medium-sized breed. Typically, they stand at around 14 to 15 inches tall. Their full-grown weight falls at approximately 50 pounds for males and 40 pounds for females. At about a year old, a merle English Bulldog will achieve its full height. However, they may continue to gain their adult weight and fill their chest size until two years old. Color genetics in dogs is quite a fascinating subject. The merle pattern in this breed can only be explained through the existence of the merle gene. A dog can display the merle pattern with one copy of the dominant merle allele M and one recessive merle allele m. As mentioned, most merle Bulldogs have pink noses and blue eyes. There are different types of merle dogs that have their unique charm and appearances. This occurrence is mainly due to the unstable and variable nature of merle genes in general. Here are some different variations of the merle English Bulldog: Dilute Merle English Bulldog Dilute merle Bulldogs do not have any dark gray patches on their coats. Their coat appears to be a diluted gray color, but they are still distinguishable through their blue eyes. This is a result of the recessive red allele or E-locus that prevents the merle gene expression. These dogs often pass as a regular Bully in appearance, but you may notice very faint patches on some dogs. They are often called cryptic merles, phantom merles, or even ghost merles. As a carrier of the merle gene, they can still pass it to their offspring. Marlequin English Bulldog Merle Bulldogs can also exhibit a harlequin coat pattern. This means that a dog will have black and gray speckles on its white coat. This results from the merle gene M-locus interacting with a modifier gene at the H-locus. These dogs are often referred to as Marlequins. As they are called, double merle dogs have their eumelanin and phaeomelanin affected by two merle genes. This means that they almost have an all-white coat. Breeding two merle dogs creates a rare and beautiful canine, but it can also result in some health-related issues that I will discuss later on. The main reason for this is because the merle pattern is not a naturally occurring color in the breed. There are also some controversies regarding health problems associated with dogs carrying this gene. The United Kennel Club UKC , another kennel organization in the United States, only allows the registration of piebald English Bulldogs with well-defined patches of a solid color that are symmetrically distributed. Merle dogs do not pass this requirement because their patches appear unevenly throughout the coat. A merle English Bulldog will have the same temperament as any other Bulldog. They are sweet and gentle dogs that make wonderful family pets. You will have no problem introducing them to the household as they also get along quite well with children. Due to their sociable nature, merle Bulldogs always crave human attention. Despite their intimidating appearance, they are very easy-going and affectionate. In contrast to their soft side, merle English Bullies display a sense of courage stemming from their bull-baiting history. Since they were initially bred for this purpose, they make excellent watchdogs for the family. Early socialization and housebreaking are recommended for them to easily adjust to a home environment. If self-training becomes too challenging, enrolling them in a puppy kindergarten class is always an option. The lifespan of a merle English Bulldog is around 10 to 12 years, similar to other English Bulldog colors. However, one of the main drawbacks of owning them is the increased risk of inheriting several health conditions. Microphthalmia is generally caused by the abnormal development of the internal eye structure. Affected dogs usually have impaired vision that may lead to complete blindness. Anophthalmia: This is a very rare eye disorder wherein a dog is born without an eye or both eyes. Like microphthalmia, anophthalmia is a result of an eye anomaly during embryonic development. Merle Bulldogs with this condition will need lifetime support from their owners to adjust to their environment. It is usually identified by a cleft of the iris at the edge of the pupil. Deafness: Another impairment common to double merle Bulldogs is deafness. It is often associated with the degeneration of sensory nerve cells in the eyes due to the absence of melanocytes. While some are born without any sense of hearing, other double merles may gradually develop deafness in later life. Skin Cancer: The rate of skin cancer cases is higher in dogs with the double merle gene. Due to their lack of pigment, their skin becomes a lot more sensitive to the sun. The areas with pink skin, such as the nose and eye rims, are more susceptible to sunburn and, eventually, skin cancer. Recent findings show that merle English Bulldogs are also prone to have complications in the heart, bones, and reproductive system. However, these claims remain to be inconclusive. For a comparison of puppy prices for different types of merle Bulldogs, refer to the table below: Merle Bulldog Color. This can depend on many factors and could vary based on color variations such as lilac merle, tri merle, etc. In this guide, we cover all Merle English bulldog prices so you can get an idea of how much to pay. How Much is a Merle English Bulldog? What are Merle English Bulldogs? Why are They So Expensive? Merle English Bulldogs have an incompletely dominant M gene which dilutes dark colors. Therefore, these dogs end up with a marbled or mottled appearance wherein there is a true basic color and a paler color in the diluted parts. As mentioned earlier, there are several variations in the merle pattern — so you could have blue merle, lilac merle, tri merle, chocolate merle, etc. Although the AKC does not recognize merle English bulldogs, these dogs are in great demand. The reason why Merle English bulldogs are so expensive is due to their beauty, rarity, and uniqueness. The merle coloring creates random patches and patterns that are unique to each dog. No two merle puppies are the same, even in the same litter. Moreover, merle English bulldogs often have light-colored eyes or blue-grey eyes that make them look gorgeous. Since people want rare and beautiful pets, merle English bulldogs are in high demand. This demand has led breeders to breed specifically for the merle pattern. Many breeders even aim for beautiful merle patterns like red merle, sable merle, lilac merle, etc. Merle-colored English Bulldogs are also rare — as they are not recognized by various kennel clubs and are not allowed to participate in dog shows. Therefore, many English bulldog breeders who breed only show-quality pups refrain from breeding them. There are also some general factors that affect puppy prices: Other Factors Affecting Merle English Bulldog Price Coat Colors As mentioned earlier, merle English bulldogs often come with beautiful color variations in them and these can even cost higher. We will cover the costs of these Merle English Bulldog variations later in this guide. Often they are potty trained, socialized with kids and other dogs, and have even received some basic obedience training. In short: these confident little pups are ready for going to their forever homes. People are willing to pay higher for trained English bulldogs and breeders are more than ready to oblige. Pedigree and Bloodlines Pups with superior bloodlines cost much more than those born to bulldogs who are not registered or champions and title owners. Naturally, merle bulldogs are only born to merle bulldogs but there may be outcrosses too. Do note that merle genetics could result in deaf and blind pups. Ethical breeders may conduct genetic tests and health checks to ensure healthy merle puppies. Breeder Reputation Top breeders often charge a lot more just on the basis of their reputation and popularity. This is because of the fact that they have spent time, money, and effort in breeding unique merle-colored Bulldogs. As stated before, they even conduct health checks on the breeding dogs to rule out vision-and-hearing-related issues in the pups. Let us now discuss the prices of different variations of Merle English bulldogs. You typically will see colors like gold-brown, black, fawn, etc. There may be a marbled or mottled appearance on the back, face, and belly. Sable Merle English Bulldog Price Sable coloring in dogs usually means black color with lighter roots. In some dogs, the sable coloring takes the appearance of brown color. With the merle gene, there is a marbled pattern with brown, light brown, grey, or tan appearance. Chocolate Merle English Bulldog These dogs have a lovely deep brown base coat with a lighter color pattern sprinkled randomly on the back and the paws. The face typically has large patches of white, cream, brown, or black. The belly and chest could have white or tan coloring. The chocolate tri merle coloring is very rare which has increased its demand and, hence, the price. These bulldogs have randomly placed stripes of chocolate brown interrupting the base coat color. It is caused by a recessive gene and breeders breed selectively to get puppies having a purplish sheen on their coats. These dogs often have bluish or grey-blue eyes. Lilac tri merle English bulldog puppies are very much in demand. Some of these dogs have light eyes and sometimes, one eye is dark and the other is light. Blue Merle English Bulldog Price A white base with gray or dark gray mottling can create a bluish appearance resulting in the beautiful blue merle English Bulldog. These beautiful dogs often have the blue merle pattern all over the back and hind legs. The front legs may be solid colored — typically white — and the belly is white as well. There also may be white patches on the face and head. Blue merle bulldogs are rare, so breeders often grab the opportunity to charge higher for them. Blue Tri Merle English Bulldog Price In blue tri-merle English bulldogs, you will see colors like blue, black, brown, white, fawn, grey, and tan. Coat Color.

Conclusion 1. Maple Hill Doodles At Maple Hill Doodles , they take a holistic approach to helping nurture the healthiest, finest, most well-balanced puppies in Ohio. Their pets start a raw diet after weaning , which helps foster a long life. Labradoodle puppy sitting on a tree trunk. The folks at Maple Hill offer their dogs lots of outside playtime on 2. With so much space at their disposal, the pups get exposed to an abundance of textures, experiences, and sounds. This environment ensures that your new Doodle fur baby can easily acclimate to a new environment. Just fill out an inquiry form on their website to start the process. Contact Details: Location: Burton, Ohio 2. Heritage Manor Labradoodles Heritage Manor Labradoodles is a family-owned breeder specializing in healthy and happy pups. They utilize the guardian program, and all their dogs are under the care of a state-of-the-art health facility in the area. Labradoodle puppy sits alone and waits for his owner. HML is also a member of the ALAA, having achieved Gold Paw status for maintaining an excellent standard of clinical and functional health for their breeder dogs. They also received the All-Star Breeder award from the WALA, as they are dedicated to the safety of their pets, as well as the best breeding practices. All Labradoodles have a microchip , health records, first vaccines, a two-year health certificate, socialization skills, a pedigree guarantee, and some early training. Contact Details:. One boy is currently available for reservation. Jillian has a rich chocolate coat and is a complete love bug! She is from our Jaggers and a Clark granddaughter! Simply the best of the best! We are so excited for the potential of these babies to do therapy work and be amazing companion family members! Jillian is another fantastic example of the Australian Labradoodle, and will make a wonderful contribution to the breed and our breeding program. Banner is a Mini size chocolate phantom boy with a loose wavy fleece coat. He is from our friends at Pine Lodge in Oregon, and we are so excited to bring their genetics into our program. We expect to see wonderful therapy prospects in a variety of colors and patterns in all of Banner's future litters! It is not our goal to "sell" you a puppy, it is Our mission to provide a valuable family member. Before going to their new homes, Riverbend Australian Labradoodle puppies are Vet checked, microchipped, given age appropriate vaccinations, spayed and neutered, de-wormed routinely, and heartworm, flea, and tick preventative is started. We guarantee, in writing, the health of our puppies for two years. We offer our continual support, and welcome you to draw from our knowledge and years of experience, for as long as it is needed. Riverbend Australian Labradoodle puppies are raised in our home, for proper socialization and handling from birth. We believe the key to a developing a healthy, rewarding relationship, lies in starting your puppy correctly. This will set the stage for a balanced, lasting relationship and a puppy that can handle transition into his new home and family quickly and easily. We start our puppies early with exposure to proper manners, house breaking, crate training, grooming, and handling. Once your particular litter has arrived, we welcome visits from those families that would like to get to know us and their puppy. We are very protective of young, developing immune systems, and ask that you come straight from home, and do not stop along the way or engage with dogs you do not know to limit the possibility of spreading germs, bacteria, or disease. You can visit on the scheduled family visit weekend, and we are happy to share that special time with you and your new family member. We will have you visit with several puppies, and sometimes the entire litter, so you are familiar with their temperaments, and can be an active participant in choosing the puppy that is to join your family. For those long-distance families, we schedule FaceTime visits so they can be included and active in the visitation process also. When you are ready to add a Riverbend Labradoodle puppy to your family we would ask that you email us directly, as we have an informational email that helps to get you started. We love for you to share with us information about yourself and your family, your lifestyle and activity level, and things that you like to do as a family. We would like to hear about your previous pet history, and what you are looking for in the addition of a puppy to your family. When you are ready to place a reservation, you can send a personal check to us. We hold your deposit check, as our deposits are refundable through the age of 4 weeks of whichever litter you ultimately are offered and say yes to, so you will have plenty time to be sure this is the right decision for your family, and we have time to be sure we have the right family for our puppy. If you do change your mind in the process, we can easily shred your deposit and take you off the reservation list. Once you are placed on a litter, we will send helpful information directly to your family every two weeks to help prepare you for your puppy, and we also include new puppy pictures so your family can be involved in the growth and development of the litter. We carefully research and select only the finest dogs for our breeding program, in order to produce a Labradoodle true to type, with predictable size, temperament, and coat. Our years of dedication to breeding only the finest American and Australian lines is evident in the style and grace of a Riverbend Labradoodle. We have stamped a consistant type and look that is unmatched in the Labradoodle community. Due to changes in regulations, we will not longer use cargo shipping as an option for delivery long-distance. Puppies can be flown in-cabin to their new families and be personally delivered by us to you, Or, we can meet you at the Detroit Metro Airport in Michigan, and you can take your puppy home in-cabin. Or, you are always welcome to come to our home and receive your puppy. We are located about 90 minutes from Detroit. We recommend direct flights when possible, so the puppies are hand-delivered from us to you, and can get home as quickly as possible. Puppies flying in-cabin are available after the age of 9 weeks. They will see our Veterinarian at approximately 6 weeks, and again just before leaving to ensure a current health exam and health certificate is completed. We work closely with our families to choose a major airport that is closest to them, but that still offers the most direct, non-stop route. We also choose a day and time that works well with our families and their schedule, and coordinates flight times with being able to get back and forth easily. Flying with puppies within the United States will be priced individually depending upon ticket prices, and same day or next day flight availability. Older puppies or International flights may be more expensive. Since we changed our policy of cargo shipping, we have enjoyed providing this personal in-cabin flight and delivery service to our families across the nation. This is a worldwide organization bringing together nearly Breeders from the United States, Canada, Europe, and Australia that are dedicated to protecting the breed we love so much. We are honored at the opportunity to help protect and promote the breed we love so much with our participation in these organizations. Why is this important to you? Our Australian Labradoodles must meet requirements for health testing, and you can be assured that everything is being done to breed the healthiest Australian Labradoodle puppies possible. All our litters of puppies must be registered and appropriate pedigree information provided to families. Being a WALA registered Australian Labradoodle Member Breeder means you can be assured we are responsible and accountable to an organization that has very strict guidelines and requirements in place that protect you as a consumer. Our Story Love and Loss Welcome, we are Linda and Jerry, and our story began when we took our children to pick out a puppy in .We had our children with us and intended to bring home one puppy, however, after a lot of tears and their inability to make a decision, we brought home two puppies, sisters. They shared our passion for the outdoors and exercise, and were part of our family for over 13 years. In their 13th year we lost them within 10 days of one another, the first to illness, and her sister most likely due to a broken heart. We were devastated! Not only had we lost our canine family members, our children had recently moved on to begin their next chapters. Helping Others Besides keeping busy with our jobs, we also kept busy with significant involvement in fundraising, participation, and volunteer efforts. Our interest in the program was personal, stemming from the illness and ultimate loss of a parent afflicted with non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. In fact, Jerry has been donating platelets twice a month for over 10 ten years. But, something was still missing, the nest felt too empty. Re-filling the Empty Nest Despite our growing extended family, we still felt an emptiness of spirit in our home — we missed canine companionship. In considering a new canine family member, we remembered that years before we met a neighbor with a new pup and were intrigued by its personality, so we asked what breed it was and learned it was a Labradoodle. Through our research, we learned of the origin and unique characteristics to the breed which led us to finding a well-respected, responsible, and knowledgeable breeder. In late we brought home our first puppy, Sasha. We fell in love with everything about her, from her beauty to her puppy antics, and most importantly, her loving heart. And, we found that she was determined to find her way into the hearts of every human she met. As we progressed through training levels with Sasha it became crystal clear to us that what we had learned in our research about the intelligence of this breed was true. This is what led us to the desire to further this wonderful breed. Our Decision Among its many amazing qualities, the Multi-Generational Australian Labradoodle breed may be ideal for those with canine allergies, as well as for those looking for a low to non-shedding dog. We began to recognize that the very nature of this awesome breed fit well with our passion for doing our part to help others, which is why we maintained continuous training through the testing and achievement of the AKC Good Citizen certification. As Sasha approached her one year birthday we reached out to our breeder with our interest in the avenue of starting our own — small, in-home breeding program, of Multi-Generational Australian Labradoodles. In mid we brought home a new addition to our family — Colonial Village Berkley — a gorgeous smaller medium, caramel colored fleece-coated female. Berkley was the initiator of our small, home-based, breeding program. In June, , her first litter of 8 spectacular caramel and chocolate babies were born. She has a phenomenal chocolate silky fleece coat, and is a standard-size. Poodles are known to be a non-shedding breed of dog. We have been breeding standard poodles and labradoodles for many years. There is a great variation in labradoodle coats. Multi-generation is the only proven and consistent coat in the breed established after years of perfecting the coat. Our coats are perfect! They are soft, wavy curly with no coarse or wiry hair. We bathe and groom the dogs and puppies often and there is very little hair ever noticed in the tub at the end of their bath. Pet hair in our house, and on our furniture or clothes is mostly non-existent. It takes years to get a true multi-generational labradoodle. Belonging to a kennel club is an important part of being a responsible breeder. How big will my puppy get? Many factors play into the mature size of your pet. The amount of feed provided controlled or automatic feeding , the amount of exercise the pet gets and the quality of feed provided enough protein for maturing bones,muscles, etc. As with people, nutrition and exercise help to determine size in dogs. We breed standard size poodles and multi-generational labradoodles. We do not sell our puppies with breeding rights-only to approved homes. What should I feed my new puppy? We provide each family with a bag of starter puppy food. Providing your puppy with top quality puppy food is very important for that first year of rapid growth and development.

Shih poos are a cross between a shih tzu and a toy poodle. While some shih tzu breeders breed a poodle to a shih tzu to create first-generation shih poos, it's also common practice to breed shih poos to one another to create multigenerational dogs. As cross-breeds, shih poos are not an officially recognized breed, and there is no breed standard regarding appearance or temperament. Even shih poo puppies born to the same litter may take after one parent more than the other and appear vastly different in coat texture and coloring, says PetGuide. Shih poos fall in the small to tiny range, typically standing between eight and 18 inches at the withers and weighing anywhere from eight to 18 pounds. Their coat may be long, straight and silky like that of the shih tzu, shorter and curly like that of a poodle or it may fall somewhere in between. Despite the appearance, the shih poo's coat barely sheds, making these dogs a good fit for someone with mild pet allergies. Coloring can take after either parent breed. While poodles have solid coats that are typically black, white, gray, brown or apricot, shih tzu coats may be solid or come in various color patterns and combinations. Shoodle coats may mimic the coloring pattern of either parent. Personality: Often, mixed-breed dogs develop a temperament that balances the qualities of their parent breeds. Shih tzus tend to be highly affectionate and extremely charming, but possess a stubborn streak that can make them difficult to train. Poodles, on the other hand, while equally charming with playful and comedic personalities, are highly intelligent dogs who are more eager to please and easier to train. Shih poos, as a result, are often playful, affectionate and quick-witted little charmers, although they may inherit their shih tzu parent's willfulness. Because of this, they often need a firm but patient guide in training, and might not be the best choice for first-time dog parents. What shih poos may lack in trainability, they more than make up for in love and affection. They love to play with toys and get along wonderfully with older children, although due to their small size and hair that's easy to grab and pull, they should be closely supervised around small children. While friendly and great at getting along well with other pets, especially if introduced as puppies, older shih poos might not love having other dogs around. They often do well as only dogs. Even so, these fluffy pups love being close to their people and don't tolerate being left alone for long periods of time. If work or school takes you away from home for long hours, you may need to consider doggie daycare to keep your shih poo happy. Living With: Shih poos are generally versatile dogs that can do well in small apartments as well as larger homes. They need up to 30 minutes a day of play and exercise, which can be satisfied with two or three short walks each day or minute sessions of vigorous playtime twice daily. The rest of the time, they'll be content to curl up in your lap or to cuddle up next to you on the sofa. Shih poos are highly social and love to be around people, so expect them to stick close as you move around the house. While shih poos tend to be long-lived, with some living 17 years or more, they can be predisposed to the same health problems as their parent breeds. These include allergies, patellar luxation , vision problems and endocrine disorders such as Addison's disease, hypothyroidism and Cushing's disease. Shih poos that inherit the shorter snout of the shih tzu may also be prone to respiratory issues, reverse sneezing and snoring. Extra care should be taken to prevent overheating and heat stroke, says Dogtime. And like many small breeds, these dogs may be prone to dental problems and will benefit from regular dental cleanings and daily tooth brushing. Regardless of the length or texture of your shih poo's coat, it will be thick, fast-growing and prone to matting. Daily brushing and monthly visits to the groomer are recommended to keep the coat under control. Limit baths to a few times a month to prevent the skin from drying out. When bathing, be sure to prevent water from getting in the ear canals to prevent ear infections from developing. Shoodles have healthy appetites and will overeat if given the chance, which will lead to unhealthy weight gain. It's best to keep them on a consistent feeding schedule rather than allowing them to graze on kibble throughout the day. Feed your pup a high-quality food dog formulated for small breeds , and keep treats to a minimum. History: Not much is known about the backstory of the shih poo. Unlike other boutique breeds, no breeders have come forward to take credit for introducing the shih poo. Most likely this cross-breed came about unintentionally, with breeders in the U. As a cross-breed, shih poos are not recognized as an official breed by the American Kennel Club, although they are recognized by various designer breed registration clubs, including the American Canine Hybrid Club and the International Designer Canine Registry. Related Pet Care Articles. The main problem is the marginal response to training by both of the parents. Photo by Mary Swift on Shutterstock Shih-Tzus are quite stubborn and that can make training them a hustle. If you want to achieve something, grant them a lot of attention. On the contrary, Poodles enjoy having their minds and bodies tested so will learn everything there is to know very fast. Your Shih-Poo might not be the best training candidate, especially with dominant Shin-Tzu traits. However, starting the training early and implementing consistency and positive reinforcement will eventually provide results. Their ideal exercise time is approximately half an hour walking daily, possibly in two separate sessions. Sometimes additional exercises can be added if you want them to lose weight. At least an hour of exercise is what can keep your poodle satisfied. This hour can be filled either with intense walking, a game of fetch, or other rousing games. Lack of physical and mental stimulation in Poodles can result in destructive behavior. Excessive barking, digging, and chewing are signs of boredom and excess energy. Obesity can mean that your dog is more of a Poodle in means of exercise and needs to spend time out a lot more. Shih Poos are not inherently aggressive at all. However, as with many small dog breeds, training is often neglected at the expense of a wildly barking and untrained dog. There is no doubt that a Shih-Poo can be madly in love with his family and all life regardless. Whether they are friendly with other animals and people can also reflect their early socialization. Shih-Tzu dogs are very affectionate and there is nothing more they love than following their owners from place to place even the bathroom. They are made to be companion dogs and are generally happy beings. If they think there is something out of the ordinary ex. After the stranger comes in they will be best friends with the dog in a matter of minutes. Poodles strive toward the protective temperament. They are wary of strangers and will let you know that strangers approach their house. A Poodle is an affectionate dog too, but it can take a while to get used to new people, or not get used at all. Without any distraction, they are calm when their family is around. Shih-Tzus are a bit contradictory when it comes to the following leadership. Being stubborn they might decide not to do something or go someplace. In the meantime, they are dependent on their owners and cannot spend a minute without them. When they misbehave if you try to yell at them or punish them will make things even worse because they have very sensitive feelings. Beware of their jealousy especially when you are playing with other pets or children. Provide enough stimulation early in their lives and take the leadership badge. You will need to show you Shih-Poo that you are the leader by using positive reinforcement. Make your dog feel safe around you, give a lot of attention, work on socialization, and no matter what traits are dominant, you will have an obedient furry friend. Health Because of their sensitive skin, Shih-Poos can be prone to skin and ear infections. A contributing factor can be the frequent cases of allergies within the breed. Some bad anatomical formations can produce musculoskeletal abnormalities such as patellar luxation or hip dysplasia. Retained baby teeth, gum disease, and periodontal disease are also a result of anatomical abnormalities in Shih-Tzus. Another hormonal disease Poodles often develop is Diabetes. Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus or simply called bloat is common in deep-chested dogs such as the Poodles. The condition is very serious. You can reduce the risk of developing if you limit exercises after meals and give smaller and frequent portions of food and water. If the Shih-Poo inherits the Shih-Tzu anatomy there is a big chance for the dog to suffer from dysplasia, retained baby teeth, and any other breathing problem brachycephalic dogs have. Both Poodles and Shih Tzus have a life expectancy of around 13 years and Poodles. A Shih-Tzu cross-breed dog can live years. Depending on factors such as genetics, nutrition, and lifestyle dogs of this breed can live even longer. Do Shih Poos Shed? Yes, Shih Poos do shed and there are a lot of varieties of Shih-Poo coats. Some dogs get the straight fur from the Tzu parent while others are curly like their Poodle predecessor. In most cases, the crossbreed will be a combination of both. Shih-Poos have to be brushed daily and groomed on monthly basis. Along with bathing when necessary, you can prevent their coat from getting dry , matted, and irritated. Both Poodles and Shih-Tzus are considered to be hypoallergenic dog breeds. Their hair is less likely to shed and cause allergic reactions in people. An interesting thing about Shih Tzus is the way their hair grows in all directions — this granted them the moniker Chrysanthemum Dog. Regarding color, they can be in all variations and combinations — brindle, black, brown, white. Size Shih Tzu Poodle mixes are usually inches cm and weigh between pounds kg , assuming the dog is crossed with a smaller Poodle. Standard Shih Tzu dogs have an adult height between 8 and 11 inches cm and weigh pounds kg. There is also the Imperial Shih Tzu that can weigh less than 5 pounds 2. In most countries, they are classified as a toy dog breed. Adult Toy Poodle is about 10 inches 25 cm tall with pounds kg of body weight — Standard Poodle stands are 15 inches 38 cm in height and pounds kg weight. There are 4 different types of poodle — toy, miniature, medium, standard. The shelters across the globe are filled with Shih-Tzu and Poodle crosses. The dog is perfect for both larger and smaller homes and families with children if socialized properly. Let me know if you have any questions left regarding this crossbreed or share your experiences with the Shih tau Poodle mix! Disclaimer: This blog post does not substitute veterinary attention and does not intend to do so. I am not a veterinarian or pet nutritionist. If your dog shows any sign of illness, call your vet. Post navigation. The tiny size of the shih-poo has made them typically shy towards strangers. However, having a friendly disposition, they are keen in pleasing their owners. They know how to socialize with children and other pets. It is pretty easy for the owner to train this intelligent, alert pet. They are loyal, loving and affectionate, enjoying attention and spending time caressed, sitting on the laps of their family members. This makes them a good companion dog to families with elderly people. Care Exercise Shipoos enjoy outing, and require a moderate amount of exercise. Take them out for a medium to short walk every day. Since they also love playing, allow them to play without a leash if you have an enclosed yard space. Shihpoos also get a fairly good amount of exercise, shedding calories while playing around all day. Grooming The coat of the shihpoo is wavy to curly that needs regular brushing. This is to avoid their long hair from getting matted. Brush it with a soft brush with special attention to its hindquarters, behind the ears, and beneath the shoulders. You can also seek for professional help every 3 to 4 months. Health Problems Being a cross breed, they are not much vulnerable to catching diseases, except for the general health problems. Since their inner ear temperature runs more than normal because of their floppy ears, they are much vulnerable to ear infections. To avoid this, keep their ears dry, especially after bath. Also insist on a good dental health regimen since they might as well be susceptible to dental issues. Training The ready-to-please attitude, along with loyalty and intelligence have made the shihpoos easily trainable. Socialize them from their puppy-days, and train them get used to strangers and be tolerant with other pets. Crate training is also easy, since this dog loves to poop and pee in such places that are away from their sleeping place. Like many small dogs, this breed tends to act stubborn at times. So be sure to be strict and authoritative while training so that they understand the rule that it is you who is the leader of its new pack. But never be rude, since these dogs do not respond well to harsh training techniques. Hence, monitor its dietary habits and calorie intake. Like most other dogs of the size, insist on raw meat diet, and try avoiding foods not good for dogs in general. But, to be specific, dry foods like kibble is advisable for this breed, since they are prone to develop issues with teeth and might very easily suffer from premature loss of teeth. This should also keep it safe from gum infections and bad breath. Interesting Facts The Shih-poo is mostly a mixture of a shih-tzu and a mini Poodle. A shih-poo having a standard Poodle is extremely uncommon. If healthy, these dogs do very well in dog sports like agility, obedience, and rally. If possible, arrange to meet them and spend some time with them. This will give you some idea of their characteristic traits and, while there is no guarantee that these traits will pass on to your puppy, you should look for friendly, alert, and happy parents. Shih-Poos Are Considered Hypoallergenic Shih-Poos, like their Poodle parent breed , are often described as being hypoallergenic which prospective owners take to mean that they will not affect those with allergies to dogs. However, those with dog allergies are allergic to the dander that the dog produces, and not to a specific coat or hair. All dogs produce dander, which is effectively just dead skin cells. However, while there is no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic dog breed, the Poodle is one breed that is known to cause fewer allergic reactions in sufferers, lending some credence to the claim. If you are allergic to dogs or have a condition like asthma, try spending some time with these breeds to see how you react and whether they trigger allergic reactions. Although they are best known as a Chinese breed, they actually originate from Tibet and it is believed that the nation sent dogs to Chinese royalty as gifts, and they were then bred with Pekinese or Pugs. Although the breed has long been popular in China, it was at its most popular in the 19th century. The Empress was so taken with the breed that she considered the dogs to be sacred. This popularity stems from the fact that the little lion dogs have a face that looks like a lion and Buddha was said to have ridden to Earth on the back of a lion. There is some debate surrounding its origins but the breed was either first bred as a water dog in Germany or from the French Barbet. On balance, even though the dog was once named the royal breed in France, it seems most likely that they are a German water dog by origin. Even their fancy hairstyle stems from their early working lives. Today, there are dozens of hybrid Poodle breeds available, including the Shih-Poo. However, they have been bred from two very well-known breeds that we can take information from. Shih-Tzus and Poodles both tend to be friendly and outgoing, and they should not be shy or nervous. This breed is known to get on well with people of all ages, especially those that show them love and adoration. They are very happy to be stroked and loved. This can be further encouraged through positive and continuous socialization at a young age. However, they do not always get on well with dogs outside the family unit but can make companions for existing dogs when bought as a puppy. Small dogs are known for being a bit yappy. They vocalize their feelings, to make up for the fact that they are small. While this is common in a lot of small breeds, it is actually less common in the Shih-Poo, which adopts the quieter nature of the Poodle. Are These Dogs Good for Families? He will happily curl up on your lap for hours if allowed, and he will get on with all family members. He will also enjoy playing, so he is a good dog for older children. As ever, it is not recommended that families with very small children have this dog. Babies and toddlers tend to grab at things when concentrating on them, and this can lead to injury or cause the dog to nip. However, if you want your dog to live with cats or other dogs, it is better to introduce them slowly and at a young age. Shih-Poos do not cope well with being left alone for extended periods of time, so having another dog as a companion can help to alleviate loneliness, prevent boredom, and stop any negative habits that might form. He can make a great family pet for those with older children that know how to play calmly with a dog. He can also be integrated into an existing family consisting of other dogs and even cats. He will benefit from being fed high-quality dry kibble, and you should expect to feed approximately one cup of food a day. This is best served as two small meals and you should avoid free-feeding because this breed, like so many other dog breeds, has a tendency to overeat which can lead to weight issues like joint pain. This is thanks, in part, to their diminutive size. A short, brisk walk in the morning and another in the evening is ideal, and you can supplement this throughout the day by playing with a ball or small toy. He will, however, perform well in agility classes and these can be a great way to exercise his mind as well as his body. This means that you need to offer training at a young age to ensure that they are learning desirable traits and behaviors. Although they are intelligent, the Shih-Poo can be headstrong and stubborn, and they do not always take well to training. The short attention span means that your dog will benefit from short and relatively simple training sessions. You will need a lot of patience to get the desired results, so be prepared to put in some time and effort. Socialization should be considered an important part of training any dog, especially this breed. Good socialization teaches the dog how to behave around strangers and when meeting new people. It also introduces them to other dogs and helps prevent them from being nervous and unhappy. A nervous dog is always on edge and can become nippy. A good way to ensure socialization is with puppy classes. Your Shih-Poo might not want to learn new tricks or other behaviors but is likely to want to meet new people and make new friends, so they will usually relish puppy classes. You can also take walks at your local dog park, which will offer further socialization. Brushing their coat is vital, and you should do this twice a week. You may also need to trim the coat every year, especially around the eyes and face to help ensure that your dog can see properly. Small dogs are especially prone to dental problems, so brush two or three times a week, more often if your dog will let you. In general, you should avoid bathing dogs because it can strip them of natural, protective oils, but it is recommended that Shih Tzu and Poodle Mix owners bathe their dogs every month or two. This can help prevent skin problems that are otherwise prevalent in this breed. Brush at least twice a week, ideally three times, and potentially every day if your dog will let you. The breed also has the potential to suffer from skin and coat complaints. Regular and thorough grooming will help to prevent these problems and can provide them some relief if they are suffering any kind of insensitivity or rash. They can also become teary-eyed, and this can prevent them from seeing properly and may lead to them scratching and rubbing at their eyes, causing further problems. Wipe the tears away when you see there is a buildup and this will prevent your dog from having to do it and potentially irritate the area further. As such, you should be prepared to take them for regular veterinarian checkups and make sure you have good pet insurance because the costs can quickly mount. Despite these potential problems, the Shih-Poo has a life expectancy of between 12 and 15 years with some dogs living much longer than this. Minor Conditions. Although purebred dogs are carefully bred over generations according to the breed standard the written description of the ideal physical and temperamental traits of the breed , hybrid dogs like the shih tzu—poodle mix have no official standard. This means that characteristics like height and weight, body structure, color, coat type, and temperament are less predictable than they are in purebred dogs. Different breeders may have different ideas of what constitutes the perfect shih tzu—poodle mix. Additionally, shih tzu—poodle mixes are not recognized by any of the reputable purebred dog registries such as the American Kennel Club or United Kennel Club. Shih Tzu—Poodle Mix Care The low-shedding coats of both shih tzu and poodles require of upkeep, and the grooming requirements for shih tzu—poodle mixes are similar. Brush daily or every other day to keep the coat untangled and to prevent mats from forming. Like poodles and shih tzu, shih tzu—poodle mixes require regular haircuts from a professional groomer. Also trim the nails every two weeks and check the ears once a week, cleaning them with a pet safe ear cleaner if they appear dirty. Excessive dirt or redness in the ears means a veterinary visit is in order. Shih tzu—poodle mixes are smart, but how trainable they are depends whether they inherited more the eager-to-please personality of the Poodle or the more stubborn nature of the shih tzu. Regardless, positive-reinforcement methods like clicker training using tasty treat rewards gets great results from any dog. Despite being indoor dogs, shih tzu—poodle mixes still need some exercise. Aim for two walks a day or one walk and one play session in a safely enclosed space like your fenced yard. More energetic shih tzu—poodle mixes with trainable personalities might also like training for fun dog sports like agility, flyball, and obedience. Each breed has certain inherited health disorders in their family background, and those health issues can be passed on to the puppies in a litter. Breeding shih tzu to poodles means the puppies could potentially inherit any of the genetic diseases common to either breed. Shih tzu are prone to hip dysplasia , patellar luxation slipped kneecap , and various eye problems including cataracts , progressive retinal atrophy, retinal detachment, and eyelid abnormalities. Responsible breeders start with healthy, well-bred adult purebred shih tzu and poodles and test them for the genetic diseases common to their breed before breeding them together. Responsible breeders should also test their adult shih tzu—poodle hybrids before breeding them to decrease the odds that the puppies will inherit genetic issues. Responsible breeders also offer a health guarantee on their puppies that protects the puppy buyer in case the puppy develop a genetic disease later in life. Many shih tzu—poodles will overeat if you keep the bowl filled, so instead serve measured meals twice a day. Ask to your veterinarian for a recommendation for a healthy food for your shih tzu—poodle mix, as well as an ideal healthy weight for your adult shih tzu—poodle. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. They are not purebreds like their Shih Tzu or Poodle parents. Shih-Poo coats can be curly like their Poodle parent, straight like their Shih-Tzu parent, or a combination of the two. They are generally considered hypoallergenic. Shih-Poos can come in black, white, brown, brindle, and all variations and color combinations. Like most small dogs, Shih-Poos can be prone to dental health issues. Maintain proper dental hygiene for your Shih-Poo. Shih-Poos are pretty versatile and can live in just about any kind of home. Shih-Poos come from the loyal, adorable Shih Tzu, and the intelligent, sophisticated Poodle. Unfortunately, like any other breed, these little cutie pies wind up in shelters, from people not wanting a long-term commitment. If you keep your eyes out for a Shih Tzu or Poodle rescue, in your area, that is most likely where you will find a Shih-Poo awaiting adoption. They are not acknowledged as an official breed at the present time. That said, as a mix between Shih-Tzu and Toy Poodle parents, you can expect the Shih-Poo to be on the small side Most weigh in at eight to 18 pounds and range in height from eight to 18 inches. As Poodle and Shih Tzu size can vary between teacup, miniature and standard, the size of the Shih-Poo will also vary. Shih Tzus can be stubborn, but what they lack in trainability, they make up for in personality ten fold. They are incredibly friendly, attentive, and cute, while Poodles are intelligent, trainable, and active. Shih-Poo personalities can vary but typically will fall in the middle of parental traits. Most Shih-Poos are described as friendly and playful. While Shih-Poos enjoy a good siesta, they also enjoy walks and thrive on playtime. They may not be eager to learn new tricks but do enjoy interaction and attention. Shih-Poos may not be as barky as their Poodle parent, but may alert you to any displeasures, such as a missed meal, with a single bark until every few minutes until needs are met. Training and socialization should be established early on. Consistency and positive reinforcement are the ways to go with Shih-Poos. Shih-Poo Health While many designer crossbreeds have improved overall health, they can inherit health issues their parents are prone to. That said, Shih-Poos can typically live approximately 16 years on average in relatively great health. Watch for signs of heat stroke if your dog happens to have a shorter snout. As a small dog, they can be prone to dental problems. Maintain good dental care and have their teeth regularly checked and professionally cleaned. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Make sure Shih-Poos are kept on a dietary schedule. Do not allow free-feeding as they will overeat and rapidly gain weight. They will need regular potty breaks and one or two ten-to minute walks a day for optimal health. Dental issues can be problematic. Regular teeth cleanings are recommended, as well as systematic dental chews and teeth brushings. Your vet should be able to help you establish a routine. Shih-Poo ears should be kept clean and dry. After bathing, take extra steps to ensure this. If your pup gets a smelly, pungent odor, they may have an ear infection. Ear cleaning solution can help keep your pup from getting infections and unnecessary trips to the vet. Shih-Poo Feeding An ideal Shih-Poo diet should be formulated for a small-sized breed with medium energy. High quality food is recommended, as they do tend to have dental issues. They should not be allowed to free feed as they may gain weight. A feeding schedule is ideal with a minimum of treats. They can get the curly fur from their Poodle parent, the straight fur from their Shih-Tzu parent, or a combination of the two, which is most likely. The color will vary, as well. They can come in black, white, brown, brindle, and all variations and color combinations. Daily brushings, as well as monthly groomings, will help keep your pup looking and feeling their very best. You may also want to give them a few baths in between, but not more than weekly, as their skin and coat can get dry and irritated. Shih-Poos prefer to be mostly around adults or older kids who know how to play gently. That said, for children who learn early how to properly approach and play with a small dog, the Shih-Poo can make a great companion. When it comes to other pets, Shih-Poos can get along with other animals if they are introduced slowly and calmly, and early socialization will help this go smoothly. Shih-Poos can be left alone for short periods of time, but a second dog could be ideal for them, especially in their later years. However, you may want to try Shih Tzu or Poodle breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Life Span Did You Know? The Shih-Poo has an adorable, alert expression and small, sturdy body. They can take after the Poodle parent, the Shih-Tzu parent, or be any combination of the characteristics of both parent breeds. Shih-Poos tend to be friendly, playful, and affectionate. They love their families and are avidly devoted to them. They tend to be friendly to other dogs, strangers, other pets, and children. They tend to do better with older children who have been taught how to carefully handle a dog. Due to their small size, a Shih-Poo can be easily hurt by rough play or accidental falls. They can do well in families with younger children as long as any time with them is closely supervised. The Shih-Poo tends to be a courageous little dog. They make excellent watchdogs because they are very alert. However, they can become territorial and barking can become a nuisance if left unchecked. Early socialization and training can help curb these tendencies and help your Shih-Poo puppy grow into a well-behaved, confident dog. This designer dog breed is highly adaptable. They do well in apartments as well as in larger homes and tend to do well in most climates. They are sensitive to extreme heat or cold, so they do best in moderate climates. Due to their small size, they may need to layer up for short trips outside when winter rolls in. Because Shih-Poos crave affection and love their humans, they do not like being left alone for long periods of time. The Shih-Poo is a generally healthy designer dog breed. Although the genetic mix can sometimes result in winning the genetic lottery, a mixed dog breed can still be susceptible to health conditions common in one or both of the parent breeds in the cross. By talking with the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents and asking to see any health clearances, you can allay several of these potential health concerns. This designer dog breed is highly intelligent and can be easy to train. However, they can also have a stubborn streak that can cause some difficulty for first-time dog owners. This is often easily remedied with the help of some puppy training classes. They can also be difficult to housebreak, but it can be done with plenty of training, consistency, and patience. Crate training can also help. Shih-Poos respond best to positive, reward-based training. Whether with praise, treats, or play, you can reward your Shih-Poo for the behavior you like, which will encourage them to do more of it. Coat types and colors can vary greatly in your Shih-Poo. They can have the long, silky, and straight coat of the Shih Tzu, the short, curly, and non-shedding coat of the Poodle, or a combination of both. Most Shih-Poos end up with a curly or wavy, low or non-shedding coat. However, you should be prepared for your Shih-Poo to exhibit either coat type of the parent breeds. This coat looks its best with a combination of brushing a few times a week at home and then professional grooming every four to six weeks. This will help remove tangles and loose hair and prevent matting. Regular dental care is also important. Small dogs are more prone to dental disease. Drop down ears, or floppy ears, are more prone to ear infections because they can trap moisture, dirt, or debris. Daily walks and some indoor playtime will give this dog plenty of exercise. Beyond that, most of them can keep up with you on longer walks and can even compete in dog sports like rally, obedience, and agility. Be sure to check with your vet first and get your dog cleared before taking on any rigorous activities or training for dog sports. A Shih-Poo will generally stand 8 to 15 inches tall and weigh between 7 and 20 pounds. The size of the mother dog can give you a good idea of what to expect in your dog. This designer dog breed usually lives for 15 years or more. Some have even been known to live for 21 years! Featured Shih-Poo Article.