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This is not true. They have a large, muscular build They have a fluffy tail Their ears are erect They have a double coat They are heavy shedders They are a solid black color They can be larger They often have a straighter back Their coat can be longer, sometimes with a flowing mane around the rear of the neck , skirting on either side of the body between the front and back legs and feathering long hair on the ears, backs of legs and beneath the tail 3. Black German Shepherd puppies are born black All German Shepherd puppies are either born black, gray or white and can change color as they grow. Their true coat color can usually be determined at about 8 weeks of age. Black German Shepherd puppies are born black and will stay black through adulthood. So, if you are looking for a solid Black German Shepherd puppy, you will want to get her at this age, and not before, in order to be sure she is indeed a solid black color. A German Shepherd that is, say, black and tan, can carry the recessive solid black gene and produce Black German Shepherd puppies. However, both parents must have the recessive gene for solid black to appear in the litter. It can happen. The second way solid Black German Shepherd puppies are produced is by mating two solid blacks. This mix can only produce a solid black litter. The color of this dog does not affect its temperament. The Black German Shepherd is just as loyal, alert, active and intelligent as the standard variety and is not predisposed to aggression. She is often aloof at first, but once you bond with her, she will be your companion for life. Black German Shepherds are also incredibly trainable and are used as police and military dogs, disability aid dogs, and obedience dogs. Look how obedient this month old Black Shepherd puppy is: Just like any German Shepherd, their protective instinct can be strong. These are dogs that were used to herd and protect livestock, and they will do the same with their human pack! In the case of your family coming into danger, have no doubt this dog will defend you. As a companion dog, however, you want her to recognize that not all people are a threat. Make sure you socialize her from a young age so that she gets on well with people in adulthood. They can be pricey Black German Shepherds are quite rare and for this reason tend to cost more, especially if they have the long, luxurious coat. Like all German Shepherds, they are prone to health problems The German Shepherd breed can, unfortunately, suffer from numerous health issues. The number one concern for this breed is hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. This condition occurs when the ball and socket joint is malformed and can result in arthritis or even lameness. This can be helped by maintaining a healthy weight in your dog. Other potential health problems include: Heart disease. She loves exercise. I always tie her to my bike and she runs next to me. She has never shown aggression but usually barks when a stranger knocks at the door. I taught her the commands sit, down, stay and come here. My sister taught her to say "Hi" with her paws. Her parents May and June came to Nepal from Japan. My Japanese friend gifted me with Dixy at the age of 1 and a half months. She is very friendly to every person who comes to my house. She likes to sit beside me all the time. Early mornings she likes to drink half a liter of cow's milk, at around 11 a. She enjoys chewing bones all of the time. Beau is trained in protection and obedience. She is a bit overweight due to her hip dysplasia, but still maintains her amazing personality and quality look of a Shepherd. Beau loves to play in the snow or in her kiddy pool in the summers. She is a very active old girl. She is super friendly and just strives on attention. Beau has three siblings, which happen to be cats. She loves to curl up with the cats in the living room to take a nap. She is currently training for her CDX, has won a few blue ribbons in conformation, and just began Schutzhund training. Apollo the GSD—"He is very clever and energetic. He weighs 85 pounds and his height is 26 inches. Some owners refer to them as black and champagne or fawn. Also, when a white German Shepherd has red in its background, it shows up as a cream color. It is possible for particular black and cream German Shepherd puppies to grow into a black and tan look as they get older. Still, you cannot guarantee how the colors will shift or if they will change in the first place. Dog shows aside, black and cream dogs do not have the same intimidating look as darker dogs and can make for great gateway pets for those looking to adopt their first dog but find the alternative looks more intimidating. Ideal for: Households with young children can adopt black and cream puppies as these GSDs are easier to accept for little kids. Black All Black German Shepherds have no shot at dog shows but are much better at something else: guarding. This perception comes with the added assumption that your black German Shepherd is well-trained to deal with intruders. Even though these dogs are great at discouraging intruders, they have excellent temperaments and empathy to be family dogs. Black GSDs are not more aggressive than other varieties. Unlike solid black, most puppies only show their actual color weeks after birth. They also make shedding less annoying as the black hairs are less visible. A recessive gene causes the black color. Some black dogs have gold eyes, as shown in the image. Large houses are also perfect spacious places where such dogs must exhaust their excess energy. A bi-color features two colors, one of which is often black. Most will appear all black with brown feet or legs, as shown in the image. The AKC pioneered this categorization and is most relevant to dog shows where solid colors and bi-color dogs are judged differently. Depending on the specifics of the color, the dog-and-owner fit can vary. Sable Sable is a pattern often seen as color because of its visual impact. The sable color is named after the mammal sable, which also has a similar color. This type of German Shepherd has black peppered across its fur, giving a deeply crimson color that looks nearly indistinguishable from black and liver. The sable coat pattern appears visibly black as each hair has a black tip. Sable colors include black sable, gray sable, tan sable, red sable, and silver sable. If you like the look of this color pattern, head over to this article to learn loads more about this gorgeous variety; Sable German Shepherd. Ideal for: This shepherd dog is best for those living in sun-kissed suburbs where the true color of sable German Shepherds shines. White Featuring the look of a bleached wolf, the all-white German Shepherd is entirely white and represents quite the irony. It is often purchased because of its exotic looks but is also seen as flawed enough to disqualify from the show ring. In other words, it represents the positive and the negative results of judging dogs by their looks, where they are simultaneously loved and discriminated against because of their color. Given that the first German Shepherd was black, this dog is visually the farthest from its ancestors. There is often a misconception that this type is a mixed breed. However, the white German Shepherd is definitely purebred. Ideal for: Families with young toddlers can benefit from getting a non-intimidating dog. This leaves behind bi-color German Shepherds featuring black and a specific hue of tan that gives an overall deep gray look. Ruskin House of Shepherds They are often gray sable. However, many gray dogs have no black pigmentation, differentiating them from the sable. They have an aesthetic appearance and can tip top between work and show, though they are best kept as multifunctional pets. They look intimidating enough for strangers but acceptable even for younger children who have never had a big dog as a family pet. Nonetheless, they are pretty rare, so you may have to find a specialized breeder to adopt one. The color is rare because it is improbable to guarantee when breeding a single blue stud and rare to occur spontaneously. And the ones who breed rare GSDs only charge a lot per puppy. Since blue is a manifestation of black, it can appear in all German Shepherd looks that feature the black color. Therefore, these dogs are bred mainly in the working line, where black and tan are the most common colors. That makes blue and tan the most common bi-color look of blue German Shepherds. Ideal for: Individuals looking for an exotic, rare dog with a story would love to have a blue German Shepherd. Liver Liver as a color term is used almost exclusively to describe dark brown dogs. The shades of dark brown can vary, but the term stands. It is no different for German Shepherds, who are also categorized as a liver for being dark brown. With black not really being seen as color — white as a complete lack of color, brown has the best shot of getting the highest points for color richness — except in the show world. This is because the American Kennel Club sees livers as faults, and they cannot enter the show ring. However, liver German Shepherds are highly sought-after, making them some of the priciest German Shepherds to acquire. Still, their price is artificially inflated because of demand. Ideal for: Those who love the deep brown aesthetic will love a liver German Shepherd. Liver and Tan As mentioned earlier, German Shepherds with liver parents are pretty often liver-colored. While mutations did occur to manifest this look into the otherwise black line of GSDs, the genes of these dogs are relatively stable, making them great studs. Ideal for: Owners with prominently brown wardrobes can get a kick by extending their color preference to their dogs. Isabella Isabella German Shepherds face the same ironic fate as white GSDs, where they are simultaneously admired and acquired for their beauty yet disqualified or marked down from shows for their looks. Similar to liver dogs, the AKC views them as a fault. Isabella GSDs look lavender-flavored cappuccino in that they are a light lilac color. They have a distinctly feminine appearance regardless of gender and can make a beautiful addition to the family. Because of their non-threatening looks, they are readily accepted in suburban communities, whereas new pets can often get scrutinized unfairly. Isabella GSDs are rare because they come from a combination of recessive traits that might not even manifest in studs. Studs often have desirable dominant features, including rich colors. The Isabella color comes from the combination of liver and blue, one of which is rarely used for breeding. This leaves room only for blue genes to pass through non-blue studs, which is not entirely likely. Ideal for: Those who want to make a statement with one of the rarest German Shepherds will be satisfied with an Isabella dog. However, they better be willing to pay the premium. You cannot have a Sable Shepherd without having reddish fur. But the distribution of red and black or silver and a lot of black is what matters: the lighter coat makes up the backdrop over which the darker fur is peppered. Ruskin House of Shepherds Sable shepherds are rarely sable all over, and portions of their body feature only one of the two colors that make up their sable pattern. In other words, given black and red as primary sable-makers, these dogs are more likely to be black and sable or red and sable. Sometimes you can get a rarer color sable, such as the liver sable in the image. Brindle German Shepherds are the closest to sable in that they also consist of one color peppered across another in tiger stripes or a marbled pattern. Instagram: alastian. Black is far more prominent, and these dogs are the closest to the second generation of German Shepherds. Panda A Panda German Shepherd looks like a white or bi-color dog who tried to apply eye shadow for the first time. The area around their eyes is black, reminiscent of a panda. They have white color featured across their chest, limbs, feet, and tail tip, similar to a Border Collie. Panda Shepherds do not have any other similarities with the panda; the dog has an active temperament compared to the lazy panda. The gene is dominant, meaning it only takes one parent to replicate the pattern. It is also seen as a fault for conformation. My German Shepherd Pup Willow Still, getting a German Shepherd puppy with many white spots is a risk if you plan to enter him in a dog show as an adult. But if you do not care about dog shows, the white markings can be charming. It is rarer to find white spotting in black GSDs. These spots are more common in black and red, black and cream, black and tan, and liver variations. However, they blended in with her adult coat in time. A German Shepherd can have a black, blue, silver, or brown saddle though other colors are not definitively excluded. Saddle-back German Shepherds have to be bi-color by definition because the saddle is visible only in contrast with another, often lighter, color. Blanket The blanket is yet another pattern independent of color. Just like with saddle GSDs, being bicolor is a prerequisite just to spot the blanket. The saddle pattern has a better shot at dog shows between saddle German Shepherds and blanket ones. Since the blanket is dark, dogs with this pattern have an intimidating presence and are often used by the police and protective patrols. This makes them excellent guard dogs as they carry the same connotations. Mask Mask refers to the face of a German Shepherd with visible contrast in the face compared to the surrounding region. On the one side, they can have black fur over their faces, which gives the appearance of a mask, but the rest of their body can feature stripes brindle or the sable pattern. This study of dogs with colored masks found that the mask is caused by a specific allele referred to as a melanistic mask. Mask German Shepherds have a unique appeal, which makes people go to great lengths to acquire them. The mask is almost always black. In case the mask is a lighter color, it is categorized differently. The area around the mouth can be lighter, making the German Shepherd look more like a wolf. Some reverse masks also have a dark stripe down the muzzle, as in the image shown. Needless to say, these German Shepherds can be pricey simply because of their resemblance with wolves. They also are intimidating again because of this similarity. All the connotations they have with wolves, and their wildness come in handy when scaring away intruders. However, this is a myth, as they are as easy or difficult to raise as regular dogs. To breed them, you must have both the mother and the father, who carry the same reverse mask look. Like the masked variety, German Shepherds with a reverse mask can have other patterns as the mask or the reverse has to do with their faces. Speaking of wolves, the closest a GSD can come to having a wolf-like appearance is to have a reverse mask look and be a blanketed silver sable. The rarest color of German Shepherd is Isabella, which is also known as lilac. Not only is this color visually appealing, but it is also difficult to predict when breeding. The recessive blue and liver getting combined are not very likely, which makes almost all Isabella shepherds pleasant surprises. Getting a lilac shepherd from a reputable breeder is advisable because unscrupulous breeders may repeatedly breed puppies and neglect the non-isabella dogs hoping to profit from the lilac pups. Black is prominent across most variations of GSDs. From black and tan, often working lines, to black and red for showing, most German Shepherds have a hint of black. If you are looking for the most common overall color of a German Shepherd, the two that come out on top are black and red and black and tan. The show line dog of this bicolor look will be the cheapest yet will command a price significantly higher than a working dog of the same pair of colors. Some German Shepherd colors, such as blue and white, are controversial because they have been linked to genetic health issues, such as skin problems and deafness. Breeders who prioritize these colors over health can perpetuate these issues. Yes, the color of a German Shepherd puppy can be predicted based on the colors of the parents and the genetic inheritance of the color genes. By understanding the basics of color genetics, breeders can make educated guesses about the colors of their puppies. Do German Shepherds Change Color? German Shepherds do change color, especially if they are bicolor. This happens when they mature and shed certain colored fur but never grow it back. The color change is most prominent in brindle GSDs and sable shepherds, as the decrease in one shade of fur leads to a change in the overall look of the dog. No, the color of a German Shepherd does not affect its temperament. Temperament is determined by genetics and upbringing, not color. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are descendants of dark dogs but have come a long way since they were first shown as the perfect cross between beautiful and work-ready. GSD colors can vary from lighter ones like the rare Isabella all the way to solid black. The pattern variations include mask, sable, brindle stripes, and saddle, whereas colors can be solid or pair from the pool of black, red, tan, blue, silver, cream, liver, white, and gray. With over 30 years of experience working with dogs, this former Police Officer has seen it all. Find her on Linkedin! Yes, German Shepherd puppies are actually born black! They can also be born gray and white, as the coats will gradually change color as they grow older. By about eighteen to twenty-four months of age, a German Shepherd puppy should have its final coat color , and it will stay that way! However, many German Shepherds can be born black, and their coats may stay black. Some German Shepherds that are born black will never gain their color, and will remain with a black coat forever. However, this is incredibly rare, and it is said that only about 6. It may surprise you that German Shepherds can actually be born in three different colors. They are typically either born black, white or gray in color, and you will see the color change from the age of 8 weeks onwards, but it can take up to two years to see the final color. Black and tan German Shepherds are the most common, and they will gradually get more tan as they age, with the browner colors appearing around the face, tail, ears, and stomach as time passes. In addition, a German Shepherd that is born black can either grow up to be black all over, or they may fade to another color such as Sable, Gray, Black and Tan, Brown, Black and Silver, or other variations of the breed. Even if you have a puppy that has been black for more than 8 weeks, it is very unlikely that it will stay entirely black as it grows. Black German Shepherds are extremely rare, and most will turn more Sable colored or Tan as time progresses. Whilst German Shepherds can come in a few colors , their coats also vary in length and thickness. The most common German Shepherds will have very thick, long, fluffy hair, but some can be short-haired. The German Shepherd breed has two pigments in their fur called eumelanin and pheomelanin. How these pigments interact with other genes in the German Shepherd puppy determines how the coat will turn out! For example, the pigment called eumelanin is responsible for the color black. On the other hand, pheomelanin defaults to red, which can create Red Sable, or deep brown tones and pale gold colors. If you are hoping to find yourself a black German Shepherd, then you may have a tough job in doing so. A black German Shepherd is actually very rare, and is down to genetics and pigmentation, so even with a black parent, it is not guaranteed that the puppies would be black in color, or remain black in color as they grow. The most promising combination for a black German Shepherd puppy is if both parents of the puppies are black themselves. This will give you the greatest chance of achieving all black puppies. However, some black puppies can come from parents that are both black and tan, or if one parent is black and tan, and the other is black. It sometimes is just down to luck. That being said, if both parents have the solid black color recessive gene, meaning they are fully black all over, and not even slightly black and tan, then it is likely that the puppies will be born black, and will stay black as they grow older. As black German Shepherds are incredibly rare, some people are under the impression that they are a different breed altogether, but the black variant is a recognized version of the regular German Shepherd dog. Although they are the same breed, there can be some differences between the Black and Tan German Shepherd and the Black German Shepherd. For instance, a black German Shepherd can quite often be much larger than the regular German Shepherd. They may also have a much straighter back than a normal German Shepherd. In addition, black German Shepherds can sometimes have a thicker coat, especially at the neck and on the front and back legs. You may also notice that some black German Shepherds will have thicker fur at the ears and around the tail, which is why some people think that they are a different dog breed as they can sometimes look more like wolves than German Shepherds! Some black German Shepherds may also have much fluffier coats, or a stronger, more athletic build and erect, pointed ears, however it does depend on the dog itself. As previously mentioned, the black German Shepherd is a much more rare occurrence than the more common Black and Tan German Shepherd, and as such, they can be harder to come across and much more expensive than any other type of German Shepherd. However, you should exercise some caution when trying to purchase a black German Shepherd, as many breeders may advertise a black version of the breed, which may not exactly turn out to be. In addition, purchasing from a reputable breeder will ensure that the dog does not have any health issues or problems later in life which can also cost you thousands of dollars, too! To ensure that you get a good quality dog, you should always find out the parentage of the puppy. This means either asking for documentation to prove the father of the puppies, and checking to see if the mother is with the puppies, and properly cared for. You can also research which breeders are trustworthy by looking at registered breeders on the American Kennel Club website. Some people are under the misconception that black German Shepherds are highly different to regular German Shepherds, and have different temperaments and health issues or ailments. However, this is not always the case. A great number of people seem to think that black German Shepherds are more aggressive than regular German Shepherds, and may be more prone to angry outbursts or aggressive behavior. German Shepherds are typically very active, intelligent, alert, friendly, loyal and loving animals, but there may always be some that show signs of aggression or misbehavior. This can be solved with a solid routine and expert or professional training. You have to keep in mind that because German Shepherds are so intelligent, they need a lot of mental stimulation and attention to keep their minds engaged and active. This means giving them a lot of exercise, time, energy and toys to keep them focused and interested. Otherwise, you may notice some aggression, anti-social, destructive or bad behavior as they tend to act out and become naughty if they are bored. Summary To summarize, German Shepherd puppies can be born black, but not all are. Some German Shepherd puppies can be born black, white or gray, and may stay this color for about 8 weeks. After this period has passed, the puppies will begin to show their true colors shall we say, and turn their final color. At this point, most German Shepherd puppies will become that common Black and Tan color that we know and love, however some will have different genes and pigments, which will result in a black German Shepherd, but this is very rare. In order to get a black German Shepherd, both parents would need to be black, or one would have to be black and the other black and tan. This is why all black German Shepherds are considered a rarity, and are therefore much more expensive than normal ones. However, the black variant of the German Shepherd is no different in temperament, health or breed. To see some German Shepherd puppies with their beautiful black colors, check out this video! However, the black German Shepherd is much less well-known. This coloration is extremely rare and not currently recognized by most major kennel clubs. But they have since grown significantly in popularity. Usually, German Shepherds have a single coat pattern — black and tan. However, fully black German Shepherds do exist. This is not due to crossbreeding; the gene for completely black coats is carried by purebred German Shepherds. It is much rarer than the usual coloration, though. They have the same build and grow to be the about same size as a purebred German Shepherd. Males usually weight between 65 to 90 pounds, while females are 50 to 75 pounds. These are considered medium-to-large dogs, so consider whether you have the space before adopting one. Their height is around inches. This is correct for both males and females. Black German Shepherds are completely black. Most German Shepherds have at least a little bit of black on them. However, German Shepherds have nothing but black. Their coat is generally the same besides for their different in coloration. Their double-coat helps them stay clean and warm. As working dogs, these canines are built to work, and it shows. This coat color is accepted by the AKC. It is also not the result of crossbreeding, as some misinformation may state. Instead, it is simply a rare color that very few German Shepherds end up with. It only showed up recently and is sometimes encouraged through selective breeding. While the gene for a solid black coat was once though to be recessive, many people now consider it to be dominant. These dogs always have dark-colored eyes. Blue eyes are extremely rare and usually a sign that a dog has other breeds in his pedigree, such as Huskies. Other than the color, the body of black German Shepherds looks just like his black and tan cousins. As in all German Shepherds, the ears are typically erect, though floppy ears in adult can be seen occasionally. History By , the generalized herding dogs of Europe had split themselves into a few different distinctive breeds, including the German Shepherd. During the s, there was an attempt to standardize dog breeds and promote traits that encouraged sheep herding, including speed, strength, endurance, and intelligence. However, varieties still existed from place to place. Slight breeding difference had led to slightly different shepherds. During the industrial revolution, the need for sheepdogs decreased along with the predator population. Luckily, by this point, people were already recognizing the intelligence and ability of the previous herding dogs. From this dog the breed standard grew. In just a few generations, the German Shepherd was one of the most populous in the world. Honrand fathered many puppies. Nearly all German Shepherds today are descended from him. There was quite a bit of inbreeding that occurred to produce the German Shepherd breed we know today. The Black German Shepherd has likely existed to some extent since the breed was produced. However, many dogs do not carry the completely black gene. Many completely black German Shepherds in the past were likely culled at birth due to the defect. Today, the gene is seeing a reoccurrence. Personality and Temperament The German Shepherd is often considered to be an aggressive dog. However, this is not completely true. They do have significant protective instincts, as they were originally bred to guard flocks of sheep. For instance, the German Shepherd has a bite force of over 1, newtons. But there are several dogs that rank around this as well, including the Rottweiler, Pit Bull, and Labrador Retriever. Most dogs at about this size are going to have a similar bite strength. German Shepherds are considered to be moderately active. They need just about as much exercise as dogs of a similar size. This breed is well-known for being heavily devoted to their people and easy to train. When trained properly, they will absolutely listen. However, they do have innate protective instincts. If you want to dog that is going to be protective of their family, this is a great choice. These canines do need extensive socialization starting at a young age, though. Otherwise, they can become a bit too protective of their family and territory. These canines are not the friendliest. They are people-oriented, but not with strangers. They tend to be quite unsure with strangers. At best, they usually ignore them completely. Other times, they may be obviously uncomfortable. German Shepherds have high prey drive. On the one hand that means that you can easily motivate them with a ball or tug toy. On the other hand, it requires a lot of supervision for owners that have small dogs or cats in addition to their shepherd. While your dog might not outright try to fight with a cat or smaller dog, he could even accidentally hurt them during play. They are extremely intelligent and devoted to their owners. Unlike some dog breeds, they will listen to their owners in most real-life situations. They can learn a variety of different commands very easily and will actually do them when asked. However, these dogs do need the training. Without it, they can be overly protective and even potentially dangerous. Their ease of training does make fulfilling this need quite easy, though. We do recommend puppy classes starting at a very young age. These classes provide the extra socialization that your dog needs, as well as allows you to jumpstart their training. We only recommend private classes for dogs that are too reactive around strangers and other dogs to thrive in a group class. Usually, only German Shepherds who were not properly socialized as puppies will fit into this category. If you adopt an older German Shepherd that seems in need of socialization, we recommend taking private classes with an experienced trainer. You can work your dog through some basic commands and then work on socializing them with safe people and dogs. The trainer should be able to help you in this regard. The German Shepherd is a more active breed, and completely black German Shepherds are not different. While there are more active dog breeds out there, these canines are best for those that are quite active. They need at least two medium-to-long walks per day. Puppies will likely need some extra play sessions as well. Health and Care German Shepherds are pretty healthy as far as purebred dogs come. However, they are prone to some health problems. Many of these are due to the inbreeding that occurred early in the breed, which made some previously rare traits more common. Black German Shepherds are not known to have any more health problems than their black-and-tan cousins. Their coat coloration is not associated with any particular health issues or anything of that sort. It is important to purchase these dogs from a qualified breeder, as they tend to perform plenty of health testing on any dog they plan on breeding. This helps them recognize health problems and pick only the healthiest dogs possible for producing litters. We do recommend purchasing a German Shepherd that was bred as a working dog — not one produced as a show dog. These two lines of dogs are somewhat distinct as they have been bred for two very different purposes. Show dogs tend to confirm to an extreme extent to the breed standard, which increase the amount of health problems they develop. On the other hand, working dogs were bred with practicality in mind. Many German Shepherds have hip and elbow dysplasia. This disease occurs when the ball and socket of the joint do not line up correctly, leading to excess wear-and-tear. Eventually, this cause arthritis-like symptoms, but at a much earlier age than arthritis typically shows up. Usually, this damage occurs during puppyhood when the dog is growing, but they may not show symptoms until a few years later. There are a few things pet owners can do to reduce the chance of hip and elbow dysplasia in their German Shepherd. Many of these dogs are also affected by degenerative spinal stenosis. However, this study had a notably small sample size, so it may not be entirely accurate. On a good note, German Shepherds are actually less likely to get ear infections than other dogs. Degenerative myelopathy occurs often enough in German Shepherds that they are likely predispositioned to it. This test is very expensive, so many breeders perform it on their dogs before breeding as well as on the puppies after they are born. Once the test is used regularly, it becomes very easy to remove it from the breed. Von Willebrand disease also occurs at a higher level in German Shepherds than in the normal dog population. It is likely that they are genetically predispositioned to it. Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency occurs in German Shepherds as well. This condition is usually treated with medication and pancreatic supplements. It is most likely genetic, so health testing and keeping track of pedigrees is important to eliminating it in the breed. Medium-coated dogs will only need brush two to three times a week. Long coats will need combed through at least once a day to prevent mats. Because of their double coat, dogs of all coat types will shed profusely. Do not adopt a black German Shepherd unless you can deal with a lot of extra hair. Even if you brush your dog daily, they will still shed everywhere. Usually, this occurs in the spring and fall, but it can depend on your local climate. Shedding is also tied to hormones — not just the weather. There is little you can do to reduce the overall amount of shedding your dog does. However, anti-shedding shampoos and a high-quality diet can help. It is usually not too difficult to find a normal German Shepherd breeder somewhere near you. However, not all breeders produce black dogs. Most will also be significantly more expensive than a black-and-tan German Shepherd due to their rarity. Many people want a black German Shepherd, which means that you often have to be prepared to pay a bit extra. However, this is still much cheaper than you might expect for a large dog. As a common breed, they are usually cheaper than most. It may be tempting to cut corners and purchase a cheaper puppy. However, this is not recommended, especially when it comes to German Shepherds. These puppies need socialized from the moment they are born. Often, breeders put in this time and effort. We highly recommend only purchasing puppies form very experienced breeders. Otherwise, you may end up with an unsocialized puppy and a troublesome temperament. You should always ask about the pedigree of the parents, as well as the health testing the breeder has done. Ask to see the parents if at all possible. Sometimes, the father will be located somewhere else, so only the mother will be at the breeder. In this case, it is usually fine to just see the mother. You can tell a lot about a breeder form how they keep the mother and the puppies, so be absolutely sure to ask to see their living conditions. The parents should be AKC registered, so you should ask for registration. But AKC registration does not mean that the dog is high-quality. Every German Shepherd can be registered — even those with no health testing. Preferably, you should have owned at least one dog before. It is recommended that you have some experience with more active dogs, as well. These dogs are quite active and tend to be high-energy. Without the appropriate amount of exercise, they can easily become destructive. In fact, most of the destructive behavior associated with a German Shepherd is due to a lack of stimulation. German Shepherds require extensive training as well, so it is best if they have a handler that has previously trained dogs. They will take up a few hours a day as puppies and require as much as an hour or two of exercise alone. Many of these canines are more expensive than their black-and-tan counterparts. However, they have won the hearts of many pet owners. It will often take you a little bit before you locate a completely black puppy, so be prepared to sit on a few waiting lists. Despite their unusual colorations, these dogs are very similar to all other German Shepherds. They have the same temperament and work great as guard dogs. You have to prepare to train and socialize them properly. They require quite a bit more work than other breeds, but it is absolutely worth it in the end. We recommend these dogs for serious dog owners who have previously owned dogs. German Shepherds are not for the casual dog owner. They need someone who can commit to their training and activity needs. Author: Kristin Kristin was born in Tennessee and currently lives there with her husband and children. She is passionate about educating pet parents and helping them make the best possible decisions for their pets. She currently owns one dog, two cats, a lizard, and a variety of fish. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day. Black and Tan This is the color most of us think of when we picture a German Shepherd dog. With a rich tan undercarriage and a black face and back, this color of GSD has been around since the very first was officially registered back in Germany at the end of the 19th century. Although Horand von Grafrath was a little darker than the modern black and tan GSD, the ancestry is evident. With their luxurious white coats, these pale dogs look more like Golden Retrievers with erect ears. Despite their popularity, like the white German Shepherd, the blue has been a cause of controversion in the Shepherd world because recessive dilution gene comes with inbreeding practices and health issues. Blue German Shepherds may appear gray or even silver and are sometimes mistaken for a Blue Belgian Malinois. Isabella This unusual coat color variation is another washout as far the AKC is concerned, which is a shame given how striking it is. It originates from genetically combining liver and blue dilution genes. Like the liver and blue German Shepherd dogs, Isabella GSDs often have unusual eye coloring and different colored noses. Liver German Shepherds will usually have a brown nose. Blue German Shepherds have a blue nose. There is no evidence that the Isabella coloration makes the dog more susceptible to health issues. However, Isabella is a recessive trait. Selecting for recessive traits always limits the gene pool and makes dogs more susceptible to genetic conditions. Grey Not to be confused with the silver, black, or blue German Shepherds, the gray variety look more wolf-like with their dark coats. Some breeders specialize in producing dogs of this unusual color. Silver Similar to the gray German Shepherd, silver is nevertheless recognized as a distinct color. Often grouped together, however, the gray and silver colors are produced by the same genes. Finding a breeder that specializes in silver German Shepherds is a lot easier than finding one that focuses on the grey, so this might be your best bet if you want a more exotic-looking companion. Silver is an uncommon color for GSDs, possibly because it is a recessive gene. Similar to the dilution gene, this gene influences black pigment. While you also get silver sable German Shepherds, the patterned coats mean they are categorized as sable rather than silver. However, silver German Shepherds are often seen in military work or the police force. The red color is the result of the color gene pheomelanin. It can have any shade of red, ranging from strawberry blonde to a deep mahogany red. Alongside black and tan, the black and red combination is preferred over others by German Shepherd breeders. As black and red are both produced by dominant genes, this color combination is easier to breed for, and many breeders focus on producing purebred dogs with deep red coloring. Sable A classic color for the German Shepherd, a sable comes in a variety of colors but each hair sports a black tip. Sable GSDs can be black, gray, red, silver, or tan and are also known as agouti. Agouti is a type of coloring also present in other dogs, like the Agouti Husky. In this coloring each hair has several bands of brown and black, leading to a typical wolf-like coloration. Some founding members of the German Shepherd breed believed this should be the only color present in German Shepherds. Black sables are born as all-black pups and tri-colored sables are born as black and tan puppies. As the puppy ages, their coloring changes. Some GSDs may take as long as three years to develop their final sable coloration. As every sable GSD is different, with the color and pattern both varying, it makes for an eye-catching and unique dog. Sable is a dominant color that is easy to breed for. If you breed a Sable German Shepherd to any other color, you will likely get sable puppies. Black and Silver Much like the black and tan GSD, a black and silver German Shepherd usually has a silver saddle across its back, although the pattern and hue both vary from dog to dog. Like the silver GSD, the black and silver coloration occurs only when the recessive intensity suppression gene is present. This color is not common in the AKC show ring and can mostly be found in working dog lines. Because these dogs are not visible in the dark, it is highly advisable to only walk them on a light-up dog collar in the evenings and at night. Bicolor Bicolor German Shepherds appear almost completely black and, to fit the breed standard, must have black heads, back, legs and tail. Even if their paws are brown, the heels need to be black by the color standard definition. However, the AKC accepts bicolor as a recessive color in the breed. Though technically allowed in the show ring, these dogs are mostly found in working lines. Black and Cream The last official color on our list, the black and cream GSD remains true to its origins as a lighter version of the common red and tan coloring. There is some controversy surrounding the black and cream variation. Most AKC breeders do not want them to participate in the show ring. They strive to breed darker dogs that do not show the light cream coloring. The color does little to change their character, however, and black and cream GSDs excel obedience, nosework, rally and agility and are as loyal and brave as their black and tan cousins. Her DNA proved them wrong, although the Panda coloration remains unrecognized by some kennel clubs and breeders. The Panda GDS is created by a rare genetic mutation. The genes responsible for an all-white body and the patchy white are two different ones. This does not stop them from being popular however! There is a large demand for Panda-colored German Shepherds. Unfortunately, this inflates the price and leads breeders to focus on the color mutation rather than genetic health, so be sure to only source a puppy from a reputable breeder. Albino An albino German Shepherd is incredibly rare. An albino of any species or breed lacks any pigmentation, including of the skin, hair, and eyes as well as the blood vessels, resulting in a pinkish tinge. You can distinguish an albino German Shepherd from a white one by checking his eyes and nose. A White GDS will have some pigmentation resulting in brown eyes, whereas albinos always have red or pink eyes. An Albino GSD, should one exist, may experience other health problems associated with the condition. They may, for example, be photosensitive, requiring protection from direct sunlight. What is the Rarest Color of the German Shepherd? The rarest color of German Shepherd is the isabella due to the recessive combination of liver and blue. You will have to search for a long time to get such a puppy — and his price will likely be high as well! What is the Best Color for a German Shepherd? The best color for a German Shepherd in the show ring is black and tan, followed by sable. If you are not planning on showing your dog through the AKC, you can pick any color you like. This is not based on any actual working abilities though and more of a myth that has been passed on through generations. What is the Original Color of a German Shepherd? As German Shepherd dogs were bred as working dogs, the original breeders focused on temperature rather than appearance. The original color of working German Shepherds was sable. The most traditional color in the show ring is black and tan. While you should pick the coloring you like the most, make sure to not just choose your dog based on his looks. German Shepherds are prone to developing back and hip issues. Before buying a puppy for his color, make sure that his breeder selects for health first and color second! Otherwise you might end up with a puppy with great color but poor health … which is never a good thing. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day.

German Shepherd Bloodhound Mixes require a diet that will meet the needs of large dogs. This also means they will likely eat a large amount at each meal. A high-quality, protein-packed kibble is a sufficient food for your dog. They also need fats, vitamins, minerals, fruits, and vegetables to stay in the best shape. Their perfect food will depend on their weight, age, and any health conditions that they may have. Overall, a well-balanced food that does not contain fillers or additives is a healthy choice for them. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times. Given the slobbery nature of this dog, their bowl may have to be changed several times a day. Digging, excessive barking, and destruction in the house can be avoided with proper exercise. At a minimum, this mix needs at least an hour a day of good physical activity. Not only will it keep them healthy, but it will also keep them out of trouble. While this makes the dog easy to train , the stubbornness of the Bloodhound can sneak out sometimes. Luckily, the desire that this dog has to perform a task and do it well outweighs most of the stubbornness. They are eager to do their jobs. As a product of two working dogs, this mix is happiest when they have a job to do. With their high energy levels, they may also benefit from agility training. Then, they shed some more. The coat can take on the texture of either parent and daily brushing can help keep the shedding under control. You can invite them into the tub when they get dirty or start to smell. A moisturizing oatmeal shampoo will keep their skin healthy and soft. Regular nail trims to avoid paw injuries are required. The most important part of grooming this dog is ear care. If your mix inherited Bloodhound ears, they will be long, heavy, and droopy. Moisture, dirt, and bacteria can get trapped in the ear. After baths or any time your dog gets wet, be sure to thoroughly dry the ear canals with a soft towel. Check regularly for any signs of infection, like redness, swelling, discharge, incessant ear scratching, or a foul odor coming from the canal. These dogs should be seen by a vet regularly to detect and possibly avoid any health problems. Ear infections — The buildup of bacteria leads to soreness, swelling, pain, and itchiness. Osteoarthritis — This is the depletion of cartilage in the joints, increasing inflammation and causing pain. Bloat — The stomach fills with gas and twists, trapping the air and requiring surgery to repair. Male vs Female Choosing whether to get a male or female German Shepherd Bloodhound Mix will come down to a matter of personal preference. The personality of each dog is unique to that individual, but generalizations have been made about the different sexes. Females are thought to be gentler and more passive, while males want to dominate situations and take control. Males are also reported to be more possessive and protective than females. The only documented difference between the two is size. Females are typically smaller than males, though both can grow to be quite large. This dog is a combination of desired characteristics that make them great family companions. You can find a mix online through breeders or people looking to unload accidental litters, but checking with your local animal shelters and rescues first is a great way to find a beautiful dog and save a life. See also:. The Parent Breeds Bloodhound Known as one of the earliest police dogs and for its role in the capture of Jack the Ripper, the Bloodhound has European roots. Its ancestry goes as far back as the 1st century A. The Bloodhound came into America in colonial times. Despite that, the American Kennel Club recognized the breed in .The Bloodhound is a medium to large size breed that weighs 80 to pounds and grows between 23 and 27 inches tall at the shoulder. It has a thin and loose coat that sheds occasionally. Its main colors are red, black and tan , with liver and tan. Common physical features include facial wrinkles, drooping ears, and sad eyes. Far from being the vicious dog breed movies and books paint it out to be, the Bloodhound is a lover of people and shows affection, though it can be shy and also stubborn during training. Originating in , it is considered relatively new. It owes its existence to a German captain named Max Von Stephanitz. The German Shepherd was already in the United States before the 1st World War, but it was after that warfare that it caught the attention of Americans. In , the AKC reverted to the former name. It weighs between 75 and 95 pounds with a height range of 22 to 26 inches. Aloof with strangers but loyal and friendly with the family, the GSD can play the role of a companion and guard dog. Bloodhound Shepherd mixes are not hypoallergenic Both the German Shepherd and the Bloodhound are not advisable for allergy sufferers. The German Shepherd sheds a lot and dog hair is an allergen. The Bloodhound sheds less, but it drools and smells. Related: 2. It has a strong sense of smell The mix, like its parents, can pick up scents from a long distance and follow it up. It is an excellent trailer and would usually be seen sniffing around when it has nothing else to do. They are not advisable for new pet parents The German Shepherd can be a good first-time dog, but the Bloodhound is known for its stubbornness. One can decide to call it the Bloodhound Shepherd, however. It is active and intelligent Both the German Shepherd and the Bloodhound are working dogs and require a high level of exercise. They are also very intelligent and need mental challenges. These apply to the offspring too. Appearance of the Bloodhound Shepherd Mix General Appearance The Bloodhound and German Shepherd have their distinctive looks, and this should be kept in mind when considering this mix. Only with calculated guesses can we attempt to predict its looks. The mix might get the wrinkles and folds of the Bloodhound or the hairier skin of the German Shepherd. Its ears could either be erect or drooping, the eyes sharp or lazy, the frame lean like the German Shepherd or broader like the Bloodhound. Genetics is the major determinant of what the Bloodhound German Shepherd mix would look like. Size It is easier to predict the size as both parents are in the medium to large category. It weighs up to pounds and grows up to 27 inches. The dominant gene often determines the coat type. There is a variety of colors it can pick from, including black, red, brown, black and tan, and black and white. For a mix this rare, you can only ascertain its behavior through that of its parent breeds. From what we know about the German Shepherd and the Bloodhound, we can accurately state that the resultant crossbreed will be loyal to its family. Its devotion will stay strong to those it loves, and it will protect them when need be. With strangers, it might be reserved, especially as a puppy. Socialization can enable it to be more accepting of strangers. Regular exercise and activities are necessary to satisfy it. A behavior you would have to get used to is its continuous sniffing, especially if it tilts towards the Bloodhound. Even while on the leash, it would try to steer you towards a different direction if it picked up something interesting. This behavior hints at its stubbornness and independent spirit which it might pick from the Bloodhound. It may not always do what you want from it, so patience is required. Like their parents, Bloodhound Shepherds can be good companions and family dogs to families that can accommodate them. Not every family can cope with this dog mix, however. For some people, taking care of this mix can become a source of frustration. Only with the ideal owner can it get to its full potential. Both Bloodhounds and German Shepherd get along with other dogs when you introduce them early. The same applies to the mix. Do not try to get an adult to flow with canines if it was not used to it. It could also get along with pets like cats and some other rodents when well socialized. The Bloodhound Shepherd came from accidental breeding, which makes it difficult to find. There are only a few breeders who specialize in designer breeds, and those prefer the popular ones. Your only options are breeders that sell Bloodhounds or German Shepherd Dogs. It could be either higher or lower than this price range, and it often depends on the breeder, pedigree of the puppy, the health of the parent breeds, etc. Make it your aim to shop only from a responsible breeder, regardless of price. While a cheaper offer might seem more economical, keep an eye on the future. The responsible breeder will be more willing to answer questions, show documents and give more proof that the puppy is healthy and well-bred. The accidental breeding that brought forth this mix might also make some unwilling breeders and owners leave it at shelters. You might have better chances of adopting this mix than buying it, and it is cheaper at well. Rescue shelters are sometimes more trustworthy than breeders and will answer your questions. Figure out how the pup ended up there and if it is healthy in every way. It eats in big quantities, so you should measure its meal to avoid obesity. This mix can also suffer from bloating if it rushes its food. Teach it to eat slower. It will benefit from a rich diet that contains all the necessary nutrients for its growth and nourishment. Dry kibble is preferred, but you can supplement its diet with wet food to break the monotony. Let the diet be free of fillers or additives. It must be of high quality and contain a good amount of protein. Besides that, the diet also needs a sufficient amount of fat, vitamins, minerals, vegetables, and some fruits. Some fruits and vegetables are harmful to dogs, and you should steer clear of that. The Bloodhound parent needs about 8 cups daily, divided into 2 meals. The mix could fall somewhere in between or follow a particular parent. When in doubt, seek help from a veterinarian. Bloodhound German Shepherd Mix Exercise The lazy looks notwithstanding, exercise your Bloodhound mixed with German Shepherd as much as you would a worker dog breed. You have to live an active lifestyle before getting a Bloodhound Shepherd mix as a companion. Give it time to play with the kids till it uses up its energy and you should be good to go. It can also be your companion as you go jogging. Overall, it needs at least an hour of exercise as an adult. The puppy can do with 10 minutes of minimal activities and should not be allowed to run, especially as this Mix is prone to hip dysplasia. Seniors should be given low-intensive activities too. Besides physical activities, mental stimulation is needed. Most of them are forms of training which we shall soon see. With the Bloodhound gene, however, the game goes to a harder level. The general rule of thumb for many dog breeds applies to this mix too. Start training it from a young age to override the stubborn tendencies it might have. Early training is also a preventive measure against bad habits. The mix might also inherit the sensitivity of the Bloodhound, which makes harsh treatment and yelling affect it more than many other breeds. Conversely, it responds to kind methods better. If you want to succeed at training this hybrid, positive reinforcement is the key. When badly treated, it might retreat and refuse to co-operate further. The mix will do well in obedience training because of its intelligence and the pleasing nature of the German Shepherd. Teach it to respond to simple commands. Socialization and house training are some other important forms of training as well. The former shed a lot too, so get a vacuum cleaner on standby. Brushing can be done daily or weekly as the case may be. The Bloodhound drools and emits a particular odor that calls for extra attention once you discover these traits on the mix. Bathing should be more regular than some other dog breeds, but not daily like humans. You should also be comfortable wiping off the slobber to keep it clean. When the mix gets the floppy ears, know it will be more susceptible to an ear infection. You should also wipe excess wax and dirt. As you clean, observe for symptoms like red spots, odor, or sores. Get it to the vet as ear infections can make the dog deaf. Keep its teeth clean and its nails trimmed too. Also Read:. Coat The German Shepherd is a double-coated breed with medium to long hair and a dense undercoat. The coat of the GSD-Bloodhound cross will depend on which parent it takes after, but this mix will shed. In some cases, they may take after a solid-colored Bloodhound parent. Grooming The grooming requirement of a German Shepherd Bloodhound mix would also depend on which parent it takes after. The short coat of the Bloodhound makes them much easier to groom as compared to the thicker and longer coat of the GSD. The frequency of nail trimmin g and teeth cleaning is the same as any other dog. The ears , however, are something you might need to pay more attention to if your cross takes after the Bloodhound parent. Bloodhounds have large, floppy ears that make them prone to ear infections. Make a habit of cleaning the ears and keeping them dry. Strength The size and build of the Bloodhound-German Shepherd mix make them very strong dogs. This proves useful in working scenarios, but much care has to be taken in households since a little nudge from their strong bodies will be enough to topple a child or fragile senior over. In reality, they will need long daily walks and will ideally have a yard for independent play. German Shepherds require even more opportunities to expend their energy. Given that both parents are active and energetic, the Bloodhound-German Shepherd Mix will need at least 30 minutes of intensive exercise or 1 hour of walking per day. Otherwise, they will expend their energy in other, likely destructive ways. Trainability The ease at which a German Shepherd Bloodhound Mix can be trained will depend greatly on which parent it takes after. The German Shepherd is one of the most trainable breeds and, in fact, ranks the 3rd most intelligent working dog. In contrast, the Bloodhound takes the 74th spot in the dog intelligence ranking. They share this tier with other hounds like the Beagle, Basset Hound, and Basenji. With scent work, however, their focus is stellar. Temperament With proper training and socialization, a German Shepherd Bloodhound cross is expected to be good-natured, friendly , and have an even temperament. This would make them excellent companion dogs, even in households with children and other pets. As such, they are prone to bone and joint issues like hip and elbow dysplasia. Both parents would ideally be evaluated for these conditions to minimize the likelihood of their puppies developing these later on. Other health issues this crossbreed might have include ear or skin infections. If your pup has low-hanging ears and skin folds like the Bloodhound parent, make sure you keep them dry at all times and check frequently for signs of irritation. Additionally, these mutts might be prone to bloat and other digestive issues like their GSD parent. Lifespan German Shepherds typically live between 12 to 14 years while Bloodhounds live between 10 to 12 years. Although their cross would likely have average lifespans of 10 to 14 years, a lot depends on their general health and lifestyle. To give them a better chance of living long and healthy lives, feed them a high-quality diet and take them to regular vet visits for monitoring. Additionally, give them plenty of opportunities for physical exercise and keep them from becoming overweight. However, it does have a Canine Partners Program where hybrids and mixed breeds of all kinds can register and participate in various AKC events, including canine sports. How popular is the German Shepherd Bloodhound Mix? The German Shepherd Bloodhound Mix is often the result of an accidental mating. When these dogs are crossed deliberately, it is usually done to produce working dogs with superior work ethics and tracking abilities. Not only do they have excellent working abilities but they are also delightful companions. These hound dogs are known to be stubborn but they also have this amazing ability to sense trails. If trained correctly they can show immense loyalty in their masters which will last forever if given lots of love from people who understand what it takes to take care of them as well as themselves. They can be vocal or quiet depending on how you want them to act! A Bloodhound German Shepherd Mix dog holds nice temperaments and is curious to explore the environment while being playful towards people which means they will approach others for interaction rather than running away when scared or surprised. Socializing and Exposure: One of the most important things you can do for your Bloodhound German Shepherd Mix is socialization. Socializing initially helps us avoid any awkward moments when meeting new people or places, which may be difficult if not impossible at times as they get older and more experienced. Bloodhounds should receive ample doses throughout life time to ensure mental health development through different experiences. Not only does it provide mental stimulation but also exercise opportunities! This means you can enjoy time with them without guilt as they hunt down the ball and bring it back to share their joy in playtime together. The best part? They have massive bones, heavy muscles that make them appear much bigger than most other breeds of dogs in looks alone! Size: The Bloodhound is a large, athletic dog with short hair. It has dark brown or black fur and wide-set eyes that give it an intense look. Bloodhounds are well-known for their black and tan, liver-colored fur with darker tones of brown or gray. The white markings on their chests can be seen in some cases too! The loose, pendulous coat helps funnel scent from ground up to their nose and holds it there for them too! This makes this breed perfect at tracking other animals that may escape by hiding in bushes or wooded areas because its keen sense will always lead you right back where they were found thanks largely due to these features which are why so many people love owning a bloodhound as pets. Grooming: Wash your Bloodhound German Shepherd Mix every week with a plastic dog coat, or more if you like. This breed loses her hair during the season and during this time you can use a razor to take off the hairs. Remember that its skin is lean and delicate. Bloodhound earplugs appear to be intended to catch stains and produce fungus and germs, making it more susceptible to allergies. Wash them once a week with a solution endorsed by a vet. Take extra care regarding the dental health of your dog as they require to get their teeth cleaned twice or thrice in a week. Their breath could get better by brushing teeth on a daily routine. Be careful before getting their nail trims as it can cause them little pain. Lifespan: Their life expectancy is from years normally. Care: The Bloodhound German Shepherd Mix is a strong and independent breed who loves to sniff out new things. To keep your dog safe while still letting him have some freedom outside make sure they wear matching collars so there are no distractions when going through neighborhoods together as well as keeping their leash readily available. Good for Walk: If you live in the country or enjoy hiking, this is your perfect breed. Bloodhound German Shepherd Mix are the perfect breed for people who enjoy long walks and hiking. They can go on hikes or take their owners out into nature to explore, which makes them great jogging buddies too! Doing this will help keep their coat. The situation is better by double checking the food daily instead of leaving it everytime! If you have a Bloodhound German Shepherd Mix, be careful about what kind of water dish they use. While it might not seem like much at first — just keep an eye on how often their ears get wet and if there is any build up in those areas where drool usually goes when eating kibbled food or having accidents after drinking from the cupboard by your fridge! This breed shows discomfort and weakness on one or one and the other behind the feet. As they age it can lead to arthritis which will make them more uncomfortable as well as painful for years until finally becoming locked up full time. Epilepsy: Bloodhound German Shepherd Mix with this disorder can live a full and healthy life as long as they receive the proper management of their disease. The best way for these dogs in need is to take their medication and live a healthy life as much as they possibly could! Bloat: One of the most life-threatening conditions a dog can develop is bloat. This occurs when gas builds up in their stomachs, which may lead to regurgitation and death if not treated soon enough. The best way for you as pet owner or veterinarian intervention immediately after diagnosis has been made so that this never happens! Fold Dermatitis: Folds are an important part of the Bloodhound German Shepherd Mix body, but when they become infected it can be very painful. Final Thoughts: Along with being loyal companions, German shepherds are also very affectionate and energetic. Post navigation. Both of these dogs can be friendly but personalities differ, so you never know. The Bloddhound is known for being stubborn, even-tempered, and affectionate. All dogs need proper socialization and that will be a big factor in how they interact with others. What does this mixed breed look and act like? Is it more like the Bloodhound or the German Shepherd Dog? Those are the questions we will try and answer below. Continue reading below to see pictures, videos, and learn more about the beautiful Bloodhound German Shepherd Dog Mix. While we really recommend that you acquire all animals through a rescue, we understand that some people might go through a breeder to get their Bloodhound German Shepherd Dog Mix puppy. If you are interested in helping animal rescues raise money, please play our quiz. Each correct answer donates to help feed shelter animals. We will take a closer look at the history of both parent breeds below. If you are looking at breeders for new, designer dogs please beware of Puppy Mills. If you have a few minutes, please sign our petition to stop puppy mills. Bloodhound History The Bloodhound is the oldest of all the scent hounds and the one with the sharpest sense of smell. Their success as hunters in catching human quarry is so great that they are are one of handful of breeds whose findings can be used and upheld as testimony in a court of law. A Bloodhound is also one of the show champion hopefuls in the classic Christopher Guest mockumentary Best in Show. Bloodhound history is thought to reach as far back as the third century A. Fox-hunting required a dog with a speedier gait than the Bloodhound, and the Foxhound soon supplanted the Bloodhound as hunting companion of choice. A bloodhound is at her happiest when tracking. The problem-solving aspect of tracking satisfies her high intelligence and need to solve problems. Martin Luther King Jr. Von Stephanitz had in his mind what a good working dog should be and a few generations of breeding fulfilled what Hektor envisioned. Horand von Grafrath is known to be the first German Shepherd Dog. Horand von Grafrath was bred to other similar styled dogs that were believed to have the same traits as what Von Stephanitz was looking for. His most successful offspring was Hektor von Schwaben. Von Stephanitz is widely credited for being the founder of this incredible breed. Von Stephanitz had intended for his breed to work as herding dogs, however, as Germany became more and more industrialized he saw the need to make it working dog. He convinced the German government to use the breed. The breed initially became popular in World War 1. Many American and allied servicemen grew attached to the breed during the war and brought them back to the states after the war was over. The Allied troops fell in love with the breed but not with the fact that it had German roots. It became common for police departments and those looking for true working dogs to import their dogs from Germany because the American dogs had such bad health problems. Both breeds are descendants of the ancient herding dogs of Europe. They were bred for their herding and working ability. Known as a versatile breed, the GSD can be used for many different purposes, such as police work, guarding, and search and rescue. On the contrary, the Bloodhound was bred for its tracking and hunting ability. It is an older breed with a long history dating back to the Middle Ages, back in England. The Bloodhound was used by English royalty to track deer and other game. They were also used to track humans, such as fugitives and criminals. Today, they are still used for tracking, but they are also popular pets. The Bloodhound has an excellent sense of smell and can track a human scent for miles. This breed is still used today for law enforcement and search and rescue. While the German Shepherd and Bloodhound share a common ancestry, they have been bred for different purposes and have different physical and personality traits. The main reason to mix a German Shepherd breed with a Bloodhound is to create a dog that has the best of both worlds. A GSD- Bloodhound cross will inherit the tracking ability of the Bloodhound and the excellent working abilities of the German Shepherd. This makes them an excellent choice for people who want a dog that can do it all. They can be used for hunting, tracking, law enforcement, and even as a family pet. They will typically be large dogs with a strong, muscular build. They will have the long snout of the Bloodhound and the erect ears of the German Shepherd. Size The typical size of a German Shepherd Bloodhound mix is inches tall at the shoulder and they weigh anywhere from 80 to pounds. Males are typically larger than females, in both height and weight. Males typically weigh between 80 and pounds, while females usually weigh between 60 and 80 pounds. Their height will depend on which parent breed they take after more. If they take after the German Shepherd parent, they will likely be inches tall. If they take after the Bloodhound parent, they will grow up to inches tall. Coat Type This breed has a short, dense coat that is easy to groom. The coat is usually black and tan, but it can also be liver or red. They have a double coat, which means they will shed seasonally. Colors There are a variety of colors that your German Shepherd Bloodhound mix could inherit from their parents. Some of the most common colors are black, brown, and tan. They can also be a mixture of these colors. Socialization at an early age is important to help them become used to meeting new people. To ensure this friendly breed maintains a stable temperament, they require a lot of exercise and stimulation. They make excellent family dogs, however, socialization and exercise will play an important role from an early age. Protectiveness This mix is an excellent choice for a family guard dog. They will protect their family from strangers and other animals. While they are considered a friendly breed, they are also very alert and will make good watchdogs. An example of their protectiveness is their barking. They will bark to warn their family of anything suspicious. They are notorious for their strength and stamina. This can be a good thing or a bad thing, depending on how you intend to use your dog. If you want a dog for hunting or tracking, their strength will come in handy. An example of their strength is their ability to pull hard on a leash. If you are not used to walking a strong dog, this breed may not be the best choice for you. However, if you are not an experienced dog owner, their strength can be a bit much to handle. They will also need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. They can reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. While not as fast as a greyhound or other racing dog, they are still very quick for their size. This makes them excellent at running and playing. If you are looking for a dog to take on hikes or runs with you, this breed would be a good choice. They need at least an hour of exercise every day. Exercise sessions can be in the form of walks, runs, playing fetch, or even agility training. If their daily exercise requirements are not met, they can become bored and destructive. Ideally, this breed of dog is best suited for active families due to its high energy level. They would do best in a home with a large yard where they can run and play. They do not do well in apartments or small homes without a yard. They have incredible learning ability and respond well to training. However, their independent nature can sometimes make training a challenge. They need a firm hand and patience when being trained. This breed is best suited for experienced dog owners who are willing to put in the time and effort to train their dog properly. Loyalty The German Shepherd Bloodhound mix is a very loyal breed. They will form a strong bond with their family and will be protective of them. Intelligence Levels The German Shepherd Bloodhound mix is a very intelligent breed that is easy to train. This is due to the fact that both parent breeds are highly intelligent. The German Shepherd is ranked as the 3rd most intelligent breed of dog and the Bloodhound is ranked as the 6th most intelligent breed. This mix will inherit these high intelligence levels, making them easy to train for a variety of tasks. Scent tracking levels The German Shepherd Bloodhound mix will inherit the strong sense of smell from their Bloodhound parent. This keen sense of smell makes them excellent at scent tracking. They are often used in search and rescue operations due to their ability to follow a scent for long distances. If you are looking for a dog that has a keen sense for track down missing people or animals, this breed would be a good choice. This is due to the fact that they are very alert and protective of their family. If you are looking for a dog that will make a good watchdog, this breed would be a good choice. This is due to the fact that they are very vocal dogs. They will howl to communicate with their family and to warn them of any danger. If you are looking for a dog that is very vocal, this breed would be a good choice. Are They Good with Other Dogs? The GSD-Bloodhound cross can get along with other dogs if they are properly socialized. This means exposing them to as many different types of dogs as possible at an early age. This will help them to become used to being around other dogs and not be afraid of them. It should be noted that this breed is typically more comfortable around certain breeds of dogs than others. For example, they may get along better with another GSD-Bloodhound cross than they would with a Chihuahua. This is due to the fact that they share similar size, build, and energy levels. Their occasional dominant traits could also make them incompatible with some dogs. For example, they may not get along well with a dog that is submissive or shy. This is because the GSD-Bloodhound cross may try to assert its dominance over these types of dogs. It is therefore important to properly socialize this breed early so that they can learn to get along with other dogs. Are They Good with Children? The GSD-Bloodhound cross is a great choice for a family with children. This is because they are very loyal and protective of their family. They will bond with the children in the family and will do their best to protect them from harm. This is one of their most positive traits. It should be noted, however, that this breed can be aloof with strangers. This means that they may not be as accepting of children that they do not know. This is why socialization is so important for this breed. It will help them to become used to meeting new people, including children. Nutrition needs The German Shepherd Bloodhound mix is a medium-to-large sized dog that will need a high-quality diet to maintain their health. This diet should be packed with protein and fat to help them maintain their energy levels. It should also contain a variety of vitamins and minerals to help them stay healthy. Some of the best dog food brands for this mix are Acana, Orijen, and Taste of the Wild. Grooming needs This breed will require weekly brushing to maintain its loose coat. They shed moderately and may need more frequent brushing during shedding season. They should also be bathed as needed, typically every few weeks. Their nails should be trimmed on a regular basis and their ears should be checked for dirt and debris. Overall, the German Shepherd Bloodhound mix is a relatively low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. Shedding levels The German Shepherd Bloodhound mix is a moderate shedder. This means that they will lose a moderate amount of hair throughout the year. They may shed more during shedding season, which typically occurs twice a year. Brushing them on a weekly basis will help to reduce the amount of hair that they shed around the house. Drooling levels The German Shepherd Bloodhound mix is known for its tendency to drool and slobber. This is due to the fact that they have loose skin around their jaws and mouth, which allows saliva to build up and drip out. This can be a bit of a nuisance, especially if you do not like dogs that drool. However, it is something that you will have to get used to if you decide to own this breed. Adaptability to Weather The German Shepherd Bloodhound mix is a relatively adaptable breed when it comes to weather. They can handle both hot and cold weather, as long as they have access to shelter and water. They should not be left outside in extreme weather conditions, as they are not built for it. Overall, this breed can adapt to most types of weather. However, there are some health problems that they are more prone to than others. It is important to have your dog checked by a veterinarian on a regular basis to help catch any of these health conditions early. This is a relatively long life expectancy for a dog, especially considering the size of this breed. The key to prolonging their life is to give them a high-quality diet and to take them for regular check-ups at the vet. While they are not yet recognized by the AKC, this could change in the future.

Prevalence: Common Boxers are stocky, muscular and powerful. Males grow to about 25 inches and weigh from about 65 to 80 pounds 30 to 36 kilograms ; females grow from about 21 to 25 inches and weigh from about 50 to 65 pounds 22 to 30 kilograms. Boxers have regal, distinctly shaped square heads. Their jaw is undershot and the muzzle blunt. They have a broad, deep chest and a relatively short, strong back. Boxer's ears fold over naturally, but traditionally, their ears have been cropped to stand erect. Their tails generally are docked and carried high. Their feet are compact and the toes are arched. The boxer's coat is short and sheds moderately. Some boxers are a rich, fawn color and others are brindle. Their face or mask is usually black, but many have white face markings and white on the chest and paws. Personality: Boxers are intelligent, high-energy, playful dogs that like to stay busy. Their temperament reflects their breeding. They prefer to be in the company of their owners and are loyal pets that will fiercely guard their family and home against strangers. They get along well with other animals if raised with them. However, boxers also have a reputation for attacking neighborhood dogs and cats if left to their own devices, so they should never be allowed to wander. Few boxers bark excessively. If a boxer barks, chances are there is a good reason. Many boxers are vocal, however, and make a growling noise that's really just the dog's way of talking. Living With: The boxer has a high need for companionship and exercise. If these needs are not met, boxers can be destructive if left alone in the house. Boxers are ideal for people who want a canine companion with them most of the time or for larger busy families with homes that are often occupied by someone. They can do well on a country estate or in a city apartment as long as they have the opportunity to romp and expel energy. If you live in an urban area, regular walks are necessary. Boxers are intolerant of hot weather, and care must be taken to prevent them from getting overheated. They also need protection from the cold since they are short-coated. Their coats, however, are very easy to care for and will be shiny and bright as long as they have a good diet, are bathed occasionally, and are given regular rub-downs with a grooming mitt or brushings with a rubber curry. Some boxers drool excessively, and some snort and snore. Like other larger dogs, boxers are not particularly long-lived. Their life expectancy ranges from about seven to 10 years. History: Boxers are descendants of extinct bullenbaiser breeds crossed with mastiff, bulldog and possibly Great Dane and even a terrier. They were developed in Germany in the 19th century, initially as bull baiting dogs and later as butcher's helpers, controlling cattle in slaughterhouses. Some breed historians say boxers are named from the German word boxl, their slaughterhouse designation. Other fanciers contend the name boxer comes from the characteristic way that they use their forepaws to play, sparring much like a human boxer. After the breed rose to become among the most popular in America. Boxers are considered working dogs. They were one of the first breeds employed as a police dog, and they have been used as seeing-eye dogs. But they are also bred to be companion and guard dogs, perhaps best known for being loyal family pets that are especially fond of children. Learn what to expect after being given a cancer diagnosis in your dog or cat including treatment options. The classic Northern dogs, Siberian Huskies are friendly and intelligent but somewhat independent and stubborn. The Siberian Husky is a medium-sized dog, slightly longer than tall. Find more dog breeds and dog care information at Hillspet. A strong, rugged dog, the Belgian Malinois exhibits a wide range of temperament and aggressiveness. This breed is not suitable for households with small, erratic children Related products. She stopped me in my tracks and I had absolutely no hesitation in putting her up. I have a picture of the occasion on the wall in my office and it makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand up every time I look at it because it shows such raw potential and such wonderful balance in one so young. Ever since that day I have followed the career of Wilma very closely and I have had the pleasure of seeing her in the flesh many times as she has grown up. Born on 10 August , Wilma was produced from two homebred CinniBons. The co-breeders were delighted with litter which had depth in quality but Wilma really did blow them away. They saw her again at the ABC Regionals in October where they were actively looking for a new dog to campaign and where their handler Michael Shepherd also made his admiration very obvious. However, it was not until February of the following year, just after she had been made up on 13 January under Robert Vindiver in Fredericksburg, that the Robbins got in touch with Bonnie to see if they could be involved with her campaign. Since then she has been owned by Cheryl and Keith in partnership with Bonnie and Deborah Caywood and handled exclusively by Michael who is assisted so magnificently by the amazing Dottie James. Her career has been nothing short of spectacular. In the global mother of the Boxer Frau Friederun Stockmann from Germany, whose wonderful Von Dom exports had laid the foundations for the breed in the US, visited California where she judged a massive entry at a match for the local Boxer club. Remarkably, all of these had been awarded in a little over three years, with a Coronavirus-enforced break thrown in as well. Very sadly Cheryl Robbins did not quite live long enough to see this record broken since she passed away earlier this year but we are all convinced that she is looking down with the broadest of smiles, reflecting on a job very well done after a lifetime in Boxers. Read times Last modified on Tuesday, 21 July

Adopt a new best friend. By choosing to adopt, you participate in a statewide effort to provide homes for deserving and loyal German Shepherds. We cover all vet expenses and will purchase all needed supplies for your foster dog while they are in your care. Adopt a Dog Help us help future dogs. Donate your time. Campaign for fundraising. Transport dogs to their destinations. Make a difference in the German Shepherd community. Apply to volunteer with us and provide care for German Shepherds that truly need it. Apply to Volunteer We have found homes for hundreds of happy German Shepherds. Below is a list of German Shepherds that have successfully found a new home. German Shepherd adoption has changed our lives, and it can change yours, too. Bodie A friendly German Shepherd with a lovely black coat. Bodie was a lovely, personable German Shepherd that was finally adopted by a loving family after a long battle with homelessness. She also loves engaging in friendly play with cats! Jill Adopted in , Jill became a playful and positive addition to her family. Jill had previously completed behavioral training prior to adoption, making her an asset to any home. Now, she enjoys daily walks to local parks. Mesaba Once abandoned by his previous owner, Mesaba found a loving family in Georgia, who named him Mesaba after their Minnesotan roots. Mesaba now enjoys walks in the park, play time with friends, and a loving family. Giroux After previous domestic issues with cats, Giroux found a home with one of our volunteers. He now enjoys cheering up his new owner, who has previously lost a German Shepherd to age-related difficulties. Abbie After a history of neglect, Abbie was able to recover from her past trauma and find a loving and accepting home in .She now enjoys playing hide-and-find with new toys, playing in the local pond, and being part of her new family. Fletcher After abandonment from his previous owners, Fletcher was finally able to join his new and supportive family. He now enjoys long walks, lots of attention and plenty of space for personal recreation. Matilda Matilda was shy before reaching out shelter - but after some training, she was finally able to come out of her shell! She now spends time with her new family, receiving more love than she could ever imagine! Queen Adopted in , Queen is a playful and positive addition to any family. Queen had previously completed behavioral training prior to adoption, making her an asset to any home. Ike Ike is the life of the party. We are pleased to announced that after years of neglect, Ike was finally able to join a family of his own. Now, Ike enjoys playing with his new owners and enjoying a life of abundant love and affection. She was once abandoned by her previous owners, but with some care and rehabilitation, Lady was able to relocate to a loving family of her own! Schatzi Talk about playful! Schahtzi is a lovely German Shepherd that was able to join a loving family after a past of neglect. Now, she enjoys lots of exercise and good memories with his new family. See More Alumni Give in memoriam. To us, a dog is family. Every pet has a story, how they were rescued and what they meant to us. Tell us your story. We pride ourselves on providing you with only the highest top Quality German Shepherd Puppies for sale. Our love and care goes into each and every German Shepherd Puppy that we help raise and bring into this world. It is our goal to provide you with a perfect companion from one of our litters. We strive to be the top German Shepherd Breeder in the country with our extremely high quality dogs, assuring you of a spectacularly beautiful and loving German Shepherd Puppy. While we raise spectacular show and breeding puppies, most of our puppies sold are for family pets and personal protection. They are wonderful, loving and gentle family pets, which is our largest market: People that want the Finest Purebred German Shepherd Dogs with spectacular pedigrees for their Family. We are one of very few German Shepherd Breeders in the country who have adopted and practice the proven early puppy neural and social development program that encourages high aptitude puppies. Every one of our puppies gets loving socialization daily from birth and advanced development stimulation. As they grow, they are in the house with us with constant socialization, they visit childcare centers, schools, and nursing homes for further socialization and community service. We have acreage on a beautiful lake front setting where our dogs are free to run and enjoy life. Visit any other kennel and then come visit us. The happiness and loving nature of our dogs speaks for itself. We genetically select the sire and dam of each litter for the best possible litter. While we have spectacularly well pedigreed males, we often search around the country for a German Shepherd male with the pedigree that will best serve our litter with a particular female.

What is a Red Golden Retriever? While Red Golden Retrievers can grow as big as a normal golden retriever, they are often smaller than most normal golden retrievers. Red Golden Retrievers are very similar to Golden Retrievers in many ways. The main difference besides their coat color is their energy levels. Red Retrievers were bred to aid in hunting birds and are known to be more athletic than standard Goldens. They need to be exercised more often to get all of their energy out. We stand by our pups, which is why we work alongside licensed veterinarians to ensure that our puppies are healthy and always up to date on their deworming and vaccination protocols. We also offer a 2-year genetic health guarantee on all of our puppies. That way, you can rest easy knowing your puppy is healthy and free from genetic defects and congenital diseases. Our mission is dedicated to connecting healthy, beautiful puppies with their forever families. Because their temperament is friendly, energetic, and patient. These pups are known for being loyal, intelligent, and devoted. Due to their higher energy levels they were bred to hunt after all , they do best with active families where they can get a lot of attention and are great with children. Luckily Red Retrievers and Goldens alike are known for their soft mouths since they were bred to hunt birds. The original Goldens came to be as a result of cross-breeding between various different breeds including: Water Spaniels, Yellow Retrievers, Irish Settlers, and Bloodhounds over several generations. In other words, all Golden Retriever subtypes including the English Cream Golden Retriever subtype , are members of the same family, or breed. Oftentimes, cheaper golden retriever puppies can ultimately cost you a LOT more money in the long run because they are more likely to have health issues. Are Red Goldens more expensive? Because of their elegant red coats and rarity, Red Goldens can be more expensive than certain other subtypes of Golden Retriever. Both are very similar in temperament, friendliness, socialness, health, and looks. They differ most in coat color, size, and energy. They are typically the smallest puppies of the litter and are more athletic meaning more energy to burn! How big is a full-grown Red Golden Retriever? The weight range for these sweet pups can be from pounds for full-grown males, and pounds for full-grown females. Additionally, these babies tend to stand at about inches tall, with males being on the taller end of the spectrum. Do Red Goldens shed? Yes, all types and variations of Golden Retrievers shed, and this is entirely normal for the breed. However, it is worth noting that because the Red Goldens often have a coat that is slightly shorter than typical Goldens, some owners claim they shed less overall. Problem solved! Are Red Golden Retrievers aggressive? The good news is— no, Red Golden Retrievers are not aggressive dogs by nature even with their higher energy levels. They still have the same sweet, calm, and lovable disposition which makes them a fantastic addition to any family to give plenty of attention to everyone including yours. Are Red Goldens more calm? Usually not, when compared to other subtypes of Golden Retrievers. While Red Golden Retrievers are much alike to Golden Retrievers with their high patience levels, they are known to have more energy. Are Red Golden Retrievers Rare? The gene manifests relatively rarely compared to other colors. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. If you have gotten a puppy from us before, she is the person you interacted with. She has been the photographer, website editer, email and phone person and the general PR manager. In March of Ronda was diagnosed with an agressive form of cancer with a bad prognosis. Her family was hopefull for recovery though. Ted has always been a part of Red Retriever but more behind the scenes. We appriciate your understanding going forward as Ted learns the ropes of the website, photos and correspondence. Intelligent and beautiful as the Irish Setter and loving and loyal as the Golden Retriever. Hybrid vigor, in a beautiful loving companion. Interestingly the cross is quite similar to early golden retrievers as seen in this painting. The Golden Retriever has been bred for lighter colors in recent years because this is favored by the AKC. Our Golden Irish puppies tend to be darker in color. How'd we start? Growing up my wife's family raised Pekingese. She loved their dogs and the litters of puppies that came and went. We wanted our children to have a family dog and to share the puppy experience with them and so we chose to raise Golden Retrievers. My family had a Golden Retriever growing up. My wife always dreamed of having a Golden Retriever or Irish Setter. We got our first Golden in and named her Mandy. We had 4 wonderful children ages 7 to 17 and our lovely dog Mandy. Mandy went everywhere with us. We lived on acres along the Calapooia River where the children would explore with Mandy at their side. Our 2 boys were passionate about the outdoors and loved to hunt and wanted a specific dog to train. It wasnt hard to convince their mom, but took a little longer to convince me. But convince me they did. They chose a male and of course named him 'Big Red'. The boys did an amazing job training the 3 dogs. We had the 4 dogs and plenty time and attention to offer them with the energy and passion from the 4 children. Cody and Mandy had their first litter of puppies in .The puppies were all healthy and delightful. The experience was just as my wife remebered as a child and she was happy that our children were able to enjoy the same experience. It was rewarding to place the puppies in wonderful homes. The pleasure and excitment the families portrayed as they picked up their puppy was addicting. The friendships we gained were rich. Ginger, trained by Josiah, was the cleverest dog we ever had. We were planning to breed Ginger with Cody. In the summer of Ginger came into heat so we would put Ginger and Cody in seperate kennels, on a cement slab, when we went to town. We were waiting for her to be in midcycle to breed her. I came home at dusk, one night, and let her out and she immediatly disappeard. We ran for a flashlight and found her in Big Red's Kennel. Big Red was our Irish Setter. We were devastated and felt like we had failed as breeders. However, we found that the puppies were extremely smart and farther advanced as they aged compared to our Pure Goldens as puppies. They were much calmer than most Irish Setters, and were more athletic than most Golden Retrievers. We knew these dogs would be a hit, and they have been. The first families to contact us were families specifically looking for the mix. They shared their stories of growing up with Golden Irish Mixes. Over and Over we heard how they were the best family dog they ever had. Why we Continue The Golden Irish was not merely something stumbled on by accident. The original accident was precipitated by a years long love of both the Golden Retriever and the Irish Setter. I was fascinated with the grace and freedom that contrasted the Irish Setter from more conventional setters in the story. He, rather, romanticized the hunt as a thing natural to the dog and foreign to the dogs human companion. Big Red knew what he was doing when he hunted. Big Red was the master hunter and Danny was his mere apprentice. Irish Setters can be strong willed. They are intensely loving and loyal but they do not have the level of automatic obedience seen in some breeds. They are majestic animals who do require some work during training to reach their potential. Unfortunately, because as the world has urbanized, the required space for an Irish Setter to shine has become rare, and this magnificent breed has seen declining popularity. Irish Setters are creatures of the open fields and the ubiquity of automobiles has ensured open fields are rare. We are fortunate to live in an area of the country still rural enough to allow the Irish Setter to run. But even we have to find time and space to give our dogs this opportunity. After almost 20 years experience with both Goldens and Irishes I have concluded that the main character trait differentiating the Golden Retriever and Irish Setter is patience. The Golden Retriever was bred to patiently wait for the hunt. The Irish Setter was bred to go out and make the hunt happen. Both love to chase things. Both can have seemingly boundless energy. Both are loyal companions. The Golden Retriever will wait for the ball to be thrown and the Irish Setter will grab the ball and expect to be chased. The Irish Setter is proactively invoking the hunt, whereas the Golden Retriever is awaiting its arrival. We were no experts at first and have learned a lot in 20 years. It turns out the patience of the Golden Retriever tends to be inherited by the Hybrid making them more suitable for Urban environments. It also turns out that the grown dogs can be stunningly beautiful. We have improved our breeding over the years and no longer hesitantly advertise. Through our hard won experience we are able to consistently breed Golden Irishes to our own very high standards. I recommend looking at the images page to see some of the stunning photos we have collected over the years. We have been raising Golden Retriever Irish Setter Hybrids for more than 15 years and have insight that only comes through experience. Packer Pictured above as an adult and a puppy Packer is one of our favorite puppies from our first litter. He went to a family in Alaska who were kind enough keep in contact and send us pictures. Packer and his family came to visit us in on our new property. We have been on the Blue Mountains above Weston, Oregon going on 7 years.

Post header Skip post header How much exercise does a Golden Retriever need? Golden Retrievers are a favourite family dog — they tend to be well-mannered, gentle, and great with kids. But did you know these pups were originally bred as working dogs? Because of their working ancestry, these dogs have got plenty of energy, so they need lots of high-quality exercise to keep them healthy and happy. How much exercise does a Golden Retriever need? You can download the free PitPat app and get a tailored exercise goal to find out exactly how much exercise your dog needs. That said, most healthy adult Golden Retrievers need at least 90 minutes of high-quality exercise daily. It can be hard to keep track of exactly how much your dog is doing — especially if there are lots of family members walking the dog, or they spend a lot of time playing. How much exercise does a Golden Retriever puppy need? How much exercise does a senior Golden Retriever need? Golden Retrievers may start to feel their age from around eight years. Their energy levels naturally drop as they age, and they may experience aches, pains, and joint issues. What types of exercise are best for Golden Retrievers? Golden Retrievers are active dogs who thrive in all sorts of canine sports. Agility is a favourite that keeps their brains working as hard as their bodies, or canicross is pawfect for those dogs who just want to run! Goldens are also favourite options for assistance dogs, so why not try out obedience with your dog? Whether your Golden Retriever is a city strutter or a forest rambler, PitPat can help ensure they get the right amount of exercise. You might also like Single page Single page How much exercise does a Labrador need? Thinking about getting a Labrador? Not sure if yours is getting the right amount of exercise? We answer all your questions about your Labrador and exercise in this handy guide. Single page Single page Can you over exercise a dog? We discuss the implications of over exercising your dog and how to avoid it. Jumping You probably noticed that all of the things above are unwanted behaviors. This can lead to heart problems, joint problems, and other potential health problems. These following suggestions for exercising your pup will cover both mental and physical exercises. Play tug with your golden Another good game to play with your pup is tug. This is also a great opportunity to work in some training, as you can teach your golden to drop it , take it, and even have them do sits or downs to resume the game. Play chase This is a great game to play, especially with puppies, since most puppies love nothing more than to chase or be chased. Get your dog hooked on chew toys Teaching your dog to love to chew on chew toys is one of the best things you can do for your puppy. Chewing releases feel-good endorphins and channels their chewing energy into an appropriate toy, instead of something in appropriate, like your household items. It can also help them relax, and put overtired puppies to sleep. Play with a flirt pole Using a flirt pole is great for young puppies because it allows them to chase and pounce a toy while you stay a safe distance away from their razor-sharp teeth. Oliver loves it, plus it takes a ton of mental energy to figure out how to get all of his kibble out of it. Other puzzle toys include the Kong Wobbler , snuffle mats , and food balls. This is a win-win since he loves the puzzle toys and it takes more energy to work for his food than to just gobble it up from a food bowl. Play hide and seek This is a great game that combines training and a little bit of exercise, but it does require that your golden knows how to stay. Just be sure to fully dry them off because goldens are susceptible to hot spots. Take your golden to doggy daycare After a day of daycare, Oliver is usually wiped out for the night, as well as half of the next day. Set up a doggy playdate If you have any friends that have nice dogs, or if you meet anyone in a local Facebook group, try to set up a doggy playdate. Your golden will love it! This is especially good for young puppies, since they need to be socialized with other dogs and you can make sure the other dog is up to date on their vaccines. Conclusion Since golden retrievers were bred to hunt out in the fields and marshes all day, they need a lot of exercise. How much exercise does your golden need per day? Have any questions about exercising your golden retriever? Let me know in the comments below. Related articles:. Incredibly active dogs, the best way to keep a golden happy and healthy is to take them on regular walks and outings. But how long should a Golden Retriever be walked? A Golden Retriever should be walked at least 1 hour every day. If easier for the dog owner, walks and exercise time for goldens can be broken up into two minute sessions daily. This, of course, is the recommended walking time for a healthy adult Golden Retriever. Keep reading to find out more! This article may contain affiliate links and loyalgoldens may earn a commission if a purchase is made. Unlock your goldens natural intelligence and see just how quickly problem behaviors disappear. This is the best at home dog training I've ever used! Their job was to retrieve downed waterfowl, such as ducks and upland game birds during outings with their owners. These hunting excursions could last hours or even days, and golden retrievers were created to be able to last out in the field for long periods of time. These hunts included regular amounts of walking, running, climbing, and swimming. Even though most golden retrievers today are usually domesticated house dogs, they still have the genetic profile of a working dog and have been bred to be high-energy and very active. A long walk helps a retriever to relax its energetic mind and take in all the sights, sounds and smells they experience along the way. A golden retriever could literally walk all day long and cover dozens of miles. Fortunately for us, that much walking is not required. Ideally, a good walk for a golden can be 30 to 60 minutes in length. The daily walk with your golden retriever can be done all at once, or it can be done for shorter periods of time, multiple times a day. The speed of the walk should be pretty fast. A brisk walk is necessary because golden retrievers are difficult to fully tire out. Running with your golden, however, is not a requirement. How Long to Walk A Golden Retriever Puppy Golden Retriever puppies require daily walks as well, but you will want to reduce the duration and length, depending on their age. Golden retriever puppies require short 10 to 15 minute walks or no more than about 5 minutes per month of age. As a golden retriever puppy grows you can add an extra few minutes each month to your regular walking routine. Doing so will guarantee your puppy grows into a strong and healthy dog. Providing the proper amount of puppy exercise is also a great opportunity to introduce your young pup to other people and dogs. A regular shorter walk gives them a chance to become better socialized, which will make for a happier adult dog in the long run. Walking a Senior Golden Retriever For senior dogs, try walking approximately 30 to 45 minutes daily. As golden retrievers age, their bodies go through physical changes and begin to slow down. However, their joints need to remain mobile and their weight still needs to be monitored. So, they need to be walked, but not too much or it could be detrimental for their health and cause hip dysplasia. Dogs love routine. Try to plan a walk at the same time each day. Consistent walking throughout the week is considered healthier than one long weekend stroll. Discover how to train your Golden Retriever by playing games : 21 games to play with your Golden that will make them smarter and better behaved! Besides walking regularly, it is also important to have some high-intensity exercise and play to help exhaust your golden retriever and retain their muscle tone. Golden Retrievers need three types of regular exercise to thrive and be happy. Long walks — The longer the better within reason. Purposeful high-intensity activity and play — Activities such as playing fetch, swimming, or running off-leash. Mental exercise — Mental stimulation is a form of exercise as well and is absolutely necessary for a healthy golden. Find out which toys golden retrievers love to keep them mentally stimulated in our article here. The average adult Golden retriever needs at least 1 hour of exercise a day, ideally more. Their genetic bloodlines can also influence how much exercise a golden retriever requires. Golden retrievers coming from a working stock would need much more exercise than golden retrievers bred to be lap dogs. Failure to provide ample physical exercise and mental stimulation to a golden retriever can contribute to loneliness and behavioral problems. This can include aggressive actions, digging, constant barking, and even running away to have their own fun. Golden Retrievers are very food-driven breeds. Not exercising enough to burn off the calories they eat can eventually lead to them being overweight. Obesity can lead to extreme tension on the joints, possible injury to internal organs for example, the heart , and diabetes. Exercise is the pill that cures most golden retriever mental and behavioral issues, and a good long walk is at the top of the list. Generally, golden retrievers are obedient and typically have a strong recall if they are trained correctly. Proper dog training is the key to being able to successfully let your golden run off-leash. Alternatively, you can use a retractable dog leash to allow more flexibility while still retaining control during walks. A leash like this will give your golden plenty of room to run and explore, while staying in your control. To be safe, make sure the added weight is no more than 10 percent of their total body weight. Doing this is more than enough to fatigue a dog with endless energy, and it will help to strengthen their muscles without overworking them. Another option to increase resistance and wear your dog out and you too! Choosing a walking route with some challenges will increase the amount of exercise your dog gets from an outing. Hard surfaces such as these can be jarring on both the joints and paws. Instead, walk your retriever on a lush lawn or playground. Many major cities have dog walking areas or dog parks that are deemed safe. These waterproof booties will protect your dogs feet from the hot pavement, as well as ice and snow. Spread a little bit of this on their paws and it will take care of any cracking pads on their feet. This can be an issue on some trails and beaches, as well as sidewalks in the city. They are also incredibly smart, meaning they need to keep their minds busy as well as their bodies. To avoid boredom, it is imperative to have sufficient physical and mental activity. A minimum of 60 minutes of exercise per day, including walks and purposeful play, for muscle building and mental relaxation is required for a happy and healthy golden retriever. Not doing so can result in an anxious and frustrated dog, which creates behavioral problems such as barking, digging, escaping, and overall aggressive behavior. Because golden retrievers are also vulnerable to being overweight, regular walking and a balanced diet can help regulate their weight and reduce their risk of obesity. By Tom Massey Apr 22, Most pet lovers know how vital exercise can be for their furry friends. Establishing a reliable exercise routine also deters dogs from destroying your house during a burst of high energy. Our Golden Retriever pals are renowned for their happy-go-lucky personality — these dogs are young at heart long after growing from the puppy stage. No matter how much you love your dog, nobody likes to find chew marks on their prized possessions. Dogs who receive too little exercise will have a round physique. But they are also likely to exhibit these unwanted behaviors. This article will review everything you need to consider when creating an exercise routine for your Golden Retriever. Very young Golden puppies only need a few minutes of exercise a day, although the length of time increases with each month of age. Our growing companions do not realize how delicate they are within their first year of life. Growth plates help cartilage grow into bone as puppies mature. However, they are very sensitive and can damage easily. In the meantime, this means your Golden Retriever pup should avoid activities that have a high potential for growth plate injuries. Here are some activities that could hurt puppies who are still growing: Jumping from too high off the ground Twisting too fast Consistent repetition of the same activity Extended periods of high energy play Injuries to growth plates can hinder bone growth and, in extreme cases, cause uneven limbs when your pup grows up. Unfortunately, Golden Retrievers are a breed at risk for developing hip dysplasia. This disorder can start as early as four months old but typically occurs as a dog ages. Obesity, excessive exercise, and too little exercise can cause hip dysplasia in dogs. This is why finding the perfect amount of activity for your dog is crucial to maintaining health throughout his life. In the first few months of life, your pup will be curious to explore the world around them. Most of the exercises for young dogs focus on socialization and behavior training. Learning these tools will ensure your dog is friendly, obedient, and ready for higher-level exercise routines later in life. Typically, a Golden Retriever puppy should have 5 minutes of exercise for every month of age. At 9 to 12 weeks of age , a Golden Retriever puppy will begin integrating into your family. Socialization during this age is crucial, so their primary source of exercise should be playing with you and other members of your household. This includes any other dogs or pets you have in the home. But remember to keep a close eye on your furry friends as they learn to interact with each other. At 13 to 16 weeks, your Golden Retriever will start teething. Playing with chew toys will be a great opportunity for your puppy to learn what they can and cannot munch on. You might see some challenging behaviors arise around 16 to 24 weeks of age. An exercise playpen with lots of toys, food, and drink is an excellent idea to keep the pup entertained while also keeping them out of trouble. From 6 to 12 months, a Golden Retriever puppy will have lots of energy, and an exercise routine that includes physical and mental exercise will be essential. At Snowy Pines, for example, our customer communications specialist Julia reaches out to families at 2 days, 1 week, and around the day mark after homecoming to answer any questions about training or your puppy in general. The world is a big place for little pups, and they need relaxation after stimulating activities. Over years ago, Golden Retrievers were bred to be high-energy hunting companions. Enough exercise will also minimize the chances that your Golden will engage in destructive behaviors around the home. Also, Golden Retrievers also love to eat, so exercise will be important to prevent weight gain. A healthy adult Golden Retriever should receive 40 to minutes of exercise per day, broken up into two sessions. And because Goldens are easy to please, they will be content with a wide range of different activities. This breed loves going on nice, long walks through nature. Walking is a great low-impact exercise for dogs and their owners. Try to go out for about an hour when walking to give your dog and you! You can also visit a fenced dog park for a game of fetch. Golden Retrievers also love mental stimulation, which keeps their mind active. A good mix between high stimulation, low impact, and intellectual exercises will keep your beloved pet physically and mentally healthy. If you see your Golden Retriever sitting or lying down during their daily walk or exercise routine, your dog is tired and needs to relax. If your adult dog is overweight and needs a lot of exercise, try gradually increasing their exercise time by five minutes every day or two to increase their stamina. In addition, dogs who receive infrequent exercise will exhibit some undesirable behaviors. Without proper daily exercise, Golden Retrievers can become socially withdrawn, destructive, or hyperactive. If you have difficulty meeting their exercise needs, consider hiring a dog sitter or investing in interactive toys. This is an entirely normal activity and provides an excellent opportunity for playtime. Special Considerations for Senior Golden Retrievers Our precious pets have a shorter lifespan than humans. Golden Retrievers are classified as seniors when they reach eight years of age. As Golden Retrievers age, you may see their energy levels decrease. This is normal — much like older adult humans, senior Golden Retrievers tire easily. When high-energy tasks like long-distance running and playing fetch become hard, walking and mentally stimulating exercises are great ways to keep senior dogs healthy and active. But always remember to watch for signs that your pet needs rest. If your senior Golden takes a long time to get up while on a walk, this signals that they are tired. Consider taking them home instead of continuing the exercise. If you notice your senior dog is frequently extra lethargic, you may want to visit a veterinarian. Remember, as dogs age, they can become susceptible to hip dysplasia from too much or too little exercise. Golden Retrievers were bred to be hunting companions — needless to say, they love being in nature. Long walks where they can stop and sniff their environment will mentally and physically stimulate your Golden. In addition, early Golden Retrievers were bred to be natural swimmers, so dock diving is a great physical exercise. Dock diving is the game of fetch with the addition of water: your dog runs after the object, swims to fetch it, and returns the object to you. Swimming is a wonderful activity, especially for senior Goldens who may be experiencing the aches and pains of old age. This activity is easier on their joints but still gives them an appropriate amount of movement. Most dogs love playing fetch or catching frisbees, and Golden Retrievers are no different. This is a great activity for children who want to participate in playtime with the family pet. Golden Retrievers are well-known for their obedience during agility courses. Creating an obstacle course where your dog can practice different exercises like running and jumping will keep your furry pal entertained for a long time. If your dog is trained to walk safely and will stay to one side of your body, you can introduce running. However, remember to start slowly. Activities like hide and seek with treats , puzzle toys, and trick training are great brain exercises to get your dog thinking. As a reminder, dogs can never have too much positive reinforcement for their good behaviors. Conclusion Golden Retrievers are an energetic dog breed that loves playtime and requires lots of exercise to keep them from exhibiting unwanted behaviors. However, you should always watch for signals that your dog is tired or overworked. This is especially true for puppies who could damage their growth plates with too much exercise, as well as senior Goldens, who may need to scale back their normal 40 to minutes a day. We all want our fluffy companions to live long and healthy lives. By establishing regular exercise into their daily routine, you can help keep your Golden Retriever physically and mentally fit. At Snowy Pines, we start teaching our puppies lifestyle skills from a young age. Contact us today to learn about our available English Cream Golden Retriever puppies! Share on. Conclusion Golden Retriever Exercise Requirements They need some form of daily exercise; otherwise, they become restless, nervous and hyperactive. This is particularly problematic if you keep your dog indoors and there are some other people in the house or the house is small and has lots of breakable items. Golden Retriever exercise can be as simple as walking your dog twice a day, preferably once in the morning and once in the evening. This should last for about 45 minutes to one hour to ensure they exercise enough. Exercise provides a lot of benefits to Retrievers. Most importantly, during the puppy stage which is very important for it growth. Expose the puppy to early exercise and training. This kind of training should not be stressful and should not put a lot of strain on the puppy. If you are asking the type of exercise and how much is enough for your Golden Retriever puppy. Read on, this article will deal with that extensively. For a start, you should introduce your puppy to the kind of exercise that allows him to focus on you and do the things you want him to do. Such exercise should help shape your puppy to a well-behaved dog and help its concentration, as well as directing its energy toward the right behaviors. Types of exercises for Golden Retrievers There are many types of exercises for Golden Retriever but in this article, we will take a look at the best types of exercise you should give to your dog to enable him to live a happy and healthy life. Daily walk A daily walk is necessary for Golden Retrievers not just to release some excess energy. But it also helps stimulate your dog's mind with sounds, sight and smells he encounter during the walk. Dogs like routine, so try scheduling the walk around the same time each day. The daily walk is better than nothing all week and a long walk on weekends only. The duration of the walk is limited only by your time and energy because Retriever was bred to work all through the day. Ideally, the least should be 45 to 60 minutes a day. This may be just once or twice a day if your schedule permits. The speed of the walk should be a brisk quick trot. Though, it is unlikely to wear out a Golden Retriever. If your dog has a good recall and comes on command, it will be perfect to let him walk at the park off-leash. You can also use a retractable leash to give your dog more freedom while maintaining control. Naturally, Golden Retrievers are obedient and have better recall if they are trained. Swimming In addition to daily walks, it is also necessary to give some high-intensity activities and play to further tire your dog and to maintain muscle tone. By maintaining strong muscles, they will support the joints and tendons and prevent injury. Golden Retriever were bred to swim, and swimming is one of their best exercise. The benefits of swimming for Retrievers include a vigorous activity that burns energy quickly, it helps strengthen and tone muscle from resistance provided by the water. Swimming is a low-impact activity that does not strain the dog joints and tendons. It is the right treatment for a dog who is recovering from surgery or injury. Puzzle Toys or Hiding Treats This is a mental stimulation Exercise, and Golden Retriever needs this kind of exercise to improve their training. They love treats and you can use this advantage to exercise your dogs during rainy days. Take some of its favorite treats and hide them in different places around your home. Your dog is likely to get tired searching for the treats and get a great exercise in the process. Your retriever may even get sufficient exercise with a toy that dispenses treats when it solves a puzzle, but it depends on the dog breed. When you give your dog too much treat can make them sick or defeat the purpose of the exercise by gaining weight. Benefits of exercising your Golden Retriever An exercised dog is a calm and happy dog! It is sad that many dog owners ignore this basic health requirement for different reasons, sometimes just because it is uncomfortable for them. To own a dog comes with the responsibility of keeping your dog happy and healthy. This involves a lot of things, like giving your pup a daily exercise. The following are the benefits of exercising your Golden Retriever. Exercise help slows down the aging process: aging is part of life. But, giving aging dogs both mental and physical exercise can help prevent some age-related diseases. Exercise is an excellent defense against anxiety: Since exercise usually reduces anxiety, lack of exercise can lead to anxiety. Owners who spend time to exercise their dogs daily are less likely to return home to a house that has been torn apart by an anxious, bored and neglected-feeling dog. It also helps strengthens the bond between the dog and its owners. Which exercise partner is better than the one who always shows up and never complains? Golden Retriever is a built-in exercise pal. Exercising together benefits both dog and its owner in terms of general health and strengthening their bond. It's an engaging, and mutual activity ideal for bonding and boosting the heart rate. The consequences of not exercising your Golden Retriever Not exercising your Retrievers can have adverse effects on their emotional, physical, and mental health. A pup that does not leave his home is likely to be frustrated, bored and has excessive energy. Some side effects of not exercising your Golden Retriever may include the following; A bored and frustrated dog is very likely to develop behavioral problems. This may include unnecessary barking, destructive behavior, digging and escaping. Lack of exercise may prevent your dog from learning the necessary social skills that can only be learned through social interaction. A pup that has not learned how to get along and communicate with other dogs can end up fighting. This is not good for you and your Retriever. Not having the opportunity to sightsee the environment. Golden Retrievers are naturally curious creatures. Walking allows them to smell, see, and hear new things and gives them the chance to know their environment. Not having this opportunity may affect your dog's confidence by making him nervous and afraid when facing new situations. Conclusion The Golden Retrievers are a very energetic dog breed and need a lot of exercise. Lack of exercise can lead to various health problems, behavior problems, and hyperactivity. Therefore to have a healthy and happy Retriever, you need to provide your dog as much exercise he needs and deserves. If you are the kind of person who likes to stay at home with your feet up in front of the television, Golden Retriever is not the right choice for you. But if you are the outdoor kind of person, Retriever is the right choice for you. More Sport and Canine Activities. Read the full disclosure here. All dogs need exercise to live a fit, healthy and fulfilling life. No matter the breed, no matter how large or small, no matter their age, they all need exercise. But some need more than others. So what are the Golden Retriever exercise requirements? Golden Retrievers Are A High Energy Sporting Breed As the name suggests, the Golden Retriever is a sporting breed initially created to retrieve fallen game for hunters in the Scottish highlands in the 19th century. Retrieving in the Scottish Highlands, with its mountainous landscape pot-holed with ponds, lakes and streams is very physically demanding work. So when they set out to create the Goldens, they had to be a high energy, sturdy breed with lots of stamina and an affinity for water. They needed a dog that could travel large distances, hiking and swimming in rough terrain for the best part of a full day. And with this breed, this is exactly what they got. They need physical activity. They become very destructive , chewing , digging, and running around your home and garden like little tornadoes. Too full of pent-up energy to be able to concentrate and behave themselves well and some will even try to escape their home and garden at every opportunity. Only now, all that food will just turn into fat and lead to poor health and weight issues. Yes, Golden Retrievers are very prone to obesity. Usually a combination of their owners doing two things: Giving in too often to those expertly crafted begging routines. Not giving their pooch anywhere near a sufficient level of exercise. Excess weight leads to a variety of problems such as heart disease, increased risk of diabetes, high blood pressure and damage to their hip and elbow joints. Keeping your Golden at a healthy weight is the responsibility of any caring owner. This rule basically states: A puppy needs no more than 5 minutes of exercise for each month it has been alive. So a 3-month-old puppy needs only 15 minutes exercise per day, a 5-month-old needs 25 minutes. This exercise is a proper, structured exercise. Meaning brisk walking on leash, gentle games of fetch. Puppies are growing fast and their bones and joints can be easily damaged by over-exercising. Follow the 5 minute rule and encourage very little jumping or vigorous exercise! Continue the 5 minute rule until your golden is nearing one year old. As a general rule to follow, a healthy adult Golden retriever exercise needs consist of a good hour of exercise every day. But the genetics of your dog could mean you need to increase or decrease this. Those retrievers from a working field line will be more energetic and have higher exercise needs, perhaps as much as 2 hours per day. Whereas those from show lines could get by on 45 minutes. But all Goldens need regular exercise, at least twice per day or they will become bored and probably destructive. Try to provide different forms of exercise such as hiking, running, swimming, playing fetch…you need to stimulate their minds as well as their hearts and muscles. They will take every bit of physical activity you throw at them and then be able to do much more. You will tire yourself out long before you can tire them! Some Golden retrievers suffer arthritis and other joint pains as they age. If this is the case with your dog, please speak to your vet and follow their advice. With some ailments exercise can make things worse and you do not want that for your dog. Like humans, dogs are individuals and age differently. Just be mindful of not asking too much of your elderly dog. They can still enjoy walking long distances and swimming, just avoid jumping hedges and chasing balls for an hour straight. Believe me, you will know! In all cases, if your Golden has behavioral problems and seems highly strung and out of control, the first thing you should do is have them checked by a vet for health issues. And if they receive a clean bill of health then the simplest of cures for a better behaved dog is to exercise them more. Try it for a few days, you just may be surprised at the results: An exercised Golden is a calm and happy Golden! Conclusion Golden Retrievers are a high energy sporting breed and require a lot of exercise. A lack of it can lead to a variety of health problems, hyperactivity and behavioral problems! So for a healthy and happy dog…and owner…provide your beloved puppy with just as much physical activity as they need and deserve! Jogging alongside you, running along as you cycle, going for long hikes , the occasional swim and sessions of playing fetch all qualify as good Golden Retriever training. You will stay fit and active and happy together. You May Also Like. Sep 13, Sep 20, This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Our goldens are such high-energy dogs. In order to stay mentally and physically healthy, they require exercise. They need more exercise than many dogs. Of course, the amount and type of exercise will vary based on their age, genetics, health, and overall health and fitness. He may become destructive or he may gain weight. So, to keep him healthy and happy, he should be well-exercised. Even adult goldens may chew the wrong items like your furniture and dig in your garden when under-exercised. Or they may bark excessively, jump on counters or people even when trained not to, or be mouthy. Also, he may gain too much weight. This can lead to heart disease, risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, and damage to hips and elbows. A dog who receives enough exercise has toned muscles. Exercise also keeps his body and metabolic system functioning properly and engages his mind. Of course, puppies, adult goldens, and seniors will require various amounts and types of exercise. But generally golden retrievers, being sporting dogs meant to work, need more exercise than many breeds. Genetics enter into the equation. This can also help you determine what type of exercises to include in his regimen. So a three-month-old puppy should receive no more than 15 minutes of exercise up to two times a day. And break up the time he plays. For example, have a short minute walk and, after a break, a three-minute fetch session. Then, after another break, a two-minute training session. Vary the activities. Doing all these activities will not only help your pup exercise, but it will also help further your bond. My rescued golden retriever Riley came to me when he was about six months old. To say that he was energetic would be an understatement. He would jump on us, be mouthy, and generally destructive when he arrived. Of course, he needed training. But I also had to meet his exercise needs so that we could have a great relationship. So I took him on long walks, played fetch with his Kong ball, played tug and release, and played with puzzle toys. He also played with my other dogs. And he went to daycare two or three days or half-days per week. Between mental and physical exercise, he became the great dog he was meant to be. He enjoys life, loves everyone, and is very well-behaved wherever he goes. But he was worth it. Of course a young adult or one from hunting lines may need more. They may even need an hour-and-a-half or two hours per day. Just like us, goldens are individuals. But others may still be very active at 10 years old. Of course, some goldens are still very active at that age and beyond. But how much and the type of exercise they should engage in depends on their general health. The same is true of goldens with disabilities. They still require a sufficient amount of exercise according to their needs. Types of Exercise for Your Golden Of course both physical and mental exercise are required to have a healthy dog. There are many choices that will help your dog be fit and happy. Always monitor your dog to see if he seems too tired or appears to be injured. Stop and seek veterinary advice. Start out slowly and add time over many sessions as your pup can handle it. Vary the exercises. Some can be performed inside as well as outside. So even on a rainy day, you can sufficiently exercise your dog and meet his needs. Walking or Running Of course, you should first teach your dog to walk on a loose leash before exercising him on a leash. Walks at a natural pace are best for most goldens. Start with short walks, increasing them over time. Avoid walks on the hottest or coldest part of the day. Always walk on safe footing and avoid slippery or sharp surfaces. Of course, running is another matter. The pounding may be too much. Running on soft running paths or level grass can be alright for some dogs. Of course, a full vet checkup should occur before starting any running program with your beloved golden retriever. Some people jog with a dog. Others may skate or ride a bike with their golden alongside. Of course, some dogs enjoy hiking with their people. There are many sights and smells for a dog to enjoy. Play Groups Your puppy or dog can also get a lot of varied exercise playing with appropriate dog playmates. Dogs romp and wrestle together. You can set up your own or join in to well-run dog playgroups or even dog daycares. Playing With Your Dog You can play fetch with your dog if he knows how to retrieve and give up the toy on cue. He may even fetch a favorite ball. Or play tug with a toy like a rope or fleece toy if your dog will take it and release it on cue. The options are limitless. You can play hide and seek with your golden while inside. You can heel with him, have him come on cue, or teach him to wave! Mentally Stimulating Toys There are many activity toys you can buy or you can make your own. Some are puzzle toys where your golden seeks out kibble or treats. Or treat-dispensing balls. If you or a friend has a swimming pool, you can teach your dog to swim. They make life vests for safety. Start him in shallow water and build from there, with you accompanying him. Always make sure that he knows where the steps are and how to get out of the water. My golden Spencer used to like to swim in the bay when we vacationed at the shore. He was a great swimmer, but he wore a doggy life vest and I had him on a long-line for safety. There are also dog facilities like boarding and daycares and vet hospitals that have facilities where your pup may swim. Swimming provides a great cardio workout as well as being easier on joints than many land exercises. This can be good for dogs with joint problems and arthritis. In fact, aqua therapy is often used for dogs who need physical rehabilitation from injuries or surgery. The following suggestions can be performed in competitions or just for fun and exercise. You can even join a dog training club or take courses to learn how to perform these activities. There are so many choices, including: Lure coursing, where a dog chases after a plastic bag attached to a lure that whizzes by on a specially designed course. Sight hounds often participate in this sport. Scent work, in which a dog finds something by scent. Agility, where a dog learns to run a designated course with tunnels, weave poles, dog walks, and teeter totters. Flyball, where a dog learns to jump over a course of jumps and retrieve a ball. Rally obedience, in which you train your dog to walk through a course accompanied by you. He performs certain tasks at each sign on the ground that you encounter. He may have to sit and lie down and perform other obedience exercises throughout the course. Dock diving is a sport in which goldens and labs excel—usually being water-loving dogs. He stays on the dock, awaiting your command. He then runs along the dock and flings his body into the water to retrieve the toy. In competition, the goal is to have the longest jump possible. You should be able to feel his ribs without seeing them. Some occasional zoomies are natural. And he should also be able to listen and pay attention to you and to perform known commands, Too much exercise can be as bad as not enough. Final Thoughts Just like us, goldens need physical and mental exercise to remain healthy. It will also further the bond with your four-legged best friend. How much exercise does your golden receive? What activities have you tried? Please leave your comments in the section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Debbie has been training dogs for over 24 years and has nationally ranked obedience and rally dogs, agility dogs, trick dogs, and therapy dogs. Post navigation. Excessive ball throwing and catching. Fast-paced walks. Walking on hot days. Running a puppy alongside a bike. Dogs and puppies should not be exercised immediately before or after eating, as this can cause problems such as bloating. How to Exercise A Golden Retriever Puppy Providing puppies with the opportunity to exercise is a very important aspect of their healthy life. Not only does exercise have multiple health benefits, but it also gives them a good opportunity to socialize and bond with their owner. Check the temperature outside to avoid overheating. Make sure they wear a proper collar and tag. Make sure they are comfortable with their collar and leash. During Eeercise One way to help your puppy get exercise is by having them on a leash with you and following these tips: Walk at a normal pace. Stop to rest if your puppy keeps sitting down and continue when they get back up. Avoid over-exercising. You can also allow your puppy to exercise without a leash. Allow your pet to run freely in a safe environment, such as a backyard or designated dog park. Having them off the leash is a good way for them to regulate their own pace and exercise they want but do watch for: Watch out for signs of fatigue, including panting, slowing their pace, and lagging behind you. Watch for overheating signs such as excessive panting, drooling, vomiting or agitation. Keep your puppy hydrated. Signs that your dog is overheating and what you can do to help After exercise After your puppy has finished his exercise, make sure to offer them plenty of fresh, clean water and allow them to rest. After they have calmed down and rested, you can offer them a healthy treat or feed them. Exercise For Your Puppy In addition to giving your puppy short, daily walks, here are some other options of exercise that your pup will enjoy. Swimming Swimming is a great exercise for all dogs as it helps strengthen and tone muscles. Get your puppy familiar with water first after they are 3 months old. Fetch Golden Retrievers are meant for retrieving, so a good game of fetch will come naturally to them. Just make sure to watch for any signs of tiring. Dog toys that move There is a wide variety of interactive toys for puppies that are highly stimulating and can help with exercise. Play with other dogs Having your puppy be around other dogs is a good way to give them an exercise buddy while they work on important social skills. Whist Golden Retrievers instinctively know how to retrieve, they need to be trained from a very young age to catch. Signs Your Puppy is Getting Too Much Exercise Exercise keeps joints limber, promotes good range of motion, maintains muscle mass, and can help prevent injury. But too much of it can actually cause injury. Watch out for signs of over-exercise like sore muscles, behavioral changes, and joint injury. Sore Muscles Sore muscles are a sign that your pup is getting too much exercise. Refusing or struggling to go up and down the stairs. Refusing to eat because it hurts to lower down. If you notice signs of soreness, give them time to rest and lower the amount of exercise they are getting. Continuing to exercise, at this point, can lead to injury. Behavioral changes If your puppy usually enjoys going for walks with you but starts to shy away from walking or whimpers when you begin the walk, this is showing you that something is not right. Inconsistent conditioning can lead to changes in behavior as well as injury. If there is a joint injury, your puppy will begin to limp or favor one leg over the other. Another sign that is said to be a sign of joint injury is if you notice your dog putting its head down while walking on the good leg but lifting its head when walking on the bad leg. Heat sickness Heat exhaustion is a concern during the warmer months. Younger dogs have difficulty regulating body temperatures, so too much exercise can cause them to overheat. Signs of heat exhaustion are excessive panting, disinterest in eating, and drooling. Stopping suddenly can also scrape the bottom of the paws, causing the outer layer of the pad to wear off. It is good not to drag your dog while they are leashed, instead, be patient with them and listen to their cues. Golden Retrievers are popular dogs for outdoor activities. That is why we feature them here at Outdoor Dog Fun with these articles:.

Breeds The link has been copied! Looking for some sweet little curls, or perhaps a teddy bear that loves you unconditionally? A Miniature Goldendoodle may be just the companion for you. These family-loving dogs have quickly become one of the most popular pet breeds in the United States for many different reasons including their size. These sweet, affectionate, and loyal dogs are incredibly easy to train, particularly when bred with a top-notch breeder. With an average full-grown size of between lbs, Miniature Goldendoodles are the perfect size for most families. But there is quite a bit to know about these sweet little pups before bringing one into your home - including how much to expect when it comes to size. So let's take a look at what a full-grown Mini Goldendoodle looks like, and some of the important things to consider when deciding if this breed is the right fit for you and your family. Full Grown Mini Goldendoodle Size A full grown Mini Goldendoodle stands about inches in height and weighs between 20 and 40 pounds, on average. It falls on the smaller end of the scale, typically weighing between pounds and measuring inches in height. However, it is important to note that the exact size of a Goldendoodle can vary depending on the specific breeding, genetics, and the size of the Poodle parent used in the breeding process. Generally, Mini Goldendoodles are bred by crossing a Miniature Poodle with a Golden Retriever, resulting in a dog that is small in size but big in personality. Despite their small size, Mini Goldendoodles are active and energetic dogs that require plenty of exercise and playtime to keep them happy and healthy. Goldendoodles are a popular crossbreed of the Golden Retriever and the Poodle. They come in various sizes, including Teacup, Toy, Mini, Medium, and Standard, which can affect their full grown weight and height. Full Grown Teacup Goldendoodle Size Teacup Goldendoodles, as the name suggests, are the smallest of the breed, usually standing inches tall and weighing around 13 pounds or less. Due to their small size, Teacup Goldendoodles may be more fragile than their larger counterparts and may require extra care and attention to ensure their health and safety. It's important to do thorough research and choose a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs when considering adding a Teacup Goldendoodle to your family. Full Grown Toy Goldendoodle Size Toy Goldendoodles, in comparison to other types of doodles, are slightly larger and stand inches tall, and typically weigh between 13 to 20 pounds. Toy Goldendoodles are bred by crossing a Toy Poodle with a Golden Retriever, resulting in a dog that is small in size but big in personality. Despite their small size, Toy Goldendoodles are active and energetic dogs that require plenty of exercise and playtime to keep them happy and healthy. They are also known for their affectionate and friendly nature, making them great companions for families and individuals alike. Full Grown Standard Goldendoodle Size Finally, the Standard Goldendoodle is the largest of the breed, standing inches in height and weighing between 40 and 75 pounds, on average. The exact size of a Goldendoodle can vary depending on the specific breeding, genetics, and the size of the Poodle parent used in the breeding process. Goldendoodles are bred by crossing a Golden Retriever with a Poodle, resulting in a dog that is known for their friendly, social, and outgoing nature. They are also highly intelligent and trainable, making them great companions for families, individuals, and even service animals Despite their larger size, Goldendoodles are also known for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them great with children and other animals. As with any dog, it's important to provide proper care and attention to ensure the health and well-being of your Goldendoodle. This includes regular exercise, a healthy diet, and routine veterinary check-ups to ensure they remain happy and healthy throughout their life. The Mini Goldendoodle, a smaller variation of the popular Goldendoodle breed, reaches a full grown size of approximately 16 to 20 inches in height and 20 to 40 pounds in weight. On average, they tend to fall towards the smaller end of the scale, with a typical weight of 20 to 30 pounds and a height of 16 to 18 inches. This compact size makes Mini Goldendoodles a great fit for individuals or families who live in smaller homes or apartments, or for those who prefer smaller dogs. The weight and height of a Goldendoodle can be impacted by several factors, including: Parent Breeds: The weight and height of a Goldendoodle can be influenced by the size of its parent breeds, as well as the gene pool it inherits from them. For example, a Goldendoodle with a larger Poodle parent and a smaller Golden Retriever parent may be smaller than a Goldendoodle with two larger parents. Genetics: Genetics play a significant role in determining the size of a Goldendoodle. The combination of genes from the Golden Retriever and Poodle can result in a wide range of sizes, from Teacup to Standard. Nutritional intake: Feeding a Goldendoodle a well-balanced diet that meets its nutritional needs can help ensure that it reaches its full growth potential. Overfeeding or underfeeding can result in an underweight or overweight Goldendoodle, which can affect its overall size. Health: A Goldendoodle's health can also impact its size. Health issues such as hormonal imbalances or malformations can slow down or stop growth, resulting in a smaller or malformed dog. This delightful crossbreed is the result of mating a Miniature Poodle with a Golden Retriever. The Mini Goldendoodle was created as a smaller, more manageable alternative to the Standard Goldendoodle and was designed to be the perfect family pet. The Mini Goldendoodle quickly became popular due to its adorable appearance, cheerful personality, and hypoallergenic coat. These dogs are known for their affectionate and playful nature, as well as their high intelligence. Mini Goldendoodles are also known for their low to non-shedding coat, which makes them a great choice for individuals and families with allergies. Today, Mini Goldendoodles continue to be one of the most popular breeds for families and individuals looking for a smaller, yet still lively and affectionate companion. These dogs are known for their versatility and are suitable for a wide range of activities, from hiking and playing to simply cuddling on the couch. With their cheerful personalities and adorable appearance, Mini Goldendoodles have earned a place in the hearts of many and will likely continue to be a favorite for years to come. As mentioned, the Gooldendoodle is a cross between a miniature poodle and a golden retriever. Take a look at what makes this breed so adorable! Parent 1: The Miniature Poodle Miniature Poodles are a smaller size variation of the Poodle breed and are considered one of the most intelligent dog breeds. They stand at inches tall and typically weigh between pounds. Miniature Poodles are known for their distinctive curly coats, which come in a variety of colors such as black , white, brown, and apricot. In addition to their attractive appearance, Miniature Poodles are highly trainable and excel in obedience, agility, and other dog sports. They are also affectionate and social, making them great family pets. Despite their small size, Miniature Poodles have a lot of energy and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Parent 2: The Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers are a popular breed of dog known for their friendly and loyal personalities, as well as their attractive appearance. They are a medium to large breed, typically standing between inches tall and weighing between pounds. Golden Retrievers have a thick, waterproof coat that is usually golden in color, hence their name. Golden Retrievers are highly trainable and intelligent dogs, making them great choices for families, hunters, and individuals who participate in dog sports such as obedience, agility, and search and rescue. They are also known for their friendly and affectionate nature, making them great family pets. They're usually between inches tall and weigh pounds. Mini Goldendoodles boast curly or wavy coats that can come in a variety of colors such as cream, apricot, red, black, and brown. With their round faces, floppy ears and soft, cuddly coats, it's no wonder people often describe these dogs as "teddy bear-like"! On top of that, they have a moderate build combined with an athletic, energetic appeal. Plus, they usually have long, curly tails and dark, expressive eyes. Temperament of the Mini Goldendoodle The Mini Goldendoodle is a highly social and friendly hybrid breed that is known for its great temperament. These dogs are known for being affectionate, playful, and cheerful, making them great companions for families, individuals, and seniors. They are also highly trainable and intelligent, which makes them easy to train and a great choice for first-time dog owners. Mini Goldendoodles are known for their love of play and their energetic personalities. They have a lot of energy and enjoy going on walks, playing fetch, and participating in other activities with their owners. Despite their energetic personalities, they are also known for being calm and well-behaved, as long as you properly train your pup. In addition to their friendly and playful personalities, Mini Goldendoodles are also known for their loyalty and love for their owners. They are highly social dogs that enjoy being around people and other animals, and they are known for their ability to form strong bonds with their owners. Do Mini Goldendoodles Bark a Lot? Barking is a natural behavior for dogs, and Mini Goldendoodles, like all breeds, can bark for various reasons, such as alerting their owners to potential danger or when they are seeking attention. However, Mini Goldendoodles are generally not known for excessive barking. The amount of barking a Mini Goldendoodle does can depend on various factors, including their training, socialization, and individual personality. Consistent training and positive reinforcement can help minimize barking, while neglect or boredom can lead to excessive barking. It's important to remember that all dogs bark, and it's a natural behavior that serves a purpose. However, if excessive barking is becoming a problem, it's important to work with a professional dog trainer to address the root cause of the barking and find a solution. Do Mini Goldendoodles Like to Cuddle? When it comes to cuddling, Mini Goldendoodles are in their element! These affectionate and cuddly-natured dogs truly enjoy snuggling up to their owners and seeking out extra affection and attention. It's a great way for your pup to bond with you and feel secure while getting lots of love in return. Other forms of physical contact, like playing and walks, are also important parts of their social needs. Mini Goldendoodles will show their love and appreciation for you through cuddling, snuggling, and other endearing gestures. There is so much to love about Mini Goldendoodles! From their playful and bubbly personalities, to their willingness to be showered with affection, these dogs make great companions for those who are looking for a cuddly and loving pup. So if you're wondering about how cuddley they are, rest assured Mini Goldendoodles will not disappoint. Plus, cuddling is just one of the many ways Mini Goldendoodles show their love and appreciation for their owners. They also enjoy playing, going for walks, and other forms of physical affection, making them highly social and great for those who want a pup that enjoys spending time with them. Do Mini Goldendoodles Shed? Not surprisingly, all doggies are prone to shedding some fur - it's their body's natural way of regulating their coat and skin. Mini Goldendoodles are considered to be low-shedding, though, because they are a result of a Poodle and a Golden Retriever being crossed - and Poodles are known for being low-shedding! Of course, the amount of shedding can depend on various factors such as genetics, health, and age of the pup. For those looking for a low-shedding pup, Mini Goldendoodles are an excellent breed choice to seriously consider. Regular grooming, such as brushing and bathing, can also help to reduce shedding and leave your Mini Goldendoodle's coat looking, feeling, and smelling its best all while having a silky, shinny mane to show off! When you're choosing a pup, make sure to keep the shedding factor in mind, and do deeper research on the breeds you're looking at to make sure its right for you. But this breed is a real sweetheart and with proper love and care, the shedding shouldn't be too much of an issue to worry about with Mini Goldendoodles. Do Mini Goldendoodles Smell or Stink? No one wants a smelly dog, which is why it's a pretty valid question to ask: do Mini Goldendoodles smell? The answer is not overly smelly, in fact, they can actually have a very mild to moderate odor. Of course, this largely depends on a few factors such as their health, diet, and hygiene. A good grooming routine accompanied by the right diet, healthy lifestyle, and lots of love and care will go a long way in helping keep any odors at bay. If you're still on the fence about adopting a Mini Goldendoodle, it's a really good idea to do your research and visit different breeds to get a better sense of their natural smell. However, you can rest assured knowing that Mini Goldendoodles are known for their mild, or even non-existent, odor. Like most dogs, the smell of a Mini Goldendoodle can vary, so it's always a good idea to take the necessary steps in keeping them clean and healthy! By doing this, your pup will stay smelling sweet and cuddly. Health matters. No one wants to get a dog that is going to then cost a fortune in vet bills. But Mini Goldendoodles are generally considered a healthy breed due to hybrid vigor the effect of crossing different breeds. Of course, genetic health issues can still crop up and the most common in Mini Goldendoodles are hip dysplasia, ear infections, skin allergies, cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. It's all important to remember that these issues might never be experienced by your pup. Early detection and proper care can decrease the likelihood of health problems arising. So make sure to do your research and choose a reputable breeder. Finally, it's key to give your pup the best—love, proper nutrition and regular vet check-ups. Then you can be sure of a long, healthy, and happy life for your precious Mini Goldendoodle! It's no doubt that Mini Goldendoodles are a popular breed. From their teddy-bear faces to their friendly and affectionate temperaments, these low-shedding pups provide an irresistible package. They're versatile and suitable for any kind of lifestyle, plus they tend to be healthy — as long as you do your research and find a trustworthy breeder. With the right amount of love, care and attention, Mini Goldendoodles make amazing companions for both families and individuals alike. 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. A newborn Mini Goldendoodle weighs around a pound and measures up to 6 inches. After 2 weeks, their weight doubles up to 2 pounds and their height increases to 9 inches. These dogs grow significantly during 3 to 12 weeks. A 4- to 6-month-old Mini Goldendoodle typically reaches half of its maximum weight. Your pup may also feel less hungry at this age. You can expect your pup to stop growing by 6 to 8 months. Gender Male Mini Goldendoodles are generally bigger and heavier than females. Age A Mini Goldendoodle lives for 13 to 17 years at maximum. Despite being the smallest Goldendoodles, these dogs are believed to have longer lifespans than all the other types. The other Goldendoodle breeds usually live for 10 to 12 years. Remember, every dog is different, so their nutritional needs are also not the same. When a Mini Goldendoodle is in their puppyhood , they have high energy levels and a big appetite. Comparatively, adults or older dogs require fewer daily calories due to reduced activity levels. Generally, dogs love chicken, lamb, whitefish, rabbit meat, salmon, and beef. These are the best protein sources for your pal. Give fresh, raw, canned meals to meet their daily nutritional needs. You should avoid low-budget or low-quality foods with filler ingredients. Next, put your dog on a flat surface and make them stand naturally. Measure their height by placing the tape on their body from the ground to their shoulders, also called withers. Note all the measurements in inches in a notebook. As you know, Mini Goldendoodles typically stand 13 to 20 inches tall. Remember, all dogs are different, and so is their size and growth pattern. However, consult an expert if their growth rate falls below the normal range. The typical size of this breed ranges between 13 to 20 inches. A newborn measures only 6 inches and weighs a pound. After that, their growth rate stops or slows to 0. Not every Mini Goldendoodle has to reach the 20 inches mark. Just provide your dog with a well-balanced diet full of protein, vitamins, and minerals to ensure their healthy development. Goldendoodle Size Comparison Goldendoodle Size Comparison Goldendoodles are well-known for their curly coats and friendly personalities. This is an ideal breed for dog lovers who want size options when choosing their doodle companion. Picking the right-sized goldendoodle depends on various factors, including physical space in your home and the amount of free time you have to spend with your new puppy. A comprehensive goldendoodle size comparison can help with decision-making. Knowing more about the three doodle sizes can offer a perspective on what to expect from each category. What Is a Goldendoodle? A goldendoodle is a poodle and golden retriever crossbreed that gained prominence in the s. Goldendoodles owe this part of their personality to their golden retriever lineage. Doodles also make ideal service and therapy dogs. Minimal shedding and a willingness to give tons of cuddles are additional reasons to become a doodle lover. Goldendoodles are highly intelligent and love learning new tricks to exercise their minds. They also love to swim and are highly proficient at it. Active individuals and families make suitable matches with dog breeds like this one. Goldendoodles can be found in many colors and sizes. Traits of the Three Goldendoodle Sizes Goldendoodles are found in three sizes: miniature, medium and standard. An accurate goldendoodle size comparison should consider height, weight and personality traits associated with each size. Mini Goldendoodles A mini goldendoodle measures 17 inches or less and typically weighs between 25 and 35 pounds. A mini goldendoodle size is also ideal for smaller living spaces. Mini goldendoodles are the quirkier representations of this breed. They tend to have personalities that far outweigh their actual size, with almost human-like traits regarding likes and dislikes. Medium Doodles Medium goldendoodles measure between 17 and 21 inches and typically weigh between 35 and 50 pounds. The medium goldendoodle is an optimal size for a working or family dog. While the mini goldendoodle is a good travel partner, so is the medium-sized goldendoodle. One of the reasons medium goldendoodles travel so well is that they have an adequate center of gravity. As such, they enjoy long car rides more than mini goldendoodles. Medium goldendoodles are easy to walk on a leash, enjoy playing outdoors and can still fit pretty easily in a smaller living space. This means owners looking for lap love from their doodle can still get it with this larger-sized dog. Standard Doodles The standard doodle size is anything over 21 inches weighing 51 pounds or more. The standard doodle is the most laid-back of the three sizes and may be more content with long naps after bouts of play. However, the larger size means they may be more prone to accidents indoors e. Comparing Doodle Sizes A mini goldendoodle is perfect for dog owners living in small spaces, such as condos or apartments. Standard goldendoodles may need more space to roam inside and out, making them perfect-sized pups for people with more spacious homes and plenty of outdoor acreage. A medium goldendoodle is an optimal choice for someone looking for a dog larger than the mini goldendoodle size but still able to adapt to a smaller space than a standard goldendoodle. This means they rely on more frequent bursts of activity throughout the day. Mini goldendoodles exhibit more of the energy common in the poodle portion of their lineage. The tall stature of the standard goldendoodle size — coming in 22 inches tall — is a good match for someone who wants the appearance of a larger dog with the sweet temperament of a goldendoodle. The standard goldendoodle is also a good choice for someone who enjoys spending time outdoors exercising and wants a dog that can accompany them. Choosing the Right Size Goldendoodle Choosing the right doodle size for your family comes down to personal preference, space and time. Everything from time outside to children to choosing a vet must go into the decision to opt for one doodle size over another. Plan for at least 30 minutes outside each day playing with toys and romping around together. In fact, miniature goldendoodles may feel overwhelmed by the excitement of small children, who may handle them more roughly than adults. Moreover, since standard-sized goldendoodles are so lovable, small children may find it easier to snuggle with this bigger doodle than a more petite, sassier mini goldendoodle. Mini Goldendoodles Adapt to Smaller Indoor Spaces Better While your doodle is likely to adapt to any inside space, keep in mind that a standard goldendoodle simply might not have enough room to stretch out comfortably in a smaller apartment. Even if you plan to spend a great deal of your time together outside, it still needs to be able to call a small corner of your home its own. As such, apartment living might represent a challenge for a standard goldendoodle. All Doodle Sizes Offer Lots of Love Doodles are also highly social and lovable pups that are constantly seeking the adoration and approval of their owners. Prepare for Your New Doodle by Size Once you choose your ideal-size doodle, prepare accordingly for the products you decide to purchase to welcome a new pup to its forever home. Keep in mind that your dog crate should allow plenty of room for your pup to stand up, stretch its paws and move around comfortably. This is critical if you plan to use the crate for more than just sleeping at night. You may need to purchase more pillows and bedding for the larger crate. A standard goldendoodle will require a bigger leash and collar or perhaps even a harness, which can be more expensive than the leash and collar necessary for the smaller version of this breed. Food and treats will likely be more costly than any other product you may opt to get. Dog products are typically sold according to size, so the variation between the standard goldendoodle and the miniature size may mean a higher out-of-pocket cost than anticipated. For example, some vets charge more for services rendered to larger dogs. Vet expertise may also vary depending on the size of your goldendoodle. For instance, mini goldendoodles may require different levels of pet medical advice than standard-sized goldendoodles because size variances manifest in different physiological proportions, so this is something to keep in mind when choosing a vet. As with all dog breeds, potential health issues and proper preventive care come down to both breed and size. Therefore, a vet specializing in your chosen doodle size will likely provide optimal care for your new goldendoodle companion. Goldendoodles with looser curls or none at all still need to be groomed routinely but less frequently than those with tighter curls. Daily brushing is also necessary to maintain a healthy coat. Find a groomer specializing in goldendoodles, especially in the size you have chosen. Training Considerations Based on Goldendoodle Size Training costs may also be a factor based on the size of your chosen doodle. Large dogs sometimes require more intensive training to teach them how to avoid damage to the interior of your home. This means your goldendoodle might need longer training sessions than smaller-sized pups that may navigate indoor spaces easier. All goldendoodle sizes may require potty and behavior training when you first bring them home. This makes for a more effortless adjustment for you and helps them in terms of setting and understanding expectations. Conversely, mini goldendoodles tend to be sassier than medium-sized Goldendoodles, which is a common trait in smaller dogs. The miniature goldendoodle might require a more stringent training protocol to get it to behave appropriately than a more amenable standard goldendoodle. Do Your Goldendoodle Research Before Deciding on a Size The best way to choose the goldendoodle puppy size that works best for your lifestyle is to do your research before settling on a furry friend. Goldendoodles love playtime with other dogs and people. Therefore, especially if you choose a standard goldendoodle size, make sure you have some ideas for socialization. For instance, standard goldendoodles may benefit from proximity to a dog park to get exercise and socialization. Doodles of all sizes may enjoy doggie daycare, which is a good option for doodle owners who are away from home a lot for work. Carefully consider this kind of information before settling on a doodle size. The size of your mini Goldendoodle is going to depend on their age and even their parents. There are a few different variations that can show up with the Goldendoodle depending on these factors, even within the mini breed. You also may need to wait until they are a little bit older to figure out the size of the puppy or even to figure out which of the pups out of the whole litter is going to be the biggest. By the time they get to eight weeks, they will keep the same weight order. So, if the puppy is the smallest in the litter by the time they go home with you, it is likely that they are going to stay the smallest, and so on. The older the Goldendoodle gets, the easier it is to estimate how big they will be when they get older. Even though it is kind of guesswork to figure out the adult weight when the Goldendoodle is small, you can expect that when you pick up the Goldendoodle at eight weeks, they will be somewhere between 4 to 9 pounds. This is slightly less than the other options. The standard Goldendoodle, for example, will likely be more than 9 pounds at eight weeks, and a medium Goldendoodle is often in the 8 to pound range. This means you will need to take what their weight is at eight weeks and then do a bit of math. If the puppy is an F1b Goldendoodle , just take their weight at 8 weeks and then multiply it by 4. Like many other types of dog breeds, the Goldendoodle is often going to do most of their growing during the first six months. It is not uncommon for the miniature Goldendoodle to reach half of their adult weight by the time they are just four months old. Their weight should start to level off between seven to 10 months of age, depending on their parents. As you are estimating the size of your dog, you may wonder when they are going to be done growing. Most dogs are going to finish growing somewhere between 1 to 2 years of age, but it is not uncommon for them to get to their maximum height by the time they are a year old. The rest of that time will be spent on them filling out. Your dog could hit a growth spurt right around that first birthday. They may not get much taller , though, but they will thicken up more than before. You will find that the Goldendoodle will have a special type of growing. The Golden Retriever parent is going to have a slower rate of growing tall compared to the Poodle parent breed, but they do happen to fill out more quickly. This can change the way that your Goldendoodle is going to grow depending on which parent they tend to get their genes from. Some Golden Doodles are going to grow at a slower rate than others, so do not be surprised if they are getting closer to two years before they hit that growth spurt and fill out. Since it is the mini Goldendoodle, they should still stick around the smaller size compared to the traditional or standard Goldendoodle. What are the Different Sizes for Mini Goldendoodles? If you are looking for a mini Goldendoodle to bring to your home, then you need to make sure that you are choosing the right size for the dog. Most of the time, those who go with the mini Goldendoodle will want the one that is between 20 to 30 pounds. This is a lot of fun to play with and can be a great source of entertainment around the home. It is possible to have the teacup, petite or toy, and mini of the Goldendoodle, and these can vary in size as well. Most breeders are going to consider a full-size mini Goldendoodle to be the type that is under 30 pounds, though there is not really a defined weight or height that comes with they are crossbred hybrid dogs rather than purebred dogs. Since there are so many different sizes that could fit into this, you may see that there are smaller weight classes that bring in the toy or teacup Goldendoodle as well to provide some separation for all the different sizes. While a mini Goldendoodle could potentially get up to 30 pounds, the teacup Goldendoodle is going to be a little bit smaller. This one is any Goldendoodle that weighs less than 13 pounds and is often about 11 inches or so tall. This is a very small version of the mini Goldendoodle, but it does provide some great options for pets for those who live in a small apartment and do not have room for the full Goldendoodle. However, the smaller dog may deal with more birth defects and genetic problems. You can also go with the toy or petite Goldendoodle. These are a little bit bigger, coming in between 14 and 15 inches in height and weighing around 20 pounds or less in most cases. These have fewer birth defects too, which makes them a good option to add to your home. Compared to the mini Goldendoodle, which can get between 20 to 30 pounds and up to 18 inches tall, these will fit into small places better. While the calculations that we did above can do a great job of helping you get an estimate on the size of your Goldendoodle, there are a few DNA tests that you can use to help predict the adult size of the mini Goldendoodle. One of the best tests is Embark , which will help you learn about a lot of different traits that the Goldendoodle may have, including their size. This does work on other breeds as well. This is a scientific method that can be pretty accurate, though you may see that the dog is smaller or bigger than what the test says because it is hard to get an accurate guess on this. However, to do this test, you just order a testing kit, send in the cheek swab, and then wait for the results. It should not take too long and can help you get a good idea about the genetics of the dog. They are friendly, loyal, and intelligent, which helps them become one of the best companions around for the whole family to enjoy, no matter how many people are in the family. Estimating the weight and height of this dog is not always possible, but it does provide you with a good way to figure out if you will have a dog who is bigger or smaller than average. By following some of the simple tips above, you will be able to get a good idea of the size of your new family pet. Related Content You May Find Interesting Here are some more articles that may be of interest to you if you have a Mini Goldendoodle or are looking into getting one. How Big is a 25 lb Mini Goldendoodle? A mini Goldendoodle is a great addition to any family as they have a great personality, are low-shedding, and have all the other characteristics of a standard Goldendoodle without being too big for most homes. The weight of a mini Goldendoodle can be estimated by multiplying their weight at 8 weeks by 4. Most mini Goldendoodles will reach half their adult weight by the time they are four months old. A Mini Goldendoodle weight chart shows the estimated adult weight based on their weight at 8 weeks. The size of a mini Goldendoodle is dependent on their age and their parents. Goldendoodles can continue to grow until they are years old. Also, check out our Goldendoodle puppy weight calculator — a tool that gives you an idea of how big your puppy may get based on a few factors. About the F1 Goldendoodle The Goldendoodle is a crossbreed that only recently captured the hearts of dog lovers. Both the Golden Retriever and the Standard Poodle are a medium- to large-size breed, thereby creating a medium- to large-size breed in the Standard Goldendoodle. In comparison, F2 Goldendoodles have two F1 parents. Either way, this designer breed is active, a good companion, intelligent, social, easily trainable, and can also make a good guide or therapy dog. Our veterinarian, Dr. Jennifer Coates, emphasizes the importance of keeping puppies lean. The abdomen and waist should show a noticeable tuck when viewed from the side and top of the dog. Work with your veterinarian to figure out the best size for your Goldendoodle as she grows into adulthood. Using roughly 50, healthy dogs as a reference, the Waltham puppy charts show the target range for a healthy growing puppy. Moving lower on the chart could be associated with unhealthy weight loss. What Age do Goldendoodles Stop Growing? A Goldendoodle puppy goes through a typical puppyhood, consisting of multiple developmental stages. Those stages make up the first to second year of life. For instance, a Standard Goldendoodle puppy will, on average, grow at about the same rate as other medium to large dogs like the German Shepherd and Collie. A Medium Goldendoodle may take a couple of more months to reach most of his adult size. A Standard Goldendoodle is a large-size dog and typically takes just over a year to become fully grown. But this is an average and some dogs can take up to 2 years to become full-grown adult dogs. The AKC estimates a large dog who weighs anywhere from 51 to pounds reaches full size at around 18 months old. How big your puppy gets depends on which type of Goldendoodle you have or are going to get — mini, medium, or standard. Across the three types, adult dogs can weigh anywhere from 15 to 90 pounds. Even then, knowing how big your Goldendoodle will get is not exact. For a guide, check out our Goldendoodle weight chart, which breaks down the weight range for each type of Goldendoodle puppy, from 8 weeks old to fully grown. The Miniature Goldendoodle weighs approximately 15 to 30 pounds in adulthood. He stands about 13 to 15 inches high at the shoulders. The Medium Goldendoodle weighs around 30 to 45 pounds in adulthood and stands roughly 15 to 20 inches at the shoulder. The Standard Goldendoodle weighs approximately 45 to 90 pounds in adulthood, and measures about 20 to 24 inches at the shoulders. Coates, advises the numbers are a general gauge. Goldendoodle Puppy Size and Weight Calculator Goldendoodle puppies sport a variety of coat types and colors, never mind sizes. If you want to keep your furniture dog-hair free, check special pet hair removal tools to keep your home tidy. No matter which Goldendoodle graces your life, or might soon, your new puppy is sure to bring you lots of smiles. Take care of your puppy, monitor her growth, and keep close tabs on her health. Refer to our Goldendoodle puppy growth chart to see the average growth rate for puppies 8 weeks old and up. Beginning with the Mini Goldendoodle growth chart and ending with the Standard Goldendoodle growth chart, we provide you with the average weight ranges per month across the three different-size Goldendoodles, for males and females. For instance, a 3-month-old Miniature Goldendoodle puppy typically weighs between 6 and 12 pounds, while a 3-month-old Medium Goldendoodle puppy weighs between 12 and 18 pounds. Also included in the chart is the average height for the full-size Miniature, Medium, and Standard Goldendoodle. You can also use our puppy size predictor to find out how big your Goldendoodle might get as an adult. Predicting the mature size of a puppy is by no means an exact science, especially with a hybrid breed like the goldendoodle. How big will my goldendoodle puppy be? From birth until the gotchya day, puppies have fluctuated back and forth in terms of who weighs the most. Even though adult weight is a bit of a guess for a young puppy, expect mini goldendoodles to weigh 4lbs-9lbs at 8 weeks of age. A medium puppy and standard puppy may both weigh 9lbs at 8 weeks old, but the standard puppy with gain weight at a quicker rate than the medium. Like most dog breeds, goldendoodles generally do the majority of their growing in the first six months of life. In fact, many mini goldendoodle puppies reach half of their adult weight by four months. Standard goldendoodles may take a month or so longer to reach that halfway mark. The larger the dog, the longer growing takes. For mini goldendoodles, expect the weight to start leveling off between months of age. Standard goldendoodles, like other large dog breeds, will grow for a longer period of time. While this rule may work for many standards, it is not accurate with smaller-sized goldendoodles who finish growing at a younger age. When will my goldendoodle stop growing? Dogs can finish growing anywhere between years of age, but generally reach their maximum height by a year of age and spend the remaining months filling out. This means your dog might hit a growth spurt right after her first birthday — she might not get any taller but she could thicken up. Golden retrievers grow at a slower rate in terms of height than standard poodles, but fill out more quickly. Golden retrievers tend to finish growing and filling out between months while standard poodles can take up to 2 years to accomplish the same. Established breeds generally reproduce naturally, whereas first-generation mini goldendoodles require artificial insemination. Subsequent generations of hybrid breeds i. F1b, F2b, etc. F1b goldendoodles can potentially have a slightly more predictable size range if the parents are similar sizes. Our 19lb F1 goldendoodle and 24lb poodle produce F1b mini goldendoodle puppies ranging in weight from lbs as adults. Embark is a canine genetic testing company that offers a variety of canine disease and trait tests in their panel. Order an Embark testing kit off Amazon , send in that quick cheek swab, and Embark will happily send you the results. Check out our goldendoodle puppy time lapses to watch various goldendoodles grow up right before your eyes! If you would like to submit data, please complete our quick survey or email goldendoodles timberidgefarms. Growth patterns vary from dog to dog but there are some generalities you may find helpful. Remember, this is a guide only, not a guarantee! Thank you for your support! We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share this:. Full Grown Mini Goldendoodles look like fluffy teddy bears as they have oval shaped heads with floppy ears and soft coats that are medium in length. They have a medium stature and come in many coat colors including black, red, apricot, merle and more. Check out the adorable Goldendoodle puppies that are currently available here! PuppySpot is a dog adoption website that connects breeders with prospective pet owners. They have a zero tolerance policy for puppy mills which is why they screen every breeder annually! They have placed over , puppies in homes and offer various trusted, USDA-certified transportation options to deliver your puppy to your home safely! Embark Vet offers a health test which will give you a predicted adult weight for your puppy. They are unable to look after themselves and are fully dependant on their mothers as the only senses they have are taste and touch. Mini Goldendoodles spend majority of these 2 weeks sleeping and nestling as close to their mother as they can. Their muscles are not developed and they cannot walk. At the beginning of this period they will get their hearing and sense of smell. Their eyes and ears open so they become much more inquisitive about the world. They start to interact with litter mates, bark and walk a little as their muscles start to get stronger. Mini Goldendoodles start to become more aware of their surroundings and start to interact with others. By 8 weeks, they have full use of their senses and usually go to their new home. Many Mini Goldendoodles undergo a big growth spurt at this age as they are only eating puppy food now. At this age, your Mini Goldendoodle will be at least half their adult weight. Female Mini Goldendoodles go through their first heat if they are not desexed. At this age Mini Goldendoodles are extremely active and also very inquisitive. They love exploring their world and learning new things. Further Reading.

New Feature 7 dapper hairstyles for your poodle Your poodle is an elegant dog that deserves to be taken care of with impeccable style. The poodle's coat is its most distinguishing feature, and it's essential to keep it looking its best. Grooming is key, and a good haircut can make all the difference! As your dog's fur grows out, it can become tangled and unruly, making for a frustrating appearance. Your poodle is an elegant dog that deserves to be taken care of with impeccable style. There are many different styles of haircuts a poodle can have, and it can be tough to decide which one is right for your pup. It can be hard to know where to start with so many options available. Don't worry; we're here to help! In this article, we'll take a look at seven trendy hairstyles your poodle can rock on his walk. The Lion Cut Let's start with one of the most popular poodle haircuts of all, the lion cut. Sometimes referred to as the "puppy cut," this hairstyle takes advantage of your poodle's long fur to give them a mane-like appearance. The dog's limbs are left hairless, except for a pompom around the tail, front and rear paws. A perfect look for poodles who want to show off their luxurious locks! This hairstyle will last a while since the short hairs on your poodle's face and body will help prevent matting. You should still brush your pup regularly to keep his coat clean and healthy! The Puppy Cut Another popular haircut for poodles and other small dogs like the Yorkshire Terriers is the "puppy cut. While the fur looks a little longer around the face, the haircut mimics a human infant rather than a furry animal. With this cut, your pup will feel extra comfortable as he goes about his day! While many owners opt for this style as it doesn't require as much maintenance as other cuts, it's easy to get tired of the same look over time. Your poodle will still need regular brushing to remove tangles and maintain his healthy coat. Teddy Bear Cut Do you love the look of a teddy bear? The teddy bear cut is another popular choice for poodle haircuts. It's an adorable style that looks kind of like your pup has a bushy mane! This technique leverages the poodle's tiny round eyes and creates the illusion of a furry face. The hair should be cut uniformly at mid-length with a rounded shape to the top of the head. It's important not to cut the body fur too short, as we need the poodle's curls to be seen clearly for this cut. The fur around your pup's paws is left untouched, so it appears thick and full, giving your poodle the appearance of having tiny bear paws! These cuts are extremely popular with older dogs who won't have to worry about frequent brushing or bathing. Summer Cut Although you want your poodle to look cute, you also want them to be comfortable! In the summer, it's hot and humid, and your pup will thank you for cutting his hair shorter. The summer cut is an excellent choice for those sweltering days. In this style, all of the hair on your poodle's body is trimmed very short, except for a small tuft around the tail and large pompoms around the legs. This style is easy to maintain and will help your pup stay comfortable in the summer heat. Dutch Cut Known for its frequent appearance in dog shows, the dutch cut is a great choice for poodles that want a unique look. This creates a "Mohawk" look that is sure to turn heads! The tail can also be left long or cut short to complement your pup's look. The face and paws are the only parts of the body shaved, so you get a little bit of extra grooming time! This cut requires regular brushing to keep your poodle's coat clean and tangle-free. English Saddle Cut The English saddle cut is a popular choice for poodles with longer coats. This haircut is similar to the dutch cut, but it explicitly leaves more hair on the top of your poodle's head. The face and legs are also shaved, but a little more fur is left on the body to create an overall rounded look for this cut. This cut is great-looking but will require regular brushing and bathing to prevent mats from forming. Short Cut This is a prevalent choice for poodles with shorter hair, as it is low-maintenance and easy to groom. In this style, all of the hair on your dog's body is trimmed short, except for the ears. The fur around his face and paws is also shaved short, giving your pup a clean, polished look. This style is perfect for owners who want their dogs to look neat and tidy with minimal effort! Although this style doesn't require as much grooming as other styles, it's still necessary to brush your poodle regularly as the fur grows back. Things To Know Before Grooming Your Poodle Now that you know a little bit about the different types of poodle haircuts, there are a few things to keep in mind before you get started. All poodles require regular brushing Regardless of the style of haircut you choose. Brushing helps to remove excess hair and keep your poodle's coat healthy. It also helps to stimulate blood flow to the skin, which is important for natural oil production. Be sure to give your pup a good bath before grooming him, It would be best to wash your dog too often, but bathing him before grooming will help remove loose fur and leave your poodle's coat soft and shiny. A lot of groomers also recommend giving your pup a good brush after bathing to remove any excess hair, as it can clog drains or just be tough to clean up. Grooming should be a fun experience for your dog Please don't force your poodle to do anything they don't want to! Teaching them that grooming is a positive, relaxing experience will help the process go by more quickly and smoothly. Start grooming early If your dog is still a puppy, it might be a good idea to introduce him to the grooming process early on. This will help him get used to the sights, sounds, and smells of a groomer's salon, and he'll be more likely to cooperate when it's time for his actual haircut. We recommend sending your dog to a professional groomer for his haircut. This will ensure that your pup gets the best possible cut and that you don't accidentally cut him too short or leave any bald patches. Most groomers offer various services, so be sure to ask what they include in their price. Generally, a groomer will begin by bathing your dog and then trimming his nails, cleaning his ears, and starting to cut the hair according to your specifications. The process will continue with a blow-dry, and then your pup will be ready for his final trim. Poodles are known to have a lot of hair, so it can take a long time to groom them completely. You should expect the process to take up to two hours or more. You should consider many factors when choosing a groomer, including experience, pricing, and location. The best way to find a qualified groomer near you is to use Pawsh's directory. Top-Rated and Vetted Groomers All the groomers on our platform are top-rated, with glowing reviews from previous clients. We also verify all of our groomers based on training and professional experience to ensure that they're the best in their industry. At-Home Grooming Pros Our platform is special because our groomers offer grooming delivery services, meaning they come to you. This can usually help you save a lot of money and offers you the convenience of getting your poodle groomed in the comfort and familiarity of your own home. Save time and hassle by using Pawsh today! App for Android and iPhone Pawsh is available as an app for Android and iPhones to make booking groomers easier than ever before. Just download the application, enter your zip code, choose a poodle-certified groomer near you, and book your appointment! Take advantage of cashless payments to pay, tip, and rebook all through our app! Conclusion Poodles are a pretty high-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. They have a lot of hair that needs regular attention and time-consuming maintenance. If you want your poodle to look his best, investing in a great haircut from a qualified groomer is key! For an easy way to book quality grooming services at home, Pawsh is the best option for you. Just download our app, book an appointment, and sit back as we take care of your beloved poodle! Related Posts. Town and country cut Short cut You will also have to bear in mind that some of these cuts will be much shorter. If you live in a cold climate or a hot climate, ensure you have the right protection for your dog. Our article on dressing dogs for winter shows you how to do this in an appropriate way. Lion cut The lion cut is probably the best known and most extravagant of all the poodle haircuts. The dog's limbs are hairless, with only a pompom around the front and back paws. The tail should be rounded off and the chest, stomach and head should be left with hair. It is the most widely used haircut in competitions and dog shows where is is also known as the Continental cut. The lion cut's elaborate style makes it impressive, but also takes a lot of time and effort not to mention experience to get right. There are other cuts on dogs called the lion cut, such as one for the Shih Tzu , but they will look different according to the specific breed. Image: National Geographic 2. English saddle cut The English cut is very similar to the lion cut. The difference lies in an additional pompom on the hind legs, and the pelvic area being left at the same length as the chest. It still shares the long ears and tightly wound curls on the body. Both are considered some of the most popular Poodle haircuts among groomers. Image: poodleforum 3. Dutch cut The Dutch cut is one of the most popular in dog contests and expositions. Unlike previous styles, this one is for those who are looking for a uniform style with no differences in length of the dog's coat. It's notable above all for the tail ending in a cute pompom. Image: poodleforum 4. Modern cut The modern cut for poodles is probably the most suitable for owners who love following recent trends and enjoy watching canine beauty competitions. This is also known as the Scandinavian cut or European cut in some sectors, especially in the United States of America. It seeks to achieve a careful and professional finish, without being as exaggerated as the aforementioned styles. It is an aesthetic cut, yet at the same time it is very natural. It follows the shape of the body, emphasizing the ears and tail as much as the head. This is a very trendy cut for Miniature Poodles, and it isn't difficult to work out why. This haircut really makes your poodle look like a puppy. This style doesn't aim to achieve a defined or sharp-looking finish. On the contrary, the fur should look natural and fresh. The American Kennel Club claims there should be a pompom on the end of the tail. It is another of the most popular Poodle haircuts. Image: temporary-secretary 6. Summer cut Many dog owners wonder if it's bad to give their dogs a haircut during the summer. Not all dogs should follow the example of the Poodle, which is a breed that adapts perfectly to different haircuts and styles. Summer is a hot period that makes your beloved poodle get dirtier than usual - especially if you take it to the beach or go for a walk in the woods. Therefore, giving it a summer cut is a good idea: You will help to keep it cool while achieving some interesting aesthetic finishes, as shown below. Winter Poodle cuts tend to leave more hair on the dog to help insulate them from the cold. Image: poodleforum. Cupcake cut This haircut is not very well known, possibly because some people think it provides a strange look once it is done. The cupcake cut is notable for leaving the ears absolutely rounded as a result of being thoroughly styled. Not all styles will involve Poodle face cuts to be so dramatic, but we think it is quite stylish. This Poodle cut is also notable for the shape of its head - which ends in a point - which bears a clear resemblance to a delicious muffin. Image: huxtablethepoodle. Teddy bear cut The teddy bear cut is increasingly popular among long-haired dog breeds. This finish must be done with scissors, and it requires hands with experience in styling poodles. The hair should be left mid-length so that the poodle's curls can be seen clearly. This gives a sweet and rounded finish which makes it look like a bear, as the name suggests. Make sure you know how often to bathe a poodle in order for their fur to look gorgeous at all times. Image: yiral 9. This style can work for any type of Poodle, but is particularly common with Standard or Miniature Poodles. Its defining feature is that it leaves the legs hairy and cylinder-shaped. The body hair, on the other hand, is cut shorter, which accentuates the density of the leg hairs. The head and ears have a rounded finish. Image: najupets .Short cut While it's not very common to see a short-haired poodle, it remains an aesthetic option that will avoid knots, tangles and dirt building up in its coat. This Poodle cut may be a good option in warmer countries. It is also a good option for those who can't go to the dog stylist as often as they would like to. This style can work just as well on a Toy Poodle as it will a Standard Poodle. However, you will need to bear in mind that it may cause the dog to become cold. Either avoid this cut in cold climates or winter months. If you still prefer a shorter cut, ensure you have a doggie jacket for them to stay protected. Image: notastandardpoodle-gregg. The problem is there is no standardized style guide for cutting a Poodle's hair. In different countries, regions and even individual dog groomers , there is debate over the correct name for some of the terms. This can understandably cause confusion for groomers. Clients may come in with a specific idea of how they want their Poodle cut, but are unable to explain the style to the groomer. The best thing for you to do is to decide on what you want before hand and locate a picture of the Poodle cut you want. You can even take this article with you and decide which type of haircut will best work for your dog. Relying on the name of a certain Poodle cut may cause confusion or frustration, so it is best to be on the safe side. Send us a photo of your dog! Do not forget to share your poodle's haircut in the comments so that others can get inspired. Thank you for visiting AnimalWised! If you want to read similar articles to 10 Haircuts for Poodles, we recommend you visit our Beauty tips category. By Yvonne Villasenor Yvonne Villasenor is a freelance writer and animal lover who just so happens to be allergic to cats and dogs. That doesn't stop her from cuddling with them! When Yvonne's not working, you can find her lounging with her charming Chihuahuas, weightlifting, or wandering around Halloween stores. Having such unique and versatile fur means there are countless poodle haircuts for you to choose from, and a professional groomer can give your poodle a makeover with a hairstyle that best matches her personality and lifestyle. With so many options available, learn how your poodle can look like anything from a plush toy to elegant royalty! Teddy Bear Cut The teddy bear cut is a popular trim for poodles and other long-haired breeds. With this look, your poodle has longer hair on her face for a soft, rounded "teddy bear" appearance, and the rest of the fur on her body is cut at a shorter, uniform length throughout. Talk about cuddly cuteness! Summer Cut Because poodles have a single coat, they can enjoy the luxury that comes with it: the summer cut. Known as one of the most low-maintenance poodle haircuts, the summer cut is a practical haircut option that keeps your poodle's fur short so she stays comfortable in hot weather. So if you're looking to cut your hair to beat the heat in the summer, you and your poodle can rock shorter hairdos together! Puppy Cut No matter your poodle's age, you can seemingly turn back time with the puppy cut. Also a popular choice among poodle parents, the puppy cut is a simple, natural-looking trim that leaves your dog with an evenly cut length, typically 1 to 2 inches, all over. This is a highly modifiable look, so consult your groomer for a length that best fits your and your dog's preference and lifestyle. Continental Cut The continental cut is a glamorous and traditional hairstyle often worn by poodle show dogs. With this look, your poodle's face, throat, feet, and part of the tail are shaved. This look is characterized by full hair on the rib cage and chest, pom poms of fur on the tail, ankles, and hips, as well as a banded topknot on the head. German Trim Looking for a haircut that looks fancy but not too fancy? The German trim uses the power of angles to give your poodle a sharp profile. The hair on your furry friend's legs is left long, while the hair on the body and ears is cut short. This is a great option not only if your poodle is more active but also if your pup is prone to ear infections or ear matting. Modern Cut The modern cut is an elegant hairstyle that combines aesthetics with your poodle's natural features. This cut keeps the hair on the body short, accentuating your poodle's shape. The fur on the head, ears, and tail is left longer to create a fluffy appearance. When your dog has such curly, coarse locks, you may wonder how many trips to the groomer you and your poodle may be making. Poodles and poodle-crosses also go through a coat change in the first year of life, so they need to be groomed more often," says Danna Alexander, owner of Prestige Dog Grooming School. To keep mats and tangles at bay, it's best to brush your poodle at least two to three times a week. Toy poodle haircuts aren't off limits for miniature and standard poodles, just as standard poodle haircuts aren't off limits for miniature and toy poodles. While any poodle can sport any style, there may be common options you'd like to choose from. Because there are various names for different types of poodle haircuts, make sure to bring your groomer a photo of the haircut you'd love your pooch to have. Was this page helpful? Jul 18, Share Poodles are renowned for their hair. While the continental haircut may be the most popular, there are tons of other options out there. Some haircuts are more practical, while others are high-maintenance and adorable. Which haircut you choose for your dog depends on your goals and lifestyle. Show poodles need the continental cut, for instance. However, if you have a companion dog, you can choose whatever cut you want! Below, we listed some of the most popular poodle haircuts for this year. This list should give you plenty of Poodle cut styles to choose from! The Top 11 Poodle Haircuts 1. It is so popular and time-honed that it is still prevalent this year. It is one of the two acceptable haircuts for show dogs, according to the American Kennel Club. This cut involves shaving everywhere except their face, ears, shoulders, paws, and tail. This was the traditional cut Poodles were given when retrieving waterfowl, as it left enough hair for them to stay warm without getting in the way of their mobility. The one downside of this cut is that it needs to be done by a professional. It takes a lot of work. It is more difficult to see the body of the dog with all the extra care. However, you may not care much if you have a companion dog. This cut leaves plenty of hair behind to keep the dog warm but shaves it down enough to give the dog plenty of mobility as well. This is an increasingly common cut for dog owners, as it is a happy middle-ground. Generally, the coat is clipped to the same length across the whole body. Most companion poodles have this cut. Instead, this cut is supposed to make full-grown poodles look like puppies. Thus, it is one of the more popular toy poodle haircuts, as they are already small enough to be puppies. With that said, this is also a style that is acceptable for actual puppies. According to the AKC, this is a good style for dogs under a year old. You will need a pompom on the tail for showing purposes, though. However, for companion dogs, this is not necessary. Some brave owners may be able to keep this cut maintained at home. This is an easy cut to maintain at home and is a standard cut used for show dogs. However, this is an extremely suitable cut for companion dogs as well. We recommend this cut for colder climates, as the fur is a bit longer overall than in other cuts. It is almost the winter version of the kennel cut. There are no harsh lines. However, for owners who care more about practicality than the show, it is a good option. This cut is seen on a variety of other dogs as well as it is simple and low maintenance. Bikini Cut A post shared by Bo the Rescue Poodle standardpoodlebo The bikini cut is a middle ground between fancy and straightforward. It has a little bit of style but is still very low maintenance. Most of the body is kept very short, while certain areas are allowed to grow out like the ears, paws, and tail. This is one of the shortest cuts out there, so it is suitable for warmer climates. Scandinavian Clip A post shared by Kimberly Snoddy kimberlysnoddy This cut is incredibly grand and overdone. It is an extreme continental cut. For this reason, it is scarce. It is most suitable for icy areas, like Scandinavia, hence the name. This cut is most identifiable by the fluffiness everywhere! Town and Country Cut A post shared by Finnegan And Riker Schiller finnstaoninsta As far as modern cuts go, this is one of the most popular options out there. The one distinguishing feature is that the legs are cut to resemble cylinders. The ears and head are also very rounded with minimal poofs. This cut involves letting that process happen. This cut used to be very popular. However, it had fallen out of style for decades. Nowadays, the cut is beginning to come back in style. This should be done with care and precision, as natural mats can be quite uncomfortable. This is a style you can achieve at home, though. It is also effortless to care for once you get things going. It is not quite as impressive as some of the other cuts on this list. However, it is very low-maintenance , which is precisely why many owners choose it. It is notable and low-maintenance, making it the best of both worlds for most companion dogs. Conclusion If you are the lucky owner of a poodle—no matter what size—you have plenty of adorable haircuts to choose from. Also See:. Two ponytails look amazing not only for small kids but also for small dogs. Keep the body hair short, sparing the ears. The coat growing here should be longer than the ears. Tie the hair without the ears. Outlined Coat Create an outline for the belly and legs these should have longer hair than the rest of the body. Next, create height on the half back and top of the head. The ears should also have long hair that is tousled and teased. In fact, it seems that the poodles were the ones who created it. So make sure to try it at least once. Summer hairstyle This is a great poodle haircut for the next summer season. You need to keep the hair on the body about half an inch short and leave the hair long on the ears and the tail. A wonderful choice! You need to keep the hair all about the same length but not longer than 1- 1. The plush toy is ready! There are plenty of different dog clothes out there. All you need to do is go shopping. Curly friend Curly poodles look wonderful with short hairstyles. However, this poodle haircut requires a careful approach. Cutting curly hair too short can result in getting rid of the cute spirals. So be careful! Ponytails If your pet is a girl and you want to give it a girly look, consider cutting the hair short on the face and leaving it long on the ears. The hairy long ears will give an impression of ponytails that you can decorate with clips and bows. The shorter the fluffier Your curly poodle will look like a plush toy if you do the right job managing its hair. Ask a professional dog groomer for advice on how long such hair should be to look neat. Puppy style Puppy poodle haircuts must be adorable. There is no need to go out of your way. You will need to grow the hair about 3 — 4 inches long and then take the dog to a professional groomer so he or she can shape the mane. Oh, those ears Poodle ears require special attention. They are often the centerpiece of any poodle hairstyle. Groomed face Poodle face usually requires special attention. The hair in that area is rather short on its own, but you need to keep it neat to contrast with the rest of the body, especially the long hair on the ears. Hairy cutie Poodle owners often go for short poodle haircuts. However, the long ones can even be more attractive. Neat and impressive Poodle hair is often hard to manage. But allow it to grow longer in the winter. The bob If you want your dog to have a closer- to- human hairstyle, you can create a bob. In order to achieve that, you need to grow the hair on top long enough to blend in with the ears. Short classics If you are running out of poodle hairstyle ideas or think that you are short on time, consider this classical cut. You need to trim the hair to be all the same length and leave it about 1 — 2-inch-long on the ears. Winter cut If your pet is getting ready for a cold winter, you need to ensure that the hair is long enough for morning and evening walks. You can even leave it long on the face to keep the dog warm. Half and half This half and half poodle haircut is extremely popular. It is a good choice for a dog show or some other special occasion but not the best idea for the dog itself. In fact, it can be quite uncomfortable for the animal. Princess haircut The simple princess haircut involves leaving enough hair on top to create the appearance of a human hairstyle. You can also leave some hair on the tip of the tail to make a more interesting impression. Tail designs Poodles have long tails and grow a lot of hair on them. Ask the groomer for some ideas or use this one. Teddy bear If you want your poodle to look like a teddy bear, this hairstyle is for you. The hair on the legs is kept about 1 inch long to make an appearance of a bear-like hair. The body can be trimmed a little shorter. A real lady This real lady hairstyle can be a real hit at a dog show. One of them is that the pet is warm during the cold months, and the other one is the room for imagination. The longer the hair, the more creative poodle haircuts you can come up with. Hair coat A hairless poodle face is a wonderful base for funny haircuts that look like a costume. It will seem as if the dog is hiding inside a large hair coat. Play around with the length and the style. Corded coat This dreadlock-like appearance is popular at the dog show. This hairstyle looks truly fabulous but requires a lot of work. Make sure that your dog is ready for the procedure. Corded coats are hard to take care of. Half-breeds If you have a have breed poodle, you might consider experimenting with very short hairstyles. The result will look surprising and benefit your dog. Leave the hair on the tail long enough for some at-home styling. Messy cut While your poodle might look like a fun and huggable teddy bear with a long hair, the dog might not be feeling comfortable lugging all this hair around. Give it a cut! Below are more awesome poodle cuts to get ideas. Their curly coat and malleable texture is like a groomers personal playground. But achieving these results is still a challenge. Katlin Primrose, a professional groomer, tells us about all the various Poodle haircut styles and trims out there. Also check her guide on Pomeranian haircuts for all the styles and trims. Despite the strangeness of it all — there is some reasoning behind the oddly shaped dogs. The general ideas is that Poodles are a working breed, and some of these coat styles are meant to improve mobility while keeping parts of their body warm and protected. Styles outside competitions are based on your personal taste or everyday practicality. Exotic Grooms Even more extreme are the fun Mastergroom Competitions, where groomers are challenged to come up with the most exotic or extreme styles ever see that poodle trimmed and colored to look like a Zebra? The Kennel Cut sometimes called a Sporting Trim follows these same rules, but with a few modifications. And their top knot is left as long as possible, while rounded and shaped by the groomer. Face, feet, tail, and neck shaving are optional but are hallmarks of the breed. The kennel cut is a modified version of a show groom that allows for easier day-to-day upkeep. This trim is known by several names: the Pom-pom Trim, Miami trim, and Vlown trim. Things get confusing with all these different names. Pompoms on legs keep the poodle style while a short body keep the cut easy to maintain. Medium or long topknot. Base of the tail is shaved for easy maintenance and cleanliness. German Trim A much more stylish cut over the Kennel cut, but for those dogs that get constant ear infections or ear matting. This trim is generally hand-scissored to create sharp angles to show off how pretty the dog is. The ears are shaved, either with a short 10 blade or sometimes even shorter with a 5 or 7. This trim also has no tail poof, but is a favorite for more active dogs. Short tail keeps things very easy to keep brushed and clean. Shaved ears, perfect for swimmers or dogs that get ear infections. Longer shaped legs for style, but can be taken quite short. Shorter body with longer legs keep the haircut simple but flashy. The Lamb Cut involves a shorter body with longer legs, and may be as short as a 7 blade body with 4 blade legs all the way up to a blade on the body with hand scissored legs. There is no specific length for this trim. So be sure to inform your groomer on your preferred length. Long legs for a very flashy poodle look. Shaved tail balances the shaved face and neck keeping the trim looking neat and clean for the dog. Topknot can stay as long or short as the owner prefers. Typically their hair is trimmed to the same length throughout the entire body. But what differs from other grooms is the lack of a shaved face or feet. Many owners make modifications based on personal preference. And most prefer a cute, round head more akin to a doodle. This is another trim that wears many names — The Teddy trim, Lab trim, Lagotto trim, Retriever trim, etc… This style is as versatile as the dog that wears it. Legs are kept short to match the body style. Fluffy nose to make a cute face. Continental Trim This is the stand-out groom for Poodles. And for adult dogs this is the AKC standard groom and most prominent at dog shows. Be warned, maintaining this groom requires a lot of time and patience, and is not recommended for the average owner. So why is this the AKC standard? The idea is Poodles are a water-retrieving breed, and their malleable coat texture lends itself to optimizing their performance. Just like the body of a race car is bent and formed to reduce wind resistance and maximize speed, every part of the Continental Poodle Groom was given a purpose. Balls of fur around the legs are meant to keep joints warm, to improve mobility and endurance. The back half of the body is shaved short, to improve mobility when water retrieving. The face is cut short in order to maximize vision and stop debris getting stuck on their snout. Fur is left on the tip of the tail to avoid frost bite. Shaved rear for the dog to not be bogged down in the water while retrieving. Pompoms keep joints warm in cold water. The hindquarters are shaved with pompons optional on the hips. The legs are shaved, leaving bracelets on the hindlegs and puffs on the forelegs. There is a pompon on the end of the tail. The entire shaven foot and a portion of the shaven foreleg above the puff are visible. The rest of the body is left in full coat but may be shaped in order to insure overall balance. In all clips the hair of the topknot may be left free or held in place by elastic bands. The hair is only of sufficient length to present a smooth outline. This is the only area where elastic bands may be used. Want to learn more? We have a full picture guide on 31 haircut styles and trims for several different breeds. You can also find her in the show ring with her dogs, winning awards in rally obedience and show grooming with the Canadian Kennel Club. You might say she's multi-talented when it comes to pets. Related Posts.

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. 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:. 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. Because of their small size they are the perfect lapdog and are known as a designer breed. Poodle crosses are one of the most popular form of hybrid dog breeds. The Shih Poo was bred to be a hypoallergenic lapdog, making it perfect for those with allergies. Although they are very popular, they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club as an official breed yet. You should always remember to purchase your puppy from a reputable breeder, or you can adopt at your local shelter. A Shih Tzu was originally Chinese Royalty and were pampered by Emperors and spent their days as lap warmers. They are known for being very loyal to their owners but are also outgoing and stubborn dogs. Although they are a sociable breed, they love to be at home too. The Poodle came from Germany and was originally a popular dog among artists. The American Kennel Club recognized the poodle as an official breed in , and now recognize it as the 7th most popular dog breed. So, when we cross a Shih Tzu with a Poodle, we get a Shih Poo, which combines the characteristics from both parents into this fun, cuddly little dog. While it is not always possible to know the exact characteristics of your Shih Poo because they are a hybrid, there are some general traits that are more common in this small breed. Take a look below to learn more about them. Characteristics As we mentioned above, because the Shih Poo is a relatively new breed, it can be difficult to predict exactly what they are going to look like. We can take a look at their parents and guess many of the statistics and traits though. Appearance Because both of their parents are small, it is easy to guess that the Shih Poo is going to be small. On average, a Shih Poo weighs in at 8 to 18 pounds and ranges in height from 8 to 18 inches. However, as Poodle and Shih Tzu sizes can vary between teacup, miniature and standard, the size of the Shih Poo will also vary. Although small in size, they have a sturdy body. Coat Shih Poo coats can vary and it can be long and silky or short and curly. 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. Their fur is hypoallergenic, which is what makes them such a popular hybrid. The Shih Poo inherits this hypoallergenic fur from their Poodle parent, as the Shih Tzu has a non-hypoallergenic coat. They can come in black, white, brown, brindle and all variations and color combinations. It is not uncommon for puppies of the same litter to be born with different colored coats. A Shih Poo is normally friendly and playful and, with moderate energy levels, would be very happy napping in your lap for a few hours. They can be quite vocal dogs, although not as vocal as their Poodle parent. Shih Poos are most likely to bark if they are frustrated at something, so it is important to train them from an early age to ensure they do not exhibit unwanted behaviors later on in life. A Shih Poo can make a great family dog when given supportive and positive training and lots of attention , but they are also adaptable and may be suited to the quiet life too. This means they can be a great pup for single individuals who are retired and want a cuddly companion dog to curl up with! They do well in different living environments, including big houses, small houses and apartments. Lifespan The life expectancy of a Shih Poo is relatively long. They can normally live for anywhere between 10 to 18 years, although on average it is 13 years. Known Health Issues Again, because the Shih Tzu Poodle mix is a crossbreed, and a new crossbreed, it can be difficult to know exactly what health conditions they may face. However, we can guess based on their parents. Luckily, if they inherit the longer muzzle from their Poodle parent, they may not have any issues with breathing problems that Shih Tzus inherit. Shih Poos are also known for having dental issues, which we go into more detail about below. Of course, these are all possible health problems but not for definite. Daily Life Now you know all about the characteristics and temperament of a Shih Poo dog, it is time to take a look at what everyday life with one is like. Food And Diet As with any dog, you should always make sure to feed your Shih Poo a healthy and balanced diet. Shih Poos are known to love food, so you should never allow them to free-feed otherwise you may end up with a very overweight dog! An ideal Shih-Poo diet should be a dog food formulated for a small-sized breed with medium energy. You should change their diet as they grow from a puppy into an adult and then again as they go into their senior years. If you need help with the type of food you should be feeding your Shih Poo, you can always ask your vet. They should exercise every day, with it recommended that you should take your Shih Poo on one or two 15 minute walks every day. They will also regularly need to go outside to go to the bathroom, because of their small body and small bladder. Family Compatibility Shih Poos make great family dogs because they love attention. They are friendly and playful, although they need regular grooming and exercise. Because they are an adaptable dog, they can thrive in many different situations, whether you live in a big house or a small apartment. They also love to cuddle up with you and are the perfect lapdog, which may make them perfect for a retired individual who wants a furry companion! It is worth mentioning that Shih Poos are very delicate dogs and may not do well in environments with small children, unless the children have been taught to be gentle with the dogs. Children have a tendency to be rough with animals, and this could end up harming your Shih Poo, so a family with older children might be a better fit. Your Shih Poo will get on with other dogs in the home if they are socialized properly. They do not really like to be left alone and can benefit from having a furry playmate in the home, especially in their later years. Training Many Shih Poo owners have reported that their pooch is energetic and playful, which means they are not difficult to train. They are intelligent dogs that respond well to consistent and positive reinforcement training methods, with verbal praise and treats as rewards. Punishment based training is never a good idea and will not help your Shih Poo to understand. Depending on which parent your Shih Poo takes after more, they may be more inclined to learn tricks. If they take after their Poodle parent, they will likely have a very high IQ and will want to learn. However, a Shih Tzu is much less inclined to impress you! You should start training your Shih Poo as soon as you get them. Housetraining can be a challenge with a Shih Poo puppy, but a little vigilance goes a long way and staying on top of their training will make them much happier. You will need to be patient with them while they are potty training and remember not to express anger at your Shih Poo puppy. Socializing Socializing your Poodle mix puppy is also important from a young age. This is especially important if you have young children in the house or other pets. You should always remember to do this slowly so you do not overwhelm them. Grooming Unfortunately, Shih Poos do require quite a bit of grooming. Neither of their parent breeds have very easy coats to maintain, although a Shih Poo does have a hypoallergenic coat and is very low-shedding. The Shih Poo may have long and silky or short and curly fur, depending on which parent they take after more, but it is likely to be a mix of somewhere in the middle. They need to be brushed daily and trimmed monthly to keep their fur in the best shape and mat and tangle-free. Regular bathing is not really required because they are a very clean dog, although they may need a bath from time to time. A bath can also help to ward off any skin issues they may have inherited. Professional Grooming Many Shih Poo owners take their dogs to the groomers for a hair cut. The type of cut they get will depend on the type of fur they have, but if they have curly fur then you might choose a puppy clip or lamb clip. You will also need to trim their nails occasionally and check their ears for any sign of infection. It is especially important to make sure their ears are dry after bathing, otherwise they may end up with an infection. Both the Shih Tzu and the Poodle breeds are prone to tear stains, so you can expect your Shih Poo to also suffer from tear stains. Gently wiping around the eyes once a day can help this problem. We mentioned above that Shih Poos can have a lot of dental issues. You will need to make sure you are cleaning their teeth daily to ensure this does not become a big problem. You can do this with chewable dental sticks if needed. You vet can help you to establish a routine. A Shih Poo is a very adaptable dog that can thrive in many different situations. They like attention and to be doted on, so if you live in a family where many different people can give them lots of attention, they will love living with you! Equally, they are happy living in individual homes with one carer. Are Shih Poos aggressive? Shih Poos are not known for being aggressive. They are energetic and playful and love attention, although they also love curling up on your lap for a cuddle. Summary Shih Poos are an adorable little mixed breed of dog that is the result of breeding a Shih Tzu and a Poodle. Because they are a hybrid, you cannot always be sure what traits and characteristics this designer dog breed is going to take from each parent, but your Shih Poo will be energetic, playing and loving. While they like to exercise and be outside, they also love to curl up with you on the couch and are a true lapdog. Their adaptability makes them perfect for both families and individual people, and they can thrive in a big house or a small apartment. Is a Shih Poo puppy the right companion for you? Search Dog Breeds. Best Food for Shihpoos Specific health issues in the breed. FAQs What is a Shihpoo? Origins and History of the ShihPoo The s saw an explosion in the intentional cross-breeding of dogs. Most breeders wanted dogs with hypoallergenic coats for people with pet allergies. One of the first crossbreeds, the Labradoodle a cross between the Poodle and Labrador Retriever became immensely popular due to its high trainability, intelligence, and its hypoallergenic coat. Because the Poodle was known for its low-shedding hypoallergenic coat, more and more breeders started crossing the Standard Poodle and its variations — the Toy and Miniature Poodles — with other dogs. Often, the miniature Poodle was used for breeding with other small dogs. One such mixture was with a Shih Tzu, a popular and ancient dog breed that has a small size and cute looks. Little is known about the exact origins of the Shih-Poo but it is estimated that the hybrid dog might have been around since the late s. Today, the ShihPoo has become one of the most popular designer dogs in the world. It is known to inherit significant intelligence from the Poodle breed which enhances its trainability. In the subsequent sections, we will cover various traits that make the Shihpoo so popular. The Shih Poo is a teddy bear dog and its cute looks make it one of the most in-demand hybrid dogs today. Having a Shih Poo is like having a living breathing stuffed toy! The best part is that this teddy bear dog wants to play with you as much as you want to play with it. The reason this hybrid dog is so adorable is that the parent breeds are so adorable in their own right. The small Shih Tzu was deemed the royal, noble dog breed in Imperial China. It was given a royal status and people seen with Shih Tzus outside of the palace were actually imprisoned! The Toy or Miniature Poodle is not only a sweet-looking dog, it is incredibly smart too. It is no wonder that the Shih Poo has inherited these qualities as well. The height of a Shih Poo is between 8 and 18 inches or .Your puppy could inherit the tight, curly, non-shedding coat of the Poodle parent or the soft, silky, long hair of the Shih Tzu. Accordingly, you will need to vary your grooming methods for your pet. The coat colors in Shih Poos could be white, black, brown, apricot, blue, brindle, and combinations thereof. They are also versatile; there are Shih Poos that are known to fit right into hospice situations as therapy or comfort dogs and also as family pets or companion pets for children. They can fit in with a small family with older kids or with an elderly year-old sedentary individual. They simply love people! Shih Poos are affable, athletic dogs. They need plenty of exercise to prevent them from getting into trouble. Being active is a part of their nature since both parent-breeds are fairly active. Just like Shih Tzus and Poodles dislike being left alone at home, the Shih Poo is also known to have separation anxiety. But your pet will be an entirely different dog when everyone is at home: cheerful, well-behaved, and obedient. Like the parent breeds, Shih Poo puppies need plenty of positive reinforcement-based training and handling from the start. Bad habits can quickly set in and they can be difficult to break. Shih Poos are known for barking. Ignore your dog and it will try and get your attention in different ways — even if that attention is negative. So you must train your dog, not to bark or bark on cue else it could become an annoying habit that irritates your neighbours. Is Shih Poo a Good Pet? Who is the Right Owner for This Breed? Shih Poos make excellent pets. They are also great for novice dog owners. However, one must invest time and effort in training else they could develop bad habits. A well-trained Shih Poo is an excellent family pet that gets along with kids and other pets as well. You must desensitize your Shih Poo to other dogs, cats, and house pets from a young age. Shih Poos are great with kids and love having company. The cost of a Shih Poo can vary from breeder to breeder. Their price also depends on the parent bloodlines, the coat colour, etc. These include cost of food and treats, vaccinations, deworming, flea and tick prevention, grooming, dog training, costs of travel and pet boarding, etc. What To Feed a Shih Poo? Feed your puppy the same meal that the breeder was feeding it. This is important to avoid digestive issues in your vulnerable puppy. However, once your puppy has settled in you can transition them over to a raw food diet or quality freeze-dried food of your choosing. Puppies need at least 4 meals a day as they expend more energy through running and playing. The size of your Shih Poo will play a key role in how much to feed it. In general, a 10 lb. A 20 lb. You may feed your adult Shih Poo times a day. Choose a nutritionally dense dog food with real meat as the first ingredient. Avoid foods with by-products, fillers, and other empty calories. Some Shihpoos are sensitive to grains, gluten, and even certain proteins. In such cases, you might want to feed special grain-free diets or even prescription food to your buddy. Shih Poos are prone to dental health issues. Avoid foods with added sugars as these can contribute to canine cavities. Are Shih Poo Healthy Dogs? When you purchase your Shih Poo from a good breeder, it is likely that your puppy will be healthier than one purchased from a puppy mill or a backyard breeder. They also conduct health checks on their dogs and only breed ones without genetic health problems. Since the Shih Poo breed is relatively new, not many health issues have been documented so far. However, from time to time, we tend to see some problems like: Hypothyroidism.