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And large dogs need to have many care factors taken care of to thrive. So, the first step is preparing for a home suitable for a German Shepherd puppy that will one day become a big dog. First, make sure you have enough space for them to run and play. If you have a small yard, consider getting a dog run or fence to give them extra room as well as space for you to do important obedience training exercises. And finally, be sure to stock up on puppy food, treats, toys , and other essentials. Separation Anxiety It is common for month-old German Shepherd puppies to develop separation anxiety when they are first separated from their parents and litter mates. It is because they have not yet learned how to cope with being away from their pack, especially in the first few weeks. Separation anxiety can manifest in several ways, including howling, barking , chewing, and pacing. If your German Shepherd shows separation anxiety, seek professional help from a vet or an animal behaviorist. With time, patience, and guidance, your German Shepherd puppy will learn to cope with being away from other dogs and, little by little, start getting used to you and your family. First, it is crucial to understand that basic training for your German Shepherd to potty is a process and will take time, patience, and consistency. No magic solution will instantly train your month-old German Shepherd puppy to use the bathroom outside. Instead, it requires positive reinforcement, consistent follow-through, and a lot of patience. It means taking your puppy out to relieve themselves regularly throughout the day. Your one-month-old German Shepherd puppy should have a potty training schedule first thing in the morning, after every meal, after naps and playtime, and before bedtime. If you stick to this schedule, you will succeed. German Shepherd puppies generally have to relieve themselves every two to three hours, so be sure to set a timer or alarm to remind yourself to take them out. Introducing a Puppy Crate Choose a designated potty area, a. You can find puppy crates for your German Shepherd puppy at most pet stores or online retailers. Start by taking them to the designated area on a leash and letting them explore. Give it a treat if it shows interest in the space. Try again later if the puppy shows no interest or seems scared of the room. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you get started: Use a leash: When taking your German Shepherd out to relieve themselves, use a leash to keep them focused and prevent them from running off and exploring. Fixed routine: Try to take your German Shepherd to his designated potty area at the same time each day. It will help him develop a regular bathroom schedule. Give them time: When you get to the designated potty area, give your German Shepherd puppy plenty of time to relieve themselves. Reward good behavior: When your German Shepherd uses the bathroom in their designated potty area, praise them and give them a tasty treat. It will reinforce correct behavior and help your German Shepherd puppy learn that going potty outside is good. It will only scare your German Shepherd puppy and could cause it to hold urine or feces in, leading to health problems. German Shepherd puppies that are weaning for a few weeks to 12 years require four meals daily. After 12 weeks, you can switch to 3 meals per day. Your German Shepherd should maintain a diet of cups of puppy food per day, depending on their activity level. The German Shepherd breed is also prone to joint problems, so ensure they get the proper nutrients for healthy joints and bones. A quality dog food for your German Shepherd will have the right balance of calcium, phosphorus, and other nutrients like glucosamine and chondroitin. The most common health issues seen in the German Shepherd dog breed are the following. These conditions are caused by a hip or elbow joint malformation, leading to pain, lameness, and eventually arthritis. German Shepherds with these conditions will require lifelong pain medication and surgery management. Bloating Bloating is another common health problem seen in German Shepherds. This condition occurs when the stomach fills with gas and then twists on itself, cutting off the blood supply. Some of the most common signs of bloating include restlessness, pacing, drooling, and abdominal pain. Contact your vet immediately if you think your German Shepherd is bloated. Hemophilia Hemophilia is a blood clotting disorder that can affect German Shepherds. This condition can lead to excessive bleeding, even from minor injuries. German Shepherds with hemophilia will require lifelong management with medication and close monitoring by a vet. The best way to prevent health problems in your German Shepherd breed is to get them from reputable breeders who do health testing on their dogs. Be sure to ask about the health history of the parents, grandparents, and brothers or sisters. Having your German Shepherd examined by a vet within the first few days of bringing them home is also essential. It will allow you to catch any health problems early and get treatment immediately. Degenerative Disc Disease Degenerative disc disease is a condition that can occur in German Shepherds. This condition is caused by the deterioration of the discs in the spine. It can lead to pain and paralysis. German Shepherds with this condition will require lifelong management with pain medication and surgery. Allergies German Shepherds are also susceptible to allergies , which can be caused by anything from food to environmental allergens. The most common signs of an allergic reaction include itching, redness, and hair loss. If you think your German Shepherd has allergies, it is vital to speak to your vet so they can recommend the best course of treatment. While there is no guarantee that your German Shepherd will never experience any health problems, working with a reputable breeder and taking good care of your German Shepherd will help to minimize the risk. It is essential for their growth. German Shepherd puppies usually wake up several times during the night for a potty break or a quick snack. Over time, your German Shepherd will learn to sleep through the night as they grow and mature. In the meantime, enjoy those cute German Shepherd puppy naps. Also read:. Like many large breeds, a German Shepherd dog is not considered fully grown until they are about 18 months old. Female German Shepherds continue to fill out until they are around two years old, while the male German Shepherd growth rate continues until they reach two and a half years of age. Males are larger and require more time to fill out their chest and abdomen. As you can see by the German Shepherd weight chart, these dogs can continue to grow until they are three years old, but the majority of growth occurs within 24 months. If your GSD is older than 36 months and continues to put on weight, contact your veterinarian to ensure weight gain does not lead to obesity. How big should a 6-month-old German Shepherd be? A six-month-old German Shepherd puppy will be quite large, as many German Shepherds undergo massive growth spurts between two and five months old. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. How much bigger will my German Shepherd get? There are a few ways to gauge how much bigger a German Shepherd will get. First, check your puppy's age. If your GSD is younger than two years old, they definitely have room to keep growing! Another way to tell if your pup still has a lot of growing to do is their paw size. Do their paws look large compared to their legs and body? This is a classic adolescent feature of a dog and means your pup is likely still growing! Most of the time, a dog will not grow bigger than its larger parents. What is the size of a full-grown German shepherd? An adult male German Shepherd is typically 24 to 26 inches tall, while adult female German Shepherds are 22 to 24 inches tall, according to the American Kennel Club German Shepherd Standard. The estimated full-size varies significantly between sexes. In terms of weight, an adult male German Shepherd weighs anywhere from 75 to 90 pounds. A female German Shepherd weighs notably less at 55 to 70 pounds. Please keep in mind that these numbers are only estimates to give you an idea of how much bigger a German Shepherd puppy may get. Some dogs will be both smaller and larger than these weight ranges when fully grown due to a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Learn all about your puppy's physical characteristics, breed history, personality traits, and more in our comprehensive guide. Preventive care is key in helping your German Shepherd live a healthy and long life. Helping your dog maintain an optimal weight is one of the best things you can do for their health. Taking your German Shepherd to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do to ensure that they are healthy and feeling their best. Compare German Shepherd health insurance plans before they get sick or injured. They are also more susceptible to gastrointestinal tract and hip issues. A veterinarian should regularly assess your pet for these health problems and run tests for anything they may be more prone to due to their breed. Treatment for many conditions, including bloat and GI issues, can cost thousands of dollars. Dog insurance is a wise investment that can give you peace of mind by covering pet emergency expenses. Wellness plans are also available to help cover the cost of vaccinations, vet exams, microchips, and more. Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance. Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top providers so you can find a great deal with great coverage. Get Peace of Mind Today Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Blankets, pillows, and towels. The mother GSD and her litter need a quiet place to stay. It should be spacious, clean, and comfortable. If money is not an issue, you may purchase a commercial whelping box and a washable vet bed. But if you want to be thrifty, you can just make use of a clean cardboard box. Just make sure that the box is big enough for your GSD to stretch out comfortably. You may also buy a heat pad. It will provide warmth to the litter. Instead, put the heat pad under the whelping box, with one end on top of the box. Cover it with a towel to avoid overheating. The whelping box should be close enough to an electrical outlet so you can easily plug in the heat pad once you need more warmth for your Litter. Make sure they stay warm by providing a heating pad and lamp. You may add blankets, pillows, towels, or even old newspapers and a warm water bottle wrapped in a towel. Be careful though because puppies might get entangled and suffocate if the blanket, pillows, and towels are not taut. Puppy milk replacer, baby bottle, or feeding syringe If the litter is abandoned or orphaned, ask your vet to prescribe milk formulated for German shepherd puppies. Purchase a baby bottle or syringe for feeding. If you leave newborn German shepherd puppies with their mother, give her the first two days to bond with her litter and feed them. Once you see that your GSD has accepted her litter and is feeding them, you can put the puppies in a box beside their mother. She will take care of cleaning and nurturing her pups while continuing to feed them with her milk. But if she still refuses to take care of her pups, you must take matters into your own hands. To do this, place a clean towel or a washable vet bed inside a cardboard box. Keep the box beside your GSD but make sure that she cannot get in touch with her pups. Plug the pad into an electrical outlet and adjust the heat to maintain its temperature at 95 degrees Fahrenheit. The pups can get hypothermia if their body heat drops below 94 degrees Fahrenheit. See also How long should a puppy chew on a bully stick and when to take the bully stick away? Now, put your German shepherd puppies under the warmth of the heating pad at 95 degrees F and wait for them to feed. Only put three puppies per towel or one puppy per section of the vet bed for ease in feeding and monitoring. A mother GSD can produce about 4 to 5 cc of milk every hour. This means that she will need someone to feed her pups every 2 or 3 hours. To correctly use the eyedropper, put your puppy on its stomach and tickle its throat to induce swallowing. Repeat this process until you see that the pup has emptied the eyedropper. Pups will probably fall asleep after feeding. To avoid suffocation, place rolled-up newspapers in their box the pups can use them as pillows when they sleep. These are only temporary until the mother GSD starts to take care of them by licking them clean and keeping them warm with her presence. Weighing scale To make sure if the German shepherd puppies are gaining enough weight, monitor their weight by using a weighing scale at least 4 times a week. If the puppies are not gaining enough weight, they may not be getting enough milk or nourishment so consult your vet right away. Use a wet cotton ball or washcloth to massage or rub gently the anal region. A mother GSD can give birth to 4 to 9 puppies in one litter, 6 as the average. Newborn German Shepherd Puppies Newborns especially 1 to 3-day old German shepherd puppies are vulnerable so before you do anything, consult with your vet especially if you are inexperienced. Right after your GSD gives birth, check the 1-day old German shepherd puppies if they are breathing. If you notice a puppy having breathing difficulties, use a suction bulb syringe to suck out the blockage and clear its airways. Most of the time, they just sleep or eat. They usually eat every two hours during their first week of life. If the puppies are orphaned, you may wash them gently using a warm and moist cloth. Avoid over-bathing the pups because it can cause dehydration. You will notice some of them wagging their tails as well which is adorable to look at. The puppies will gradually open their eyes for the first time in 2 weeks. They will be curious so expect them to move around to inspect their surroundings. Instead of crawling, they attempt to use their legs even though their legs may shake. Check their weight to see if they are gaining well and continue keeping them warm and clean. Their ears will open so they can hear the sounds around them. Though their legs still shake when they attempt to walk, they can finally stand on their own. They will begin to socialize and explore their surroundings more so you should not separate the puppies from each other. They will start teething so they tend to bite everything. They will also be interested in eating solid food. The puppies can walk well at 4 weeks so they will continue socializing with their siblings, their mother, and their handler through playing. They can begin eating solid foods for the first time now that their teeth are fully developed. The puppies can be fully weaned when they reach 6 weeks because they become independent of their mother. They also improve their social skills by playing not only with each other but also with people. Not to worry because this is just a normal phase. This is a good time to expose the puppies to various sounds, places, and people. Teach them basic commands but focus on socialization and bite inhibition. If the puppies are not fully potty trained , train them now. At 9 weeks, the weight of male German shepherd puppies normally ranges from 9 to 10 kg while the females would be from 7 to 9 kg. Their height ranges from 12 to 15 inches. See also How to Crate Train a German Shepherd Puppy When the German shepherd puppies reach 10 weeks, their ears will become pointy but sometimes the ears are floppy. Their height and weight will continue to grow as long as they are adequately fed. By this time, your puppies should already know how to gently use their mouth in dealing with humans so you can enhance their training by teaching other basic commands. When they are done, let them play so that they learn how to do this on their own. Be patient because it takes time before they get the hang of it. If after 24 hours it still refuses to eat, use a baby bottle or feeding syringe to feed the puppy. Prepare a milk replacement formula using evaporated milk mixed with egg yolk, using two egg yolks for every half cup of milk. To avoid bacteria growth, boil the water first before mixing everything and store any leftover formula in the fridge. Gradually increase the proportion of milk replacement formula and decrease the proportion of puppy chow until you wean them off milk replacement completely. Your GSD puppy may have parasites because stools may look like pebbles or tan-colored, small balls which can be a sign that they have swallowed something in their litter box. This is particularly common when they are still with their mother because they tend to eat the feces of the other pups. Diarrhea can also be caused by stress, which is common for a newborn GSD puppy that has been removed from its mom. If this happens, make sure you give them enough attention and place your hand gently on their body to calm them down. Conclusion German shepherd puppies are truly a sight to behold from birth to adulthood. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. It is not recommended to take it from its mother and littermates because it starts its socialization and gets the first experience of biting inhibition from them. When you take your doggy home, follow the advice of your breeder and veterinarian. In addition, you need to measure and weigh your pup to be able to follow its growth. You should also think about crate training your dog from the first days of staying at your home. Start potty training as soon as possible. However, be very careful about the first walks. The immune system of a little German Shepherd is too unstable and vulnerable to many infections. It has already received all the nutrients it needed during its first month. You can opt for high-quality puppy kibble or homemade food. However, you should avoid poor-quality products and cheap kibble that is full of chemicals. If you are planning to feed your pet with kibble, it is recommended to moisten it with goat milk or fresh water if this milk is unavailable. Giving it cow milk is not recommended. Give your puppy 1. Try to formulate a consistent feeding schedule with the same hours for feeding. You should have two bowls for your German Shepherd. One is for food and the other for water. Your puppy needs a lot of water, so you can leave the water in the bowl to let it drink whenever it wants. As for food, do not leave the leftovers in the bowl. Your puppy cannot control how much it wants to eat, and it can lead to overfeeding if it eats something every time it sees its bowl. You need to make the feeding schedule work. However, do not feed the puppy two times per day. It is too young for that, so it can overeat too and have severe digestion problems. You should teach it to recognize the connections between commands and responses or responses and consequences. Foremost, you need to set primary anchors. It means that you should develop certain reactions to your actions to teach the puppy to follow you, eat food or receive treats, and sit. Your clapping hands, whistling, or a specific word can be such anchors. Avoid setting anchors that your puppy will feel as similar. The next training step is establishing authority. Your puppy should understand that you are its guide, and it will help you when you start training more complex commands. Your little pet should understand that you are its pack leader. So, the first thing to teach is to follow you. Praise the puppy if it does everything correctly, and never punish it if it does not understand you. Early socialization training is also very important. However, early exposure of your pet to many people and unfamiliar things may lead to psychological problems. That is why start socializing your puppy gradually. You can take it on short visits to your family or friends. Keep socializing your doggy every day but in small portions of positive experiences. Start potty training as soon as you bring your GS puppy home. Show it where you want it to do its business, in the backyard or garden. Ensure that this area is quiet and fenced. It has to be something soft like grass or mat. Establish an exact schedule for going potty. Taking the puppy outside is the first thing you need to do after it wakes up in the morning. Then, follow the schedule after each meal, playing, and before going to bed. Keep the puppy out of biting and nipping. You should not beat or punish it anyway. Though, teach the puppy to avoid severe bites on the hands and legs. You can arrange timeouts for it if it bites too harshly. For example, if it bites your hand while taking a treat, withhold the next treat until it understands how to take it gently. Reward it with a treat when you see that the little one understands what you want of it and denies biting at all. German Shepherds are very clever, so they understand the explanations very quickly. Be patient while training your little dog. It will be trained enough to understand how to control itself by the 10th week. Therefore, your boy will grow as tall as inches cm , while the little girl will be inches cm tall. How much does a 2 month old German Shepherd weight? GS puppies gain weight at this age very quickly. They tend to double it in comparison to the first month. Your male doggy will approximately weigh pounds kg. If you have a female puppy, its weight will be smaller — pounds .How much to feed a 2 month old German Shepherd puppy? You can give your puppy .How often should I feed my 2 month old German Shepherd? You should feed your pup times per day. Never make a feeding schedule of 2 times per day because your doggy can overeat and have digestive problems. How much exercise does a 2 month old German Shepherd puppy need? Little GS puppies are very energetic, so they need a lot of exercises. However, they are too young for hard exercise and training. The sessions can be very short about minutes or less and not too intensive. Can I walk my 2 month old German Shepherd? Yes, you can walk your puppy in the backyard or any other fenced space after it is vaccinated. Though remember that your little doggy cannot go on long walks yet, so never make its walks too long. Another thing to consider is that it cannot follow you yet, so try to avoid going for walks in the open spaces and streets, or your pup can get lost. Learn a lot about the breed before you decide to adopt this dog. You also need to know that your pup will have enough space for its activity and energetic behavior. You also need to consider your budget. Get prepared that your doggy will bark, whale, bite and chew everything around. However, you will also get a lot of joy, playing, laughing, and loyalty. German Shepherds are very intelligent, and you will get the best friend for many years if you are patient and consistent enough during its first days at your home. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. There is nothing cuter than a little 1 month old German Shepherd puppy. They are new to the world, ready to explore and beaming with life. The cute little fur balls will be the center of attention wherever they go. During their first 4 weeks of life, they will go through some big changes. They are only a pint size version of their big strong and athletic adult future self. But there will be plenty of adventure and tons of tail wagging so be prepared. Overall Behavior: A 4-week-old German Shepherd puppy has made it through the newborn stage of development which is approximately the first two weeks of their new life. They have gone through some significant changes along the way. They are a far cry from what they were just a few weeks prior. During the first month, their eyes and ears have opened up to the world. And instead of only nursing and sleeping, they are now becoming a bit more independent. Their senses are homing in on their surroundings as they start to explore everything around them. They will be more playful and spending lots of time with their litter mates. This is the early stages of the socialization period. They will be biting and nipping but should be learning bite inhibition from their siblings. Remember never to scold them if they do have a mess up. It can have the reverse effect, leading to more clean up jobs. Physical Development: Lots of important milestones are reached during the first 4 weeks of development. But they are still short little fellas standing less than a half a foot tall. A male will be anywhere between 4 and 6 inches while a female is nearly the same standing anywhere between 3 and 6 inches. Since they were born, their eyes have gone from totally shut too completely open. Their fuzzy little ears have also gone from closed to open. They are now able to completely see and hear the world around them. They have learned to stand and will now be doing a lot of playing with their brothers and sisters. Additionally, their new puppy teeth are now starting to grow in. Nutrition: At this stage in their development, all of their nutrition is coming from Mom. Colostrum is especially important and provides antibodies that protect the pup from any diseases or infections. They may smell it, or they may stick their nose up to it. So, at this point they still have a few more weeks to go. They will get those at 6 weeks old. They should, however, get dewormed when they are 2 to 3 weeks old. Genetic testing can be done, and a full history of their parents can also indicate future health concerns. However, puppies can get sick and there are certain things to look for during their first month that could be a red flag. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, take them to your local vet for assistance. Here are some symptoms to look for: Appetite loss. The German Shepherd is a widespread breed of service dog that is popular with breeders. This breed develops into a beautiful large size body with well-developed muscles giving the dog the ability to perform well in many different environments. With proper care and competent training , an owner will get a loyal and devoted friend. Raising German Shepherd puppies is a responsible and difficult task which will require a lot of patience and love. Of course, we can easily fall for these German Shepherd newborn puppies whose photos look so cute on the Internet and in magazines but they also need competent care. Litter size The normal litter size for this breed is often of interest to novice dog breeders and this information is especially relevant for those who have their first experience with a young bitch. Amongst German Shepherd breed experts, there is consensus that the normal litter size is generally driven by genetics and the conditions or the timing of mating do not have a significant influence. A shepherd dog can give birth from 1 to as much as 15 puppies but in most cases a little less than the median of this range is more typical. Basically, you can expect a litter size of five to six puppies, which is really the optimal size. Of course, a healthy bitch is able to feed twelve babies, but it will be much more difficult for her, and the babies may not grow strong enough. Mating Experienced dog breeders recommend no more than one mating per year, otherwise it may affect the physical appearance and health of German Shepherd newborn puppies and the health of the mother herself. First two weeks of the German Shepherd newborn puppies Learning to care for the puppies during the first two weeks of their lives is particularly important. The condition of a German shepherd puppy immediately after birth, already speaks volumes to the fact that he is absolutely helpless as babies are born blind and deaf. However, despite this obstacle, their sense of smell is already quite developed and they perfectly feel the maternal scent and look for nipples of the mother by touch. Moreover, newborns instinctively know that the rear nipples contain more milk, so a struggle begins between them for the most advantageous places. Hearing in newborns starts functioning three to four days after birth. In the first hours after birth, babies are susceptible to various kinds of infections and they are especially vulnerable in cases when the health condition of the mother is not good. Real life experience shows that those who were born last have a much higher survival rate than those who came out first. If there are more than six newborns in a litter, the owners will need a lot of strength and patience to help the mother hatch and provide the conditions necessary for their survival. The litter will need to be divided into two areas and newborns fed in two steps. It is recommended to set up two box or containers to separate the group. In that case, you will need the help of a nurse dog who could take over some of the feeding responsibilities. Therefore, it is important to plan ahead in case the need comes up. There are certain criteria for selecting a nurse dog: Height at withers more than 50 cm Strength Health Milk availability It is important, to pay special attention to the weak and small puppies and place them against the rear nipples. Monitoring of German Shepherd newborn puppies You will need to closely monitor the behavior of newborns, weigh them daily and record the results in a log book. In doing so, you can track the evolution of the babies and identify those that may have development issues. In the first week, babies suckle their mother about twelve times a day, then the frequency drops to eight and in the final days it will go down to four times. At first, the mother stimulates the physiological functions of the puppies by licking them. Once the German Shepherd newborn puppies begin to eat a little solid food, the mother stops doing it. Keep in mind that from that point on you will have to take care of the cleanliness of the birthing area where the bitch lives with her puppies. If you notice that the mother does not really care for the babies, you will need to massage their abdomens. You can do so with a cotton swab dipped in sunflower oil. When the babies are five days old, the dog owner should start changing the litter in the box on a daily basis. Make sure the area where the litter is set up is warm but well ventilated and that nothing can contribute to suffocation of the puppies such as fabric, attachments, etc. On the seventh day, trim the small claws of the front legs as they can scratch the mother while feeding. If the case she has wounds, lubricate them with synthomycin liniment. In that case, wash them with a weak potassium permanganate solution, rosehip oil or sea buckthorn oil and make sure that she does not lick that area. Feeding of German Shepherd newborn puppies You can start feeding puppies once you notice a decrease in their daily growth, despite the fact that they become restless, whine and try to crawl. Appropriate timing is crucial as rushing the process is just as dangerous as delaying it. If you start feeding too early, the mother will have less milk production, which is a source of vitamins and antibodies to various infections. In fact, breast milk is the best whey that protects droppings from all sorts of infections. In general, feeding can start around the fourteenth day. In cases where the shepherd mother has problems with lactation, you can start on the twelfth day. You can give milk from a cow, sheep or goat by mixing egg yolk and powdered milk into it. A bottle with a nipple is suitable as a feeding tool and the hole should be of such a size that milk does not pour out, but drips. The frequency of feeding in case of insufficient lactation in a bitch is every three hours and three times a day with normal lactation. Learning to care for Shepherd puppies A one-month old German shepherd puppy is not much different from its younger counterparts, but it is much larger. Its weight is from two and a half to four kg and height at the withers is from 19 to 21 cm. Once the puppy starts eating solids, the diet should be optimally balanced. The young German Shepherd is growing fast and his food intake must be nutritious! Meals should be provided at regular intervals with 6 meals a day being the optimal frequency. Then, gradually increase the amount of servings and decrease the number of meals. The main principle is that each meal should provide the shepherd puppy with the necessary complex of vitamins, fats, carbohydrates and proteins. One serving of food is usually around g. Only select premium quality food for large dog breeds and make sure they contain all the necessary nutrients. Alternatives to processed food are natural products cottage cheese, porridge with meat broth, grated vegetables, boiled eggs, boiled or raw minced meat. Both approaches in their pure form have their advantages and disadvantages. Get the help of a dog nutritionist, if needed. Good luck! Related topics of interest to our readers. Exercise Needs German Shepherds are one of the most energetic dogs with high levels of vigor and exercise demands. Importance Exercise plays a vital role in their growth and development. It strengthens the muscles and bones which are required for a strong build. These are stress-dependent and grow better when used regularly. Also, it enhances the release of growth hormones which causes the body to grow. Ways to Exercise There are many ways to exercise your pooch, but walking is the best one at this age. It is easy for your pup and convenient to do regularly. How much to walk You would need to start taking your pup out for walking by this time. Initially, minute walks twice a day would suffice. It should be in a relaxed mood without any hurrying. Make it as calm and enjoyable for the pup as possible. You can start in your backyard and once the dog gets familiar with walking, you can change the scenery to any nearby park. It is not recommended to take such a young pup too far away from home. Increase the duration as the dog ages. With every consequent month, add 5 minutes to the initial minute walk. Having a routine Very vital for the whole concept of exercise is having a routine. Make a schedule and stick to it, try not to miss these walks. Having a proper routine generates muscle memory in your pooch which helps to maintain the tone and endurance of muscles. Nutrition Nutrition goes hand in hand with sleep and exercise for the overall health of a pup. Diet Constituents During these growing years, your pup needs extra proteins and minerals for its growing muscles, bones, and brain. Lean meat is a good source of proteins. Avoid tough-to-digest meats like ham. Get an overall diet plan set up by a dog nutrition expert. Food per meal Half a cup to 1 full cup per meal is sufficient. You will also get an idea about how much to feed your pooch by the appetite it shows at meals. Number of meals a day 4 to 5 meals a day would suffice. However, do not overfeed your pooch as this would lead to indigestion. Over time, this habit may make your dog obese and deteriorate its cardiovascular and joint health. This will reduce many potential years of healthy life. Sleep During sleep, the brain gets rid of toxins that it accumulates over the day, and neural connections are formed for better memory and cognition. Sleep Cycle A 2-month-old German Shepherd pup will sleep between hours a day. This sleep would have a major part during the night and the rest of the hours would be divided into naps throughout the day. Schedule Although you cannot control the naps in their entirety, it is still advisable to make a sleeping schedule for your pup, especially for the night. Take your dog to bed at the same time every day for naps. Although it is difficult to have a routine for the many naps a pup will have but even a loose routine will help you use the waking hours efficiently. You can use the non-sleep intervals for exercise and feeding your GSD pup. Sleeping Aids For better sleep, have a comfortable crib for your dog. This should be placed near your bed or sleeping area, allowing you to keep an eye on the pup during its sleep and also making it accustomed to your scent. This strengthens the puppy-owner bond. Regulate the lights and temperature during this time. The temperature should be cooler than outside in summer and in winter to make it as cozy as possible. Dimming the lights allows a natural sleep with fewer interruptions. Prerequisites for a better sleep Dogs sleep better with a tired body. A dog whose energy has not been drained throughout the day is less likely to sleep early and will have more waking spells during its sleep. Make sure your dog exercises regularly each day for better sleep. Having a routine for the loo is also effective for less disruptive sleep. Behavior training Before evolving into an adult dog with a more stable and predictable mood, dogs pass through many stages of behavior. These need to be adjusted when they indicate a behavioral issue that would not resolve with time. Biting and Nibbling Biting and nibbling is innate to most dog species. They try to get attention and explore things through this behavior. Sometimes this suggests a negative sentiment that your dog is having for a person, animal, or object. To get rid of any unwanted biting habits, use positive reinforcement. Refrain your dog from biting using verbal commands and gestures and reward your dog when it does so. This will associate the wanted behavior with rewards and the dog will adopt it more and more, eventually, the negative habits will disappear altogether. Anything that can serve as a good motivation. Approach your dog with an assertive stance and firm cues without getting physical. You would need to establish yourself as a leader that could be followed. German Shepherds would become independent in the absence of a strong figure to lead them. It is important to remember that behavioral training takes time and would require you to be both consistent and patient for better results. This can be easily dealt with as described previously. Also, with proper scheduled exercise, it is less likely that your dog would show any signs of laziness. Even after these measures, if a pup is overly lazy then this might be a sign of any organic disease. Set up a check-up with your vet as early as possible. Flare-ups As with laziness, an overly fussy dog can be due to a poor diet and sleep. Identify the cause and fix it. Sometimes, pups that are too sensitive get easily offended by your reprimands and show flare-ups. You need to be more gentle around such pups and use reward-based tactics for behavior change instead of reprimands. Potty Training Teach your dog to poop at the place you have set up for it and offer rewards when it defecates there. Positively reinforcing correct defecation habits is the best way to potty train your dog. Potty training your dog in younger days is more effective as compared to later adult life. Barking Some dogs are overly sensitive to environmental stimuli and would bark at the slightest of cues. This could be new people, animals, objects, or lights and sounds. Get your dog accustomed to these signals with gradual and controlled exposure until it gets desensitized. During your walks, explore newer surroundings and once it gets used to a certain place, move to another. This will allow your dog to be desensitized to the feeling of newer stimuli and it will stop barking when exposed to them. However, barking can also be a signal of danger and a cry for help. Do exclude these before you link such habits to external harmless cues. Growth Monitoring The younger the pup is, the faster it grows. For all pups, it is important to measure their growth regularly and compare it to that of a healthy pup of the same age through growth charts. This needs to be investigated on a priority basis. Vaccination Puppy shots protect your pooch against many diseases that would be otherwise deteriorating and often fatal. These include Hepatitis, Distemper, Leptospirosis, Covid, and many other illnesses. Consult your vet for a proper Puppy vaccination schedule. You can read more about it at the AKC. Regular check-ups Your dog needs to have regular check-ups with a vet. Many diseases that are not obvious to you can be picked up by veterinarians early on and treated. Do not miss your appointments just because you think your dog is alright. This would show such illnesses before they manifest themselves and give medical intervention a better chance to treat them. Some breeds and lineages are more prone to these illnesses than others. You need to check for yourself the pros and cons before opting for it. Use a brush with gentle bristles. Make sure your pup is not allergic to artificial bristles, and use an organic brush when allergic. Do not shave your german shepherd hair from any part of the body if not required. Use wet towels instead to clean your pooch. The temperature should be regulated according to external weather conditions. Do not use hair dryers to dry up your dog, use a gentle dry towel instead. Nail Clipping Overgrown nails trap dirt and bacteria that can be a source of infection. Leave mm of nail behind when cutting. How big is a 2-month-old German shepherd? A 2-month-old GSD weighs between 16 and 20 pounds with a height of inches. However, this would also depend on the genes that your pup is carrying, a pup from larger-than-average parents would be taller and heavier while that from smaller parents is more likely to fall below this average. You can find the sizes for other ages here. At what age does a German Shepherd start guarding? Around the age of months, a GSD would start guardian. Although an instinct, a GSD will show this trait more prominently when it has matured enough. Is a female or male German Shepherd more protective? Male GSDs tend to be more dominant and possessive when it comes to protecting their territory, although they would also protect their owner and family. However, female GSDs are more inclined to love and protect family members as compared to males. Owning A 2-Month-Old German Shepherd Puppy — Recap Taking care of a pup is different from an adult due to their delicate bodies and increased demand for care and nutrition as they are in their growing years. Any neglect at this age can lead to growth retardation, cognitive impairment, and long-term personality changes that are difficult to deal with in adult life. A 2-month-old German Shepherd pup has excessive sleep demands that need to be regulated with a proper sleep schedule. The little time in between the naps should be adequately adjusted for food and exercise. The diet has to be in congruence with the increased needs of a rapidly growing body. Behavioral patterns of laziness, biting, barking, and tantrums are bound to occur in young pups of an energetic breed. Using assertive personality and positive reinforcement you can change these behaviors to more suitable ones. This takes time and would require consistency and patience. Grooming goes hand in hand with behavioral habits and would require regular cleaning practices, brushing, nail clipping, etc. Have timely vaccination and regular check-ups with a professional. Any disorder needs to be detected early with prompt treatment for a better prognosis. About the author Scott Hi, my name is Scott. Not just for you, but for your German Shepherd puppy as well. For most new parents, though, the thought of that initial introduction is a bit nerve-wrecking. Introducing new smells, working on training, and socialization can all help your German Shepherd get ready to meet your new addition! This excitement can stress your puppy out, causing him to get overexcited. Try rubbing baby lotion onto your hands, and having your puppy sniff from a safe distance. Your goal should be curious, but a respectful puppy. Similarly, recordings of babies crying will help your pup avoid getting overexcited when hearing these noises for the first time. Also, be sure your dog is prepared for lots of visitors; this is a good time to work on socialization. On daily walks, make sure your puppy is following commands. Work in the backyard on other training and commands. Set Ground Rules Your home will be undergoing lots of changes as well, with new furniture, gates, and bedding moving in. Set ground rules with your dog about this new furniture. To start, make the nursery off-limits, especially for the first few months. A burp cloth or nursery hat works great! When you bring the clothing item home, make sure your puppy sniffs from a safe distance, and reward calm sniffing. How to Introduce Your Baby and Your German Shepherd The initial introduction might cause you to become nervous, thinking about how it might go. Start by taking your puppy for a long walk. This will help him burn off extra energy and naturally calm down. If your puppy is just overexcited — he might not have seen you for a few days, after all! Pay Attention to Your Emotions Your puppy mirrors your emotions in many situations. Start slowly! Have one adult hold the baby, while the invites the animal into the room. Your puppy will likely want to sniff. Start at a safe distance, a few feet away is best. Then you can slowly allow your puppy to get closer if he stays calm. Use Rewards to Reinforce Positive Behavior If your puppy shows positive behaviors, have treats or a new toy handy. This will help him have positive associations with the baby. You might offer a new toy after your puppy has sniffed from a safe distance and is remaining calm. Long-Term Success: What to Do After Your Introduction After the initial introduction, there are some steps you can take to ensure safety and help ease the transition for your puppy. Here are a few tips: Supervision Is Always Important You should always keep a close eye on your puppy when he is in the same room with the baby. And they need to exercise daily to stay happy. Try to keep the routine as normal as possible. Chances are your routine will change. Teach Baby about Boundaries In the first year, your baby will grow quickly, start crawling and moving. This can help prevent any territorial issues from cropping up. A trainer can help to determine the cause of problematic behavior and provide actionable tips for reversing behaviors. Do you need a training refresher to prepare your puppy for a new baby? Schedule a session with Misty Ridge today. We bring decades of German Shepherd training experience and can help you prepare for a successful family introduction.

For more call me xxxxxxxxxx Buy Now 7 mo Alapaha female pup for rehome She is very smart easy to train and friendly. Re homing sue to new job taking away from home too long of periods. View Detail Alapaha Blue-Blood Bulldog puppies These guys will be very very well socialised with children, other dogs, cats and everyday household noises. They are being raised in the heart of our family home. We have 2 males and 2 females still available xx View Detail Bull dog free to good home 7 month old bull dog needs a good home. Good with kids, playful and sweet. Free to a good home. These are athletic bulldogs, natural guarding and protecting instincts. View Detail loving alapaha blue blood bulldog for sale alapaha blue blood bulldog 6 male big, strong and healthy dogs very friendly and family. Laura is a beautiful baby girl who's looking for his new best friend! She loves chewing on squeaky toys and napping underneath the tree in the yard. Laura is the life of the party and will keep you smiling. She is a true cutie. This pretty baby girl will be sure to come home to you happy, healthy, and ready to play. She will be up to date on her vaccinations and vet checks. She will be sure to make that perfect addition that you and perhaps your loving family have been looking for. Brandy is s very thick, chubby Alapaha.Her mom is a beautiful Blue Merle. She will make a great breeder or a great family dog. Will come with health certificate and microchip. Text me for more pictures or videos. Puppies handled daily. They have also had a health and heart check, along with being microchipped. They have been wormed with Panacur and treated with Frontline. They come with their.Vaccination card Care information And puppy food They are an excellent choice for those seeking a calm, gentle and loveable family companion. A breed that thrives on love and affection. Making them even more popular for the use as therapy dogs for sufferers of depression, anxiety, and autism. Please feel free to call me to discus the breed further and whether or not they are suited to you. I have had many inquiries!! I have one male that I will only let go to a working situation!! We still have available puppies ready for deposits or full purchase if you're ready, 14 weeks old!!! I've been holding them back until now!! I only started posting them at 10 and a half weeks old. Move fast, Don't miss out on this litter!! Great Bloodlines in this "Little Sioux Tribe". The first litter Grand-sired by Jolin's Rhino owned by Malissa Stephenson, from his very first litter! His son Evolution's Tatanka, owned by me crossed with my female Maddog's Willow!! This may be a once in a lifetime pairing; as I won't be pairing these two again for many years!! Plus, you can only say you had the 1st of the 1st this once!! I'm just elated with this impressive litter!! These pups are the full package. Great with family and kids, perfect temperaments, and full of drive. Smart and ready to train. They are paper and wood chip trained. We are crate training and we have been working on that for about a week and a half now. They are ready to find their new families and homes! Please feel free to contact us with any questions or interest! You are welcome to contact me on my personal page, on my kennel page, or by email xxxxxx xxxxx. When you contact me, please tell me your name and let me know a bit about what you are looking for. This way I can help you find the puppy that will fit your family best. Pictures of parents in ad! Hello,we have gorgeous blue male available his D. B is .He is very sweet and playful. He is very thick and compact, amazing quality confirmation. He is vet checked and comes with health certificate. He is ready to go current on vaccines and deworming. He has an apple dome head and small muzzle. They had been wormed and flead regularly from the age of 11 weeks. The has had their first vaccination and micro chip. .Training should be firm and consistent. It is powerful, proud, dutiful, and highly obedient, making an excellent guard or watch dog. It has a calm, friendly dispositionThe Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog is active and athletic, requiring long daily walks. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldogs enjoy swimming and spending time outdoor.I have 7 alapaha blueblood bulldog males available for deposits. Pups are wormed and fleaed to date. It has a calm, friendly disposition to lovely homes. .They fall under the Mastiff breed. It is nearly extinct. There are about worldwide. The program started back in the 's and was intended to rescue the "plantation dog" of Southern Georgia that was nearly extinct. This rare, bulldog-type guard dog descends form Buck Lane's dog, named Otto. Buck Lane's granddaughter, Lana Lou Lane, continued the breeding program until she passed away in her sleep on July 20th .In , Ms. Tom D. Stodghill, was because Mr. Stodghill has registered a number of rare breeds within the Foundation. Knowing this information, she asked Mr. Stodghill to provide her with a plan so that she could insure th Character The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog is a grand, powerful, exaggerated bulldog with a broad head and natural drop ears. The purpose of this Breed is: Guardian, protection, companion, sport and farm use. As a family guard dog, the Alapaha's mental characteristics and abilities are very impressive. These dogs have been used for centuries as a do-all farm dog. They are used for working cattle and catching hogs. Temperament They show strength and alertness, yet agile and athletic, having an amazing endurance. This canine gives the impression of nobility, therefore, the name; Blue Blood. Guarding his master's person, family, and property is a natural instinct of this Breed. They were never bred for aggression, but he will protect, and go into action if and when the need arises. The Alapaha is a natural playmate and protector of children; he will for instance play different with a three year old than a twelve year old. He can also get along well with other animals, even cats. Care Little grooming is needed. Occasionally brush to remove dead hair and it will cut down on shedding. Bathe once every two weeks. This breed is an average shedder. Coat The Alapaha's coat is relatively short and fairly stiff. They are average shedders. Their coat comes in a variety of colors; blue merle, brown merle, red merle brindle, tan, red, brown, black, and white. They excel at obedience. Therefore they are easy to housetrain and they will learn to walk on a leash within two days. They will do well in an apartment if they are sufficiently exercised. They are very inactive indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard. They are used for working cattle and catching hogs, thus their muscles are long and powerful. This means that they are never stocky and short built and their muzzle is not short like that of a Boxer for instance. Their longer muzzle makes breathing easier while running. These athletic, active dogs have a demand for exercise. They will enjoy long walks or running around and playing. Weight Male: ; Female: 78 lbs Height Male: ; Female: inches Color s blue merle, brown merle, red merle brindle, tan, red, brown, black, white Characteristics. Gorgeous English Bulldog ready to go. They are vet-checked and up to date on shots and dewormer. Pittsburg, CA. English Bulldogs are calm, non-sporting dogs with a sourmug face that love to chew and play tug-of-war. Little puppies for big hearts tyronebowie.What Are the Four Regions of California? Providing shelter, care and loving homes for English Bulldogs in Southern California for over 10 years! Adopt A Bulldog, Change a Life! Website: Big Bulldog California. Donate your vehicle to help Northern California Bulldog Rescue. California Bulldog puppies for sale are offered at different prices. Puppies for Sale Morning Star Bullies is a responsible English bulldog breeder offering pet and show quality puppies to approved homes. However, females may also have a stocky build that could sometimes match the height of the male or even surpass it. They're surprisingly smart dogs and are very docile and easy-going, so they'll quickly learn the rules of the home and won't cause any trouble. English Bulldog puppy for sale California vary in price based on the breeder or breeding company you are connected with. English Bulldog. Husky Mix Puppies. British Bulldogs rarely bark but snore, snort, wheeze, grunt, and snuffle instead. The most widely grown crops in California are grapes, strawberries, oranges and cotton, while dairy products are the most important commodities in the state. English Bulldog, California » Fresno. We are located in sunny Southern California in Riverside County. These dogs are about as low-energy as they come, and prefer hanging out with kids preferably on the couch than chasing after cows. Some school districts in the state begin in mid-August while others do not start until after Labor Day. Why choose us for your new bully baby? When you choose BigBulldogs. Olde English Bulldogge. We offer 50 English Bulldog puppies for sale in California. Various factors influence the cost of English Bulldog puppy California, including breeder experience, pedigree, coat-type and much more. English Bulldog Puppies for Sale. We are home to some of the most beautiful English Bulldog puppies for sale , AKC English bulldogs, and lilac bulldogs for sale. English Bulldog puppies males and females available puppies arebeautiful, with pedigree and will be delivered to wormed andvaccinated. In genealogy, among other titles, a champion and a worldchampion of beauty, in t… more. English Bulldog For Sale in Fresno .If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Our puppies are born into a family that is a typical example of a lovely American family. Miniature English Bulldog, California ». State: California. Elk Grove, CA. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. He h… Faithfull Lords Bulldoggers .This means we give this puppies a foundation of affection, basic and necessary training, shots, registration and many more. English Bulldogs Puppies Oscar Aguilar. We carefully plan all of our breeding and enjoy. Starcrest of California is a shopping website that also offers a printed catalog for many of your household, garden, travel and family needs. Available English Bulldogs. The regions are separated by their different land features. English bulldog puppies. English Bulldog Puppy 1 is a English Bulldog puppy for sale in. Why choose us for your. What Are the Major Products of California? Jade Turnis Mascotte, FL .American Bulldog Puppies. English bulldog Puppies for sale .Browse these English Bulldog rescues and shelters below. Cute Miniature English Bulldog puppies available now for sale with astonished personaliti. It might leave you wondering when is wildfire season in California? Learn more about the different wildfire seasons in California and how you can prepare for the. Bulldogs are a people-oriented, loyal and devoted watchdogs that love to nap by your side. California is also the leading manufacturer of cotton cloth and the largest produc. Here at Uptown, we aim to make your search for Los Angeles Bulldog puppies for sale go as simply and smoothly as possible. If you are interested in breeding Bulldogs or have questions about our Bulldog Puppies please call us or see our Contact Us page for more contact information. The male English bulldogs are also heavier than their female counterparts and weigh an average of 50 to 55 lbs. English bulldog Puppies for Sale! Dewormed at 4wks, 6wks, and will be dewormed again at 8wks old. You are able to trust us to help you find your next family member. Beautiful English Bulldog pups! English Bulldogs California. Male English Bulldog Puppies. Country Living editors select each product featured. Going to be - pounds will pictures if you want to see. Breeds: French Bulldog. Let us do the work! We can let you know when your search has new results. English Bulldog, California » Garden Grove. All of our breedings are carefully planned to produce the most beautiful home raised, healthy puppies with the right temperament, and conformation. To begin, check out the currently available pups and feel free to reach out to the various breeders and businesses, asking questions and finding out more information. Olde English Bulldogge Puppies. He has the stocky body, the big paws, the nice. All of our English Bulldog Puppies come pre-spoiled and ready to go to a loving and caring home. Here are a few organizations closest to you: Rescue 5. They also have a very slight height difference and usually measure 10 to 15 inches at their shoulder height. They are one of the most reputable English Bulldog breeders in California. The French bulldog is an adorable, popular small dog that makes a loyal companion. They also have a very slight height difference and usually. He has the stocky body, the big paws, the nice rope, and the solid head. Miniature Bulldog Puppies for Sale in California. English Bulldog puppies for sale in California and shipping nationwide. We are passionate about our fur babies and treat them like family. Their English Bulldog puppies in California have also received all needed vaccinations and a deworming process. Very beautiful fawn blue female. English Bulldog Puppies in California. He is ready to go to his forever home. We take pride in providing your families with English Bulldogs and French Bulldogs to love and enjoy for years to come. There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for English Bulldog puppies in Monterey, California. When Is Wildfire Season in California? Cute Adorable English Bullies! English Bulldog Breeder Details. Many dog breeds, including the bulldog and beagle, have their origins in the U. Location: Vista, California. English Bulldog Puppies for Sale in CA English Bulldogs are calm, non-sporting dogs with a sourmug face that love to chew and play tug-of-war. Call Morgan .Starcrest of California coupons are found all over the internet, especially on coupon websites. Here are a few organizations closest to you: Shelter .Bulldogs for Sale in Riverside, CA. For new and inexperienced dog owners, San Jose Bulldog puppies for sale are a great choice. We are a family-based breeder out of beautiful Northern California with over 10 years of experience. It seems that fires in California news remain top stories throughout the year. Looking for a nice loving home. There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for English Bulldog puppies in Taft, California. Vehicles For Charity will make your donation experience a pleasant. Please call or click here to donate now. Please apply to let us know you are willing to adopt or foster. Many things that affect price are taken into consideration such as gender, breeder skill level and location, coat color these little fellas and gals come in 8 different colors and more! There is no uniform standard for when California public schools begin the academic year. The way rescuers earned the skittish terrier's trust will mel. Learn more about English dog breeds Many popular dog breeds have their origins in the United Kingdom — specifically in England. What Is California Famous For? Bulldogs for Sale in San Francisco. Parents are DNA health English bulldog puppies, 9 weeks old, triple carrier, puppies are ready to be reserved tested. Learn about the Frenchie's personality, history, and care needs. English Bulldog Puppies for sale in California. He would be the perfect addition to any loving family bringing so much joy. In most cases, they are able to pickup your vehicle within 48 hours. I got my 7 weeks old bulldog puppy and she's absolutely precious and adorable. I make sure that I leave enough water for her during the day and I only feed her twice a day. So far, she has 5 different toys to chew on. Well, during the first couple of days after she got her new toys, it was heaven for me because she left shoes, furniture, and other stuff alone. But she grew bored of these expensive toys rather quickly. I am thinking about buying one of those eight panel bronze wire pens for her so she can only gain access of certain area of the living room. Is this a good idea? During weekend, I spend a lot of time with her and I make sure she gets at least 1 hour of outdoor exercise a day. But still, nothing is able to correct her chewing problem. What are my options? My other question is that I would like to give my dog some snack in between two meals only during the weekend while I train her. The brand of the dog food I am using is Royal Canine recommended for bulldogs only I am wondering if there are some specific brands I need to purchase for her as snack. I heard from other dog owners that fresh carrots will be good snack choice for dogs. Is it safe for a 7 weeks old little pup like her? Great puppy!!!! Love her pics. Anyway, why did you decide on this breed? I want one too! Feeding her at am and pm may be too far between. Most dogs I know of and cats eat dinner - pm. As the more experienced posters commented, it a phase. Another phase will be when she becomes a teenager. Wait and see. If you raised kids, it may be more familiar. I give a variety to my dogs: carrots, green beans, blueberries, apple, banana. .I always have boiled chicken on hand in the fridge for a special treat for them. .I will give them commercial dog treats if the ingredients are healthy. .I stuff kongs and hollow sterilized bones with peanut butter or pumpkin and freeze that for a treat, they love when I put chicken broth in ice cube trays and give them frozen broth cubes. .I also give them bully sticks now because of the recommendations on this forum for a long lasting chew that's safe for their teeth! Great post! What dogs do you have?

Though, I'd say everything in the box is useful and your dog will enjoy it all. The hedgehog and rabbit tug toy are still her favorites after a few months! The poop bags are also thick and scented for those inconsistent BMs, and there are a good amount included that should last a couple months. I picked out a Goody Box. I sat on the floor and helped Reggie open it. He sniffed and pushed things around, then took off with the bunny! Every thing in it is useful for play, training and cleanup! I have told several people about the fun Goody Box. Thanks Chewy!! Definitely a need! I had this Goody Box sent to my little brother who got a new puppy - a white lab. He loved the toys and the treats. The teething rings are a favorite and the nutro training treats just right. The bunny and hedgehog add variety to her toy box, a must with a busy puppy with lots of energy. I'm hoping that Chewy creates a few of these over time so that we can order a box with new items soon. My dog loves these boxes with the variety you get. .The amount of poop bags received is a plus. So far, the quality to them is pretty good. Haven't had an issue or felt any discomfort in their use. Doggo hasn't taken a bath to test out the ducky brush, but it seems of high quality. I am happy with my purchase. The ducky brush is great for distributing oils in her short coat. She likes the PB treat better than the hickory, but both go over big. The teething rings are so helpful. And the sample of wipes has been fab for tidying little paws! Thanks for gathering such a great selection! This is the second time we got one when we brought home our new puppy and both times the boxes were packed with great stuff. The banner is super cute too! Has perfect little training treats. Chewing rings that the puppy absolutely loved. Adorable toys. A cute tub brush,poop bags and holder to put on leash, a welcome banner. A perfect welcome gift. Rated 5 out of 5 stars By Raven on Aug 22, Raven loves this kit! Thinking of getting my 12 year old dog one. Should consider a softer sound. The heat source gets too hot and stays hot far too long. All else of the kit is wonderful. Chewy unfortunatly did not but the gift message on the box, so they did not know who sent it!!!!!! Family loves the heartbeat works great for soothing the puppy and night and getting him to sleep. My puppy absolutely loves his snuggle dog and the heart with the heart beat is great. He never made a peep in his crate during the night with this. He also loves the chew toys and blanket! It is very warm and soft. Love this and would recommend it to other people! Little guy was having a hard time but as soon as I turned it on he calmed down considerably. It's not a miracle worker, but I think he likes the heartbeat a lot. The teething ring is helpful but not necessary. We used the heat packs once but it didn't seem to really make a difference. The blanket is soft although our pup doesn't care about that too much right now. I have been purchasing a lot of things for him. This kit has been a life saver. This little 8 week puppy has slept in his crate with his dog, His blanket and his toy since the first night. Chewy always goes above and beyond with great products and impeccable customer service.She loves everything but the heart. It is too large for puppy. Had to cut it up to make it work. Also there was no opening to put water in for freezing. My puppy likes it, but can take it or leave it. He loves the red heart though.This was a great purchase for transition from momma to his furever home.

The mother was imported from Finland and the father was imported from Poland, both from top show kennels within their respective countries. Both parents are stunning examples of the breed and can be seen. They conform with the breed standard, and both come from a long line of standard champions and health tested dogs. A lot of research and effort went into importing the parents of these exceptional puppies and we are so lucky to now have them as part of our family. They have the best temperaments one could wish for, very friendly with that breed typical clownesque nature. Puppies have been cherished since birth, so much care and attention has gone into their upbringing, by way of nutrition, handling and socialisation, no expense was spared to ensure the best start for them. Currently there is one male and one female available and are already displaying excellent character with big ambitions to lead a mischievous life. They are IKC registered with pedigree, vet checked, wormed, microchipped and have received their first vaccinations. If you are looking for a new addition to your family, I would be happy to have a chat with you about the possibility of reserving a pup. No private numbers will be answered and please no time wasters. Thanks for looking. Keep on reading to learn everything about French Bulldog puppies! French bulldogs All you need to know about Frenchies: a short summary History in a nutshell French Bulldogs were first bred as a smaller version of the English Bulldog in the 19th-century England. They were particularly popular among lacemakers in Nottinghamshire, who initially kept them to chase rats but soon fell in love with their small size and calm, friendly nature. After the Industrial Revolution, they had to move to southern France where lacemaking was still done by hand and took their dogs with them. Frenchies soon got popular in the circles of French artists, actors, writers in Paris as well as rich Americans visiting the city. In fact, they loved Frenchies so much that they took them to the US, where they finally got recognized by the AKC in .Frenchie Characteristics French Bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds thanks to their fun, adaptable, friendly nature and distinctive look. You can easily recognize them by their flat, heavily wrinkled faces and large, erect bat ears, which make them absolutely adorable. Despite having the strong, muscular body of a bulldog Frenchies are small in size: adult males usually weigh 20 to 28 pounds while females are 16 to 24 pounds. Frenchie Colors Frenchies come in a wide variety of different colors and patterns. There are standard French Bulldog colors like black, fawn, cream and patterns like pied and brindle, which are considered common for the breed. Rare and unique colors like blue and lilac, as well as patterns like tan and merle have gained more popularity in recent years. Frenchie Personality French Bulldogs probably have the biggest personality among all the dog breeds. They are funny, friendly and insanely affectionate, making them the perfect companions for anyone. They are also highly intelligent and need a fair amount of mental stimulation. Frenchies are like small children: simply irresistible! Giving only high- quality food, ensuring regular training and exercise, finding a good vet and not exposing them to too much heat is also essential to provide a long and happy life for your French Bulldog. They are little clowns who always do something silly to make you laugh! They are amazing companions who get along with everyone in the family from small kids to older people, other dog breeds and even cats. Shall we go on?! The exact amount usually depends on various factors like the color, gender and age of a puppy as well as the breeder you get your puppy from. Breeding Frenchies requires a lot of time, effort, care and money, so those who are dedicated to only having high-quality and healthy French Bulldog puppies will ask a larger sum starting from 4, USD. Colors and patterns considered common for the breed like black brindle and fawn have the lowest prices ranging from 4, to 5, USD, while blue, lilac and merle which are more unique and harder to produce come at a higher price as well ranging from 6, to 8, USD. Isabella and fluffy Frenchies are the rarest, most valuable and most expensive from 8, to 30, USD. When it comes to age and gender, younger female Frenchies usually cost a couple of hundreds more than older male puppies. What's included in the price? Life Span Did You Know? While the name of this breed is the French Bulldog, their origins cannot be credited to only France. One of the facts about French Bulldogs is that the idea and reason for the creation of the breed originated in England. This adorable dog breed, which has always been meant to be a companion, started as a miniature version of the English Bulldog. This mini-version accompanied lace workers across the English Channel and into France during the Industrial Revolution. Once the dog breed became prominent in France, the subsequent successful crossbreeding of the English Bulldog, Pug, and Terrier led to the creation of the modern-day Frenchie. The French Bulldog we know today originally came to the United States with groups of wealthy Americans who came across them and fell in love while touring Europe in the late s. The French Bulldog was recognized by the American Kennel Club in and is a member of the non-sporting group. The French Bulldog is an easygoing, affectionate, and playful dog that loves their family and gets along well with children. They also love to make new friends, which means they get along well with other dogs, animals, and people. Intelligent and affectionate, this small dog breed certainly wins over hearts and earns its status as a popular companion dog. Frenchies are not known to bark much, unless you train them into it, but they are naturally alert and make excellent watchdogs. As long as they are well-socialized and trained, they tend to have an open and friendly nature. The Frenchie is a highly adaptable dog that pretty much adapts to any living situation that includes plenty of love and attention. Being a short-snouted, snub-nosed dog breed, they do not tolerate heat very well and are also sensitive to cold. This tends to make them one of the dog breeds that hate winter and you will want to make sure to bundle them up to stay warm while out on cold winter walks. Because Frenchies bond closely with their families and thrive on attention from them, they do not tolerate long periods of time alone. They can also be prone to developing separation anxiety if they are poorly socialized or you do not work with them on this when they are young. Potential health concerns to be aware of in French Bulldogs can include cataracts, cherry eye, and entropion. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances. Heart and joint certifications are recommended for this breed. Playful and happy, the French Bulldog is a great fit for a novice dog owner. They are sweet-tempered, eager to please, and eager to train. Occasionally, Frenchies can be stubborn and they do tend to have big personalities. Although this can sometimes be a challenge for first-time dog owners, it can usually be overcome with consistent and patient training. Puppy training classes are always an option and offer plenty of benefits aside from training. Standard coat colors for Frenchies are Brindle, Cream, Fawn, and combinations of these. They have a short coat that will shed a little year-round. Nail trims once or twice a month keep nails from growing too long and causing issues. Weekly ear checks, along with careful cleanings as needed, can help prevent ear infections. As a small dog breed, the Frenchie is more prone to developing gum disease. Daily dental care plus cleanings at the vet as needed can help prevent this and other painful dental diseases later in life. You will also need to take care of the wrinkles. Frenchies have hereditary face wrinkles and it is important to keep them clean and dry to prevent skin irritation or possible infection. The French Bulldog is an easygoing companion breed. They can be one of the laziest dog breeds that are couch potatoes. Frenchies will often be energetic when they play and will try to match their activity to yours. So, if you live a more active lifestyle, you need to be careful that your French Bulldog is not overexerting themselves trying to keep up with you. As a Brachycephalic or snub-nosed dog, they cannot cool themselves as easily and are extra sensitive to heat. They can also get winded easily, so be aware of this when playing with your dog or puppy and watch for signs of overexertion. There are safe ways to exercise flat-faced dogs and you can work with your vet on specifics for your Frenchie if needed. French Bulldogs usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Frenchies generally live for years on average. With this dog breed being so popular, there are plenty of celebrities who have chosen the French Bulldog as their companion, which also means there are plenty of famous Frenchies out there. Also, French Bulldogs cannot swim, at least without a life vest. They can be taught to swim while wearing one, but they should never be left unattended around bodies of water or swimming pools and require constant supervision while in the water. Featured French Bulldog Article.

Our History Simply Shepherds Rescue is an all-volunteer non-profit companion animal rescue organization working in the South Suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. Our primary focus is on rescuing abandoned, neglected and homeless German Shepherd dogs. We provide education to the public about responsible pet ownership in socializing, training, and caring for their family companion. We work hard in finding the perfect match for our dogs and their new permanent loving forever homes. We do not have a shelter so we depend on loving foster homes to provide a temporary sanctuary for our animals in need. We are comprised entirely of experienced volunteers united and inspired by a common compassion for all animals. We depend solely on donations and adoption fees to help us save the animals that come into our care. Each orphaned animal we help is provided proper veterinary attention and then is placed into our foster program. Our foster program is the key to helping a homeless animal become a loving pet. Some of our dogs need extra special care and attention to recuperate from medical, mental, or physical neglect and some just need to regain their confidence and trust in people. All of our dogs receive TLC and basic family member training. What is fostering? Fostering is a second chance. Sometimes it is the only chance. We have the knowledge, the tools, and many other resources to help these wonderful creatures. What we don't have are enough foster homes. Can you open your heart and your home and become a foster parent for a loving dog in need? Please contact us to find out what you can do to give a dog a chance. Separate Lifetimes We who choose to surround ourselves with lives even more temporary than our own, live within a fragile circle; easily and often breached. Unable to accept its awful gaps, we would still live no other way. We cherish memory as the only certain immortality, never fully Irving Townsend Help Our Cause Your support and contributions will enable us to help these animals. Your generous donation will fund our mission. Donate Now. The adoption fee of German Shepherd in Illinois will range from two hundred fifty dollars up to four three hundred fifty dollars. Choosing a Good German Shepherd Rescue If you are trying to adopt a rescued German Shepherd from German Shepherd shelters, you might be confused about what you should consider. If you would ask people like your friends and family, they might have different opinions that would confuse you. But there is not so much to consider. The fact that you chose to adopt a rescued German Shepherd than buying one is already one act of kindness. You might already know that there are so many rescued German Shepherds in the world and only a few German Shepherd shelters. If the German Shepherd comes at you with no hesitations and no aggressiveness, you would know that it was a good rescue. If the German Shepherd is warm and inviting on your first encounter, it is already a good rescue because there are no signs of any trauma or aggression. How do I pick a good rescue German Shepherd? You might ask yourself what kind of German Shepherd should you adopt and rehome. You can look for outgoing dogs. You can tell that by observing their body language when you first met. If you are also not down to unlimited patience, you can also avoid a shy German Shepherd. These dogs can be a little bit of work because they are afraid and run away from you. If you are outgoing and a very hands-on person, you might not enjoy your German Shepherd in North Carolina because of its shyness. However, this is only a guide, and if the personality of the dog is not that of a big deal for you, you can pick any dog you want. Dogs can be trained and can also be flexible like some people are. If you love a challenge, you can pick any dog you want. Summary In summary, you can pick any German Shepherd you want in Illinois, but you can pick one that is not suitable for you. If you wish to avoid that mistake, you can use the guides above in choosing the suitable German Shepherd rescue in Illinois for you. Other States. While shepherd dogs look as cuddly as a teddy bear with their beautiful fur and brown eyes, their muscular stature gives them a quiet strength. They were beat out of the 1 spot only by the affable Labrador Retriever. If you live in Chicago, IL, and are thinking about acquiring one of these big guys for you and your family, here is how you can adopt your own German Shepherd. Why Adopt a German Shepherd? Some of the more than dog breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club are more common than others, and the German Shepherd is one of the most popular. That aspect is not surprising as German Shepherds were first bred to be both capable working dogs and devoted family pets. Police departments and militaries choose German Shepherds because of their keen intelligence, fearlessness, trainability and remarkable physical capabilities. Families choose the breed because they know that a German Shepherd will love them dearly and keep them safe. However, Chicago residents that are thinking of buying or adopting a German Shepherd should bear in mind that doing so involves taking on a significant amount of responsibility. While German Shepherds may seem quite content to sleep or lie around the house for hours on end, they need their daily exercise to maintain optimum health. Dogs that do not get taken on walks or for exercise tend to become hyperactive or destructive, and this is especially true of active breeds like German Shepherds that were bred to work as well as play. This spike has raised concerns among animal rights advocacy groups worried about how these dogs will fare in the long term. Many of the people who adopted Huskies did not understand what they were getting into, which is why many of them wound up being surrendered to shelters or abandoned. If remaining in place has you climbing the walls and you think bringing a dog into your home will make things better, you should understand that you will be signing up for a 10 to year commitment. While a German Shepherd will fill your home with love and protect you with its life, adopting or buying one will change many parts of your day-to-day routine. Dogs need exercise and discipline as well as affection, and you may want to think twice about getting one if you are not able to care for it in the right way. Adopting a German Shepherd from a Center Can Be Risky People looking to add a dog to their life can either contact a breeder or visit an adoption center or shelter. While going this route does offer a far less expensive path to dog ownership, doing it is not without its risks. Others bring their pets to shelters because of aggressiveness or destructive behavior. A good shelter dog can be a loyal and loving member of the family for years to come, but a bad one can damage your home or even pose a threat to your safety. If you do decide to adopt a German Shepherd from a center or shelter, you should visit a vet for a thorough check-up as soon as possible. The Dog Adoption Process Most German Shepherd owners fondly remember the day they picked up their dogs, and they tend to forget about all of the hoops they had to jump through during the adoption process. The steps taken by breeders, shelters or adoption centers can seem intrusive or overly zealous at first, but they are needed to match dogs with suitable owners and ensure that pets are placed in loving homes. If you decide to buy or adopt a German Shepherd, this is what you can expect. You can expect to be asked about your home, schedule, the ages of your children and whether or not you have other pets. This interview serves to ensure that the breed you have chosen will thrive in its new environment and ensure that you understand what owning and caring for a dog involves. This visit serves two primary purposes. A home visit can prevent dogs from being placed in dangerous situations, and it also allows breeders or shelter representatives to give helpful advice. Common suggestions include fencing in back yards and moving tempting items out of reach. The money raised is usually used to provide care and medical treatment. The cost may be higher if the adoption center has spayed or neutered the dog. This visit is structured to address any adjustment problems and make sure that your dog is happy in its new home. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are great family companions in general. These large but adorable furry angels are impressive in so many ways. From their impressive athletic build to their high level of intelligence which in turn makes them super easy to train, to their beautiful energetic nature and overall impressive work ethic, it is no wonder the dog breed has been ranked one of the most sought-after and popular dog breeds in the United States by CNN. If you are reading this article, you probably are searching for a suitable German Shepherd dog to adopt and are living in the state of Illinois. It is worth stating that this article is simply a guide to help you in making the right pick and nothing more, so do your personal research on any of the rescues seen in the guide. We have provided access to their contact information and other valuable information to assist you in your search for the right German Shepherd dog for you and your family, so do read on till the end. This is a non-profit rescue organization that is licensed by the state and is located in the Chicago area of Illinois. It was founded by Marianne Perlman in and has since then been devoted to finding German Shepherds that are needy and saddened in high kill shelters, and on the streets of Chicago, providing sufficient or proper rehabilitation for them while looking for perfect homes and families to be adopted into. The German Shepherd Rescue Inc is totally foster-based. They are run by volunteers with a common love for the German Shepherd and with a common goal of taking proper action to ensure these dogs get the best care possible. They place the homeless German Shepherds in foster homes donated by their members all over the state, provide the appropriate medical care through evaluation by a licensed vet and possible treatment, and then find suitable homes willing to adopt these German Shepherd dogs. As a non-profit organization, the proceeds gotten through donations and through adoptions go into the care provided by the rescue for the German Shepherd dogs. Every dog is microchipped, and updated on their vaccinations and deworming, they are also placed on preventives for heartworms and fleas and given proper training and socialization opportunities.

This sum represents payment in full including any applicable sales tax. The new owners are in agreement with the terms of sale as they are hereby provided in the following contract. It should be understood, however that there is no guarantee at the time of sale regarding the future showing, hunting or breeding prospects of the animal. What is guaranteed is a good companion animal and family pet. This guarantee further implies that the puppy appears to be in good health at the time of the sale as is outlined in the following statement. This puppy is guaranteed to be in good health, to the best of my knowledge at the time of this sale. Furthermore, this puppy has been wormed at least three times and is accompanied by a complete health record documenting all vaccinations, wormings and any other veterinary care it may have received. From the date of the puppy's purchase, the buyer has three days in which to take the dog to a licensed veterinarian for a full check up. It is strongly urged by us that all purchasers do so in order to avoid nullification of this agreement. If at the time of the initial vet check, the puppy is determined to be seriously ill from symptoms that are undoubtedly the result of a hereditary condition; the new owner is to return the puppy along with its puppy pack and other accompanying information. Should their be no puppies available that would be a suitable replacement puppy Keepsake Labradors will refund the purchase price of the puppy in full. All of what has been said above is contingent upon the new owner s providing a letter of verification from the examining veterinarian. Initial contact by phone is permissible, but a written statement must be provided in order for the exchange to be made. Furthermore, it is noted that Keepsake Labradors assumes no responsibility for this dog once it has left the premises. If for some reason one of these problems should arise and you find yourself wanting to place your dog in a new home, we ask that you first contact us. In some instances, we may be able to help. Our main concern here however is that none of our dogs under any circumstances wind up in the dog pound or other type of animal shelter. There are always other options and we would be more than happy to help. Should any problem such as those mentioned above arise, that are clearly hereditary in nature, the owner is to contact Keepsake Labradors immediately. In addition to their written statement of intent to invoke the terms of the guarantee, the owner should provide documentation and any or all x-rays or other material from their veterinarian to Keepsake Labradors who will seek a confirming diagnosis from a veterinarian of our choice upon receiving them. Additionally, your new puppy is guaranteed until it reaches one year of age against severe crippling hip dysplasia. In an instance where severe crippling hip dysplasia is diagnosed a replacement puppy will be provided so long as the new owners take the steps set forth below in this contract. First of all the owners must immediately notify Keepsake Labradors of the diagnosis. This replacement is contingent on the owners providing a written statement from their veterinarian that the dog is not and has never been overweight for its bone structure and that no evidence exists that the puppy was overstressed or over exercised during this important developmental period of its life. Furthermore, the veterinarian must indicate there have been no signs of abuse, neglect or past injuries that could be the cause of such dysplasia. In cases where the exchange is to take place and the owners of the dog to be replaced have chosen surgery rather than euthanasia, they must also provide written documentation that the dog in question has been spayed or neutered. It is agreed and understood that in all instances outlined above, the only applicable refund is a replacement puppy. In no cases will there be a monetary refund. For more information on OCD as well Panosteitis a common cause of temporary lameness in young dogs , see the statements pertaining to them following the contract. We refuse to sell one of our puppies to any home where the dog will be chained or tied. If the dog must be kept outside unattended for parts of the day an outside kennel run or fenced yard is strongly recommended. We are also firm believers in Invisible Fencing. If you are interested in this let us know and we can provide you with contact information for an approved installer of Invisible Fencing. Finally, we reserve the right to take back any dog if we find out the dog is being chained or tied around its neck on a regular basis, or being subjected to any other types of abuse or neglect. It is agreed and understood that no warranty or representation has been made with respect to the sold dog, except that which has been set forth in the above written agreement. This agreement is valid only for the original owner and is non-transferable. OCD of the Humeral Condyle is a form of elbow dysplasia, see above. From Fred Lantings article: OCD at the humeral condyle begins the same way other forms of osteochondrosis do: cartillage loses some nutrient delivery either before or after misaligned stresses with some obscure genetic origins result in a fissure. This hairline crack propagates in a shallow, 'horizontal' manner, or deeper and more perpendicular to the surface. Either way, a flap of cartilage develops early, with osseous bone tissue only secondarily involved. OCD is both hereditary and can be caused by overnutrition with calories or calcium. Sudden lameness, usually in a front leg, self limiting. Pain can often be greatly reduced by restricting activity, i. Dogs that exhibit signs of lameness should be taken to a vet promptly for diagnosis. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. The Lab was a working dog used during hunting pursuits and the hunting fraternity heavily favored the Black Labrador over all other colors. And so red labs were relatively uncommon. But in a reversal of the trend today, in the early days of the breed the more common shades of yellow that existed were dark yellow to fox red. The lighter shades of yellow and cream that we think of as normal today, were actually quite rare. In fact, the first ever registered yellow was a dark golden color. However, through the mid to late s, lighter shades of yellow and cream became more fashionable and breeders sought to selectively breed for these colors. This is mostly my opinion and not concrete fact, but the two theories I have on why the lighter colors of Yellow Labradors became more common are: Firstly, during the early years of the breed the darker yellows and reds were more common. So when a pale cream or very light yellow was born, it seemed more exotic, rarer and hence more desirable. So breeders started to selectively breed for these colors and hence less and less reds were born. Secondly, since the middle s, a famous brand of British toilet paper, Andrex has used a pale Yellow Labrador in their television adverts. Their adverts went on to be shown in over countries for over 35 years. Most colors centered on a cream to light golden color. The dark yellows and reds fell out of fashion. But in the last 10 or 15 years, the range of available shades in the Yellow Labrador have once again widened. They stood out among the crowd and so they were more desired. This caused breeders to try to match the demand and selectively breed for lighter colors. Due to a lack of popularity of the dark red coat colors, it all but disappeared. But this new-found rarity in turn made the darker red Labs more desirable. So now there are many breeders who are selectively breeding to try to obtain litters of reds to meet the demand of people who want the rarer color. Things have turned full circle. Controversy Around The Red And Darker Yellow Shades Being uncommon in comparison to the black, paler yellow and chocolate shades does make some people question the red Labradors pedigree. They question whether in fact they are a pure bred Labrador or not? However, unlike the so-called Silver Labrador Retriever that is surrounded by accusations of outcrossing Labradors with Weimaraners to introduce the diluted coat color to the breed, no such controversy surrounds the darker colors of Yellow and Red Labradors. They are a genuine, pure bred Labrador, with a history going back to the earliest days of the breed. Another controversy is the fact that Fox Red Labrador breeders charge a far higher price than breeders do for the more traditional colors of the breed. They advertise their dogs as being a rare breed and charge a premium. There is some truth in this, but this controversy also follows many other breeds and colors of dogs. Are Breeders of Reds Irresponsible? There is some evidence to support this in a very few small cases, but there are some highly responsible breeders too and I think the good do outnumber the bad. Many people have asked if different colored Labs have different temperaments. Is the Fox Red Lab temperament different from the other Lab colors? In our experience, no a Fox Red lab has the same loving, friendly temperament as black, yellow, and chocolate Labs. Further Reading: For those of you that have a real interest in the Fox Red Labrador and would like some further and much deeper reading, I would suggest you take a read of the following three articles over at penara. From what I have read on their site, they are highly ethical and very responsible. They are certainly very knowledgeable! For a good history of the shade, including pivotal moments and important dogs through history: History of the shade For general information on Fox Red Labradors, including genealogy, temperament, pricing etc, please read: About a fox red Labrador For a good discussion of their struggles and successes in the show ring and field, and also for some stunning photos, please see: Fox Red Labradors Today What Are Your Thoughts? Do you own a Fox Red Labrador and have a story to tell? What do you think of the controversy surrounding the higher prices these dogs command? Or the accusations thrown at some breeders concerning the health of the dogs in their breeding programs? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below! Are you still yearning for more information about Labrador Retrievers? One of our favorite books is Your Labrador Retriever Puppy. It has tons of information about our favorite breed. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. They have been in the business for 25 years and strive to ensure that their dogs not only can be the best companions but can also assist in hunting. Keepsake Labs aims to breed healthy labradors that are capable of living a long life full of love and happiness. They offer high-quality purebred labradors for sale and provide puppy care services as well. With their extensive experience in the breeding world, they have created a strong reputation for themselves. One of the largest breeders in the US, Morgan Labradors is known for its commitment to customer service and providing high-quality puppies. They aim to breed English Labradors that are show champions and can compete in conformation, obedience, field, and other aspects of canine assistance. Morgan Labradors follow a stringent screening process for all queries they receive. They also provide adequate education on raising Labradors and offer ongoing support for any queries a new owner may have. They are a family-owned business that began its journey in with their first pup, Sampson. Since then, they have expanded to producing one to two litters annually, offering all three AKC-recognized Labrador colors. Brookeridge Labradors breed puppies with good temperaments. Their pups are tested for genetic disorders and undergo testing eyes through CERF, hip, and elbow conformation. Their hearts get tested using color echograms as well. They strive to produce healthy, intelligent, strong, and athletic dogs with great personalities. They raise dogs with impeccable temperaments and health. Whispering Pines Farm also follows ethical breeding practices and provides personalized care.

They are not the only dog breed capable of displaying such furry finery, however. Known to be prim and polished, the posh poodle is also capable of coming in a variety of coat colors. Beyond the accepted tans, browns, blues, and cream coats, merle poodles have been known to exist. Merle is more than just a coat color, though. A merle poodle is a dog who looks like a poodle, acts like a poodle, but has a cacophony of colors on its coat. Merle tends to express itself in patches, dots, spots, and dashes. This is different from parti-poodles who usually have a white base paired with one shade of either only black, red, or brown. Usually known to have black skin, the dog could end up with a mottled black and pink discoloration. They look like a run-of-the-mill though still beautiful! What makes them merle is their genetics. Phantom merles are important to look out for when it comes to breeding. While some breeds have spontaneously developed the merle gene, merle poodles are not natural. This means that the gene has been introduced into the poodle pool by another breed of dog, making merle poodles not purebred even if they look and act like it. In order to get a merle poodle puppy, you must have a merle parent to breed with a regular poodle. It will never occur naturally. While there are several breeds which are known and accepted as merle such as the Australian shepherd and corgi , merles are not accepted by the AKC in the poodle category. This is especially because it is not a naturally occurring trait in poodles, whereas it is in the other breeds. The AKC sees merle poodles as a corruption of the purebred and any merle poodles presented will be automatically disqualified. Dogs carrying the merle gene would show as Mm. Then there are double merles, who show as MM. A double merle dog is a poodle who got double the dose of genetic mutation, meaning that both of its parents carried the merle gene. They are more than likely to have the tell-tale coat markings of a merle dog — or sometimes come out as completely white, but never phantom — along with several unsavory side effects. It is common for double merles to have birth defects: malformed ears or eyes, even missing ears or eyes is possible. Less extreme but still severe for any dog, double merles could be born blind or deaf. Breeding merle poodles is risky especially if a phantom merle has not been discovered for what it is. Breeding two confirmed merle dogs together is almost guaranteed to produce a double merle. As you can see, the odds of the offspring being MM are very high and the effects of a double merle disastrous. Breeding merle dogs of any breed is a tricky business. It needs to be carefully regulated due to some serious side effects. While not all mutations are bad, the merle one can be. Basically, breeders need to have their poodles genetically tested if they suspect that a dog carries the merle gene. Remember, it can be hidden like in phantom merles. If the dog carries a merle gene, it should not be bred with another merle visible or phantom. On its own, if a merle is matched with a dog who has been proven to have no merle gene whatsoever not even phantom! Because merle is a rather dominant gene, it is more than likely that the litter will have several merle puppies. As we mentioned, doubling the gene can cause double the problems. Without genetic testing, blind breeding should not be done. Poodles as a pure breed are at risk from several health problems. Most of which can be treated or avoided with proper breeding and owner care. Other orthopedic problems can occur more in toy and miniature poodles. They can also suffer from epilepsy and hair regrow issues like sebaceous adenitis. As long as breeders are responsible, poodles should lead long, healthy lives. Merle dogs of any breed are almost guaranteed to face health problems. Across all breeds, merles face auditory and ophthalmologic problems — both visual and internal. They can also have problems with their cardiac, skeletal, and reproductive systems. Many of these diseases are not ones that can be treated easily. Because merle poodles are exactly the same breed as regular poodles, all the health problems they can face are compounded. Start with the ones common for regular poodles, then add on the health problems faced by merles specifically. That makes a merle poodle at risk for more health problems than its plain-coated contemporaries. Some breeds very rarely carry and display merle genes, some breeds almost never do. The merle poodle is rare because it is not naturally occurring. Interestingly, the merle poodle kind of breaks this mold. Merle Poodles are expensive. A rather average price for a purebred dog. This is pretty standard for type of poodle standard, toy, or miniature and age range puppy or adult. The breeding and ownership of a merle poodles is much more contested than with other breeds. The poodle poses a greater problem, though, as many are vocally against the introduction of this non-naturally occurring mutation in these plush pups. Poodles are known for their smooth-colored coats. It seems like adding merle into the gene pool is a waste. If an addition to the family is on the horizon, think merle for other breeds and try to keep poodles pure. To start off here is a little about the Merle Gene. The Merle Gene is an incomplete dominant gene, which means that it only requires one copy to reproduce it, so only one parent must carry for Merle. This does not apply to certain sine lengths, but to keep this simple I will never breed two Merle parents together. As well, there are other color genes that can cover the Merle gene, so you will not visibly see it, but it is still present genetically and can be passed down to offspring. As well, many that are not trained to Merles, can mistake a brindle with the Merle gene as not carrying Merle. If are breeding a Merle to any of these colors, you should genetically test them to ensure they do not carry for Merle and therefore, you will not have double Merle. There are many people out there that insist that Merle is not a naturally existing color in Poodles. Many of these people will claim that it is naturally occurring in many other breeds though, such as Australian Shepherd, Great Danes, and Dachshunds. There are several AKC Breeders that register them regularly. What I must note for all those people is the fact that there is also is no specific color for Parti, Sable, Brindle, or Phantom. So now the controversy is where did this gene come from and since nobody knows for sure we must look at our options. The Merle gene was introduced using another breed, many, many generations ago. If for instance, we go with this option, we would assume that it was introduced with either Great Danes, Australian Shepherds, or Dachshunds. There are some other breeds with Merles, but they are just as different as these breeds in coat type, size, structure, and temperament, so we will just work with these breeds for now. If these breeds were used to introduce the Merle gene, we can all visibly see the obvious difference in coat type, structure, size, temperament among other things. Poodles have two curly genes, do not carry for improper coat, and have too long hair genes, for a dog to get curly hair it needs one copy of the curl gene, but with only one copy you will not get as much curl as a dog with two copies, actually, it takes many generations to get that amount of curl back as there is natural variation within the gene and if you talk to Poodle breeders that show, they breed only dogs with thick full coats and it takes a long time to get these coats. You need two improper coat genes to get not facial furnishings and you need two copies of the long hair gene to get long hair. So, if you took any of the three breeds we are using as examples to infuse Merle into the poodle. Two of the breeds have short, straight hair with no furnishings Great Dane and Dachshund and one has long hair, but it is straight with no furnishings Australian Shepherd. So, if you crossed with the Great Dane or Dachshund you would end up with wire haired, short-haired dogs with some furnishings, these dogs would look nothing like a poodle at all, even crossed back to the poodle again, you still would have F1 Goldendoodle looking coats on the curlier sided puppies. You would need to cross them back at least generations to get an even remotely looking Poodle coat. Now, with the Aussie, they at least have a long coat, so their first-generation puppies coats would be a bit closer in resemblance to a poodle than the other crosses, but would still only be wavy coats and would need to be crossed back to the poodle at least generations to get Poodle looking coats. This is assuming that the Breeder that chose to infuse this other breed genetically tested the puppies to ensure the puppies with the right coat genetics were bred back to the poodle. The next thing to assess is structure, we can all agree that the poodle is built very differently from the Dachshund, Great Dane, and Australian Shepherd. It takes decades to change the entire structure of a dog, but with careful breeding, you can do it. But the dachshund and the Australian Shepherd are completely different in structure body-wise to the poodle, and, likewise, the Great Dane is also completely different in structure, particularly in the head structure. It would take many generations to change this structure when bred back to the poodle. Okay, so keeping all this in mind, it is possible that some AKC Breeder did infuse one of these breeds and genetically tested each generation, breeding them back to the poodle over generations to achieve a dog that looks like a poodle. They would have had to not only register each generation while hiding the offspring that would obviously not pass as a poodle because if they did not, but they would also be reported to AKC. They would need to keep careful consideration to the structure of each puppy and genetic tests and temperament so that these dogs would eventually show no sign of another breed in them, as the AKC registered Poodles that are out there now breed true to type. While I admit that this is possible, I also think it is highly unlikely and I would go as far as saying that if they did infuse another breed and it was that many generations back that it is unrecognizable in the current Poodles, as the current ones breed true to type in every way.Does it really matter? Also, before you say that someone just lied on their papers, I know of several breeders that have DNA's done many generations back too. The second option is that it has always occurred in the breed. There was a phase in which all multicolored poodles were thought to be flawed, due to a vast lack of knowledge and many misconceptions on people parts. During this time multi-colored poodles were not bred, and many were culled almost getting rid of those colors altogether. With merle being a gene that can easily be hidden by other genes such as White, Cream, Apricot, and Red, it could have stayed hidden by these genes for many generations, especially due to the fact that these colors were often only bred together, so Merle would have never shown up until people realized that there was nothing wrong genetically with multicolored poodles and started breeding them again, once these poodles were crossed with other colors the merle gene could have emerged then. The last option is that the Merle gene was a natural mutation in the Poodle, which is how it is believed to have occurred in other breeds that it is present in. They are beautiful and breed to the breed standard. I really feel when there are so many health and temperament issues in so many breeds, we should be focused on breeding healthier, better temperament, more structurally sound Poodles and not cause so much drama and conflict over a color that we cannot prove one way or another how it came to be in Poodles. Looking for a merle poodle puppy? Check out our planned litter between Luna and Alastor or Bellatrix and Magic , for your next opportunity to own your very own Merle Poodle Photos from our Instagram Page. Last updated on April 21st, at pm What is a Merle Poodle? A merle poodle is a poodle that has a patterned coat with patches. Merle poodles come in all poodle varieties. There are standard, toy, and miniature poodles that are merle. The merle coat color pattern is not peculiar to poodles. However, there is a LOT of controversy around merle coat patterns in poodles. Many people ask if Merle Poodles are purebred. Many people also ask if a merle poodle can be registered with the AKC. We will discuss all of these later on in this article. The purpose of this article is to answer questions on merle poodles that have clear-cut answers and to expose you to both sides of the merle poodle arguments. There is still so much that remains unknown about the merle color pattern. Color genetics experts still are not sure whether the merle gene is something entirely different from the piebald gene, which is a gene that is found in Great Danes and other breeds. It is the piebald gene that makes dogs like the Great Dane have spotted coats. The merle gene could be a variation of the piebald gene, or something entirely different. Is the piebald gene in Great Danes same as the merle gene in Poodles? The merle gene occurs naturally in some dog breeds without question. However, there is an argument over whether or not the merle gene occurs naturally in the poodle breed. Moreover, there is a certain ethical dilemma that comes with breeding the merle color. Unlike breeding regular poodles, merle poodle breeding can easily go wrong if not done properly. A poodle can have the merle poodle pattern if it inherits a single merle gene from its parents. When merle breeding goes wrong, a poodle puppy may end up inheriting a double merle gene. When this happens, the resulting merle poodle puppy is usually born blind and deaf, and with severe health problems. This is one of the factors that makes the merle poodle rare, expensive, controversial. An Australian Shepherd. Is Merle a Poodle Color? A merle poodle has the physical appearance of a regular poodle with the exception of its color. For example, a blue merle poodle refers to a black poodle with white and gray coat patterns. These white and gray patterns make the black poodle appear bluish. Moreover, the merle poodles sometimes but not always have blue eyes or part of their eyes colored blue. Also, merle poodles can have eyes that are of different colors. Also, the color on the paw pads and nose of a merle poodle may be mottled pink and black. Are Merle Poodles Purebred Poodles? There is a lot of controversy on whether merles are purebred. Some breeders believe that merle poodles are not purebred, that the Merle gene got introduced into the poodle gene poodle by unscrupulous breeders that dishonestly bred poodles with dogs like the Australian Shepherd. Dogs like the Australian Shepherd can be naturally merle. There are claims that breeders that breed merle poodles are motivated by the high price that they can charge for fancy-color poodles like merle poodles, that these breeders do not about raising purebred poodles. Some breeders , on the other hand, believe that the merle gene has always been in the poodle breed and that this gene has been lying hidden in the poodle gene pool throughout the course of the poodle history. They argue that the merle pattern was hidden in the past because breeders used to favor breeding practices that led to the manifestation of solid color coats. Yes, many breeders favor breeding solid-colored poodles because multi-colored poodles cannot contest in AKC-approved conformation dog shows. What is a Blue Merle Poodle? The blue merle is the kind of merle that can be seen in poodles. Blue merle poodles have a grayish-blue coat with a pattern of faded spotting throughout the coat. A blue merle is sometimes referred to as a grey merle. What is a Cryptic Merle Poodle? The cryptic merle poodle is a poodle that has a merle gene, but it either does not present itself or it presents itself so slightly that it hardly alters the appearance of the poodle at all. If the merle gene truly is naturally occurring in the poodle breed, it would have remained hidden in cryptic merles for virtually all of poodle breeding history with the exception of the last decade. This is possible because it was not until recently that breeders began to produce multi-colored poodles purposely. If the merle gene was naturally occurring and hidden in cryptic merles, it would have allowed the gene to continue to be passed on without any noticeable merle markings for generations of poodles. Recent developments in genetic testing have allowed this merle gene to be detected even when the merle pattern is not visible. If cryptic merle poodles are bred with another solid-coat poodle, a merle offspring with a patterned coat could result. The merle genetic test website can help you in testing if your poodle has a merle gene in it. How Much Is a Merle Poodle? We found 7 merle poodles for sale in our merle poodle price survey. Therefore, merle poodles are relatively expensive. Some prospective poodle parents find the unique color markings on merle poodles very adorable, therefore these prospective poodle parents are willing to pay more for merle poodles. How to Buy a Merle Poodle Most people agree that a good breeder will never pair two merle parents together for breeding. Although new research shows that there are varying degrees of the merle gene, which means two merles might be safely paired together. However, the knowledge of this is still too rudimentary to allow the ethical practice of breeding two merle poodles. Breeding a merle dog to another merle dog will lead to what is called a double merle puppy. If both are merle, find another breeder. Do not buy a puppy that might be deaf or blind. While it is true that those puppies will need to find homes, you do not want to support a breeder who practices breeding double merles. Supporting such a breeder will only encourage this unethical practice of breeding double merles. Poodles of other recessive colors can also carry recessive merle genes, making it possible for them to produce double merle puppies when paired with a merle poodle. White, Apricot, Red, and multi-colored poodles can all hide the merle gene. If the puppy you are looking at has one merle parent, and one parent that is white, apricot, red, or parti, you will want to ask the breeder to see the color coat testing that was done on the parent dogs to ensure that there is no chance of the offspring being double merle. Are Merle Poodles Hypoallergenic? Yes, merle poodles are hypoallergenic. While some would argue that no dog is truly hypoallergenic, poodles are among the most tolerable dogs for people with allergies, and the merle poodle is no different from poodles of other colors when it comes to causing allergies in humans. Merle poodles have the hypoallergenic properties of regular poodles. Merle poodles have a reputation for being calm, docile, and affectionate. They love to be near their humans, and they are very compliant and eager to please. Some owners and breeders alike have noticed that temperaments seem to correspond with color. Black poodles have been noted as being intelligent and aloof while creams and apricots have been noticed for their uniquely affectionate and calm personalities. Of course, there will always be exceptions to the stereotypes that relate poodle color to poodle temperament, but many breeders and owners have noticed patterns. Merle poodles, though they have not been around in large numbers for very long, have quickly earned a reputation for being some of the most docile and calm poodles. To learn more about the personality and temperament of poodles, read our article on poodle personality and temperament. Do Merle Poodles Fade? No, merle poodles do not fade. Merle poodles keep their coloring for life. Sometimes, you may see gray hairs sparsely growing in the black patches when a merle poodle is getting older. However, for the most part, a merle poodle will stay the same color from birth throughout their lives. Poodles that change color over the course of their lives are usually reds, silvers, and blues. These all start out looking black but fade over time until they reach their permanent color around age three. This is because they have a dilute gene that takes time to be apparent. The merle poodle coat, however, is already diluted in certain places at birth. To learn more about poodle colors, read our article on the different poodle colors. A parti poodle has a pattern of two colors throughout his coat. A merle poodle also has a pattern of colors but also has a variety of dilution throughout the coat. A parti poodle will have two solid colors that appear in patches. Parti poodles are usually seen in black and white, red and white, or brown and white. White is usually the base color and the spots are the other color. In a merle poodle, the base color is blueish gray, and the spotting is black, blue, or gray appearing in different shades throughout the coat. That is quite possibly the most controversial question in poodle breeding today. While the merle color is unique, majestic, and some might even say mesmerizing, many have no idea all that goes into producing a poodle puppy that is of merle coloring. This is way higher than the average price of a standard poodle puppy , or the average price of a miniature poodle puppy , or the average price of a toy poodle puppy. The reason why merle poodles are so expensive is that it is very difficult to breed and produce merle poodles. Some poodle breeders would argue that breeding merle poodles is unethical in itself, while others would argue that there is an ethical way to produce merle poodles. Producing merle colored poodle puppies takes immense research, careful pairing, and considerable risk. We will talk about each one of these aspects as we talk about the ethical dilemma of breeding merle poodles. As long as a merle poodle is not a double merle, he should have the same chance of a healthy life as any other poodle. If, however, a merle poodle comes from two merle parents or received two copies of the merle gene, he will have a high likelihood of being unhealthy. According to research , when two normal merle poodles are bred together, their offsprings tend to have serious developmental health problems. Double Merle poodles also tend to have eye problems and hearing problems that are not typical of poodles with regular colors. If a merle poodle is not a double merle, all other health concerns of the merle poodle depend on the health of the parents. No matter what color poodle you are looking to get, always ask the breeder for the health and genetic testing done on the parents. This will help you make sure you get a poodle that will be able to live a long and happy life with you. However, some merle owners have reported that merle poodles have a higher sensitivity to sunlight and that there is a possibility that merle poodles might be more prone to skin cancer than poodles of other colors. We do not have the scientific evidence to back up this claim. But this recognition is conditional on the lineage that the merle poodle comes from. One fact is that it is quite difficult to find a merle poodle with AKC registration. This could be seen as circumstantial evidence that merle poodles are not full poodle that can be registered with the AKC. Because if they were purebred, then why are so many of them unregistered? A merle poodle can be registered with AKC as a multi-colored poodle. There is no registration specific to the merle pattern. The reason why you can register a merle poodle is that there are no special AKC requirements to register other non-solid color poodles such as parti poodles, phantom poodles, or sable poodles, but the AKC allows people to register these poodles under approximate colors such as Black and White, etc. Therefore, you can register a Merle poodle under the colors that are closest to the combination of its colors that the AKC accepts. Merle poodles are often registered as Black and Silver or Brown and Tan. Note that you need to provide proof that the parents of your merle poodle are AKC registered poodles before you can register your merle poodle with the AKC. However, merle poodles cannot participate in AKC conformation dog shows because AKC dog shows are for mostly solid-colored poodles. If you want to show your poodle in AKC conformation dog shows, you may not want to get a merle poodle. But if you want a pet poodle as most people have, without the intention to show your poodle in dog shows, then you may consider getting a merle poodle. Also, The Kennel Club KC , the official dog club of the United Kingdom which is also the oldest running dog club in the world, recently released a memo explicitly stating that merle poodles cannot be registered with the KC. Again, if all you want is a pet poodle without the intention of exhibiting your poodle in dog shows, then you may get a poodle with the merle coat pattern. Dog clubs rules and regulations evolve over time. In fact, red poodles were not AKC-registerable until the s. Merle Genetics The merle gene is very unique. It is neither recessive nor dominant. Rather, it is called an incomplete dominant gene. When a gene is dominant, it usually overpowers other genes. When a gene is recessive, it must be paired with the same recessive gene to present itself in the offspring. Incomplete dominant genes work a bit differently. Only one incomplete dominant gene is necessary to present itself in the offspring. However, if two merle genes are paired together, the offspring will be a double merle. This is another reason some poodle breeders deem merle breeding unethical. Proponents of merle breeding claim that with genetic testing, they can breed this color without any risk of producing blind and deaf puppies. The genetic testing for the merle gene is different from other types of genetic testing. There are different levels of merle, and some color genetics experts say that there is a way to safely breed merle parent dogs to one another based on the type of merle gene each parent carries. This practice is not widespread, and the technology and science surrounding this theory are fairly new, so most ethical breeders simply choose to pair a merle with a non-merle poodle that does not carry the merle gene. This is certainly the safest way to breed a merle poodle, although it does not guarantee merle offspring. The merle gene, when present, is a gene that dilutes the other color or colors of the dog. The gene is different from the normal dilute gene, however, because it does not dilute the colors evenly across the dog. Instead, it leaves patches of dark, undiluted colors while diluting the color in patches across the coat of the dog. This is what gives the merle poodle such a uniquely colored coat. If you pair one merle to another dog that is not a merle and does not contain a copy of the merle gene, the pair may or may not produce merle puppies. This is why the merle color is so rare. In order to ensure that a litter would contain merle puppies, a breeder would have to breed merle to merle, or merle to a dog that carries the merle gene. Both of these options carry a risk of producing a double merle. However, if a breeder pairs a merle poodle with a poodle who does not carry a copy of the merle gene, there is a chance that none of the puppies in that litter will be merle. Breeding merle poodles is such an ethical dilemma. To ensure a merle colored poodle litter, there would be a risk of breeding a double merle puppy. To eliminate the risk of producing a double merle puppy would also be to risk producing no merle offspring at all. This is why the merle is such a difficult poodle color to produce ethically. It is also why merle poodles are so expensive. Merle poodls are rare and they are not easy to reproduce ethically. Final Thoughts It seems that knowledge of the merle gene is still elusive to scientists and color genetics experts. And yet, they have made significant progress in understanding the gene in the last few years. We know that breeding merles to merles involve some risk, although new research suggests that genetic testing might someday be able to guide breeders in which merles can be bred to one another. For now, however, to avoid the possibility of blind and deaf puppies, breeders avoid pairing two merle poodles together for breeding. The downside of this is that this makes it difficult to ever guarantee the production of a merle puppy. The upside is that the chances of producing a double merle poodle with health problems is greatly reduce. Breeders and owners have an ongoing debate regarding whether the merle gene was introduced to the poodle breed from an outside breed or whether it is naturally occurring in poodles and simply remained hidden for most of poodle history. If you can find a well-bred merle poodle, it will likely cost a lot of money as they are few and far between. If you find one, however, they are likely to have a sweet and calm temperament. A well-bred merle poodle can make a fantastic family pet and companion. The merle controversy is still very hot in the poodle community. The purpose of this article is to present you with different viewpoints on the Merle poodles. The viewpoints in this article are contradictory, as it should be. We advise you to do your own research to make your decision on Merle poodles. We hope that the resources in the reference below will further help guide and educate you on the controversial issue of Merle poodles. Alue Standard Poodles will not sell to merle breeders or those who support the breeding of merle mix Poodles. Catahoula got merle from these breeds, and collie type herding breeds in other parts of the world got their merle from European herding dogs. Other breeds and dog types did NOT have merle years ago, and most didn't even 50 years ago. Chihuahua might have had merle over 50 years already, but this fad "look, there is merle in our breed too" started to happen only in 's or later, and we Europeans first heard of it around 's or even later as it didn't start here, where most of these breeds originate, but mainly in US. ONLY "we didn't have merles and now we do" breed which can officially trace their first merle is Hungarian Mudi, aka they got it "legally". Well, in American Cockers it can be kind of traced back to certain dogs, but not properly explained how they just started getting merle offspring. Merle is such a complicated mutation that it doesn't happen again and again and always in just the same way, but merle is always introduced to a new population by using existing merle dogs from other breeds. Merle is naturally present in a surprisingly small number of breeds, mostly herding breeds along with Great Danes. It has been bred into breeds such the Chihuahua and Pomeranian as well. So what's the deal with merle and why are all the Poodle people losing their minds over it? Well, let me tell you. As I prefaced this with, merle is a complicated gene, but it's especially complicated when it gets bred into breeds of which it doesn't belong in. If it doesn't belong there, how did it get there? Well, while we will never know the absolute truth, what happens is a breeder will take a Poodle and breed it to a breed that produces merle, such as a herding breed like an Australian Shepherd. This is referred to as paper hanging. Paper hanging is an issue for many reasons- the first being that someone lied and ethically that is wrong to do. Second, if you have someone that lied on a pedigree and someone unknowingly buys a puppy descended from that line who then wants to breed that dog, they have no idea what true health issues are behind their dog, which means they have no idea what issues their puppies could end up with. This kind of act causes issues for generations. Another issue with merle is, of course, how the genetics work themselves. That e gene will override merle, which is where phantom merle terminology comes into play. What that means is that you can have a dog that looks like a solid cream but is genetically a merle dog and that can cause big problems for that new owner. If the buyer wanted to breed that dog or had an oops litter with a merle dog, they just created double merles, which means they could produce some serious health issues. Parti can also break up the merle pattern, so if you do not know what you are looking at, you could easily be convinced you are looking at a weird clearing blue or black parti. The problem with merle Poodles is that they are not purebred and were made from deceit for money--bottom line, plain and simple. The breed now faces pedigrees that are lies. We face health issues from herding breeds being bred into our genetic population, and we have people lying to the public saying that merle Poodles are purebred and we "just don't like them". That couldn't be further from the truth. Breeding these dogs comes down to being unethical as a breeder by lying to buyers saying they are buying a purebred Poodle and doing a massive disservice to the breed by breeding in health issues and coat traits none of us are prepared for or know how to work around. When we talk about breed testing, such as Embark, merle breeders point to the fact their dogs test as Poodle as the proof merle is a Poodle color. Embark only tests back generations. So what does that mean? Well, if someone bred an Aussie to a Poodle 5 generations ago, Embark would not pick that up. If they bred an Aussiedoodle to a Poodle even three generations ago, Embark would not pick that up. Genetic breed testing is not sensitive enough to pick up generations past parents. People will also say, "if it's bred back to a Poodle enough times it becomes a Poodle". The fact of the matter is, someone introduced a non-Poodle into that line, and those progeny are mixes. Alue Standard Poodles will never sell to a breeder that breeds merles or supports merles. You are visitor number: All photos are property of Alue Standard Poodles and are not to be used without written permission. Merle tends to express itself in patches, dots, spots, and dashes. Merle is a genetic pattern that can be in a dog's coat. Merle comes in different colors and patterns and can affect all coat colors. The merle gene creates mottled patches of color in a solid or piebald coat, blue or odd-colored eyes, and can affect skin pigment as well. The Merle Gene is an incomplete dominant gene, which means that it only requires one copy to reproduce it. Yes, Merle Poodles are purebred. Poodles are a breed of dog that are known for their intelligence, athleticism, and hypoallergenic coat. There are three sizes of Poodles: Standard, Miniature, and Toy. Merle is a coat color pattern that is found in some purebred dogs, including Poodles. The Merle coat color pattern is characterized by a mottled or marbled appearance, with patches of solid color mixed with areas of diluted or faded color. The Merle pattern can occur in a variety of colors, including blue, red, chocolate, and black. It is important to note that the Merle coat pattern is not recognized by all Poodle breed standards, so it is not considered a standard coat color in some Poodle breed clubs. However, it is still considered a purebred Poodle. It has been recognized that the Merle coat pattern in dogs is not only a visually interesting feature, but it also exerts an important biological role, in terms of hearing and vision impairments. Unfortunately, the situation turned out complicated as genotypes of Merle-tested individuals did not always correspond to expected phenotypes, sometimes with undesired health consequences in the offspring. The refinement of allelic identification was made possible by systematic, detailed observation of Merle phenotypes in a cohort of dogs from known Merle breeds, by many breeders worldwide, and the use of advanced molecular technology enabling the discrimination of individual Merle alleles with significantly higher precision than previously available. We also show that mosaicism of Merle alleles is an unexpectedly frequent phenomenon, which was identified in 30 out of .Importantly, not only major alleles but also minor Merle alleles can be inherited by the offspring. Thus, mosaic findings cannot be neglected and must be reported to the breeder in their whole extent. In light of negative health consequences that may be attributed to certain Merle breeding strategies, we strongly advocate the implementation of the refined Merle allele testing for all dogs of Merle breeds to help the breeders in the selection of suitable mating partners and production of healthy offspring. Merle is thought to be inherited in an autosomal, incomplete dominant way. Dogs heterozygous for the M allele show a typical coat pattern, however, dogs homozygous for the M allele may also exhibit auditory and ophthalmologic impairments and abnormalities together with very pale or completely white coat phenotypes Strain et al. Such negative health effects associated with the M locus encouraged the research to identify the gene responsible. They look like a traditional merle, however, what makes them merle is their genetics. Cream, Red, Apricot, or Parti can hide the Merle pattern. This is pretty standard for the type of poodle standard, toy, or miniature and age range puppy or adult. Merle dogs of any breed are likely to be more expensive than solid-colored dogs, even though a lot of responsible breeders try to change that. Red Merle Poodles have a red brown , copper, beige and white coat in a mottled pattern. Most of their coat is a beige-grey and they feature red brown , white and copper patches throughout it. Red Merle Poodles have light or dark brown noses. In most cases they have light brown eyes however they can sometimes have blue eyes. They are also called Chocolate Merle Poodles. Tweed Merle Poodles carry the Tweed merle modifier that turns the majority of their coat into a variety of brown and tan shades. Tweed Merle Poodles have extensive brown patching compared to a regular Merle Poodle. They are an extremely rare Poodle coat pattern. Merle Phantom Poodles have a coat with a merle background with patches of tan on their chin, throat, chest, legs, beneath their tail, above their eyes and on the sides of their muzzle. They are extremely rare. They have the typical phantom pattern but instead of having a solid background color, their coat is mainly merle. A Cryptic Merle Poodle is a Poodle that has very small patches of merle or none at all. These Poodles appear to be non-merle however they carry the merle genotype and produce merle offspring. Unfortunately, Double Merle Poodles are affected by severe ocular defeats and deafness. They may be deaf in one or both ears and may be blind or have totally lost an eye. This is because Double Merle Poodles will always pass on a copy of Merle to their puppies and should not be bred together. Most official bodies refuse to register dogs that are a product of merle-to-merle breeding. Are Merle Poodles Healthy? Merle Poodles are likely to have health issues, especially Double Merle Poodles. See Also.

But in the early days, we recommend keeping them close to you at night. It will help them feel safe and cared for — leaving their litter is quite a big step, after all. Your puppy may be unsettled and will most likely need at least one bathroom break through the night. It will all be okay in a few weeks time, though. The crate should be a cozy warm den for your puppy. Soft blankets and a cuddly toy should do the trick to help them settle. It is also a good idea to cover over the sides but keep the front uncovered so your pup can still see out. Just before bed, take your pup out for one last potty stop. With that beautiful voice of yours, gently reassure them and rest your hand in the crate so they know you are there. When your puppy wakes up in the night they definitely will at some point , listen to see if they are settling back down. Expect to be out at or am to take them straight to the loo. They will be bursting! That just about covers the first steps of Labradoodle sleep training. Very tired. But early mornings, late nights and disturbed sleep are all part of owning a puppy. As they mature emotionally and settle into their new home they will be happy in other parts of the house, and even outside of their crate. Having them in your room does not cause separation anxiety later on. Stick to a routine! Consistency is everything. It will backfire on you. Check out our guide on how to get a puppy to sleep through the night for more tips. Alone Training Labradoodles are very sociable. That can mean two things — they will always be happy to see you and that being alone can be challenging for them. This will help them feel at ease without you and also help them love their crate a little bit more too. While they are eating, go and do something close by. No need to go completely out of sight, but try not to focus on your puppy either. Labradoodles love to eat, so use this time wisely to distract them away from you. Just a few seconds is good enough in the early stages. Repeat: Practice makes perfect! Do this exercise at least once a day to build up alone time, and check out our guide to puppy separation anxiety. We expand on our little secret in our puppy potty training article. Every 30 minutes, after eating, sleeping or playing. Socialization Exercises to do This Week Early socialization is important for all puppies. It gives them confidence and teaches them to view the world in an optimistic way. Here are some puppy socialization exercises to do with your Labradoodle. Let your Labradoodle Puppy Explore the Yard The yard is a great way to introduce your puppy to the great outdoors. They will also get used to walking on different types of surfaces such as your tiled, wet lawn or open flower beds. To get them there, here is a quick exercise you can run through: Exploring different surfaces exercise Have plenty of treats ready. Only use safe surfaces, nothing too slippery. Gather surfaces such as: A piece of carpet A large tray with a thin layer of water A large piece of tin foil or cardboard, something that makes a noise. Put the surfaces out on the floor and let your puppy investigate. Let them take their time and go at their own pace. In our experience Labradoodles are quite food motivated, and you can probably use a low or medium value treat for this. You can even try to use their kibble as many will be delighted to work for their food. For more info on what rewards to use check out our article on rewards and treats. Teach your puppy their name One of the first things your puppy will learn from you is their name. Fortunately, teaching a Labradoodle puppy their name is rather simple. Pretty easy, right? Practice this a few times everyday until they start flipping their head at you every time you call their name. Make sure everyone in the family uses the same name too! Teach your puppy to sit Labradoodle training is often started by teaching them how to sit. We call this a marker word. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow with a tasty treat. Bits of smelly sausage or cheese will definitely do the trick. If this happens, try to keep it simple at first and just use their own kibble if they are motivated to work for it. Save the big guns in treat terms for when you really need it! How to do it Always begin training at home. The outside world is far too exciting at the moment, and your puppy will probably not focus on you. Stand in front of your pup with a treat in your hand and place the treat on their nose, then bring it up to your waist. Recall — How to teach your Labradoodle puppy to come back when called Your puppy should have a good grasp of their name by now, which should make recall training pretty straightforward. Pun intended. How to do it You will need plenty of those high value treats and your best cheery voice. Call your puppy only once! This is super important as you want them to learn that their name only has to be called once for them to react to it. How to do it Get your puppy excited by showing them their favorite toy and making it come to life by waving it around. Once they are interested in the toy, throw it a short distance away from you. With that lovely singing voice of yours, encourage them to bring it back to you. When they do, swap the toy in their mouth for another identical toy. Repeat about 5 times and practice everyday. Get your puppy excited by showing them their favorite toy and making it come to life by waving it around. Prevention of Resource Guarding This part of Labradoodle training is important — it will prevent resource guarding by teaching your puppy how to give up items willingly. Resource guarding is this thing that happens when dogs are unwilling to give up items back, or when they get protective over something from humans or other dogs. From the training tips above, preventing resource guarding always comes down to a good swapping. Resource guarding starts when we force our dogs as puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. To avoid that, resist your temptation to reach deep inside their mouths to get whatever it is they have. Ultimately, we want our puppies to be willing to give things up when we need them to. What we really mean is care, handling, health and grooming. Start by just showing them the brush and running it over them with the apartment side so they get used to the sensation minus the bristles. Hand Touch and Handling If you handle your puppy too roughly or grab at them, not only are they going to have a bit of a fright, but it could make them feel scared about being touched in the future. Use plenty of treats, and remember to stop if they walk away. Touch should be a pleasant thing not forced. Week 2 — Training your Labradoodle puppy Week 2 already! Socialization exercises to do this week Training to do this week Husbandry Tasks to do this week — Fireworks — Watch the world go by outside your house — Play dress up. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Labradoodle Highlights Friendly and intelligent: Labradoodles are known for being friendly and intelligent dogs. They are good with children and other animals, and they are easy to train. Hypoallergenic: Labradoodles are often considered to be hypoallergenic, which means that they do not shed as much as other dogs. This makes them a good choice for people with allergies. Active and playful: Labradoodles are active dogs that need regular exercise. They enjoy playing fetch, going for walks, and swimming. Loyal and devoted: Labradoodles are loyal and devoted dogs that make great companions. They are always happy to see their owners and they love to cuddle. Versatile: Labradoodles are versatile dogs that can be trained for a variety of tasks, including therapy work, obedience, and agility. They can be expensive to purchase and maintain. They require regular grooming, especially if they have a curly coat. They are prone to some health problems, such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Overall, Labradoodles are wonderful dogs that make great companions for people of all ages. If you are looking for a friendly, intelligent, and hypoallergenic dog, a Labradoodle may be a good choice for you. Labradoodle History Wally Conron, who was in charge of the breeding program for the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia, purposefully crossbred a Standard Poodle and Labrador Retriever in to develop the Labradoodle as a hypoallergenic guide dog. The first cross produced Sultan, a dog with a hypoallergenic coat, aptitude, intelligence, and personality suitable for being an effective guide dog. Sultan worked successfully with a woman in Hawaii. Other breeders saw the merit of crossing these two breeds, and the Labradoodle quickly rose in popularity like its Labrador Retriever parent. These dogs are often produced by crossing a Labrador Retriever with a Poodle, but multigenerational breeding has begun in an attempt to produce a viable and recognizable breed. The Australian Labradoodle Association and the International Australian Labradoodle Association are taking steps to move this designer breed into registered breed status in the next few years. These groups have made great efforts to bring breeders together so that they are working to achieve the same standards through multigenerational breeding. Labradoodle Size The Labradoodle comes in three size variations, depending on the size of the Poodle used for the first-generation breeding. The three sizes are Standard, Medium, and Miniature. The Standard Labradoodle should be 22 to 24 inches in height for a male and 21 to 23 inches in height for a female, while both can range in weight from 50 to 65 pounds. The Medium Labradoodle should be 18 to 20 inches high for a male and 17 to 19 inches high for a female, with both weighing from 30 to 45 pounds. The average size for a Miniature Labradoodle is between 14 to 16 inches and 15 to 25 pounds. All of that said, there is a lot of variation in Labradoodle sizes. Some can be smaller or larger than expected. Labradoodle Personality The Labradoodle is an intelligent dog who can make the ideal family pet if properly trained. They are friendly and accept and treat everyone like their best friend. They can be gentle, but they can also be joyful, showing their happiness through exuberant jumping and playing. They also tend to be easygoing, since the Labradoodle was bred not to be aggressive. Temperament is affected by a number of factors, including heredity, training, and socialization. Puppies with nice temperaments are curious and playful, willing to approach people and be held by them. Meeting siblings, parents, or other relatives of the dog is also helpful for evaluating what a puppy will be like when they grow up. Socialization helps ensure that your Labradoodle puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Enrolling them in a puppy kindergarten class is a great start. Inviting visitors over regularly, and taking them to busy parks, stores that allow dogs, and on leisurely strolls to meet neighbors will also help them polish their social skills. Here are a few conditions to watch out for: Ear Infections: These can plague Labradoodles because of their floppy ears. The ears trap moisture and should be regularly checked. X-ray screening is the most certain way to diagnose the problem. Either way, arthritis can develop as the dog ages. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Elbow Dysplasia : Similar to hip dysplasia, this is also a degenerative disease. The disease varies in severity: the dog could simply develop arthritis, or they could become lame. Treatment includes surgery, weight management, medical management, and anti-inflammatory medication. It can cause mild or severe seizures that may show themselves as unusual behavior—such as running frantically as if being chased, staggering, or hiding—or even by falling down, limbs rigid, and losing consciousness. Seizures are frightening to watch, but the long-term prognosis for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy is generally very good. Allergies: Allergies are a common ailment in dogs, and the Labradoodle is no exception. Treatment varies according to the cause and may include dietary restrictions, medications, and environmental changes. Diabetes Mellitus: This is a disorder in which the body cannot regulate blood sugar levels. The dog will lose weight because food is not being used efficiently. Symptoms of diabetes are excessive urination and thirst, increased appetite, and weight loss. Diabetes can be controlled by diet and the administration of insulin. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA : This is a family of eye diseases that involves the gradual deterioration of the retina. Early in the disease, affected dogs become night-blind; they lose sight during the day as the disease progresses. Many affected dogs adapt well to their limited or lost vision, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Hypothyroidism : This is a disorder of the thyroid gland. It is treated with medication and diet. They require about 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day and would do better with a fenced yard in which to expel some energy. Some Labradoodles, especially in the first generation, can require even more exercise. The Labradoodle makes an excellent jogging companion but also needs some time off-leash to burn off steam. The Labradoodle is an intelligent and eager-to-please dog. Training should be easy as long as consistency and positive reinforcement are the methods. Socialize them from puppyhood, since they tend to hurl themselves headlong into canine situations without regard to the feelings of other dogs. This can lead to some problems if the unknown dog is aggressive. Despite their activity levels, a Labradoodle can adjust to living in suburban or city environments and can do well in rural settings. A crate is also a place where they can retreat for a nap. Crate training at a young age will help your Labradoodle accept confinement if they ever needs to be boarded or hospitalized. Never stick your Labradoodle in a crate all day long, however. Labradoodle Feeding Recommended daily amount: 1 to 2. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on their size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. Keep your Labradoodle in good shape by measuring their food and feeding them twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at them. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on their back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see their ribs without having to press hard. For more on feeding your Labradoodle, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Labradoodle Coat Color And Grooming Although a Labradoodle can have one of a range of coat types, the desired length is four to six inches. They have a single coat with hair ranging from straight to loose curls. There are three types of texture: The Hair coat, which is similar to fur in shedding breeds, is the least popular. Hair coats shed and usually have a normal doggy odor. This coat is seen in first generations, although breeders try to avoid it. The Fleece coat has a silky texture often described as an Angora goat texture. This coat ranges from straight to wavy. Labradoodles are considered to be non- to low shedders, especially those with a Fleece or Wool coat. Hair coats tend to shed just as they do in other breeds, ranging from very low to average shedding. The Labradoodle comes in a wide variety of colors. They can also have parti-colored coats, which consist of brindles, phantom, patched, or sable colors. Grooming requirements vary depending on the length and type of coat the dog has. Generally speaking, you can expect to brush a Labradoodle about once or twice per week. Some can be clipped or trimmed every six to eight weeks to keep the coat easy to maintain. Like Labs, Labradoodles can be prone to ear infections, so take a little extra time caring for their ears. Dry and clean them after a swim, and check them once a week for dirt, redness, or a bad odor that can indicate an infection. Then wipe them out weekly with a cotton ball dampened with gentle, pH-balanced ear cleaner to prevent problems. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Dog toenails have blood vessels in them, and if you cut too far you can cause bleeding—and your dog may not cooperate the next time they see the nail clippers come out. Handle their paws frequently—dogs are touchy about their feet—and look inside their mouth. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. Labradoodle Children And Other Pets The Labradoodle does well with children and can be an affectionate and gentle companion for any child. They can also be exuberant and might knock down smaller children, but they will love them with all their heart. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Labradoodles usually get along well with other dogs and pets. Like most dogs, they need training and socialization for optimum success at living with and visiting other animals. Labradoodle Rescue Groups Labradoodles are often brought home without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. Many end up in the care of shelters or rescues because of this. It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Labradoodles because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Labrador Retriever or Poodle breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have both health and behavioral issues. More Info For You. Contact General Information and Canine Behavior The pages within the Homecoming Prep segment of our website are private and can only be accessed through the link provided through email and through the link on the Prepare For Puppy page. The button on this page is titled Homecoming Prep. Once you are in the Homecoming Prep section of the website you will need to use your back button to navigate the pages and return to this Homecoming Prep home page. General Information The following links and attachments include general information concerning your puppy. This will help you prepare for your puppy's arrival and get you started on the right foot. Click each page above to see a larger image in a readable size. Puppy Behavior The following links and attachments include general information on caring for your puppy. Please be sure you, your children and all family members understand the signals your puppy is giving you. The puppy is not a toy and not meant to be held at will. Set limits on how many times a day no more than 4 that your child can hold the puppy. Children should only be allowed to hold the puppy if they are seated. Too much handling can physically hurt the puppy as well as begin the process of the puppy not tolerating your child. No walking around carrying the puppy. This is true for all children under 8. Puppies will chew on and sometimes ingest toys. If ingested, the pieces can lodge and cause your puppy to have to undergo surgery that is not always successful. Puppies generally do NOT like to be hugged. Puppies will jump up on people. There are two primary responses that most dogs will respond to. The first is to cross your arms, hiding your hands, and turn around showing the dog your backside and being very still. If your dog continues to jump on you they are not responding to this method and you should not continue trying it. Instead, step right into the space where there front paws are on the ground, being careful not to step on their feet. Repeat this behavior each time your dog jumps and instruct all people who your dog interacts with to do this same thing. Puppies and dogs in general will feed off of the people around them. Those who are very exciteable and talk in high pitched tones will create a dog who responds to seeing people by becoming super amped up and difficult to follow simple commands. Try to limit this. It's not in the puppies best interest to repeatedly be encouraged to escalate the excitement level to this high level. This is when the dog will become less focused and less able to follow your guidance. Keep in mind that your dog will feed off of you, your tone and your energy level. But will you recognize the signs? Imagine your puppy is growling at a child. Could you have prevented this from happening? Perhaps, but you have to know what to look for. Click below to learn more. The Family Dog: Stop the 77 Puppy Development Stages Click the link below for a great resource to learn about your puppies development. Once you get to this site, click on Puppies, then development stages. Use your back button to return to this page. This is usually the first place pictures and video show up. We also have a private Facebook page for owners of our puppies. At this time, you can join this group by answering a few short questions. It is titled Legendary Labradoodles Owners Group. There is info about grooming, vet care, training and all sorts of topics. There are links in the footer of this page to our main Facebook page, not the owners group and our instagram account. If you click on the icon it will take you to our pages. Their adorable curly fur and expressive faces make you want to cuddle them — and these little guys love nothing more than a good squish. All this and more makes our labradoodle puppies for sale one the most in-demand in our center. Activity-loving families adore these dogs for their propensity towards sports, and anyone who prefers low-shedding pooch benefits from their wooly or fleecy fur. Labradoodle puppies for sale are so cute and come in such a wide range of colors that it makes choosing your new best friend super-hard! While spearheading the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia breeding program, he conducted the crossbreeding of a standard poodle and Labrador retriever in view of it being a hypoallergenic guide dog for blind people. The first example of this type of dog, called Sultan, went to live with a lady in Hawaii, where other breeders saw him as an inspiration and this is how Australian Labradoodle puppies started. Both the International Australian Labradoodles Association and the Australian Labradoodles Association of America are working hard to incorporate more intergenerational breeding so these dog breeders can register this type of dog as a purebred dog. Its gentle, obedient and intelligent personality combined with a hypoallergenic coat make it ideal for family members with allergies, but it also makes an excellent service or therapy dog. Labradoodle Puppies Lifespan When properly taken care of, healthy dogs tend to live anywhere from 10 to 13 years. The lifespan of our Labradoodle puppies for sale is slightly above average at 12 to 14 years. Here are the life stages of multigenerational Australian Labradoodles: Puppyhood: First five months Adolescence: Between five months and two years Adulthood: Between two and three years Middle age: Between seven years and 10 years Senior: Over 10 years Labradoodles need the most attention and care in the first and last stages of their life. During puppyhood, their minds are highly impressionable, which is ideal for training. During their senior years, Labradoodles are more susceptible to health problems, which means owners need to keep a watchful eye. Labradoodle Size The size of labradoodle puppies for sale directly relates to the size of their parents and which generation of breed Labradoodle breeders chose. The larger the puppies, the larger the adult dog will be, and the faster their growth will be coming out of the puppy stage. A standard labradoodle puppy will weigh from pounds by the time it reaches two months of age. By a year old, it will have grown dramatically to up to 80 pounds, depending on the size of its parents. Medium Labradoodles occupy a spectrum of sizes between standard and mini Labradoodles, with the specifics depending heavily on the details of the breeding pair that birthed them and the breeding program they come from. Labradoodle Puppies Temperament While Labradoodle breeders originally bred the Australian Labradoodles as therapy dogs, their fun, friendly personalities made them popular pets. Now you can find these sociable dogs in homes across the globe. Here are some of the top personality traits of our Labradoodle puppies for sale. They tend to do best in active households where they can work off all that pent-up energy. You can fulfill their needs through the following activities: Walks or jogs: Labradoodles make great walking companions and can even keep up with you during a jog. Playing in the yard: Enjoy a game of fetch with your furry friend in the yard or just let it loose on its own. Dog sports: If you stay active through sports, consider making your labradoodle a part of your routine. Bring it on bike rides, go for a run together or kick a ball around in the yard. Obstacle courses: Set up an obstacle course for your dog using household items. Scavenger hunt: Creating a scavenger hunt for your canine is a great way to exercise its body and brain. In general, Labradoodles need anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes of exercise a day. You can also enroll them later at a Labradoodle puppy alumni school for proper training. Friendliness What makes Labradoodles the perfect puppy compare to other dog breeds is their ability to get along with just about anyone. They inherit this trait from their Labrador retriever parent, a breed also known for its outgoing nature. You can trust your labradoodle to form friendships with everyone, from children and older adults to strangers and other puppies. Thanks to their affectionate, sociable personalities, Labradoodles make great pets for first-time owners, families, or anyone looking for a companion. Intelligence Thanks to their poodle parent breeds, Labradoodles are incredibly intelligent dogs. Because Labradoodles are intelligent, they often crave mental stimulation. Labradoodle Puppies Grooming Our Labradoodle puppies for sale have a variety of coat textures that dog owners enjoy, but in general, their low shedding coat needs brushing at least twice a week. Not only does this keep them tangle-free but it also removes excess debris from their coat, keeping them fresh and hygienic. Regularly trim the hair around their eyes and in between their paws to prevent these problem areas from causing irritation. Pooches with fleece coats tend to have longer fur and benefit the most from going to a professional groomer — although every dog loves getting pampered once in a while. At Pride and Prejudoodles, we send a can and a bag of the foods we use for free with your hand-delivered bundle of joy. If you need to change it for any reason, it must be done gradually to avoid stomach upsets. Just bear in mind that a diet is such a crucial aspect of wellness that feeding them good quality food will add years to their lives compared to opting for low-quality feed. Pride and Prejudoodles is here to help. We hope you found our guide informative. Please contact us with any other questions you have about our Labradoodle puppies for adoption. Life Span Did You Know? A Labradoodle is a popular designer dog breed. It is a cross between a Standard Poodle and a Labrador Retriever. This designer dog breed originated in Australia around .The main goal of the Labradoodle was to create a hypoallergenic guide dog for people living with disabilities who were also allergic to dog fur and dander. Now, they are still a popular choice for service, guide, and therapy dogs and are also a popular companion dog. Labrador Retrievers and Poodles are both friendly, gentle, intelligent, and affectionate dog breeds. The Labradoodle tends to be similar. They are open and friendly and crave human attention and affection. They are happiest when they are with people. Labradoodles also tend to have an energetic and playful personality. They get along well with children, other dogs, other pets, and strangers. They are alert enough to bark or let you know when someone is at the door, but they are not generally good watchdogs or guard dogs as they are more interested in making friends. A Labradoodle is a highly adaptable dog breed. They do very well in homes with space to run and they can adapt well to apartment living as long as they are given plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. They also do well in most climates. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to extreme heat and cold. Because they enjoy being around people, they do not generally like to be left alone for long periods of time. They can also become bored if not given enough attention, exercise, or mental stimulation, which can result in destructive behavior. This dog breed is generally healthy, but they do have the chance of inheriting common health conditions from both of the parent breeds. Some health conditions to be aware of include elbow and hip dysplasia, ear infections, progressive retinal atrophy, hypothyroidism, and epilepsy. Good breeding practices can reduce the likelihood of passing on many of these health issues. Be sure to talk with the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and ask to see any health clearances; this can help allay potential health concerns. A Labradoodle tends to be eager to please and highly intelligent, which makes them highly trainable. They are a good fit for dog owners of any experience level. As with most dog breeds, Labradoodles respond best to training that is consistent and uses positive reinforcement. There are some grooming tasks that are common to every dog breed. When it comes to coat care, it can vary with a Labradoodle. Poodles have a low-shedding coat that is also high maintenance in terms of brushing, trimming, and professional grooming. Labs tend to have a higher shedding coat that needs minimal brushing and grooming. For the most part, a Labradoodle will have a low or non-shedding coat that will need to be brushed a few times a week. But, they can have a higher shedding coat should they take after their Labrador parent. You may also need a few professional grooming sessions throughout the year. Nail trimming once a month is usually enough to keep movement comfortable and prevent longer nails from snagging on things. Proper dental care for your dog will help prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Drop-down ears are more prone to infection because floppy ears are more likely to trap moisture, dirt, and debris. This will make grooming throughout their life a much more enjoyable process for both you and your dog. It can even become a bonding time for you both as well. Labradoodles tend to be high-energy dogs. They require a few daily walks plus some time to run and play in order to stay happy and healthy. They certainly love to play and you may tire out before they do sometimes. They may calm down a little as they get to be a couple of years old, but they tend to be quite energetic as puppies. Going swimming with your dog , taking a hike with them, going on a trip to the dog park, playing a game of fetch, and more are all great supplemental activities to ensure your Labradoodle gets plenty of exercise. You can even train them to compete in dog sports like dock diving, flyball, agility, obedience, and more. A fully-grown Labradoodle will usually stand between 21 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 50 and 65 pounds. Labradoodles generally live 12 — 14 years. However, it did not become popular until when the mix was specifically bred to create hypoallergenic guide dogs. Featured Labradoodle Article.

Heavy Exercises Heavy exercise is also one of the primary reasons why your dog keeps panting a lot. Goldendoodles love to run, swim and play. If you keep exercising your Goldendoodle a lot, it may start panting heavily to maintain proper body temperature and coolness. So, these are some of the reasons why your Goldendoodle keeps panting heavily. Other causes may include stress, anxiety, underlying medical issues, etc. Goldendoodles will require regular grooming and upkeep. During the daytime, your Goldendoodle may be involved in physical activities that cause heavy panting. However, what if your Goldendoodle keeps panting at night too? So, your Goldendoodle might also be chasing something or engaging in strenuous activity in their dream. Due to this, they may have been panting all night. So, if your dog keeps panting at night , we recommend checking the spots where you usually put them to sleep. Another thing to keep in mind is checking the material on top of which your dog usually sleeps. If the material is too thick and warm, your Goldendoodle may start feeling hot. So, try to check that material also. See more Goldendoodle videos on our YouTube channel! Stress and Anxiety One of the primary reasons why your dog keeps panting and breathing heavily is maybe because of stress and anxiety. Dogs like the Goldendoodle or Cockapoo are highly social dogs that depend on humans for support. You cannot always precisely pinpoint why your Goldendoodle suddenly feels stressed and anxious. However, some of the significant reasons are: As Goldendoodles are loving creatures, they may be afraid of getting separated from you at night. It is usually more common if your dog sleeps alone. If your Goldendoodle is quite old , anxiety is a common phenomenon due to different physical and mental changes. This can also cause panting. Dogs are often scared of loud noises and speakers. Some dogs are also scared of unknown people. Your dog may also not be comfortable in any new environment. However, if your Goldendoodle keeps panting heavily, it can also be because of an underlying chronic disease. There can be certain diseases such as pneumonia, tumors, cancer, or other respiratory illnesses that are causing such suffering. So, try to consult a vet as soon as possible if the panting continues. Poisonous Food Although some vegetables like carrots or asparagus are okay for dogs to eat , others like onion are poisonous to dog. They may also begin to puke or have an increased heart rate. Now, this can be because of someone who may have tried to give poisonous food to your cute pup. In such a situation, it is essential to see a vet as quickly as possible to save your Goldendoodle from suffering. So, these are some of the reasons why your Goldendoodle keeps panting at night. There are various ways you can prevent your precious dog from panting a lot, such as: Check the Temperature If your dog keeps panting a lot, we advise you to check the temperature both indoors and outdoors. If you feel like the temperature outside is way too hot for your Goldendoodle, stay in rather than risking a heat stroke. In case you do, keep your dog hydrated at all times. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. Hot rooms can definitely cause extreme panting and sweating. During summers, you can even go for an elevated dog bed for your Goldendoodle. Regular Exercising and Proper Meal Plan If your Goldendoodle is gaining a lot of pounds lately, consider taking them for exercising regularly. Even a walk would do the job. On the side, do not feed extra fatty and sugary to your dog. Calm Your Goldendoodle Stress and anxiety also cause panting. So, try to soothe your little dog and calm him down. Remember that touching your dog at this time may scare them off more. You can try to distract your dog by commanding gently. You can also take your dog to their favorite spot even if it is outside just gently attach the Goldendoodle harness and let them become calm and steady. Go to a Vet If the panting condition keeps continuing, it is recommended to take your Goldendoodle to the veterinarian. Additionally, if you also feel like your dog is undergoing a heat stroke or food poisoning, immediately see the veterinarian prevent anything from happening. All dogs, including Goldendoodles, have a habit of panting to maintain their body temperature. However, suppose the panting gets too much, along with other symptoms such as severe anxiety, breathlessness, or coughing. In that case, you should definitely take your precious gem to the veterinarian. Heavy breathing causing the dog to be distressed for months on end can be a sign that a dog may, unfortunately, need to be put to sleep out of kindness. Closely monitor and visit the Vet early to help prevent more serious issues. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Veterinarian Advice! By Dr. Merliza Cabriles, D. Panting is normal canine behavior. When Goldendoodles pant, cool air is circulated through their bodies and body heat evaporates from their mouth and upper respiratory tract. During panting, the air is rapidly inhaled, humidified, and exhaled. Not sure what to do? In non-emergencies, you can live chat with a veterinarian online by clicking here! Is Goldendoodle Panting Normal? Like any other dog, Goldendoodles only have a few sweat glands that are located on the undersides of their paws and also within their ear passages. However, these glands have minimal cooling capabilities. The number of sweat glands in dogs is inefficient in maintaining normal body temperature. Without an efficient set of sweat glands, Goldendoodles pant to cool themselves. Panting when engaging in exercise or play allows heat to be released in exchange for cooler air. Aside from physical activity, dogs may pant because they are happy and excited. You can see this in the happy wagging of his tail coupled with bright and happy eyes. Common Causes of Heavy Breathing in Dogs Excessive panting in Goldendoodles can be associated with a variety of issues that may require medication attention from a veterinarian. Some of these conditions can be expensive to treat, especially in emergency situations. This is why we always recommend dog owners have pet insurance to help cover these unforeseen costs. The problem is more pronounced in brachycephalic dogs like Pugs or Bulldogs because of their abnormally long soft palate and abnormal anatomical structures of their head and face. When a dog starts to feel a little bit warm, he starts to pant. As the body temperature increases, so does the intensity of panting. Aside from heavy panting, your Goldendoodle may also drool and their gums and tongue may appear red. Dogs suffering from heatstroke may also exhibit wide eyes and lethargy. Heatstroke is a medical emergency that requires prompt veterinary attention. Rapid panting leads to the evaporation of a large amount of moisture from the body within a short span of time. Make sure your Goldendoodle has easy access to fresh clean water, particularly on hot days. As much as possible, avoid outdoor excursions with your pooch during the hottest parts of the day. Never leave your dog inside a car even for just a few minutes. Related: Do Goldendoodles Like Snow? Excitement or Exposed to Stressors Dogs that are exposed to stressful events may pant because of anxiety and fear. Fireworks, thunderstorms, visits to the vet or the groomers, car rides, and separation anxiety are just some of the most common stressors in Goldendoodles. Exposure to any of these events can cause a dog to pant and whine. Pain or Discomfort Dogs are wired to conceal signs of pain and illness, a trait handed down from their wild ancestors. In the wild, weakness makes an animal vulnerable to predators. However, when the condition worsens, pain and discomfort can become too much for the dog to hide and telltale signs of illness are eventually manifested. These may include panting, loss of appetite, lethargy, diarrhea, vomiting, limping, and changes in behavior. Bloat Bloat gastric dilation-volvulus is a life-threatening condition that is caused by the rapid buildup of air in the stomach and the consequent twisting of the stomach on both ends. When this happens, air and other contents of the stomach are trapped inside. If you suspect your Goldendoodle may be experiencing bloat, take them to the veterinarian immediately. Large and giant dog breeds are more at risk for bloat compared to smaller breeds. Affected dogs appear to strain to vomit or defecate without any success. The stomach becomes distended and painful. Signs of shock—rapid heartbeat, pale gums, irregular or shallow breathing—soon sets in followed by collapse and death. A Full Stomach: Panting may precede vomiting. Panting may be exhibited in affected dogs. Laryngeal Paralysis: The problem occurs when muscles that open and close the larynx become weak or paralyzed. Panting may be accompanied by a high-pitched wheezing sound as a result of the dysfunction of the vocal cords. Labradors and Golden Retrievers are particularly predisposed to the problem. Photo courtesy of finleyfaith. If your Goldendoodle appears to be overheating, cool your pet down by spraying them with water from a hose and move your pet to a cool and shady spot. Offer cool, clean water to drink. It is highly recommended to call your veterinarian for guidance on what other measures to take. There may be a need to place your dog on fluid and electrolyte therapy to replace any losses. Tests may also be needed to rule out certain Goldendoodle health issues that may be causing excessive panting. By Beth Satterfield Between puppy-loving kisses and peaceful naps, you might notice that your Goldendoodle seems to be breathing fast, and you might be able to even hear it. Is this typical of Goldendoodles, or is your dog having an issue you should be concerned about? Goldendoodles normally breathe between 25 and 40 breaths a minute. If your Goldendoodle is breathing above 40 breaths per minute in a resting position, it may be breathing faster than normal because of a health issue. If fast breathing persists, take them to the vet. To find out if Goldendoodles naturally breathe fast, we need to look at what is considered normal, as well as why dogs pant and how it relates to their breathing. Your dog may have other reasons for breathing fast, including more serious health issues. What is Considered Fast? Before we can answer the questions as to whether your Goldendoodle is breathing faster than normal, we need to look at what a normal breathing rate is. For most Goldendoodles, a normal breathing rate is between breaths per minute. Your dog may be breathing faster than normal if it is breathing more than 40 breaths per minute. However, if it is a little bit higher or lower, do not be alarmed. Just like your breathing rate changes when you walk up the stairs and throughout the day, your Goldendoodles breathing rate is subject to change throughout the day. Goldendoodles breaths per minute have been known to get to breaths per minute or more. If this is the case, see the contributing factors for very fast breathing. While humans sweat to cool down, often when it is hot or after physical exercise, dogs do not sweat. Instead, they pant to cool down, which is accompanied by heavy breathing. If your dog has been running around, barking, or the temperature is warm, they may pant and breathe at a quicker rate than normal to cool themselves off. If they are prevalent, the odds are you have nothing to worry about. If your dog is cool and rested but continues to breathe very fast or loud, you may want to look into it more. Contributing Factors for Fast Breathing If you have come to the conclusion that your Goldendoodle is breathing faster than normal, you are going to want to know why! Goldendoodles are naturally high in energy and excitement. They are energetic and love to play. Anxiety: Goldendoodles are known for being fiercely loyal. They love to be around people and love to please their masters. However, Goldendoodles are prone to anxiety , especially separation anxiety. If you leave your dog alone often, it may experience anxiety, increasing nervousness, heart rate, and breath rate. New places and people can also contribute to anxiety in your Goldendoodle. Trauma: Trauma is also a cause for nervousness, skittishness, and increased breathing rate in Goldendoodles. If your Goldendoodle has been adopted or experienced some form of trauma or abuse, this may be a large contributing factor for its fast breathing. Anemia: Anemia is a condition in which there are not enough healthy red blood cells in the body. This means there is also less oxygen and a dog will pant and breath more often to provide sufficient oxygen to the body. Other signs for anemia include pale gums, eyes, or ears, loss of appetite, vomiting, and weight loss. If you suspect your Goldendoodle has anemia, take it to the vet for treatment. Congestive Heart Failure: Fast breathing is a symptom of congestive heart failure, which is when the heart cannot pump an adequate amount of blood throughout the body. Other signs include fatigue, swollen belly, crackling sound in the lungs, and persistent coughing. This should be treated by a vet immediately and can be life-threatening to your dog. This puts dogs at risk for kidney damage, diabetes, and other illnesses. Fast breathing and shortness of breath are symptoms of this disease including frequent urination, hair loss, muscle weakness, and thinning skin. Calming Your Goldendoodle If your Goldendoodle appears stressed and is breathing quickly, try helping it calm down and relax. There are several things you can try to slow the breathing of your Goldendoodle and help it be comfortable. Goldendoodles may be able to experience less anxiety by spending time with owners, training, exercising, and giving them treats. Be gentle with your Goldendoodle and avoid punishing it. Petting your Goldendoodle and brushing it may help it feel safe and loved. Making sure your Goldendoodle gets lots of time to play and exercise will help it to be calmer at home. They must get out their wiggles! Lowering the temperature and letting them rest are also ways to reduce fast breathing. If you have tried several of these methods and your Goldendoodle continues to have a fast or very fast heart rate, you should look for other symptoms described above and take it to the vet in case of serious health conditions. You might also be interested in: Normal Breathing in dogs We hope that you all remember from biology class that breathing in brings oxygen into our lungs, swapping it with carbon dioxide to be expelled. The oxygen goes round the body to our cells, providing them with energy to function, producing more CO2 as a waste product. Without this critical action, we pretty much cease to function… we die! Our bodies are pretty good at knowing what they want. When our bodies are metabolising producing energy fast, such as during exercise, we use up oxygen and produce more carbon dioxide. Increased carbon dioxide leads to a drop in the pH of the blood — it becomes more acidic. So if the chemoreceptors detect low blood pH and O2, and high CO2, they tell the lungs and associated muscles to work faster tachypnoea or breathing fast. This brings oxygen into and CO2 out of our bodies more quickly, restoring balance. Once the levels are normal, the receptors tell the lungs to slow down again. So why is your puppy breathing fast? Probably because its chemoreceptors have detected low O2 and blood pH, and high CO2, and are compensating. Question answered! You probably want a bit more information than that. Normal Causes There are plenty of normal reasons why your puppy might be breathing fast. As mentioned above, the most likely reason is exercise. If a puppy has been running around all afternoon, its body will have a huge demand for oxygen to supply the hard-working cells, and a lot of CO2 to remove. Breathing fast will help correct this quickly. Stress, excitement or fear are all linked to the stress hormone cortisol. Also known as the fight-or-flight hormone, when it activates it increases the heart rate. As the heart is a muscle, it needs oxygen to function. A faster heart leads to tachypnoea as the lungs compensate to bring more O2 to the heart. Has your puppy just had a fright or gotten excited? This might be the cause of the fast breathing rate. Cortisol is also responsible for an increased breathing rate due to pain. If your puppy sadly hurts themself, they may breathe faster. Finally, the lungs have a secondary function of helping to cool the body down by expelling warm air and inhaling cooler air. As dogs only sweat through their feet and noses, the lungs are particularly important in regulating heat. Heat is produced secondarily to exercise or just because of the environment — if your puppy is too hot, it will pant fast to lose some of that heat. Be especially wary of exercising puppies on hot days, as the two heat sources can overwhelm their compensation mechanisms and lead to heatstroke — heatstroke can be fatal , especially in puppies, so always help them cool down if they are panting too hard. A fever due to illness can cause rapid breathing for the same reason. Heart Diseases The heart is closely linked to the lungs. It pumps blood to the lungs, allowing oxygen and carbon dioxide to be exchanged. Most heart diseases in puppies are present from birth — developing heart disease at such a young age is rare. The developing heart undergoes a lot of changes before a puppy is born. These cause the blood to flow in the wrong direction, or the heart to have to work harder against pressure. The result is excessive strain on the heart. We can sometimes hear these defects with a stethoscope as a heart murmur. Only the most serious heart defects cause disease and tachypnoea as a puppy — many will either cause no effects or result in disease later in life. Puppies with heart disease may have soft coughs and be very lethargic. To compensate, the lungs speed up — lung disease often results in very fast but shallow breathing. There are many kinds of lung disease. In puppies, the most common are probably infectious lung diseases. These include kennel cough , bronchopneumonia, viral infections like influenza, and lungworm. These diseases damage the lungs, fill them with infection and reduce the area available for oxygen and carbon dioxide to be exchanged. Secondary infections after inhaling objects such as grass seeds or just a simple blockage are also a common cause of tachypnoea. Generally, puppies with lung infections also have a fever, a cough and are quite poorly, so please speak to your vet if you suspect a lung infection. Sometimes newborn puppies can be born breathing very rapidly as a result of their lungs not functioning properly. When animals are born, the lungs are often immature and full of fluid — they usually clear within a few hours of life but they can sometimes take longer, especially if the puppy was born premature. In these cases, the puppy will often be breathing quite fast. Newborn puppies are very vulnerable, so a puppy like this will need a lot of veterinary care. Finally, the lungs can also be physically damaged, reducing their capacity and resulting in compensatory tachypnoea. Examples include bruising or puncture after an accident, or damage to the ribs or diaphragm that control lung movement. These events are obviously an emergency as there could be other issues going on like internal bleeding. However, not all tachypnoea is directly linked to the heart or lungs. These puppies are often dehydrated, e. Hypovolaemia can also occur due to bleeding. Finally, the red blood cells themselves the cells that carry oxygen can be low anaemia or damaged. There are many causes of red blood cell dysfunction, including chronic disease, parasites, autoimmune diseases, carbon monoxide or onion poisoning. Puppies with these issues are often pale, cold and have blue gums. All of the above are emergencies that need to be seen by a vet ASAP. The abdomen is close to the lungs and the abdominal organs even push up on the diaphragm when animals breathe out to help expel air. But if the organs get too big they can start to compress the lungs too much, they reduce its capacity for oxygen movement and causing tachypnoea. One of the most common reasons for a swollen belly in puppies is worms — puppies should be treated for worms regularly to prevent this. Swollen tummies can also occur due to blockages from swallowed objects or stools, twisted intestines or fluid in the abdomen. There is also a rare congenital disease that allows abdominal organs to enter the thorax where the lungs are, pushing on them — we can correct this with surgery. A puppy with a big swollen belly should always be investigated for these diseases. Finally, remember that control of the breathing rate is related to specific parts of the brain. Brain damage can sometimes result in tachypnoea, as well as other serious neurological issues. There is usually an underlying cause, and in puppies is probably due to an accident. If your puppy has bumped their head, please speak to a vet quickly, especially if they are breathing fast, are collapsed or bleeding, or are an abnormal colour. You should only consider talking to a vet if the puppy is breathing fast for prolonged periods of time, or there are other signs of disease. You might also be interested in:. They are known for their loyalty to their owners. They are very playful, active, and fun-loving personalities. But sometimes your dog starts breathing heavily and becomes lethargic. Also, their energy level becomes down. This will be stressful for the owner of the dog to understand what were the reasons behind the heavy breathing of their dog. To understand more we give here some genuine reasons. There is therefore no need to be concerned if your dog appears to be fine other than for the normal panting. If you find that your dog is heavily breathing and gets tired too early in this condition you need to be concerned about it. Goldendoodle heavy breathing symptoms Before discussing the reason we need to understand what are breathing difficulties? Breathing difficulties are a symptom of a strained respiratory system. Dogs breathe about 30 and 40 times each minute. It is a major problem if your dog begins to breathe at a pace of or more breaths per minute. Dyspnea: Shortness of breath is known medically as dyspnea. Chest and stomach motion during breathing can be seen. During breathing, the nostrils flare. Noisy breathing. Tachypnea: Breathing that is shallow and quick is medically known as tachypnea. Breathing faster than usual while keeping your mouth closed. Panting: Breathing faster than usual while keeping your mouth open. Tongue hanging out. Shallow breaths. Here, we must lower their temperature. Obesity Dogs are also prone to obesity, just as humans. In addition to obesity-related issues, other issues like lethargy, anxiety, and breathing issues are also on the rise. If they are not active and engage in any activity, such as exercise, they breathe heavily while doing it. Stress Dogs experience stress when they are separated from their owner when loud noises like thunderstorms or fireworks are made when they are in unfamiliar surroundings, or when they have a new companion with them. These factors could all contribute to dog stress. However, when a dog is under stress, their heart rate rises and their body pumps more oxygenated blood, which demands more oxygen from the system. As a result, the dog has breathing issues. Poisonous food Some foodstuffs are bad for the health of your dog. Dogs can eat carrots and asparagus without any problems, but onions are poisonous to them. It will start panting and vomiting after eating poisonous food. It will make the heart beat faster. You should take your dog to the veterinarian and treat him appropriately if he has this condition. Allergic Reactions Due to allergic responses, dogs can have breathing problems. Pollen, plants, and some chemical fragrances and perfumes have been known to cause allergies occasionally. They sometimes even develop food allergies. Diarrhea and stomach uneasiness will result. Antihistamines are an effective home remedy for treating minor allergies. If symptoms persist for a long time, you should take your dog to the vet. Treatment of Breathing Difficulties in Dogs Breathing problems can have a number of causes, and the diagnosis will determine the best course of action. However, we still have a few options that you can attempt to soothe your dog. If your dog is panting constantly, you should check the temperatures both indoors and outside. Heat stroke will result from your dog spending more time outside during the hotter days. Therefore, you must bring them inside where it is cool and provide fresh water so they may stay hydrated at all times. You must exercise with your dog and go on walks with them if they have grown indolent. Additionally, feed them properly. You must soothe your dog if it is stressed, anxious, or having trouble breathing. Sit next to them while you comfort them till they get peaceful. Go to their favorite place and let them relax. If the painting issue persists, we advise you to take your Goldendoodle to the veterinarian. Summary Breathing issues are common, but they can sometimes develop into serious conditions that require medical attention. To regulate their body temperature, all dogs have the habit of painting. This is not a major issue if the breathing difficulty is temporary and normal. We also discuss other factors, such as whether your dog is overexcited, living in a heated environment, under stress, or for any other cause. If your dog is experiencing breathing difficulties combined with other health problems including coughing, extreme anxiety, or shortness of breath. In this situation, you must take your dog to the vet. Any puppy owner knows that the first few months with a new puppy are a scary time. During this time, puppies are also extremely fragile and receptive to everything. Taking care of a young dog is obviously going to stir up some emotions and bring out your natural instincts of care and constant worry. So, is it normal for puppies to breathe fast? What if your puppy is breathing fast while sleeping? To determine whether or not your puppy is breathing too fast, we first need to understand what the normal breath rate is. For puppies, anything from 15 to 40 breaths per minute is considered normal. In contrast, adult dogs tend to take less breaths per minute, usually between 10 and .REM stands for rapid eye movement and this is also the time when both dogs and humans dream. Although puppies generally breathe faster than adult dogs, there are a few other reasons why your puppy may be breathing faster than usual. Fortunately, for the majority of the time, puppies breathe faster because of normal causes. On the other hand, some common causes can also become dangerous, if left untreated. Just like we dream in our sleep, so do puppies and dogs. More often than not, puppies breathe fast while sleeping because they dream about something exciting or even scary. Sometimes the fast breathing is also accompanied by whining and paw movements in sleep. After all, puppies need up to 20 hours of sleep a day! For example, when they arrive at their new home, away from their mama, littermates, and familiar surroundings. They might breathe faster, but also experience other respiratory issues, including struggling to effectively regulate their body temperature. In addition to that, smaller dogs often breathe faster compared to large-sized Doods. Your puppy may be breathing fast, or they might even be panting to cool down more effectively. Keep in mind that excessive heat can be extremely dangerous and even fatal for puppies and adult dogs. Also, make sure your pup has free access to clean drinking water at all times. Bonus points for air conditioning. Most commonly, we notice this in dogs and puppies who are in the middle of a vigorous playtime. So, breathing fast helps your puppy restore its oxygen levels to transport out all the excess carbon dioxide. For instance, small-sized breeds tend to get tired much faster, so do puppies. Likewise, brachycephalic dogs are at an especially high risk of overheating from hot weather or strenuous exercise. For this reason, you should never push your puppy or dog to train too hard. Is your puppy breathing fast while sleeping or did they just finish their playtime? But when is it time to consult with a veterinarian about the problem? If it becomes a persistent issue, you should contact your vet as soon as possible, as it may indicate that your puppy is struggling with an underlying medical issue. Other serious symptoms to keep an eye out for are changes in behavior, appetite loss, lethargy, difficulty moving, excessive drooling, visibly using stomach muscles to help with breathing, and making unusual sounds when breathing. When it comes to more serious cases, there are various reasons why your puppy may be breathing too fast. These include lung diseases and respiratory illnesses, such as asthma, kennel cough, lungworm, viral and bacterial respiratory illnesses, and pneumonia. Heart diseases, parasites, heatstroke, anemia, hernia, and pain can also contribute to fast breathing. Both external parasites like fleas and ticks , as well as internal parasites like hookworms, roundworms, tapeworms, whipworms, and heartworms can cause a puppy to breathe faster than usual. Although some parasite infestations are completely asymptomatic, others can come with symptoms like coughing, lethargy, loss of appetite, weakness, and abdominal pain, to name a few. Either way, parasite infestations can be extremely dangerous for your little pup, some of them even potentially lethal. Parvovirus Parvovirus is a very dangerous and highly contagious infection that spreads unbelievably easily via other dogs or by coming in contact with contaminated objects, people, or surfaces. It comes in two different forms — intestinal and cardiac — both of which can be fatal. The best way to prevent parvovirus is to have your puppy regularly vaccinated against parvo and other infections as instructed by your veterinarian. Lung Diseases If your puppy is breathing fast while sleeping, lung diseases are something that you should consider. One of the most common, yet serious lung conditions in puppies and dogs is kennel cough. Although kennel cough is treatable, it can be very dangerous for young puppies. Heart Diseases Although it might seem like heart diseases are something that only elderly dogs have to deal with, some unlucky puppies are born with genetic or congenital heart defects. Even though the heart and lungs are two very separate organs, the heart actually pumps blood into the lungs. To compensate, the lungs will try to work over time, causing a puppy to breathe faster than normal. Numerous conditions can cause anemia in dogs, including parvo, parasite infestations, cancer and tumors, autoimmune diseases, and blood loss. The most common signs of anemia include pale gums, lethargy and weakness, loss of appetite, weight loss, and, of course, faster heart rate and faster breathing. Excessive exercise, not drinking enough water, and hot temperatures can all contribute to heatstroke, which can be fatal for both puppies and even adult dogs. A helpful trick is to never overexert your puppy with exercise, especially in warm weather. Also, make sure that your puppy always has access to clean drinking water, a cool and shaded area, and you can also help them cool down with a cooling mat. You can also use pet gates to keep your pup away from dangerous items around the house. As we mentioned earlier, puppies tend to breathe faster than adult dogs. The normal breath rate for puppies is 15 to 40 breaths per minute. Anything above or below that is considered worrisome. By comparison, adult dogs take about 10 to 30 breaths per minute. Moreover, as dogs age, their respiratory rate tends to slow down. Nevertheless, each puppy and dog is unique, and only a veterinarian can help determine whether or not your puppy breathing fast is something to investigate further. One breath equals one inhale and one exhale, paired together. For example, if you counted 10 inhale-exhale movements, your puppy takes 20 breaths per minute. There are numerous reasons why your puppy might be breathing fast, most of them being completely normal and safe. Puppies usually breathe faster than adult dogs. Additionally, as 8 weeks is typically the time when puppies get to go to their forever homes, it might indicate that your puppy is feeling a bit stressed. Being taken to a new environment, with new people, and away from their mama and littermates, can prove to be quite a challenge for many puppies. The easiest way to know whether your puppy is breathing too fast is by counting how many breaths they take per minute. Typically, puppies take 15 to 40 breaths per minute. Use your phone timer and count how many times your puppy inhales and exhales this is one breath in 30 seconds, and then double the result. Like us humans, puppies dream while they sleep. For the majority of the time, yes. However, your puppy should only be breathing faster for short periods of time. For example, when they exercise, or when they cool down after spending time in heat. To learn more about the joys and challenges of puppyhood, be sure to check out our other guides on all things puppy-related. It is not intended to be a substitute for qualified professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified animal health provider with any questions you may have. You Might Also Like.