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Golden retriever rescues in Pennsylvania Other Tips To Find A Rescue Golden Retriever The good news for golden retrievers is that there are more people looking to rescue a golden than there are goldens that need to be rescued. Most golden retriever rescues have long waiting lists, and some have even temporarily stopped accepting applications, but there are other ways to find a golden in need of a home. One way is to join your local golden retriever Facebook groups. Sometimes people that can no longer keep their goldens will post in these groups asking if anyone can take them in. By keeping an eye in these local groups, you can sometimes find a great golden that needs your love and your home. Another way is to get in contact with your local golden retriever club. People may reach out to them if they need to surrender their dog, or some of the members might know someone who has a golden they need to give up. And speaking of golden retriever clubs, when you do get your golden retriever, they can be a great resource for you. Here are the four golden retriever clubs in Ohio:. Read about little Eeyore! Adopt a Golden Retriever Give a golden retriever dog a loving home. We rescue golden retriever dogs from select areas of Ohio, Michigan and in Indiana. Adopt today! See them all. Help Golden Retrievers We rely strictly on your donations to make a difference in the lives of so many loving, deserving golden retriever dogs. You can play a major role in helping us survive! How can I help? Sponsor a Golden Retriever Be a Golden Angel Sponsor or help a golden retriever with extraordinary, critical medical needs. Get all the details and have your name listed next to your sponsored dog. Become an angel. Volunteer or Foster a Golden Retriever Tuck a dog in at night or help show off golden retrievers at our adoption events. Whether you want to provide a temporary loving home or just want to help at events.Be part of rescue. We also adopt golden retrievers to the southeast area of Michigan and the northeast area of Indiana. We adopt to areas within Ohio, Michigan and Indiana where we can do a home visit by a trusted volunteer. Please contact us to see if we can service your area. Kroger Rewards Program Kroger Rewards info. Click Here to go to our Events Page. We welcome members worldwide. Golden Endings is located in central Ohio. Additionally you will know that your membership fee will help save a Golden Retriever in need. If you have questions you may contact our hotline at .Want to help Golden Endings by volunteering some of your time? We would greatly appreciate it for sure. Please Click Here and send us an email. Tell us how you could volunteer your time. Many thanks, as we appreciate anything you might be able to do for us. We get this question asked a lot, "Where on the website can I see a photo of the Goldens you have up for adoption? We don't have photos of the Goldens ready to be adopted on the website because they typically don't stay with us for too long. They come to GEGRR, get the medical care, etc that they may need, and at that point we are actively finding and pairing them up with their forever families, via the adoption applications that we receive. We want them to be with a forever family as soon as they are ready. So putting photos on the website, would be counterproductive, as the Goldens in our care are constantly changing. So please go to the Adoption Page , download and fill out the adoption application, send it in, and we will contact you. You can also call us and we'll answer any questions you might have regarding the adoption process. Here are some of the Goldens that went to their forever homes in .You can see the adopted Goldens from by Clicking Here.

Best Chew Toys for German Shepherds Large breed dogs like the German shepherd can be heavy chewers, and you need some durable toys that can withstand those powerful jaws. So what are the best chew toys for these power chewers? Here are two we think are top of the line. The unique Orka TPE rubber material keeps these toys lasting through tough chewing while keeping dogs interested. The flat shape of the Orka Mini Bone helps exercise jaw muscles while rope pieces support good dental hygiene by… Chewy This is a great chew toy for your GSD. It has a rope running down the middle with knots at each end. You can use it as a tug toy, toss it for a fun game of fetch, or just let your pooch enjoy chewing it. It comes in different sizes, so you can get one for your puppy or adult dog. Featuring squeak and crinkle sounds dogs love, rope handle and ultra durable material, these plush toys stand up to tough tugging play. This eco-friendly rope Outward Hound tug toy is made of jute rope and durable rubber rings. It also doubles as a puzzle toy since your dog works to figure out how to remove the rings. Once he does, you can put them back on to keep the game going. This is a great toy for those tough chewers who really like their toys chewy, and it will leave your best buddy with clean teeth too! Best Interactive Toys for German Shepherds German shepherd dogs are intelligent dogs, and because of that, they need toys that provide them with hours of mental stimulation. Here are some of the best toys that are great for those intelligent dog breeds like the German shepherd. The tennis ball and multi-sized openings are sure to keep your pup mentally engaged for hours of play! Can your pup figure out which two tunnels let the ball out? You can even add treats inside for an extra tasty challenge. You can also put tasty treats like kibble or other types of dog food inside the tunnels so your dog will also be treated to a delicious reward. This intermediate level toy features three tiers with twelve compartments for dog snacks or kibble. The Dog Tornado is a level 2 interactive toy that will keep boredom at bay for hours. Stuff it with treats or even peanut butter. Some of them grow up to be working dogs too so they need to get out and about a lot! Here are some great toys to help them do just that. This durable fetch toy has a thick rim that doubles as an easy grip for you and a tough chew for your dog. Made from TPE material and reinforced with inner ribs and raised textures that feel satisfying to chew while being gentle on teeth and gums. The Orka Flyer bounces and floats so you can take… Chewy This is a great dog toy for your pooch. This fun fetch toy can soar and it also floats, making it a great water toy. This set is great for training your dog to learn new tricks or commands with an easy to set up obstacle course. This outdoor training set features one circular collapsible tunnel, six weave poles, and an adjustable jump with hoop that come in a slim carry case. You can teach him new tricks and commands with this easy-to-set-up obstacle course. He actually has a real hoop to jump through! The kit comes with 1 circular, collapsible tunnel, 6 weave poles, and that adjustable hoop. It will provide you and your dog with hours of fun, mentally stimulating exercise. Here are a couple of great toys that offer a new twist on the classic tennis ball. Your pup will love fetching this squeaky tennis ball whether playing indoors or enjoying the great outdoors. As far as rubber toys go, these are top-of-the-line! They can be used indoors or out, and they are made with high-quality rubber to ensure they will last a long time. Be sure to order GSD-sized balls. Balls that are too small can present a choking hazard. It has the classic rubber ball enclosed in a durable rubber phthalate-free and lead-free shell that helps it last longer. It also keeps your formidable chewer from damaging the squeaker as easily as with other toys. The outer natural rubber shell not only protects the rubber ball but also gives your dog another fun texture to work with. What more can you ask for? Final Thoughts German shepherds are a popular dog breed that will be a loyal best friend for many years. There are also some fun toys on our list for you to enjoy with your buddy too! This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking one, Outward Hound may receive a small commission. Apply treats for training or relaxation, great for indoor rainy days or to help relive stress. Imagine your German Shepherd as a brilliant detective and puzzle toys as intriguing mysteries waiting to be solved. This not only keeps them entertained but also encourages persistence and adaptability. Imagine a toy that dispenses treats when your pup maneuvers it the right way. Puzzle Toy Pros Keeps their minds sharp and engaged. Enhances their cognitive abilities. Provides a mentally challenging activity. Puzzle Toy Cons Some puzzles might take time to figure out. Dogs with low patience levels might lose interest quickly. The Mammoth Cottonblend 5 Knot Dog Rope Toy offers a double delight: satisfying their natural urge to chew and providing an interactive game of tug-of-war. The robust texture of the rope soothes their teething tendencies, and the interactive tugging game solidifies the bond between you and your canine companion. Rope toys are the OGs of canine entertainment, and German Shepherds adore them. Rope Toy Pros Great for bonding through tug-of-war games. Helps clean teeth and massage gums. Provides an outlet for their energy. Rope Toy Cons Rope fibers can unravel over time. Supervision is necessary to prevent tearing away the fibers and swallowing. Classic Launcher Dog Toy. These nifty gadgets allow your pup to enjoy the thrill of chasing a ball without leaving your arm sore from all the throws. For a breed that adores fetch, interactive ball launchers are a game-changer. Just use the mitt-style launcher to grab onto the ball on the ground and save those back muscles for cuddles later. Provides exercise without exhausting you. Your dog can run, jump, and sprint with the power and height the ball launcher gives you. Interactive Ball Launchers Cons Some launchers might not accommodate larger balls. Why not give them the softness of a plush toy as a security blanket, providing comfort during relaxation time? Some plush toys, like the Multipet Lamb Chop Squeaky Plush Dog Toy, even come with squeakers to satisfy their instinctual need to capture prey. Plush toys offer a sense of comfort and companionship during their downtime. These toys become their cuddly buddies. Plush Toys Pros Provides a soft, cuddly companion during rest. Can ease separation anxiety. Satisfies their instinct to "capture" prey. Plush Toys Cons Not suitable for aggressive chewers. Squeakers can pose a choking risk, so always check for toy damage. Soft toys generally require more frequent replacement than harder toys. These toys are durable and can withstand the powerful jaws of a German Shepherd. Their stick-like shape can provide additional fun and variety during playtime. Pros of Squeaky Toys Provides mental stimulation, while the physical act of pouncing, chasing, and shaking it helps release pent-up energy. You can toss the toy, play tug-of-war, or simply watch as your dog enjoys their solo playtime. Can keep your German Shepherd entertained and distracted, especially when they are alone or need to redirect their focus. Cons of Squeaky Toys Some dogs may play too rough with the squeaky stick-toy. While the squeaky sound can be delightful for your German Shepherd, it may not be as enjoyable for you or your neighbors, especially if your dog becomes obsessed with the squeaker. Some German Shepherds can become fixated on the squeaker and develop an obsession with it. This unique toy engages their natural foraging instincts by hiding treats or kibble within its furry fabric, encouraging them to use their nose and paws to uncover the hidden treasures. With its soft texture and stimulating design, the Pet Parents Forager Snuffle Mat provides a relaxing and enriching experience for mealtimes or playtime. German Shepherds enjoy the challenge of using their problem-solving skills to find the treats, turning mealtime into a fun and engaging activity. Just a quick pull of the drawstring closure and your treats are safe from falling out, so taking the snuffle mat with you for a day out is a breeze! Encourages German Shepherds to use their sense of smell and strengthens their foraging skills. Slows down mealtime, preventing dogs from gulping their food too quickly. May help alleviate stress and anxiety in dogs by providing a calming and enjoyable activity. Cons of Snuffle Mats Always use the snuffle mat under supervision, especially with German Shepherds who tend to chew or ingest non-food items. With the Chuckit! The Chuckit! Ultra Rubber Ball Tough Dog Toy provides an outlet for their high energy levels and allows them to engage in an exciting game of fetch. Watching my German Shepherd sprint across the field, her tail wagging with enthusiasm, is a true joy. Playing fetch with your German Shepherd and their favorite ball toy is not only a fantastic way to bond but also a wonderful opportunity to keep them physically fit and mentally engaged. Grab a ball, head outside, and get ready for endless hours of fun with your playful and loyal German Shepherd companion! Pros of Ball Toys Provides an excellent opportunity to engage in physical exercise. Engages their mind, as they have to track, chase, and retrieve the ball, stimulating their problem-solving skills. Strengthens your bond as it involves interactive play and encourages socialization. Can be used as a positive reinforcement tool during training sessions, as German Shepherds are highly motivated by the opportunity to chase and retrieve the ball. Cons of Ball Toys Select appropriately sized ball toys to prevent the risk of choking, especially for German Shepherds who have a tendency to chew or swallow objects. Can sometimes lead to overexcitement and overexertion, which may result in fatigue or potential injuries. Some German Shepherds may exhibit possessive behavior with their ball toys. I own about a dozen!! KONG dog toys, from the classic red to the extreme black, and swear by them! Its unique shape and hollow center allow for treats or kibble to be stuffed inside, turning it into a mentally stimulating and rewarding puzzle toy. German Shepherds will spend hours working to extract every bit of deliciousness from the Kong, keeping them engaged and mentally sharp. More importantly, chewing is a natural, daily activity that German Shepherd puppies enjoy. The durable rubber material of the Kong toy satisfies their natural urge to chew, providing a healthy outlet for their chewing instincts and helping to keep their teeth and gums clean and strong. Treat your German Shepherd puppy to the joy and entertainment of a Kong toy, and watch them happily chew, chase, and puzzle their way to endless fun! Can help alleviate boredom and separation anxiety in dogs by keeping them occupied. Come in various sizes and strengths, making them suitable for different chewing styles, whether you have a strong chewer or a teething German Shepherd puppy. Cons of Kong Toys If the toy is too small or not strong enough, it may pose a choking hazard or get easily destroyed. Can accumulate food residue or become dirty over time, but this is easily remedied by cleaning the toy regularly. While many German Shepherds enjoy Kong toys, some dogs may not show much interest in it. The Squishy Face Studio Flirt Pole is a fantastic toy that can kick your playtime up a notch and release the runner in your German Shepherd! The flirt pole consists of a long pole with a rope attached to one end. To play, you simply move the pole, swinging the toy around in different directions, enticing your German Shepherd to chase and catch it. German Shepherds love the flirt pole for several reasons. Firstly, it taps into their natural prey drive and instinct to chase. The quick movements and unpredictable nature of the toy mimic the movements of prey, triggering their hunting instincts. As your German Shepherd leaps, jumps, and sprints to catch the toy, they engage their muscles and get a great workout. This is especially beneficial for high-energy dogs like German Shepherds, as it helps prevent boredom. Additionally, the flirt pole can also serve as a training tool. It enhances their focus, impulse control, and obedience skills while having a blast. Grab a flirt pole and get ready to kick your playtime up a notch with your energetic German Shepherd! Pros of Flirt Poles Provides an excellent form of physical exercise since chasing after the lure burns off excess energy. A great bonding experience because it allows you to interact and have fun together. Easy to use and require minimal effort on your part, plus you can control the movement and speed of the lure, making it suitable for dogs of different ages and fitness levels. Cons of Flirt Poles Avoid using it on hard surfaces to prevent joint injuries. The Frisco Silicone Treat Lick Mat is a distraction toy that promotes positive reinforcement and mental stimulation. A lick mat is a flat mat with textured patterns, made of food-grade silicone. This activity can be highly engaging and satisfying for your dog. Lick mats are a great multipurpose toy that German Shepherds like. Firstly, they provide mental stimulation as your German Shepherd has to figure out how to access the treat. This can help alleviate boredom and prevent destructive behaviors that may arise from a lack of mental stimulation. Secondly, the repetitive licking action can have a calming effect on your dog, helping to reduce anxiety and stress. It can be particularly useful during times of separation or when your German Shepherd needs to relax. Moreover, lick mats can also promote good dental hygiene. The repetitive licking action may have a calming effect on your German Shepherd, helping to reduce anxiety and stress. Can serve as a slow feeder, extending mealtime and preventing rapid eating. Only hold a certain amount of food, so you need to be mindful of portion sizes and avoid overfeeding. What are you waiting for? Let the games begin! Use it along with all the free training advice here on ShepherdSense to give your skills a boost. She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Not only do you have to make sure that the toy is big and strong enough to withstand a dog that is as powerful as a German shepherd, but you also have to make sure that it is interesting and engaging enough to keep their attention. If you are the owner of a German shepherd, then you know how true this is. Fortunately, there are a few German shepherd toys on the market that are sure to please even the most discerning dog. Here are my favorite picks for the best German shepherd toys of the year: 1. KONG Extreme Dog Toy One of the most important factors in finding the right toy for your German shepherd is making sure that it is strong enough to withstand their powerful jaws. The KONG Extreme Dog Toy is specifically designed for the toughest of chewers, with a durable natural rubber formula that can withstand even the most powerful bites. Another great feature of the KONG Extreme Dog Toy is that it can be stuffed with bits and kibbles, making it a fun and interesting toy to play with. German shepherds are known for their intelligence, and this toy is sure to engage their minds as they figure out how to get the treats inside. You can fill it with your dog's favorite treats such as peanut butter or cheese, or you can even freeze it to keep them entertained for even longer. This bounce helps to fulfill a dog's need to play, providing them with hours of entertainment. Plus, the unpredictable bounce also helps to keep your dog's mind sharp and engaged. The Harry Barker Cotton Rope Tug and Toss is not only a great toy for playing games of tug-of-war with your German shepherd, but it can also help floss their teeth. This flying disc is perfect for playing fetch with your German shepherd in the park, throwing it around in the yard, or even taking it to the beach or lake for some water fetch fun. West Paw Zogoflex Zisc Flying Disc is made from a material that is more pliable than a hard-shell Frisbee and faster than those made from fabric. This means that it will fly farther and faster than other discs, making it more fun for your German shepherd to play with. The pliability of the material also means that it is more likely to bounce back into your hand when thrown, making it easier to play with for both you and your dog. This means that it is safe for your German shepherd to play with, and you can feel good about using it around them. There are no bleaches or chemicals used in the manufacturing process, ensuring that the Barkworthies Elk Antlers Dog Treat is a safe and healthy treat for your pet. Here are some of the benefits of giving your German shepherd the Barkworthies Elk Antlers Dog Treat: German shepherds are an active breed of dog that needs proteins and minerals to maintain their health. Barkworthies Elk Antlers Dog Treats are a good source of both of these things. The antlers are hard enough to help remove plaque and tartar from your dog's teeth, but they are not so hard that they will damage your dog's gums. The Barkworthies Elk Antlers Dog Treat is not only good for your dog's teeth and gums, but it is also beneficial for their mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing. Chewing on the antlers helps to reduce stress and anxiety, and it also provides a healthy outlet for your dog's natural chewing instincts. Don't wait any longer - get your German shepherd the best toys money can buy from Glad Dogs Nations today! With such a wide variety of toys to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect one for your pup. With a curved base, this chewable wiggles back and forth as your pup tries to lick and chew, keeping him focused on the tasty task. Features: Made of vanilla-scented natural rubber Can be filled with liquids like bone broth, pastes like dog-safe peanut butter, and solids like kibble Safe for washing on the top shelf of your dishwasher for easy upkeep Made in China Can be used with most common canine treats Fun, tasty way to beat the summer heat Great pricing perfect for stocking up and having several ready at a time! Cons Not the toughest chew on the market Different Types of Toys for German Shepherds The German shepherd is a large, active dog requiring daily physical and mental exercise. Toys are an excellent tool for making the task easier and provide a fun way to unwind with your pooch and build your bond. Dog toys come in many forms, however, with some better suited for German shepherds than others. The most common types of toys enjoyed by German shepherds are: Balls and Fetch Toys The German shepherd is a chase-happy floof ready to run, making fetch toys like balls or Frisbees some of the best toys for him. Like retrievers, German shepherds can be a little too fetch-obsessed, giving your arm one heck of a workout. Invest in a dog ball launcher to make things easier and give your arm a break. Incorporating a treat-dispensing ball is another great idea, as these toys keep your shepherd occupied on his own as he paws, nudges, and shakes the ball to free goodies hidden inside. Doing your homework here is vital since chews come in various types, from chew toys for teething puppies to long-lasting chews for the most determined chewers. Some German shepherd owners like to offer edible chews on occasion, too, such as beef collagen and bully sticks. Tug Toys Most German shepherds love a good game of tug, so tug toys are a natural choice for the breed. These toys should be large enough that you and your dog or your dog and another dog can safely hold either end of the toy. Training Toys Many German shepherds have specialized skills that require ongoing training. This can include working dogs like police pups and herders or those who practice canine sports like Schutzhund or agility. Maintaining these skills takes a lot of training that can get boring or repetitive. Adding dog training toys to the mix makes sessions more fun and engaging. Water Toys Not every shepherd is wild about the wet stuff, but water-loving ones are obsessed. Puzzle toys offer a great test and heaps of fun for your wise woofer, usually with a tasty reward that food-motivated shepherds are eager to work for. Every dog has likes and dislikes that may not always align with their breed. Also, consider his age and overall health. Picking a Toy for Your German Shepherd: Things to Think About Every dog is unique, but there are some basics to consider while toy shopping, as only some products are a good fit or even safe for your dog. This is especially true with a large breed known to be hard on toys like a German shepherd. Another dog might prefer a simple chew for laid-back fun. Food-motivated shepherds love Lickimats as an indoor option. Freezing them helps them last longer, too. Snuffle mats are another great option, as they put his sniffer to work for hidden goodies. Toys made of solid heavy-duty rubber or nylon are ideal, particularly those without small pieces that can be chewed away. While fun for a dog to gnaw at, these nubs are choking and ingestion hazards if chewed free and swallowed. Materials Dog-safe construction is a must for any toy. The U. Dangerous chemicals like arsenic and lead have been found in toys manufactured overseas. For this reason, many pet parents opt for American-made dog toys only. Other toys can be used for games of fetch on land or in water, and some can double as chew toys and tuggers. Warranty Some manufacturers stand behind their products so much that they offer a money-back or replacement guarantee if your doggo damages or destroys the toy. Sometimes, these have time limits such as 30 days, while others offer lifetime guarantees. These warranties are great for peace of mind about the product and for getting the most for your money. Most toys can be rinsed clean with mild soap and water, while others are dishwasher-safe for more in-depth cleaning. To keep your German shepherd safe around his toys: Purchase responsibly: Only buy size-appropriate toys for your dog made of dog-friendly, non-toxic ingredients. These super hard chews are especially risky for dogs who chomp down on toys versus gnawing at them. To see if a dog toy is too hard, press your fingernail into it. You also want to see if any are due for a cleaning or if your pup has outgrown them super important with puppies! Discard damaged or small toys: Promptly trash any broken or damaged toys. These are serious choking and ingestion hazards, as well as risks for mouth lacerations if they have sharp edges. Not only are these foul-smelling, but they can also make you and your dog sick. Every dog is different. When in doubt, ask your vet. The Importance of Toys for German Shepherds All dogs originated with a job, but few take working as seriously as the German shepherd. From herding to police work to sniffing out bombs, these doggos are the floofs-of-all-trades in the dog world. This makes the breed one of many that need a job, which can be hard to offer all the time. This is where toys come in. Here are a few ways toys benefit German shepherds: Burning off physical energy. German shepherds started out herding livestock around the farm, covering large swaths of land with speed and agility. This athleticism remains at the heart of the breed and demands a daily outlet. A long walk or brisk jog is ideal, but not everyone can go as fast or as long as the breed would like to. Toys help take off some of the physical workload of exercising your German shepherd. Instead of hiking with your dog for an hour every day which not everyone can do! Providing mental stimulation. He can and will get bored quickly. This is where toys can shine. Easing anxiety. Anxiety can lead to many issues, from destructive chewing to nuisance barking and even health problems. Offering a safe outlet for chewing instincts. Chewing is a natural instinct that dogs need to express. This is as costly as it is dangerous, with non-chew items risking potential mouth injury, bowel obstruction, and poisoning. Does your German shepherd have any of the toys we listed? Share the details in the comments for other shepherd parents! Like it? Share it! Goughnuts Toy Collection This toy collection has a style and shape for every bite. They are virtually indestructible dog tug toys for aggressive power chewers that come with a Lifetime Guarantee! They are ideal for interactive play and bonding. This toy is excellent for even the most aggressive chewers and helps reduce problem behaviors such as chewing and separation anxiety. It has dental ridges that are stimulating for your dog while also cleaning your dog's teeth while he chews, helping prevent tooth decay and bad breath. Made from an all-natural rubber compound that is FDA compliant, non-toxic and biodegradable. It is sustainably harvested helping us reduce our carbon footprint. Animal and planet friendly! It is one of the most durable dog balls around! These balls will stand up to the toughest dogs and comes in several sizes. They roll and float on water and will help your dog relieve his built-up energy. Proudly made in the USA from hard plastic. This mat provides hours of enrichment for your pet. Licking soothes and calms your dog. Also promotes fresh breath, healthy teeth and gums and stimulates saliva to aid digestive health. This is not a chew toy! They fly slow, straight, and level, making them easy to catch. They are made of highly durable soft foam that will hold up to being in your dog's mouth without cutting or hurting them. Even floats in water. Colors may vary. These are not chew toys. Ball On Rope Hollow -Gappay This fun tug toy is built to last and is made from high-quality material for a long life. However, the ball is tapered on the inside to help prevent it from pulling off the cord so that the risk swallowing is minimized. Hollow cast, colors vary. Bite tug, fetch toy-Bull Fit These tug toys equal fun and great for training. They are made from high quality firehose and French linen material that will provide hours of interactive play to help strengthen the bond between you and your furry buddy, to keep them happy and healthy. At the end of play, the bright color is easy to spot. This toy is durable but is not a chew toy. The ring is light and easy to work with which allows you to train a dog for a long time. The unique durable non-toxic material will not damage your dog's teeth and gums. It also floats which opens up additional opportunities for training and interacting with the dog. Made in the Ukraine. Comes in 2 sizes. This durable ball is perfect for pet parents seeking a new and exciting game to play with your dog. Strategically created with our four-legged friends in mind, this ball toy for dogs is designed with a unique indented shape that creates a handle for both dogs and their human play buddies to pick up, carry, and roll. Made of durable rubber with an authentic basketball feel, this fun dog toy keeps its shape, even if punctured. Plus, the innovative design offers mesmerizing bounce-and-roll action. Bounce crazier, grip better, and play harder with the Original B Ball Gripz basketball toy for dogs! Puppies Since GSD puppies are generally stronger, more energetic, and have a higher drive, they can have a knack for destroying toys more than other breeds. This article will give options for the best toys for German Shepherd puppies in different categories so you will be sure to find a toy perfect for your young pup. Start by determining all the types of toys they need and are most excited by. Do they need chew toys to help with their teething? Or are you looking for toys to keep them occupied? Once you know what you need, look for the specific features that would make a dog toy perfect for your specific pup. To reduce the chances of that happening, consider the following when choosing dog toys for your pup: 1 Size Size is the most critical part of choosing a dog toy. This is especially important for balls and chew toys. Most puppies are excited by squeaky sounds, while others love chasing after toys that bounce. Apart from giving them an object to bite, chew, or grasp, these toys provide extra mental stimulation. For most puppies, the louder the squeak, the better. They are durable but not too tough for young puppy teeth. What I love:. Evidently, their natural yearnings to observe things and the people around them, are very high. This makes them highly interactive with their surroundings. Have a glance at some more benefits of interactive toys: Self-entertainment: interactive toys are a great way to keep your pet entertained on its own. If you are having some work and errands to run, feel free to leave your dog with such toys. Weight management: Interactive toys give your pet enough physical time. Tugging on a rope, fetching a ball; just all the physical games a dog needs! Satiate the natural hunting instincts: Since dogs are wild animals, they do have their natural urges to hunt. Using interactive toys allows your pet to use that part of its brain and allows it to forage around. Activities that incorporate interactive toys have been known to help against future disorders like Dementia. Note: There is a word of caution here. Do not let the toys take away from the daily walks and exercises. While toys are a great help in exercising your dog, they are not a substitute for walking or other outdoor activities. Dogs are inherently well at sniffing and uncovering things. This mat works wonders in triggering their senses. The mat has long fringes of different colours. All you have to do is hide their favourite treats here and there amongst the fringes. Once done, see how busy your dog gets while using this mat on its own. These mats are made out of polyester and cotton. Easily washable. Trixie Playing Rope If your dog is high-spirited and keeps frolicking around, Trixie Playing Rope is your best friend! This playing rope has a woven ball at one end and a grip at another. Grab it in a hand and see how well can your pooch tug and pull. This interactive rope might also be used to teach commands. Teach your dog when to pull and when to expel the pressure. Helps in alleviating stress levels in your dog. Chew Toys A very traditional way through which dogs try to interact is by chewing things off. You must have seen your pooch doing the same. Chewing on slippers, clothes, and anything that they find chewable! Getting a Chew Rope Ball will save all your furniture and accessories to be chewed by your dog. Additionally, Chew Toys are much more than what meets the eye. The toys may turn out to be safer than dog bones! Despite having a long way of being related to dogs, bones may be hazardous. Excessive chewing on bones may lead to broken teeth, blockages, and digestive issues. Chew toys are also proven to be beneficial for dental health. Frequent chewing keeps the teeth clean and naturally scrapes away any tartar build-up. This activity also leads to the production of antibacterial components in the saliva and cleans the mouth. Chewing on toys helps with separation anxiety. Just like humans, dogs also face separation anxiety issues. Chewing for dogs is analogous to meditation for humans. Mental stimulation: Just like physical activities, mental stimulation is also necessary. If you have some other work to do, leave your dog with this ball and watch it immerse itself for hours. Sturdy; does not wear off easily. Clearly, dogs are fond of chewing. This is why you must have some chew toys other than ballies! Kong Classic Rubber Chew Toys have been the favourite toys for many years. Ever noticed your dog becoming nervous when you are about to leave? This rubber chew toy helps pooches with their separation anxiety as well! Try leaving this with your pup in your absence and see how occupied they stay with it. Also helpful for teething puppies. Teething often makes your dog chew a lot to pacify the sensation. You may fill the toy with little pop treats or peanut butter if your dog likes it and prolong the playtime to snacking as well. Suitable to play fetch with. The toy comes in different sizes given ages. This chew toy also procures comfort when your pup feels anxious. The soft texture makes them feel relaxed even when you are not around. It does not contain any plastic or rubber. Waago Rubber Ring Dogs get entertained with almost anything that you choose to play fetch with. Be it a slipper, a remote, a ball, or any toy. It depends solely on your pup and you will be fortunate enough if they prefer toys like Waago rubber rings over your slippers or phones! This toy by Waago is yet another simple but fascinating toy. Adequate for a great game of fetch, chewing, hiding and seeking as well. Made with good quality rubber and is non-toxic. Easily cleanable with soapy water. Soft Toys German shepherds may seem intimidating but they also are goofballs. They do love toys that intrigue them, but they also adore having some stuffed toys. Depending on what your pup prefers, it may be a stuffed fishy, a turtle, a starfish, or even a stuffed ball. No wonder, your dog too will. This cute stuffed Waago Clown Fish Toy is a must-have for your pup. When you get one, you will realise that having just one is not enough. Additionally, you may also double it as a throw toy. The toys are hand-stitched to perfection. Not just a clownfish, you can avail this stuffed toy in a lot of shapes and animals. Dogs love to eat meat and this toy completely parallels a thick meaty sausage. This toy is soft and also makes up for a good cuddle partner. It is about 14 cm long and made out of vinyl. Easily washable, just like any other soft toy. Squeaky Toys As the name suggests, these toys squeak or play sounds when pressed. Now, this may not seem like a very good option from your end because of the undesirable turmoil. However, dogs respond differently and rather humorously to such noises. It makes them wonder what it is and where it is coming from. When your dog finally catches it, there comes the squeak. This makes the simple game of fetching more interesting and interactive. The toy floats in water. Throw it in the water and see your dog swim up to it. Made out of non-toxic material. Everyone has grown up having seen this. Well, it is kind of true. Dogs do love bones. Made out of non-toxic material so that it is safe for your pup. It is very lightweight, hence easy to throw and fetch. Rather than just leaving it with your dog, involve yourself in the gameplay as it helps in bonding. The bone comes in several sizes, for different ages. Dogs do not need anything fancy. They do not long for expensive gifts or cars. All they need is your love and kindness. This is why making time and playing around with them does more than half of the work. Small things like these mean a lot to them. But just giving the toys will not be enough. You have to be there with them to play those. This is all they know, to play and to love you unconditionally. Related Blog.

Yes, I do believe they like one another. It only took a few days for Allie to accept Bruno into her pack. How do I know she has accepted him? Because Allie started pushing her food around , elling Bruno not to eat—a sure sign that she accepts the little puppy into her pack. He is deaf so we have to watch him if we let him out of the fence, because it wouldn't do any good to holler for him, since he cannot hear us. He also has blue eyes , which I think is very rare, because most Boxers that I see only have one blue eye , and he has 2 blue eyes. He likes to sleep, play, eat , he likes to be in the house because his hair is thin and short. He also likes to play with my Australian Shepherd Dixie. He always has to sleep in the bed with me. He has to either be leaning on you, sitting on your foot , or lying on you when you are in the bed. He absolutely HATES getting a bath , but he likes it when he gets out and you put the towel over his whole body and start rubbing him all over.His bad habits are: chewing up my little sisters toys , barking when he can't see or find you. He gets a lot of exercise during the day, because we have an acre fenced in where they can run as much as they like. He's the biggest clown I know and snores like you wouldn't believe, but we love him dearly. Shaggy the Boxer in his crate with a cone on his head after being neutered. My name is Bear, by the way. Now go on.Notice the ears are not cropped and the tail is not docked. It is illegal to do so in a lot of European countries. Much like a boxer might spar with an opponent. The Boxer is thought to be a modern descendant of larger mastiff-type fighting dogs that were bred to hunt large game like bison and bears. The white Boxer may be smaller than these ancestors, but this is still a very powerful dog. White Boxer Dog Appearance Contrary to popular belief about the white Boxer, this coat color is not actually rare in Boxers. These include the brown and white Boxer dog, the black and white Boxer dog, the brindle and the fawn. Here again, if the white portions of the coat equal 30 percent or more of the total coat, the Boxer will be considered to have a white Boxer coat color even if there are other colors or patterns present in the coat as well. One of the most enduring myths about white Boxer puppies with blue eyes is that they will be blind later in life. For white Boxers today, blue is considered just another possible eye color. Shedding and Grooming The white Boxer, like all Boxers, has a very short, neat, single layer coat. However, pale dogs can look mucky more quickly than darker haired dogs. Therefore you might need to brush your dog down slightly more often, and bath them more frequently too. Are They Hypoallergenic? The Boxer has a short coat that sheds throughout the year. They spread allergens through the proteins in their dander and saliva, and are not a good match for human allergy sufferers unfortunately. The white Boxer typically weighs 50 to 80 pounds, with adult males outweighing adult females by about 15 pounds. An adult Boxer may stand 21 to 25 inches tall paw to shoulder. Temperament and Personality The white Boxer has the same playful, friendly, and sociable temperament and personality that the Boxer dog breed is known for overall. In fact, the Boxer is often so exuberant that they need continual training and reinforcement not to bowl you over or leap up onto you just to say hello. Even if you just saw each other five minutes ago! Are Boxers Good With Kids? However, the Boxer is high energy and loves to jump up. Boxers tend to do well with other Boxers so long as they are opposite genders. Same-gender Boxers are known to be somewhat intolerant of each other. Guarding Tendencies Both the white male and white female Boxer dog can make a good family watchdog. For this reason, early and ongoing training and socialization is a vital part of helping your white Boxer learn how to welcome guests. And be a healthy and productive member of your family and the local community. A white Boxer will bark as necessary. For a Boxer, often this means barking to alert you when a stranger is present or if something seems amiss. Too much barking may indicate your Boxer is bored or lonely. In addition to strategic barking, you can expect your Boxer to drool more than a bit. Many owners also report that Boxers tend to snore, which may be due to having the shortened muzzle characteristic of brachycephalic dog breeds. Training and socialization The white Boxer, like all Boxers, can be stubborn during training. This is especially true during the short attention span puppyhood phase! Boxers can be independent thinkers, and this arises from their breed history as a hunting dog bred to hunt prey far ahead of their people. They do best in training when you keep each session fresh and interesting and avoid too much repetition. The Boxer is a flat-out amazing canine athlete and will enjoy and excel in canine sports like agility and search-and-rescue. These dogs are also top picks for K-9 and service dog roles. These dogs love to play, jump, run and chase and you should make sure your yard is escape-proof before letting your Boxer out. Are White Boxer Dogs Healthy? Most purebred dog breeds have certain health concerns that are associated with breed. Boxer dogs are no exception. Because white Boxer dogs can have a higher susceptibility to deafness, ethical breeders do not use white Boxer dogs in their breeding stock. However, this does not mean Boxer parent dogs with other coat colors will not produce white Boxer puppies. As long as all other health tests come back clear, white Boxer puppies can make wonderful pet dogs and have the same 10 to year average life expectancy as do all other Boxer dogs. Boxers can be particularly prone to developing heart disease, including aortic stenosis, which is often initially detectable during routine veterinary exams when the vet hears a heart murmur. Often murmurs related to aortic stenosis, which are different than puppy heart murmurs that resolve with age, are not detectable until the Boxer is an adult. Another all-too-common heart issue is cardiomyopathy, which is often detectable via heart arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat. Boxer dogs that exhibit signs of weakness, lethargy, or collapse may be suffering from early stage cardiomyopathy. They are also prone to: Canine cancer. Life Span Did You Know? The Boxer is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. It has been recognized by the AKC since .Although the Boxer dog breed originated in Germany, their ancient ancestry can be traced back to the Assyrian empire war dogs of BC. The modern Boxer breed we know and love today was originally developed in Germany in the late s. English-bred Bulldogs and the Bullenbesiier were crossed to create an energetic and agile hunting dog to chase wild game. The Boxer is a popular family companion and a versatile working dog. As a member of the Working Group, Boxers can be found competing in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding. They also make great service and assistance dogs, as well as therapy dogs, and can be found working as search and rescue dogs, drug detection dogs, police dogs, and military dogs. The Boxer is a muscular and energetic dog that tends to have a happy, friendly disposition. They bond closely with their families and tend to get along well with children and other dogs. They can even do well with other pets despite their high prey drive if they are socialized and trained with them. As long as they are well-socialized, Boxers are generally upbeat, playful, and friendly. Although they have a natural instinct to protect their family from unwanted visitors, they do tend to warm up once introduced and are happy to make a new friend. They can be prone to barking a lot if you do not work on socialization and training your dog to stop barking early on. Boxers can be highly adaptable dogs. Although they have a lot of energy and are better suited to homes with yards where they can run, they can adapt to apartment living as long as they get the daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need. As with any non-arctic dog breed, they are sensitive to very cold temperatures. Boxers are also a brachycephalic breed, which means they are even more sensitive to heat than other dogs. A Boxer is also one of the most affectionate dog breeds. Because they bond so closely with their families and get bored easily, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health conditions to be aware of in a Boxer include hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, thyroid issues , and heart conditions like aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy. Good breeding practices make a big difference and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents and about any health tests that have been done. Boxers are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. Despite their energetic personality, they are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and are highly trainable dogs. They tend to excel at almost any task put before them! Because of their open, friendly nature and high energy, they have a tendency to jump up at people in excitement and playfulness. Since they grow into powerful dogs, you will want to make sure you train your dog not to jump up. Boxers have smooth and short coats that will shed a little year-round and require minimal grooming. A brush-down once or twice a week and the occasional bath as needed will keep their short coat healthy and looking great. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Checking ears weekly and carefully cleaning as needed can help prevent ear infections. Checking and wiping their facial wrinkles weekly or a few times a week if your dog is prone to getting into things can help keep their wrinkles clean and free of irritation. Dental diseases, like gum disease, are the most common health issues in older dogs because dental care is often overlooked; and, it can lead to other serious health issues. Brushing daily, plus cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. The Boxer is a high-energy dog breed that needs plenty of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Due to their high prey drive and urge to chase, they should only be let off-leash in secure areas. Boxers tend to get bored with repetition, are excellent problem solvers, and are naturally exuberant. A fully-grown Boxer usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. Boxers generally live years on average. In Germany, the Boxer was one of the first dog breeds chosen for police training. Featured Boxer Article. Boxer dogs are usually found in brown or black coat, but there is a certain percentage of white and faun boxers with a major chance of having blue eyes. Blue eyed dogs are commonly found with white fur coats, and this is a genetic reason. Predominately seen with white patches; these boxer dogs have a high chance of being deaf. This genetic disorder that has traveled over the years. Blue eyed boxer puppies can be found having brown eye patches which is a desirable trait and makes the boxer dog appear to be friendlier. One fact about faun boxer with blue eyes and white boxer with blue eyes is that, these dogs can inherit blue eyes even if their parents have black or dark brown eyes. This recessive gene is known to be found in every boxer puppy and has different reasons to show up. As a puppy grows up, it is born with a differing blue eye color. Over the few weeks they tend to mature and the color is gradually changed. Boxer dogs which have larger white and lighter patches on the body are known to have blue eyes. One of the types is the Brindle boxer with blue eyes. This breed has a shiny short hair fur coat, with patches around the eye. The personality trait of these is super happy, and fun loving pets. These boxer dogs have five types of marking son their bodies which are lighter shades of brindle, fawn, and white. They have a large number of marking placements all over. Faun Boxer Dogs with Blue Eyes This breed is found to have different shades of hues, with varying white markings in a flashy way. These are found in a standard way on the muzzle, near the tummy and back. This faun shade varies from light to gold and dark. The blue eyes are a natural gene, whereas the white shades are found on the paws, ankles, chest, and muzzle. The white patch is called a check pattern. With a wide variety of boxer breed types, you get to explore the different shades of this breed. The white boxer is a healthy and that of a brindle or faun boxer. It is a complete myth to think that the white boxer dogs are an Albino production. They are as normal as any boxer breed and usually are born with blue colored eyes. Watch the full video of blue eyed boxer below.

It also conducts various events for purebred dogs, and regulates the activities of involvement of dogs on these staged events. The most famous event conducted by AKC is their annual event — National Dog show, where participants can enter their purebred dogs all around America to compete on various skills. English golden retriever is classified in the terms of AKC as an English purebred dog. British purebred golden retrievers differ slightly from original Scottish bred retrievers. Types of certification include CHIC certification, Hip certification, age, eye, and color coat certification which allows or disapproves the fact of a golden retriever being purebred or not along the lines of AKC standards. Breed standards are classified on the basis of traits like general appearance — which classifies it into having an overall personality of being sporty, stud, indoor loving or outdoors loving. A standard size is defined for being eligible for a certain breed, apart from this — temperament, characteristics, eyes, neck; ears all have a certain threshold to which every purebred dog must fit into. General Appearance — The English Golden Retriever has been classified into a sports category, so they are powerful, agile and energetic. They have a hearty kind of personality and are more emotionally attached with physical attributes like being burly, sturdy and athletic. They have a good speed and are considered to be a hunting dog. So, a general overview is seen to be a fit healthy dog running around and playing with other dogs or their owners. Characteristics — Golden retrievers are characterized to be a good family dog breed along with being smart, agile, kid friendly, easy to train and a decent watch dog breed. They have a fluffy and cute appearance and cover up most of the necessary qualities a good dog must possess. Along with this, they are quite well built, powerful and brawny. Temperament — Overall a good temperament, they are amiable, gregarious, dependable and reliable. They do not generally get nervous or weak when it comes to interacting with other dogs, they usually do not quarrel on companionship of fellow dogs, and are not usually dominated, similar they do not like to show their power and get into fights. They have a deep snout which is nearly as long as their skull. Quite a big head when it comes to comparison with other breeds, and built to be strong and supporting the activities of mouth. Eyes — They have very expressive eyes, medium large and are slightly triangular in shape. They convey a friendly expression and show them to be quite intelligent. They have close fitting rims on the sides and both eyes are set well apart for a wide field of view. Generally, a dark gold color and in some cases medium gold for purebred dogs is acceptable. Ears — Ears are quite short and are located just above the eye and falling down to the length of cheek. The front edge of both the ears is well attached behind two adjacent eyes, for a quick test, both ears and can be pulled forward and the forward tip should cover the eye — which is considered to be the ideal length. Mouth — Having a sharp scissors teeth bite, teeth must be perfectly aligned with each other, misalignment is not approved and an incorrect level bite is penalized. The outer side of the incisors placed at the lower segment touches the upper segment of incisors at the inner portion of the teeth alignment. Under bite or overbite is not approved to be classified as purebred of English Golden Retriever. Neck — Having a muscular appearance, they have a medium length neck, and are merging into strong bulky shoulders — which are strong and stiff. Forequarters — They have a strong and well coordinated forequarters and ability of free movement based on support of the hindquarters respectively. Body — Since they are agile and energetic, body is very well balanced and coordinated with legs, neck and the backbone. Chest is quite deep, and the brisket extends to the length of elbow. Ribs are long and well extended through the length of the respective hindquarters. Loins are short and muscular and quite deep with a small amount of tuck-up, too much tuck-up is eliminated. Feet — Feet are medium sized, and a good support of knuckles for agile movement is seen, possession of hair is not mandatory, and can be trimmed according to liking. Tail — English Golden Retrievers have a muscular tail that is thick in appearance which extends to the point of the hock. Tail follows the line of the back reaching to the rear part of the hindquarters. An agile action should be followed by the tail bones. Having a good reach with long legs, the position of legs is well placed with each other and no interference or disturbance from front and rear is seen. Once a more rapid movement is seen feet converge towards the center for prior balance. Coat — A well built coat but at the same time resilient and smooth, the coat does not seem harsh or dirty but is silky, clean and fully fledged. The coat length must be precise, too long or short are not approved, and the natural color or appearance of coat should not be altered. Color — They have primarily a rich golden color which has a glowing and shiny appearance, and may contain a few shades. With the aspect of age, few white marking can be considered, but not many. Body should not be pale or dark, and manual shading is not approved. Size — The average size of males must be around inches, while females must be in the threshold of 21 to 22 inches. Deviation up to less than one inch is approved, but more than one inch can be penalized. Weight for male dog is pounds and pounds for female dog. Limited Registration Limited registration restricts breeding. Essentially, the generations of litters have different rights. Our dogs have full breeding registration. Your puppy, will have limited registration. Unless you obtain breeding rights from us, and from the AKC, any puppies that your dog produces cannot be registered with the AKC. Breeding Rights Breeding rights are obtained by following multiple channels. First, you must purchase breeding rights from West Coast Cream Goldens. Unfortunately, this is not something we can help you with. When you purchase breeding rights from West Coast Cream Goldens, we will provide you with all of the documentation you will need to prove that your puppy is a purebred English Golden Retriever with a reputable, honorable lineage. Disclaimer: West Coast Cream Goldens does not recommend or condone breeding your puppy before the age of two years. This can lead to complications. Share this:. Such cream Golden Retrievers are frequently being touted as being healthier, of having better temperament, of having stronger longevity and the implicit suggestion is that they therefore are more valuable than the more golden-colored Golden Retrievers bred in North America. Due to these common marketing ploys the average puppy buyer sometimes mistakes such light-colored Golden Retrievers for being a separate breed. Nothing could be further from the truth. There is only one Golden Retriever breed, governed by the breed standard endorsed by various recognized Kennel Clubs around the world. The Golden Retriever Club of America would like to emphasize to breeders and puppy buyers alike that the cream color has always been part of the full spectrum of colors found in our breed. Feathering may be lighter than rest of coat. With the exception of graying or whitening of face or body due to age, any white marking, other than a few white hairs on the chest, should be penalized according to its extent. Allowable light shadings are not to be confused with white markings. Predominant body color which is either extremely pale or extremely dark is undesirable. Some latitude should be given to the light puppy whose coloring shows promise of deepening with maturity. Any noticeable area of black or other off-color hair is a serious fault. The photo below furthermore illustrates the common shades of cream and gold found on this continent and all of these particular dogs are bred right here in North America. This broad range of color is not only commonly found around the world, but both light and dark shades can also occur in the very same Golden Retriever litter, with full siblings varying in color from very light cream to a rich gold. Some breeders favor different styles of Golden Retrievers and some may even have a personal preference for a lighter or a darker golden, but good breeders never focus exclusively on a specific color, since this would unnecessarily narrow the gene pool and may cause genetic predispositions towards hereditary health issues to become magnified over time. Good Golden Retrievers of differing styles should, however, all possess strong breed type. They should be readily recognized as Golden Retrievers, whether they are a rich gold or a pale cream. All Golden Retrievers across the world are descended from this original Scottish stock. You can also find very dark colored Golden Retrievers overseas, just as you can find very pale cream North American bred Goldens. It is our position that a breeding program which focuses mainly on color should be viewed with some skepticism. If claims are being made that the light creams are more valuable or healthier than darker colored Golden Retrievers, then the buyer should be aware that such statements are blatantly incorrect. We instead urge all new puppy owners to carefully review all recommended health clearances and ask the appropriate questions about longevity in the pedigree of any puppy. It is never the color of a Golden Retriever that determines its temperament and working ability or its health and potential longevity. Instead the quality of a Golden Retriever will be determined by the care the individual breeder has taken, by adhering to the standard when breeding, as well as by doing careful pedigree research and screening for soundness in mind and body. Consider contributing to The Golden Retriever Foundation. More Information. Check out the "our new friends" tab to see more. I have carefully selected my breeding stock our family pets from countries all over the world. By choosing animals from all corners of the earth I have created my own individual outstanding purebred lines. In my quest to create my breeding stock I looked for versatility in each blood line. I looked at the temperament and personality in each individual dog. I wanted a variety of coat colors from bright white to light cream, but the individual animals genetic makeup and overall personality was the most important to me. I searched records to see how long different bloodlines lived because I wanted my puppies to live long healthy. I looked for animals that moved with grace and stood proud. I wanted beauty and poise. I wanted to produce puppies that would only enhance the English Cream Golden Retriever breed. I wanted my animals to create their own legacy. We promise that the puppy has been loved by us and handled numerous times every day in a loving way. We promise we have done everything that we could think of to ensure that your puppy will be a happy well balanced individual. We promise to tell you everything about his personality that we are aware of. We promise all of this is to the best of our knowledge. Our English Cream Golden Retrievers are members of our family. We love them, we play with them, we camp with them, we swim with them. Some of them want to sit on us, and want us to hold them like we did when they were 10 pounds.But now they are 85 pounds. We laugh at them, we laugh with them, we talk with them, and they talk to us. They walk beside us, not in front of us. We teach them right from wrong and their world falls apart at the first "No". Some of us dress them up in silly stuff and they wear it all day without a complaint, some of us tie there ears together with a hair tie to make them look like a bunny.And they rather like it. We go to them with tears in our eyes and they listen. Sometimes they stand or sit besides us for hours just to see if we need them. They are never ever mean to us, they never get mad at us, they will listen to what is bothering us when no one else has time. They prance and their tails wag every time we glance at them. They love us so very much. They have baskets of toys here, there, and everywhere. They have daily contests to see who can hold the most toys in their mouths. They love to play fetch with us. They are our pride and our joy and I do not know how we could live without them.

What factors determine the price of a German Shepherd Puppy? The price of a German Shepherd puppy does vary, depending on her age, color, bloodline, litter size, location, as well as breeding cost. German Shepherds obtained from animal shelters and rescue organizations are relatively inexpensive because they charge only enough to cover their costs. Here are the 5 most prominent factors that will affect the price of a German Shepherd: 1. Age Age is the most important factor in determining the price of a German Shepherd Dog. All in all, it has a lot to do with the desirability of a cuddly puppy. Puppies that are only weeks old will cost the most. It is because this marks the beginning of the most precious moments of a puppy. The demand drives up the price. The price of German Shepherd puppies of 12 weeks or older will start to decrease. Adult German Shepherds will be offered at much lower prices because some people see them as less desirable. Another reason is that the new owner may need to set a budget for health issues related to senior dogs. Coat Color Some colors are more expensive than others. For German Shepherds, colors such as white will cost more than the usual black and tan. This is because these rare coat colors are more difficult to breed. Bloodline Although purebred German Shepherds puppies are the most sought-after ones, mixed-breed pups usually cost much less and have the potential to be healthier than many purebreds. In general, German Shepherds have working lines and show lines, totaling five different variations. We will get into them later in this article. Litter size It refers to the number of puppies in a litter. Usually, the more the number of puppies in a litter, the cheaper the price will become. Location The location from where you purchase your German Shepherd can actually affect how much you pay. Areas with a lower cost of living, or places where there is less demand will typically charge lower prices than more populated cities. Certain states or cities may even have more regulations on breeding which may increase the cost, thus the price of a German Shepherd pup. And these all come at a cost for the breeders. What are the different variations of the German Shepherd bloodline and their prices? While the German Shepherd is a dog breed of its own, you may probably stumble upon different variations. Purebred German Shepherds come in many different sizes, colors, coloration patterns, and body styles. In general, German Shepherds are divided into working lines and show lines, totaling five different variations. Here is a four-minute video from which you can learn about their variations: 1. They have a distinctive angulation with their back legs shorter than their front legs, thinner bones, and significantly smaller heads. They come in quite a few colors, mostly solid with occasional bi-color variations, including black and tan saddle, solid back, solid white, and saddle sable. But their obedient and playful character make them fantastic pets. There are certain measurement minimums for their hips and elbows. This results in a stunning, very specific, and uniform appearance. These dogs have a very strong, pronounced build with a black and tan saddle, and solid back. They make good house protectors and need a lot of exercises and to be trained frequently. These dogs are very social. So they are perfect for families with kids. This is the line of GSD you would normally see in movies. They are also closest to the original breed that was bred and developed by Max von Stephanitz, who is acknowledged as the father of German Shepherd Dogs. With a stable temperament, they excel in working jobs, and also make awesome family pets. Rigid control of the original DDR breed prevents the gene poll from diluting. They must be free from any history of hip dysplasia, among other health conditions, to be able to reproduce. This resulted in a very distinct look — with large heads, large bones, and a shiny dark coat. The Czech further tightened the breeding standards, resulting in arguably the most intense breed of German Shepherd available to date. But they are extremely loyal and obedient, with a pleasant temperament. They could be the best guard dog to protect people. But they are extremely rare nowadays. Other factors that affect the cost of a German Shepherd A puppy whose parents and often grandparents and other relatives are hunting champions has the potential to excel in these areas as well. And it will cost you more than any puppy who is the offspring of just average parents. And the most expensive German Shepherds are those adults with proven records as show dogs, K9, or breeding dogs. What is a reasonable price for a German Shepherd puppy? Reputable breeders, when pricing their German Shepherd puppies, must factor in the cost of breeding, feeding, raising, and caring for the pups as well as their mother. Slight to No Slopes! We find that the West German lines are the best dog suited for family, companion, working, obedience and protection, because they are very balanced in their drives. Litters are listed with all detailed info. Only the finest German Shepherd Puppies in Ontario with outstanding pedigrees. See if we have an adult dog for sale, or maybe a retiree to take home and love forever. The Top health Guarantee in Canada. THE best breeding stock and bloodlines in the World. Germany, Serbia, Ukraine and more. The best a consumer can look for and ask for. We are a smaller German Shepherd breeder. We produce Quality not quantity. We breed very Strong and healthy dogs. Our Dogs have very stable temperaments. We have German Shepherd Puppies from world champion bloodlines, suitable for family companions, for show or sporting, agility and protection. We aim for perfection and a very rich black and red coat. We are ranked one of the top German Shepherd Breeders in Ontario. Our breeding stock consist of only the finest German bloodlines. Meaning these dogs are very stable, calm, yet driven, easy to live with in the house, easy to train, willing to please and ready to defend. All around very versatile. These German Shepherds have a very correct, harmonious and balanced structure resulting in a smooth, efficient, beautiful gait and very high endurance. Temperament, health, working ability, brains and looks. This is my goal, a dog that has it all. I look for correct but functional conformation, with a very important key, Very Stable Nerves! While it is our goal on this website to only include listings of responsible and ethical breeders of purebred dogs, and there is certain criteria that must be met in order to be listed, we can only rely on the honesty of those submitting the request. Therefore, we cannot recommend, nor do we endorse or support any one of these listings. If you are looking to purchase a puppy, it is your responsibility to do your research in learning what to look for in a breeder. In addition to the Breeders listed here, the Breed Clubs generally include listings of member Breeders on their web sites and, if not, then a listing can usually be obtained either by e-mail or telephone. We do not randomly add Breeders to any listing. All Breeders listed have requested to be included either via a general link or paid advertising. If a young pup is not an absolute requirement for you, then considering the adoption of a dog from a rescue organization or shelter is strongly recommended. In addition, Breeders occasionally have young adults available and many also take in rescued dogs. This section includes several articles and general information along with listings of shelters and rescue organizations that are not breed specific from across Canada. The purchase or sale of any dog is strictly between the buyer and seller. Accuracy of information for all advertisements is the sole responsibility of the advertiser and we cannot be held responsible for any misrepresentation. Quick Links. Showing 1 - 40 of resultsPage 1 - results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. Roxy is a friendly nice dog, Roxy is pretty chubby but loves.Delivery can be arranged. There are 4 of nine pups to choose from, the pics say if the pup is male or.We only have two females and one male left. These highly intelligent pups are almost 5 months and already are protective and.Family friendly orientated style. Our dogs are large, with a high croup rear end. We try to breed our dogs for health and longevity.This pup was held for a customer that had to cancel unfortunately, original price as a top pick puppy is.See all German Shepherd Puppies London 3 males, 2 females available, ready to go now. First shots, vet checked, dewormed. Mom is our family guard dog. Friendly and loyal and alert. Very intelligent. Father is a neighbouring dog, looks.Our dogs are raised on a large country property with children. Puppies are well socialized and are raw.She is very active. Ready to go, first immunizations done. Ready to go now. Mom Czech and dad German bloodlines. Both parents are excellent with kids and great watch dogs. Both come from working.Born on June 29th, just a little over 2 months old. Please Contact 1 year old spayed Female German shepherd for sale. Pitt Meadows Lucy is a very nice spayed 16 months old German Shepherd. Rehoming her due to to her and my other female who is older fighting with each other. Iam worried they will get hurt. Lucy is very playful.Feel free to stop by between 4 and 7 or.Dad can be seen. All Black and tan. Mom and Dad are both registered, puppies are not registered. They will be dewormed, and come with.His name is Odin. This is the toughest decision for me to make, but my partner and I are trying to get.Both parents are blue and tan German shepherds, 60 and 95 pounds, lower energy levels both very nice.Please Contact Re homing Sudbury Re homing our dog due to allergies, Good with small kids, All basic commands spoken and signed well executed. She was trained to protect the house and back yard. Family raised under foot in the house on a farm. They are well socialized already, being Raised with.Born August 5th and ready for their fur-ever homes September 30th. All our pups go home with.Available now. There is 1 male and 4 females. They come vaccinated and de-wormed with records from vet. Father is a long haired.Mom is a purebred longhaired german shepherd and father is a hound. There are 3 girls and 2 boys. They are ready to go to new homes on September 29th. Parents have amazing temperaments and.Unfortunately the breeder did not supply Stella's paperwork so is not registered. She is up to date on her shots. She is a.Albert Adorable German Shepherd puppies for sale and ready to go. Mom Nasha -last photo and dad Stanley- second last pic are both beautiful, healthy dogs not registered but we.House trained , good with kids , other dogs and cats. Very smart and easy to train. Come with first vaccine , deworming, vet checked! Great dog and he is loved Our family life got too busy for this pup and he learned how to jump our fence. House broken, knows sit. .Catharines Beauriful 3 month old German shepherd puppy. Must sell do to illness. First shots and dewormed. Almost crate trained. Working on house training. He is unaltered and still intact. Fully house trained goes to door when he needs to go.Showing 1 - 40 of resultsPage 1 - results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. Jacobs and Heidelberg. Three males and one female available, raised around young children, well socialized. First shots and dewormed. Born August 3rd ready to go September.We are offering purebred German.Urgent Chiot Berger allemand pure race a vendre East Angus Bonjours nous vendons une magnifique Berger allemand pure race Agee de 9 semaines Elle est habituer au enfants et aux chat est tres joueuse et affectueuse IL y a aussi photo Des deux parents au.Roxy is a friendly nice dog, Roxy is pretty chubby but loves.See all German Shepherd Puppies London 3 males, 2 females available, ready to go now. First shots, vet checked, dewormed. Mom is our family guard dog. Friendly and loyal and alert. Very intelligent. Father is a neighbouring dog, looks.Our dogs are raised on a large country property with children. Puppies are well socialized and are raw.The water resistant bed has a plush fleece top that is perfect for lounging and a durable cotton bottom will hold up to the wear-and-tear of everyday use. She is very active. The hook hangs down from the metal plate in the back and is about 2. Ready to go, first immunizations done. Ready to go now. Mom Czech and dad German bloodlines. Both parents are excellent with kids and great watch dogs. Both come from working.Born on June 29th, just a little over 2 months old. Please Contact 1 year old spayed Female German shepherd for sale. Pitt Meadows Lucy is a very nice spayed 16 months old German Shepherd. Rehoming her due to to her and my other female who is older fighting with each other. Iam worried they will get hurt. Lucy is very playful.Feel free to stop by between 4 and 7 or.Dad can be seen. All Black and tan. Mom and Dad are both registered, puppies are not registered. They will be dewormed, and come with.His name is Odin. This is the toughest decision for me to make, but my partner and I are trying to get.Handcrafted hand-painted and cold cast from long-lasting resin this beautiful item will provide many years of relaxation and enjoyment. Both parents are blue and tan German shepherds, 60 and 95 pounds, lower energy levels both very nice.Please Contact Re homing Sudbury Re homing our dog due to allergies, Good with small kids, All basic commands spoken and signed well executed. She was trained to protect the house and back yard. Family raised under foot in the house on a farm. They are well socialized already, being Raised with.Born August 5th and ready for their fur-ever homes September 30th. All our pups go home with.Available now. There is 1 male and 4 females. They come vaccinated and de-wormed with records from vet. Father is a long haired.Family friendly orientated style. Our dogs are large, with a high croup rear end. We try to breed our dogs for health and longevity.Mom is a purebred longhaired german shepherd and father is a hound. There are 3 girls and 2 boys. They are ready to go to new homes on September 29th. Parents have amazing temperaments and.Unfortunately the breeder did not supply Stella's paperwork so is not registered. She is up to date on her shots. She is a.Albert Adorable German Shepherd puppies for sale and ready to go. Mom Nasha -last photo and dad Stanley- second last pic are both beautiful, healthy dogs not registered but we.House trained , good with kids , other dogs and cats. Very smart and easy to train. Come with first vaccine , deworming, vet checked!

A licence 'allows' them to breed from upto plus bitches - this does NOT mean they are better!! Please be patient, don't encourage these 'Greeders' with your money - get onto a waiting list and then do that - wait! If you send an e-mail simply asking the price your e-mail is very likely to be ignored! We always help the owners of a litter sired by one of our boys to find the right forever homes above still applies at present! Your email will be answered provided the above information is included however PATIENCE is a virtue both in awaiting the initial reply and the right puppy being available! Click HERE for The Kennel Club's Dog Owners Handbook If you are successfully placed on our waiting list it is only POLITE to let us know if you find your new family member elsewhere Our puppies are not on a conveyor belt, they are not made to order and is very frustrating when we do have a potential puppy for you to learn that you have found one elsewhere that in itself is no problem - not letting us know is - it only takes a minute to send an email! Do NOT add to your email that you would like a 'bobtail' To achieve the 'bobtail' which can be anything from a stump to almost full length the genes of a Corgi have been crossed with the Boxer gene We do NOT have any mixed genes in our puppies - you will also note we do not allow our boys to be used on bobtail bitches! Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Click here to add your own text and edit me. Welcome to the Sergeant's Boxers website! Thank you for stopping by! We are Cassie and Luke! First off, Boxers are the absolute best family members imaginable. Luke and I gained our first boxer family member in .From the very beginning, we were hooked! We then gained our newest addition, Diva and boy does her name fit her well! We were overjoyed with our family fur-members and wanted to provide joy to other families. That is when we decided we wanted to breed Boxers and bring love and happiness to other families, just as our Boxers brought love and happiness into ours. Our family continued to grow, as did our happiness and joy! We now have 8 boxers and one spayed boxer mix. All are our fur-kids come first and foremost! Diva and Sergeant had their first litter in .Since then, we have learned so much about the breed and about producing healthy puppies. A lot of thought and research goes into each and every breeding. In the early part of , we started showing. This was such a new experience for us, but we enjoyed it so very much! Bailey was our first girl to show and she had a blast! Her face would light up when trotting around the ring. She obtained her International and National Champion Title that weekend and we were so very proud of her! Remington and Diva were a little hesitant at first, but ended up doing very well by the end of the weekend. By the 4th run, they were so excited to get out there and perform! They ran their hearts out and smiled while doing so. It also helped that daddy was there the second day and waiting at the finish line for them : Captain and Benelli went to their first show in June of .Benelli was just 3 months old and competed in the baby class. She did so very well! She gained great ratings that first day and caught the eyes of everyone there! Captain also did very well! He strutted around the ring and smiled the entire time! It was not hard to see that this was something he enjoyed so very much! We couldn't wait to get them back out there for the next show! In September of , we went to 2 shows! The first show was a UKC show. Captain and Bailey competed and had a blast. Captain obtained his UKC Champion. Bailey obtained all of the points needed and is now only waiting for her competition wins. We cant wait to call her a UKC Champion too! Captain gained his National, International and Honors Ch. At only 3 months old, Dawn made it to Best of Show during this show! It is the best feeling in the world to see the smiles on their faces and their eyes lighting up! They all had a blast! Captain obtained his Honors Bronze Champion Title. Both girls did well. They both won first in each of their classes and Dawn won Reserve Best of Breed in all four shows. We were unable to attend due to puppies being at home, but didnt want the girls to miss out on a great weekend of showing! Dawn got first in class for all three shows. Benelli got first in class all three shows. Benelli also got Reserve Best Female in two show and Best female in one show. For being at a show without mama and dad, the girls did so good! Im so proud of them and a special thanks to Angie for talking the girls! We look forward to the upcoming shows and we are so very excited!! Benelli gained another competition win and many points to add towards obtaining her UKC Champion Title! I have no doubt she will obtain the rest of the needed points and competition win needed to obtain her title soon! The girls did great, even with the judges all wearing masks! We can not wait until the next show!! This was Sergeant's first show and he surprised us all!! We had a blast! Results will be posted in each of their files. Sergeant, Harley, Captain and Dawn participated and did very well! Captain even made it to the Best of Show on Sunday! Dawn and Remi did absolutely wonderful! Harley struggled a bit. She wanted to catch the line instead of the lure! Anyways, they all had a great time and we will certainly be back for more! Harley and Captain got to attend the Norman show! Harley won Reserve Ch x3 shows. Captain and our friend Junior handler Alicia Hood won x1 best Junior class! They both did great! Can't wait until the next show! Remi also came out to the show for her very first time! Dawn and Harley also attended and both did well. Captain, of course, tagged along too! Results will be posted once they are posted on UKC site, as I completely forgot to write down results while at the show! Such an exciting sport. Watching them be so excited to chase the lure is absolutely fun times!! We traveled all of the way there to be a part of this amazing show! We earned a total of 9 titles in both Dock Jumping and Precision Coursing! Harley showed in a couple of shows there, but did not place she was too busy worrying about diving and Captain got to strut around in the TOP 10 Boxer ring! Huge Congratulations to these girls!! Information to come! This means that for every litter, Sergeants Boxers will go down the list and offer puppies to the families in order of deposits received. The family may choose a puppy from the current litter or may pass to wait for a later litter. Even if the family initially expressed the desire for a puppy from a future litter early in the conversation, they will still be asked if they would like to select a puppy when the current litter selections start. Selections start at each litter's 6 weeks of age mark. This allows the families to not only pick from color, but also from personality. Please know that these can change at any time and are only listed for reference. This is non-negotiable.

I'll try and be brief with my story which leads to my passion for labradoodles, I was first introduced to the Labradoodle breed during my son's lengthy hospital stay in Palo Alto, California. It was LOVE at first sight!!! My 34 year old son Tim passed away Sept 17, , from complications of a double lung transplant due to his diagnosis of pulmonary fibrosis in January, .Needless to say it was a nightmare. Tim has two children ages 17 and 12 that now spend countless hours with my husband, myself and our doodles! During the long periods of Tim's hospital stays, we were fortunate enough to meet a beautiful labradoodle. Generally dogs are not allowed on the hospital transplant floors, but because we are such dog lovers as well as the severity of Tim's illness we were allowed canine visits. The minute I saw him, I was hooked head over heels in love with the breed. After Tim's passing I experienced a loneliness like never before. However, in the back of my head I could almost hear the calling to learn more about this breed. Thus my research began, I researched the breed and found the answer for my instant connection to these beautiful animals, they are truly delightful, loving, intuitive little clowns who can steal your heart in a moments glance! Our hearts will never be the same. If I am able to help others so they too may experience the love and joy of owning such a wonderful companion then I will have accomplished my mission. My commitment to keeping this breed as pure and healthy as possible is my top priority along with providing the dogs with lots of love and compassion and only selecting the same when considering placement. I recently retired from working 27 years for the state, to stay home and take care of my son, I always knew I'd find something to do. I never dreamed my desire to become a Labradoodle mom is what would find me. At Delta Breeze Labradoodles we want to help you in finding the perfect new puppy for your family! We also want to ensure that each puppy is welcomed into a caring and loving home. Life's too short not to share it with a labradoodle! At Delta Breeze Labradoodles, we have quality puppies that you will love. 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. 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. Before you even look at medium labradoodle puppies for sale, you should know what you need to do to take care of them. Dogs are pretty independent creatures, but still require a good bit of upkeep, so before you start looking at medium labradoodle puppies for sale, here are a few things you should know. How Do You Groom Them? Some labradoodles need only a little bit of brushing, while others require a lot of grooming. It all depends on their coat. Regular and thorough brushing is crucial, and will need to be done several times a week. However, they still require baths. What Do They Eat? Every dog is different, and has different dietary needs depending on their size, age, and levels of activity. Speaking of the vet, labradoodles under the age of 10 need to see a veterinarian once a year, or as directed. Dogs years and older, though, need to see a vet twice a year. That being said, there are creative payment options and other sources of assistance that can help cover vet bills. If you are, then head over and see what medium labradoodle puppies for sale we have! The multigenerational means that the pups we sell are the result of at least 3 successive generations of Labradoodles. This ensures that our dogs exhibit all the best Doodle traits while minimizing the undesirable traits of their parent breeds. Our medium Labradoodles are the result of years of hard work and dedication to breeding the best dogs possible, period. How big are medium Labradoodles? Medium Labradoodles fit exactly where you think they would on the Doodle size spectrum—smaller than standards but bigger than miniatures. The most important thing to note is that no matter the size, our Labradoodles are bred to have consistent personalities and coats. Whether your adult Doodle is 15 pounds or 50 pounds, we strive to meet the same expectations with all of our puppies. Should I buy a medium Labradoodle? Good question! That depends on how much exercise you can give your new friend, and how much space you have at home. While medium Australian Labradoodles are smaller than standard Labradoodles, these dogs still need lots of exercise to stay happy. Medium Labradoodles are great for active people or those with a big yard. Even though Labradoodles are very well-behaved, keeping a medium or large dog cramped up inside all the time will make him or her restless and unhappy. We breed Doodles in four distinct size ranges:. Not suited to apartment living due to size and exercise requirements. Good with Children Yes. A Standard Labradoodle is classified as a large dog breed. When they are fully grown, Standard Labradoodles get to a height of 20 to 26 inches .Their full adult weight is between 50 and pounds .Yes, Standard Labradoodles are a large breed because they weigh at least 50 pounds which is the condition for a dog to be considered a large breed. They also have an average height of 23 inches which is just over the 22 inch height requirement for a dog to be considered a large breed. Standard Labradoodles are 20 to 26 inches .Evidently, they are about 5 or 6 inches taller than this because of their head however the standard is to measure dogs at the withers their shoulders as their heads move so much. A Standard Labradoodle is between 50 and pounds in weight. Female Standard Labradoodles tend to be lighter weighing between 50 and 85 pounds while males generally weigh between 60 and pounds. There is such as wide weight range as they are a mixed breed dog and their weight highly depends upon the percentage of Poodle to Labrador Retriever genes they have. Generally Labradoodles that have a higher percentage of Labrador Retriever genes weigh more than ones that are more Poodle. Standard Labradoodles are fully grown between 12 and 18 months of age. As the largest version of the Labradoodle, they take the longest to reach their full adult size. The general rule is that large breeds grow at a slower rate than small breeds. It is expected that a Standard Labradoodle would reach its full height around 10 to 12 months of age and for the remaining months will gain weight at a steady rate. A Standard F1 Labradoodle is a first generation pup. This means that it was the result of breeding a purebred Standard Poodle with a purebred Labrador Retriever. A Standard F1b Labradoodle is the first cross-back generation. The main reason why breeders produce cross-back generations is to get a litter of Labradoodles that have curlier fur that more closely resembles a Poodle. This coat is more hypoallergenic and therefore more highly suited to allergy sufferers. Labradoodles can be both medium and large dogs, it depends on what size Poodle is bred with the Labrador Retriever. Standard Labradoodles are classified as a large dog breed while Medium Labradoodles and Mini Labradoodles that are on the larger size are considered to be medium sized dogs. Standard Labradoodles live for 12 to 15 years. This is the same lifespan length as Medium Labradoodles and only slightly shorter than Mini Labradoodles. As a mixed breed dog, Standard Labradoodles have less hereditary health issues than their purebred parents which prolongs their lifespan. This is one of the reasons why this cross breed was made in the first place. Check out the adorable Labradoodle puppies that are currently available here! PuppySpot is a dog adoption website that connects breeders with prospective pet owners. They have a zero tolerance policy for puppy mills which is why they screen every breeder annually! They have placed over , puppies in homes and offer various trusted, USDA-certified transportation options to deliver your puppy to your home safely! Further Reading.

Why do you think the police force and military are using the German Shepherd so much? Sure, a Doberman can do the job just fine and there are definitely dog breeds that have stronger olfactory senses or stronger bites but they may not be willing to obey every command in every situation. They are too intelligent to outright obey everything which can sometimes be perceived as stubborn. Does that mean the German Shepherd is not smart? Absolutely not. In fact, the German Shepherd is often cited as one of the smartest dog breeds, right after their cousin the Belgian Shepherd, also known as Malinois. Their will to please outranks. How trainable is the German Shepherd Husky mix? Well, the Husky is known to be quite independent by design. So even though pairing these two very smart dog breeds makes sense at first glance, a Shepherd Husky mix might not be as easy to train as imagined. That being said, pairing a German Shepherd with a more agreeable Husky can certainly help. Genetics and temperament of the parents always play a pretty big role. This is not always the case and even a purebred may struggle with protection without proper direction and training. Always consult a professional to avoid teaching your dog negative behavior patterns barking at strangers on walks, lunging at dogs, and so on. Huskies are incredibly enduring. How could they not, they were bred to run hundreds of miles in very cold climates. But their original working purpose was quite specific and they may need to have an outlet for this desire to run. Training your dog early on will prevent behavioral issues in the future and gets your dog used to brain training. Since both breeds are relatively high energy, you need to walk your Shepsky at least twice a day for a minimum of minutes each. The German Shepherd is known to be a formidable family dog while the Husky can be quite reserved. Huskies are used to living and working in a pack and can be very sociable animals while Shepherds develop a deep bond with their owners. Although pairing these two breeds can produce great family dogs, there are other large dog breeds that are even suitable for apartment living out there that are very patient with children and also perfect for guarding property. Expect to have a very smart dog that will challenge you throughout the day. He will probably grow into a medium to large-sized dog with a weight of about 40 to 80 pounds. Both dogs are working breeds so you can expect a Shepsky to have high exercise needs. A task or daily job would keep them the happiest. Grooming Both dog breeds can have relatively similar coat types. Huskies have a thick double coat, meaning an undercoat plus guard hair. While the undercoat is soft and dense, the guard hairs are straight and somewhat smooth. Depending on the specific pairing, the coat can be a toin coss. Be ready for shedding seasons with both of these dogs. You can expect your male German Shepherd Husky mix to be in cm with a weight of lbs kg. Female German Shepherd Husky mixes range from in cm , weighing in at lbs kg. Apartment Living Can you live in an apartment with a high-energy dog like the German Shepherd Husky mix? It depends. If you provide your dog with an outlet for his exercise needs which means lots of walks, play, and training then there should be absolutely no problem. However, their tendency for high-pitched barks or howling may cause problems with your neighbors. Proper training will help and entails teaching your dog the quiet command. Would I advise you to buy a mixed breed from a breeder? Definitely not. There are far too many mixed breeds sitting in shelters and waiting to be chosen. As long as there are no health issues present in their ancestry, you could argue that mixed breeds might be healthier than purebreds from backyard breeders. Beware of backyard breeders mixing in a third breed without stating so. Make sure to check out my breeder questions before you fall victim to scammers or backyard breeders. Make sure to talk to a veterinarian or nutritionist first. Do you have a German Shepherd Husky mix? Share with us your experiences in the comments below! The resulting dog is a genetic gamble in terms of health and temperament and offers no advantage to a health-tested dog or rescuing. Disclaimer: This blog post does not substitute veterinary attention and does not intend to do so. I am not a veterinarian or pet nutritionist. If your dog shows any sign of illness, call your vet. Post navigation. Salt and pepper Light brown or golden Her coat is usually thick and fluffy, with long, short, dense or medium fur. Perfect to cuddle up to on a cold night! Both parents have double coats, which helped them work in cold weather, and the German Shepherd Husky Mix has this dual layer, too. This means they are better living in cold climates. So if you are thinking of getting one of these dogs and you live in a place where it reaches high temperatures, this is not the dog for you! The Gerberian Shepsky is a moderate shedder and, as its coat is thick and fluffy, it is prone to matting. I advise brushing 2 -3 times a week to keep her double coat shiny and tangle-free. German Shepherds were bred to herd livestock and are now often used as police and military dogs; in these roles, they work closely with their owners and are able to learn commands quickly. The Siberian Husky is also a working dog that was trained to pull loads over long distances in the Arctic wilderness. This mix results in an alert dog who is quick to learn. She will respond well to whistles and verbal commands after just a few repetitions, which makes her easily trainable. This dog does well in dog agility, a great way for intelligent, high-energy dogs to expel energy and exercise their mind. A warning, though: this breed can be a bit obstinate. She may not obey if she senses that you are not a strong leader. Look how quickly this young dog already handles all types off commands: 3. If you are a couch potato, or you struggle to walk for more than an hour, this is not the dog for you. Like its parents, this dog can go for miles without tiring. They are perfect exercise companions and should be taken out twice a day, preferably for an hour or more each time. These dogs love to run, so you should take her to an area where she can go off leash providing she is trained. You can also teach her to jog or run alongside you. In large breed dogs like this one, their plates usually set at around 12 months , so it is best to wait until 12 — 15 months before starting more vigorous exercise. You should talk to your veterinarian to get the okay before starting any exercise program. I repeat: this dog is only for active, sporty types! Given their size and energy levels, I would only recommend this dog to someone with a house and spacious yard. She likes to be employed As well as physical exercise, these dogs like to fulfill the task they were bred for: doing a job. You should stimulate this need in her to avoid her becoming frustrated. You can fit her with a specially designed doggie backpack , which holds water and supplies and even your cell phone! Not to mention that it helps her burn off more of that pent-up energy. Like their German Shepherd parent, whose job was to keep watch over the herd, they are natural protectors. This can sometimes develop into overprotectiveness and territorial behavior, however, and may lead to displays of aggression towards strangers. It is imperative that you keep this under control through socializing your dog: make sure your puppy is used to being around as many people as possible from a very young age. You should get her a few toys she can play with at home like squeaky toys and tug toys. Try to socialize her with other puppies too — you could join a puppy training class and make connections, then get your puppies together for a play date! Potential health conditions Crossbreeds are generally healthier than purebred dogs. However, this dog could be prone to some health conditions that can occur in its parents. There are two main health problems, including: Elbow and hip dysplasia This is a condition that results in an unstable or loose joint. This can be helped by maintaining a healthy weight in your dog, so as not to put stress on her joints. Eye conditions Juvenile cataracts: These may not start until 6 years old. They appear as opacity in the lens of the eye and can cause a slight decrease in eyesight to complete blindness in more severe cases. Corneal dystrophy: This condition, in which abnormal material accumulates in the clear, outer layer of the eye the cornea , can cause visual impairment. It tends to affect both eyes and develops slowly. Progressive retinal atrophy: This can occur in later life and can lead to partial or complete blindness. Early symptoms can show as night blindness, dilated pupils and the inability to see clearly in bright light. Unfortunately, this condition is inherited, and it cannot be cured. If diagnosed early, however, there is a chance of saving the dog from going completely blind by using specific antioxidant supplementation. Other health problems can include digestive problems, blood disorders, bloat, and epilepsy. Feeding your Gerberian Shepsky who can be a little bit fussy As they are highly active dogs, the German Shepherd Husky Mix more often than not has a healthy appetite and requires a protein-rich diet. Bear in mind, though, that these critters can be fussy eaters! Try to find a brand that appeals to your dog, whether it is one in particular or a combination. Once you do, stick with what she likes. Given that these dogs are prone to digestive problems, it may mean some trial and error when trying to find the best dog food for her. Conclusion When it comes to genetics, Gerberian Shepskies got the good end of the deal. They are beautiful, intelligent, loyal, playful and easy to train, as long as you are a firm leader. Just remember, if you are thinking of getting one of these hybrids, you should be an active, outdoorsy person who is comfortable walking for at least 2 hours a day and has a house with a spacious yard. Thinking of getting a Gerberian Shepsky? Already the owner of one and want to share your story? Comment below! About Alexandra Animalso I was raised to be a dog person. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. German Shepherd puppy development stages and ages — week by week guide Welcome to our German Shepherd puppy development stages and ages — week by week guide Different breeds like all different babies develop at different rates. There are going to be many exciting events for you to look forward to. Whether you are bringing your 8 week German Shepherd puppy home or about to be blessed with a litter of puppies. This is going to be an exciting, demanding but hugely rewarding journey. Newborn puppies are born at around days after fertilization. Newborn puppies are born with their ears and eyes tightly sealed. The reason eyelids are sealed shut is to form a protective barrier for the fragile developing eye. This helps to protect them from any foreign object, bright lights, bacteria or any other microorganism that can cause disease or damage. In the same way puppies ear canals are closed at birth to make them effectively deaf. This is a protective barrier to protect the fragile underdeveloped machinery needed to hear. In a mature ear the pressure caused by sound will mechanically move structures in the ear. German Shepherd puppies are highly dependent upon their noses. Puppies navigate by smell from the moment they are born. This helps them to identify their mom, the very important milk supply, siblings and surroundings. Newborn puppies are born with a fur coat however they cannot control their own body temperature yet. To keep them warm they are dependant on their mothers or another heat source. If you live in a cooler climate installing a heat lamp would be ideal to help keep the puppies nice and warm. Germans Shepherds make amazing mothers and will be relied on a lot at this stage. Mother dogs will only leave their newborn puppies to go to the toilet, eat and drink. However, when mom has gone the newborn puppies are not completely useless. They are able to use their front paws to drag themselves towards a heat source. When mom is away the puppies will crawl together to preserve their body heat. Along with being able to drag themselves to a heat source newborn puppies are also able to drag themselves to their mothers to locate the milk supply. They will move their heads around to search for a nipple, latch on and suck strongly. Newborn puppies are not born with teeth these will also develop in the next several weeks. Other than the above puppies are completely dependent upon the care of their dedicated mom. Newborn puppies have little control over the rear end of their bodies. To encourage their pups to pass urine and bowel movements the mom will lick their bottoms. Anything produced mom will then lick up and swallow to keep her puppies and nest clean. Some pups will even double their birth weight! Your German Shepherd puppy will still be highly dependent upon their mom at this stage. Beneath all their fur the vital organs will be working hard to mature. This includes the eyes. Your puppy will not be ready to open their eyes yet but lots of changes are taking place to prepare them for grand opening. The ear canals will begin to open around the same time as the eyes. When the ear canals do open, the ears are much more formed than the eyes are at this point in time. Their eyesight usually takes around 8 weeks to reach its full potential. When their eyes become wider, they will reveal blueish-gray eyes which are hazy in appearance. Their eyesight will continue to develop until around 8 weeks old. The ear canals will also open around 2 weeks. The puppies hearing has been developing much quicker than their eyesight and they will be able to hear most things by the time their ear canals fully open. However, their amazing hearing ability will continue to enhance over the next several weeks. At the moment your German Shepherd puppy will have cute floppy ears. Their adorable tall ears can come up anywhere between 8 weeks and 6 months of age. Floppy ears are common until your German Shepherd finishes teething. By then the ear cartilage will become strong and hard enough for the ears to stand up permanently. Now is a good time to start handling the puppies and get them used to your voice. Most puppies are wormed for the first time when they are 2 weeks old. All this development has happened so quickly, but things are about to get even more exciting. Between 2 and 4 weeks your German Shepherd puppy will begin to stand up this is when the real fun begins. Puppies milky teeth will also start to develop between 2 to 4 weeks. These sharp little teeth will remain until about weeks of age. These little daggers play an important role during the weaning process. Even the most patient moms will struggle to nurse with these sharp painful teeth. This reluctance to nurse will prompt the German Shepherds to seek alternative food sources. These sharp teeth will then help to make up for the lack of jaw strength when eating solid foods. Finally, these sharp puppy teeth play an important role in teaching the pups to gauge their bite pressure when playing with their mom and siblings. This is an essential life lesson that enables our powerful German Shepherds to become safer companions as they mature into strong adult dogs. During the last few weeks mom has done an amazing job of getting her babies strong and their mobility will have come on leaps and bounds well not quite yet but by 3 weeks of age your German Shepherd puppy will begin to trotter around. Most 3 week old German Shepherd puppies can stand and sit. With their baby teeth starting to cut through a lot of breeders. Especially those with large litters will start introducing some solid foods. This helps relieve some of the pressure for the devoted German Shepherd mom. When weaning puppies, you need to start off by soaking their food in either water or puppy milk replacement formula to make it mushy and more comfortable for them to eat. As they start to interact and play with their siblings their personalities will really start to show. You may also notice them starting to playfully growl at each other. At 3 weeks old it will become easier to start identifying different members of the pack. Breeders and moms will be kept on their toes and paws over the next few weeks. As the pups start getting more confident on their feet they will be running around and playing enthusiastically. At 4 weeks old they will begin to wag their adorable little tails. With solid food becoming a major part of their diet the pups will be passing bigger bowel movements. They will be able to show more control of their bowel movements as they take themselves away from their brothers and sisters to perform their business. At this stage mom will be taking a much more relaxed approach to parenting and there will be a lot more for the breeder to clear up. By this point mealtimes are a messy process. If it is warm and safe enough to do so we would recommend taking the pups out in the yard for feeding. German Shepherd puppies are becoming a lot stronger at vocalisations by 4 weeks old. When mom returns to her babies the litter will noisily greet her. Around 4 weeks of age your puppies will need to be wormed again. From this week onwards human interaction is very important in order to form relationships with people. Including different noises and smells. This exposure will ensure your German Shepherd puppy turns into a confident, friendly individual. Mom will also be doing an important job of teaching her puppies to not bite too hard. Even an 8 week old German Shepherd puppy would have the power in their jaws to break the smaller bones in humans fingers. This is why mom teaching her puppies bite inhibition is so important. For more information on bite inhibition please see our guide on German Shepherd bite inhibition. By 5 weeks old German Shepherd puppies will be eating a lot of solid foods, several times throughout the day. Those sharp little teeth would have done their job and mom will be gradually weaning her pups of the dependency on her milk. When mom does feed her puppies, she will only do so for a short period whilst standing up. They will be eating between five and six small meals a day. Although the pups no longer rely on mom for milk, they still need her help and guidance for the next few weeks. Mom will be teaching her babies important life skills to live alongside humans. In some countries 6 week old puppies are taken away from their mothers and moved into their new home. We would not recommend this as the puppies will miss out on continued bite inhibition training from their siblings and mother. This can result in a puppy who bites too hard which can be challenging to manage as they get older. In the USA your puppy will be due their first combined 5-in-1 vaccine at 6 weeks old. This vaccine helps to immunizes your puppy against hepatitis, parvo, distemper, parainfluenza and coronavirus. Most puppies will also need to be wormed again at 6 weeks old. Their last week together will consist of plenty of socialization and playing. Most breeders will arrange a 7 week health check up with the vet to make sure your bundle of fluff is fit and healthy to go to their new home. In the UK some breeders will arrange for the pups first 8 week vaccination to take place during this check. Although some vets advise against it. By the end of this week German Shepherd puppies are ready to leave their mothers and move into their new homes for good. The week you get to take your new puppy home. This will be a very exciting time, but you may also be feeling a bit nervous. There will be some challenged along the way for new puppy owners and your puppy will take some time to adjust to life without its mother and siblings. In the UK the first combined vaccination will help to immunizes your puppy against distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis and hepatitis. The first puppy injection in the UK typically will happen between 8 and 10 weeks. Some breeders would have trained the puppies to poop and pee on newspapers or puppy pads. From the moment you get them home it is important to show your German Shepherd puppy where to pee and poop. Puppies naturally like to pee where they have done so before so to avoid building history of peeing in your home is best if you can to avoid it. The more you can avoid accidents from happening as much as possible from the start the faster the puppy training process should be. All puppies are different, and some will get this quicker than others. The main thing to remember is not to discipline your puppy for accidents. The most successful way to potty train is to reward success and ignore accidents. Just clean them up quickly and thoroughly. Your puppy will love nothing more than being praised. For more information please see our guide on How to potty train your German Shepherd puppy. Already your German Shepherd puppy will feel like part of the family. German Shepherds puppies are always adorable but at 9 weeks they are at the age where they are still puppy-like but very clumsy,curious and keen to play with her new family, which is very cute. Your German Shepherds unique personality will make you feel very proud. At 9 weeks your cheeky German Shepherd pup will be feeling more confident, with this the need to explore everything and anything may end up getting them into trouble. Your puppy will develop new sleeping patterns and feeding routines which you will need to adapt to. Most puppies will sleep between eighteen and twenty hours a day at 9 weeks old. During the day when you are with your puppy generally you will not need to shut them away in a crate to nap. German Shepherd puppies are often more than happy to sleep whilst family life goes on around them. However, there will be times when sleeping in a crate is better and safer for your puppy. You must not leave a 9 week old puppy to sleep outside the crate if you are not home to watch them if they wake. Puppies are into everything and many innocent items found in the house could be a potential hazard to your inquisitive pup. For more information please see our guide on how to puppy proof your home. Even if your puppy can barely keep their eyes open other pups and children will still want to play and your German Shepherd puppy may find it hard to refuse. After a hard day of play the peace and quiet of a crate will enable your pup to have a well-deserved nap. If your German Shepherd puppy does need to go to the toilet in the night make sure you keep it short and to a minimum. Establishing a daily routine is the best way to get your German Shepherd puppy to sleep through the night. Part of this schedule will involve mealtimes. Your 9 week old puppy will need four meals a day. Split these up throughout the day and try to stick to similar times. This is to stop encouraging your puppy to wake up earlier and earlier because they associate waking with food. You should always reward your puppy either vocally, with a favourite toy or treats for good behaviour and ignore bad behaviour. Puppies and dogs want to be praised so they respond very well to positive encouragement. Punishing puppies and dogs may have a short term positive effect on their behaviour but long term you could be setting them up to fail. It is very important to socialise and expose your puppy to other humans, dogs and different scenarios whilst they are young. This maybe hard before your puppy has had all its vaccines however getting many different people to come and visit you at your home will enable them to get used to visitors. Before their full vaccinations you can also, you can take you German Shepherd puppy out and about with you to expose them to the outside world as long as you can carry them. If you live in the USA, your puppy will be due their second combined 5-in-1 vaccine at 9 weeks old. In the USA a minimum of three sets of the combined vaccine are required for your puppy. Although you cannot put your puppy down outside until after their final vaccination. Puppies 10 week injection In the UK is a booster vaccination to help immunizes your puppy against distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis and hepatitis. Check with your vet what date after their jabs your German Shepherd puppy will be able to go down outside. Your puppy will then need a booster between 6 and 12 months old. If you live in the USA at 12 weeks old your German Shepherd puppy will be due their booster for the combined 5in1 vaccine against hepatitis, distemper, parainfluenza, parvo and coronavirus and a vaccine against rabies and leptospirosis. If you live in a high risk area, they may also need to be given the vaccination to help immunize them against Lyme. If applicable at 16 weeks your German Shepherd puppy may need to have a fourth combined 5in1 vaccine. A minimum of three combined injections are required in the USA. Check with your vet what date they will be able to be out down outside. By 10 weeks old your German Shepherd puppy will be able to control their bladder a lot more. Potentially up to several hours. This is great time for you to introduce them to the big wide world and develop their social skills which you have already been building the foundations. When taking your German Shepherd puppy out try to introduce them to as many other friendly dogs, humans and noises you can. This will help your German Shepherd puppy to grown into a confident well-rounded dog. At 3 months old your German Shepherd will go down from four daily meals to three. These three portions will be larger than what they are used to which may cause stomach upset. If your German Shepherd puppy does get an upset stomach, try going back to four smaller meals for a couple of days and they try the three larger portions again. This can be a challenging time as your adorable German Shepherd puppy turns into a furry crocodile. Luckily the teething stage is only a phase as with human babies and short lived. In most cases your puppy biting should stop around when they are around 7 months old and have their adult teeth. You maybe noticing your German Shepherds gorgeous ears fluctuating between floppy and pointy. By the time your puppy has finished teething their ears should tick up all the way. This usually happens around months. As they grow their cartilage becomes stronger. Some puppies need another month or so to help them cope without going out for frequent toilet breaks. Even when your German Shepherd puppy is toilet trained occasional accidents are normal. German Shepherds do have large ears but they tend to grow into them as they get older. German Shepherd puppies will begin to grow their new adult coat between 4 and 6 months old. To make way for their adult coat all the puppy hair has to go. For several weeks you will notice an increase in shedding. This is a completely normal part of growing up for your German Shepherd. Being a double coat breed German Shepherds dogs have a topcoat and an undercoat. Twice a year your pup will shed their undercoat. Usually in spring and again in fall. They also shed in general days a year so be prepared for a lot of fur! They will very much look like a smaller version of their adult selves. Although your German Shepherd may look older on the inside, they are still very much a puppy. If you are looking to get your puppy neutered or spayed the recommended age is 6 to 9 months. However, it is common for some female puppies to get spayed at 4 months old. Summary: Your German Shepherd is bound to give you so much joy and happiness throughout its life. There will be challenges along the way but remember this is completely normal. German Shepherds are such an amazing breed and you will have a loyal friend for life. Related Posts. They cannot see or hear yet, or regulate their body temperature, and they require a lot of tender care from their mom. The new mom is usually very excited and concerned about each newborn, and sometimes overly enthusiastic about chewing off the umbilical cord, which may later result in an umbilical hernia that will take a little longer to close, but is no danger to the puppy. We record the ribbon color and weight of each puppy so that, when we weigh the pups throughout the next days and weeks, we can make sure that each one is gaining weight. Normal weight for a newborn German Shepherd puppy ranges from g to g 0. We take great care to ensure that our newborn German Shepherd puppies have the best chance for a healthy start. A German Shepherd female can be in active labor for 6 to 18 hours, sometimes even longer if she takes a break while having a large litter, and we of course do not leave her side during this time. I stay up making sure that the whelping box which is always in my office or bedroom is clean and dry after each puppy is born, and that the temperature stays constant 86 - 88 F in the room. We keep the temperature at this level for about 2 weeks, gradually reducing it down to normal F by the end of the third week. Someone is always present with the puppies during the first 5 days. I handle the puppies several times a day, as well as weigh them every other day during this period, to make sure that everyone looks and acts healthy, nurses well, and is gaining weight. I usually buy a dozen fluffy cotton towels, and use two at a time as bedding for the whelping box. I change these towels twice daily at this stage to make sure the puppies are always clean and dry. Starting from day 3, and until day 16, I follow The "Super Dog" Program for our puppies - an early neurological stimulation program described by Dr. Carmen Battaglia. It has numerous benefits later in life for puppies. Often, puppies that were born the smallest overtake the bigger ones. Even at this tender age strong individual differences can be noted among German Shepherd puppies. Also, there is difference in their color and markings, and long-hair German Shepherd puppies can often be identified at this age. The new mom is very attached to her puppies at this age and is very reluctant to leave them even for the shortest time. She spends a lot of time sleeping with the puppies nursing peacefully, and is also very happy to be busy cleaning each puppy several times a day and flipping them around gently with her nose. At about 2 weeks of age German Shepherd puppies actually start looking more like puppies, and not just fat black sausages with feet attached. We use undiluted evaporated goats milk from a can, warmed up to be pleasant to the touch. Most puppies readily accept the bottle, and we consider this to be very important bonding and social time as well. Three weeks of age is my favorite age of all. The puppies now can be recognized as German Shepherd puppies. They are alert, playful, and there is a lot of wrestling, tail-wagging, and even barking going on as they explore their surroundings and interact with each other and their mom, all of which is extremely cute. I will often just sit in the whelping box with them, letting them play with my clothes, climb up on my lap, and generally just enjoying their carefree company. We also provide them with various toys starting at this age, and make sure that they listen to loud music, banging on the door, vacuum cleaner, etc. They weigh around 1. At first, they may not have a lot of success with it, as some of them try to suckle on the meat, but in a few days they master this new type of eating very well. We also continue giving them goats milk, but in a shallow saucer pan now, and with some rice baby cereal added, so that they can practice lapping. At this age, the mom is no longer so keen on constantly staying with her puppies, and only visits them to feed them and for a clean up. We continue changing the bedding twice a day now, knowing very well that in about a week it will become times a day, as the mom will not be able to keep up with her cleaning duties any more. We wash soiled towels with a little bit of bleach and a little bit of perfume-free detergent. Four weeks of age is even more fun as the puppies keep developing, but the amount of cleaning starts to increase in geometrical progression, and it becomes a full time job to keep the puppies well fed and clean. The mom is only visiting now and then at this point, and enjoys spending her time in the office, so that she can hear and see the puppies, but not necessarily be with them. With mom visiting for a few brief feedings each day, we feed them three times a day with the following diet: 1. Cottage cheese 2 tbsp per puppy , mixed with plain yogurt 1 tsp per puppy , evaporated goats milk, rice baby cereal 1 tsp. Raw tripe, or beef liver cooked with all kinds of vegetables At about 5 weeks of age the duty of keeping the whelping box clean becomes nightmarish, and this is a good time to introduce German Shepherd puppies to the outdoors. This is a room that is a part of the house, but has free access to the outside world. This room is equipped with a wooden resting platform so that puppies do not lay on concrete, with a heating lamp above it, and the floor is completely covered with a layer of pine woodchips. The outside area is about 6 x 6 ft and the floor is made of paving stones. There is another wooden laying platform here. This is a very important period when we introduce our German Shepherd puppies to more noises, show them the way in and out of the house, introduce them to the other dogs, play tug-of-war, etc. Also, we introduce raw frozen sardines and "The Honest Kitchen" products to their diet, and will occasionally feed kibble, soaked well in warm water and mixed with green tripe from a can At 3, 5, and 7 weeks of age our German Shepherd puppies get dewormed with a high quality wormer, to be certain that they are free of intestinal parasites. At about 6 weeks of age the puppies get their first combination 5-way vaccine including Parvo and Distemper , and at 7 weeks of age we start welcoming visitors who are interested to come and look at the puppies. Often during weekends we have several groups of visitors of all ages coming to interact with the puppies, which is such a great socialization opportunity for them. Copyright .All rights reserved. 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. Baby German Shepherds growing up! German Shepherd Dogs are one of the most popular dog breeds out there at the moment, with many devoted fans. They can be large and imposing as adults. But, like every breed, they have a cute puppy phase that many fall in love with. However, since most puppies are bought at weeks old, most of us miss out on this magical period of their lives. So what happens during those first important weeks? A typical German Shepherd litter consists of around puppies. The mean average, according to a study performed in , is 6. When they are first born, they will still have an umbilical cord attached and may be covered in amniotic fluid. Their mother should chew off the umbilical cord and spend the first few hours cleaning their pups. Then mom will focus on keeping her newborn pups warm while allowing them to nurse. At this stage, German Shepherd puppies will just sleep and avoid expending energy. They will frequently nurse from their mother. Newborn German Shepherds When baby German Shepherd puppies are first born, they are completely dependent on their mother. Their ears and eyes will be closed and they will be unable to regulate their own body temperature efficiently. A coat should be present, and the color will depend on the genes they have inherited from their parents. Black with tan markings is the most common for this breed. Additionally, they will be relatively immobile. They will be unable to properly support their own weight. Therefore, they will commonly crawl on their stomach to move about. They will also be unable to urinate or defecate on their own. Stimulation from their mother will be required to help them go to the toilet. One Week Old Baby German Shepherd In the first week, the puppies should bulk up significantly and double their birth weight. However, there will not be much change in their behavior. They will still primarily be focused on nursing and sleeping. To help themselves stay warm, the puppies will normally cuddle close to each other, except for when they are in a hot environment. At this stage, they will still be blind and deaf. While they are still unable to see very well, this is a big step. Eyes should open for the first time at around days of age. They will appear blue in color, but this will change into brown as they develop. They may become a little more inquisitive about their surroundings with their new-found eyesight, and may begin to crawl around a little more. We can expect to see them make some big steps at this stage. Firstly, at around days old, their ears should begin to open for the first time. They should now be able to both see and hear, though not too clearly. Their senses will continue to develop over the coming weeks. They will begin to be able to stand and support their own weight. Walking may still be tough, though! They will likely be pretty wobbly. You can also expect to see their baby teeth come in at around this time. While they still get the majority of their nutrition from their mother, they will begin to show interest in solid food. They will begin to become more independent at this age, being able to urinate and defecate on their own. Beginning Of Socialization With their sight and hearing, they are likely to show a little bit of adventure and courage for the first time, exploring their surroundings as much as their unsteady gait will allow them. This milestone also marks the beginning of the socialization period, a critical phase of their development. Things learned now can shape their personality and behavior for the rest of their lives. They may engage the other puppies in clumsy play and show body language such as tail wagging for the first time. They will form relationships with their den mates, their mother, and humans. This stage is critical in getting the puppies used to humans. This can be achieved by gently exposing the puppies to human presence and contact so that they can see that they are no threat. While their brains are still very much in development, they are still able to learn some simple concepts at this stage. Crate and potty training can begin at this age. They should now be able to walk pretty well. This mobility will allow them to further play with their family and be even more curious about their surroundings. On top of this, their baby teeth should now be fully formed and the weaning process should be fully underway. They should be offered soft but solid food. They may begin to show signs of more complex social behaviors towards their other den mates, and they should learn important skills like bite inhibition. The socialization process should continue, with the puppies gently being exposed to new people, sights, and sounds. The German Shepherd babies will also be further weaned off the mother at this time, slowly moving onto a fully solid diet. Six Week Old Baby German Shepherd At this age, you will begin to see the puppies become even more independent of their mother. Six week old puppies are gaining social skills rapidly, and love to play with people and each other. Seven Week Old Baby German Shepherd When we move into the seventh week of their life, a new significant phase of development starts to begin: the fear period. While this sounds disconcerting, it merely means that this is the time that many puppies begin to show fear towards new things, rather than curiosity. Things that the puppy may find scary or uncertain during this time can make for big changes in their personality throughout life. For example, if a puppy has a bad experience with a human at this stage, it may lead them to becoming fearful and distrustful towards people for the rest of their life. This is why gently exposing the puppies to humans and common sights and sounds beforehand is important. By preemptively socializing the puppies with humans, we can help this period run smoother. The puppies will have reached weights of around pounds and should be around inches tall. Their ears will lie flat but should begin to become erect and upright over the coming weeks. They will be fully independent of their mother at this age. They should be completely weaned, with some basic training and socialization. From here, new owners are expected to continue to train and socialize them, as they are still within a critical period of development. New owners will also need to continue to ensure the German Shepherd puppy is fed a good, nutritionally balanced diet. For more information, you can check out our full puppy development guide here. And make sure you also take a look at this guide to bathing a puppy!

How to accept discipline and more besides So taking a puppy any earlier is wrong and detrimental to their development. We follow many of the guidelines set forth by a program called Puppy Culture. Know that once you have your puppy, everything you do, everything they see, every good experience, bad experience, taste, smell, sight, reward and punishment trains them in some way. All of these experiences are granted to them by you and they will be looking to you for guidance through these experiences. Puppies are exactly like children. They take their cues from you to learn where they can go, where they should not, what they should be scared of, what they should not, what they can play with, what they can not…and on and on. You may as well take advantage of this innocence, when they have no idea of what life is with no preconceived ideas, no habits formed or needing to be broken, to start training them to fit into the life that they will lead with the skills that they will need. I believe you should start to train your Labrador puppy as soon as you get them home, from 8 weeks of age. But I stress this important point, to make it fun! You have to think of a puppy as a very young child. A puppy is just as impulsive, has just as little self-control and just as short an attention span. You need to think the same with a puppy. They are just like a child. A puppy will eat what they like, when they like. Go where they can, when they can. And they will not be able to listen to and act on your every word. They will have a very short attention span and no self-control. It would be totally unfair. While watching TV train your puppy during the commercial breaks. Commercial breaks are usually about minutes long perfect time for training your pup! This means going very slowly and not expecting too much. Having many small wins is very encouraging. Just do very gentle training exercises for short periods of time. Most people with a Labrador as a family pet will think of training as obedience commands and performing tricks. But you can train them basic things such as: Sit Stay for mere seconds…with no distractions! Keep it easy! Roll over. Commencing Marker Training your chocolate labrador pup Start Marker Training at 8 weeks of age When you take your 8 week old labrador pup to their new home, you should commence their obedience training immediately. Just repetitively say yes and give your pup a treat immediately. Then familiarise your labrador pup with a leash. Clip the leash to their collar and allow the pup to roam a little. This way they will adjust to its weight and the sensation around their neck. If you try to walk your pup straight away, they will simply resist. Don't pull and command, but rather cultivate a positive experience with a leash. Secondly, I recommend that you feed your new labrador pup with a leash attached until they learn to sit. This will establish you as the master and immediately teach the pup restraint. Do not give the food bowl to your dog without firstly bringing him under your control. Even with my mature dogs, I will not let them feed except on command. Feeding should never be random. Hold the leash close to the labrador pup's neck and push their rear end down to the seated position. When they are sitting, enthusiastically praise your pup and, only then, reward their obedience with food. Remember, food should always represent a reward for good behaviour. They hear tones and frequencies. When we train them, we are conditioning them to associate a particular sound with a response so that it means something to them. Labrador puppies like all dogs learn contextually and by consistent repetition. In this way, a labrador pup learns to associate sounds with responses and rewards. This is why you should reward your pup immediately when they have performed a command correctly, even if they did not intend to do so. In the early stages, I prefer to teach a dog to 'sit,' then move on to 'staying' before teaching them to 'come'. This is especially so while they are still a puppy. Remember that a 12 month old dog is still a pup. They are regularly hyperactive and overstimulated. The goal is to get your labrador puppy into a calm and submissive state as often as you can. Ensure you are demonstrating a calm and composed, yet assertive demeanor. When you are in charge, your labrador pup will willingly sit and look to you for direction. Exercise patience and be repetitive but don't overdo it. Remember that the time you put in now will help you bond with your young dog, even if they do not appear to be advancing quickly. It will be a very worthwhile investment in a long term relationship for years to come. Of these three basic commands, the 'stay' command will take more time to teach. When this is mastered and entrenched in your dog's obedience, it can save your dog from danger. You are teaching them associations, not English words. Sit Teaching your new labrador pup to sit should begin immediately when you take it home. Begin by feeding them on a leash. Hold the leash close to the pup's neck. Give the pup the 'sit' command, but don't reward them with food until they are sitting. In this way you have begun to condition the pup to the 'sit' command. This requires patience at meal time. Remember that a labrador pup requires 4 feeds a day for the first phase of their life. This gives you ample opportunity for repetition and reward. When the dog sits, reward them with a treat and a lot of enthusiastic praise. Each time they repeat the behaviour, reward them with a treat again. You can train your labrador pup for short intervals at any time. Carry a few small pieces of food. Call your pup, then reward them with lots of affirmation and a piece of food when they comply. Teach them to sit by offering a small treat. Say 'sit', then let them smell the food as you move your hand over their head. A labrador pup will automatically lift the nose in the air to follow the food. As the head moves up and back, the pup will tend to sit. Give lots of praise and gradually increase repetition as they associate the word 'sit' with the food. Stay Your Labrador pup will need to understand the 'sit' command before you advance to 'stay'. Before you give the 'stay' command, make sure that the dog is seated. To keep the dog in the sitting position, you will use your hand with the fingers pointing up and the palm in front of their face. To begin with, position yourself about half a metre away from your pup's face. Direct the 'stay' command calmly, with your hand up. Slowly take half a step back and remain there for 3 seconds to begin with. Then step back towards to the dog. Wait for another 3 sec and then reward your dog with a treat. Repeat this 5 times. Reward them at the end of each 'stay' routine by praising them enthusiastically and giving them a treat. Don't praise or reward the dog until they have remained seated in front of you for a minimum of 3 seconds when you return. Your puppy should not move a millimetre until you give the reward. If your dog breaks early, you have gone too far. Simply return to your dog, reset them in the seated position and begin the routine again. Come It is important to make sure your Labrador understands the 'stay' command before you begin the recall or 'come' command. Make sure you pup is seated before you give the 'come' command. As your walk away from your pup, maintain eye contact. Don't back away too far too soon. If the pup breaks early, give the 'come' command to establish association. When you call your dog to 'come', do not let them jump up on you. If the dog wants to stand on its back legs and reach up, place the palm of your hand on their head and hold it away from you. I suggest that you don't say 'no! The down command should be used as a more constructive training command. If your pup jumps up, make your disapproval known by using a 'dog' sound; 'Ahhh! If you find yourself becoming frustrated, then put the pup away and start again tomorrow. Don't take it personally and don't blame the dog. Corrections are necessary, but not out of frustration or anger. If it's not working, then look at your consistency and your communication. If the training is a positive experience then you will strengthen the bonding and learning process. Develop consistent communication and trust with your dog in the process of the training. Labrador pups love to please and they will be very proud of themselves when they accomplish the command and gain your approval. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. You should take your puppy outdoors and let him exercise his socialization potential at a young age. Visiting friends and family is one way to go about it. You can also spot a dog park and carry him there. Remember that your pet is still learning to follow directions and walk with you. You cannot expect him to cover long distances. The best way to avoid this is to take them far enough from the house and ensure they have a positive outside experience. It is worth noting that you should do this as often as you can, preferably daily. Start Potty Training It would be best to start potty training your Lab puppy the first day you bring him home. Start by showing your pup where you want him to potty, such as a sectioned-off area of your yard or garden. A good idea is to cordon off a small area and add some bark chippings. Next, you need a potty training schedule such as first thing in the morning, after mealtimes and play, and hourly for young pups. Many owners use dog crates to help with house training. I have a step-by-step guide on Labrador puppy crate training where you can learn tons more. Discourage Biting If you follow my blog, you know I am against punishment-oriented training. If you train your dog young enough to avoid harsh bites, you will not need punishment-driven discipline strategies. In any case, using physical force or yelling at your pup will only instill fear and distrust and can cause aggression in your dog. You can also check out my article, How to Discipline a Labrador , for greater insight into this topic. Instead, you can wait until your Labrador bites during a positive activity and then discontinue it. It will anchor the consequence better. Follow up using positive reinforcement by rewarding the correct behavior with a treat. Your Labrador will quickly learn that displaying good behavior reaps nice things. Puppies need to learn their bite inhibition soft-mouth by continuing the excellent work their mother and siblings taught them. Learn Bite Inhibition Training! Instill Patience You must use your best judgment when training your dog to be patient. Generally speaking, your Labrador will be mature enough to learn self-control by the tenth week. You can use a clicker or a whistle to teach your puppy to assume the natural heel position. Chances are, at first, your Labrador will try to change his pace to be behind you because of the force of habit. Walking in areas familiar to your dog will eliminate this problem. While you previously trained him to assume a heel position, you can also teach him these techniques. You may notice that your puppy can tell your words apart by the thirteenth week. So by the time he is four months old, you can use the position cues and positive reinforcement to get your dog to follow. These included whistling, clapping, or saying a specific word to indicate that your Labrador is doing a good job, typically followed by a well-deserved treat. Now is the time to see whether the anchors work! Where you previously whistled when your Lab ran towards you, now you must whistle, so he begins his run. This is the start of his Labrador recall training. Teaching good recall is an ongoing process. My dog was around 12 months old before seeing a noticeable improvement in her recall. Please avoid forcing the dog, as that only introduces confusion. Build Comfort With Crowds — Work on Socialization You have trained your Labrador to acknowledge close friends and family in the past few weeks. While this enables the puppy to be more social when you have visitors, a grown dog must learn to walk outdoors without acting out. This transition must be gradual, and try to keep experiences positive. Whether it is a cuddle, a pat, attention, or something tasty, you must teach your pup target training , for example, to touch a target with a specific part of his body. Remember that your Lab may end up biting or clawing to communicate if you do not teach him more acceptable communication methods. Here, I recommend teaching your Labrador to touch your hand with his nose. Ultimately, this is an excellent replacement for bites! Hand targeting is fun to teach, helps your pup build trust, and gets him using his brain! You have laid a strong foundation of discipline and positive reinforcement, making it easier to train your dog to follow more complex commands. In these weeks, you will introduce him to assuming different positions, obeying your commands as he moves away from you, and reacting to more nuanced anchors. Remember, 4-month-old Labrador puppies have a short attention span, so avoid long training sessions. Teach the Sit and Stay Teaching your Lab to sit and stay is a useful command for him to learn. Train Your Dog to Fetch If you have taken your Labrador to public parks and he has seen other dogs play fetch, it will be easier to teach him to retrieve whatever you throw. Your Labrador may not bring the toy back to you for a second round, but he will soon get the idea of retrieving it. You can gradually turn it into a game of fetch over the next few weeks and reward your doggo with high-value training treats. Continue Potty Training In the fourth month of Labrador training, you will continue potty training with a degree of independence. Continue with a good schedule and sync your walks with his natural cycle to align with the times he needs to go. You can use it to control your Labrador and later to test his ability to execute a command off-leash. A harness is also a good idea and is used for outdoor training and walks. Many owners will opt for a rear-attaching harness. Related: Harness vs. Collar for Lab Puppy: Which is Best? How to Train a 5-Month-Old Lab Puppy A five-month-old Labrador puppy is ready to be tested for his general obedience and the ability to deal with distractions, whether other dogs, people, or other animals such as squirrels or birds. Earlier, I mentioned that you could not expect an eight-week-old puppy to delay gratification. Your puppy can deal with distractions at five months old if you introduce them slowly. You must be prepared for your dog to run ahead of you now! However, suppose you have developed a solid relationship with your pup and worked on his training. In that case, he will stay within a reasonable distance, remaining by your side and showing loyalty. Once your Lab puppy has reached his 6-month milestone, it also marks the point where you introduce him to advanced obedience training. The good news is that all the training you have previously given will make it easier for your dog to follow your lead. Conclude Potty Training Your dog has had months to learn how to communicate his need to go potty. He has also likely refined the patience to hold it instead of relieving himself on the floor. Therefore, you can communicate your disappointment with your body language if your dog makes a mess. Avoid physical punishment and even verbal chastising as it impacts your dog negatively. All dogs can still have the odd accident up to 12 months old. Moreover, you must be prepared for your dog to relieve himself indoors if he is excited or frightened, known as either excitement or submissive urination. Increase Exercise Now that your Lab puppy is six months old, you can increase his exercise to thirty minutes twice daily. Energy levels, especially for larger breed dogs, escalate during this time. While the average exercise for a pup before this is generally five minutes of exercise per month of age, twice a day, a six-month-old Labrador can be out for one hour if you split his walks into thirty minutes a day. To train your 6-month-old Lab puppy, start with two commands with the most practical use. From six months onwards, until your Labrador is a well-trained adult, you can teach the following commands or tricks in any order. How to Train a 7-Month-Old Labrador As your Lab progresses to seven months old, a lot of the previous training needs to be kept consistent as you gradually teach him to comprehend more commands. Maybe there is a trespasser, and you want your dog to scare them away. You will need to continue training your dog to hold things or release them on command, but you can also proceed to add distance and even more background distractions. Ironically, you need to teach him to bark on command before learning to be silent on cue. Over this month, he will learn to associate the respective commands with barking and silence. This is quite tricky, but your Lab will eventually get there if you practice and stay consistent. The eighth month is ideal for training your Lab to go to different places upon hearing the command word. Either way, do not overload him with place commands, and stick to no more than two per month. Or you can use the ninth month to teach a cool party trick! After a week, you can remove the treat and teach your Lab to follow your finger. Of course, you will still need to reward him after he follows the command. By the third week, you can cue your doggo to spin and see if he does so without your finger guiding him in a circular motion. It might take an extra week or two, but I recommend this as an addition in the ninth month because it allows you to continue training your pet to learn previous commands better. You can teach him to go to different places, hold or release objects, and fetch toys. You can now progress this further and teach him to roll over on command. Your 1-year-old Labrador only learns to comprehend more at the same pace as he has since the 6-month mark. You should also audit previously taught commands and see any weak associations you can reinforce. How to Train an Month-Old Labrador You will not have to alter your training regimen dramatically if you have trained your Labrador properly from eight weeks onward. If anything, this is the period where you customize his training to your convenience. Now is when your dog must learn to be compatible with your life. From the month mark onwards, you must train your dog to be harmonious with modern adult life within reason. It is sad to see dog owners having to give away their pets because of behavior issues. Such things are avoidable if you train your dog correctly and sufficiently exercise him. It would be best if you simply established authority by having a positive yet commanding presence. Once your dog acknowledges your authority and sees you as a guide, you can merely treat him as a six-month-old, albeit on an accelerated schedule, and train him accordingly. Your job becomes even easier once you have a workable training schedule and stick to your routine. This month-by-month Labrador puppy training schedule will help you successfully train your doggo and turn him into the beloved companion you always desired. Good luck with your training! Related Posts You May Like:. What is the best age to start training a Lab puppy to work? This guide will answer all of your questions regarding when to start training a Lab puppy. It will combine my personal experience with that of other experts in the field, along with information from behavioral research, to guide you with your decision of when to start training a Labrador puppy of your own. Congratulations on your fluffy new bundle of joy. Labs gained their well-deserved place among favorite breeds for so many reasons. Enthusiastic companions, fast learners, loyal and brave, Labrador Retrievers are fantastic pets. How Puppies Learn In the natural canine world, mother dogs teach their pups everything they need to know about their world, survival and living together happily in various stages of development. Most professional trainers try to mimic the natural canine learning process in their puppy training phases. In fact, we only recommend positive training techniques. Rewards can include food, special treats, praise and petting, playing with a favorite toy, etc. Basic Training Concepts Every Puppy Should Learn The first two components of your puppy training should be thorough socialization and potty training. Here are a few tips with each of those early behaviors. Socialization actually refers to exposure to a wide range of situations and individuals. This goes for being around lots of different people, including children. While your pup is still impressionable and inquisitive, introduce her to friends, neighbors and strangers. Introduce her to children with careful instructions to stay quiet, move slowly and pet gently. They could end up grabbing her tightly, and scaring or hurting her. Being handled by other people will be very key in socializing your puppy. Your dog should be properly socialized to gentle and careful handling, teeth brushing, touching ears and paws and tail. This will make trips to the vet and groomer easier. Make sure to also check out our guide to taking puppies outside for more help with socialization. Crate Training for Dogs Crate training is the process of teaching your dog to love spending time secure in their cosy den. Some puppies basically crate train themselves, loving their crate from day one. Others need a more gradual introduction to this safe space. The trick is to not turn crating into a punishment , but instead make it a wonderful place to have a short undisturbed rest. Most puppies will go through a play biting phase, so if you need help training your lab not to nip, you can follow this guide. It will be important for your dog to sit quietly in the field or duck stand. Self-control should be incorporated throughout daily routines and all training phases. Finally, learning how to walk politely on a leash in public is important. In addition to the behaviors listed above, there are a few extra considerations for training a gundog. As early as 8 weeks old, professional gundog trainers begin introducing lab puppies to various scenarios. The core behavioral requirements for a gundog that can be started in puppies this young are: Thorough socialization and desensitization to various environments and sounds. Be sure to start with quieter sounds and build to louder sounds, especially when introducing the sound of gunfire, to avoid creating a frantic dog. Calmness and steadiness amidst distraction. The earliest introduction to this is teaching your pup to sit for his meals, which can be captured as early as six weeks. There are, however, two important considerations to your Lab puppy training. Before their leg bones are fully developed, Labs can develop joint issues if they run too hard and long. Second, resist the urge to play fetch and retrieve every day with your Lab puppy. They overdo it with tossing a ball or dummy to try to encourage the pup to retrieve. The retrieving instinct typically kicks in quite strong around puberty between five to 10 months. Instead, we suggest focusing on sit, stay and waiting quietly with self control. Those are the more difficult behaviors for a lab to learn once adolescent hormones kick in. Start with socialization and household manners as early as 8 weeks old. Then move to sit, stay, steadiness training, and walking on a leash between 12 and 18 weeks. Training is an ongoing life skill, rather than something you do once and consider done. For a hunting Lab, adding various distractions and practicing perfect recall in different environments will be the two biggest training techniques to work on throughout life. Enjoy your training! If you are following my training of Bubba, you know that training a 3—4-month-old puppy is a big challenge. By the time your puppy reaches the 5-month age, they have generally started to mature some, not a lot and are usually a bit more receptive to training. Here is the training you can work on with your 5-month-old Lab puppy. Regarding this series of posts This is post nine of a step-by-step training and socialization program for Labrador puppies. If you read our first post , you know that this series follows our training of Bubba, a female chocolate lab puppy. Bubba is already sold as one of our Custom Trained Retrievers, so it is our responsibility to raise and train her until she has progressed to the level of training the owner has requested. In this case, Bubba will be with us for almost a year and a half. Bubba Bubba has turned the corner from puppy to adolescent. She now understands the training schedule and looks forward to being trained twice a day. I know this because when Bubba comes out of the dog trailer, she is watching me and bouncing in anticipation of being trained. She has learned that if she does her obedience work, she gets to retrieve. So, she is willing to do the work to get the reward. This simple shift has made working with Bubba so much more enjoyable. Now is when I get to really see her start to improve, and I find that so rewarding. Training and socialization for five-month-old Labrador puppy Here are the things we have been working on and will continue to work on with Bubba in month five. Increased self-control and restraint This goes hand-in-hand with obedience. I must continue to increase my expectations of Bubba and put her in more and more situations where she must make the decision to obey. At this age, I can see the conflict going on in her mind. I call her with a HERE command, but she wants to run after the cat. She looks at me, so I know she heard me and then she looks at the cat. At this point, she will more often than not choose to obey the HERE command and come to me. This is huge. It shows some maturity and an increase in knowledge and understanding of right and wrong behavior. Dog trainers live for times like these. It means the dog is growing and learning and making good choices. This drill is very simple. Why is this important? Well, most people have problems with their dog coming to them consistently. The reason is most often because each time the dog comes the dog gets put away in the house, or in a crate. Or they get something taken away from them like a toy or a stick. It allows your dog to learn that coming to you is a good thing and not a bad thing. Obedience training your 5-month-old puppy We continue to work on obedience daily with Bubba and will for at least the next months. After that, we will still do obedience training at least twice a week. You are never done obedience training. Your dog may get very good at obedience work, but if you do not work on it for a few weeks or longer, it will start to deteriorate. For now, we simply use a chain collar and heeling stick, but not too far down the line we will start collar conditioning her for corrections by the electronic collar. In fact, technically, we are already collar conditioning Bubba since each time we take her out to train we put an e-collar on her. It is a small puppy sized collar and it is not turned on, but she wears it each time she gets trained. So, when I pull out the e-collar, Bubba gets very excited because she knows she is going to get trained. This is the response we are looking for. Some dogs get very excited when the owner grabs the leash, because they know that they are going for a walk. This is the same reaction we are looking for from putting on an electronic collar. The dog should not act differently when the e-collar is on. If your dog cowers or fights you when you want to put the e-collar on, then you have introduced the collar incorrectly and your dog now thinks that the e-collar is a bad thing. This means that your dog is collar wise and will act completely different when the e-collar is on. This is a huge problem because it is very likely your dog will be obedient when the collar is on and disobedient when the collar is off. That is not what we want to achieve. We want your dog to be obedient with or without the e-collar on. Micro-obedience sessions At this young age, we often do what I call micro-obedience sessions. These are obedience training sessions, but they are only around minutes long. These are very effective for puppies because they have a very short attention span. You just must pick one obedience command to focus on for each micro-session, preferably only one drill. It is better to do micro-sessions a day than to try and pack too much into each session. She is not perfect, she is still a puppy and therefore makes a lot of mistakes, but she understands the HEEL command and I can walk in squares or a figure 8 and she is following my legs for the turns. I will continue to work on longer and longer walks with Bubba at heel throughout the month. Learn more about How to obedience train a Labrador puppy. Bubba is a chocolate Lab, and as I have said in the past, chocolates tend to mature slower than black or yellow Labs. Because of this, Bubba really struggled with a remote SIT for a long time. She could not seem to stop her little butt from moving! However, we have made progress and she is now sitting still, and I can walk away from her to a distance of around six feet while she remains seated. Again, she makes mistakes. She is a puppy, and we must give her some grace, but we still correct the mistakes and continue to work on improvement. The distance can be anywhere from 3 feet to 6 feet. Later, this will be very important since this is the position to which I expect all my dogs to deliver the birds. She will end facing the same direction I am facing, sitting next to me. This is a vital drill that we do with every dog that goes through one of our programs. It teaches the dog to deliver the bird to a HEEL position. By starting this with Bubba at this young age, she will learn quickly what the HEEL position is and soon I will be able to say HEEL and put my left hand out from my side slightly and she will come into that position. I did use treats for a short time, which again, I am not a fan of for many reasons. HERE is a vital command and so we will work on it daily. And for those of you who are wondering, yes, manually does mean chasing her puppy butt down, putting on a lead and pulling her towards me with the HERE command all the way back to where I was when I issued the command. It is so important that you never, and I mean NEVER, give a dog a command that you are not willing to enforce in one way or another. For your dog to learn that commands are meant to be obeyed, they must understand that any refusal of the command will be backed up with a correction. The correction may only be a sharp NO, or it may be more serious like a lead correction. Retrieving with your 5-month-old Lab puppy In my last post, I talked about how important it is for you to NOT retrieve with a teething-puppy. Bubba has most of her adult teeth in already, we are just waiting on a few, but she is showing us she is more than ready to retrieve again. So, we have begun hand thrown marks again and she is going out like gangbusters and delivering the bumpers right to my hand. If I notice any problems with her carrying the bumpers or if she starts dropping them a lot, I will stop again until the teeth are more solid. If Bubba seems to be in pain at all during retrieving, we will stop immediately. We never want her to associate retrieving with pain. Bubba already understands the retrieving game when it comes to assistant thrown marks too. She sits with me or Steve at the line and faces the gunners throwers in the field. She sits tall and proud; she knows what the gunners are out there for, and she is ready to do the work. It is so fun to watch these puppies figure out the game and what their job is. It is time to start a new retrieving drill with Bubba. The drill is designed to get a dog to mark throws that are further and further away. It gets them to run out a longer distance to a mark and not even notice the change in distance. It is done by starting with a 20—yard mark, generally on shorter grass where the bumper can be seen on the ground. Have the thrower throw the bumper and send the dog using their name. After the dog picks up the bumper and is running back to you, take a few large steps backward. Take delivery of the bumper and line your dog up for another mark. The mark will be in the same place, but that location is now several yards deeper since you have backed up. Have the thrower throw another bumper and again send your dog. After the dog picks up the bumper and is running back to you, again back up several yards. Repeat until your dog is retrieving at longer distances. This drill works well for dogs that have a very strong retrieving desire. For dogs with less desire, you will need to move much slower, only doing marks total in a session. Remember, you never want to burn out your dog with retrieves. Always leave them wanting more! Final thoughts on training for your 5-month-old Labrador puppy If you have been following these posts, you are getting very close to moving your dog into hunting training. We take dogs for our hunting programs right after their adult teeth are in, so generally at months of age. If you are struggling or need additional help with your new puppy, you can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time, happy retrieving. Training your 5-month-old Labrador puppy. And yet, many new owners get so caught up in the cuteness of these bundles of fur that they disregard any training until the dog is much older. Sometimes new owners are just overwhelmed with taking care of their new puppy. Others lack the information needed to make good decisions regarding training for their new family member. Unfortunately, though, some bad behaviors or missed socialization and exposure opportunities are difficult to address with an older dog. So, if your goal is for you new retriever to eventually grow into an excellent duck dog, here is a guide to raising your Lab puppy to be a duck or gun dog. Picking up the puppy The journey with your new retriever pup starts the day you pick him or her up from the breeder. Hopefully you have done your homework and selected a litter of puppies with parents who have proven trainability. If you have a pick from the litter, you will want to take some time to observe the puppies. Even so, most trainers will tell you that picking a puppy is a complete crapshoot, meaning there really is no way to know how good the dog will be while looking at them as a puppy. Genetics and a proven pedigree are the best way to stack the odds in your favor from the start. Beyond that, if you have a good breeder, they are the next best source for information regarding the pups. A good breeder will give you a recommendation based on what you plan to use the pup for and your family situation. Check out this post on searching for a great retriever puppy and what to look for in breeders. If possible, bring someone with you to pick up the puppy. While you can put a puppy in a crate to transport them home, leaving the litter is a traumatic time for most puppies. Being held on the way home is a good way to start bonding with the puppy. Learn what to buy for your new Lab puppy. The products I recommend I believe are a good value or good investment for anyone working to train or maintain training on their retriever. When possible, I include links to the product. Some of these links may be Amazon or other affiliate links in which I am paid a small commission at no cost to you. All opinions and recommendations are my own. The first week raising your Labrador Retriever puppy There is very little training needed the first week you have your puppy home. Use this time to hold, pet and play with your new puppy. Bonding with the puppy is important and this is a good time to do that. You will likely be exhausted this week from getting up multiple times each night to let your puppy outside. Learn more in What should I do the first week with my new Lab puppy? Socialization is key for retriever gun dog puppies While socialization is important for all dogs, it is essential for retriever puppies destined to hunt. Socialization is the act of putting your retriever puppy in new situations and allowing the puppy to figure it out. Your puppy may handle new situations well, or she might show timid or frightened behaviors. This is not the time to coddle your future gun dog. Dogs are very aware of their owners and if you act or acknowledge your puppies fear, they will likely think you are scared too. This is the opposite of what we are trying to achieve with socialization. We want puppies to learn to adjust quickly to new situations. We want them to learn how to figure out new conditions and handle them without fear or hesitation. Puppies need to be socialized to people also. Let your puppy interact with people of all ages, including children. In addition, it can be helpful if they are also socialized to other dogs and cats. And yet we see too many retrievers with little to no retrieving desire. Sometimes this is just the result of bad breeding, but it can also be the result of poor introduction to retrieving or using the wrong items for retrieving. Many people like to play fetch with their puppy using a ball or Frisbee. But if your puppy is destined to be a hunting partner, this is going to make some retrieving problems down the line. We may use a ball to encourage a very young week old puppy to retrieve, IF, and only IF, the puppy is struggling with retrieving desire. Otherwise, we strongly discourage ongoing use of these items. Gun dogs and duck dogs are working dogs and they need to retrieve birds that fall to the ground. The rolling action of the ball or frisbee will create an excitement and energy that will make retrieving birds seem boring. We have found that dogs that have only retrieved balls or Frisbee often struggle when they need to retrieve a bumper or bird. We have an entire post on this subject, see How can I teach my retriever puppy to fetch? Expose your Labrador puppy to common hunting elements A retriever that is going to be expected to hunt, should be introduced to hunting equipment and elements at an early age. Hills and mounds, flat areas and shallow divots are terrain that a hunting retriever should learn to traverse with ease. In addition to land, different water is also an important factor. Lakes are good, but you should also try to expose your puppy to dirty water. Water with lily pads, cat tails and algae are all things a duck dog will need to handle to work. Hunting equipment Labrador retriever puppies need to learn all about the equipment you use when hunting. Doing this when they are young and continuing the exposure as they grow, will make this second nature to them. Boats and blinds If you hunt out of a boat or blind, introduce your puppy to it. For boats, start on land. Get your puppy comfortable getting in and out of the boat. Throw retrieves from the boat. Similarly, introduce your dog to the blind as a good thing. If you are using a dog blind or hut, make sure your spend lots of time getting your pup comfortable going into and out of it. Make it a fun place to go to get retrieves. Duck or goose decoys If you will use decoys when hunting, take time to expose your puppy to them. Many times over the next few months, put some out on your lawn and let your puppy learn what they are. Eventually, move them to water and again allow your pup to explore them. Throw retrieves through them and teach the dog that he can ignore the decoys. Guns This is one of the most important things that you need to exposure your new puppy to. And it really needs to be done right. The last thing you want to do is create a gun-shy dog. That is very difficult to fix and the dog may never be able to hunt if the damage is too deep. Learn more about how to do this correctly in Introduction to gunfire. Basic obedience for your gun dog puppy Your puppy is ready to learn obedience early on, and you will find that if you start when they are only a couple months old, they will learn quicker and be more obedient as they age. This will make a huge difference as they get older. Teaching HERE to young pups will require a long lead. Squat down a few feet from your puppy and say HERE as you gently pull them to you. Praise is essential with young pups, but the praise should be given when the puppy does something right. For instance, you say SIT and push his bottom down. You can use treats to teach your puppy obedience and reward him or her for obeying commands. But treats should only be used for very young puppies under 4 months. Many Labs will soon learn to only obey when given a treat, that is not the lesson you want your dog to learn. It can be difficult to discipline a cute little puppy, but it is essential. Here at Otter Tail Kennels, we get more than our share of calls from people whose puppies are out of control and causing problems in the home. The pups are causing friction in the family relationships. Small issues often become much larger issues if they remain uncorrected. If you see your puppy doing something wrong, you need to take action to let him know that the behavior is not acceptable. Final thoughts on raising a lab puppy to be a duck or gun dog The time to start training your Labrador puppy to be a duck or gun dog is now. Right away. Even if you plan to send your retriever puppy to a professional trainer in the future, you still want to take the time to socialize, expose, teach and discipline your dog now. Each week your puppy is growing and learning, and those first five months are the perfect time to get him or her off on the right foot. The socialization, exposure, and obedience are all steppingstones they need to advance in their role as a hunting partner. Do not skimp or disregard this time. You can give your ultimate duck dog some essential skills — the ability to adjust to every and all situations with ease. Nothing could be more important. You can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time happy retrieving. Raising a lab puppy to be a duck or gun dog.