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Without it, the stresses of every day, modern, normal life is alien and disconcerting to our dogs. But most people get socialization wrong. Sometimes even to the point that they do more damage than reap the positive benefits of socializing their puppy. What is the right way, and how can we avoid making mistakes that set us back? Let's discuss it. The old school idea of socialization was to put a puppy on a leash and walk around, meeting and greeting new people, dogs, and seeing new places, sights and smells. If that all went perfectly, you had a dog that was comfortable in its environment. But there were drawbacks. The main drawback, even if everything went well, was that you now have a dog that is very excited every time it saw someone or another dog. Pulling issues could be created. Obnoxious dogs that rush up to strangers, including strangers who aren't dog people, don't want to be bothered, or are scared of an excited, out of control dog. Dogs who rush up excitedly to strange dogs who are less socialized, or who are serious dogs who don't play, thus starting a fight. The modern and better way of socializing is the idea that you want a puppy to get comfortable with people, places and things in the environment and to think of them as background noise. Something to ignore vs something to fixate on. We want our dogs to focus on us and look to us for guidance, leadership and direction instead of looking to people for free reward and looking for stranger's dogs for a fun play session that as mentioned, can end badly. We want every moment of socialization to be positive. For that to happen, we have to control the situation and show our puppy that we control its life and routine. To do that, we start immediately with the 2 tools that allow us to do that: a leash and a crate. We also teach the puppy that we're the source of fun and attention, not other people, and not other dogs. We do this by giving treats and attention in the beginning stages of training when we train the mark. We do that by marking behaviors without any commands and rewarding with a treat. This is basically just teaching a puppy that a click from the clicker or a verbal "Yes" means a treat is coming. The main focus during that period will be gaining engagement. You want your dog looking to you for what to do next. This is the very core of all training. If your dog isn't actively engaged with you, it isn't listening to you. It's sniffing the ground, watching squirrels, looking at other people etc. You want your puppy locked in on you and ignoring everything else. To do this, use high value treats. Dry dog biscuits won't cut it. You'll need cooked, small pieces of meat, string cheese, high end soft treats etc. Whenever the puppy looks at us, we mark and reward. We teach the puppy to look at us and pay attention to us. We also do this before meals to ensure they're hungry. To them, you're the Rockstar with the best food who comes in right when they're hungry! Start in places with little to no distraction and work your way up. Your home, backyard etc. You slowly build up distraction once your dog becomes more and more engaged during training. A quiet corner of the park not a dog park, in fact, we recommend you never visit one , training on an empty basketball court or soccer field etc are good examples of low distraction options to slowly move up to. Eventually you'll move on to places with more distractions that test the dog's engagement and you must regain it through being the life of your dog's party so that it doesn't become distracted with the environment around it. The biggest problem you'll have when socializing your puppy are people. I'm sure, as you all know, people will blatantly ignore you if you tell them not to pet or engage with your puppy. For a puppy with medium nerves or less, this can create a fear response and ruin your good work. Do not be afraid to tell people to back off. You should be more concerned with the development of your puppy than someone who can't follow basic directions when it comes to your puppy. The correct way to deal with people and environments that make your puppy nervous are to regain the puppy's engagement and use treats and training games to ease their mind. This helps people and things they find scary in the environment to become white noise in the background that aren't interesting enough to pay attention to. Do not let people outside of the people in your home give treats to, or pet your puppy. It's going to backfire in one of two ways, guaranteed. You want your dog engaged with you, not other people. What about other dogs? Your best bet is to avoid the issue completely. Your dog doesn't need doggy friends. They have you. They're not kindergarten children who need play dates to properly develop social skills. If they wholly ignore other dogs their entire life, you won't have problems at all. If you absolutely must have doggy friends, the best dogs to socialize them with are adult dogs who pay them very little attention and remain aloof. You don't want to socialize them with other puppies because they'll look to other dogs for playtime. You don't want to socialize them with strange dogs you're not familiar with because most people are not good at reading canine body language. It only takes 1 attack for your dog to be dog aggressive for life. What about strange dogs that are off leash? At the beginning of the article we talked about how all socialization is about positive experiences and control. Your puppy and even adult dogs look to you for their protection. If you can't do it, they'll resort to violence to defend themselves and will choose to do so on their own volition. Do you want your dog deciding, on its own, when, who and what it should fight preemptively to defend itself from a perceived threat? Absolutely not. So therefore it is your responsibility to protect your puppy. Stand in between them and tell the other dog to go home. If that doesn't work, do whatever you have to to protect your puppy so that it knows it is safe with you and doesn't have to bite out of fear to defend itself. If you enjoyed this article or learned something, leave a comment, like and share. Thank you all. Digital Marketing German shepherd puppies are energetic, smart and curious about the world around them. These dogs love human interaction and need positive experiences to thrive. Socialization helps your German Shepherd puppy grow into an adult dog who is comfortable in new situations. Socialization is all about exposing a puppy to different experiences, including but not limited to different people, animals, environments, sounds, surfaces, or objects. A well-socialized German Shepherd puppy will grow up to be incredibly well-behaved and socially accepted with well-channelized instincts. So how do you socialize with a German Shepherd puppy? This article will introduce you to everything you need to know on how to socialize a German Shepherd puppy. Puppy socialization explained In essence, socialization helps them learn what to expect from the world around them and gives them the tools they need to navigate it as they get older. This includes new people, dogs, and animals, learning how to interact with new environments, and being exposed to a wide variety of sounds, smells, and sights. Puppies that are well-socialized are more likely to be healthy, obedient pets that make great additions to any household. The importance of socializing a GSD puppy Socialization is an important part of dog ownership. It helps your dog adjust to different situations and learn how to behave appropriately in various environments. This means that every interaction they have with their environment can have a significant impact on their development as a dog. Keep it positive While exposing your strong-willed GSD to a stimulus for the first time, always remember to keep things ultra-positive, encourage curiosity and allow plenty of space and time. When should I start socializing my GSD puppy? Your German Shepherd Puppy is at the critical socialization phase during the first three months of their life. This is when they are like sponges and are most open to new experiences. The exposure your puppy will get during this period will decide the kind of dog he will grow up to be and can also prevent possible behavioral issues in the future. The potential problems of an under-socialized German Shepherd Dog An under-socialized dog may become anxious or distressed when left alone, and it may bark excessively or chew furniture. It may not be well-behaved around other dogs and it could bite someone if it feels threatened. As a result, an under-socialized dog can be a nuisance and difficult to manage, and they are more likely to develop undesirable behaviors in the future, such as excessive barking or aggression towards other dogs and people. Socializing a GSD puppy at an early age will help your puppy display calmness as a response to novelty, which is of utmost importance in social situations. While introducing your pup to a new stimulus, remember to — — Reward frequently for good behavior — Avoid overstimulation — Keep hyper behavior in check by taking frequent breaks — Give your puppy a choice to back off in case of discomfort — Always end on a positive note 1 Socialize your German Shepherd puppy on different surfaces While introducing your puppy to new surfaces, ensure ease and safety. If your dog is unwilling to step onto a certain surface, use treats and toys to encourage movement and have your dog on a leash. Puppies can be apprehensive of certain surfaces like metal. Take it slow, ensure repeated, positive exposure and never force or drag your puppy. Discover the online program that more than 57, dog owners have used to rapidly transform their dog into a well-behaved, obedient furry friend. Go to the park, to as many dog-friendly stores as possible, take your dog on errands with you, go on car rides together, etc. Take your German Shepherd puppy with you wherever and whenever you can. And when I say take the GSD puppy with you, I mean take it in with you - do not leave it in the car while you're in the store. German Shepherd socialization will occur whenever your puppy is introduced to new situations, new people and animals, and new places. They need to actively participate in socialization for it to really work - that means you must let them safely interact with new people, places and things. This is definitely a great step in building the German Shepherd puppies confidence and building a much more stable temperament - making it more capable of coping with new and unusual experiences. German Shepherds are highly intelligent and these early GSD socialization lessons, being around new and different stimuli, will make your adult German Shepherd much more stable and confident - and this is exactly what you want. Your new German Shepherd puppy has spent the first few weeks of it's life with his mother, litter mates and breeders family. Additionally your new GSD puppy may have gone on rides to many new places such as the veterinarian, short shopping errands, and on short training rides - these are all GSD socialization experiences. It has probably heard many different kinds of noises: people, horns of cars, birds chirping, children, sounds of traffic, etc. If your German Shepherd puppy was raised in a farm type locale the puppy has probably seen, heard and smelled many different types of animals, larger farm equipment, etc. One of your new jobs as the German Shepherd puppy's new owner is to add to all of those past experiences with many other new ones. Ask the breeder what kind of socialization has been done with your puppy and take it from there. The more new and exciting experiences that your make your German Shepherd a part of, the better. I can't stress enough how important it is that you continue to socialize your GSD puppy during the first several months of its life and from then on. Discovery of new experiences and teaching the puppy to deal with them positively and confidently is highly important to its development. Many studies have been done that show the critical socialization period for a puppy is from eight to sixteen weeks of life. During this period it is essential that the German Shepherd puppy safely and positively experience as many new things as possible. Some of these experiences will be a little stressful, but you must support your puppy during these times and encourage them throughout the entire critical GSD socialization process. Out of nowhere a small piece of trash paper blew by both of us, quietly startling her. She watched the trash as it continued to blow up against the curb, changed direction and blew closer toward us. Curious, she wanted to check out the new object that was moving around on the curb in front of us and now moving toward us but unsure as how exactly to react to the new object. It was obvious to me that she was curious enough to want to check it out, but also fearful enough that she wanted to run away from it. I waited to see what she would do. She watched the object as it moved around, sometimes backing up slightly, sometimes moving toward it. I allowed her the time to observe the paper and waited to see exactly what she was going to do about it. It seemed longer, but I'm sure that it was only a few minutes until she decided to slowly approach that piece of trash paper. What a brave girl. Eventually she pounced on the paper and give it a good shake and chewing before I finally took it away from her! I praised her profusely. Not for tearing up the paper but more importantly for approaching it after her initial fear response. She met her fear of this new and strange object face to face and overcame it. In future experiences with new and strange objects she would now be more confident. Over time and with more and more positive experiences like this one, Cera grew up to be a very emotionally strong, good-tempered and confident GSD. As the owner you play a major role in providing this confidence for your new German Shepherd puppy. It is extremely important to socialize your German Shepherd starting at as young an age as possible to make them more comfortable with other people and dogs and able to feel comfortable and confident in strange environments. It can really come in handy when meeting new people or maybe even meeting your new baby. Puppy obedience classes, also referred to as Puppy Kindergarten , are an incredible means to introduce your puppy to the world outside of your home. This is both a prime GSD socialization experience as well as a wonderful training and bonding opportunity. Puppy obedience training classes are set up in such a way as to teach the German Shepherd puppy the actual commands, but also to teach you, the owner, how to train the puppy very specific behaviors and manners, now and in the future. Your dog will quickly discover the link between your commands and the desired behavior. It is entirely possible that you can train a GSD puppy at home as well but compared to all the great GSD socialization lessons your German Shepherd puppy can gain from the puppy classes, there really is no comparison. In fact, I highly recommend them. Return from GSD Socialization to German Shepherd Puppy I hope if dogs ever take over the world, and they chose a king, they don't just go by size, because I bet there are some Chihuahuas with some good ideas. Check Price on Amazon 3. Take Him Outdoors Your young German Shepherd puppy needs to experience his whole new world, see many different sights, hear a range of sounds, and experience stimulating smells. Taking your German Shepherd puppy to a market that welcomes dogs will help socialize him in a low-engagement capacity. This is a stepping stone to better, more engaged socialization. German Shepherds can become shy if you skip this step. When you take him to a store or a shop, you allow him to process new environments while feeling secure. Watch how the trainer exposes the pup to simple things like experiencing the shopping cart corral and walking along a bench. Sit obediently in one place. Have him sit close by as you have your coffee. Taking treats with you is a good idea so you can reward your puppy for obeying your commands. Upon developing the discipline to sit relatively quietly, your German Shepherd will become a social superstar, ready to be admired and cuddled by your friends and family. Have Friends and Family Come Over Once your German Shepherd puppy has settled in after a week or two of bringing him home, he should be comfortable enough to entertain visitors. Having a friend come over by then is a good idea. German Shepherds love you unconditionally, but giving treats sure accelerates this love. Having your friend load up on treats before entering the house is a great idea to promote friendliness. Smile at your friend and hug them with open arms. Keep your body language open around your friend. Dogs can sense any nervousness. Have your friend call your pup by his name within a few seconds of being seen by the puppy. The name provides instant familiarity. They will be the familiarity anchor when you take your pup out to meet other people. If your familiar friend is present, your German Shepherd will feel less anxious around people he sees for the first time. An outdoor introduction is placed after an indoor interaction because there are more stimuli outdoors. If you have friends who have dogs, even if not of the same age, you can still arrange to visit or have them come over so they can be around each other. If the other dog is senior, make sure he belongs to a smaller breed, as he may not appreciate the energy of a young pup. The above section covers how to socialize your German Shepherd when he is a puppy. A German Shepherd is considered fully grown at 18 months. This transition from a young dog to an adult can be challenging. Just like teenagers have their socially awkward phase, young dogs do as well. To socialize a one-year-old German Shepherd, you must gradually expose him to indirect social stimuli by taking him on walks, having guests over, and making him feel secure about his status with you. A confident German Shepherd is one ready to go to a dog park. Maybe you got him from the shelter. By playing up the expression of contentment and satisfaction, you give your German Shepherd easy clues to tell when things are okay. Once your dog can see you smile, be relaxed, and use a calm tone in the presence of new people, he too can begin to relax. I quickly realized that I needed to relax more when exposing her to new situations. If you master your mood, you can socialize a German Shepherd well into adulthood. Now, you feel like he should be able to deal with people. To socialize a two-year-old German Shepherd, ensure you are entirely relaxed around company. Your dog may bark aggressively in some instances and act unbothered in others. Whenever he behaves right, reward him. This combination of social cues and positive reinforcement will socialize him. If people have a sudden adverse reaction to the dog because he is barking or snapping at them, he will associate people with discomfort. Instead, you can take him on walks on relatively desolate routes. Dogs do not bark out of bravery, they do so upon detecting threats, and this combination of aggressiveness and insecurity can make them highly antisocial. So, how do you socialize an aggressive German Shepherd? To socialize an aggressive German Shepherd, you must focus on making him feel secure and at ease. Understand that aggression comes from fear and self-preservation. Persisting positive treatment and reinforcing a calm demeanor can help make him a lot less aggressive. Here are a few things you can do to further a drop in aggression. Make a list of possible triggers that seem to get your dog anxious. This could be anything from people who wear beanies to people of a certain height. Knowing how aggressive your German Shepherd gets in the presence of each trigger will help you expose him to said trigger more gradually. Control the environment. Whether you use a harness or a crate, you should have mechanisms in place to control your German Shepherd. Slowly expose your dog to a trigger. Have a friend with a beard appear near his crate without trying to interact with him. Your German Shepherd will start barking but should be ignored. Once he stops barking, you can not just cuddle him but can give him a treat. Repeat the above steps until your dog is desensitized to the trigger. This will take a lot of patience, but eventually, he will be unbothered by the trigger, which will now come undone. Training an aggressive German Shepherd requires a lot of care and is better left to professionals, especially if you start to get nervous when he growls or snaps at people. How to Socialize an Older German Shepherd Getting an older German Shepherd to be more social should not wait because the later you socialize, the harder it is to pull it off. To socialize an older German Shepherd, slow down the socializing clock and take each of the following steps across four weeks each: introduce outside objects indoors, reward indoor exploring, invite friends over, take him outside on walks with gradually escalating levels of crowding and stimuli. Some people believe it is harder to socialize an older German Shepherd. It is incredibly hard, practically impossible, to socialize an older German Shepherd quickly. As a rule of thumb, assume he will take a month or five weeks to learn what a puppy would understand in a week. If an older German Shepherd is aloof and unbothered but not too interested in people, it might take a few weeks — and a few dozen treats to socialize him. By gradually bringing him closer with each walk, you will be able to slowly expose him to other dogs by taking him into the park. From four months to twelve months — A German Shepherd within this age range might take three weeks to enter the dog park without getting stressed or anxious. It might take anywhere between three to eight months to get them to feel comfortable around other dogs. You must be prepared for your GSD to bark endlessly. He might even try to tug you as he leaps forward. Finally, make sure to keep your composure and not be upset when he starts being aggressive. In contrast, when you stay calm and ignore his aggressiveness, the behavior gets discouraged without punishment. GSDs are intelligent , which means they will soon learn two things: Aggressiveness is useless. He gets attention by being calm. First and foremost, one of the biggest mistakes people make is waiting too long to start socializing their German Shepherd. This is the critical period when your puppy is most receptive to new experiences and will be more likely to form positive associations with new people, animals, and environments. Another mistake to avoid is forcing your German Shepherd into social situations that make them uncomfortable. Pushing your dog too far too fast can lead to fear, anxiety, and even aggression. On the other hand, another common mistake is sheltering your German Shepherd too much. This includes introducing them to new people, animals, and environments in a safe and controlled manner. The final mistake committed by people is not being consistent with their socialization efforts. Socialization is an ongoing process that requires regular exposure to new experiences and environments. Here are some engaging and enjoyable socialization activities that you can try with your German Shepherd: Puppy playdates: Arrange playdates with other puppies around the same age and size as your German Shepherd. This will help your pup learn how to interact with other dogs in a safe and controlled environment. Dog-friendly outings: Take your German Shepherd to dog-friendly places like pet stores, dog parks, and outdoor cafes. This will expose them to new sights, sounds, and smells while also giving them the opportunity to interact with other dogs and people. Training classes: Enroll your German Shepherd in a training class, such as obedience or agility training. This will not only help them learn new skills, but also give them the opportunity to socialize with other dogs and people in a structured environment. Hiking or walking: Take your German Shepherd on hikes or long walks in different environments, such as the beach, mountains, or city streets. This will expose them to new sights, sounds, and smells while also providing great exercise and bonding time for you both. This will help them get used to traveling in the car and also expose them to new environments. Playtime at home: Play games with your German Shepherd at home, such as fetch or hide-and-seek. This will not only provide great exercise and mental stimulation, but also help build a strong bond between you and your pup. Socialization walks: Take your German Shepherd on walks in different neighborhoods or areas where they can interact with new people and dogs. This will help them get used to different types of people and dogs and also provide great exercise and socialization opportunities. These approaches work really well in making the process more engaging and successful as well. Final Thoughts: The Importance of Socialization German Shepherds are big dogs with incredible bite strength and single-mindedness that can turn into stubbornness if not managed. You have to teach them how to behave. Dogs are socially conscious, and when your German Shepherd is socially compatible with other dogs and people, his self-esteem and happiness will both improve because his canine cousins and people will be happy around him. Related Posts You May Like:. Training Socialization is a critical part of having a well-mannered pet. It is also an important part of raising a happy dog. Although dogs generally have the same socialization requirements, working dogs like GSDs might need extra care and attention simply because they grow to be larger animals with stronger personalities. How should you socialize a German Shepherd? How to Socialize Your German Shepherd The best way to socialize your German Shepherd is to give them many different types of experiences as early as possible. Expose them to different sounds, textures, situations, and environments. You should also give them opportunities to interact positively with different people and other animals. Otherwise, they could grow up to be fearful and incessantly suspicious of unfamiliar things in their environment. Such dogs will not only be unhappy and constantly anxious but could also develop fear-based aggression. Unsocialized German Shepherds are unenjoyable, difficult to care for, and possibly unsafe to own. Remember that GSDs grow up to be large and powerful dogs. They could cause serious harm if their lack of socialization causes them to behave improperly or lash out. Having a properly socialized GSD means being able to bring them places without fear of hurting others. You can trust them to tolerate guests and be friendly with other dogs and animals. Additionally, socialized dogs are unafraid of the vet or being handled by professional groomers. Ultimately, socialization allows you to have an enjoyable, fuss-free companion. Puppy socialization is most critical within their first six months of life and is most impactful around the 3-month mark. With proper handling and careful exposure to different experiences, they can still undoubtedly learn how to enjoy and interact with their surroundings. The best time to start socialization is as soon as you take them home. That means giving them many opportunities to have positive experiences with their environment. Here are some of the most impactful things you can do to raise a socialized pup: Take them to different places Giving your puppy the opportunity to have positive experiences in different environments enables them to avoid developing fears of the unfamiliar. When taking them to different places, try to also expose their paws to different textures like tile, soil, grass, metal grates, and concrete. Expose them to different situations Take your puppies on car rides and let them walk through crowds and places with plenty of traffic. Expose them to different types of loud noises and walk them beside bikes, cars, motorcycles, and scooters. Try to make every experience a positive one so that they understand that everything is just a normal part of life. Attend training classes Enrolling in a puppy foundations class enables you to learn the best ways to raise your German Shepherd. But it also gives you the additional benefit of being in close contact with other pet owners and their dogs. Involve different people A properly socialized dog knows how to respond to the presence of people. The only way they can master this is to involve different people in their socialization and let them learn through experience. Introduce them to different animals German Shepherds are not only good with other dogs but also with cats and other animals. By interacting and having fun with other animals, they learn to behave properly around them. How to Socialize an Older German Shepherd An older German Shepherd will have already accumulated negative experiences and developed their own ways to cope with fear and anxiety. They may already have dislikes and preferences that would be challenging to change. Nevertheless, socializing an adult GSD is not at all impossible. The most crucial step of socializing an older German Shepherd is to gain their trust. They need to respect you and understand that they can look to you for leadership. The only way to accomplish this is to spend some time with them, develop a relationship, and enable them to associate you with positive experiences. You just have to ensure you have better control due to their size and strength and have the patience to progress slowly so as not to overwhelm them with experiences they were previously wary of. German Shepherd Socialization Problems Lack of socialization is the most common reason why German Shepherds develop behavioral problems. Here are some issues you might experience with an unsocialized GSD: Defensive Aggression Fear-based aggression is one of the most severe consequences of not socializing your German Shepherd. They are uneasy in many situations and respond through defensive aggression. This might include snarling, lunging, charging, and biting. So when they lack positive experiences with their environment, they tend to bark more frequently in an effort to scare their perceived threats away. Destructive Behavior Anxious and nervous dogs tend to be more destructive. They could also develop obsessive-compulsive behaviors like digging or nipping at themselves. Hyperalertness German Shepherds are naturally alert and protective. This leads to a dog that is unable to turn off, is unceasingly vigilant, and seems to be constantly stressed. Final Thoughts The main goal of socializing your German Shepherd is to have a safe, well-adjusted, and pleasurable companion. Socialization also enables them to be happy and confident dogs that engage positively with their environment, other people, and other animals. If you want to learn more about raising a properly socialized, happy, and well-mannered German Shepherd, check out these 10 tips for successful GSD training. These are just a few examples of ways you could socialize your German Shepherd puppy. If there are other events and areas you know you would like to take your dog as an adult, then make sure to start introducing them to these places when they are young. Here is a comprehensive check-list of different places, people, and objects to introduce your puppy to. Should my German Shepherd puppy be fully vaccinated before socializing in public? The answer to this question is an unequivocal yes. When searching this topic online you will find several different answers. Puppies will require three sets of puppy vaccines, spaced 3 weeks apart from each injection. When you take your puppy out in public before they have received adequate protection from all three vaccines, their body is still at risk for contracting infectious illnesses. Many puppies that contract the deadly parvovirus, are in fact puppies that were taken in public after receiving just one or two vaccines before their vaccination routine was complete. Infectious disease can be anywhere, and it is never worth the risk. While you wait for your puppy to be fully vaccinated, you can still engage them in positive socialization experiences. For example, you can: Invite other people to your home. Take them on car rides. Hold them in your arms at pet stores or events, and let other people greet them. Take them to the vet for their routine care. If you begin the vaccination process at weeks of age, your pup can be fully vaccinated by 16 weeks. This leaves you plenty of time to adequately socialize your German Shepherd puppy. Some ways that you can begin to socialize an older dog are: Take them for walks: Taking your dog for frequent walks can teach them so many things. On your walks they may see new surroundings, new people, new animals, and experience new smells. Each walk they go on will give them more experience to relate to, and will in turn boost their confidence. Invite people over: A dog that is not welcoming of others in your home can be dangerous. By showing them friendly interactions with you and others in your home, they will slowly ease into the idea of new people in their environment. This will also help to show them the difference between a welcome visitor and a hostile intruder. Introduce them to other dogs carefully: If you are adopting an older dog, you may not know about their previous experience with other dogs. First, start by introducing them to other pups while they are both controlled on a leash. If this goes well, you can start with short supervised interactions. After these steps are successful, you can slowly work up to dog-friendly environment and parks. Introducing your Shepherd to other dogs when they are a young puppy will be significantly easier than when they are adults. When possible, start introducing them to other dogs and puppies once they are fully vaccinated. By doing this at a young age, you are setting them up to be a well-socialized dog who enjoys the company of other dogs. What if they were not socialized as puppies? What if you adopted an older Shepherd with a tough past? Friendly encounters: When possible, try your best to introduce your nervous dog to friendly dogs. Neutral areas: If your German Shepherd has never met another dog, you will not want to initiate this introduction in your own home. Shepherds can be protective of their home and may become aggressive if they fear their home is being threatened by another dog. Meeting in a neutral setting that neither dog has a tie to is best. Muzzles: If you fear that your dog may become aggressive with another dog, consider putting a basket muzzle on your dog. This will protect other dogs and people from being bitten, without causing your dog any discomfort. Leashes: Any time your dog meets another dog for the first time, keep both canines on a leash. This way you can control the situation if anything goes wrong. Know their limit: If your dog seems anxious, overwhelmed, panicked, aggressive, or shows any other signs of concern — take a step back. Try again another day. Once you have followed these steps above, you should continue to repeat this process until your German Shepherd has become comfortable with other dogs. Each GSD is different and will require a different process than others. While this is an incredible quality in a family dog, it can be quite dangerous when this trait is not controlled. Making sure that your dog is well behaved around new people is one of the most important steps in the socialization process. Some ways to appropriately introduce your Shepherd to new people include: Invite family and friends over. Get them use to people ringing your doorbell. Take them to other houses. Take them to public settings. Stop and talk to people on your walks with your dog. Ask others to interact with your dog on walks have the person talk to your dog, pet it, give it treats. If there are any specific settings or people you would like them to interact with, make sure to introduce them to your dog as early as possible. If your dog goes to a dog park before they are properly socialized and fights with another dog, they are going to associate that experience with other dogs in general. Controlling these situations when possible will help to socialize your dog in a positive way. Start with the basics, and work your way to more challenging situations. A correct pattern of socialization might be to first take your dog on walks, then invite others over, then introduce them to another dog in a controlled environment, then finally work up to social settings with other dogs. Make sure to not skip important steps. Watch your attitude: Socializing your German Shepherd can be a frustrating process. Each dog will progress at their own rate and will need to be surrounded by an encouraging environment. Try your best to be calm, supportive, and kind in new situations for your dog. Offer them praise: If your dog is doing things correctly, you want to make sure to offer them the praise that they deserve. Did it do well on your walk today? Offer it a healthy treat when you return home. Did it play nicely with the new dog they met on your walk today? Make sure to give it extra pats and tell them what a great job they did. These things matter to your pup and will encourage them to continue this behavior. Work at their pace: Quickly forcing your German Shepherd out of their comfort zone is not the answer in proper socialization. For example, if you know your dog does not do well with other dogs, your first instinct should not be to set them loose in a crowded dog park. Introduce these stressful triggers in small doses. Your dog will appreciate it, and it will prevent any setbacks in your socialization process. Try your best to not scold, hit, or punish your dog in any way when they are not socializing in a way you would like. Take a step back, and figure out another way that you can make this work. Basic Obedience Training A german shepherd puppy trained by a dog trainer in a green environment at a sunny springtime. German Shepherds are incredibly obedient dogs that love to please their owners. By teaching them basic commands, you are giving them purpose, and fulfilling their needs to serve their people. By giving them new challenges and commands to learn, you are helping to keep them mentally fit. Some basic obedience training includes: Sit.

The protein will come from readily available sources such as chicken or beef, and not exotic or boutique sources like kangaroo or venison as you saw in second study mentioned above. According to the AKC , quality, regulated animal byproducts can be good for your dog. These byproducts can include organ meats or entrails, which often contain more nutrients than, say, plain chicken breast. Another misconception is that dogs should eat grain-free diets. As you saw in the second study mentioned above, that can actually be very harmful for your dog and cause DCM. But food labels can be a little vague and confusing, so below is an explanation of what some of these terms mean, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual and the AKC. There is one caveat though. For instance, flaked corn, ground corn, and kibbled corn could be sprinkled in an ingredient list and not be listed as the first few ingredients, but in reality, if you were to add them all up they are all corn, after all , you might find that this food is made mostly of corn. The same goes for chicken, chicken meal, and chicken byproduct. Meat vs. Meat Meal vs. The quality of these ingredients can vary widely, so be sure to talk to your vet about this and choose a reputable brand of food. Below are a few examples: Obesity. Golden Retrievers love food and they do have a tendency to become overweight if you let them. This problem can often affect these next two problems… Joint issues. Golden Retrievers are prone to joint issues and growing too fast because they eat too much can often make this problem worse more on this in the next section. Heart issues. Skin issues. Golden Retrievers are prone to hot spots and excess protein in their diets can be a factor that causes them. Many goldens suffer from food allergies. One cup of Brand X food may have calories per cup, while Brand Y has calories per cup. During a vet visit our veterinarian said he looked too small and lethargic for a puppy his age about 8 weeks at the time , and he recommended we feed him a little more. As far as how often to feed your puppy, this same rule applies. For us, we fed Oliver three times per day until he was a little over a year old. Getting a Golden Retriever Puppy? Get the gameplan for raising them right with the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook. Those two statements may sound random, but they are related. According to the Banfield Pet Hospital , overfeeding your Golden Retriever can cause them to grow too fast and increase their risk of hip dysplasia. You probably noticed that a raw diet was the fourth-most popular diet Golden Retriever owners feed their dog. Since puppies are growing and adults are just maintaining their weight, they have different dietary needs. And for fats, puppy food should have at least 8. As far as when to switch from puppy food to adult food, talk to your veterinarian. To see a list of other milestones your puppy will hit like when they lose their first teeth, or when their coat is fully grown check out this timeline of Golden Retriever puppy milestones. Like most of the other questions in this post, this is something to talk to your veterinarian about. Many foods will have the same vitamins that pills have already in them, but on the other hand, some breeders require that you give your puppy vitamins for their health guarantee to be valid. First, we unknowingly started him off on one of the brands listed in the graph above that is correlated with DCM. Then we switched to another brand that he just sort of liked. If we were to have another puppy, we would definitely start with the Royal Canin Golden Retriever Puppy food. How To Switch Food Brands The other day I was talking to someone who was complaining that her puppy was having lots of stomach issues. Dogs have sensitive stomachs so if you want to switch foods, you need to do it slowly. You should take about a week to transition from the old food to the new brand. Also consider how long the brand of food has been around, whether or not there have been any recalls of that brand, and if there is any research behind it. What do you feed your Golden Retriever puppy? Have any questions about what to feed them? Let me know in the comments below! Related articles:. Royal Canin makes dry food tailored explicitly to particular breeds. Its Golden food variation uses chicken and brown rice ingredients to support digestive health, strong bones, and a healthy coat. Gorgeous coats, healthy body conditions, great activity levels- perfect puppies! With a combination of healthy proteins, fruits, vegetables, and more, this dry dog food will encourage healthy muscle development in your Golden Retriever as well as strong teeth, a healthy heart, and improved skin and coat texture. Looking at the ingredients makes me feel that I have purchased a quality product for my guy. With ingredients like real protein, fruits, and vegetables, this dry food increases energy, strengthens bones, improves immune strength, and neutralizes free radicals. Her coat is healthier and shiny. She even trimmed down a little as her old dog food was making her fat. They produce high-quality dog food for your Golden Retriever at an affordable price. Veterinarians recommend IAMS Proactive Health because it uses ingredients like animal protein and antioxidant-rich veggies to nourish your dog and meet their complete health needs. Highly recommend it. Good for maintaining a decent weight too. Gobbles it down! With fish as the main protein, this kibble promotes a gorgeous coat and healthy skin and improves digestive issues. He eats it enthusiastically, and it has really helped him thrive! He is energetic, has a gorgeous coat, and devours his meals! She is a much happier dog. The Save Shredded Puppy Blend includes probiotics to help ease the digestion in growing Golden Retriever puppies with sensitive stomachs. I mix it with wet food, and he loves it. He loves the chunks of shredded chicken! I highly recommend it. This large-breed dry food can help your Golden Retriever maintain a healthy coat and great skin as well as smooth digestion. All of them love this food! Their coats are shiny and soft, and their poops are small! The exclusive formula also increases energy levels! We tried another brand, and it caused all kinds of allergic reactions. We went back to Eagle Pack, and all is right again. Great product! That may be because they have a senior Golden Retriever who is struggling with dental issues or feel that dehydrated food options are healthier. This particular food contains real protein and essential nutrients that can benefit dogs of all ages. Once we got this, she became a food-crazed puppy! This food includes a combination of freeze-dried raw-coated kibble with real pieces of freeze-dried raw meat! This variety has lots of meat sources plus several strains of probiotics. In general, your dog will benefit from puppy food from about 8 weeks of age until they are six months to a year old. Check with your vet to determine the right time to switch from a puppy food to one for adult dogs, as recommendations vary based on the size of your dog. A few days later, you can begin making it a half-and-half blend. Make sure to watch for loose stool from your pup as you transition — if you notice that your Golden is struggling with the new diet, wait for a few days before increasing the blend. When in doubt, check with your vet! Most dog foods come with specific volumes listed on the side. Overfeeding your pet can lead to a variety of health concerns. To determine what food will suit your dog the best, check out 17 of the top dog foods on the market for Golden Retrievers, no matter their age. Check with your vet to determine whether your Golden will need any special dietary considerations. Foods considered toxic to Golden Retrievers are macadamia nuts, chocolate, onions, garlic cloves, grapes, raisins, walnuts, alcohol, and any foods sweetened with xylitol. Try to avoid feeding your Golden food containing any of these ingredients. Grain is an essential component to the diet of Golden Retrievers. The absence of grain has been known to lead to a deficiency in taurine, which can potentially cause heart problems for your golden. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. They are growing quickly, so while they eat smaller quantities of food than adult dogs, they need to extract far more nutrients like protein, minerals, and vitamins, to sustain their growth and development. Different Dogs, Different Diets Nutritional needs vary from breed to breed. One only needs to look at golden retrievers to know they require a different diet than a Chihuahua! For example, joint and bone problems are much more common in big dogs than in little ones, but choosing the right puppy food can reduce the risk. Large-breed puppy food has reduced amounts of calcium and phosphorus, which helps control the rate of skeletal growth. Also, you may find puppy foods that contain glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and mobility. By consuming too much food, your puppy will have elevated levels of the very nutrients that should be limited. Additionally, overweight puppies may develop other health issues such as diabetes and heart disease. Good eating habits developed during puppyhood will lead to a healthy mature dog in the years to come. Nutrition For The Outside One of the most visible components of your dog is its fur. Nutrition plays a vital role in this area. A large percentage of the protein your puppy takes in goes towards maintaining its coat. Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids are also essential for healthy skin and fur. Which Food Do I Choose? There will always be those who buy the cheapest brand on the market. Some will opt for the most expensive, while others will simply go with a brand name they recognize. The key is to find the right food for your particular puppy. One thing you cannot afford to ignore is the nutritional content. Because they are still growing, puppies need more protein than adults. Proteins foster muscle growth and development in puppies and lean muscle maintenance in adults, so the more of it there is in a diet, the better it is for your growing retriever. Fats, too, are important for golden puppies because they provide the energy required for everyday activities. You should be careful, however, not to feed your golden excess calories because this will result in excess weight or obesity. Eventually, your dog will end up battling joint problems. For instance, less expensive dog foods typically have lower-quality ingredients. The contents are often inexpensive, low-grade animal protein sources, like by-products and fillers. Fillers are frequently things like cornmeal, rice flour, or seed hulls. In general, thoroughly review the nutritional content of your chosen diet. Are the ingredients wholesome and natural? Does the diet have controlled calcium and phosphorous levels? Is the calorie and fat content limited to manage growth? Does the label state that the diet is complete and balanced? This can lead to obesity and will certainly cause increased defecation. The latter of these two issues will make house training more difficult than it already is. By contrast, costlier dog foods usually have higher-quality ingredients. The scales will be tipped heavily in favor of high-grade animal protein sources and fillers will be few and far between. Price is not, however, a guarantee of quality. The best dog foods for a golden retriever puppy are made with high-quality natural ingredients and have high levels of protein. Make sure the food is complete and balanced for daily feeding and formulated to meet the nutritional needs of large breed puppies. At this point, golden retriever puppies have likely already been switched to dry puppy food and you should continue feeding your pup the same type of food the breeder used. From the day you bring them home until they are six months old, you should feed your golden retriever puppy three times a day. Ideally, your pup should have breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day. A grain-free diet is the default meal for golden retrievers that are sensitive to grains, but if your dog is healthy, feeding her such a meal boils down to choice. A lot has been said about grain-free diets. Reports and studies have been carried out in recent years trying to establish any connection between it and Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy DCM. That all starts with choosing the best puppy food for golden retrievers. Avoid low-cost foods that are more filler than substance, and look for better foods that are packed with nutrients to help your puppy grow. In particular, consider trying a large breed formula to meet the specific needs of your golden retriever puppy. Good nutrition is an essential part of any health regimen, and providing high-quality puppy food will lay the foundation for a long, and enjoyable life. You May Also Like. Feeding Your Golden Feeding Your Golden With the wide array of foods available today, it can be hard to make a good choice of what to feed your golden. Goldens are particularly sensitive to dietary concerns, and feeding them a high quality diet can help boost their health and immune system. Feeding a high quality food is not necessarily more expensive. Price is misleading: cheaper foods require more volume to be fed, up to several cups at each meal. With the wide array of better foods available today, you can make a smart choice of what to feed your golden. A golden will normally eat about two cups of premium food per day. It can be adjusted a little more or less based on activity level and metabolism. Goldens are prone to skin problems, and a poor quality diet will cause skin problems which translates into costly veterinarian bills. You will need to go to the pet store to purchase your food. Grocery store brands do not offer the nutrition goldens need for good health. Do not be persuaded by fancy advertising. Many commonly hyped foods are not high quality and maybe lacking the necessary nutritional value for your dog. For example, Grain Free foods may play a major part in taurine deficiency in Golden Retrievers and other large breed dogs. This deficiency can cause serious heart problems for your dog see Taurine and Grain Free information on this web page. Here are some guidelines: Look for food free of chemical preservatives. Some of these additives are suspected of causing cancer. Look for food preserved with Tocopherols Vitamins C and E as well as rosemary and other herbs. Make sure you have several months before this date. Frequent stores where there is a good turnover of food so you get a fresh bag. Always store dog food in a tight airtight container in a cool, dry place. If you only have one dog, consider buying pound bags instead of pounds bags so the food is fresher. Look for a food that has some form of meat as the first ingredient — such as lamb, chicken, or turkey. Avoid foods that have grain as the first ingredient. Also look for multiple meat proteins in the first seven ingredients. Protein from multiple sources is generally viewed as being beneficial such as lamb, chicken and fish , unless your dog is allergic to certain proteins. Dog food companies sometimes list several types of grains in the first seven ingredients. Beware of this — your dog needs animal protein in his diet! These are the intestines of the animal including what is in the intestines!! Most by-products are not desirable. By-products normally contain beaks, feet, feathers, heads and other slaughterhouse wastes — not the most nutritious part of the animal. Avoid foods that have sugars or artificial colors or flavors or a lot of added salt. Semi-moist dog foods are the worst — they usually are loaded with artificial colors and sugars. Added vitamins and minerals are beneficial only when applied after the baking process, because heat destroys vitamins. The best foods are made up of ingredients that would be suitable for human consumption. Most dog foods contain meat products that are not fit for human consumption. They can include meat from diseased livestock, condemned material from slaughterhouses such as tumors cut away from meat , and as horrible as it sounds, some pet foods include euthanized pets sold to rendering plants and even road kill. Is it any wonder why so many dogs die from cancer when they are being fed meat from these sources? Grains — many dog foods will contain some grains, for example, brown rice, barley, corn, wheat, etc. We have found that some goldens in our rescue program generally do poorly on a food that contains corn or soy. Many goldens are allergic to corn or wheat. So if your golden starts getting a lot of hot spots or skin problems — check his food. There is a big difference in quality of grain products. Look for whole rice or brown rice in the ingredients; white rice and ground brewers rice are much lower in nutrients than whole or brown rice. Often pet food companies take the sweepings off the mill floor and put it in pet food. Look for whole grains instead such as oatmeal, brown rice, barley, or whole oats. Grain Free foods. Grain Free foods have become increasingly available as food companies try to offer foods that are easier to digest with lower levels of complex carbohydrates and grains. One misconception is that grain free dog food is also low-carb, however, vegetables such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, green peas and tapioca often replace the grains in grain-free dog foods, especially in kibble foods, making them as high or higher in carbohydrates than grain-based dog foods. Studies have shown peas, beans, pea starch, legumes, potatoes and sweet potatoes that have replaced the grains in dog foods block the function of taurine. Taurine, a sulfuric acid, is essential for healthy cardiovascular function in Golden Retrievers. If left untreated, taurine deficiency in Golden Retrievers can cause dilated cardiomyopathy DCM , congestive heart failure and possibly death. Read all the ingredients in the food which should include taurine and check with your veterinarian before selecting or feeding any grain free food to your dog. Detailed information on dog food ingredients and taurine can be found on this web page under Taurine and Grain Free information and at: Diet Associated Heart Disease Treats — beware of many dog treats out there. They are filled with sugars, preservatives and artificial colors. Try buying biscuits at your local dog bakery or making some yourself. The dog food companies listed below have high quality treats available for your dog. Is your dog overweight? Beware of some diet dog foods, they can be loaded with fillers that provide no added nutrition. At least green beans are healthy. You can also use canned pumpkin. Typically goldens love it! DO NOT free feed your golden; instead feed a measured amount of food twice a day. Most adult goldens will eat 1 cup of premium dog food twice a day. Is your dog too fat? You should be able to feel its ribs and your dog should have a waist. We have found that we have a different view of what constitutes a fat dog than many veterinarians. They will typically allow dogs to carry more weight than is optimal. This perhaps is because they do not want to insult their clients and risk losing business. Letting your golden get too fat is like chopping years off of its life. We also see lots of hip problems with goldens, and keeping weight in check will give your dog better mobility. Fat goldens are an epidemic from our experience. We routinely get goldens into our rescue program that have to lose 30 — 40 pounds!!! Therefore we have a lot of experience at taking the weight off! It is very discouraging and upsetting when an adoptive home will let some weight creep back on. You may think you are loving your dog by giving it too much to eat, but if you really love it you will keep it at a normal weight. Remember — Ribs and Waists! Can you feel and see them on your dog? If not, break open the cans of green beans! The bottom line is read the ingredients, consult your veterinarian and research reliable resources. Making sure your dog has the best nutritional food will help to insure he has a long and healthy life. Here, from Whole Dog Journal, are some additional links for selecting best dry dog food and the best canned dog reviews. Goldens Rescued Since .Read the full disclosure here. Being a large and energetic dog, your golden retriever has a ravenous appetite and can eat a lot. However, overfeeding is never good and could be avoided with the help of a golden retriever feeding chart. Knowing how much to feed your golden retriever is always tricky but essential for their well-being and health. Goldens are prone to obesity and joint problems, which can only be exacerbated with an inadequate feeding plan. So, stay with me to find the right feeding plan and meal schedule for your goldie. Most first-time owners think their puppies should be chubby. In truth, golden retriever puppies are supposed to look lanky and act like they are always hungry when fed the correct amount of food. To encourage proper growth and development without making your pup obese, you will have to know how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. For example, cheaper foods use fillers and have a smaller amount of calories, thus you will have to feed more than you would when using premium large breed puppy foods.

What to look for in a Labradoodle By Tine Neel Oklahoman Answer: Once you have decided on a breed of pup that you want, you will need to look over all the pups you are considering for certain health conditions. First, look for a pup that is of average or medium size within the litter. The smallest, weakest pups are not always healthy and can have some congenital or genetic problems that may shorten their life. Look for a pup that is friendly and not too timid. Very shy pups may be afraid and can become fear biters in the future. The primary socialization period for pups is 6 to 16 weeks of age so pick a pup in the 6 to 8 week old age range if possible. A few of the labradoodles I have dealt with are timid so look for one that comes to you readily. If you find one that you are interested in and seems to like you too, check the pup over to see if it has any discharges from the eyes or nose. Look into the ears and be sure that there is not crusty material in them. Check and see if there is a hernia bulge where the umbilical cord would attach on the middle of the belly or between the legs. In looking for a male pup, check to be sure that both testicles have descended into the scrotum. Six week old pups should have both testicles and it is not true that they will come down later. In order to have an idea if the pup is anemic, you can lift the lips and see if the gums and tongue are pink unless the mouth is black and not white. It is possible to get an idea about the immunities that the pup may have by asking the breeder what types of vaccines were used for the mother of the pups. Also inquire if the pups have been treated with any medications at all and get the names, amounts and dates of any treatments. Ask if the parents have had any medical problems and how old the parents and grandparents are which will give you an idea of what kind of longevity they have. Be sure to see the parents if possible. Try to see the pups at the breeder's place and observe how clean and healthy the other animals look. Be ware of people that want to meet you half way to sell you a pup. Consider getting in writing that you will have hours to take the pup to your veterinarian and have it checked over completely. It may be advisable to get a statement writing that if any contagious or congenital problems are found, you will receive your money back in full and not just be given another pup from the same litter or breeder. Many reputable breeders will already have such documents available. Remember that the incubation period of many of the common puppy diseases are 6 or more days in length. This means that even if your veterinarian finds no problems during the purchase examination, the pup still could break with disease in a week or so. Discuss this possibility with the breeder and have a written agreement as to how such a problem would be handled financially. The only problems I personally have seen with these dogs are that some have allergies. Additionally some labradoodles become overweight which is a feeding and exercise issue that you will be able to control with proper guidance. Here is a link to a website called petplace. Finally, purchasing a new pup is a big commitment in time, emotion and money, so be prepared to live up to that commitment. Have a veterinarian picked out and consult with them about the purchase. Make sure you can provide for the necessary vaccinations, spay or neuter surgery, heart worm prevention, de-worming, flea control and quality food that will be required for the life of your pup. Additionally have a pet safe environment for the pup and commit the time to train your new pup. You effort will be returned many time over by the attention of a great and loving pet. Consider Adoption First. Check The Lineage. You can check with the breeder and get a good idea of what type of coat your puppy will develop. Most reputable breeders keep records or even scrapbooks of the puppies that come from their kennels. If you get a Labradoodle puppy from a one-litter-every-blue-moon family, there are approximate measurements to go by. There are three size variations for the Labradoodle and it depends on the size of the poodle used for the first generation. The sizes are standard, medium, and miniature. A standard male Labradoodle will be inches in height and the female will be inches. The weight for both is from 50 to 65 pounds. A medium male Labradoodle will be inches in height and the female will be inches The weight for both is 30 to 45 pounds. The miniature Labradoodle has a much wider range of sizes. Male and female can be from 14 inches to 17 inches in height and weigh between 15 to 25 pounds. Coat texture and color, as well as size, tend to stabilize in multi-generational puppies. A competent breeder will not select dogs that have these genetic traits to be used as breeding stock. The health records for the parents of the current litter should be available for inspection. Are They Aggressive? Labradoodles are gentle and fun-loving, and most of all, they are very family-oriented. They were bred to be non-aggressive and eager to please. Some breeders will make arrangements to let the family interact with the puppy before making any long term commitments. Labradoodles are traditionally high energy and active creatures and would do best in a home that has a fenced-in yard. They need about 30 minutes to an hour of exercise per day to burn calories and generally wear them out. They are not suited for apartments, but as long as you can get them out for a run on the trails or play in the park daily, they should be alright. Labradoodles also crave interaction with people and do not handle being left alone for long periods of time. Take this into consideration if you will be at work and there is no one home during the day. Your new Labradoodle needs food and shelter obviously but many prospective owners forget the time to train the new addition. There is also the socialization that MUST be a part of raising your pet from day one. In many cases, the new parents need as much training as the puppy does. Here is a significant time drain — grooming. Brushing and bathing will need to be on a regular schedule, or else you will need the services of a professional groomer. Labrador retrievers are kindly and good-natured and they are very easy-going and gentle. Poodles are active, energetic, and quite lively but they are also loyal and bond easily with family members. They are very intelligent and tend to socialize and train easily. Labradoodles vary from the mini to standard size, and with each larger version comes the chance of smaller children getting unintentionally bumped around by a burst of puppy exuberance. Always remember that a puppy will grow much faster than your child will. Breeders following this protocol can provide a CHIC number for their breeding stock. You can get your veterinarian to give you their recommendations for reputable Labradoodle breeders. Consider avoiding breeders that Breed other types of dogs. Have multiple litters available at once, like in a number of kennels at a farm…this would be like a puppy mill. Sometimes the owners just found out that they cannot devote the time and care necessary to raise their fur baby properly. Whatever the reason, there are many orphaned dogs of all breeds just waiting for a loving family to welcome them home. There are usually benefits with a rescue dog, such as being already housebroken or socialized with other people and their pets. Labradoodles are very intelligent and have long memories. They will always remember being rescued…or should I say…rescuing you. I am a dog parent in Hot Springs Village, Ar. I created this site to help fellow Doodle owners with up-to-date information and tips for raising your puppy right! Post navigation. Friendly — Easy-going, Gentle, fun, and high spirited, inherited from their Labrador parent. Intelligent — Highly alert and smart, just like their Poodle parent. Loyal — Labradoodles are loyal dogs. If treated well when young, Labradoodles make loving, dependable, and amusing companions. Easy-to-train — A combination of their high level of intelligence and desire to please people makes it easy to train them. Playful — Labradoodles have a very high energy level. They enjoy playing with a passion and always up for a game of chase, fetch, or even a swim. Easy-to-maintain — With proper grooming, diet, and exercise routines, they are a pretty easy breed to care for. Secondly, take your time. Choosing a puppy that will share your home and your life for the next 10 to 15 years is a big decision. Individuals The next thing to remember is that while different Labradoodles may share many characteristics and temperament traits; each puppy also has its character, just like humans. Are you fit and active — do you want a lively, energetic dog? Or are you older and maybe live alone? If so, a smaller, more placid Labradoodle will suit you better, or perhaps an older dog that needs re-homing. Some Labradoodle puppies will run up to greet you, pull at your shoelaces and playfully bite your fingers. Others will be more content to stay in the basket sleeping. Watch their behavior and energy levels. Which puppy will be suitable? Submissive or Dominant? A submissive dog will be more passive by nature, less energetic, and also possibly easier to train. A dominant dog will usually be more active and lively. They may also need a firmer hand when training or socializing with other dogs. If he immediately struggles to get free, he is considered to be dominant. A similar test is the suspension test. A dominant pup will kick and struggle to get free. A puppy that is happy to remain dangling is more submissive. Useful Tips Here are some other important signs to look out for: Watch how he interacts with his litter-mates. Does he try and dominate them, does he walk away from them, or is he happy to play with them? How your puppy reacts with other puppies may give you an idea of how easy it will be to socialize him with other dogs. After having contact with the puppy, does he want to follow you or walk away from you? Not following may mean he has a more independent nature. If you throw something for the puppy, is he happy to retrieve it for you or does he ignore it? This may measure their willingness to work with humans. Decide which type of temperament would fit in with you and your family, and the rest is up to you. A Labradoodle that has constant positive interactions with people and other animals during the first three to four months of life will be a more stable, happier dog. In contrast, a puppy plucked from its family and isolated at home alone for weeks on end will be less happy, less socialized, and may well have behavior problems later on. Puppies are like children. Being properly raised contributes to their confidence, sociability, stability, and intellectual development. The bottom line is that a pup raised in a warm, loving environment with people is likely to be more tolerant and accepting and less likely to develop problems. This aptitude test has been developed by the highly respected Wendy and Jack Volhard who have built up an international reputation over the last 30 years for their invaluable contribution to dog training, health, and nutrition. Read the full Volhard puppy aptitude test on their website to learn how to conduct the test. Related posts:. From their friendly, playful personalities to their intelligent, eager-to-please natures, there are plenty of advantages to owning labradoodles. What Are Labradoodle Puppies? Not only was this new breed low-shedding and hypoallergenic, but it was also incredibly friendly and intelligent. Their sociable, affectionate natures make labradoodle puppies great for new owners and experienced pet parents alike. Most labradoodles require around 30 to 60 minutes of exercise a day, which can be easily fulfilled by walks or games. Intelligence: Thanks to their poodle parentage, labradoodle puppies are highly intelligent. Their natural curiosity and eagerness to please makes them fairly easy to train which is why labradoodles are common candidates for therapy dogs. Most mother dogs give birth to anywhere from one to 12 puppies at a time, with the average being just a few pups around five to six. It can be hard to single one puppy out — each one is adorable! Here are a few important factors you should look out for. Size Every new pet owner wants to go home with a healthy puppy. If a puppy is much smaller than its littermates, it may have a congenital or genetic issue that could affect its lifespan. On the flip side, if a puppy is the largest of the litter, it may be stealing food, which could mean it has trouble listening to commands. Personality The way a labradoodle puppy acts around its siblings and mother dog can be very indicative of its personality. When examining a litter, watch how the puppies interact with one another. A withdrawn, shy pup that keeps to itself may have aggression and biting issues in the future. An aggressive, independent pup that bullies other dogs may be reluctant to listen to commands. Meanwhile, a friendly, relaxed pup that gets along with its littermates will likely be easy to train. Playfulness The way a labradoodle puppy acts around its littermates can tell you a lot about its personality. But what about the way it acts around you? As you greet the puppies, observe how they behave. The puppies that rush forward and are interested in playing are more likely to be sociable and friendly. See if any puppies roll over on their backs — pets that exhibit this behavior tend to be more easygoing and trusting, which will come in handy while training. Gender For many prospective owners, the gender of their new puppy is probably inconsequential. However, if you already have a dog at home, gender may be an important factor to consider. According to many experts, male and female canines tend to get along better than two dogs of the same sex. Thus, if you have a female dog at home, you should consider getting a male pup and vice versa. Appearance Many prospective dog owners have a certain look in mind when searching for a new pet. For example, some people may want a puppy with a solid-colored coat, while others like multicolored pups. If you have any appearance preferences, look for a puppy that meets those expectations. Generally, you can expect labradoodle siblings to look pretty similar. However, there may be some slight differences — for example, one may have a traditional, golden curly coat, while another has a few spots of white. The only thing you can count on for sure is that all the labradoodles will share a distinguishable curly coat. Legs: Is your desired puppy walking and running normally? Any limping indicates a paw or leg injury. If this spot is larger than the size of a dime, the puppy may experience bone problems in the future. Stomach: Check to see if there are any protrusions or hernias around the belly area. Moreover, the puppy should not be scratching its eyes and ears excessively. Reputable breeders should answer your questions thoroughly and do everything they can to help you find your perfect match. Here are some good questions to ask. How Does the Puppy Behave in General? No puppy acts the same way throughout the entire day. The breeder will let you know if the puppy is a good match or if another puppy might be better for you. Before you take any puppies home, try to get some more specific information about them. For example, you could ask what activities a puppy enjoys. If you exercise frequently and want a labradoodle puppy that can keep up with your excursions, the breeder can direct you to an active puppy. On the flip side, if you prefer to stay in, the breeder can introduce you to a calmer, lower-energy puppy. For instance, if the breeder says a puppy likes spending time with people and learning new tricks, it suggests that the puppy will be more responsive to training. What Do the Parents Look Like? Generally, standard labradoodle puppies grow to be anywhere from 20 to 25 inches in height. You can get a better idea of what your new labradoodle puppy is going to look like by observing the parents. For example, if the parents seem too large, you might want to try another litter. In some cases, you may be able to meet the parents of your new labradoodle puppy in person. Are the Puppies Health-Tested? For example, ear discharge could indicate an infection, while a dull coat suggests skin allergies. Make sure the breeder health-tests all their labradoodles for common puppy diseases. Get a Labradoodle Today! There are probably plenty of healthy, friendly puppies within a litter that would fit well in your home. The best way to find the right puppy is by observing the litter, asking the right questions and working with a high-quality breeder. All our trained labradoodle puppies go through health and coat testing, as well as obedience training and housebreaking that meets therapy dog standards. Learn more by contacting us today! The following information will help guide you to make a wise choice of not only Choosing a breeder but choosing the best puppy for you. It is important to provide a safe environment for a puppy as well as a place for the puppy to sleep, play and eliminate. Do you have fencing and a dog proof yard? Is your yard big enough for the puppy to play and exercise, and if not are you willing to walk the puppy and provide exercise. Labradoodles need interaction with people and are not a good choice if you plan to leave the puppy outside alone all day while you are at work. Do you have a plan for your puppy when you are gone for long periods of time? Is your home puppy proof? In addition to the purchase price of a well bred puppy, you will have additional expenses including food, toys, bedding, crate, baby gates to limit access, grooming supplies or professional grooming expense. Puppy class and training expense, Veterinary expenses, including puppy vaccinations, yearly check up and if your puppy has an accident or eats something that it should not, you may incur possible Veterinary emergency expenses. It is important to factor in all the possible expenses before you bring your new puppy home. This should involve daily outings to introduce your puppy to new places, new situations, and new people, A puppy class is highly recommended. Grooming: Can be learned or you can use a professional groomer, but plan on brushing your puppy at least times per week for minutes each time to keep the coat mat free. House training: Will require consistent effort, plan on taking the puppy out at minimum every hours assuming the puppy is weeks of age. If the breeder has already started house training, by taking the puppy out every few hours, the house training task will be far easier as the imprinting on a young puppy makes for a lasting impression. Ask the breeder what house training method they use. We are assuming that this is your chosen breed; we understand that the volumes of information about the breed available can be quite confusing. Most All purebred breeds have a breed history that is somewhat murky, but one thing is clear all purebred dogs were a mix, meaning more than one breed of dog being bred together before the breed became recognized as a purebred breed. They cannot be recreated using the same or similar breeds and be considered the same breed. Most, will agree that the Australian Labradoodle consists of a lineage with the founders being Rutland Manor and Tegan Park these names will appear in the history or pedigree of the dogs that are of true Australian lineage. Start by Evaluating Your Lifestyle — your puppy will become part of your life. You need to make sure that the puppy you select will be suited for your lifestyle. For example, if you are athletic, you will probably not be happy with a dog that has a low energy level. Make a list of important qualities that you want in a dog. Consider size, energy level, and temperament. Do you want a guard dog or a lap dog? A running mate or a couch potato? What activities do you want your dog to participate in? Is it important that your dog interact with and enjoy children? An experienced breeder will have the best understanding of the individual puppies and will help you select one that will be a good match. The more detailed your list the better. Coat changes: The photos that you see on the websites are often times not the adult coats. The coat will most always change from puppyhood to adulthood. When you see a dog that you love the look of: Further investigation is needed, you need to know how old the dog is in the photos and how it was groomed. The look that you decide you love could be a dog photographed after having a bath and a blow dry with a brush out, or a dog that had a bath and left to dry naturally in the air no brushing. Are Labradoodles Hypoallergenic? Labradoodles have often been promoted as hypoallergenic which means less allergic, not free of allergens However, no canine is known to be completely nonallergenic. The reaction that an individual person has to an individual dog may vary greatly. In treating dog related allergies, it has been found that factors related to individual dogs seem to influence the allergenicity. The adult size is a personal preference taking into consideration your lifestyle, space, skill and time. There is no way to determine the exact size that a puppy will grow up to be as an adult, size is an estimate at best. There are many different kinds of breeders: We believe that breeding programs should be undertaken responsibly for the purpose of advancing the breed, preserving breed characteristics, producing structurally sound and healthy, well-socialized puppies. Responsible breeders are expected to give careful consideration to health issues, temperament, basic canine structure, genetic screening, as well as to the individual care and placement of puppies in responsible homes. Most reputable breeders comply with all county and state animal services requirements. Where are the puppies raised? Does the breeder have permits with animal services? What training does the puppy have while with the breeder? What experience does the breeder have in producing structurally sound puppies? Why this is important? Expected size of this puppy? Best training methods for this puppy? What are the health problems in the breed, and what can be done to prevent or control them? What health tests have been completed on the parents? Ask for proof and results of health testing. What health tests will be done on the prospective puppy, and when? Your breeder should be willing to answer all of your questions, no matter how silly or serious of questions you ask. Expect that the breeder will also ask questions about you, your lifestyle, and your family to determine what kind of home you have to offer one of their puppies. Based on their experience in the breed, they know what issues are important in placing one of their puppies. A responsible breeder is committed to making a good match, this is the kind of person you will want in your corner for continued support once you and your new puppy begin your new life together. A puppy with a good health history including siblings is your best guarantee that you are starting off with a healthy puppy for the long term. Why Is It Important? We encourage you to do your research and educate yourself on the basics that make up a correct structurally sound dog. Correct structure is critically important to the long term soundness and health of your puppy. Be aware of the breeders reasoning for infusing other breeds or why they have bred a specific pair. The answer you do not want to hear is that it was because they are pretty, they have both parents, and it was convenient just to name a few. The contract should include, for example, details regarding any fees, spay-neuter agreements, health guarantees, terms of co-ownership, restrictions on breeding, and living arrangements. Most responsible breeders will insist that the dog be returned to them for a full or partial refund. No unauthorized use is permitted. Only express, written permission is considered authorization. Copyright County Labradoodles. If you would like to link to this page contact the Author at elizabethferris gmail. How to Pick the Right Labradoodle Puppy In this article, we will provide tips and considerations for how to pick the right Labradoodle puppy. Researching the Breeders There are several steps you can take to research dog breeders before getting a new Labradoodle puppy: Start by searching for Labradoodle breeders in your area or within a reasonable distance. Look for breeders who are members of the Australian Labradoodle Association or the Australian Association of Pet Dog Breeders, as these organizations have strict breeding standards and codes of ethics. Look for reviews or ask for references from past customers. It can also be helpful to ask for references from veterinarians or trainers who have worked with the breeder. Look for information about the health testing and genetic screenings they perform on their breeding dogs. This will allow you to observe the conditions in which the dogs are kept and the overall health of the animals. A reputable breeder should be willing to answer your questions and provide documentation about the puppies. Look for signs of good nutrition, such as shiny coats and clear eyes. Watch how the puppies interact with each other and with humans. Look for puppies that are curious and friendly, rather than fearful or aggressive. Play with the puppies to see how they respond to handling and attention. Look for puppies that are calm and gentle, rather than hyperactive or overly rough. Look for evidence that the puppies have received proper veterinary care, such as vaccination records. Trust your instincts. If a puppy seems uncomfortable or unhealthy, it is best to choose another one. It is also important to remember to be cautious when handling the puppies to prevent the spread of illness. Wash your hands before and after handling the puppies, and avoid exposing them to potential sources of infection. Making a Final Decision When making the final decision on which Labradoodle puppy is right for you , there are several factors to consider: Consider your lifestyle and living situation. Choose a puppy that is the right size and energy level for your home and schedule. Think about your goals for training and obedience. Look for a puppy that is intelligent and willing to learn. Consider the temperament and personality of the puppy. Take into account the health history and genetics of the puppy. Choose a puppy from parents with good health histories and from a litter that has been screened for genetic disorders. Choose the puppy that feels like the best fit for your family. Be aware of the costs associated with owning a dog, including veterinary care, food, and training. Make sure you are comfortable with the price of the puppy and able to provide for its needs. It is important to remember that no puppy is perfect, and all puppies require time, training, and attention to grow into well-adjusted adults. By carefully evaluating the puppies and considering your own needs and goals, you can find the right Labradoodle puppy for your family. Conclusion on How to Pick the Right Labradoodle Puppy In conclusion, choosing the right Labradoodle puppy requires careful research and evaluation. By researching reputable breeders, visiting the litter to assess the health and temperament of the puppies, and considering your own lifestyle and goals, you can find a Labradoodle puppy that is the perfect fit for your family. Remember to take the time to make an informed decision and trust your instincts, as choosing the right Labradoodle puppy will set the stage for a happy and healthy relationship. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products.

Hunting dog names Yes Poodles are traditionally retriever hunting dogs! Simplicity ensures the dog will not confuse their name for another command. This is why it is recommended that you name your dog something with two syllables. Two syllable names allow for intonation and inflection changes in your voice. These changes signal to the dog that the word you are saying is not a short and clipped command but rather an identifying word that they should respond to. There is debate in the scientific community about whether or not dogs have a sense of self and can therefore determine which words you say are meant for them. Using a name with two syllables is a good way to help your dog learn to respond to this word. You should also choose a name that is not too long so you can say it quickly. Additionally, be sure that the name is not offensive to anyone you may know. Many common poodle names are also human names. Get input from other family members. It is a good idea to decide on a name together since everyone in the household will interact with the dog. If you decide on a name and want to change it, do so quickly so that the dog can learn its name without any confusion. Many dog owners have tons of nicknames for their dogs other than their formal names. Do not be discouraged if naming your poodle takes a long time. It takes time to reach the perfect name! Are Poodles hyper? They sure love to run and exercise! Final Thoughts Naming a dog is an important job. Many factors about a dog can help you choose a name. Personality is especially useful to determine a name if you do not already have one in mind. Remember, consider our tips when naming your new poodle! Naming a dog is not an exact science, so just have fun with it. We hope you are inspired by our list of best poodle names. Good luck on your naming journey! My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Whether your Poodle is a standard, miniature or an itty bitty teacup pup, you want to choose a cute name for them that really fits their personality! Here are some great male and female names for your poodle. Top 10 Precious Poodle Dog Names Here are our top 10 favorites divided up between male and female ideas! This is a cute name for a poodle that is charming, funny and pleasant. Caesar is an imperial title given to an emperor during Roman Times, most notably Julius Caesar. Charley— The name Charley is from French origin, meaning free man. Charley was the faithful companion, a black standard Poodle, of famed author, John Steinbeck. Claude— The name Claude is from French origin, meaning lame, enclosure. Claude was the cream-colored pet poodle of Milburn and Margaret Drysdale on the television series- The Beverly Hillbillies. Frederic— The name Frederic is from French origin, meaning peaceful ruler. This is a great name for a poodle that has a presence about him, because there have been a few notable men in the arts field in history. Frederic Edwin Church was a landscape painter, Frederic Remington was an Old West painter, sculptor and writer and Frederic Tuten was an essayist, novelist and short story writer. Rusty— The name Rusty is from French origin, meaning fox-colored. Ginger— The name Ginger is from English origin, meaning chaste, pure. Ginger is a flowering plant that is used in cooking and traditional medicine. Throughout history, some notable females have been named Ginger. Mirabella— The name Mirabella is from Latin origin, meaning wonderful. Molly— The name Molly is from Hebrew origin, meaning wished-for child. Vicky— The name Vicky is from Latin origin, meaning triumphant, victory. Vicky seems to be a popular name for soap opera characters. I found inspiration in those wonderful traits to help you find the perfect name for your new puppy! Check out my favorites for girls!

These rescues are trustworthy, educated, certified, and overall have left a great impact on their community of Goldens. These rescues are trustworthy, have a great track record, friendly, and overall provide amazing service. This rescue takes in strays that are abandoned or surrendered dogs who can no longer be cared for by their owner. They provide any medical attention needed, and they feed and care for them while assessing any behavioral issues present. The mission of this rescue is full to help the problem of pet overpopulation by tackling the Golden Retriever breed. They are making a huge difference in their community by helping the Golden retriever population get into loving and caring homes. This organization is also extremely active and is a part of events, fundraisers, and other community activities. This rescue can be contacted by using the information listed below. Address: P. We have three trustworthy Golden Retriever clubs that are here in Indiana to help you find and train your Golden Retriever. This club was created because of the common interests of everyone involved who love Golden Retrievers. They put on specialty shows, do excellence tests, agility tests, tracking tests, and more at this club. They are a very involved club that has been moving very quickly since it began in .Their club focuses on dog showing, breeding, and training. Their goals and missions include promoting quality inbreeding as far as temperament, soundness, and appearance. They encourage members to accept the standards as approved by GRCA, plus they do everything in their power to protect and advance the interest of the breed. They are also working on building a rescue mission too. This club takes part in many different activities such as breeding, agility, obedience, and conformation to help achieve an improved breed of Golden Retrievers. They are a very active club with many opportunities for Golden Retriever owners and Golden Retriever dogs that will help owners to learn about their dogs while also giving them a great community to join. Here are a few amazing articles you can check out:. Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. We even have all types of golden retrievers for sale! At My Golden Retriever Puppies, we pride ourselves on our golden retriever price being fair and affordable for high quality puppies. Location Information for Indiana Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Indiana? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Indiana? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Read about little Eeyore! Adopt a Golden Retriever Give a golden retriever dog a loving home. We rescue golden retriever dogs from select areas of Ohio, Michigan and in Indiana. Adopt today! See them all. Help Golden Retrievers We rely strictly on your donations to make a difference in the lives of so many loving, deserving golden retriever dogs. You can play a major role in helping us survive! How can I help? Sponsor a Golden Retriever Be a Golden Angel Sponsor or help a golden retriever with extraordinary, critical medical needs. Get all the details and have your name listed next to your sponsored dog. Become an angel. Volunteer or Foster a Golden Retriever Tuck a dog in at night or help show off golden retrievers at our adoption events. Whether you want to provide a temporary loving home or just want to help at events.Be part of rescue. We also adopt golden retrievers to the southeast area of Michigan and the northeast area of Indiana. We adopt to areas within Ohio, Michigan and Indiana where we can do a home visit by a trusted volunteer. Please contact us to see if we can service your area. As of April 26, , we are now accepting new adoption applications. If you are not an Indiana resident, please visit our Resources Page to locate a state-by-state listing of Golden Retriever rescue groups. We have found it is difficult for the adult members of a family with young children to find the considerable time needed to train a dog due to the family's busy household. GRRACE prefers to adopt our dogs to homes with structural fences, given that many of our dogs have been found as strays. However, we recognize that not all homes have structural fences, and we review each case individually with best needs of each Golden in mind. If you have cat, please ensure your cats are up to date on rabies vaccinations before submitting an application. GRRACE does verify vaccination statuses for all household pets with veterinarians as part of the application review process. Because we often match dogs to already-approved adoption applicants, many of our foster dogs never appear as available on the "Available Goldens" tab of our website. If, however, we don't find a match in these approved adoption applicants, we'll then post the foster dog as "available" on our website. There are several steps in adopting our Goldens: Complete our Adoption Application. As you complete the adoption application, you will be prompted to make your donation through our secure payment processing system. You will receive a donation receipt via email. Please add support petstablished. Emails regarding your application will come from that address. Applications are reviewed and processed within 2 weeks of receipt. The final step before any adoption is completed is a home visit. One of our trained volunteers comes to your home and discusses the adoption process with you. Home visits are done after you are matched with a dog because it is not feasible for us to conduct home visits for each applicant. The home visit is a good opportunity for you and your family, and for GRRACE, to discuss any remaining questions and talk about the process of bringing a new Golden into your family. After a Golden arrives at his or her new home, follow-up phone calls or visits are scheduled to ensure that all is going well for both the Golden and the family. All Goldens are adopted on a two-week trial period. If, for any reason, the match between Golden and family does not work out, the Golden can be returned to GRRACE for a full refund of the adoption fee during that period. After the two-week period, the adoption is considered final. We strongly encourage you to contact us at any time if you have any questions or concerns. We are always glad to hear from our adoptive homes in the future with updates. If you recently added a dog to your home and wish to adopt from GRRACE, we require a month waiting period before adopting another dog. This gives the first dog ample time to settle in, bond with, and become familiar with the routine of the family. Latest Events.

Breeds The link has been copied! Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world and for a good reason. They make wonderful family pets due to their friendly personalities, endless loyalty, and high intelligence. However, before bringing one into your home, it is essential to consider the costs associated with owning a Golden Retriever. In this article, we'll explore the question, "How much does a Golden Retriever cost? The overall price of a Golden Retriever can vary widely depending on a number of factors, such as the dog's age, lineage, and location. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that buying a puppy is just the beginning of the expenses associated with owning a Golden Retriever. In addition to the initial price, routine vet visits and vaccinations are necessary to keep your Golden Retriever healthy and prevent illnesses. These costs can add up quickly, especially in the first year of your dog's life when they require more frequent check-ups and vaccines. Your dog will typically require annual check-ups and routine vaccinations throughout their life. You can also choose to microchip your pet for additional security measures. Another ongoing expense associated with owning a Golden Retriever is grooming. While Golden Retrievers are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming compared to some other breeds, they do require regular brushing and occasional baths. So, you will need to set aside adequate funds for this care. A Golden Retriever puppy cost can vary. The overall price will depend on whether you choose to purchase from a breeder or adopt from a rescue organization. However, it is essential to note that some breeders will charge more for puppies that have exceptional bloodlines or rare coat colors. If you choose to adopt a Golden Retriever puppy from a rescue organization, the adoption fee is usually much lower than the purchase price from a breeder. It is important to note that adoption fees will usually cover the cost of veterinary care, food, and shelter for the puppy while in the rescue organization's care. Often if you choose to adopt from a rescue or dog shelter, the pet will come into your family already spayed or neutered and up to date on all vaccinations. Color One of the most significant factors is the color of the puppy. Golden Retrievers typically come in shades of gold, but some may have a slightly darker or lighter coat, which can create variations in their price. For instance, puppies with lighter-colored coats may be more expensive than those with darker coats. Bloodline Puppies with a pedigree from a well-known champion bloodline are often more expensive than those without a proven lineage. This cost difference is because they are likely to have a superior appearance, temperament, and overall health characteristics. Often dogs from such lineage come with documentation and official paperwork to verify their background. A quality breeder who has invested time and resources in breeding and raising quality Golden Retrievers may charge a higher price for their puppies. This reason is that they are more likely to provide you with a healthy and well-socialized puppy. Estimated Size Finally, the estimated size of the puppy can impact the cost. Typically, male Golden Retrievers are larger than females, and puppies from larger litters may be smaller than those from smaller litters. Owing to that, puppies from a smaller litter may be more expensive as they tend to be in higher demand. Overall, it is essential to consider all of these factors when looking to purchase a Golden Retriever to ensure that you get the best value for your money. As we've discussed, the cost of purchasing and maintaining a Golden Retriever can quickly add up. However, investing in a GPS-tracking dog collar is one way to protect your investment in your furry friend. A GPS-tracking dog collar can help make sure that your Golden Retriever doesn't wander too far from home or get lost. This feature is especially important if you live in an area with a lot of traffic or wildlife, where your dog could be at risk of injury or getting into dangerous situations. A GPS tracking dog collar can help you quickly locate your dog if they do manage to escape, allowing you to bring them home safely and quickly. No doubt a GPS-tracking dog collar is an additional expense, but it can provide peace of mind and protection for your furry friend, making it a worthwhile investment for any Golden Retriever owner. It can give you the confidence to let your dog explore and play freely while still being able to keep an eye on their location and well-being. Incorporating the Fi GPS Tracking Dog Collar into your Golden Retriever's routine can help ensure their safety and security while enjoying all the joys of owning this beloved breed. The collar has a long battery life and is water-resistant, making it durable enough to withstand daily wear and tear. The collar also offers activity tracking, which can help you monitor your dog's exercise habits and ensure they are getting enough physical activity to stay healthy. Golden Retriever Breed Guide The Golden Retriever is a popular breed known for being friendly and having an affectionate personality. They are intelligent, eager to please, and have a gentle nature, making them excellent family pets. They are typically very patient with children and get along well with other animals, making them an ideal companion for families with kids or other pets. Golden Retrievers are considered to be a medium to large breed in terms of size and weight. Males typically weigh between 65 and 75 pounds and stand in inches between 23 to .Alternatively, females weigh between 55 pounds to 65 pounds and stand in inches between .Golden Retrievers have an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years, but with proper care, they can live up to 14 years. Golden Retrievers are an active breed. They frequently require multiple sessions of daily exercise to stay in peak shape. They enjoy many types of outdoor activities, including swimming, fetch, and hiking. These dogs make great companions for those who enjoy an active lifestyle. However, they can also adopt a more laid-back lifestyle if they don't receive regular exercise. The lifetime care costs of a Golden Retriever will often depend on factors such as their health, age, and lifestyle. Budgeting for these costs and planning accordingly to ensure that your furry friend receives the care they need throughout their lifetime is essential. There are several ways to reduce the cost of owning a Golden Retriever. One option is to adopt a dog from a local animal shelter or rescue organization. Adopting a dog can be significantly less expensive than buying a puppy from a breeder, and it also helps to reduce the number of dogs in shelters. Another way to save money is to consider adopting an older dog instead of a puppy. Older dogs may have already gone through the training process, which can save on the cost of obedience classes and training supplies. They may also be less demanding in terms of exercise and may already be house-trained, which can save on cleaning and flooring expenses. When buying a Golden Retriever puppy, it's crucial to find a breeder who will always prioritize the health and life quality of their dogs. A breeder should be able to provide you with health guarantees, documentation of the puppy's lineage, and proof of vaccinations and other necessary medical treatments. Moreover, it's also a good idea to visit the breeder's facility and meet the puppy's parents, if possible, to get a sense of the breeding environment and the temperament of the puppies. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option when buying a Golden Retriever, doing so can lead to additional expenses down the line if the puppy develops health problems that require expensive medical treatment. A reputable breeder may have higher upfront costs but is more likely to produce healthy puppies with fewer genetic health issues. This initial extra cost can ultimately save you money and heartache in the long run. By taking the time to research breeders and consider all options carefully, you can save on the initial cost of owning a Golden Retriever while still providing a loving home for a furry companion. Conclusion: The Cost of Owning a Golden Retriever In conclusion, owning a Golden Retriever can be a fulfilling experience, but it is crucial to consider the upfront and ongoing costs that are commonly associated with owning one. By understanding the factors that impact the price tag of a Golden Retriever and exploring ways to reduce those costs, you can ensure that you are providing the best care for your furry friend without breaking the bank. Lastly, you will want to consider how to protect your newest family member and the investment that comes with them. The Fi GPS Tracking Dog Collar is a cutting-edge style of technology that offers dog owners an extra layer of protection for their furry friends. The collar uses GPS technology to track your dog's location in real time and sends alerts to your phone if your dog leaves a designated safe zone. This feature can be beneficial in the event that your Golden Retriever ever goes missing or wanders off, giving you the ability to quickly and easily locate them. For more helpful articles about pet-parenting tips, check out the Off Leash blog at TryFi. Want to know more about TryFi. This is the fastest way to find your dog after an escape. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. This will allow your veterinarian to become more comfortable and familiar with your dog, making it easier for them to detect unusual changes. Aside from vet bills, pet insurance is an important investment that most dog owners tend to ignore. You may not be able to avoid employing the services of pet daycares, dog walkers, and others if you are going out of town or busy with work. These kinds of services are becoming increasingly popular these days. Your pet will be cared for by trained pet handlers at pet daycares. Travel Expenses: If you enjoy traveling with your Golden Retriever, you may need to pay some extra fees because many hotels do not allow pets. Dog Training: This breed has a high level of intelligence. With the right puppy training, your puppy should be able to learn a variety of tricks. Basic obedience training and socialization are important for a growing Golden puppy. Emergency Medical Treatment: Medical emergencies cannot always be avoided. Of course, these scenarios typically come at a high cost. This breed is recommended to visit a professional groomer once every 8 to 10 weeks. All these potential expenses are optional, except for emergency medical treatment. You can learn how to avoid these fees entirely as you go, which will save you even more money if you want to be practical. Make sure to talk to the breeder before adopting or buying, as not all breeders have the best intention for their puppies. They also raise funds for canine health research. Their puppies are sold with a contract for neutering or spaying as well as a registration from the American Kennel Club. This means that the quality of their dog is in their best interests. Sun-Golden Kennels — This Golden Retriever breeder operating in Wisconsin raises all of their dogs in their home, so the temperament is fairly balanced. They allow their dogs to run around inside their home and sleep beside their bed to socialize with them. They also involve them in activities such as playing ball, hiking, and swimming with other dogs. The rescue organization also houses other breeds such as the Labrador Retriever and mixed breeds like the Goldendoodle and Labradoodle aside from Golden Retrievers. Their dogs are ready for adoption and have undergone health screenings, rabies vaccinations, heartworm vaccinations, deworming, neutering, and flea and tick treatment. This shelter is open to long-distance adoption in collaboration with other regional rescue groups, as long as the adoptive family meets specific guidelines and conditions. These fees are usually used by rescues for vet bills, registration papers, and other expenses for their dogs. You can also check out our compiled list of reputable Golden Retriever breeders and rescue organizations that house purebred Golden Retrievers to help you with your search for your perfect dog. You may also want to read our ultimate dog adoption guide to ace your adoption application at any of the rescues listed above. Here are some money-saving tips for Golden Retriever owners: Make your own food and treats. Instead of buying store-bought dog food and treats for your Golden, you can learn how to make them yourself. Recommended dog food for the Golden Retriever includes chicken , healthy whole grain meals, approved veggies and fruits, and unseasoned and natural ingredients. Consider home grooming. Grooming a Golden does not have to be a difficult chore. Grooming Golden Retrievers cost a fortune when brought to a professional groomer. Your dog does not require as much grooming as many other breeds. The simple task of brushing and combing their coat will keep shedding under control and the buildup of mats and tangles at bay. Bring them to the vet regularly and keep an eye out for accidents. Because vet bills can be pricey, you must ensure that your Goldie does not suffer from any significant illnesses or injuries. Try training your own dog. Paying for dog trainers may cost you more money. If you do not want to participate in dog shows or contests, it is preferable to train your Golden yourself. This would save you a few bucks while also providing a bonding opportunity for you and your Golden. Choose quality dog supplies. It is recommended that first-time dog owners get high-quality products for their dogs. Choosing a cheaper item may end up costing you more in the long run because you may need to replace it on a regular basis. You can save money where you can, but make sure your Goldie receives the care and attention it deserves. Always remember that a healthy dog is a happy dog. A healthy Golden Retriever is not hard to maintain. With the right mindset, you could keep your pooch in tip-top shape while saving money. Keep in mind that expenses may vary based on the lifestyle you keep for your Golden. By ensuring their good health and condition as well as applying practical money-saving tips, raising a Golden Retriever is not a difficult task. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. One or both of this puppy's parents is OFA Heart certified. This puppy has had early neurological stimulation exercises. It is also important to understand there are different types of golden retrievers which may affect pricing. For example, if you decide to choose the lowest golden retriever cost option, those puppies almost never have the necessary 3rd-party assurances or veterinarian procedures like dewormings, vaccinations, health-tested parents, or a thorough health checkup. These missing costs and services will be your responsibility, making the total cost ultimately the same. Not to mention the added stress on you these extra expenses and issues create! Adopting vs. Please note that depending on the shelter, you may have to pay additional costs for your Golden certain shots and procedures. Depending on if the golden retriever is a boy or a girl may affect the price as well. Some male vs female golden retriever differences may make you prefer one over the other. This will ultimately save you time and money on your golden retriever price because breeders often pay lower veterinary rates than individuals do. Distemper, for example, is a highly contagious disease that attacks the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and nervous systems of dogs. Unfortunately, there is no cure — just a lot of expenses and stress which really adds to the overall cost of your Golden Retriever puppy. It is wise to ask your vet for guidance on this decision. Talk with your vet about the procedure, when you should get it done, and how much it might cost. Dental Care for Your Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers, like many dogs, can be prone to dental issues such as plaque buildup, gum disease, and tooth decay. These cleanings typically involve scaling, polishing, and potentially extractions if necessary. Some insurance providers offer optional dental coverage as an add-on or as part of more comprehensive plans. If dental coverage is included in the policy, it typically covers a portion of the costs associated with dental cleanings, extractions, and other necessary dental treatments. This typically includes services such as bathing, brushing, trimming, nail clipping, ear cleaning, and sometimes additional services like de-shedding or dematting. Some groomers may offer package deals or discounts for regular appointments or bundled services. This monthly expense may seem like an additional cost, but it can be a worthwhile investment when considering the potential savings on veterinary bills for treatments, surgeries, and medications. By having pet insurance in place, you can ensure that your Golden Retriever receives the necessary care without straining your finances in the event of unexpected health issues. Puppy Training and Socialization Classes Attending puppy training and socialization classes is highly recommended for the comprehensive development of your Golden puppy. These classes provide structured learning environments, social interaction, and essential obedience training. By enrolling your Golden Retriever puppy in these classes, you ensure they receive the necessary foundation for good behavior, social skills, and overall well-being. The cost for food will depend on the size, age, and activity level of your companion. Fortunately, the cheaper brands of dog food can be just as good as the more premium brands as long as they meet the standards of AAFCO and are made with minimal processing. When making your decision, make sure to avoid artificial ingredients and preservatives where you can, since they could cause health problems for your dog.

These predictable, durable, steady breeds, like Labs and Goldens, are great with kids and offer the whole family more dog to love. At Twin Lakes Kennel, we have been breeding and training world class Labrador retrievers for almost forty years. Our industry setting Puppy Guarantee makes buying one of our pure-bred Labrador retrievers one of the wisest decisions you will ever make. Read the personal testimonials from prominent Labrador Retriever owners from around the country. Visit our Puppy Page or call Woody or Judi for up-to-the-minute puppy information at .Located near Laurel Hill, NC, we deliver our world class Labrador retriever puppies and adults to locations as far away as Alaska. We can easily deliver our guaranteed Labs to your location in or around Miami. For details, call Woody or Judi at .Labrador Retriever Puppies and Children In a recent article, a licensed professional counselor for more than twenty-five years, explained how owning a Labrador retriever can help produce healthier, happier, more well adjusted children. Here is an excerpt from her article: Dogs are a mood booster. Historically, dogs have been great companions. Research has shown that it only takes a mere minutes with your pet to feel more relaxed and calm per Web, MD. Also, when children reach out and pet or hug their dog, they are giving of themselves and soon feel better. Why pay for tranquilizers? Besides, who wants to put children on drugs any way? Be sure to read the rest of her article, Ten Reasons to Own a Dog. Our world class Labrador Retrievers puppies for sale! Our Latest Happy Clients! Become A Happy Client! We have answers. Like with many breeds, Labrador Retriever puppy prices will vary between Labrador Retriever breeders in Miami based on several factors. Some of the most common are pedigree, breeder experience, and yes, even coat color. But part of our MatchMaker process involves matching you with breeders and pups who fit your budget, too! Do American Labrador Retriever breeders Miami ship puppies out of state? How do you screen chocolate Labrador Retriever breeders Miami? Miami Labrador Retriever breeders and companies in the Uptown network are strictly screened in many areas, including breeder knowledge, experience, animal health and care, facilities, and much more. We wanted to create a place where honest breeders are rewarded and loving families have a quick, painless way to avoid all those scams and meet the puppy or puppies of their dreams. What is a puppy mill? Why are some Miami Labrador Retriever puppies for sale so cheap? Puppy mills are unethical breeding operations where profit is more important than puppy health and wellbeing. Puppy mill dogs are far more likely to die young—but not before developing dangerous health and behavioral issues, and costing owners thousands of dollars in extra veterinarian fees. Are there any purebred Labrador Retriever puppies Miami for sale near me? Within the Uptown network are tons of great Labrador Retriever breeders, meaning your dream doggy is never too far away. What is the MatchMaker process? MatchMaker is our system for connecting awesome families with awesome breeders and Lab puppies. Basically, all you need to do is tell us a bit about your ideal puppy based on factors like size, breed, etc. That allows us to pick our best breeder matches for current and upcoming litters, making it quick and easy to find your dream dog. How do I know I can trust you? Together, Uptown, the partners in our network, and our customers are helping to eliminate unethical breeding and puppy mills for good. Even-tempered and well-behaved around young children and the elderly, Labradors are athletic and playful, and are the most popular breed of dog by registered ownership in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States since .A favourite assistance dog breed in these and other countries, Labradors are frequently trained to aid blind and autistic people, act as therapy dogs, and perform screening and detection work for law enforcement and other official agencies. The founding breed of the Labrador was the St. The forebears of the St. The Newfoundland known then as the Greater Newfoundland is likely a result of the St. The smaller short-coated St. These smaller dogs were the forebears of the Labrador Retriever. The white chest, feet, chin, and muzzle — known as tuxedo markings — characteristic of the St. Appearance: Labradors are relatively large, with males typically weighing 29 to 41 kg 64 to 90 lb and females 25 to 32 kg 55 to 71 lb. Labradors weighing close to or over lb 45 kg are considered obese or having a major fault under American Kennel Club standards, although some Labradors weigh significantly more. The majority of the characteristics of this breed, with the exception of colour, are the result of breeding to produce a working retriever. In general, however, Conformation Labradors tend to be bred as medium-sized dogs, shorter and stockier with fuller faces and a slightly calmer nature than their Field counterparts, which are often bred as taller, lighter-framed dogs, with slightly less broad faces and a slightly longer nose; however Field Labradors should still be proportional and fit within AKC standards. With field Labradors, excessively long noses, thin heads, long legs and lanky frames are not considered standard. These two types are informal and not codified or standardised; no distinction is made by the AKC or other kennel clubs, but the two types come from different breeding lines. Australian stock also exists; though not seen in the west, they are common in Asia. These dogs are also very good with children. Wikipedia SW 40 St. Suite 27 Miami, FL gorgeouspuppiesandkittens gmail. All Rights Reserved.

Why Is My Dog Shaking? Dogs are known for their loyalty and companionship, but when they start shaking, it can be a cause for concern for pet owners. Shaking in dogs can be a sign of various issues, from dog anxiety and dog fear to dog medical conditions. In this blog post, we will explore the common causes of a dog shaking and what pet owners can do to identify and treat the problem. We will also offer tips for preventing dog shaking and ensuring.By doing regular grooming at home, you can help your dog look its best between visits to the groomer. You also get to bond more closely and build stronger trust with your dog. Routine grooming sessions will keep your dog clean and feeling fresh, but it will also.Their personality is lively, their nature fun-loving, and their disposition affectionate. As even-tempered, sweet, and playful dogs, Pugs make wonderful playmates for kids of all ages and lovely companion pets for couples, singles, and seniors. These little joy bringers love to cuddle and are generous with their Pug love. When it comes to their family, Pugs attach like magnets. They are known to happily shadow their humans in every activity and are just as happy lazing on the couch all day as they are going for a long evening stroll around the neighborhood. Find more Pug puppies for sale in closest states: Georgia , South Carolina , Mississippi , Louisiana , Tennessee , Kentucky If you have never owned a Pug before, or are interested in reading more information, check out our Pug Dog Breed Information page. Latest Dog Articles Tips novice dog breeder A complete and accurate answer for you, no one can give, because it all depends on many factors, the life of a breeder. By and large it all depends on the purpose for which purchased the dog, who will care for her, where you'll have it, and where and by w Methods of teaching a puppy Establish a connection with a young puppy can by feeding him from his earliest days. The puppy should pnyat you for it - the power supply. She should realize this and get used to you as an owner. The same way you can teach your puppy to respond to his nic When we get a dog, immediately the question arises as to accustom the puppy home "walk" in the toilet. In fact, it is not difficult. As a rule, the need arises after active play, sleep or eat. Surely, you know that pets, on the paws have pads with scent glands. So they scrape the ground and the front and hind legs, thus mark, so to speak, its own territory. Paws they scrape after urination, and also after a bowel movement. Dogs in general are b How to properly care for the puppy Many readers ask the question, when you can take the puppy home? Typically, the pups can already take vtoroi after vaccination, the first at six - the eighth week, the second - after 2 weeks after the first vaccine. At this point, you can already walk the If you like a little dog with a character, you may want to consider the candidacy of the Yorkshire terrier. These dogs are so sure of themselves that are not afraid of dogs, even in spite of the pocket size.

This coat is preferred by many. It should be wavy and forming light loose spirals. The Fleece coat has a distinctly soft, loopy spirals it feels like no other dog coat. This is a thicker tight curl coat. A Wool Fleece blend is a distinctly nice unusual coat as well. Has a cute fluffy longer coat look. Regular brushing is recommended. Minimal to non-shedding. The Multi-gene Australian Labradoodle always has the ultimate coat. Due to many years of breeding and the uniqueness of the Australian doodle produces a usually textured coat. It should be silky-soft waves and or light loopy spirals very nice Fleece coat and Fleece wool blend. As your Labradoodle puppy develops their adult coat and out of their puppy coat at about 6 to 12 months. Doodle coat will start to thicken and mat, this is the time to start grooming. When the pup coat is changing to their adult coat Puppy may lose a little hair and the coat may become lighten or darken. A change in curl or wavy will happen as the coat matures. Do NOT shave puppy coat off! In addition, we have our GorgeousDoodle preferences and tips as well : When your Doodle is about 14 months old they will have their adult coat and then body and legs can be shaved with clippers if needed. We usually only try to use the shavers on the tummy and sanitary areas but scissors cut everywhere else. It is important is to know your groomer or have a groomer that is recommended. Ask to see photos of other Doodles they have groomed, etc. The best shampoos and conditioners are super important…Doodles have sensitive skin. It is always important to leave their coat longer on the head, face, and tail. It looks good if the tail is full and top of the head is full and ears are trimmed up. I always talk with the groomer and give them firm instructions. No shaving the face or ears or paws or tail. We groom our dogs ourselves. We sometimes leave the legs a little longer with poodles it is called leaving the pants on and or leave their paws and ankles with a bit longer coat. It can be fun to give them a whole new look with a little different cut. Buy wide-tooth combs and open wirer brush and the scissors with a round tip. It is a fun coat, that you can leave long and just carefully trim around faces. Take to a groomer and you can have a full groom cut down to an inch or two or whatever you want. It is a good idea in Summer season hot weather to give them a full short body and legs cut. We would love to see photos of before and after the grooming of your Doodle. Another good soap is Dr. And some mild cream rinse. Bath 3 to 5 weeks or only when needed. Here are some pictures of our favorite high moisture great smelling shampoos and conditioners, very mild!! Most Labradoodles love water and are pretty easy to bathe or take swimming. Bath and cream rinse after swimming. The coat is one of the unique features of this Breed and sets it apart from any other breeds. Australian Labradoodles have no body odor, they do not require constant bathing and brushing, which is great for all types of owners. Is highly possible that the non- fur fleece and wool textures coat of the Australian Labradoodle is less likely to cause any pet allergic reactions. Labradoodles will have some very low hair breakage loss. Just like humans can have low hair loss. But that is not shedding. See lots of fun photos and videos of our GorgeousDoodles families on our Pics and Vids page , and on our YouTube and Facebook accounts! There are three types of coats that Labradoodles can have. A hair-coated Labradoodle is the least popular among people with allergies owing to the fact that it sheds the most out of the three types. This makes them the least hypoallergenic. The straight coat can vary in length and thickness, so you may have to take your dog to the grooming salon more often than you had anticipated. The muzzle area is usually hair coated and will be a good indicator of their coat type. Fleece or Wavy Coated Labradoodles Fleece-coated Labradoodles are the easiest to maintain compared to the other two types, making them the most preferable. Labradoodles with this type of coat experience minimal shedding, thus helping keep allergies at bay. This coat also requires the least maintenance. The fleece coat comes in three varieties — straight, loose curls, and very curly. However, just because this type of coat sheds the least does not mean you can skip the groomers. Whatever type of coat your Labradoodle may have, a visit to the groomers at least once every six weeks along with regular grooming at home is necessary for maintaining its healthy coat. This rich black coat is a fairly common Labradoodle shade. Labradoodles are a hypoallergenic breed of dog. As they grow, they also begin losing the coats that they are born with. This transition usually starts as early as 6 months of age but can even take until they are 12 months of age. Ideally, you should brush your pup slowly and carefully, reaching down to its skin to ensure that the old puppy coat is coming off. This will help the puppy coat to shed faster, remove any tangles from its fur, prevent matting, and help the adult coat grow healthier. The Labradoodle ranks 1 for being a hypoallergenic dog and specifically bred for it. A hypoallergenic dog poses a significantly lower risk of causing an allergic reaction. This is because dogs that are labeled as hypoallergenic shed little to no fur at all. The first Labradoodle was created for a blind Hawaiian lady whose husband had an allergy to dogs. Since then, the popularity of this breed has grown rapidly. Labradoodles shed less fur, resulting in much less dander, as they have coats that are easy to maintain. As previously stated, the process of a puppy coat shedding varies from pup to pup but typically begins when they are 6 months of age. While Labradoodles are a hypoallergenic breed, it does not mean a Labradoodle pup will never lose its puppy coat. Most furry dog breeds shed in the sense that they lose their fur regularly. This is not the case with Labradoodles. This Apricot Mini Labradoodle is looking up at the camera, because he thinks he might get a treat he did. A Labradoodle puppy does not shed its puppy coat overnight or within a few days. Losing the puppy coat is a gradual process that can take up to a year and a half until the new coat grows. To allow the adult coat to grow properly, the puppy coat needs to be shed entirely. This is also why brushing your Labradoodle puppy is so important. When brushing your pup, you will notice strands of hair falling out at first. Eventually, tufts of puppy hair will come out. The more you brush your dog, the more you will be pulling out the old hair to make way for new growth. If you do notice any signs or symptoms, make sure to visit the vet and take appropriate measures for treatment. How To Manage A Shedding Labradoodle Puppy Coat Once your Labradoodle puppy starts shedding its puppy coat, it is advisable that you brush your dog regularly and at least groom it a couple of times every week or during daily periods of excessive shedding. Different dog breeds shed differently, so if you think something is amiss, you can always consult your vet to get your pup checked out. However, to avoid such dire situations, you need to make sure that you groom and brush your puppy regularly to avoid any matting. Depending on the type of Labradoodle coat your pup will develop, you should ideally be brushing your dog at least once a week to prevent any matting or tangled fur. Comb When you brush the coat, make sure you brush in the opposite direction of the hair growth. This will allow you to remove the old hair better. Then, you can move on to brushing in the direction of hair growth. You can do this with a fine-tooth comb. Ideally, a wooden or stainless steel comb would be a good choice. Make sure you pick a comb with wide teeth on one end and fine on the other. Detangler As your pet grows into a new coat, the old hair can knot up. This is when a detangler is needed. A detangler will help you effectively de-knot the coat without causing any distress to your pet. This tool is designed to help loosen the tangles and mats while being super gentle on your pup. If you keep putting off brushing your pooch, the old puppy coat will not shed but the new coat will start growing in, which will result in matting. A de-matting comb will be your knight in shining armor in such cases. Over-shedding is one example of why your pup may require a full body checkup as complete hair loss is unhealthy. Labradoodle playing in a water fountain. What a way to cool off on a warm day! While some people may be genuinely allergic to certain dog breeds, allergic reactions are typically caused by the dander or allergens present in dog fur. Without any exception, all dog breeds produce allergens that are responsible for allergies. These allergens are usually found in the dander, hair, urine, and saliva of a dog. If your dog is cooped up indoors for too long, it is prone to producing more allergens. This is why it is essential to take your dog out regularly. While there is no fool-proof way of deducing the type of coat your Labradoodle will have, there are still ways you can perhaps make an educated guess. For example, an F1B Labradoodle typically has fleece fur. Tracing genetics will give you a clearer picture of the outcome you can expect. Another way is to inspect the fur around the muzzle and the face of your Labradoodle pup. In the case of a fleece-haired coat, however, you will be able to determine the type of hair it will have by the time your pup is almost five weeks old by checking the fur around its eyes. While the adult coat is establishing, you will need to brush multiple times a week, and I find this the best time to give your pet his first trim. It will be difficult to keep up with the matting in the longer coat, but with a trim, it is very manageable, and the beauty of the adult coat is better realized. Once your dog gets to 12 to 14 months, the adult coat will be fully established, and this is the coat you can expect to work with for your dog's adult life. I find that the picture to the right will help to clarify the instructions you will need to convey for your dog's face. It is best to print this picture and take it with you to the groomer. A three-fourths inch blade don't go shorter than one-half inch will keep your dog's coat nice and full but give a smooth consistent length all over. If you like your dogs coat longer, your groomer should have a guard they can use to achieve this. The legs are typically just a little longer than the rest of the coat if you trim the coat to three-fourths inch. FEET: The feet will need a "slipper" cut to achieve the floppy, full leg look. The leg will look like a column. TAIL: The tail needs to be de-matted and trimmed. It is also important to have the hair removed, either trimmed or pulled, inside the dog's ears. Click the grooming picture for an enlarged, printable version and take it with you to your groomer! Labradoodle Puppy -Will a Labradoodle be easy to look after? Karen has been grooming Labradoodles since she introduced the first litter of doodle puppies in BC Australian Labradoodle with a fine wool coat, Lexi The Labradoodle Wool Coat The coats are identified by their feel rather than their look. The wool coat is one that I love because I live with severe allergies and asthma. This coat is most like a poodle coat and although the wool coats of our dogs are very soft they feel like poodle coats and are very curly. These coats absolutely do not shed. Even during the change from puppy coat to adult coat they shed very little. Our Aussi has a curly wool coat. He is clipped so that he can lead his very active life style. Lilyanna has an unusually soft curly wool coat that waves when it is long. The Labradoodle Wool Coat The coats are identified by their feel rather than their look. The Labradoodle Fleece Coat The fleece coat is wavy rather than tightly curled. It is a very desirable coat because it is slightly easier to look after than the wool coat and it has a lovely silken feel. Although we have not had a shedding fleece dog there is the possibility of some light shedding when they change from a puppy to adult coat. The fleece coat does need to be brushed but it is much more easily kept long than a wool coat. The puppy and adult dog will need regular grooming because the face will need trimming as will the bum and beneath the ears to prevent matting. Somewhere between nine and fourteen months of age the adult coat will grow in. At this transition time the coat will need lots of attention in order to keep the length. Brush right to the skin with a stiff brush or rake. If the dog mats at this point she will have to clipped short by your groomer. Hair Coat The hair coat feels very similar to the hair on your head. It is unlike the feel of wool or fleece. The hair coat will shed. It requires little attention. Puppies will often look like they are going to have a fleece coat until the hair comes through the puppy coat at about eight or nine weeks of age. The doodle with a hair coat has the same wonderful temperament and personality as the doodle with the non shedding coat but is not good for a person with allergies or for a family that has chosen the doodle because of his non-shedding qualities. It is hard to get a brush through the curls if you leave it too long. Without this regular brushing right down to the skin mats will form next to the skin. Mats make it very uncomfortable for the dog to walk and run and play. We keep our wool coated dogs clipped short because we live with fields of weeds and burrs. It is quite possible to keep a wool coated dog with a long coat, it simply is a matter of keeping up with the brushing and keeping feet, faces and bums clipped. This would be a trip to the groomer at least every second month. Every six weeks keeps dogs in both long and short coats looking and feeling like movie stars. Grooming For Every Doodle No matter what the doodle coat there is grooming required. This can either be done by an interested family member or your groomer. Ears Fur grows out of the ears of a labradoodle. It begins its journey deep in the ear canal. If ears are not keep clean and dry dirt and wax can lead to severe ear infections. You can tell when the doggie has hot ears that there is a problem and a trip to the vet will be in order. Some doodles love to dig and have very thick fur in their ears. This means it could be a good idea to pluck the fur from deep in the ear. It is not difficult to take tweezers or better still a hemostat and pluck out the fur on a regular basis. I must say I almost swooned the first time I did it myself but it does get easier. Unless you are an expert it is a two person job, one to hold the dog and promise treats, the other to pluck. Your vet can recommend an ear drying powder which will keep the ears in good health. Of course, your groomer will do the ear plucking for you. If you take your dog every six weeks she should be fine. Nails Unless dogs travel on a stone river bed a couple of kilometers every single day they need their nails trimmed. Our Labradoodles have dew claws and they will always need attention. Nail trimming should be done every few weeks. It is however another wonderful thing your professional groomer will do. Our doodle girls have fuzzy feet and so have to be content with a simple nail trim. Little Bottoms All long coated dogs need a trim around their little bottoms for ease of toilette. He is enjoying his new summer doo as he loves water sports. This boy always stops to smell the roses or dandelions. Contact Us. As you might have guessed, this dog is a cross between poodle and Labrador parents — and the result is an adorable bundle of joy with a sweet, gentle personality. Labradoodle puppy coats come in a range of colors and textures, so labradoodle owners are spoiled for choice when choosing their fur baby. Read on to discover more about Labradoodles and labradoodle coat types. What Are Hypoallergenic Dog Coats? Hypoallergenic dogs have less of a thick coat than many other breeds. A highly shedding coat presents a higher risk to allergy sufferers than non-shedding dogs like a labradoodle puppy. As a dog with one of the most allergy-friendly coats , there are a few practicalities to keep in mind when it comes to your labradoodle pooch and its coat. Pretty much every labradoodle puppy goes through a coat change, which is separate from a shedding coat. The puppy coat is eventually replaced by an adult coat, which comes with more grooming requirements. Types of Labradoodle Puppy Coats One of the best things about labradoodle dogs is the wide range of choices with regard to appearance. Wool Coat You can determine if your Labradoodle puppy has a fleece coat. You can identify fleece coats by the way the fur sits between the eyes, as this area starts to get curly first. This is the curliest coat type, but it still comes in a variety of types. Some dogs with a curly coat have a cotton-type coat, which is the softest but also incredibly high maintenance. Labradoodle puppies with wool Labradoodle puppy coats are mainly non-shedding and can make great companions for pet owners with allergies. Fleece Coat Doodles with a fleece coat require a little less maintenance than the other types of doodles, but they still need weekly brushing and plenty of TLC. A fleece-coated labradoodle is the result of combining a curly wool coat gene with the gene for a straight coat. Areas such as the ears and collar are particularly prone to getting matted, so be sure to pay close attention to these areas when you brush your fleece-coated labradoodle once or twice per week. Hair Coat A labradoodle with a straight coat has inherited most of its fur genes from its Labrador retriever parent. Something interesting about Labradoodles is that their Labradoodle puppy coats change as they get older, so your hair-coated labradoodle might get a wave to its fur as it gets older. While you can also take it to a professional groomer on a weekly basis, this can incur hefty grooming costs. Most labradoodle owners opt to take their dog to a groomer once a month or two and do regular adult coat maintenance themselves. Use the correct type of dog brush and be sure to get all the way down to the skin. Give your dog a brush before and after bath time. All puppies eventually lose their puppy coat to make way for their adult coat, this goes the same with Labradoodle puppy coats. You might find the new type of coat is totally different from the old coat. Coats and Generational Differences The amount of hair your dog sheds varies between puppies, but generational differences can also play a role. First-generation doodles shed slightly more than second-generation doodles, with multigenerational Labradoodles shedding even less. We genetically test each breeding parent to make sure the shedding genes are not passed on to the puppies in our training program. We adore the breed and have a wide range of Labradoodle puppies for sale to choose from, with different color and type of Labradoodle puppy coats. We can even deliver a fully trained doodle puppy direct to your door if you like! A Labradoodle puppy! Partly thanks to that gorgeous fluffy coat. When do Labradoodles Lose their Puppy Coat? It is quite a gradual process. The process typically starts around 6 months of age. But, it can take up to a year and a half to complete. This may not be great news if you or someone else in your family suffers from dog allergies. But, as long as your Labradoodle grows up to have a fleece or wool coat, you will have less shed fur to clean once the puppy coat has fully shed and the adult coat grows in. What is a Labradoodle Puppy Coat Like? The Labradoodle puppy coat is a lot different to all adult varieties. Puppy coats are always single layer. Are Labradoodle Puppy Coats Hypoallergenic? After their creation, the resulting demand for an allergy-friendly dog catapulted Labradoodles to worldwide fame. It also led to the development of many other hybrid dog breeds. The truth is, there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog. So, Labradoodle puppy coats cannot be hypoallergenic. So, your Labradoodle puppy coat will not catch any falling dander. Allergens could still find their way onto other objects in your home. And, their shedding puppy coats could aggravate your allergies. Adult Labradoodles can have one of three coat types: Hair coat — will shed moderately all year, and heavily during shedding seasons Fleece coat — will shed lightly to moderately, varies from one Doodle to the next Wool coat — does not shed visibly, but hair sheds into the surrounding coat, which can cause painful knots if not groomed properly Influence from Parent Breeds Labradoodles come from a long line of working dogs; primarily the Labrador Retriever and the Standard Poodle. Labrador Retrievers typically have a double coat. Their fur has an insulating under-layer and a protective outer-layer which helps them in their working roles. The Poodle, on the other hand, is one of the rare working breeds with a single layer coat. Are Adult Labradoodle Coats Hypoallergenic? The fleece type of adult Labradoodle coat will often be best for individuals that suffer from allergies. But, this will still need regular grooming to control shedding dander. And, regardless of which adult coat your Doodle has, your dog will still need to shed out their puppy coat first. Suddenly, you will find tufts and clumps of shed dog hair everywhere, where before there was none. This can start as early as six months. So, watch out for shed fur from this age. It could start anywhere from six to nine months, or even slightly outside of this range. The puppy coat has to be completely shed out to allow the adult coat to grow in. That would leave your Labradoodle defenseless against pests, the elements, and injury. Instead, their coat will shed in stages, over time. This is why it can take up to a year and a half for the puppy coat to fully shed out and the adult coat to fully grow in. Depending on the adult coat your Labradoodle inherits, these hairs may be long and straight hair coat , long and loosely curly fleece coat , or short and tightly curled wool coat. In most cases, a Labradoodle will have fully lost their puppy coat and grown into their adult one between the ages of 12 and 15 months. But, there is no exact timer that buzzes the moment this process is finished. But, some veterinarians may be happy for you to cut it short with scissors, to keep your cleaning schedule for shed fur a little more manageable. Not only will this help you to gather and remove shed fur before it goes all over your floor, but it will also familiarise your Labradoodle with the grooming process. All three types of adult Labradoodle coat require regular grooming. Are you dealing with a shedding puppy coat right now? We would love to hear about your experiences with the Labradoodle puppy coat in the comments. Related Articles. Also, your fleece coats, while, overall, are softer than your wool coats in texture, still have some texture variation within the fleece coat type. The Australian Labradoodle requires varying degrees of grooming depending on their coat type. A light trimming might be required with scissors but usually not. However, we do not have any hair coat in Sunset Hills, because our puppies are all multi-gen. This coat usually requires trimming once or twice a year. This coat also requires trimming about three-four times a year. All allergy and asthma friendly labradoodles have a coat change from puppy to adult usually between months of age. During their coat change, it is recommended that you groom them daily. The coat change can last anywhere from a week to several weeks. This is usually the time when owners decide that their beautiful furry doodle needs a shorter look. Note: Not all Labradoodles are Allergy and Asthma friendly. We do recommend that if you have the opportunity to meet one of these wonderful dogs in person that you should check to see if you have any reactions before you make your decision in purchasing your new puppy. We recommend that any family or person who suffers from dog related severe allergies or asthma should look into a Wool coated labradoodle as they have the highest success rate. For labradoodle sizes, please go to our Size link. For pictures and definitions of the colours of the Australian Labradoodle, please go to our Colours link. For the information on grooming, please go to our Resource link. What to expect in the early days. Crate training, housebreaking, and reward-based training. Exercise guidelines and mental stimulation. The importance of correct socialization. General health and nutrition. Shedding and grooming. And so much more. You will save you time, money, and loads of frustration…take my word for it! Get Your Copy Today! We use this stainless steel Poodle comb. One side is narrow and the other wide. It works great! We use this Safari De-Matting Comb. Detangler — This can be used along with the comb or de-matting comb to help loosen problem tangles and mats. You can find some of our favorite grooming tools and supplies here. Do Labradoodle Puppies Shed? For instance, a German shepherd will shed its coat twice a year. Shepherds are amazing dogs, very different from Labradoodles in many ways, not just shedding. Learn more about them in these articles. Matting is a clump of tangled hair that is difficult to comb through. If they get too serious, a groomer will have to cut out patches of hair. Genetics plays a part in determining how much hair a Labradoodle will shed or lose. Second F1b generation, third-generation F3b and multigenerational Labradoodles are going to shed less than a first-generation Labradoodle F1. Some owners will actually look for a second, third, or multigenerational Labradoodle dog just for the non-shedding or low-shedding attributes. Read this for a more detailed look at multi-generational Labradoodles. Australian Labradoodles are usually a good choice for people looking for asthma and allergy-friendly dogs. Of the various types of Labradoodles, the wool-coated Labradoodle has had the highest success rate for people suffering from asthma or dog-related allergies. They go through a coat change where their puppy coat changes to an adult coat. When this shedding process begins, the coat will begin to fill out and will get thicker. If the puppy is not brushed daily, the coat will become very matted and tangled. The more hair you see coming out in the brush, the better the puppy will look. Other owners use this opportunity as a way to bond with the dog and become familiar with the brushing process, which should become a regular part of their lives. The age at which Labradoodles stop shedding their puppy coat depends on the age it began the shedding process. It can take from a week to several weeks, and every dog does it at a different age. One puppy may be shedding its puppy coat between the ages of months while another may be from months of age. If you suddenly realize your Labradoodle puppy is in need of a good haircut, the pup has probably begun the shedding process. Changing from a puppy coat to an adult coat can bring an entirely different color texture and overall appearance. All dogs create allergens or proteins, which are what usually cause allergies. What are the Different Types of Labradoodle Coats? Labradoodles have three types of coat: hair, fleece, and wool. There are two reasons for this. One reason is that Labradoodles come in many, many different colors. Secondly, while there are only three types of coats, there is some variation within the different coat types. Depending on the length and density of the hair, Labradoodles with a hair coat should be brushed at least once a month. Due to its resemblance to the Labrador Retriever, the hair coat is the one that sheds the most and will be the least hypoallergenic. Fleece The fleece coat may be normal fleece or microfine fleece. Normal fleece has the texture of soft angora and may be wavy or have loose spirals. In addition to being brushed every couple of weeks, this coat requires trimming once or twice a year. Also wavy or spirally, the microfine fleece is very fine and super soft. Because of the texture, it tends to get matted easily. It will need a good brushing or combing at least once a week. The coat should also be trimmed a couple of times a year to prevent it from growing past three inches. Both types of fleece coats are said to be asthma- and allergy-friendly coats. Wool The wool coat comes in three types: original wool, cotton wool, and loose or new style wool. Cotton wool is super dense, may be straight or curly and is the softest of the three wool coats. When groomed, it stands up and often has the appearance of a big cotton ball. Each of these wool types are asthma- and allergy-friendly coats with the original wool having the most success in this area. All three require regular trimming. You can find even more information on Labradoodle coat types in this article. Still have questions about your puppy? Be sure to grab your copy of our Labradoodle Guidebook to find the answers and get your puppy on his way to becoming a well-adjusted, affectionate, happy adult. Related Questions: What is an Australian Labradoodle? How many years do Labradoodles live? Labradoodles are a relatively healthy breed of dog. While they are susceptible to some canine diseases , a healthy Labradoodle will generally live to be 11 to 14 years old. Related Posts:.