golden labradoodle puppy
January 24, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? What does it take to be considered ideal for a family dog? How do you know if the Golden Retriever is the right fit for you and your family? A Brief Background on Golden Retrievers! Bred in the highlands of Scotland by Lord Tweedmouth in the mid to late s, Goldens are a cross between a Yellow Retriever and an extinct dog breed, the Tweed Water Spaniel. Lord Tweedmouth wanted the ideal gundog to accompany him during fowl hunting and be able to withstand the rugged terrain and rainy conditions. Aside from being able to retrieve fowl, Lord Tweedmouth wanted an even-tempered dog to have at home when not hunting. And so, the Golden Retriever was born. Later in the s, they soon became a popular breed amongst American families when President Gerald Ford had a Golden named Liberty as his family dog. Golden Retrievers, like their name states, are golden! Their luxurious coats come in a variety of light to dark shades, ranging from light like the white Golden Retriever or English Cream to dark golden colors, even close to chocolate. Their coats feature feathering down their backs, chest, belly, hindquarters, and tails. Goldens have soft expressions combined with floppy expressive ears that give them a puppy-like appearance even as adults. Another thing to note of the Golden Retriever is that those fluffy coats are actually what are known as double coats. A strong water repellant coat on top coupled with a dense undercoat to regulate their body heat. This all means these pups can be heavy shedders! What are Golden Retrievers Personalities like? There is something to be said about being named a perfect family dog. The Golden Retriever breed is loyal, affectionate, playful, and gentle. If brought into a home with children, your Golden Retriever puppy will be a great addition for help introducing your new Golden Retriever pup to your kids and how to play together, check out our blog! But being a great family dog doesn't mean they are easy! Goldens have lots of energy which can come out in more jumping and being more mouthy, especially as puppies. Check our training tips for raising a well-mannered Golden at the end of this blog! Two to three daily walks are a must, and throw in fun activities like hiking or going for a swim, your pup will stay golden! Golden Retrievers are eager to please type of breed. They generally have happy go lucky demeanors which lends itself to affection and friendliness, including toward strangers. If you wanted a pup that could eventually become a service dog, a Golden Retriever is a great choice and make for excellent working pups! As a high-energy breed, Golden Retrievers do best in a home that will provide them ample access to romp around. Homes with fenced in yards or access to a park or field on a daily basis where they can run and fetch to their hearts content are the best environment for Goldens! These pups, with consistent early socialization, can adapt and thrive to living in a home with other dogs, or pets, and children! They love to play and make great playmates. That being said, their social nature can lead to dependencies on their owners and family. Golden Retrievers may develop separation anxiety if left alone and not properly trained from an early age. Golden Retrievers may also contract heart disease called subvalvular aortic stenosis SAS that with early diagnosis and treatment can allow for a regular life-span. When you are looking to add a Golden Retriever puppy, make sure you are working with a reputable breeder that cares for the health quality of the dogs they breed. Take advantage of that natural drive and eagerness to please by setting foundations at home. Start your puppy a regular daily puppy schedule to create structured routines in the home. Include consistent feeding, nap, play and obedience training times throughout the day to help your Golden pup learn what to expect and build confidence at home. During their puppy training focus on their obedience commands to help your puppy learn to look to you for guidance, build their communication with you, and solidify a trusting relationship! Since Golden Retrievers love to work, positive reinforcement and food rewards will be valuable motivators to get your puppy focused and listening. In-person and online puppy training programs will walk you through how to teach the commands, exercises to help your puppy learn them, and troubleshoot when your puppy needs it! Teach Your Golden Retriever How to Greet New People and Dogs While their open friendly disposition will help your puppy make new friends where ever they go, make sure to teach your puppy the right way to do so! Some overly energetic and friendly pups can get excitable around new people and dogs. That can result in some unwanted whining, lunging, and jumping. When done correctly, socialization helps teach your puppy the proper way to greet people, other dogs and create boundaries. During socialization sessions, you can work with your puppy on those common over-excited behaviors when meeting strangers. And if you're not sure how to do this on your own, hire a local puppy trainer or join an online puppy training school to help set you up for the best success! Do Calming Obedience Exercises With all their high-energy and high-drive, teaching your Golden how to be calm in everyday scenarios will help tame that wild side! Great calming exercises include having your puppy learn to wait for their food bowl and in thresholds each time you enter or leave a space. This also extends to activities like fetch. Goldens are a natal for this! This can be done simply by having your pup drop the toy when they return and pausing for a few moments giving them a chance to settle before throwing it again for them to retrieve. Teach Them to Walk Nicely on Leash Many high-energy pups have a tendency to lunge toward exciting new things! Couple that with a social nature, and you may encounter that your Golden Retriever puppy will start to pull on leash. Focus on teaching them proper leash manners including how to walk in Heel position and how to pass other people and pups without lunging, jumping and excited whining, barking or nipping at them! That can greatly help possible bad encounters with strangers and other dogs while teaching them great habits! Did you recently bring home a Golden Retriever puppy? Are you still planning and not sure what breed fits your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! Check out these blogs related to puppy training and more! Next up is another thing to do before you bring your puppy home… How To Puppy Proof Your House When puppy-proofing your house, think like a puppy. Crawl around on the floor and take note of what you see. Puppies will chew nearly anything, so make sure that there are no valuables down at puppy-height, or things that could be poisonous to them or be a choking hazard. Make sure there are no open cabinets or pantries where your puppy could get into food. Be careful of small trash cans that could hold some smelly trash that would be enticing to a puppy. And finally, next are a few other random tasks to do before you bring home your new puppy. Getting a golden retriever puppy? Check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook! Not exactly. Find a vet. Find the closest emergency animal hospital. This is not something you want to wait until you need it before looking it up and making a plan. Find a list of local poisonous plants and animals. Talk to your vet and do some research so that you know which plants and animals to avoid. Find a puppy kindergarten class. This will help with training, socialization, and general learning how to be a puppy parent. Check your yard or house for any escape routes. This next section will cover everything from what to expect with a puppy, what to do the first 24 hours of bringing them home, how to train them, and more. A week after bringing Oliver home, it was very obvious to me why she asked me that. Puppies are hard work! Their little bladders can only hold it for a few hours, so this is expected. Chewing Puppies will try to chew any and everything. Like every thirty minutes often. Now, for the most important expectation of them all… You will miss puppyhood! Yes, you will miss the sleepless nights and puppy bites. So make sure to take lots of videos and pictures. How would you like to be treated in this situation? Here are some tips to help your puppy get comfortable in their new home. Let your puppy make decisions When you get to your house, set them at your open front door and let them choose to walk inside. Let them explore their new home on their own terms. Letting them make decisions can give them a sense of confidence, hope, and control, and ease into their new home. Limit visitors Now is the time to build the bond with your puppy and let them get to know you, not overstimulate them with a lot of people. Limit their access to your home Getting used to a new home with two rooms will be a lot easier than getting used to a new home with five rooms. Only let your puppy have access to a few rooms so that they get acclimated to their new area quicker, then as they get more comfortable you can allow them to explore new areas of the house. You can use baby gates to restrict access to sections of the house. Bonus benefit: this will also decrease the chances that they leave you a present in the guest room. In general, just keep things low key when you bring them home and let them get used to their surroundings. Training Your Golden Retriever Puppy Training your golden retriever puppy is one of the best things you can do both for them and with them. They have short attention spans and like to have fun, so short training sessions and training games work best. A lot of people think that training is just obedience training, like sit and stay , but it also includes life skills like crate training , potty training , how to not jump on people or bite them, and how to not pull on the leash. Socialization Socialization is something that is not talked about as much as it should be. It can help mitigate fear and aggression and help them become confident, well-adjusted adult dogs. You can socialize your puppy with other dogs by setting up play dates with gentle dogs that you know are vaccinated and by going to puppy kindergarten. Dog to other living beings includes humans, cats, and other animals. You can socialize them with other people by taking them to a pet-friendly store like home depot, and you can socialize them to other animals by taking a walk by the neighborhood cat with lots of distance between them, so neither animal gets overwhelmed. Dog to stuff is the broadest category, but no less important. When Oliver was very young we were on a walk and a FedEx truck drove by. He had never heard a big truck like that and was terrified. So make sure that your puppy is comfortable with trucks, cars, the garage door, buses, umbrellas, and whatever other objects they may encounter. For instance, if you live in Chicago, get them used to trains, buses and crowded streets. Every day, separate out five special treats for your puppy. For example, you might let your neighbor give your puppy a treat, or maybe you take your puppy to a bus stop and when the bus goes by you give them a treat, or maybe you introduce them to a cow and give them a treat. The treat helps them have a positive experience with these new things and people, plus it helps you easily remember to expose them to lots of these new things. Do this for the first four weeks of their life and before you know it, your puppy will have been exposed to new dogs, people, things, or environments, and will be well on their well to becoming a well-adjusted adult dog. Puppy Raising Mistakes Below are some mistakes that new puppy owners make that could make it harder to train and raise their puppy into a happy, confident adult. Not remembering how young they are Puppies are like little toddlers. Waiting to train your puppy until they have a problem Training your puppy before they have any behavior problems will make life so much easier for you. Forcing things too quickly Things like crate training and potty training take time. Setbacks hurt more than stretching their limits will help, so be patient and take things slowly. Conclusion Golden retriever puppies might just be the best living beings on the planet. However, they are a lot of work and can be quite naughty sometimes. Have any questions about golden retriever puppies? Let me know in the comments below! And if you know someone who is thinking about getting a golden retriever puppy, please share this with them. Related articles:. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. The Golden is slow to mature and retains the silly, playful personality of a puppy until three to four years of age, which can be both delightful and annoying. Many keep their puppyish traits into old age. Originally bred for the physically demanding job of retrieving ducks and other fowl for hunters, the Golden needs daily exercise : a walk or jog, free time in the yard, a run at the beach or lake Goldens love water , or a game of fetch. And like other intelligent breeds who were bred to work, they need to have a job to do, such as retrieving the paper, waking up family members, or competing in dog sports. A tired Golden is a well-behaved Golden. As well as giving your Golden Retriever physical and mental exercise , you should also be prepared to include him in your family activities. Golden Retriever Highlights Golden Retrievers shed a lot, especially during spring and fall. Brushing their coat daily helps remove loose hair, preventing it from spreading on your clothes and around your home. Living with a Golden means embracing their shedding. Golden Retrievers are active and require minutes of vigorous exercise every day. They enjoy obedience training, agility classes, and other dog activities that provide both physical and mental stimulation. While they are gentle and reliable around children, Golden Retrievers are large and exuberant, which might accidentally knock over small kids. Goldens have hearty appetites and can become overweight if overfed. Manage treats, measure their daily food portions, and feed them regular meals instead of leaving food out all day. Due to their popularity, some breeders prioritize profit over the well-being of the dogs. To ensure a healthy pup, avoid irresponsible breeders, puppy mills, or pet stores. Look for reputable breeders who test their breeding dogs for genetic diseases and focus on good temperaments. Golden Retriever History For many years, there was a legend that Golden Retrievers were descended from Russian sheepdogs bought from a circus. In fact, the breed was developed in Scotland, at the highland estate of Sir Dudley Majoribanks, later known as Lord Tweedmouth. Tweedmouth, like many gentry of his day, bred animals of all kinds, trying to perfect different breeds. He also wanted the dog to be loyal and even-tempered in the home. Tweedmouth kept mostly the yellow puppies to continue his breeding program, and gave others away to friends and relatives. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in .Today, the Golden Retriever is the second most popular breed in the U. Golden Retriever Size Males are 23 to 24 inches tall and weigh 65 to 75 pounds. Females are generally .Golden Retrievers usually reach their full height by one year of age, and their mature weight by two. Golden Retriever Personality A sweet, calm nature is the hallmark of the breed. The Golden was bred to work with people, and is eager to please his owner. Though hard-wired with a good disposition, like all dogs the Golden must be well-raised and well-trained to make the most of his heritage. Socialization helps ensure that your Golden puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site offa. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Elbow Dysplasia: This is a heritable condition common to large-breed dogs. This can lead to painful lameness. Your vet may recommend surgery to correct the problem or medication to control the pain. Cataracts: As in humans, canine cataracts are characterized by cloudy spots on the eye lens that can grow over time. Cataracts can usually be surgically removed with good results. Early in the disease, dogs become night-blind. As the disease progresses, they lose their daytime vision as well. Many dogs adapt to limited or complete vision loss very well, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis: This heart problem is caused by a narrow connection between the left ventricle out-flow and the aorta. It can cause fainting and even sudden death. Your vet can detect it and prescribe the proper treatment. Osteochondrosis Dissecans OCD : This orthopedic condition, caused by improper growth of cartilage in the joints, usually occurs in the elbows, but it has been seen in the shoulders as well. It causes a painful stiffening of the joint, to the point that the dog is unable to bend his elbow. It can be detected in dogs as early as four to nine months of age. Allergies: Golden Retrievers can be allergic to a variety of substances, ranging from food to pollen. If your Golden is licking his paws or rubbing his face a great deal, have him checked by your vet. The main symptom is excessive bleeding after an injury or surgery. Other symptoms include nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or bleeding in the stomach or intestines. There is no cure, and a blood transfusion from the blood of normal dogs is currently the only treatment. Research is underway for new treatments, including medication. A vet can test your dog for the condition. Dogs with this condition should not be bred. Bloat occurs when the stomach is distended with gas or air and then twists. The dog is unable to belch or vomit to rid himself of the excess air in his stomach, and blood flow to the heart is impeded. Blood pressure drops and the dog goes into shock. Without immediate medical attention, the dog can die. Suspect bloat if your dog has a distended abdomen, is drooling excessively, and retching without throwing up. He also may be restless, depressed, lethargic, and weak with a rapid heart rate. If you notice these symptoms, get your dog to the vet as soon as possible. Epilepsy : Epilepsy is a brain disorder that causes periodic seizures and convulsions. Your vet will need to know how severe the seizures are and how often they occur to determine what medication to prescribe, if any. Hemangiosarcoma : This is a very dangerous form of cancer that originates in the lining of blood vessels and spleen. It most commonly occurs in middle-age and elderly dogs. Golden Retriever Care Golden Retrievers are built for action and love outdoor romps. If you like to hike or jog, your Golden will be happy to join you. Slacking on the activity, however, could lead to behavior problems. These dogs grow very rapidly between the age of four and seven months, making them susceptible to bone disorders. Normal play on grass is fine, and so are puppy agility classes. Golden Retriever Feeding Recommended daily amount: 2 to 3 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. Keep your Golden in good shape by measuring his food and feeding him twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at him. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on his back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see his ribs without having to press hard. They do well on a high-quality, low-calorie diet that keeps them from growing too fast. For more on feeding your Golden, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Some coats are wavy, some are straight. The fur feathers on the back of the front legs and underbody, with heavier feathering on the chest, back of the thighs, and tail. Golden Retrievers come in all shades of gold, from light to dark gold. Golden Retrievers shed moderately in the winter and summer, and heavily in the spring and fall. Daily brushing is recommended to prevent tangling, and once a week is the bare minimum. Your Golden will also need a bath at least once a month, often more frequently, to keep him looking and smelling clean. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Short, neatly trimmed nails keep the feet in good condition. Dog toenails have blood vessels in them, and if you cut too far you can cause bleeding — and your dog may not cooperate the next time he sees the nail clippers come out. Fold-over ears create a warm, dark environment for bacteria or fungus to grow in, and breeds that have them — such as the Golden — are prone to ear infections. His ears should be checked weekly for redness or a bad odor, which can indicate an infection. Check them every time he gets wet, too. Handle his paws frequently — dogs are touchy about their feet — and look inside his mouth. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. He enjoys the companionship of other dogs , and with proper introductions and training, can be trusted with cats, rabbits, and other animals. Golden Retriever Rescue Groups Goldens are often purchased without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. There are many Goldens in need of adoption and or fostering. There are a number of rescues that we have not listed. Golden Retriever Club of America, Inc. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have both health and behavioral issues. More Info For You. They are simultaneously wonderful family pets—thanks to their friendly, tolerant attitude—and capable, intelligent working dogs. These sturdy, medium-sized dogs grow to about 55—75 pounds and typically live to be about 10—12 years old. Outgoing, trustworthy, eager-to-please, and easy-to-train, they are especially popular with families with young children. Goldens often maintain their fun-loving puppy attitudes and signature smile into adulthood. Part of the sporting dog group, golden retrievers are active dogs that require at least an hour of daily exercise. They live up to their name; they love retrieving just about anything thrown for them. This makes them excellent hunting companions and skilled service dogs. They love to eat, run, spend time with their owners, and even participate in obedience and agility events. Their coloring ranges from light golden to cream, and dark golden to golden, and their physique can vary from broad and dense to leaner and more sporty. According to AKC standards,goldens move with a smooth, powerful gait, and the feathery tail is carried, as breed fanciers say, with a "merry action. Thanks to their breeding as hunting and waterfowl-retrieving dogs in the Scottish Highlands,their outer coat is dense and repels water. They also have a thick undercoat. Their coats can vary in texture from wavy to straight. Heavy feathering appears on their chest, the backs of their legs, and tail. Temperament In general, golden retrievers are outgoing, playful, and gentle. They are also friendly, intelligent, and devoted. As they get older, most golden retrievers become docile and calm. Bred to be working retrievers, goldens have a lot of energy and require a lot of activity. They are best suited for owners with an active lifestyle and they thrive in a home where someone is around during the day to spend time with them. They don't do well when left at home on their own; they love their humans too much. Their happy demeanor often draws attention from other people when you are out and about—goldens get along well with strangers and other dogs. While they are not considered good guard dogs—they'd be more likely to show an intruder where the treats are than send the intruder running—golden retrievers are excellent service dogs thanks to their loyalty, intelligence, and stable temperament. They see themselves as part of the family and need to be treated as such. Luckily, goldens are not bothered by noise, commotion, and activity, making them very tolerant of children. Golden retrievers also take a "the more the merrier" approach to having other pets in the home. With proper introductions and training, goldens can be trusted with other dogs, cats, rabbits, and other animals. A golden retriever would do well reigning over a large fenced-in yard , so if you don't have a lot of outdoor space or you live in an apartment, make sure you get your golden outside regularly. A lot," Steen says. Owners should get used to having a fair amount of dog hair on clothing and furniture around the home. They have a thick, water-repellant double coat that sheds moderately in the winter and summer, and heavily in the spring and fall. However, if you brush your golden daily, you can prevent tangling and remove some dead hair before it covers everything in sight. Baths can also help and are recommended about once a month, but make sure the golden is fully dry before brushing begins. Golden retrievers will also need their nails trimmed about once or twice a month. A good indicator of when they need to be trimmed is when you can hear them clicking on the floor. Teeth should also be brushed at least two or three times a week. Ear checks are important as well; goldens have fold-over ears, which create an environment that encourages bacteria and fungus to grow. Look for redness or a bad odor and simply wipe out the outer ear with a cotton ball dampened with gentle, pH-balanced ear cleaner to help prevent infections. Exercise is an essential part of a golden retriever's day. At least one hour a day of rigorous activity is necessary, even if that happens over several different outings or play times throughout the day. Goldens can be taken on long runs , bike rides, hikes, and swims. They also enjoy hunting trips, field trials, and other canine sports like agility, obedience, and tracking. A golden that doesn't get enough exercise is likely to exhibit undesirable behaviors like digging and chewing. Mental challenges, such as learning tricks and playing with puzzle toys, are also appealing to goldens, but should never replace physical activity. Take it easy with exercise in a golden retriever's first two years of life, as their growth plates are still forming. Don't go for long, strenuous runs or hikes until the dog is fully grown, and always opt for grass over concrete. Early socialization and puppy training classes are important with golden retrievers. Puppies should be exposed to a wide variety of people, places, and situations to help them become well-adjusted in their young life. When it comes to feeding time , owners need to help golden retrievers manage their intake; they have a tendency to become overweight. Food should be measured out and given twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. Dog treats should be given in moderation. If you're unsure whether your golden retriever is overweight, give him the eye test and the hands-on test. First, look down at him. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on his back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see his ribs without having to press hard. If you can't, he likely needs less food and more exercise. Chat with your vet about the best course of action. According to Steen, they are a generally healthy breed, but goldens are at a slightly increased risk of hip dysplasia and cancer when compared to other dogs. Other health conditions, although not particularly common, include elbow dysplasia, cataracts , progressive retinal atrophy —or gradual deterioration of the retina—hypothyroidism, gastric dilatation-volvulus otherwise known as bloat , and allergies. Golden retrievers should also have their ears checked often and teeth brushed regularly for optimum health. History Dudley Marjoribanks, the first Lord of Tweedmouth, developed golden retrievers in the mid-to-late s. Although at one time a rumor indicated that golden retrievers descended from Russian sheep dogs, they were, in fact, bred in the Scottish Highlands. Marjoribanks bred the dogs for more than 50 years to create an ideal gundog—he was an avid hunter of waterfowl. Tweedmouth wanted a dog suited to the rainy climate and rugged terrain of the area, so he crossed his "yellow retriever" with a breed that is now extinct, the Tweed water spaniel. He also wanted the dog to be even-tempered in the home. A golden retriever was first shown at the British dog show in .The Kennel Club in England officially recognized the golden retriever as a distinct breed in .At that time, they were classified as "retriever — yellow or golden. Fun Facts Considered one of the most beloved dog breeds, golden retrievers gained popularity with American families in the s when President Gerald Ford had a golden named Liberty. Tucker Budzyn is currently the most recognized golden retriever on the Internet, with more than 3 million followers across YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook. Golden retrievers are regulars on big and little screens. Golden retrievers love tennis balls. Just ask this 6-year-old golden named Finley , who is the Guinness World Record holder for carrying the most tennis balls in his mouth at a time. He can hold six! Was this page helpful? Aside from forcing you to get more active, having a canine friend can reduce stress for people of all ages. For starters, vaccinations start at weeks old and should be spaced out every two weeks. Golden retrievers have a reputation for being some of the best dog breeds for families. Are you looking to bring home a golden retriever puppy? Read on for an in-depth golden retriever guide to prepare you for your new best friend for life. Are Golden Retrievers Good Dogs? Of course, all dogs are the best boys and girls and deserve all the belly rubs in the world! However, when people ask if a golden retriever is a good dog, they want to know if the breed is a good fit for them. Some dogs also require extensive maintenance and can be too much for a beginner dog handler. For people wanting to make sure a golden is good for their lifestyle, the quick answer is yes. Golden retrievers are an all-around versatile breed for all kinds of people and are the best dogs you could ask for. Golden retrievers are amazing with kids and make for great family dogs. Goldens are a gentle bunch, and their intelligence and patience are often under-appreciated. They can handle household noise and curious toddlers with the patience of a saint. As a breed, they are well known for their loving, patient, gentle, and fun-loving nature. This is largely a result of upbringing and conditioning, as any dog can become aggressive if mistreated. If you want a friendly golden retriever, do your part and give them the love and care they need. Golden Retrievers Are Affectionate Goldens are affectionate and are sure to get along with any dog or person they meet. This is why you often see them excelling as therapy, comfort, and emotional support dogs. Golden Retrievers Have Wonderful Personalities There is nothing to not like about the personalities of this breed. They love to have fun, but they also like going with the flow. Given their history as hunting dogs, golden retrievers are curious and will go often go exploring if you let them. They also have plenty of courage and work ethic, making them great working dogs. Golden retrievers will always want to greet strangers and sneak a chance at some playtime. This makes them a poor choice to defend your home, as they might befriend the intruder instead. If you want a guard dog, a golden retriever may fall short of its responsibilities. They Can Be Mischievous This one should be obvious for anyone scrolling social media. Goldens have a penchant for tomfoolery and mischief, which can often be hilarious. Golden retriever puppies are particularly notorious for this. Part of this stems from their natural curiosity but also their relaxed and loving nature. While temperament is often a genetic arch-type and can differ from dog to dog, most of it is solid. This is a huge factor for families with multiple dogs or a cat. They May Have Trouble Behaving in Public Because goldens are so friendly, they sometimes have trouble behaving in public. Their temperament naturally pulls them toward new potential friends. You can work on these through socialization and by going slow. Take them to less crowded or busy places first, and work your way up until they get the hang of it. Keep an eye out for body language and physical contact. As we said, some of this comes built in, but you also have to work on it. There are two major things you need to do. If you want to ensure your golden has that loveable personality, start socializing them at a young age. Training is a must, and golden retrievers are usually eager to please. It also helps to get a puppy from a reputable breeder, not from any pet store or puppy mill. At My Golden Retriever Puppies , we breed and raise our puppies with the love and attention they deserve. Golden Retriever Traits Aside from personality and temperament, goldens have great traits. These include their trainability, intelligence, and energy levels. It also includes behaviors to watch out for, like chewing. For a quick dive, keep reading. Golden Retrievers Are Smart Golden retrievers are much more intelligent than people give them credit for. A great example is how the police love using them as sniffers and tracking dogs. As long as you put in the work, your golden will be able to flex its stuff. This has a lot to do with their intelligence and obedient and loving personality. Golden Retrievers Need Exercise Despite being pretty flexible with their energy levels, Goldens still need to exercise. Examples of this include frequent zoomies around the house or getting into messes. They Can Be Chewers Goldens can be chewers, and this stems from adolescence. Teething golden puppies will chew anything they can get their hands on. A great way to handle this is training and exercise. Goldens need stimulation. Playing tug of war or fetch is a great way to address that bad chewing habit. They are cute and smart, easy to train and grow up to be fantastic family dogs. Visit us today to bring the newest addition to your family home. A golden retriever is happy, loyal, affectionate, non-aggressive, and almost always friendly. They get along with almost everyone, including kids, strangers, and other animals. Do Golden Retrievers Bark a lot? For example, your puppy may boop things with their nose or use their paws to communicate. Are Golden Retrievers Well Behaved? Golden retrievers are some of the most well-behaved dogs out there. 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. Golden Retrievers are wonderful, right? Well then, of course everyone should have one. Either way, it is vital that you examine your own lifestyle, needs and wants to see if a golden is right for you. And, conversely, you need to evaluate if you can meet the needs of a golden retriever. If you can, we can attest to the fact that owning a golden is one of the most rewarding experiences you will ever have! They are addicting and people seldom have just one in their lifetimes. Here are a few things to consider: Size Goldens are medium to large sized animals. The standard size for males range from 23 — 24 inches at the shoulder and weigh proportionally from pounds. Females stand around .They normally possess extremely active tails making clean sweeps of coffee and end tables. Quite simply they need room. Uncluttered houses are a must! A fenced in yard is especially important in providing the dog enough exercise. Another option is a fenced dog park or walking trail. You must have a plan to give your golden enough exercise on a daily basis or both of you will be miserable. The younger the golden, the more exercise they generally need. Velcro Dog Goldens are faithful companions. They are usually always by your side, many will follow you from room to room. They will lie in the kitchen while you cook and at your feet while you watch TV. They must be near their humans to be happy. Be prepared to do a lot of hands on petting with your golden — they love it. Some goldens are downright needy in their desire for attention from their humans. Leashes You may have visions of letting your dog play fetch in an open field or running free on the beach. As a sporting dog they are easily distracted by birds, animals or moving objects; they must be kept leashed when being exercised outside of a fenced yard to keep them from running off. Shedding In Florida, goldens shed moderately all year long. Brushing every other day is to your advantage. If you require a fastidiously kept house, a golden is not the dog for you unless you like to do a lot of cleaning. You will always have dog hair around, especially in rugs, on furniture, and OH YES, occasionally even in your food. With a golden in your house, hair becomes a condiment. Oh — and you will have to vacuum much more often than before — or little fur balls will accumulate along your baseboards! Make sure you have a really good vacuum cleaner that you love using before bringing a golden into your home. Health Goldens are prone to allergies, skin problems, cancer and hypothyroidism and you may have to spend a fair amount on vet care over the life of a golden. Common inherited health issues are hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, various eye problems and heart disease. That is relatively cheap compared to if your dog has a health issue and requires veterinary care which today runs as much as human health care. Setting aside a monthly amount for a future emergency is a must. There are also quality pet insurance programs available. Goldens must be fed a high quality premium food to prevent costly skin problems — which means you will not be able to buy your food at the grocery or discount store — and will have to make a special trip to the pet supply store. There are other expenses such as toys, collars and leashes, brushes, shampoos and soft cozy beds. A well cared for dog, like its human counterpart, is happier with regular checkups and daily care. Grooming Goldens can be adequately groomed at home without expensive equipment. Grooming includes brushing, bathing, trimming hair from the pads of the feet, light trimming on ears, tails and back legs when necessary, and trimming nails. Neatness Goldens are easily housebroken and make great housedogs. They tend to be messy drinkers, dripping water on the floor after they take their drink. You might even encounter a little slobber. Training Goldens are usually easy to potty train and make great house dogs. Many owners wish to make their goldens into good canine citizens. Moreover, goldens tend to be sensitive or soft in many training situations. They must be handled carefully with a loving, firm, but gentle approach. The end result is a well-mannered dog that is a joy to be around. Small Children People automatically assume goldens are the perfect dog for a family with children. Golden puppies quickly grow up to be rambunctious, strong bundles of energy that easily can play too rough with young children, especially when they are 6 months to two years of age. Though they may bark and growl defensively, when it comes down to brass tacks — they will gladly hold the flashlight for the burglar and give them a big kiss. Outside Dogs Goldens make poor outside dogs. Especially in Florida, they develop skin problems and flea allergies if kept outside. They frequently develop thunderstorm anxiety. As sporting dogs they are easily able to dig out of a fence or sometimes climb over it when left outside for long periods of unsupervised time because they want to be with people. They also are frequent targets for theft if left outside in a backyard when the owner is away from home. Goldens are very social and are pack oriented. They frequently develop behavior problems when they are kept separated from their families. A happy golden is an inside dog. Male or Female? Many people are fixated on getting a female golden, thinking that females are more laid back and affectionate than males. This is not true. Male goldens are blessed with loving personalities. Many people call them big teddy bears and even prefer male over female goldens. Well, there you have it — the inside scoop on owning a golden. Goldens Rescued Since
Why do German Shepherd puppies need the best dog food? German Shepherd puppies need dog food designed for large breed puppies to ensure controlled joint and bone growth. This is because large-breed puppies are prone to certain health risks like hip dysplasia and other Orthopedic conditions. The best dog food for German Shepherds will ensure your puppy grows healthy, strong, energetic, and with lovely skin and coats. Nutritional requirements for German Shepherds puppies German Shepherd puppies require a balanced diet that contains four types of nutrients below. These ingredients will ensure that your pup grows and develops optimally for a longer quality of life. Proteins Proteins help the puppies in building up their body tissues. Proteins can be found in chicken, salmon, beef, lamb, eggs, and dairy. Fats Fats are important for healthy skin, fur, brain, and vision. The recommended fat level per dry matter basis is 8. Fats can be found in fish oil, chicken fat, and beef fat. Digestible carbohydrates Because puppies are incredibly energetic, they need digestible carbs to provide them with energy. Digestible carbohydrates can be found in rice, sweet potatoes, potatoes, and whole oats. Micronutrients In addition to these key nutrients, German Shepherd puppies also need micronutrients like calcium, phosphorus, DHA, and omega-3, and vitamin A. They also need fiber to promote digestion and bowel movement and clean water to help with bodily functions. For large dog breed only: Foods specially formulated for German Shepherd puppies: Veterinarian and pet advisor Dr. Choose a dog food that is specially formulated for German Shepherds puppies or large breed puppies can ensure your pups are getting the nutritional requirements at every stage of their growth. The opposite side is giving your pup the wrong food that may lead to serious growth and digestive problems. Things to consider before choosing dog food for German Shepherds puppies 1. Their growth Puppies may need different nutrients at different stages depending on their growth rate. For instance, a puppy in the weaning stage between three to four weeks will need more antioxidants which are found in foods containing Vitamin C and E. In contrast, a teething puppy will need wet dog food which is easily digestible food on its tummy to minimize intestinal upset. For instance, a younger puppy may have difficulty eating larger food pieces than an older puppy. Teething If your dog is teething, which starts at around three weeks, you may want to consider food that contains calcium like dairy and bone broth for strong and healthy teeth. On the other hand, if the dog has teething problems, wet food may be a better option than dry food until they recover. Alternatively, you add wet canned food to their kibble to make it soft and palatable. The body weight An underweight puppy has different dietary requirements from an overweight puppy. You do not want to underfeed or overfeed your puppy. Activity Level Puppies that are extremely active require foods high in carbohydrates to keep up their energy levels. If your dog is not as active, you want to keep the carbs down to avoid obesity. With all the many dry foods out on the market, it can be hard to choose the healthiest for your pups. Step 1. The Association of American Feed Control Officials developed nutrient profiles to establish minimum and some maximum nutrient concentrations for dogs and cats. These profiles are updated when new findings from research in pet nutrition become available. They provide practical guidance for pet food manufacturers. Adult Maintenance: Dog foods formulated for adult maintenance have the nutrients adult dogs need. Dogs over the age of one are considered adults, except for some large and giant breeds who do not fully mature until age two. You may see variations of these nutrient profiles on dog food packaging. Step 2. Read the food label The label is the most important thing you should check when deciding which puppy food to pick. Here are the 3 things you would like to read on the packaging: a. List of ingredients The list of ingredients should have the main ingredient as the first ingredient then followed by the rest according to their percentage. For instance, in the label below the first five ingredients, are chicken as the main ingredient, ground whole grain corn, chicken by-product meal, ground whole grain sorghum, corn gluten meal and dried plain beet pulp. Feeding guidelines This will show you how much food and how many times you should feed your puppy. Watch this video if you want to better understand the wording on a dog food packaging means: Step 3. Are there any claims of pups reacting to the food? Do the users recommend or warn against the food? Of course, you want to go with what the majority of the reviewers say. You can also check dogadvisor. Step 4. The vet is in a better place to advise on what type of food to go for or what ingredients to avoid. Best dry foods for German Shepherds Puppies There are hundreds of dog foods out there with fancy names and ingredients, which make it so hard for dog owners to find the right food for their pups. To help you narrow down your search, we asked a couple of vets to suggest the best dog food for German Shepherds puppies. Purina Pro Plan — For sensitive skin and allergies Why do we like it? This dog food is ideal for all large breed puppies weighing over 50 pounds, GSD included. It is specially formulated for puppies with sensitive skin and stomachs. It is made with real chicken, among other high-quality ingredients. This dry food has optimal calcium levels to promote proper joint and bone growth. It helps prevent forms of hip dysplasia. Ideal for German Shepherd puppies of all ages. Delicious dry food for large breed puppies like GSD. It is specially formulated for superior vision and healthy brain development. This is an all-natural dog food specially made for large-breed puppies of all ages. It is made with real, wholesome ingredients. Making the right food choice will ensure that your puppy grows healthier, stronger, and more energetic. Weaning for a GSD puppy should start at around 6 to 8 weeks while still maintaining nursing. Complete weaning should be from 8 weeks when the puppy is fed on puppy food only. How is puppy food different from adult dog food? Puppy food contains more protein and fats, and certain minerals than adult dog food to support their growing brain, vision, nervous system, immune system, bones, and joints. When should German Shepherd puppies transition to adult dog food? German Shepherd puppies should transition to adult dog food from 12 to 24 months. The transition should be gradual, and the puppy should be constantly monitored. More posts on feeding your German Shepherds Must read:. It also tends to be high in protein. Food that is high in protein and calories will provide your puppy with the energy that they need and help them gain the right amount of weight as they grow up. Most puppy food also includes vitamin and mineral supplements, such as calcium and phosphorus, for healthy and strong bones and teeth. You should speak to your vet to ensure that you have the right food and are feeding your puppy the proper amount. We hope that these reviews have helped you decide on the right food for your German Shepherd puppy. Remember to stick with large-breed food because it usually has the correct ratio of vitamins and minerals to give your GSD puppy all the suitable nutrition that they need so they can grow up strong, healthy, and happy. Featured Image Credit: Victoria Antonova, Shutterstock Written by Kathryn Copeland Author Kathryn was a librarian in a previous lifetime and is currently a writer about all things pets. When she was a child, she hoped to work in zoos or with wildlife in some way, thanks to her all-consuming love for animals. Unfortunately, she's not strong in the sciences, so she fills her days with researching and writing about all kinds of animals and spends time playing with her adorable but terribly naughty tabby cat, Bella. Kathryn is hoping to add to her family in the near future — maybe another cat and a dog.Read more Advertisement. It is also a vital element for brain and eye development. Fresh chicken meat in the diet provides protein with high biological value. Natural Prebiotics to boost the overall digestive process. The benefits of Orijen Puppy Large: A calorie limited diet to promote a healthy weight and to put less pressure on joints. Rich in protein for making German Shepherd pups healthy and strong. Highly delicious chicken and turkey liver tempt the pickiest of eaters. The crusty and crunchy kibble texture of this food promotes good periodontal health and helps in curbing problems like Tartar and Plaque buildup. An essential fatty acid like Omega 3 has been added in the diet for boosting the overall skin health of the dogs. A natural antioxidant like Vitamin E fortifies the natural immunity of the pups, keeping them strong and healthy. You can feed your adult German Shepherd 2 times a day. You should avoid feeding them synthetic preservatives. High in Fibres: Natural fibres maintain superior digestive health and also an ideal body weight. Vitamin C: Vitamin C keeps the joints healthy, preventing problems like hip dysplasia and arthritis. Natural fibres promote excellent digestion and maximum nutrient absorption. The benefits of Fidele Adult Large Breed: Contains a substantial amount of protein for enhancing strength and endurance in grown up German Shepherds. Omega fatty acids boost skin health and also maintain good eyesight. It consists of Real Chicken meat as the main constituent which is favourite for German Shepherds. It has a good combination of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids that significantly improves the skin health of the dogs. They do not contain any fillers or preservatives which makes this diet completely safe for German Shepherds to savour. Breed Specified Recipe specially made for German Shepherds Real Chicken meat offers good protein content for supporting strong muscle mass Excellent blend of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids endow the dogs with good skin health. This dog food has a rich protein content that fortifies the muscle mass in the dogs. Moreover, the crusty texture of this food helps in removing Tartar and Plaque build-up. Ideal dog food for a large breed like German Shepherd Consists of Calcium and Phosphorus that boosts bone density Glucosamine and Chondroitin provides anti-inflammatory effect to the dogs Beet Pulp and FOS prebiotics boosts overall digestive health of the dogs Crusty kibble texture of the food eliminates Tartar and Plaque build-up 5 Hills Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dog A highly nourishing meal that has Chicken and Barley as its primary constituents, the Hills Science Diet Adult Large Breed is an easy-to-digest meal offering a nutritional profile that suits an adult German Shepherd. Omega 6 and Vitamin E promote beautiful skin and coat in German Shepherds. Ample amounts of protein maintain lean muscle mass and endurance. They need foods that are low in protein and fat content while richer in fibres. However, an overall moderate diet with all the components is also considered healthy, provided your dog trains and exercises regularly. A senior German Shepherd consumes around calories daily. They can be fed 2 times a day. Fish Oil Omega 3 : Fish oil is an excellent source of Omega fatty acids that provides a good anti-inflammatory effect to senior dogs. Fewer Carbs: As elderly German Shepherds are quite vulnerable to obesity and diabetes, a diet that has a low glycemic index is most preferred to them. A combination of Vitamin E and C, builds a stronger immune system. Devoid of artificial flavors and preservatives. Fresh meat and freeze-dried liver make the meal highly delectable. A biologically appropriate diet that nurtures your older German Shepherds according to their biological and evolutionary needs. Thus, when you adopt a German shepherd pup, make sure that you provide it with a fully nutrition loaded diet and maintain a lifestyle with lots of physical activities. A comprehensive diet including all the above parameters will lead to a healthy and long life span of your little beasts. An avid nature and animal lover, Akhil likes to read and watch anything related to wildlife. He also has a great interest in athletics, mainly track and field events and is a big Masala Dosa fan. More like this.
Find your Boxer puppy for sale in Brookville, PA. Boxer Puppies for Sale near Pennsylvania. Browse thru our ID Verified puppy for sale listings to find your perfect puppy in your area. Feel free to browse hundreds of active classified. PA Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Pennsylvania Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. Boxer Puppies for Sale in PA. Prices may vary based on the breeder and individual puppy for sale in Erie, PA. Boxer puppies for sale in Harrisburg, PA from trusted breeders. Pennsylvania Boxer Rescue. The mother. We breed for health, temperament, intelligence, agility, conformation, color and well socialized pups. History: The Boxer descends from two dogs of the. Breed Boxer Breed Info. Find your Boxer puppy for sale in Pennsylvania. Boxer Puppies for Sale in Pennsylvania. They have been used for hunting, tracking, messengers, guarding, pulling, and so much more!! Boxer puppies are best known for being amazing family dogs, super great personalities and very affectionate. We have been breeding Boxers for 31 years. The breeders we connect soon-to-be-new puppy. Boxer puppies and dogs in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania, PA. European Boxers have a different look to them than. Find the Boxer puppy of your dreams through one of Good Dog's trusted Boxer breeders in Lancaster, PA and start the application process today. Greet our Boxer puppies available in Pennsylvania, PA. Find the Boxer puppy of your dreams through one of Good Dog's trusted Boxer breeders in Philadelphia, PA and start the application process today. Share this listing: Breed: Boxer. Boxer puppies and dogs in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Currently, we do not have any Boxer Mix puppies available, but we can alert you when new Boxer Mix puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! Boxer Puppies in Pennsylvania. This is the price you can expect to pay for the Boxer breed without breeding rights. We have One male and Two girls All the puppies photos below are for sale but only to a suitable buyer. Prices may vary based on the breeder and individual puppy for sale in Harrisburg, PA. He was then imported to the United States in and was accepted by the American Kennel Club the following year. The Boxer dog breed slowly gained popularity throughout Europe in the late s. Similar Boxer Puppies. Out family thoroughly enjoy our puppies' --the children give them a good start in their social life as they are included in our activities of the family. Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Pennsylvania Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their. Boxer puppies for sale in Lancaster, PA from trusted breeders. Boxer puppies for sale Jennifer Smith. The American Boxer Club was established in .Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Pennsylvania Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. We offer quality health tested Boxer puppies with a focus on temperament and health. Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Pittsburgh, PA Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. Boxer, Pennsylvania » Cherry Tree. Feel free to browse hundreds of active classified puppy for sale listings, from dog breeders in. We are not a puppy mill nor are there kennels in the back yard. We want our pups to go to loving homes. We strive to produce healthy, stable boxers. All are loving, friendly and very playful. They love to cuddle and play and can be gentle, and be protective companions for the whole family. Boxer Mix Puppies For Sale. Boxer puppies for sale in Pittsburgh PA The Boxer dog breed slowly gained popularity throughout Europe in the late s. Location: Manheim, PA .Save this search and we'll notify you when they are. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help. Boxer mix !!! Boxer puppies for sale in Harrisburg, PA from trusted. Boxer Puppies For Sale in Pennsylvania. The right Boxer is worth waiting for. Boxer puppies for sale in Pittsburgh PA. Boxers are upbeat, playful family dogs that have earned a reputation for being protective guardians or watchdogs and silly, bright-eyed, affectionate companions for children. Read each bio very carefully, as not every Boxer is suited for every home. Find the Boxer puppy of your dreams through one of Good Dog's trusted Boxer breeders in Erie, PA and start the application process today. Boxer puppies for sale in Pittsburgh, PA from trusted. Find more Boxer. We recommend speaking directly with your breeder to get a better idea of their price range. We take pride in providing our buyers with the best Boxer puppies to add to their family. Boxer puppy for sale in Brookville, PA. For more information and photos -- visit. Prices vary depending on location within the state because there are pockets with lower demand and pockets with a higher demand for boxers. Tails docked, dew claws removed, AKC paperwork, shots a. Boxer puppy for sale in New Holland, PA. Feel free to browse hundreds of active classified puppy for sale listings, Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. Boxer puppies for sale in Pittsburgh, PA from trusted breeders. Feel free to browse hundreds of active classified puppy for sale listings, from dog breeders in Pa and the surrounding areas. The Molossus blood makes the hardworking Boxer dog courageous, bright, and alert. Find Boxer puppies for sale in Pennsylvania from local breeders also search rescues and shelters for Boxer puppies to adopt in PA. All puppies found here are from AKC-Registered parents. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. About Us. These Boxers are available for adoption close to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we. Boxer puppy for sale in Nazareth, PA. The parents are Tundra and Tucker. To see more adoptable Boxers in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, use the search tool below to. Prices vary depending on location within the state because there are pockets with lower demand and pockets with a higher demand for boxers. PABoxers Gmail. Check with the breeder for up-to-date information on puppy availability. We offer beautiful European Boxer puppies from health-tested parents. Adopt a Boxer near youBoxer in cities near Stroudsburg, PennsylvaniaOther pups in Stroudsburg, PennsylvaniaSearch for a Boxer puppy or dog near youBrowse Boxer puppies and dogs in nearby citiesBrowse related breeds in Stroudsburg, PennsylvaniaBoxer shelters and rescues in Stroudsburg, PennsylvaniaLearn more about adopting a Boxer puppy or dog. When they are available, we will have current updates. Their Boxers are AKV purebred. Take them and love them as they are! Find Puppies in your area and helpful tips and info. My intent with this website and my kennel are. He have his first shots and has been wormed. This breed is square-proportioned with good substance and musculature. We have been breeding Boxers for 31 years. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we. Sweet Boxer Puppies uufe0fCall or text .Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Pennsylvania Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their. Find Boxer puppies for sale in Pennsylvania from local breeders also search rescues and shelters for Boxer puppies to adopt in PA. Each and every puppy is raised with our family, in our home. Transportation to New Jersey available. We are a small boxer breeding family from rural Pennsylvania. I am also listed in the Pennsylvania Federation of Dog Breeders directory. AKC family raised quality Boxer puppies. Here are a few organizations closest to you: Rescue 0. Adopt A Boxer Rescue is an all-volunteer c 3 charitable organization formed to rescue, rehabilitate, and re-home unwanted and abandoned boxer dogs. The right Boxer is worth waiting for. Find your Boxer puppy for sale in Pennsylvania. Once you apply, will get back to you about availability, pricing and next steps. Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their. We breed for health, temperament, intelligence, agility, conformation, color and well socialized pups. The average cost for all Boxers sold in the. Adopt a Boxer Rescue Adopt A Boxer Rescue is an all-volunteer c 3 charitable organization formed to rescue, rehabilitate, and re-home unwanted and abandoned boxer dogs. We take pride in providing our buyers with the best Boxer puppies to add to their family. Boxer puppies for sale in New Jersey from trusted breeders. Box , Essington, PA .There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for Boxer puppies in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Pennsylvania Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. They are well-rounded with excellent temperaments! Bodacious Boxers is a well-known breeder located in Mercer, Pennsylvania. Looking to buy a boxer puppy in PA or surrounding states? See Boxer puppies for sale, or read on to find out more about Boxer puppies: The dog breed "Boxer" is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. Easy, transparent and safe: healthy and happy Boxer puppies from the best breeders. If you are unable to find your Boxer puppy in our Puppy for Sale or Dog for Sale sections, please consider looking thru thousands of Boxer Dogs for Adoption. We encourage others to share in the joy of owning a Boxer. Browse these Boxer rescues and shelters below. Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Pittsburgh, PA Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. Boxers consistently rank number 4 or 5 on Lancaster Puppies. Here are a few organizations closest to you: Shelter .Boxer Puppies for Sale from Pennsylvania Breeders. There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for Boxer puppies in Franklin, Pennsylvania. Boxer mix !!! We are not a puppy mill nor are there kennels in the back yard. They are also well-known for their quality and strive to improve the standard of the breed. Puppies are available at various times of the year. Our focus is on conformation, health and the typical European Boxer temperament. We are committed to bettering the Boxer breed standard. What is the average cost of Boxer puppies in Pittsburgh, PA? Prices may vary based on the breeder and individual puppy for sale in Pittsburgh, PA. You cannot mold them into being any other dog. Is a non-profit organization, who is dedicated to rehabilitating and providing a second chance to Boxers. Meet Boxer Puppies for Sale No puppies available at this time. Welcome to Howdi Boxer Kennels website! My name is Judy and I am the loving owner of some amazing family and conformation show boxers. GN Canine Crew in Pennsylvania. Boxers are high energy dogs and have wonderful personalities. Well the boxer might be the right breed of dog for you. Browse these Boxer rescues and shelters. Boxer puppies for sale in Pennsylvania from trusted breeders. Greet our Boxer puppies available in Pennsylvania, PA. Online Forms Please select a form below to begin your application. Shady Pines Boxer Puppies. Sign In Register Dogs. There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for Boxer puppies in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Boxer Breeders Derraeboxers. If you're interested in a puppy from GN Canine Crew, please apply. This is the price you can expect to pay for the Boxer breed without breeding rights. With more than 25 years of experience, Hawk Valley Boxers has earned a reputation for producing good-quality Boxers, consistently winning the coveted 5-Star Breeders Award from the American Canine Association. Three Boxer Puppies .We encourage others to share in. Trusted Breeders:. We do not have kennels or an outdoor facility of any kind. Boxer puppies and dogs in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Here are a few organizations closest to you: Rescue 8. If you're from around this area, then you can get the pups from them. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. They are vetted regularly and health tested. The Boxer is exemplary in the combination of stylish elegance with strength and agility. PA Boxers Inc is a c3 non-profit rescue organization, with a dedicated team of wonderful volunteers devoted to re-homing Boxers in need in the state of Pennsylvania. Boxer Puppies for Sale in Pennsylvania. You'll be asked to provide information about yourself and what you are looking for so the breeder can help you find the right match. The head is distinctive, with a broad, blunt muzzle and alert expression. If you are unable to find your Boxer puppy. Please read all of the information below carefullly. Their dewclaws are removed and tail is done. Boxer Puppies for Sale near Pennsylvania. All of our boxers are house pets who receive attention and love daily. We recommend speaking directly with your breeder to get a better idea of their price range. We are committed to bettering the Boxer breed standard. Number of puppies available at time of publication: 5 puppies available. PA Boxers Inc is a c3 non-profit rescue organization, with a dedicated team of wonderful volunteers devoted to re-homing Boxers in need in the state of Pennsylvania. His main coat color is a solid black with a white collar around his neck and 4 white paws. Here are a few organizations closest to you: Rescue 8. They are only two weeks will be ready to go in oct. They love to cuddle and play and can be gentle, and be protective. We encourage others to share in the joy of owning a Boxer. Boxer puppies for sale in PA. They have been used for hunting, tracking, messengers, guarding, pulling, and so much more!! Boxer puppies are best known for being amazing family dogs, super great personalities and very affectionate. There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for Boxer puppies in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Vet checked, dewormed , ready with first. Boxer puppies for sale in Harrisburg, PA from trusted. Pennsylvania Boxer Rescue. Boxer Puppies in Pennsylvania. Read each bio very carefully, as not every Boxer is suited for every. Welcome to Hawk Valley Boxers! Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Erie, PA Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. Current on dewormer,shots , 1 mo genetic health guarantee veterinarian certificate of health. This is the price you can expect to pay for the Boxer breed without breeding rights. I saw her listed and responded immediately. Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Harrisburg, PA Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. Out family thoroughly enjoy our puppies' --the children give them a good start in their social life as they are included in our activities of the family. Boxer Puppies for Sale in PA. Browse these Boxer rescues and shelters below. Puppy Price:. Looking to buy a boxer puppy in PA or surrounding states? See Boxer puppies for sale, or read on to find out more about Boxer puppies: The dog breed "Boxer" is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. Good in a home with Other dogs, children. Boxers for Sale in Meadville, PA. Boxer puppies for sale in Pennsylvania from trusted …. PA Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Pennsylvania Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. Prices vary depending on location within the state because there are pockets with lower demand and pockets with a higher demand for boxers. Boxer puppies for sale in Pennsylvania from trusted breeders. When they are available, we will have current updates. Boxer mix !!! There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for Boxer puppies in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Prices vary depending on location within the state because there are pockets with lower demand and pockets with a higher demand for. For more information and photos -- visit. They love to cuddle and play and can be gentle, and be protective companions for the whole family. Most Popular Boxer Puppy for Sale Names for We've compiled the top 20 male and female Boxer names for after analyzing Boxer puppies for sale. Boxer puppies and dogs in Titusville, Pennsylvania. For more details, please feel free to contact us : email: HawkValleyBoxers gmail. Boxer Puppies for Sale in PA Boxers are upbeat, playful family dogs that have earned a reputation for being protective guardians or watchdogs and silly, bright-eyed, affectionate. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and. Conclusion on Boxer Breeders in Pennsylvania. Browse these Boxer rescues and shelters. She loves to play ball and seems to be good with other dogs. Welcome to Howdi Boxer Kennels website! My name is Judy and I am the loving owner of some amazing family and conformation show boxers. Box , Essington, PA .Shady Pines Boxer Puppies. It has been recognized by the AKC since .Sweet Boxer Puppies uufe0fCall or text .Puppies are available at various times of the year. Shes a very smart girl and would be a great fit for your home! Call or text XXXX if you are interested!! What is the average cost of Boxer puppies in Pittsburgh, PA? Prices may vary based on the breeder and individual puppy for sale in Pittsburgh, PA. He's your typical young dog who is playful and friendly. Once you apply, will get back to you about availability, pricing and next steps. Bethel pa AKC family raised quality Boxer puppies. I am so thankful to Stark County for my perfect puppy. Boxers consistently rank number 4 or 5 on Lancaster Puppies. Check with the breeder for up-to-date information on puppy availability. Boxer Puppies for Sale from Pennsylvania Breeders. Boxers are upbeat, playful family dogs that have earned a reputation for being protective guardians or watchdogs and silly, bright-eyed, affectionate companions for children. Lancaster Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Lancaster, PA Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. All their puppies have AKC registration with champion bloodlines. Good in a home with Other dogs, cats, children. Boxer Dog Breed Information. Boxer puppies for sale in Lancaster, PA from trusted breeders. Prices may vary based on the breeder and individual puppy for sale in Harrisburg, PA. Find your Boxer puppy for sale in Pennsylvania. The Molossus blood makes the hardworking Boxer dog courageous, bright, and alert. The typical life expectancy for Boxer puppies in Erie, PA is 10 to 12 years. Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Lancaster, PA Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. They take the jobs of watchdog and family guardian seriously and. You can also harness the power of Google Maps to find nearby Boxer breeders. Rags 2 Riches Animal Rescue Inc. AKC Registered Boxer puppy for sale .There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for Boxer puppies in Titusville, Pennsylvania. Use Petfinder to find adoptable pets in your area. We absolutely love our boxers and have been breeding them. What is the average size range of Boxer puppies in Erie, PA? The expected weight range for male. She loves to play and is very affectionate with everyone she meets. Their patience and protective nature have earned them a reputation as a great dog with children. You'll be asked to provide information about yourself and what you are looking for so the breeder can help you find the right match. Here are a few organizations closest to you: Rescue 0. Find Boxer puppies for sale in Pennsylvania from local breeders also search rescues and shelters for Boxer puppies to adopt in PA. On Good Dog, Boxer. Our chief concern is whelping happy, healthy pups to be loving family members, but we have bred a few champions as well. Boxer puppies for sale in Erie, PA from trusted breeders. Here are a few organizations closest to you: Rescue .We recommend speaking directly with your breeder to get a better idea of their price range. Boxer Puppies for Sale in PA Boxers are upbeat, playful family dogs that have earned a reputation for being protective guardians or watchdogs and silly, bright-eyed, affectionate companions for children. What is the average cost of Boxer puppies in Lancaster, PA? Prices may vary based on the breeder and individual puppy for sale in Lancaster, PA. GN Canine Crew in Pennsylvania. Parents on premises,Dew claws and tails docked. Boxer puppies for sale in Pittsburgh, PA from trusted breeders. Although the Boxer dog breed originated in Germany, their ancient ancestry can be traced back. If you're interested in a puppy from GN Canine Crew, please apply. Adopt A Boxer Rescue is an all-volunteer c 3 charitable organization formed to rescue, rehabilitate, and re-home unwanted and abandoned boxer dogs. I am also listed in the Pennsylvania Federation of Dog Breeders directory. Boxer breeders in Pennsylvania Google Map. Boxers are upbeat, playful family dogs that have earned a reputation for being protective guardians or watchdogs and silly, bright-eyed, affectionate companions for children. The right Boxer is worth waiting for. Breed Boxer Breed Info. History: The Boxer descends from two dogs of the. Boxer puppies for sale in Harrisburg, PA from trusted. We breed for health, temperament, intelligence, agility, conformation, color and well socialized pups. They love to cuddle and play and can be gentle, and be protective companions for the whole family. Boxer For Sale in Pennsylvania .About Us. Boxer Puppies for Sale from Pennsylvania Breeders. Prices may vary based on the breeder and individual puppy for sale in Erie, PA. Boxer puppies for sale in Pennsylvania from trusted breeders. Share this listing: Breed: Boxer. Boxer Mix Puppies For Sale. The mother. We have been breeding Boxers for 31 years. Currently, we do not have any Boxer Mix puppies available, but we can alert you when new Boxer Mix puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! He was then imported to the United States in and was accepted by the American Kennel Club the following year. We take pride in providing our buyers with the best Boxer puppies to add to their family. Find the Boxer puppy of your dreams through one of Good Dog's trusted Boxer breeders in Lancaster, PA and start the application process today. Boxer puppies for sale in Pittsburgh PA. Easy, transparent and safe: healthy and happy Boxer puppies from the best breeders. Boxer Puppies for Sale near Pennsylvania. Boxer puppies for sale in Erie, PA from trusted breeders. Below are our newest added Boxers available for adoption in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. PA Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Pennsylvania Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. We strive to produce healthy, stable boxers. Boxer puppies for sale in Pittsburgh PA The Boxer dog breed slowly gained popularity throughout Europe in the late s. Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Pittsburgh, PA Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. Read each bio very carefully, as not every Boxer is suited for every home. Boxer puppies for sale Jennifer Smith. Pennsylvania, PA. Feel free to browse hundreds of active classified. Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Pennsylvania Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. Prices may vary based on the breeder and individual puppy for sale in Harrisburg, PA. The American Boxer Club was established in .All puppies found here are from AKC-Registered parents. Boxer puppies sale Pittsburgh PA. Save this search and we'll notify you when they are. Feel free to browse hundreds of active classified puppy for sale listings, from dog breeders in Pa and the surrounding areas. We have One male and Two girls All the puppies photos below are for sale but only to a suitable buyer. Boxer Puppies with 1st shot, wormed, family raised and health guarantee. The Boxer dog breed slowly gained popularity throughout Europe in the late s. Prices vary depending on location within the state because there are pockets with lower demand and pockets with a higher demand for boxers. The breeders we connect soon-to-be-new puppy. Feel free to browse hundreds of active classified puppy for sale listings, from dog breeders in. Boxer Puppies in Pennsylvania. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help. Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. We want our pups to go to loving homes. They have been used for hunting, tracking, messengers, guarding, pulling, and so much more!! Boxer puppies are best known for being amazing family dogs, super great personalities and very affectionate. Boxer Puppies for Sale in Pennsylvania. This is the price you can expect to pay for the Boxer breed without breeding rights. Out family thoroughly enjoy our puppies' --the children give them a good start in their social life as they are included in our activities of the family. Browse thru our ID Verified puppy for sale listings to find your perfect puppy in your area. Boxer puppies for sale in Lancaster, PA from trusted breeders. Pennsylvania Boxer Rescue. Greet our Boxer puppies available in Pennsylvania, PA. Feel free to browse hundreds of active classified puppy for sale listings, The difference is more than just cosmetic, though that is part of it. We recommend speaking directly with your breeder to get a better idea of their price range. Boxer puppy for sale in Nazareth, PA. Similar Boxer Puppies. Tails docked, dew claws removed, AKC paperwork, shots a. These Boxers are available for adoption close to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we. The Molossus blood makes the hardworking Boxer dog courageous, bright, and alert. Boxer puppies for sale in Pennsylvania. Boxer puppies for sale in Pittsburgh, PA from trusted. Boxer puppies for sale in Pittsburgh, PA from trusted breeders. Boxer, Pennsylvania » Cherry Tree. Boxer mix !!! We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. All are loving, friendly and very playful. Boxer Puppies for Sale in PA. Find more Boxer. The parents are Tundra and Tucker. Location: Manheim, PA .Find the Boxer puppy of your dreams through one of Good Dog's trusted Boxer breeders in Philadelphia, PA and start the application process today. For more information and photos -- visit. To see more adoptable Boxers in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, use the search tool below to. Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Pennsylvania Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their. We are not a puppy mill nor are there kennels in the back yard. European Boxers have a different look to them than. Boxer puppy for sale in New Holland, PA.
Use the same commands and cues consistently. Improved obedience and communication. Reward good behavior with treats and praise. A motivated and happy pup. Socialization Introduce your pup to various people and dogs in a slow, positive manner. Well-adjusted and confident around others. Structured Play Mental stimulation and reduced boredom. Leash Training Teach leash manners to enjoy peaceful walks. Enjoyable walks with your well-behaved companion. Obedience Classes Enroll in obedience classes for professional guidance. Enhanced training skills and socialization. Training a 6-month-old German Shepherd puppy involves consistent positive reinforcement methods. Start with basic commands like sit, stay, and come. Use rewards like treats and praise to encourage desired behavior, and keep training sessions short and engaging. Socialization with other dogs and people is essential, and enrolling in puppy training classes can provide structured guidance. Use these puppy training tips to have less stress with your puppy: 1. Stay on top of their exercise needs. Your GSD needs the proper exercise. Increase exercise slowly to avoid an injury that comes from too much impact on unfused joints and bones. While your puppy still lacks maturity and focus, you can increase training to help teach your dog obedience skills. Increase daily obedience and practice to help them learn training basics. Your beautiful German Shepherd puppy will grow very quickly! Teaching them when they are puppies will pay off for the rest of their life. Simple training should start the moment your puppy arrives home. Using the same word for the same activities will help them learn quickly. Give them the right chew toys. Your pup needs balls and toys that are safe and chew-worthy. Look for more indestructible toys to keep your German Shepherd busy and continue to offer chew treats to work their jaws. Find the right chews for you puppy so you minimize the potential for choking and their jaws get a good workout. Use some of these balls for German Shepherd puppies as a distraction toy to get their focus away from your fingers and onto the toy. Giving your puppy a chew toy when they are biting an unapproved item redirects their attention to the right item. Include mental stimulation for their minds. This puppy needs mental stimulation to help them exercise their brilliant minds. This intelligent dog need more than physical exercise. Their minds need to learn and become involved in their world in new and interesting ways. There are many ways you can include mental stimulation. Many of these ways involve teaching a new brain challenge or mental game. Keep them supervised. Even a young GSD can cause lots of trouble when left unsupervised. If your once potty-trained pup has now forgotten their potty manners, then use pet-safe baby gates to contain them or leash them to you to supervise their actions at all times. Pet safe gates like these allow your dog to still see you and feel they have watched over their family. Pet gates are a safe option that prevents your dog from getting its head stuck or worse. Shutting a German Shepherd behind a closed door increases their anxiety and can make unwanted behavior worse! Instead, use the baby gate in a safe area to give them less run of your house. Behaviors you like can improve daily. Every day is an opportunity for you to become a more successful leader. For example: If they want to go outside ask them for a sit first. If they bring you a ball to throw, ask for a down before you engage in play. Setting up expectations of accepted behavior helps them learn how to behave more appropriately. And these successful moments can help speed up how long it takes to train a German Shepherd. Even tiny successes are great confidence builders for your puppy and for you. These bursts of training are easier for your pup to understand. The most telling sign of your little puppy growing up is unpredictable behaviors. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, but in a furry adorable body! Hormones, rebellion, confusion, and curiosity all add up to puppy puberty. But with the proper home management techniques and setting expectations, you can overcome these common puppyhood challenges. And my short Happy Puppy Guide is packed with helpful tips and tricks to ensure your furry friend grows up to be a happy and well-behaved companion. Your 6-month-old German Shepherd will thank you for it. I fetched it for you right here! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Final Thoughts Remember that your 6 month old German Shepherd is not a puppy anymore. It is the age when your pet officially enters the adolescence stage. What does this mean for it and you as its owner? The most troublesome period starts here. Your doggy can become rather unpredictable, and it is sometimes frustrating. It may still seem like a big fur ball, but it shows its temperament and character, so you need to be very careful. Moreover, it is very strong, too. So if your puppy is not properly trained, you may experience some difficulties in controlling it. Size and Appearance Your 6 month old German Shepherd puppy continues growing. It has already gained pounds .It is a large dog breed, and it has become obvious now. Your boy weighs pounds kg , and the girl, though smaller, is pounds kg heavy. The height of a male puppy at this age reaches inches cm at the withers, while female dogs are inches cm tall. Now, teething is almost completed, and your doggy can normally show all its 42 adult teeth already. However, some puppies continue teething until they are months old. The fur coat is also almost adult, with its double layers and a lot of shedding. It means that you need to develop a direct schedule for brushing and grooming. Buy a high-quality undercoat rake and brush your pup at least once a week. Since teething is finished, the ears stand up straight at this age. However, some puppies do not have perky ears until they are 12 months old. Another very important thing to consider in your six month old German Shepherd is that its sexual maturity begins. This stage is equivalent to teenagership or puberty in people. The hormones start kicking in, so males may want to look for a mate when outside. That is why it is so important to keep your puppy away from stray dogs at this time. Your boy may also start marking its territory and displaying aggression toward other animals and people. Estrogen in females also results in uneasiness and aggressive behavior. Walking in a dog park is not the best idea for your girl at this period. On average, a 6 month old GSD sleeps hours a day. Most of them are at night, but it may also need several naps in the daytime. Your puppy is very active at this age, so it needs a lot of walking and running. It is capable of walking long distances or even jogging. It is a truly great breed that can be very energetic. The puppy can walk up to 6 miles or 10 kilometers, and many believe that it is OK, since wolf pups as their ancestors could walk and run with their pack for many miles. However, every veterinarian will tell you that too much exercise of this kind can be dangerous for your pup because it can result in problems with joints at this age. So, choose other types of activities for exercising. Teach your doggy to walk on a leash, with frequent breaks, increasing the length of the walk gradually. Never walk your puppy in very hot or cold weather. If your pup shows the slightest signs of lameness, talk with your vet about it. The age of 6 months is the time when many behavioral problems can appear. It is connected with the period of puberty and hormonal disbalances. Your pup needs more independence, so it may wage a war against all your belongings if not trained properly. Chewing, tearing, and demolishing everything around is common. Even if your doggy has been potty-trained properly, it may have more accidents indoors now because it finds pleasure in looking for secret places for doing its business when indoors. Therefore, you have to show it who the boss in the household is and become a true leader of the pack for it. When playing, your pup may become rougher and try to dominate. It can get pushier with other dogs due to the start of its sexual maturity. Your pet can display a lot of boldness and attack other dogs fearlessly when walking in the park. It may also develop more aggressive reactions to other people, especially strangers. Even if it does know most commands, it may pretend to forget them because its hormones fluctuate. So, you need to be very careful to avoid incidents. Scent marking is another sign of puberty. The pup can do it inside your home and display disobedience if you try to prevent this. Female pups can experience the beginning of heat. It may cause them to feel subdued and insecure, so they become less sociable and even aggressive to their owners. You need a lot of patience and knowledge to train your doggy to behave properly at this age. Try to be persistent, provide it with more outdoor exercise, and never use force or physical punishment in response to its misbehavior. Increase the amount of exercise gradually to avoid bad injuries to the bones and joints. Find the most appropriate and appealing activities and games for your puppy to keep it healthy and out of trouble. Include mental stimulation in your everyday exercise. Offer it new brain challenges or mental games. Health and Care You need to be carefully observing whether your pup meets its weight and height requirements for this age. Learn to measure your doggy regularly to be on the safe side. Your pup has already had three vaccination sessions by this time. Neutering or spaying your pup is an issue that you may have to consider. However, most veterinarians do not approve of this at such an early age. It can result in joint disorders, incontinence, musculature injuries, and even cancer. They can be explained by lessening or eliminating the production of hormones associated with growth. The cartilage in long leg bones may get soft or even be missing, contributing to skeletal weaknesses. That is why you should delay neutering until your boy is one year old. Or, if your little male displays too many signs of disobedience and aggression due to its sexual development, delay neutering until the veterinarian X-rays your doggy and ensures that the growth plates are hardened and completely closed. As for female German Shepherds, the additional safety considerations for spaying should also be taken into account. Too early spaying can increase the risks of mammary cancer and urinary incontinence, along the common joint and bone issues. It is recommended to wait until your girl is one year old or even longer. Most breeders will tell you that a female German Shepherd should go through one or two heat cycles before spaying to reduce the risks of severe health issues. That is why the most desirable time for spaying the GS female is 18 months of its age. As for other health problems at the age of 6 months, you do not need to worry. If you want to know what to expect further, research the pedigree and ancestors of your pup to see whether there were any hereditary issues in their bloodline. You can also have a DNA test to predict future problems, such as degenerative myelopathy. However, you need to be watchful and careful about different signs and symptoms that may signal some temporary disorders. These symptoms may not mean anything serious. Though, it is always better to be sure. Feeding You need to feed your 6 month old German Shepherd puppy an appropriate diet with the correct number of calories and protein rates. It still grows rapidly, so you should be careful when choosing between high-quality puppy kibble and raw homemade feeding. The latter should include raw meats fish, turkey, or chicken are good and different vegetables and fruits. Do not offer your puppy too many treats during the daytime. Remember that they can be full of fats and lead to obesity. You do not want your pup to suffer from hip dysplasia or other health issues caused by being overweight. Arthritis, hypertension, diabetes, and even cancer can also result from improper diets. Give your puppy cups of kibble per each of 2 meals daily. Develop a feeding schedule and be consistent with following it. Self-feeding can also lead to obesity. Provide clean and fresh water to your dog, and you do not need to take the water bowl away. Your pup should have access to it whenever it wants. Never add any supplements or extra treats until your veterinarian recommends them. If your puppy refuses to eat for more than two subsequent meals, have a talk with your vet. You do not need to make a transition to adult food at this age yet. However, in some cases, it may be appropriate and recommended, even if normally such a transition is due closer to the age of one year. If you do not do it gradually, you may face digestive upset in your puppy. The start for a 6 month old GSD is not the best option because the socialization window closes at 4 months in German Shepherds, and you may encounter some behavioral issues now. Never use harsh, negative, or punishment-based methods of training. Your pup is very sensitive, and all this can damage its psyche. The positive, reward-based methods are more appropriate, and they will produce better results. Continue socialization by exposing your pet to unfamiliar animals and people in a friendly environment. Though, you need to be very careful now because hormone disbalance can evoke unpredictable reactions. German Shepherds tend to be enthusiastic barkers, so you have to discourage your pup from barking all the time. Teach it to inform you when someone unknown is approaching, but keep from barking all other times. Always control your doggy persistently. Instill that you are a leader to obey. Do training for at least minutes per day regularly and always use positive reinforcement. If you need help, ask a professional trainer to assist or teach you. It is pretty tall, with the height of a male reaching inches .Female dogs are a bit smaller, with inches cm in height. How much should a 6 month old German Shepherd weight? Your pet continues growing quickly, so its weight also increases. The average weight of a boy puppy is pounds .How much should a 6 month old German Shepherd eat? You can give your puppy cups of kibble per each of 2 meals daily. How much should a 6 month old German Shepherd sleep? Because of its almost full-sized bladder, your pup does not need a potty at night or may need it just once. Therefore, it can sleep peacefully the whole night. Normally, the average sleeping time is hours, with the biggest amount at night. Though, it may also need several naps in the daytime. How far can a 6 month old German Shepherd walk? Even if you think that your pup needs a lot of exercises, walking and running should not comprise the largest part of it. The puppy can walk up to 6 miles or 10 kilometers if it is needed, but never make it walk for such a long distance. Its bones and joints are not formed completely yet, so much walking can cause many health issues. Choose some other activities for exercising, then. Final Thoughts Now, you can see that your 6 month old GSD puppy is a source of both enjoyment and trouble. You should be very patient, persistent, and careful about feeding, training, and exercising your little one to raise a healthy, energetic, and loyal dog, the best companion and protector for all your family. Follow the advice of your veterinarian relating to health and care. You can also consult with a professional dog trainer or hire them to help you. We hope that some recommendations and tips in this article will also be helpful. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. A 6 month old German Shepherd is now out of the juvenile growth stage and is officially an adolescent. You will need patience now more than ever as these big fur balls show their true colors and try to see exactly how much they can get away with. Overall Behavior: At 6 months old, they are still big kids with plenty of youth and enthusiasm to go around. But watch out because they are still quite the trouble makers at this age. However, hopefully by now some of biting, chewing, and jumping has subsided and they are a bit more mature than the previous month. Especially if you have been busy socializing and training them consistently. They will now begin to exert their independence and do a lot of exploring. They can also start to get a bit rowdy around other dogs and may get a bit rough with younger children. Resource Guarding: One month ago, you were most likely dealing with biting and zoomies. Unfortunately, this behavior should not be tolerated and must be dealt with to avoid future issues. It can lead to possible aggressive confrontations with other people especially at a dog park or public location. It is much better to find local dog owners for play time. Training: At the 6 month mark, your German Shepherd should have the basics mastered. They are still highly susceptible to training at this stage so you want to continue consistent training. The window for socialization typically closes at around 16 weeks, so at this point they should be fairly comfortable around other animals or dogs. If not, it will be more difficult at this stage. Some helpful tips for training effectively: Continue to instill that you are the leader but never force them to into listening and learning. Learn how your dog communicates and try to relate on their level. Practice patience and be consistent, training them for at least minutes daily. Use positive reinforcement to instill obedience rewarding them with praise or treats. Intermediate Commands: Crawl — Get your dog in the down position. Lure them forward by holding a treat a few inches from their nose. Get them to follow the treat as you move back. Reward them when they obey. Fetch — Get your GSD to chase a ball or stick. Reward them for chasing it. Then call them back to you. Reward them with praise and a treat when they obey. We recommend teaching your German Shepherd two new intermediate commands a month. If you are ahead of the game and your GSD already knows crawl and fetch, you can check out the full list here. If you need a little help with training, this video has some great tips and tricks: Physical Development: At month 6, they are still growing like a weed and should be at least half of their future adult size. They most likely packed on another pounds since the previous month. Males should now be standing almost a foot and a half tall and in the range of 16 to 18 inches at the withers. Females are only an inch or two behind and should be standing around 15 to 17 inches at the withers. By now the males should be half of a hundred pounds and officially considered a large dog breed. Any dog over 50 pounds and under pounds is considered a large dog breed Males should be somewhere in the range of 49 to 57 pounds. Females on average are 5 pounds less and should weigh in the range of 44 to 49 pounds. Their full adult double coat of fur should also be completely filled in. That means a good weekly brushing with a good undercoat rake is advised. Sexual Maturity Begins: Now that they are half a year old, they will begin the sexual maturity stage of development. This is equivalent to puberty in humans. They will also simultaneously begin to mark their territory. Females on the other hand, may begin to go into heat as their estrogen kicks in. They are still young and should either be eating a high-quality puppy kibble or a homemade diet. We recommend feeding your dog an all-natural diet that includes raw meats such as chicken, fish and turkey. Combine that with fruits and veggies and your dog will be healthy and happy. Just make sure to avoid any toxic foods in their diet. As much as you are tempted, avoid giving them too many treats throughout the day. And if you are training make sure to use small, lean treats without too much fat. Obesity can exacerbate health issues that German Shepherds are already susceptible to including hip dysplasia. Being overweight also increases the risk of your GSD getting various diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, hypertension and even cancer. Try to be consistent with your feeding times. Health: We mentioned earlier how fast they are growing but you want to make sure that they are meeting the recommended height and weight requirements for their age. You can keep up by referring to this size chart and writing down their size each month. If you are thinking about neutering or spaying your German Shepherd , you may want to reconsider. While some vets recommend getting it done at the 6 month mark, most breeders disagree and recommend you wait until they are at least one year old. This can be hard with a female that is going into heat but keep her lean and try to wait as long as you can when possible. The reason for waiting is because GSDs that are neutered or spayed before 6 months of age are at a higher risk of the joint condition hip dysplasia. Overall, your German Shepherd should be thriving at this age with a healthy diet and plenty of exercise. That being said, it is a good idea to take preventative measures for any future health issues. You can get a step ahead by doing some research into their parents and pedigree for any possible hereditary problems present in their bloodline. You can also use tools such as a DNA test to possibly predict future conditions. While it is too early on to worry about major diseases, you still want to keep an eye out for any type of sickness your GSD may encounter. Signs and symptoms to look for: Change in normal sleeping pattern Coughing, gagging or sneezing in excess Decrease in appetite Drinking and urinating a lot Dry itchy skin. If you have recently welcomed a 6-month-old German Shepherd puppy into your home, you are probably feeling a mix of excitement and overwhelming responsibility. At six months, your GSD puppy is starting to look and act a lot like an adult. He is also starting to explore his surroundings and may be roaming a lot more than usual. He is also going into puppy puberty, which comes with many behavioral changes including marking, aggression and acting on sexual desires. In this blog post, we will provide a survival guide for new owners of a 6-month-old German Shepherd puppy. We will cover essential topics such as feeding, exercise, training, grooming, and health care, and offer practical tips and recommendations to help you navigate this particular stage with your new companion. What to expect from a 6-month-old German Shepherd puppy? If you have a male puppy, for instance, you will notice that they are becoming overly territorial or intolerant of other male dogs and generally aggressive to unfamiliar people. In addition to the hormones, are the raging sexual desires which will make your puppy want to be around dogs of the opposite sex. Female puppies will start to go into heat, while male puppies will start roaming looking for females. Other changes to expect include: Playful and energetic Your young dog is also likely to be more energetic and playful than before. Becoming independent GSD puppies at this age are also starting to become more independent and may be less reliant on you. Enhanced communication skills Puppies at this age also have enhanced hearing skills and can process instructions a lot better. This is the time to advance obedience training to help them learn good behavior and become well-behaved adult dogs. Resource guarding Additionally, they may experience what we refer to as resource guarding. This is where puppies become so possessive of their toys that they become harsh when someone or another dog tries to touch them. American Kennel Club recommends early behavior training to prevent this possession aggression from escalating into nasty bites. Your six-month-old German Shepherd puppy will need quite a lot from you. First and foremost, they will need a consistent routine and structure. The routine should incorporate everything from feeding to play. A routine will help make life so much easier for both of you. Other needs include A good leader As an owner, you should also provide your puppy with good leadership. Part of being a good leader is giving clear instructions and being consistent with reinforcing the behavior. For a GSD puppy, establishing yourself as a pack leader is crucial in instilling good behavior. Consistent exercise You will also need to take your dog for daily walks or for play dates at the dog park to keep them mentally stimulated and physically active. Even as puppies, German Shepherds are extremely energetic dogs, and therefore daily exercise is a basic need for them. You will need to commit to at least 30 minutes of exercise in the morning and another 30 minutes in the evening. In addition, you will need to have a list of games and activities to keep them busy and mentally stimulated. Here are some activities you can try. Proper socialization It is also important to continue socializing your German Shepherd puppy at this age. This can involve exposing them to a variety of people, places, and other animals in a controlled and positive manner. This will help your puppy develop into a well-adjusted adult dog. Proper nutrition Proper nutrition is also important for a growing German Shepherd puppy. You will need to feed your puppy high-quality food appropriate for their size and age. It is generally recommended to feed puppies three to four times per day until they are about six months old, after which you can gradually transition to twice-daily feedings. Love and attention In addition to these basic responsibilities, you are also expected to provide your German Shepherd puppy with plenty of love, attention, and positive reinforcement. This will help them feel secure and build a strong bond with you. There are plenty of ways to bond with your dog. You can make use of the morning and evening exercise to bond, go on weekend hikes and trips together, walks at the dog park or play interactive games indoors. The goal is to create as much quality time with your dog to enhance the bond. Regular grooming Regular grooming is another thing your pup will require from you at least once every week. Now that their coat is fully filled up, they will start to shed a lot. This means you will need to create a schedule for brushing their coat and general grooming, like cleaning their ears and teeth. Ensure you get a good-quality brush for this job. They look a lot like a large breed dog at this point. Males will have an average weight of 53 pounds and a height of between inches, while females will weigh 46 pounds on average and will be inches tall. However, some German Shepherds puppies may be larger or smaller than others at this age. The puppies will have a more developed a more muscular appearance than they did when younger. They will have a longer, thicker coat, and their ears may be fully upright. Their paws may also be larger and more in proportion to their body, and a majority will have all their adult teeth on. Also noticeable will be their strong, muscular build and their intelligent and confident demeanor. It is normal for some puppies to grow more quickly or more slowly than others. To help speed up their growth, focus on proper nutrition. You also want to get your puppy a variety of chew toys to help with ear erection. This new stage comes with its own set of behavioral changes, as expected, like aggression, territorial marking, and moodiness. Other changes that your pup may experience to indicate sexual maturity include bloody discharge and swelling of the vulva. As the hormones kick in for both males and females, they will begin to act on their sexual desires. For males, particularly, they will start to prowl for females, and for females, they will start to go into their first heat cycle. But yes, from 6 to 12 months, your pup will develop aggressive reactions to other dogs as well as to unfamiliar faces. They will start to get pushier when playing with other dogs. They will also become bolder and more fearless when with other dogs. This is their innate need to want to dominate and protect their territory, which they are slowly marking. This sudden aggressiveness is also due to the hormonal fluctuation they are experiencing. Ideally, your puppy should have been trained as early as 4 months when the aggressive behavior starts so that by the time the aggression is heightened at 6 months, it is easier to deter. Be aware that even though they will not be aggressive to you as their owner, they will start to show disobedience when you give them commands. You will need to stamp your authority so that the puppy understands that you are in charge. This will also make training even with aggressive behaviors easier. Puppy puberty: What do owners need to know? The sixth month in puppies is marked with a surge of hormones. This makes it pretty hard to predict their behaviors. In fact, they may show some aggression and pushiness. They however like to hang out around female dogs because their sexual desire is heightened. For female puppies, you will notice a shift in their moods. They are also likely to become insecure and less interested in activities they once enjoyed as they start getting on heat. They may also become irritable and aggressive to other dogs. Both genders will also start showing some disobedience and unruly behaviors like not responding to commands they once did. Nutrition needs of a 6-Month-Old German Shepherd puppy At six months old, your German Shepherd puppy will still have some growing to do, and it is important to ensure that they are receiving the right balance of nutrients to support their growth and development. There are a variety of meat proteins that you can incorporate into the diet, such as chicken, beef, lamb, turkey, and salmon. Fats Fats and oils from fish, chicken, and meats are essential in developing healthy and shiny coat, skin, and fur. Carbohydrates Your 6-month-old puppy is going to need a lot of energy to keep up with his current activity levels. According to PetMD good sources of carbohydrates are plants and grains. Other essential nutrients Your puppy will also need essential nutrients minerals and vitamins to help in stabilizing their surging hormones as well as dental health and a multitude of other body functions. These nutrients can be found in cereals, meats, and vegetables. Like many large breeds, a German Shepherd dog is not considered fully grown until they are about 18 months old. Female German Shepherds continue to fill out until they are around two years old, while the male German Shepherd growth rate continues until they reach two and a half years of age. Males are larger and require more time to fill out their chest and abdomen. As you can see by the German Shepherd weight chart, these dogs can continue to grow until they are three years old, but the majority of growth occurs within 24 months. If your GSD is older than 36 months and continues to put on weight, contact your veterinarian to ensure weight gain does not lead to obesity. How big should a 6-month-old German Shepherd be? A six-month-old German Shepherd puppy will be quite large, as many German Shepherds undergo massive growth spurts between two and five months old. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. How much bigger will my German Shepherd get? There are a few ways to gauge how much bigger a German Shepherd will get. First, check your puppy's age. If your GSD is younger than two years old, they definitely have room to keep growing! Another way to tell if your pup still has a lot of growing to do is their paw size. Do their paws look large compared to their legs and body? This is a classic adolescent feature of a dog and means your pup is likely still growing! Most of the time, a dog will not grow bigger than its larger parents. What is the size of a full-grown German shepherd? An adult male German Shepherd is typically 24 to 26 inches tall, while adult female German Shepherds are 22 to 24 inches tall, according to the American Kennel Club German Shepherd Standard. The estimated full-size varies significantly between sexes. In terms of weight, an adult male German Shepherd weighs anywhere from 75 to 90 pounds. A female German Shepherd weighs notably less at 55 to 70 pounds. Please keep in mind that these numbers are only estimates to give you an idea of how much bigger a German Shepherd puppy may get. Some dogs will be both smaller and larger than these weight ranges when fully grown due to a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Learn all about your puppy's physical characteristics, breed history, personality traits, and more in our comprehensive guide. Preventive care is key in helping your German Shepherd live a healthy and long life. Helping your dog maintain an optimal weight is one of the best things you can do for their health. Taking your German Shepherd to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do to ensure that they are healthy and feeling their best. Compare German Shepherd health insurance plans before they get sick or injured. They are also more susceptible to gastrointestinal tract and hip issues. A veterinarian should regularly assess your pet for these health problems and run tests for anything they may be more prone to due to their breed. Treatment for many conditions, including bloat and GI issues, can cost thousands of dollars. Dog insurance is a wise investment that can give you peace of mind by covering pet emergency expenses. Wellness plans are also available to help cover the cost of vaccinations, vet exams, microchips, and more. Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance. Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top providers so you can find a great deal with great coverage. Get Peace of Mind Today Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. But your dog is still a puppy on the inside, and this is very important to remember. Your dog still has a lot of growing to do on the inside! A six-month-old German Shepherd puppy is going to need a lot of socialization and structured crate training and enough gentle exercise and play to keep all that energy under control. What to Expect as Your German Shepherd Turns Six Months Old German Shepherds are really smart , strong dogs, which can mean they are a handful to raise and train as they grow up and get bigger. If you are caring for a German Shepherd puppy right now or have ever done so in the past, you already know this! One of the biggest areas of anxiety for first-time German Shepherd owners is whether what they are experiencing with their dog is normal or not. For example, is it normal for a six-month-old German Shepherd puppy to be biting everything in sight? How about if a six-month-old German Shepherd puppy whines and barks a lot? What about appetite, portion size, and treats for a 6 month old German Shepherd? When should you transition to adult dog food and an adult dog portion size? And what about that all-important question — should you get your German Shepherd spayed or neutered and, if so, when should you do it? These are all intelligent questions that caring dog owners typically ask. So if you are wondering what the answers are, you are not alone — and you are about to find out in the sections to follow here. In most cases, the timing of neutering a male German Shepherd puppy is going to be different than the spaying of a female GSD. So we will look at each procedure separately here. When to neuter your male German Shepherd puppy However, as the University of California at Davis points out, a scary new study in the Journal of Veterinary Medicine and Science highlights the health risks of too-early neutering. Specifically, joint disorders, musculature injuries, cancer, and incontinence are all risks that are linked to neutering a German Shepherd before the age of 12 months one year old. Researchers believe the risks arise from how neutering lessens or eliminates the production of important hormones associated with reproduction and also with growth. When a male dog is neutered too early, the hormones that tell the soft cartilage growth plates in the long leg bones when to close go missing. This can delay reaching the final German Shepherd growth stages, cause bone overgrowth, contribute to skeletal weakness throughout life and might cause German Shepherds to stop growing. To reduce these risks, you may want to delay neutering your male puppies until after their first birthday and they are a full grown German Shepherd. Alternately, you may want to delay neutering until after your veterinarian has X-rayed your dog and determined that the growth plates have closed and hardened. When to spay your female German Shepherd puppy Choosing when to spay a female German Shepherd puppy comes with additional safety considerations and health threats beyond simply preventing unplanned pregnancy. Female German Shepherds that are spayed too early in life have an increased risk of mammary cancer and urinary incontinence along with more frequent and serious joint and skeletal issues. To lessen the risk of these issues, it is definitely important to wait until your female German Shepherd puppy has had her first birthday. But you may want to wait even longer, and here is why. Many breeders believe that a female German Shepherd should go through one to two successful full heat cycles before spaying. As owners posting on this popular German shepherds Forum explain, waiting until your female German Shepherd has had her second birthday can reduce the risk of later-in-life urinary incontinence even further. And then some owners and breeders will choose to spay at the halfway point of 18 months. Other neuter or spay considerations for a German Shepherd puppy It is also important to keep in mind that some K-9 programs, such as participation in formal military or police K-9 work, are only open to intact German Shepherds. If you want to enroll your dog in this type of program, be sure to check the requirements before proceeding with a neuter or spay procedure. For this reason, the German Shepherd Dog Club of America GSDCA explains that weight monitoring is an essential aspect of adjusting food portions during the age of three to six months old. By the age of six months old, your puppy should be eating twice per day. Make sure clean, fresh water is always available to your dog. Only feed your puppy a high-quality, complete, and balanced puppy food made for large-breed puppies ask your breeder or veterinarian if you are not sure what to feed. As we mentioned earlier in this article, a six-month-old German Shepherd puppy is likely going to look very similar to how it will look like an adult German Shepherd. But on the inside, there is still so much growing and developing to be done. What you feed, how you feed, and how much you feed can have everything to do with how strong and structurally healthy your GSD puppy grows up to be. Start by mixing 90 percent old food with 10 percent new food. Do this for one to two days. Then switch to 80 percent old food mixed with 20 percent new food. Continue until you are at percent new food. This system can ease digestive upset and temporary elimination issues like constipation or diarrhea that may arise when there is a big food switch. As the Central Texas Veterinary Hospital explains, German Shepherds as a breed can be particularly prone to issues of a sensitive stomach. This makes planning for a slow food transition especially critical to success for this breed. Training a Six Month Old German Shepherd Puppy According to expert dog trainers with the German Shepherd Dog Club of America , the type of puppy training your dog receives from the ages of two to six months is vital to raising a healthy, happy adult dog. Quite the contrary! So your GSD puppy may still be teething and biting on everything in sight to deal with that painful process. German Shepherds are high-strung, sensitive dogs and they are also strong and powerful. You can accomplish the same and even better training results using positive rewards-based reinforcement methods that will not damage your bond with your dog. Continue socialization with strange people and animals Your German Shepherd puppy will need ongoing exposure to strangers — people and animals — as part of the socialization and training process. You have total control over how you want your German Shepherd to respond when a strange person or animal crosses their path. You can teach your puppy how to alert you when an unknown individual approaches your home or crosses your path. If you are firm and consistent with your training through the teenage phase, hiring a professional K-9 trainer if you need to, your reward will be a well-behaved, well-trained adult dog that will guard, defend and protect you with their life. One reason for this is that as long as the growth plates stay soft, you risk injury if you over-exercise your dog. But the soft growth plates can be damaged if your German Shepherd puppy is allowed to run for extended periods of time, race up and down the stairs, do a lot of jumping or agility work or play too vigorously. Games like tug-of-war also bad for developing teeth. Throw-the-toy ball, stick games. Too-vigorous or rough play with other dogs or people. So at six months of age, your German Shepherd puppy should be exercising for 30 minutes six months times 5 minutes each day. But here again, make sure the exercise is appropriate for a young large breed dog that is still growing and developing internally. Using mental and sensory exercise aids like snuffle mats and treat puzzle toys and teething aids like iced Kongs and safe flavored chew toys can also provide much-needed exercise and enrichment for mind and body. This will help ensure your 6 month old German Shepherd grows up to be a healthy adult dog. It is fun to watch Sam demonstrate how he has mastered basic commands from multiple owners, which is very important to help your GSD puppy socialize and bond fully with all family members. The owner also talks about the formal K-9 training program Sam is enrolled in through their local German Shepherd dog club. This is a fun option for you and your dog that is worth checking out if you happen to have a local German Shepherd club in your community. The bottom line How to Train a 6-month German Shepherd Once you bring home a 6-month-old German shepherd for the first time, the first thing that you should do is to take him for an introductory walk. This helps the pooch familiarize with the surrounding, and to make it easier when you take him for a talk or backyard play. When training a 6-month-old German shepherd, you should start by teaching him basic training commands like sit, stay, come, and kneel. These are useful GSD commands for different situations, and you can use treats as an incentive during the training exercise. Reward your dog when he does what you ask — this will encourage them to keep trying because they want that reward again! How much should a 6-month-old German shepherd eat? You should serve your German shepherd puppy about two to three cups of premium puppy food per day. The quantity served may vary depending on the size and age of your pup but in general, this is roughly how much to feed him each day. A good rule of thumb when deciding how much to give your puppy is to determine their weight and size. For instance, if your pup weighs around 20 pounds then you should feed him two cups of food per day. If he weighs 40 pounds then this will translate to three cups. If your 6-month-old German shepherd has a sensitive stomach then you may want to consider feeding them wet food. Wet puppy food has a high water content, which will help their digestive tract maintain the right balance and prevent inflammation of the colon. In addition, wet food also contains healthy prebiotics that promotes healthy digestion. How much water does a 6-month-old German shepherd drink? A 6-month-old German shepherd needs sufficient water to drink. You should provide a water bowl that is large enough so that your pup can drink sufficient water. If you are out of the house and cannot give them constant access to fresh water, then it might be best for you to invest in an automatic water fountain. A water fountain ensures there is a continuous flow of clean drinking water throughout the day. How much exercise does a 6-month-old German shepherd need? A 6-month-old GSD needs about thirty minutes to an hour of exercise each day and they should be given some form of mental stimulation as well. One way you can do this is by teaching him or her tricks that will help stimulate her brain. How to Potty train a 6-month-old German Shepherd? A 6-month-old pup requires a lot of time and attention to potty train. The easiest and most popular potty training method is using urine and feces training pads. If you are not sure how to groom your GSD puppy, hire a professional pet groomer at a fee. A pet groomer is specially trained to groom puppies and adult dogs. You will need dog shampoo , towels, conditioners, or other products that might be needed depending on the type of hair coat your pup has i. You will also need a leash and harness for outdoor walks. If you live in a wooded area where dogs are likely to get lost, you can have a microchip implanted by a veterinarian. While 6 months might be considered too soon to be microchipped, it will come in handy later when the dog grows older so consider getting one done now! See the best undercoat rake for German Shepherd 6-month-old German shepherd behavior and temperament: Are they aggressive? You can even invest in an invisible wireless fence to keep them contained. When buying a German shepherd puppy , you should first check with a licensed breeder. Make sure that you find a reputable fully-licensed breeder who has the time and space needed to care for GSD puppies. Ask the breeder if they have any 6-month-old puppies available. Breeders should be able to tell you how many dogs are currently in their care and what types of breeds they typically raise so that it is easy for you to make a decision about where to buy and if there are several puppies to choose from. They should also have a contract that spells out your responsibilities as the owner before you sign it so there are no surprises down the road. See the distinction between King Shepherd vs. German Shepherd The bottom line German shepherd pups are little bundles of energy!
I have a great love and passion for German Shepherds, due to their intelligence and loyalty. I have a large, close family that are helping me raise, train, show and breed the dogs I love. Tiltonhaus kennel is attached to our home so that our German Shepherds can live primarily in our home enjoying family life with us. Rotating the dogs this way gives each dog lots of quality time with us. We strive to give our dogs the environment and attention that best enhances their well being and health. We live on 10 acres of land where our dogs can run and explore, along with several secure yards and runs for outdoor activity. Tiltonhaus German Shepherd dogs enjoy family outings, such as hikes, bike rides, picnics, camping, vacations, etc. All of our German Shepherds are purebred, AKC Registered, and come from top West German champion bloodlines known for producing dogs that are not only beautiful, but have balanced temperaments and strong work ethics. Degenerative Myelopathy. Our breeding dogs have had their hips and elbows certified with either the German SV a-stamp program or through OFA, which gives us the confidence to have all of our Tiltonhaus puppies guaranteed for hips and health in writing. Our puppies are handled and socialized from birth. So we become very attached to these little pups and care about their well being. Potential buyers should be prepared to answer questions about why they want to purchase a puppy and their plans for their puppy. We recommend that your new puppy get basic obedience training to be a happy, well-adjusted dog. Tiltonhaus is family owned and operated, fully licensed business located in Deer Park, Washington 15 minutes north of Spokane, WA. They are so helpful, knowledgeable people and particular with their breeding program. Their dogs are beautiful, intelligent, solid, and very healthy. They train dogs and offer many training classes from beginning to advanced. Best place to go when looking for the best German Shepherd dogs or where to train your dog of any breed. I Highly recommend Vom Haus Audax. Masters of their craft. And are exceptionally organized in how they run the business, breeding, board and train etc. Very clear upfront cost, transparent process, and a emphasis on great communication. You get all of this when doing business with them. Our journey: We got our little gsd boy Mamba from Kim and Jason. And the process was nothing short of amazing. Still is amazing. Yes, we loved it from a process stand point and we have learned a TON from Kim and Jason, but we have also come to feel like part of their pack. Part of the family. And we have appreciated that as new puppy owners. They truly care about every puppy they breed and every home those pups go to. If you are looking for a puppy, and get a dog from them that they bred, you are getting the highest pedigree of a GSD. Every part of the journey has been so refreshing and makes us feel like adding our new member to the family was the best decision ever. And we KNOW, we will always have a great support system. Overall: So if you are looking to add a gsd to the family Kim and Jason are your people. You will not regret it. These are the folks you want in your corner. So glad we met them, they are family now to us. Temperament, health, and of course handsomeness was paramount in choosing a puppy - all of our criteria was met. Our puppy enrolled in puppy class then later he graduated to obedience training. Under the thorough, knowledgeable, and patient instruction of Kim and Jason, our dog blossomed into a fine family pet. Everyday our wonderful dog brings us immeasurable joy. We cannot thank Kim and Jason enough. They go above and beyond in all they do and truly understand dogs and their unique behaviors. Our mission is to breed quality German shepherds with bloodlines from Germany and Europe. We have imported working line German shepherds. We have attended and competed in German shepherd dog shows throughout the United States, Germany, and Canada. Our German shepherds make great companions for the entire family. Tina Woodworth teaches all-breed obedience and trains and titles her dogs in obedience, herding, and conformation. The best part is that our German shepherd puppies start their young life with gentle care and training, encouraging eye contact, strong play, and food drive. Quality German Shepherds for Sale German shepherds are ideal for any household because they have many skills and admirable qualities. This breed's popularity stems partly from its adaptability to various lifestyles and living conditions. Our German shepherds thrive in properties with lots of outdoor space. They may also live comfortably in apartments as long as they get enough exercise. Spend a Free Night on the Farm When you purchase a dog or puppy from us, your overnight stay is free. This gives us quality time with you and your new puppy. You can play and explore the farm and field with your new addition. Below are photos of our farm. When you train your dog with positive reinforcement, it learns that being responsible and interacting with you and its environment result in rewards like treats and praise. Consequently, because new experiences are gratifying and enjoyable, your dog becomes more receptive to them. Ensuring your pet pays attention to your cues also helps prevent potential conflicts with other dogs or animals, rushing into busy roads, or injuries in high-risk situations. With our trainer, Tina Woodworth, you get the self-assurance you need to take your dog anywhere. Watch Our YouTube Videos. Well, this article provides you with all you need to know. German Shepherds, as we all know, are a highly desirable breed in the United States. It is one of the top 5 most popular dog breeds in the world and this is because of the high versatility of the breed. German Shepherds are a true multi-purpose breed that can be used as service, work, and therapy dogs. But in all, they also make great family companions as they are blessed with a decent temperament and high intelligence, making them easily trainable. These and many more reasons are why the breed is so highly sought after. If you are getting a German Shepherd puppy or are considering adding one to the family, then you definitely need a good or reputable breeder to be guaranteed a high-quality puppy. However, Washington is filled with lots of German Shepherd breeders of which not all are reputable breeders with good breeding practices and programs, so you do have to be careful when searching for the right breeder. This article provides you with the most reputable German Shepherd breeders that reside in the state of Washington. These are 10 breeders with good breeding practices as well as good socialization and training programs or protocols. The list should be viewed as a guide only, personal research is highly recommended before picking the right breeder for you. So, ensure you read this article till the end. Tiltonhaus German Shepherds Tiltonhaus German Shepherd Puppies in Washington State Tiltonhaus German Shepherds was established in the year , this means they have over 12 years of experience in breeding German Shepherd puppies in the state of Washington. They are located in the beautiful Deer Park, Washington. All their dogs are registered with the American Kennel Club and are raised according to the high standards of the American Kennel Club. All their dogs are chosen for their high intelligence and complete loyalty. Their dogs come from West German bloodlines and are genetically health tested by Paw Prints Genetics for genetic health issues like Degenerative Myelopathy. They also check for orthopedic health and as a result, their puppies come with a 2 years hip and elbow guarantee. All puppies are raised in kennels that are attached very close to the family house. The puppies are socialized from day 1 by members of the family and they are also trained while in their care. They provide lifetime breeder support for all their dog owners. Their puppies are microchipped and each is vaccinated and dewormed with records to show. They are also vet checked by a licensed professional. Sound in mind and body, strong, functional, intelligent, trainable, courageous, and resilient. These are the natural qualities that can only be realized through the incredible genetics of purebred German Shepherds. We only import the best-of-the-best. Certified champions straight from Germany! Due to his home being burglarized in , Wayne decided to train dogs in tracking, obedience, and protection. His untrained Staffordshire Bullterrier was unable to protect his home and he then decided to obtain a Rottweiler for protection. Wayne continued to train Rottweilers up until the early 90s where he purchased his first German Shepherd. He was raised along side German Shepherds which had a huge impact toward his love and respect for the breed. At Kraftwerk K9, we honor the history of the German Shepherd. We here at Kraftwerk K9 care for and teach these world-class dogs to live up to their full potential. Our ethical breeding facility sits on 25 gorgeous acres of Washington soil and is available for touring before purchase. Take a look at our facility Learn more about our certified German Shepherds by calling today at or visiting our Available Dog page!
Height: 26 inches Ratio: .This should give you their height. For example, 26 inches times 0. Using the other example, .Since each dog is going to be different, you need to look at their overall body condition rather than a weight range. Fortunately, there are body conditioning charts that you can use to figure out if your German Shepherd is at their ideal weight. Just look at them from the side and from above, feeling for ribs and pelvic bones when necessary. Younger dogs will also typically be on the thin side before they fully fill out as adults. Years of line breeding has produced several distinct types of Shepherds. Show dogs are known for a sloped back in which the back legs are shorter than the front. This unnatural formation can cause back and hip problems along with an abnormal gait. German Shepherds bred for show will also be thinner than their hardworking cousins. As you can see in this picture, this is a show-bred German Shepherd with an obvious curved back and short back legs. Working dogs, on the other hand, are bred for a sturdy, straight back so they can work long hours without getting sore. They tend to be thicker than show dogs and will, therefore, weigh more, even at the same height. As you can see in this picture, this dog has a straighter back and longer back legs, so it has been bred for working. Something else I wanted to mention here is that, according to some sources, Black German Shepherds are larger than their bi-colored cousins, despite being otherwise the same. So, if you have one of these rare and beautiful creatures, you can follow the same charts that were listed above. If your German Shepherd is diagnosed by a veterinarian as underweight or overweight for their age, then the first thing you should do is ask him or her to help you figure out the underlying cause of the problem. This will determine what should be done next. Do you have a giant German Shepherd? What about a tiny one? Comment below to tell us more about it! About Alexandra Animalso I was raised to be a dog person. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. American German shepherds have straighter backs then German shepherds. If you have a german shepherd and their lineages are close to their German roots they will have that arch in their back. Like many large breeds, a German Shepherd dog is not considered fully grown until they are about 18 months old. Female German Shepherds continue to fill out until they are around two years old, while the male German Shepherd growth rate continues until they reach two and a half years of age. Males are larger and require more time to fill out their chest and abdomen. As you can see by the German Shepherd weight chart, these dogs can continue to grow until they are three years old, but the majority of growth occurs within 24 months. If your GSD is older than 36 months and continues to put on weight, contact your veterinarian to ensure weight gain does not lead to obesity. How big should a 6-month-old German Shepherd be? A six-month-old German Shepherd puppy will be quite large, as many German Shepherds undergo massive growth spurts between two and five months old. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. How much bigger will my German Shepherd get? There are a few ways to gauge how much bigger a German Shepherd will get. First, check your puppy's age. If your GSD is younger than two years old, they definitely have room to keep growing! Another way to tell if your pup still has a lot of growing to do is their paw size. Do their paws look large compared to their legs and body? This is a classic adolescent feature of a dog and means your pup is likely still growing! Most of the time, a dog will not grow bigger than its larger parents. What is the size of a full-grown German shepherd? An adult male German Shepherd is typically 24 to 26 inches tall, while adult female German Shepherds are 22 to 24 inches tall, according to the American Kennel Club German Shepherd Standard. The estimated full-size varies significantly between sexes. In terms of weight, an adult male German Shepherd weighs anywhere from 75 to 90 pounds. A female German Shepherd weighs notably less at 55 to 70 pounds. Please keep in mind that these numbers are only estimates to give you an idea of how much bigger a German Shepherd puppy may get. Some dogs will be both smaller and larger than these weight ranges when fully grown due to a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Learn all about your puppy's physical characteristics, breed history, personality traits, and more in our comprehensive guide. Preventive care is key in helping your German Shepherd live a healthy and long life. Helping your dog maintain an optimal weight is one of the best things you can do for their health. Taking your German Shepherd to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do to ensure that they are healthy and feeling their best. Compare German Shepherd health insurance plans before they get sick or injured. They are also more susceptible to gastrointestinal tract and hip issues. A veterinarian should regularly assess your pet for these health problems and run tests for anything they may be more prone to due to their breed. Treatment for many conditions, including bloat and GI issues, can cost thousands of dollars. Dog insurance is a wise investment that can give you peace of mind by covering pet emergency expenses. Wellness plans are also available to help cover the cost of vaccinations, vet exams, microchips, and more. Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance. Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top providers so you can find a great deal with great coverage. Get Peace of Mind Today Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. How about some details regarding their feeding habits, behavior, medical needs, grooming regimen, and exercise requirements? In this section, you will find everything you need to know to keep them healthy and assist with things such as toilet training and teething. She will discipline them and make sure they learn to be independent. They then begin to go to the toilet independently and venture away from mom. At week 8, they play, can be housebroken, and bark when startled. The famous GSD ears will start to stand up, and you can begin leash and crate training. They must be handled and groomed and realize that human commands and dominance are the norm. During this time, the mother will nurse the pups until they are old enough to begin eating puppy mush , which is softened kibble. Allow puppies to eat as much as they like at each meal. At 6—8 weeks, their first shot from the vet is due. Smith, Shutterstock 12 weeks is a turning point for your pup. Their coordination will come on in bounds, as will their learning and social skills. They will be eager to learn but easily distracted, so have plenty of patience. If you become angry, it will stunt development if they become fearful of you. Your pup is officially into the juvenile period now. All of his puppy teeth should be developed by now and are normally very sharp. So, beware of your fingers when playing. At 12 weeks of age, puppies can start to eat three to four set meals a day with measured amounts. Purpose-made dog-approved chew toys are best, not teddy bears or old shoes. As they grow through this period between three and six months, GSD puppies are more juvenile than babies. They will be more boisterous and energetic. But on the plus side will feed easily, be more friendly with animals and people alike, and more than likely be housetrained if you have managed them correctly. They will be stubborn at this age when training and could ignore you, or not come when called. The best approach is to ignore any sassy attitude and only praise and fuss when back to being obedient. His internal organs and systems are fully developed and functioning as they should, while the skeleton is still growing. His full set of adult teeth should be present and correct. Your GSD is now becoming independent and will want to roam different areas and interact with their world on many more levels. Be aware that they could weigh 50 lbs at 6 months, so caution is needed with control and safety as they explore. He may also seemingly forget commands that he has been taught. It is best to ignore, not mollycoddle, any fearful reactions to new things to not reinforce the negative behaviors. By 6 months of age, you can reduce the feedings to three per day, now paying attention to the total calories consumed. Between the ages of 4—6 months, he will shed his puppy coat too. He might still be a bit goofy, gangly, and stubborn when it comes to training. German Shepherd females are reaching sexual maturity at this age. They may have their first estrus heat period. So, be mindful of letting them off the lead during this time if other dogs are around. At 9 months, your GSD can be tested for heartworm and treated if needs be. Speak with your vet about this for more detail. You can add small amounts of solid adult formula into the puppy food to get him used to the texture. Making it the optimal time to stimulate them as much as you can with obedience training and work activities. Your GSD should be comfortable in all situations, and with all types of company as their bond with humans should be well established. Their unique personality and quirks should be apparent and set them apart as your dog. They will have developed vocal and body language traits that you recognize and use for their needs. If male, he will be reaching sexual maturity and cocking his leg when urinating. He might also be looking to challenge dogs and humans for the title of pack leader. The key to cementing all your hard work so far is to be consistently firm with any boundaries he tries to push. By 12 months, they should be on adult formula only. German Shepherds stop growing between 2 and 3 years. This is when they fill out too. It starts to slow at around the age of 1, but he will continue to grow until he reaches maturity. During this time, they are considered to be adolescents. This is the same for their mental maturity too. This is the same for all German Shepherd types. Females tend to mature faster, both physically and mentally, than male German Shepherds. There are different stages within this time frame before maturity. And these are the neonatal stage 1—2 weeks , the transitional stage 2—4 weeks , the socialization stage 4 weeks to 3 months , the juvenile stage 3—6 months , and the adolescent stage 6 months to 2 years. Research has shown that neutering dogs can affect their growth. But how exactly? But early indications show that early neutering can increase the length of time that the bone grows. Meaning potentially taller dogs. But this also poses questions about whether this affects the joint alignment and whether it can cause any problems. And for the German Shepherd breed and his heightened propensity for hip dysplasia, this is a concern to be aware of. But waiting for full skeletal maturity also poses risks. Because neutering for females can reduce mammary cancer. If spayed before her first heat, it can eliminate the chances of this type of cancer altogether. As they will be able to offer you tailored advice for your German Shepherd. Dangers of Growing Too Quickly or Stunted Growth The dangers of growing too fast can affect their skeletal development. Conditions caused by growing too quickly are joint dysplasia and osteochondrosis. By feeding him a kibble that is designed for large-breed puppies will help control the rate at which his bones grow. This is because they have the optimum ratio of calcium and phosphorus levels in the food. So, always feed him large-breed puppy food during his developmental stage. This is most common in German Shepherds, but also in some Labrador Retrievers. It is an inherited disorder of growth hormone deficiency, and it will make the affected pooch always appear puppy-like. Growth Distinctions of Different German Shepherds. However, there are certain breeds that are easier to train than others. Thankfully, German Shepherds fit into that category because they are very intelligent and quick learners. This includes house training , crate training , basic obedience commands as well as learning tricks. We recommend attending a puppy kindergarten class as part of your German Shepherd puppy socialization strategy. Once your pup knows their basic obedience commands, you can enroll them in Schutzhund training aka IPO. Partnership and teamwork between yourself and your dog are the basis for this type of training. Note that the Schutzhund environment is not a place for dogs with aggression issues, neither towards other dogs nor people! If they pass that initial level which includes a temperament test, they can move on to IPO 2 minimum age 19 months and IPO 3 minimum age 20 months. That said, protection dog trainers recommend starting training classes that include bitework and high jumps once your German Shepherd puppy is 12 months old. Dutch and Czech are two other languages that commands are frequently taught in. Stanley, my former long-haired GSD dog walking client, started going to Schutzhund training when he was a little over 12 months old. His owners practiced commands in German with him on a daily basis, and I remember getting a print out of his German commands as they asked me to use them on our walks as well. Lots, ha! German Shepherds need a minimum of 2 hours of physical exercise per day, but generally speaking, the more exercise you can provide your GSD with, the more they will thrive. Remember, German Shepherds are high-energy, athletic dogs bred to be active all day long, especially if they come from a working line! Physical Exercise Ideas for German Shepherds As far as physical exercise, this can be a mix of walks, runs, bike rides, fetch and playtime. This is Nala, one of my former pet sitting clients. She was crazy about frisbees and balls. One of my favorite ways of increasing the energy and calories a dog burns on a regular walk or hike is by using a doggie backpack. Mental Stimulation for German Shepherds Besides providing a good physical workout, dog backpacks also burn mental energy. As you probably know, bored dogs can quickly become destructive as they figure out ways of entertaining themselves. For example, chewing up your furniture and shoes, scratching doors, raiding your kitchen trash can or digging up your flower beds. So do yourself a favor and make sure your GSD gets plenty of exercise on a daily basis. Remember, a tired dog is a good dog, and that applies to German Shepherds as much as it does to any other dog breed! Former GSD client Remi pooped after a long walk. Bottom Line So, how big does a German Shepherd get? Well, German Shepherds are medium to large size dogs, so they can weigh anywhere between lbs. That said, the average expected weight for a male GSD is between lbs, and the average expected weight for a female GSD is between lbs. Both reach sexual maturity somewhere between months and are considered fully grown at about the 2 year mark. Keeping that in mind, your GSD breeder should be able to give you a good general idea of how big your German Shepherd puppy will grow to be! Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Barbara is a trilingual, something dog lover, e-book author, founder, copywriter, dog nutrition blogger and editor at K9sOverCoffee. 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Scroll down for LIVE puppy cams! However, if mama needs a little help, we are very close by monitoring the process to assist removing the sac or stimulating a puppy to breathe. When mama has finished her clean up, we remove puppy for a quick weight, add an ID collar, and treat the umbilical stump with a disinfectant. For the first few days after birth, we practically have to drag mama away from her babies to get her to go out to potty. After the first few days, mama begins to leave the puppies for brief periods of time—usually she lies just outside the box on the cool floor—she needs an occasional break from the higher temperature that is so necessary for her babies. We also have a heating pad area the puppies can choose to move to if they need more warmth when mama is away. Puppies are little heat seeking missiles—they have heat sensors on the sides of their noses. This heat seeking instinct guides them to mama to nurse, to each other to puppy pile and to warm areas in their nest. We also add one additional step by presenting the puppies with a new scent stimulation daily. This series of brief, specific exercises we perform are in addition to our normal daily handling of the puppies as we weigh them, trim toenails, move them to clean their area, etc. One Week Old: The puppies continue to spend all their time nursing or sleeping. During this week, we give them their first toenail trim and continue to weigh each puppy two-three times a day. We monitor weight gain carefully, since that is our first indication that a puppy might need a little extra boost of supplemental formula. Puppies generally double their weight in their first week of life! These rails originated on farms to protect piglets—hence the name pig rail. Puppies often gravitate to the outer edges of the box and wedge themselves down in a corner. Since mama is spending most of her time in the box with her babies all around her, she often leans back against the walls and falls deeply asleep as she recovers from her labor and delivery. The rail stops her from crushing or smothering a baby that has burrowed in behind her along the edge. We remove the rails when the puppies are about three weeks old and are strong enough to raise a ruckus if they get trapped. Towards the end of the first week, we see their eyelids begin to become more defined and separate, and their eyelashes grow longer. By the beginning of the second week, the eyes are starting to open in the inner corner and working to the outer corner of the eyes. By days old, their eyes will be open. Two Weeks Old: The puppies eyes are all open now and their ears will be opening in the next few days. At this age puppies do not experience fear, so the startle is not fear driven. In these next few weeks before they begin experiencing fear around weeks of age, we will mildly stress them with noises to build their recovery response. We are carefully watching the intensity of the startle and the speed of recovery—our goal is to elicit a very mild startle followed by a rapid recovery. By repeating the noise several times in a row, the startle response will diminish and go away and the recovery will become immediate. This will help the puppies be stable to new sounds and experiences as they grow into adult dogs. The puppies continue to gain weight at a remarkable rate—often several ounces a day. Mama is still stimulating puppies to potty and cleaning up completely after—she keeps the nest fastidiously clean. Their awareness of their surroundings is awakening. We start enriching their environment during this week—we generally remove the whelping box at this point to give them more room to explore, adding soft toys to give texture to their area. We place potty pads at the back of their area for the beginning of potty training, and we help define that potty area by adding sleeping beds, changing the bedding in the main area of their pen several times a day and leaving the soiled pads in the potty area. The puppies will gradually begin to follow the scent to the specific potty area, and in a matter of weeks they will regularly go to the designated potty area to eliminate. Four-Six Weeks Old: During these weeks we continue to add enrichment items to their area and also expand their area as they show signs of needing more room to move and explore. The puppies become more stable on their legs and start to interact with one another, play bowing, barking at one another, and noticing us. We have continued the weekly toenail trims and daily handling—touching paws, ears, body. At this time we increase our interactions with the puppies and spend more individual time with them. As the puppies continue to wake up and become more aware over the next several weeks, we will start our clicker training exercises, following our Puppy Culture protocols. Although the puppies are still nursing, during this time they are introduced to food. We start them with puppy formula, gradually adding in raw lamb and baby rice cereal, then softened kibble and diminishing the formula. Mama dog is usually tired of sharp teeth nursing and she pushes the puppies to weaning. She no longer lies down to nurse and only spends brief times in the pen with them cleaning them and checking on them—then out she jumps to lie just out of reach, keeping an eye on things, but no longer feeling as protective. At this point, she is fine to let the other older dogs interact with her babies, and she happily rejoins her guardian family once her puppies are eating solid food on their own. Seven-Nine Weeks Old: Weather permitting, puppies are introduced to the outside area through the doggy door and discover a whole new world of running, larger toys and obstacles, wind, sun, rain, the chickens, etc. Such fun times they have outside! They become proficient at diving through the doggy door, in and out all day. In the warmer months, we have a wading pool for them to play in, in fall and winter they chase leaves, dodge rain drops, and play in rain puddles. We welcome visitors once the puppies are six weeks old, and the puppies love meeting children, teens, and adults. At about eight weeks of age we do our temperament and structure evaluations and veterinarian check up. The big day arrives all too quickly that we make puppy allocations and at nine weeks old our puppies head off to new horizons, adventures, and wonderful lives with YOU! All rights reserved. These puppies will need raisers soon. You could be that raiser and help a puppy become a life-changing assistance dog. Become a Puppy Raiser Puppy Milestones Everything you see on the puppy cam helps give these puppies a solid foundation for their assistance dog training. Here are a few milestones to look for: Week 1: Puppies twitch and move a lot in their sleep. They use their sense of smell to explore their surroundings. Week 3: The puppies start standing and begin to play. Week 4: The puppies should be actively playing with each other and wagging their tails. Week 5: Puppies start playing with toys. Week 6: The puppies are learning how to really use their paws and mouths and control their bodies. Weeks Puppies are almost fully developed. We build communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, exercise their rights, and fully participate. In an inclusive world, people direct their own lives, establish homes, find meaningful work, pursue education alongside their peers, and fill valued roles in the community. Keystone Human Services. What We Don't Like No mounting options The eufy Pet Dog Camera D allows you to follow your friend as they nap, eat, and play, with a degree wide-angle lens providing p resolution with a 4x zoom function—allowing you to pop in on their activities in real time. This pet camera checked all the boxes for our tester, who described the eufy video as "extremely clear" in both full light and night-time settings. They were similarly impressed with the responsive app inputs for the voice, treat, and motion controls, which allow for degrees of camera rotation combined with the wide lens, the eufy pet camera can capture degree video. It was just as easy to take screenshots or record video from within the app. It can even follow your dog around automatically. The treat dispenser 'game' is a nice bonus as well. While many pet cameras have the ability to dispense treats, the eufy Pet Dog Camera offers a suite of fun options, with the ability to fire a treat anywhere in a degree arc, with three different distance settings. The anti-clog dispenser held up under testing too, working reliably throughout our time with it. The treat container is also dishwasher-safe. Setting up the app and virtually engaging with your pet is simple, with a QR code syncing the camera with your mobile device. The 16 GB of built-in storage allows you to save adorable moments captured by the camera and to pre-record audio messages that can be easily delivered to your pet via the app. The eufy Pet Dog Camera is fully featured right out of the box, with no additional subscription to access anything in the app. If they get a little loud with their barks or meows aww, they miss you! Other pet-centric features include smart motion tracking that keeps your pet at the center of the frame. It will even alert you when your dog exhibits unusual behavior, like pooping inside the house or licking their paws too much. All the features are accessible, without an additional subscription. While we were impressed with the eufy's thoughtful design, from the app to the sleek camera housing, it's meant to be used as a tabletop device, similar to an Alexa or Google Home. This means there are no options for mounting the pet camera. Newborn Puppies At birth, puppies are blind, deaf and toothless, unable to regulate body temperature, or even urinate or defecate on their own. Normally, Puppies depend on their mother and littermates for warmth, huddling in cozy piles to conserve body temperature. A puppy that is fat and happy will be seen on it's back "sunbathing". Puppies first experience the sensation of being petted when washed by their mother's stroking tongue. The bitch licks her babies all over to keep them and the nest clean, and also to stimulate them to defecate and urinate. The dam may develop diarrhea, this is often from cleaning up puppy waste. Neonatal Period: Birth to Two Weeks From birth, puppies are able to use their sense of smell and touch, which helps them root about the nest to find their mother's scent-marked breasts. The first milk the mother produces, called colostrum, is rich in antibodies that provide passive immunity and help protect the babies from disease during these early weeks of life. The dam's discharge is usually gone by 2 weeks, but can last up to 8 weeks. After the birth, the dam's hair always falls out while she is raising a litter. It likely happens to help cool them; this is normal and it can come out in chunks. Sometimes you will not notice much hair at all come out. Some lose it gradually, some suddenly. For the first two weeks of life, puppies sleep nearly 90 percent of the time, spending their awake time nursing. The prolonged sleeping patterns of newborn puppies are there for a purpose; indeed, while those pups heavily snooze, they're actually growing. The pronounced twitching and jerking taking place during sleep is actually part of a deep form of sleep known as ''activated sleep. All their energy is funneled into growing, and birth weight doubles the first week. Newborns aren't able to support their weight, and crawl about with paddling motions of their front legs. The limited locomotion provides the exercise that develops muscles and coordination, and soon the puppies are crawling over and around each other and their mother. Ears and eyes sealed since birth begin to open during this period, ears at about two weeks and eyelids between ten to 16 days. This gives the furry babies a new sense of their world. They learn what their mother and other dogs look and sound like, and begin to expand their own vocabulary from grunts and mews to yelps, whines and barks. Puppies generally stand by day 15 and take their first wobbly walk by day .By age three weeks, puppy development advances from the neonatal period to the transitional period. This is a time of rapid physical and sensory development, during which the puppies go from total dependence on Mom to a bit of independence. They begin to play with their littermates, learn about their environment and canine society, and begin sampling food from Mom's bowl. Puppy teeth begin to erupt until all the baby teeth are in by about five to six weeks of age. Puppies can control their need to potty by this age, and begin moving away from sleeping quarters to eliminate. It is usual for us to remove the whelping pool and give the pups the entire apartment to explore between weeks of age. Socialization Period: Week Four-to-Twelve Following the transitional phase, puppies enter the socialization period at the end of the third week of life; it lasts until about week ten. It is during this socialization period that interaction with others increases. The most critical period--age six to eight weeks--is when puppies most easily learn to accept others as a part of their pack. Beginning at four weeks of age, the bitch's milk production begins to slow down just as the puppies' energy needs increase. As the mother dog slowly weans her babies from nursing, they begin sampling solid food in earnest. The environmental stimulation impacts your puppy's rate of mental development during this time. The puppy brain waves look that of an adult dog by about the 50th day, but he's not yet programmed--that's your job, and the job of his mom and siblings. Weaning typically is complete by weeks of age. Week Eight-to-Twelve Puppies often go through a "fear period" during this time. Instead of meeting new or familiar people and objects with curiosity, they react with fearfulness. Anything that frightens them at this age may have a lasting impact so take care that the baby isn't overstimulated with too many changes or challenges at one time. That doesn't mean your pup will grow up to be a scaredy-cat; it's simply a normal part of development where pups learn to be more cautious. Careful socialization during this period helps counter fear reactions. Puppies may be placed in new homes once they are eating well on their own, using their litter boxes and at least 10 weeks of age. Puppies tend to make transitions from one environment to another more easily at this age, too. Your puppy still has lots of growing to do. He won't be considered an adult until he goes through several more developmental periods and reaches one to two years of age.
You should know that, with a Labradoodle, you get two distinct characteristics and genetic histories from two different parent dog breeds. Two Labradoodles are at the park. Labradoodles are considered a winning breed because the Poodle and Labrador are such a great combination. However, you still need to understand the coat of your pet so you can decide the best Labradoodle haircut for it. This means your dog will have wiry and short hair that grows relatively close to its body and forms tight little curls. Labradoodles with a wool coat will require significantly more grooming and a weekly management routine to keep the curls free of dirt and dust. You will also need to brush and groom him at least twice a week to prevent tangles and matting. Short Labradoodle hairstyles work best for this type of coat. Fleece Coat The fleece coat is easily recognized by straight or wavy soft hair. This coat is soft to the touch and, when groomed, can become very fluffy. Surprisingly, the fleece coat is one of the more effortless coats to maintain. While you will still have to maintain a regular grooming routine for your Labradoodle, being able to cuddle up with a soft and cuddly coat is a good compromise for the maintenance involved. Hairy Coat A Labradoodle with a hairy coat takes after its Labrador parent. This coat also gives off that shaggy look that Labradoodles are known for. However, one of the major disadvantages of this coat is that your Labradoodle will need regular grooming because this coat is highly prone to tangles and mats. Different Labradoodle Haircuts 1. The Puppy Cut Ironically enough, this is arguably one of the most popular Labradoodle hairstyles for an adult Labradoodle. Although the puppy cut would have slight variations based on the groomer, the result is very similar. An Australian Labradoodle sits with a ball at the beach. The puppy cut is a short overall body cut in which the coat is kept at a length of half an inch to three-fourth inches. The length of the puppy cut is a throwback to the style your Labradoodle would have naturally had when it was still a pup, thus the name of the cut. This is one of the most sought-after styles because it makes your Labradoodle cute and puppy-like despite its size. Apart from contributing to the adorable features of your dog, this haircut is also more popular as it is more practical and functional. It will also make grooming at home relatively more manageable and more convenient. The Teddy Bear Cut A highly sought-after haircut, the teddy bear cut is second only to the puppy cut when it comes to Labradoodles. A mini F1B Labradoodle wearing a bow tie Although this haircut is basic and quite similar to the puppy cut, it does entail more maintenance as the coat is longer. Around the tail, your Labradoodle will have a clipped and non-feathered cut with the feet and ear trims following a rounder shape. As the name suggests, the goal of this hairstyle is for your Labradoodle to look like a cute teddy bear. Most pet parents opt for this cut as it makes their dog less daunting to younger children and much more approachable and friendly. This haircut is ideal if your Labradoodle enjoys swimming and exploring the outdoors. It will also make it much easier for you to groom our pup at home as it will significantly reduce the grooming time. This cut is an excellent choice to prevent matting and the accumulation of loose undercoats. The Lamb Cut Another popular choice among Labradoodle owners is the lamb cut. This haircut strikes the perfect balance between having some length and still having the coat short enough that it is manageable for dog owners to groom at home. A rich Apricot coat Labradoodle at the groomer. The kennel cut is more of a shave than a trim. Yes, it will involve getting rid of almost all that luxurious coat of your Labradoodle, leaving your dog with only half an inch, maybe even less, hair all around its body, including its head, ears, and legs. Not all dog Labradoodle owners are open to the idea of this haircut because it is rather extreme and a sight to behold. But, it is ideal for hot weather and your dog will have the whole summer to grow back its hair. This Labradoodle haircut is still stylish and is a recommended solution for Labradoodles who have severe tangles and mats. Besides, when you get your Labradoodle this haircut at the beginning of summer, it will still grow enough in time to keep your dog warm during the autumn and winter months. The Lion Cut If you want to add a touch of feline to your canine, then the lion cut is something you can consider. One of the trendiest Labradoodle hairstyles, the lion cut will transform your dog into a mini version of a lion thanks. A recently shaven Labradoodle rests on the floor in a holiday home. The Short Clip Labradoodle Cut Both parents of the Labradoodle are known to be active and energetic dogs who are fond of the outdoors. Labradoodles have inherited these traits and can spend hours swimming, hiking, and getting dirty. The solution? Labradoodle with curly coat sitting on the grass. The short clip Labradoodle cut. This is another practical haircut that will benefit both you and your dog. The short clip Labradoodble cut is a highly suggested hairstyle for summers to help prevent your dog from overheating. It is also a convenient cut if your dog is prone to tangles and matting. One of the best things about this haircut is it is a haircut you can learn and do yourself. It will save you plenty of time and money because you can give your dog this haircut at home with some help from other family members or friends. The Long Clip Labradoodle Cut This is a hairstyle suggested for Labradoodles who live a sedentary and indoor lifestyle as it allows your Labradoodle to keep its long and natural hair. When do Labradoodles stop growing? With this haircut, the fur is given an overall trim but it will be kept about two inches in length all over the body. The result is a shaggy look that maintains the natural curls and waves of the breed. The Mohawk A stylish and unconventional haircut, the mohawk looks good on a Labradoodle. The hair on top of its head, however, is only trimmed. Labradoodle hair regrows fairly quickly, give it 8 weeks and you will be back to fluffy. Your Labradoodle is essentially left with about three to four inches of hair. Some owners also love playing around with this Mohawk haircut by tying the hair together using colorful bands while others will just let it stand or fall. When you go to the salon or a barber to get a particular cut for yourself, you explain in detail the look you want to achieve. You may even take a picture of the hairstyle you want so your stylist knows what you are looking for. You can also inform the groomer of the length you want to retain on your Labradoodle. It is easier to trim again until the desired length is achieved. It is cost-effective to groom your dogs at home with your own grooming tools. Shaving is an effective solution if you want to get rid of matting and ensure that the new coat is healthier. But it is not the only option as you have haircuts like the short clip and kennel cut that can also help with mats and tangles. A shaved Labradoodle named Max having a minor sulk after a grooming session. With treats, he promptly recovered his enthusiasm. Professional groomers understand that most owners are reluctant and even afraid to have their Labradoodles completely shaved. So, most groomers will provide you with other solutions to reduce and prevent severe matting. Conclusion With their fun personality and excellent temperament, there is never a dull moment when you have a Labradoodle at home. But, regardless of the haircut, make sure your Labradoodle is regularly brushed and groomed to maintain his coat and keep him healthy. 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. All those visits can add up quickly. With a short Labradoodle haircut you can go for longer periods of time without seeing the groomer, therefore saving a decent amount of money over the years. Chris Christensen Big G Dog Slicker Brush Even those who groom their Labradoodles at home often opt for a Labradoodle summer cut to save themselves time and a lot of struggle with a more complicated, longer style. Call me crazy, but I think a nice, short haircut on a Labradoodle looks just as cute as a longer teddybear look. This style looks good on any Labradoodle size. What Are Labradoodle Summer Cuts? What is a Labradoodle Kennel Cut? Similar to Labradoodle summer cuts, a Labradoodle kennel cut is often a term used to describe a generic short haircut. Many groomers will interpret this as the same length of hair all over from head to tail. As the saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words. If you have a photo of your Labradoodle with a previous haircut you were happy with, use that. As always, be respectful towards your groomer and consider their advice. Want to Do It Yourself? It may sound intimidating, but there are beginner tutorials online such as this one from Udemy that will walk you step-by-step through the process in a video course. The instructor of this course is a former professional groomer and even has a doodle herself she uses as an example! They vary in length as well as style. Some are completely shaved while others are merely a shorter trim. You can then use it as an example to show your groomer. Photo courtesy of Ann Fenton Affolter on Facebook. Photo courtesy of Beverley Roberts on Facebook. Photo courtesy of Cailin Fitzwell on Facebook. Photo courtesy of Courtney Patrick on Facebook. Photo courtesy of Donna Ferguson on Facebook. Photo courtesy of Jamie Korn on Facebook. Photo courtesy of Karen Maranzana on Facebook. Photo courtesy of Kate McKay on Facebook. Photo courtesy of Kate McWhinney on Facebook. Photo courtesy of Madaline Chapman on Facebook. Photo courtesy of Magan Foyles on Facebook. Photo courtesy of Makennah Blevins on Facebook. Photo courtesy of Matthew Jackson on Facebook. Photo courtesy of Michelle Sharpe on Facebook. Photo courtesy of Nicole Steele on Facebook. Photo courtesy of Nikki Thredgold on Facebook. Photo courtesy of Sarah Gaynor on Facebook. Photo courtesy of Tania Xavier on Facebook. Photo courtesy of Tracey Maxfield on Facebook. Photo courtesy of Tyler Kennedy on Facebook. More About Labradoodles…. Sep 8, Share The Labradoodle is a hybrid breed, a cross between the loyal Labrador and the posh Poodle, and has become a popular designer breed in the last few decades. They were first bred in Australia in the late s in an effort to produce a hypoallergenic guide dog and sparked a designer breed revolution. While they are low-shedding dogs, their thick coats still need regular grooming and brushing, plus a haircut every few months. Here are seven of the best haircuts for Labradoodles this year that your pooch will love! The cut is named for its resemblance to the coat that it would have naturally as a puppy. It not only looks great but is also functional, and your pooch can go for a few months without any knotting, matting, or needing another haircut. This cut gives them an adorable Teddy Bear look. It takes a fair bit more maintenance, though, and will need to be done fairly regularly, as the coat is left slightly longer. This cut was originally designed for Poodles and other breeds with curly coats but works great with Labradoodles too. The coat on their legs is left slightly long and fluffy, while the body and head are sheared short. The ears are left long, giving your pooch an adorable lamb-like appearance. This cut requires slightly more skill to perform but is a great low-maintenance style to keep your Labradoodle knot-free. It is also the go-to style if your pooch is covered in matting and knots that cannot be brushed out. It is a head-turning cut for sure and has become a popular choice among Labradoodle owners. It will keep your Labradoodle cool but still allow for an adorable wavy and curly coat to comb through. Similar to a Kennel Cut but slightly longer, the Short Clip is also ideal for warmer weather. Your Labradoodle is shaved all around to about 1 inch long, except the ears, in some cases. This cut is great for summer and minimizes the need for brushing and grooming, and your pooch will be knot-free for several months. Can you groom a Labradoodle on your own? With the correct equipment and time and patience, you can take grooming your Labradoodle into your own hands. Make sure their eyes are free from hair so they can see properly, and keep their ears fairly short to prevent matting. Be sure to take care around these sensitive areas, especially with scissors. Some dogs love to be groomed, while others will run a mile. This has nothing to do with breeds or genetics and everything to do with correct training. For dogs that have long coats that need regular grooming, try and get them accustomed to the process from as young an age as possible. Make the process something to forward to, with treats as rewards and tons of praise! Do Labradoodles Need Haircuts? You might be interested in these products:. By Yvonne Villasenor Yvonne Villasenor is a freelance writer and animal lover who just so happens to be allergic to cats and dogs. That doesn't stop her from cuddling with them! When Yvonne's not working, you can find her lounging with her charming Chihuahuas, weightlifting, or wandering around Halloween stores. A lovable fluff ball we know as the Labradoodle! This hybrid breed has become widely popular over the years, and it's easy to see why. They melt hearts in an instant with their sweet souls, playful personalities, and of course, their "awww"-inducing appearances. Depending on what generation of Labradoodle they are, these dogs can have soft, fleece coats, wool coats like a poodle , or hair coats like a Labrador retriever. Their coats can be various colors, including: black, chocolate, white, silver, cream, golden, red, or a combination of colors. And while they were initially bred to be " hypoallergenic ," their level of shedding and coat care also depend on what generation they are. So, when things inevitably start to literally get hairy, it's time for a haircut done by a professional groomer! Duh, right? But whether you're on the lookout for a haircut that matches your pup's personality or your budget, we've rounded up a few of our favorite Labradoodle haircuts we think you and your dood will love. Teddy Bear Cut OK, who can actually resist turning their precious doodle into a real life teddy bear? We can't help but swoon at the sight of a teddy bear cut. And we're most definitely not the only ones! Along with this longer 'do comes "a really cute round face, round ears, and keeping it nice and full to achieve the 'teddy bear' look. Summer Cut Want to help your Labradoodle beat the heat? Or prefer a low maintenance 'do? Then the summer cut is the cut for your pup! This practical haircut keeps your Labradoodle cool in warmer weather with the body fur length typically cut to half an inch. You can also opt to keep your pup's face and tail fur longer if you prefer. This look totally embodies "short hair, don't care! Puppy Cut Ah, the puppy cut—paws down one of the most popular cuts! In fact, it's Metzger's most requested cut, she says. While there are various definitions of what a "puppy cut" is, she explains what it is and is not. A puppy cut is one length all over, but the length is determined by the pet parent," Metzger explains. This can be anywhere from shaved to a longer, fluffy look all over. Asian Fusion If you're looking for an absolutely adorable and unique! You won't be able to stop taking pictures of your sweet Labradoodle once they're freshly groomed with this look! There is so much creativity and the styles are endless! Mohawk Add some attitude to your Labradoodle's look that'll make them look just as cool as Travis Barker. Lovelia Horn, dog trainer at Every Creature Counts , describes the mohawk as being an "edgy" and "very popular choice" for Labradoodle haircuts. It is a cut that requires regular maintenance to keep it looking good though, she says. Whether your Labradoodle is an F1, F1b, or F2, one thing's for sure: you'll have to get your fluffy friend acquainted with grooming. How often, Metzger says, depends on three factors: The style of the groom The length of the haircut How often you're brushing and combing your Labradoodle "We always recommend every 4—8 weeks," she says. Learning how to maintain your doodle's hair at home will help keep them healthy—and save you some money, too—in the long run. A win-win, really. We may also have different brushing tips depending on your fur baby's coat! Slicker brush, comb, and a de-mat spray is always handy to have with you at home, but the correct ones are crucial. Top 5 Labradoodle Haircuts Be sure to check out our 2-part series on types of Doodle haircuts, with tons more pictures that cover overall body styles and variations of styles. Different groomers may have different ideas of what the following types of cuts are. If any of these pictures represent what you want your Labradoodle to look like, be sure to bookmark this page for easy access when dropping them off at the groomer! With the hair slightly rounder and longer around the face and legs, the Labradoodle teddy bear cut gives your pup the most adorable puppy-like look. As the name hints, the goal is to give your Labradoodle a puppy-like look with shorter hair on the body, and longer on the head. This look is not for the faint-hearted, but a dog as cute as a Labradoodle will surely pull this off. Labradoodle Long Clip Almost the same as the Labradoodle short clip, but not quite. The Labradoodle long clip is great for emphasizing those beautiful waves and an effortless, shaggy look. However, longer hair can also trap in more dirt, so make sure to set aside enough time for daily brushing. Here you can check out the best brushes for Labradoodles. A comb is also great for brushing hard-to-reach areas like the paws, face, and ears. Dog Clippers — When it comes to grooming, you are going to need a set of clippers to get the job done. Which ones should you choose? These are our favorite grooming scissors for Doodles. Dog Shears — Are you ready to take your grooming to the next level? Detangler Sprays — One of the best hacks for hassle-free brushing is having a detangler spray at hand. Use it before each brushing or just before bathtime, a good detangler spray cuts the time spent on tangles in half. Shampoo — A proper grooming routine includes an occasional bathtime. Whether your Labradoodle struggles with skin sensitivities or tends to shed a lot, there are tons of different options available on the market. Here are the top 6 dog shampoos that Labradoodle owners swear by. Ear Cleaning Products — With those cute floppy ears, Labradoodles are prone to ear infections due to the restricted airflow. Take a look at some of the highest rated dog ear cleaner products that help prevent and treat minor ear infections. Grooming Tables — Every Labradoodle owner knows how difficult it can be to groom a Doodle with one hand, while trying to keep them still with the other. A grooming table will take care of all that you still need to do the grooming though… and save you from back pain. Check out the best dog grooming tables or create a DIY grooming table. Be sure to check out our guide on dealing with matted hair , and another about the line brushing method. Bathing: Before a haircut or after a muddy playtime, your Labradoodle will need a thorough wash. Typically, once a week should be perfectly enough. However, some pups might need a couple of times a week. Once in a while, you might want to use a special dog ear cleaner to prevent any infections. Here you can check our guide on Doodle ear infection symptoms, treatments, and prevention. Eye gunk: Gently remove any eye gunk you notice, as this will prevent discoloration around the eyes and bad smell. If you can do it daily, great! Here is our step-by-step video tutorial guide that includes the entire Doodle grooming process from head to paw. For example, the best Labradoodle haircuts for summer would be short so your pup has an easier time cooling down. The Labradoodle puppy cut is the most popular Labradoodle haircut. However, we recommend you choose high-quality tools, as they will last you a longer time. As a Labradoodle puppy starts to develop an adult coat, you should start with regular grooming. The sooner you introduce your puppy to the whole process of grooming, the easier it will be for them to get used to it. See Also: Click the image To conclude, we hope that you learned some useful Labradoodle grooming tips, and that we managed to inspire you with the Labradoodle haircuts that you can try on your Doodle for your next grooming session. Let us know in the comments! The information on this page is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional groomer advice. Always seek the advice of your groomer, veterinarian, or other qualified animal health provider with any questions you may have. You Might Also Like.
They require lots of love, attention, playtime, training, and socialization. Vizsladoodles are rare hybrids that you will usually find from a breeder. It is also not impossible to find them from a rescue shelter, but either way, it is important to do your research and find a reputable place to adopt or buy your Vizsladoodle puppy. It is also important to remember that over and above the cost of the puppy is the addition of the initial vet visit and inoculations, beds, food bowls, and toys. Once the initial setup costs are taken care of, you must factor in monthly costs such as food and pet insurance. It may seem overwhelming at first, but the years of unconditional love and companionship make it worth it. It carries all the great traits from its parents and makes a remarkable companion for families of all sizes and singles. Because its parents are incredibly intelligent, the Vizsladoodle does not take long to potty-train and is relatively easy to train. Are These Dogs Good for Families? But like any family with kids adopting a new pet, the children need to be taught how to behave with and handle puppies and dogs. They love long walks in the park, playing fetch, and any activity involving being with their humans. They have a great adoration for their family members, and they are eager to please. Vizsladoodles will generally get along with other pets as long as they are well-socialized and trained from a young age. Because the dog is full of energy and playful, it may be a little overbearing for a cat, but that is something that most cats can handle as they usually stay out of the way. However, they generally get along with other dogs and can become good friends. Your Vizsladoodle will require a high-quality, complete diet that is age appropriate. Commercially processed canned or kibble foods are convenient, consistent, easily accessible, and affordable, and they go through a quality control process. You can feed your dog twice daily as an adult, but puppies require at least three meals daily to assist their development. Your Vizsladoodle will also benefit from puzzle feeders since it is intelligent and requires appropriate mental stimulation. A post shared by Vizsladoodle-Hummels hummels.This can be broken up into two daily sessions of 30 minutes, depending on the age and stage of growth. The dog loves to walk, run, and play, and if it is anything like its Poodle parent, it may love to swim! They will thrive with an active family that will provide plenty of physical and mental stimulation. A Vizsladoodle that is not adequately exercised may get bored and direct its pent-up energy into destructive activities, such as chewing your shoes or digging up your garden! They are devoted, eager to please their humans, and easy to train. Early socialization and training are highly recommended to get your pup off to a good start. They excel at obedience training and thrive from lots of mental stimulation. Positive reinforcement will help greatly for successful training, so lots of praise and treats are the name of the game. Regardless of whether they inherit a coat that is more Poodle-like or Vizsla-like, you will only need to brush them a few times per week to keep shedding to a minimum. If your Vizsladoodle has a coat more like its Poodle parent, it may require a haircut every 6 to 8 months to keep it neat and prevent matting. Their teeth will also require at least a weekly brushing, and their nails and ears should be checked regularly. A post shared by hilde. They are generally healthy, but like all canines, they may be prone to specific health conditions. Finding a reputable breeder will also help reduce the chance of developing any major health issues since reputable breeders perform genetic testing to ensure their stock is healthy. Minor Conditions. Origins Of The Vizsla Poodle Mix There is no documented history of the vizsla poodle mix as an intentional hybrid breed. However the origins of deliberately bred poodle mix dogs like the labradoodle is more well known and was initially driven by the need to produce a service dog for a vision impaired woman with allergies in the s. So with high demand for non-shedding dogs, it is no surprise the vizsladoodle exists today. And while not particularly common, the crossbreed offers a unique combination of a more hypoallergenic and medium sized dog for active dog lovers. Vizslas have a long documented history in Europe. But they faced extinction in the early 20th century due to war, occupation and the subsequent disruption to breeding programs in modern day Hungary. Originally bred as a water dog to retrieve waterfowl, they are now one of the most popular dog breeds but rarely used for hunting. Poodles were recognised by the AKC in and are part of the non-sporting category. There are three official poodle sizes — Standard, Miniature and Toy poodles. Based on their parentage they are likely to be an elegant, medium to large sized dog ranging in size from 15 to 24 inches high. They will have large floppy ears, a long tail, and a lean and muscular frame. In terms of color there will be a range of possibilities. Vizslas come in just one solid color, golden rust. But poodles come in a wide range of solid colors from cream all the way through to black. Their coat will vary from curly to wavy. But it is likely you will need to groom your vizsladoodle more than you would a purebred vizsla as vizslas have such short easy to maintain coats. The best way to know the likely size and color of your vizslapoo is to see the parents as your pup will inherit a combination of their appearance traits. Both are both renowned as friendly, playful and affectionate dogs so there is a good chance your vizsladoodle will have all of these characteristics. Poodles and vizslas are also intelligent, eager to please and highly trainable so training your vizslapoo and teaching them tricks should be pretty easy. In terms of risks relating to temperament, both breeds dislike being left alone and are prone to separation anxiety. As a result your poodle cross vizsla will need plenty of attention and cuddles from you. Both these breeds need plenty of mental stimulation and can be prone to boredom so you will need to keep your mixed breed dog busy when you are out. In terms of what is different and therefore less predictable, the vizsla temperament is renowned as very emotionally needy and sensitive than the poodle. And while poodles can also experience separation anxiety, they are on the whole more independent dogs than vizslas. So the degree of clinginess will vary depending on the genetic makeup of each mixed dog. With any mixed breed dog, proactive socialization and training from an early age will help combat any negative traits. The Vizsladoodle is an incredibly friendly dog and is brimming with affection for the people that this pup loves. This pup varies in size since the Vizsla can mate with either the Toy, Miniature, or Standard Poodle, which means it comes in a variety of loveable sizes. They are highly intelligent thanks to their Poodle genes and loyal as ever, thanks to the DNA from the Vizsla parent. Mixed pups usually do not get the same level of fanfare and attention as their purebred counterparts, which results in key details being skimmed over. Chances are the Vizsladoodle originated in the United States some time, either during or after the s, since that is when Doodle popularity skyrocketed. No breeder has come forward with the claim of having crossed the Vizsla and the Poodle together for the first time, and chances are this breed existed in nature through accidental mating long before any intentional efforts to bring the two dogs together began. Personality and Temperament This is an incredibly friendly pup! The Vizsladoodle loves to be around the humans that it loves and is social enough to get along well with pretty much anyone. With a bit of early socialization, these pups make great additions to families with kids due to their gentle and calm nature. They thrive in households where they get a fair bit of attention. Loyal to the core and incredibly loving, this pup makes for a wonderful pet. To get a good idea of the kind of personality your Vizsladoodle will grow up to have, it is best to spend time around the Poodle or the Vizsla parents. Their personalities are usually fairly good indicators of the kind of temperament your puppy will grow up to have. Vizsladoodle Size It is difficult to say exactly how big the Vizsladoodle will get since their size is highly reliant on the Poodle parent. The size will vary depending on whether the Vizsla has mated with a Toy, Miniature, or Standard Poodle. The lack of standards when it comes to sizes means there is quite a bit of variation from one pup to the next. Vizsladoodle Health On average, the Vizsladoodle is a hardy and healthy pooch. This is mainly because the gene pool is relatively larger when it comes to mixed breeding, resulting in hybrid vigor. The hybrid dogs are often healthier than their parents, but it is always a good idea to check the health clearances of the parent dogs when getting your puppy from a breeder. A healthy parent is a good guarantee for a healthy puppy. Take care not to buy from breeders that mate dogs that are younger than 2 years of age, since that is when most genetic illnesses rear their ugly heads. Schedule regular veterinary checkups to ensure that your Vizsladoodle is growing up healthy and so that any issues are caught early in and nipped in the bud. Vizsladoodle Care and Training The Vizsladoodle is a pretty active dog and one that will need a fair bit of daily exercise. If you are someone that likes to spend their days lazing around on the couch and would like a pup that does the same, the Vizsladoodle may not be the right pup for you. These dogs love the great outdoors and make great companions on hikes or long walks. If they do not release all of their pent-up energy through exercise, these dogs may become destructive. They are also very intelligent, so it is important to keep them mentally stimulated. When it comes to training, these pups may prove to be a bit stubborn. It is best to steer clear of free-feeding since that may cause overeating. Coat Color, Types, Shedding These pups have coats that are generally low-shedding, making them good dogs for allergy sufferers. Vizsladoodle Grooming These are rather low-maintenance dogs. The Vizsladoodle requires no more than a few brushing sessions a week to ensure its coat stays healthy and tangle-free. Vizsladoodle Breeders. Should a Vizsla Mix take after their Vizsla, or Hungarian Pointer, parent, they will grow into a medium-sized dog with an energetic, playful, and affectionate personality. The Vizsla is a family-oriented and affectionate dog. In fact, they are considered one of the most affectionate dog breeds. As one of the kid-friendly dog breeds , they tend to get along well with children and other dogs, but have a high prey drive and will need extra training and socialization around other small pets. Well-socialized Vizslas also tend to be open to strangers and warm up quickly. Should a Vizsla Mix take after their Vizsla parent, you should be able to expect a similar temperament. The other parent breed will introduce their own quirks and potential traits, so you do want to ask the breeder about them. You can also meet the mother in person to see what her temperament is like and the behavior she is modeling for her puppies. Socialization and training are essential for every puppy to grow into a well-rounded dog. Although the breeder should have started some training and socialization, it is up to you to continue to train and socialize a puppy once you get them home. Vizslas are moderately adaptable dogs. Because they need a lot of attention and exercise, they tend to be better suited for homes with fenced yards where they can run. As long as plenty of time is dedicated to giving them the exercise they need every day, a Vizsla can adapt to apartment living. Because they bond so closely with their families and strive to be near them, they do like to be left alone for long periods of time. If the other parent breed is similar, then you can expect a Vizsla Mix to be a moderately adaptable dog as well. You still want to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed so you are fully aware of all potential quirks and traits a Vizsla Mix could inherit. Although a mixed breed can sometimes be healthier than a purebred, it is not a guarantee. They could inherit a mix, all, or none of the health conditions common to their parent breeds. Good breeding practices have a big effect on the health of puppies. Potential health concerns to be aware of from the Vizsla side can include epilepsy and Sebaceous Adenitis, which is an inflammatory skin issue. The other parent breed may introduce other potential health concerns to be aware of. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Vizslas are highly intelligent dogs that are sensitive to their owners and eager to please them. Although their energy can be a challenge for first-time owners, one of the facts about Vizslas is that dog owners of all experience levels tend to be a good fit for them. If the other parent is similar, then you can expect a Vizsla Mix to also be a good fit for owners of all experience levels. If the other parent breed tends to require a more experienced owner, then novice dog owners will want to be prepared to enroll in obedience classes. Not only do they help keep your training consistent, but they can also be a good bonding experience and even offer some socialization opportunities. A Vizsla Mix can inherit a coat that is similar to one of their parents or a coat that is a mix of both. Should they inherit a Vizsla coat, they will have a short, smooth coat that sheds a little year-round and only requires weekly brushing and a wipedown with a damp cloth. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep them from growing too long. Weekly ear checks, along with careful cleanings as needed, can help prevent ear infections. Brushing teeth daily, plus cleanings at the vet as needed, is an ideal start for dental care for dogs. Vizslas are known for being super affectionate and also super energetic. They are high-energy sporting dogs that need a lot of daily activity to be happy and healthy. Also, they will almost always be up for more activity if you are; they will love the chance to spend more time being active with you. These dogs are athletic and versatile, so you can try a lot of activities with them once they finish growing and developing. In addition to hiking, swimming, training for dog sports, playing fetch, and more, Vizslas are also one of the dog breeds that make good running partners. Fully-grown Vizslas usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent breed can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother. Although it is not a guarantee, you can meet the mother in person to get an idea of what size to expect from a Vizsla Mix puppy. Vizslas generally live for years. Although the other parent breed may affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar average life span from Vizsla Mixes. Currently, we do not have any Vizsla Mix puppies available, but we can alert you when new Vizsla Mix puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! Please enter a valid email address! Related Breeds.
golden labradoodle puppy - Conclusion Getting Prepared The labradoodle varies widely in hair type and color , so the colors used will vary too. It might be helpful to gather several colors to choose from before starting. Pick different shades of brown, red, green, and neutral tones, such as cream. Also, pick a black color for outlining and adding depth. Step 1 The first step is to draw some basic guidelines for the body. Start by drawing a circle for the head, then connect a rounded bean shape to the circle for the body. Space the eyes and draw the head. Step 2 Now draw the eyes. They should be higher up on the head and somewhat far apart. Sketch them in a sideways teardrop shape with short hair arranged around the eyes and toward the side of the head. The eyes should be somewhat dark with small pupils. Step 3 Continue with the nose. Draw the fur on the snout by starting with short hairs on the top and then gradually making them longer as they flow down the sides. Also, draw the strands of hair into a point. The nose should be symmetrical — but not the snout hair! A tongue out pose allows a splash of color. Step 4 Time to move on to the mouth. The mouth will be open, so start by drawing the tongue from the edge of the fur by the snout. The tongue should be covering most of the teeth with a bump on each side. Then draw a thin bottom lip below the tongue. Next, draw thick medium-length hair surrounding the mouth and jaw area. Step 5 Shape the head by drawing the fur between the middle of the eyes and flowing up and out to the sides of the face, getting longer the further away from the face. Ears longer than the snout — for Labradoodles and Cockapoos. Step 6 Draw the ears now and have them flopping behind slightly like he is running. Step 7 Draw a collar with a tag for a little extra personality. For the collar, draw a half-circle around the neck, add the little ring, and attach a tag. The tag can be a standard oval, or you can personalize it and make it any shape you want. This drawing is based on a photograph on my Labradoodle Max Step 8 Now move on to the body. Start with the front right leg by drawing straight lines from the body, with the paw slightly facing the viewer. Step 9 Draw the left leg now by going out towards the viewer and then drawing the paw drooping down. You will not see the paw because the fur will cover it. Details like toys or collars can add a splash of color. Step 10 Move on to the back and chest now. Connect the legs by a line with hair that will be the chest. Now, draw lines extending from the neck and the left leg outwards. That will be the back. Add fur to contour the body. Step 11 Draw the left hind leg connecting from the back and left front paw, angled toward the viewer and straight. There should be no detail on the paw as the fur will also cover it. Practice drawing wavy hair, it is a mainstay of Doodle dog drawing. Step 12 Only a tiny section of the right hind leg will be visible. Draw it out from the middle of the left back leg and have it curved down and around until it connects slightly higher up from the left hind paw. Add fur. Step 13 Now for the tail! Draw it out from the back and slightly to the side of the body to add movement to the picture. The tail should be covered in long strands of hair that appear to blow in the wind. Lots of brown… use lighter colors to highlight even if your own Labradoodle has a coat that is not light. Use black paint around the inner ears, mouth, nose, neck, chest, and right front paw. It will add shadows to the painting and give it more depth and realness. Step 15 Paint the rest of the drawing in your preferred labradoodle colors! Allow to dry completely before hanging up or framing. Our step-by-step guide on how to draw a Labradoodle! About Labradoodles The labradoodle is a cross between a labrador retriever and a poodle. It is a very intelligent and friendly dog. These adorable pups are affectionate, loyal, and playful. The perfect kind of dog to bring to life through art! The labradoodle coat ranges from four to six inches of straight to loose curls. Their color also varies widely and can come in several shades, from chocolate to cream to red. Most labradoodles have dark hazel to brown eye color. The colors you choose will be up to you. You can look at images of labradoodles for inspiration or if you have one for a pet, use them as your muse. Conclusion This easy step-by-step guide can make anyone a beginner artist, but most importantly, it will give you the information you need to create a work of art for your favorite furry friend! You can even make this activity into a fun night with friends and see who can come up with the best creation. Labradoodles can potentially have one of several different fur types. For starters, the color of their fur can be anything, from black, to white, to brown, or anything in between. Their fur can be short and fluffy, long and straight, or coarse and wirey. Labradoodles are hybrid animals, bread from standard Poodles and Labradors. They were bread as allergen-free guide dogs, and over time they became great family dogs. Here is a Poodle and a Labrador. Combine them and you get a Labradoodle! Step 3. Labradoodle puppies are adorable! Their fur is not very long when they are young, but it lengthens as they grow. The closely resemble Labrador puppies at this early age, but with wavy fur. Step 4. Here's a quick demonstration on how to draw their paws. First sketch in some basic guide lines. The figure on the far left will be the underside of the paw, the middle figure is the side of the front paw, and the figure on the right is the side of the hind paw. As you can see, the front paws of a dog have a large pad on the bottom with 4 smaller pads as toes. Each pad has a claw sticking out of the top. There is also a dew claw on the side of the paw and an additional pad on the back of the leg. The hind legs do not have dew claws of the fifth pad. Labradoodles have a lot of lengthy fur which tends to cover up parts of the pads and claws. From certain angles, you cannot see the pads or paws at all because of the excessive fur. Step 7. To draw a Labradoodle, we should first sketch in some basic guide lines. Use a 2H or harder pencil and draw very lightly so that the lines are easy to erase after we ink. Draw a circle for the head connected to a bean shape for the body. The dog will be running in our general direction. Start with the eyes. They should rest a little high on the head and be far apart. At this time, they will appear almost too far apart, but they will look more proportionate later on. The eyes should be teardrop shaped, but sideways. They should be very dark and surrounded by thin hair that comb around the eyes and towards the sides of the face. Next, draw the snout and nose. The nose is the shape of a bloated upside-down triangle. It has two small nostril opening and a thin slit in the middle. The fur on the snout should be short on the top and longer on the sides. It should be blowing in the wind somewhat and the strands should cluster together into points. Draw the lower jaw and mouth. The mouth should be open so the chin should hang well below the circular guide line. The tongue should be hanging out slightly, covering most of the teeth. Keep in mind that the lower canine teeth will cause the tongue to rise up as it falls on top of them, creating humps on either side of the end of the tongue. There should be a thin lip along the edge of the mouth. The fur of the lower jaw should be thick, but not too long. Now draw the shape of the head. Notice how the fur starts in the middle of the eyes and combs back evenly in all directions. The fur gets longer as it get further away from the face. Step .The ears should be large and flapping in the wind as the dog runs. Be sure to draw the underside of the ears, but since there is so much long hair on the ears, we should not be able to see details of the inner ears. To give more character to the illustration, give the dog a collar and tag. We should only be able to see a small portion of the collar at this angle, but it should wrap around the neck creating a partial circle shape. The dog tag can be any shape you wish, be it a bone, fire hydrant, oval, or in this case a circle. It should be attached to the collar by a metal ring. Let's move down to the body. Draw the right leg very straight and pointing towards us slightly. We should be able to see the pads of the foot as the dog takes a step forward. The fur on the legs should be pointing downwards and be thinner on the back of the leg. Don't forget to draw the tips of the claws sticking through the fur a little bit. The left leg should be bent upwards and the paw should be dangling down. The top of the paw will be covered with hair so that we cannot see and details of the paw. Next, draw the back and chest of the dog. The back should have plenty of hair strands combed over one another, but we should only be able to see a small portion of the dog's chest since the left leg is raised so high. The fur on the chest should loosely hang down. Also draw lots of strands of hair on the side of the dog's body that are blown back in the wind. The left hind leg should be very straight and pointing towards us as it is planted firmly in the ground. It should be almost parallel to the front right leg. Again, the paw will be covered in fur and we won't be able to see details. The upper portion of the leg should be hidden from view behind the left front leg. We should only be able to see a small portion of the right hind leg. The paw and lower half of the leg should be visible behind the left hind leg. The paw should be higher up than the left paw at this angle. Finally, draw the end of the tail behind the dog. It can be pointing in pretty much any direction you wish, since dog tails move freely as they run. Just be sure to draw it covered with many long strands of hair that blow in the wind. We can now ink our image! Use either a brush and ink or Micron markers. A brush works best since you can feather the fur and easily create fine tips that gradually get thicker as they near the body of the dog. Be patient and be careful not to erase any unneeded guide lines. When the ink has dried, erase the pencil marks with a kneaded eraser. You can add a greater sense of depth to the image by giving it a little shadow. Our dog is light colored, so don't add too many heavy shadows. Again, a brush works great for feathering the dark to light. Add shadow to the underside of the ears, the side of the nose, the inside of the mouth, the underside of the head, and underneath the chest. Also black out the pads of the paws. And that's pretty much it! If you need to make corrections, you can use white ink or opaque white paint. You can also use it to add more highlights to the fur if needed. That's how you draw a Labradoodle! Good job!
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golden labradoodle puppy - As they got acquainted by e-mails, Hovan was impressed that Bultman wanted to be sure that Hovan would not require her to neuter or spay the dog at an early age. The possible health effects of early spaying and neutering is a topic Hovan, the research facilitator for the Golden Retriever Club of America, holds close to her heart. I'd look at them and wonder how they got so tall. Those sold to families as companion animals, or pets, were routinely neutered. Hovan, like most breeders, requires pet owners to spay and neuter dogs. She began noticing that the age at which dogs were spayed or neutered played a role in the way they looked as adults. Following the guidance of her mother, a board-certified canine and feline practitioner with a large number of Golden Retriever clients, Bultman presented her concerns to Hovan. The junior handler explained that early spay and neuter surgeries may contribute to cruciate ligament and other orthopedic injuries. Her mother, Terri Hartung, D. Then, people began neutering young puppies, and now most people seem to have settled on the age of 6 months for neutering or spaying. A balance needs to be established about what is best for an individual dog. However, recent findings give breeders reasons to think twice about the age recommendations they give puppy buyers for spaying and neutering pets. Among the concerns associated with spaying or neutering prior to sexual maturity are increased risks of hip dysplasia and torn cruciate ligaments, possibly decreased life span, some evidence for increased incidence of hypothyroidism, hemangiosarcoma and osteosarcoma. On the flip side is concern that intact bitches are at risk for mammary cancer. Beyond Behavioral Changes The health effects of neutering and spaying on Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers has been the focus of a recent study. Comparing data on disease incidence and a dog's reproductive status, the researchers have documented correlations that go beyond behavioral changes. The data analysis continues, with publication in a peer-reviewed journal expected in .Lead investigator Benjamin Hart, D. There is much misconception related to the impact neutering has on an animal and whether the age of neutering makes a difference. The veterinary database at the University of California-Davis Veterinary Teaching Hospital provided information about diagnoses and tests performed on Golden Retrievers and 2, Labrador Retrievers. The comprehensive questionnaire gathered information from club members via mailed surveys, with the results posted on the parent club website www. The database included information about 1, Golden Retrievers from respondents. A clinical animal behaviorist, Hart has devoted his career to studying the behavioral effects of castration on dogs, cats and horses. Only about 25 to 30 percent of the dogs we studied show a major change in behavior after neutering. She estimates that among her clients with large breeds, about 75 percent of male dogs are neutered after 1 year of age and 50 percent of bitches after their first heat. For these clients, I emphasize the important of practicing obesity prevention. In countries where most bitches are left unspayed, the statistics are clear that intact bitches are at increased risk for mammary cancer. The question is how does spaying at 12 months, which is very different from leaving a bitch intact throughout life, alter the risk? I advise people to wait. After researching the topic, Hovan wrote a reference-supported article, titled "Deciding Whether and When to Neuter a Golden Retriever," which she shares with puppy buyers and suggests that they share with their veterinarians. More research is needed to document the health effects of early spaying and neutering, Hartung says. If for some reason or another that wait is too long then please wait until your puppy is at least 12 months old if possible. It is very important keep the weight off your pup at any age but especially when they are young and still growing! When a dog gets fixed, especially early on in its life, it becomes easier for them to gain weight faster. Overweight dogs are a lot more prone to issues such as OCD, hip dysplasia, diabetes, cancer, lower immune system, etc. The study, which examined the health records of golden retrievers, found a surprising doubling of hip dysplasia among male dogs neutered before one year of age. This and other results were published Feb. While results of the new study are revealing, Hart said the relationship between neutering and disease-risk remains a complex issue. Dog owners in the United States are overwhelmingly choosing to neuter their dogs, in large part to prevent pet overpopulation or avoid unwanted behaviors. In the U. In Europe, however, neutering is generally avoided by owners and trainers and not promoted by animal health authorities, Hart said. During the past decade, some studies have indicated that neutering can have several adverse health effects for certain dog breeds. Those studies examined individual diseases using data drawn from one breed or pooled from several breeds. Against that backdrop, Hart and colleagues launched their study, using a single hospital database. The study was designed to examine the effects of neutering on the risks of several diseases in the same breed, distinguishing between males and females and between early or late neutering and non-neutering. The researchers chose to focus on the golden retriever because it is one of the most popular breeds in the U. The breed also is favored for work as a service dog. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital for two joint disorders and three cancers: hip dysplasia, cranial cruciate ligament tear, lymphosarcoma, hemangiosarcoma and mast cell tumor. The dogs were classified as intact not neutered , neutered early before 12 months age , or neutered late at or after 12 months age. The study revealed that, for all five diseases analyzed, the disease rates were significantly higher in both males and females that were neutered either early or late compared with intact non-neutered dogs. Specifically, early neutering was associated with an increase in the occurrence of hip dysplasia, cranial cruciate ligament tear and lymphosarcoma in males and of cranial cruciate ligament tear in females. Late neutering was associated with the subsequent occurrence of mast cell tumors and hemangiosarcoma in females. In most areas, the findings of this study were consistent with earlier studies, suggesting similar increases in disease risks. The new study, however, was the first to specifically report an increased risk of late neutering for mast cell tumors and hemangiosarcoma. Furthermore, the new study showed a surprising percent increase, or doubling, of the incidence of hip dysplasia among early-neutered males. Earlier studies had reported a 17 percent increase among all neutered dogs compared to all non-neutered dogs, indicating the importance of the new study in making gender and age-of-neutering comparisons. About UC Davis For more than years, UC Davis has been one place where people are bettering humanity and our natural world while seeking solutions to some of our most pressing challenges. The university offers interdisciplinary graduate study and more than undergraduate majors in four colleges — Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Biological Sciences, Engineering, and Letters and Science. It seems that the more research I do, the more confused I become. It is VERY controversial. The biggest problem I run into is that most veterinarians are very strong on their stance and unwavering in their opinion. Because of this. I personally have a much stronger opinion on when to spay a female than when to neuter a male. From most veterinarians and multiple websites, I believe that a female should be spayed prior to having her first heat. Again, some veterinarians believe you should wait until the first heat, but the majority of theriogenologists reproductive veterinarians and practicing veterinarians agree that it should be done before the first heat. The reason for this is that studies have shown that females who are spayed prior to a heat have almost little to no chance of many types of reproductive cancers. For example, breast cancer Mammary neoplasia is very common in female Golden Retrievers. In fact, it is the most common tumor type in female dogs. Female dogs that are spayed prior to going into their first heat have a 0. Female English Golden Retrievers typically go into their first heat between months old. Our average English Golden Retriever goes into heat closer to months of age. Our recommendation is to have a female spayed between months of age. They are not themselves. They will do whatever they can do to get to the female, even if that means breaking out of their enclosure. If there is an intact female anywhere near where you live and she goes into full estrus, then beware because your male will do whatever he can to get to her. That could obviously be very dangerous, because he could get run over, stolen or produce a litter of pups. But most clients are actually quite surprised at how fast their dog recovers from the surgery. I am always amazed by how tough Golden Retrievers are. Usually they recover in a few short days. As pet owners, we want to make sure that our furry friends are healthy and happy! Key Takeaways Timing of spaying or neutering should be personalized based on factors like age, gender, and individual health. There are alternatives to traditional spaying and neutering, such as vasectomy and hysterectomy. What Are Spaying And Neutering? Spaying and neutering are common treatments that can help keep our furry friend healthy and happy and keeps them from reproducing! Spaying female dogs involves removing the ovaries and uterus while neutering male dogs involves removing the testicles. These operations are frequently performed by a veterinarian while the dog is anesthetized. The timing of when to spay or neuter your Golden Retriever is a decision that should be made carefully, taking into consideration various factors. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, here are some general guidelines to help you determine when to spay or neuter your Golden Retriever: Consult with Your Veterinarian: Your veterinarian is your best source of guidance. Consider Age: Traditionally, many dogs were spayed or neutered at a very young age, often around six months old. However, recent research suggests that for larger breeds like Golden Retrievers, it may be beneficial to wait until they are older months to allow for proper growth and development. Gender Matters: The ideal timing can vary between males and females. Male Golden Retrievers can typically be neutered around six to nine months of age, but consult your vet for the best timing. Your vet can help you weigh the pros and cons. If you intend to breed, consult with a professional breeder for guidance on the best timing. Behavioral Considerations: Spaying or neutering can have an impact on certain behaviors like aggression or marking. Discuss these concerns with your vet. Local Regulations: In some areas, spaying or neutering may be required by law. Ensure you are aware of any local regulations. Benefits Of Spaying And Neutering Spaying and neutering our pets can provide numerous benefits, such as population control, improved behavior, cost savings, and the promotion of excellent health. Potential Health Benefits of Spaying for Female Golden Retrievers Prevention of unwanted pregnancies Elimination of the risk of uterine infections pyometra Reduced risk of mammary gland tumors Decreased likelihood of ovarian and cervical cancers Potential Health Benefits of Neutering for Male Golden Retrievers Prevention of unwanted pregnancies Reduced risk of testicular cancer Lower incidence of prostate problems Diminished chances of certain behavioral issues related to intact males However, each dog is unique, and the benefits of spaying or neutering may vary depending on the breed, age, and overall health of the particular dog, so it is vital to consult with a veterinarian. The costs of spaying and neutering your Golden Retriever can vary significantly based on factors like location and the age and size of your dog. Keep in mind that actual costs may differ depending on your specific circumstances and geographic region. The risk of problems is normally low, but as with any surgery, there is always the possibility of complications such as bleeding, infection, or severe responses to anesthesia. When it comes to spaying or neutering, there are a few potential risks to keep in mind, just as with any surgery. Here are a few things to keep in mind: Anesthetic risks: Your dog will be sedated throughout the procedure, and issues such as breathing difficulties, allergic responses, or unpleasant reactions to the anesthesia are possible. Infection: There is a small risk of infection at the incision site following surgery. Your veterinarian will use sterile techniques and, if necessary, prescribe antibiotics to reduce this danger. Bleeding: There is a small danger of bleeding with any procedure. During the surgery, your veterinarian will take efforts to reduce any bleeding and will follow your dog afterward. Pain: Some dogs may experience pain or discomfort following the operation. Your veterinarian will provide pain medication to alleviate any discomfort. Unpleasant reactions: Some dogs may have an adverse reaction to the surgery, such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or loss of appetite, in rare situations. Your veterinarian will take precautions to reduce dangers and will provide you with post-operative instructions to promote good healing and recovery. Tips After the Procedure Following a spay or neuter procedure, it is critical to provide your pet with extra TLC to aid in its recovery. Here are some things to remember: Allow your dog to relax and confine him to a small, quiet area for the time indicated by your veterinarian. This will keep them from getting overly enthusiastic and running around, which will slow down the healing process. Give it exactly as advised, and notify your vet if you discover your dog is still in pain. Keep their incision clean and dry, and keep an eye out for signs of infection, such as redness or discharge. Gradually increase their activity: During the healing phase, your dog should be restricted from strenuous activity, but you can gradually raise their activity level as directed by your veterinarian. Check-in with your veterinarian. Keep an eye out for them. Remember that each dog is unique, and healing times can vary. Most importantly, provide them with love and affection during their recuperation. There are a few spaying and neutering options, but they are not as extensively used or as effective as traditional spaying and neutering. Consider the following alternatives: 1. Vasectomy for males : Purpose: A vasectomy is a surgical procedure that prevents a male dog from fathering puppies without removing the testicles. Procedure: During a vasectomy, the vasa deferentia tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the urethra are cut or blocked. This prevents the release of sperm during ejaculation but allows the male dog to maintain sexual behaviors and characteristics. Reversibility: Vasectomies are often considered reversible, but success rates may vary. Reversal surgery can attempt to restore fertility by reconnecting the vasa deferentia. Hysterectomy for females : Purpose: A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the uterus womb in female dogs while preserving the ovaries. This prevents pregnancy and eliminates the risk of uterine infections pyometra and certain reproductive cancers. Procedure: During a hysterectomy, the uterus is surgically removed, while the ovaries are left intact. This allows the female dog to maintain her hormonal balance and prevents pregnancy. Reversibility: Unlike spaying ovariohysterectomy , a hysterectomy is not reversible because the uterus is removed. However, the dog retains her ovaries and hormonal functions. Both vasectomy and hysterectomy offer alternatives to traditional spaying and neutering, allowing dogs to keep some of their natural hormone balance and behaviors while preventing reproduction. Conclusion Deciding whether to spay or neuter your Golden Retriever involves weighing the pros and cons carefully. Alternative options are also worth exploring. Neutering may help reduce some behaviors associated with mating instincts, but individual Golden Retrievers may still remain playful and energetic. Do female dogs behave better after being spayed? Spaying can potentially reduce certain behaviors related to the estrus cycle, but improvements in behavior vary among individual dogs. What to expect after spaying a golden retriever? After spaying, expect some mild discomfort and restlessness in your Golden Retriever for a few days, but recovery is generally smooth. How do I comfort my dog after being spayed? Are dogs still playful after being spayed? 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. These procedures were typically performed before the dog reached six months of agethe accepted standard in the veterinary profession. The decision was never risk free, of course. By eliminating the dog's reproductive capacity you're also shutting down the production of hormones that affect metabolismthe reason spayed and neutered dogs are at higher risk for becoming obese. Still, the long-term health implications were believed to be overwhelmingly positive. In recent years, however, this picture has begun to change. Benjamin L. They tracked the histories of numerous other breeds as well. Specifically, they looked at the incidence of three joint disorders hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and cruciate ligament injury and four cancers hemangiosarcoma, osteosarcoma, lymphoma, and mast cell tumors. They also looked at the incidence of mammary cancer in females. What they discovered was surprising. In males neutered before six months of age, however, the incidence of joint disorders jumps to 23 percent, and in males neutered between six months and one year to 11 percent. The percentage of joint disorders for female goldens spayed in those time frames is about the same. The risk increases to 13 percent for males neutered before six months and to 12 percent for males neutered between six months and their first birthday. Based on these findings, the suggested guideline for golden retriever males is to delay neutering until they're beyond one year of age. Given these findings, Hart strongly recommends leaving female goldens intact or, if that's not possible, delaying spaying until after the one-year threshold and, in his words, "remaining vigilant for cancers. This preserves the hormonal "factory" while eliminating the possibility of pregnancy and the discharge associated with estrus. However, fewer veterinarians are qualified to perform this procedure than are qualified to perform a traditional spay. For Labs, there is good news in one respect. Hart and his team found no correlation between spaying or neutering and increased risk of cancers, regardless of when the procedures are performed. But while intact Labs of either sex have a 6 percent risk for joint disorders, the risk for males neutered before six months jumps to 9 percent and for females spayed any time before their first birthday to 11 percent. The obvious conclusion is to delay neutering until after six months, and spaying until after one year. And what of the conventional wisdom that spaying sharply reduces the risk of mammary cancer? The incidence of mammary cancers in intact females of both breeds is only about 1 percent. The hope is that our research will help to extend the working lives of Labs and goldens and promote their basic comfort. Still, every owner should make the decision to spay or neuter not only in light of our findings but in consultation with his or her veterinarian. Shelters often perform the procedure to help reduce the number of homeless dogs. Some pet parents also do it to control aggressive or highly sexualized behavior, or to protect a dog from repeated and unwanted pregnancies. But while the procedure is common, it is not without risk. In particular, fixing your dog when they are too young can predispose them to a variety of serious health conditions in the future. Spaying is the process for female dogs and involves an operation that removes their reproductive organs. Neutering is the process for male dogs and involves removing their testicles. Dogs that have not been fixed are referred to as intact. When should I spay a female golden retriever and neuter a male golden retriever? Doing it earlier than this cuts off access to hormones that they need for healthy development and can lead to joint problems and hypothyroidism in both male and female golden retrievers, and a predisposition to various forms of cancer in female golden retrievers. Traditional advice has always been that dogs should be spayed or neutered before six months of age to diminish the chances of them developing uterine infections. But research now suggests that for at least some dog breeds, fixing operations should be delayed because doing it too soon can cause other health issues. Golden retrievers are one of the breeds that certainly should not be fixed before six months of age, and it is recommended to wait until they are at least a year old. Many vets are now also recommending not to spay female golden retrievers at all unless it is absolutely necessary. As we have already said, there are a variety of reasons you might choose to put your dog through this process. It protects against overpopulation in general and unwanted pregnancy on a specific level. It can help diminish behavior issues such as territorial behavior and humping. It can also help protect against certain health issues. For example, it significantly decreases the risk of testicular and pancreatic cancer in male dogs. You can learn more about the benefits of spaying and neutering here. You should always speak to your vet to decide whether spaying or neutering is the right choice for you and your dog. What are the risks of fixing your Golden Retriever too soon? Joint Issues Research suggests that fixing any dog before the age of six months can lead to serious joint issues. They are four to six times more likely to develop joint problems such as hip dysplasia and cranial cruciate ligament tears. Hip dysplasia is when the femur thigh bone does not fit together with the pelvis in the way that it should. It can cause both pain and difficulty when moving, which is likely to increase over time for your dog. Cranial cruciate ligaments are the main ligaments active in the knee joint, and these can be prone to tearing in dogs. The result is a lot of pain, and they may be unable to bear their weight on the affected leg. In the long term, this condition can increase the chances of arthritis in the knee. The theory is that sex hormones play a crucial role in the development of healthy joints, and therefore cutting off access too soon can undermine healthy development. This problem is a particular concern with certain breeds, such as golden retrievers and also Labrador retrievers, as they are already predisposed toward joint issues. So, spaying or neutering too soon significantly increases their risks. Hypothyroidism Another potential issue for all dogs when they are fixed too soon is the development of hypothyroidism. This is when the thyroid is underactive, and therefore, slows down bodily functions. It often manifests in unhealthy skin and coat, lethargy, and weight gain. If they develop this condition, they are likely to need an operation and ongoing medication to manage it. Fixing before one year of age increases the risk of hypothyroidism in all dogs. Cancer Neutering male dogs significantly reduces their risk of the most common cancers for them, which are testicular and pancreatic cancer. But spaying female dogs have the opposite effect. Spayed female dogs are three to four times more likely to develop a form of cancer. The most common types are lymphosarcoma, hemangiosarcoma, mast cell tumor, and mammary cancer. The risks are high no matter what age your female dog is fixed, which is why many vets are now recommending only spaying female dogs if necessary, especially since it is not as necessary for controlling highly sexualized behavior as it can be in some male dogs. If spaying is necessary, delaying the procedure for as long as possible can help to reduce the risks slightly. By the way, we have this great article about dog pregnancy you might be interested in! FAQs Is spaying or neutering surgery dangerous? While both spaying and neutering are common operations, they are considered major, and therefore, your dog is put under with a general anesthesia. An anesthetic always comes with the risk of serious complications that could result in the death of your dog. Modern medications and monitoring equipment mean that the risks are relatively low, but they certainly exist. How long will my dog be in pain after a fixing operation? That is except for the discomfort of wearing a cone and not being able to jump around. They should be prevented from damaging their stitches for at least two weeks after the operations. Do dogs get depressed after being spayed or neutered? You should expect changes in behavior when your dog returns home from fixing surgery, both resulting from the trauma of the surgery and the changes in their hormone levels. Exactly how their behavior will be different varies greatly. You can expect aggression, or anxiety and clinginess. But this should only last for a few weeks as they adjust. Do spayed and neutered dogs get fat? Spaying or neutering your dog does not mean they will get fat! How much does it cost to spay or neuter a dog? Exactly how much these operations cost depends on where you are and the type of surgery you go with. Neutering can help prevent excessive territorial behavior in male dogs and also reduce their risk for common cancers. But for female dogs, the benefits are far less clear, and the process can also significantly increase their chances of developing cancer, so you may choose not to spay at all. If you are neutering or spaying a golden retriever, you can significantly reduce the risks by making sure you do it at the right time. Wait at least a year before the operation so they have enough time to develop in a normal hormonal state. Of course, every dog is different, so always consult your vet. Do you have a fixed golden retriever? Do you have any advice for other golden parents? Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Related Article. Deciding Whether and When to Neuter a Golden Retriever Faera Rhonda Hovan A focus on the serious issues of pet overpopulation and unwanted puppies has led to the common practice of neutering dogs prior to sexual maturity, often near the age of six months. While this clearly helps reduce unplanned breedings and thereby may serve the public interest, research is increasingly showing that it may not be in the best health interests of an individual dog with a responsible owner. Breeds of dogs vary considerably with regard to their rate of maturity and risk for specific diseases, and the interaction of these factors with natural hormones should properly be taken into consideration when deciding whether and when to neuter a dog. However, appropriately tailoring neutering recommendations to a breed requires awareness of the ways in which neutering and the age of neutering affect specific breeds, and it may be impossible for veterinarians to know this in detail for every breed. In some cases the findings have been substantiated across many breeds, but relative risk is also defined specifically for Goldens. Please note that there are both health benefits and detriments associated with neutering and various neutering ages, so decisions will need to balance these complex factors. It is relevant to consider what diseases are more and less common in the breed, and also what diseases have greater or lesser consequences to the dog, so that information is also provided. Health Consequences Associated with Neutering and the Age of Neutering Neutered dogs have a higher incidence of hypothyroidism than do intact dogs. Hypothyroidism is a common but treatable disease in the breed. Neutered dogs have a greater incidence of hip dysplasia and torn cruciate ligaments than intact dogs, and there is some evidence to suggest that this risk is most pronounced in dogs neutered prior to sexual maturity. Hip dysplasia is common in Goldens, and torn cruciate ligaments are less common but not rare. Both of these diseases can be treated surgically, but treatment is costly and success is variable depending on many factors. There is some evidence that the incidence of cardiac hemangiosarcoma is greatly increased times in neutered dogs, and that the risk of splenic hemangiosarcoma may also be increased in neutered dogs. Hemangiosarcoma is the most common cancer in the breed, causing the death of approximately 1 in 5 Goldens. Most of these tumors occur in the spleen, with fewer but still a substantial number in the heart. This is a rapidly progressing and incurable cancer. Several studies indicate that the incidence of osteosarcoma bone cancer is significantly higher in neutered dogs than in intact dogs, but there is some evidence that this increase is not as great when neutering occurs after sexual maturity. Dogs neutered prior to sexual maturity grow taller than their natural genetic potential, and their bone structure is altered toward a more narrow, lanky appearance. Taller Goldens have shorter life spans than shorter Goldens. Among male Goldens, the shortest males live 2. Neutered females have a greatly increased risk of urinary incontinence as compared to those not neutered, but there is some evidence that this increased risk is less significant for dogs neutered after sexual maturity. Urinary incontinence is neither common nor rare in Goldens, and can often but not always be treated successfully. If detected early through regular mammary exams, most but not all mammary cancers can be treated successfully with surgery and sometimes additional therapies. Males with one or more testicles located in the abdomen cryptorchidism are at high risk for testicular cancer and should be neutered prior to 15 months of age, which eliminates this risk. It is not necessary to neuter these dogs prior to sexually maturity to avoid testicular cancer. Females that remain intact are exposed to a significant risk for pyometra a life threatening uterine infection that rises with every heat cycle, particularly after the age of five years. Pyometra is a common and rapidly progressing disease in Goldens that must be diagnosed promptly to be successfully treated. Males that remain intact frequently develop an enlarged prostate gland benign prostatic hyperplasia as they age, particularly over the age of seven years. This is not a serious disease, and while it can sometimes be managed medically, neutering affected dogs is curative. This is not to be confused with prostate cancer which is uncommon in the breed, although more common in neutered males than intact males. Taking all of the above factors into consideration, there is good evidence to support that it is in the best overall health interests of the dog to neuter female Goldens after sexual maturity, at approximately one year of age. This typically allows a female to have one heat cycle but not two, which keeps the risk of mammary cancer low while still providing her with some important health benefits gained by maturing with natural hormones. Of course, the female must be kept on leash or securely fenced away from males for the full three weeks of her heat cycle to avoid unwanted pregnancy, so this should not be undertaken unless the owner is able to be certain that there is no possibility of an accidental breeding. If a male is going to be neutered, there is good evidence to support that it is in the overall best health interests of the dog to neuter male Goldens after sexual maturity, at approximately one year of age. Neutering a male after two years of age has less impact on behavior, so if behavioral considerations are important to the owner, neutering should be done prior to the age of two. References Arnold S. Urinary incontinence in castrated bitches. Part I. Significance, clinical aspects and etiopathogenesis. Schweiz Arch Tierheilkd ;.Development of canine benign prostatic hyperplasia with age. Pros ;.A population study of neutering status as a risk factor for canine prostate cancer. Endogenous gonadal hormone exposure and bone sarcoma risk. Canc Epidemiol Biomark Prev ;.Risk factors for excessive tibial plateau angle in large-breed dogs with cranial cruciate ligament disease. J Amer Vet Med Assoc ;.Breed risk of pyometra in insured dogs in Sweden. 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