golden retriever saint bernard puppies

golden retriever saint bernard puppies

Breeds The link has been copied! Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. As an admirer of one of these lovely furry companions, you may question how much it costs to buy and own a Labrador Retriever. We'll explore the upfront price of purchasing a puppy and the routine costs associated with pet ownership. We'll also cover various factors that can impact the cost of a Lab and provide tips on how to reduce the cost of owning one. The cost of a Lab can vary depending on several factors such as its age, color, purpose show or field , whether it's a purebred, and more. Routine Care Expenses Owning a Labrador Retriever requires some routine care expenses, which should be taken into account when considering the overall cost of having a pet. One of the essential expenses is veterinary care, which includes routine check-ups, vaccinations, and emergency medical care. Labs are prone to specific health issues, such as hip dysplasia , eye problems, and skin allergies, which may require additional medical attention and expenses. Another routine care expense for Labs is feeding. As they are a somewhat larger breed, they require a substantial amount of food to maintain their weight and energy levels. Additionally, treats, chews, and supplements can also be added to their diet, increasing the overall cost of nutrition. Proper grooming and hygiene are essential to keep a Lab healthy and comfortable. Remember that training and behavioral classes may be necessary to ensure your Lab is well-behaved and socialized, which can also be costly. These expenses should be considered when determining if a Lab is the right breed for you and your budget. How much a Labrador Retriever puppy costs depends on multiple factors, such as the breeder's reputation, the location of the pup, the bloodline, and more. Additionally, the cost may increase if the puppy comes with additional services such as health certificates, microchipping , or first vaccinations. Your pup will also need feeding, grooming, and bathing factored into their expenses, as well as beds, toys, chews, leashes, collars, harnesses, and much more. Consider the following: Buying From a Breeder vs. While adopting a Lab may be less expensive, it is essential to note that some shelters may have restrictions and requirements that need to be met before adoption. Keep in mind that the price of a Labrador based on color may vary by region and how popular that specific color is in that location. However, buyers should be cautious and avoid buying from dishonest breeders who may be selling mixed-breed dogs as purebreds. Breeders Reputation Reputable breeders who prioritize health, temperament, and breed standards usually charge more for their puppies. It's crucial to research the breeder thoroughly and ensure that they follow ethical breeding practices before making a purchase. This includes checking their breeding practices, requesting health certificates and pedigrees, and visiting their facilities in person if possible. Buyers should also be cautious of breeders who offer extremely low prices, as that might be a sign of unethical practices. Estimated Size The estimated size of an adult Labrador retriever is around about .Average Price To Buy A Lab Puppy From A Breeder The average price to buy a Lab puppy from a breeder is different from one person to the next, according to the reputation the breeder has in the community, the dog's bloodline, and their location. Again, the color of the Lab plays a significant factor as well. In addition to the cost of the puppy, there are also other expenses associated with owning a Lab. This includes routine care costs such as food, toys, grooming supplies, and veterinary visits for vaccinations and check-ups. Owners should also budget for unexpected expenses such as emergency veterinary care or unexpected illnesses. Remember that a reputable breeder may charge more for their puppies, but they are more likely to provide you with a healthy, well-socialized puppy from a good bloodline. Average Cost To Adopt A Lab Puppy Adopting a Lab puppy is generally less expensive than buying one from a breeder, but the costs can still vary widely. However, it's crucial to research adoption agencies thoroughly to ensure that they are reputable and the dogs are healthy and well-cared for before making a decision. You don't want to bring a sickly pup into your home, just to end up spending more on medical bills than you had anticipated. However, the costs don't stop there. Once you have your furry friend, ongoing expenses include food, vet bills, grooming, and more. In addition, Labs are known for their love of exploration and adventure, which means they have a penchant for getting lost. You don't want to get a new puppy with the understanding that the breed may be high maintenance, and then you lose track of your dog. The collar uses GPS and cellular technology to track your dog's location in real-time, so you can quickly locate your pet if they ever wander off. The collar also includes additional features such as activity monitoring and geofencing to alert you if your dog leaves a designated area. While the initial cost of the collar may seem high, it can save you money in the long run by preventing the loss or theft of your beloved Lab. Labrador Retriever Breed Guide Labrador Retrievers are outgoing and generally have a friendly disposition toward others. They are loyal, affectionate and make excellent family pets. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which makes them great for first-time dog owners. Due to their friendly nature, they also make excellent therapy dogs and are often used in service roles. Labrador Retrievers generally come in three colors: black, chocolate, and yellow. The coat is short, dense, and water-resistant, which makes them excellent swimmers. Labs can be medium to large dogs that weigh about 55 to 80 pounds on average, with the males usually outweighing the females by ten pounds. Typically, they're around two feet tall inches , and the males will have about a one-inch height advantage over the females. The average lifespan for a Labrador Retriever is around 12 years, although some can live up to 14 years. They are all around healthy, but like all dogs, there are specific ailments that you're more likely to encounter with a Lab, like obesity, ear infections, and hip dysplasia. As for lifetime care costs, they can vary depending on factors such as food, vet bills, and grooming expenses. There are several ways to reduce the cost of owning a Labrador Retriever. One option is to adopt a dog from a local shelter or rescue organization. Adopting a dog from a shelter is usually less expensive than buying a puppy from a breeder. Typically, dog shelters will include initial vaccinations, any spaying or neutering services needed, along with essential veterinary care up front. That helps cut down on some of the initial costs that owners usually spend when they first bring a puppy home. However, it's not uncommon that breeders will also at least include the first vaccinations for the pup upon its release to your family. Another option to reduce the cost of owning a Lab is to consider adopting an older dog instead of a puppy. Older dogs may already be trained and require less attention and socialization than a puppy, which can save on training costs and time. Moreover, older dogs may have lower veterinary bills since they may not require as many check-ups or preventative care as a puppy. Finally, another way to save money on the lifetime costs of owning a Labrador Retriever is to invest in preventative care. This includes regular exercise, a healthy diet, and regular veterinary check-ups to catch potential health issues early on. While preventive care may require an upfront investment, it can ultimately save money by avoiding expensive medical bills down the line. Final Thoughts: The Cost of Owning a Labrador Retriever Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds to own, but they can be somewhat high maintenance after you bring them into your home. However, there are ways to reduce costs, such as adopting from a shelter or rescue organization, buying an older dog instead of a puppy, and being mindful of routine care costs. Regardless of the price, it's important to protect your Labrador Retriever with a GPS-tracking dog collar like the one offered by Fi, which can provide peace of mind and ensure the safety of your Lab. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. The link has been copied! You might also like. Since the Labrador could grow to a hefty size, its yearly upkeep still falls within the expected price range of other big dogs. Always take your puppy to regular vet checkups, even if it looks like the very picture of health. Though these things are not high on the priority list, consider them nice-to-haves once the budget allows. Besides, we all want the best for our four-legged friends, and that alone is reason enough for most of us! Boarding Kennels: This service is a lifesaver for owners who have to travel for days or weeks at a time and cannot bring their dog along with them. Professional Grooming: As we said earlier, Labrador Retrievers shed a lot, so an afternoon at the groomer will help keep your pooch looking clean and tidy. You can put off spending on these things until the budget allows. However, give some serious thought to investing in an emergency fund, as this would take a big worry off your mind in case of any unexpected trips to the vet. Though it is tempting to buy a dog from pet stores or backyard breeders because of their low puppy prices, getting Lab puppies from a reputable source is still a more responsible and ethical choice. Here is a list of responsible breeders where you can find Labrador puppies for sale: Rhumbline Retrievers — This New York-based kennel has been breeding quality Labrador Retriever puppies since , and a good number of their dogs have participated in agility, obedience, and hunting tests at the national level. Due to their commitment to only breed dogs of the highest quality, they have limited puppies for sale at a time; thus, expect a long waitlist. All their puppies are tested for genetic disorders such as elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. They raise show-quality Labs and have championship bloodline puppies as well. For a more comprehensive list of reputable Labrador Retriever breeders, take a peek at our 10 best Labrador breeders article. All their dogs are fostered and given medical care before being turned over to their new family. Based in Colorado and licensed by the Pet Animal Care Facilities, they foster and provide medical care to Labs until they can get adopted. American Lab Rescue — This organization makes use of foster homes to rehabilitate and care for their rescued dogs. For your adoption application to be approved, they will require a fenced-in yard and will also do a home visit to your place before releasing a dog. Alternatively, you can also check out our top 10 picks of Labrador Retriever Rescues and our dog adoption guide. The Labrador Retriever is popular for its great temperament and personality. Unfortunately, most people fail to expect its high energy level as well, which is why some Labs find themselves in animal shelters. That said, doing your research about the Labrador Retriever before buying or adopting a puppy is necessary to make sure that the Lab is the best dog for you. Money-Saving Tips for Labrador Retriever Owners We all want to give our dog the best life possible, and if we can do that without breaking the bank, then even better! The trick is finding the right balance on which expenses to let go of and which ones to keep. To help you achieve this, here are some money-saving tips for Labrador Retriever owners: DIY dog food and treats. Not only is this a more practical option, but this is also healthier for your dog. Practice your grooming skills. Watch a good tutorial and practice your skills on your pooch. Invest in high-quality supplies. You may want to scrimp on supplies such as food and water bowls, but investing in high-quality and durable essentials will save you more money in the long run. Training Labrador Retrievers is a fairly easy task, even for novice dog owners. A lot of great tutorials can be found on the internet, and being the intelligent dogs that they are, they will learn all their tricks in no time! Like pet insurance, regular vet visits will save you from procedures and medications that could cost thousands of dollars later. Pet quality pups are affordable and budget-friendly to most people who are looking for an intelligent and well-tempered canine companion. However, like most dogs, their lifetime cost would still require you to spend considerable money. As such, think long and hard about the commitment and financial implications of taking in a dog. These canines make great family pets, even for those looking for their first dog. So, if your budget is enough to shoulder the price and long-term costs of the Labrador Retriever, then it might just be the pooch for you! Tell us in the comment box below! My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. The costs will be a bit higher at first while you get your dog the shots it requires and pay for the frequent visits to the vet. We also recommend getting your dog spayed or neutered unless you are a professional breeder, and it might even be required as part of your contract if you purchase from a breeder. Once your dog is an adult, it will not require as many vet visits and will only need booster shots every few years, so the average monthly costs will be much lower. Experts recommend getting all of the shots, but your dog is only legally required to get the rabies shot. We recommend purchasing a high-quality brand with real meat like chicken, turkey, or salmon listed as the first ingredient. The protein in meat will help build muscle and provide the energy your dog needs to stay healthy. High protein diets will also help your dog stay full longer, and it will be less likely to come looking for food. Foods with corn as the top ingredient are mostly empty calories that will leave your pet feeling hungry and looking for more food, potentially causing it to become obese. During the shedding seasons of spring and fall, you will likely need to increase the brushing to several times a week to help keep the fur off your furniture and floor. Professional grooming can also help with teeth brushing and nail clipping. This medication can also help prevent heartworm. Spot Pet Insurance offers customizable plans that you can adapt to your breed's specific needs. Many people forgo pet insurance, but it can be a great way to protect yourself from a huge expense while making sure your Labrador Retriever has the best healthcare possible. Accidents and serious illnesses can occur at any time, and many procedures can cost thousands of dollars which makes the price of insurance more than worth it, especially if you get it while your dog is still a puppy. It can chew up stuffed animals quickly, so they can get expensive, but there are plenty of options for a chewing dog, like the Lab. Another option is to purchase a subscription to a monthly service like the Bark Box that sends your dog new toys and activities for as long as you keep up your subscription. A full-grown dog only requires food and flea and tick medication to stay healthy, a few toys to play with, and treats here and there. Additional Costs to Factor In If you like to go on long vacations, you might need to factor in the additional costs of traveling with a dog. Many rental cars do not allow pets or will charge you extra, and the same is true for hotels. Owning a Labrador Retriever on a Budget Your Labrador Retriever will be relatively inexpensive once you get the medical things out of the way. A high-quality food may seem more expensive, but it will help keep your dog full so that it will eat less. Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock Saving Money on Labrador Retriever Care The best way to save money on healthcare when raising your Labrador Retriever is to keep it a healthy weight by following portion recommendations on the food you serve and by helping them get enough exercise. Obesity can lead to heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues that can shorten the lifespan of your pet. After the initial cost of the puppy , you will need to pay a few hundred dollars to get it spayed or neutered and get the shots it needs. After that, you will only need to provide food and shelter with the occasional booster shot. We hope you have enjoyed reading over this guide, and that it has helped answer your questions. If we have helped you create a budget that allows you to get one of these amazing pets, please share this guide on how much it costs to own a Labrador Retriever on social media. Featured Image Credit: scott, Pixabay Contents. One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. One or both of this puppy's parents is OFA Heart certified. This puppy has had early neurological stimulation exercises. It is also important to understand there are different types of golden retrievers which may affect pricing. For example, if you decide to choose the lowest golden retriever cost option, those puppies almost never have the necessary 3rd-party assurances or veterinarian procedures like dewormings, vaccinations, health-tested parents, or a thorough health checkup. These missing costs and services will be your responsibility, making the total cost ultimately the same. Not to mention the added stress on you these extra expenses and issues create! Adopting vs. Please note that depending on the shelter, you may have to pay additional costs for your Golden certain shots and procedures. Depending on if the golden retriever is a boy or a girl may affect the price as well. Some male vs female golden retriever differences may make you prefer one over the other. This will ultimately save you time and money on your golden retriever price because breeders often pay lower veterinary rates than individuals do. Distemper, for example, is a highly contagious disease that attacks the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and nervous systems of dogs. Unfortunately, there is no cure — just a lot of expenses and stress which really adds to the overall cost of your Golden Retriever puppy. It is wise to ask your vet for guidance on this decision. Talk with your vet about the procedure, when you should get it done, and how much it might cost. Dental Care for Your Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers, like many dogs, can be prone to dental issues such as plaque buildup, gum disease, and tooth decay. These cleanings typically involve scaling, polishing, and potentially extractions if necessary. Some insurance providers offer optional dental coverage as an add-on or as part of more comprehensive plans. If dental coverage is included in the policy, it typically covers a portion of the costs associated with dental cleanings, extractions, and other necessary dental treatments. This typically includes services such as bathing, brushing, trimming, nail clipping, ear cleaning, and sometimes additional services like de-shedding or dematting. Some groomers may offer package deals or discounts for regular appointments or bundled services. This monthly expense may seem like an additional cost, but it can be a worthwhile investment when considering the potential savings on veterinary bills for treatments, surgeries, and medications. By having pet insurance in place, you can ensure that your Golden Retriever receives the necessary care without straining your finances in the event of unexpected health issues. Puppy Training and Socialization Classes Attending puppy training and socialization classes is highly recommended for the comprehensive development of your Golden puppy. These classes provide structured learning environments, social interaction, and essential obedience training. By enrolling your Golden Retriever puppy in these classes, you ensure they receive the necessary foundation for good behavior, social skills, and overall well-being. The cost for food will depend on the size, age, and activity level of your companion. Fortunately, the cheaper brands of dog food can be just as good as the more premium brands as long as they meet the standards of AAFCO and are made with minimal processing. When making your decision, make sure to avoid artificial ingredients and preservatives where you can, since they could cause health problems for your dog. How Much Does a Labrador Cost? And, this is just the upfront cost of the puppy. This includes the cost of food, veterinary bills, grooming, bedding, and so on. Labrador puppy costs depend on a few factors. Quality of the breeder Quality of the parent dogs Type of Labrador eg. For instance, puppy prices tend to be higher before Christmas, so buy a puppy in the spring, instead. Originally, black Labs were favored above other colors. Brown and yellow Labs were extremely uncommon, and were not at all desirable. Over time, this opinion changed and brown and yellow Labs became more accepted. Shooting communities still tend to prefer the black Lab, but yellow Labs are very common in other working roles, like as therapy dogs and guide dogs. On the whole, each official Labrador color will cost a similar amount. But, yellow and brown Labs may cost slightly more than black Labs, since the genes that cause their coloring are recessive and therefore are less common. Non-Standard Colors Labrador costs can be hugely increased or reduced by non standard colors or patterns. For instance, dilute shades or mismarks. Dilute coloring is recessive and highly controversial in the Labrador community. The genes that cause these shades will dilute pigmentation, turning black Labs into charcoal Labs, chocolate Labs into silver Labs, and yellow Labs into champagne Labs. Some believe this color results from cross-breeding. But, others believe the recessive genes simply remained hidden over generations, like original yellow and chocolate coloring. Dilute colors are not accepted in the official breed standard. So, many breeders will not adjust their price, and may even lower it for unexpected dilute puppies. The same is the case with mismarks. Mismarks can include white patches and spots, brindling, and even tan markings. Extensive mismarks will disqualify a Lab from show. Show type Labs are bred to fit the Labrador breed standard. They are usually slightly stockier and less active than field types. Field types are more often bred for their working ability than for any specific appearance. Labradors cost more when they are bred to show standards. Field Labs tend to be cheaper than Labradors bred for show. But, you should consider which type is best for you, rather than just going for the cheapest Labrador you can find. Field type Labs can be much more energetic and active than show types. First time owners may find the English Lab slightly easier to raise and train! Conversely, Labrador costs can be highest with field trial champion bred dogs that are likely to win awards. Labrador Costs From Breeders vs Shelters Labrador puppies from reputable breeders will cost more than dogs from a rescue center. Whilst Labs from breeders can cost thousands of dollars, Labradors from rescue centers can only be a few hundred dollars. A major difference between Labs from a breeder and Labs from a rescue center is the history of the dogs. Puppies from a breeder will stay with their mom and siblings until 8 weeks old. At 8 weeks, puppies can go to their new home. Rescue center dogs can have unknown histories, or even histories that involve abuse. Labs from rescue centers are usually older, and have often lived with other families. However, many Labs are given up for non-behavioral reasons. They can be just as wonderful pets as puppies from a breeder. And, many dogs from rescue centers will have basic training, including house training, obedience, and potentially recall. Why Are Breeders So Expensive? Reputable breeders tend to cost more than any other puppy source. Breeders have to spend a lot when breeding a litter, and all of this will lower their profit margins. Labrador breeding costs include: Health testing and certificates. Less - The Labrador Retriever is a medium to large-sized , short-coupled, powerfully-built dog with a short, dense, water-resistant coat; small, drop ears; and a short, thick otter-like tail carried level with the back or with a slight upward curve. The length of body is equal to or only slightly longer than the height at the withers, and the distance from the elbows to the ground is equal to one-half the height at the withers. Balance, outline, intelligence, temperament and movement are of overriding importance. The Labrador Retriever is a breed of moderation, thoroughly sound, and willing and able to do its work. The Labrador Retriever is a dog without exaggeration, so light, weedy dogs; long, low-stationed dogs; and cloddy, lumbering dogs are to be equally penalized. The Labrador Retriever is an enthusiastic hunter with a good nose and a soft mouth. They excel in all performance activities. Another essential characteristic of the Labrador Retriever is the short, dense, double coat that protects the dog when retrieving from water. Labrador Retrievers are noted for their excellent temperaments. This breed is friendly, outgoing and eager to please. They are extremely intelligent and easily trained to perform a variety of complex tasks. These dogs were brought to England, probably on fishing boats. Originally black in color, the first recorded yellow Labrador appeared in a litter born in .Chocolates were also recorded at about the same time, but never achieved the same level of popularity as the blacks and yellows. Originally bred to retrieve from water, the modern Labrador Retriever has proven to be one of the most versatile breeds, excelling in hunt tests and field trials, in obedience and agility events, and also as service dogs. Life Span Did You Know? The Golden Labrador is a designer dog breed that originated in the United States. They are a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Labrador Retriever. The goal was to combine these two highly popular breeds to create a dog that exhibits the best traits from both of them. A mixed dog breed can take after one parent breed more than the other or any combination of traits from the parent breeds. This can result in some variation among individual puppies. But, overall, a Golden Labrador is friendly, intelligent, energetic, and affectionate. Although this mixed breed is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other notable organizations like the American Canine Hybrid Club and more. This large designer breed is characterized by their energetic personality and friendly disposition. Both of the parent breeds in this cross are open, friendly, and affectionate, so you can expect the same in your Golden Labrador puppy. They are very playful and get along fabulously with children, other dogs, and other pets. They may be alert enough to be a good watchdog, but they do not make good guard dogs. They are instinctually more interested in making new friends and getting attention than they are with anything else. They can have a slight prey drive, but most of the time, they are just curious and interested in playing and making friends. The Golden Labrador is a moderately adaptable dog breed. Their large size and energy tend to make them a better fit for larger homes with room to run. They can adapt well to apartment living as long as they are given enough exercise and mental stimulation. But, small spaces can be a challenge because they are large dogs that are so playful and energetic. Golden Labradors do well in just about any climate. As with most dog breeds, they are sensitive to heat and extreme cold. Because they love their families, thrive on attention, and get bored easily, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. As a mixed breed, a Golden Labrador can inherit the potential health conditions of one or both of the parent breeds. Although the Golden Labrador is a relatively healthy dog breed, there are some potential health conditions to be aware of. These include eye problems like progressive retinal atrophy and joint issues common to large dogs like patellar luxation and hip dysplasia. Like their parent breeds, the Golden Labrador can be prone to weight gain, which does put them at risk of diabetes later in life. Reputable breeders will screen their stock to ensure genetic conditions are not being passed on to puppies. Regular vet visits, proper nutrition, and sufficient exercise can help keep your dog healthy and reduce preventable diseases. Both of the parent breeds in this cross are highly intelligent and highly trainable, so the Golden Labrador should be no different. Eager to please their owners, these dogs pick up on things quickly and respond best to positive training methods focused on praise and reward. This dog breed, like both of the parent breeds, is a great fit for owners of all experience levels, including first-time dog owners. Their high energy can sometimes be a challenge, so you may want to consider puppy training and obedience classes. This designer dog breed may be called a Golden Labrador, but they can show up in many colors. A cream, yellow, or golden coat may be the most common, but a Golden Labrador can also have a black, red, or brown coat. It tends to be a dense double coat that is short or medium in length. This dog breed will shed moderately year-round with heavier shedding sessions twice a year as the seasons change. During seasonal changes, you may want to increase to daily brushing. Not only will this make your dog more comfortable, but it will also decrease the amount of loose fur that ends up around your house. In addition to coat care, you will also need to handle nail, ear, and dental care for your Golden Labrador. Floppy ears tend to trap more dirt, moisture, and debris, which makes them more prone to developing ear infections than ears that stick straight up. Unfortunately, this is often overlooked, which is why gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Beyond that, you can use vet-approved dental hygiene chews and treats and even a specially-formulated dental care diet to supplement your efforts. Getting them used to it early and keeping it a positive experience can make grooming a lot easier as your puppy grows into a big dog! Plus, it can become a bonding experience that your dog looks forward to. Golden Labradors are high-energy dogs. Daily walks, playtime, and some extra activity are generally enough for this dog to stay happy and healthy. But, they will probably tire out before you do! Their friendly nature makes the Golden Labrador a great fit for trips to the dog park. Try teaching your dog how to play frisbee. With their retriever background, it could become one of their favorite activities. You can also train your Golden Labrador for several dog sports like agility, dock diving, obedience, and more. A fully-grown Golden Labrador usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. A Golden Labrador generally lives years. Although Golden Labrador is the most popular name for this designer dog breed, they are also sometimes referred to as a Goldador or a Goldador Retriever. Featured Golden Labrador Article.

Learn More Now What People Say All of our volunteers have full time jobs, families and other commitments, but we continue to make room in our hearts and homes for unwanted and neglected bulldogs in need of rescue. They're a compassionate group of volunteers helping connect loving bulldogs with loving families. My bulldog's foster mom, Casey, helped select the perfect furbaby for me. In my experience, IBR puts a lot of care and concern into matching potential parents to their new family member. Long after the adoption, IBR continues offering post-adoption support for our family. Thanks to IBR, my family is now complete with the addition of a very handsome bulldog. Thank you, IBR! When the time was right, Jeff and I were given the honor to be rescued by Mr. Humphries and Maggie. One month later, I met him and agreed to our first date, persuaded by the fact that I'd get to hang out with a really cute bulldog even if the date flopped! I met Cleo on our second date at the park, and two years later, she was the star of our engagement photos. She's a major diva, and we wouldn't haven't any other way! As Mike often tells Cleo, "Pops has a type! We found the process was appropriately diligent and thorough -- being a bulldog parent isn't a cakewalk after all. The additional "gift with purchase" was the IBR community and following the antics of fellow adoptive families and following the antics of our girl's foster family this organization gets everything right in our book. Indiana Bulldog Rescue was amazing to work with. Thank you IBR for extending our family! Even after the adoption they were there helping me understand the breed! They were a great support system for me and my bulldog! Christa West Deserree Simonson They do amazing work to unite bulldogs with loving forever home. We were blessed to find our baby Fiona through IBR. IBR is the quintessential rescue organization. An experience with IBR is a reflection of love and hope. Susy Murphy Amanda Jacob Very easy to work with! Perfect way to get the bully breed you love and still supporting adoption? Bulldog Spotlight Gordon James I joined rescue because my family became overwhelmed with five kids and life, plain and simply. I decided I was ready to go because we were in an apartment and every day, it was getting smaller and smaller and smaller. My family loved me, but sometimes, love is not enough because I can hardly breathe. We are dedicated to saving and re-homing Bulldogs so they can have the healthy, happy lives they truly deserve. The group has been dedicated to the breed since , as a component of Lone Star Bulldog Club. Lone Star Bulldog Club Rescue accepts Bulldogs from owners who can no longer keep them, as well as retrieves Bulldogs from shelters and other undesirable situations. Each Bulldog in the program is lovingly cared for in a foster home until the perfect forever family for that specific dog is found. Every Bulldog is different: personality, temperament, energy, comfort with kids and other animals, medical needs and more. We take all these factors into consideration when making a forever-home match. Adoption is a coordinated process between the coordinators, fosters and applicant. We work together with our knowledge of the dog to find the best home. When you apply, you might have a particular dog in mind. But please understand, that dog may already be in the process of being adopted by an approved family who has been waiting weeks to be matched with the right dog. But they would prefer to be the only thing with fur in their home. They still make a wonderful companion and deserve a loving home. For your convenience, they have been designated as Forever Single on our website. If you plan on only having one dog, we hope you will consider one of these. Since most of our volunteers live in the North Texas area, it is easier on us and the applying family if they live in this area. Because of this, our out-of-state adoptions are incredibly rare and only in neighboring states. If you are ready to submit your adoption application, please complete the Adopt A Bulldog Application. A volunteer will then review your application. This process can take some time, and not every home is a suitable home for a Bulldog, so please be patient. You are not buying a dog. My name is Monty and I am famous! Yesterday, my photo was all over social media and friends were begging someone to save me. The shelter said I had to be out by …. Vocality level 1 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. He is willing to please, although he retains a stubborn streak. He is very good with children. Most are moderately friendly toward strangers. Although some can be aggressive with strange dogs, the breed is quite good with other pets. Upkeep The Bulldog appreciates a daily outing but cannot tolerate hot humid weather, which can be deadly. He should not be expected to jog or walk great distances, or to jump from any heights. Most Bulldogs cannot swim. Most Bulldogs wheeze and snore, and some drool. Coat care is minimal, but facial wrinkles and any folds around the tail should be cleaned daily. Special precautions must be taken when anesthetizing a Bulldog. Caesarean deliveries are commonly needed. Hip radiographs show most Bulldogs to be dysplastic but few show overt symptoms. History With the most distinctive mug in dogdom, the Bulldog has an equally distinctive history. Some Bulldogs were also set against bears for bear baiting, purely for entertainment. In , bull baiting was outlawed, and a new phase began for the Bulldog. By all rights, the breed should have become extinct, except that it had gained so many ardent admirers that they set out to rescue the Bulldog by selecting against ferocity while still maintaining—and often accentuating—its distinctive physical characteristics. Its tough steadfast persona led it to be identified as a national symbol of England. Its amiable clownish personality belies its appearance, and the Bulldog is a popular pet. Related Content.

But, of course, most dog owners at some time will have to leave their Golden Retriever home alone. It may be because you work, or you need to step outside to run errands. So, can you leave a Golden Retriever at home alone? As a whole, Golden Retrievers can be left alone with no issues, provided they have access to water and chews toys. However, someone should check on the dog within four to six hours, and owners should teach their Golden Retriever how to be alone to mitigate separation anxiety issues. Owners should also consider a confinement area for their Golden Retriever. Many adult Golden Retrievers can have access to the whole house once they are mature enough, but that is specific to the individual dog. Just be forewarned; even the most responsible and mature Golden Retriever may decide to roam the house and get into things if bored. Also, be aware that Golden Retrievers puppies can be a handful. Golden puppies are very active, high-energy, and dynamic. In fact, I might suggest you read this article I wrote if this is your first time with a Golden puppy. It will give you an idea of what to expect for the first two years of puppyhood and maybe beyond , and you can find it here: How Active Are Golden Retriever Puppies? What You Need to Know Also, if you are a first-time Golden Retriever owner, take a few minutes to read this article on what to expect. A Golden Retriever that has been crate trained can also be left alone with minor issues provided they have access to water, and the dog is allowed to relieve themselves at appropriate times during the day. However, I think a larger confinement area is better and more comfortable for the dog. Confining the dog to a large enclosed room or playpen restricts its movements while allowing access to move about, stretch its legs and still have a water dish and plenty of toys available—something a crate does not allow. A larger containment area also has the benefit of allowing the crate to be placed within the enclosure. In this way, your Golden can move freely out of its makeshift den crate as it desires. You can also place a sod box a box with real or fake grass in the corner of the confinement area for a puppy to relieve itself. Ideally, however, you want someone to check on the puppy to allow it to go out regularly, so it learns to do its business outside rather than inside. Confinement areas also ensure your Golden Retriever is safe. Dogs, especially puppies, are curious and can get into some very unexpected things that could be harmful. Make sure you dog-proof any area used, regardless of where you decide to keep your Golden Retriever. Hold up. I wrote an article discussing how to puppy-proof your home if bringing a Golden Retriever puppy home. Also, be mindful of your living situation. While Golden Retrievers typically do not bark a lot, they can bark if left alone for too long or bored. While barking may not be a big issue if you live in a house, it can be problematic if you live in an apartment or condo with adjacent neighbors. Another issue is high temperatures, especially if living in a higher floor apartment without air conditioning. Golden Retrievers can struggle in extreme heat, and steps should be taken to ensure they are safe. So, how long can a Golden Retriever be left alone? On average, adult Golden Retrievers can be left alone for about four hours and no longer than six. Beyond four hours, someone should check on the dog and let them out. Puppies can be left alone only for 1 hour plus their age in months to a maximum of four hours before needing to relieve themselves. Imagine how important this is. What if your boss told you that you had to stay in your office for the whole workday. You and your kids could not leave to stretch your legs or to go to the bathroom. Would you consider that acceptable? Hopefully not. So, allow your Golden Retriever the same act of kindness and respect. Now, many Golden Retrievers can hold their bladders well beyond four hours. Aside from giving your Golden Retriever a bathroom break during the day, there is also a social and exercise element. Golden Retrievers are a sensitive breed of dog that bonds very closely to their owners. So, just like your Golden Retriever needs a bathroom break during the day, it should also have some social interaction and some time to stretch its legs and move about. The good news is that breaks and social interaction can be accomplished together if you have someone coming in to let your dog out. Check out his video below from Rachel Fusaro. Rachel discusses how long to leave a dog alone and offers some helpful guidance. More specifically, do Golden Retrievers do well if left alone? Typically Golden Retrievers do very well left alone provided they are taught to do so and are provided necessary bathroom breaks during the day. All dogs need some exercise, and most are very social creatures; however, some dogs are more active and sociable than others. Golden Retrievers are one of those breeds. While Golden Retrievers make excellent house dogs , there are a few things you can do to ensure your Golden Retriever adjust well to you being gone. First, take your Golden Retriever out for a walk or play session before leaving. Goldens are an active breed that enjoys being wherever its people are. But, unfortunately, that means that if your Golden is left alone all day long without any breaks or social interaction, it can develop separation anxiety. To remedy this, make sure you have someone come in to check on your Golden if you plan to be gone longer than four to six hours. There are options available in these situations, and they can easily be managed with a bit of planning and preparation. Lastly, one of the most important things you can do is provide training beforehand to mitigate separation anxiety. I wrote an in-depth article on raising a Golden Retriever puppy while working. Of course, these tips apply to older Goldens too. But many people work night shifts or may have a night away for some reason. So, can I leave a Golden Retriever alone overnight? Golden Retrievers over six months may be left alone overnight, depending on their training and personality. Some dogs may be OK, whereas others may be anxious and prefer not to be alone. Puppies under six months should not be left unattended overnight due to bladder issues and their dependence on you for care. Keep in mind that it is impossible to address every situation and dog with a yes or no blanket statement. So, in some cases, it may be doable, and in others, it is not. Context does matter as well. For example, if you have to head out for a couple of hours to help a friend with car trouble, it might not be a big issue versus working all night and sleeping all day. Do you see the difference? So, if you guess wrong and your dog hates being alone overnight, it may develop anxiety and behavioral problems. Overall, however, there are some potential concerns that owners need to be cautious of and consider. First, be mindful of how long your Golden Retriever is going to be left alone. Leaving the Golden Retriever alone all night, followed by even more solitude the next day, is not healthy for the dog. Dogs are social creatures and need companionship. The biggest issue that I see is that there are limited options to check on your dog at night, unlike in the daytime. Another issue is what has your Golden become accustomed to for its sleeping situation. For example, if your Golden Retriever sleeps with you at night or at the foot of your bed, and suddenly you are gone, how will it react? And, how will you know if your dog is becoming distressed or not? Golden Retrievers like routine and are sensitive to changes. He sleeps wherever we are and does not like to be alone at night. Nights are not the same as the day, and your Golden Retriever may become more easily distressed or scared at night versus the day much like kids , especially if you are suddenly not there. Lastly, why are you considering letting the dog stay alone overnight? Are you taking off to Vegas for a weekend? Is it a new job? Is it a short-term situation, or will it be a long-term one? Remember, lifestyle is the most significant determinant in matching a dog to a household. If a home has little to no time to spend with a Golden Retriever, consider waiting until your lifestyle is better aligned to caring for a dog. For example, consider leaving your Golden Retriever with a friend or family member. Or book a night or two with a dog sitter yes, some will watch your dog overnight, albeit usually for an increased fee. In this way, your Golden can still have its needs met and is well taken care of. Often Golden Retriever owners need to be away for more than a few hours and even a few days. Under no circumstances should a Golden Retriever be left alone for days unattended. Golden Retrievers are dependent on us for food and water and need companionship and exercise. Have someone check on the dog every 4 to 6 hours, or consider using a third party e. Yes, I understand that sometimes life happens, and we may need to be away for a few days. And, unfortunately, taking your Golden Retriever with you during these times may not be doable. I get it. Instead, have someone come in a few times a day to let your Golden Retriever relieve itself, to provide some companionship and exercise, and to feed and water it. In that case, one day can be manageable, maybe two depending on how often the dog is being checked on. Like small children, Golden Retrievers are dependent on us to meet their needs, so leaving them unattended for days should not be done. Consider this. Would you be comfortable leaving a two-year-old child alone for days? Why not? The answers to those questions are pretty much the same reasons you should not leave your Golden Retriever alone for days unattended. The most obvious option is to ask friends or family. Often our loved ones will jump at the opportunity to watch your Golden while gone. In fact, why not ask friends or family well in advance if they might be willing to watch your dog in an emergency. In this way, you know beforehand if that is an option. If it is not, then you need to consider other options. Most daycares are well equipped to board your Golden Retriever for days and offer both services. BAR posing for the owners at doggie daycare — this is his happy place. Or consider hiring someone to watch your dog while gone. Many teenagers will sit for dogs, not different from kids. Alternately, many dog walkers also offer sitting services and may take your dog in their home for a few days or provide the service at your home. For example, we recently had a wedding to attend out of town. So, while we expected to be home to pick up Bailey, we advised the daycare that we would text them to let them know if we were running late. However, we also asked a family member if they could pick up Bailey before the pm cutoff, and luckily they were able to accommodate us if required. So, either way, we had our bases covered. A bit of pre-planning beforehand can save a lot of stress and anxiety down the road. It is not a good idea to leave your Golden Retriever alone for more than a day — two max — even if someone is stopping by to check on the dog. Remember, I said earlier that Golden Retrievers are social animals and need exercise and companionship. So, what should I do with Golden Retriever when on vacation? If you cannot take your Golden Retriever on vacation with you, consider leaving the dog with friends or family, a dog sitter, a boarding kennel, or a doggie daycare. Ensuring your Golden Retriever has food and water, and its mental and physical needs are met while on vacation is essential. Golden Retrievers are dependent on us for more than just food and water. Goldens are social animals and need companionship and social interaction. Goldens also need plenty of activity and mental stimulation to meet their mental and physical needs. Goldens prefer to be where you are. More and more places are now catering to people who travel with their dogs. So, load up the van and kids, and take your Golden on vacation with you. Many hotels now offer pet-friendly suites. A little planning beforehand might result in keeping all the family together on vacation. Or consider looking into Airbnb or vacation rentals by owners. Many of these offer dog-friendly facilities. Leaving your Golden Retriever alone in the house for a few hours is not much different from home. Just be sure to create a dog-proofed confinement area and give the dog time to adjust to the new setting. In this way, you can have your dog cared for while you and the family do your vacation stuff during the day. Another option is looking into vet clinics. We were pleasantly surprised to learn that our vet clinic had set up a kennel service with top-notch facilities and a play area in the back, which is becoming more common. Putting your dog in a daycare or kennel for a half-day or day during the week or regularly is a good idea. The only downside is your Golden may love it so much that it might not want to leave with you when you get back. Final Thoughts Your Golden Retriever will be fine at home for shorter periods. Most people work for a living, and leaving their dogs home is a typical course during the week. We did this with most of our dogs as well. Provided they can have a break in the day to relieve themselves and are given water and toys to play with, they adjust very well, primarily if you have gradually taught them to be alone beforehand. So when you need to be gone for longer, find alternate arrangements so your Golden Retriever can thrive. Think of it this way. A Golden Retriever needs the basics of life: food, water, and shelter and also the basics for good health and well-being: exercise, play, socialization, and companionship. If you are leaving them alone, make sure you do some planning in advance, and you should find very few issues and plenty of options to ensure those basic needs are met while you are away. Bladder infections Depression Never punish your Golden Retriever for showing distressing signs of separation anxiety or destructive behavior due to frustration. Remember that Golden Retrievers were bred to retrieve ducks and other game birds for hunters due to their strength, stamina, and high work ethic. So how much exercise do Golden Retrievers need? The exercise requirements of a Golden Retriever depend on their age and general health. Puppies need five minutes of exercise per month of age, twice a day until they are fully grown. Adults should have at least two hours of activity per day. Senior dogs might only be able to manage minutes. Some days your Golden Retriever might want more exercise, some days less, a bit like humans! My dog will put the brakes on, sit down, and looks up at me if she gets tired during a walk. Exercise should include many fun activities, not just leash walking. If you have the option of leaving your Golden Retriever outside when you depart, it can provide him with an abundance of space to run around and feel calm. However, are they okay to be left out, or are they inside dogs? Golden Retrievers prefer to be inside dogs as they are highly social, people-loving, and prefer interaction. However, they can be outside dogs in certain climates due to their double coat, but only if you train them to stay outside from a young age and provide adequate shelter, such as a doghouse. May engage in destructive chewing of your possessions if suffering from separation anxiety. Prevents your dog from being injured if you live alongside wild animals who might attack. Risk of neighbor complaints due to excessive barking from separation anxiety, especially if you live in an apartment. Your puppy needs to be toilet trained. If they spend more time outside, you will have less cleaning up! You need a large space for your dog to be comfortable. A small yard is insufficient. An occasional bark from your backyard is excellent to ward off strangers. Your dog may chew on tree roots or destroy flowers. Your dog can get rid of any pent-up energy, especially if you buy a dog agility course or make one! Your dog may be unhappy and feel less part of the family. Pros and cons of leaving a Golden Retriever outside Where to Leave Your Golden Retriever in the Home If you prefer to leave your Golden Retriever inside when you go out, you can still manage his environment and keep him safe by containing him in a specific part of the house. Here are a few suggestions to contain your dog inside: Use a dog crate. It should be big enough for your dog to turn around comfortably and stretch out. My dog loved her crate and often went to her den to chill out or chew her KONG toys. Use dog gates. You can use dog gates or baby gates to segregate an area of your home. These allow you to section off no-go areas leaving you to decide how much freedom your puppy can have to wander around. Plus, there are a ton to choose from to suit your furnishings. Use a playpen. Some playpens can even be adjoined to a crate to make a great combination of a comfy resting place and room to roam. Some are constructed from heavy-duty metal and can be used outside, such as the BestPet Dog Pen from Amazon. I like this playpen as you can configure it into multiple shapes without using tools. The time will eventually come when you want to allow your Golden Retriever to have the run of the house. Most owners ultimately try this route. My dog was over two years old before she was allowed free reign of the house. Potential new dog owners often ask me whether they can leave a Golden Retriever for 8 hours and work full time. Golden Retrievers can not be left for 8 hours. They are highly sociable dogs and will suffer from separation anxiety. They also need ongoing care and attention, such as physical exercise, mental stimulation, toilet breaks, and food and water. You can have a Golden Retriever and work full time, but you must make alternative arrangements to care for your dog. Examples are to hire a dog sitter or dog walker, get family and friends to visit, return home on your lunch break, enroll him in doggie daycare, or work from home. Ensure you train your dog to be left alone from a young age. You could also hire a reliable dog walker. Arrange for friends and family to visit. Get family or friends to call throughout the day. Even short minute periods will be sufficient to keep your dog happy and amused. It would be super if they could take him on a walk, but a quick game of frisbee or fetch will surely do the trick to burn off some energy and prevent loneliness. Visit your dog on your lunch break. Flexible working is also a superb solution, and you can schedule when you need help. Enroll your dog at a doggie daycare center. You can usually find them in most neighborhoods. Work from home. With thousands of jobs moving to mobile workstations, working from home part of the week is a good idea. This way, you can play with your pup all day during your breaks. It also saves you from having to pay for a dog sitter. Here are a few takeaways from the article: Golden Retrievers can be left alone for a maximum of four hours. Make sure your Golden Retriever is adequately exercised and stimulated before leaving him. Be aware of separation anxiety and other health issues if you persistently leave your dog for too long. Consider hiring a dog sitter or dog-walker. Other solutions are doggy daycare, working from home, and enlisting the help of family and friends. I hope this article has given you an honest insight into how long your Golden Retriever can be left alone. Related Posts You May Like:. Final Thoughts Golden Retrievers are incredibly friendly and tolerant. They are intelligent, capable, medium-sized dogs whose life is expected to last for years. What is unquestionably loveable about Goldens is that they usually maintain their gorgeous attitudes and signature smiles even into their adulthood. Apart from all these beauties, there is one question that haunts the minds of almost every Golden owner: can we leave them alone at home? If yes, for how long? What are the risks to do so? In this article, we are aiming to go through all these questions. If you have a Retriever, read on. Can I leave my Golden Retriever alone? You can leave your Golden Retriever home alone only if you take the necessary precautions beforehand. They are possible to be left alone for almost 2 to 8 hours, depending on their age, health, and training. In other words, if a Retriever is a puppy, you may leave it for a shorter time in comparison with a healthy, adult Retriever. If you are planning to leave your dog unexpectedly, keep in mind that: Goldens need bathroom breaks every 3 to 5 hours. They should access freshwater. A cosy place should be prepared for their rest time. Their place should be safe not to let them injure themselves or break things. There should be toys there so they can play with them for entertainment. The risks are already evident. If you are reading about whether you can leave a Golden alone or not, you are almost certainly aware of the hazards and concerns. Not only can a Golden Retriever probably injure itself when left alone, but it might also damage and destroy many things in a house. It would not be so odd to return back home after a couple of hours and see your furniture destroyed, shoes and clothes damaged, and things thrown all over the house if you left your Golden home. These are only the consequences of a dog experiencing boredom, leading it to make destructive actions. The bad news is that it is not only about your house furniture and your dog getting bored a little. There are strange versions of isolation and separation anxiety your dog may struggle with. This anxiety may eventually make your dog commit more severe destructive actions. You can look for the signs the Golden shows to distinguish between boredom and anxiety. In such cases, you may need some professionals to help you. If you are going to leave your Golden Retriever for longer than 8 hours, then the best solution is to have someone check on them occasionally to see if they are fine. As time passes and your separation gets longer, the possibility of Goldens getting into trouble — or making some — increases. Also, they may get bored or injure themselves as mentioned earlier. In addition to that, they may run out of food and water in too long separations. So, what if you have no one to check on your pet? Still, there are solutions. With the continuous progression of technology these days, you can install cameras in your house and see the online status of your pet whenever you want. Even more, you can talk to your dog over the microphone if your cameras and equipment support it. Although these alternatives may help you out in emergencies, they can never replace a lovely, touching hand of a human for a dog. The care you provide for your pet in person is nothing comparable to talking to them over the camera or even having someone else check on them. Some owners may count on this as a solution too; leaving the poor dog in its crate for the whole day is probably the worst solution to find if you are going to leave the house for a long time. Although dogs love their crates, it does not mean they like to sit there forever. There are some serious issues that might happen if you leave your Retriever for a too long time in its crate. For example, it is needless to say that they should regularly go to the bathroom; if you leave them in their crate, they might inevitably dirty their place. The disaster may happen again then. The consequences are not limited to only tidiness. There are some serious health concerns your dog may go through, including hip and elbow dysplasia. Although this disease is considered to be genetic, scientists believe that the disorder may develop by other causes too. For example, some environmental factors can increase the possibility of a dog getting hip dysplasia , such as inadequate exercise, obesity, and poor nutrition. Golden Retrievers are extremely lovely and gentle, and they are always in need of continuous care and compassion. You should always keep in mind that Goldens also have deep feelings, and you should treat them just as if they are your children. Although they may sometimes chew on something or pee in your house, despite all the training, you should still bear in your mind that they did not do it on purpose. Golden Retrievers make a strong, close connection with their owner, just like almost any other dog. It can be highly frightening for them to be left alone. You can reduce the challenge for them by providing them with some toys or snacks when you are gone, but in fact, they will miss you desperately when you are absent. It is out of their control to act normally on these occasions. When left alone, Goldens are normal to get scared and think wrongly that you will never get back to them. They are going to miss you so much and get bored increasingly as they feel like they have not received your love and care for a long time. Whatever the case, they need constant love and respect to maintain their health emotionally. Some Ideas to Successfully Leave Your Retriever at Home There are several ideas to provide your pet with the comfort and care they need when you are not home. We already mentioned some ideas earlier. However, there are still more creative ideas you can try out. Let us see some options then: They Love TV Shows These days, not only are human babies in love with TV shows of their favourites, but the pets also may love one. So, why not try out this option to see if it works? Your Goldie may have a favourite TV show you already do not know about. A favourite show can make the pet entertained for a couple of hours easily. One of the best options for a dog to watch is DogTV. Apart from that, you can have your pet sit beside you and watch some shows to find out which one it loves the most. Lunchtime Break If your workplace is close to your house, you can manage to quickly get back home at your lunchtime and pay your dog a visit. You can extend your lunchtime, if possible, to cheer your dog up with some lovely touches. This simple visit can energize your Goldie as much as it can remain healthy and happy until you get back home from work. Puzzles and Games If you do simple research, you can find many puzzle games on the Internet designed specifically for dogs. This case works for older pets much better than puppies. Some puzzle games in this regard include moving different pieces to reveal the hidden treats. Your dog may play with them to get a reward. Also, there are different toys you can buy to keep your dog entertained enough during a long separation. Dog Walkers If you are constantly going to leave your house for long hours, then you are going to need some permanent solutions. Local dog walking services are found everywhere these days. You can visit one, and have someone check on your dog on a regular daily basis. They can walk, feed, and water your dog efficiently as you are not home. Although it might get a little expensive for you, it is probably worth it if you usually have to leave your Retriever alone for long hours. If your property is big enough for a dog to roam freely and get back inside in case of bad weather, then you can certainly leave it alone. Otherwise, you have to prepare your house completely for a long absence, such that your dog may never get bored, damage anything, or make any other troubles. Golden Retrievers are sensible, lovely dogs whose emotions must not be neglected. You should provide them with enough amusements, safety precautions, and entertainment ideas, and if possible, have someone check on them while you are not home to maintain their mental and physical health. More Behavior. So, how long can you leave a Golden retriever home alone safely? Golden Retrievers can be left home alone for four to six hours at a time, never exceeding eight hours. If your Golden Retriever is a puppy or a senior, they will need to be let out more frequently for potty breaks. Leaving your Golden home alone for longer than that will cause separation anxiety. This article may contain affiliate links and loyalgoldens may earn a commission if a purchase is made. Unlock your goldens natural intelligence and see just how quickly problem behaviors disappear. This is the best at home dog training I've ever used! The general rule of thumb is that adult Golden Retrievers can be left alone for around four to six hours per day. Goldens definitely should not be left alone for longer than eight hours, as they can face severe mental and physical health consequences as a result of being regularly left home alone for too long. If your Golden retriever suffers from separation anxiety, needs frequent potty breaks, or has health issues that require human assistance, then leaving them home alone for extended periods may not be a safe option at all. Separation anxiety PDF is when a dog feels overwhelmed when they are left alone, even for short periods. This syndrome is common among all breeds of dogs, but it is especially prevalent in breeds that are strongly attached to their owners, such as Golden Retrievers. If you have an anxious dog, he or she may perform destructive behavior, such as chewing furniture, going to the bathroom all over the floor, barking uncontrollably, tearing down the window shades, and more whenever they are left by themselves. Some dogs may also excessively chew or lick their body parts. Find out how to tell if your Golden Retriever is lonely or suffering from separation anxiety in my post here. If your Golden suffers from separation anxiety, leaving them home for four to six hours will be debilitating for their mental health. You may even want to consider getting a second Golden Retriever or even another dog breed for companionship Find out why a dog gets separation anxiety and how to address it. A healthy adult Golden Retriever can go hours without urinating. Some Goldens may be able to wait to urinate even longer, but that does not mean it is a good idea to regularly leave your dog in this situation. Veterinarians generally recommend that an adult dog be given a chance to pee every hours. The number of bathroom breaks your Golden will need per day, and how often, depends on their age. A good rule of thumb is that Golden Retriever puppies will need to relieve themselves the same number of hours as they are months old. However, the exact amount of time varies from dog to dog. If your Golden is a senior dog, they may lose their ability to hold it in as they age. A Golden Retriever, regardless of age, should always be given the opportunity to have an outside potty break immediately after eating or drinking. Also, remember that a new dog, of any age, will require some time to get used to her new home and routine. She may need more bathroom breaks than normal until she settles in. If possible, a great idea is to install a doggy door like this one Amazon so that your Golden has the ability to urinate or defecate whenever they need to. That being said, you might have some questions regarding your specific situation. For example, what if you work long hours? Can a Golden Retriever be left alone for a long time? Golden Retrievers actually do fine left alone if you take the proper precautions. For example, your dog will need a bathroom break every 3 to 5 hours. Also, your dog should have access to water throughout the day even if they are inside. Will your Golden Retriever get lonely? Leaving your Golden Retriever home alone takes some special consideration. Hopefully, you are considering this before you brought your puppy home. If you already have a dog, then you may need to act quickly to make the long day more pleasant for your Golden buddy. What could go wrong leaving a Golden Retriever alone? Well, these seem to be the obvious concerns that get people to ask the questions in the first place. I can think of a handful of potential disasters you could find returning home after a long day of work. Destroyed furniture Doggy-bathroom stops all over the house Damaged shoes or other clothing While you have probably already considered these potential problems, there are some other things that you may have overlooked. For example, what if your dog struggles with versions of separation or isolation anxiety I will get a little more into these in a hot second. Any kind of anxiety will likely lead to some destructive behavior while you are gone. Another thing you should consider is if your dog is house trained. A rescue dog from a local shelter may come with the benefit of being already potty-trained. This is a major upside if your lifestyle requires you to leave your dog at home alone for long periods of time. There is so much to learn when it comes to your Golden Retriever. Make sure you check out my book on what I think is the sweetest breed in the world. I explain where the Golden Retriever comes from both the myth and the reality. I also get into some of the dangerous health issues that face Golden Retrievers. Some of them are preventable if you know what to look for and catch them early enough. There is also a chapter on how dogs think and how that changes the way we train our Golden Retrievers. I am sure that you will find new information that will help you and your best furry buddy. Check it out today on Amazon. If your dog turns the house into a demolition zone while you are gone, then you need to consider a few questions: Does my Golden display signs of anxiety as I am leaving the house or when he thinks I am leaving? Look for trembling, hiding, uncontrollable bowels, pacing, or tail tucking. Some dogs act normal when you are getting ready to leave for the day, and then progressively gets worse throughout the day. This kind of behavior suggests that the dog is just experiencing boredom rather than anxiety. If you need more information about anxiety in Labradors or Golden Retrievers, check out this article on how to address some common issues related to anxiety in dogs. Remember, that some anxiety runs deeper than others, and you may end up having to get the help of a professional. However, read this first to see some of the tips I suggest when someone describes a dog with anxiety issues. Crates are no place to spend all day long One of the solutions that some Golden owners turn to is the crate. If you are going to be gone for a long, extended day, then a crate is not the solution. Your dog loves sitting in his crate if you have crate trained him correctly. For him, his crate is like your favorite chair or spot on the sectional. Gunner Kennels are the best kennel on the market, but you should not leave your dog in one of these all day long. That does not mean that you want to be pasted into that one spot for eternity. There are some really serious issues that can stem from leaving a dog in a crate for too long. Dogs have to go to the bathroom regularly. If you leave a Golden Retriever in a crate for too long, he will eventually go to the bathroom. In addition to the tidiness issues, you can also introduce serious health concerns by leaving your dog in a crate all day. Retrievers are already susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia. Although this disease is genetic, there are some studies that show the disorder can be developed in other ways. What causes hip dysplasia in dogs? The first likely culprit is bad genes if mom or dad passed it on. There are, however, environmental factors that can increase the probability that a dog gets hip or elbow dysplasia including insufficient exercise, obesity, and poor nutrition. How long is too long to leave a Golden Retriever? So, if you have no other choice but to leave your Golden Retriever home alone, then you are going to want to know how long you can leave him. That will depend on the setup you have. Consider these questions before you try to settle on how long your pup is okay on his own. Are you able to leave your dog loose, roaming the house or do you need to confine him to a smaller space? Does your dog have the ability to relieve himself during the day or does he need someone to let him out for potty breaks? Is your Golden Retriever going to get bored during the day or have you prepared some form of mental stimulation during the day? Does your Golden have access to sufficient water and food or will you have to be there to divvy out the rations? Is the temperature-controlled or will your dog be stuck outside in the event of an unexpected change in weather hotter or colder? Bored dogs can cause problems at home all alone. Is your dog going to have room to roam? If your dog can get up and wander around without a problem and even run a bit, then your Golden can stay home for a while. What if your dog is going to be confined to his properly-sized crate? If a crate is your only option, then you should not leave your Golden Retriever alone while you are at work. What about potty breaks while you are gone? If your dog can get to an appropriate bathroom place completely on his own, then this will not be a limiting factor. On the other hand, if your dog requires you to let him out or back in, then you cannot leave him alone as long. You or someone else will have to visit your dog at least every 4 to 5 hours depending on his age. Puppies will have to get out even more often than that. What will your Golden Retriever do for fun while he is alone? There are several different scenarios that might keep your dog mentally stimulated throughout the day. For example, take a KONG toy and fill it with water-soaked dog food. Then hang it from a string. The more of these kinds of things you have around your house, the longer your Retriever will be okay on his own. Can your dog take care of his thirst on his own? Unlike food where you can limit how often your dog eats to once or twice a day for older Golden Retrievers, your dog should have access throughout the day. Especially in the summer. This should be pretty easy. If you need to, just buy an extra water bowl and make sure that they are both filled when you leave. Will your dog be able to handle a sudden change in temperature or weather on his own? I know that the weatherman where you live is probably never wrong. Where I live, however, it seems like I have a better chance in Vegas than the weatherman getting the weather right on any given day. What will he do if it turns cold? What if it starts raining? Does your dog have a place to go to get out of these unforeseen turns in temperatures? Your dog needs an insulated dog house or a doggy door into your garage. Too hot or too cold can be too dangerous for your dog. If you ever wondered what is too hot or too cold, then you need to check out these articles. I explain what temperatures are dangerous for your Retriever and why they can or cannot take the different degrees. What about Golden Retriever puppies? Puppies are a totally different story. Puppies are high maintenance. You have to get them out more often. When it comes to puppies you need to establish and stick to a serious feeding and crate schedule. This is the only way for your to puppy to get the nutrition he needs to feed his growing body. Check out this video for more information on establishing a crate training schedule that will expedite your crate training success. Ways to successfully leave a Golden Retriever home alone There are several things you can do to successfully leave a Golden Retriever home alone. Some of them I have mentioned above. Leave your Goldie with some puzzles with hidden surprises. I already mentioned the KONG treat hanging from a branch in the yard or the underside of the table. This is the Trixie Activity Flip Board. Your dog has to move the different pieces to get the hidden treats. Prices on the internet change sometimes from day to day. Click here to see how much the Flip Board is today. You can fill this with treats before you leave. While you are gone, your dog has to push it around to get his reward. You can click here to see how much it is today. So, why not let your puppy in on the action. Your pooch may find a favorite TV show or movie that will keep him occupied for a couple of hours. No reason that your Golden Retriever cannot take part in a Netflix binge of their own every now and then. Here is one of their videos from YouTube. Check out their channel to see several examples of what you get from a subscription. Pet experts and scientists have designed the programming to do one of three specific things: relax, stimulate, and expose. The exposure programs can be especially helpful in your socialization program. Come home for lunch Sometimes, if you can arrange it right, you can come home during lunch and give your dog an extended break outside. If you live close enough to work or can take an extended lunchtime , then you could give your dog just enough exercise and stimulation in the middle of the day to last until you get home for the evening. Get someone to let your pooch out Depending on your relationship with your neighbors, you can ask one of them to get your dog out once or twice during the day. This is usually not a problem if leaving your dog a couple of times. Get a dog walker If you are looking for a long-term solution, then consider a local dog walking service. Depending on the options in your area, you can usually arrange for someone to come to your house every day at a specified time and walk, feed, and water your dog. Doggy daycare Now we are talking the upper-level solution to leaving your Golden Retriever during the day. This is, without question, the most expensive solution on my list. Prices will vary depending on the services that you get your Goldie. If you get a monthly package you might save on the per day cost. Bring your dog to work What if nothing I have mentioned works for you? Well, you can do what I do. Every now and then, I throw my dog in the back of the truck and take her to work. In fact, today, I took both of my dogs with me to work. There are some things that you will need to make sure of before you get carried away. For example, if your Golden is a barker, then your other co-workers will probably not appreciate you bringing your dog. Also, if your schedule is cram-packed with meetings, this is not a good option. I only take my Labradors with me if I know that I can get out of the office about every hour and a half to two hours so that my dog can get out and get out and run around for a bit. Conclusion Like everything else with owning a dog, whether or not you can leave your Golden Retriever alone depends on your specific situation. If you live on 40 acres and your dog can just run around all day long with a way to get inside if the weather turns ugly, then absolutely you can leave him home. He will thrive in that situation. There is not a cut and dry answer for every situation. But, basically, if you feel like you have to have a Golden Retriever, then you can work something out to make it work even if your job keeps you away from home. Pin me!

The mother dog was my first bitch to give birth naturally. First bitch to give birth naturally Every breeder someday has bad luck; for me it was in and .An unsuccessful litter by means of a C-section and all the pups were still-born. Then a litter with only one pup, again a C-section. I had no choice but to keep this one pup, otherwise I would have lost one of my two breeding lines. Nobody could understand why I kept Happy because she was no beauty. I knew, however, that I had never had such an energetic and tenacious bitch. From the outset, these never-ending C-sections and unnatural rearings have been a thorn in my side. To this day, many breeders believe that English Bulldogs cannot give birth naturally and would die during a natural birth. The C-section appointment is determined in advance, without giving the bitch a chance to whelp. The mother dog is often so groggy after the birth due to the strong anaesthesia that the pups are not left with the mother because of the danger of being crushed. The mother comes into contact with her pups only as a milk bar. These breeders are convinced that they are raising their pups with special devotion! On 22 July , Happy began having dilation contractions, and I telephoned my veterinarian as usual for the birth. He had gone hunting and was not available. What now? So I tried what the vast majority of breeders fear to this day. Success: my first naturally born litter with six perfectly healthy pups L1 litter , whose mother could take care of them day and night. Happy, by the way, lived to be almost 12 years old and became the first Swiss Veteran Champion. A pup has just been born. This birth and the natural rearing the mother dog was always with the pups were a sensation on Facebook. I am now looking back on the fifth generation of naturally birthing Bulldog bitches, who have, by the way, very frequently placed very high in international shows. A Complete Guide Having a litter of puppies is an exciting and tiring experience! To watch those well-rounded puppies grow and head off to their forever homes to be lifetime companions is a magical moment. The entire puppy raising process starts at birth. Bulldogs have many health issues and daily exercise is taxing on their stocky frames. With their stubby legs and small bodies, many wonder if a bulldog can give birth naturally. In general, bulldog puppies are often too large for the birth canal. This requires the aid of a trained veterinarian to perform a c-section. However, some bulldog breeds do not require c-sections and can have a natural birth. Breeding bulldogs is complicated and not always the same from start to finish. While some conditions and issues are common when our bulldogs are expecting, bulldog breeds often present a few challenges. Some issues are natural breeding, whether they can whelp naturally, and even if they are pregnant which can be surprisingly difficult to determine. Can Bulldogs Get Pregnant Naturally? While the answer is yes, bulldogs can get pregnant naturally. First, with many bulldog breeds, the chest, shoulders, and head are much larger than their hips. What this means is that the dog is usually heavier in the front than they are in the back. When a male bulldog mounts a female, his front weight pushes down the backend of the female bulldog. This makes it very difficult for them to obtain a tie. Is My Bulldog Pregnant? Unfortunately, signs are few and far between for pregnant bulldogs and all dogs in general. In fact, most signs and symptoms do not occur until your bulldog is over 40 days pregnant. However, when you start to see signs, you can quickly determine if your female is pregnant or not. If you find that your dog is napping more than usual, especially around week 3, there is a good chance she is pregnant. Morning Sickness: I already mentioned this, but dogs can have mild sickness. This means she has decreased appetite around day 21 and may vomit. Increase in Appetite: This can be difficult to determine, but as the weeks progress, you should find that your pregnant dog eats more than usual. Nipple Changes: Every dog is different when it comes to nipple changes. Some changes are early in the pregnancy and others have none until close to delivery. However, you can usually spot differences in nipples by 3 or 4 weeks. Nipples will be slightly darker and will start to look rounded in shape. Finally, you may see hair loss around the nipples as her body prepares for nursing. Changes in Temperament: Another symptom that varies from dog to dog, changes in temperament are a good sign. Often, bulldogs become clingier or go off on their own. Any abnormal behavior for your dog could be a sign that she is pregnant. Your dog gains weight if she is pregnant, but most of the weight gain is seen closer to the end of the pregnancy. Knowing if your bulldog is pregnant is tricky because female bulldogs show few signs. How Long are Bulldogs Pregnant All dogs follow the same pregnancy schedule, regardless of breed, and will usually deliver their puppies on day 63 from ovulation. Breeders follow a guideline of 59 to 70 days from the date of the first breeding. Your bulldog should deliver any time in those 11 days, but frequently, they will deliver on day .You will usually know the date of ovulation and the vet will simply do the c-section on day 63 or when the bulldog shows signs that labor is imminent. What is a Bulldog Pregnancy Like? The best way to understand your pregnant bulldog is to learn about the weeks of pregnancy. With dogs, week 1 of pregnancy starts on the day of ovulation or the day of the first breeding. Bulldogs are pregnant for roughly 9 weeks before they deliver and a lot is happening during those weeks. Your bulldog female, or bitch, is bred this week and you may notice that she is a bit tired. Life should return to normal during this week. Regular activities should continue, and your dog will eat a normal amount of food. Your dog, more than likely, is in heat for another week , but you can continue with her regular schedule. She may be her usual self and return to how she was prior to her heat. During this week the vulva stays slightly swollen However, this can be hard to notice, especially in maiden bitches. Week Three: During this time, the embryos are finally attaching to the lining in the uterus. Too much weight gain can cause complications. During this week, you can get a blood test to detect relaxin, which indicates pregnancy. A slight increase in food is all that is needed. Your female bulldog can continue her usual activities and exercise at this stage of pregnancy. Week Five: Between day 30 and 35, after the first breeding, you can schedule an ultrasound to determine if your furry friend is pregnant. With your pregnant bulldog, you should start to see some weight gain. In addition, her appetite will increase and will need more food on a daily basis. Be careful not to overfeed her. In addition, avoid any strenuous activity, but incorporate daily exercise. Your pregnant bulldog may be tired and need small, frequent meals throughout the day. Week Six: You may notice that week six is when your bulldog begins to reduce how much she is eating. To help offset this, portion her meals into more feedings per day. Mood wise, she may be sleeping more. You may find that she is very uncomfortable and should monitor her behavior to know what she needs. See also Do Bulldogs Fart? And How to Stop It! Week Seven: Week seven is similar to the previous week. Your female will be uncomfortable, and she may start looking for a quiet place to sleep. She may also become clingier than usual. When week seven arrives, you are getting closer to delivery day! You should be able to feel puppies moving and your pregnant bulldog may start losing her hair around her nipples. Now is the time to start setting up a space for her to give birth. Week Eight: If you are planning to do an x-ray, now is the week to do it. During this time, the skeletons of the puppies have calcified enough to be picked up on an x-ray. This is a great way to find out how many puppies your bulldog is having and will help you plan for the delivery or c-section. Your pregnant bulldog may start producing milk this week, however, not all dogs produce milk at this stage. Some can start producing shortly after the puppies are born. Now is the time to keep a close eye on your female. Week Nine: This is the week when your pregnant bulldog is due! She can go any time and you want to watch for nesting behavior. In addition, her temperature should spike before dropping down by about 2 degrees Fahrenheit. Even if you are planning a c-section, monitor her temperature in case your pregnant bulldog goes into labor before the scheduled surgery. Bulldog Pregnancy Cycle. References 1. Clinical and pathological effects Dystocia difficulty in giving birth can occur for a variety of reasons. Both affect the English bulldog Johnston et al and lead to a very high rate of dystocia in this breed. Abnormalities of pelvic shape have been investigated in relation to dystocia in the Boston terrier and Scottish terrier Eneroth et al but, as far as we are aware, there have been no corresponding studies in the English bulldog. The foetal factor that is most likely to cause dystocia is a large head Johnston et al .The larger the puppy the greater the risk. The English bulldog is a brachycephalic breed. Dogs with brachycephalic airway disease have a shortened and distorted upper airway, narrow nostrils, an elongated soft palate, and an abnormal larynx voice box. Secondary to these airway obstructions, these dogs can develop collapsed airways, especially involving the larynx and trachea. These defects commonly make it difficult for the breed to breathe adequately whilst undertaking normal activity. Stress caused by exercise, excitement, heat or giving birth can exacerbate this and lead to collapse and death. It is likely that a proportion of the large number of caesarean sections carried out on English bulldogs are elective procedures arranged by breeders to avoid any chance of dystocia and the risk of asphyxiation of whelping bitches as might otherwise occur during the normal birth process Harvey .Return to top 2. Intensity of welfare impact Dystocia is a severe welfare problem for the affected bitch and, if untreated, it will usually lead to her death. Treatment of a bitch that is having difficulty giving birth involves transportation of the dog to a veterinary practice for examination and imposes further stressors for a brachycephalic dog with breathing difficulties. Uterine contractions are painful and control of this pain is difficult in the home environment, so any delay in the birth process causes more prolonged and severe pain than usual. Caesarean section is usually required to treat English bulldogs with dystocia. Unplanned, emergency caesarean sections are likely to have a higher welfare impact than either natural birth or elective caesarean, and a higher death rate for the puppies. Caesarean sections are major surgical procedures and anaesthesia presents particular risks to brachycephalic dogs because of their abnormal respiratory tracts and breathing difficulties. It is likely that a significant proportion of caesarean sections in English bulldogs are performed electively. Return to top 3. Duration of welfare impact If untreated, dystocia may continue for up to hours although, as this time goes on, mortality among the puppies will increase. If a caesarean is performed, there will be pain from the surgery for some days although effective analgesia should be available. A further issue is that if live puppies have been delivered and the bitch is to rear them normally then their sucking on a teat close to the surgical wound may cause her pain in the first week, or so, after the procedure. Return to top 4. English bulldogs were found in a study undertaken in Canada and the USA, to be in the top five of the breeds most likely to have elective and emergency caesarians Moon et al .From data on estimates of total dog population in the UK and on the percentage of all micro-chip registered dogs that are English bulldogs Lucy Asher, , personal communication , we estimate that the UK population size of this breed may be around 50, Return to top 5. Diagnosis A normal labour has three stages. In the first stage, the body prepares itself for birth with the cervix relaxing and dilating. During this stage, if left alone, the bitch in the wild would seek seclusion and dig a den. The second stage involves the loss of uterine fluids, progressively more vigorous straining, and birth of the puppies. The third stage of labour is delivery of the foetal membranes and, in dogs, this stage can be concurrent with the second stage, as membranes are sometimes expelled with their puppy. In some cases of dystocia, stage two never starts and dystocia is diagnosed once a dog is recognised not to have progressed from stage one to stage two after about 24 hours. Radiographs can be used to investigate if foetal-pelvic disproportion is the cause and to help in judging if normal birth will be possible. Return to top 6. The part of the canine genome responsible for brachycephaly has been identified and two genes have been implicated Bannasch et al .There are no genetic tests to help determine which dogs are least at risk of dystocia and therefore most suitable for use in breeding. Return to top 7. How do you know if an animal is a carrier or likely to become affected? All female English bulldogs are at risk of this condition. All puppies have the brachycephalic head shape and many bitches are unable to give birth naturally because of this and perhaps also because of pelvic abnormalities. Thus it is very difficult to find a puppy which has not been born via caesarean section. Ideally only puppies born by natural birth from a bitch that did not have dystocia, should be used for breeding. Return to top 8. Methods and prospects for elimination of the problem It might be argued that breeding from dogs that had been born naturally would help to select for a strain population able to give birth naturally in the future. However, any advantages that might bring would have to be 'weighed' carefully against the risks associated with allowing all births to progress naturally rather than undertaking elective caesarians to preclude the risk of dystocia. It might be possible to assess the size and shape of the pelvises of prospective mothers, as has been described for Boston and Scottish terriers by Eneroth et al .These authors found that bitches in which the pelvis was larger vertically than horizontally were less likely to suffer from dystocia. Breeding from such dogs, and from those with the greatest pelvic measurements, might be a reasonable approach and may be helpful in reducing the incidence of dystocia. However, this speculative proposal has not been validated and might be hard to undertake in practice. As yet no such scheme is in operation. Given the high proportion of animals that appear to suffer from foetal-pelvic disproportion in this breed, efforts to breed only from a minority judged to have the best chances of giving birth naturally might risk, through diminution of the size of the breeding population, inadvertent selection for other genetic diseases. Selecting for smaller head size in puppies is theoretically possible and, if successful, would probably help in reducing the incidence of dystocia. However, this might result also in unpredictable changes to other aspects of conformation or biology. Efforts directed at reducing the prevalence and severity of brachycephalic airway disease in the breed eg by out-crossing with dogs that are not affected with this disease would probably have an impact through reducing the severity of the brachycephaly itself. Return to top 9. Return to top .References Bennett D Normal and abnormal parturition.

We invite you to visit with us and our Beautiful German Shepherd puppies for sale. On occasion we have gorgeous long coated German Shepherd puppies for sale as well. Please see our Family Reunion page to see some of our pups in their homes that we have sold over the years Throughout the years, several of our Rotterbarental German Shepherd dogs have had jobs. We have had pups that have become Search and Rescue dogs, Certified Therapy Dogs, One of our therapy dogs was used for children with cancer through Create a Smile. Please be sure and read these special dogs stories on our Dogs with Jobs page. If our dogs can accomplish these special jobs, just imagine what a Rotterbarental GSD puppy can do for you and your family. That is why our German shepherd dogs are health tested and puppies are raised in a home environment with a variety of other pets to insure proper socialization. Our puppies and dogs play on grass and not in kennel runs. Far too often, we have seen the ill effects to dogs that have lived a kennel life. Every Rotterbarental German Shepherd puppy comes to you with a 5 year written health guarantee, vaccines and de-worming up to date, a comprehensive puppy package and life time support as well as a forever home policy. We are conveniently located near you within minutes of the , the 60 and the 10 fwys on our seven acre ranch in the beautiful San Jacinto Valley, Riverside County, Southern California. You are welcome to visit us and our beautiful German Shepherd dogs and puppies with an appointment. Click here Puppies for Sale to see what pups are available today or in the future. If you are interested in fostering please fill out an online application. I was very lucky to have someone looking out for me and championing me to many rescues in search of one who might accept me into their program. I wish all the homeless animals were just as fortunate. As you can see from my pictures I can't stop smiling! I love cuddles, getting lots of love and playing outside. I'm house and crate trained and I slightly pull when we go out for walks. I do dig and dart, but have my basic commands down. The best home for me would be with active owners who do not leave me alone for more than a few hours at a time. I'm high energy and seek companionship. I need daily walks, play time and continued training. I was temp tested with other dogs and I did well. It's unknown how I would do with cats or children. I'm enjoying my new lease on life and can't wait to see what the future holds. For now I'm living life to the fullest day by day until I'm a cherished member of my forever loving family. Could that family be yours? If you're interested in meeting me, please fill out an online application. September 11, , pm.

Breeds The link has been copied! When looking into the cost of a Boxer, there are many elements to consider that can influence the final expense. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve deep into not only the initial purchase price of a Boxer puppy or adult dog but also explore ongoing costs associated with their care and well-being. As you read through this post, you'll gain valuable insights on how to find reputable breeders and identify key aspects that influence the cost of a purebred Boxer puppy. Additionally, we'll provide tips on how to potentially lower these expenses while ensuring your beloved pet remains healthy and happy throughout its life. In essence, our goal is to equip you with all the necessary information required for making an informed decision when answering "How much does a Boxer cost? The cost of a Boxer can vary significantly depending on several factors such as the breeder, bloodline, and location. PetFinder is one resourceful platform for finding adoptable dogs near you. Pet Food: High-quality dog food is essential to maintain the health of your Boxer. How Much Is a Boxer Puppy? Before committing to bringing a Boxer puppy into your home, be sure to factor in the associated costs. The purchase price of a Boxer puppy can vary depending on several factors such as the breeder, location, and bloodline. In addition to purchasing your new furry friend, there are also routine adoption fees that may apply if you choose to adopt instead of buying from a breeder. Factors That Impact the Cost of a Boxer When looking at getting a Boxer, it's important to be mindful of the various elements that can affect its price. Some key aspects influencing the price include colors, bloodline and purity, breeder reputation, and estimated size. Colors of a Boxer The color of a Boxer may affect its price as certain coat colors are more sought after than others. For example, fawn and brindle are common colors for this breed; however, white boxers tend to be rarer and may come with a higher price tag. It is important to note that American Kennel Club AKC standards do not recognize all-white or black boxers in conformation events. Breeders Reputation The reputation of the breeder you choose plays a significant role in determining how much you'll pay for your new furry friend. Reputable breeders invest time and resources into ensuring their dogs' well-being while prioritizing responsible breeding practices such as genetic testing for hereditary conditions like hip dysplasia or heart issues commonly found within this breed source. Estimated Size of a Boxer The estimated size of the adult dog can also influence its cost. Generally, larger dogs require more resources such as food, grooming services, and healthcare which may lead to higher expenses over their lifetime. According to the AKC, male Boxers typically weigh between pounds while females range from pounds. To ensure the safety of your beloved pet and protect your investment, it's essential to consider using a GPS-tracking dog collar, such as the one offered by Fi. The Fi Smart Collar V3 is designed specifically for keeping track of your dog's location at all times. It offers real-time tracking with nationwide coverage, ensuring that you'll always know where your Boxer is, even if they wander off or get lost. Battery Life: The long-lasting battery life ensures continuous tracking without frequent charging interruptions. Durable Design: Built to withstand rough play and harsh weather conditions, this collar will stay functional through various adventures with your energetic Boxer. User-Friendly App: Easily monitor your pup's location and activity levels through the intuitive Fi app available for iOS and Android devices. Taking proactive steps to secure our furry friends not only safeguards our investments but also shows that we are devoted to providing them with the highest quality of care. Boxer Breed Guide The Boxer breed is a popular choice among dog owners due to its unique personality, size, and lifestyle. This section will look at the characteristics of Boxers that make them a great pet for those with busy lives, such as professionals and remote workers. Personality Boxers are known for their playful and energetic personalities. They are highly intelligent dogs that enjoy learning new tricks and engaging in interactive play with their human companions. These dogs are loyal to family members and have protective instincts when faced with strangers or potential threats. Males stand at around inches tall at the shoulder whereas females measure about .Their muscular build makes them strong yet agile pets suitable for active lifestyles. Average Lifespan The average lifespan of a healthy Boxer ranges from 10 to 12 years but can be extended through proper care such as regular veterinary check-ups , vaccinations, grooming routines, and providing a balanced diet rich in nutrients. They enjoy activities such as running, flirt pole playing , hiking, and playing fetch with their owners. These dogs thrive in environments where they can engage in both physical and mental stimulation. Approximate Lifetime Care Costs The cost of owning a Boxer includes not only the initial purchase price but also ongoing expenses such as food, grooming supplies, veterinary care, training classes, toys, and more. How Can I Lower the Cost of a Boxer A Boxer may be costly to own, yet there are measures that can help reduce the expenditure associated with this breed, such as adoption rather than buying from a breeder and opting for an older dog instead of a puppy. By considering adoption instead of purchasing from a breeder and opting for an older dog rather than a puppy, you can save money while still enjoying the companionship of this energetic and loving breed. Adopting vs Buying From a Breeder Adopting a Boxer is often more affordable than buying one from a breeder. Choosing an Older Dog Over a Puppy Puppies may be adorable but they come with additional expenses like vaccinations and training classes. Opting for an older dog, on the other hand, offers several advantages: Vaccinations: Most adult dogs have already received their necessary vaccinations which will save you both time and money. Training: Adult dogs are usually housebroken and well-behaved, reducing the need for expensive training classes. Lower energy levels: Older Boxers tend to be calmer and require less exercise than puppies, making them easier to manage for busy professionals or remote workers. By adopting an older dog or choosing a rescue over a breeder, you can significantly reduce the cost of owning a Boxer while still enjoying their loyal companionship. Remember that every dog deserves love and care regardless of age or origin - with proper attention and commitment, your new furry friend will become an invaluable part of your life. By making informed decisions and researching the breed thoroughly, you can significantly lower the cost of owning a Boxer. Furthermore, understanding all of your options when it comes to obtaining a Boxer is essential for determining whether or not this breed is right for you financially. The Cost of Owning a Boxer As you've seen throughout this article, owning a Boxer can be quite an investment. From the initial purchase or adoption fees to routine care costs such as vet visits, vaccinations, grooming, and pet food, it's essential to budget accordingly for your new furry family member. This cutting-edge collar enables you to monitor your pup's whereabouts and activity levels, making sure they stay safe and healthy. In addition to considering Fi's GPS collar for added security measures, there are other ways you can lower the overall cost of owning a Boxer: Adopting vs buying from a breeder: Adoption fees are typically lower than purchasing from reputable breeders. Additionally, adopting helps save lives by providing homes for dogs in need. Selecting an older dog instead of a puppy: Older dogs may have reduced adoption fees compared to puppies. Plus, they often come with basic training already completed - saving time and money on obedience classes. Budgeting for preventive care: Regular check-ups with veterinarians help catch potential health issues early on before they become costly problems down the line. Frequently Asked Questions Here are the most frequently asked questions regarding boxer puppy cost What is the most expensive Boxer dog? The most expensive Boxer dogs are typically those with a strong pedigree, champion bloodlines, and exceptional physical traits. However, it's essential to prioritize health and temperament over cost when choosing a puppy. How much is a Boxer pitbull worth? It's important to research breeders thoroughly before purchasing any mixed-breed dog. How much does it cost to walk a Boxer? The cost of walking a Boxer varies based on your location and whether you hire a professional dog walker or use an app-based service like Rover. What is all about owning a Boxer? Owning a boxer involves providing proper training using positive reinforcement , socialization opportunities, regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and routine veterinary care. They are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and playful nature but also require consistent attention due to their energetic disposition. Conclusion Analyzing the variables which determine a Boxer's cost reveals that having one can be pricey. From the initial purchase price to ongoing expenses like food and vet visits, potential owners should carefully consider if they have the financial means to provide for this breed. For more helpful articles about pet-parenting tips, check out the Off Leash blog at TryFi. Want to know more about TryFi. This is the fastest way to find your dog after an escape. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. Boxers are cheerful and energetic dogs. Plus, they are incredibly athletic, so they need some serious outdoor time to run off their extra energy. Of course, no two dogs are alike, so this is just a rough idea of what to expect from the breed. So, that said, do you think you two would make a great match? Specifically, the dog would catch and hold the prey until his hunter could come and retrieve it. Therefore, if you have small animals at home, the Boxer may not be a good match for you, since he may consider them prey. This alone may be enough to convince you not to lay out the money for a Boxer. Boxer Size Full-grown, healthy adult Boxers weigh, on average, between 55 and 70 lbs. As far as height goes, they grow to a maximum of between 21 and 25 inches tall. You could, therefore, consider a Boxer to be a mid-size dog. Drum roll, please. Demand Boxers are one of the most popular dogs in the U. You may be thinking, what does this matter? It actually can, and does, have an effect on the price of the dog. For one thing, a disreputable breeder may exploit this popularity to cause the purebred Boxer price to skyrocket. You may have to wait a while if there is a long line ahead of you with the breeder of your choice. After all, a bitch can only have so many pups in a litter! Boxer Rescue and Adoption You can save yourself thousands of dollars off the Boxer cost by choosing to adopt a Boxer, rather than buy one from a breeder. However, you should be aware that you are more likely to end up with an adult dog or even a senior. Either way, you may find the American Boxer Club incredibly helpful insofar as helping you find a rescue organization or shelter near you. You can also use their website to locate a reputable breeder in your area. Checkout our Complete Guide to Breeders: We wrote the definitive guide on finding, selecting, and dealing with dog breeders. This will give you the smarts and confidence to save you money, time and heartache. For instance, you need to consider regular costs, like food and vet checkups, as well as plan for the unexpected, like sudden medical problems. Here are some of the costs of ownership you can expect as a Boxer owner. Cost of Food A Boxer is a mid-size dog. And, unfortunately, there are many health conditions that can affect the Boxer breed, such as: Allergies. Written by: Howmuchisit. Originating from Germany, it is considered as a very gentle dog, even though it may not look gentle upon first glance. On PuppyFind. Boxer puppy overview A reputable breeder should always include some sort of health guarantee, up-to-date vaccinations, a certified vet checkup, a travel crate if being shipped and registration paperwork. What are the extra costs? Tips to know: Boxer puppies will measure between 21 and 26 inches tall and can weigh up to 50 to 70 pounds, with females, on average, weighing about 20 percent less. They are known to be quite strong, powerful and are known for their smaller nose and powerful jaws. A Boxer will have a shorter, smooth and shiny coat, that can include common coat colors such brown and white, also referred to as brindle and fawn. White Boxers also exist, but most white Boxers are found to be deaf. The Boxer is known to be very attentive, loyal to its owner and highly intelligent. If healthy, the average Boxer can live 10 to 12 years. Boxers are known to be wonderful with children. How can I save money? With so many Boxers out there, consider checking out a local adoption center or rescue group that specializes with this particular breed. Advertising Disclosure: This content may include referral links. Please read our disclosure policy for more info. This range, however, is comparable to that of other large dog breeds. The ongoing expenses associated with having a Boxer puppy primarily comprise food and other necessities. However, you must also consider check-ups and pet insurance. Regular check-ups should be provided to your Boxer dog at least every two months so they remain healthy and they meet their maximum lifespan. Additionally, you should invest in pet insurance to help with the financial strain of high-priced vet expenses. Pet insurance coverage includes emergency procedures such as total hip replacement, injuries, and various illnesses. These additional costs may include pet daycare, grooming, kennel club certifications, and other necessities. Pet Sitter Fee: Pet sitters are an alternative to pet daycare. Leaving your dog with a friend, neighbor, or a professional pet sitter is an excellent option, particularly for well-behaved, socialized canines. You can hire a professional groomer instead. Emergency Medical Procedure: Serious health issues such as kidney, liver disease, or cancer can strike certain dogs without warning, and the Boxer is not exempt. If your dog has already reached the end of its prime years, expect to pay for emergency medical treatments. Apart from emergency medical treatment for certain health conditions, the expenses mentioned above are entirely optional. This implies that as you progress, you can identify strategies to avoid these expenses entirely and make additional savings. All of these sites are trustworthy, so you can rest assured that you will not come across a backyard breeder. They have been conducting research and working with healthy Boxer puppies since .They began breeding Boxer puppies in and have continued to expand, following the breed standard. This breeder maintains a close group of experts who serve as consultants of the kennel. Cimarron Boxers — Cimarron Boxers have been breeding European Boxer puppies for over two decades now. They vet their dogs and provide a 5-year health guarantee. Aside from the ones mentioned above, you can also check out our list of top Boxer breeders for more options. Meanwhile, if you advocate for rehoming, the following Boxer shelters and rescue organizations may have adult Boxer dogs available for adoption: Boxer Lovers Rescue BLR — Boxer Lovers Rescue BLR is a non-profit organization managed entirely by volunteers that assists Boxers in the Northwest states. Their principal objective is to decrease the number of homeless Boxer dogs and increase public awareness of the breed. In collaboration with volunteers and local veterinarians, this rescue provides medical care and temporary housing for the Boxers they handle. HBR was founded out of genuine love for the Boxer breed and a passion for helping reduce their suffering caused by neglect, abuse, or abandonment. You can also read our list of top Boxer rescues for more options. It includes some reputable Boxer dog rescues in the United States and some other helpful sources. Moreover, you can connect with other Boxer owners via social media groups. Surely, someone will gladly assist you in your search for this pooch. Furthermore, you might also want to read this article on how to ace your adoption application. This will undoubtedly guide you in bringing your chosen Boxer dog! Money-Saving Tips for Boxer Owners While we adore our canine companions, caring for them may become costly, particularly if they become ill. Unexpected expenses for your Boxer dog are inevitable, so you should really find ways to save money. Here are some money-saving tips you can use as a Boxer owner: Make food and treats for your dog. If your Boxer dog is a fussy eater, you will be obliged to purchase expensive wet canned food. Making homemade food and treats for your dog is one method to cut down on this expenditure. Invest in high-quality essentials. Investing in high-quality dog accessories such as a food and water bowl is an excellent way to save money. Groom your dog at home. Boxer puppies require little grooming at home. Investing the time and effort necessary to learn how to groom this puppy yourself will eventually pay off. Stick with durable dog toys. Choosing durable dog toys for playdates is essential. Consider products noted for their durability, so it would take a few months before you need to buy new ones. Visit the vet regularly. Investing a few hundred dollars in veterinary care is preferable to spending thousands on emergency medical procedures later. Routine check-ups will ensure that your pup remains healthy and fit. You can cut back on money while still providing adequate care to your Boxer. Final Thoughts The Boxer puppy cost is relatively reasonable. Except for the high maintenance requirements and grooming costs, the monthly expenses associated with having this dog are manageable. If you have assessed that you have enough savings to tend to this dog, then go contact the breeders and rescues I listed above to ask for the price of their available litter. Got leads on where to find Boxers with affordable prices or tips on how to cut down the expenses of Boxer ownership? Feel free to share them in the comment box below! My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. During its first year, a Boxer puppy will consume about pounds of food. They only need to be taken to the groomer about six times annually. This includes bathing, hair removal if applicable, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing. To save money, consider buying an at-home dog-grooming kit. If you are interested in getting health insurance for your new pet, Lemonade offers customizable insurance plans and responsive customer service. Your dog can urinate on a rug or eat your favorite pair of shoes. Ensure he always has plenty of fun toys to keep his mind occupied. But it is possible to own a Boxer on a budget while still providing it with exceptional care. You can skip the costs of bi-monthly grooming sessions by purchasing an at-home dog-grooming kit. Make DIY dog toys from old clothing. However, this is just an estimate. You can own a Boxer without breaking your budget. Be prepared for unexpected emergencies by opening up emergency savings account for your dog and getting pet insurance. Boxers make loving, loyal pets that deserve the best care money can buy. With some planning and preparation, you can comfortably bring a Boxer into your home. Less - The Boxer is exemplary in its combination of stylish elegance with strength and agility. It is square-proportioned with good substance and musculature. Its stride is free and ground-covering, with proud carriage. Its head is distinctive, with a broad, blunt muzzle and alert expression. Its coat is short and shiny. It is perfectly suited to serve as a working watchdog. The boxer is playful, exuberant, inquisitive, attentive, demonstrative, devoted and outgoing; it is a perfect companion for an active family. It can be stubborn, but it is sensitive and responsive to commands. It may be aggressive toward strange dogs, but it is generally good with other household dogs and pets. History The Bulldog is an ancestor of the Boxer; various terriers were also part of its make-up, which gives the breed its speed, agility and more graceful body. The breed was virtually ignored until World War II, when it was brought into use as a military or police dog. This helped to insure instant popularity with returning servicemen, and the breed became in demand in the United States. The contractual agreement between you and the breeder Agreement made to not breed the dog in the future Agreement made to not enter it into competitions No restrictions on the Boxer puppy Read on to see why these factors affect the price of Boxer puppies. Reputation Of The Breeder Breeders spend a lot of time and money to build up their reputation as trustworthy Boxer breeders. The more renowned a breeder is, the more they are able to charge for their dogs. However, some puppy mills and backyard breeders will shoot up their prices to appear to be reputable breeders. Therefore, you should go through a trusted association to find a reputable breeder. Do not be fooled by good advertising. The individual Boxer puppy you want to purchase must have its own papers that document its registration with the American Kennel Club. These papers cost money and will increase the price of your Boxer puppy slightly. This is important because pedigree changes the price of the Boxer puppy; I will discuss this next! Pedigree is important when it comes to determining what your Boxer puppy will look like, its temperament, and the chance of it developing genetic issues in the future as it grows up. Determining who the dam and sire of your Boxer puppy are is important in determining price. If your Boxer puppy has a champion sire or dam, then the price of the puppy will increase significantly. Champion heritage drives the price of the Boxer puppy up because the buyer is almost guaranteed to get a perfect specimen of what a Boxer should be and has a better chance at winning competitions with their Boxer puppy when it grows up. The breed, unfortunately, suffers from hip dysplasia, cardiovascular myopathy, severe arthritis, degenerative myelopathy, several cancers, and aortic valve disease. The American Kennel Club recommends that all of these tests, including thyroid screening, elbow evaluations, and certain DNA tests are all done to produce a long-term prognosis so effective preventative care can be carried out from day one. If a Boxer puppy has any health concerns, then their price will decrease, and they will often be sold for a couple of hundred dollars or so depending on the specific health issues they have. As medium-sized dogs, Boxers can leave their mothers safely at eight weeks. Many people who want to compete with their boxers will wait until the Boxer puppy is six to eight months old before purchasing them. During this time, the breeder will invest in behavioral training. When the Boxer puppy is six to eight months old, the breeder will also be able to give you a better idea of their temperament and their adult markings and ultimate size. As a result, these puppies will be much more expensive than the younger ones. Boxers will stand at 23 to 25 inches tall if they are male and .They have tall, regal-looking shoulders that slope down gently to a smaller set of hips. Their heads are quite square and are characterized by their wrinkles that make them appear confused but curious! Boxers that meet the breed standard are a fawn or brindle color with white markings on their chests, bellies, inner legs, and faces. However, the white markings may not be more than a third of their entire body. If your Boxer puppy meets the breed standard, then their price will increase because they can be used for competitions. However, if they do not meet the breed standard, then their price will be decreased, as this is seen as undesirable from a competition standpoint. The first agreement will prevent you from further breeding your Boxer puppy. The second agreement will prevent you from entering your Boxer puppy into any competitions. Both contacts will decrease the price of your Boxer puppy, as they place restrictions on what you can and cannot do with your puppy as it grows up. There are many other costs associated with owning a Boxer! One-Time Bring Home Costs There are a number of things you will need to purchase before you even pick up your Boxer puppy to make them feel more comfortable and happy in their new home! Fortunately, a lot of these items only need to be purchased once or twice, like food bowls and crates, for example. Here is a list of some of the vital things you need:.

If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn More Are you looking for adorable Labradoodle puppies in Indiana? All of them follow ethical breeding practices and make sure that their puppies come from healthy, carefully screened parents. For this, ethical Labradoodle breeders in Indiana conduct rigorous health and genetic testing on their breeding dogs. Only dogs who have passed with flying colors are used for breeding purposes, which greatly reduces the risk of the puppies inheriting any genetic conditions or hereditary illnesses. Some breeders even offer a three-year health warranty! All of these organizations require that their member breeders follow their strict health testing standards, ethical breeding practices, and provide the pups a nurturing, loving, and safe environment to grow up in. Additionally, some breeders also post their customer testimonials on their websites. Chestnut Hill Labradoodles is a Puppy Culture breeder and also utilizes important puppy rearing techniques from Avidog. They make sure that all of their pups are properly socialized with children, adults, elderly, and other dogs before adoption. They also implement various enrichment methods, such as potty training, crate training, Early Neurological Stimulation ENS , regular grooming, household desensitization, and more. What Makes This Breeder Unique? Puppies receive their age appropriate vaccinations, dewormings, a microchip, free pet insurance for 30 days through Trupanion, and early spaying or neutering. This way, you will know what to expect and if this is the right breed for your home. Ashford Manor Labradoodles Ashford Manor Labradoodles is one of the breeding centers you can rely on if ever looking for labradoodle dogs in Indiana. They have been in this industry for a long time now, which means they have already established a reputation among dog lovers. They have a wide variety of Labradoodle puppies for sale, and that is why you will never have a hard time choosing from them. Ashford Manor only works with the top Australian Labradoodle lines, and they go through every procedure to a tee. The dogs would not be unaware of this, but they get improved genetics in terms of superior hypoallergenic and non-shedding hair. In addition, they maintain a small breeding program to give each puppy the attention and socialization it requires for them to grow up to be loving, loyal pets. Ashford breeds multigenerational mini and medium-sized Labradoodle puppies. A professional trainer guides these pedigree puppies in fluffy, allergy-friendly, and non-shedding coats. Each puppy comes with a 2-year genetic health guarantee. Address: West Columbia St. This is why Chestnut Hill Labradoodles is one of the top breeders on the list. Chestnut Hill Labradoodles is located in Indiana, and they can provide you with all the information you need about their services and products. The puppies learn through positive reinforcement and puppy culture training because the first sixteen weeks are so important. They are best known for their multigenerational mini, medium, and standard-sized Labradoodle puppies. Not to mention that this Gold Paw enterprise is one of the favorites in Indiana for Labradoodle puppies. In addition, they offer a two-year health guarantee. Not only do they provide excellent services, but they also offer different types of puppies, depending on what you are looking for. Daffodil Hill Australian Labradoodles are popular for their mini and medium-sized puppies. They are multigenerational hypoallergenic dogs that are not only friendly but also intelligent. Each puppy will be part of your family for the rest of its life. They breed only the finest Australian and American multigenerational non-shedding Hypoallergenic miniature and medium Labradoodle for sale. Its mission is to provide loving families with the healthiest and best-natured Labradoodle pups in Indiana. Forever Friends uses a gentle and kind temperament to ensure that the puppies are comfortable in every situation, which is why Doodles from Forever Friends make excellent family pets. They breed F1, F1B, and multigenerational labradoodle puppies in both mini and medium sizes. They provide excellent services, but their pups are also highly intelligent and make great family pets. Furthermore, they guarantee their puppies for two years from genetic diseases. If you have allergies, the Harvest Labradoodles are perfect for you because they are non-shedding and very friendly, making them ideal as family pets. Address: Located on a small family farm in Madison, Indiana. Phone: Website: www. We hope that you will find it helpful to adopt one of these non-shedding and hypoallergenic dogs. They will be perfect as your new family pet, and they will have a positive impact on your life. Smaller Labradoodle breeders in Indiana offer advantages such as greater specific care for each puppy and a feeling of becoming part of the family when you buy from them. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. These days I have two adorable fuzzy rascals around me, that ensures I get plenty of exercise and laughter throughout my day! Legal Information The owner of this site, LabradoodleHome. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Labradoodle Home does not intend to provide veterinary advice. All articles and posts are aimed at giving users a better understanding of their dogs. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Amazon OneLink. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Marion Indiana and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. Ashford Manor offers important services that benefit you, your puppy, and your family! Puppy Bootcamp Your puppy is already socialized and prepared for family life, but this takes it a step further. For an additional fee and in four weeks, your puppy will begin to know basic commands. Grooming Services Australian Labradoodles are groomed in a special way. Many groomers do not this, but we do. Try us out! It takes time to search for the best products for your dog. We understand that. She is amazing, wonderful, and adorable. Nothing seems bothers her: not the noise, car horns, police sirens, fire engines, or motorcycles. You should hear all the comments I get from people who stop me to ask what breed she is and tell me how cute and beautiful she is. He is totally crate trained, and has very rarely had an accident inside. He slept the first night and every night from 11pm-6AM better than any of my 4 kids! People with dogs say that we are very lucky and have such a great dog! She is always the smartest one in the class as she is such a quick learner! Izzy is pretty much completely potty trained — she regularly rings the bells — though she has figured out that ringing the bells get her the attention she likes, so she does that for fun sometimes too. He is just a doll and the grand kids love him. Kids absolutely adore her — thank you for such a wonderful puppy. Our breeding program includes Labradoodles from Tegan Park and Rutland Manor, the originators of this clever breed. We are dedicated to preserving the Australian Labradoodle, by insuring sound breeding practices, excellence and the highest standard of ethics. Our dogs and puppies live in our home as loved pets. They are well socialized and used to children and other animals. Proper socialization is important to the puppy you will adopt so much attention is given to your new puppy. While in our home we take the utmost care of your new puppy. Your little prince or princess will be treated like royalty. You can be assured that the best care and attention is given to all aspects of breeding, and that we are devoted to advancing and preserving this unique breed. Only sound Labradoodles are allowed to participate in our breeding program. Our adherence to these policies backs up our guarantee in providing only the best Australian Labradoodles. It is my goal to produce the finest companion for your family and am honored that so many families come to me for their puppy. Australian Labradoodles. They also have training available and love to say their dogs are born to be therapy puppies, service puppies, or family companions. They offer training and a wealth of information on the breed, their dogs, and their process. On their site, they have more information on various subjects a new puppy owner might want to see and a guardian program for their pups. These puppies go to special professional trainers who teach them basic skills, obedience, and therapy work. Look for breeders who have been in business for a few years and have a great track record. Ask for references from past customers and check the local breed club for more information. Also, ensure the breeder provides a health guarantee and a contract outlining the terms of the sale. Puppy Mill Red Flags It is essential for potential Labradoodle owners to be aware of puppy mill red flags to ensure that their pup is coming from a reputable source. Puppy mills are inhumane and often breed puppies in overcrowded, unsanitary conditions. Red flags to watch for include: Large numbers of puppies for sale; Limited information about the parents of the puppies; Unwillingness to let you visit the facility; and Lack of knowledge about the breed. Tips for New Labradoodle Owners For new Labradoodle owners, there are a few tips to help ensure that your pup has a great start in life. First, be prepared for a lot of energy! Labradoodles are active and playful, so be sure to give them plenty of exercise and playtime. Labradoodles are intelligent and eager to please, so positive reinforcement and consistency are key. Start with basic commands like sit and stay, and gradually increase the complexity of the commands once your pup masters the basics. Crate training is a great way to house train your Labradoodle because it gives them their own safe space. In teaching potty training, establish a routine and schedule and be consistent with it. Use rewards to reinforce positive behavior and keep distractions to a minimum. Be patient, as it may take some time for your pup to learn the basics of potty training. The cost of a Labradoodle varies depending on the breeder, coat type, size, and color. The breeder may provide a list of items you should provide, and they provide things like a collar, leash, and a sample of food to help transition them to their new diet. What is the downside to a Labradoodle? Like any breed, Labradoodles come with their own set of pros and cons. They are highly intelligent and active dogs, so they need plenty of mental and physical stimulation. They can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for too long. They can be expensive to purchase and maintain because of their grooming needs and potential health issues. However, with proper training, socialization, and exercise, Labradoodles can be wonderful family pets. Are Labradoodles good house dogs? Yes, Labradoodles make excellent house dogs! I have a friend that has a Labradoodle, and he is the best dog. These are loyal, loving, and very intelligent companions. What is the lifespan of a Labradoodle? The average lifespan of a Labradoodle is about years. The breed is usually healthy but can be prone to specific health issues, such as hip dysplasia, eye problems, and skin allergies. Regular vet checkups and following a healthy diet and exercise plan can help keep your Labradoodle happy and healthy. Are Labradoodles suitable for first-time owners? Labradoodles can be an excellent choice for first-time dog owners. Their intelligence makes them easy to train, and they can make great companions with the right amount of exercise, stimulation, and grooming. A professional trainer will help you with any issues that may crop up, though you should start training your pup as soon as possible. They are also very loyal and loving so they will form a strong bond with their owners. Can I leave a Labradoodle at home all day? Labradoodles need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, so it is not recommended to leave them at home all day. They can become anxious and destructive if left alone for too long. This can usually be achieved by a friend or dog walker coming in the middle of the day to walk them for you. Conclusion While looking to buy a Labradoodle in Indiana, you have plenty of great options! Each breeder offers something unique, from extensive health tests to lifetime support and ethical breeding practices. We hope this guide has helped you find the perfect pup for you and your family. Best of luck in your search for the ideal life companion! She currently owns three dogs a greyhound, saluki, and golden mix and has gone through several types of programs to further her education in the pet world. Leave a Comment. Questions about Labradoodle puppies for sale in Indiana? We have answers. Give me an overview of Labradoodle puppies for sale in Indiana. Soft, Cuddly, Cute Australian Labradoodles are famous for being cute, but just wait until you see our puppies! Extremely Intelligent Aussie Labradoodles mix the smarts of the Poodle with the trainability of breeds such as the Labrador Retriever, combining to create one super-smart puppy. The Uptown Family Bringing home one of our Labradoodles automatically makes you a part of our family. Perfect Family Pet Adaptable and laid-back, Australian Labradoodles can fit right in with almost any family—from those with lots of kids and pets, to solo globetrotters, to retirees looking for a quiet companion. Labradoodles just love people, no doubt about it. Highest Indiana Labradoodle Breeder Standards We enforce strict standards to keep both our parent Doodles and puppies in tip-top shape. That means making sure our mommy dogs live in awesome guardian homes, that our pups enjoy the best conditions possible, and that we have breeding age and litter limits for our mommy dogs. We do that by focusing on the traits that make Labradoodles so awesome, while attempting to minimize and eliminate genetic diseases. We also offer older trained pet puppies!!! The hard part is already done for you! She is already crate trained sleep through the night and is doing excellent on potty training with no accidents in over a week!!! She is learning to walk on a leash and getting well socialized. For more info on this sweet girl call Pat at .See our facebook page for more pictures and updates! Uriel loves her humans! She likes to be a shadow and be right by anyone in the house! She enjoys car rides and snuggles! She loves to run and play outside and then cool off on the air conditioning vent! She would do best with older children and adults. Her very favorite activity is laying on the bed next to her human and snuggling in for a long nap! For more info call Pat at .This little girl is just so much fun! Ursula is a fun loving, spunky, playful girl, that would thrive in an active family. She would also love a family that has another dog for a playmate. Ursula loves car rides and loves to play with her toys and retrieve them for you! She is doing well with crate training, and potty training and learning to walk on a leash. For more info on making this fun loving girl a part of your family call Pat at .Possibility of all colors solid and parti. Call Pat at to reserve a puppy. We take calls 7 days a week from 9am-9pm. We are on Eastern time. Puppies expected winter See our facebook page for more pictures and updates! We reserve the right to retain potential breeding stock puppies from any litter. We reserve the right to deny anyone one of our puppies. We also reserve the right to change mating pairs based on circumstances.

Keep reading to discover a reputable breeder in your area and see where boxer puppies are for sale in California! This small family-owned kennel focuses on improving and maintaining the Boxer breed via regular genetic testing, careful breeding practices, and a rigorous puppy placement process. Website: TelstarBoxers Telstar Boxers is a family-operated Boxer breeder in Temecula with a long history of producing healthy, well-trained pups. Their intense adoption policies ensure that only the most capable and caring pet parents end up with Telstar Boxer puppies. Notably, they also offer white Boxer pups at lower prices than their dark-furred puppies, making them one of the most affordable options for Californian pet parents. But in addition to the convenient location, Soleil Boxers is preferable due to their professional practices. Should you ever need to surrender your Boxer, Soleil Boxers will gladly accept the pup back into their care to make sure that it continues to receive the best care. This area is home to dozens of farms and ranches, making it an excellent place for boisterous Boxer puppies to grow up. Pet parents who want to breed Boxer dogs can also purchase studs from Encore Boxers. Things to Consider When Choosing Boxer Breeders Before you place a deposit on a Boxer puppy, be sure to take a little time to research your chosen breeder. Unfortunately, not all dog breeders are reputable, and purchasing a Boxer from an untrustworthy breeder can be a dangerous endeavor. For example, purebred Boxer dogs can develop hyperthyroidism , aortic stenosis, and hip dysplasia. However, many of the most severe health problems are entirely preventable with regular genetic testing. The best Boxer breeders in California test the DNA of their breeding pairs before allowing them to produce offspring, preventing them from puppies with life-shortening degenerative diseases. When adopting a Boxer puppy, ensure that your chosen breeder invests in genetic testing. Public Reputation Do you know what people are saying about your preferred Boxer breeder? Instead, they ensure that each puppy finds their ideal pet parent match. This process is typically done via an in-depth vetting process that may consist of a lengthy application or an at-home visit. In Summary—the Best Boxer Breeders in California The Boxer breed often gets a bad rap, but purebred Boxer pups from reputable breeders are often some of the gentlest and well-behaved dogs on the face of the earth. And those living in The Golden State have the good luck of having several trustworthy Boxer breeders from which to choose! Taking these additional steps before buying a Boxer dog can ensure that your new four-legged family member lives a long and happy life. Related Posts. A note to all those on the waiting list. We are so sorry the website was temporarily shut down. We were having technical difficulties, So happy its back on. But we were always here to continue breeding for your fur baby. Thankyou for being patient, always look forward to helping you. We are Sublime Boxers, a family orientated breeder. We love placing our boxers with loving homes. Show quality dog, or family pet, we got them! We do a lot for our dogs. Our adult dogs get wormed every three months and updated on their shots. Momma dogs get extra worming before and during their litters to ensure the pups get less-to-none of those nasty worms that are certain in every puppy dog or cat. Then, pups get their regiment of worming before they go home, as well as their 1st puppy shot. All adult dogs are on NuVet, which is a vitamin with antioxidants to ensure the puppies are at their best before they go home. We also give you a puppy pack to get you started with your new puppy. Contents include a bag of food to lessen the stress of a new environment. All our dogs are loved, have large pens, and run around our 1-acre yard. We spray throughout the year to keep the fleas and flys at bay, as everything can affect the dogs and puppies. We have had nothing but excellent comments from owners, telling us how fantastic their puppy is in looks, smarts, temperament, and loving nature. That is why we take great pride in our dogs. Through selective breeding, we have kept an excellent line of boxers with a lovable temperament that has been consistent throughout the years, including even out most recent litters of puppies. We also give a one-year health guarantee, that you can extend to 2 years if you keep your puppy on NuVet, which is a supplement that helps your puppy with the stress of growing up by building its immune system. We hope that we can help you with finding your next loved pet.

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Usually, when we think of a Labradoodle, we think of a dog with the friendly temperament and work ethic of a Labrador retriever with the low-shedding curly coat of a poodle. However, it is not always possible to predict what characteristics a hybrid dog will inherit from their two parent breeds. First generation Labradoodles are just as likely to have the coat of a Lab as a Poodle. A straight hair Labradoodle is a mixed Lab-poodle dog that has inherited the straight coat of their Lab parent. They are also called a flat coat Labradoodle. This means they have a high-shedding coat rather than the hypoallergenic coat of Labradoodles with curly hair. But aside from their coat, they have the same overall personality and temperament profile as other Labradoodles. Read on for our complete profile and what exactly to expect from a straight hair Labradoodle. Vital Statistics Breed: Mixed breed of Labrador retriever and poodle Size: 21 to 24 inches for a standard Labradoodle smaller variations also exist Weight: 50 to 70 pounds Coat: Medium to long scruffy coat that is high-shedding Color: Chocolate, cafe, parchment, cream, gold, apricot, red, black, silver, chalk, lavender, blue Life Expectancy: 10 to 15 years Potential Health Issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, eye issues Temperament: Intelligent and friendly Energy Levels: High; at least one hour of exercise a day Attachment: High; does not thrive when left alone History Of The Breed Labrador retrievers were bred in England in the 19th century from dogs imported from Canada. The result is a breed with a soft mouth and strong work ethic that loves the water. Meanwhile, the poodle is an older dog breed that originates from either France or Germany their exact origin is in dispute. The breed seems to have been around from the 15th and 16th centuries and was a popular lap dog pet by the 18th century. The poodle is highly intelligent and sensitive, making it an excellent companion. The Labradoodle was created in the s by bringing the two dogs together to try and reduce the shedding of Labradors while maintaining their characteristic intelligence and friendly personality. They became popular in the late s when breeder Wally Conron introduced them to the Royal Guide Dog Association of Australia as a new working dog. Labradoodle Breeding Genetics There are a variety of different classes within a mixed breed dog family. The first is a F1 mix, which is a mix of the two parent breeds. In this case, it means a Labrador retriever parent and a poodle parent, though they could be standard or smaller in size. An F2 Labradoodle comes from breeding two F1 Labradoodles. As you head further down the breeding line, you are less likely to encounter Labradoodles with straight coats because this is one of the traits breeders usually control for. One of the purposes of mixing Labs and poodles was to try and control the high-shedding coats of Labradors, so breeders will usually favor the low-shedding poodle coat. Size And Weight The size and weight of a Labradoodle depends principally on whether the poodle parentage is that of a standard poodle, or of one of the smaller types of poodle. Labradors will measure between .Poodles come in standard, medium, miniature, and toy sizes. Standard poodles are quite large. They measure 18 to 24 inches in height and weigh 44 to 70 pounds. Mixing a Lab with a standard poodle will get you a standard Labradoodle, which measures 21 to 24 inches and can weigh 50 to 70 pounds. Medium poodles measure 14 to 18 inches tall and weigh 33 to 42 pounds. Miniature poodles are 11 to 14 inches tall and weigh 26 to 31 pounds. Toy poodles are 9. Introducing one of these poodles into the Labradoodle mix results in smaller dogs. The smaller poodle will always be the mother to ensure a safe birth. Read our full guide to the different sizes of Labradoodles here. Coat And Color In theory, a Labradoodle can inherit the tightly curled and low-shedding coat of their poodle parent or the straight double coat of their high-shedding Labrador parent. Most of the Labradoodles you come across will have the poodle coat because this is a trait breeders specifically control for. But in some rare cases, the coat may show up as an anomaly further down the line, or a breeder may favor this characteristic. Labradoodles with straight hair will more or less look like they have a medium-length scruffy coat, which makes them look a little like a teddy bear. What exactly the coat will look like can vary. It may look a consistent length over their face and body, or it may sprout in longer tufts in some areas or feather along the tail, legs, and face. The coat might be slick and glossy or have a more matte and flat finish to their coat. It is worth noting that while their coat is straight, they will probably not have the double coat of a Labrador. This means less seasonal change and less shedding than a Labrador. But straight hair Labradoodles will still shed a lot and need to be brushed regularly to remove excess hair and stop them from leaving it everywhere they go! But even with regular brushing, dog hair will be a part of life. On the positive side, they do not need to be taken for a professional cut as often as their curly-haired cousins. Additionally, they can be a variety of different colors. While black, chocolate, and yellow are most common, they might also be cafe, parchment, apricot, red, silver, chalk, or blue. Intelligence Labradoodles are known for their intelligence, since both Labrador retrievers and poodles are considered among the most intelligent dog breeds. Labradors are also eager to please and thrive when they have work to do and receive reward. This makes them highly trainable. Poodles can be a little more independent in their thinking and therefore less cooperative, but they are still sensitive to humans. But despite this, Labradoodles tend to be about as easy to train and control as Labradors. This makes Labradoodles great working dogs for disability assistance and search and rescue. It also means they are excellent and obedient pets, even for first-time owners. Temperament Both Labradors and poodles have a friendly temperament and never tend to be aggressive. They bond quickly with their people. For poodles, this bond can be quite exclusive, and they may be a little bit wary of strangers. Labs, on the other hand, tend to like everyone. This means Labs and their Labradoodle offspring make terrible guard dogs, even if they inherit a little poodle wariness. This means if a Labradoodle is barking, it is usually for a good reason, and you should pay attention. Labradoodles are friendly with children, and they also get on well with other animals. They are more likely to form a close bond with the house cat than chase them around the yard. Socializing your Labradoodle from a young age can foster this behavior. Just like their parent breeds, Labradoodles bond with their humans intensely. They can develop destructive behaviors if left at home for eight hours a day while the rest of the family is at school or at work. They do better in homes where there is usually someone around or if they can go to work with someone. So, while they benefit from outdoor space, they will need to be inside the house. This is something to bear in mind with a straight-hair Labradoodle, since they will shed. Diet And Exercise Labradoodles are high-energy dogs that need lots of exercise, usually a minimum of 60 minutes a day. Also, this should involve running, jumping, pulling, and searching, and not just a casual walk. Labradoodles are adventurous and will enjoy accompanying the family of hikes and day trips. They also love to swim! Their straight coats are actually made to repel water. This means it is easy for them to overeat and put on excess weight. This is not good for their heart and other organs and can also put unnecessary strain on their joints, leading to mobility issues. Remember that all the treats you give them during training or just because you love them also contain calories! Want to know more? Read our guide to the Labradoodle lifespan and what to expect from each life stage. FAQs What is a flat coat Labradoodle? A flat coat Labradoodle is a Lab-poodle mixed breed dog that has inherited the straight hair coat of their Labrador parent rather than the curly coat of their poodle parent. Is an F1 or an F2 Labradoodle better? F1 Labradoodles often tend to be healthier than F2 variations of the dog. But breeders are better able to control for certain characteristics with F2 dogs, so their appearance and temperament can be more predictable. Straight Hair Labradoodles It is very difficult to tell whether a Labradoodle puppy will grow up to have the curly coat of a poodle or a straight coat of a Labrador. So, you may be expecting one and end up with the other. Alternatively, if you are just a fan of the teddy bear look of a straight hair Labradoodle, you can seek one out. Regardless of their coat, Labradoodles have the same wonderful personalities. They are friendly and will want to spend as much time as possible at your side. They are easy to train and will very quickly feel like members of the family. Just remember, if your Labradoodle has straight hair they will shed. Brush them regularly to keep their shedding under control. Read our guide to how much Labradoodles cost. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Learn how your comment data is processed. Keep in touch. After a week, the papers came through, and it turns out we adopted a Labradoodle! We are happy to have an Oodle dog, but it was a surprise! My labradoodle puppy has straight hair?! I googled and came across your video about Goldendoodle coats and wondered if it is the same situation for Labradoodles — and should we expect the dog to shed? We were prepared for a shedding Labrador, so we are not too fussed, just curious. PS our dog sleeps at the foot of our bed too. Here are the expanded answers to your straight hair Labradoodle puppy question! And interesting to know that your dog sleeps at the foot of the bed Labradoodle Puppies Can Have Three types of Coats Like other Poodle mix breeds, Labradoodle puppies will have one of three types of coats. Curly Wavy Straight A curly coat is the most Poodle like, and a straight coat is the most similar to the coat of the Labrador. A curly coat Labradoodle will likely not shed at all and are the best suited for a household that needs a zero shed dog. There is no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic dog, but a curly coat Labradoodle is often very close. Many allergies come from dander proteins found in dog saliva not just in the coat. We need to remember that there is no guarantee that any dog will ultimately be allergy-friendly. A Labradoodles puppy coat can be straight without any curl at all. Often these dogs will look precisely like a Labrador coat and color. You will see some of the lithe skinny and thinner Poodle skulls and body features. The coat of a Labradoodle does change over time. There is a transition from a Labradoodle puppy coat to the adult coat. This is similar to the Goldendoodle and other Poodle mix breeds. Although there is a coat change, the actual type of coat will not change. A Labradoodle with a curly or straight coat will not turn into another coat type. So if you have a Labradoodle puppy with a straight coat, in general, the type will not change to a noticeable extent. If the puppy is non-shedding, the older dog will likely be non-shedding too. The same goes for a shedding straight coat Labradoodle puppy — do not hold out for a coat change as it is unlikely to come. The type of coat change is gradual. The puppy coat transition for most Labradoodles will not be noticed by the owners. It typically occurs around months of age. Spend a little extra time brushing out the coat at this time. A slicker brush and a stainless steel comb are the best ways to easily brush a Labradoodle like a professional. Which generation of Labradoodle is a straight coat? When a Labradoodle presents with a straight coat, it resembles the Labrador parent. The straight coat genetics are all from a Labrador Retriever. This is why the generation of Labradoodle most likely to have a straight coat is the F1 Labradoodle. An F1 Labradoodle is the first generation. This means one parent was a Poodle, and the other was a Labrador Retriever. A strict F2 generation Labradoodle can also have genetics. Still, you will typically see an increase in Poodle genetics by F1b integration into the breeding. F1 Labradoodles can have any type of coat from curly and wavy right through to pure straight coat. When people think of Labradoodles, they are often thinking of an F1b or F2 generation Labradoodle. It is, therefore, far more likely that an F1b Labradoodle is a wavy or curly coat. It is relatively uncommon for an F1b Labradoodle to have a shedding straight coat! Do Straight Coat Labradoodles Shed? A straight coat Labradoodle will likely shed. They might shed less than a full blood Labrador. Still, compared with other generations of Labradoodle, there will be more hair shedding. Some owners say that they still find even shedding straight hair Labradoodle to be less allergy-inducing than a typical Labrador. Because straight-haired Labradoodles are genetically prone to shedding — it would be incredibly lucky and rare to find a straight hair Labradoodle that did not shed. A super cute miniature Labradoodle named Max Do straight coat Labradoodles have a double coat? Straight coat Labradoodles have individual hairs that extend from the external right through to the skin. Labradoodles, in general — do not have a double coat. A straight coat Labradoodle will have a single coat as an adult. Although you might see a seasonal or winter coat change for a straight coat Labradoodle, it is unlikely to be very significant. Most owners who notice a difference just see a small increase in the volume of hair released when they groom their Labradoodle. A slicker brush and steel comb is the simple way to groom any Labradoodle, from curly coat right thought eh straight coat. Learn the Labradoodle ! Benefits of Straight Coat Labradoodle? There is one benefit of a straight coat Labradoodle that can be very important to some owners. Compared with other Labradoodles, the straight coat Labradoodle is very low maintenance. Labradoodles can come in a wide variety of coat colors and textures each adorable and unique in their own way. One of these varieties is the straight hair Labradoodle. A Labradoodle with straight hair, also known as a flat coat Labradoodle, is the subject of much confusion and many misconceptions. Can Labradoodles Have Straight Hair? Since the Labradoodle is a mixed breed between the Labrador Retriever and the Poodle, some puppies will naturally take on more traits from each of their parent breeds. Some will have straight, flat coats like the Lab, some will have curly coats like the Poodle, and some will have wavy coats that fall somewhere in between. Russ is a flat coat black Labradoodle. Photo courtesy of adventurussdoodle on Instagram. Are Labradoodles Always Curly? In fact, it can come in a variety of textures ranging from straight, to wavy, to curly. Many breeders strive for Labradoodle puppies that have curly hair, as many prospective owners prefer them due to their likelihood of being non-shedding and allergy-friendly. This is why you may notice more curly Labradoodles rather than straight haired ones. Photo courtesy of nednoodlethelabradoodle on Instagram. As a Labrador Retriever and Poodle cross , Labradoodles inherit traits from both of their parent breeds. Coat texture is just one of the many traits that can differ not only from litter to litter but from puppy to puppy. Since this gene is inherited from the Poodle side, a Labradoodle puppy with Cu Locus will have a coat that is more wavy or curly in texture. Reputable breeders perform genetic testing on the parents in an attempt to produce healthier and more desirable puppies. More often than not, breeders strive for curly coated Labradoodle puppies since they are more likely to be low-shedding and allergy-friendly than flat coated puppies. This is why breeders will sometimes refer to straight coat Labradoodles as having improper coats. Genetics are tricky to predict and no breeder can guarantee a certain coat type. However, which generation your Labradoodle is will drastically influence the odds of them having a flat coat. You can also look for a breeder that backcrosses Labradoodles to Labrador Retrievers. However, those parings are extremely rare. Keep in mind that many prospective owners are looking exclusively for curly haired Labradoodles. Are Straight Hair Labradoodles Hypoallergenic? While no Labradoodles can be considered completely hypoallergenic, straight haired Labradoodles have a greater risk of triggering allergy reactions than curly haired Labradoodles. On average, a Labradoodle with a flat coat will still be more allergy-friendly than a purebred Labrador Retriever. Straight Hair Labradoodle Shedding Straight hair Labradoodles will likely shed a moderate amount, but usually not as much as a purebred Lab. What is a Straight Hair Labradoodle? Some may have a scruffy look where tufts of hair sprout out of their body, while also having a short wavy or curly fur undercoat covering their body. Other straight hairs are completely covered in medium-long fur, that grows consistently all over their face and body. Their coats can range from straight to wavy hair, similar to a labrador. They can also be slick and glossy, or flat and matte, with feathering along the tails, and around the legs and face. Typically a straight coat will vary in length and thickness, with no two dogs from the same litter being guaranteed to have the same type of fur growth. As puppies, straight hair coats will not begin to grow out their hair until they are eight weeks old. By the time they are 12 weeks old, it will be clear as to what sort of coat the puppies will have. No, not all labradoodles have curly fur. They have both fur and hair actually. You may have noticed that I have been freely switching between the two during my explanations. This is because hair and fur are the same thing. Can Straight Hair Coats be Shaved? Typically the answer will be no. If you live in a hot country, then during the summer times, it might be worth considering to give them a trim. Not a shave! Just a light trim to help stop their bodies from over heating. The fur coat, actually protects their skin from sun burn, and helps to prevent it from drying out, which can cause skin conditions. Clean up the hair around the dogs face, in particular around the eyes, if it has bushy eyebrows, and around the muzzle. It is best to look at reducing the length of the fur in areas that can could cause health problems or discomfort, if the fur was to become clumped up and mattered. How to Best Control Shedding? Straight haired labradoodles shed a lot more than any other labradoodles. As tempting as it may be to shave your furry companion to help counter shedding. It nonetheless remains inadvisable and should be avoided. It can be lessened however. Just as we humans shed hair, so will a healthy and happy dog. Throughout the year, your pooch will continue to shed hair, more so as the weather warms up and their winter coat falls out. To counter this, get in the habit of giving your dog regular grooming. A little bit of brushing can go a long way. It removes loose hair, and helps to re-affirm the bond between you and your dog, as they enjoy the attention and can even find the grooming to be relaxing. Bathing your dog should be kept to a minimum as the shampoos and warm water can lead to dry skin and other skin conditions. Instead take your dog for swims or use lukewarm water to rinse off their coats. The most important thing to remember is to keep your dog in a comfortable environment, as stress can cause a dog to shed even more. A good diet helps to promote stronger hair follicles and a shinny coat, that can help reduce shedding. Some owners later discover that they are allergic to straight haired labradoodles. While it may be tempting to shave off their fur, in an attempt to eliminate the allergic reactions. This should never be done! Allergies are not triggered by dog fur. They are caused by pet dander — skin particles that are shed by the dog all year long. By shaving the fur off, the owner is actually making things worse for themselves. It drys the skin out, removing moisture and causes rashes to develop. As a result more skin is shed, exposing the pet owner to more dander. As more skin conditions develop or worsen, the dog will start scratching releasing even more dander into the air. How Often Should a Dog be Bathed? Bathing your dog can be effected by many different factors and can be very situational. You may need to bath them more frequently for medical reasons, or because of what they have decided to roll in. Generally speaking, bathing your labradoodle should be more infrequent. Over bathing your dog can strip its fur of natural oils that help to protect their skin and strengthen their hair. Ideally, you should limit proper bathes to when they start to smell a little, or if you need to remove matter from their fur. If they are just dirty with dust and mud, use lukewarm water or a running hose to wash away the dirt. Alternatively encourage them to swim in a body of water such as a river or at the beach while under your supervision. As a precautionary measure you can get a life jacket for your labradoodle. When you do need to give them a proper bath, use a mild oatmeal or coconut based dog shampoo. It will strip away some of the oils from their coat, but these types of shampoos will help to keep the skin moisturized. Over bathing can lead to skin irritations that can be itchy and uncomfortable. Dogs do not need to have baths as much as humans need to. How to Watch Out for Skin Conditions If your Labradoodle has any skin conditions, this could cause them to shed more fur, or even release more dander into the air. They may show signs of a skin condition by excessive scratching or nipping and licking at the same area. Remember mites and parasites can cause just as much damage to the skin as over-bathing. If you are wondering if the straight hair coats are the sort of labradoodles for you, please consider the following points: Their coats require the lowest level of maintenance. They do shed a lot more then other coats. They look more like labradors, than poodles. They may not be suitable for people with dog allergies. No two straight hairs will have the same coat. Related posts:. Finding flat coat Labradoodle puppies A flat coated Labradoodle will look the most like a purebred Labrador. Other names for this coat type include straight coated and hair type Labradoodle. Labradoodles with flat coats will shed more than those with wavy and curly fur, but they will have much lower grooming requirements. They can come in any of the typical Labradoodle colors, and will most often be friendly, intelligent, and energetic dogs. What is a Flat Coated Labradoodle? Flat coated Labradoodles can look quite different to other Doodle mixes, because their fur tends to be straight and flat against their bodies. Like other Labradoodles, this mix will be a combination of the Labrador Retriever and the Poodle. Some breeders may use Miniature Poodles to create a flat coat mini Labradoodle, but others will use the Standard Poodle to produce a large dog. And, Labradoodles with this coat type may also go by other names. Some breeders may call them hair type Doodles, or straight coat Labradoodles. But, no matter what description is used, they will have fur that resembles a Lab more than a Poodle. Can Labradoodles Have Straight Hair? It might come as a surprise to find out that Labradoodles with straight hair exist! When most people picture a Labradoodle, they imagine a dog with curly or wavy, low shedding fur. After all, the original Labradoodle was created to be good for people with allergies! And Labrador coats are known for their high shedding qualities. A first generation Labradoodle has one purebred Poodle parent, and one purebred Labrador parent. To achieve puppies with wavy or curly fur, most breeders will mix two f1 Labradoodles with similar fur, or will mix a Labradoodle with a Poodle. The traits of f1 Labradoodles can be quite varied, since puppies can inherit any combination of genes from its parents. So, later generations are more predictable, and breeders can harness popular traits, like a curly coat. But, flat coated Labradoodles are absolutely possible, and for some people these Doodles make a better pet! Flat coated Labradoodles will often have a double layered coat, just like their Labrador parent. Hair coat Labradoodles may have some wavy patches of fur, but in general their hair will be straight. Other than this, they will be similar to other Labradoodles. They will grow to be large dogs, with a healthy shaped muzzle, floppy ears, and a long, curved tail. Their coloring will depend on that of their parents. Flat coated Labradoodles might come in one of the three standard Labrador shades black, yellow, and chocolate , or one of the many Poodle colors! Do Flat Coated Labradoodles Shed? Labradoodles with straight fur are the most likely to shed out of all the Labradoodle coat types. In the hotter months, Labradoodles will shed heavily to lose their dense undercoat. And, if they take after their Lab parent, they will likely shed moderately all year round. All of them will contain allergens in their dander and saliva. Grooming is less necessary in flat coated Labradoodles, since their fur is less likely to tangle than wavy or curly fur. There is no particular Labradoodle generation that will have flat hair. But, this trait is most likely in first generation mixes, who have an equal influence of Poodle and Labrador DNA. In subsequent generations, most breeders will increase the amount of Poodle influence to increase the chance of traits like a curly coat. Hair coat Labradoodle fur can still grow quite long, so grooming will also help to prevent any painful knots and tangles. As a general rule, you will want to brush them a couple of times a week, but this might increase in high shedding seasons. You should groom your Labradoodle from a young age, so they are familiar with the process, and comfortable with being brushed and bathed. A slicker brush can be great for giving your Labradoodle a quick once over and removing any dead fur. But, in those heavy shedding periods, you may need to use a deshedding tool as well. When bathing your Labradoodle, make sure to use dog-safe products. And, make sure you dry them thoroughly. Dog hair dryers can be perfect at getting into that dense undercoat! Floppy Labradoodle ears are prone to ear infections, so pay attention to them, too! All Labradoodle puppies will have similar coats. Over the first year of their life, they will shed their puppy coat to reveal their adult coat. But, experienced Labradoodle breeders can be skilled at predicting adult coat types even in those early weeks. To increase your chances of getting a Labradoodle with straight fur, choose a first generation mix. But, be aware of bad breeders who may be looking to profit on this popular mix. Choose the most reputable breeders you can find. The best breeders will be happy to answer all of your questions, will have evidence of health testing, and will be happy to show you where their dogs and puppies live. Make sure the mom is friendly and healthy, and that all puppies look healthy. Avoid backyard breeders and puppy mills. Puppies and dogs from these breeders are often mistreated and more likely to have health and behavioral issues. But, they can make a wonderful companion for someone that loves the Doodle breed, and wants a lower-maintenance dog! They need less frequent grooming, but have the same high energy levels and mental stimulation needs as any other Doodle! Do you have a straight hair Labradoodle at home? We would love to hear about them in the comments! Readers Also Liked. All Labradoodle puppies have fine, soft, straight hair at first. But, as they grow, a curlier adult coat may replace this. But, they have easier grooming requirements. A Labradoodle puppy coat will be softer, finer, and straighter than their adult coat. In fact, many knowledgeable Doodle breeders can do a pretty good job of predicting which type of adult coat type a Labradoodle puppy will inherit. Labradoodle adults with straight fur have the hair type coat. Hair Coat Type The Labradoodle hair coat type is not silky straight, it is often thick and slightly wavy. This coat type is most similar to the Labrador Retriever parent. Either way, like the Lab parent, hair coated Labradoodles will shed year-round and may blow their coat during shedding seasons. Despite this, the hair coat is fairly wash-and-wear. A weekly brushing and occasional bath is all the maintenance it generally needs, unless your Doodle rolls in something stinky. The hair coat type is most likely to trigger allergy symptoms in owners that are allergic to the protein allergen in pet hair. Fleece Coat Type Overall, this coat type takes greater influence from the Poodle parent. It is soft and wavy — think angora wool and you are on the right track. If bred to the Australian Labradoodle breed standard, Labradoodles with a fleece coat will have one layer. This coat type is much less likely to shed out visibly than the hair type, but it does shed. The hairs are just more likely to get trapped in the surrounding coat. So, fleece coats may trigger fewer allergy symptoms. Of course, with less shedding, there is more potential for tangles and mats as the shed-out hair gets trapped in the surrounding coat. So, owners will have more brushing and grooming duties. Wool Type Coat The Labradoodle wool coat type is the main coat type that is considered allergy friendly. But, this coat type still sheds. Like the fleece coat, the hairs just get trapped in the surrounding fur rather than falling to the ground. Because of this, it can be truly time-consuming to brush and groom the true wool Labradoodle coat type. Earlier we mentioned how the puppy coat has a softer, finer, thinner texture than the adult Labradoodle coat — no matter which adult type they have. But how can you know if your Labradoodle puppy will keep their straight hair or grow up to have a wavy, fleece coat or a curly, wool coat? By 14 months old, your puppy should have their full adult coat. So, the sort of time that a puppy will go to their forever home. This is more likely when you are working with a later generation breeder. Many later generation breeders will work specifically with fleece or wool coat Labradoodles as breeding stock. This means a hair coat Labradoodle puppy is less likely. Choosing an Older Dog Another option if you really need or want a Doodle with a wool or fleece coat is to consider rescuing an older Labradoodle. This way, you can spend time with the dog before bringing them home. You can see if your chosen Labradoodle triggers allergy symptoms, if this is a potential issue for you. Of course you will miss out on the puppy stages. The Labradoodle breed was first created in an attempt to get a hypoallergenic guide dog. However, studies have shown that there is really no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog. This is because dog allergens are found in dander, saliva, and even urine — not in fur. So, even wool and fleece type Labradoodles are not hypoallergenic. The main reason they may trigger fewer allergy symptoms is that their curly fur catches shedding dander. But, none of the three hair types are hypoallergenic. They could all trigger allergy symptoms. You dog may yet grow up to have that lovable curly fur! Even if not, Labradoodles with straight hair have all the same popular traits, and they require less grooming! Does your Labradoodle puppy have straight hair? References and Resources Byrnell, J. A flat coat Labradoodle is another name for a straight haired Labradoodle. They take more after the Labrador side of the breed with a scruffy medium length coat rather than a curly or wavy coat that people usually associate with the breed. Standard sized Straight Hair Labradoodles grow to 51 to 66cm and weigh 23 to 45kg. On the other hand, Miniature Straight Hair Labradoodles get to 40 to 51cm in height and weigh 12 to 23kg. Yes, Straight Haired Labradoodles need basic grooming like all dogs, requiring a weekly brush to remove shedded hair and the occasional bath to keep them clean. Nevertheless, they do not need to be taken to the groomer for a trim every weeks like their curly coat relatives which can save owners quite a bit of money yearly. Do Straight Haired Labradoodles Shed? Yes, Straight Haired Labradoodles shed quite considerably like their Labrador parents. They are the opposite of Curly or Wavy Haired Labradoodles who hardly shed at all. No, Straight Haired Labradoodles are not hypoallergenic as they shed due to the dominance of Labrador genes over Poodle genes. They are unlike Wavy or Curly Haired Labradoodles which are hypoallergenic due to their long, curly coat that needs to be cut. That being said, straight haired Labradoodles are more hypoallergenic than a purebred Labrador. You can read our full Labradoodle shedding guide here. This is most likely to occur in a first generation Labradoodle F1 Labradoodle when a Labrador and Poodle are bred together rather than two Labradoodles. Whilst most people believe that all Labradoodles have a wavy or curly coat, it is actually very common for Labradoodles to have straight haired coat, taking after their Labrador parent more than the Poodle. Some Labradoodles look more like Labradors then Poodles, especially when they have a straight coat instead of a wavy or curly one. This occurs when Labradoodles do not inherit the curly coat gene called the Cu Locus gene and most commonly occurs for F1 Labradooodles. F2 Labradoodle is when an F1 Labradoodle is bred with another F1 Labradoodle resulting in a fifty-fifty chance of Straight Hair Labradoodles occurring in the litter. If you are looking for a Straight Hair Labradoodle you will want to get an F1 or F2 litter as they have the highest change of the straight hair gene of the Labrador coming through. No, not all F1 Labradoodles will have straight hair however a significant percentage of the litter will. F1 Labradoodles can have any coat type from wavy to curly to straight as it is a first generation breed of a Labrador Retriever and Poodle. No, Straight Hair Labradoodles do not have a double coat like their Labrador parent. Instead they have a single coat. As the weather gets hotter, Straight Hair Labradoodles will start shedding a little more than usual. Nevertheless, colour changes as expected for maturing Labradoodles. The colour of their coats often change colour or fade several shades lighter as they become an adult. Check out the adorable Labradoodle puppies that are currently available here! PuppySpot is a dog adoption website that connects breeders with prospective pet owners. They have a zero tolerance policy for puppy mills which is why they screen every breeder annually! They have placed over , puppies in homes and offer various trusted, USDA-certified transportation options to deliver your puppy to your home safely!

golden retriever saint bernard puppies - A loving forever home with a secure fence and another dog in the home She wants to be your "All-American Girl! Carrie Underwood is so sweet and adorable. She is a bundle of tender kisses and has energy for days. She has been a great sister to the newest foster puppies that have come and gone, teaching them the art of playing with toys. Carrie's favorite thing to do is play chase with her K9 buddies. She runs fast and does figure 8's around the resident dogs, who don't even try to keep up with her. Her second favorite activity is napping with the resident Labs. She adores the older resident dogs and has learned great napping skills from them. She continues to work on her leash skills. Carrie has been quietly working on coming out of her shell and has undergone a transformation since arriving at her foster. She loves to curl up in the lap of her FM for naps and bedtime snuggles. She still has her moments of shyness around Foster Dad, but will now come voluntarily to the couch to sit beside him for attention. She's definitely gained lots of confidence. Carrie will need a home with another dog, preferably one who enjoys the same activity level. Carrie still has some shy moments but she is ready for her furever home, and she will steal the heart of anyone who wants to add a sweet yet energetic member to their family. Thank you to the following generous donors currently supporting Carrie's care: Amanda S. Vocality level 4 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. Temperament Few breeds so richly deserve their popularity as does the Labrador Retriever. When trained, the breed is obedient and amiable and tolerates the antics of children, other dogs, and other pets. The Lab is a calm house dog, playful yard dog, and intense field dog, all on the same day. Labs are eager to please, enjoys learning, and excel in obedience. It is a powerful breed that loves to swim and retrieve. Labradors need daily physical and mental challenges to keep occupied. A bored Lab can get into trouble! Upkeep Labradors are active and sociable dogs. They need daily exercise, preferably in the form of retrieving and swimming. Owners with swimming pools either must fence them out or be prepared to share the pool with dogs. The Lab coat sheds water easily. Weekly brushing is needed to remove dead hair. Health Major concerns: CHD, elbow dysplasia, OCD, obesity, patellar luxation Minor concerns: cataract, CPRA, hot spots, retinal dysplasia, hypothyroidism Occasionally seen: diabetes, entropion, distichiasis, tricuspid valve dysplasia, centronuclear myopathy, exercise-induced collapse Suggested tests: hip, elbow, eye, exercise-induced collapse DNA , centronuclear myopathy , knee Life span: 10—12 years History The original Labradors were all-purpose water dogs originating in Newfoundland, not Labrador. Not only did the breed not originate in Labrador, but it also was not originally called the Labrador Retriever. These dogs—medium-sized black dogs with close hair—not only retrieved game but also retrieved fish, pulled small fishing boats through icy water and helped the fisherman in any task involving swimming. Eventually, the breed died out in Newfoundland in large part because of a heavy dog tax. However, a core of Labradors had been taken to England in the early s, and it is from these dogs, along with crosses to other retrievers, that the breed continued. It was also in England that the breed earned its reputation as an extraordinary retriever of upland game. Initially, black labs were favored over yellow or chocolate colors. By the early s, the other colors had become more accepted. The popularity of this breed has grown steadily until the Labrador Retriever became the most popular breed in America in and remains so today. Related Content.


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golden retriever saint bernard puppies - In order to have a well-trained guard dog, you will need to start socializing your German shepherd from a young age. During this time, the things that they see, hear, and smell are less frightening. It is important to make sure that your German shepherd puppy is well-socialized during this time so that he will confident rather than anxious or fearful. Walk him past schools when kids are around, walk beside busy roads, take him out in the rain to see people with umbrellas, expose him to a vacuum cleaner and hair dryer, and introduce him to lots of other types of dogs and people. Try to make the experiences as wide and varied as you can. To teach your German shepherd to be a guard dog, he will need to be well-behaved and you will need to train with him every day. The best way to go about this is to find a good trainer or obedience course to help you. Look for a dog trainer or training class in your area that uses modern, well-informed methods of training based on either clicker training or reward-based training. Trainers who use this method also use rewards such as treats and praise, but the clicker helps to mark good behavior. Reward-based training uses praise, treats, and other things that will motivate your dog to follow your commands. Do not use old-fashioned methods of dominating a dog, such as alpha-rolls or scruffing techniques. These methods are outdated and ineffective. Before your German shepherd can become a guard dog he needs to learn how to listen and respond to your commands. That is why it is a good idea to start with basic training commands such as sit, stay, and come back. Once your German shepherd has mastered basic commands, he will be ready to take on more challenging ones. Learn more » German Shepherds were originally bred to guard sheep. However, their innate guarding instincts make them a great breed at guarding just about anything. Still, these dogs require the proper training to be good guard dogs. In fact, certified guard dogs need specialized training as they are considered working dogs. What many owners refer to as guard dogs are actually protection dogs. A lot of preparation needs to be done when the dog is a puppy, though. German Shepherds have innate protective instincts. Without socialization, your dog may become protective of just about everything, including strange dogs and visitors. You want your dog to protect you against actual threats—not your house guests. Therefore, socialization is vital, especially when the dog is young. Group obedience classes are a great way to get this socialization. They provide a safe place for your dog to interact with strangers and other dogs. However, you also want to ensure that your dog is exposed to other sights and sounds. For instance, playgrounds, loud appliances, and umbrellas all need to be introduced when the dog is young. Puppy classes are a great place to start, as we have previously stated. However, you may also want to look into private classes if your dog needs help in particular areas. Be sure the classes you pick center around positive reinforcement training. In fact, harsher training techniques can make your dog more reactive, which is the opposite of what you want. Always be sure to ask the trainers what their methods are. There are many old-fashioned techniques that we now know are harmful to dogs, but these remain popular in some trainer circles. Clicker training, reward-based training, and positive reinforcement training are examples of science-backed techniques that work for German Shepherds. Stay away from alpha-rolls and scruffing. On top of being ineffective, these techniques can be dangerous. Training accidents can occur and German Shepherds can cause serious injuries. Therefore, a professional can help minimize these risks and make the most out of your training. Russian, German, and Japanese are common. Dogs do not respond to one language better than another. When they do so, reward them and say your chosen command word. Train a Release Command After your dog successfully attacks when asked, it is time to teach them to let go. Often, it is best to catch your dog doing this and teach the command that way. After a few tries, you can begin asking your dog to release. Have them enter your home or in a neutral place and act aggressively. Next, issue the release command and tell your dog to come back to you. Teaching a recall command is very helpful in this circumstance. It makes getting your dog back after issuing the attack command much easier. Do this a few times in many situations. However, you should also practice regularly even after they have mastered the command to ensure that they stay on their game. On the other hand, a guard dog is trained to attack and defend their home or a person. Those two jobs are very different. A German Shepherd was bred to be a guard dog. Originally, they were bred to protect sheep and other animals from thieves and predators. They actually attacked those that came near their charges. On the other hand, many small dogs were bred to be alert dogs. Smaller dogs work best in this situation, as they can remain unseen while also being very noisy. In some parts of the world, smaller alert dogs were bred next to larger guard dogs and often used as a team. The alert dog would call the guard dog to the area, where the guard dog could defend against the intruder. Conclusion German Shepherds make great guard dogs—if they are trained correctly. Socialization is also needed. Otherwise, your dog may try to protect you against just about everything. Unsocialized German Shepherds can be downright dangerous. We do recommend working with a professional, as training a guard dog yourself is difficult at home. The use of safety equipment is a must. German Shepherds will usually take to being a guard dog naturally. It's important to train them to be obedient. Learn how here. Many dogs are natural watch dogs; their bark is sufficient to alert their owner to something unusual, and the alarm they set up is a deterrent. In addition, dogs who will fight if their owner is genuinely attacked do not have to be made aggressive to do so. Training a dog specifically to be a guard dog is hazardous and potentially creates a liability for you. Misguided attempts to make a dog aggressive through abuse will only backfire because the dog will not be loyal to someone who treats them harshly, and if the dog wrongly bites someone you will be at fault. Never train dogs who are basically fearful or out of control. Such dogs may not respond appropriately in non-threatening situations. A German shepherd dog should not be selected to receive training as a guard dog unless the dog is basically friendly, stable and clear-headed, and has been well-socialized. Dogs should acquire a clear understanding of what is normal and what is not, so that they are not fearful and they know when there is a genuine threat. To socialize puppies, take them places with you, and allow them to meet and interact with as many other people and animals as possible, always taking care to keep your puppy safe from negative experiences. Dogs of any breed are prone to be shy and fearful in strange or new environments if they haven't been well socialized, and this can create a dog who bites from fear or who runs when confronted with anything unusual. STEP 2 Enroll your German shepherd dog puppy in an obedience class as soon as possible, and train your dog thoroughly in basic obedience. It is essential that your German shepherd dog is obedient at all times, but if you want to undertake guard dog training, the need for control becomes imperative. Even though the purpose behind the training is serious, dogs should enjoy obedience work and look on it as fun. Positive reinforcement, the practice of rewarding dogs when they perform correctly rather than punishing them for mistakes, serves multiple purposes by teaching dogs obedience, bonding them with their owners and letting them have fun. It also fulfills their need to work. Begin by teaching your dog to "Speak" on command, and give a treat and much praise for barking. This training eventually gives you control over the dog's bark. Have your dog sit while barking. German shepherd dogs are intelligent and will normally learn quickly. You can develop this trait by making a show of going to see why the dog is barking, offering praise, then giving the "Quiet" or "Enough" command. React positively when your German shepherd dog alerts you to unfamiliar people or objects at home, but do not allow this behavior to develop away from home. Your dog should be unconcerned about neutral or friendly strangers you meet when you are out walking. When your German shepherd dog barks, the intruder should look at the dog and then flee while you hold and praise your dog. Do not allow your pet to chase the fleeing stranger. Praise your dog highly for letting you know someone was in your territory, and stop the barking as soon as the person flees. This strengthens the dog's confidence. STEP 6 Walk your German shepherd dog on a leash around the perimeter of your property regularly to identify your territorial boundaries. Do not allow your dog to bark at people who are outside your property. Do not allow your dog to chase people under any circumstances. These dogs are tested for sound temperament and must learn to perform at a high level in tracking and obedience as well as protection work. Find a reputable club that is a member of a national or international schutzhund organization. Before joining, spend some time learning about their organization, talking to members, and watching training sessions to determine whether you have the commitment needed to seriously engage in this demanding dog sport. The most important aspect of guard dog training is control, which asserts your role as leader and normally comes from time you spend with your dog in enjoyable activities, including obedience training. A dog who is out of control and tries to be dominant can cause serious injuries and is far more of a liability than an asset. Never try to train your dog to bite or attack people. Doing so may be illegal in some states, and you place yourself at risk because you will be liable for injuries that result from an attack. Obedience All Schutzhund training starts with obedience training for a reason. The reason is that the goal is not to train a dog to attack. It is to train a dog to stay calm under extreme provocation so the dog can see clearly how best to protect their charges, or even if protection is required. The German Shepherd will learn both passive restraint barking and herding and active restraint biting and holding. Most importantly, the dog learns to mind the trainer even if the command that is given means the dog has to retreat from an attack situation. Tracking In Schutzhund training, your German Shepherd will learn a very comprehensive type of tracking that starts with scent nose work and continues with the use of training aids that simulate footprints and different types of terrain. A full competitive tracking course includes all of the elements from easiest to hardest. Short and long trails, straight and divergent trails, articles items to scavenge or identify, close quarters and distance from handler tracking and all types of terrain from wet to dry and grass to soil. Tracking in a variety of conditions teaches your dog to stay focused, manage their stress, and stay the course no matter what obstacles come before them. Protection The protection training portion of Schutzhund training and competition evaluates a German Shepherd on the three basic drives that all GSDs have: defensive drive, prey drive, and social drive. The social drive is perhaps the most important because this is the drive that bonds your dog to you. You have to know that your German Shepherd understands who they are protecting and also who must be obeyed no matter what. This is your number one protection against canine aggression. The prey drive is a deeply instinctive drive that is born of an innate urge to chase, to hunt, to bite, to eat. The prey drive is what can quickly get out of hand if a German Shepherd is not properly trained in the art of protection. The defensive drive is more of a learned drive that is based on the ancient fight-or-flight survival instinct. A dog that is defensive will have all kinds of methods at their disposal, from growling or barking to running towards or running away. Rather, their ultimate goal is to see the threat in active retreat. If barking can accomplish that, then attack will not be needed. As Schutzhund Training explains, dogs in Schutzhund training learn to use all kinds of different grips, holds, and bites to protect their charges from an aggressor. By the time the training program has been completed, the dog should be able to demonstrate mastery both at close quarters with their handler and an attacker, and at a great distance from each. There are many different training programs available today that are designed to teach dogs of any breed how to serve as personal protection and guard dogs to people. As Mountain Canine College highlights, regardless of the training program, the dog must first be evaluated to see if they are a good fit. Some dogs may be less well suited for one versus the other. As we mentioned here earlier, Schutzhund training was specifically designed in Germany for training German Shepherd dogs to serve in protective K-9 roles. In either case, the basic method always starts with obedience training. Now you can see why it is so important to take training your German Shepherd to attack so seriously. You are training an incredibly strong and powerful dog with deep instincts that must be directed appropriately for your safety and the safety of others. Watch a German Shepherd Being Trained To Attack In this impressive YouTube video clip , you can watch a professional protection dog training team putting a month-old German Shepherd dog through his paces. The dog shows incredible drive, obedience, agility, and power. The most important thing to note when watching the video is that the German Shepherd does not display aggression. Aggression is not the same as the instinct to protect, guard, or even attack. Aggression in dogs is typically a symptom of insecurity or fearfulness rather than confidence and clarity. These are just a few of the reasons why German shepherds are the second-most-popular pet dog in America, according to the American Kennel Club. However, to become as skilled as these working pups are, proper German shepherd training is essential. But what exactly does that mean? This, however, is not necessarily the case. Although a guard dog is trained to watch for danger and alert their owners, they are not necessarily trained as an attack dog — they may be only a watchdog. Either way, the goal of the guard dog is to keep their family and property safe, either by barking or by physical action. This article will focus on training your German shepherd to guard by barking, not attacking. Training any dog to do physical protection work should be managed by professionals who have firsthand experience handling and training protection dogs. Effective training, whether it be guarding or basic obedience, will include some kind of reward for your pup, whether it be a treat, toy, or some love. Master obedience training and socialization Before you can get to the nitty-gritty of guarding, you and your dog need to master the basics of obedience. A group class will help your dog practice obedience while gaining experience around other people and pets. If your German shepherd is meant to guard a person, she should first establish a bond with that person — she may become naturally protective. This will definitely take some time and practice, but consistency is key when getting your buddy to understand when to bark and when not to. At this step, adding a few more commands to your repertoire may be helpful for both of you. Practice and reward desired behaviors Perhaps the most important step of the process is practicing and rewarding the guarding behaviors you want to see. Instead, many pup parents stage a trespassing situation in which they have a stranger approach their home, self, or dog — and then reward them, of course! Training your German shepherd to be a guard dog is time-consuming and requires some hard work, but its benefits last for life. Could you ask for more in a loving, protective companion? Editors' Recommendations.