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Among the three colors of Labrador Retrievers, black, yellow, and chocolate, black Lab pups are the most popular in both the U. Because black Lab pups are so popular, many people decide to get one, and head for a pet store or answer a classified ad. One Small Problem One small problem with hunting black and white lab puppies is that there is not much information about them. The store is, after all, selling them as such, and why would they do that if the puppies were not purebred? You scan the book rack at the pet store, and find nothing. You go to a nearby bookstore in the same mall, and look at books on Labrador Retrievers. Black and white Lab puppies in info given by store clerks or breeders are Lab pups of mixed breed. They may look much like a Lab pup, but any puppy with more than a little white spot on the chest is not a purebred Labrador Retriever. Consider the standard for Black Labradors. Black Lab puppies must be black from head to tail. There should be no brindle markings, no streaks or flecks of different colors. The same standard applies to chocolate Labs and yellow Labs. A true Labrador Retriever is never black and white. Just A Pet If you just want a Lab pup as a pet, and do not care about its bloodlines, a little black and white, part Lab may be just what you want. Find out how we get chocolate, black or yellow puppies and what color pups we might get when we mix Labradors of different colors. Strictly speaking, there are only three different types of Labrador color: black Labs, brown Labs usually referred to as chocolate and yellow Labs. These are the three colors recognized and accepted by the Kennel Club In practice, there is a wide range of shades of yellow Labrador color, from palest cream to richest fox red. But what makes a Labrador brown, or black, or yellow. And what about Silver Labradors? Where does this new and controversial coat color come in to play? Where do Black and Chocolate Labradors come from? The information that determines whether or not your Labrador is basically black or basically chocolate is passed on through a pair of genes. Why black is a dominant color: It is normal for dominant genes to switch off, or over-ride, recessive genes. And that is exactly what happens here. A dog with BB genes will be black, because he has no little b gene, the one that gives us a brown coat. But a Bb dog will be black too, because if the dominant black gene is present, it switches off the brown gene. How chocolate Labradors are made: Even though a dog inherits a little b gene, the dog will only appear brown if no black gene B is present at all. Two black genes BB gives you a black Labrador One of each Bb also give you a black Labrador Two brown genes bb gives you a chocolate Labrador Remember that the black dominant gene always switches of the brown gene, so only the dog at the bottom will actually look brown. Generation after generation of black dogs can continue to have only black puppies if dogs with the Bb gene are only ever mated to dogs with BB genes. Remember, the dog in the middle of our list above will look black, but pass the brown gene on to about half of all its offspring. But things are never that simple are they? Because of course some Labradors are neither black nor brown. The genetic information that creates a yellow coat comes from another pair of genes altogether. And these genes have a different kind of power. The result is a yellow dog But little ee is recessive, and if the dominant E gene is present, it switches off the masking gene. It only takes one big E gene to do this. So the dog will only appear yellow if no big E gene is present at all. There are three possible combinations of eee gene that a dog could inherit. There are nine different possible combinations. Nine different possible Labrador genotypes! The chart below lists them genotype is the genetic makeup, phenotype is the appearance of the dog. We have AKC English Lab puppies for sale Our goal here at Winter Valley Labs is to breed excellent dual purpose AKC Labrador Retriever puppies that make great companions and family pets, that also have the ability to excel in the field as well as show ring. And of course, in our hearts. We breed for quality, not quantity. We breed English Lab puppies! Each of our litters is carefully planed and bred with purpose. We are a small breeder in Hatley, Wisconsin. Our love and passion for Labrador Retrievers drives us to better the breed and provide families with healthy, happy, perfect pets, companions and hunters. We have been breeding labs for over 10 years, and look forward to that number growing. We bred our first litter in January of .We hope to grow in size now that we have the room for it. We love to take the dogs out bird hunting, and am excited to get them started on waterfowl this year as we are located on the river. I have been around dogs my whole life, but the lab has always been my favorite. I started studying at the UW of Stevens Point for Wildlife Ecology and Captive Wildlife management, and had done some study in veterinarian medicine but complications with pregnancy forced me out. I decided after my first son was born that I wanted to stay at home with my babies anyways both human and canine. So I am now a stay at home mom for all of our babies. Prior to that I had worked at an animal shelter as well as a grooming and boarding facility. I am doing some online studies for genetics and animal behavior, as I am always striving to be very well educated with the dogs. I am an avid hunter and LOVE spending the days outside with the dogs. Please note; We do not breed silvers, charcoals or champagne. We do not breed labradoodles, golden labs or any other designer breed. We do have English lab puppies for sale- We breed Fox red lab puppies, yellow lab puppies, black lab puppies, chocolate lab puppies and white lab puppies. Fox red and white labs are registered as yellow labs! These ARE akc recognized unlike the dilute colors. Click here to see what english lab puppies we have that are ready to go and looking for their loving forever homes! Our focus is on the English Lab breed. Please contact us for more information on any of our wonderful English Lab puppies, or upcoming and planned litters! We will help you find the perfect puppy for your family! All of our English Lab puppies are vet checked with the vaccines that are needed and also wormed. They also have their dewclaws removed. If in any case a dew claw, or partial dew claw grows back, that will be the buyers responsibility to take care of, if they feel the need to do so. This can be done at the time of spaying or neutering. This is not a common thing. All of our English Lab Puppies are placed with limited registration Pet homes only If you are looking for full registration Breeding rights Do not wait until pickup day to discuss this with us.

Sophia is a grey brindle girl that is very sweet. She is 72 lbs. Annie is a pretty fawn girl out of our retired female Tess. She is 80 lbs. She is almost as tall as her mom. About the breeds. The Poodle The Poodle is one of the oldest breeds of dogs ever recognized and has been around since ancient times, originally in Germany but then being perfected in France. Others claim that there are some other breeds mixed in such as Asian herding dogs and other breeds that ran wild during that time. The smaller versions of the Poodle were created in the s by breeding small Poodles with each other. At the time, the Poodle was mainly used for hunting ducks and truffles but became popular as circus dogs and in shows. The AKC officially recognized them in where they are now the 7th most popular breed of dog. Some believe the breed is a mix of Spaniels, Sheepdogs, and Mastiffs while others claim they are a blend of the Griffon and Beauceron. In those days, they were bred only for function so the appearance of the Bouvier des Flanders varied quite a bit. At first, they were called the Toucheur de Boeuf, which means cattle dog, Koehond, which means cow dog, or Vuilbaard, which means dirty beard. The name they have now, Bouvier, means cowherd or oxherd. A veterinarian named Adolphe Reul was a proud breeder who made the Bouvier des Flanders popular during those days even though there was no standard until .In , the American Kennel Club recognized the breed and it is now the 83rd most popular breed in America. Flandoodle The Flandoodle is a large dog that stands between 22 and 28 inches tall and weighs about 65 to 95 pounds. The Flandoodle can be any color but is usually black, gray or brindle. They may be lean or stocky, with well-muscled long legs, a large head, and a furry face with a beard. The long tail is usually docked and their furry ears are pendulous. They do not shed much but it is important to bathe them if they get dirty, using mild shampoo and conditioner specially recommended for Poodles. Be sure to clean their ears once a week and watch for redness and ear mites. In addition, you should brush their teeth several times a week to prevent dental problems. They make special toothbrushes and toothpaste specially for dogs that you should use. They enjoy being part of the family activities and like to play with other animals but may be inclined to hunt smaller animals like rabbits and guinea pigs. They should also be supervised around children younger than five years old. Although they are intelligent and learn quickly, they may be a bit stubborn during training so you have to have patience and use positive reinforcement rather than physical punishment. They can get lonely if left home alone for a long time so they need to have plenty to keep them busy while you are not home. Activity Requirements: Keep in mind that these are all suggestions. If your dog is happy, healthy and content, that is what is important, and just like people, every dog is different and unique. The Flandoodle loves activity and needs some type of exercise daily. They love to hunt and would appreciate a trip to the park daily to chase squirrels and rabbits if you do not have a fenced in yard to play in. In addition, having them run alongside you while you jog or bike can also be a beneficial choice for you both. This breed is also good at agility training, Frisbee, fetch, flyball, and swimming. Recent Posts. They Love a Good Chase Until your Flandoodle is well trained, it is not a great idea to let them off their leash. These dogs love a great chase. If there is a bird, squirrel, or another small animal that you come across on your daily walks, your Flandoodle may make a run for it. Great for Those with Dog Allergies If you have mild dog allergies, you will likely do very well with the Flandoodle. Both the Bouvier des Flandres and the Poodle are considered to be hypoallergenic dogs. You should always meet a potential new dog before bringing them home as sometimes, even if a dog is deemed to be hypoallergenic, they could still cause some problems. The Flandoodle is a nice mix of popularity and a lesser-known breed. These are genuinely lovely dogs that want to be a part of all that goes on in your household. You can bet that your Flandoodle will be following you around and in the middle of any family conversations or game nights. The Flandoodle is a loyal animal that wants to please and take care of its people. Your Flandoodle also desires and seeks attention. This is not a dog that is going to be overly independent and do its own thing. The Flandoodle will want to be the center of attention at all times. Flandoodles are generally well-behaved animals as long as they get the proper amount of exercise. They tend to act out when they have too much energy and no outlet for it. The Flandoodle is not a brilliant dog, but they are not unintelligent either. The Flandoodle has a high enough intelligence level to be trained; it will just be a bit of a long process. Are These Dogs Good for Families? The first point of concern is the separation anxiety that Flandoodles are prone to. If you are a busy young family and the Flandoodle will be left alone most of the day, you may see some separation anxiety issues start to arise. Flandoodles thrive when they are around people. If left alone for extended periods, they will become withdrawn or even act out because they are upset. The issue with their separation anxiety is actually what makes them an excellent fit for a family with lots of people. If people are coming and going all day and the Flandoodle is not left alone for extended periods, it will be ideal for this breed. When it comes to a family dog, another point of concern is the time needed to care for the animal. In busy families with young kids, the dog and their exercise and grooming needs can sometimes end up at the bottom of the list. If your family is already busier than you could ever imagine, you may want to consider a lower maintenance dog. The Flandoodle will need your attention for several hours each day, both for exercise and grooming. However, this does not always need to be undivided attention. It is quite easy to figure out a game in the yard that keeps both the kids and the dog entertained. However, this dog will need some of your time and care. As long as those conditions can be met, the Flandoodle is an excellent addition to any family. You should have no problems with aggressive behavior when it comes to other large pets. If you have another dog, introduce your Flandoodle at a young age and teach them how to get along. The earlier you socialize the Flandoodle, the easier it will be when it comes to getting along with other dogs. The only thing that you need to watch out for in the case of the Flandoodle are small pets. If you should have a smaller animal in the house, something like a guinea pig or similar, there is a chance that your Flandoodle will try and go after it. The Flandoolde has hunting skills in its genetics, and it is hard for them to give this up completely. You will likely notice if you let your Flandoodle lose in the yard, they will chase squirrels and rabbits, often unsuccessfully. Image Credit: Felicia Lee, Shutterstock Things to Know When Owning a Flandoodle: Now that you have a pretty good idea as to whether or not the Flandoodle would be a good fit for your family, you may want to understand what goes into taking care of them. Flandoodles are not any more difficult than another dog, but there are some specifics about their care that you should know. You will need to feed your dog several cups of dry food a few times a day. It is best to check with your vet to get the exact amounts that your dog will need. When your Flandoodle ages from a puppy to an adult dog, their food requirements will change. Dog food is not cheap, and you should calculate how much it will cost to feed your Flandoodle before purchasing your dog. This is a high energy dog that likes to run, chase, and play. If you are an outdoorsy type that likes to swim, hunt, and hike, a Flandoodle is an excellent choice for you. The Flandoodle even maintains some of their original hunting skills and can be quite good at catching small animals. A Flandoodle needs several hours of exercise each day. If you live in a small apartment, this is not the right dog for you. Keep in mind that Flandoodles will start to misbehave if they do not get enough physical exercise in a day. You may hear Flandoodle owners talking about how they have to tire the dog out. This is absolutely true. We also mentioned that the Flandoodle struggles with separation anxiety. If you are someone who is not home enough to spend time with and run your Flandoodle, this is not the right breed for you. Ideally, a Flandoodle should be walked twice a day. If this is not possible, make sure that your Flandoodle has plenty of time to run and play in the yard. If your children need something to do, have them take the dog outside and give them all some exercise. You need to stay consistent when training a Flandoodle. They are smart dogs but not highly intelligent. Since your Flandoodle is a happy and playful dog, you should always be using positive reinforcement. You will, however, need to be firm and consistent with a Flandoodle for them to understand what it is you want from them. You can start training your Flandoodle when they are a young puppy. If your Flandoodle is a family dog, you may want to make sure everyone is on the same page as far as training is concerned. However, this is not the case, particularly for the Flandoodle dog. This breed needs to be brushed every day. If you have to push it to every other day, that is usually fine. But If they are not brushed highly frequently, their coat will be in terrible shape, and you will end up spending more time and money on grooming. The length of the hair on your Flandoodle can vary depending on what traits they inherited from their parent breeds. It is best to start grooming practices with your Flandoodle from a very young age. They may come to like getting brushed, and it can be a daily thing for you and your dog. Both the teeth and the ears should be cleaned weekly, if possible. Since a Flandoodle is part Poodle, they can be prone to some ear infections and other ear-related issues. Keeping the ear clean is the best way to avoid this. Overall, these are very healthy dogs, even though their lifespan is only years on average. Minor Conditions. Then the Flandoodle is the perfect pup for you! A cross between a Poodle and a Bouvier des Flandres, this pup is bursting at the seams with energy and will be jumping for joy at the idea of a play session with their humans in the great outdoors. They love to run around and have fun and are incredibly affectionate, making them great dogs for families. With a bit of socialization, this pup will get along well with people of any and all ages. The Flandoodle is an incredibly loyal dog and a friend for life! Chances are the Flandoodle existed through accidental breeding in nature long before any efforts to intentionally bring the two parent breeds together began. Breeders probably started taking interest sometime in the s, since that is when the popularity of Doodle dogs and other hybrid breeds truly took off. The place of origin is the United States, but it is difficult to pinpoint the exact location. The Flandoodle does not have a registered status like the Poodle or the Bouvier des Flandres, but they have a large and loyal following of dog lovers, admirers, and pet owners across the world. Personality and Temperament The Flandoodle is one of the friendliest dog breeds out there. They love to socialize and will get along well with just about anyone and anything with a little bit of socialization. These are loyal dogs that are guaranteed to love you no matter what. Flandoodles are rather mild-mannered and gentle, making them great for families with children. They love to goof around and perform silly antics to make their families happy, and with a Flandoodle you are guaranteed to always have a happy household. They tend to get a little too attached, which means some anxiety issues may develop. Early socialization is incredibly important for this reason. To get a good idea of the kind of temperament your pup will grow into, spend some time around the parent dogs. The personalities of the parents are usually fairly good indicators of the kind of personality your dog will grow up to have. Flandoodle Size On average, the Flandoodle will grow up to be around 22 to 28 inches tall and weigh anywhere between 55 to 85 pounds. Flandoodle Health On average, the Flandoodle enjoys good health. However, the best guarantee of a healthy dog is healthy parents. For this reason, you should take care not to buy from breeders who mate dogs under the age of two since that is when most genetic illnesses surface. Be sure to check the health clearance certificates of both dogs when getting your puppy. Schedule regular visits to the vet to make sure any issues are caught and nipped in the bud. Some issues that your pup may be predisposed to include eye problems, heart problems, patellar luxation, and bloat. Flandoodle Care and Training These dogs are very active and so need quite a bit of daily exercise. It is best not to get a Flandoodle if you cannot commit to getting them a good amount of daily exercise. You Flandoodle will love to go on walks and jobs, not to mention running after a frisbee or playing a fun game of fetch. They need regular mental and physical stimulation, or else they may become unhealthy and destructive. Coat Color, Types, Shedding Flandoodles usually have coats that can be classified as rough. They are usually shaggy or curly, and in general, are low-shedding. Flandoodle Grooming When it comes to grooming, this dog is not too high-maintenance. Clip their coats in the summer months to keep them cool, and make sure to have their nails trimmed if they do not wear away naturally. Keep a check on their ears and eyes, making sure they stay clean and free of any debris. It is best to bathe them only when necessary. The Flandoodle is a right fit for you if: You enjoy daily exercise You want a low-shedding dog You want a mild-mannered dog The Flandoodle is not a right fit for you if: You want a dog that can be kept in a kennel You want a dog that is easy to train You want a watchdog How Much is a Flandoodle Puppy? A post shared by Jory Lynn Anderson jorythelatterdaysaint Because the Bouvier des Flandres and the Poodle are large breed non-shedding dogs, the Flandoodle also inherits the same traits. The Bouvier des Flandres was first spotted in Belgium in the s, where it was used to herd cattle and pull carts. By , the American Kennel Club recognized the breed, and it is now the 83rd most popular breed in America. On the other hand, the Poodle has been around since ancient times. The tiny Poodles were created in the s and were mainly used for hunting ducks. Later, they became famous as show and circus dogs. As one of the oldest dog breeds, it was acknowledged by the AKC in and became the 7th most popular dog breed. The mix between the two resulted in the Flandoddles, which are now popular pets among dog lovers. These dogs are perfect for people with allergies because they come from parents who are hypoallergenic. These lovely dogs enjoy being part of the family and will engage in all household activities. This dog breed is a loyal animal and likes to stick around family members and follow you around as you do your daily duties. Once you bring this dog home, expect a lot of entertainment. They are very playful and always ready for an adventure. To prevent your dog from becoming bored and engaging in destructive behaviors, provide your dog with mental and physical stimulation. These dogs are highly intelligent, making it easier to train them. Although they learn quickly, they might be stubborn during training, which means you must have patience. You can also make the process easier by using positive reinforcement instead of yelling or punishment. It might take some time, but they become receptive to commands and instructions in the long run. However, the owners need to supervise them if they have smaller children below five years. Before you bring the dog home, consider that this dog breed has separation anxiety. Therefore, you should ensure that your dog interacts with a lot of people throughout the day and is not left alone. Separation anxiety can cause your dog to act out and become upset. It would be best to consider your availability and the time needed to care for the dog. The Flandoodle is a higher maintenance dog, especially with grooming and exercise needs. Therefore, a busy and absent family will not be ideal. However, if you have a yard, you can easily incorporate games and activities that the children can play together with the dog. Once you meet all these needs, you can comfortably raise and keep a Flandoodle. Flandoodles like to play with other animals but may be inclined to hunt smaller animals like rabbits, squirrels, birds, and guinea pigs. These dog breeds love a good chase; therefore, they will go after smaller animals. Their high prey drive and hunting skills are genetically inherited; hence, it will be challenging to stop the dog from chasing the smaller pets. Flandoodles will get along much better with fellow dogs and give you less to worry about. When well-socialized, your canine friend will have no problem co-existing with another dog. These animals require a little bit more maintenance. You need to take care of the food, grooming, exercise needs, training, and health issues. Each day, you can feed the dog cups of dry dog food. These portions can be divided into multiple servings to ensure your pup is well-fed throughout the day. When choosing the food, stick to high-quality brands of dog food. A good brand has wholesome ingredients and a balance of nutrients, with no chemicals and fillers. On top of this dry food, you can feed your pup canned food but in the right portions to prevent your dog from overeating and obesity. The amount of food also differs according to age, size, and health condition. As you budget for your dog, include food costs because dog food is not cheap. So, before purchasing or adopting one of these for your family, ensure that you have the time and energy to allow your dog to get plenty of exercises daily. These dogs love to run, chase, and play. If you are a hunter, these dogs will provide companionship because they still maintain some of their hunting skills which they use to catch small animals. Once you adopt a Flandoodle, you should take them for a walk twice a day. You should have several puzzle toys and games to stimulate their minds and keep them physically active in the house. The dog can run around and play safely for families with a yard as long as there are no smaller pets. Due to the high exercise needs, this dog is not ideal for small apartment living. They require a large space to burn off all the energy and thrive properly. Flandoodles need to burn off all the energy lest they become mischievous. However, if you ignore this, your pet will pile up too much energy and become troublesome to manage or start barking excessively, chewing on things, and digging. Exercise with the kids is ideal for keeping the dog physically stimulated and preventing separation anxiety. If you are never home, have someone run around with your dog or take it for a walk to keep it happy. These dogs are intelligent, therefore learn quickly, but can be challenging to train. However, the trainability level is averagely the same as other dogs. Before they pick up on behaviors, it will take several tries and failed attempts; therefore, be prepared for consistency. When you are consistent, your pet will become more attentive. To keep them engaged throughout, ensure you offer positive reinforcements and rewards. For the training to be much easier, start the training when your Flandoodle is a young puppy. The earlier you start, the better the results. Involve all your family members and have the same commands to make it easier for the dog to keep up. This depends on the type of coat inherited from the parent breeds. Despite being a low-shedder , this dog still has grooming requirements. The fur coat needs to be brushed once per day to keep it mat-free and to remove tangles. If you ignore this daily habit, you might have to spend money on a professional. For pups with more of a Poodle coat, you can take them to a professional groomer to have the fur coat groomed and trimmed. Because a Flandoodle is a Poodle descendant, they can be prone to ear infections and other ear-related issues. By keeping the ears clean, you can easily avoid these infections. In addition, you need to cut the nails to keep them short. You should start all these grooming practices with your Flandoodle when they are still young. However, some dogs may not always inherit these medical problems. Overall, these dog breeds are very healthy dogs but have a shorter lifespan of years on average. Some of the health conditions are minor, whereas some are serious. Serious Conditions These are some of the severe medical problems your dog can go through. Hip Dysplasia This is a common medical problem for most dogs. Flandoodles also experience this joint problem which appears in either the elbow or the hip. If your pup has hip dysplasia, it will experience lameness in the hind legs. For elbow dysplasia, the lameness will be in the front legs. Cancer Your dog might have cancer which might not exhibit until you go for a scheduled vet visit. Heart Problems Flandoodles develop heart problems that exhibit themselves in various ways. Your pup might have heart disease or even congestive heart failure. Immediately you notice any issues, you should alert your vet to start treatment. Bloating This is a serious condition that can be fatal if it is not handled promptly. This additional air will cause the stomach to expand, transferring the pressure to other body organs. If untreated, this pressure can interfere with blood circulation and organ function. Your Flandoodle will get this disease when there is a benign tumor on the pituitary gland. Minor Conditions Your pup might experience some minor conditions that, if left untreated, might become severe. Here are some of them. Eye Problems Flandoodles can have various eye problems. These can range from cataracts, eye infection, retinal atrophy that can eventually lead to blindness. Skin Conditions Your pup might also get some skin conditions if they are prone to allergies. Once this allergy starts, your dog might itch a lot or have a skin rash. Your vet can treat this problem by prescribing allergy medication. Male vs. Female Male and Female Flandoodles like alike and have similar personalities. However, the female is slightly smaller than its counterpart. For dog lovers that want a large dog but slightly shorter, a female Flandoodle is an excellent choice. Therefore, if you have dog allergies, these dog breeds might be the best choice for you. They are hypoallergenic and will be more comfortable for you. However, even hypoallergenic breeds can spark allergies among highly sensitive individuals. You can either visit a friend with such a dog or spend some time with one from the breeders. According to the American Kennel Club, these two breeds rank very highly. The Poodle is the 7th most popular dog breed in the United States, whereas the Bouvier des Flandres is the 83rd most popular. The Flandoodle is a crossbreed of these famous dogs. Summary Flandoodles are excellent family pets. They are friendly, affectionate, playful, and very energetic. If you have a family, this dog will become instantly loyal and protective. As an active breed, this dog loves engaging in all family activities. Because of this, it also requires a lot of exercises daily to burn off the extra energy. These dogs have separation anxiety ; therefore, they are a perfect choice for households with people at home at all times. In addition, you should have enough space or a yard for the pup to run around. Flandoodles will instantly become your family members as long as you give them enough attention. When properly trained and taken care of, this breed makes a great companion dog. A Canadian expat, Nicole now lives on a lush forest property with her Kiwi husband and new baby daughter in New Zealand. She has a strong love for all animals of all shapes and sizes and particularly loves a good interspecies friendship and wants to share her animal knowledge and other experts' knowledge with pet lovers across the globe.Read more Advertisement. Life Span Did You Know? These large dogs are loyal, devoted, and protective of their families. They are also smart, energetic dogs with playful personalities that are loving and affectionate. As a newer designer breed, the Flandoodle is not currently recognized by the American Kennel Club. However, they can currently be registered with the Dog Registry of America. These dogs make great companions and family dogs. They tend to have a gentle nature, cheerful disposition, and playful personality. Those traits, in addition to their affectionate nature and intelligence, make them a perfect fit for families. Flandoodles thrive on attention and affection, so they love being the center of attention. As long as they are properly socialized, these dogs tend to be quite friendly. They even tend to warm up quickly to strangers once introduced! A Flandoodle is a highly adaptable dog. They are best suited for homes with fenced yards where they can run. But, they can adapt to apartments as long as they get enough daily exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. They do well in most climates. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat. But, their fluffy coats tend to give them a little bit more insulation against the cold. However, they may still need some winter dog products while out on walks when the temperature drops. Because these dogs are protective, thrive on attention, and bond closely with their families, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. They can also be prone to developing separation anxiety if you do not work with them on it early. Just as they could inherit none of the conditions common to their parent breeds, they could also end up with all of them or some of them. Testing and good breeding practices make a huge difference. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. As a large dog breed, the Flandoodle is also at risk for bloat, so you want to learn about how to reduce the risk of bloat in dogs and learn the symptoms. Although the Flandoodle is highly intelligent, sensitive, and eager to please, they are also high-energy dogs that get bored easily. They need a patient and firm owner that can keep training consistent, interesting, and focused on praise and positive reward. This can be a challenge for first-time dog owners. Because of this, puppy training classes or a professional trainer are recommended. The Flandoodle will have a rough coat that ranges from shaggy to the classic Poodle curls. Their coat may not shed a lot, or at all, but they will require some effort on grooming. Bathing is on an as-needed basis and professional grooming is recommended every few months at least, if not more often. But, you will still need to do some care and maintenance between appointments. Nail trims once or twice monthly help keep nails from growing too long. Weekly ear checks with cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Daily dental care like brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste in addition to cleanings at the vet when needed can help prevent dental diseases later in life. Flandoodles are high-energy dogs, and they need an active owner who can give them enough daily exercise. Multiple daily walks plus some playtime and time to run are usually enough. However, this dog will likely be up for more activity if you are. Thankfully, they tend to be athletic and versatile dogs. So, once puppies finish growing , you can try out a lot of activities to find the ones that fit you and your Flandoodle the best. Dog parks, frisbee games, running, and more can all be good activities for a Flandoodle. A fully-grown Flandoodle usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. Flandoodles generally live for years. Flandoodle Puppies for Sale Thanks for visiting our Flandoodle page! Currently, we do not have any Flandoodle puppies available, but we can alert you when new Flandoodle puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! Please enter a valid email address! Related Breeds. As we can see, Flandoodles can be created in many different ways. Usually, it can be tricky to predict how first-generation Flandoodles turn out, as they have a rough mix of both purebred parents. However, if the goal would be to breed low-shedding Flandoodle puppies, then backcross generations like the F1b, F1bb, F2b, and F2bb would be ideal. This helps us have more control over the outcome. But again, we can expect to see more variations of the Flandoodle emerging in the near future. Are Flandoodles friendly? How are they with children? Are Flandoodles aggressive? What about their intelligence levels? Poodles are known to be goofy and playful, yet highly intelligent and loyal companions. Likewise, Bouviers are very smart and loyal dogs that form strong bonds with their human parents. Both of these purebred pups also tend to be protective of their families. They usually get along well with the whole family, including children and other pets in the household. And even though Flandoodles have the smarts, they may exhibit a stubborn streak from time to time. They tend to learn things fairly quickly, but it can also prove to be a bit of a struggle since they are so strong willed. Flandoodles have an average lifespan of about 10 to 12 years, which is very similar to that of the purebred Bouvier des Flandres. But do Flandoodles have health problems? Fortunately, Flandoodles and other hybrid breeds benefit from hybrid vigor. Essentially, hybrid breeds may inherit superior genetics from their parents, as their genetic makeup is more diverse. Nevertheless, Flandoodles are still at risk of some of the health conditions that are the most prevalent in purebred Poodles and Bouviers. By the way, many of them overlap as well! The most common health issues in Flandoodles include joint problems like hip and elbow dysplasia, and eye diseases including entropion, cataracts, and glaucoma. Minor health conditions that are common in Flandoodles include various types of sensitivities, intolerances, and allergies , many of them manifesting either as skin problems or gut issues. Due to their big and floppy ears that restrict proper airflow, ear infections are also a common concern. After all, both the Bouvier and Poodle are energetic dogs, and so is their Flandoodle offspring. The general recommendation for Flandoodles is about 60 to 90 minutes of exercise each day. This includes your daily walkies, jogging and running, and lots of playtime. That being said, as the Flandoodle is such a highly intelligent and energetic crossbreed, they also need copious amounts of mental stimulation alongside their physical exercise. Daily training sessions, interactive games, puzzle toys, and all sorts of enrichment methods are vital for these Doods. Think of your destroyed furniture, dug up garden, chewed up and torn nick nacks — everything goes! So, make sure you have the time and energy to entertain your Dood. Of course, the key here is to stay consistent and be patient with your pup. As they can be a bit stubborn, the training process may take some time at first, especially during their teenage months. And remembering all steps can be extremely overwhelming. And what makes it especially amazing is that you can cover all topics at your own pace, taking the reins into your very own hands. But the downside of this is that they require lots and lots of grooming. For curly-coated Flandoodles, daily brushing sessions are an absolute must. The tight and textured curls easily trap in any dirt, debris, and loose dog hair, which can quickly lead to matting. Also, a good dog detangler spray can do wonders here. See Also: Click the image For straight and wavy-coated Flandoodles, a minimum of 3 to 4 brushing sessions a week might be enough. However, if your pup is double-coated, daily brushing will help you minimize the shedding big time. The longer their hair, the more brushing it needs. Regular trips to the groomers about every few months are a must. Or, you could instead opt for at-home haircuts and bathtime. This will save you a ton of money in the long run. Since the Flandoodle is one of the newer and rarer Poodle mixes, it might be tricky to get your hands on one. However, as with any other Doodle breed, we can expect more and more reputable Doodle breeders to start specializing in this wonderful hybrid cross. You might also like to know — how much does a Flandoodle cost? The Flandoodle is a large-sized dog that weighs 55 and 85 pounds. Their height ranges between 22 and 28 inches. Typically, male Flandoodles fall on the higher end of the scale, whereas female pups tend to be slightly smaller. Currently, Mini Flandoodles are extremely rare to come across. However, we can expect Mini Flandoodles to weigh about 25 to 55 pounds once fully grown. Are Flandoodles Smart? Flandoodles are very intelligent dogs, as both of their purebred parents are highly intelligent. In fact, Flandoodles are known to learn new tricks, habits, and cues very quickly. On the other hand, they are known to be stubborn, so staying patient and consistent, and utilizing positive reinforcement training methods is vital. Some key takeaways you must consider are that Flandoodles require a fair amount of exercise, mental stimulation, and also grooming each day. Take matters into your own hands and learn to give your Doodle the exact haircut YOU want with this valuable online course!

Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Bullboxer Pit Highlights The Bullboxer Pit is a mixed breed dog. Bullboxer Pits may tend to overeat. Owners must be diligent about monitoring diet. Bullboxer Pits have often been used as farm or guard dogs, due mostly to their loyal nature and powerful strength. The most regularly seen coat colors are brown, tan, yellow, and black. Although their coats are easy to maintain, Bullboxer Pits do shed all year long. Brushing can help. Due to their exercise requirements, physical strength, and need for training, this breed might not be best for novice dog owners. Boxers came on the scene in Germany back in the s; the dogs were often used to transport supplies and ferry messages to troops during the first two World Wars. The American Pit Bull Terrier was first employed in blood sports and used in baiting bears and bulls. The first ever Bullboxer Pits can be traced back to a German dog breed called the Bullenbeisser, which is now extinct. Due to the care and attention Bullboxer Pits require from an owner, many of them can end up in shelters. Bullboxer Pit Size The Bullboxer Pit is often described as a medium-sized dog, although they are also stockier and sturdier than many other middle-sized canines. Most weigh in at 50 to 80 pounds and range in height from 16 to 20 inches. Female Bullboxer Pits can often be a little smaller than their male counterparts. Bullboxer Pit Personality Bullboxer Pits have often been used as farm or guard dogs, due mostly to their loyal nature and powerful strength. These dogs can be especially devoted to their families, and often become very protective of any children in the household. Very upbeat walks—or even jogs—are required, so the owner must also be able to maintain a healthy and regular exercise routine. Around two hours of exercise per day is required—adding agility training or even swimming to the daily sessions can help vary things up. Apartment dwellers may find that many buildings do not permit Bullboxer Pits to live with them. Some of the more common health problems Bullboxer Pits suffer from include: Obesity due to overeating. Lifespan Sociability Bullboxer Pits, like their parents, are very athletic and high-energy dogs that will need owners who can keep up with them. They are easy to train, thanks to their intelligence and eager-to-please nature, but you also might need to deal with some stubbornness. They are generally healthy, robust dogs and have an average lifespan for a dog their size. While they are friendly dogs, they are wary of strangers and any animals not from their household. The Bullboxer Pit is prone to becoming overweight. The Bullboxer Pit will do better with an experienced dog owner. This high-energy breed can be a challenge to train for a first-time owner. Combine this with their powerful physical strength, the Bullboxer Pit will require an owner who is experienced with dogs and up for a worthwhile challenge. The Bullboxer Pit is commonly used as guard and farm dogs. They are physically powerful dogs but also very devoted and protective, which makes them excellent working dogs. They are faithful, protective, and sometimes stubborn. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They make excellent watchdogs as they are very protective of their family, but they are also very friendly and loving with their family. However, they have a high prey drive and might react to small animals running, which needs to be taken into consideration. They should be fed smaller meals 2 or 3 times a day, about 2 to 3 cups a day. Using a variety of exercises such as swimming, chasing frisbees and balls, or even agility trials will help with the exercise requirements and from allowing your dog to become bored. A bored dog can become a destructive dog. Like most dogs, they respond best to patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Reward-based training , combined with lots of love and praise, will ensure the best outcome for your puppy. However, they do tend to shed, and weekly brushing will help with this. They should only be given a bath when necessary no more than once a month with a dog shampoo. The Bullboxer Pit has floppy ears that should be regularly cleaned as they might contain excess oils and wax. The American Pit Bull Terrier might also experience spinal cord disease and hip dysplasia, as well as kneecap dislocation, congenital heart defects , congenital eye defects, and particularly a predisposition to cataracts. Your Bullboxer Pit is a hybrid and not nearly as likely to experience these health issues, but having your vet check for the possibility is always a good idea. Minor Conditions: The Boxer might suffer from colitis, twisted spleen, corneal disease, and hypothyroidism. The American Pit Bull Terrier is also prone to hypothyroidism and a variety of skin problems such as mange and skin allergies. Male vs. Female In most dog breeds, one of the differences between males and females is in size and weight. The female Bullboxer Pit might range from 16 to 19 inches in height, whereas the male might be 17 to 20 inches. The female might weigh 50 to 70 pounds and the male 60 to 80 pounds. Having your female dog spayed is a more complicated surgery than neutering the male dog and, therefore, is more expensive and has a longer recovery time. The advantage of spaying or neutering your dog is the surgery could make your dog less aggressive and excitable and could prevent future health problems. Another possible difference between males and females is their temperament and behavior. There are debates on whether or not female dogs are less aggressive and more affectionate than males. But how your dog was socialized and trained as a puppy will be the primary indicator of how your dog will behave as an adult. Final Thoughts The Bullboxer Pit is a combination of friendly and fearless, as well as energetic and cuddly. Combining two powerful and devoted dogs like the Boxer and the American Pit Bull Terrier creates a perfect meld of these two breeds and brings out some of their best qualities into one dog. Starting your search for a Bullboxer Pit puppy can begin with speaking to breeders of Pit Bulls and Boxers. You might also talk to rescue groups or members of your local and national dog clubs and attend dog shows. Posting about your interest in finding one of these puppies in social media will be a great way to ensure your message is seen by a much larger audience. While the Bullboxer Pit is not a pet for beginners, the time and effort spent training one of these dogs will give you an amazing addition to your family. Mixed Breeds By Kelsey Leicht 29 min read May 24, K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. Bull terriers are a beloved breed with character, charisma, and cute factor. Bull Terrier Basics: Everything You Need to Know The bull terrier, also known as the BT, is easy to spot in a crowd thanks to his egg-shaped head with a long face, pricked ears , and tiny eyes. Participants looked beyond the breed to keep its power but add speed and athleticism, breeding in various terriers. One of these breeders was James Hinks, who created the classic white bull terrier. Bull Terrier Sizes Like poodles and a few other breeds, bull terriers come in more than one size. Seeking something larger? Check out the standard bull terrier, standing 21 to 22 inches at the shoulder and clocking in between 50 and 70 pounds. There was once a toy bull terrier, too, who weighed less than 15 pounds. These doggos were available in the late s, but they soon became increasingly rare. Inbreeding was a significant issue, making it challenging to produce healthy pups and driving up prices. Bull Terrier Temperament This Englishman is known to be affectionate despite his rough-and-tumble roots. The BT is a good family pup who is OK with visitors and serves as a middle-of-the-road watchdog. Early, appropriate socialization is necessary, but he may always prefer to be your one-and-only woofer. Dog training toys are a great way to hold his attention, along with positive reinforcement training that rewards him instead of using aversive methods. Ideally, sires and dams should have cardiac exams, a kidney screening, a patella knee evaluation, and BAER testing for hearing loss. Ophthalmologist testing is also recommended, especially for an eye disease called primary lens luxation. Keeping him in tip-top shape only requires a weekly brush down to remove shedding hair and dirt, with a bath every eight weeks, to ensure he smells his best, too. As with other pups, he still needs basic canine care, including regular toothbrushing , ear cleaning , and nail trims. Kaleidoscopic Canines! Some mistakenly believe bull terriers only come with white coats, but they have a dozen approved colors by the AKC that also includes brindle, red, and black, white, and tan. Countless bull terrier mixes exist today, ranging from common cuties to ultra-rare doggos. One athletic pooch! Daily physical and exercise through enrichment activities are musts for these mutts. With both parent pups having short coats, grooming your bull heeler terrier will be a breeze. Expect weekly brushing to remove loose hair or coat debris and bathing as needed. BTs and pit bulls are world-class athletes, excelling in canine sports like Agility and Tracking. Everyday activity is a must for him, preferably by your side. Consider training your dog to run with you or inviting him as a hiking buddy, depending on his fitness level, as not every pup will be a sports star. Dog selectiveness may be a concern with this mix, so he may not be the best choice for multi-dog families. Boredom can also be an issue, and he needs varied training routines using positive methods to keep him focused while learning obedience and tricks. While endearing to most, some pet parents want a more serious sniffer. Early socialization is recommended for him, along with obedience training. Both will build his confidence, keeping small dog syndrome at bay. He can be one playful pup with higher-than-average energy levels, meaning everyday walks and backyard play are musts. Dog sports like Agility and Flyball may suit him nicely. This canine combo is likely to be sharp as a tack, learning commands quickly, but training must be fun and engaging to keep him on task. Dog training games are a fun, fresh way to switch up everyday lessons and help him thrive. Personality and power! This mashup mutt can work as hard as he plays, though he still enjoys spending time with his people. Challenge him with everyday activities to avoid boredom, from hiking to jogging to nosework games. Crate training games help transform a crate into his happy place. This meshes well with living with kiddos, though he might be too bouncy to have around smaller children. Both boxers and BTs have a fair share of health concerns to watch for. Keep up with regular vet checkups and help him maintain a healthy weight and stay in tip-top shape. He can be a natural ham, soaking up attention by putting on a show of tricks. Keep an eye on his weight, too. Health issues can plague this mix, especially if your pup takes after his Frenchie parent with a brachycephalic skull shape. Keep up with annual vet checkups and help him maintain a healthy weight to avoid stressing his joints. He can be an active four-footer, requiring daily exercise and plenty of brain games. Dalmatians and BTs have a fair share of health concerns, so budget for potential hiccups or invest in pet insurance for peace of mind. White bullmatians are also at risk of sunburn, so look into dog-friendly sunscreen and limit their outdoor time during high UV hours. English Bulldog Terrier English Bulldog x Bull Terrier Mix A post shared by opiethebrave A bully breed to the bone, this handsome merger of mutts will most likely be built like a wrecking ball with a broad, stout frame. Tug toys will surely be a hit with this mixed barker, as both BTs and bulldogs love a spirited game of tug-of-war. With both parenting pups being more playful breeds, this mix will likely enjoy moving more than snoozing. Both parenting breeds are more active than not, so expect a long daily walk for lots of sniffing and backyard play, too. As a beagle mix, this combo cutie may be tempted to follow his nose after scents, so keep him leashed outside fenced areas. Daily physical and mental exercise are essential in keeping him content. Parson Russell terriers have high prey drives , so this pup may also be prone to chasing cats, squirrels, or leaves blowing around. Leash him outside fenced areas to keep everyone safe and secure. Both parenting pup breeds are known for intelligence, so their offspring are likely equally brainy and quick to learn new commands. This is important, as his American bulldog roots mean he may be stubborn. Thanks to his Lab roots, he might also be a fan of water. This is great, as swimming is a top-notch form of low-impact exercise for these active doggos. A good brush and vacuum are also good ideas since Labs are known for shedding heavily. Considering his mastiff roots, he may also be on the drooly side, so consider putting a towel-down on your floor near his water bowl. Likely to be large and in charge, joint health is paramount with this BT mix. With built-in strength and possible stubbornness, early, reward-based training is essential. His short coat is easy to care for but sheds regularly. So, keep a winter coat for dogs handy if you live in a colder climates. While BTs are forever playful, greyhounds operate in spurts of activity, so your pup may fall somewhere in the middle. Just be sure no small animals are around, as both his parent breeds have high prey drives. Akita x Bull Terrier Mix A post shared by Timur Abdukakharov balulunadogs Big ears and bigger personality are hallmarks of this fused floof. Both breeds are shedders, so expect regular brushing and vacuuming to keep things tidy. While intelligent, this combo canine is not for beginners. Akitas are aloof with strangers, making this mix one of the least likely to be a social butterfly on our list. There are exceptions, but early socialization remains critical. Pug x Bull Terrier Mix. Both of these dogs can be friendly but personalities differ, so you never know. The Boxer is known for being intelligent, friendly, and devoted. All dogs need proper socialization and that will be a big factor in how they interact with others. What does this mixed breed look and act like? Is it more like the Boxer or the Bull Terrier? Those are the questions we will try and answer below. Continue reading below to see pictures, videos, and learn more about the beautiful Boxer Bull Terrier Mix. While we really recommend that you acquire all animals through a rescue, we understand that some people might go through a breeder to get their Boxer Bull Terrier Mix puppy. That is, if they have any Boxer Bull Terrier Mix puppies for sale. If you are interested in helping animal rescues raise money, please play our quiz. Each correct answer donates to help feed shelter animals. We will take a closer look at the history of both parent breeds below. If you are looking at breeders for new, designer dogs please beware of Puppy Mills. If you have a few minutes, please sign our petition to stop puppy mills. Boxer History Boxers are large, muscular, square-headed dogs that are extremely playful and have a lot of energy. The typical Boxer is intelligent, alert, and fearless, yet friendly. He's loyal to his family and loves to play with them, but he's also headstrong, especially if you try to use harsh training methods with him. They are extremely patient and gentle, especially with children. They are high energy dogs and need a lot of exercise. Because of their strength and courage, Boxers have a wide use in the military and the police, as well as search-and-rescue work. When specifically trained for guard work, Boxers are excellent watchdogs and will restrain an intruder in the same manner as a Mastiff. Boxers also excel in obedience, agility, and schutzhund a demanding three-phase competition event that tests the dog's tracking, obedience, and protection abilities. Boxers should not be left outdoors for extended periods of time. Their short nose doesn't cool hot air efficiently in the summer, and their short coat doesn't keep them warm in the winter. The Bullenbeisser had been used as a hunting dog for centuries to hunt bear, wild boar, and deer. They were trained to catch the prey and hold onto it until the hunters arrived. The Boxer we know today was developed in the late 19th century. Lehman of New York. Unfortunately, there weren't many female Boxers in the U. When Word War I broke out, Boxers were enlisted into the military, serving as messenger dogs, carrying packs, and acting as attack and guard dogs. Boxers started becoming popular in the U. Bull Terrier History Once upon a time in 19th-century England, a breeder crossed a bulldog with a terrier. The breeder had an eye toward developing a dog breed that had both the speed and skill of the terrier and the relentlessness of the bulldog. Sadly, along the way someone decided the Bull and Terrier would be well-suited to bloodsport and began using the dogs for fighting. Despite this, when she is well socialized, the Bull Terrier makes a wonderful family pet. The pugilistic traits once bred into the dog have died off over the years. Like every animal, the Bull Terrier will behave as she is conditioned. Unfortunately, fighting dogs are still among us, but they exist only because their owners subject them to cruel training techniques designed to make them behave or respond aggressively. Animal advocacy groups have done a good job of shining a light on the dogfighting problem and are working tirelessly to rid the world of it. Hinks sought to breed an all-white dog and correct some of the physical deficiencies he perceived in the original breed. Unfortunately, breeders were uncovering some health problems attributable to breeding only for all-white dogs, so Ted Lyon began introducing color in the early 20th century. From that time on, reputable breeders have bred the Bull to be exclusively a happy if energetic family companion.

They offer pug rescue to help those dogs that are in a dangerous situation. They save pet lives regardless of breed, health, personality, and age. And then they search for the right people to adopt their pug rescue. They send ambassadors to local communities to educate on pet ownership. This is essential for people who will be adopting pugs and other breeds. If you plan to adopt from Rosie Southside, they will review your desire and capability to take care of pets. In case, you cannot support your pets anymore, they have the right to take them back. They also have a yard where they let their pug and other rescues play and roam around. Are you searching to adopt a specific dog breed like a pug? Visit their website and Facebook page to get more information. They rescue a pug, a cat, or a dog. They provide rehabilitation to make all their rescues healthy and ready for adoption. All their pets receive up to date immunizations for their health. Humane Society is also known for doing good with its pug rescue campaign. All their charitable works rely on donations and fundraising activities. If you plan to donate via PayPal, please refer them as friends or family to free them from the charge. Visit their website to gather more information about them. Post a photo of the dog or cat in any of these Facebook groups:. For out-of-state customers, we have nationwide delivery options tailored to every need. CandyLand Pugs and Frenchies; 5. Silver Maple Puppy and Equine ; 4. Pug puppies of Ohio, Norwalk, Ohio. We are a Christian family ranging from 42 to 7 years of age. Find Pug puppies for sale. True to the standards of the Pug dog. He is the most gentle and sweetest guy. Pug Puppies for Sale in OH. Pug puppies in Ohio. There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for Pug puppies in Springfield, Ohio. Pug puppies for sale in Ohio from trusted breeders. Pugs for adoption in the Cleveland, Ohio area come with a year health guarantee. Pug Breeders in Ohio with Puppies for Sale. Josephine, wife of Napoleon, used her Pug "Fortune" to. Oft-called the Pug Dog or Chinese Pug and said to be "multum in parvo," the sturdy toy companion has an adorable wrinkly-muzzled face, and curly tail in silver, black or fawn, and black. Find Pug puppies for saleNear Ohio. Pug puppies of ohio. Pugs for adoption in the Willard, Ohio area come with a year health guarantee. Puppies must be picked up from my residence. This is our puppy nursery for our mother and puppies, we have custom built whelping boxes, mother and puppies are monitored 24 hours from our puppy monitor. Select from the highest-rated breeders in the state. Puppy Nursery. Our farm consists of 39 acres with horses, ponies, cattle, chickens, cats and of course our puppies and their parents. Easy, transparent and safe: healthy and happy Pug puppies from the best breeders. Pugs for Sale in Cleveland. All their puppies are raised at home and interact with people and animals. Pugs for adoption in the Toledo, Ohio area come with a year health guarantee. Available colors include fawn, black, white, brindle, merle, chocolate, pied , black and tan, we also have fluffy long hair pugs. Here are a few organizations closest to you: Shelter .Smart and playful with a short muzzle and expressive eyes, the Pug's low-key lifestyle makes them perfect city dogs. The Pug is one of the oldest breeds of dog; has flourished since before BC. Looking for Pug puppies for sale in Ohio? We want to help you find the best Pug puppy breeders around. The duo put in the time and effort to train and raise puppies. They are located in South Beloit, Illinois, a short drive from Indiana. Pug Breeders in Indiana! This is the price you can expect to pay for the Pug breed without breeding rights. Despite their tiny size, they have the biggest hearts. Pug Puppies for Sale in Ohio. Looking for a cute Pug puppy for adoption near Strongsville, Ohio? Pugs are true joy bringers from the moment they are born. Candyland Pugs Ohio is the best place to find pugs in the state of Ohio. No puppies where found matching your criteria. All our puppies come only from a small number of select and certified breeders in Ohio. Thank you for your interest in our pugs. Pug Puppies for Sale near Cincinnati, Ohio. View our akc registered Pug Puppies. That's why we've put together this list of the very best Pug breeders in Ohio. Once the companions of Chinese royalty, their distinct faces are complemented by sweet demeanors. Here, at Premier Pups, we specialize in raising happy and healthy Pug puppies. They have a host of pups that you can look at in their online store. Pugs for adoption in the Columbus, Ohio area come with a year health guarantee. Our pugs come in traditional and rare colors. Eating and sleeping are his very … more 3 days ago on PuppyFinder. Eddie is a handsome senior boy of years of age. Free Pug Puppies Our puppies vary from 18 lbs. If you are unable to find your Pug puppy in our Puppy for Sale or Dog for Sale sections, please consider looking thru thousands of Pug Dogs for Adoption. They start teaching the puppies crate and potty training at the tender age of 4 weeks. Pug puppies of Ohio provide a month health guarantee and a complementary vet visit. Adopt Pug Dogs in Ohio. In addition, the breeders will ensure that your Pug is up to date. They are a family of five from Norwalk, Ohio. Find your Pug puppy for sale in Ohio. Click on a number to view those needing rescue in that state. Looking for a cute Pug puppy for adoption near Willard, Ohio? Provide standard health clearances; 3. As a family owned breeder of quality Pugs, it is our utmost concern to breed puppies with their health and socialization at the core of our mission. Browse these Pug rescues and shelters below. Find Pug breeders in Ohio near you with puppies for sale. Pugs available in Norwalk, Ohio. Pug puppies and dogs in nearby cities. Looking for a cute Pug puppy for adoption near Columbus, Ohio? Home Dog breeds States Blog Contact. We're here to help you find your dream pup from a reputable, ethical breeding program. Pug Way of Life ; 2. There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for Pug puppies in Fremont, Ohio. Our beautiful Pugs are raised with the utmost care by our licensed and responsible breeders. Prices for Pug puppies for sale in Dayton, OH vary by breeder and individual puppy. Greet our Pug puppies available in Ohio, OH. If you are unable to find your Pug puppy in. Meet Eddie! This map shows how many Pug Dogs are posted in other states. The Pug was a pet of the Buddhist monasteries in Tibet. Puppies are sold with the first set of shots and are wormed times before being homed. The passionate, knowledgeable couple has been breeding and showing Pugs for around 20 years. And the remaining balance can be paid at pick up. Pug puppies and dogs in Fremont, Ohio. In the summer, the owners, a husband and wife pair, work in construction and spend the rest of their time breeding Pugs. Pug puppies for sale in Dayton, OH from trusted breeders. Our beautiful Pugs are raised with the utmost care by. Pug Breeders in Ohio OH. Pug Puppies of Ohio provide a puppy starter bag that includes a puppy blanket, food, treats, toy, and potty pads. Here are a few organizations closest to you: Rescue .He looks like his dad, AKC registered and champion lined pedigree. We insist that our puppies become a member of. Eddie is a handsome senior boy. They are a family-owned and operated business that has been breeding pugs for over 20 years. Address - Sidney, OH , United. She is timid when first meeting her! The average cost for all Pugs sold in the Cincinnati area. The puppies and their parents receive the best care with regular grooming and. Because all breeding programs are different, you may find. Pug Puppies of Ohio is a small-scale breeder in Huron County. Male s and Female s Age: 9 Weeks Old. The puppies and their parents receive. So, without further ado, let's take a look! Our Pugs puppies for sale come from either USDA licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. Chinese origins[ edit ] Pugs were brought from China to Europe in the sixteenth century. The pet pugs were highly valued by Chinese Emperors, and the royal dogs were kept in luxury and guarded by soldiers. In Tibet , Buddhist monks kept pugs as pets in their monasteries. Pugs were painted by Goya in Spain, and in Italy they rode up front on private carriages, dressed in jackets and pantaloons that matched those of the coachman. They were used by the military to track animals and people, and were also employed as guard dogs. His self-portrait , which is now in London's Tate Gallery , includes his pug, Trump. Every carriage I meet here has a Pug in it. Many responded to the breed's image of anti-functionalism and diminutive size during this period. The modern pug's appearance probably changed after when a new wave of pugs were imported directly from China. These pugs had shorter legs and the modern-style pug nose. The British aristocrat Lady Brassey is credited with making black pugs fashionable after she brought some back from China in .Hogarth's painting from the 18th century depicts the originally longer muzzle, as well as the picture in a edition of Brehms Tierleben. Since there has been a trend in some countries to breed "retro pugs". Following the deaths of pugs and other brachycephalic breeds, several airlines either banned their transport in cargo or enacted seasonal restrictions. Pugs have elongated palates. When excited, they are prone to " reverse sneezing " which causes them to quickly and seemingly laboriously gasp and snort. The veterinary name for this is pharyngeal gag reflex and it is caused by fluid or debris getting caught under the palate and irritating the throat or limiting breathing. Reverse sneezing episodes are usually not harmful, and massaging the dog's throat or covering its nose in order to make it breathe through its mouth can often shorten a sneezing fit. In serious cases, it makes breathing even more difficult and puts added pressure on the larynx. If this happens, one should inquire with their veterinarian whether or not surgery is needed to open the nostrils. If the prolapse happens on a regular basis, the pug might require surgery. This condition is caused when parasitic mites, that are often present in a dog's skin without causing symptoms, are allowed to do damage because their host has a weakened immune system. It is a problem for many young pugs, although not usually a major one, and is easily treatable, but some are especially susceptible and present with a systemic form of the condition. The condition occurs when two parts of a spinal vertebra do not fuse properly while a young pug is still growing, resulting in an irregularly shaped spinal cavity which can put pressure on the spinal cord. Pug photo, ca .Note its small head and long legs. A pug by Carl Reichert. The pug that was predominantly featured in the commercials was Cheeka. A few other adverts also appeared in the following months, inspired by the idea of a dog following a boy.

Like many large breeds, a German Shepherd dog is not considered fully grown until they are about 18 months old. Female German Shepherds continue to fill out until they are around two years old, while the male German Shepherd growth rate continues until they reach two and a half years of age. Males are larger and require more time to fill out their chest and abdomen. As you can see by the German Shepherd weight chart, these dogs can continue to grow until they are three years old, but the majority of growth occurs within 24 months. If your GSD is older than 36 months and continues to put on weight, contact your veterinarian to ensure weight gain does not lead to obesity. How big should a 6-month-old German Shepherd be? A six-month-old German Shepherd puppy will be quite large, as many German Shepherds undergo massive growth spurts between two and five months old. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. How much bigger will my German Shepherd get? There are a few ways to gauge how much bigger a German Shepherd will get. First, check your puppy's age. If your GSD is younger than two years old, they definitely have room to keep growing! Another way to tell if your pup still has a lot of growing to do is their paw size. Do their paws look large compared to their legs and body? This is a classic adolescent feature of a dog and means your pup is likely still growing! Most of the time, a dog will not grow bigger than its larger parents. What is the size of a full-grown German shepherd? An adult male German Shepherd is typically 24 to 26 inches tall, while adult female German Shepherds are 22 to 24 inches tall, according to the American Kennel Club German Shepherd Standard. The estimated full-size varies significantly between sexes. In terms of weight, an adult male German Shepherd weighs anywhere from 75 to 90 pounds. A female German Shepherd weighs notably less at 55 to 70 pounds. Please keep in mind that these numbers are only estimates to give you an idea of how much bigger a German Shepherd puppy may get. Some dogs will be both smaller and larger than these weight ranges when fully grown due to a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Learn all about your puppy's physical characteristics, breed history, personality traits, and more in our comprehensive guide. Preventive care is key in helping your German Shepherd live a healthy and long life. Helping your dog maintain an optimal weight is one of the best things you can do for their health. Taking your German Shepherd to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do to ensure that they are healthy and feeling their best. Compare German Shepherd health insurance plans before they get sick or injured. They are also more susceptible to gastrointestinal tract and hip issues. A veterinarian should regularly assess your pet for these health problems and run tests for anything they may be more prone to due to their breed. Treatment for many conditions, including bloat and GI issues, can cost thousands of dollars. Dog insurance is a wise investment that can give you peace of mind by covering pet emergency expenses. Wellness plans are also available to help cover the cost of vaccinations, vet exams, microchips, and more. Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance. Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top providers so you can find a great deal with great coverage. Get Peace of Mind Today Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. Height: 26 inches Ratio: .This should give you their height. For example, 26 inches times 0. Using the other example, .Since each dog is going to be different, you need to look at their overall body condition rather than a weight range. Fortunately, there are body conditioning charts that you can use to figure out if your German Shepherd is at their ideal weight. Just look at them from the side and from above, feeling for ribs and pelvic bones when necessary. Younger dogs will also typically be on the thin side before they fully fill out as adults. Years of line breeding has produced several distinct types of Shepherds. Show dogs are known for a sloped back in which the back legs are shorter than the front. This unnatural formation can cause back and hip problems along with an abnormal gait. German Shepherds bred for show will also be thinner than their hardworking cousins. As you can see in this picture, this is a show-bred German Shepherd with an obvious curved back and short back legs. Working dogs, on the other hand, are bred for a sturdy, straight back so they can work long hours without getting sore. They tend to be thicker than show dogs and will, therefore, weigh more, even at the same height. As you can see in this picture, this dog has a straighter back and longer back legs, so it has been bred for working. Something else I wanted to mention here is that, according to some sources, Black German Shepherds are larger than their bi-colored cousins, despite being otherwise the same. So, if you have one of these rare and beautiful creatures, you can follow the same charts that were listed above. If your German Shepherd is diagnosed by a veterinarian as underweight or overweight for their age, then the first thing you should do is ask him or her to help you figure out the underlying cause of the problem. This will determine what should be done next. Do you have a giant German Shepherd? What about a tiny one? Comment below to tell us more about it! About Alexandra Animalso I was raised to be a dog person. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. American German shepherds have straighter backs then German shepherds. If you have a german shepherd and their lineages are close to their German roots they will have that arch in their back. Puppyhood The first growth phase — puppyhood — has six development stages. During each of these stages, a puppy learns a lot of things. Neonatal Stage This period lasts from birth to 13 days. The puppy needs a lot of nursing from its mom because it is rather helpless. Its ears and eyes are closed, so it does not have any senses. The little pups should completely rely on their mothers for nourishment and care. By 2 weeks, they double their birth weight. They start crawling, and then their eyes and ears begin to open. The first milk teeth appear. The puppy can even stand up, but too unstably and shakily. This makes it possible for little ones to hear, smell, and taste. They even try to walk. Their baby teeth continue growing. The period between weeks is also called a transitional one. At the end of the third week, the motor skills start developing fast. The puppy can already control its temperature and body, namely, bowel movements. It begins to interact with its littermates. Nevertheless, the pup is still largely dependent on its mother. Though, you can interact with it. At the end of this period, the little cub is ready to explore the world. Its baby teeth are almost complete, and it can stand up more stably. It starts barking and growling a bit. The puppy grows quickly now. It actively interacts with its littermates. The baby dog can walk, and its baby teeth are complete. You can also consider the German Shepherd behavior stages from now. Its mental development starts because it discovers the world actively with its senses. Its walking improves, and it can make attempts to run, so it can even sometimes get in trouble. The puppy can start eating dog food. That is why it is important to begin weaning. The little one can recognize and greet its littermates and people, get interested in new things, and continue to explore the world. However, at this age, the first fear period can be experienced. Read our detailed guide about 6 week old German Shepherd puppy. It is the best period for taking your pet home. This period can be psychologically traumatic, so be careful not to expose the pet to direct sunlight because it may be afraid of it for its entire life. All the fears need your special attention. You need to nurture, but not encourage them. Read our detailed guide about 2 month old German Shepherd puppy. So, your puppy is three months old now. It is playful and active. Its teeth are complete. It is weaned and eats dog food. The feeding recommendation here is the overall one and a half cups, three times a day. It is also time to get your pet vaccinated against distemper and parvovirus. At the end of the third month, your little GSD can simulate its behavior after other dogs and humans. Training can start. Read our detailed guide about 3 month old German Shepherd puppy. Your puppy already has all its baby teeth, and adult canines and incisors begin to push through. It can even try to bite or nip you. The puppy coat begins to disappear and gets ready for replacement by the adult double-layer coat. You can see a racing stripe on its spine where the adult hair will grow. The puppy displays quick growth at this time, and it becomes stronger to withstand the possible fierce competition with its siblings if it is still staying with its family. It needs a lot of biting and chewing now for the correct growth of its adult teeth. Your pet needs consistent socialization and potty training now. After three months old, you should think about such vaccination as DHPP — distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus. The juvenile phase lasts from 3 to 6 months, and it can be divided into three stages by month. Continue socializing and start more substantial training. You can consult the German Shepherd weight chart here to see whether your pup develops properly. So, be attentive to the games you play with your pet. Some of them can be dangerous and traumatic because your puppy may not know how to manage its body during them. You can give it two cups of kibble totally three times per day because it needs a lot of nutrition to grow. DHPP and rabies vaccines are recommended at this age. Your little pup is ready to explore the world. However, as a true teenager, it can become more stubborn and try not to listen to your commands. It starts to understand dominance and tries to persuade you in its leadership. Read our detailed guide about 4 month old German Shepherd puppy. During this month, it can gain about 10 pounds 4. Its ears have stably perked up by this time. It looks more like an adult dog but, as a true teenager, it is very playful and is always ready to go around. The adult teeth continue to appear. Sexual maturity starts emerging. You should feed your pet around two cups three times per day. A lot of training is also needed. Read our detailed guide about 5 month old German Shepherd puppy. It needs a lot of training and positive reinforcement. Now, your pet is fully house-trained, and it needs a lot of new experiences. The sixth month is a transition period to the Adolescent Phase. The ears are completely upright. Males achieve sexual maturity, while female puppies can experience heat cycles. Hormones start working, and male puppies can start marking the territory and looking for females to mate. The adult coat grows longer and gets its normal double layers. Adult teething is about to finish, and all 42 teeth appear. You should feed your dog with the overall two or three cups two times per day. Read our detailed guide about 6 month old German Shepherd puppy. Adolescence Phase Months German Shepherd males are thought to be grown-up when they are 3 years 36 months old. Females become adults when they are 2 years 24 months old. However, these criteria differ for every puppy. That is why the adolescence phase lasts from the end of the 6th month to the end of the second year of age 24 months on average. By the end of this phase, the puppy reaches its full size though it will continue slightly growing. Your dog can display testing boundaries, so disobedience is widely encountered if the dog is not properly trained. German Shepherds do not look like puppies anymore. Within this period, some dogs can display their second fear period at approximately months old , though to avoid long-lasting psychological trauma, you should ignore the fears. Some dogs may occasionally forget their skills that they have already acquired, so you may need to repeat training again. Here, the reinforced training is useful because some puppies can become entirely rambunctious. Your pet will also need more socialization since it reaches its sexual maturity, and some of its reactions can be pretty unexpected. Its sexual maturity continues, which may cause some aggression because of increases and decreases in hormones. The puppy does not gain weight so fast. Teething is finished. The German Shepherd starts looking more similar to an adult dog, with its standing up ears and well-developed muscles. The food your dog needs involves two or three cups total, given two times per day. Read our detailed guide about 7 month old German Shepherd puppy. It displays a lot of aggression. It can bark or lunge at other animals, kids, and unfamiliar people. A lot of training and reinforcement is needed. You can teach the youngster new tricks to deal with their aggression. The dog has strong adult teeth, and its ears are well-formed and perky. The transition to adulthood continues. As for food, your dog needs two-three cups in total two times a day. Read our detailed guide about 8 month old German Shepherd puppy. It does not grow fast, gaining about a couple of pounds per month. The dog needs two-three cups of food two times a day. Read our detailed guide about 9 month old German Shepherd puppy. They are very active and need a lot of attention and training. Sometimes, they can be really goofy or clumsy because they are still learning and do not know how to behave in many events. Your pup is very smart and clever but tends to display a lot of aggression if not supported and reinforced properly. The dogs should eat two-three cups in total per day. Read our detailed guide about 10 month old German Shepherd pupp y. It starts to challenge you as an owner and likes to demonstrate its leadership. You should teach it to be responsible and obey your commands. A lot of training and reinforcement is crucial. Still, give it two or three cups in total per day. It becomes a bit destructive, but be sure not to get angry or upset with it. It needs your patience and positive attitude. Such vaccines as DHPP and rabies are recommended at this age. It should also transit to adult food. Give it three or three and a half cups total twice a day. Read our detailed guide about 1 year old German Shepherd puppy. Years 1. This time is considered a transition period. The dog may have problems with fears and memory breakdowns. It may even forget how to do familiar things and should be trained again. However, its attention span is longer at this age, so it can have a more thorough obedience training. The dog should eat three or three and a half cups two times a day. Year 2 months — The Second Transition Phase This is one more transition period known as young adulthood. Your dog still displays some aggression. That is why they continue to need reinforcement, training, and socialization. It has already gained its athletic frame and strong muscle, and only several pounds are lacking for reaching its adult weight. In fact, you get a German Shepherd full-grown pet now. The DHPP vaccination is recommended at this age. Continue to feed your dog with three to three and a half cups in total twice per day. It has become a loyal and protective family pet or an obedient and enduring working dog. The young adulthood stage lasts from the second to the third year after the puppy was born. Its size is typical now for an adult dog. However, it may continue to grow slightly, but the changes are not noticeable at all. At this phase, you can also notice that your pet becomes more and more active. It needs a lot of exercise and training. A lot of physical activity is essential for the dog to stay in high spirits. The period between the second and third years of life is also called the adult growth stage. This is the time when your friend gets its excellent breed characteristics. It loves attention very much and continues to learn new things eagerly. The dog enjoys training sessions and strives for new experiences. It becomes calmer and more confident. Its hyperactivity slightly decreases. It displays a lot of self-control and discipline. Continue feeding your dog with three to three and a half cups twice per day. It will be its constant adult diet. Vaccination against rabies is recommended and required by authorities at this age. Seniority Phase This is the last phase of German Shepherd development. It may seem wonderful, but your dog can continue to slightly grow. The phase is divided into two periods — early senior years old and late senior years old. Unfortunately, you need to focus on its health rather than on training. Such health issues as hip dysplasia, joint pain, and decreased stamina can appear at this age. You need to have consultations with your vet more often. During this period, your dog does not change its weight and height considerably. Though, you can observe slight changes in weight. On average, these dogs live years. You need to attend to their health and comfort. The dog may remain energetic and playful, but it slightly slows down. It wants to rest more and gets much calmer. The animal may suffer from some pains, so it may need pain relievers for spine and joint problems and arthritis. It may also need nutritional supplements and changes to its diet. Special senior and sensitive stomach food may become the best choice. Avoid jumping and hard playing. Continuous veterinary monitoring is needed if some symptoms are worsening. The accepted proportion that is considered ideal is .The weight is usually not taken into consideration. If your pet does not correspond to this proportion, there may be a health issue you do not know about yet. That is why you need to monitor the parameters carefully. To be sure that everything is OK, multiply the length of your dog by 0. You will get the perfect height. However, there can be some divergences. If they are minor, you have nothing to worry about. The German Shepherd is rather thin, or even skinny. This results in bad proportions. The ideal weight of your German Shepherd is lbs kg for males and lbs kg for females. You can get either a heavy or obese dog, and it can be a result of overfeeding or certain health issues. How to Check the Weight of Your German Shepherd The simplest method to see whether your dog is underweight is to check whether the ribs are visible on the sides. If you can see that the shape of your dog reminds you of a barrel on the ribs, it means that it is overweight. If you cannot feel the ribs, but there is too much skin on the sides, your dog is overweight. However, if you feel the ribs and only a thin layer of skin, it is underweight. It does not matter whether your dog is underweight or overweight. In any case, it can cause health problems if you do not repair the situation. The best way to succeed is to make changes to the diet. If your German Shepherd is underweight, you should enrich the content of its food. However, do not make it eat if the dog does not want to. That can lead to more severe problems. Make a slow transition to food with higher fat content. Or you may even give your dog puppy food because it is rich in nutrients. If your pet is obviously overweight, the best thing is to cut off the food. However, you also need to do it step by step so that the dog finally can eat just half of the amount you have recently fed it. The adult dog has a height of inches cm at the shoulder and an average weight of pounds kg. Nevertheless, some German Shepherds can grow bigger and even reach pounds kg. You need to be sure about its proportions though to understand if your pet meets the standards. If you see some deficiencies, meet your vet for a more thorough evaluation. When does a German Shepherd stop growing? German Shepherd males are thought to be grown-up when they are 3 years old. Females become adults when they are 2 years old. How tall is a German Shepherd? The adult dog has a height of inches cm at the shoulder. An average male reaches inches cm in height, while an average female should be inches cm tall. The body of both males and females should be longer than their height. How big do German Shepherds get? How much does a German Shepherd weight? In general, an average male reaches pounds kg in weight, while an average female should be pounds kg heavy. This is a very strong and brave dog that can become a perfect guardian and protector. If you decide to take a GS puppy, you need to follow its growth stages accurately to be sure that it develops properly. You should follow a high-quality diet, provide your dog with a lot of exercise, and ensure its proper training and socialization. Your German Shepherd cannot stay healthy and active if it gets some health problems related to its weight or height. Sometimes, these issues are not obvious and understandable to the owner. That is why it is important to know the main development parameters of your German Shepherd growth stages to cope with possible challenges. We hope that this article, together with the weight and height chart, will become your effective and helpful guide. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. German Shepherd puppy development stages and ages — week by week guide Welcome to our German Shepherd puppy development stages and ages — week by week guide Different breeds like all different babies develop at different rates. There are going to be many exciting events for you to look forward to. Whether you are bringing your 8 week German Shepherd puppy home or about to be blessed with a litter of puppies. This is going to be an exciting, demanding but hugely rewarding journey. Newborn puppies are born at around days after fertilization. Newborn puppies are born with their ears and eyes tightly sealed. The reason eyelids are sealed shut is to form a protective barrier for the fragile developing eye. This helps to protect them from any foreign object, bright lights, bacteria or any other microorganism that can cause disease or damage. In the same way puppies ear canals are closed at birth to make them effectively deaf. This is a protective barrier to protect the fragile underdeveloped machinery needed to hear. In a mature ear the pressure caused by sound will mechanically move structures in the ear. German Shepherd puppies are highly dependent upon their noses. Puppies navigate by smell from the moment they are born. This helps them to identify their mom, the very important milk supply, siblings and surroundings. Newborn puppies are born with a fur coat however they cannot control their own body temperature yet. To keep them warm they are dependant on their mothers or another heat source. If you live in a cooler climate installing a heat lamp would be ideal to help keep the puppies nice and warm. Germans Shepherds make amazing mothers and will be relied on a lot at this stage. Mother dogs will only leave their newborn puppies to go to the toilet, eat and drink. However, when mom has gone the newborn puppies are not completely useless. They are able to use their front paws to drag themselves towards a heat source. When mom is away the puppies will crawl together to preserve their body heat. Along with being able to drag themselves to a heat source newborn puppies are also able to drag themselves to their mothers to locate the milk supply. They will move their heads around to search for a nipple, latch on and suck strongly. Newborn puppies are not born with teeth these will also develop in the next several weeks. Other than the above puppies are completely dependent upon the care of their dedicated mom. Newborn puppies have little control over the rear end of their bodies. To encourage their pups to pass urine and bowel movements the mom will lick their bottoms. Anything produced mom will then lick up and swallow to keep her puppies and nest clean. Some pups will even double their birth weight! Your German Shepherd puppy will still be highly dependent upon their mom at this stage. Beneath all their fur the vital organs will be working hard to mature. This includes the eyes. Your puppy will not be ready to open their eyes yet but lots of changes are taking place to prepare them for grand opening. The ear canals will begin to open around the same time as the eyes. When the ear canals do open, the ears are much more formed than the eyes are at this point in time. Their eyesight usually takes around 8 weeks to reach its full potential. When their eyes become wider, they will reveal blueish-gray eyes which are hazy in appearance. Their eyesight will continue to develop until around 8 weeks old. The ear canals will also open around 2 weeks. The puppies hearing has been developing much quicker than their eyesight and they will be able to hear most things by the time their ear canals fully open. However, their amazing hearing ability will continue to enhance over the next several weeks. At the moment your German Shepherd puppy will have cute floppy ears. Their adorable tall ears can come up anywhere between 8 weeks and 6 months of age. Floppy ears are common until your German Shepherd finishes teething. By then the ear cartilage will become strong and hard enough for the ears to stand up permanently. Now is a good time to start handling the puppies and get them used to your voice. Most puppies are wormed for the first time when they are 2 weeks old. All this development has happened so quickly, but things are about to get even more exciting. Between 2 and 4 weeks your German Shepherd puppy will begin to stand up this is when the real fun begins. Puppies milky teeth will also start to develop between 2 to 4 weeks. These sharp little teeth will remain until about weeks of age. These little daggers play an important role during the weaning process. Even the most patient moms will struggle to nurse with these sharp painful teeth. This reluctance to nurse will prompt the German Shepherds to seek alternative food sources. These sharp teeth will then help to make up for the lack of jaw strength when eating solid foods. Finally, these sharp puppy teeth play an important role in teaching the pups to gauge their bite pressure when playing with their mom and siblings. This is an essential life lesson that enables our powerful German Shepherds to become safer companions as they mature into strong adult dogs. During the last few weeks mom has done an amazing job of getting her babies strong and their mobility will have come on leaps and bounds well not quite yet but by 3 weeks of age your German Shepherd puppy will begin to trotter around. Most 3 week old German Shepherd puppies can stand and sit. With their baby teeth starting to cut through a lot of breeders. Especially those with large litters will start introducing some solid foods. This helps relieve some of the pressure for the devoted German Shepherd mom. When weaning puppies, you need to start off by soaking their food in either water or puppy milk replacement formula to make it mushy and more comfortable for them to eat. As they start to interact and play with their siblings their personalities will really start to show. You may also notice them starting to playfully growl at each other. At 3 weeks old it will become easier to start identifying different members of the pack. Breeders and moms will be kept on their toes and paws over the next few weeks. As the pups start getting more confident on their feet they will be running around and playing enthusiastically. At 4 weeks old they will begin to wag their adorable little tails. With solid food becoming a major part of their diet the pups will be passing bigger bowel movements. They will be able to show more control of their bowel movements as they take themselves away from their brothers and sisters to perform their business. At this stage mom will be taking a much more relaxed approach to parenting and there will be a lot more for the breeder to clear up. By this point mealtimes are a messy process. If it is warm and safe enough to do so we would recommend taking the pups out in the yard for feeding. German Shepherd puppies are becoming a lot stronger at vocalisations by 4 weeks old. When mom returns to her babies the litter will noisily greet her. Around 4 weeks of age your puppies will need to be wormed again. From this week onwards human interaction is very important in order to form relationships with people. Including different noises and smells. This exposure will ensure your German Shepherd puppy turns into a confident, friendly individual. Mom will also be doing an important job of teaching her puppies to not bite too hard. Even an 8 week old German Shepherd puppy would have the power in their jaws to break the smaller bones in humans fingers. This is why mom teaching her puppies bite inhibition is so important. For more information on bite inhibition please see our guide on German Shepherd bite inhibition. By 5 weeks old German Shepherd puppies will be eating a lot of solid foods, several times throughout the day. Those sharp little teeth would have done their job and mom will be gradually weaning her pups of the dependency on her milk. When mom does feed her puppies, she will only do so for a short period whilst standing up. They will be eating between five and six small meals a day. Although the pups no longer rely on mom for milk, they still need her help and guidance for the next few weeks. Mom will be teaching her babies important life skills to live alongside humans. In some countries 6 week old puppies are taken away from their mothers and moved into their new home. We would not recommend this as the puppies will miss out on continued bite inhibition training from their siblings and mother. This can result in a puppy who bites too hard which can be challenging to manage as they get older. In the USA your puppy will be due their first combined 5-in-1 vaccine at 6 weeks old. This vaccine helps to immunizes your puppy against hepatitis, parvo, distemper, parainfluenza and coronavirus. Most puppies will also need to be wormed again at 6 weeks old. Their last week together will consist of plenty of socialization and playing. Most breeders will arrange a 7 week health check up with the vet to make sure your bundle of fluff is fit and healthy to go to their new home. In the UK some breeders will arrange for the pups first 8 week vaccination to take place during this check. Although some vets advise against it. By the end of this week German Shepherd puppies are ready to leave their mothers and move into their new homes for good. The week you get to take your new puppy home. This will be a very exciting time, but you may also be feeling a bit nervous. There will be some challenged along the way for new puppy owners and your puppy will take some time to adjust to life without its mother and siblings. In the UK the first combined vaccination will help to immunizes your puppy against distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis and hepatitis. The first puppy injection in the UK typically will happen between 8 and 10 weeks. Some breeders would have trained the puppies to poop and pee on newspapers or puppy pads. From the moment you get them home it is important to show your German Shepherd puppy where to pee and poop. Puppies naturally like to pee where they have done so before so to avoid building history of peeing in your home is best if you can to avoid it. The more you can avoid accidents from happening as much as possible from the start the faster the puppy training process should be. All puppies are different, and some will get this quicker than others. The main thing to remember is not to discipline your puppy for accidents. The most successful way to potty train is to reward success and ignore accidents. Just clean them up quickly and thoroughly. Your puppy will love nothing more than being praised. For more information please see our guide on How to potty train your German Shepherd puppy. Already your German Shepherd puppy will feel like part of the family. German Shepherds puppies are always adorable but at 9 weeks they are at the age where they are still puppy-like but very clumsy,curious and keen to play with her new family, which is very cute. Your German Shepherds unique personality will make you feel very proud. At 9 weeks your cheeky German Shepherd pup will be feeling more confident, with this the need to explore everything and anything may end up getting them into trouble. Your puppy will develop new sleeping patterns and feeding routines which you will need to adapt to. Most puppies will sleep between eighteen and twenty hours a day at 9 weeks old. During the day when you are with your puppy generally you will not need to shut them away in a crate to nap. German Shepherd puppies are often more than happy to sleep whilst family life goes on around them. However, there will be times when sleeping in a crate is better and safer for your puppy. You must not leave a 9 week old puppy to sleep outside the crate if you are not home to watch them if they wake. Puppies are into everything and many innocent items found in the house could be a potential hazard to your inquisitive pup. For more information please see our guide on how to puppy proof your home. Even if your puppy can barely keep their eyes open other pups and children will still want to play and your German Shepherd puppy may find it hard to refuse. After a hard day of play the peace and quiet of a crate will enable your pup to have a well-deserved nap. If your German Shepherd puppy does need to go to the toilet in the night make sure you keep it short and to a minimum. Establishing a daily routine is the best way to get your German Shepherd puppy to sleep through the night. Part of this schedule will involve mealtimes. Your 9 week old puppy will need four meals a day. Split these up throughout the day and try to stick to similar times. This is to stop encouraging your puppy to wake up earlier and earlier because they associate waking with food. You should always reward your puppy either vocally, with a favourite toy or treats for good behaviour and ignore bad behaviour. Puppies and dogs want to be praised so they respond very well to positive encouragement. Punishing puppies and dogs may have a short term positive effect on their behaviour but long term you could be setting them up to fail. It is very important to socialise and expose your puppy to other humans, dogs and different scenarios whilst they are young. This maybe hard before your puppy has had all its vaccines however getting many different people to come and visit you at your home will enable them to get used to visitors. Before their full vaccinations you can also, you can take you German Shepherd puppy out and about with you to expose them to the outside world as long as you can carry them. If you live in the USA, your puppy will be due their second combined 5-in-1 vaccine at 9 weeks old. In the USA a minimum of three sets of the combined vaccine are required for your puppy. Although you cannot put your puppy down outside until after their final vaccination. Puppies 10 week injection In the UK is a booster vaccination to help immunizes your puppy against distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis and hepatitis. Check with your vet what date after their jabs your German Shepherd puppy will be able to go down outside. Your puppy will then need a booster between 6 and 12 months old. If you live in the USA at 12 weeks old your German Shepherd puppy will be due their booster for the combined 5in1 vaccine against hepatitis, distemper, parainfluenza, parvo and coronavirus and a vaccine against rabies and leptospirosis. If you live in a high risk area, they may also need to be given the vaccination to help immunize them against Lyme. If applicable at 16 weeks your German Shepherd puppy may need to have a fourth combined 5in1 vaccine. A minimum of three combined injections are required in the USA. Check with your vet what date they will be able to be out down outside. By 10 weeks old your German Shepherd puppy will be able to control their bladder a lot more. Potentially up to several hours. This is great time for you to introduce them to the big wide world and develop their social skills which you have already been building the foundations. When taking your German Shepherd puppy out try to introduce them to as many other friendly dogs, humans and noises you can. This will help your German Shepherd puppy to grown into a confident well-rounded dog. At 3 months old your German Shepherd will go down from four daily meals to three. These three portions will be larger than what they are used to which may cause stomach upset. If your German Shepherd puppy does get an upset stomach, try going back to four smaller meals for a couple of days and they try the three larger portions again. This can be a challenging time as your adorable German Shepherd puppy turns into a furry crocodile. Luckily the teething stage is only a phase as with human babies and short lived. In most cases your puppy biting should stop around when they are around 7 months old and have their adult teeth. You maybe noticing your German Shepherds gorgeous ears fluctuating between floppy and pointy. By the time your puppy has finished teething their ears should tick up all the way. This usually happens around months. As they grow their cartilage becomes stronger. Some puppies need another month or so to help them cope without going out for frequent toilet breaks. Even when your German Shepherd puppy is toilet trained occasional accidents are normal. German Shepherds do have large ears but they tend to grow into them as they get older. German Shepherd puppies will begin to grow their new adult coat between 4 and 6 months old. To make way for their adult coat all the puppy hair has to go. For several weeks you will notice an increase in shedding. This is a completely normal part of growing up for your German Shepherd. Being a double coat breed German Shepherds dogs have a topcoat and an undercoat. Twice a year your pup will shed their undercoat. Usually in spring and again in fall. They also shed in general days a year so be prepared for a lot of fur! They will very much look like a smaller version of their adult selves. Although your German Shepherd may look older on the inside, they are still very much a puppy. If you are looking to get your puppy neutered or spayed the recommended age is 6 to 9 months. However, it is common for some female puppies to get spayed at 4 months old. Summary: Your German Shepherd is bound to give you so much joy and happiness throughout its life. There will be challenges along the way but remember this is completely normal. German Shepherds are such an amazing breed and you will have a loyal friend for life. Related Posts. Reliable training German Shepherd puppy training: socialization! The first item in your German Shepherd puppy training list is Socialization. It means that you must provide your baby German Shepherd with interesting and positive interactions. If you ensure that your pup interacts, and has a positive and rewarding experience, with as many people, dogs, animals, sounds, objects, sights and experiences, you will raise a confident and reliable dog. Every new activity or interaction must be followed with a yummy treat! This will ensure your puppy will have a positive association with every new experience, object, person, animal, etc. You can use your dog's kibble or something better like chicken, beef or cheese. Commercial treats are also a good and easy to use option, but make sure you buy healthy, all natural dog treats to keep your German shepherd puppy healthy and strong! German Shepherd dogs are loyal and may have a tendency to be apprehensive with strangers. Socialization will ensure that your puppy grows a strong bond with you without developing a problematic over-protectiveness. German Shepherd puppy training socialization tips: Never separate a puppy from his mother and littermates before the age of weeks. During this time, mom teaches her puppies some important rules of the dog world like body language communication and they start to learn bite inhibition by plying with the other puppies. Unfortunately many vets will tell you not to take your puppy out of the house until they have had all of their shots. This is old school thinking and can have extremely bad consequences that will become apparent only when your canine becomes an adult. Without the full set of shots, your puppy is vulnerable to infectious diseases, however taking your pup to early socialization classes where all other dogs have also been immunized reduces the risk for becoming sick AND will make your German Shepherd a confident, well adjusted and friendlier dog. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior promotes early socialization , even before the full set of vaccines are given to the pup. Take socialization in your own hands. Spend the first 4 weeks holding parties at your home! Yes, parties! Invite all your friends and family for Karaoke, sports watching, boardgames, etc. Ask them to bring their kids too! And always make sure socialization is about positive interactions. If any of the kids or adults make your puppy a little scared, simply remove the threat and let the puppy explore other things. Back to top of German shepherd puppy training article. German Shepherd puppy training: stop the biting! Socialization is hard work, bite-inhibition is even harder! But it is one of the best things you can ever teach your pup. Dogs have really strong jaws and can learn to apply just the right amount of pressure with it. Adult dogs that have had this kind of training can get into fights and defend themselves without drawing blood. This is so important to avoid any type of dog-human or dog-dog bite accidents. German Shepherd puppy dogs have sharp teeth for a reason: to learn how to use their mouth properly. Teach your puppy to bite without hurting! To teach your pooch not to hurt human skin you will need to yelp like a puppy every time you feel teeth in contact with your skin. Engage in puppy play and Yelp Yes! Loud, sharp, high pitched and clear when you feel teeth. Your pup will most likely stop in surprise. As soon as he has stopped, wait seconds and resume play. Repeat as many times as needed. Start with those bites that really hurt or scratch. If you yelp every time you feel teeth, your puppy will think it is how you play. It may take a few weeks for you to notice that your pup is not hurting as much.Progressively teach your pup to play without hurting you. This make take a couple of months! Do not let your puppy play with your clothes, shoes, face or hair. If your puppy bites any of these, the game is over. Wait for him to calm down and start playing again. If you are tired of playing and getting bitten, grab a tug-toy or a ball and play those games instead. After a while, settle your puppy with a stuffed Kong toy on his bed or crate. Never punish your puppy for play-biting, this can lead to aggression or your puppy fearing "hands" near his face. Even though German shepherd puppy dogs are really smart, bite-inhibition requires a lot of repetition and consistency. Most of the time you will feel he is not learning anything at all, keep at it. You can add second time outs on top of yelping if needed. It is definitely worth your time. If bite-inhibition is slow, this article has more tips to help you! Another aspect of training your German shepherd puppy bite inhibition are toys! Your pup needs to learn to bite only his toys, not furniture, not the walls, not your shoes. For this reason you need to load your house with puppy toys and TEACH your puppy how to play with them. The best dog toys are interactive, this means that you can put food inside the toy and your puppy has to think how to get it out. This toys are the best because they add enrichment to your dog's life. Interactive dog toy recommendations: Feed EVERY meal inside an interactive dog toy Use interactive toys with your German shepherd when he is left alone in the house. Make sure he has plenty of toys interactive and others so he won't get bored when you leave. Use interactive toys when you need some quiet time because you need to work, or you have guests. Kong dog toy's are the best , you can fill them with something soft like cheese or peanut butter and let your puppy lick it for a while. Even better.Below you will see some of my favorite interactive dog toys durable and fun! German Shepherd puppy training: potty outside! Another important item on your German shepherd puppy training list is House training. It can be a bit stressful, but if done correctly, you can accomplish it very quickly. Just keep in mind that depending on your puppy in can take anywhere from 1 week to several months to complete potty training. The following info-graphic has some simple rules to follow and make german shepher potty training easy and effective: Take your puppy out for a potty break every hours. Take your puppy out for a potty the break after every meal. Take your puppy out for a potty break after a nap. Take your puppy out for a potty break after a play session. The main idea when potty training a German shepherd puppy, is to take him out or to the correct place as often as he needs to and reward him after he is done. The infographic above gives you an idea of how often a puppy needs to go out. However, you need to know your own puppy. This way you will know how often he is relieving himself. You may also notice if he does it after every meal or nap. Reward with a treat after he is done! Repeat steps 2 and 3, you should start noticing that after a couple of days or weeks your puppy chooses the correct place more often than other places. NEVER punish your dog for accidents, this can stress him and even make him do his business hidden from you which will make potty training very hard because you won't be able to reward him. You can crate train your German shepherd puppy so he learns to have quiet times in between active times. Crate training also prevents your puppy from having accidents. For more information and a puppy crate-training schedule check this article! German shepherd potty training aids The are several commercial items available to help you potty train your German shepherd dog. Regular cleaning products may take away the urine scent -you- smell but they will not remove the scent your dog smells. Enzymatic cleaners do that, they break down urine molecules to make them easy to remove. This will prevent your pet from returning to the same, incorrect, spot. Puppy pads are very popular because they are less messy than news paper. However, if you put a puppy pad and leave you puppy alone with it, you will find it in shreds! You must teach your puppy to use the puppy pads, not to chew on them. To do this, put the puppy pad on the floor and interrupt your puppy if he tries to play with it. Exchange for another toy and reward with treats for not grabbing the pad with his mouth he can however, stand or sit on it. Repeat until he learns this! If you have a backyard, a doggy-door is an excellent way to give your pup access to the outdoors without your help. You must teach him how to use it! Use a treat to lure him through the door many times until he can do it on his own! Then, every-time you take him outside, make him go though the door on his own. You can also teach your puppy to let you know when he needs to go outside! Use a doggy doorbells for this purpose. You must teach your dog how to use them! First, teach your dog to touch the bells. Then, ask your dog to touch the bells every time before you open the door to let him go outside. Finally, be alert for when he does it on his own! I do not recommend any "Not Here" or "Yes Here" type sprays. They don't work very well, specially without any training.German Shepherd puppy training: basic commands! Some dog trainers won't start until the dog is 6 months old, at which time he is past the socialization and bite inhibition period and he is probably doing all sorts of naughty things. You can start training your German shepherd puppy from the first day you bring him home. From weeks you can start teaching your canine many commands, however I strongly advice you keep your focus on socialization, bite-inhibition and potty training. If you have time to train basic commands…. Your pooch will love it! Step-by-step obedience training tutorials for your German shepherd German Shepherd puppy training "SIT": You will use this command all the time. Ask your pup to sit when a stranger wants to pet him, for attention, for the ball to be thrown, etc. To start use food to lure your pooch into the sit position. Only give him the treat once his bottom is on the ground. Repeat many times! Follow this link for detail instructions.This is useful at the vet as well as to mix and match commands. From a sit or down position lure your baby german shepherd into a stand. This link will take you to the step by step guide.Start your pooch from a sitting position and lure him into a down. Only give your dog a treat after he is completely down on the ground. Click here for a step-by-step tutorial.Why train your pooch sit, down and stand? You need three commands to mix up when you ask your dog to do something. If you have at least three options, then your smart German Shepherd won't be able to predict what you will ask. Practice Puppy Push-Ups! Sit-down-stand, Down-sit-stand, and ask you German Shepherd puppy to do one, two, or more commands to earn treats, toys and attention! Other useful cues include: Speak and Quiet , settle and ask for permission before rushing into something potentially dangerous. You can see a full list of commands on this link. Enjoy German Shepherd puppy training time and leave us your questions and comments in the box below. Tweet How big will my German Shepherd get? Along with hundreds of submissions from others lucky enough to be owned by a GSD. What the heck is FCI? Keep in mind that dog growth can be affected by genetics and environment, so take that into consideration when comparing your pup to the data in the German Shepherd growth chart. What is the normal size of a German Shepherd puppy? A German Shepherd dam will normally whelp give birth to between six and eight puppies. Puppy Growth Chart A healthy large breed puppy will normally double her birth weight during the first week. And moderates to an ultimate weight of around 70 times the puppy's birth weight. Check the puppy growth chart for an explanation of the different puppy development stages and puppy growth rate. German Shepherds normally reach physical maturity at months. Curiously, some Eastern European lines mature more slowly and do not reach full maturity until 36 months of age. Their growth rate slows noticeably at 6 months and continues minimally after .Puppy to adult in 40 seconds Here is a great time lapse video that shows GSD Dunder's growth from 8 weeks to 1 year. Standard, MO. If you have any doubt that your puppy is not changing according to the above German Shepherd growth chart, the best thing to do would be to contact your trusted vet. If you are providing adequate exercise and quality dog food , your German Shepherd's dog growth should be normal and she will have no trouble reaching her full potential. Not sure if you're feeding your GSD enough? Check out this breed specific dog food calculator to make sure. Is your GSD growing by the numbers? How is your pup progressing? Enter The Title of Your puppy growth story ex. Just type! Your story will appear on a Web page exactly the way you enter it here. You can wrap a word in square brackets to make it appear bold. For example [my story] would show as my story on the Web page containing your story. TIP: Since most people scan Web pages, include your best thoughts in your first paragraph. Show off your puppy! Click the button and find it on your computer. Then select it. Note: Submissions without at least one picture, will likely not be published. Your Name. However, there are certain breeds that are easier to train than others. Thankfully, German Shepherds fit into that category because they are very intelligent and quick learners. This includes house training , crate training , basic obedience commands as well as learning tricks. We recommend attending a puppy kindergarten class as part of your German Shepherd puppy socialization strategy. Once your pup knows their basic obedience commands, you can enroll them in Schutzhund training aka IPO. Partnership and teamwork between yourself and your dog are the basis for this type of training. Note that the Schutzhund environment is not a place for dogs with aggression issues, neither towards other dogs nor people! If they pass that initial level which includes a temperament test, they can move on to IPO 2 minimum age 19 months and IPO 3 minimum age 20 months. That said, protection dog trainers recommend starting training classes that include bitework and high jumps once your German Shepherd puppy is 12 months old. Dutch and Czech are two other languages that commands are frequently taught in. Stanley, my former long-haired GSD dog walking client, started going to Schutzhund training when he was a little over 12 months old. His owners practiced commands in German with him on a daily basis, and I remember getting a print out of his German commands as they asked me to use them on our walks as well. Lots, ha! German Shepherds need a minimum of 2 hours of physical exercise per day, but generally speaking, the more exercise you can provide your GSD with, the more they will thrive. Remember, German Shepherds are high-energy, athletic dogs bred to be active all day long, especially if they come from a working line! Physical Exercise Ideas for German Shepherds As far as physical exercise, this can be a mix of walks, runs, bike rides, fetch and playtime. This is Nala, one of my former pet sitting clients. She was crazy about frisbees and balls. One of my favorite ways of increasing the energy and calories a dog burns on a regular walk or hike is by using a doggie backpack. Mental Stimulation for German Shepherds Besides providing a good physical workout, dog backpacks also burn mental energy. As you probably know, bored dogs can quickly become destructive as they figure out ways of entertaining themselves. For example, chewing up your furniture and shoes, scratching doors, raiding your kitchen trash can or digging up your flower beds. So do yourself a favor and make sure your GSD gets plenty of exercise on a daily basis. Remember, a tired dog is a good dog, and that applies to German Shepherds as much as it does to any other dog breed! Former GSD client Remi pooped after a long walk. Bottom Line So, how big does a German Shepherd get? Well, German Shepherds are medium to large size dogs, so they can weigh anywhere between lbs. That said, the average expected weight for a male GSD is between lbs, and the average expected weight for a female GSD is between lbs. Both reach sexual maturity somewhere between months and are considered fully grown at about the 2 year mark. Keeping that in mind, your GSD breeder should be able to give you a good general idea of how big your German Shepherd puppy will grow to be! Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Barbara is a trilingual, something dog lover, e-book author, founder, copywriter, dog nutrition blogger and editor at K9sOverCoffee. 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And when is the best time to start training them? Naturally, the sooner your start with training, the easier it will be. Moreover, you have to remember that you are responsible for your pup. You need to show consistency in your own behavior. Your Doodle will have an easier time adjusting to his new home and family if you start from day one. Establish a Proper Routine Firstly, you should establish a proper routine for your Doodle. This includes meal times, bathroom breaks, playtime, naps, and bedtime. Keep in mind that consistency is key in Goldendoodle training. A structured routine gives dogs a sense of security. It will also help your new Goldendoodle puppy understand how you want them to behave. Routine is also an important part of housetraining , as consistent feeding times will also beget consistent potty times. If you have other family members living with you, make sure you all follow the exact same routine. It is usually recommended that puppies younger than six months of age eat three meals per day. Socialize Your Puppy Secondly, all dogs, and especially Goldendoodles, are social creatures. They enjoy spending time with their families and meet other dogs at the dog park. Early socialization is important for your Goldendoodle pup to get used to new people, pets and situations. Goldendoodle Training Sample Routine Goldendoodle puppy behavior is very much your responsibility. Puppies usually need to use the bathroom first thing in the morning. Tip 2: Feed your pup at the same time every day. This is a great way for your puppy to socialize with you and your family. Tip 3: Potty time around 30 to 60 minutes after each meal. Tip 4: Playtime or exercise after potty time. Playing with toys and shorter walks are perfect for baby Doodles. Tip 5: Puppies usually need to relieve themselves after exercise, as well. Puppies can sleep up to hours every day! Make sure no one distracts their sleep, as they need to rest. Tip 7: After naptime or being in their crate, take your pup for a bathroom break. Tip 8: Bedtime every day around the same time is also very useful to enforce a consistent routine. Remember that puppies around weeks of age need smaller portions and more frequent meals. Therefore, they will also need to go potty more frequently. And as we already said, all dogs and puppies are unique. This is a rough guideline that most Doodle owners find useful. Well, all dogs are unique, so there is no one size fits all approach in Goldendoodle training. However, there are a few main training methods that most dog owners find useful when training a Goldendoodle puppy. Of course, the younger your puppy is, the shorter their attention span. Usually, the general guideline is to start formal training at four to six months of age. However, keep in mind that first you should build a relationship and bond with your pup. Clicker Training Clicker training is one of the most popular Goldendoodle training methods that professional dog trainers use. It combines reward training with a small hand-held clicker that you will click every time you reward your pup for good behavior or when following a command. Your puppy will soon start associating the clicking sound with a reward. Therefore, your pup will also associate it with good behavior. Best for Clicker Training Compare Products 2. Positive Reinforcement Your behavior and attitude has a huge impact on your Goldendoodle pup. Always use positive reinforcement and do not scold or punish your pup for accidents. Remember, your puppy is still learning and growing. Instead, it will just make them fearful of you. Whenever you want your Goldendoodle puppy to do something, always keep a positive and enthusiastic attitude. If your pup has completed the task, always give plenty of praise and a nice little treat or a toy. Some dogs respond better to reward with food and others respond better to toys. However, always use these rewards together with lots of praise and enthusiasm. Crate Training Crate training is another very popular Goldendoodle training method. Crate training can take a few days or a few weeks, but the results are worth it. Keep in mind that you should only leave your pup in the crate in hours equal to the age in months that they are. See Also: Click the image 4. Mirror Training Mirror training method uses positive reinforcement and a clicker to teach a dog how to follow your lead. As your pup is looking up to you, they will naturally want to mimic your behavior and attitude. A great way to keep this from happening is to keep your kitchen counters clean and tidy at all times. Do not store food on counters longer than you prepare your meals. Surely you enjoy a clean kitchen, as well! Another tip is to put your pup in a crate or away from the kitchen while you prepare your meals. Jumping One of the very first things that you can start teaching your Goldendoodle puppy is to sit to be greeted. This will teach your puppy that they will only get attention once they sit. If you reward them, they will continue doing it. Barking With every common behavioral problem, the key is to think about what you want your puppy to do instead. How would you like them to react when someone is knocking on the door, or how should act when you have guests over? For instance, you can train your dog to sit still in a designated place when the doorbell rings. Leash Pulling When your puppy starts to pull the leash, immediately stop walking. Once your puppy has stopped pulling, you can start walking again. Doing this continuously will teach your puppy good leash manners. No-pull harnesses and headcollars can also be great tools for training your pup not to pull on the leash. See Also: Click the image 5. Make sure your pup has enough interesting toys and provide them plenty of playtime and exercise. Biting and Mouthing Biting is a completely natural behavior for dogs. As with any other behavioral problem, biting also can stem from your pup wanting your attention. Also, biting and mouthing might indicate that your pup needs more playtime. See Also: Click the image 7. What is a Goldendoodle? Background the influences training Goldendoodle Training Tips The key to enjoying your dog is to train them early or as soon as possible. After all, training your new puppy in socialization is part of their essential needs. Training your dog is a big undertaking, though. One that may seem daunting. Rest assured, though, you can do it yourself without expensive obedience classes. The first thing you need to do is build a strong foundation for training. Goldendoodle Training Timeline Infographic The infographic showing the Goldendoodle training timeline. Goldendoodle Puppy Training at Home First 30 days Puppies are born blind and deaf and cannot see or hear for the first ten to twenty days. However, they have a fantastic scent and touch abilities. Puppies are also aware of the temperature. If the mother is unavailable, humans can step in to help. Training sessions for newborns are short and to the point. These sessions consist of Bio-Sensor training, where they are stimulated with swabs like Q-Tips. Exercises can be performed along with exposing them to minor temperature changes. This will stimulate the brain and help them deal with stress. Mother dogs stimulate the senses from birth by licking and cleaning the puppies. This helps them develop. Wavy coat Goldendoodles are typically low shedding. Wavy coat Goldendoodles come in all sizes from standard right down to Teacup Goldendoodles. Since dogs have scent receptors twenty-five times better than ours, they can smell things several hundred feet away. You should expose them to calming scents and daily scents of rain, grass, and other things outdoors. Then, their ears will open, and they will need to be introduced to sound. Dogs learn by association, so only play soothing sounds. As their eyes start to focus, you should start with colors. This will help build confidence. Goldendoodle Puppy Preschool and Earliest Socialization months of age At around three months of age, your Goldendoodle is full of energy and ready to play. But remember that they are still a baby — just an infant animal. It is so essential you practice positive reinforcement with your puppy and avoid punishment altogether. This is also the age your Goldendoodle is ready to learn basic commands. The first thing you should do is pick a definite marker. A positive marker is a word, sound, or phrase used to tell your dog they have done something right. Use the same marker every time. Also, you should follow it up with positive reinforcement in the form of a treat, playtime, or affection. Do Goldendoodles Smell? Reward your puppy often and early, so they associate the treat with the behavior. Negative reinforcement or punishment will likely do nothing but scare your puppy. Puppies will chew things and have accidents in the house. However, you should remember they are still learning, and any punishment is counterproductive. Simply correct the mistake and praise them when they do something right. The most important thing is to be consistent. Your puppy learns by doing, and repetition is the best thing for them. This is also the age where socialization is a critical part of their development. All this begins once the Goldendoodle has the all-clear from the Veterinarian to socialize in public. .During this age, your Goldendoodle should be exposed to new people, places, and animals every day. If your puppy shows fear or anxiety, take a step back. This is when you should begin doing gradual exposure. Safe introduction to different sizes and temperament dogs is important early If you introduce a dog to a household with cats , extra care needs to be taken early to ensure a long-term relationship of tolerance. Predicting Goldendoodle coat types is tricky. Goldendoodle Training for Safety and Basic Commands 3 months to one year At around four months old, your puppy will begin to develop preferences. Your job is to make them feel safe and secure in any environment. This way, your puppy will grow up to be confident, kind, and ready to take on anything. Positive reinforcement techniques are especially important during this stage. Any harsh punishment can have adverse effects on the Goldendoodles psyche. Since your puppy has had all his shots, they are ready to go to the dog park, daycare, and puppy training classes. This will help with socialization. Keep in mind that forcing your puppy to interact with others can hurt the bond you have with them. Always make sure your dog is enjoying the experience and is safe. Allow him to explore the world at his own pace. This I the time to start introducing your Goldendoodle to water. Early and frequently exposure will make taking your Goldendoodle to the pool or even the beach a breeze. Learning Commands Additionally, this is when puppies can begin learning commands like sit and stay. Teach them to sit before exiting with treats. Lure them into a sit by the door and begin to open it. If they get up too quickly, close the door. Keep up this game until the dog remains seated and patiently waits for the door. When they do, give them a treat. Most puppies are highly motivated by treats and food. If they anxiously await each meal or immediately pounce on the food bowl when it is set down, this is an excellent opportunity to work on self-control. Before every meal, have your Goldendoodle wait to eat. Place the food down and say stay. If they lunge for the bowl, take it away for five minutes. Start with a five-second wait and gradually increase it by five-second increments. This will allow their self-control to get better. Another great Goldendoodle training tip is the Four on the Floor for those puppies that jump on anyone entering your home. Practicing this technique can stop the puppy from jumping up on unsuspecting bystanders and knocking over kids. When you come home, and your Goldendoodle is happy to see you, make him sit before saying hello. Give an ear rub or greeting only when all four paws are on the ground. Training a Goldendoodle to Enjoy Grooming All ages Start grooming your puppy at a young age and practice handling with this Goldendoodle training tips: Work when your puppy is relaxed and not hyper. Keep grooming sessions short like a few brush strokes or clipping a few toenails. Use a quality slicker brush that will not hurt your Goldendoodle Practice frequently, like weekly. Pair it with a treat. Lightly touch-sensitive spots like between the paws or on the ears from an early age Consider buying a grooming table early so your Goldendoodle can get used to it if you are going to be DIY grooming your Goldendoodle at home. See the best grooming tables specifically for Goldendoodles. Advanced Goldendoodle Training Options 12 months plus, agility, and advanced classes The American Kennel Club, or AKC, says that once dogs learn basic commands, they can move on to advanced training or sports. You may opt to teach them scent training. Treibball, a German dog sport not just for herding breeds , is when the dog drives eight oversized inflatable balls into a goal. They can also do obstacle courses and test their agility. Scent training is also a fantastic way to mentally enrich your dog and stimulate their brain daily. Scent training starts as simple as a muffin tin game at home. Then advanced courses do wonders and can result in some very complicated tricks and habits forming. While they vary in size depending on their parents since Poodles range from mini to medium , they almost always have hypoallergenic hair and rarely shed. You can see which types of Goldendoodle shed the least in our Goldendoodle Coat Prediction article. Goldendoodles are highly intelligent and lovable dogs that are ideal for families with children or other pets. Goldendoodles typically weigh anywhere from forty-five to pounds. Still, they can weigh as little as fifteen pounds if a parent was a miniature Poodle. The smallest Goldendoodles are Teacup and Toy Goldendoodles. They have a height of thirteen to twenty-six inches with a curly coat in red, black, gold, cream, brown, white, or grey. Goldendoodles are very friendly, affectionate, playful, and trainable. Goldendoodles became popular in the s for their hypoallergenic , non-shedding Poodle-like fur and having the temperament of a Golden Retriever, the most popular dog breed in the U. They have been used as pets, agility dogs, therapy dogs, guide dogs, diabetic dogs, and search and rescue dogs. Goldendoodles are in the top five of the smartest dog breeds. When you choose a Goldendoodle, rest assured you are getting an intelligent, athletic, loving companion, the whole family can enjoy. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Special Content Step-by-step guide on how to train your Goldendoodle puppy Hello fellas, nice to have you here on our Goldendoodle blog page! Some say they got their adorableness from their retriever side; others say they got their intelligence from their Poodle side. In any case, the fact remains that they combined the best of both breeds and took none of their fluffs. However, it is important to establish a simple fact here and right now. But in order to get them to materialize their sharp-wits and brilliance, there is a need to TRAIN them. So how do you go about that? Steps to train a Goldendoodle I know the feeling of wanting to begin the training of your cute little canine on the first day you bring him home. But guess what? Young puppies have short attention spans, and as such, any command you serve them or words you try to teach them on that first day might just fall on deaf ears. And that is per the guidelines from the Veterinary Centers of America. However, thanks to Goldendoodles' innate smartness, you can expect your pup to be ripe for full-blown training earlier than this. The four types of dog training methods: Obedience training based on positive reinforcement and association Clicker training When it comes to training your doodles on how to obey commands, the most popular approach adopted by many dog training experts and pro pet owners is the clicker training method. This method involves the use of a hand-held device that creates a clicking sound. In this method, you give a command to your pup, which could be a "sit" "fetch" or "stay" command. Once the dog obeys the command, you give them a reward, which could be a treat, a toy, or a praise reward. But when serving this reward, you'll pair it with a clicking sound. Over time, the pup will begin to associate the clicking sound with the reward. And whenever he hears the sound of the clicks, he knows immediately that a praise reward is around the corner. In case you don't have a clicker around, you can purchase one from a pet store or check them out on Amazon. Food rewards While the clicker training has to be served consistently to achieve a reliable result, food reward training is only needed occasionally. In the aspect of food and treats, Goldendoodles are just like every other dog. They remain as overly motivated by the sound or smell of food as your regular Poodle or Golden Retriever pup. As a result of this innate love for food, you can expect the food reward technique to work wonders on their obedience response. A typical food reward can consist of regular dog treats such as cold cuts, veggies, hot dog bits, snacks, pieces of cheese, baby carrots, or any other high-value food. Scented item training You can teach your doodles to seek out toys, fetch balls, and perform other simple tasks by simply taking them through the scented item training course. But, of course, this method doesn't always apply to every doodle. The reason is that if you haven't been playing together before using that toy or ball, it might be difficult for the dog to attach any importance to the toy when it sees it. But since a doodle is a food-driven breed, like other dogs, you can scent the toys with a portion of food or treats you know they like and kick the toy away, while you ask them to fetch it. Over time, the learning dog will learn to detect and appreciate the toys when he sees it because he knows what the item represents. Praise reward training Dogs are quite like humans in this regard. And your Goldendoodle is no exception. They love to be praised, and they enjoy it when their praises are being sung. The praise reward approach is good for a doodle because this breed is very much people-oriented, and their rapport with humans is second to none. When you want to reward your cute little doodle for good behavior, especially when they've obeyed a command or done something impressive, you can use a praise reward coupled with the food reward you're giving to them. And, of course, crate training works too Crate training is another interesting approach that you can apply to your Goldendoodles. This technique is used to teach your dog or to get them in a routine. On the teaching aspect, it teaches them that they do not go to the bathroom where you sleep since dogs do not like soil their beds. And on the routine aspect, you can use their time non-crate time to put them through some basic commands, teach them to dance, snuggle, and take a walk. Conclusion In conclusion, consistency is key when it comes to training a Goldendoodle, so you just have to choose a training method and stay consistent with it. Related Tags. October 25, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? The Goldendoodle, a hybrid breed that launched into popularity in the United States in the s and never left the top list, Goldendoodles are affectionate and smart dogs whose amiable personalities are well-suited for a variety of owners and lifestyles! How do you know if the Goldendoodle is the right fit for you and your family? A Brief Background on Goldendoodles! As we quickly stated earlier, the Goldendoodle is a hybrid, a cross between a Poodle and a Golden Retriever. Thanks to the success of Labradoodles Labrador Retriever and Poodle cross-breed , dog breeders began to intentionally breed Golden Retrievers with a range of Poodles, creating a variety of Goldendoodles in different coloring and sizes. What are Goldendoodles Breed Characteristics? Some distinguishable characteristics of the Goldendoodle include their sizing range, variety of coloring, and temperament. Goldendoodles can come in mini to standard size, thanks to the genes from their poodle side. Goldendoodles can weigh starting at 15 lbs for miniature sizes up to 80 Ilbs for standard. One of the most distinguishable features is their thick, soft, curly coats that are considered hypoallergenic because they shed less frequently than other dog breeds. What are Goldendoodles Personalities like? Goldendoodles love people! They are friendly, affectionate, and love to please. With the right amount of socialization, this breed will be a friend to everyone! However, their fun-loving personalities also bring a lot of high energy, jumpiness, and nippiness throughout puppyhood. This is important to remember especially if you have young children at home. Goldendoodles can make excellent family dogs, but proper training and boundaries must be started the moment you bring them home to help get them there! Think about your current living environment and where you plan to be in the next few years. That being said, if you were planning on adding a Goldendoodle to your life, consider that these pups do best in a home with enough space especially if you are getting a standard-sized Goldendoodle and a fenced in yard! While some Goldendoodles on the smaller range of the size scale work great for apartment dwelling, these are energetic breeds that need space to exercise and play. Regular walks and training sessions at a local park will help them expel some energy in a constructive way, and are highly recommended for this breed, especially if you live in a city environment! How to Care for Your Goldendoodle! Goldendoodles can suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia, ear infections, allergies, hypothyroidism, and Gastric Dilation Volvulus Bloat. To avoid having to shave down their beautiful coats, daily brushing to remove mats is recommended, along with regular professional grooming appointments. Like all other breeds, having their nails trimmed and teeth brushed regularly will ensure they stay clean and healthy! Goldendoodle puppies are very smart and love to work! With consistent puppy training from an early age, they can master basic obedience skills quickly, and also move on to more advanced training, including therapy and service animal training. Start your puppy off on the right paw by establishing their daily puppy schedule complete with feeding, potty breaks, nap times, playtimes, and puppy training sessions! Going back to their wilder instincts, puppies will naturally avoid soiling where they sleep. Crate training your Goldendoodle puppy will help boost their confidence and resilience while learning to be alone at home. Puppy training can provide your puppy with controlled socialization with other puppies under the supervision of a puppy trainer that can watch out for rough playing or dominant behaviors between puppies. When done correctly, socialization helps teach your puppy the proper way to great people, other dogs and create boundaries. During socialization sessions, you can work with your puppy on barking or jumping, which are common puppy behaviors when they are excited or over-stimulated when meeting strangers. And if you're not sure how to do this on your own, hire a local puppy trainer to help set you up for the best success! Consider advanced training to keep them engaged Goldendoodles are very intelligent which means they love stimulating activities! Along with basic obedience, dog sports like agility are a great way to motivate them and help your puppy work out their energy. Agility helps establish a stronger communication bond through body language while your puppy is participating. You will learn to communicate with more body language and signals to focus your puppy at performing tasks necessary to help individuals that are incapable of doing it themselves. Respect their alone time. This is especially challenging for young kids when they can look like real-life stuffed animals! But, this constant handling can often cause some frustration for these young pups, having them act out with more nipping to try to make the petting stops, or growling, which can lead to more serious behavioral issues down the road. Make sure to give them dedicated time through the day to rest and their own space where they can be left alone to nap, unbothered. And always monitor young kids when they are interacting with the puppy so you can easily step in to give your puppy a break when they need it! Did you recently bring home a Goldendoodle puppy? Are you still planning and not sure what breed fits your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! Check out these blogs related to puppy training and more! If there is a behavior your puppy exhibits that you may think is cute while your puppy is small, you need to think ahead and determine if this behavior will be acceptable from an adult dog. Consistency is the most important tool for training a puppy in their first year and beyond. Each family member needs to use the same techniques and commands so as not to confuse your puppy. It is important to remember that a puppy associates a reward or a disciplinary action with its behavior in the past 3 seconds. Waiting longer than 3 seconds to reward or discipline is very confusing to a puppy. You cannot stop this behavior, but you can certainly direct your puppy to chew upon acceptable items until this phase passes at about a year of age. The only way puppies know how to play is the typical wrestling, biting, chasing, tackling, pulling, and nipping they do with littermates. In the absence of littermates, you and your family suddenly become the littermates. Repeat this same disciplinary action a total of three times in a row. Every now and then, a particularly feisty puppy will become more excited by this disciplinary action and need a more distinct disciplinary measure. This next action needs to be initiated quickly. This will be uncomfortable for your puppy. When behavior meets with uncomfortable consequences, the behavior will stop. With all this being said, the absolute best remedy is for you to arrange daily play dates with other puppies or young dogs. The bottom line is that your puppy needs to have active playtime each day. Jumping — Your puppy will jump on you to get your attention. This may seem innocent while your puppy is small, but Grandma may not appreciate being knocked over by the full grown untrained dog. Make sure you do not reward the puppy for the act of getting down as this will enforce the behavior of jumping up only to be told to get down for a reward. This is not a sign of aggression unless you allow this to go undisciplined over time. You need to actively discourage any and all growling directed at you. If your puppy growls at you when you get close to the food bowl, immediately remove the food bowl and feed the puppy out of your hand. Do not stop brushing until the puppy accepts this without growling. Each puppy needs to learn its place in the pecking order of a family. Obviously, they need to be the lowest on the totem pole. If allowed to be boss, growling is a normal thing for a puppy to exhibit when showing its dominance. Each family member must establish they are boss. This includes young children who are timid or fearful of the puppy. Remember that any behavior you allow as a puppy is then extremely difficult to curb later in life. If you do not wish to have your adult dog on the furniture, do not sit on the sofa holding your puppy. If you do not want your grown dog to grab your pant leg, etc. Leash Training — Training your Goldendoodle puppy to walk on a leash without pulling will take some time. Be patient and read our complete guide to leash training here. Buying a Trained Puppy — You can opt to have your puppy purchased at Fox Creek Farm trained by a professional trainer. Buying a trained puppy can save you a lot of time and benefit the entire family. Please visit our board and train services page for more information. Pet Insurance — We always recommend that any dog owner have a good quality pet insurance. Choosing the best pet insurance will take you a bit of time to learn about the coverages and fees associate with the brand and your particular dog. Spend some time with our blog articles on pet insurance linked above to determine what is right for you and your furry friend. The Labradoodle is a gorgeous cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, and the Goldendoodle is an adorable mix between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. Characteristics and traits can vary significantly because these pups are a hybrid breed, but they are usually incredibly people-focused, laid back, and playful, making Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training an enjoyable moment. Doodles make awesome pets, especially if their owners fully comprehend the importance of training from a young age. The type of adult dog breed you end up with depends a little bit on their personality and a lot on how you take care of them. Before you begin Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training, it helps to decide exactly what kind of dog you want to have. Do Plenty of Research It is vital that you have an understanding of canine learning theory because dogs learn very differently from people. A puppy does whatever it can to get what it desires the most at that moment. There are plenty of online resources that can teach you about methods to get the best out of your training. It may be helpful to consult a puppy training professional or spend some time at doggy school to get a headstart and pick up tips from experts. Your pup is a blank slate — with your guidance, they can develop the traits and learn the behaviors that you value the most. Labradoodle and Goldendoodle puppies are curious and they love exploring their new home as they make it their own. Getting it right during the early stages sets a precedent for the rest of their life. Spending as much time as you can with them helps build the foundation for a happy, confident and well-behaved dog. Form a Bond and Gain Trust With Your Doodle Before you do anything, you will need to develop a strong bond with your new pal to make sure they trust you. Try to keep your own energy as calm as possible — they bounce off you. While it may be tempting to get excited by their cuteness and mirror their enthusiasm, this makes it more difficult for them to listen to you and regulate their own behavior. Teach your furry friend what to expect from the moment they get into the home to stop them from getting confused. Use Positive Reinforcement Intimidation or fear tactics are never the best way to build a loving and secure bond between you and your fur baby. To make the most of this method, reward your pooch for good behavior and ignore bad behavior. Treats, verbal praise, and clicker training reward them for a job well done. This also helps them to make positive associations with you and training time. Everyone has their own list of priorities and yours will depend on factors such as whether you have children or other pets. Potty training is a straightforward, formulaic process that your new puppy will adapt to. A consistent routine is the key to getting them toilet trained as efficiently and effectively as possible. Let them outside at the same time each day, and take them to the same spot. In the early days, it may be difficult for them to make it all the way through the night, so try to make provisions for this stage. Select a word for them to associate with potty training and repeat it over and over whenever you take them to the toilet. Every time they do their business outside, give them lots of cuddles and praise, treat them and play one of their favorite games. There will be setbacks — getting it right takes time! If they mess in the wrong place, take them outside to their toileting spot and give them the chance to relieve themselves. We cannot emphasize the importance of praising them when they get it right enough! Crate Training Not everyone opts to crate train their puppy, but it can be useful for the earliest stages of Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training. The crate gives them a safe place they can call their own. Be sure to make the time they spend in the crate a positive experience, and never leave them in there for more hours than their age in months plus one hour. For example, a three-month-old puppy can be kept in their crate for no more than four hours. Socialization Dogs are social animals, and Goldendoodles and Labradoodles, in particular, are happiest when they spend time pleasing people and playing. However, building confidence takes effort and guidance from their pet parent. If you want to ensure they grow up to have a balanced personality, you need to expose them to plenty of dogs, people and different situations. Take them out and about as much as possible to help them become accustomed to a range of noises, sights and sounds. Bring them to a local dog park to get them used to spending time around other dogs. Manners Your adorable little pup has the potential to develop a host of bad habits, but these behaviors can be nipped in the bud. Temperament and Dealing with Small Children There are several steps to take while getting your canine cutie used to being a member of a family with children. Both pup and child will need to have clear boundaries mapped out for them so they can build mutual trust and be kind to each other. Let the child practice with a toy before they pick up or cuddle the pup. Ensure the child sits down when they play with the dog; this helps to prevent the pup from getting overexcited. Teach the child to do small tasks to help care for the dog, such as filling the bowl or helping with grooming. Knowing what to expect according to the time of day helps them to settle and feel reassured. Always wake them up at the same time, feed and walk them around the same time and do training exercises at a set time. Patience Is Everything! The best piece of advice for Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training is to have patience. Spend lots of time bonding and playing with your pooch so you can make training something fun that you both enjoy. There is so much your little guy needs to learn to be a polite, lifelong family companion — where do you even begin? We are here to give you a broad overview of some basic tips of where to start with teaching your new buddy. Follow these three steps to begin training your 8 week old doodle puppy. The good news is if you welcome a JLDD puppy, we have already done some of the hard work with crate training for you. At JLDD we introduce all of our puppies to the crate at weeks of age! First, they are first placed in a crate with another littermate. As they get older, they begin to spend small amounts of individual time in the crate each day. We give our pups an excellent head start, but as the owner, it is up to you to follow through with structured crate time even if your pup objects at first. The first few days can be extremely difficult, but your consistency will pay off. Many owners find it difficult to be consistent because of their worry that their dog is miserable with crate training and, true enough, the puppies can sound really pitiful in there. But stay strong and remember that you are actually helping them in the long run to have a safe place when they must be left alone. A good crate training foundation will be very helpful in curbing separation anxiety and will make traveling, boarding, grooming, etc. Once the pup accepts the crate as his personal space, he will often go there on his own to rest. Keeping a routine is key so your pup knows what to expect. Allow pup to settle for about five minutes before you let him or her out. The only time this does not apply is in the middle of the night. Potty Training When people ask what they need to know before buying a doodle , this is the big one! And it can be very intimidating for owners. Bring all your consistency and patience! Keep in mind most puppies will not be fully potty trained until at least weeks. We start our young pups on puppy pad training so puppy pads can be a helpful stepping stone to outdoor potty training when you first bring your dood home. Keeping the area small and puppy pads easily accessible will help your pup stay consistent. Many owners find it is an easy transition to slowly move the puppy pads to the designated outdoor area closer to the door, then right outside the door, etc. Other owners prefer to jump straight into outdoor potty training. Here are a few basic tips: Frequent potty breaks. When your doodle is awake and playing, taking him out as frequently as every 30 minutes is important when they are young. When pup does potty, immediately praise and reward him with a treat. Always use the same exit to take your puppy out. This will help them learn where to head when the urge strikes! Eagle Eye. Scolding your pup for an accident after the fact is generally ineffective as he will not connect the discipline to the moment of the accident. We work on basic obedience and conditioning as early as weeks with our pups at JLDD by waiting until the pups sit to give their food and treats. Remember that basic obedience is critical for establishing the owner-dog relationship early on. It teaches your doodle that he must look to you for direction and when treats are involved that looking to the human for direction is lots of fun! Doodle puppies are extremely clever and can easily learn the basics such as sit, stay, down and come in their first couple weeks at home with you. Stay positive and keep training sessions short. End the session if you find yourself feeling frustrated for any reason. Furthermore, doodles are a sensitive breed and generally highly trainable so most respond quite well to positive training methods. Typically, simply ignoring unwanted behavior and rewarding the desired behavior will produce the intended results. If you're looking for a fully trained doodle to bring home, JLDD provides an awesome course for new puppies. We hope the advice in this article helps aid the teaching of your dog! Be sure to share your best tips with us at contact jennaleedoodles. Post not marked as liked4 Recent Posts.

Search Humanesociety. Although dogs make great use of their vision and sense of smell to explore the world, one of their favorite ways to take in new information is to put their mouths to work. Fortunately, chewing can be directed to appropriate items so your dog isn't destroying things you value or jeopardizing their own safety. Until they've learned what they can and can't chew, however, the best medicine is prevention. By setting your dog up for success, you can avoid having to replace your favorite chair or paying for an expensive visit to the veterinarian when your dog has ingested something dangerous. Understand your dog Puppies, like infants and toddlers, explore their world by putting objects in their mouths. And, like babies, they teethe for about six months, which usually creates some discomfort. Chewing not only facilitates teething, but also makes sore gums feel better. Adult dogs may engage in destructive chewing for any number of reasons, including as a coping strategy for stress and boredom. In order to stop the behavior, you must first determine why your dog is chewing—and remember, they are not doing it to spite you. They're bored. They suffer from separation anxiety. Their behavior is fear-related and chewing is a coping skill. Chewing simply feels really good. Top 10 pet tips Sign up to receive our exclusive e-book full of important information about caring for your pet, including training techniques and answers to frequently asked questions. Get Your Copy Teach what to chew Take responsibility for your own belongings. If you don't want it in your dog's mouth, don't make it available. Keep clothing, shoes, books, trash, eyeglasses and remote controls out of your dog's reach. Putting trash in a cupboard or blocking off areas with enticing items is the easiest way to prevent mistakes. Give your dog toys that are clearly distinguishable from household goods. Don't confuse them by offering shoes and socks as toys and then expecting them to distinguish between their shoe and yours. Supervise your dog until they are consistently chewing on appropriate items. Keep them with you on their leash in the house so they can't make a mistake out of your sight or only give them access to certain rooms of your home. Choose a "safe place" that's dog-proof and provide fresh water and "safe" toys. If your dog is crate trained, you may also place them in their crate for short periods of time. Remember, crates should never be used for punishment and should be a space where your dog feels safe. Exercise pens and baby gates are also helpful tools. Give your dog plenty of physical and mental exercise. If your dog is bored, they'll find something to do to amuse themselves. On the other hand, a tired dog is a good dog, so make sure they get lots of physical and mental activity. The amount of exercise should be based on their age, health and breed characteristics. While daily walks and other outdoor time are crucial to their well-being, letting your dog sniff will be more enriching than trying to power walk two miles without stopping. For dogs who enjoy the company of other dogs, a well-run doggy daycare can be an excellent choice for high-energy pups. Build toys into your daily routine. Instead of bowls, put their food in a puzzle toy or fill a Kong-type toy with their kibble. For more advanced chewers, cover the openings of the puzzle toy with canned cheese or peanut butter and freeze overnight before giving it to them. And be sure to keep a rotation of toys—novel items are way more fun for your dog than chewing on the same toy from last year. Keep some toys hidden and bring them out when you need to keep your dog occupied. If you catch your dog chewing on something they shouldn't, trade them for a toy that is appropriate. As your dog catches on to this idea, you can add the command "give" as their cue to release the object in exchange for the treat. If your puppy is teething, try freezing a rubber toy; the cold rubber will soothe their gums. As always, supervise your puppy so they don't chew and swallow any pieces. Make items unpleasant to your dog. Caution: Supervise your dog when you first try one of these deterrents. Some dogs will chew an object even if it's coated with a taste deterrent. Also be aware that you must reapply some of these deterrents to maintain their effectiveness. Don't chase your dog if they grab an object and run. If you chase them, you are only giving your dog what they want. Being chased by their human is fun! Instead, call them to you and offer them a treat. Have realistic expectations. At some point your dog will inevitably chew up something you value; this is often part of the transition to a new home. Your dog needs time to learn where and what the appropriate chew toys are. Take precautions and keep things out of their reach to set them up for success. Building and maintaining a positive, trusting relationship with your dog is the foundation of a happy life together! Chewing accomplishes a number of things for a dog. Chewing also combats boredom and can relieve mild anxiety or frustration. Rule Out Problems That Can Cause Destructive Chewing Separation Anxiety Dogs who chew to relieve the stress of separation anxiety usually only chew when left alone or chew most intensely when left alone. They also display other signs of separation anxiety, such as whining, barking, pacing, restlessness, urination and defecation. To learn more about separation anxiety and how to treat it, please see our article, Separation Anxiety. Fabric Sucking Some dogs lick, suck and chew at fabrics. Some experts believe that this behavior results from having been weaned too early before seven or eight weeks of age. Hunger A dog on a calorie-restricted diet might chew and destroy objects in an attempt to find additional sources of nutrition. Dogs usually direct this kind of chewing toward objects related to food or that smell like food. Much like human infants, puppies go through a stage when they lose their baby teeth and experience pain as their adult teeth come in. This intensified chewing phase usually ends by six months of age. Some recommend giving puppies ice cubes, special dog toys that can be frozen or frozen wet washcloths to chew, which might help numb teething pain. Although puppies do need to chew on things, gentle guidance can teach your puppy to restrict chewing to appropriate objects, like his own toys. Normal Chewing Behavior Chewing is a perfectly normal behavior for dogs of all ages. Both wild and domestic dogs spend hours chewing bones. This activity keeps their jaws strong and their teeth clean. Dogs love to chew on bones, sticks and just about anything else available. They chew for fun, they chew for stimulation, and they chew to relieve anxiety. While chewing behavior is normal, dogs sometimes direct their chewing behavior toward inappropriate items. Both puppies and adult dogs should have a variety of appropriate and attractive chew toys. Dogs need to learn what is okay to chew and what is not. They need to be taught in a gentle, humane manner. Keep shoes and clothing in a closed closest, dirty laundry in a hamper and books on shelves. Make it easy for your dog to succeed. Provide your dog with plenty of his own toys and inedible chew bones. Pay attention to the types of toys that keep him chewing for long periods of time and continue to offer those. Use caution: Only give your dog natural bones that are sold specifically for chewing. Do not give him cooked bones, like leftover t-bones or chicken wings, as these can splinter and seriously injure your dog. Also keep in mind that some intense chewers may be able to chip small pieces off of natural bones or chip their own teeth while chewing. Offer your dog some edible things to chew, like bully sticks, pig ears, rawhide bones, pig skin rolls or other natural chews. Dogs can sometimes choke on edible chews, especially if they bite off and swallow large hunks. If he has to chew in the presence of other dogs, he might feel that he has to compete with them and try to quickly gulp down edible items. Identify times of the day when your dog is most likely to chew and give him a puzzle toy filled with something delicious. Discourage chewing inappropriate items by spraying them with chewing deterrents. When you first use a deterrent, apply a small amount to a piece of tissue or cotton wool. Allow him to taste it and then spit it out. If your dog finds the taste unpleasant, he might shake his head, drool or retch. Reapply the deterrent every day for two to four weeks. Please realize, however, that successful treatment for destructive chewing will require more than just the use of deterrents. Do your best to supervise your dog during all waking hours until you feel confident that his chewing behavior is under control. Then praise him happily. For example, if you work during the day, you can leave your dog at home in a confinement area for up to six hours. Use a crate or put your dog in a small room with the door or a baby gate closed. Provide your dog with plenty of physical exercise playtime with you and with other dogs and mental stimulation training, social visits, etc. If you have to leave your dog alone for more than a short period of time, make sure he gets out for a good play session beforehand. Some puppies and juvenile dogs like to chew dirty underwear. This problem is most easily resolved by always putting dirty underwear in a closed hamper. Likewise, some puppies and dogs like to raid the garbage and chew up discarded sanitary napkins and tampons. This can be very dangerous. If a dog eats a sanitary item, it can expand while moving through his digestive system. Most young dogs grow out of these behaviors as they mature. Lack of Exercise or Mental Stimulation Some dogs simply do not get enough physical and mental stimulation. Bored dogs tend look for ways to entertain themselves, and chewing is one option. To prevent destructive chewing, be sure to provide plenty of ways for your dog to exercise his mind and body. Great ways to accomplish this include daily walks and outings, off-leash play with other dogs, tug and fetch games, clicker training classes, dog sports agility, freestyle, flyball, etc. To reduce this kind of chewing, try to avoid exposing your dog to situations that make him nervous or upset. Dogs who are prevented from engaging in exciting activities sometimes direct biting, shaking, tearing and chewing at nearby objects. A dog who sees a squirrel or cat run by and wants to chase but is behind a fence might grab and chew at the gate. A dog watching another dog in a training class might become so excited by the sight of his canine classmate having fun that he grabs and chews his leash. Agility and Flyball dogs are especially prone to this behavior because they watch other dogs racing around and having a great time, and they want to join in the action. The best intervention for this problem is to anticipate when frustration might happen and give your dog an appropriate toy for shaking and tearing. In a class situation, carry a tug or stuffed toy for your dog to hold and chew. If your dog is frustrated by animals or objects on the other side of a fence or gate at home, tie a rope toy to something sturdy by the gate or barrier. Provide shelter dogs and puppies with toys and chew bones in their kennels. Whenever possible, teach them to approach the front of their kennels and sit quietly to solicit attention from passersby. He cannot connect your punishment with some behavior he did hours or even minutes ago. This is inhumane, will teach your dog nothing, and dogs have died from this procedure. Do not tie a damaged object to your dog. This is inhumane and will teach your dog nothing. Do not leave your dog in a crate for lengthy periods of time more than six hours to prevent chewing. Do not muzzle your dog to prevent chewing. Other Ways to Help:. Q: We have a Labrador Retriever who is 10 months old. He has all his adult teeth, so he should no longer be teething. But he is incredibly destructive still — he chews up everything he can get hold of. What can we do? A: Among veterinarians, there's a saying about Labradors : "Chew till they're two; shed till they're dead. In the same way, what you're dealing with now is also normal for many dogs. Retrievers, especially, are known for their love of chewing throughout their adolescence, along with the lifelong fondness many of them have for carrying items in their mouths. Carrying things back — retrieving — is, after all, the job they were developed to do. To get a handle on the chewing, your family needs to limit your dog's ability to get to those items you don't want chewed. While doing that, offer your dog lots of chew toys to satisfy this healthy, natural behavior, and work on rewarding your dog for making the right choices when he chooses what to chew. You also need to make sure your dog is getting enough exercise — at least a half hour of heart-pumping activity every day to take the edge off his youthful exuberance. Your veterinarian can advise you on choosing healthy, safe chew toys, and there have never been more choices. One perennial favorite is the Kong , which can be stuffed with goodies such as peanut butter and broken dog biscuits to make it even more appealing. If you catch your dog chewing something he shouldn't, don't punish him. Really, the fault isn't his, but rather your family's for not supervising him better. Instead, transfer his attention to a favorite chew toy and then praise him for chewing on that. Expect that your dog's perfectly normal and healthy interest in chewing will continue for at least another year. The first step is to make sure you have removed the causes of chewing. In many homes, everyone is out at work all day, and young dogs can get very bored when left alone for long periods. Try to give your dog a good long walk before you leave for work, and arrange for someone to come in and take him for another walk part way through the day. She is more likely to relax and sleep rather instead of dismantling your sofa cushions if she has had enough exercise. If your day is a very long one, consider sending him to doggy day care, where he will enjoy the company of other dogs while you are at work. Combining a dog with full time work can be challenging and you may need some extra help. Many of our regular posters understand the issues of separation anxiety very well. Preventing Separation Anxiety If your older dog has a separation anxiety issues, consider a consultation with a dog behaviorist. They will be able to assess your dog in his home environment and give you a plan to help. If you have a young puppy , you can help them to avoid developing separation anxiety. You can teach your puppy to cope with being alone for short periods of time from an early age. Check out my click for quiet article for more information on helping puppies that cry when you leave them. Make sure that puppies left alone for more than a minute or two have something appropriate to occupy them. Rescue dogs may need similar treatment, and you can introduce them to separation gradually when you first bring them home. Now, what about chewing for pleasure? This means redirecting his chewing activities onto sensible alternatives. Chewing For Pleasure Chewing for pleasure is one cause of chewing you cannot and should not try to remove or prevent in your dog. What we do with dogs that like to chew for pleasure, and that includes all puppies, is redirect their chewing onto something more appropriate than your favorite shoes. However, most people give their dogs chew toys and then wonder why he prefers to gnaw on the table legs. The fact is, most chew toys are rather boring. How do we keep playing and chewing interesting, and save your long-suffering furniture from harm? A few other toys and distractions can work well. For most Labradors, that means food! Dipping chew toys in savory spreads like yeast extract or peanut butter can help extend the pleasure time, but not for long. However, in my experience, even long-lasting chews can become boring after a while. The answer lies in the wonderful Kong toy. In fact what you need is not one, but several Kongs. Toys, like the Kong, that contain food but make the dog work to get at it, are a useful distraction that can also stop doggy boredom. Your job is to fill this hollow centre with something delicious and then, as the most important part, freeze it solid. When you leave your puppy or young dog alone or unsupervised for long — give him a frozen Kong first. This will keep him happy for quite some time. Choosing The Right Kong You can get Kongs in puppy sizes for little ones and in black extra strong rubber for really strong chewers. Kongs are not the cheapest toy, but they are an indispensable aid to preventing destructive chewing in the long term. This is especially important with dogs that have an existing chewing habit or suffer from boredom or anxiety. In a way, a Kong is an iPad for dogs! In young puppies, you want to prevent those habits developing in the first place. In both cases, this is a physical issue. When it comes to avoiding or breaking bad habits, you need to physically prevent the puppy from indulging in them. Some people struggle with this. They are hoping for a magic command or cue to give their dog that will prevent chewing in their absence. Dogs like the smell of feet and Labs love to carry shoes around, looking very pleased with themselves. One thing you can do is teach your Lab to bring your shoes to you and hand them over, rather than running off with them. We invested in a shoe rack for our front and back porches and taught everyone to leave their shoes there rather than in the hall or on their bedroom floors. If your bedrooms are upstairs you can insist the family puts their shoes in their rooms. You can then place a dog gate across the bottom of the stairs so your pooch has no access. This kind of strategy is especially important with puppies. Before we adopt our first dog, most of us are used to being able to put things down on the floor or low tables. They will still be there when we come back. If you leave the TV remote on the chair, your puppy will pick it up. You should remind the family to pick up stuff in rooms where puppies have free access. Now, what about furniture? One solution is to block access to that particular room except under supervision. Again, a dog gate or baby gate works well. If you have an open plan home, you can buy extended systems that can literally divide an entire room Another solution is to try some kind of spray on dog chewing deterrent Using A Stop Dog Chewing Spray You can buy spray on repellents that will deter some puppies and dogs from chewing. These are intended to deter dogs because of the odor. You can try spraying it on your table legs and see if it works. It is alcohol free and you can even spray it on your furniture and clothes. Make sure you buy a spray intended for furniture rather than for spraying on dogs that are nibbling themselves. They can be effective, but there are no guarantees. Think hard about providing your dog with more company or mental stimulation as well as breaking the chewing habit with barriers or sprays. Bear in mind that some puppies and dogs seem indifferent to the taste of the spray and will happily carry on chewing wood even when it you coat it liberally in unpleasant substances! I would swear that one of my dogs chewed things even more! Accordingly, in many cases, dog gates are the best option if a dog chews everything. Baby gates are fine. If you are interesting in finding out more about this then check out our puppies and baby gates article. If you are going to crate your puppy, you need to do so for very short periods of time and leave the enough puppy suitable chew toys to occupy his need to chew while you are gone. Crates are also really useful in vehicles and can save you from a lot of heart ache. One small dog can run up a very large bill when left alone in the interior of a car for a few minutes. Many years ago, my young Labrador ate through both the passenger and driver safety belts in our Landrover when we left him alone for less than twenty minutes. That was a very expensive lesson for us as a young hard-up couple. Using a crate in the vehicle is often a better solution, at least until your Labrador has got past the chewing stage. Check out our Travel Crates For Labradors section for detailed reviews. One problem that often crops up is puppies destroying their own bedding. What About Puppy Bedding? People often ask me what they can do about their puppy chewing up his own bed. This is a tricky one. None of us wants to see a puppy without a bed, but if your puppy is tearing lumps off his and swallowing them, you are going to need to remove it for a while. You can heave a sigh of relief and put away your gates and your bitter spray. If you are thinking about putting away your puppy crate, be aware that it is very tempting to de-crate big dogs too soon. This is because large dogs need large crates, and these crates are an unsightly nuisance in all but the biggest houses. Some will continue until they are around two years old. So, a little patience is required. Remember to be very generous with those frozen Kongs during the de-crating process, and for the next few months. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. Habit Dogs that chew when they are bored We all have different boredom thresholds, dogs are no different. Some dogs are quite happy to do very little for hours on end, others, not so much. Labradors are intelligent, sociable dogs, and are particularly prone to boredom if left alone for long periods. One way of relieving boredom, if you are a dog, is to chew things up! Chewing as a means to relieve anxiety Ideally, all dogs need to learn to spend time alone from puppyhood onwards. A well adjusted adult dog is then happy to be left from time to time, and will simply sleep when you are gone. Dogs which are not taught to accept some periods of solitude in puppyhood, dogs which are left alone for far too long, or dogs that have had traumatic experiences when left alone may develop a disorder called separation anxiety. A dog which becomes very anxious when left, may resort to destroying your possessions, or even the fabric of your home, in order to relieve his anxiety. Which brings us to the point that the act of chewing is in itself, is very pleasurable and calming to many dogs. Dogs chewing for relaxation and pleasure There is no doubt that many dogs simply chew for fun. It relaxes them, and makes them feel happy. The problems arise, when that chewing activity is directed at the wrong items — your items! Relaxation chewing is particularly common in Labradors and other retrievers. This is probably partly because we have bred them to enjoy having things in their mouths. Unusual causes of dogs chewing Occasionally a dog will start chewing because he has some kind of medical problem. This is more likely to be the cause if the chewing starts quite suddenly in an older dog that has never had a chewing problem before. Is my dog hungry? Eating is a fairly transient affair for most Labradors in any case, so you can never hope to prevent chewing by giving your dog something to eat. Is chewing a habit? Like many other stress busting or pleasurable activities, chewing can become a deeply ingrained habit. Habits can be difficult to change and breaking a habit may involve physically preventing your dog from parts of your home. What about punishing dogs for chewing? There are a number of problems with punishment in general, but punishment for chewing is especially problematic. Many Labradors are quite attention seeking, they have been bred to work closely with their human partners and being together, is very important to them. Behind your back Most destructive chewing in older dogs goes on behind your back, or when you are out. Punishment can sometimes be a way to teach your dog not to chew things in front of you. It is however nigh on impossible to teach a dog not to chew things in your absence. Punishment only works, if it occurs during the bad behaviour. Effectively, all punishment does, is teach your dog to be more sneaky about chewing. Staying friends with your puppy Remember also, that punishing a puppy will not prevent him chewing — he needs to chew and chewing is completely normal and natural for him. What punishment will do, is make your puppy afraid of you. The first step is to make sure you have removed the causes of chewing that can be avoided. Preventing your dog being bored Labradors need plenty of exercise and some company. In many homes, everyone is out at work all day, and young dogs can get very bored when left alone for long periods. Try to give your dog a good long walk before you leave for work, and arrange for someone to come in and take him for another walk part way through the day. He is more likely to relax and sleep rather instead of dismantling your sofa cushions, if he has had enough exercise. If your day is a very long one, consider sending him to doggy day care where he will enjoy the company of other dogs while you are at work. Combining a dog with full time work can be challenging and you may need some extra help. They will be able to assess your dog in his home environment and give you a plan to help him. If you have a young puppy, you can avoid separation anxiety developing by teaching your puppy to cope with being alone for short periods of time from an early age. Check out my click for quiet article for more information on helping puppies that cry when you leave them. And keep separations very short to begin with. Make sure that puppies left alone for more than a minute or two, have something appropriate to occupy them. Rescue dogs may need to be treated in a similar way, and introduced to separation gradually, when you first bring them home. Chewing for pleasure Of course there is one cause of chewing you cannot and should not try to remove, or prevent in your dog, and that is chewing for pleasure. What we do instead with dogs that like to chew for pleasure, and that includes all puppies, is redirect their chewing onto something more appropriate than your favourite shoes 2. This means redirecting his chewing activities onto sensible alternatives. Most people give their dogs chew toys. And wonder why he prefers to gnaw on the table legs. The fact is, most chew toys are rather boring. The ideal chew toy To really make chew toys appealing you usually need to add something interesting. And for most Labradors, that means food. Dipping chew toys in savoury spreads like marmite or peanut butter can help extend the pleasure time, but not for long. The answer lies in the wonderful Kong toy. In fact what you need is not one, but several Kongs. Why Kongs help stop Labradors chewing your things The kong is a hollow, tough, rubber toy that most dogs cannot destroy. The Kong Extreme is especially sturdy and great for very aggressive chewers. Your job is to fill this hollow centre with something delicious and then this is the important part freeze it solid. When you leave your puppy or young dog alone or unsupervised for long — give him a frozen Kong first. This will keep him happy for quite some time. Choosing the right kong You can get Kongs in puppy sizes for little ones, and in extra strong rubber black for really strong chewers. The red ones are suitable for most adult Labs. Kongs are not the cheapest toy, but they are an indispensable aid to the long term prevention of destructive chewing. This is especially important with dogs that have an existing chewing habit, or suffer from boredom or anxiety. What next? Avoid or break bad habits The final step in the plan is to break any existing bad chewing habits, and in young puppies, to prevent those habits developing. In both cases this is a physical issue. When it comes to avoiding or breaking bad habits, it means physically preventing the puppy from being able to indulge in them. Some people struggle with this. They are hoping for a command or cue to give their dog, that will prevent chewing in their absence. Putting things away Before we have our first dog, we are all used to being able to put things down on the floor or low tables, and for them to still be there when we come back. If you leave the TV remote on the chair, your puppy will pick it up. The best way is to prevent your puppy having access to rooms with important items in them, and to teach yourself and your kids to pick up your stuff in rooms where puppies have free access. Repellent sprays You can buy spray on repellents that will put some puppies off chewing. You can try spraying it on your table legs and so on. Bitter apple spray is a popular one , and it does work, for some dogs. Sadly not for all. Some puppies and young dogs seem indifferent to the taste and will happily carry on chewing your furniture or baseboards, even when liberally coated in unpleasant substances! A more effective solution, and one that is particularly suitable for puppies that are not yet fully house trained, is physical exclusion. Upstairs for example. I want to support as many people as possible through this chewing and biting stage, so this article will help you understand why your puppy is chewing and help minimise the stress, bringing you a step closer to a well-mannered puppy. Dogs use their mouths just like human toddlers use their hands to explore and experiment. Most Labradors simply want to know if they can play with it or eat it, and using their mouth help them find out those answers. As a general rule, if your dog has an hour of play and excitement, try and conclude that with an hour of peace, quiet rest and relaxation. It will allow them to recharge their batteries and prevent less desirable behaviour from taking place. When your puppy is teething, they have that same discomfort but multiplied by about .Chewing can be a coping strategy for puppies suffering from anxiety and stress. Chewing, licking and sniffing are things that will help a Labrador remain calm and relaxed. Also, pain is a massive part of why dogs chew and bite. If your dog is suffering discomfort somewhere in its body, you might start to notice it showing itself in chewing behaviour. Puppies learned behaviour and habits will influence their desire to chew and nip. Finally, lots of Labradors chew because of boredom. But what they can do is chew the skirting board or nip the kids to prompt a response. Now that you understand why your Labrador needs to chew, you can start to help them through this stage. Our other blog articles explore the teething stages in more detail and help you minimise undesirable behaviour. If chewing and biting is a problem, check them out. If you are finding it tough, please reach out to us. Be caring — Be consistent — Be their teacher If you need more targeted support, why not check out our Online Puppy School or Foundation Skills programme. Search for:.

Breeds The link has been copied! Few dogs are as intelligent and loyal as German Shepherds. With its athletic build and remarkable drive, this working breed makes excellent companions, herding dogs, police K-9s, and therapy animals. How much does a German Shepherd cost? The price of a German Shepherd puppy can vary a lot from one breeder to another. German Shepherds are active and need plenty of stimulation. Flea and tick preventatives are a must-have. You might face additional costs such as pet insurance, training classes, boarding fees, or dog walkers. Puppies tend to cost more due to the high demand. However, professional breeders charge a lot more. Professional breeders usually conduct health testing for the parents. Elbow and hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy are the two main tests to look for when adopting a GSD puppy. Prenatal care for the mother can be expensive. These costs can include bloodwork, ultrasounds, and X-rays. Most breeders raise the puppies for the first eight to 12 weeks. They provide nutrition, a living space, socialization, and sometimes early training. Puppies typically receive veterinary care, including a first round of booster shots and a deworming treatment. Colors German Shepherds can come in a few different colors. Black and tan and black and cream are the most common GSD colors. However, there are rarer colors, like black and silver, sable, or black. These colors meet the official breed standards, and a puppy with an unusual color can be worth more. Bloodline and Purity One of the key factors that influences the cost of a GSD puppy is the parents and their pedigrees. A breeder will look at how well the parents match the AKC breed standards. Both parents should be the right height and color. They should have a muscular morphology and the proper head shape. Breeders who are able to trace the ancestry of a litter over several generations and document that all the ancestors are purebred GSDs will charge more. You should also expect to pay more if a breeder can provide health testing information over several generations. Titles are another important factor. Show dogs can receive V, VA, or VA1 titles if they do well at an event and judges determine they meet all the standards of the breed. An IGP3 title indicates that a dog can protect its owner. Parents with IGP or IPO titles produce puppies that are worth more since breeders consider these animals to have excellent potential for training. A breeder who has an excellent reputation and many positive online reviews will attract more prospective dog owners and can afford to charge more. You can protect your dog with a microchip, but there are other steps you can take. The Fi GPS tracking dog collar helps you keep your dog safe. The design is highly resistant and waterproof for durability, and the collar comes with a battery that lasts three months. You can track your pet anywhere and locate them easily if they get lost. There are a few things you should know about this working breed. Personality of the German Shepherd German Shepherds are fiercely loyal. They make excellent guard dogs thanks to their protective instincts. They also make amazing pets who will give you lots of affection. GSDs are reliable and hardworking dogs who thrive if you constantly give them new tasks and challenges. These dogs are extremely versatile. German Shepherds have amazing potential and tend to do extremely well in training thanks to their drive and intelligence. However, they require consistent training and handling since they can be mouthy, chase prey, or become overprotective without the right training. Size and Weight German Shepherds are medium to large dogs. When it comes to weight, a healthy male will weigh 66 to 88 lbs. Lifestyle and Activity Levels German Shepherds are a working breed. Their origin dates back to the 19th century when dog breeder Max Von Stephanitz developed a new dog by breeding different herding dogs. Like all shepherds, GSDs have a strong need to stay active. Due to their athletic build, these dogs need at least two hours of exercise every day. Going for walks might not be sufficient. Your GSD will thrive if you provide plenty of opportunities to use their athletic abilities, including jumping, swimming, or running. Approximate Lifetime Care Costs The total cost of owning a German Shepherd is difficult to estimate since every animal is different. German Shepherds can be expensive. Here are a few tips to help you lower the cost. Look for a breeder who cares about the animals and who does health testing on the parents, but everything else is extra. You should also consider adopting a dog with an unknown lineage. Check local shelters or go online to look at classified ads. Check classified ads to find owners rehoming their pets. If you decide to get a German Shepherd, think about using the Fi GPS dog collar to keep your dog safe, and make sure you can bring your puppy home if she gets lost. 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. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. Think of the right breed you want, your space, time, and lifestyle. Most of all, consider if you can afford to buy a GSD. This article will focus on the cost of buying and raising a GSD so you know what to expect and how much funds to allocate ahead of time if you finally decide to buy a GSD. German Shepherd Puppies Price Range The following price range is from reputable or responsible breeders who can show bloodline certifications and proof of health testing so expect the initial purchase price to be high. Owning a purebred German Shepherd will always come with a high price tag because breeders often charge high prices for purebred dogs in order to ensure that they find good owners. Additionally, this price can be even higher if the German Shepherd is a show dog or comes from a kennel known to produce prize-winning dogs. Purebred GSD s have certain genetic traits or appearances like their parents and other ancestors. This means purebred GSDs belong to the same breed. So if you buy a purebred puppy, you already have an idea about his general physical appearance and behavioral characteristics. Czech German shepherds have been used for working purposes because of their strength and intelligence. If you want to buy a good Czech GSD, you need to find a good breeder. Is It Normal? All GSDs can be born either black, grey, or white and can change color as they grow but black german shepherds are born black as the name implies until they reach adulthood. Also, expect to pay a pretty penny if you want a show quality black GSD. Finding a good breeder who has puppies available is not easy since it is such a rare color. Why Does the Cost Vary First of all, the price depends on the breeder. It also depends on the pedigree and colorings of the German shepherd puppy. Well-reputed breeders price their German shepherds by considering their expenses in breeding, raising, training, and showing their dogs. Of course, German shepherd puppies bred for show quality are more expensive than dogs bred for companionship or family pets only. Sometimes the only difference between the two is their color. Most of the time these organizations health screen German shepherd puppies before placing them for adoption. It is advisable to set aside a monthly budget for your GSD. Food The amount of food you give depends on your GSD. Just make sure you give a balanced diet rich in protein and healthy fats. Because German Shepherd puppies are constantly exploring their environment most of the time, they eat more high-energy food than adult GSDs. They need to eat smaller meals each day. Aside from their main meals, treats are also important to have a healthy and happy German shepherd puppy. Shelter Since every GSD deserves a good home, you should provide your German shepherd puppy with a comfortable bed inside your home. For your GSDs outside, you may provide a kennel for them and make sure their shelter is cozy and free from dirt. Expect to pay a hundred dollars for annual exams and vaccinations. However, too many vitamins can also have negative consequences so before giving any supplements, ask your vet first. Other factors to consider Aside from making sure they have enough food, comfortable shelter, and keeping up with the vaccination schedule of your GSD, there are other miscellaneous additions to consider. Take into consideration obedience training; grooming essentials brushes, combs, toenail clippers, and shampoo toys, and other unforeseen problems. You may also go to professional dog shows to meet with several breeders. Take your time to meet them, visit their homes, and get to know their dogs. Buy from a reputable hobby breeder, experienced breeder, or responsible breeder. You can recognize if the seller is a responsible breeder if he has clean facilities, well-fed dogs with complete records and certifications. Conclusion Finding the best breeder of German Shepherds is not easy. Do your research and avoid impulse buying because if you purchase a German shepherd puppy that is improperly bred, he may grow up with health and behavioral problems, such as disabilities and aggression. Start preparing your budget or save up now to buy the GSD of your dreams. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. Apart from recurring costs such as dog food, toys, and grooming essentials, a great chunk of your finances must go to routine veterinary care and pet insurance. Annual check-ups should be done on adult German Shepherds to check their physical condition and ensure they are healthy dogs. This involves listening to the heart and checking the ears and eyes. The typical lifespan of a GSD is 7 to 10 years. Other Potential Expenses Owning a dog is already comparable to parenthood. German Shepherds, much like any other dog breed, have other needs that go beyond food, water, and shelter. Your dog will be watched over, fed, and socialized with other dogs. Grooming Services: For your GSD to have a well-maintained coat and appearance, you should take them to a professional grooming salon. They will be cleaned, trimmed, and pampered as they deserve. Emergency Treatment: Dogs grow up so fast. As your German Shepherd puppy gets older, they are more prone to health issues like hip dysplasia. Sudden injuries can also happen that will require immediate medical attention and treatment. This will allow them to join various dog shows and other competitions. Places to Find German Shepherd Puppies for Sale and Adoption Once you plan everything out financially, you are ready to find places where you can buy your German Shepherd puppy. Cheap German Shepherd dogs can be bought from puppy mills or a backyard breeder. Buying from responsible breeders is the best option to get healthy puppies that will grow up to be strong adult dogs. To help on your quest, here is a list of breeders certified by the American Kennel Club that offer high-quality German Shepherd puppies: Vom Ragnar German Shepherds — This is a small kennel located in Illinois dedicated to breeding show-quality German Shepherds with sound temperament and the best condition because they have their puppies undergo health testing. This breeder strives to match their GSD pups to the most suited families. Mittelwest German Shepherds — As a well-renowned breeder, the owner ensures that they only produce show-quality German Shepherd puppies that can serve as show dogs, guard dogs, K-9, and much more. They also import and ship their dogs worldwide. West Coast German Shepherds — If you are located in California, this breeder can offer you a health-tested German Shepherd puppy coming from the best bloodlines. Buying the cheapest puppies online seems tempting, especially if you are on a budget, but you might spend more in the future due to medical expenses. To easily distinguish a responsible breeder from a puppy mill or backyard breeder, check out our puppy buying guide. Are you considering adopting a German Shepherd instead of buying from a breeder? If you are, this list can help you find the perfect GSD pup for you: German Shepherd Rescue and Adoptions — Based in North Carolina, this non-profit organization was established to protect and promote the German Shepherd breed. German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County — This volunteer organization is all about placing unwanted, neglected, and abused German Shepherds into permanent, loving homes. Applicants are encouraged to meet up with their chosen dog prior to adoption. Matching their rescue dogs to a suitable owner is their top priority, along with the restoration of their health. For more chances of finding your lifelong companion, check out this list of the 10 best German Shepherd rescues. You can surely find one in your location! Adoption is the cheapest alternative to getting a German Shepherd Dog, and this is more suggested than buying from backyard breeders. Buy high-quality items. You will spend more on replacing them rather than having good products that can last for a longer time. Purchase supplies in bulk. When buying food or treats for your pup, make sure to stock up by buying them in bulk. This can save you a lot of money than buying small bags of kibble or cans of wet food. Keep your dog in excellent shape. To avoid expensive veterinary bills, keep your German Shepherd puppy fit and healthy. Do this by feeding them high-quality dog food equipped with the right nutrients. Groom your GSD at home. Instead of going to a professional groomer, learn to groom your German Shepherd puppy at home. All you need to do is buy the basic grooming tools and research how to groom your dog effectively. Plan your finances accordingly so no one will have to suffer in the long run. They are highly intelligent and loyal dogs that will protect you at all costs. Buying one from a reputable breeder is worth the hefty purchase price than purchasing from backyard breeders or puppy mills. On another note, you can adopt from a local rescue organization, but make sure to ask about any current health conditions that the dog may have. Aside from the financial aspect, make sure you are prepared for the full responsibility of being a German Shepherd puppy owner. Now you know how much German Shepherds cost, are you ready to own one? Share your thoughts in the comments 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. German Shepherds are considered healthy dogs that can live many years. You must be able to pay for these dogs every month of their lives. For the most part, providing your dog with a lot of exercise and high-quality food will prevent the dog from developing unforeseen health issues. You will need to buy a dog-safe toothpaste, dog-safe shampoo, and certain medications, such as heartworm prevention, to keep your dog healthy its entire life. Not only do you have to feed your German Shepherd a lot of food, but you want to feed your dog food that is high quality and healthy. As long as your dog does not have any known illnesses or issues, you should not have to pay monthly prices. At the minimum, you should take your German Shepherd for an annual visit, assuming it is healthy. You also need to pay for flea, tick, and heartworm prevention. Most of these medications last for 1 to 3 months at a time. It is completely up to you whether or not you decide to get pet insurance. If you are interested in getting health insurance for your new pet, Lemonade offers customizable insurance plans and responsive customer service. If you do not want to pay for pet insurance, you can simply set up a savings account instead. So long as you have a house and a yard for your dog to play, the home environment is generally suitable for dogs. Some environmental maintenance things you will need to buy include doggie bags. You need these if you take your dog for a walk or if you have a yard that you have to maintain. You may also need to pay for carpet cleaner, deodorizer, and other items to keep the house clean, despite your heavy shedding German Shepherd. This means that your German Shepherd can help you out when you are in a pinch, but it also means that you need to provide your German Shepherd ample entertainment, or else your dog could become destructive. At the very minimum, you need to buy heavy-duty toys for your German Shepherd. German Shepherds can be really rough with their toys. So, we recommend some sort of brand specific for rough-playing dogs, such as Kong. These boxes will offer toys, treats, and more for your dog, but these boxes can be pretty expensive too. Additional Costs to Factor In In addition to initial costs and monthly payments, there are some other additional factors you need to think about. For starters, obedience training is really important for dogs of this size. Obedience training can be a bit expensive at first, but it will be worth it in the long run. You need to pay for a pet sitter or kennel whenever you go on vacations and your dog does not come with you. If you are buying a German Shepherd puppy, you may also have to pay to replace or fix items the puppy damages. Think about accidents or unforeseen illnesses too. These can cost a whole lot in vet visits. Owning a German Shepherd on a Budget If you want a German Shepherd but are worried about destroying your budget, there are ways that you can own one of these wonderful dogs without spending a fortune either. Unfortunately, there is little you can change about the price of these dogs up front, but you can save on the monthly expenses. The most important tip for taking care of a German Shepherd on a budget is to know when to splurge. When it comes to dog food, make sure to select high-quality food. This will be more expensive upfront, but it will ensure that your dog is healthy for as long as possible, resulting in fewer bills. Splurging on heavy-duty toys is another great idea. These toys will cost more at first, but they should last much longer than cheap ones. For instance, there are a lot of coupons and promo codes you can use when purchasing toys, food, and other items for your German Shepherd. Even if you find coupons, only spend money on the essentials. Not to mention, buy crates and beds that are suitable for the dog as it grows. Many people make the mistake of buying crates and beds suitable for the puppy, but the puppy soon outgrows them. The initial cost primarily accounts for the dog itself and any other items required when bringing the dog home for the first time. Even after the German Shepherd has made your home its home, you will still have to pay some pretty hefty bills for the remainder of its life. Although the initial and monthly costs for this dog are a bit high, they are required for this dog to live a happy life. If you cannot afford to provide a German Shepherd the sort of life it needs and deserves, simply do not get a German Shepherd. If your breeder had not run these genetic tests on your dog—or if you adopt a German Shepherd from a rescue or shelter, you can run the Embark Dog DNA Test using a simple saliva test you can perform at home. Dogs with CLAD, type III typically exhibit symptoms such as recurrent ear infections, skin infections, pneumonia, and other respiratory infections. Dogs with DM first lose coordination in their hind legs, then they lose muscle mass and eventually the ability to walk. It is caused by a lack of one of the proteins needed for blood to clot properly. Dogs with hemophilia A will often suffer from uncontrolled bleeding, most commonly into the joints. Uric acid is a waste product that is normally eliminated from the body through the kidneys. When the kidneys are not able to remove enough uric acid, it builds up in the blood and can cause health problems. Dogs with hyperuricosuria are at risk for developing bladder stones, kidney stones, and other health problems. P-glycoprotein is involved in the transport of drugs and other molecules across cell membranes. Drugs that are known to cause adverse reactions in MDR1 dogs include digoxin, ivermectin, loperamide, and milbemycin. There are several different types of MPS, each caused by a deficiency in a specific enzyme needed to break down mucopolysaccharides. It is caused by a genetic mutation that impairs the ability of the blood to clot properly. This can lead to frequent and sometimes severe bleeding events which can be difficult to control, even with the help of medications. Dogs with this condition are at an increased risk for bleeding and may require lifelong monitoring and medical management. Symptoms include weight loss, decreased appetite, vomiting, and increased water consumption. Affected dogs have problems with the development of their skin, hair, nails, and teeth. They may also have problems with sweating and the function of their tears and salivary glands. Dogs with this disorder usually have a very thin coat of hair, often with areas that are bald or have very thin hair. Their skin may be dry and cracked, and they may develop sores on their skin. Nails may be abnormally shaped or missing altogether, and teeth may be missing or poorly developed. Dogs with X-linked ectodermal dysplasia often experience overheating. Attend a sanctioned dog show and talk with breeders and competitors for recommendations. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations regarding reputable breeders. Check the Facebook page of the breeder and read through the comments. Remember, however, that comments can be deleted by the page owner. The breeder should be happy to share the name and contact information for customers. Ask questions. Lots of questions. The breeder should be glad to share the test results from the health tests and screenings and should be happy to let you meet at least the mother if not the sire as well of the German Shepherd Dog puppies. Ask how often the dogs are bred. Ask to tour the kennels. Are they well maintained? Do the dogs look healthy? Beware of operations that will not let you tour the kennels and breeders that want to meet you in a parking lot to hand over the puppy. Be prepared for questions. The breeder should ask YOU questions as well; be suspicious if the breeder has no questions about your past history with pets, your living situation, etc. The breeder should want to know how much experience you have with herding breeds, what your training plans are and your plans for exercising the dog. Ask if the breeder will take the German Shepherd puppy—or adult dog—back if necessary. Ask for a contract. If medical problems are diagnosed, the breeder should readily take the pup back and provide a full refund. German Shepherd breeders may adopt out of the area but, nonetheless, you will want to go to the breeder to meet the parents, view the kennels and bring home your puppy in person. This will add to your expenses—but breeders that transport a puppy by air are putting the dog at risk. If you want to buy a German Shepherd Dog from an online breeder, please think again. There are numerous scams; people spend thousands of dollars for a dog and never receive a puppy. AKC warns potential pet parents to be wary of any seller asking for payment by Venmo, in gift cards or as a wire transfer. Dogs purchased from puppy mills can mean years of heartache and expensive veterinary care—and perpetuation of a cruel industry. The pros of purchasing from a German Shepherd breeder: You may be able to select a puppy—including a choice of gender. A reputable breeder will be passionate about German Shepherds and will a resource for years to come. The cons of purchasing from a German Shepherd breeder You will pay far more for a cattle dog from a breeder than a rescue or shelter. If you find a breeder who has German Shepherd puppies for sale at prices much lower than you are seeing from other breeders, you must suspect you are dealing with a backyard breeder who has not done health screening, with an online seller who is operating a puppy mill or with someone who is running a scam. You will need to wait until puppies are available. You will need to do your own due diligence to select a reputable breeder. German Shepherd Dogs in rescues are far less expensive that those at a breeder. Puppies under a year old will be the most costly. This group provides funding to a network of GSD rescues — they do not have dogs themselves for adoption. They have a list of affiliated rescues that can help located adoptable GSDs in your region. A breed rescue is, like the name suggests, a pet rescue that is specifically for one breed of dog. These are generally small non-profit groups that operate through a foster system of volunteers who love the breed. German Shepherd rescues specialize in German Shepherds of all ages; some have primarily purebred German Shepherds while others may also have adoptable Belgian Malinois and Dutch Shepherds. How to Find Breed Rescues Along with the list mentioned above, many breed rescues list their adoptable dogs on large adoption sites such as:. What should I look for when purchasing a German Shepherd puppy? You should also consider travel costs to go get the puppy or have the puppy travel to you if the breeder is not local. There are many purebred German Shepherds who are in need of homes in animal shelters or German Shepherd rescues as well. The emotional and mental benefits of giving a good home to a puppy or dog in need are priceless, for both the German Shepherd and the rescuer. Is a German Shepherd Right for Me? Before bringing home a German Shepherd Dog, consider the following: Is anyone living in your house allergic to dogs? If you are renting, does your rental property allow dogs? Can you afford the pet fee? Can you provide daily exercise such as walks or runs for about an hour? How long will your dog be alone every day? Dogs are very social, and it is cruel for them to spend their lives alone or in a cage for excessive amounts of time. Dogs left alone can become bored , which can lead to destructive behaviors. If you cannot come home from work to take your dog outside to relieve himself mid-day, can you afford a dog walker? Do you have the time and ability to socialize your puppy to make him comfortable in different situations? Can you afford to take your puppy to training classes? Do you know how much to train German Shepherd costs? Do you have a fenced yard or access to a fenced yard to play fetch with your puppy? If not, can you afford to take your puppy to the groomer? Can you forgive your puppy for chewing your favorite shoes or pillow? Can you afford your puppy? According to ASPCA , a dog is a commitment of approximately 8 to 15 years ; sometimes more, sometimes less. The most important thing to do before purchasing a puppy or adopting a puppy or dog is to ensure that you are ready and able to give them the best home possible. According to The Telegraph , Dogs have the intelligence of 2-year-old human children. They are smart and will quickly become valued members of your family. According to VetStreet , You will spare yourself and the dog mental and emotional heartbreak if you are honest with yourself before bringing one home. Show Quality vs. Pet Quality vs. Rescue When you begin your search, you need to determine what type of German Shepherd you want. While these dogs possess different physical qualities, none are superior and all can make great pets. If you are interested in showing, this is the type of dog that you would want to purchase. Due to the careful breeding and extra efforts that show quality breeders must adhere to, these dogs are the most expensive. This does not make them any less purebred, this just means they would not qualify to be shown because their anatomy is not what the breed standard requires. Pet quality german shepherd breeders should breed their dogs with the same care as show quality breeders but may do so for the love of the breed rather than specifically to show. Pet quality dogs are generally a little less expensive than show quality dogs. For further discussion about show quality dogs v. A Rescue German Shepherd may be purebred or mixed with other breeds. Dogs of both types, show quality, and pet quality, are available for adoption. All rescue dogs have one thing in common; they do not have a home and they need one. Dogs are in need of homes for a variety of reasons, such as their owner died, their owner was no longer able to afford them, their owner decided they were too much work, their owner got bored with them, their owner did not want an elderly dog, etc. Whatever the reason, it does not mean that they will not make a good addition to your family. The sources available to you to find a German Shepherd are nearly endless, thanks to the internet: The American Kennel Club Market Place is an excellent place to find purebred German Shepherd puppies bred by reputable breeders. The German Shepherd Dog Club of America Classified Advertisements is another place to find quality breeders who care about breeding healthy dogs. Social media can also be a great resource for finding your next German Shepherd. Many breeders post pictures of their litters, or you can find a purebred puppy or adult who needs a home from a German Shepherd Rescue or a private individual. To thank these four-legged heroes for their service, they help retired working military dogs find homes to live out the rest of their lives happily in peace. If you are looking to rescue a German Shepherd, Shenandoah Shepherd Rescue has many wonderful dogs waiting for loving homes. If you live in Virginia and want to rescue a German Shepherd, browse the adoptable shepherds waiting for loving homes with the Virginia German Shepherd Rescue. Pet Quality breeders often list their German Shepherd puppies on Craiglist. Private individuals also list their puppies or dogs on Craigslist in an attempt to re-home them. Compare them to the following standards: A good breeder breeds for the love of the breed, not just to make money. The amount of care the puppies receive will be indicative of their love for the breed. The puppies should have been taken to a veterinarian, and they should have clean and safe living quarters. The puppies should not be available for sale before they are 8 weeks of age. Breeders who just want to make money sell puppies while they still need their mother in an attempt to make money faster. A good breeder cares where their puppies go and will communicate with you. They will want to talk to you about the puppy, make sure that you will provide the puppy with a good home, and ask if you have any questions about the breed. They may ask to connect on social media to keep in contact with the puppy. Most importantly, they will ask you to bring the puppy back to them should you ever no longer want the puppy. One of the most telling traits of a good breeder is what they do when the puppy has health issues. They will want to provide you with whatever information you need and should state that the puppy is returned to them if you do not want to keep it. If your puppy dies due to health issues, they should want to provide you want another puppy for free or for a reduced rate. If their mother is not on-site, this is a red flag, as it means they may have been separated from her sooner than they should have been. Puppies need their mother for health reasons for approximately the first 8 weeks of their lives. While you should expect to see the puppies go to the bathroom, the urine and droppings should be promptly cleaned up; the puppies should not be sitting in old excrement. Always use caution when a breeder does not communicate well with you. When you hold the puppies, look for the following: Are their ears clean or dirty? Do they have fleas? Are their noses runny? Are their eyes watery? Is their bottom clean or dirty? Is their nose wet or dry and cracked? Is Craigslist safe to buy a dog? While breeders may advertise puppies on Craiglist, that does not make it the best place to sell puppies. Craiglist is a very dangerous place to list dogs who need homes; sadly, individuals involved in dogfighting often use craigslist to find cheap or free bait dogs to train their fighting dogs. If you decide to purchase a pure German Shepherd puppy from Craiglist, always use caution, as many scammers utilize the website. Never wire money to someone in exchange for a puppy, as scammers often use this method to steal money. Adding a German Shepherd Puppy to your family is exciting; they are so cute! Watch this YouTube video. While they make wonderful additions to families with or without children, German Shepherds are an active and intelligent breed of dogs, making owning them a significant responsibility. They need a family who enjoys playing with them, exercising them, and training them. Before adding a German Shepherd to your family, be sure that you can afford a dog, that you can fulfill their exercise needs , and that you can provide the dog with a good home. What is the average price for a purebred German Shepherd puppy? Answer: The price can vary depending on where and how you acquire the puppy. What factors should I consider before getting a German Shepherd? How can I find a reputable breeder for my German Shepherd puppy? Social media can also be a great resource for finding your next German Shepherd, or you can adopt a former military dog from Mission K9, or from a rescue like Shenandoah Shepherd Rescue or Mid-Atlantic German Shepherd Rescue. How much does owning a German Shepherd puppy cost? Answer: The actual cost of owning a puppy goes beyond the initial cost of purchasing the puppy. When holding the puppies, look for any signs of health issues such as dirty ears, fleas, runny nose, or watery eyes. Always use caution when purchasing from Craigslist and beware of potential scammers. If a breeder tries to tell you that his puppies are healthy because their parents never had any issues — do not believe him! It is impossible to diagnose e. Where can you find cheap German Shepherd Dogs? The question is — do you want to purchase a dog with questionable health and temperament? These dogs often are not purebred German Shepherd puppies, but are mixed with e. Labradors, Pitbulls or Golden Retrievers. If you end up with a dog with genetically based health conditions however, be prepared to spend a multiple of the original purchase price on vet costs! Temperament and behavior While a lot of good manners can be taught through consistent training, temperament is genetic to a certain level. When you buy an extra cheap German Shepherd puppy, you not only get a dog with questionable health, but also with unpredictable temperament! Even aggression can be genetic and can be passed on from the mom and dad to the offspring. You can save yourself a lot of time, nerves and money spent on future behavioral training by getting a well-bred and more expensive dog. What is the most expensive type of German Shepherd? Like in many dog breeds, certain rare German Shepherd colors are much more expensive than the most common colors and patterns. It is much more important that your puppy has a sound temperament and fits in well with your family and lifestyle than that he has a certain rare look. These dogs are mutts German Shepherds mixed with Miniature Poodles, Shelties or other smaller breeds. Once more, be certain to not decide on your future dog based on looks alone. A stable temperament and good health is much more integral than a certain size or weight. Working lines vs show lines The German Shepherd was originally bred as a working dog. Since his original use as a shepherd dog however, he has filled many different roles — from guarding properties over being used in the show ring to participating in Schutzhund and IPO trails. Depending on which lines your German Shepherd Dog comes from, the prices can vary a lot! Show line German Shepherds are the dogs that are bred for conformation shows. These are the type of dogs you should decide on if you would like a shepherd puppy as a pet and companion animal. If you are interested in using your German Shepherd as a protection dog and to participate in IPO trials, you should pick one from working lines. There are a lot of highly successful working line breeders both in North America and Europe. For this price, you get an absolutely flawless dog with extensive skills and perfect obedience. Some US dog owners interested in Schutzhund choose to import a puppy from old European working lines. While this might sound insanely high for a pet dog owner, for Schutzhund enthusiasts it is a typical price for a pedigreed German Shepherd pup. How much does it cost a month to own a German Shepherd? This will cover the basics: high-quality food and regular vet checks. Some German Shepherd owners spend considerably more money. Professional grooming is necessary for many German Shepherd owners, as these dogs shed heavily. This breeds tends to exhibit several behavioral issues that can be difficult to fix for first-time dog owners, including: Separation anxiety.

Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Schnoodle Overview The Schnoodle is cheerful and intelligent. He makes a terrific jogging companion and his love of activity can get you off the couch. Despite that, he will also happily cuddle on the couch with you. A Schnoodle will fill your life and lap with both love and laughter. This breed is loyal like the Schnauzer and fun-loving like the Poodle. Like his Schnauzer parent, a Schnoodle has a protective nature and makes a good watch dog. Schnauzers are solid terriers and tend toward being a bit stubborn and independent. At the same time, they are known for being extremely loyal. Contrastingly, the Poodle is smart, agile, and active with a high-maintenance coat. Accordingly, the Schnoodle should have plenty of exercise every day, at least 30 to 60 minutes. Both Schnauzers and Poodles are smart, so this hybrid requires daily mental stimulation as well. This pup also has an unusual propensity to use his front paws as hands to hold toys and blankets. Unfortunately, some really enjoy digging. Some really enjoy barking , too. There are three different variations of both Schnauzers and Poodles, making for a wide range of sizes in the Schnoodle. The larger ones are still relatively uncommon. There is no breed standard for Schnoodles — nor any breed clubs — so, as of yet, their different sizes are currently defined as Toy, Miniature, Standard. Notably, size may make a difference in the personality of this hybrid. A large Schnoodle should have a softer temperament than a Giant Schnauzer. In the latter case, someone could simply slap a litter together because she has a purebred Schnauzer and lives down the street from a purebred Poodle. When the parents are carefully selected, the Schnoodle is a great dog. Hybrid vigor can work wonders, but poor parent selection can result in the worst traits of both breeds with none of the good ones. If you want the temperament that the hybrid is meant to provide, get a puppy from a responsible breeder who has taken care in selecting the parents. You can also adopt from a reputable rescue or shelter , since these pups are now appearing in those places. A small Schnoodle can do well in an apartment , but the larger Schnoodle does better in homes with fenced yards. Schnoodle Highlights Schnoodles are a cross between a Poodle and a Schnauzer, and they are known for being intelligent, friendly, and hypoallergenic. They come in three sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Toy. Here are some of the highlights of the Schnoodle breed: Intelligence: Schnoodles are highly intelligent dogs that are easy to train. They can learn basic commands quickly and can be trained to do more complex tasks, such as agility or obedience. Friendliness: Schnoodles are known for being friendly and outgoing dogs. They love to be around people and other animals, and they make great family pets. Hypoallergenic: Schnoodles are considered to be hypoallergenic, which means that they do not shed as much as other dog breeds. This makes them a good choice for people with allergies. Active: Schnoodles are active dogs that need plenty of exercise. They enjoy playing fetch, going for walks, and running around. Loyal: Schnoodles are loyal dogs that form strong bonds with their owners. They love to cuddle and be petted, and they will always be there to greet you at the door. If you are looking for a smart, friendly, and hypoallergenic dog, the Schnoodle may be the perfect breed for you. Here are some additional things to consider before getting a Schnoodle: Grooming: Schnoodles need to be groomed regularly to keep their coats looking their best. This includes brushing, trimming, and bathing. Training: Schnoodles are intelligent dogs, but they can also be stubborn. They need to be trained consistently and firmly. Exercise: Schnoodles need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. They should be walked for at least 30 minutes a day. Schnoodle History The Schnoodle was developed in the s, when the interest began to grow in Poodle crosses. The original goal with the Schnoodle was to create a low-shedding, low-dander family dog. The Schnoodle is generally the result of breeding between a Schnauzer and a Poodle, although some breeders have started breeding multigenerational Schnoodles Schnoodles bred to other Schnoodles. Right now there are no breed clubs or standards, but efforts have begun to create both. Schnoodles can come in a variety of sizes, since there are three Poodle sizes and three Schnauzer sizes. The range of possibilities has created an interesting variety of hybrids. Despite that, Schnoodles have traditionally been small dogs. The introduction of the Giant Schnauzer and Standard Poodle into the mix is the most recent variation, producing a dog of a different temperament from the small, cuddly Schnoodle. Schnoodle Size The size of the Schnoodle depends on the size of the parents: a Standard Poodle bred to a Giant Schnauzer will produce offspring who will be the size of their large parents. If a Standard Poodle and Standard Schnauzer are crossed, than the result could be sizes ranging between both the Miniature Schnoodle and the Standard Schnoodle. This uncertainty is part of the joy of a mixed breed: the ultimate details can be a welcome surprise. Like any mixed breed, the variation involved can eliminate guarantees of size. Mixing and matching can add up to some interesting ranges and the variety is enticing. However, most Schnoodles tend to be 20 pounds or less. Toy Schnoodles range from 10 to 12 inches in height and weigh 6 to 10 pounds. Miniature Schnoodles range from 12 to 15 inches in height and weigh 13 to 20 pounds. Standard Schnoodles range from 15 to 26 inches in height and weigh 20 to 75 pounds. Giant Schnoodles range from 20 to 28 inches in height and weigh 50 to pounds. Schnoodle Personality The well-bred Schnoodle is a wonderfully happy, loyal, and intelligent companion. He enjoys having fun and aims for a life filled with love and play. A Schnoodle can have a strong temperament but generally is loving and loyal to his people. Socialization helps ensure that your Schnoodle puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Enrolling him in a puppy kindergarten class is a great start. Inviting visitors over regularly — as well as taking him to busy parks, stores that allow dogs, and on leisurely strolls to meet neighbors — will also help him polish his social skills. However, there is a general misconception that hybrid vigor automatically applies to mixed breeds. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA website. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA : This is a family of eye diseases that involves the gradual deterioration of the retina. Early in the disease, affected dogs become night-blind; they lose sight during the day as the disease progresses. Many affected dogs adapt well to their limited or lost vision, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Cataracts : These cause opacity on the lens of the eye, resulting in poor vision. Cataracts usually occur in old age and sometimes can be surgically removed to improve vision. Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease : This involves the hip joint. If your Schnoodle has Legg-Perthes, the blood supply to the head of the femur the large rear leg bone is decreased, and the head of the femur that connects to the pelvis begins to disintegrate. The first symptoms, limping and atrophy of the leg muscle, usually occur when puppies are four to six months old. Surgery can correct the condition, usually resulting in a pain-free puppy. Patellar Luxation: Also known as slipped stifles, this is a common problem in small dogs. The patella is the kneecap. Luxation means dislocation of an anatomical part as a bone at a joint. Patellar luxation is when the knee joint often of a hind leg slides in and out of place, causing pain. This can be crippling, although many dogs lead relatively normal lives with this condition. It can cause mild or severe seizures that may show themselves as unusual behavior such as running frantically as if being chased, staggering, or hiding or even by falling down, limbs rigid, and losing consciousness. Seizures are frightening to watch, but the long-term prognosis for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy is generally very good. Diabetes Mellitus : This is a disorder in which the body cannot regulate blood sugar levels, due to improper levels of insulin. Symptoms of diabetes are excessive urination and thirst, increased appetite, and weight loss. Diabetes can be controlled by diet and the administration of insulin. More severe signs occur when a dog is stressed or when potassium levels become high enough to interfere with heart function, causing severe shock and death. But if your Schnoodle is on the large side, and had a Giant Schnauzer for a parent, this condition is worth knowing about. Bloat is more common among older dogs. GDV occurs when the stomach is distended with gas or air and then twists torsion. The dog is unable to belch or vomit to rid himself of the excess air in the stomach, and the normal return of blood to the heart is impeded. Blood pressure drops and the dog goes into shock. Without immediate medical attention, the dog can die. Suspect bloat if your dog has a distended abdomen and is salivating excessively and retching without throwing up. He also may be restless, depressed, lethargic, and weak, with a rapid heart rate. Schnoodle Care Although the energy level of the Schnoodle is reflective of the parents, and is therefore variable, expect to exercise your dog for about 30 to 60 minutes per day. Some require less while others require a bit more. Schnoodles enjoy brisk walks and make great jogging companions. Schnoodles can adapt to a variety of residences, but take size into consideration. A Toy or Miniature Schnoodle will do well in an apartment or condo , but a larger Standard may not. Ideally, a home with a fenced yard is best for all Schnoodles. Schnoodles can suffer from separation anxiety when left alone for long periods of time. This can lead to barking and destructive behaviors. And once that habit starts, it can be difficult to stop. Keep your Schnoodle in good shape by measuring his food and feeding him twice or three times a day rather than free feeding , or leaving food out all the time. How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. When possible, minimize the amount of highly processed food your pup is consuming. Talk to your vet about switching your Schnoodle to a vegetarian diet if they suffer from certain health issues such as food allergies , skin issues , or even coat dullness. First, look down at him. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on his back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see his ribs without having to press hard. For more on feeding your Schnoodle, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Schnoodle Coat Color And Grooming The Schnoodle coat can be black, gray, silver, brown, white, apricot, sable, black and white, black and tan, and even parti-color. The wavy coat occurs in multigenerational breeding. While Schnoodles are low-shedding dogs, they must be clipped or trimmed. The amount of grooming needed for a Schnoodle really depends on the coat of the individual dog. If your dog has the soft, wavy type of coat, brush once or twice a week to prevent tangles and mats. The Schnoodle will also need to be bathed on an as-needed basis to keep the coat soft. The best time to brush is after a bath. Drying the coat with a hair dryer will help prevent any mats from forming. By Ashley Reyes September 9, Making the compassionate decision to buy or adopt a mini Schnoodle comes with a great deal of responsibility, both physical and financial. You probably have a few questions in mind before you bring home your smart, friendly, and loyal furry friend. So here are a few things to keep in mind. They are a funny, charming, and smart breed with an alert nature. The attentive quality of both Poodle and Schnauzer makes a Mini Schnoodles an excellent pet. The Schnauzer is a loyal, energetic and feisty dog, whereas a Poodle is an intelligent breed with strong athletic abilities. Together, you have a very smart, lively, and loyal dog! Not to mention a very cute one. Since it is a mix between a Poodle and a Schnauzer, it has different physical attributes of both breeds. The Mini Schnoodle has an expressive Schnauzer face with a typically curly Poodle coat. Together, this makes for an adorable combination. Mini Schnoodles come in a wide range of colors but are generally grey or black. Mini Poodles can be brown, white, red and black, or have a spotted appearance. When crossing Poodles and Schnauzers, you get a lot of color possibilities. Mini Schnoodles can come in solid colors like apricot, white, black, etc. They can also have a spotted or a combination coat containing different shades of white, black, grey, and brown. The wide variety in their look makes Mini Schnoodles very unique. Mini Schnoodles ranges from 6 to 10 pounds in weight and 10 to 12 inches in height. On the other hand, their standard Schnoodle counterparts weigh 20 to 75 pounds and are 15 to 26 inches tall. The Mini Schnoodle breed was initially developed during the s when pet lovers grew an interest in Poodle cross-breading. The primary goal was to create a low-shedding and low-dander breed that was ideal for families. Schnoodles have conventionally been small dogs because Schnauzer are generally smaller. The resulting breed comes in three main sizes, including standard Schnoodle, mini Schnoodle, and toy Schnoodle. The way Schnoodle genes combine and express themselves is not always in the hands of the breeder. Mini Schnoodles are not a pure breed but a hybrid. Even if the Poodle and Schnauzer used are purebred, the Mini Schnoodle is still not considered purebred. Therefore, it cannot be registered as one. Mini Schnoodles are not officially recognized by the American Kennel Club. However, other reputable organizations, such as the Designer Dogs Kennel Club and the International Designer Canine Registry, among others, do recognize it. Mini Schnoodles are not a rare breed, but they can be difficult to find due to their high popularity. They come in a variety of colors, but the choice of color and its availability might be uncommon in certain cases. For instance, apricot Mini Schnoodles are much more common, but red Mini Schnoodles are a lot rarer to find. Larger-sized Schnoodles are more difficult to find since the most common cross utilizes a toy or miniature Schnauzer and Poodle. Besides the initial cost, you need to keep in mind the daily maintenance costs of a Mini Schnoodle as well. These generally include healthcare, grooming, food, toys, dog proofing, pet insurance, etc. Why are Mini Schnoodles so expensive? A Mini Schnoodle is a popular dog choice among pet lovers due to the many qualities they bring to the table. For this reason, they can be a little hard to find because of their non-shedding coat. Due to their high demand, the price of a Mini Schnoodle is often very high. Multicolored and trained dogs usually cost more. Similarly, colors that are in high demand will also be more expensive. The average lifespan of a Mini Schnoodle is around 10 to 18 years. Mini Schnoodles are generally healthy, but like all dogs, they are also prone to some health conditions. These include hip dysplasia, heart disease, epilepsy, progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, patellar luxation, and liver disorders. Mini Schnoodles will be at a higher risk of developing a health condition if their parents suffer from it as well. So when buying or adopting a puppy, make sure to take a closer look at the medical history of the particular sizes being used in the breeding process. Mini Schnoodles experience a lot of health problems that are commonly found in regular Schnoodles. These include hip dysplasia, eye diseases, and luxating patella. However, in mini and toy breeds of Schnoodles, patellar luxation is more common, where one or both knees become unsteady and seldom slip out of place. Before you buy a Mini Schnoodle, be sure to ask the breeder for evidence that shows that both parents of the puppy have hip and patella certifications. Avoid breeders who cannot give proper health backgrounds of both parent dogs. Genetic testing is not the same as vet testing, and the former will save you a lot of money and hassle down the line. Depending on the exact size, age, activity level, metabolism rate, and build of your Mini Schnoodle, you can increase or decrease the quantity. The Mini Schnoodle is fun-loving like the Poodle and loyal like the Schnauzer. The protective and attentive qualities of the Schnauzer also make a Mini Schnoodle an excellent watchdog. This breed is prone to barking, but with proper training at the right age, that can be fixed. Mini Schnoodles are also less stubborn than their Schnauzer parent and less energetic than their Poodle parent, making them ideal as house pets. Mini Schnoodles are low-shedding dogs that require clipping and trimming. Whether or not they are hypoallergenic depends on their genes. The good news is because both parent dogs of Mini Schnoodles are hypoallergenic, the possibility of the puppy having the same coat is also quite high. Mini Schnoodles are an energetic breed, which means they require a certain amount of exercise every day. You should exercise your dog for at least 30 to 60 minutes. Let him run around the backyard, indulge in a game of fetch, or go for a walk at the beach. A good breeder is one who will allow and encourage you to spend time with both parents of the puppy so you can carefully assess their nature. They will also be very knowledgeable about the different breeds, have years of experience, and have a proper license to practice. A good breeder will also be able to give you several references from other clients and offer medical certifications for both dog parents. They will also never shy away from answering your queries and concerns and happily guide you throughout the process. Due to their friendly, vigilant, and loyal nature, Mini Schnoodles make great pets and watchdogs. Knowing their personality traits as well as what to expect from the breed can help you decide if they are right for you. In general, if you are looking for a cuddly pet, a workout buddy, or an alert watchdog, the Mini Schnoodle is an ideal option. Related Posts:. Schnauzerpoo Description The Schnoodle is not a purebred dog. It is a cross between the Miniature Schnauzer and the Poodle. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. They are good with children and get along fine with other animals. They are great watchdogs because they will let you know when someone is near, but they are non-aggressive. They not yappy dogs unless you allow them to take over your home. They love car rides. This great companion dog excels in obedience, agility, Flyball and makes an excellent therapy dogs , but they are first and foremost a loyal and loving companion! They would be fine in an apartment or on a farm, as long as they are with their family. These dogs are so loyal and affectionate they would not be happy kept outdoors. As far as exercise, the Schnoodle is very adaptable. A game of fetch played in the house or a 5-mile jog, either one is fine with them. Because the Poodle and the Schnauzer both do not shed, the Schnoodle does not shed so they must be brushed weekly and clipped every 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the length of hair preferred. Their nails should be kept trimmed. The Schnoodle sheds little to no hair and is considered good for allergy sufferers. Quick to learn and can wear himself out playing. Very, very inquisitive and loves to chew his toys. Picked up his name, "fetch," "sit," "pee-pee" and "poopers" quickly although seems a little bashful. Took to the leash well. A little yappy with the neighbors and outdoor sounds. Loves people—presents his little tummy with ease. Plays hard with other dogs and doesn't share toys well. When running on "puppy power" somewhere between speed of sound and wartends to wipe out He is a little headstrong—little more coaxing required. Often willful—you can see the wheels turning. Hasn't figured out goldfish in our little pond—we're afraid he will attempt his own sushi recipe soon! Arlie is a Standard Schnoodle shown here at 9 months old. His mother was a Giant Schnauzer and dad was a Mini Poodle. Not a day goes by when people do not stop us to ask what kind of dog Arlie is. In fact, after playing with Arlie and seeing him walked daily , many people have inquired about Schnoodles. He loves to be cuddled and loved. We are fortunate to have gotten a dog that loves endless hugs, kisses and cuddles. He also loves to play tug with his rope. Doesn't matter what kind of rope as long as it's long and someone is at the other end pulling. He will drop the rope when asked and has been very easy to train. He is probably about 2 years old. His legs are very long, though, and his hair is soft and wavy. He is very affectionate, energetic and eager to learn. He is 16 inches tall at the shoulders. She is a month-old Schnoodle. We rescued her. She has a wonderful personality and she has a high energy level. She loves car rides and boating. She doesn't like to be left alone. She is a very loyal dog. She loves to play with our kids and she also loves to cuddle and give lots of kisses. She is a sweet and playful dog. These dogs were believed to be a cross between the Toy poodles and smaller canine breeds of the Terrier clan. The creation of these dogs in actuality as documented began in in the United States of America by crossing the Poodle and Schnauzer, with the first purposeful crossbreeding done in Minnesota. It was developed with the intention of creating a companion breed, inheriting the intelligence of both their parents, also being well-suited for people with dander allergies. Though it has not gained sufficient popularity in comparison to the other designer breeds, Schnoodle puppies are being highly sought after at present. At present breeders have also begun creating multigenerational Schnoodle where one dog of this breed is bred with the other. You might even spot a tiny teacup variety acquiring the genes of the teacup Poodle. Temperament and Personality The friendly, loving and easy-going disposition of the Schnoodles makes them ideal family dogs. In fact, traits of both their parents may be observed in these dogs, making them alert and playful like the Schnauzer or intelligent, active and obedient as the Poodle. Their intelligence may at times come in the way of their personality, making them over-demanding. Small-sized Schnoodles are well-suited to live in an apartment though the larger variations thrive well in large homes having a fenced yard. Keeping them alone in kennels is not recommended as they are prone to separation anxiety that might make them noisy and destructive. These loyal and devoted dogs are highly protective towards their family, a trait wholly inherited from their Schnauzer parent, which also makes them an excellent watchdog, causing them to bark on seeing any unfamiliar face at the door. Although they display fondness towards all members of their family, they might have a special affection for a particular person in the household just like the Schnauzer. Though the Schnoodle is said to mingle well with other pets, it might be harsh to other dogs regarding sharing their toys or space, especially if they have inherited the stubborn instinct of Terriers the Miniature Schnauzer categorized as a part of the Terrier group. If you have a Giant Schnoodle, it might adapt the behavioral traits of the Giant Schnauzer, being territorial reserved and even aggressive. They are highly inclined to hold blankets and toys with the help of their front paws that they use as hands. Schnoodles will develop a knack of digging and be very clingy towards its family members if one of its parents is the Miniature Schnauzer. Care Exercise Owing to their highly active nature, they need to be exercised at least for an hour every day to maintain a sound physical and mental health. They enjoy going out for a brisk walk or accompanying their master on a jogging spree. Since they are fond of playing, you can engage them in a ball fetching game when confined indoors. Grooming Their grooming needs vary according to the kind of coat they have. Those with a soft, wavy coat require brushing once or twice a week to prevent the hair from getting matted and tangled. If your pet has a double coat like the Schnauzer, then the coat would need to be stripped many times in a year, whereas if they have acquired the single-layered coat of the Poodle, then clip their hair in every six to eight weeks. Bathe your dog whenever needed to keep its coat clean and soft. Schnoodles have a tendency of developing hair inside the ear that should be removed by a professional groomer to avoid infections. Moreover, check their ears on a weekly basis for redness, bad smell or dirt and clean it using a damp cotton ball dipped in an ear cleaner prescribed by your vet. Do not allow excessive growth of fur around the anal to facilitate the excretion of the feces without any obstruction. Go for a professional groomer rather than trimming the hair on your own to avoid any injury and infection. Health Problems Though a healthy and hardy breed, they might acquire the health issues of both their parents. The Miniature and Toy breeds may be prone to developing luxating patella. Some of them may even suffer from allergies. The risk of dental problems is observed more in Toy Schnoodles because of their small mouth size. Socialization and obedience training are to be imparted to the Schnoodle puppies to help them develop a pleasing personality. As they get bored, quite easily try keeping them motivated by positive reinforcement techniques so that they acquire interest towards the training procedure. If you do not want to go through the tedious task of training your puppy, you may send them to a puppy kindergarten school. Feeding Schnoodles weighing up to 20 pounds can be given three-fourth to one cup of dry dog food of a higher quality daily. Miniature or Toy variants need a lesser amount of food, whereas the quantity for your Giant Schnoodle, should be greater. It is essential to feed your pet twice a day rather than giving him an excessive amount of food in a single meal. Their tails remain straight and upright when they are highly active or in a good mood, but they tuck them up whenever they get nervous or are sad. Life Span Did You Know? As a cross-breed, the Miniature Schnoodle is meant to take on the best traits of both parent breeds, but they can end up with any combination of traits from one or both of the parents. Overall, Mini Schnoodles tend to be loyal dogs that are devoted and affectionate to their families. They also tend to have a very friendly disposition and a playful, energetic personality. Miniature Schnoodles are popular family pets and they often make good therapy dogs too. The Miniature Schnoodle is a small, cheerful, playful, and loving ball of fluff. They are intelligent dogs with a friendly, happy disposition and a gentle nature. Mini Schnoodles tend to get along with just about everyone including children, other dogs, other pets, and strangers. They tend to be a great addition to any family and a great companion for single owners too. The Mini Schndoodle is affectionate, loving, and devoted to their families. They thrive on affection and attention from their favorite humans and tend to bond closely with them. A Mini Schnoodle can also be prone to jumping up and ignoring personal space because they are so friendly and excitable. Training and socialization early on can help curb this behavior and channel it more positively. Mini Schnoodles are highly adaptable dogs. These little dogs may be energetic, but they adapt well to larger homes as well as apartments. They tend to thrive wherever they are as long as they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. They also tend to do well in most climates. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat. Due to their small size, they may need to bundle up to stay warm when winter sets in. But, having the right mix of winter dog products on hand can be a big help. Because a Mini Schnoodle tends to bond so closely to their families and owners, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. With a mixed dog breed, they can inherit the potential health concerns from both, one, or neither of their parent breeds. Reputable breeders will screen their stock to avoid passing genetic issues on to puppies. Also, you can talk about any relevant health clearances or test results. Both of the parent breeds of a Miniature Schnoodle are highly intelligent, eager to please, and highly trainable dog breeds. So, your Mini Schnoodle should also be a highly trainable dog that learns quickly. Oftentimes, your Mini Schnoodle will master basic commands and be ready for more advanced commands and tricks quickly if they are challenged and motivated. Although they are a good fit for dog owners of any experience level, puppy training classes can still be a good idea as they tend to offer great opportunities to brush up on training skills and to socialize a puppy. The Poodle is known for their low-shedding hypoallergenic coat, which is one of the reasons why there are so many Poodle mixes. There is no guarantee that a Schnoodle will inherit a full Poodle coat. Poodle coats need daily brushing to remove tangles and prevent mats. They also need professional grooming every weeks. On the Schnauzer side, weekly brushing is sufficient. However, they need regular bathing, stripping, and clipping to maintain a healthy coat. This usually means professional grooming every weeks. Checking ears on a weekly basis is usually a good routine for helping to prevent ear infections. Miniature Schnoodles tend to have moderate exercise requirements, but they also tend to match their energy levels to yours. Daily walks plus some playtime or extra activity is usually enough to keep this dog happy and healthy. But, if you want to do more, your Mini Schnoodle probably will too. Who knows? Your Mini Schnoodle might love taking trips to the dog park, going for a swim, learning to play frisbee , going on hikes, and more. A fully-grown Miniature Schnoodle usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. A Mini Schnoodle generally lives years. Although Mini or Miniature Schnoodle is the most common name for this designer dog breed, they are also sometimes referred to as a Miniature Schnauzerdoodle, a Mini Schnauzerpoo, or a Schnauzer Poodle Mix. Featured Mini Schnoodle Article. What is a Schnoodle? I had the joy of having a Schnoodle in my life for 16 years! Dusty was the perfect dog for a family with energetic kids, a mom with allergies, and a dad who liked having a nearby buddy. Maybe the Schnoodle is the right match for your family as well! Here are a few things you should know. Here is a Schnoodle enjoying a fun beach day. A Schnoodle is a combination of a Schnauzer and a Poodle. The Schnauzer is energetic, loyal, and a little feisty. The Poodle is an intelligent dog with a reputation for being aristocratic — but who can also be a great athletic and versatile family dog. Combine the two, and you have a dog that is smart, energetic, and loyal! Not to mention, super cute. With one litter, you may get more of the personality traits of the Schnauzer and more of the physical traits of the Poodle — with the next litter, it may flip-flop! Schnoodle traits could even vary puppy to puppy. They may be extremely loyal like a Schnauzer, or more independent like a Poodle. Are Schnoodles hypoallergenic? Schnoodles have hair-like coats that have very little shedding and low dander. Like most Poodle crossbreeds, they have a reputation for being hypoallergenic. Overall, most people that have standard dog allergies are able to tolerate cohabiting with a Schnoodle! How big do Schnoodles get? Schnauzers and Poodles come in a variety of sizes — and so does the Schnoodle! The Schnoodle can range from 6 lbs — 75 lbs, depending on which sizes of Poodles and Schnauzers your mix. Poodles come in Toy small , Miniature medium , and Standard large. Schnauzers come in Miniature small , Standard medium , and Giant large. This perma-pup will range from 6 to 10 pounds and is a great size if you often travel and like to bring your dog on the plane with you. This mid-size dog is typically about lbs, and can be a great dog for a family! The next size up is a large Schnoodle, which crosses a Standard Poodle and a Giant Schnauzer, ranging anywhere from lbs. If you go this route, be prepared for a big and energetic dog! There is no regulation and little consistency within sizes. For example, a breeder could mix a Miniature medium Poodle with a Giant large Schnauzer for an in-between size, and many breeders do just that. The variations in sizes mean that if you have your heart set on the breed, you can certainly find one that fits your life and living space! Just make sure to ask what sizes the parents are! Are Schnoodles good pets? Schnoodle cuddling with an owner. Schnoodles want to be part of your family. They, like the Schnauzer, are very loyal and will possibly follow you around from room to room in order to stay near you. No matter what you are doing, they want to be there with you! Because Schnoodles value the family so much, they must be kept in the house with the rest of the family members. This breed gets along well with the family and will become a devoted family member. As with a Poodle, there are lots of options for how you choose to groom your dog. You can let it grow long and fluffy, or keep it short and soft. The choice is up to you! Because Schnoodles have longer coats that will grow and mat if not attended to, they require maintenance. They should be brushed at home a few times a week and brought to the groomers at least every 12 weeks. Like with the Poodle, you have a lot of options for how you want to groom your dog. You can cut the fur short, let it grow long and fluffy, or anything in-between! Otherwise, the choice is up to you! One thing to note is that Schnoodles do have a possibility of getting ear infections if their ear hair is not kept under control. When you bring your pup to the groomers, make sure to ask specifically for them to attend to the hair in the ears to help prevent infection. How long do Schnoodles live for? The size of the dog can greatly influence the lifespan of the dog. Small dogs tend to have longer life spans than bigger ones. Because there is such a large and unregulated variety in sizes of Schnoodles, their lifespans vary greatly. The average lifespan of a Miniature small Schnoodle is about years. The Standard medium size is about years, and the Giant large variety is about years. However, this could vary depending on the sizes of the parents, and the general health and lifestyle of the dog. Schnoodles are Active! A Schnoodle enjoying a long walk on the beach! These are an active breed, so make sure they get minutes of activity every day in order to keep them happy and healthy. The Schnauzer was originally bred to be an all-around farm dog, actively helping out on the family farm. The Poodle was originally used as a retriever dog, retrieving birds for their hunters. The Schnoodle loves to run and jump. His natural physical aptitude with its high intelligence makes the Schnoodle and great candidate for agility courses! Because there is such a variation in sizes for the Schnoodle, though, take into consideration that your dog may need more or less exercise. An hour of activity is a lot for a six-pound dog! The Sky is the Limit with Training Your Schnoodle will certainly be smart, and he will hopefully be eager to please, so the sky is the limit with what you can train him to do! In addition to training your pup to sit, stay, and come, this is a dog that you can train to fetch your slippers, scoot over a little bit, or find the kibble under one of three cups. Your creativity and patience are the only limiting factors — this dog will be able to keep up! Their ability to learn has benefits beyond simply learning fun tricks! Because of their loyal, devoted, and intelligent nature, Schnoodles have a reputation for making great therapy dogs! They can quickly learn what is requested of them, and once they have a connection with someone, they are friends for life. Schnoodles Live to have FUN! Full-grown Schnoodle energetically playing on a rope swing. Schnoodles live to have fun and will join you in whatever activity you are doing! Think of the kid you went to high school with that always wanted to play, could rarely sit still, and still got good grades on the test. This dog is smart, but at his core, he lives to have a good time. While other lower energy dogs might be happy with one or two walks per day and lots of naps in between, this dog will keep wanting to play long after the walk is finished! Terrier-like breeds like the Schnauzer love to dig, so you could designate an area of your yard to dig and bury a few toys or treats for your pup to dig up. Poodles are retrievers, so why not play a game of catch? The more fun and active! A tired dog is a happy and obedient! For all of its great personality and ability qualities, there is also absolutely no denying that the Schnoodle is stinking cute. The puppies and even the full-grown versions of the smallest size look like little stuffed animals. This teddy bear pup will grow into a full-grown, energetic dog requiring your time, love, and attention. By Lila Noffsinger. As the mix is still climbing in popularity, not many specifics are known about the original time and purpose when the Schnoodle first came on the scene. But, the cross was likely first developed in the s in the United States. Like most Poodle mixes, the goal was most likely to achieve the perfect dog for people who suffer from allergies to dog dander. As well as those who prefer not to have dog hair coating their clothing and home. But both parents are intelligent working dogs first and foremost. The Schnauzer Poodle mix is one of the Poodle mixes that people seek for its low-shedding coat and teddy bear qualities. When you cross a purebred Poodle with a purebred dog which does not have a curled coat, such as the Schnauzer, the offspring F1 generation may or may not have a curly coat. Appearance traits like this are unpredictable, and even puppies in the same litter can have very different coat types. These hybrids are usually solid-colored and sometimes have a mask, markings, or points in black or white. From the black Schnoodle to the white Schnoodle and every shade in between. Even more colors are possible when the parent stock have non-standard coat colors — parti-colored Schnoodles may be possible in these cases. Or it may have a wavy coat that falls somewhere in between. Keeping curls or waves in check, though, will help to prevent severe matting or tangling. Are They Hypoallergenic? No dog is truly hypoallergenic. All dogs shed, even if in very small amounts. You can learn more facts and myths regarding non-shedding dogs in our article about hypoallergenic dogs. However, we can confidently say that this mix will be a low-shedder. Both Poodles and Schnauzers shed minimally. Grooming can help to control any small amount of shedding. Owners may also prefer to go to a professional groomer. Selecting a later generation of Schnoodle cross may help you get a puppy with breed-specific looks and tendencies. Generally, thanks to the shared traits of the parent breeds, a Schnoodle will be energetic, intelligent, and generally friendly. As long as they are socialized well. Are They Good with Kids? Schnauzers of all sizes are excellent with children and people in general. They are extremely active dogs who are outgoing and love to run and play. Make sure to socialize your Schnauzer Poodle mix well to ensure they get along well with children, strangers, and other animals. Miniature Schnauzers in particular can be a little noisy, thanks to their alert personalities. So, choosing a miniature Schnoodle mix could result in a vocal dog. You can train a dog not to bark in some instances. Training Your hybrid will be intelligent and probably very active. With good socialization and training, he will also likely be friendly with all sorts of people and get along well with children and other animals. Stick to positive reinforcement methods to create a strong bond between you and your dog. This will also help you to avoid any potential stubbornness. Like Schnauzers, all classes of Poodles are very active dogs who love stimulating activities that keep their bodies and brains moving. They do not take kindly to being bored. Poodles also do not like being left out of activities with you or being crated for long periods. They are intelligent, working dogs who want to have something to do or play with, which is why many of them are amazing in the show pen! Training can be a great way to offer your Schnoodle mix some mental and physical stimulation each day. But, this mix will also need structured exercise. Exercise These dogs need a job to do or plenty of space to run and play in order to be happy and to stay out of trouble. Schnoodles may also play on the rough side. As neither Schnauzers nor Poodles appreciate being bored, a Schnoodle may be likely to develop bad habits if you do not give her adequate attention. Scheduled time for exercise each day will help to minimise the risk of bad behavior, such as barking and digging. Schnoodle health risks to be aware of include heart disease, epilepsy, vision problems, joint issues and liver disorders. Health testing potential puppy parents can significantly reduce the risks of the litter carrying any of these conditions. Both Schnauzers and Poodles can become overweight easily, so a healthy diet and plenty of exercise will be required to keep the dog fit and the joints fluid! What is the Schnoodle Life Expectancy? Poodles and Schnauzers have a generally similar life expectancy , with about years for the larger sizes and closer to 14 for smaller. You can expect your mix to reach somewhere within the averages of the parent breeds, depending on size. As long as they receive good veterinary care and general care throughout their lives, Schnoodles will often live well into their teens. Due to the typical personality traits of the parent breeds, Schnoodles can be recommended as family pets. However, it must be emphasized that all dogs need socialization and training. For a giant Schnoodle, make sure to supervise smaller children to keep them from getting accidentally knocked over or involved in play that gets a little too rough. Likewise, for a mini Schnoodle, ensure that small children treat the little dog carefully. Remember that this breed is going to be very active and will want to be with his family. If no one is at home for a large part of each day, or if the dog will be kept in a small area without room to run and play, this is not the breed for you. They need families that have plenty of time to dedicate to them. Including to grooming, playtime, and training. Schnoodle Breeders Before you purchase a Schnauzer Poodle puppy, carefully research Schnoodle breeders so that you choose responsibly. Responsible breeders use genetic testing to prevent the passage of undesired traits, and they keep their breeding stock at a good weight and in clean conditions. Mixed breed dogs are growing in popularity. Go to breeders with lots of questions, and make sure you see evidence of health testing. In this cross however the size of Schnauzer used has a marked difference in temperament as the Giant Schnauzer is a strong-minded, powerful, active working dog whereas the Miniature is far softer although still with terrier-type tendencies! The Poodle is a lively, sociable and affectionate dog who is both intelligent and amusing, and makes a wonderful and fun companion. They love to be included in all family pursuits and can be good watch dogs, announcing visitors but never being aggressive. The Standard Poodle is still at heart a working dog and can easily be the start of your training class, your agility group or in the obedience ring. They thrive with a job to do where they can work with their owner. The smaller poodles are still clever and active and many can be seen excelling in agility or training classes. It is clear however from looking at the two breeds that make up the Schnoodle that this is an active dog whatever its size who needs a lot of exercise, training and input from owners. But personalities are hugely variable. If a Giant Schnauzer and a Standard Poodle are crossed, this will be a large, active, athletic dog who may well guard, be territorial and be best suited to experienced owners. A Toy Poodle crossed with a Miniature Schnauzer however will in all likelihood produce a bouncy, happy, very talkative companion dog who will be highly bonded to their owner and will enjoy long walks or nights on the sofa equally! The personality of a Schnoodle seems to be more consistent when they are first crosses F1. As a line is successively bred, they can be either bred back to one of the original breeds and so strengthen either the Schnauzer or the Poodle personalities or be bred to another Schnoodle - in which case there is less predictability in temperament and in-breeding becomes more of a potential issue. Created in the US during the s, the goal was to design a friendly, low-shedding dog breed, that would fit in with family life. The two breeds that go into the formation of the Schnoodle are the Schnauzer and the Poodle. Schnauzers Country of Origin: Germany The original Schnauzer is the Standard size, and while it is known as the Mittelschnauzer in its homeland to distinguish it from the Miniature and the Giant, it is more usually just referred to as the Schnauzer. The Schnauzer has been a working farm dog in Germany since at least the 14th century where it took the role of a fearless terrier largely employed to kill vermin. But they could also turn their paw to flock-guarding, property guarding and cattle driving. The ancestry of the Miniature Schnauzer is not quite so clear, although we know it dates from the end of the 19th century. It is commonly believed that the Schnauzer was crossed with the Affenpinscher to create this miniaturisation, but there are also experts convinced that Miniature Poodles , Pomeranians , Scottish Terriers and Miniature Pinchers could have contributed to the breed. The original idea was to produce a smaller vermin killer but they soon became better known as companion dogs. The Giant Schnauzer however was created by farmers wanting a much stronger working dog to work mostly as a cattle drover and a guard dog. The original Schnauzer was crossed with breeds such as the Rottweiler , the Great Dane and the Bouvier des Flanders - as well as with local herding dogs. While keeping the vital organs and joints protected, much of the rest of their hair was shaved off. The Schnoodle can have any combination of the two breeds in their size, appearance, behaviour and temperament. Health and Common Issues One aim with crossbreeds is to dilute or eliminate any inherited health issues that may exist within one or other of the breeds. This dilution or elimination is only likely if only one parent is the carrier of any particular condition, and where this is a first cross F1. Exercise Needs Both the breeds that make up the Schnoodle are active and enjoy exercise and will be happy with up to two hours every day less for smaller Schnoodles. They will enjoy games, training, interactive toys and being involved in all family activities. Potential Issues This cross can be noisy - especially if bored or left for long periods of time. Giant Schnauzer crosses need early and ongoing dog socialisation. They may be suspicious of strangers human and canine and can become territorial. If bored, chewing and destructive behaviour can become an issue. Space Requirements This depends on the size of dogs used in this cross. Whereas the larger ones need a much bigger living space, a well-fenced garden and access to long walks. Nutrition and Feeding The Schnoodle diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape and remember to feed him at least twice daily and in accordance with the dog feeding guidelines of his particular food. Grooming Schnoodle Dogs It is difficult to predict what kind of coat the Schnoodle is going to have, as they may inherit a coat like a Schnauzer or they may inherit the Poodle coat or any mixtures of the two! Poodles do not shed or shed minimally but they do need trimming, whereas the Schnauzer does shed slightly but far less than the majority of breeds. Dog ear care is extremely important as Poodles can have problems with excessive hair inside the ears which can cause infections or sore ears. Training the Schnoodle This is a very active dog who is smart, busy and who will need dog training early on. They are a joy to train as both the breeds are intelligent and love working with their owner, but they will learn bad habits as quickly as good ones so reward-based training should start early and be ongoing. Smaller Schnoodles will enjoy agility and even heelwork to music, while larger ones can excel in obedience classes and do need training to ensure they are happy around other dogs and people, walk calmly on a lead and have a good recall. Early and ongoing socialisation is important. Toy Poodles can be quite sensitive and any rough handling or raised voices can worry them greatl. Therefore, all training and handling should, as always, be positive and reward-based. It is important to train a Schnoodle to enjoy handling and grooming as they will need a lot of it.