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German Shepherd Tips and Resources If you are looking for a German Shepherd then you are looking for a fierce, loyal, and sassy companion. This breed is by far one of the most versatile breeds that are great companion dogs, easygoing service dogs, or strong and protective working dogs. No doubt no matter what life your pup is destined for there will be no shortcomings in their mouthy and spirited personalities. Getting a German Shepherd Puppy is no quick choice but in this blog, you will find a list of reputable breeders who has that special pup waiting for your family. Here there are ten German Shepherd Breeders in Georgia. This list is to help you determine the breeder you would like to go through but remember to always talk to them and make sure you know what you want from the breeder and the bloodline. They breed dogs to European standards by selecting specific temperaments, pigmentation, bone structures, and health tests. Hailing from Romania, the owner Alex uses his six years of law enforcement and fifteen years of first-hand border patrol experience to provide the best pairing, care, and training for the pups in his care. When raising the puppies in his facility he insures they are well-socialized and will be placed in the proper homes upon leaving for their forever home. Starting from day one they handle and work with their pups in order to be certain he has a good understanding of their personality so they can be placed properly as a family, working, or protection dog. His German Shepherd Puppies are bread from old bloodlines such as those from the Czech Republic, Germany, Slovakia, and Romania producing pups with high drives, dominant personalities, and good athleticism. While producing the impressive pups all his sires and dams are health checked and titled to prove and show the reliability and versatility of all their offspring. With competitive titles in Schutzhund and IPO, his breeding stock is well-proven on the working side. They are all tested for any condition that can be passed on to the litter within their genetics. With the pedigrees in his breeding facility, it ensures that you will have good strong, and healthy pups with health guarantees up to 14 months of age with proper testing. There is also a guarantee for once you get the pup upon their immediate health once you receive them. All pups receive vaccines and deworming prior to going to their new homes. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. My name is Taylor McCuiston and writing about myself is definitely harder than writing about my dogs or telling you about them. I have always been an animal lover and have raised many young animals from goats kids , foals, kittens, puppies, you name it we had it on the farm to take care of. To pinpoint exactly when I fell in love with the breed, I can't tell you. All I dreamed of having was my own German Shepherd Dog. In our psychology class we had to make our own vision board of what we wanted our future to look like. Well, my vision board had a beautiful dark black and tan German Shepherd dead center of this poster board. The rest of the board was filled with big trucks, horses, and big barns. Needless to say, shortly thereafter I did my research and made sure this breed would fit my lifestyle and after finding the right breeder, I bought my first GSD from a reputable breeder. Saba Lee traveled everywhere with me while I worked as a professional horse trainer showing all across the United States. She not only was my co-pilot, best friend, but she was also my protector. The unconditional love this dog gave me and some of my happiest memories I will never forget. My goal as a breeder is to provide that same experience, I had to my puppy buyers. I chose this breed not just based off of their physical appearance, but when I read the breed standard, it was exactly what I was looking for in a companion dog. Saba ignited a fire and from there I decided I wanted to start breeding German Shepherds, but I wanted to do it the right and ethical way. I essentially did an internship with another breeder and learned the do's and don'ts of dog breeding. I purchased my first breeding dog and her name was "Starburst". Star has left a legacy not only through her amazing puppies, but she was known as a perfect performer in the obedience ring. We had a total of eight titles before her official retirement. She went on to produce dogs who have won and titled in AKC conformation, obedience, service, and therapy dog work. She is my foundation dog and has stamped not only her beautiful looks, but has passed on her amazing temperament to her puppies. Star 3 years old. Vega Star daughter Birdie Star granddaughter I continue to strive for breeding better dogs. Each pairing is carefully selected and evaluated based on what we're looking to produce. We are not looking to just produce dogs; we're preserving a breed! Each one of our puppies is carefully placed and if you have one of our pups consider yourself a part of the Fame Family! We pride ourselves on providing you with only the highest top Quality German Shepherd Puppies for sale. Our love and care goes into each and every German Shepherd Puppy that we help raise and bring into this world. It is our goal to provide you with a perfect companion from one of our litters. We strive to be the top German Shepherd Breeder in the country with our extremely high quality dogs, assuring you of a spectacularly beautiful and loving German Shepherd Puppy. While we raise spectacular show and breeding puppies, most of our puppies sold are for family pets and personal protection. They are wonderful, loving and gentle family pets, which is our largest market: People that want the Finest Purebred German Shepherd Dogs with spectacular pedigrees for their Family. We are one of very few German Shepherd Breeders in the country who have adopted and practice the proven early puppy neural and social development program that encourages high aptitude puppies. Every one of our puppies gets loving socialization daily from birth and advanced development stimulation. As they grow, they are in the house with us with constant socialization, they visit childcare centers, schools, and nursing homes for further socialization and community service. We have acreage on a beautiful lake front setting where our dogs are free to run and enjoy life. Visit any other kennel and then come visit us. The happiness and loving nature of our dogs speaks for itself. We genetically select the sire and dam of each litter for the best possible litter. While we have spectacularly well pedigreed males, we often search around the country for a German Shepherd male with the pedigree that will best serve our litter with a particular female. German Shepherds for sale in Georgia Regis Regal Specializes in providing world class German Shepherd puppies and trained adult dogs Serving Georgia with german shepherds since With over 30 years experience in the breeding and training of world-class German Shepherds from some of the top bloodlines out of Germany, here at Regis Regal German Shepherds we've been very proud to have sold our puppies and adult dogs to the residents of Georgia. We're a small family run operation with our main training and breeding facilities based in Spring Grove, Illinois. Because of the quality and pedigree of our German Shepherds there's been a demand for our dogs all over the world. The owner, Cynthia Kelly, has a lifetime of experience in creating the perfect family companion, service dog or therapy dog. Because of the lack of top quality German Shepherd breeders in some parts of the United States, we've carefully set ourselves up so that we can send our dogs direct to your home by use of a private courier service. German Shepherd Breeders in Georgia There are a number of great German Shepherd breeders in Georgia, from Atlanta to Athens, but have you considered looking further afield for the perfect puppy? At Regis Regal German Shepherds we produce a select number of puppies at any one time, and take the utmost care when raising and training them ready for ownership. You should not forget that when it comes to buying a puppy you also need to be mindful of other costs outside of the purchase or adoption fee. Send us a message or give us a ring on .Emotional support dogs are suited for both children and adults and have the ability to work with their owners in all types of locations. We have placed many dogs with children and teenagers that suffer from anxiety, depression, PTSD, and manic disorders. Service dogs provide a physical service to their owners. We have been incredibly successful in providing service dogs to children afflicted with Autism and Asbergers, as our dogs can help to enhance the verbal skills of non-verbal Autistic children and support their overall way of communicating. Some of our previous placements our dog courier service - we ship to your door in GA! You might find this a bit hard to believe but we actually ship right to your door, wherever you are based in the US! Such is the demand for one of our dogs we decided it would make things a lot easier for our customers if we could hand-deliver them right to you. For those people in need of a top class GSD, and who can't get to our premises, this is a bit of a lifesaver. We make use of a private courier service whereby they come to us and pickup the dog in their vehicle before making the journey to your home. Our driver is well trained in the handling and care of your dog on the trip, and due to their temperament our dogs always enjoy the journey! On rare occasions our dogs have flown out to their destination, again accommpanied by one of the Regis Regal team to ensure for a very smooth and calm trip. We also go through a very thorough process to make sure our dogs are going to the right kind of owner - at the end of the day it's really important that we can rest easy at night knowing they'll be going to someone that's going to love them as much as we do. Because of COVID we've held plenty of online meetings where you can ask us any questions about our dogs, and you can even get to meet-and-greet them virtually! Reviews from Customers based in GA We like to think we've made a lot of people in Georgia happy over the years that we've been in business. Take a look below at some of the feedback we've received to date. You can find more reviews of ours here too. The day we picked him was wonderful.We are taking our pup to GA to live, we will receive training here before we leave and in GA via the internet. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking to add a healthy, beautiful addition to their family. As you can imagine this can change quite regularly - so please send us a message below, or give us a call on .We look forward to hearing from you! Your name. Welcome to the Georgia state page on TrustedPuppies. Situated in the southeastern region of the United States, Georgia is renowned for its warm climate, picturesque landscapes, and an abundance of dog-friendly activities. Our goal is to connect you with the most exceptional German Shepherd breeders and puppies for sale in the area, ensuring you find the perfect companion for your family. Our site features a wide variety of reputable Georgia breeders who specialize in raising healthy and happy puppies. Our breeders are committed to raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations and veterinary checkups to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide ongoing support and advice to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new furry friend. Delve into the lively dog-friendly scene in Georgia, featuring inviting restaurants, spacious dog parks, and exciting dog shows. For those passionate about dog shows, events like the Atlanta Kennel Club Dog Show and the Savannah Kennel Club Dog Show provide an opportunity to appreciate the elegance and charm of German Shepherd canines while connecting with fellow enthusiasts. With approximately 2. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our reputable German Shepherd breeders provide safe and affordable flight delivery, complete with a dedicated flight nanny who accompanies your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring their safety and comfort as they travel to their new home in Georgia. Many breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery, utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option allows your German Shepherd puppy to be transported directly to your door by a professional who understands the unique requirements of pet transportation. Begin your search for the perfect German Shepherd puppy on TrustedPuppies.

Welcome to the home of Jajaca Australian Labradoodles. They are incredibly fun loving, loyal and intelligent with a brilliant temperament to match. These attributes make for the perfect family companion! I have owned dogs all my life, but ran into many dramas with allergies and health concerns with my then young family. After researching the Australian Labradoodle and what the breed represents, I realised that the Australian Labradoodle was everything I was looking for. Fast forward 15 years, my daughter Cassidy, my adopted sister Nicola and I feel nothing but gratitude to be able to provide our families with the quality Labradoodles I was searching for many years ago. I am so fortunate to have been given encouragement and total support from all members of the ALA, who share their knowledge and wisdom for the betterment of the breed. All these years later and I am still totally hooked, assisting to mentor new ALA Breeders, and finding I am more in love with this breed than I ever thought possible. We are and will remain a dedicated breeder bringing up our babies in our family environment free of kennels. All our girls and boys live with loving families locally and nearby, where they are raised with rules, boundaries and discipline and loved unconditionally by their families. Our breeding girls and boys family has grown wonderfully in the last 17 years. We currently have some stunning girls and boys we are very proud of and some youngsters waiting to mature who will continue Jajaca into the forseeable future. Please visit their photo albums to check them and their breeding statistics out. They were precious, valued members of our family, the girls that started Jajaca and though we miss them everyday, their memory reminds us of why we do what we do, to share the joy they brought us with other families. Blaise beauty, Harper and Jajaca Jaycee are all now additions to our family group. Our focus as a breeder has been and will continue to be to offer quality, sound, healthy dogs as genuine family companions and never compromise the wonderful qualities of the breed. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any enquiries regarding this truly magnificent breed or ask about our upcoming litters. We hope that you enjoy browsing our site! The Australian Labradoodle are fun loving, loyal, intelligent, cheeky, with a brilliant temperament, and are remarkable to train. This coupled with their non-shedding, allergy friendly coat makes the Australian Labradoodle the perfect valued family member. Our focus as a breeder of these jewels, is to offer healthy, well-adjusted puppies with a gentle affectionate nature and at ease to interact and train. Our breeding stock are our cherished family pets, they come from generations of genetically sound distinguished bloodlines. Applications are currently open for future litters. We at Argyle Labradoodles have taken great care and time to research extensively the Australian Labradoodle and have chosen personal choice to breed standard and large medium sized dogs, we have taken great due diligence in our choice. Being a responsible breeder we do not Kennel or Cage our breeding dogs or puppies, our wonderful puppies are loved and socialised, they run in grassed large yards and are provided with all the stimulation and comforts to provide you with the best possible temperaments from happy, socialised puppies. We feel our future Argyle mums will fulfill all of the above attributes with abundance. We will be interested in guardian families when we are further into our breeding plan. We shall use this application form to identify the puppy that best suits your family and lifestyle. Our personal guarantee is that every Argyle puppy has been born and raised in our home, they have been loved, socialised and come with puppy care notes. Our Argyle puppies are spayed and neutered before they leave our home, this means the temperament of your puppy will not be influenced by their gender. The information you provide us with will help us choose the most suitable puppy at 6 weeks of age when we allocate the puppies on the waiting list to their future family. Essentially Argyle Labradoodles maintain the breeding rights to the puppy for a contracted period whilst the puppy gets to live a pampered and loving family life. If you would like to be considered to be a guardian family to a beautiful puppy in the Argyle breeding program, please apply via our email at argylelabradoodles gmail. All puppies have been raised here indoors until weeks of age where they then make their way to the outdoor nursery for further development. These puppies coming through will be the last from us due to retirement. Regardless that we are retiring we will still be here to answer any future questions for the lifetime of your puppy — we will only be a phone call or email away. Both puppies will have wonderful outgoing natures and are raised with our adult dogs and well socialised during their 8 weeks here with us. Like all our past Krakajak puppies they will bring you many years of joy, love and laughter. For further information please email me sarahhum westnet. Our lovely pooches are first and foremost our family pets. They are regularly groomed here at home and are taught to swim so they can join us in the pool during summer months. Our puppies are born and raised in our home up until they reach weeks of age where they are then moved into the puppy play area where they can begin to learn and explore their big wide world. When you purchase a puppy from KrakaJak Labradoodles you do so knowing that comprehensive DNA testing has guided us to select the parents of your puppy in the hope that they will lead a long and healthy life as a valued member of your family. Krakajak Labradoodles breed Australian Labradoodle puppies with beautiful non-shedding coats in colours of Red, Apricot, Cream, Caramel, Chocolate, and Black; other colors and patterns available on occasion. We look forward to continuing our journey working with and promoting this fabulous breed of dog. Sharing the joy of owning a Labradoodle. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA in dogs is a type of genetic eye disease causing deterioration… Read more View all breed additional tests Lovedale Australian Labradoodles conducts 14 additional tests available for the Australian Labradoodle. Canine Elliptocytosis Genetic Test Canine Elliptocytosis is a rare genetic disease causing the red blood cells to be abnormally elliptical in shape, rather than round. It generally does not cause a clinical problem to affected dogs, but puppies may be mildly anaemic and smaller than others. There is a DNA test available to identify if a breeding dog is carrying this disease. Cystinuria Genetic Test This condition mainly affects Newfoundlands although other breeds can be affected. It is a genetic condition which results in the production of kidney and bladder stones. There is a DNA test available to confirm that breeding dogs are not carrying this condition. Degenerative Myelopathy DM Genetic Test This is a disease affecting the spinal cord of older dogs, initially causing wobbliness and eventually hindlimb paralysis. It can affect a wide range of breeds. There is now a DNA test that can indicated if a breeding dog is carrying this disease. It results in the dog collapsing after periods of intense exercise, even if they are normally able to cope with lower levels of exercise. There is a DNA test available which can indicate if a breeding dog is carrying this disease. Elbow Dysplasia Physical Test These breeders have had x-rays taken on their breeding dogs to assess the quality of their elbow joints. It causes very dry and crusty skin around the nose that predisposes to infections. There is a DNA test available to determine whether a breeding dog is carrying this condition. HUU Genetic Test Hyperuricosuria HUU is a genetic disease that causes a build-up of uric acid in the urine, predisposing to painful bladder and kidney stones. It can occur in a range of breeds. There is a DNA test available to identify whether a breeding dog is carrying this disease. MPS Genetic Test Mucopolysaccharidosis is a genetic lysosomal storage disease that can cause various problems including stunted growth and bone deformities. There are a few different variants of this disease that have been identified in different breeds. For many breeds there are DNA tests available to identify if a breeding dog is carrying the condition. Affected puppies are small and lack coordination. Within weeks, the puppies may have difficulty holding their head up or standing and may collapse after exertion. There is a DNA test available to identify whether a breeding dog might be carrying this condition. Narcolepsy Genetic Test Narcolepsy is a genetic disease which causes affected animals to fall asleep suddenly following periods of excitement, such a feeding or play. These dogs might collapse and appear drowsy or might completely fall asleep. They usually grow out of the condition after about one year of age. There is a DNA test available to identify if a breeding dog is carrying this condition. There is a DNA test available to identify whether a breeding dog is carrying this condition. Affected dogs can experience lethargy, exercise intolerance and severe anaemia. There is a DNA available to identify whether a breeding dog is carrying this condition. Skeletal Dysplasia Genetic Test Skeletal Dysplasia is an inherited form of dwarfism which causes the leg bones to grow much shorter than is proportional for the body. Affected legs will be short and slightly bowed outwards. Often the forelimbs are more affected than the hindlimbs, which can make the condition more difficult to spot in subtle cases. The severity of VWD varies widely between breeds and individuals, ranging from life threatening, through to having no impact on clotting ability. In person puppy pick up Meet the breeder in person for puppy pick ups Ground transport service Supportive of on-the-road pet transport by car or van Domestic air travel by plane Supportive of domestic air transport by plane International air travel by plane Supportive of international air transport by plane RightPaw Achievements About the Breeder A little about us We are Cass and Sam and both have our own established businesses in dog boarding and training and have come together to form Lovedale Labradoodles. As Trainers, we were both… Read more Why we got involved in breeding Personally we love dogs and really enjoy seeing the whole process from birth, right through to the end of their training. We have been fortunate enough to be mentored by many experienced breeders that we have within our networks in the dog world. This has inspired and assisted our many hours of work and research… Read more Our special touch We are passionate about puppies! We care about ensuring that puppies born with us have the best possible start to their lives by starting even before they are born! We look after the parents by providing them with the highest nutritional and health care possible. This then carries on once the puppies are born… Read more.

What causes bowed legs and how does one treat it? What Causes Bowed Legs in Puppies? Is it normal for puppies to be bow legged? Breeders tend to think that bowing of the legs is genetic, but except for the genetics built in these breeds to grow fast, genetics is seldom the cause. Fast-growing puppies, especially the heavy breeds, have considerable pressure on the long bones of the legs while they are growing. The scaffolding of protein and cartilage is laid down at the growth plate and that frame work is soft and will bow to pressure. Behind that frame, calcium and phosphorus with other minor minerals use vitamins to make solid bone. Vitamin D gets calcium and phosphorus from the gut into the body, and Vitamin C gets calcium and phosphorus into the bone. If the diet is short on any of these needed vitamins, minor minerals, calcium or phosphorus, the puppy is slow to calcify while the frame is still being built; soft bones are the result. Most issues start within five to 12 weeks of age as this is when babies are going through their fast growth stage. Often the breeder reports that the legs look okay in the morning, but by the end of the day, they can see bowing on the front legs. The pressure of romping and jumping all day causes the long bone to bow. Early Detection and Prevention is Key The problem with bowed legs is that your baby is growing faster than your diet is allowing. Put on adult diet not puppy food and wean. Some large breeds are still nursing at this five to 12 week stage, and milk is all calcium! A maintenance diet or giant breed diet will not push growth. Limit the protein and slow the scaffolding growth slightly until we catch up. Limit exercise until bone is hardened as you want the bone to heal straight, not crooked. Pressure from romping and running bows the long bone while soft. Usually one week does it. If you see bowing of front legs, treat quickly or you will end up with permanently crooked legs! If you have more questions on bow legged puppies, call us at .Lack of proper exercise or exercise on unsuitable surfaces such as slippery floors and inadequate nutrition are also considered potential causes. Genetics may play some part also. Whether or not boxer puppies are prone to this affiliation is not currently known. Certain breeds appear to be more prone to the condition than others. It is certainly more prevalent in medium and large breeds, with breeds such as Dobermans and Shar Peis particularly prone. Knuckling over can occur in one leg or both legs. When looking for signs of knuckling over, keep an eye out for twisting of the toes as this is often the first symptom of the syndrome. If you notice this, see a vet immediately. Boxer Puppy Front Legs Bowed? If your boxer puppy has bowed front legs, this is a clear sign that something is not right and warrants immediate inspection by a vet. Although it can be distressing to see your boxer puppy suffer from frontal limb deformity, it is important to know that syndromes such as carpal laxity are treated relatively easily, and positive results can be seen in a matter of weeks. Although it is more common in male boxer puppies, a consultation with your vet should happen sooner rather than later, regardless of the sex of the dog. Sadly, there is a lot of misinformation out there, which may cause more harm to your four-legged friend. Although this may seem like the sensible thing to do after all, when a human has an issue related to a limb, dressings, slings, or splints are commonly used to treat the issue , this can actually make the syndrome worse as it will exacerbate weakness in the muscle and may cause secondary contractures, i. In puppies with secondary contractures, physiotherapy is recommended as this will help speed up recovery from the syndrome. Carpal Laxity Syndrome — A Complete Guide Carpal laxity syndrome, also known as carpal hypertension, is a condition that most commonly develops between the ages of two and three months of age, and is most frequently found in male puppies of medium and large breeds. The latter commonly occurs following changes in nutrition, particularly when the diet is unbalanced, of poor nutritional quality , or over-supplemented. This results in an imbalance between muscle strength in the extensor and flexor muscles, i. If left untreated, this can result in the development of secondary contractures, i. Management of carpal laxity syndrome should center around feeding a balanced diet and exercise on surfaces such as grass, i. Although some people recommend using splints, dressing, and slings to manage carpal hypertension, these forms of treatment are generally considered as being counterproductive; the aim of treatment for this syndrome is to increase muscle strength and tone rather than exacerbate muscle weakness. If a dog with carpal laxity syndrome suffers from secondary contractors, stretching three or four times daily is necessary. In some cases, surgery may be required if physiotherapy of the contracted tissues is unsuccessful. This syndrome, when present in puppies, can have a rather dramatic and certainly worrying presentation. However, in most cases, there is no need to worry as surgery is rarely needed to fix the issue s at hand. Ensuring the puppy is fed a balanced diet from commercial dog food, enjoys regular exercise on non-slippers surfaces, and has regular physiotherapy particularly in those puppies who suffer from secondary contractures is the best way to address the symptoms caused by carpal laxity. Many dogs recover in a matter of weeks. Bowed legs in dogs are an abnormality that is noticed when a leg grows curved or bowed instead of appearing straight as it normally should. This type of abnormality is most likely to be seen in young, growing due to problems in their development, but can also be seen as an aftermath to traumatic injuries sometimes even in older dogs. Canine leg deformities come in their shapes and sizes. One of the most common ones is bow legs—a condition that is common among French bulldogs, Corgis, and Dachshunds. In simple terms, bowing out is a leg deformity that causes the legs to appear curved or bowed out rather than straight. It is mostly a puppy problem but adult dogs can also suffer from it. Bow legs present in different ways. In the front legs, one limb can grow faster than the other compromising its shape. Other times, inverted growth of the leg bones leads to bow legs as well. Most bow-legged canines have curved front legs but you can also find some with bowed hind legs as well. Breeders tend to think that bowing of the legs is genetic, but except for the genetics built in these breeds to grow fast, genetics is seldom the cause. Fast-growing puppies, especially the heavy breeds, have considerable pressure on the long bones of the legs while they are growing. The scaffolding of protein and cartilage is laid down at the growth plate and that frame work is soft and will bow to pressure. Behind that frame, calcium and phosphorus with other minor minerals use vitamins to make solid bone. Vitamin D gets calcium and phosphorus from the gut into the body, and Vitamin C gets calcium and phosphorus into the bone. If the diet is short on any of these needed vitamins, minor minerals, calcium or phosphorus, the puppy is slow to calcify while the frame is still being built; soft bones are the result. Often the breeder reports that the legs look okay in the morning, but by the end of the day, they can see bowing on the front legs. The pressure of romping and jumping all day causes the long bone to bow. Early Detection and Prevention is Key The problem with bowed legs is that your baby is growing faster than your diet is allowing. Put on adult diet not puppy food and wean. Some large breeds are still nursing at this five to 12 week stage, and milk is all calcium! A maintenance diet or giant breed diet will not push growth. Limit the protein and slow the scaffolding growth slightly until we catch up. Limit exercise until bone is hardened as you want the bone to heal straight, not crooked. Pressure from romping and running bows the long bone while soft. Usually one week does it. Fast Growth A puppy is meant to grow gradually to give her bones and cartilage enough time to develop. When the process is hurried, the fast-growing body may exert too much pressure on the limbs causing leg deformities. This is especially true for heavy breeds. Essentially, the cartilage and protein of the bone are framed at the growth plate. This happens to be a very soft area that can succumb to pressure easily. As the young dog puts on weight in her body, it may exceed the limit of the growth plate resulting in curved or brandy legs. Nutrition Deficiencies Like in humans, bones rely on certain vitamins and minerals to develop optimally. These include calcium and phosphorous among others. A growing puppy needs a lot of vitamin C and vitamin D to create solid bone and teeth. His diet must have the vitamins and minerals in sufficient quantities. If it is lacking in any of them, soft bones are inevitable. Injury A growing puppy has until around 12 — 18 months before her growth plates close up. Right about this age, the soft cartilage that once formed the bone mineralizes and hardens into solid bone. In the sad event that she gets an injury before the plate matures and becomes hard, some of the cells may stop growing. In the end, the leg will appear uneven and bow-legged. Accidents can occur if the puppy is dropped from a high place or gets knocked by a moving car or bike. Genetics Although rare, genetics can be a cause for bowed legs among dogs. These genes can be passed down from generation to generation. Symptoms of Bow Legs Bow legs in dogs start presenting as early as 5 and as late as 12 weeks of age. This is the period most dogs go through the first growth stage. The symptoms can appear suddenly. The puppy can be okay in the morning just to see her with bowing later on in the day. Some of the symptoms of this condition include the following: Limited movement.

Top Picks For Our Dogs Preparing Your Home For A Puppy You should treat the preparation of your home for the arrival of a new puppy in much the same way as you would for the arrival of a baby because the process is almost identical. You must be ready to provide every little thing your puppy needs in life, making sure they have water, are fed, comfortable, happy, catered for and safe. To achieve this there are 4 main things that you need to do: Go shopping for equipment and supplies Puppy proof your home and garden to make sure your puppy stays safe Set up an area for your puppy to sleep and spend time in when you cannot supervise them Decide on the rules and routines required to successfully raise a puppy Without such preparation, things will be difficult. A Nutritious Puppy Food The most important supply needed for a new puppy is a highly nutritious puppy food. Hopefully your puppy came from a responsible breeder who was feeding them a high quality, complete and nutritious food. If so, you should ask what they were feeding, stock up on and continue feeding this if possible. If not, then puppies are incredibly active, growing fast and developing bone, muscle and more every day. Because of this they need almost double the calories, more protein and have different nutritional needs to mature adult dogs. Furthermore, they have far smaller mouths than adult dogs so puppy food comes in smaller chunks more suited to their size. Click here to see our recommendations for the best puppy food for labs Bowls for Food And Water There is a bewildering array of dog bowl choices out there so choosing the best can be difficult. Looks and design aside, I recommend going for stainless steel bowls because they are long-lasting, cannot be chewed and are very easy to clean. I also recommend buying bowls with heavy rubber bottoms so they stay rooted to the spot and are harder to spill or flip over. Unless of course you buy bowls in a stand, then these problems are already solved. A Puppy Crate And Bedding A good crate is one of the most beneficial things you can provide for the good of yourself and your puppy. First of all, supply some bedding to place inside for your puppy to sleep on. My recommendation for this is VetBed. Many puppies can chew and ingest normal bedding which can result in medical emergencies and VetBed is the most durable bedding on the market. During these times you need to provide a larger, but still safe enclosure to confine your puppy. You might also like to buy a plastic sheet and some puppy pads or use lots of old newspaper for them to use as a potty in your absence. Puppy Chew Toys Puppies chew. A lot. And they seem to prefer chewing phones, footwear and TV remotes more than anything else. Just make sure whatever toys you do buy are suitable for a puppy as many will be too large for their little mouths to begin with. Interactive Puppy Toys So you can play games with your puppy, provide exercise and mental stimulation, you will want to buy a few toys that encourage the two of you to interact. Balls for throwing and chasing, soft toys and ropes for playing tug, other toys for fetch, there are many available. You will also need a collar to provide a place to attach an all important ID tag. ID Tag An ID tag is an essential means to be reunited with your puppy should the worst happen and you somehow lose them or they run away. Clicker A clicker is an extremely useful tool used during training as a reward marker that dramatically improves the timing of communication between you and your puppy when you want to reward a behavior. Although not essential, I do highly recommend you use one. Puppy Training Treats Tasty food treats are the go-to reward used during training so you will want to make sure you always have a good stock at hand. They need to feel happy with being bathed, happy having their coat and teeth brushed, their feet touched, nails clipped and having their eyes and ears inspected. To do so, you should fake going the process, getting them used to being handled, the sight and feel of the tools and so on. To achieve this, you will need to buy and get them used to the following items: Dog shampoo Combs and brushes suitable for a Labrador Scissors Cotton balls Toothbrush Use these tools right away and often, and give your puppy praise and tasty treats as you go so they form positive associations with grooming. Puppy Proof Your Home and Garden The process of puppy proofing your home is very much like baby proofing before the arrival of a child. Except a puppy is far more curious, active and destructive and can get themselves into far more trouble. A puppy is a new-born. Everything is a toy and they will run and pounce and jump and chew on anything in their environment. So before you bring your puppy home you simply must make it safe for them. For things you cannot move skirting boards, table legs etc. To keep them safe while still providing an area for them to play in and stretch their legs, you want to restrict their access to a single room, or otherwise create an enclosed space for them. To do so, either buy a pet barrier or baby gate that goes across a doorway to restrict them to an easy to clean and safe room, or buy an exercise pen puppy pen to create an enclosed space in another room. I also strongly recommend buying a crate for many reasons, but initially, mostly just to provide the perfect place for them to sleep. I shall discuss crate training a little later in this article. All of this must be decided BEFORE you get your puppy home because consistency is a key part of raising a puppy successfully. Everyone must enforce and live by the same rules for your puppy to thrive. Initially they have no idea how you want them to behave, or how and when they can expect the things they want and need in life. The more consistent everybody is with the puppy, the quicker they will learn all this stuff and the happier everyone will be. So decide and write down if necessary when your puppy will have all their needs met, make sure everybody knows who is responsible for each task and make sure everybody knows the rules. You might think the collection and journey home with your new puppy is no big deal, but there are many things can go wrong. Therefore, you should never take a puppy before 8 weeks old. During the first 8 weeks, a puppy learns a lot from their mother and litter-mates: Bite inhibition, canine body language, acceptable play and interaction with other dogs and how to accept discipline. Things you will find it very hard to teach them later yourself. The flip side of this is that the 7 to 14 week stage is the most impressionable for a puppy, where they bond strongest with people and must be socialized to all the sights, sounds and smells of the world so they grow up confident and comfortable with their surroundings. So anyway, for the journey home there a few things you need to consider: Safety in the car, the need for water and toilet breaks and the possibility your puppy will be sick. Having a loose puppy in the car presents a very real danger of leading to a crash, they can easily climb out of a box and now is not the time to use a harness and car safety belt. If the crate is small enough you can place it on a front or rear passenger seat and secure it with the seat-belt, or you may have to place it in the trunk of your car. Fully line the crate with absorbent paper in case there are any accidents, this will keep most of the mess off your puppy and make cleaning easier. And finally, place a chew toy or two in the crate to keep your puppy occupied. If you have another person to help you, your puppy can ride home in their lap if the journey is short. They must be under your passengers control. They will also need to potty every half or so. Therefore, you should plan breaks along the way every 30 minutes or so. Stop the car, allow them to drink, then wait for them to wee before setting off again. When you stop, make sure your puppy is on leash and tightly held by someone before letting them out of the car. And as an extra precaution, carry your puppy and only put them down to do their business, then carry them back into the car. Take with you some towels, plastic bags, kitchen roll and deodorizer to take care of any accidents. And when driving, take all corners slowly, and accelerate and brake gently. If your puppy is on a passengers lap, they will be able to see some warning signs that puppy is about to be sick: Their lips will curl, they will excessively salivate and then eventually start to heave. When your passenger spots these signs, they can place a thick towel beneath the puppy to catch everything and avoid a mess in your vehicle. When bringing home a new puppy, make sure you collect them and then drive straight home. Your puppy is having the most stressful day of their short life so far, try not to make it harder than it already is by taking them to strange places and passing them around to strangers to say hello. You want to get them home quickly so they can start the process of settling in as soon as possible. Whether this is inside on paper, or a spot outside, as soon as you arrive home carry them there, set them down and wait for them to do their business before doing anything else. This might take 30 seconds or it might take 10 minutes, but patiently wait and when they go, praise them profusely. Well done! Shut them in another room away from the puppy as things are intense enough as it is. Explain they have to be calm and gentle during the first introductions. Let them sniff and look around, getting used to the area and their new little world. You can now let people come and say hello. Have people sit or kneel to greet them. Once everybody has said hello, you should stay with your puppy, show interest but stay calm. Allow Your Puppy To Sleep After all the excitement, stress, massive change and huge amount of mental stimulation your puppy has just been through, they will likely need to sleep soon after arriving at your home. So as soon as they either start to look tired, or the introductions to their new living space and family have ended whichever comes first put them to bed for a short while. On the other hand they might feel completely overwhelmed, retreat into themselves and show reluctance to explore. They might slink into a corner silently and sit there watching their new world with wonder but apprehension, before falling asleep for hours. And when it comes to the first night they might sleep right through, or they might cry and whine the whole night. As your puppy begins to get used to everything, their character will start to shine through and you will begin to see their true personalities. Exactly what this will be is different for every puppy…it will be fun for you to find out! And by being the provider of everything they need in life, giving them all that is good, it will only take 2 or 3 days for your puppy to learn to love you and get excited and happy to see you when you turn up. So your task is to set up and stick to these schedules, begin training your puppy and help them to learn how you want them to behave and when they can expect the things they need in life. What should you feed your puppy You should feed your puppy the same food they had at the breeders because an abrupt change in diet almost always leads to stomach upset. Complete and balanced means it has everything a puppy needs, and in the right quantities. So seek out this kind of wording and check the internet for other owners reviews. Puppies need to eat a lot because their rate of growth is very high. For puppies up to 12 weeks, you should divide their daily requirement into 4 portions, for puppies 12 to 26 weeks, feed them 3 times per day and from 26 weeks on feed them twice per day. You should also aim to feed them as close as you can to the same times every day and evenly spaced throughout the day. This will help their body clocks fall into a pattern and will help your house training immensely because they then potty the same times every day. For example: 8 to 12 weeks old, 4 times a day at AM, AM, PM and PM 12 to 26 weeks old, 3 times a day at AM, PM and PM 26 weeks old and ongoing, 2 times a day at and Obviously you can adjust these times to take into account when you get out of bed and to fit around your life. Also… The first few nights have the crate or exercise pen your puppy sleeps in placed in your bedroom. One night move the crate next to the bedroom door. The next night move it outside the door, but leave the door open so they can still see you. The next night further into the hallway. Finally to their eventual resting place. They might take to sleeping on their own OK, they might whine and cry. NEVER go to them to comfort them if they cry, you must only get up to take them to potty and then silently and without fuss put them back into the crate. Rewarding silence and ignoring noise is the only way they will eventually learn to be quiet at night themselves. Any time you cannot closely supervise them, you have to confine them, either in their crate, an exercise pen or a puppy proofed room secured with a barrier across the doorway. The point of confining them as a puppy is so they can enjoy all the freedom in the world once they are an adult. By confining them with treat dispensing chew toys they get rewarded for chewing the right things and develop a chew toy obsession. Confine them now, they form a good chew toy obsession and have no chance of developing bad chewing habits. Then once they are over their adolescent chewing stage you slowly open up the house to them and eventually they can have free roam and be completely trusted. A little sacrifice when young for a better life later. And a second hugely important reason for confining your puppy when you cannot supervise them is for speedier house training. In fact if you read my comments from earlier, you will see you start the very first moment you finish the journey home. In essence, house training is about creating good habits while avoiding bad ones and for the speediest success you want to start immediately. Wherever your puppy is able to potty has the chance of becoming their favored toilet spot for many weeks or months to come. So you want to prevent them pottying inside, and encourage them to potty outside. The main ingredients of a successful house training program are preventing mistakes and praising heavily for doing the right thing. Achieving this is all about schedules, supervision and confinement. Now, your puppy will need to potty anywhere from every 15 to 45 minutes. So to start with, take them outside every 30 minutes and adjust this schedule to suit their natural rhythm. You must also take them outside immediately after they wake up from any sleep, after any eating or drinking, after play and after any heightened excitement. These are times that often lead to a puppy needing to potty so take them outside at these times and you will avoid many mistakes while taking advantage of predictable opportunities to praise them for doing the right thing. In the first week or so, you will likely find your puppy almost instantaneously leaks with little warning. Simply do your best to take them out to potty extremely often so they go in the right place as often as possible. And confine them to a single enclosed room or in an exercise pen for the first week or so to protect your carpets. Crate training goes hand in hand with house training, being one of the best tools to help speed up the process. Therefore, you want to start crate training very early on, after just a few days of getting puppy home, and I personally aim for 9 weeks old to start. I prefer to wait a week or so to avoid them pottying in the crate as much as possible, doing the most I can to preserve their instinct not to soil where they sleep, the instinct that helps most when using a crate for house training. But by all means sleep them in their crate at night if you wish and I do. For more information on crate training your puppy and using it for house training purposes, please see the links below:. How does it feel to be a new puppy parent? You must be chuffed. Take a look at these first few articles. All the ingredients you need for a happy home. But for now, beside your bed is the best place for your puppy to sleep — it will help them feel safe. Puppies like their crates rather cave-like; we suggest covering it with a blanket to block out light, but keep the front open so that they can see outwards. Make sure to make it snug inside with something like a vet bed or a blanket, or why not take it up a notch with a heat pad or hot water bottle to recreate the feeling of their mother. Nothing feels more comforting than that. Before you head to bed, take your puppy out for one last round of loo-going. Set your bedtime at a later time too — midnight sounds about right. Come back calmly, and place your puppy in the crate and turn out the light. Stuff you should know about Sleep Training your Labrador Your puppy will wake up several times in the night and will need the bathroom at least once! Be prepared for not-so-deep sleeps and tired mornings — just for the first few weeks. Having them sleep next to you is only temporary. Consistency is key! As for you, full nights of sleep will start getting closer and closer. Alone Training How can I teach my Labrador puppy to be ok on their own? Start by feeding your puppy in their crate during meal times. If they seem worried by you leaving, stay in view, and just pop right outside their confinement area. Keep it short and sweet: No need to stay away for long, 60 seconds tops will do for now. Repeat: Do this at least once a day to make progress go steady and smoothly. Socialization Exercises To Do this week Letting your Labrador puppy explore the yard Besides the gnomes and questionable yard furniture you may have, letting your puppy explore your own yard is a great and safe way to start showing them the sounds, lights and wonders of the outside world. Exploring different surfaces exercise Make sure that the surfaces you use are safe — nothing too crazy just yet. Gather surfaces such as An oven tray with a small layer of water A piece of astro turf A carpet tile A large piece of tin foil, cardboard or something crinkly PRO TIP: Set up for this exercise in the room your puppy spends most of their time in — it will help them to feel safe and confident. Pop the surfaces out safely on the floor and allow your puppy to investigate them. Nobody has ever enjoyed walking on those. Remember to be patient! Lucky for you — teaching them their name is easy peasy. Say their name in a happy jolly tone and reward with a treat. Repeat five times, 5 and take a break. Practice this 2 or 3 times a day so they get the hang of it. Teach your puppy to sit Teaching your puppy how to sit is a popular one. The first two are far more common though. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow it up with a food reward. In puppy logic, stinky means yummy. How to do it Start at home; where there are no distractions. Just make sure to shut off Gogglebox in the background. Recall — How to teach our Labrador puppy to come back when called Your puppy already knows their name at this point, so this should be a walk in the park. How to do it Treats and a cheerful voice will be what works here. Do these exercises before meal times so your puppy is more motivated. Practice this 5 times a day and in 3 different places in your house and yard to get them used to coming to you in all settings. How to do it Show your puppy that you have their favorite toy, and start to get them excited about it. When they show interest, throw it a little bit away from you. They will likely follow it and pick it up. If they do, encourage them back to you with your voice, so remember to sound happy! Swap the toy for a treat or another toy and do the process again. Repeat this about 5 times. Instead create more distance and excitement sounds to get them to come to you — spaniels like to show off, so they will likely want to parade what they have! Always swap the toy for something when they have it, this could be a treat or another toy. Resource guarding occurs when we force puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. For breeds like Labradors who are designed to want to hold things in their mouths, this is pretty important! Resource guarding is when a dog protects a resource from being taken by someone else — dog or human. For some reason, there is a solid list of things puppies find irresistible: Socks. Print We recently brought home Bubba, a female chocolate lab puppy. Bubba is already sold as one of our Custom Trained Retrievers, so it is our responsibility to train her and raise her until she has progressed to the level of training the owner has requested. That means Bubba will be with for almost a year and a half. We train one or two of these puppies each year, and over the years we have gotten pretty good at it. We also train adult dogs for hunting and competition, so we see a lot of dogs come into our program. Dogs that have each been raised differently. There are some definite training tips that can help you help your lab grow up to be the best version of himself. Training and socialization for very young Labrador puppies — week one The first week of a puppy being away from its litter is very stressful for the puppy. Most often, the first two days, the puppy will sleep a lot! The pup is adjusting to all the changes, and they need time to do that. After the first couple days you may notice a spike of energy. This is your sign that the puppy is adjusting well and is ready to be exposed to a few more things. Labrador puppy training that first week home Here are the things we work on during week one. A nylon adjustable one is usually best since puppies grow quickly. It often takes the puppy a few days to adjust to having a collar on. Intro crate We introduce our puppies to a crate on day one. Literally the day we bring them home. Most puppies will cry, bark or howl while in the crate the first few or many times. Ignore it, it does not hurt the puppy at all. Always wait until the puppy settles down and is quiet, even if that quiet only lasts for just a minute or two. Learn more about crate training. Intro to housebreaking Another day one lesson and one that will last for a few weeks or months. We introduce housebreaking day one by allowing the puppy to run around an enclosed area under close supervision. If your puppy then goes potty outside, great! The thing to remember about housebreaking, is that your puppy should never be allowed to roam the house or a room without supervision. The only way to housebreak a dog is for them to get caught in the middle of an accident. That is how they learn that what they are doing is not right. Learn more about housebreaking. Intro leash We introduce a leash to our puppies around day three of being home. But once they start getting more energy and get more inquisitive, we use a Flexi-lead attached to the nylon collar to take the puppy outside. This accomplishes two goals. The gentle tugs on the leash and pressure when the puppy strains against the leash are great training for handling pressure as they get older. Intro to pressure and correction The last thing we introduce to our new puppy during the first week home is pressure and correction. This is an often-missing element to training that can severely handicap a dog that you want to be a hunting companion or competition dog. The kind of pressure I am talking about is very mild such as saying NO to the puppy when they are chewing up your shoes or scratching through the carpet. This is the way mama dogs carry their puppies and it does not hurt them at all. This does not hurt the puppy; it is exactly what a mama dog does to teach her puppies. Learn more about introducing pressure and correction. Commands to start using that first week home The first week there are some commands we start using so that the puppy will associate the words we use with actions. Puppies play and explore with their mouths, and often they will think it is great fun to bite your hands and feet. If this does not curb the behavior, I grab her lower jaw, wrapping her gums around her teeth and squeeze. I have found this to be very effective, especially if you start this the first week you have the puppy home. The longer you wait to start, the harder it becomes to stop this behavior. It takes very little pressure to stop a 7-week-old puppy from biting. Learn more about how to stop your Lab puppy from biting you. Off command The OFF command is also started day one. The OFF command is used to stop a puppy or dog from jumping on you. It can also be used to keep a dog off a sofa or other furniture. Starting day one, I gently use my knee to push down the puppy each time they jump on me. I say OFF when I do this. Usually, a gentle push with the knee is all it takes with a very small puppy. They learn this command very quickly. If your puppy is a bit more energetic or stubborn and tries to jump on you despite your gentle pushes, then you may need to use a little more force. Even if you were to knock your puppy backwards onto her back, that is not going to hurt her seriously. But it will likely make a good impression and cause her to think twice before jumping on you again. With jumping, consistency is important. You must knock your puppy off every time she jumps on you. Learn more about how to stop your Lab from jumping on you. We use this as a que when we are taking the puppy outside to go potty. We use this while the puppy is on a leash, and we are pulling them toward us. I only use this command for very young dogs. Your goal is to get the puppy to rest in your arms and not move. But if you keep at it, you will see your dog settle for longer and longer periods of time. Introduction to retrieving Lastly, since all our puppies are retrievers, we start introducing the puppy to retrieving. The first few times are simply throwing a toy a few feet and if the puppy runs out and gets it and comes back to you, great. Then take the item and throw it again. If the puppy does not come back or does not even run out to get the item, then stop for the day. Just let the retrieving develop naturally. Next week we will start more formal retrieving training. Final thoughts on what you should do that first week with your new Labrador puppy As you can see, there is a lot of training that you can do with your seven- or eight-week-old puppy. And while you can wait for training, your puppy is ready and able to learn quickly right now. I will be posting weekly on the training we are doing with Bubba, so you can get a week-by-week snapshot of how we raise and train a puppy up to be a excellent, responsive hunting or competition dog as well as a well-mannered family dog. If you are struggling or need additional help with your new puppy, you can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time, happy retrieving. Quiet nights and crate training. This article will take you through everything you need to know, from what to buy, to how to help your pup settle in on his first day and night. Bringing a Puppy Home Bringing home a new 8 or 9 week old puppy is a potentially stressful experience for you and the pup. Of course, it will be better if you have been able to visit your puppy regularly before collecting him. But for most people, time and distance make this an unlikely option. Everything he sees, smells and hears, in your home will seem very strange to him at first. Fortunately, most puppies leave their mother and siblings at an age when they will readily accept their new friends and family. In a few days time, he will have settled in and accepted your home as his, and your family as his own. Holding Your Puppy The first thing to master when bringing home a new puppy is holding them the right way. This is the most comfortable position for puppies. But if you have had a long car journey, the first thing your puppy will need is to pee! Carry him in your arms to the area you want him to use for toilet purposes, and put him down there. Your first steps in potty training have begun. Maintaining Regular Bathroom Breaks Puppies vary widely in how often they need to empty their bladder. Some may last an hour or more from day one, whilst others seem to need to go every 15 minutes or so. During the course of the day, take the puppy to the toilet area at regular intervals half hourly at least to begin with. In addition, take him there every time he finishes a meal or wakes from a sleep. Set an alarm on your cell phone to remind you. Many Labrador puppies are very greedy and will eat astonishing quantities of food. New puppies are especially prone to upset tummies. The new environment and the stress of leaving home all add to the risk. You can reduce that risk by feeding little and often. If you want to change diets, do this gradually once the puppy has settled in. How often to feed Four times a day is the minimum number of feeds for an 8 week old puppy. Five or even six portions are better for a puppy with an upset tummy. Remember that the daily quantity is the same. More portions means smaller portions. If you get this right, there will be little or nothing left to put in the bowl when mealtimes come around You can find out more about using puppy food in training games by joining our Puppy Parenting course Meeting the Kids Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting time for all the family. For much of the first day, your puppy will probably be cuddled and admired. Kids should also be aware of safety precautions, such as learning to let the pup be if he seems uncomfortable. Some older dogs will play too roughly with a puppy. Others will growl and appear to reject the puppy at first. These are normal reactions but they do indicate that you are going to need to keep a close eye on things for a while. A baby gate or other barrier is a perfect way to keep a puppy from annoying the resident dog or cat while they adjust to the newcomer. As the day draws to a close, your thoughts will turn to night time, and getting your puppy to sleep! Or he howls the house down either constantly or intermittently throughout the night. There are two approaches to choosing where a puppy sleeps for those first few nights. One is to get him used to his permanent sleeping quarters right from the start. The other is to have him next to your bed until he has got over his homesickness usually three or four days. And if you keep going back, the howling may well increase. Leaving a puppy to cry alone in a strange house is also probably very distressing for the puppy and not a great way to start their new life. But we recommend having the puppy next to your bed for the first three nights. This reduces the risk of getting into an increasing spiral of night howling or having your puppy miserable for the first week. Just pop his blankets in there and put the box right next to where you sleep. Night waking Most 8 week old puppies wake in the night to pee for the first week or so. But the first few days is a time for settling your puppy in, building their confidence and avoiding bad habits such as whining or howling, getting started The best way to meet all those goals, is to keep your puppy very close to you until their homesickness has passed. Bonding with your puppy Your main objective now is to bond with your puppy. Spend lots of time with your puppy. Make him feel at home. Pay him a lot of attention when he is quiet, fuss and praise him when he pees outside. Once he has settled in, there will be plenty of time to think about crate training and learning manners, but for now just enjoy his Labrador puppy loveliness, and that scrummy new puppy smell. It will be gone all too soon, replaced by a bouncing, boisterous, and joyful friend who all too often smells of pond water. What you are doing is establishing good habits, which will last a lifetime. What About Crate Training? A quality dog crate is an excellent source of help with potty-training. But a puppy should not be left inside a crate for longer than his immature bladder can hold its contents. For some puppies, this is not very long at all. Socialization is a big part of bringing home a new puppy. This is the process we take puppies through, to make sure they are comfortable with all aspects of living in human society. For instance, dogs need to be confident around things like vehicles and machines. They should be happy to meet people of all different shapes and sizes and to go boldly wherever people want to take them. A confident dog is not just a happy dog; he is a safe dog. Socializing also means taking your puppy out and about. Naturally, many worry about exposing a not-yet-fully vaccinated puppy to the risk of infection. Yes you can! If you use modern dog training methods, you can get going right after bringing home a new puppy! In the first week puppy training is based on a series of fun games. So that your puppy will be learning without even realising. The games you play should lay foundations for future good behavior, teaching your puppy not snatch, to say please, to focus on you, to love their crate, to wear a harness or collar and to run towards you rather than away from you. A lot of people worry about whether or not to take a puppy to classes, and some are unable to do so. But there is a great deal you can do at home by yourself. You can avoid this by getting off to a great start with recall training in the very first week. The video below will help you. And never chase after a puppy. Puppy recall training starts right after bringing home a new puppy. Build an association between the act of running towards you and the sound of the recall word or whistle. If you call the puppy and he does not come, you will have begun to teach him that the recall command is optional. Check out our puppy recall training video to give you an idea of how easy it is to build this a good association if you start off in the right way. You can find out more about building a great recall from the beginning in Total Recall. But for now, in these first few days at home together, make sure no one calls the puppy to them. When they want him, they can simply pick him up. If he runs away, all they need to do is run in the opposite direction and he will come chasing after them. For the first few days after bringing home a new puppy, focus on bonding and helping him to feel safe. Consider having your puppy next to your bed for the first few nights. This will comfort him while he is feeling homesick and missing his mom and playmates. Expect to get up in the night to take your puppy out to pee for at least the first couple of weeks. Set a reminder to avoid teaching your puppy to cry for your attention. During his daytime naps, dive into the feeding, potty training, and obedience training guides mentioned in this article, and head over to the forum for support from our other readers, many of whom have been where you are now, and come safely out the other side! If you want help choosing an adorable puppy name, make sure you take a look at this article too! By Tom Massey Jan 26, With their earnest eyes, friendly faces, and sleek coats, Labrador Retrievers have an irresistible charm. But beyond their picture-perfect appearance, are Labrador Retrievers good for first-time dog owners? The answer to this question may not be the same for everyone. Get to know more about this iconic breed to discover if a Labrador could be the right choice for your first foray into the world of dog ownership. From their personality and behavior to their health issues and exercise needs, first time owners can learn a lot by doing upfront research about Labrador Retrievers and their breed-specific needs. They tend to be protective of children, and they are eager to please their human family members. As pack animals, dogs want to be with their social circle throughout the day — that is, you and your family. Labrador Retrievers are one of the most sociable dog breeds. If you work full-time outside the home, your Lab will need a visit about every four hours. They grow into medium-large dogs, with sturdy frames, who weigh between 60 and 80 pounds for males and 55 and 75 pounds for females. Most adult Labs need a daily cardio workout, and many Labradors can exercise for two or more hours every day. In addition to playing endless games of fetch, these water-loving dogs enjoy swimming. Interactive puzzle toys provide both physical and mental stimulation for your curious, lively Lab. Look for toys that are dishwasher safe, since Labrador Retrievers tend to explore with their mouths. If you consistently give your Labrador better options, though, you can avoid chewing disasters that will make you gnash your own teeth in frustration. Fortunately, Labrador puppies are easy to train — and the sooner, the better. Training classes, even virtual ones , are widely available. If you decide to get an untrained pup, be prepared to consistently attend training sessions and follow-up with daily reinforcement activities at home. It can make welcoming a new Lab into your home a calmer experience, saving you unnecessary behavioral issues. Regular check-ups with a trusted veterinarian can help you spot warning signs, so your Lab can get any needed treatments to live a healthier life. Bloat Labradors bring their zest for life to the food bowl. As a result, they tend to wolf down their food too quickly. These inexpensive devices often look like puzzles or feature spiral patterns. When you pour food into a slow feeder, it falls into small compartments or channels. In order to enjoy the food, your Lab must slow down and carefully remove the food from the maze-like interior of the bowl. Make sure your lab rests for an hour after a meal or after drinking a lot of water to reduce the chance of bloating. Obesity Like people, Labrador Retrievers are not immune to weight gain. Follow a regular feeding schedule and be careful how much food you offer. Obesity in dogs can worsen conditions such as arthritis, hip or elbow dysplasia, and heart disease. Cancer and Heart Disease Most Labradors live about years. As your Lab ages, they might face serious health issues, such as heart disease or cancer. These two issues are prevalent in many breeds of dogs, with canine cancer rates about triple those of humans. Labrador cancers usually manifest as masses or growths, such as mast cell tumors. Labradors are prone to a type of heart disease called Triscupid Valve Dysplasia. This disease, which is present at birth, can cause fluid buildup and gradually enlarge the right side of the heart. While there is currently no cure for TVD, it can be managed with medication and some exercise restrictions. In milder cases, Labs with the disease are expected to live a fairly normal lifespan. Joint Problems Even younger Labrador Retrievers can sometimes have joint issues, such as hip or elbow dysplasia. If left untreated, this can cause pain and loss of full mobility. Regular checkups with your vet can help screen for this issue, so it can be treated early and the progression slowed. Aside from surgery, a common treatment for these Labrador joint dysplasias includes special orthopedic braces. Another treatment option is hydrotherapy, which is simply exercise done in a heated pool — sometimes, incorporating an underwater treadmill. Eye Issues Labradors can also be susceptible to retinal dysplasia, an eye disorder that causes blind spots and sometimes, complete blindness. Labs are also more likely than other dogs to experience progressive rod-cone degeneration, which is caused by a genetic mutation and leads to blindness. Neither of these conditions is painful, and most Labradors adapt well to vision impairment or loss. Arthritis While not much can be done for genetic conditions, problems like arthritis — which affects about one-fifth of adult dogs, regardless of breed — can be avoided or minimized simply by keeping your Lab from becoming obese. There are also certain nutritional supplements that can help Labradors repair torn cartilage from osteoarthritis and reduce the pain your dog might feel. The downside of this adaptation is that Labrador Retrievers shed much more than some other dogs. Labs need to be groomed at least once a week. This may include cleaning their floppy ears, which can be prone to irritations. A variety of brushes help keep shedding under control. However, if you have any concerns or are pressed for time to groom your dog, always consult a professional groomer to help you along the way. In addition to a grooming routine to reduce shedding, you may need to vacuum more frequently. A robot vacuum, available in a wide range of prices, can reduce the effort needed to maintain a tidy home. Experienced breeders and trainers, like the staff at Snowy Pines White Labs , can answer your questions and guide you through the process of choosing your perfect pup. Share on. However, a healthy six-month-old labrador will grow significantly in size. Some of them can weigh up to 50 pounds. For a more balanced diet at six months, you can shift from feeding your puppy three smaller meals per day to two meals a day. To counteract this, you can drop the amount of food and gradually increase it. Setting Your Lab Puppy Up for Successful Potty Training Training an animal to control their bladders until you get outside is no different than potty-training for toddlers. In other words, crate training speeds up the potty-training process for your pet. Effective crate training depends on two things: Praising and rewarding your puppy for relieving itself outside. They come to understand this as a desirable behavior. Preventing your puppy from going to the toilet within the home. So, why is using a crate to train your puppy to go outside so effective? Initially, this should be every hour or so. As labs grow older, you can reduce the frequency as they learn to hold and release independently. Step 2: House Training a Lab Puppy Housetraining or potty-training small labs can be, well, frustrating. As a pet owner, there are simple ways to train your puppy to understand ideal behavior quickly. Instead, they simply forget that they should control it. This helps avoid any issues early on. Keep small labrador puppies off the carpet. How to Feed Your Dog for Optimal Growth Feeding your labrador puppy a balanced diet could be an entire guide all on its own. It can feel overwhelming because you do have many options when it comes to feeding your dog. For example, if you work from home, it would be easy to feed your dog homemade dog food. Similarly, you might work a and yet want to reap the health-related benefits of a raw diet. Make sure to speak to your vet first. You do have choices for what to feed your puppy and you can mix and match these. Popular feeding options for any animal include kibble, wet food, raw food, and home-cooked food. Remember, a puppy is still growing, and they need a complete profile of nutrients and minerals to support their development. There are many commercial brands of dry food or kibble to choose from and you can adjust what you buy based on the ingredients. Do your research and find a brand you trust, with as much bioavailable nutritional content as is helpful. These can harm your puppy. In order to maintain good health and prevent simple ailments, your puppy can also benefit from taking a supplement. Some families choose to mix scraps or raw food with kibble to provide moisture and decrease the amount of food versus the calories consumed. Any veterinarian will tell you that a hard and fast rule is not necessarily the type of food but the amount. Obesity is a condition that can lead to many health issues for this breed. Over-exertion, especially for a puppy, is possible. This includes activities like playing fetch or tug and release. However, breeds that worked as a hunting companion for humans love to be active. Again, this goes back to the strengths of the breed. Keeping up with your puppy could be a task-and-a-half, so in the first months of life, you should be keeping them in your backyard or playing with them at home. As they become house trained and get all their vaccinations, you can turn walks into light jogs or runs if you want. In the long-term, exercise will help keep dogs healthy and disease-free. However, early dog training can eliminate common problems with puppy temperament and help make sure that your fur friend is always as friendly and happy as possible through the years. Puppy socialization simply means making your puppy open to and familiar with new experiences. You want to provide stimulation and encounters with experiences that they will probably face as adults. The window of opportunity to make sure your puppy is always a happy and friendly pooch closes around 14 weeks. Pre-Vaccination Lab Puppy Socialization Any veterinarian will tell you that a puppy is all done with their vaccinations after 12 weeks of age. The main point is to keep your puppy away from other dogs who may not yet be vaccinated or the excrement and markings of other animals that could carry data diseases. You can head to an off-leash dog park to allow them to explore and meet other fur friends. You can also take them beyond your backyard to the countryside to enable them to swim or set up obstacle courses and play with them. Another thing that people forget about is spaying or neutering their dogs. Spaying or neutering your dog could help with behavioral issues and can also reduce the onset of certain health conditions. At the same time, spaying or neutering a puppy too early may also lead to health issues. For many people, this is a worthwhile and even enjoyable trade-off. A happy, sociable dog is always the result of consistent training. Training your dog is a significant aspect of their early years. The different stages include: Get it — Using positive reinforcement, trainers will help your dog carry out actions without commands. Teach it — This stage harnesses the progress you made in the previous stages. Your dog now knows the word and the action that goes with it. Proof it — Proofing is where many people get stuck. Your dog will learn to listen and obey commands at this stage even when they are engaged in other things. Maintain it — Consistently using the techniques you learned to keep your dog following the same desirable behavior. All breeds of dogs respond best when you train them. Every labrador retriever relies on their human taking control and showing them how to respond in any situation. You can be sure that if you follow these tips that you will be taking proper care of your new puppy and will be able to make sure that your puppy will live a long and healthy life. Share on.

Why do German Shepherd puppies need the best dog food? German Shepherd puppies need dog food designed for large breed puppies to ensure controlled joint and bone growth. This is because large-breed puppies are prone to certain health risks like hip dysplasia and other Orthopedic conditions. The best dog food for German Shepherds will ensure your puppy grows healthy, strong, energetic, and with lovely skin and coats. Nutritional requirements for German Shepherds puppies German Shepherd puppies require a balanced diet that contains four types of nutrients below. These ingredients will ensure that your pup grows and develops optimally for a longer quality of life. Proteins Proteins help the puppies in building up their body tissues. Proteins can be found in chicken, salmon, beef, lamb, eggs, and dairy. Fats Fats are important for healthy skin, fur, brain, and vision. The recommended fat level per dry matter basis is 8. Fats can be found in fish oil, chicken fat, and beef fat. Digestible carbohydrates Because puppies are incredibly energetic, they need digestible carbs to provide them with energy. Digestible carbohydrates can be found in rice, sweet potatoes, potatoes, and whole oats. Micronutrients In addition to these key nutrients, German Shepherd puppies also need micronutrients like calcium, phosphorus, DHA, and omega-3, and vitamin A. They also need fiber to promote digestion and bowel movement and clean water to help with bodily functions. For large dog breed only: Foods specially formulated for German Shepherd puppies: Veterinarian and pet advisor Dr. Choose a dog food that is specially formulated for German Shepherds puppies or large breed puppies can ensure your pups are getting the nutritional requirements at every stage of their growth. The opposite side is giving your pup the wrong food that may lead to serious growth and digestive problems. Things to consider before choosing dog food for German Shepherds puppies 1. Their growth Puppies may need different nutrients at different stages depending on their growth rate. For instance, a puppy in the weaning stage between three to four weeks will need more antioxidants which are found in foods containing Vitamin C and E. In contrast, a teething puppy will need wet dog food which is easily digestible food on its tummy to minimize intestinal upset. For instance, a younger puppy may have difficulty eating larger food pieces than an older puppy. Teething If your dog is teething, which starts at around three weeks, you may want to consider food that contains calcium like dairy and bone broth for strong and healthy teeth. On the other hand, if the dog has teething problems, wet food may be a better option than dry food until they recover. Alternatively, you add wet canned food to their kibble to make it soft and palatable. The body weight An underweight puppy has different dietary requirements from an overweight puppy. You do not want to underfeed or overfeed your puppy. Activity Level Puppies that are extremely active require foods high in carbohydrates to keep up their energy levels. If your dog is not as active, you want to keep the carbs down to avoid obesity. With all the many dry foods out on the market, it can be hard to choose the healthiest for your pups. Step 1. The Association of American Feed Control Officials developed nutrient profiles to establish minimum and some maximum nutrient concentrations for dogs and cats. These profiles are updated when new findings from research in pet nutrition become available. They provide practical guidance for pet food manufacturers. Adult Maintenance: Dog foods formulated for adult maintenance have the nutrients adult dogs need. Dogs over the age of one are considered adults, except for some large and giant breeds who do not fully mature until age two. You may see variations of these nutrient profiles on dog food packaging. Step 2. Read the food label The label is the most important thing you should check when deciding which puppy food to pick. Here are the 3 things you would like to read on the packaging: a. List of ingredients The list of ingredients should have the main ingredient as the first ingredient then followed by the rest according to their percentage. For instance, in the label below the first five ingredients, are chicken as the main ingredient, ground whole grain corn, chicken by-product meal, ground whole grain sorghum, corn gluten meal and dried plain beet pulp. Feeding guidelines This will show you how much food and how many times you should feed your puppy. Watch this video if you want to better understand the wording on a dog food packaging means: Step 3. Are there any claims of pups reacting to the food? Do the users recommend or warn against the food? Of course, you want to go with what the majority of the reviewers say. You can also check dogadvisor. Step 4. The vet is in a better place to advise on what type of food to go for or what ingredients to avoid. Best dry foods for German Shepherds Puppies There are hundreds of dog foods out there with fancy names and ingredients, which make it so hard for dog owners to find the right food for their pups. To help you narrow down your search, we asked a couple of vets to suggest the best dog food for German Shepherds puppies. Purina Pro Plan — For sensitive skin and allergies Why do we like it? This dog food is ideal for all large breed puppies weighing over 50 pounds, GSD included. It is specially formulated for puppies with sensitive skin and stomachs. It is made with real chicken, among other high-quality ingredients. This dry food has optimal calcium levels to promote proper joint and bone growth. It helps prevent forms of hip dysplasia. Ideal for German Shepherd puppies of all ages. Delicious dry food for large breed puppies like GSD. It is specially formulated for superior vision and healthy brain development. This is an all-natural dog food specially made for large-breed puppies of all ages. It is made with real, wholesome ingredients. Making the right food choice will ensure that your puppy grows healthier, stronger, and more energetic. Weaning for a GSD puppy should start at around 6 to 8 weeks while still maintaining nursing. Complete weaning should be from 8 weeks when the puppy is fed on puppy food only. How is puppy food different from adult dog food? Puppy food contains more protein and fats, and certain minerals than adult dog food to support their growing brain, vision, nervous system, immune system, bones, and joints. When should German Shepherd puppies transition to adult dog food? German Shepherd puppies should transition to adult dog food from 12 to 24 months. The transition should be gradual, and the puppy should be constantly monitored. More posts on feeding your German Shepherds Must read:. It also tends to be high in protein. Food that is high in protein and calories will provide your puppy with the energy that they need and help them gain the right amount of weight as they grow up. Most puppy food also includes vitamin and mineral supplements, such as calcium and phosphorus, for healthy and strong bones and teeth. You should speak to your vet to ensure that you have the right food and are feeding your puppy the proper amount. We hope that these reviews have helped you decide on the right food for your German Shepherd puppy. Remember to stick with large-breed food because it usually has the correct ratio of vitamins and minerals to give your GSD puppy all the suitable nutrition that they need so they can grow up strong, healthy, and happy. Featured Image Credit: Victoria Antonova, Shutterstock Written by Kathryn Copeland Author Kathryn was a librarian in a previous lifetime and is currently a writer about all things pets. When she was a child, she hoped to work in zoos or with wildlife in some way, thanks to her all-consuming love for animals. Unfortunately, she's not strong in the sciences, so she fills her days with researching and writing about all kinds of animals and spends time playing with her adorable but terribly naughty tabby cat, Bella. Kathryn is hoping to add to her family in the near future — maybe another cat and a dog.Read more Advertisement.

If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn More Planning to adopt a Labradoodle in Colorado? Adopting Labradoodles In Colorado Loving, playful, and affectionate — these words probably describe Labradoodles the best. All of the breeders in this guide uphold the highest breeding standards. Including thoroughly health testing their parents and providing the pups a safe and loving environment to spend their very first months in this world before going to their forever homes. Where can you find good Labradoodle breeders in Colorado? Or worse, adopt your Dood from a puppy mill. This helps reduce the risk of puppies inheriting any genetic conditions and also gives you a greater sense of security. Likewise, we recommend you opt for breeders who offer at least a two-year health guarantee for genetic conditions that the parent dogs have been tested for. Additionally, some amazing breeders are also recommended by Gooddog. In addition to that, if you know anyone who has a Labradoodle in your area, you can always ask them about their own personal experience with certain breeders. We also recommend you keep an eye on the Horrible Hundred lists by the Humane Society, which reports problematic breeders and puppy mills. All of their dogs are raised and cared for in their family home or with their loving guardian families. In fact, their whole family is taking part in raising the pups, including their grown children, grandchildren, siblings, in-laws, and cousins. GorgeousDoodles specializes in breeding all sizes of Doods — they have larger Standard, and also Medium and Mini Labradoodles in Colorado. Not only do they only breed new litters from thoroughly health tested dogs, they also utilize various enrichment programs, such as sound stimulation, behavioral shaping, socialization, early potty training, and crate training. What Makes This Breeder Unique? MileHigh Doodles MileHigh Doodles are another small home-based breeder devoted to raising the best multi-generational Australian Labradoodles. The breeders adore their pups, show lots of affection to them, and raise the puppies from their homes. Their families and guardian families and make sure not to put the dogs in kennels. The puppies are well-groomed and are very kind and loving. They use puppy culture to raise their puppies. They have the best tips to offer for the development and character of the puppies. So, be sure to check them out. They raise premium and high-quality pups and are licensed by the Colorado state. All varieties of Labradoodle breeds are grown, and they come in various sizes. They even have retired older dogs up for adoption. The pups are taught and trained correctly from the start. The health and temperament of the puppies are tested, and the puppies are determined to be non-shedding, well-behaved ones. Also, the puppies are non-allergic and are not asthmatic. These breeders have the best advice for raising your dogs. So, make sure to check out their page for some insightful tips. The 6 best Labradoodle breeders in Colorado run successful operations. They take care of the Labradoodles amazingly and guide you on their care. Of course, before approaching them, you need to decide that you want to adopt a Labradoodle. Here are some tidbits that will make you want a Labradoodle. Easy To Groom Labradoodles do not shed much. These dogs are close to hypoallergenic, with much less fur compared to other breeds. It becomes easy to protect your furniture and ensure your allergies do not act up. Your Labradoodle puppies in Colorado require brushing and occasional trims. Sociable Labradoodles are fun-loving, loyal, and amicable creatures. They are incredibly affectionate, friendly, and adore people, and are also fantastic with children. Note that this makes them poor watchdogs. When you adopt Labradoodle puppies from the 6 best Labradoodle breeders in Colorado, you are guaranteed a loving, fun, intelligent, and easy-going furry companion. Exercise Your Labradoodles love to exercise. They are born to swim and will keep you active always. You will not need any other exercise app or Fitbit if you have a Labradoodle. They require plenty of walks. Labradoodles love to run and play about. If your Labradoodle puppies in Colorado do not get enough exercise, they can prove destructive due to boredom. Labradoodles need companionship and constant simulation. Their favorite activities include playing games, sightseeing, and pouring love on you. If you are a busy person, ensure you hire a trusted dog walker to care for your sweet companion. Both are extremely intelligent and enthusiastic. So, there is no doubt that your Labradoodle, too, is intellectual, brainy, and active. Labradoodle puppies in Colorado are highly eager learners. Training them is easy and keeps their mischievous side in check. Therapy Dogs Being the social animals they are, Labradoodles make for excellent therapy dogs. They are affectionate and shower you with love. If you deal with anxiety, depression, autism, physical disability, or any other issue, Labradoodles are your ideal mates. Hybrid designers originally designed Labradoodles to guide blind people. Endnotes Labradoodle puppies in Colorado make for adorable pets. They are excellent family dogs who are sweet and loving. These pups are therapeutic to people and are loved by everyone. However, searching for the best reliable breeders can be confusing. Hence, to make things easier for you, we have enlisted the 6 best Labradoodle breeders in Colorado who are verified and authentic. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. Learn more Grace Poodles, in Fountain, Colorado, specializes in Labradoodles, like many on this list. Their homepage has plenty of information and videos to help new owners. They do not accept applications for puppies until they are at least four weeks old. Grace Poodles is proud that many of their dogs have been service dogs, companion puppies, family guard dogs, and snuggle buddies. They also claim that their dogs are better for those with allergies, as no dog is hypoallergenic, but their dogs will cause less of a reaction than other breeds. FAQ Are Labradoodles good beginner dogs? Labradoodles can be an excellent choice for beginner dog owners! Labradoodles can adapt to different living situations and get along well with children and other pets. How much should I pay for a Labradoodle? The cost of a Labradoodle varies depending on the breeder, the size, and the pedigree of the puppy. What is the downside to a Labradoodle? Labradoodles require regular grooming, as their coat can tangle easily and become matted. They are also prone to various health issues, including hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and eye conditions. In addition, they can be prone to separation anxiety, so they need plenty of attention and companionship. Are Labradoodles expensive to own? No, Labradoodles are not expensive to own. Although the initial cost of purchasing a Labradoodle from a breeder is often higher than other dog breeds, the ongoing costs of caring for the dog are fairly low. Labradoodles require regular grooming, but otherwise, their feeding and medical costs are like those for other breeds. Here are a few tips for identifying a good breeder: Look for breeders who are knowledgeable and passionate about their dogs. They should be able to answer your questions and tell you about the breed, its history, and its health concerns. Usually, they will also provide you with a health guarantee and what health checks have been done. Ask to see the dogs and puppies. A reputable breeder will be happy to show you their puppies and their living environment. You should be able to see the puppies in a clean and comfortable environment with plenty of toys and activities. Ensure that the puppies are being socialized. Good breeders will introduce the puppies to different people, animals, and environments at a young age. Check for references. Breeders should always be happy to provide references from other customers and may even have photos or videos of puppies that have gone to previous homes. The process will begin by screening your application to ensure the pup is a good fit for your family. Next, the breeder will contact you to discuss the next steps. Most times, the breeder will require you to submit a nonrefundable deposit, which will apply to the last payment. Once the pup is ready to go home, the breeder will provide you with all the supplies and information. When I was first looking at Mastiffs for a dog, I was curious about this, too. It took from the litter being confirmed to where he came home with us at 12 weeks. The process took months, but it was worth it in the end. Puppy Mill Red Flags Puppy mills are facilities that focus on producing as many puppies as possible with little regard for the welfare of their dogs. Their purpose is solely to get as many dogs bred as possible to make money. These mills have very unhealthy animals and poor conditions. The following are red flags that show you are dealing with a breeder mill: They keep the puppies in overcrowded, unclean, or unhealthy conditions. The breeder does not provide information about the breed or its history. The breeder does not allow you to view the puppies or their living environment. They are unwilling to provide references from previous customers. The breeder is not willing to answer any questions or offer any additional information. You must know not all breeders are bad, but you must research before committing to any breeder. Take the time to ask questions, visit the facility, and review its policies. This will ensure you get a healthy and well-socialized puppy from a reputable breeder. Here are some tips: Create a comfortable and safe environment in your home for your pup. I found the best way to do this was to use tools to keep cords together, like cable management tools. Establish a routine. Dogs thrive on routines; mine do! Start training as soon as possible. Socialize your pup. Socialization is integral to puppyhood and will help your pup adjust to new people, animals, and environments. Visit the vet regularly. Regular visits to the vet will help ensure your pup is healthy and up-to-date on all vaccinations. Feed the right food. Consult with your vet to find out what type of food and how much your pup needs. Keep their teeth clean. Dogs need to have their teeth brushed regularly and annual dental cleanings just like we do. Provide plenty of toys and activities. These will help keep your pup entertained and help prevent destructive behavior. Following these tips will help ensure your puppy grows into a healthy and happy adult dog. You should ensure the breeder is transparent about any health issues the puppy may have. Once you bring your puppy home, provide them with a comfortable and safe environment, establish a routine, start training, and socialize them. Do you have a labradoodle at home? How did you go about getting your pup? Let us know in the comments below! Meet our writer Jen Clifford is an animal behaviorist and veterinary technician with more than a decade of hands-on experience working in small animal and specialty veterinary clinics. Leave a Comment. Current Available Puppies! Hello and thank you for visiting our site! We love our Australian Labradoodles!!! It is a privilege for us to raise these amazing puppies for you to add to your life as your best friend. We like to think of our business as a way of fulfilling your dream of a non-shedding companion that will experience life with you. Only the best Australian labradoodles we can find are a part of our Hilltop Labradoodles breeding program. We strive to advance the breed by health testing all of our parent dogs to allow our Hilltop Labradoodles Families a chance to experience these amazing dogs in their own lives. We live and raise our dogs in Northern Colorado but have placed and deliver our dogs throughout the United States. Enjoy looking through our site and viewing our fabulous dogs! Trained Christmas Puppies Life in my small piece of the world is on the edge of the great plains in Northern Colorado where the grass ripples across the land like waves in the ocean. I have been blessed with a man that is nothing short of the hardest working beau you've ever met and five ingenious children. Our animals have as much personality as the people in our family do. We spend a lot of days laughing, caring well for what we have stewardship over, and enjoying the gifts we have been given. I love beautiful things designed by God. I cherish peaceful, quiet mornings when the air is crisp and you can see life in your own breath. Anything family is a joy with the many diverse gifts we share with each other. I claim to be a good cook only when I follow the creative young soul from Half Baked Harvest, otherwise coffee with a little cream will do. Oh… and Fabulous is my favorite word. We are a small home-based breeder of Puppy Culture raised Australian labradoodles in Southern Colorado. We breed medium and standard-sized Australian labradoodles. We only breed for the enjoyment of the puppies and to further promote labradoodles that are of excellent health, conformation, and temperament. Our Australian labradoodles are bred with responsibility and integrity. Our goal is to place these special dogs into homes where they will be loved and cherished companions. We stand by you, and offer continuous lifetime support. We do this because we love dogs, and the Labradoodle breed. Labradoodles are known for their intelligence, level-headedness, affection, sociability and cheerful disposition. They are loyal, friendly, eager to please, even-tempered, gentle and kind. This combination of traits makes them outstanding service and therapy dogs, as well as terrific family companions. We produce exceptional labradoodles because each litter is carefully planned. We keep two vital factors in mind as we make our selection: temperament and health. Each puppy born in our home is handled daily. Colorado Mountain Labradoodles utilize early neurological stimulation, as well as the puppy culture method which represents a gold standard in puppy rearing and early socialization. We also use both the Empowered Breeder, and Avidog Evaluation Test to evaluate the temperament of each puppy. A lot of doodle breeders are now claiming they raise their puppies using the Puppy Culture. There are lots of reinforcement based breeders out there who are doing a magnificent job but have never seen Puppy Culture, or followed the whole protocol. Make sure the breeder provides videos, and other information on their weekly updates. We follow Puppy Culture thoroughly, and by the time our puppies are 8 weeks old, they have been started on the commands: sit, down, watch me and go to your place. They have been conditioned with the clicker, and are excited to be trained. Our Australian labradoodles are highly intelligent and are simple to train. They quickly learn standard obedience commands, such as sit, down, come and stay. They thrive on being mentally and physically engaged. They love playing and interacting with people and other dogs, especially in games involving chase, fetch or hide-and-seek. Families also find that our labradoodles enjoy participating in competitive canine activities, such as tricks, agility and obedience. As with almost any breed, their socialization and training should start at an early age and continue throughout their life. They share a love of water with their field Labrador and Poodle ancestors and often will enter water without prompting. All of our puppies receive love and care from everyone in the family. By the time they are ready to go home with you, they will be used to children and other dogs, and ready to go home to be a loving member of your family. Our dogs are treated as family, and are included in our daily routines.

That means they can have an unpredictable mix of traits from each parent — and even two puppies in a litter might be different from one another. The Golden Retriever is a medium-sized dog first bred in Scotland in the s. They were bred to work alongside their humans as a water retriever. It has a beautiful, long golden coat, which is where it gets its name. Males are about 24 inches at the shoulder, while females are a bit smaller at 22 inches. Males are proportionally heavier than females, weighing about pounds. Females weigh pounds. They have soft, drop ears, dark eyes, and a well-balanced body with a deep chest. Goldens are trustworthy, smart, friendly, and eager-to-please their people. Pitbull terriers, technically known as American Staffordshire Terriers according to the AKC, is a smaller dog than the golden. They reach inches at the shoulder for males and inches for females. Males weigh anywhere from pounds, and females weigh anywhere from pounds. A smiling Pitbull dog These dogs were bred in England out of bulldogs in Great Britain in the 18th and 19th centuries. They were popularized in the U. Pitbulls have short hair that comes in a variety of colors, including black, blue, fawn, bronze, liver, red, seal, white, brindle or a mix of these colors. They have naturally floppy ears, though many breeders crop them in the U. They have a characteristically wide head and mouth A well-bred pittie lovable, highly-trainable, courageous, alert, agile, and graceful. The puppies from these two dogs can have a range of these characteristics. Wondering what this unique pup looks like? They can be any color that a Golden or Pitbull comes in, or any combination — including a mix of three colors! The coat can be long, medium or short, wavy, straight and can even have curls. It can help to head to Instagram and look for pictures of Golden Retriever Pitbull mixes to see what you could be in for if you decide to bring one home. Full-grown, these dogs are about 18 to 24 inches 46 to 61 cm at the shoulder and 30 to 75 pounds 14 to 34 kg. It can help to look at the parents of the puppy to get an idea about size and potential color, but even then, you can never be sure. Get the know the personality of this friendly mix Just as these dogs can vary in appearance, a Golden Retriever Pitbull mix can have a varied personality, as well. In general, this is a loyal, devoted, and family friendly dog who is happy watching and playing with the kids. Some are wary of strangers, but most are super friendly and social. Imagine how a Golden approaches the world ready to meet and mingle. Golden Retriever Pitbull mixes are usually similar. This can lead to digging, chewing, barking. The best way to do this is to leave calmly and give them a treat before you head out. This teaches them that leaving is a good thing. Be careful not to establish bad habits like begging unintentionally. Golden Retriever Pitbull mix have high energy and love to go hiking, walking, running, and swimming. This video shows a 5 month old having some playtime with their human. While they love their people, they can be independent. They may decide to ignore you and do what they want — so long as they can keep an eye on you. You need to keep them mentally stimulated, or watch out! They are aware of their surroundings at all times and will keep an eye out for intruders. That said, their personalities can be unpredictable and may have aggression issues. Especially if you get one from an irresponsible breeder who is just looking to make a buck. They have a high prey drive, so be careful if you plan to have them around cats, gerbils, or birds. That said, they do make good hunters and the squirrels in your neighborhood will need to keep an eye out. How to care for your Golden retriever pitbull mix Grooming will largely depend on the type of coat that your dog inherits. Long haired and double-coated dogs require more grooming than short or medium, or single coated dogs. The first should be brushed daily, while you can wait every days for shorter or medium, or single-coated dogs. That is, unless they get dirty. Use a dog-specific shampoo to prevent irritating their skin. Trim their nails every few weeks using a clipper or grinder. Be careful not to cut the quick. Brush their teeth every few days using a doggie-specific toothpaste and either a piece of gauze wrapped around your finger or a dog toothbrush. Clean their ears whenever you bathe them using an ear cleaning solution. This is especially true if your dog has Golden-like drop ears. TGolden Retriever Pitbull mixes need about 1, calories a day divided between two meals. Look for a high-quality kibble with meat as the first ingredient. Puppies should eat a large breed puppy food four times a day. The trick with making sure your dog has all the best traits and not the bad ones is training. This includes early socialization when your pup is young. Just keep it all positive. This means introducing them to new people and animals, and giving them treats or praise when they behave well. Repeat this with different noises, smells, and situations, like walking over a metal grate or being around an umbrella opening. You need to teach them to respect your space, your furniture, and your authority. Praise them when they behave well. You should also teach them to accept it when you leave to avoid separation anxiety, as we discussed above. Positive reinforcement starting right when they come to your home for the first time is key. This can include playing fetch, running, hiking, swimming, or anything else that they like to do. You can also mix in some mental stimulation in the form of puzzle games or treat toys like Kong stuffing treats. Is a pitbull golden retriever mix healthy? They have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. Watch out for: Hip dysplasia. Temperament: Rambunctious, devoted and sociable. Golden Retriever Pitbull Mix Appearance There is no official standard for this hard to find hybrid, but its accepted that the breed should embody the positive traits of both parents. These dogs can come out looking like either one of the parent breeds, or a perfect mix of both. Their appearance is variable and will depend on gene expression. They should be large and well-built dogs that stand up to 24 inches tall. You will find they can be thin and lean or have a wider, more muscular build. Lab Pitbull mixes can come out with any possible combination of these appearances, but careful selective breeding can create a more predictable appearance. Height and Weight Males stand anywhere between inches tall with females standing inches tall. You can expect them to weigh anywhere between pounds. Coat and Colors This is certainly a dog of many colors. They can be the solid gold colors of a Golden Retriever, or a mix of darker colors against a white base. Your mix may be a solid, bi colored or even tri colored. This breed can be single or double coated, with fur of just about any length. A short coat is typically thin and fine furred, while a long coat may be shaggy or wavy. Some may even have an attractive curl to them. Short to medium coated dogs will shed mildly and only need brushing once or twice a week. Long coated dogs are frequent shedders with daily brushing and grooming requirements. The breed is not currently recognized by any organization, and there are no breed clubs or rescues. The Golden Retriever has history as a hunting partner used to retrieve waterfowl. This breed has no true name, but they are sometimes referred to as Retriever Pits. This name also applies to the more common Labrador Pitbull mix. Their unpredictability can make them difficult to train and to manage. One thing you can be certain about is their fun loving and active nature. A mix of a sporting dog and a terrier is a recipe for boundless energy. Their energy must be let out in bursts through the day. Your dog will certainly let you know when they need something to do. Pitbull Lab mixes social butterflies have an inborn desire to make new friends. They cannot tolerate boredom and hate to be by themselves. If you expect them to keep themselves entertained, they will do so by trashing your house. A high prey drive means that it will take some time for them to get along with your other pets. It is nearly impossible to pinpoint which specific behaviors your pup will inherit. But no matter what, you can expect them to be a loyal devoted friend to you and your family. This breed comes from two excellent family dogs, making it one of the best dogs for a family. They are known for extreme loyalty to their families, who they will view as their pack. Caring for a Golden Retriever Pitbull Mix Exercise Requirements Any dog in the sporting group needs more exercise than your average pooch. Taking your dog for long walks and runs will help both you and your dog stay fit. Golden Retriever Pitbull mixes need at least an hour of exercise every day. The best way to do this is to take them out for a 30 minute walk around the neighborhood and dedicate the rest of the time to play. They also love to jump, and will catch a Frisbee or a ball right out of the air. You can tune in to their wild sides by giving them toys to hunt. This is the perfect pooch for taking along with you on your own daily activities. They make excellent hiking partners and will enjoy a trip out into nature just as much as you will. Number of Walks Per Day: 1. Grooming and Shedding If you have a short coated dog, grooming will be much less intensive than it would be for a mix with a longer coat. Short and medium coated dogs need brushing once or twice a week. Long coated dogs will need brushing every day, and may need special brushes and combs for shed control. Do not be tempted to run to the bathtub every time your pooch gets a little dirty. You can give your dog a full bath every 3 months, but daily dirt and grime should be wiped away. Feeding and Diet These large active dogs need plenty of healthy food to fuel their daily work and play. This breed benefits from including raw foods in their diet. Even if you feed them kibble, you should find ways to add raw meat to the menu. You can replace one of their cups of kibble with some cuts of raw pork or poultry. Muscular breeds like this will need more protein than others. Fruits and vegetables make a great healthy treat for your dog. These are packed full of vitamins and minerals, but should only be given every once in a while. Hip dysplasia is very common for all large dog breeds. This is a malformation of the hip joints that causes pain and eventual arthritis. Having pet insurance could save you from potential headaches of going to the vets with reimbursement for every vet bill from now on! You should expect your Golden Retriever Pitbull mix to live for 10 to 15 years. This is a very little known breed with no official organization, so finding a breeder will be very difficult. However you will still need to focus on the four key areas: obedience, housebreaking, socialization and behavior. You will need to start tackling each one of these as soon as you bring your pup home. One of the first steps is to create a safe space for your dog to relax in while you are away. This is done through crate training. The crate will become your dogs den in the house, where they can feel safe and secure while they wait for you to come back home. When dealing with a bully breed, many assume that physical punishment should be used when training them. They could not be any more wrong. In reality the use of harsh correction and physical discipline will create aggression rather than eliminate it. Instead take advantage of your Golden Retriever Pitbull mixes loyalty. They will do anything to make you happy, so let them know how proud of them you are. If they misbehave just ignore it and they will catch on very fast. As a result of their size, they need to be on an excellent regular diet and fitness activities. The retriever and Pit Retriever has the potential of gaining weight without you noticing, and it can produce health complications. Keeping your Golden Retriever Pitbull at its ideal weight is easy, and you need to remember the following: Dedicate an active exercise regimen for them Give them plenty of walks Give them playtime to keep them engaged and fit There are many possibilities with what your Golden Retriever Pitbull might end up looking like, but you can expect that the build of your pup will take on the retriever, and the head from the Pit Bull. The Pitbull Retriever has a beautiful and unique coat, especially if the Pit Bull has a darker shade like black. There may be some instance when your pup can have a long black shaggy coat. If your Retriever and Pitbull takes on a long shaggy coat, then you need to be ready with giving them regular brushing and expect excessive shedding. You have nothing to worry about the temperament of Pitbull and Retriever Mix because they are generally well natured and friendly creatures. There may be several instances when the breed exhibits a rather odd trait, but this can all be corrected at a young age through the following: Train them at a young age; Give them exposure with other people and animals; Reward them for their excellent behavior. Do a bit of research to find out where your pups came from and whether they were successfully bred. You want to make sure that both the parents of the puppy are healthy. Doing your homework can help you avoid the following complications: Health complications. Development of negative personality traits. Shorter than average lifespan. Ask for documents to know the fitness of your puppies. A good and reliable breeder always have documents to show you the competence of the parents of the pups, as well as their health records. You can check whether they are updated with their vaccines and health records, and know what pre-existing conditions they might have. Most importantly, you want a breeder who already gave your pups some preventive vaccines. Crossbreeds can get very expensive, depending on the situation and where you get them. In most cases, the price is an excellent factor in determining the history of your pups. Here are some possible implications: Being charged a higher rate is average for the circumstance where the puppy shows a particular or rare trait. This can include different colors for the coat or eyes. Low charges can sometimes mean that the puppies were overbred, and overbreeding can often cause unhealthy litters. If your puppy takes after the coat of the Pitbull, a short, manageable coat, your job is relatively easy. Get their nails regularly trimmed, mainly because they are hyper dogs. Brush them regularly to eliminate loose furs. If your pup takes on the coat of golden retrievers, longer shaggy goats, then you need to give their grooming more attention. At times their grooming can be challenging especially because of their long shaggy coats. Be mindful, however, not to over bathe them since it might cause their skin to be dry. Your dog looks beautiful at all times. Regular brushing is an excellent place to start. All dogs have the propensity of developing genetic health problems, and some breeds are more prone than others. The Golden Retriever-Pitbull mix has an average life expectancy of 10 to 15 years, depending on their health. The combination is also likely to the following health problems: bloat, hip dysplasia, heart diseases, and cancer. Bloat is a medical emergency which is life-threatening to dogs. Bloat is among the leading cause of deaths for many large and giant dogs, which is why you need to watch out for the following symptoms: Swollen hard belly; Drooling; Signs of distress, pain and restless. Some of the symptoms of hip dysplasia include: Reduce activity and inability to jump and run properly. Having a hard time walking and exhibiting signs of pain. Although the Pitbull Golden Retriever mix is a large breed, you need to regulate their diet. Unlike the worst dry dog food, the best dry dog food contains all the nutrients dogs need. Avoid processed foods and choose ingredients rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, such as Wellness Core Dog Food or Dog For Dog Food. Adding food boosters such as Nutra Thrive dog food supplement can also be convenient. Unlike humans, dogs are better off with eating raw meat than cooked ones. Mind their size. Petite pooches have different dietary needs when compared to their larger cousins. Choose wisely between the best dry dog food for small dogs and the best large breed dry dog food according to the size of the pooch. Keep in mind their age. Age dictates the amount of needed nutrients, and best puppy food brands are not appropriate for older dogs, just as whelps will not make the most of the best senior dry dog food. Golden Retriever Pitbull Exercise Requirements Retriever Pitbull are highly energetic dogs, and they need a lot of exercises and to be with a playmate. A dog such as this retriever mix is excellent for someone who lives an active lifestyle, and who enjoys long walks, hikes, and the like. Take them on runs or when you want to exercise. Since Golden Pitbull is independent, training them can be hard because they can become stubborn. Let them know that you are in control and that they should respect your authority. A definite and firm hand lets them know of their place. Give your dogs some positive reinforcement especially when they do your commands right. Praising them for their excellent behavior helps encourage them to do your commandments. Pitbull Golden Retriever Mix and Families There are a lot of reasons to fall in love with Pit Bull retriever, and they are perfect for every family. The breed may not be so familiar, but keeping one as a family dog is worth it. They are sweeter, friendlier than most dogs, considering how both parent dogs exhibit great personality traits. The breed is perfect for families who can give the right time and attention in training and caring. Taking care of the kind requires a lot of love and attention from the family. The video was shared on TikTok earlier in March by the dog's owner, under the username Kopperkinodaily. In it, the fluffy dog, named Kopper, can be seen enjoying his owner's cuddles and giving her his paw as he winks at her. The viral post came with a caption that read: "What a half pitbull half golden retriever looks like. A crossbreed dog who is half a golden retriever and half a pit bull has melted hearts all over the internet. Veronica Garibey According to Alpha Paw, golden retriever-pit bull mix-breeds make great family dogs, and are undoubtedly friendly. The website states: "If you want a dog who can be your forever companion, this is for you. Golden retrievers are known for being one of the gentlest and softest dogs around, especially around children. They get along with anyone and are very patient. Pit bulls also share the same personality trait as retrievers, and they are very gentle and sweet dogs especially if you give them [the] right training. Christine Barton, veterinarian at The Vets, told Newsweek that mixing dog breeds can have potential complications in many ways, especially anatomy e. She said: "This can also include congenital, as well as genetic, disorders. These two breeds in particular are known for having sensitive skin and joint issues. Pit bulls are more likely to have cancers such as mast cell tumors than retrievers, who are more likely to have lymphoma. She said: "My neighbor had a blue female pit bull and a neighborhood stray that resembled a reddish-golden retriever got her pregnant. I got him entirely for free! All the pups were mutts but he was the only one that came out fluffy. His absolute favorite game ever is fetch with the tennis ball. He is all retriever when it comes to the tennis ball," she said. The video quickly went viral, attracting animal lovers from across the platform. It has so far received over 4. Photo: Instagram Like most designer dogs, the Golden Retriever Pitbull will borrow part of its physical appearance from each of its parent breeds. It will likely inherit the golden coat color of the Retriever, but the white markings that are traditional of Pitbull Terriers. Expect a muscular, lean body with short hair that will shed lightly year-round. Like the Golden, your Golden Retriever Pitbull may also have floppy ears, but these will be triangular. You can expect your Golden Retriever Pitbull to be about inches tall and weigh between 50 and 75 pounds. Are you looking for a way to treat your furry friend? Sign up for our newsletter for a chance to win a free month of Barkbox! Subscribe By subscribing, you agree to get emails from myk9life. We'll respect your privacy and you can unsubscribe any time. The History of the Pitbull Golden Retriever Mix The Pitbull Golden Retriever mix was likely created during the s or early s, as mixed-breed enthusiasts sought to create a combination between the guarded, protective Pitbull Terrier and the ever-loyal, loving and physically beautiful Golden Retriever. Fortunately, plenty of history exists about the parent breeds of the Golden Pit, so we can glean information about the Pitbull Golden Retriever from each parent breed. The result was a competent hunting dog for retrieving small game such as ducks, foxes, and more. A far cry from their beloved family pet status of today, Golden Retrievers historically had a high prey drive and was used as a war messenger dog, along with other roles such as K9 sniffer dogs for police operations and more. Golden Retrievers have also been used as therapy dogs and emotional support dogs, renowned for their friendliness and affectionate nature. Goldens are also incredibly popular farm dogs and have been used for herding cattle in their past. Goldens arrived in the United States in the s and were recognized by the American Kennel Club in .Having already extreme popularity in the United Kingdom and Western Europe, their evolution to equal popularity in the United States seemed natural. The even-tempered, friendly, loving and loyal nature of the Golden Retriever makes them perfect for almost anyone! Unfortunately, their size and strength make them an ill-fit for the elderly and those living in apartments. The Golden Retriever was bred by Sir Dudley Marjoribanks, a Scottish baron and kennel keeper in the late 19th century. Combining the Tweed Water Spaniel, the Newfoundland dog, Red Setters, Bloodhounds and the flat-coated Retriever, Marjoribanks was able to create the beloved golden coat, happy-go-lucky companion pet that so many around the world know and love today. For this reason, it has also become an increasingly popular parent dog for crossbreeding. Some popular Golden Retriever mixes include:. Being a large and active breed, your doggo will need around 1, calories per day divided into two meals. Keep in mind that this is just a general estimate! Your dog may need more or less food depending on their age, activity levels, and any health problems. Golden retriever pit bull puppies should have four small, evenly spaced meals a day and eat high-quality puppy food designed for large breed dogs. After the first month or so, you can slowly transition your puppy to the formula of your choice. Long-haired golden pits, on the other hand, shed profusely and have to be brushed every day. The frequency of bathing will depend on how dirty and active your dog is. For most pups, once every three months will do the trick and help keep your mix looking and smelling great. However, you can always bathe your dog more often if they get extremely dirty or smelly from playing in the backyard or on outings. This grooming regimen should involve regular nail trimming, teeth brushing , and ear cleaning. To get your mix on board with their new grooming routine , start doing everything while they are still a puppy. The golden retriever pit bull mix is a wonderful dog that is deeply devoted to its owners and is fond of children. Friendly and loyal by nature, these dogs get along with other pets and people and tend to greet everyone with a wagging tail. While some golden pits may be wary of strangers, early socialization can help these pups to become friendlier and more accepting of new people. How much is a golden retriever pit bull mix? How big do pit bull retrievers get? The golden retriever pit bull mix is generally a large breed, but since there are no set breed standards, some dogs may be smaller. Male dogs are usually between 18 and 24 inches tall at the withers, while females are typically around 17 to 22 inches tall. Golden pit bulls usually weigh from 50 to 75 pounds, with males often being heavier than female dogs. Are pit bull golden retriever mix dogs aggressive? When properly socialized and trained from a young age, these dogs are no more dangerous than any other properly raised dog. Although pit bull mixes and bully breeds are often deemed as aggressive, golden retriever pit bulls are friendly, loyal, mild-mannered, and intelligent. Do pit bull golden retriever mixes shed? If you have a long-haired golden pit, invest in a de-shedding brush and a sturdy slicker brush that can go deep in the coat and remove as much loose hair as possible. Conclusion The golden retriever pit bull mix is still not as popular as other retriever mixes, but it is bound to attract the attention of dog lovers thanks to its loyal and friendly nature. Besides being extremely gentle with children and an ideal family dog, this mix is very easy to train and a great option for first-time owners. Do you own a pit bull golden retriever mix? What do you like most about your dog? Share your experience owning this mixed-breed with us and our readers in the comment section below! You May Also Like. The Golden Retriever Pitbull mix is a family-oriented, intelligent and loyal pup. They can have a personality that combines any or all aspects of the parent breeds. Golden Retrievers are known for being social happy-go-lucky dogs and this trait is definitely passed onto their pups. These mixes are extroverts and love to socialize, but at the end of the day they are most loyal to their family. Their loyal and protective nature can make them good candidates for family dogs as they are also patient and tolerant of small children. They are curious dogs who form strong bonds. This means that they can also struggle with separation anxiety if they are not properly trained to being left alone. Crate training from an early age can help with this problem. They do not like being left alone for long periods of time and would be best suited with an owner who wants a furry side-kick for their many adventures in life. If these dogs are left alone too long or not given enough exercise, they can resort to destructive behavior. Chewing, digging or barking can become problems with this mix. Puzzle toys and games can keep your pups mind busy so they do not get bored throughout the day. Exercise This hybrid is most known for being a friendly family dog, but they also have the characteristics of a focused sporting dog. Sporting characteristics from the Golden Retriever and terrier-like qualities from the Pitbull means this mix has a strong prey drive and the need for a job. They are intelligent and fast learners who are quick to pick-up commands and eager to please their owners. Ideally, they should have at least one hour of exercise per day. They enjoy going to the dog park, long walks and short training sessions to keep their brains busy. Like most dogs, this mix likes routine and creating an exercise routine will help keep them out of trouble. They are best suited for families who have a fenced-in-yard which allows them to stretch their legs and get the zoomies out. Both Golden Retrievers and Pitbulls have lots of energy. Therefore it is no surprise that the mix between the two of them is just as energetic. Are They Healthy? The typical lifespan of a Golden Retriever Pitbull mix is between 10 to 15 years. This is similar to both of their purebred parents. Mixes are generally healthy dogs , but they are prone to some of the same health problems as their parents. Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia are common in large breed dogs and could affect this mix. Obesity is common in both Pitbulls and Golden Retrievers and should be monitored in your pup. Obesity can lead to many other health issues such as hyperthyroidism and heart disease. Both parents can also be affected by a congenital heart disease called Aortic Stenosis. Tumors are common for Golden Retrievers to develop. Many times these tumors are cosmetic, but they can also be cancerous. Pitbulls are relatively healthy, but they often suffer from skin allergies and irritation. These problems can be chronic and hard to manage. Many of the health problems of this mix are genetic. Therefore, buying from a breeder who has screened their dogs for these health problems before breeding is important to ensure your pup will be healthy. The parents should be tested for hip and elbow dysplasia, heart disease, and eye conditions prior to breeding. Keeping a close eye on your pup and making sure they are as healthy as can be can reduce the risk for many of these health problems. Pitbull and Golden Retriever Mix Puppies If you want to buy this dog you will have to find a specialty breeder which can be difficult and expensive. All puppies are adorable, especially Golden Retriever Pitbull puppies. Their oversized paws and smushy faces will make you want to squeeze them. These happy, smiley dogs will brighten your day and keep you entertained for hours with puppy shenanigans. As a pup your dog will require lots of time and attention. Training should start at an early age to prevent unwanted behaviors such as chewing, destruction, and separation anxiety. Some owners may want to take their new companion to a puppy class for structured training. Providing structured training as well as socialization at a young age is a must for this breed. Most puppies begin to show their personality traits in adolescence, beginning around six months of age. It can be hard to predict what their personality will be like. Some pups are loyal, others are a social butterfly. The personality is unique to each pup, which means it may take some time to understand them as they grow into their big personalities. Price Golden Retriever Pitbull puppies are difficult to find from reputable breeders. Even when you do find a breeder, they are very expensive. They are on the upper end of the price range when compared to Golden Retrievers and a lot more than a Pitbull. There are only a few breeders who specialize in this mix and potential owners should be aware of the risks of buying from puppy mills and unethical breeders. Unfortunately this mix can sometimes end up in shelters due to behavioral problems. Adoption is always an option for potential owners as long as they are willing to find the right match. Shelter dogs are a great way to provide a home for pets in need. It is important for potential owners to be aware of the time and attention they will need to dedicate to their furry friend. This mix requires lots of exercise and attention from their owners. If you want a couch potato, the Golden Retriever Pitbull mix is definitely not for you! A Pocket Bully , English Bulldog or Pug might be better suited for owners who just want a cute cuddle-buddy. The Golden Retriever Pitbull mix is an athletic and enthusiastic pup who will demand physical activity. These dogs have strong and athletic bodies which are well-suited for long walks, hikes or runs with their owners. High prey-drive is often inherited from their parents. American Pitbull Terriers are known for their terrier-like qualities of chasing small prey. This dog might not be the best pet for a household with small pets which could become injured if chased or caught. Their wariness of strangers also comes from the Pitbull. This wariness can result in unnecessary barking, especially in the presence of new people. Proper socialization from a young age can help with this behavior. Due to their high energy and enjoyment of barking, these dogs are not well suited for apartment living. The amount of grooming will vary depending on the type of coat your Golden Retriever Pitbull mix gets. Short-haired mixes will require comparatively little grooming, although they do shed. Medium to long coated dogs need a lot more attention and grooming. Training A Golden Retriever Pitbull Mix It is important to begin training at an early age to keep these active dogs out of trouble. As a puppy, their attention spans are short. Quick and upbeat sessions are the best way to approach training. Puppy classes and beginner obedience training can be a great way to teach your puppy manners as well as work on socialization. Early socialization is extremely important for a Golden Retriever Pitbull mix to help them reduce their prey-drive and wariness of strangers. Introducing your new pup to lots of new people and dogs from an early age will help them be more confident as an adult. Crate training is often recommended to help with potty training. It will also help with creating a safe space for your pup to be in when left alone. The crate can be a great tool to help a Golden Retriever Pitbull deal with separation anxiety. Providing lots of toys and puzzles can be a good way to keep your mix happy and mentally stimulated. If they are bored or restless training will be difficult. They are more likely to find something to entertain themselves such as your favorite pair of shoes. Many pups also inherit the beautiful golden cream color of the Golden Retriever. Their coat can be short, medium or long and they often have markings on their chest, head and paws. These big babies are sure to steal your heart with their lovable personalities. Their personality should be the best of their parents. The Golden Retriever and Pitbull are both social and friendly dogs who love their family. These mixes are best suited for families and owners who live an active lifestyle. They need an owner willing to dedicate a significant amount of time to exercising and training their dog. If you give a Golden Retriever Pitbull mix the chance to be your pal, you are sure to have a life-long friend. He has spent decades training working dogs and spends most of his spare time studying, reading and learning about their behavior and welfare. Outside of Marvelous Dogs, he enjoys trail running and agility work with his working Labrador Retriever. You May Also Like.

They have goofy personalities, they crave all the love and attention we like to give, and their pint-sized nature make them the perfect on the go companions. Notorious for taking naps just about anywhere, these lil' comedians will keep you smiling day after day. And it doesn't take much to keep these easygoing pups entertained, too! Just give them a good plush toy —and of course some of their favorite treats—and they're one happy camper. While Frenchies are incredibly popular and lovable companions—owning one of these breeds usually means plenty of visits to the veterinarian. If you're considering adding a French bulldog to your family be warned they are a brachycephalic breed, which means they can have trouble breathing and are susceptible to gagging and regurgitation, exercise intolerance, and obesity. If you're having a bad day or just need a reason to smile, here are 18 pictures of French bulldogs snuggling, smiling, and sporting their best costumes. I need some fashion tips from this doll ASAP. Stop and Smell the Flowers I can't tell which view is more beautiful … harleyishandsome or the garden. Just kidding, Harley is one of the most beautiful Frenchies we've ever seen! If your dog loves sniffing flowers too, brush up on dog-safe plants, shrubs, and trees. Beep Beep! Get in loser, we're going shopping for treats! The Perfect Cuddle Buddies Something about dogs and cats cuddling just makes me tear up every. A little bit of water, some sun, lots of treats, and a bunch of hugs and kisses! This photo is transporting me to Disney World , and I'm totally here for it. Triceratops Frenchie Sorry for the mix-up. This is supposed to be an article about cute French bulldogs. This is clearly a Triceratops. Don't know how this photo snuck in here. Fin-tastic Run for your lives! Joy the shark will smother you with cuteness and kisses! If you love dogs dressed as sharks, you should check out these hilarious aquarium pups. Here are the best treats for training your dog , according to a professional dog trainer. Passion for Fashion Can someone get me the number for these dogs' stylist?! I need to look as fly as they do when I go out for happy hour. Party Animal loganouioui is clearly the life of the party. I mean, that face just screams "Let's dance all night long! Congrats on your epic stick score bulldogbuddha! But Allorathefrenchie is so darn cute in her little bow that we'll let her wear pink all day every day. Sweet Potato Dogs are actually a lot like sweet potatoes if you think about it. Both are squishy, the perfect size, and sweet in the best way! Not saying I'm totally jealous of a dog … but I'm jealous of a dog. You deserve all the bones and sun Dilla! There's so many adventures to be had buddy! Catching Some Rays Do not disturb, too busy tanning and being too adorable for words. Don't forget the doggy sunscreen mr. Pin19 19 Shares French Bulldogs are renowned as being one of the most friendly and sociable dog breeds on the planet. In fact, they do smile, and I am going to show you how! Do French Bulldogs smile? French Bulldogs have very wide mouths and can show a smile by opening wide with their lips curled up. Can my French Bulldog smile? Some Frenchies will have more expressions in their face than others. Some French Bulldogs can smile with a huge and obvious grin, others not so much. If you are going to buy a puppy, and really want a smiler, ask to look at photos of the mother and father if possible. Handy Hint: For first time buyers of Frenchies, read this guide to what you really need to know before taking the plunge and getting your pet. Photos of French Bulldogs smiling I took a look on Pinterest to see if I could find some of the best examples of French Bulldog smiles so you can see exactly what their adorable grins look like. Check these winning smiles out below. Image copyright FrenchieLoveNz on Instagram no longer a live account. This Frenchie has a beautiful grin and smiling eyes. Image copyright of Pixabay. Probably the most famous photo of a French Bulldog smile you will find anywhere on the Internet. Image copyright of Stockunlimited. This is our own French Bulldog smiling, his name is Claude! Image found via Reddit. This looks like a Frenchie puppy younger than 8 weeks, so only a breeder could have taken this photo. And if all else fails, you can always get your Frenchie to fake a smile! How can you tell if a Frenchie is happy if he is not smiling? Your French Bulldog might not always smile to show happiness. He wiggles his bottom he needs to with that lack of a tail. He gives you the classic puppy dog eyes look. His mouth is in a relaxed position. His ears are relaxed and not in a backwards position. His body is relaxed and not stiff. He wants to play and have fun with you. He is not exhibiting any destructive behaviour including eating his poop. He has a healthy appetite and is eating his food. He might stick his tongue out a little bit see the 4th photo in my gallery above of Claude when he was a puppy. He has a healthy and clean coat of fur. He likes to be close and lean into his owner. How you can keep your French Bulldog smiling If you want to keep a happy and health pet there are a few things you can do to help keep your Frenchie smiling. Make sure he has plenty of regular and interesting exercise. Make sure you clean his ears and skin folds clean. Make sure that he has some chewable toys to play with see some great examples. Make sure you keep him groomed with regular weekly brushing. Make sure he lives and stays indoors they are not outdoor dogs. Why do French Bulldogs smile though? Other dog breeds have far more expressive faces, and experts believe the dogs learned to smile in response to humans. Over the years of being domesticated, dogs have learned to smile in order to reflect happiness back to humans. They have also learned that they might even get a positive response such as a treat if they smile at us. To find out more, read this article on DogHealth. Handy Hint: If you think your Frenchie is sad and depressed you might want to read this guide to Frenchie depression. It contains all the signs to look out for should you pup be unhappy. All transactions are between the consumers and the breeder. Smiling French Bulldogs is not responsible for any transaction made between the parties. Money arrangements, contracts, rehoming, co-owning, shipping, meeting arrangements and any other transactions between the two parties is solely the responsibility of the consumers and the breeder. If you have issue with anything, you must take it up with the other party. If you feel a breeder has violated our community standards, you can report the breeder to us. After investigation of your complaint, we will determine a result and reply to you with our results. If we feel the breeder has breached our community standards, they will be blacklisted, and we will cut all future business with that breeder. We appreciate all feedback and encourage that everyone does good business with proper etiquette. Our transaction went smooth and everything was very professional. Bryant We are doing a co-own and they have gone above and beyond what we expected. They are amazing people and they take their business very seriously. Rosa Thank you so much! Our daughter is going to love him! Alicia My girls are in love! Thank you for being super professional.