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They are also big business today! Why do we mention this unpleasant fact up front? This is the only way to avoid falling prey to puppy mill scams that breed unhealthy Frenchie puppies. Researching Reputable French Bulldog Breeders The information included in this article can absolutely help you in your quest to identify a reputable, responsible, health-focused French Bulldog breeder that can sell you a healthy Frenchie puppy. Identifying Responsible French Bulldog Breeders A responsible French Bulldog breeder will demonstrate a consistent commitment to breeding healthy, happy puppies. What does this mean, exactly? Read on for specifics. Commitment to breed health and temperament Responsible breeders will voluntarily conduct pre-mating genetic health tests and participate in health oversight and research organizations like CHIC, the Canine Health Information Center database. Adherence to breed standards Responsible Frenchie breeders will voluntarily provide proof of purebred registry with the appropriate oversight organization. Proper care and socialization of puppies Responsible French Bulldog breeders will provide new puppy owners with a comprehensive packet including but not limited to puppy registration and pedigree certification, proof of microchip, veterinary clearance, remaining vaccination schedule, initial good health guarantee, take-back guarantee and food recommendations. As of time of publication, the Frenchie is now the number one most popular dog in the United States — a record previously held for over three decades by the Labrador Retriever! This means you need to know each of these red flags for unscrupulous breeders backward and forwards when searching for a French Bulldog puppy. Multiple litters from the same breeder available simultaneously Any dog breeder that advertises multiple litters of puppies for sale or back-to-back or year-round litters of puppies for sale may be operating as a French Bulldog puppy mill. Unwillingness to provide pedigree and health records Any dog breeder that sells Frenchie puppies without proof of registration, pedigree, proof of pre-mating health clearances and proof of puppy clean bill of health is a potential puppy mill. Questions To Ask A French Bulldog Breeder French Bulldog puppy mill breeders are literally counting on demand for Frenchie puppies to ensure they never have to answer any questions about how they breed and supply their puppies. In other words, unless you ask, they will never tell. So you must ask! Inquiries about breed-specific health concerns A health-focused, responsible French Bulldog breeder will care about the health of the breed itself, their personal breeding lineage and the puppy you are purchasing. This type of breeder is happy to answer questions about known genetic French Bulldog health concerns, especially the tendency towards serious lifelong health issues such as BOAS Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome. These breeders may even volunteer this vital information before you ask! Expectations for potential French Bulldog owners French Bulldog breeders that care about their operation and its reputation will have their own pre-screening protocols for prospective puppy buyers. Pre-screening protocols may include an agreement to limitations on breeding rights, purchase of pet insurance, proof of initial veterinary exam requirements and more. However, if possible, try your best to check off each of these boxes before committing to purchase a Frenchie puppy. Observing Litter Dynamics Litter dynamics is a fancy way of saying you need to check to be sure the puppies get along with each other and the mother dog…not to mention new human guests like you! Interaction between puppies Appropriate puppy behavior is an indication that puppies have been permitted to remain with the mother dog and each other long enough to get some socialization pre-training under their belts. Puppy socialization and early development Puppies go through two fear periods as they grow up. The first period is from 8 to 11 weeks and the second period is from 6 to 14 months. Puppies that are properly fed, handled and socialized will demonstrate basic self-confidence and a playful nature when you bring them home. This will help them successfully weather the fear periods, especially the first one that begins about the time they come home with you. French Bulldog Puppy Temperament Assessment You should know going in how to assess the temperament in any Frenchie puppy you are considering. Personality traits to consider The official French Bulldog breed standard gives you insight into basic breed temperament traits to watch for. Playful, affectionate, even-tempered, alert and active are all hallmarks of the Frenchie breed. You can also make use of various standardized tests. Physical French Bulldog Puppy Evaluation While your canine veterinarian will be the ultimate authority when it comes to a physical evaluation, you can also do a basic evaluation at first meeting. Appearance and conformation Look for clear eyes and ears, healthy skin and coat and clean private areas. Also be aware that aggression or shyness can be signs of budding health issues. Checking for potential health concerns French Bulldog clubs in different geographic areas can be a great resource to find local temperament, conformation and health testing resources for your new prospective Frenchie puppy. But is the Frenchie the right dog breed for you? Activity Level and Exercise Requirements Frenchies adapt quite readily to life in smaller spaces. Their exercise needs are moderate and they are heat-intolerant so the indoor life suits them just fine. Time Commitment and Availability The Frenchie may not be a natural athlete, but a puppy of any breed are always going to have more energy and need more of your time and care than an adult version of the same. Your Frenchie puppy will need your help with potty training, mealtimes, initial and ongoing training and socialization, interactive playtime , bedtime routine, daily walks and more. It is a good idea to be sure you have sufficient time for all of this every single day before signing the breeder contract. Essential Supplies Reputable French Bulldog breeders should provide you with a specific list of supplies they recommend, including puppy food and transitional food for adults of the breed. The breeder may also send you home with a starter pack of food, toys , bedding and a l eash or harness. But child-proof latches and puppy gates will get you off to a good start. Here again, your local French Bulldog breed club and your canine veterinarian will be excellent resources for you to find convenient puppy training and socialization classes, play groups, dog parks and other essentials. Making the right decision on a French Bulldog Puppy can be a wonderful experience for your family Making the Final Decision Sooner or later, the big moment will come — decision-time. Are you ready? How can you know for sure? Additionally, be aware that French Bulldogs frequently come with added health challenges and associated expenses. Pet insurance may help with some of these potential costs. Selecting the Perfect French Bulldog Puppy Buying a puppy is a decades-long commitment — and investment. As such, you may have your exhaustive wish list of color, gender, size, pedigree and all that good stuff. But underneath it all, what matters most is good health. A healthy puppy of any size, gender and color is much more likely to be a happy and rewarding member of your family over the long term. This is even more crucial for French Bulldogs, since their short brachycephalic muzzle shape means they typically cannot be transported via commercial airline cargo. Conclusion Becoming a pawrent is a huge commitment and you want to get started on the right foot…. You can use all of the information provided in this article to do your due diligence before committing to your forever Frenchie puppy. Good luck and be sure to stop back by and let us know how it is going! Additionally, in her twin roles as freelance pet writer and animal communicator, Shannon is passionate about crafting knowledge-based, science-supported articles that foster healthy bonds of love and respect between people and animals. Spinal diseases, including intervertebral disc disorder IVDD , and 6. Hemivertebrate malformed spine Previously, we looked at how the surge in French Bulldog popularity has impacted the many health conditions of the Frenchie in the United Kingdom. This is because disreputable breeding operations are eager to cash in on a status breed's desirability at the expense of health. Therefore, if you are interested in owning a French Bulldog, we recommend choosing a reputable breeder who performs genetic health testing on their breeding stock in order to acquire a healthy French Bulldog. They allow you to visit and willingly shows you all areas where puppies and breeding dogs spend their time. Those areas are clean, spacious, and well-maintained; 2. Keeps their breeding dogs as you feel a responsible person would keep their pets: not overpopulated, crowded, dirty, or continually confined to cages; 4. Keeps their dogs in roomy spaces that meet the needs of their particular breed; for example, most small breeds will be housed in the home, sporting breeds will have plenty of space for exercise, etc. National breed clubs can provide input on the specific needs of each breed of dog ; 5. Breeds only one or a few types of dogs and is knowledgeable about the breeds and their special requirements; 6. Meets psychological, as well as physical, needs of their dogs by providing toys, socialization, exercise, and enrichment as befits the specific breed; 8. Has a strong relationship with one or more local veterinarians and shows you individual records of veterinary visits for your puppy; .This will include testing for genetic diseases for which there are valid testing protocols available ; .Offers guidance for the care and training of your puppy and is available for assistance after you take your puppy home; .Provides references from other families who have previously purchased one of their puppies; .Is often actively involved with local, state, and national clubs that specialize in the specific breed; responsible breeders may also compete with the dogs in conformation events, obedience trials, tracking and agility trials, or other performance events; .Encourages multiple visits and wants your entire family to meet the puppy; In addition to the above attributes, they provide you with a written contract and health guarantee and allows plenty of time for you to read it thoroughly. A responsible or reputable breeder will also ask you some questions and sometimes enter an undertaking with you which shows that they are still interested in the welfare of the dog even while under your care. So, if you saw a breeder who is all about the money, and doesn't give a damn about the welfare and health of the Frenchie, turn the other way. Have you had an experience with a breeder you think is not a reputable breeder following the above guidelines? Share your story with us in the comment box below. I know I did when my wife persuaded us to go and see our own dog for the first time. Of the four of them, this one little fella scampered over to me and immediately started chewing on my knuckles. That when I fell in love with him. It was a really simple decision in which one we wanted to take home. As you know, we went on to name him Claude. But, given hindsight, there are some questions I would have asked the breeder before deciding to buy him. And there are also some things I should have looked for too. It was our first ever dog though, so hindsight is a wonderful thing. However, there are unscrupulous breeders and there are certain health and physical problems view all Frenchie health conditions and concerns you should check for before you get too excited. It also includes some questions to ask a breeder when buying a French Bulldog puppy. Choose a male puppy if you want a more energetic dog: or a female if you want a more relaxed dog. There are subtle behavioural differences in the two genders which you can read in this blog post where I discuss the differences between male and female Frenchies. Make sure your breeder is knowledgeable: on breeding and cares for the puppies. I would always do online research into the breeder before I would even visit them. Be wary of what seems to be an abnormally low price: this can be a sign of an unhealthy puppy. Red eye can be a signal of a health problem. Ask the breeder how many litters the mother has had: a French Bulldog should only really have 1 litter a year , preferably only one every couple of years. Any more than that is a warning sign that she is being over-bred, and health issues could be present. Ask if the puppy has been checked by a vet: and has had the relevant vaccinations. If not, walk away as this should be handled by the breeder before the puppies go on sale. It can give you some insight into what type of dog your Frenchie puppy is going to grow into. If the breeder refuses to let you see the mother, then walk away as this is a huge warning sign. Ask if the parents have had health checks: as this can give you insight into any potential health problems further down the line. Conditions to look out for include hip problems, cataracts, cherry eye , deafness, and soft palate issues. Ask how old the parents are: if the mother is less than 3 years old, any genetic health conditions might not yet have manifested themselves. Ask how often the puppies have been handled: the more the young pups have been handled by humans frequently it will be far easier to get him used to all the excitement in store when you get him home. Ask to speak to a previous client: the best breeders will be more than happy to let you talk with people who have previously bought a Frenchie puppy from them. Ask for a hearing test: whilst this might not always be possible, it is a concern. White Frenchies in particular can develop hearing loss at birth due to a congenital issue. You can read more about this my recent French Bulldog hearing loss blog post. Cheap and rude breeders are an absolute no-no. When buying your Frenchie, you need a caring breeder that gladly answers your questions and shows you the parents and tell you about their history and problems. If you are dealing with a breeder who is just looking to make a quick buck and not telling you what you should know then walk away. How to best buy a healthy French bulldog puppy There are several factors you should consider before buying a French Bulldog who is hopefully going to live a healthy life. Sadly Frenchies can have some severe health issues in their bloodlines which you should look out for when purchasing your puppy. Health issues can include:. What does "breeder" mean? Irresponsible breeders who breed for profit rather than quality will accept any buyer with a check or credit card. Ethical breeders screen new homes as a potential new owner, be prepared for lots of questions , serve as knowledgeable mentors after you take your puppy home, and will always be there for you, as long as you own the dog. Ethical breeders spend lots of time socializing, caring for, and observing their puppies and will be able to recommend the puppy most likely to fit best into your life. They will tell you what you need to buy before you bring your puppy home, have started his paper training, had his health checked, and begun to accustom him to having his nails cut, feet trimmed, and coat brushed. All of this gets your puppy off to the best possible start. Ask for referrals.Ask your veterinarian if they know of a reputable breeder in your area or ask close friends who own healthy purebred dogs. Take advantage of social media and join French Bulldog groups, ask questions. You can also contact local breed clubs or visit professional dog shows and strike up a conversation with participants or spectators to see if they know of a good breeder. Meet the breeder at their facility.Finding an ethical, reputable breeder is important to ensure the health of your new puppy. If you contact the breeder, but they are coy about letting you see where the puppies were born and the conditions they are currently living in, this is a possible sign they are running a dirty breeding business, are a puppy mill or a backyard breeder. Look at all the areas where the pups and their parents spend their time. The grounds should be well-maintained with clean, odorless kennels and exercise areas. Dogs should not be confined in cages for long periods. They should have individual runs if possible. The kennel should be heated and cooled. Fresh water supplies at all times. It is not uncommon for the male dog to be separated, but make sure you ask about him and see him. The breeder should be more than willing to let you meet the parents if at all possible. The parents will be the best way for you to see what the puppies will be like as adults. Look at the siblings if any remaining. Make sure ALL dogs have good coats, clear eyes and noses, and a healthy weight. Ensure it is not a puppy mill.Make sure the breeder isn't churning out high volumes of pups, but rather considers their breeding dogs to be family members and treats them with loving care. The breeder should encourage you to spend time with one or both parents on your visit. The parents should be friendly and socialize well with both people and other dogs. Their pups should have the same demeanor, be clean and energetic. Raising a litter of puppies takes an insane amount of work. Breeders who have more than one or two litter of puppies at once might not be giving the puppies the attention they need in this critically formative time. However, if breeders have multiple litters 3,4, or more at once, you may want to take pause. You can put your name on a waiting list. Since optimum mating times occur according to natural schedules, litters are usually born in the spring and fall. Do not expect to pay a few hundred dollars for your puppy — think in the thousands. Breeders should know the breed.Since most devoted breeders only deal with one type of dog, their knowledge of the breed should be extensive. Good relationship with veterinarian.All good breeders have a good working relationship with a respected veterinarian who examines each pup and provides immunizations and parasite control according to medical standards. The breeder should readily provide a complete medical record on each pup. You should be able to contact the veterinarian and speak freely about health records of puppies and parents. Ask for references.Breeders should provide several references from other families who have purchased pups and welcomes inquiries. Responsible mating is key.The breeder should take genetic predispositions into account to reduce potential inherited problems. Look up what health testing is recommended for your chosen breed — the AKC has great recommendations. Really good breeders will have a scan of these scores for each dog on their website, sometimes even complete with the x-rays. This testing is expensive, but good breeders will do it. Parents should be over 2 yrs old.If you want a happy, healthy adult dog, you need to be sure that her parents are happy and healthy adult dogs. That means waiting until the parents are 2 years old prior to having puppies. Puppies should be raised inside.Puppies raised inside are more likely to be exposed to kids, other animals, and normal home activities. Bonus points for breeders that expose the puppies to kids and other animals. Puppies should be unavailable until 12 weeks.Studies show that puppies removed from their parents and litter-mates too young are more likely to exhibit problem behaviors like fear or aggression toward other dogs. Be prepared for questions to you.A breeder may question you regarding your ability to care for the dog, how much time you have to spend with him and where he will fit into your family. Breeders pick the families. The breeder should take the time to get to know the family's needs and help the family pick a puppy. Introducing pup to new home.A knowledgeable breeder will be happy to sit down with you and discuss what you can expect in the breed, including any issues that might crop up later in life purebred dogs, even well bred ones, have be susceptible to certain diseases or health problems. They should also offer to be available to answer any questions you may have after you take the pup home. You should receive a written contract with a guarantee of health allowing time for a pre-purchase examination by a veterinarian of your choice. If medical problems are diagnosed, the breeder should readily take the pup back and provide a full refund. Options to re-home a dog.Sadly, not all puppies work out for every family. A reputable breeder cares a great deal about where their puppies end up and will do anything they can to ensure they find another perfect home. Helpful list of questions for breeder.This question is usually accompanied with wanting a list of questions to be asking the French Bulldog breeder. Based on this feedback I wanted to give you the ultimate list of questions to ask, plus all the warning signs that should make you walk away. Not just warning sings about the French Bulldog puppy, but also her mother and the breeder too. Things to know before buying a French Bulldog puppy The moment you see that adorable French Bulldog puppy for the first time will last with you forever, it certainly did with me when we first met our own dog. Just take a step back for a second as there will be some red flags to watch for. I wish we had, but luckily, our dog ended up being ok, but it could have been very different: French Bulldogs are a notorious breed for health problems and unscrupulous breeders. With their cute squashed faces and cuddly squat bodies, they will tug at your heart strings. You will be tempted to just take that French Bulldog puppy and go. But please, please, please… before you do that, here are some things you should check before you pay your money. Your French Bulldog will become a huge part of your life, but make sure you know what to look for before you buy a puppy. Read these before you spend the money. By doing this due diligence you should hopefully get a puppy that not only fits your family and lifestyle, but also lives a long and happy life. You want to choose one that has a track record, online reviews, and a good reputation in the French Bulldog world… not some first timer nobody has heard of. Be suspicious of low prices: If the French Bulldog puppies are advertised as a lower than average price, be wary. The old adage about if it looks too good to be true is almost always the case with puppies. Low prices can be a sign of an unhealthy litter. Find out how many litters the mother has had already: French Bulldog mothers should not have anything more than one litter each year. The best scenario would be a litter every couple of years. More pregnancies than this mean she has been over-bred and both her and the puppies could have health problems. Look out for serious conditions and hereditary issues including dwarfism, hip and spine issues, soft palate issues, eye problems, and hearing problems. I would recommend getting a puppy from a French Bulldog older than this just to be sure. Before 8 weeks of age, they should still be with her, and it can also help you understand what type of dog your puppy will grow up to be. If the breeder refuses access to the mother, walk away. Ask where the puppies have been living: If the French Bulldogs have been in a dark garage away from human interaction it will mean they will be harder to socialize and harder to train. Ask how often the French Bulldogs have been handled: When puppies are regularly handled by humans, they will be much easier when taken home. Ask whether a vet has checked the puppies: Puppies should have been checked by a vet and had their first set of vaccinations before going to their new home. Ask to speak to a previous buyer:A reputable breeder will let you talk to people who have bought a French Bulldog puppy from them before. If they are unable to supply references and contacts, they could be hiding something. I hope you find these questions to ask a French Bulldog breeder helpful. Please do print them off before you visit the litter and decide to buy. The personality of the French Bulldog breeder This is so often over-looked, but I wanted to add it on as something to look for when buying a French Bulldog puppy. Only buy a French Bulldog puppy from a breeder who is prepared to take the time to answer any questions and concerns you might have. Breeders that treat buyers with respect will most likely extend that kindness to the French Bulldog mother and her puppies. This gives you an indication of what health problems could in store. These can include: Allergies. Your first pet will most likely feel threatened and protective over his territory and get jealous. Here are my tips for introducing your French bulldog to a new puppy. It has something to do with their scent — puppies have a different smell than adult pups. He stopped drooling around her after a couple days. Apart from that, have your dog meet your new puppy for the time first time in an open location, like a large park If possible, let them reach the meeting location at the same time and keep the leashes loose or even off-leash. Sometimes on-leash, dogs can become more agitated and aggressive. Let them eat individually with their own dishes. Let your first pet go straight into the house while your new pup runs around the yard. This is because at night, dogs have a harder time seeing one another, which can put them on edge. And at mealtimes, many pups can get territorial. That includes feeding dishes, toys, beddings and other shared items. Additionally, clean up their common area and let the existing pet have an idea that another pet is set to arrive. Weston went in there occasionally to roll around in the bed and mark it with his scent. Whenever we left the house, we had Fira stay inside her playpen which was her safe place. Play with them, train them together and always give lots and lots of love to the older pet. He will also make his own rules with the new sibling, so allow him to create his own boundaries and teach the younger one his rules, how to play and more. Fira never did it again. Interactions between your Frenchie and your new puppy should not be forced. Weston did such a great job teaching Fira how to play and wrestle. Follow us on Instagram wtfrenchie to see all our updates in real-time. Related Posts.

As one of the most energetic breeds, your Silver Lab puppy will always be down for exercise, play, swimming or any other outdoor activity. Playful and excitable, be prepared to remove any knick-knacks from coffee tables or end tables — this breed is notorious for knocking these over with an almost constantly wagging tail! Widely considered the sweetest tempered dog breed, your Silver Lab puppy will light up every time you walk in the room — greeting you with kisses and affection when you come home after a long day at work. Highly intelligent, these dogs can easily be trained to respond to a variety of commands — and their alert nature makes them natural guard dogs. As one of the most lovable dog breeds, your Silver Lab puppy is sure to get along with everyone — from other dogs to small children and the elderly — making the breed a perfect fit for almost anyone who has the stamina to keep up with it! Many of these conditions affect dogs in later life, though some can occur during adolescents and early adulthood. To learn more about our commitment to ethical breeding practices , read about the Keystone Puppies Health Guarantee! This hunting breed has a water-resistant or water-repellent coat that is slightly dry and oily. Unlike many short-haired breeds, Labs are outdoor dogs. They are usually able to keep warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Silver Labrador Retrievers have short, straight coats that shed seasonally. They have a double coat — with thick, dense hair — which helps keep them warm during winter months. Their heavy coats also offer additional insulation when swimming — a favorite pastime of Labradors, Silver Labs included. With a low-maintenance coat, the Silver Labrador Retriever only needs brushed once or twice a week. Meet Silver Lab Puppies for Sale. All breeds of Labrador Retrievers are known for being kind and gentle — and this trait runs especially strong with the chocolate-colored sweeties. While these dogs are very friendly to strangers, they have even more affection to give to their beloved families. Your Chocolate Lab puppy or adult will be happiest spending time with their favorite people. If you have young children, a lab is a great fit, as this breed is usually quite tolerant of the horseplay of small children who are still learning how to interact with pets. Just like many people, Chocolate Labs enjoy both downtime — especially if it involves being pampered by their family — and active high-energy fun. We recommend daily exercise, which can include anything from fetch, to tag, or even frisbee games. The average Chocolate Lab lifespan is between 9 and 11 years. The most common Chocolate Lab health problem is hip dysplasia, which occurs more commonly in older and overweight dogs. This is just one of the reasons to make exercise a common part of your time with a Chocolate Lab puppy or fully grown adult. Another problem that occurs in overweight labs is joint and movement issues. The other most common Chocolate Lab health problems are: Progressive Retinal Atrophy Cataracts Elbow Dysplasia As is the case with any dog, when you bring home a Chocolate Labrador, make sure that you have a good vet to handle routing vaccinations and check-ups as well as emergency health problems. Learn more about the Keystone Puppies Health Guarantee! Chocolate Lab Coat Care In general, Chocolate Lab coat care is easy compared to many other dog breeds which require weekly or daily work. Labrador Retrievers all have double coats, which includes an under layer of short hairs and a slightly longer top layer. This coat is useful for repelling water and keeping them cool in warmer temperatures — and warm in cooler ones. Their coat is also noted to be slightly dry and oily. Chocolate Lab coat care is fairly minimal and considered low maintenance. The coat should be brushed with a firm bristle brush 2 — 3 times per month to minimize shedding. In addition to that, baths are needed fairly infrequently. What is more crucial is ensuring that their toenails are well cared for throughout the year. Meet Chocolate Lab Puppies for Sale. We have Lab puppies for sale in California that are available throughout the year in different colors, including Silver Labradors , Charcoal Labs and Champagne Labs! Let us know what you are looking for and we will find the right puppy for you! About our Wonderful Labs.The Labrador Retriever loves to retrieve. Show a Lab to water and it will retrieve all day: balls, sticks, small boats and even children who might happen to go for a swim. Descended from dogs found in Newfoundland by explorers, fishermen and settlers, the Labrador Retriever evolved by natural selection. An excellent retriever of fish and game, these dogs have been known by several names, among them the Black Water Dog, the Lesser Newfoundland and the St. John's Dog. In the early s, the breed was introduced to Britain, where it was eventually crossed with other sporting breeds. The final product was the strong, sturdy, happy Labrador Retriever, which is America's most popular dog, thanks to its outgoing, eager-to-please and loving temperament. Males usually measure .Weight for males ranges from 65 to 80 pounds, with females averaging about 10 pounds less. The coat is short, dense and hard in colors of black, yellow, silver, charcoal, chocolate and many shades in the middle such as the white and champagne Lab. The AKC only allows black, chocolate and yellow to place in the show ring but that doesn't stop us from loving the other colors! A simple good brushing will remove dead hair and keep the coat shiny. A distinctive feature of the breed is the medium-long tail. Thick and round at the root and gradually tapering to the tip, it is often described as an otter tail. This tail can clear a coffee table in seconds! The Labrador is easy to train and excels as a field dog as well as obedience trials. Labs enjoy all outdoor exercise but are especially fond of swimming. They say this medium-sized, high-energy dog is best suited to a suburban or country home with a yard and a family that can provide it with the activity it loves--but that said, many city-dwelling Lab owners tell us it is the most wonderful "city" dog they have ever had! City, country or anywhere in between, the Lab is simply the best! Life Span Did You Know? One of the facts about Labrador Retrievers is that they come in many colors. Silver Labrador Retrievers, or Silver Labs, are relatively new compared to the other Lab coat colors. Contrary to their Yellow, Chocolate, and Black Lab cousins, which have recorded sightings from and before, Silver Labs have only cropped up since .There was some heated debate over their authenticity, as many breeders believed the silver tint appeared from outside the breed. A diluting factor in coat color dominance traits is responsible for the silver hue — something that is also present in Charcoal and Champagne Labs as well. At any rate, Silver Labrador Retrievers are regal, loyal, and friendly Labradors that have a lot of energy and a lot of love to give! Silver Labs are curious and playful dogs. Their curiosity will often get the better of them and they may wander off in search of adventure if they are off-leash. Labrador Retrievers are known for their gentle, friendly dispositions and good natures. Well-socialized Labs tend to get along with children, other dogs, and even other pets and strangers. Because of this they make the ideal family dog and are one of the kid-friendly dog breeds. Despite being one of the most active dog breeds , Silver Labrador Retrievers are highly adaptable. They prefer bigger spaces to stretch their legs and explore. As one of the sturdy dog breeds for outdoor adventures , they will often take an outside adventure over an inside one any day. But, they will also just be happy to be spending time with you. They do well in most climates, but are sensitive to heat and extreme cold. Silver Labs are one of the most affectionate dog breeds. They are happiest when they are spending time with their favorite humans, so they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Silver Labrador Retriever can include elbow dysplasia , hip dysplasia, hereditary myopathy, heart disease, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy. A condition called exercise-induced collapse EIC has a genetic link and can occur in young adult Labradors. Good breeding practices and the health of the parents make a big difference in the health of Silver Lab puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large, deep-chested dog breed, the Silver Labrador Retriever is at a higher risk for bloat. Silver Labs are one of the smartest dog breeds. They pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. Despite their energy and getting bored easily, they are still a great fit for dog owners of any experience level. Labrador Retrievers are considered one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. Silver Labrador Retrievers have short, water-resistant fur in two layers. Because of this dense double coat that protects them from the cold, and being one of the dog breeds that tend to love water , they may try to go for a swim regardless of the season. They shed year-round and more heavily twice a year when seasons change. Plus, your Lab will love spending the time with you. Trimming their nails once or twice monthly keeps them from growing too long. Regularly checking ears and cleaning them as needed can help prevent ear infections. Proper dental care for dogs , like daily brushing and cleanings at the vet when needed, is important to prevent the tartar buildup that causes painful dental diseases later in life. Silver Labrador Retrievers need a lot of daily activity to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for this dog. Although they are high-energy dogs, Silver Labs will tend to mellow out a little bit as they get older. Labrador Retrievers tend to have an extended puppyhood and maintain that puppy-like energy until they are around years old. Swimming is a great low-impact activity. Once your Lab puppy is cleared for more intense activity, you can try a lot of different activities with them. In addition to being one of the dog breeds that make the best service dogs , Labs are also athletic and versatile dogs that tend to be a good fit for a wide range of activities. Fully-grown Silver Labrador Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Silver Labs generally live for years on average. Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds used as guide dogs, therapy dogs, and search and rescue dogs. They are also commonly found working as police or military dogs. They are even one of the best dog breeds for farms! Featured Silver Labrador Retriever Article. At Happy Lab Kennels, we specialize in healthy, happy silver Labrador puppies, a variation of a chocolate lab with a gene mutation that creates their distinctive gray coat. Explore more about silver Labrador puppies for sale in NC and learn about the other great Labrador puppies we offer, including black, yellow and chocolate. The reason for this record is simple. Labs are great dogs. They have a wonderful temperament and are filled with Love to share. They seem to have one goal in mind, making Life long friends and memories. Labs are the perfect example of unconditional Love. While they do thrive on Love and attention, they require little maintenance. No long hair and curls to worry about and shedding is minimal. At Happy Lab Kennels, we focus on producing dogs that are healthy, friendly, gentle and full of love! While our dogs are mainly loving companions, they do come from hunting stock. With proper training, they would make a great hunting partner. About Happy Lab Kennels Our love for dogs has been growing for over 30 years We both grew up with a family dog, and knew we would always have a dog or two when we were older. Well, our love for dogs have been growing for over 30 years, with never having just one. Our dogs are a big part of our family. We have them spend time with us indoors, as well as, outdoors. We have them sleep inside when the weather is cold and to take a break on those very hot days. In our dog journeys, we have taken our dogs to field trials and have been active members of a K-9 Search and Rescue Team. What is A Silver Labrador? Loving companions, with the outgoing, friendly personalities Silver Labrador Puppies for Sale NC Silver labs were first created by a breeder in the early 80s and were officially recognized as a subset of the chocolate lab breed by the AKC in .While some think the unusual color comes from outside the breed, these dogs are verified by the AKC as percent Labrador retriever. Male labs grow to an average of .Our silver labrador puppies are bred as loving companions, with the outgoing, friendly personalities that have long made labs one of the most popular family dogs. These rare purebred, pedigreed pups are registered with the American Kennel Club. The Silver Labradors are registered as chocolates. Like other lab variations, silver labradors need lots of exercise. Get ready to play endless games of catch and take long walks around your neighborhood, where your pet is sure to make friends with other dogs and humans alike. These dogs respond well to training and easily adapt to new environments. They also tend to be great with children, although younger labs can be quite boisterous and may be excitable around those younger than 5. Our Other Labrador Retriever Colors Silver, chocolate, yellow, and black Labradors available for sale Black Labrador Puppies Black labs are sometimes considered the original Labrador puppies, brought to Newfoundland in the s. Because black is the dominant color gene for these dogs, they are more common than yellow, silver and chocolate labs. We offer an impressive selection of purebred chocolate labrador puppies for sale. This chocolate color comes from a gene variation on the classic black lab. Their golden hue occurs when both parents carry the gene for yellow fur rather than the dominant gene for black. Our love for dogs have been growing for over 30 years, with never having just one. Labrador Litters.

What Is a Red Fox Labrador? The red fox Labrador is a Labrador Retriever with a foxy red coat. They also go by the names fox red Labs or ruby Labradors. Red fox Labs do not belong to a separate color class; instead, they are officially listed as one of the darker variations of the yellow Labrador Retriever. Does this mean that red fox Labs and the yellow Labs are the same? For starters, Labrador Retrievers come in three different coat colors — black, yellow, and chocolate. According to the AKC breed standards , yellow Labrador Retrievers range in color from light cream to fox-red. This means that red fox Labs are indeed yellow Labs! It is a known fact that there are fewer fox red Labrador Retrievers compared to other colors of the Labrador Retriever. This begs the question, are fox red Labradors actually purebreds? The answer to this is a big yes! Fox red Labradors are Labrador Retrievers through and through. They are simply purebred Labs with foxy red coats. Fox red Labs are at the darker end of the accepted range of colors in yellow Labradors. Simply put, they are a sub-variant of the yellow Labrador so they are purebreds. That said, there are still members of the dog community who believe that the fox red Labs are Labrador mixes. As you will learn in the following section, these dogs have a fair share of controversies. Their unusual coat color is a common subject of debate in the dog community. But is there actually a good reason behind the controversy around red fox Labs? As established, the red fox Labrador is a variant of the yellow Labrador Retriever. While these dogs are eligible to join dog shows and other dog competitions, red fox Labs are usually marked less favorably compared to other Labs. A probable reason behind this is the stigma that red fox Labs are hybrids. Despite being unproven, these claims have tainted the image of the red fox Labs for the longest time. One belief claims that red fox Labs are descendants of a Labrador and Vizsla cross. Meanwhile, other speculators argue that these dogs are hybrids of the Labrador and Weimaraner. However, regardless of these controversies, the red fox Labs still remain one of the most desirable Labradors outside the show ring. To some, these controversies are no match to the unique coat color of these pooches. Red fox Labs are medium-sized dogs with an athletic build and a well-balanced stature. These dogs have short double coats, well-defined jawlines, and gradually tapered tails. In terms of nose color, red fox Labs always have black noses. The red fox Labrador looks exactly like other Labrador Retrievers in terms of physical features. These dogs share the same posture, head shape, and ear shape as other Labs. In fact, the only feature that stands out from these dogs is their ruby-like coat color. The coat color of red fox Labs may sometimes look similar to a red wheaten Rhodesian Ridgeback. While they are often lighter than the red Rhodesian Ridgeback, fox red Labs can easily be mistaken for a Ridgeback, especially for the untrained eye. One interesting thing about the red fox Labrador Retriever is that their coat may be lighter during their puppy years. This means a red fox Lab puppy may be mistaken for a lighter variant of the yellow Labrador Retriever. A full-grown fox red Labrador measures about the same as other Labrador Retrievers in terms of size and weight. On average, males will be a bit bigger than their female counterparts. A full-grown male fox red Labrador measures 22 to 25 inches in height and weighs around 65 to 80 pounds. On the other hand, a full-grown female fox red Labrador measures 21 to 24 inches in height and weighs 55 to 70 pounds. For reference, full-grown fox red Labs are about the same height as Dalmatians, Pharaoh Hounds, and Shetland Sheepdogs. Meanwhile, they weigh similarly to Rhodesian Ridgebacks and Weimaraners. Red Fox Labrador vs. Well, in case you missed it, red fox Labradors are indeed recognized. However, they do not have their own separate color class. Instead, red fox Labs are classified as a yellow Labrador. This means red fox Labs are actually yellow Labs! But how come these dogs are named differently? Moreover, are these pooches actually different? Its coat color looks nothing like a traditional yellow Labrador. How come these dogs are classified under the same color class? The difference between a red fox Labrador and a yellow Labrador is not in their temperament nor in their physical features. Similarly, their difference is also not in their size or common health problems. Instead, their only difference lies in their genetics. Red fox Labs have more prominent pheomelanin. A yellow Labrador with a more prominent pheomelanin will have a darker coat color, as with the case in red fox Labs. The entire science of canine coat genetics is beyond the scope of this guide. Luckily, you do not need to dive into the nitty-gritty to understand the genetics of the red fox Labrador. To start, the first thing to know is that the default color of Labrador Retrievers is black. This black coat color is attributed to the so-called BB genes. When these black genes are superseded by other gene pairs, a non-black Labrador is born. To get a red fox Labrador, the coat genetics of a Lab puppy should first match that of a yellow Lab. This means instead of having dominant BB genes, the coat genetics of yellow Labs are composed of either EE, Ee, or ee genes. Moreover, when a yellow Labrador has dominant A and C genes, a pigment known as pheomelanin kicks in. Pheomelanin is what causes the red fox coloration in red fox Labradors. As expected, red fox Labs have more pheomelanin compared to lighter variants of the yellow Labs. The red fox Lab, alongside other color variants of the Labrador Retriever, has a long and rich history. These dogs were originally bred as hunting dogs in Canada and were later brought to England. While it may be tempting to think that Labradors originated in Labrador, Canada, these dogs were actually from Newfoundlands. Labs are believed to be descendants of the St. The unmatched retrieval skills of Labradors proved valuable to fishermen and hunters in the early s. These dogs were arguably the most famous service dogs during their early years. However, their fame is no longer attributed to their hunting and retrieval skills. Instead, they are praised for being one of the best family pets to have. If you are a fan of the red fox Lab, you would be pleased to know that they are recognized by major kennel clubs. This means red fox Labs are eligible to join official dog competitions. Red fox Labs, as long as they do not exhibit any faults, can be registered in a kennel club. Some of these faults include a thoroughly pink nose, large white marking on the chest, and incorrect height. Fox red Labs have the same temperament as other Lab colors. They are extremely loyal, very active, and super easy to train. These dogs are also friendly and gentle so they get along with kids and other pets just fine. Moreover, they are also very intelligent. In fact, this pooch belongs to the list of top 10 intelligent dog breeds. Labs, regardless of color, remember commands easily, plus they are very attentive during training. If you are wondering if the fox red Labs would make a good family pet, you would be delighted to know that they do. Should you decide to get a fox red Lab, you can rest assured that your pet will do well as a family companion. With proper training and care, red fox Labs will never give you any trouble. The fox red Lab has an average life expectancy of 10 to 12 years. Their lifespan is on par with other variants of the Labrador Retriever such as the chocolate Lab and the black Lab. A fox red Lab that is well taken care of can sometimes reach up to 15 years old! However, similar to other dog breeds, these Labs are also at risk of some common health issues. If you decide to get a fox red Lab, be on the lookout for some life-altering conditions. Below are some common health issues of the fox red Labrador: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: Canine hip and elbow dysplasia is a common health condition in Labrador Retrievers. These are oftentimes genetic conditions resulting from faulty breeding. Hip and elbow dysplasia is characterized by abnormalities in the ball-socket joints of the affected dog. When left untreated, PRA in dogs will eventually lead to blindness. PRA is the most common eye disorder in Labrador Retrievers. Ear Problems: There are a total of six most common ear problems in dogs. Unfortunately, fox red Labs are at risk of all of these. These ear problems usually result from worm infestation. Some symptoms include ear odor, redness of the ear canal, and vigorous scratching. This health condition is an inherited nervous system disorder. Dogs with EIC may experience episodes of collapse during strenuous activities. Remember that all of these conditions are brought about by genetics, dietary factors, age, or any combination of these. The best thing to do to keep your fox red Labrador in tip-top shape is to feed it the right kind of kibble and to keep it active. Red fox Labs are very easy to care for. They do not require anything more than the bare minimum of caring for a dog, no wonder they are the most considered dog breed to have. However, there are still a couple of things worth mentioning with regards to caring for a red fox Labrador Retriever. Feeding and Diet The diet of a red fox Lab is nothing special. All you need to do is to feed it the right kind of kibble for its age and activity level. Of course, you also have the option to make homemade meals for your pooch. You may also alternate from kibble to homemade meals from time to time. Just make sure you are not feeding anything from the list of toxic food for dogs to your red fox Lab. It is also recommended to give a strict feeding schedule for your red fox Labs. Moreover, you should always portion their meals properly. This will help lessen their risk of obesity and other health issues. Cleaning and Grooming The weatherproof double coat of the red fox Labrador Retriever is truly heaven-sent! Their coats are very easy to comb, quick to dry, and effortless to comb. To do this, make sure to get a sturdy brush for short-haired pups. In terms of bathing, it is safe to bathe red fox Labs as frequently as twice a month. However, if your dog gets dirty from outdoor activities, be sure to bathe it right away. Training and Exercise Red fox Labs are active dogs that require at least an hour of exercise every day. As working dogs, these dogs also need mental stimulation during training. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to train and exercise your red fox Lab. These include regular walking, swimming, hiking, or even a game of fetch. You may also opt to sign your dog up in agility competitions in your area. It is recommended to train your red fox Lab as early as possible. Keep in mind that red fox Labs are highly intelligent pooches. When these pups are not trained properly, they may become stubborn adult dogs. On average, the red fox Labrador cost more than other Labrador colors. The higher selling price of red fox Labs is usually due to their perceived rarity. These dogs are less common compared to lighter shades of yellow Labs, black Labs, and chocolate Labs. As a result, breeders typically hike up the price for a fox red Lab puppy. However, it is still possible to score a sweet deal when buying one of these dogs. What you can do to save a bit of cash is to find a reputable breeder who bundles their puppies with freebies. These freebies can range from dog crates, toys, dog food, and even pet insurance. Similarly, you can always look for red fox Labs in shelters and rescue organizations. Although red fox Labs may prove hard to find in rescues and shelters, it is still worth the shot. However, there are still plenty of places to get one. If you are looking to buy a red fox Labrador, make sure to only do so from reputable breeders. Puppy mills and backyard breeders do more harm than good. On the other hand, if you are looking to save a bit of cash, you may consider adopting a red fox Labrador instead. Here are some reputable breeders where you can find red fox Labs for sale: Blackfork Labradors — Established in , Blackfork Labrador has a long track record of breeding Labs. This breeder raises their pups on a acre farm in Oklahoma. Blackfork Labradors offers all variants of the Labrador Retriever including the red fox Labs. Their pups go through rigorous DNA tests before being sold. You can read their thoroughly explained breeding philosophy on their website. Here are some reliable services where you can find red fox Labs for adoption: Adopt-a-Pet — Adopt-a-Pet is an online service hosting an extensive selection of adoptable pets. Their listing includes purebred dogs and hybrid dogs from all over the country. Also, Adopt-a-Pet has a very helpful location-based search feature. This feature will help you look for red fox Labs within your desired location. Petfinder — Petfinder is another online service that aids aspiring pet owners. They have hundreds of adoptable Labrador Retrievers on their website, and some of them are red fox Labs. Make sure to check out their listings from time to time! Regardless if you are looking to buy or adopt a fox red Labrador, try to make sure that you bring home a healthy one. You can always ask for health clearances, breeder guarantees, or DNA test results from breeders or shelters. Red fox Labrador Retrievers regularly shed twice a year. Their coats are short and are fairly easy to maintain. Unless you are extremely allergic to small pollen such as dog hairs, you would not have problems with the shedding of a red fox Lab. What Is the Rarest Labrador Color? In terms of the genetic lottery, the coat color of chocolate Labrador Retrievers should be the rarest. This means if Labradors are not bred purposely, chocolate Labs would be the hardest Labrador color to find. However, since the influence of breeders comes into play, the rarest Labrador color is not chocolate. Instead, the rarest Labrador color is silver. Silver Labradors are not recognized by kennel clubs; these dogs are variants of the chocolate Labs and are mainly bred in the United States only. Yes, fox red Labs get darker as they age. However, the result will vary from one dog to another. Some dogs will be noticeably darker once they are full-grown, while others will just be a few shades darker. In general, coat color does not affect the temperament of a Labrador Retriever. However, many people believe that the yellow Labrador has the best temperament. These dogs are the most common service dogs among different Lab color variations. The red fox Lab has all the lovable traits and staple features of the Labrador Retriever — the number one best family dog breed. On top of their wits and loyalty, red fox Labs have a truly eye-catching coat color. These dogs easily stand out! If you are looking for a forever best friend with a bit of a quirk, look no further than the red fox Lab. Guaranteed, you will find joy in the company of this lovely pooch. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. Do you know over the years this debate seems to have rumbled on and I've decided that Red means whatever you want it to mean! There is no doubt that they do darken and I would say that the true colour does not come through until around two years of age. Also if you have your dog or bitch castrated or spayed it will have a significant effect on the fox red colour or the lighter undercoat seems to show through more. But I get people turn up here to meet the dogs who point at Spice and call her Fox Red now she is as yellow as yellow is and there is no way she is red, but they insist on calling her red. Hence my comment above, your yellow may well be fox red to someone else!! I do think if you keep mating fox red to fox red whatever the genetics are of that that the colour dilutes and you have to use yellow carrying fox red, or black carrying fox red to get the really dark fox red colour back again. Something that really shows in the litter I have here at the moment. Both bitch and dog are very yellow but have fox red at the back of them on both sides, and I have three fox red bitches here that are probably the darkest I have ever bred. I'm not sure that I actually answered your question, but that's my experience so far! Are you thinking about getting a fox red labrador? So, what should you know about their coat? Much like most aging animals, these Labradors are susceptible to hair and fur lightening. They get gray or white, which lightens their appearance around 7, 8, or 9 years old. Some dogs age quicker than others, though. Visual Perspective Is Everything Looking at a sun-bleached dog might change the way they look. Sunlight can lighten their color, too. They Might Change Colors Dancey Quarter Horses claims that some fox red labs get darker because their puppy coat is their undercoat. When they are a few months old, their true shade pushes through the undercoat. As you can see, their color might seem to get darker or lighter. In most cases, you can predict their color. Your fox red labrador will likely remain whichever color their hair is naturally. If you want to know what affects the shade before getting one, proceed to the next section. What Causes the Color Change? Many factors can alter what your fox red lab looks like. In fact, they might come out more brown, black, or yellow since these colors often become dominant. For example, sunshine lightens fur and hair more than anything aside from aging. On the other hand, cloudy weather will limit the lightening process and make them look dark for a long time. Pay attention to their parents, siblings, and grandparents. If their parents and siblings look the same, your pup will likely follow the trend. A black lab and chocolate lab can make pure black labs. The same process can occur with fox red labradors. If you want their coat to stay vibrant and healthy, give them enough protein. As they get older, it might lighten due to common age issues. Melanin is the most influential factor of all. The same intensity will darken orange, brown, and yellow coats. Proper diet and good genetics will keep them looking the same for a long time. You can find more information about how to predict their color below. The best way to find the genetic information is to talk to the breeder. Fox red labs are often found from high-end breeders rather than animal shelters, so you should be able to contact them easily. Is it very sunny where you live? As you hopefully read above, their color is heavily impacted by the local environment. Other than the climate, the only factor you can control is their protein intake. Raw food diets and clean dog food brands yield enough nutrition to promote natural coats. To know their actual color, give them a good diet with adequate exercise. As they get older, their coat might seem lighter, but never darker. Their genetics, diet, and location can alter their appearance. All dogs are different, so you might find a few outliers. Related Articles. Fox red Labrador breeders Labs come in three colors, yellow, chocolate and black. As well as some pale, dilute forms of those colors. The red fox Lab, or fox red Lab, is a dark coated variety of the yellow Labrador Retriever. Breeders are selecting darker red Labrador Retrievers to breed from as they become more popular companions than paler yellow Labs. Sometimes known as the ruby Labrador or fox red Lab, these are smart, energetic dogs are best suited to active owners. Yet at one time, almost all Labradors were black. This was partly due to nature, and partly due to a little human interference. Chocolate and yellow Labs were both harder to breed for and less desirable. Horrifically, yellow or brown puppies were often culled at birth! Yet all three colors of Labrador Retriever, black, chocolate and yellow including the red shade , share the same origins or history. Bred to be hunting companions, with bags of intelligence and a friendly disposition. In recent years, these rarer colors are becoming more popular. Which leads to more people selectively breeding for them. And therefore more dogs being born with these coats. Red Fox English Lab vs American Lab The trend in Labrador coat colors swung to paler and paler colors in the s, and remained that way for decades. Especially among the dog showing community. Fortunately a pool of dark yellow or fox red Labs remained popular in the working sporting dog community. Possibly because a pale yellow dog, being far too easy for wildfowl to spot, is not an ideal hunting companion. American Labs are slimmer built, with less stocky heads and chests. They have a stronger prey drive, are a little less forward and playful. Even today you are unlikely to find a Red Labrador with a show background. Any dog advertised as an English fox red Labrador will probably have a pedigree that is a mix of American and English dogs. It is largely from this pool of working retrievers that we now have the stunning fox red Labrador Retrievers that we see today. And because they are often the American Lab type rather than English Lab type, they are often taller and more athletic in appearance than the paler yellow Labs. And if you live in the USA, you may have to do plenty of detective work to find one at all. You may have more luck looking for an American Lab type, from working lines. They are very intelligent and trainable, with loyal, loving personalities. Although they have the usual Lab friendliness, they can also be a little more nervous and wary of strangers and slightly high strung. Lots of socialization and plenty of attention will keep these dogs happy. Coupled with lots of exercise, and both mental and physical activities to keep them busy. Presumably because breeders are selecting for the popular deeper coat color in order to increase puppy sales. There is a lot of pressure on breeders to produce certain colors. But a responsible breeder should not choose parents purely on the basis of color. Especially when there are not large numbers of fox reds to choose from. You may be tempted to skip this — but give it a go — it might be easier than you think! Think of a Labrador as a basically black dog. Black is the default color. The black coat is caused by a pair of genes called the B genes Your dog inherits one from his mother and one from his father — in a pair — like this: BB B genes come in big or little versions. So a black dog could have a pair that look like this instead: Bb Little b carries the code necessary to make a brown coat instead of a black one. BUT, big B is dominant and switches off little b. So little b only gets a say, if two of them get together like this: bb, and when that happens, you get a chocolate Lab! This is done by two little e genes. They also come in a pair like this: ee And when they get together they have the amazing power to completely block the genes that cause black and brown coats. A lab with two little ee genes cannot have a brown or a black coat and so the coat color now defaults to yellow. Now we are getting closer to our fox red color. E genes can also be big like this: EE or mixed like this: Ee, but when that happens the big E switches off the little e, and takes away its power. Yellow vs Red Fox Lab Coats A red Lab is a variation of yellow, and every red dog has those two essential little e genes that switch off black and brown. But then it starts to get a little bit more complicated. It centers on a pigment called pheomelanin. And it is controlled by two different sets of genes. The A gene controls the production of the red color. And the C gene controls whether or not it is fully expressed or diluted. This is what makes things a little more complicated. In fact, I am still over-simplifying it a bit. Otherwise the B gene will override them. And you are back to black or brown. Fox Red Lab Breeders Your first step when bringing any Labrador into your life should be to make sure that this is the right time for you to do this. The next step is to find a reputable breeder of Labradors. Finding a nice fox red stud dog and making a list of all his recent matings is often a starting point. You are most unlikely to find a good breeder who only breeds fox reds. This is because color is not the top priority for a responsible breeder. And remember, in most yellow litters there will be a range of shades. Puppies may darken as they grow, or they may not. No breeder can guarantee you the final color of your puppy. Make sure that both parents have good hips, elbows and a clear eye test, as well as a PRA clear certificate. Then your pup will have the best chance of growing up healthy. Red Fox Lab Puppy Prices When it first starts to trend, a fashionably colored dog may be more expensive, and this is still happening to some extent with reds. My advice is to be wary of paying an unusually high price for a red lab puppy. It could indicate that you have found an unscrupulous breeder who may be cutting corners on health or other important matters. The reason I say this is because many respectable breeders will look down on selling puppies of different colors for different prices. In fact paying the same price irrespective of color could mean you have a better breeder, and a healthier pup! This shade gets increasingly darker over the first few weeks. By three weeks old they are starting to look much more like the Labrador you know and love. By the time you take them home at 8 weeks old they will have that lovely fox red shade. Not all the puppies in a litter will be the same shade, even if both of their parents are fox red themselves. Just like any other Labrador, it will be important to dedicate their first few weeks in your home to getting them settled. Starting to work on important things like potty training and setting food habits. They really benefit from positive reinforcement training. Using rewards to help encourage them to behave in a way that will help them to fit nicely into your family. Start off with no more than a few minutes of formal exercise a day when they are small puppies. And work up to any big walks or runs very gradually over time so as not to accidentally hurt them. Did you turn up here hoping to learn about red fox Labs, only to find us referring to them as fox red instead? There are no consistencies in the way fox red Lab is spelled. Whether fox red is one word or two. Or whether the fox or the red comes first. Of course, we know fox red is much more special than that. At least it means you can spell it any way you like! I tend to say fox red Labrador, you can say redfox or red fox Labrador if it makes you happy. Ultimately they are all just gorgeous Labradors, with a darker shade to their yellow coat. More about Labrador Types and Colors! Instead, they often appear quite light in color from a distance. If you are considering purchasing a red lab puppy, then you may be interested in learning some of the interesting facts about these unique, little dogs. So, the red lab puppies are not one of those breeds that get darker as they get older. They retain their coat colors almost all the time. In fact, in many cases the opposite occurs. Factors That Affect The Color of Red Labs If you are considering buying a red lab puppy, then you should know that there are a few key reasons why a lab does not get darker with age. Dominant Color One of the first things you need to know about red lab puppies is that the color is dominant on the coat. As a result, if you are buying a puppy with an unblocked coat, the color is often the dominant feature. Thus, if you are purchasing a red lab puppy with a striped coat, the color is likely to remain on the top. This is why so many people confuse red lab puppies with purebreds where the dominant color of the coat is black. This may seem like a simple question, but in actuality, there are many reasons why fox red Labradors does not get darker as they age. A coat that is unblocked is always going to show as the dominant color, no matter what other characteristics of the dog may have. In some cases, the dog does become darker with age, but it is not due to genetics. In other words, there are several common genetic factors that can cause the shade of red on the body of a lab to get darker. These include Alopecia , which is basically a condition where a coat gets thinner as the dog ages. The Coat Color The coat color can also play a role in how the fur gets darker. For example, in some cases the color of the coat can be due to a trait called dilution. Thus, there is a possibility that the same shade of red as a puppy has now may fade to a darker shade as it gets older. One example of this is that a red lab that was initially quite dark may end up turning a purplish or pinkish color when it becomes older. Some people also mistakenly believe that fox red Labradors gets darker as they age because of the presence of fur and skin pigments. Again, this is not true. In fact, if you were to look at a puppy with a nice coat of gray or brown fur, the hair will tend to appear darker as the dog gets older. The skin pigment melanin works the same way. Thus, in reality, fox red Labradors does not get darker as they age. Can black labs change color? Are black Labradors unique in that they do not change color? Although the pet is very affectionate and always likes to be near their owners, you may be wondering if black Labradors do in fact change color. As a matter of fact, many people assume that Labradors are meant to change color. However, this is not the case. When Black Labradors do change color, it is due to the different conditions that this occurs with them. For instance, their coat is covered in long hair. In contrast, other breeds of Labradors are found to be more sensitive to certain hair colors. Ability to thrive in harsh conditions One of the key characteristics of Labradors is their ability to thrive in certain conditions. In short, Labradors can adapt to their environments, especially to the hot and humid weather conditions found in many areas. They are classified as being very good escape artists when it comes to certain environmental hazards. Due to their ability to survive in the heat of the desert in the summer, it is not surprising that Labradors have become very popular in desert environments. The Lab is also one of the few Labradors that can survive and thrive in extremely cold environments. The consensus seems to be that black Labradors do not change color, but that is not the case. Black Labradors do not change color because their coats are more sensitive to hair color. If you were to dye the hair of a black Labrador white, you would still not find that color to be even remotely attractive. They are color-blind. The reason why Labradors are color-blind is that most of their pigment is in their eyes, which is actually a protein called eumelanin. These specific pigments are responsible for giving Labradors their dark blue eyes. Even though Labradors can take on other colors such as chocolate, apricot, or hazelnut, their eyes can never become another color. Since they have no pigment in their eyes, if these were to change, they would appear as though they had lost their pigmentation. Therefore, Labradors do not change color and there is no reason to think that they could, if their coat is not very sensitive to hair color. When do fox red labs change color? How cute, how pretty, how pretty when does fox red Labradors change color? And then there are the times when your kids ask you how does fox red Labradors change color? Now the answer might come as a bit of a surprise. The fur coat on foxes, like most other mammals, develops through a process known as melanization, where cells of the body are activated through an assortment of chemical stimuli. In foxes, the color of the fur is determined by the presence of two types of pigment. The first of these is called melanin, which is responsible for the basic color of the fur. The second type of pigment, called anthocyanin , is responsible for the color that is seen on the different kinds of fur. One other factor that affects the color of a red fox Labrador is where in the world the animal was born. Foxes are born with a dark coat, but this can be colorized through a process known as demarcation. Demarcation occurs when one eye is more sensitive to light than the other, and the demarcation is considered to be a defect. So now you know why it is so important to understand when doing fox red Labradors change color. However, it is important to realize that fox red Labradors can be resilient and adaptive, and will be able to adapt to changes that may occur. Red Labradors can be very easy to take care of once you know the basics. You need to understand a few of the most important things that you should do so that your lab will have a long life and live a happy and healthy life. As the name would suggest, the red lab is a red color. This means that you will have to make sure that the red lab has plenty of shade. The right shade will mean that your box will be able to survive in its new environment as well as be comfortable. You should buy your red lab from a reputable breeder because this way you know that you are getting the right breed for you. Also, buying from a reputable breeder means that the breeder will give you the proper amount of nutrition so that your red lab will be healthy and happy. Make sure that they are around small children only. This includes brush them regularly, and pay close attention to their teeth to make sure that they have enough strength. If they have very strong teeth that are more than 3 years old, you should keep them up-to-date with preventative treatment like fluorescents and polishes. These are two very important things to keep up-to-date. Make sure that you bathe your red lab on a regular basis to keep their coat clean and healthy. You should bathe them on a weekly basis at least to give them a healthier coat. Never let them out of their cages until they are completely dry, which could take several baths. If they are wet, you should use cool water to bathe them. Also, you should brush their coat daily and as often as they are sick or if they are ill. This will help to keep their coat shiny, clean, and healthy. A brush will help to keep it looking smooth and clean. Your red lab will look much better once they have been properly brushed. Also, it is best to get your red lab neutered because this is a lot easier on their coat. Labradors are very smart and very playful dogs. They are going to need some special attention and care as well as a proper diet so that they will be healthy and happy. Post navigation. According to the American Kennel Club, purebred Labradors vary from a fox-red to a light cream color. Some dogs have variations in color on the ears and back or on the underparts of the dog. It may stay the same color or could darken with age. Many breeders will show you a puppy with a reddish hint and say that its coat will end up the color of mom when he grows up. The appearance of a fox red Labrador Fox red Labradors are the same breed; they have the same temperament and characteristics as other colors of Labrador. However, some owners claim that their Fox red Labrador is more vocal. Most fox red Labradors are born a brown shade with slight peach-colored pigmentation, which is more visible around the nose, eyes, and under the armpits. As the puppies grow, their coats will lighten up from a brown into a rusty color. By the time the puppy is ready to leave his mom and go to a new home, he will be a red or ginger color. Throughout the years, a fox red Labradors coat is likely to darken slightly with age and undergo seasonal variations. Fox red Labradors that live in hot sunny climates are likely to appear blonder during the summer months. Many people want to buy a fox red dog as they think it will make their pet look unique. When deciding whether a Labrador is for you, you should also consider other factors such as your lifestyle and ensure you can provide the correct care and attention. The coat color will change as the puppy grows up. Share this:. Body Odor All dog breeds can give off an unpleasant odor if they are not regularly washed but Fox Red Labs are perhaps the worst of them all. This is because they produce more oil than other breeds to help keep their coats dry quickly. The downside of this is that it causes body odor. The solution is to bathe your dog regularly. They May Be Prejudiced in the Show Ring Because a Fox Red Lab is scientifically a yellow Lab, they are often allowed to be shown in the conformation ring as well as other obedience and performance competitions. However, judges tend to mark them less favorably compared to their traditional and lighter colored Lab counterparts. So, they are never likely to win or even come close to winning. If showing your pooch in any competition is a factor to you, then you should forgo the Fox Red Lab or simply try your hand on the traditional colored Labs. More Vocal One key difference between fox colored Labrador retriever and other Labs is that they tend to be more vocal. Canine experts associate this with their smaller gene pool, positing that a once vocal ancestor could have passed the trait on. In other words, the trait could have been inherited from one family member down the fox red Lab heritage. This means that this is not a fox red Lab trait per se, so your red Labrador may be different. You should also know about the history of this amazing dog, temperament, how much to pay for a new puppy, where to find a fox red lab for sale, their exercise requirements, and any other relevant information that can help you understand or know your new Fido better. In other words, there are no consistencies or requirements of how the name should be spelled. What really matters is the gorgeous coat color of this Lab! We and most other owners of this Labrador use Fox Red Lab frequently because it perfectly matches the coat color. Finally, it is worth mentioning that some people tend to think that these dogs are crosses or mixes of foxes probably because of the name! However, that is not the case. The fox part of the name is just used to denote color. They also served as family and protection dogs. The potential for all the coat colors of the Labrador retrievers that we are familiar with today—black, yellow, chocolate red, etc—have always existed with the breed. However, there was a time when people favored black Labrador retrievers. As a result, other colored Labs were culled, including Fox Red Labs. As years progressed, lighter shades of yellow Labradors became more popular and the fox red or darker shades became less fashionable. However, there is a section of people who still loved the darker and fox red Labradors. These were majorly the working gun community who favored the coat color because it was a bit harder for wildfowl to spot compared to the pale yellow coat. This new-found love among the gun community made fox red Labs more desirable again. So, many breeders began breeding selectively to try to obtain litters of the fox reds to meet the demands of this section of the community. The dazzling fox red Labs we have today are, therefore, believed to have come from this pool of working Labradors. Expect your fox Labrador to be gentle, loyal, friendly, playful, and intelligent. Provided that he is socialized early, well cared for, and exposed to positive experiences, your fox red Labrador retriever will be sweet-natured, pleasant, empathetic, and show little anxiety around everybody, including complete strangers. They are also good with children, other dogs, and pets provided that they are properly trained. Some fox red Labrador retrievers may manifest strong instinctive prey drive and chase other family pets, but proper training during puppyhood can avert the behavior. Finally, although they are outgoing, expect your foxy red Lab to be protective of his family and home. Puppy Colors When they are born, red fox lab puppies tend to appear much darker. A few weeks after birth, they will become much lighter. The coat color then changes over the next few months. In particular, the color will darken a bit. So, how do you tell the final color your adult fox red lab puppy will be? Labs are fully grown when they hit one year and often reach full height by month 9. So, expect their coat colors to remain the same when they are years old. It is a simple case of supply and demand at play here. However, it is worth mentioning that once it becomes easy to sell a breed on the basis of color, all the important things to be considered when breeding like correct bloodlines and health get ignored a lot. The color will drive the demand and breeders will use it as an easy way of making quick bucks. So, be wary of breeders who tend to charge unusually higher price tags for their red fox lab puppies. Probably they are cutting corners on health and other important aspects. If anything, a reputable breeder will look down upon the rush to price puppies differently because of coat colors. Buying a Pet G. And your next move will be to find a good, reputable breeder. As aforementioned, the moment a coat color becomes fashionable, many breeders move fast to take advantage of the situation and even end up using crooked breeding strategies—without real thought on important aspects like bloodlines, health, temperament, and working ability. To find a good breeder, keep the following tips in mind: Stay away from breeders who purport to only breed fox reds. Coat color should never be the top priority for a reputable breeder. No breeder should guarantee you the final color of your fox red Lab puppy because the coat colors tend to change darken as the dogs grow in age. The only surefire way of getting a red fox puppy is by breeding two red fox parents. In case one of the parents of the puppy you plan to purchase is yellow and the other is red, your adult labrador red fox dog is likely to be yellow than red. They often list fox red Labrador puppies for sale, which are either ready for purchase or litters that are expected soon. Another great place to consider getting your new puppy from is rescue centers. Dogs in rescue centers need parents more than ever, so by getting one from a shelter, you will be doing a lot of favor to the dog world and your community. Generally, Labrador Retrievers are recognized by AKC and were first accepted into the organization in .However, fox red Lab is not recognized as a separate color by the organization and many other major kennel clubs around the world. It is considered as a mere variation in shades of the traditional yellow Labrador. For your information, silver and charcoal labs are other colors that are not currently recognized by AKC. Are Fox Red Labs Purebreds? Because the coat color is uncommon, especially when compared to other traditional Lab colors like black, chocolate and paler yellow shades, some canine enthusiasts doubt the purity of fox red Labradors. Some people even claim that these types of Labs are bred unethically to take advantage of the rare coloring. So, are fox red labs purebreds? The short answer is: Yes, these dogs are authentic, purebred Labrador Retrievers with a history that dates back to the earliest days of the breed. If anything, AKC and other major kennel clubs around the globe recognize these dogs as purebreds and only a variation in shades of the traditional yellow Labrador. Are they different? No, all of them are fox red Labs. The variation of the shade is a mere expression of a pigment commonly referred to as Pheomelanin. If you sport a dark fox red labrador, therefore, just know that it is still a fox red Lab but with a darker shade coat color. British vs. Well, most people cite two things: physical appearance and temperament. English fox red labs are relatively shorter, have blocky builds, and tend to have a broader face. In terms of temperament, they are often very calm and docile because they were mostly bred for show rings. On the other hand, the American fox red lab is tall, thin, and has a more narrow face. It is also more energetic, a bit hyper, and more intelligent. The short answer is NO. While some people do mistake Labrador retriever red fox dogs for Vizslas, these breeds are different and unrelated in any way. As aforementioned, a Labrador retriever red fox dog is a purebred Lab, and currently, there is nothing that scientifically connects them with Vizslas. They are only similar in appearance—same coat color, large ears, and facial expression. However, you can easily differentiate them if you know a thing or two about these dogs. For instance, a fox red Labrador retriever tends to be more athletic and a Vizsla is considerably smaller. Related Posts:.

To create this hybrid, the parents must be one purebred Border Collie and one purebred German Shepherd. Both of these breeds are certified by the American Kennel Club so breeders should be able to provide paperwork for both parents. This energetic, intelligent, loving breed is becoming very popular with people who want a solid working dog or a loyal companion. As they are crossbreed, the characteristics they inherit from each parent will be different in each puppy. The overall appearance of this breed tends to lean more towards the German Shepherd parent. With their muscular large bodies, they are often mistaken for purebred German Shepherds. Their floppy ears and Collie tail will give them away as crossbreeds. Although a Shepherd is their most common appearance, each puppy will inevitably be different in appearance. No matter how they look, these dogs will have strong muscles and high levels of stamina, great for herding cattle. Fully grown, they should be around 21 to 27 inches tall and weigh around 70 to 80 lbs. If they lean more towards the Collie parent, they may be shorter and weigh less as Collies generally only weigh around 40 lbs. Colors Their coat will probably be a solid tan color with black patching and points. Coat They will have a straight, dense, medium-length coat, as both parents do. If they take after their German Shepherd parent, it will be a double coat. This means that it will be noticeably thicker especially in the winter months. If they are working dogs, this double coat will be great for working in cold weather. The best way to make an educated guess about their temperament is to look at their parent breeds. Highly energetic and extremely intelligent, these dogs are very eager to learn. Despite this, German Shepherds are not naturally aggressive and are actually very loving dogs that are loyal to their families. It is true that this loyalty can lead to them being protective and so they will often bark at anything strange in their territory. Border Collie Temperament A Collie was also bred as a herding dog and is one of the most common dogs used by farmers in the United Kingdom to manage their flocks and herds. Like GSDs, Collies are also energetic and very intelligent; ranked number one across all dog breeds. The downside is that they always need something to do otherwise they get bored very quickly. They are more playful than the German Shepherd but may have more issues with separation anxiety. With both these breeds in mind, we can definitely say that this hybrid is well above average in energy and intelligence. They make fantastic working dogs as this provides them with a job to do and plenty to keep their mind active. They will want to be with someone most of the time. Leaving an energetic and intelligent dog alone is a recipe for destructive behaviour such as chewing on furniture and barking. If you do just want this dog as a companion animal, be prepared for lots of exercise, playtime, and training sessions. These dogs can be protective so plenty of socialization from an early age will help. Lots of different people coming in and out of their space is very important. This will reduce the likelihood of them becoming defensive to new people. If they are the only dog in the house, be sure to socialize them with lots of other dogs to prevent guarding behavior over you and your family. Both parent breeds are comfortable around other animals, especially livestock or cats. They can live happily with other dogs and having a doggy friend may help keep them entertained. This mix is a great family dog as long as it was socialized with its family from a young age and not left alone with young children. All family members should be consistent with training to prevent the dog from receiving mixed messages and diluting the effect of training. As with all dogs, it would be unwise to leave young children alone with them. This breed is usually a food-focused dog which makes it easy to train with treats. Some mixes may also respond to toy-focused training which would be great if your dog is going to be a working dog or even train in agility or obedience. They will require a lot of socialization with people to reduce any guarding behaviors and aloofness. Naturally, this breed is not an aggressive breed but it is always good to socialize a puppy with other puppies to teach them canine manners. The Border Collie Shepherd Mix should be easy and enjoyable to train because they are so intelligent. If they are companion animals, you should definitely look into interactive feeders, plenty of toys for chewing and other games. For games which will stimulate your mix, fetch will be an important one. They need exercising for at least two hours a day, time in the garden, playtime, and other forms of mental stimulation. If they are working dogs they may get most of this on the job but as a companion animals, they will need this provided in other forms. Grooming should be completed a minimum of two times a week; especially if they have a double coat from their Shepherd parent. They should also have all the normal care that a dog requires: Ears cleaned Claws cut Treatment for fleas and worms Checked for ticks especially if they are out in fields or long grass on a regular basis Someone best suited to owning this breed is either at home most of the day or works with this dog. These mixed breed dogs are a very high-energy hybrid. This means a fenced-in backyard is a must so they can go out when they please and work off some energy. These dogs are not suited to living in apartments or houses without gardens. If they are working as a herding dogs, they will be able to run off a lot of that energy doing their job. If they are a guard dog or companion animal, they will need to be out of the house exercising for at least two hours a day. You should walk your dog a minimum of twice a day for at least one hour each time. These dogs are great off-leash as they are highly intelligent and should master recall pretty quickly. It means they can run off steam while running circles around you. Agility classes are also an excellent way of burning off steam and excellent as a form of mental stimulation, especially for this breed as they have a great body type for agility work. Grooming and Shedding If your dog does have a double coat, you can expect seasonal shedding. This is where they shed loads of fur twice a year in the Spring and Fall to make room for the new coat growth. Even if the coat is not double, these dogs will still shed quite a bit throughout the year and so will need brushing a minimum of twice a week. With lots of treats and positive reinforcement, grooming should be a good bonding time for you and your pup. You should take your dog to be professionally groomed a few times a year, especially around shedding season if they have that double coat. This will help prevent matting and keep their coat super healthy. Feeding and Diet The Border Collie German Shepherd Mix, when fully grown, should be fed one and a half cups of good quality dry food twice a day. This can also have wet food mixed in with it. Good quality dry food will have a very high percentage of protein. Things to avoid in dry dog food are any type of food dye, rendered fats, and corn or wheat gluten. People with working dogs often swear by a raw food diet. This is where the diet is made up of unprocessed meats, bones, fruit and vegetables, some dairy, and eggs. Known Health Problems All dogs are prone to certain health conditions and age-related issues. With little planning ahead you could get reimbursed for every vet bill from now on! Is The Shollie For You? The special thing about these dogs is their spectacular looks, more similar to a purebred than to a designer breed. They have aspects of a German Shepherd, with beautiful coats, large and athletic bodies, and expressive eyes. The only things that betray them are the less hairy tail and the floppy ears, both inherited from the Border Collie. Most of these dogs have a tan colored coat, but you can also find black and, in some rare cases, white Shollies. Of course, that thick, long coat will need regular brushing to avoid tangles and poor skin health. The German Shepherd is a highly active breed, developed for work and activity which means they require regular physical exercise. Thus, the combination of these two breeds results in an explosion of high energy! As an owner, you need to make sure your Shollie gets the activity and physical exercise she requires. Just take a look at these beautiful dogs and how they enjoy themselves playing: And the best way to do that would be to adapt an active lifestyle yourself no, this dog is not suitable for couch potatoes like you, Josh. While being playful, Shollies also do quite well on their own, so you can leave them alone at home for short intervals without worrying about them destroying furniture or getting too lonely. So, what activities can you give a Shepherd Collie mix to keep her happy and healthy? Something as simple as giving your dog some fresh air at regular intervals throughout the day should be more than enough to keep him satisfied. How often exactly? According to doctors of veterinary medicine like Amy Moore and Charlotte Cummings, a Shollie requires at least 2 walks every day or a minimum of 2 hours of activity on the daily. Both the German Shepherd and the Border Collie are known for their affectionate nature. A Shepherd Collie loves playing with her owners and will often eagerly await the next time you pick up the ball for a fun round of fetch. Despite being naturally loving and sweet towards their owners, however, the Shollie can manifest a wary side. How can you prevent this type of behavior in your Shollie? Exposing your pup to crowded, high activity environments early on. But it will make them more capable of controlling their impulses when a guest or visitor walks into your home. Police and military forces all over the world commonly use the aid of German Shepherds for a variety of tasks that would otherwise be impossible for people to perform! Sniffing out bombs, illegal substances, and other security threats are just some of the nifty tricks that German Shepherds can be taught. Border Collies, on the other hand, are known to be some of the smartest and most trainable dogs around. This breed quickly takes a number of tasks and jobs with simple repetition. With this type of lineage, you should know that the Shepherd Collie is just as smart. This dog breed loves mental exercise and will often look for something to stimulate her ever active mind. So as her owner, you should be ready with a few cognitive puzzles, games, and tasks that will help give your dog the mental exercise that she needs. For instance, before taking him out for your next walk, think about the place you plan to visit. Instead of going for the typical trail you always follow, consider other areas with more varied smells, sounds, and sights. Something as simple as exposing your dog to new sensory experiences can give them that well-deserved dose of cognitive training. What about dogs that are frequently left at home? As much as possible, I advise you bring your dog along with you when you run errands or go out because this can also give him a chance to stretch his mental muscles. Just hide the kibble in areas of your house where your dog is free to explore, and it will keep your Shollie thoroughly entertained for hours on end. So, how do you go about teaching your Collie Shepherd Mix to alert you in case of an intruder or threat? The first step would be to teach them to stop barking on command. Once your Collie Shepherd perfects this, you can then start teaching her when barking would be acceptable behavior by simulating an intruder or threat. Ultimately, what you want to teach your dog is the ability to discern between harmless guests and potential intruders by showing them the way that threats would behave. So your Shollie should know not to bark or alert you in these instances. Watch this video for more advanced tactics on stopping people aggression in dogs. Some dogs are more predisposed to certain health problems just because of their build and lineage. Responsibly bred Shepherd Collie Mixes will live up to 15 years of healthy life with little to no incidences of disease or illness! Of course, the parent breeds do have their own health problem predispositions that can be passed on to the mix. For instance, German Shepherds are notoriously prone to hip dysplasia. Border Collies, on the other hand, are known to be commonly afflicted with epilepsy. What a Shollie really needs is an owner who can keep up with their high energy, their wit, and their affectionate nature. About Alexandra Animalso I was raised to be a dog person. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. Applies to all dog food recalls in the U. Adopting an older dog will decrease the price tag. Lancaster Puppies in Columbus, OH. Owners will have a lot on their hands when grooming this hybrid dog. It is a heavy shedder, making it hard for owners to clean up while trying to keep their coat healthy. The German Shepherd Border Collie mix sheds more often as it grows old, so owners must brush its fur daily to remove dander and dead hair. Here are some of the most recommended grooming equipment to maintain the coat of the German Shepherd mixed with Border Collie: Slicker Brush Slicker brushes are great combs to remove tangles and mats on long-haired dogs. The slicker brush can save owners time when brushing the coat of the German Shepherd Border Collie compared to regular combs. Detanglers Before using a slicker brush, owners will notice that the Border Collie German Shepherd mix has a lot of tangled hair. Dematting sprays can relax and soften the hair to make it easier for owners to untangle the knots. Owners must resort to this solution if the tangles are hard to remove despite the use of detanglers as dogs are not fond of sharp objects. Owners must avoid buying shampoo based on the odor or the low price. Owners must be aware of its coat type and skin to help them find oils and specialty ingredients that will be beneficial for the Border Collie mixed with German Shepherd. Grooming Wipes The German Shepherd mixed with Border Collie is an energetic dog that will be dirty when it finishes playing outside the house. Wet wipes are essential for dog owners that want to prevent mud and grass inside their residence. Microfiber Towel Human towels do not absorb all of the water on a dog. Because of its heavy coat, the German Shepherd Border Collie mix will likely be dripping wet despite a heavy rinsing. Microfiber towels can help remove water on a Border Collie German Shepherd cross better than human towels. The legs and hips of Border Collie German Shepherd will deteriorate as it ages. The hybrid dog will experience problems at an earlier rate depending on its activities as well. It may also be born deaf if one of its parent breeds already have hearing problems. Epilepsy The Border Collie breed is widely known for its tendency to suffer from epilepsy more than other dog breeds. The Border Collie German Shepherd mix may inherit this health problem as well. Epilepsy happens when the dog is experiencing episodic seizures. Fortunately, it is a rare disease among dogs. Degenerative Myelopathy When owners notice that the Border Collie German Shepherd mix is starting to walk funny on its back legs, it can be a symptom of Degenerative Myelopathy. This disease currently has no cure. Irresponsible breeders are the most likely reasons for the health issues of a German Shepherd mixed with a Border Collie. Owners must make sure that they are adopting a healthy puppy from a reputable breeder to avoid dealing with a sickly puppy. If the hybrid dog is exhausted from more training than usual, owners can go for 4 cups a day. Bloat and diabetes are two main health problems that can affect a Border Collie crossed with a German Shepherd as both parent breeds may also suffer from them. It is essential for owners to avoid overfeeding this hybrid dog and prevent nutritional imbalances. In such scenarios, products such as Nutra Thrive dog food supplement can be a solution to regain the proper balance of nutrients. Dog owners and lovers must also keep in mind that they need to seek food for the best large breed dry dog food instead of best dry dog food for small dogs. Whatever you do, make sure you steer clear from the worst dry dog food. Try to learn more about the difference between poor-quality and premium-quality chows by checking our best dry dog food guide! The dog food must include joint supplements because large dog breeds are prone to hip dysplasia and other joint ailments. To avoid this, give them kibble that is rich in calcium since puppyhood. Pooches that have entered their golden years will maintain their health properly only if given the right amount of the best senior dry dog food! Dog food must also contain a moderate amount of calories to avoid obesity, which is a common problem among large breeds. The dog food chosen by owners must also have large kibble to avoid letting the dog eat too quickly, which may result in life-threatening conditions like bloat. Here are a few of the most recommended large breed dog food in the US: Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula The Blue Buffalo Life dog food is perfect for the German Shepherd mixed with Border Collie because it is full of ingredients rich in antioxidants like kelp, blueberries, sweet potatoes, and carrots. Deboned chicken is also its main ingredient. This brand does not have wheat, soy, or corn. Wellness Core Dog Food The nutritious proteins included in the Wellness Complete Health dog food for large breeds is beneficial for the German Shepherd crossed with Border Collie because it has all the nutrition it needs. This brand contains deboned chicken, salmon meal, and deboned whitefish, which gives the dog food a delicious flavor. It also includes flaxseed, which is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. It also provides for different probiotics for the German Shepherd Border Collie mix. Dog for Dog contains vitamins and minerals to give your Border Collie mixed with German Shepherd the nutrition it needs. This whole-grain brand also contains glucosamine, which helps keep joints healthy. Owners on a budget will find this product affordable. It also helps prevent nutrient deficiency with its vitamins and minerals. The brand also comes with glucosamine and chondroitin, which is good for joint health. Eagle Pack Natural consists only of natural ingredients with no artificial colors and preservatives. It also includes eight probiotic strains to keep the hybrid dog healthy. Pro Plan Focus Weight Management Large Breed This brand is beneficial for large dogs because it can supply them with many complex carbohydrates to sustain their energy levels. It is also helpful for the joint because of it contains glucosamine. This brand attacks specific health issues like joint problems or bloating that a German Shepherd mixed with Border Collie may cross. This brand contains joint supplements, probiotic supplements, and fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants. It is a natural and grain-free product with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It contains antioxidant-rich vegetables and fruits, as well as premium proteins. This brand is a grain-free product that will give your hybrid dog enough nutrition for its daily activities and exercises. There are a plethora of good choices for them out there, but make sure to find some of the best dry dog food , for example, Wellness Core Dog Food , Dog For Dog Food , or Nutra Thrive dog food supplement. Puppies and senior dogs have different food requirements, so go through the best puppy food brands in case you own a little munchkin and best senior dry dog food for grandpa and grandma pups. A checkup with your vet will help you opt for some of these. Both of its parent breeds are also very active. This hybrid dog does not do well indoors and needs to have a lot of time running and playing with its owners. An owner of a German Shepherd crossed with Border Collie must commit their time to engage this dog in activities if they want to avoid it from becoming bored and destructive. This dog will become aggressive and timid if it does not participate in mental and physical activities. Its daily exercise requires about 60 minutes of running and playing outside of the house. If you happen to raise a Border Collie German Shepherd mix as a calm and independent dog, 2 hours of separate walks daily can keep it satisfied. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Shollie Highlights Shollies are mixed breed dogs. The Shollie is a dog who demands a lot of exercise—ideally over an hour a day split up into a couple of sessions. If you live near open fields or have access to a large dog park, these will become ideal playgrounds for the Shollie. The Shollie is a great match with kids. The dog will take on a protective role, while also enjoying play sessions with the children in the household. You must still supervise playtime between kids and dogs. The mixed breed is also known for being smart. Add agility and fetch-based tasks into the routine to keep the dog mentally stimulated and satisfied. The German Shepherd Dog was originally bred as a herding dog in Germany and dates back to the s. The breed eventually became renowned as a working dog for the police and military, and these days you might also see them as guide dogs. The Border Collie also claims herding roots, this time from England and Scotland. Even though the Shollie got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the breed for you! Shollie Size The Shollie is a large dog. As is always the case with newer mixed dog breeds, exact size standards might vary. Most weigh in at 70 to 80 pounds and range in height from 21 to 29 inches. Shollie Personality When it comes to personality, the Shollie is a solid mix between being affectionate towards the humans in their life and also acting as a protector of the family. The dog will form an exceptionally strong bond with children, and will display protective behavior if strangers approach. Befitting a large and athletic dog, the Shollie demands lots of outdoor time—otherwise the mixed breed might display destructive behavior and act out due to being bored. Aim for at least an hour of walking and running time every day, and add agility and fetch-based tasks into the routine to keep the dog mentally stimulated and satisfied. It cannot be stressed enough that the Shollie is a smart and energetic dog—so they need a family who can commit to an equally active and involved lifestyle. Shollie Health Shollies are generally considered to be healthy dogs, although the mixed breed can be predisposed to some of the same conditions that the German Shepherd Dog and Border Collie face. Some of the more common health problems Shollies suffer from include: Bloat Elbow dysplasia Shollie Care The Shollie is a dog who demands a lot of exercise—ideally over an hour a day split up into a couple of sessions. The mixed breed is also intelligent and benefits greatly from being mentally stimulated and challenged, otherwise they may become frustrated. The mixed breed usually has good dental hygiene, so brushing their teeth twice a week should suffice. Ask your regular vet about an appropriate toothpaste brand for the mixed breed. Also, be sure to check nails and paw pads after outdoor sessions, and look for any potential signs of damage or infection. Check their ears for signs of debris or pests, as well. Shollie Feeding An ideal Shollie diet should be formulated for a large dog with high energy. This will help keep the coat clean and lessen the chances of any mats developing. When it comes to climate, the Shollie is an adaptable dog who can usually live happily in most climates, although sometimes they can be prone to overheating in very hot weather. So remember to dress the breed up in a dog coat if it gets very cold outside, and always make sure adequate shade and fresh water is provided when the temperature spikes. Just be sure that early socialization takes place and boundaries are properly set on both sides—and supervise as much as possible when dealing with a large dog and small kids. When it comes to other household pets, the Shollie is usually fine around other domestic animals. Ultimately, early socialization really pays off with this mixed breed. Make sure to reward your Shollie for good behavior and adhere to a proper training regime when you bring them home to your family. Shollie Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed specific rescue for Shollies because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try German Shepherd Dog or Border Collie breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Where did the German Shepherd Border Collie mix come from? So their history is the combined history of those two breeds! Based on their heritage, it may be assumed that the hybrid was the result of a desire for the ultimate large dog. One that has athletic ability, agility and a protective yet playful nature. There, early Collies were bred to do much the same thing that they do today. Herd and protect livestock. Sheepdogs such as the Border Collie have been in existence for centuries. Modern Border Collies are still excellent working dogs, especially on ranches. Formed to create the ultimate herding or guide dog. In a climate where working outside often meant braving cold weather and damp conditions, the Shepherd dog had to be tough. The GSD eventually became a refined herding breed known for its stamina and work ethic. The AKC formally recognized the breed in .Later, Shepherds became associated with military, police, and service work. All sectors in which you can find them working in today. Nor what color or length their coats will be. Along with the standard colors that are associated with the parent breeds. Adding another level of possibility is the fact that hybrids may look like a mix of their parents. Height and Weight The German Shepherd and Collie mix has the potential to be a medium or large-sized dog. If the pup takes after its GSD parent, then it may mature to somewhere between 80 and 90 pounds. If she takes after her Border Collie parent, then she may only get to about 40 pounds or so. Most pups will fall somewhere in between. You can expect German Shepherd Collie crosses to reach roughly inches at the shoulder. This is a soft undercoat is below a rough top coat. Or it may come out somewhere in between! No matter which parent it resembles more, a Shollie will require weekly brushing. These needs will increase when seasonal shedding occurs. This is a high shedding dog, that will leave fur and dander around your home. They are unfortunately not suitable pets for a home with human dog allergy sufferers. Bringing a hybrid dog into your home, especially a large one such as the German Shepherd x Border Collie? Are German Shepherd Mixes Aggressive? German Shepherds are often found in the police and military sectors. This line of work has made the breed a bit notorious for being aggressive, and unfairly so. German Shepherds should not all be viewed as aggressive dogs. Police and military dogs are highly trained and intelligent animals. Border Collie German Shepherd mixes are naturally very inquisitive dogs. They do not enjoy sitting without a job to do or a game to play. This can sometimes result in destructive behavior. Especially if a Collie is kept cooped up and without toys or other enrichment activities. With all of this in mind, it is likely that a German Shepherd Collie mix will need to be kept as a working or sporting dog. Unless you will be able to exercise him frequently and provide him with things to keep his busy brain focused. Although a hybrid puppy may be an equal mix of its purebred parents. There is also the possibility that the puppy will take after one parent more so than the other. German Shepherd and Border Collie Health Any type of dog, purebred or hybrid, may be afflicted with inherited or age-related health conditions. Such as hip or elbow dysplasia, eye diseases, allergies, and skin irritations. German Shepherd and Border Collie mixes, however, are particularly prone to the conditions that their parent breeds often develop. One thing to note is that both German Shepherds and Border Collies are both prone to hip dysplasia. So Shollies may be especially at risk of developing this condition. This can help to determine what health problems their offspring may be afflicted with. Additionally, be sure that the breeding stock have good hip scores. Shollies can make great family pets for active homes that are interested in positive reinforcement training. For starters, Shollies are medium- to large-sized working dogs that have pretty high exercise requirements. Weight gain is especially concerning for this hybrid, as it is prone to developing hip dysplasia. They need to have something to occupy their intelligent minds, or they may turn your home into a giant chew toy! Border Collie German Shepherd Mix Puppies There are a lot of factors to consider when deciding whether to bring a Shollie puppy into your home. Absolutely not! If you get a Shollie puppy, their naturally intelligent and highly trainable nature means that you can socialize it to other animals and people. Make sure you meet both parents and are happy with their temperaments and health tests carried out by the breeder. Socialize your pup thoroughly and you could end up with a wonderful companion for many years to come. German shepherds were initially bred in Germany in the 19th century and were officially recognized as a breed in .Border collies are primarily sheepdogs that were officially recognized in the British Isles in the 19th century. Both dog breeds are considered highly intelligent, trainable, and agile. This is why German shepherds have been widely adopted as working dogs and are often seen in military and police roles. Border collies frequently compete with great success in sheepdog trials and are considered among the top sporting dogs. Exactly when the Shollie emerged and precisely what breeders were trying to achieve with the new breed is unclear. But the result tends to be a relatively large and athletic dog that is highly intelligent and protective. Thanks to these traits, the Shollie makes an excellent family dog. It is important to remember that, unlike with purebred dogs, when you mix dog breeds, the results are always a bit unpredictable. Shollie Appearance You can expect Shollies to be fairly large dogs with a lean and athletic physique. According to the breed standard, German shepherds tend to measure 22 to 26 inches tall, with males generally an inch or two larger than females. Border collies are a bit smaller, measuring from 18 to 22 inches. Nevertheless, you will rarely see a Shollie that measures less than 20 inches. They typically weigh around 70 to 90 pounds. While these big dogs are gentle, their substantial size means they can misjudge their strength and could accidentally hurt children or older, more fragile individuals. Shollies can be almost any color combination of their parents, including black, brown, golden, and white, and they are almost always a mix of at least two different colors. They often have attractive mottled patterning. Border collies have a warm undercoat with a protective outer coat that tends to be longer and can be either smooth or shaggy. German shepherds also have a warm undercoat with a longer overcoat. You can expect a Shollie to have a similar double coat, probably with quite long hair. This puts them at a fairly high risk of overheating in hot temperatures. They also tend to shed a lot, and their hair can easily become matted if not brushed regularly to remove shedded hairs that have clung to their coat. Shollies look their best when they receive daily brushing. Most Shollies will have brown eyes and a face with a fairly long muzzle. They can either have the pointed ears of a German shepherd or the floppy ears of a border collie. Shollie Temperament: Athleticism Both German shepherds and border collies are working dogs bred for herding, so they are bred to be active. You can expect their Shollie offspring to have a lot of energy and need quite a bit of exercise. Shollies need a minimum of one hour of exercise per day, preferably split into two or three shorter sessions throughout the day. They will appreciate being taken to off-leash dog parks where they can run around without being restricted by the leash. In addition to this, these dogs will love to accompany their family on outdoor adventures, such as hiking trips and walks. They are agile and intelligent and will be able to look after themselves on hiking trails. Shollie Temperament: Trainability Both border collies and German shepherds are highly intelligent, and their offspring tend to inherit this characteristic. They learn quickly and are highly adaptable. Shollies can generally figure out what is needed from them quickly in new situations. Bred as training dogs, Shollies also tend to be easy to please. More independent and stubborn breeds might know what you want but still not give it to you; this is not the case with the Shollie. They can easily become bored if they do not have tasks to keep them occupied. This is why it is always a good idea to teach them tasks, even if they will be living as a family pet. They will also benefit from complex toys like puzzle games to keep them occupied when left alone. If they are left alone for too long without something to stimulate their brain, they may just find their own entertainment. This tends to be the destructive sort of chewing and digging. Shollie Temperament: Independence Shollies tend to want to be part of the family. They will quickly bond with the people they spend a lot of time with and become protective of them. They will often be on alert when other people or animals approach and can display territorial behavior if they feel threatened. They tend to have an affinity for children and enjoy playing with them, though they should always be supervised around small children. Threats to their little people, in particular, can bring out their protective instinct. Are you worried your dog is overly possessive? Watch out for these important signs. These dogs have a tendency to become anxious or depressed if they are left alone for long periods of time. They are not the type of dog you can leave alone at home for several hours while you are at work. Considering a day care service for your dog? Read our tips for choosing the best day care for your dog. When you are at home, be prepared for plenty of love and affection from your Shollie. These dogs will love to be close to you, whether that means sitting at your feet or snuggling up with you on the couch if you let them. They can live anywhere from 13 to 15 years, which is an impressive lifespan for such a large dog. But, as is the case with many large dogs, they can also suffer from joint issues, in particular hip and elbow dysplasia, which is when the joint socket becomes malformed. The best way to avoid this problem is with a healthy diet and plenty of exercise. Ensuring that their calorie intake matches their energy output is key. Overall, Shollies are among some of the healthiest dogs that you will come across. Should I Get A Shollie? Whether or not a Shollie is the right dog for you depends on a variety of different factors. Consider the following questions when determining whether or not to adopt this crossbreed. Where Do You Live? They will do better in a place with a large backyard where they can keep themselves occupied. Shollies need a lot of exercise. They need a minimum of one hour of exercise each day, preferably spread out over a number of short sessions throughout the day. Do you have the energy to walk your dog every day? Shollies are very social animals, and they can become depressed and anxious if they are forced to spend a lot of time on their own. Is there generally someone at home at your place, or is the house empty for several hours at a time when everyone goes to work? Will your dog get the companionship that they need in your house? If not, be prepared for lots of destructive behavior when your Shollie is left alone. Are You Committed To Training? Luckily, Shollies are intelligent and eager to learn, which means even new dog owners should be able to train them fairly easily. But Shollies are also working dogs, and they often need the mental stimulation of having a task to do to keep them occupied. This means training them is not just about controlling their behavior; it is also about keeping them occupied. This is why it can be useful to teach your Shollie tricks. Is this something that you will be willing to do? If not, perhaps a smaller and more passive breed is better suited to your lifestyle. Do you live somewhere that is likely to be too hot for them? There is no escaping the fact that Shollies are shedders, and dealing with dog hair is a fact of life when you have one of these dogs. If you suffer from allergies or asthma, you might want to consider a different dog. Do you have someone who can take in your Shollie when you travel? Alternatively, do you have access to a large kennel that gives them plenty of room? Your dog will suffer if they need to stay in a small cage for a few weeks while you are away. Can You Afford A Shollie? Dog ownership, regardless of the breed you choose, can be surprisingly expensive. While you may already realize that the cost of their food will add up, this is just the tip of the iceberg. Yes, Shollies are excellent dogs, as they are intelligent and trainable pups with a friendly temperament. They are high-energy dogs that need lots of exercise, love, and affection, so they are a big commitment in terms of time, but otherwise they are relatively low maintenance. Are Shollies aggressive? Any dog that has been through traumatic situations can become aggressive. So, if you are adopting an older Shollie that may have come from a difficult home, speak to the adoption agency about any behavioral issues that they might have and how to properly handle them. How much is a Shollie puppy? How much a Shollie puppy costs will depend largely on where you get them from. You may be able to find a Shollie at a local shelter, in which case you may only need to cover the administrative costs of the service. Do Shollies bark a lot? They can be trained not to bark when it is not necessary, for example, when people pass your home. If your dog starts barking a lot for no apparent reason, it can be a sign that there is something wrong health-wise. Which is better, male or female Shollies? Whether you should get a male or female Shollie depends on your priorities. Females tend to be a bit smaller, and they are also more focused on tasks if you want a working dog. Males tend to be more easygoing and less likely to engage in excessively protective behavior. The Verdict On Shollies When you are a first-time dog owner, you are often told to steer clear of the more athletic dog breeds, as they tend to be a handful and need an experienced hand. But if you are looking for a pup to accompany you on all of your adventures, this can be disappointing. If the above sounds like you, then a Shollie, a border collie and German shepherd mix, might be the right pup for you! Shollies are very energetic and athletic dogs that will quickly become part of the family. You will probably want to take them with you on all of your weekend adventures. What you do need, however, is the time and space in your home to take on this boisterous new member of the family. Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist.

Both parents come from a 5-generation pedigree. Mother is IKC registered. Grandparents and great grandparents are field trial champions. Father is a strong, chunky Labrador with an excellent breeding background, he was never registered but both grandparents were IKC reg. Both mother and father are cherished family pets, live together and can be seen. Parents are gentle natured, excellent with kids and have great personalities. Owners are vets themselves. This is our first and last litter as we are not breeders. We wanted to keep a line from both parents which was the motivation to have a litter. Our beautiful puppies are happy, healthy, and very confident. They have a fantastic temperament. Pups have been raised in our family home ensuring they have been well socialised with kids and other animals such as cats. These confident puppies are extremely intelligent and will be easy to train! They are already semi-toilet trained and have great re-call. Puppies are very affectionate and loved by all the family hence we are only looking for suitable home as a family pet or loyal companion. All pups are - Vet health checked - Vaccinated - Microchipped - Wormed at 2,4,6 and 8 weeks - Treated for fleas and mites. Pups will be ready to go to their forever homes from September 17th. For more information or to arrange to view the puppies please call or email me on or megandoherty00 gmail. If I do not answer please leave a message and I will get back to you. Thank you! Life Span Did You Know? Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds. The Chocolate Labrador Retriever is not a distinct dog breed from other Labs, but it is a separate coat color variation that is specifically bred for. Similar to the other standard coat colors of Labrador Retrievers, Chocolate Labs are energetic dogs that get along well in a family setting. As a Retriever, they also make great hunting dogs and have also been known to fill other working dog roles including service dogs, guide dogs, search-and-rescue dogs, and more. They are even one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units. A point of interest is that all modern Chocolate Labrador Retrievers can be traced to three specific Black Labradors that lived during the s. Chocolate Labs are industrious little pups. They were bred for retrieval and will often sniff about for something to get into. They are also one of the most affectionate dog breeds and absolutely love being with their favorite humans. Properly socialized and well-trained, Labs are one of the kid-friendly dog breeds. They get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. They are famously even-tempered and playful. This makes them fantastic dogs for a growing family, as they tend to be gentle and patient with little ones. They can have a high prey drive. They usually do well with small pets within the family that they have been raised with or socialized around, but likely will still have the urge to chase other animals while out and about. They also tend to be open and friendly with strangers. After all, strangers are just more people to give them attention and play with them. Chocolate Labrador Retrievers may be high-energy dogs, but they are also highly adaptable. They will thrive in homes with fenced yards where they can run freely. They can adapt well to apartment living as well as long as they get plenty of daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation. Their natural urge to dig and bark when they are bored or agitated can be quelled with a little training and exercise. Although they can handle some alone time, Labs love to be with their families and thrive on attention from them, so they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. Chocolate Labs also have a water-resistant double coat that makes them well-suited for most habitable climates. As with most dogs, they are sensitive to heat. Although they can handle some cold and will likely love to play in the snow, they are not a snow dog breed and may need to bundle up while out on walks in areas with harsher winters. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Chocolate Labrador Retriever can include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, hereditary myopathy, and heart disease. There is also a condition with a genetic link called exercise-induced collapse EIC , which can occur in young adult Labradors. Carriers of this can be identified by DNA tests and it is advised that breeders test for this and avoid practices that would produce the disease. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both parents and about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large, deep-chested dog breed, Labrador Retrievers are at a higher risk for bloat. Bloat in dogs can be dangerous and can quickly become fatal if the stomach flips gastric torsion. Chocolate Labrador Retrievers are incredible companions and are also one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. Their energy can make them a handful at times, but their intelligence, adaptability, patience with people, and eagerness to please make them easy to train. Labs are one of the smartest dog breeds , so they pick up on things easily. As long as training is consistent and focused on positive reward and praise, a Chocolate Lab will do their best to respond as expected and will often exceed expectations. Chocolate Labs have a short, water-resistant coat that will shed year-round. Brushing a few times a week, daily brushing during seasonal shedding, and the occasional bath are all that are needed to keep a Lab coat healthy and looking great. They may need baths more often if they are avid swimmers, go on a lot of outdoor adventures, and get dirty a lot. Floppy ears tend to trap dirt, moisture, and debris. Proper dental care for dogs is imperative to help prevent painful dental diseases like gum disease or tooth decay later in life. You can also supplement your dental care efforts with vet-approved dental hygiene chews. Labrador Retrievers are one of the most active dog breeds and need a lot of daily activity to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough, but your Chocolate Labrador will likely be up for more activity if you are. One of the facts about Labrador Retrievers is that they have an extended puppyhood and tend to maintain that puppy-like energy and maturity until they are years old. Swimming can be a great lower-impact activity and Labrador Retrievers are one of the dog breeds that tend to love water. Between that, their water-resistant coat, and webbed toes, you may have trouble getting your Chocolate Lab out of the water. Fully-grown Chocolate Labrador Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Chocolate Labs generally live for years on average. Fourteen years later, the American Kennel Club did the same in .Featured Chocolate Labrador Retriever Article. All our puppies have new homes! Be first in line for your new puppy! Get on the waitlist for Silver Labs and Golden Retriever Puppies due beginning of October Past litter of male puppies Looking for a puppy to add to your family? Golden Retrievers Labrador Retrievers Chocolate Labs Silver Labs Meet The Puppies These are gorgeous, and energetic dogs who: require daily exercise and are perfect for you, if you love being outdoors and living an active lifestyle are easily trained and very intelligent, making them great family companions. We are located just 60 miles outside of Seattle on a 50 acre farm that's been in our family since my grandfather purchased it when he returned from Europe after World War II. Our dogs love it here. The mamas will even hop in the back of the truck to go help us feed the cows or play in the grass while we're tending to the horses. Our puppies are well socialized as they spend time with our family and with regular visits to the vet you have our assurance that not only are they cute but healthy. Golden Retrievers Silver Labrador Retrievers Chocolate Labrador Retrievers Healthy Your puppy is ready to go home with you at 8 weeks old, with AKC registration, a healthy puppy vet check, their first shots, and age appropriate wormings. Adorable You will literally have your pick of the litter depending on who the mama is. Whether it's an English Style Silver or Chocolate Lab or a beautiful Golden Retriever you are sure to find the puppy that steals your heart. Raised With Love Our dogs are our family pets and are a part of our everyday lives. They spend their days with us and you may find them roaming the farm or on a trail ride. They are raised with chicken, cows and horses. Our puppies also spend lots of time playing outside so they are well socialized, great around children and other pets. Have questions? We are a phone call, text or email away! Testimonials Meet Boone What a wonderful, friendly, dog loving, farm home to buy our beautiful Silver Lab, Boone, from! We were able to make trips to visit Boone while he grew, Wendy was always accommodating and super nice. During these visits we also became more acquainted with Boone's mom and grandmom, they are both loving and gentle souls. These are qualities we were looking for in our next dog as we have young grandchildren that will be a big part of Boone's life. We have had Boone for two weeks now. And he surprises us daily with how smart he is. We could not be happier with the start in life he had at Wendy's, his breeding, and HIM!! And I haven't even mentioned how absolutely beautiful Boone is! We collectively decided on getting a dog. We wanted a happy, smart, loyal breed that could fit in and grow with our kids. With those criteria we started looking for a Labrador Retriever. We soon drove to the farm to pick out our puppy. From that moment, until today, we have been so happy with our choice! Our silver lab, Rumble Rainier, has been value added to our home. He is perfect with our sons, he learned our routines quickly, and he keeps us smiling every day. Say Hi to Boomer.They were amazing to work with thru the whole process. We first picked him out in January and we got to visit every other week to watch him grow and get him familiar with us. He was the cutest little brown fur ball and it was fun to see him interact with all his siblings and his mom. He was also very loved and handled by their kids during the times we could not visit. He is a year old now and a very healthy and beautiful lab. He loves being outside, playing fetch, playing with his soccer ball, or being anywhere our 12 year old daughter is. He has been a great addition to our family! They really love their dogs and know how to breed healthy, well-adjusted dogs. Our Boomer loves all dogs, adults and children because of this. We are so thankful to Green Valley Pups and Paws for this whole experience! Amber McKinney.

Share this article Share Dinner is served! Here they are seen at 29 weeks The video ends as we see one of the dogs trotting in as an unsure week old pup once again. As one user pointed out, it takes one of the puppies seven weeks until he stops running into the cabinet. Others note how a tennis ball almost derails one of the puppies at 24 weeks and they have another near miss with the kitchen cupboard at 29 weeks. By the end of the clip, their marked growth is apparent for all to see - and it is still heartwarming to watch how excited the dogs still get at the smell and sign of the dinner that awaits them. The pair also have their own Instagram account, which currently has a very modest 1, followers, a number which will no doubt grow as the video gains more and more views. Hungry pups: The puppies continue to run in the same manner - and with the same enthusiasm pictured at 36 weeks Puppy puberty: The adorable, hungry pups appear to grow up before our very eyes How it all began: Everything seemed so new when one of the pups saw his dinner down for the first time Read more:. Averi Clements What's better than having one puppy? Having two puppies, of course! Golden retriever puppies Colby and Bleu are proof that even though having two young dogs in the house can be a handful, it's also a lot of fun. So to preserve the memory of them being young and silly and even a bit clumsy , their owner put together an adorable time-lapse video of them running to their food bowls at dinnertime. It starts when they're just 11 weeks old and goes all the way up to when they've nearly finished their first year of life. They grow up so fast! They're a perfect way to capture the progression of life, just like when this woman put together a video to show the development of her unborn baby in her belly! Using this technique to capture the growth of Bleu and Colby was a great way to remember those puppy months that just seem to fly by. Just like these two puppies that love nothing more than to give each other hugs and kisses , it's clear that Colby and Bleu have an inseparable bond. Even if they haven't managed to learn how to keep from sliding around on that floor in the year they've spent living with their human, they've definitely proven that even though they're a bit bigger, their puppy-like spirit sticks around for a long, long time. As the leading platform for native advertising and content recommendation, Revcontent uses interest based targeting to select content that we think will be of particular interest to you. We encourage you to view your opt out options in Revcontent's Privacy Policy.

Source Due to the remarkable abilities of German Shepherds, it is easier for them to adjust in any situation and environment. As a pet owner, you need to make sure that your dog feels safe and cared for in your house. All in all, German Shepherds are pretty good at adapting changes and new environments. Hence, for adaptability, they have scored 3 out of 5 stars. Some important factors behind such ratings are: They can be your good roommate in your apartment. They don't dislike the apartment lifestyle and will do great if trained properly. Make sure to provide them with a healthy lifestyle and a lot of love. They'll learn to live in your apartment quickly. If you want German Shepherd to be the first dog that you would own, you need to think it over. Since German shepherds are working dogs, they might be quite difficult for you, a newbie, to handle. German Shepard Dog require more attention, care, exercise, activities, and training than other dogs, which seem tiring and exhausting to the novice owners. So, German Shepherd Dog scored only 2 out of 5 for novice owners. The reality of the breed that is often considered to be the most courageous and brave among all is that the same breed is highly sensitive as well. They might look and act fearless and muscular, but deep down, German Shepherds are very emotional. They tend to get tensed by the slightest of inconveniences. That is why they have scored 5 out of 5 stars of sensitivity. German Shepherds like to be around their family. They would do anything to create a strong bond with their owner. If left alone for a long time, they might end up getting anxious and tense. This will increase their aggression, which results in destructive behavior such as chewing, barking, and whining. If you have a tough routine and are afraid you won't be able to give your pet much time, then you should not adopt German Shepherd. Their tolerance being alone scored 2 out of 5 stars. They are strong enough to tolerate cold weather. They can easily live in cold weather though you must make sure they're not out there 24 hours. But staying out for a while won't be an issue. Their tolerance to cold weather got 4 out of 5 stars. They can live in hot weather too. Make certain that they have access to cold water and shade, though. Their tolerance to hot weather scored 3 out of 5 stars. Can we meet in person? Have they been socialised? Selling my 1 year old German Shepherd Lexi is an 8 months old german shepherd up-to- date with all her vaccines,juvenile check, dewormin and everything. Fed on Royal canine from the starting, she has got a very nice and smooth coat and excellent muscleand brain power. As she has also completed her puppy schooling, she understands commands like sit,drop,between,roll ,good girl, bad girl, pee, poop,etc and is very socialized. Recently my job requirements changed and i couldn't give Lexi as much time as possible so i'm looking forward to transfer my ownership to some other person who can give her some time. I purchased Georgie on the 20th January .Georgie was desexed by Dr. Ton Tancharoen on 26th of March .Full veterinary treatment history included from The Lost Dogs Home. Georgie is now 5 years old, Georgie has been known to show aggression towards smaller dogs than herself and female dogs in particular. Georgie is very loving, loyal and protective over her family. Over the past year Georgie has shown a huge improvement in her behaviour as we introduced a Saint Bernard puppy into the family. Georgie must go to a home without birds or cats. I'm moving back in with my Dad and there isn't enough room for her there. Please consider Georgie to be a part of your family. Olympia Arnold Purebred German Shepherd puppies looking for a loving family and forever home. It is considered a low-maintenance dog due to its grooming needs. They are pretty faithful and have fearless personalities. Pros and Cons: Pros: Intelligent, protective, ideal companion Low maintenance Excellent herding and working skills Ideal for homes with lawns Fewer Health issues Cons: High Activity requirements Not recommended for allergy sufferers. I have 5 males and 1 female from a purebred Red Cattle dog and purebred German Shepherd. The pups will be ready at 8 weeks on the 22nd September. Pups have had their first vax and been wormed. Please message me your interest. Legitimate buyers only. Well fed and well looked after. Dogs are mostly from Europe and USA. I can help with boarding and all training needs. I will happily take back ANY dog I have supplied for whatever reason. Dogs are fed raw. Bob Border Collie x German Sheppard Shollie The Shollie is a excellent family dog who forms close bonds with the humans in their life and will act as a protective guardian. The mixed breed is also known for being smart. It cannot be stressed enough that the Shollie is a smart and energetic dog—so they need a family who can commit to an equally active and involved lifestyle. Available for their furever home .I will not be selling to anyone. Furever homes only. They have been socialized with children and adults from birth and are very friendly, cuddly and healthy. They have been fed perfectly and are big robust pups. The puppies have been vet checked, wormed, vaccinated and microchipped. They are ready for their new homes and will make wonderful family pets and property protection dogs. Bella and Jacko their parents are friendly but alert. We live in the country so the pups have plenty of room to run, roam and explore. Please text or phone me so we can chat or I can give you more info. We have been breeding German Shepherds for 12 years and take great pride in the health and well being of our dogs. We strive to make the best pups possible for their new family. Vaccinated, microchipped and vet checked. Up to date on worming and flea treatments. Comes with a puppy pack and 4 weeks pet insurance. Great temperament, very loyal. Would also make a great guard dog. She has grown up with kids and other dogs. Ali's Kennels Shepskt These dogs have an abundance of energy and require a firm pack leader to get the best from them. Shepsky is loyal, alert, affectionate and intelligent. They are good with children and have protective instints and generally, they are calm, gentle dog with a slight hint of michievousness. Aries is 7 months old, intelligent, and incredibly loyal. He loves long walks, playtime in the park, and cuddles on the couch. Aries has been raised in a family environment and is well-socialized with children and other pets. He is up-to-date with vaccinations, regularly vet-checked, and in excellent health. Due to a change in my living situation, I am sadly unable to keep Aries. I am looking for a responsible and caring owner who can provide him with the love and attention he deserves. If you think you can offer Aries a safe and happy home, please contact reach out. Aries really is a wonderful dog and I would like to see him go to a home where he will be loved and cared for with someone who has time to nurture a strong relationship with him. Rehoming fee negotiable based on circumstances. Thank you for considering Aries and giving him the love he deserves. They are all happy with cuddles and lots of play. Scheduled for forever homes by Sept 3rd. Blue dob. Lola is their Mum. Lola loves her cuddles and her rope for fun. Frankie is their Dad. Frankie can play fetch with his ball for hours! Three predominantly black with a little tan and the rest black and tan mixed. All wormed vaccinated and microchipped. Mum is a beautiful black and tan lean family dog raised around children and pets and can be veiwed. Dad is a long hair dark tan and black and can be shown a photo. Both parents and puppy have beautiful temperaments, very well socialised and children friendly. She is very affectionate and gentle, sleeping through the night and is house trained. Pure black puppies from working line parents. The parents are protective of their home and family. She has had her health check and is microchipped and vaccinated. She is pure breed with paper. She is de sexed and up to date with Vet appointment. She is very docile and playful. Loves people, kids and other dogs. Walked daily. Glamour coat, medium coat and sables available. Puppies are German shepherd, health checked, no heap problems, vaccinated and microchipped. They all great with family, and children. They are gentle, active and happy puppies. Mum and dad are in the photo for your review Majd German shepherd puppy's, 2 boys and a girl, 7 weeks old, microchiped and vaccinated, toilet trained and responde to basics commends, ready for their forever new home, with their new loving family.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Shipping is available if you are not within driving distance. Welcome to North Georgia Labradoodles! We are a small family breeder of Labradoodles located in Northeast Georgia. We are a mother and daughter team and have been breeding top quality dogs for years. We aquired our first labradoodle in and fell head-over-heels in love with the Labradoodle temperment. We raise our sweet Labradoodles right here in our home where they can get the love and socialization that they need. Our dogs share our home, occupy our couches, our laps and our beds. Our dogs are not simply a business, they are cherished members of the family. We focus on raising beautiful, loving, healthy, intelligent, allergy and asthma-friendly companions for you and your family. All puppies are raised in our home with individual love and socialization. Our parents are health tested and our puppies come with a one year health guarantee. North Georgia Labradoodles breeds standard-sized, multi-generational Labradoodles. Our puppies are bred for temperament, health, personality and — of course — looks! Yes, these puppies are incredibly adorable, but beauty is not the only thing that makes them special. Their cuteness, combined with their inherent intelligence and gentle temperament, makes these puppies completely irresistible. We think that starts with the parents. We health test before choosing our breeding dogs to ensure the healthiest puppies possible. We test using PawPrint Genetics. Click below to view the testing and results. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Deer Creek Comfort Dogs Shaping future companions for families and those in need of comfort Our family has been raising puppies for over 20 years. Our children have always had a passion for dogs which began our journey and now our grandchildren enjoy growing up with our wonderful dogs by their side. Deer Creek provides emotional support dogs, therapy dogs, service and therapy prospects, canine good citizen dogs as well as family pets. Deer Creek assists our families with puppy selection to help ensure the families get the puppy that will work well with their needs. Someone once said, "Acquiring a dog may be the only opportunity a human ever has to choose a relative" and we hope you choose one of ours. If you are interested in finding your new family member, fill out our puppy application and we will be thrilled to work with you. We recognize that our dogs have the capability of changing peoples' lives on a therapeutic level. Many of our Doodles have become therapy dogs at funeral homes, children's advocacy centers, hospitals and nursing homes, and others have found homes as anxiety, PTSD and emotional support dogs. Learn more about our nonprofit organization Deer Creek Paw Prints at www. Learn More Molly, Rhys, and Beau! We are an in home breeder of the Australian Labradoodles established in .Our goal is to produce, happy, healthy and sound Australian Labradoodle puppies with wonderful temperaments. We do extensive health testing on all of our breeding dogs, and take extra measures to promote the health and well being of our pups. We strive to produce pups that will be the perfect family companions! We have some exciting new litters planned that will be opening up shortly! If you have submitted an application at a time where there was no availability, please submit when you notice new availability. Thank you for your patience. We promise that your new puppy will definitely be worth every bit of the wait! Note: We are in the process of transitioning to this new website! Currently we are behind on responding to emails and applications so please be patient with us as we transition and upgrade our site to make it more user friendly for you! Breeding the finest quality Australian Labradoodles since Learn about our Guardian Program If you live within 30 miles of Northern Rhode Island, have a fenced in yard, and a family member who is home most of the day, we would love to hear from you! Please read about our guardian home program prior to inquiring to be sure you are eligible! Only eligible families that apply will be contacted. Please be sure to read the guardian home information page to see if you are eligible! We specialize in miniature, medium, and large medium size Australian Labradoodle puppies with beautiful allergy friendly coats in all colors with exceptional temperaments. We are blessed to have our puppies reside all over the world. For information on available puppies for sale, please be sure to visit our upcoming litters page! They live pampered lives where they are spoiled to death by their families, and have never been exposed to a kennel environment. A few of our dogs live here with us, and the majority live with their wonderful local guardian families as a forever family pet. .Our breeding dogs are social, happy, healthy, sound, and live the best lives that any dog could dream of living! While in our care, all pups receive proper veterinarian care, are up to date on all of their vaccinations, microchipped for permanent identification, and ESN prior to leaving for their forever homes. We hope you enjoy browsing our website, and look forward to hearing from you! All Reservation Fees are good for 1 year from the time they are submitted. What is an Australian Labradoodle? He mixed Labrador Retrievers with Poodles. The current bloodlines were perfected by the owners of Tegan Park and Rutland Manor based in Australia. A natural by-product of this being a conspicuous lack of dog odor! Their even temperament makes them excellent candidates to become service dogs and is also a big part of what makes them exceptional family dogs. They are highly intelligent and are a preferred breed for their excellent health. Our puppies range from 18 lbs. Our dogs are incredibly loved and extensively health tested. Our dogs will never live in kennels — they live in our home or a guardian home as a member of the family. Happy, healthy, well loved and cared for parents produce healthier puppies. Our goal is to operate with the highest integrity, while producing genetically exceptional, structurally sound, well-adjusted puppies who are ready to become a loving part of your family. These methods include early neurological stimulation and creates an enriched environment early on for your puppy to grow in. Our in-home puppy play area includes early training for problem prevention such as emotional resilience, exercises using therapy toys and sound desensitization. Your puppy is introduced early to many scary sounds including loud thunderstorms, lightning, and doorbells ringing. We start potty training our puppies using a bell on the door at 4 weeks and we initiate crate training at 6 weeks. By 8 weeks, the puppies are ready for their new homes with their loving families. We strive for excellence in our dogs, our customer service and in the relationships we build with the families who entrust our family with raising their new baby. You can rest assured and trust our program for transparency, prompt communication and excellent customer service. We understand the level of trust our prospective puppy families place in us and we take our responsibility seriously. Your name is placed on our wait list in the order your Reservation Fee was received. You will remain on the waitlist until you have been offered and accepted a puppy to adopt that meets the temperament needs and preferences of your family. If we do not have a puppy of your sex or color preference, you may choose to defer to a future litter. Final payment is due by the time the puppy is 6 weeks old and the puppy can go home at 8 weeks. Ready To Get Started? Microchipping Full socialization in home environment keeping Puppy Culture principles in mind Litter registered with the Worldwide Australian Labradoodle Association Comfort blanket with mom and littermates' scents on it to help comfort them in the first few days away from our home. A 3lb bag of puppy food. Crate that your puppy was crate trained in starting at 6 weeks old. You will remain on the list until you have chosen a puppy to adopt. If we do not have a puppy of your sex or color preference, you may choose to defer to a future unreserved litter. Springdale Labradoodles does not guarantee placement on our waitlist until the puppy Reservation Fee has been received. We will reply to your inquiry promptly. Springdale Labradoodles does not guarantee placement on the wait list for any litter until the puppy Reservation Fee has been received. Breeder always has the first pick. We want our puppies and their new families to have the best chances for success! We do NOT ship our puppies in Cargo under a plane, as we do not believe it is in their best interest. You are welcome to pick your puppy up at our home, or we may be able to meet you if you are coming from one of the states mentioned above. Out of state and unsure how to get your puppy home? To make for a smooth trip for you and your puppy, we will ensure that your puppy is acclimated and ready to travel in a soft-sided airline carrier prior to going home. Don't want to fly? No worries! We have our very own puppy Flight Nanny! Our experienced flight nanny will personally fly your puppy to you on his lap with love and deliver your puppy into your arms at your closest airport. Additional fees apply and will be paid directly to the puppy nanny once travel arrangements are confirmed. We will be as flexible as we can in helping you receive your Springdale puppy. Travel fees are determined on an individual basis. We do everything possible to make the transition from our home to yours as easy as possible! With respect to the well-being of the puppy, our veterinarian does not perform early spay and neuter ESN , as she does not believe that it is in the best interest of young puppies. We follow her advice. We do our best to ensure that our puppies go to wonderful forever homes. If a dog must be relinquished, you must return the dog to Springdale Labradoodles. We have a professional flight nanny service available. Please contact us for details. Making a reservation earlier will help to keep the delivery fee lower. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near North East Pennsylvania and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. Life Span Did You Know? Second-generation crosses could include a Labradoodle and a Mini Poodle or two Mini Labradoodles as parents. This hybrid dog breed was originally developed to create smaller potential service dogs that might be a good fit for people with allergies to dog fur. With a mixed breed, you can end up with any combination of traits from the parent breeds. Often, Mini Labradoodles are smart, friendly, and sociable dogs that are highly trainable. They are often found working as service dogs and therapy dogs and living as beloved family companions. Although they are not recognized by the AKC, the Mini Labradoodle is recognized by other canine registries. A Mini Labradoodle is a combination of two friendly dog breeds that crave human affection and are always happy to have company. These dogs also tend to have playful, energetic personalities and low prey drives. Well-socialized Mini Labradoodles tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Due to their smaller size, these dogs can be injured by accidental rough play or accidental falls, so any interactions between young kids and puppies should be closely supervised. Miniature Labradoodles will usually bark to alert you when someone is at the door, but generally are not prone to nuisance barking unless they have been trained into it. It may not be a bad idea to train your dog to stop barking early on. Well-socialized Mini Labradoodles may be initially wary of strangers, but tend to warm up quickly and will often be happy to make a new friend. Miniature Labradoodles are highly adaptable. Provided they get enough exercise, attention, and mental stimulation, they can adapt well to apartments as well as larger homes. They tend to do best in moderate climates, but can tolerate warmer or colder climates. As with any dog, they are sensitive to heat. Although they tend to have a fluffier coat, they are also smaller and may need to bundle up in some winter dog products to stay warm while out on walks in the cold. Mini Labradoodles are also very much companion breeds. They bond closely with their families and thrive on being near them, so they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. The health of the parents and good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of Mini Labradoodle puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you are asking the breeder about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done to help allay any concerns you may have. Miniature Labradoodles tend to be highly intelligent and eager to please. This generally makes them easy to train and a good fit for owners of all experience levels. In fact, their parent breeds are considered some of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. These dogs respond best to consistent training and positive reinforcement. Puppy training classes can ensure that owners of any experience level learn the latest training techniques and start building a strong bond with their puppy. Grooming requirements with a Mini Labradoodle can vary. On the Poodle side, you have a low-shedding, but high-maintenance, coat that needs daily brushing along with trimming and grooming every weeks. On the Lab side, you have a higher shedding coat that is more low-maintenance, requiring some weekly brushing or brushing a few times a week and intermittent bathing. Overall, Mini Labradoodles range from having a non- to low-shedding coat. They can have one coat type or the other, or a combination of both of them. So, you will want to be prepared for brushing a coat a few times a week and the possibility of more grooming needs. Regardless of coat type, there are some other general grooming tasks you can count on. Regular dental care for your dog will help prevent serious dental issues like gum disease and tooth decay later in life. This is especially important for dog breeds with floppy ears as they are more prone to developing ear infections. Miniature Labradoodles can be high-energy dogs. In general, they require daily walks plus some playtime and extra activity to be happy and healthy. Since they love to be around their family and can have an exuberant and outgoing personality, they will likely be up for more playtime if you are. This little dog may get tired more easily at times and could push themselves too far in their excitement. On the other hand, they may just keep going and going with no signs of slowing down. What is most important is making sure your Miniature Labradoodle gets enough exercise and mental stimulation. Fully-grown Mini Labradoodles usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Miniature Labradoodles generally live for years on average. Featured Mini Labradoodle Article.

It is highly recommended to understand the underlying cause in order to effectively solve the problem. Why is my Labrador not putting on weight? Labradors are known for their large structure and are not meant to be skinny. Therefore, if you notice your Labrador is skinny, it is likely that there is an underlying issue. As a Labrador owner, it is important to understand the actual reasons behind sudden weight loss. Some of the primary and common causes include: 1. This would be the case if your Labrador has been skinny since puppyhood and has not suddenly become thin. When you are providing the appropriate amount of food, and there are no other issues, then a skinny appearance may not be a cause for concern. Diet If your Labrador is not gaining weight, you should consider consulting with a veterinarian and replacing its regular diet with a healthier one. It is possible that you are not providing the appropriate amount or quality of food, which is causing your Labrador to become skinny over time. Before offering meals to your Labrador, make sure that it is not allergic to any specific food item. Exercise Labradors require a lot of daily exercises. If you are underfeeding them then they will lose too much weight. Discuss with your vet how much you should feed your lab for their exercise level. Illness This is the first reason that comes to mind for many dog parents when they notice weight loss in their Labrador. While illness can be a cause in some conditions, it is not always the case. If you notice any physical signs of pain or disease, it is important to schedule a visit with the vet without delay. Stress As we know, Labrador Retrievers are a social breed and are more prone to separation anxiety or stress if not given proper attention. It is possible that your Labrador is experiencing some pressure and this mental condition is preventing it from gaining weight. Often, fear and new surroundings can cause stress in Labradors. How thin should labs be? Dog owners may feel concerned if their Labrador is too skinny. If the ribs and vertebrae of your Labrador are visible, it is an indication that your Labrador is skinnier than average. Before introducing any medication or special food, it is important for dog owners to know the ideal weight for their Labrador. The ideal weight for male and female Labradors will differ depending on their activity level and energy, but there are standards. For male Labradors, 60 to 80 lbs are considered the ideal weight. If your Labrador is skinnier than this weight, it is considered too skinny. For female Labradors , 55 to 70 lbs are the ideal weight. If a female Labrador weighs less than this, it is considered too skinny and weak. What to feed a dog to gain weight? A skinny Labrador is not a cause for concern when there are no severe underlying diseases. You can easily fatten up your dog with some good practices. The key is to focus on their diet and exercise routine. Feeding your Labrador at regular intervals will help. Sweet potato and pumpkin Sweet potatoes and pumpkin are healthy ways to help your dog gain weight. They can increase the amount of fat and fiber in their meals and improve their digestive system. You can also give them canned versions of these foods, but be sure to monitor the quantity as too much can cause your Labrador to become overweight. Regular exercise There is a misconception that exercise is only for weight loss, but it is crucial for achieving the right weight goal for your Labrador. It is highly recommended to exercise your Labrador regularly to maintain a healthy weight. Provide fresh food It would be beneficial to replace the dry kibble of your Labrador with fresh food as it has a stronger scent that is more appealing to dogs. This way, your dog will eat properly and not be thin anymore. If you choose to provide fresh food such as vegetables to your Labrador, make sure it is not spoiled. It is also recommended to serve warm food rather than cold or frozen food. Proper routine Food is processed differently by dogs than by humans, however, the two are quite similar. Individuals who eat within a couple of hours before bed, for example, have a higher probability of gaining weight. Eating just before bed prompts the body to store the nutrients as fat. Serve your dog with eggs Eggs are the best food for dogs when you want them to gain weight. Eggs are rich in fats, and protein, and serve the dog with amino acids. The presence of fatty acids is not only healthy for the body but also for the hair and skin of your Labrador. Additionally, eggs contain many nutrients and are easy to digest as a snack. Choosing food rich in eggs is also a good option when you want your Labrador to fatten up. There is a wide range of recipes to make rice for dogs when you want them to fatten up. However, dogs cannot rely on rice alone as it is not rich in protein and nutrition, but you can serve it with other meals. Providing rice as a snack food will boost the overall weight gain process of your Labrador. Are Labs Naturally Skinny? The shape of a Labrador Retriever is iconic and easily called to mind for most of us. That they all mostly fit the same template is due to a clear description of the ideal Labrador conformation set out in their breed standard. It also requires Labs to have a moderately wide chest, and be short coupled which means the distance from their ribs to their pelvis is relatively short, compared to dogs on average. These features have the combined effect of making the Labrador look more naturally heavy and bulky, than thin and gangly. This is partly due to natural variation in size, and lifestyle factors. Different Labrador Shapes: American vs English Breeding choices and different opinions about how the ideal Labrador looks on either side of the Atlantic has led to two distinct types of Lab — English and American. They both belong to the same breed, but English Labs tend to be broader, stockier, and more heavy set. Whilst American Labs tend to be taller, longer, and slimmer looking. In the U. A smaller proportion belong to the English type. So the general perception of Labrador body shape in the U. The American Kennel Club describes the ideal weight of Labs in working condition as approximately 65 to 80 lbs for males and approximately 55 to 70 lbs for females. But around 70 to 80 lbs for a male and 60 to 70 lbs for a female is typical. This is where overall body condition comes in. Labradors at a healthy weight have a discernible waist from above, and from the side their belly is tucked up slightly higher than their chest. Vets also examine body condition by touch — applying pressure over the ribs to assess how much fat is covering them, for example. Dogs in healthy condition have ribs which can be easily felt under a thin layer of fat. Overall body condition is a better way of identifying whether your dog is at a healthy weight than putting them on the scales alone, because it works regardless of what sex your Lab is, how tall they are, and whether they are big or small in stature generally. Even using a body condition score chart, we tend to underestimate their size. In fact, only half of us ever get it right! However, if you can see any of these changes in your dog it is possible that they are underweight: Visible ribs, vertebrae or pelvic bones. Or being able to feel any of those bones immediately under the skin with no fat covering them at all. Loss of muscle mass. The underline of their body the shape of their ribs and belly sideways on following an S-like curve. In ideal condition, the underline of adult Labradors slopes up towards the hindquarters, but in a straight line. If any of these apply to your Lab, we recommend asking a vet to check them over. One is not eating enough calories to replace all the energy they burn in a day. Other reasons include parasitic infection such as leashmaniasis and parvovirus cancer kidney disease and hereditary muscle wasting conditions such as muscular dystrophy, and myopathy. And as you can easily imagine, none of these are treated as simply as by giving the dog more calories in their diet! However, being too skinny during their growing months can also have a damaging effect on things like bone development. Sometimes the simplest way of doing this is by overfeeding their usual diet a little every day, until they reach a healthy body condition. But your vet might also recommend switching to a more energy rich diet. All Labs should have an owner that pays attention to their welfare so closely, and cares about them so much. The truth is that a lot of dogs we perceive as being underweight are actually in a healthy condition. A vet will be able to determine whether they are really too skinny, and if so why, and how to safely fatten them up. Readers Also Liked. Q: What is a healthy weight for a Labrador Retriever? What is the Average Weight of a Labrador? Labradors are a large breed of dog and should weigh between pounds. If your lab is significantly below the average weight, they may be underweight, and you should take them to the vet for a check-up. According to official American Kennel Club standards, female Labs should weigh between 55 and 70 pounds, and male Labs should weigh 65 and 80 pounds. Check for the Ribs An easy way to tell if your lab is underweight is to check for their ribs. If you run down your hands down their ribs, you should be able to feel the ribs, but there should be a layer of fat over them. You should be able to feel the individual vertebrae in their back. Check their overall Condition. Another way to tell if your dog is underweight is by checking its overall condition. Underweight dogs may have coat problems, lethargy, and poor appetite. Their skin may also be loose and have little muscle mass. If your dog is exhibiting any of these signs, they may be underweight, and you should take them to the vet for a check-up. What to Do if your Labrador is underweight If you have determined that your Labrador is underweight, you can do a few things to help them gain weight. First of all, always consult with your vet if you suspect your dog has a health problem. Many things could cause your dog to be underweight, and the vet will be able to rule out any potential health problems. Feed them a high-quality diet If your Labrador is underweight due to not getting enough to eat, you can try increasing their food intake. You should also make sure they are eating a high-quality diet. A diet high in protein and fat will help your dog gain weight. Consult with your Veterinarian If your Labrador has trouble gaining weight or suspects your dog is underweight, there may be an underlying health problem. Consult with your veterinarian to find out what could be causing your dog to be underweight and to get help developing a weight-gain plan. Conclusion Labradors are a large breed of dog and should weigh between pounds. If your lab is below this weight, they may be underweight, and you should take them to the vet for a check-up. You can do many things if your Labrador is underweight, including feeding them a high-quality diet. A: You should consult with your veterinarian to determine how much food to give your Labrador if they are underweight. Diet high in protein and fat will help them gain weight. Q: Is it normal for my Labrador to feel their spine? A: Yes, it is normal for your Labrador to feel their spine. Q: What are some signs that my dog may be underweight? A: Some signs that your dog may be underweight include coat problems, being lethargic, and having a poor appetite. A: There are a few things you can do to help your Labrador gain weight. You can try increasing their food intake, feeding them a high-quality diet, and monitoring their weight. Q: What is the ideal weight for a Labrador Retriever? A: The ideal weight for a Labrador Retriever is between pounds. Q: My Labrador is gaining weight too quickly; what should I do? A: You should consult with your veterinarian if you are concerned that your Labrador is gaining weight too quickly. There may be an underlying health problem causing them to gain weight at an unhealthy rate. Q: How can I tell if my dog is overweight? A: If your dog has a thick layer of fat over its ribs, it may be considered overweight. You should also feel their ribs and see a waist when looking at them from the side. Consult with your vet! A: A healthy weight for a Labrador Retriever is between pounds. If your dog is below this weight, they may be underweight, and you should take them to the vet for a check-up. So, if your labrador is on the skinnier side, you might need to make some adjustments. Your labrador being so skinny can be due to many factors, including illness, lack of nutrition, or just the type of lab. While some labs are thin and lean, others appear broad and stocky. English labs tend to be like the latter, while American labs are usually the former. The rest of this article will discuss the various reasons why your labrador is skinny and how to solve those issues if possible. Not all labs are alike, and genetics can play a big part in the overall size of your pet. However, being too skinny can cause your dog many health problems — or could even be a sign of a severe illness. Here are the various reasons why your lab is skinny. Genetics Genetics plays a significant role in the size of your dog. The English labrador is typically broader and has stockier chests and necks. American labrador. The American labrador is usually slimmer with more of an agile build. Of course, not every dog is the same. Some English labs might be taller or skinnier than American labs depending on their environment and genetic background. Image Source: irishtimes. Without insulin, the brain becomes sugar-deprived, causing the dog to stay hungry. However, they often lose weight due to improper use of nutrients in their diet. Most of the time, you can manage diabetes with regular insulin shots. It can cause many changes in the body that lead to weight loss, including a decreased appetite, changes in metabolism, and chemotherapy. Various reasons can cause both types of anorexia, including nervous system disorders, cancer, systemic disease, or psychological problems. Lack of Nutrition Ensuring that your lab receives all of the proper nutrients for its growth and development is essential to its weight. Missing vital nutrients can cause your dog to be skinnier than it should, and this can put your pup in a calorie deficit. While most dry or canned dog food contains all the nutrients your dog needs, there could be a nutrient your dog needs more of. What Should Your Labrador Eat? Large breed and small breed dogs require different foods. As labs are a large breed, they must get all the vitamins and nutrients through large-breed food. Your labrador should eat large-breed dog food containing essential nutrients specific to large breeds. Large-breed dog food contains nutrients that promote musculoskeletal health, which is vital for large breeds. The average weight for a labrador differs depending on the age and gender of the lab. While every dog grows differently, they should reach an average weight by adulthood, usually around a year. Your Labrador should weigh between 55 and 80 pounds .As a puppy labrador grows, its weight will increase gradually. By a year old, your lab should be fully grown. If you have a labrador younger than a year that looks skinny, you might not be feeding it enough. However, there are growth charts that show how much a labrador should weigh at each stage of its life. Veterinarian Kate Boatright on Pawlicity provides an excellent chart to go by: Age.