how to raise a bulldog puppy

An ultra sound is inconclusive until around 30 days and a x-ray will not show anything till around 45 days when the calcium in the puppies bones solidifies. This leaves very little time to get prepared. So let's discuss some important Poodle pregnancy facts. This is Curly, who is 19 months old and 51 days pregnant. Let's first clear up some myths and look at some Poodle pregnancy facts. A female Poodle may become pregnant: Any time after her 1st heat, no matter how young she is At any age, no matter how old she is, as long as she is still entering heat.Starting at about week 2 it will become firm. By week 4 it will be noticeably swollen. Her mammary glands will become enlarged Some inverted nipples that you may not have even noticed will "pop out" She will clean herself more thoroughly than usual Nesting behavior may begin. Some dogs will gather toys and other articles from around the house, showing maternal instincts toward them. She may also drag pillows, blankets and other soft materials to a quiet corner of a room to build a 'nest'. Her appetite should increase There may be minor to moderate clear discharge. This usually begins by week 4 or 5. Litter Size The average size litter for a Toy Poodle is: 3 pups The average size litter for a Miniature Poodle is: 5 pups The average size litter for a Standard Poodle is: 6 pups Do keep in mind that these are averages. It is common for a Toy Poodle to have just 1 puppy and while it is rare, she may have up to 5. The largest Poodle litter ever recorded is.Charlie named for Charlie's Angels was in labor for 23 hours, giving birth to 10 female puppies and 6 males. And believe it or not, this was an unplanned breeding. The sire, Magnum another standard Poodle broke through 2 wooden fences to get to Charlie when she was in heat. Caring for a Pregnant Poodle Once you suspect that your Poodle may be pregnant, you will want to have this confirmed. There are several ways that the veterinarian can do this, at different stages: A blood test can test for pregnancy and will be most reliable by day .An ultrasound can pick up fetal heartbeats by day day .An x-ray should be performed to determine exactly how many fetus are growing so that you will know how many to expect. This is not done until late in the pregnancy, usually after day 45, since bones are not sufficiently calcified until this time. Moderate daily exercise should continue throughout the pregnancy while excluding any more intense activity. Walking will allow the dam to maintain muscle mass and keep her body in top shape in preparation for labor. Her appetite will increase by week 2 or 3 and by week 5 nutritional needs nearly double. While food should not be denied, the focus should be on offering a well-balanced, healthy diet. Adding an egg once per day as well as a scoop or two of cottage cheese is a good way to offer a bit more protein. Pregnant dogs should not be given any extra calcium via supplements as this can predispose a dam to the dangerous health condition of eclampsia a life-threatening drop in blood calcium levels that can happen when the dam is nursing. The home environment should be as stress free as possible and the pregnant Poodle should be allowed to retreat and rest as she pleases. You may wonder how much weight a pregnant Poodle gains. For example, a toy Poodle that was 8 lbs. A standard Poodle that was 55 lbs .While the majority of delivers are without complications, you will want to be prepared for any situation. You will need: 1. A thermometer 2. Sheets, towels or clean newspapers 3. Floss or thread 4. A whelping box - This can be a cardboard box, lined child's wading pool for standards or even a canine bed Perla beds work quite nicely 6. Heating pad 7. Having an assistant be there with you is always a good idea. How to Know it is Time All dog breeds carry the puppies on average for 63 days; however a Poodle pregnancy can last anywhere from 59 to 65 days and still be considered normal. You will know that labor is to begin in approximately 24 hours when your dog's internal body temperature drops. For this reason, at least one week before the due date, start taking your Poodle's temperature twice per day. While some digital thermometers will beep, if you are using a standard type, leave it in for 3 minutes. At this time, you should be prepared to remain with your Poodle, set her up in the whelping area and separate any males dogs in the house so that they cannot reach her. If your Poodle does not go into labor within 24 hours after her body temperature drops to below F, you will want to alert the veterinarian. Stages of Labor There are 3 main stages of canine labor. Stage 1 During the first stage of labor the cervix will dilate and contractions will begin. This element of Poodle labor can be painful and a dog may express this by: Acting restless. Whether this is your first litter of puppies or you have been breeding dogs for decades, every litter is a unique and wonderful experience. Today we will look at everything related to Poodle conception, pregnancy and birth. Table of Contents Do female Poodles have periods? Poodles — and all female dogs — do not have periods that are comparable to human cycles. During this heat cycle your Poodle will have discharge, probably be irritable and, of course — be able to get pregnant! If a dog is spayed, she will have her uterus and ovaries removed and as a result not go into heat anymore. How long do Poodles stay in heat? A regular heat is about weeks long. Your Poodle is not fertile during the entire time however. During the first days your dog is not fertile, only after 1. The heat goes along with the much-dreaded discharge. Many Poodle owners opt for doggy diapers when their Poodle is in season to keep their floors and furniture clean. How do I find a good baby daddy? Depending on your breeding goals, you will be searching for the perfect match for your Poodle. If you are planning to breed a pure-bred Poodle litter like Parti Poodles , choose a registered and health-tested Poodle as the sire. The American Kennel Club will help you get in touch with other Poodle owners. If you are planning to have a Doodle litter, the choice of dad might for example be: a Schnauzer for Schnoodle puppies a Bernese Mountain Dog for Bernedoodle pups a Golden Retriever for Goldendoodle , Mini Goldendoodle or F1b Mini Goldendoodle offspring an Old English Sheepdog for Sheepadoodle pups You should always make sure that both parents have passed breed-specific health tests so that the babies can have the best possible start into a long and healthy life! How can I tell if my Poodle is pregnant? If you hope that your Poodle to be pregnant, she has probably been in season and has been around an intact male. Whether you chose a purebred Poodle daddy or a different breed to create adorable Doodle babies, you probably cannot wait to know if the pregnancy took! If you want to know for sure, visit a vet on days from the probable day of conception. Your vet will be able to do an ultrasound on your Poodle just like on a human momma-to-be! If you do not want to take your dog to the vet, there is no way to accurately tell until about 5 weeks after conception, at which point pregnant Poodles start to visible gain weight and might show nesting behaviors. How many days are Poodles pregnant? This might vary by a couple days however. Smaller dogs tend to give birth a bit earlier than larger breeds If you are breeding Miniature or Toy Poodles, or crosses such as a Mini Goldendoodle or F1b Mini Goldendoodle , your dog may already give birth after days. He can take an x-ray to determine how many pups she is carrying. This will help make a better plan for the whelping. How many puppies will my Poodle have? The number of pups you can expect will depend on the size of the parents. As a general rule, large breeds have litters with higher numbers of pups than small breeds. Standard Poodle If the mom of your litter is a Standard Poodle, expect around 7 puppies. Fun fact: in , a Standard Poodle named Crystal made history when she gave birth to 16 puppies! Miniature Poodle For Miniature Poodles expect around 5 puppies. Toy Poodles Toy Poodles are the smallest type of Poodle and will have the smallest number of puppies in one litter. Plan for around 3 — though also singelton litters meaning a litter with only one single puppy happen regularly. Are Poodles good mothers? Most Poodles are good mother dogs. How well prepared you are You need to set the mom up for success and make puppy raising easy for her. Get her a spacious and soft whelping box. Clip the hair on her stomach so that the pups can nurse easily. Ensure that she is healthy and had prenatal veterinary care. How safe mom feels Being pregnant with, birthing and caring for a litter of puppies is a big task! Your Poodle mom needs to feel safe and cared for in order to be a great mom. If you have any other dogs, they should not be allowed to access the whelping box or disturb the female. She needs a lot of peace and quiet. Your support Prepare to spend a lot of time and effort supporting your Poodle as she is raising her pups. She will need a lot of specialized nutrition , especially as she is nursing. You are responsible for making sure nobody disturbs her — this also applies to small kids in the household! How often should I breed my female? First of all, it is a myth that every female dog needs to have at least one litter. Do not breed your Poodle just because you think this is required. Female dogs can live a long and healthy life without ever having puppies. Only if you are ready to raise a litter responsibly and with a lot of time and effort you should breed. If you decide to do this, three times should be the maximum amount of litters your female has. Every pregnancy and whelping will wear on your Poodle. While Poodles have a long lifespan , you should not breed a dog over the age of 8 or 9 years old. Even though your female could still get pregnant, this is too old to have puppies. Some owners breed their females 5 or 6 times. Do not do this! It is not fair to the momma dog and borders on puppy mill practice. It is a much better approach to have few litters, but to make them the best they can be. The Bottom Line Supporting your Poodle through pregnancy, birth and puppy raising can be a wonderful experience. Only commit to it if you are ready to spend time, money and effort though. Always make sure that the parents of any litter have passed breed-specific health test and never breed more than 3 litter off of one female! Starting out just training her own Border Collies, she gradually expanded to local classes and seminars, now she travels as far as Europe and teaches students all over the world on how to train their dogs in a positive, bonding, game-based way. She is known for her clear, step-by-step training that lets beginners and advanced dog trainers see lasting results very quickly.

German Shepherds are one of the most popular breeds of dog in the country. They are renowned for their strength, agility, and fierceness, as well as their ability to protect their families. The best age to buy a German Shepherd puppy is around seven to eight weeks. This ensures that the pup is not taken from its mother too early, but still has enough time to integrate into being a part of your family. Read on for more tips on when the best age is to bring home your new German Shepherd pup. If you try to adopt or purchase a German Shepherd puppy earlier than seven weeks, you will likely encounter several problems. The first of these problems is like the legality of purchasing a dog at such a young age. The District of Columbia is the only state or district in the country that allows puppies to be sold at the age of six weeks. The second problem that you will likely encounter if you try to buy a German Shepherd puppy earlier than that seven-week mark is a lack of puppy socialization. The American Kennel Club states that puppies begin their socialization period at the age of six weeks , while an article from Psychology Today written with help from a prestigious dog breeder suggests that socialization begins even earlier — as early as three weeks old in some breeds. This socialization period is important because it allows puppies to learn essential behaviors from the other puppies in their litter as well as from their mother. When puppies begin to play and bite with their siblings and their mother, they will learn that these behaviors are not okay because their family members will bite at them or bark, which will teach the puppy that those behaviors are not okay. If your puppy is rehomed too young, they will miss out on these important lessons and will be disobedient. While the puppy will have to be separated from its mother, eventually, this process should not be allowed to happen too early. If pups are taken away from their mother too young, they will suffer from behavioral issues that are deeper than just poor socialization. Due to factors such as lack of maternal soothing, premature weaning, and separation anxiety, puppies who are removed from their mothers too early are prone to fear and aggression. In a study conducted in the journal Veterinary Record as quoted in the Psychology Today article , it was determined that pups who were taken from their mothers before the age of 40 days around 5. Finding the right timing to bring home a German Shepherd puppy can be tricky. There are a few factors that make it difficult to properly raise a German Shepherd puppy if you bring it home after that eight-week mark. The reason that people buy puppies so young is that they want their dog to be able to become a well-socialized part of the family unit. The second reason you should get a German Shepherd puppy before it passes eight weeks old is that it makes obedience and work training much easier to accomplish. They will need to be able to perform commands and tasks through nudges, picking up items with their mouths, and calling for help or assistance in order to help their owner. This is why training organizations teach puppies as young as possible so they can be competent service animals for people with disabilities. German Shepherds can easily be trained as seeing-eye dogs as well as animals that help people with epilepsy or neurological disorders. The author of the Psychology Today article believes that if puppies are left in the litter for too long, they will begin to build a sort of hierarchy or to peck order among themselves. Because German Shepherds have that reputation for aggressive behavior, you want to mitigate this potential as quickly as possible. Summary The best age to adopt a German Shepherd puppy is between the ages of seven and eight weeks old. This is the age suggested by the American Kennel Club as well as psychological researchers. It is also illegal in most areas of the country to rehome a puppy before the age of seven weeks, save for the District of Columbia. No breeder should be selling a puppy younger than six weeks old. At the same time, you should not let the puppy remain with its litter after the age of eight weeks to avoid aggression and to make training easier. Teaching Proper Socialization One of the main reasons why it is not recommended to get a puppy under the age of 7 or 8 weeks is because puppies at this age still need a lot to learn from their mother and littermates. The role of the mother dog is not only to give birth and nurse the puppies but also to teach her puppies their first few life-lessons that include self-discipline and social interaction. As her puppies begin to play with each other and tease their mother, the German Shepherd mother becomes an active teacher and role model. If the puppies bite her or their littermates too hard, she disciplines the offending puppy by swinging her tail and even growling at the mischievous puppy. The mother will keep delivering the correction, week after week until the pups fully understand to control the strength of their bite. Timid mother dog may make her puppies cowardly, as can an overly aggressive mother. Ideally, what you want to see is a German Shepherd mother dog who is calm, stable, and confident. Pierantoni, M. Albertini, and F. Pirrone 1. They compared two groups, consisting of 70 adult dogs each. One group had been separated from their litters at 30 to 40 days, while the second group had been separated from their litters at 8 weeks. The veterinarians concluded that the chance of behavioral disorders occurring in the first group was significantly higher than in the second group. The behavioral disorders explained in the study include destructiveness, excessive barking, fearfulness on walks, noise reactivity, food or toy possessiveness, and attention-seeking behavior. It Is Illegal in Some States The second reason why you should avoid buying a puppy under 8 weeks old is that in 26 states, it is illegal to buy a puppy that is deemed too young 2. Of those, 22 states state that all puppies must be 8 weeks old. The remaining three states—Wisconsin, Virginia, and Maine—require that all puppies must be at least 7 weeks old before they can be sold. For example, in the state of Kansas, in order to be legal to sell puppies, breeders need to make sure that the puppies must be 8 weeks old and weaned 3. A puppy that has been weaned too early can develop many behavioral problems that will follow him throughout his life. Some of the signs that your German shepherd puppy has been weaned too early include aggression, excessive biting, destruction, possession, and separation anxiety. In addition to behavioral issues, the puppy can also develop health issues such as malnutrition and a weakened immune system. Going After an Older Dog If a puppy that is too young is risky, then what about adopting an older puppy? Some people may be tempted to adopt an older puppy hoping to skip the tasks involved with the younger pup, from housetraining to car riding. If you select the right pup, you may be able to avoid some of these situations. However, bear in mind that older pups are less accepting of new people and new situations. That said, older pups can make a terrific companion if you know where and how to select them. Where to Get a German Shepherd Puppy? Thanks to their popularity, German shepherd puppies are available in so many different places that deciding where to look can be stressful. Here are some of the most popular places to buy a German shepherd dog: Breeders Buying a German shepherd puppy from a breeder is still your best bet for obtaining a healthy, lovable German shepherd. As is true in all professions, there are good breeders and bad breeders. So what are the differences between good breeders and others? Their reputations are such that customers come to them. They also temperament test every puppy to ensure the best possible placement. You should ask lots of questions too. Asking the right questions can help you to winnow the bad breeders from the good ones. Furthermore, there are lots that you can learn from established breeders. They can tell you more than you possibly imagined about the breed. The common assumption is that these dogs are abandoned because they have problems. However, this is not always the case. According to some statistics, German Shepherds are one of the most common breeds found in shelters. In the right home, these dogs can make great companions. This is why you should not be dissuaded from considering shelter when choosing a puppy or dog. Breed Rescue Groups If you are willing to accept a grown dog instead of a puppy, breed rescue can be the right place for you. Breed rescues are organizations that work with a single breed or a couple of related breeds. They are run by volunteers, comprised of experienced breeders, trainers, and owners of that breed. Thus, you can be sure that these people know what they are doing. As for the fee, it is a steal often just the cost of the veterinary care. Pet Stores The last and the worst option for getting a puppy is a pet store. No reputable breeders in their right minds will send the cream of their litters to pet stores. If they do send their puppies here, the puppies are usually undersized or poor conformation. Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found it helpful and useful as you raise and train your German Shepherd. Here are some of my favorite reviews for German Shepherd supplies that I personally use and recommend. Here is my recommendation for the best dog food for German Shepherds. Leash: A leash is a must-have for any German Shepherd owner. With a good leash, you can give your dog the freedom they need while keeping them safe and under control. Here are my top picks for the best leashes for German Shepherds. A harness that is improperly fitted or used can cause serious injury to your dog. Read my review of the best harnesses for German Shepherds here. Different bowls serve different purposes, and the bowl that you need will depend on a number of factors. See my recommendation for the best dog bowl for German Shepherds here. There are a ton of different factors to consider when choosing a crate. Beds: German Shepherds need a bed that is comfortable, supportive, and durable. This breed is known for being high energy, so you need a bed that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. House: It can be tough to find the best dog house for German Shepherds. Shampoo: You want to find a shampoo that is specifically designed for German Shepherds. This breed has a lot of furs, and you need a shampoo that will be gentle on their skin and coat. Shock Collar: A shock collar is a training tool that can be used on German Shepherds. It delivers an electric shock to the dog when they exhibit certain behaviors. While some people are against the use of shock collars, I believe that they can be helpful in certain situations. Read my review of the best shock collar for German Shepherds here. Vacuum: If you have a German Shepherd, you need a vacuum that is specifically designed to deal with all of the furs they shed. Shedding is a natural process for dogs, but it can be hard to keep up with. The right vacuum will make your life much easier. Related posts:. Best age for buying a GSD? People say that the best age is Months so he can be trained and took all the vaccines. .Others say buying a pup months is the best way the dog get used to his living place and the his family! I don't know which is right and which is wrong. Now with that being said let me clarify that by saying that you really need to match the age of the German Shepherd you bring home to fit you and your home and your needs. Maybe you have needs for an older dog because you don't want to go through all the puppy teething, housetraining, etc. I would have to say though that maybe a first time owner would do better with an older, calmer German Shepherd. Check with your local rescues and shelters for potential companions. Then again, maybe you do want a puppy instead of an older GSD - maybe you have other pets and kids that you want the puppy to grow up with that might not accept an older German Shepherd easily. And you're willing to go through weeks of teething, housetraining and the whole nine yards. And that's all right too. Truth be told, you really need to assess your own situation and your needs - not necessarily your wants - about what will be the best pet for you - an older GSD or a GSD puppy. Both can make good pets in the right home and both have very specific, but different, needs. But for a first time owner an older GSD would be a great choice. Either way, training and socialization will be very important too. So take your time, think it through and good luck getting your new German Shepherd. Are German Shepherds good with kids? These majestic and loyal dogs are a popular breed for a reason, but can they be trusted around children? Yes, a German Shepherd is child-friendly and enjoys children when properly socialized and trained. They are a highly intelligent breed that is specially selected throughout history for their loyal, watchful temperament with their families. A properly trained GSD is a good addition to a home with kids when the children are taught to respect the dog and the dog is taught to respect the children. They bond quickly with kids in the home, tend to protect their families, but may become overly protective of family members if not properly socialized and trained source. Child-friendly German Shepherds are dogs that have been socialized around many different age groups of kids, spent time on their obedience training, and have been temperament tested if rescued or adopted. Yes, a socialized, trained, and healthy German Shepherd is generally known to be good with kids, a gentle family pet, and a steadfast guardian. This breed has a history of patience and tolerance, both qualities that are sought after by families with kids. While the GSD takes to its family, the GSD is still aloof with strangers and is usually not outwardly friendly to those outside the family unit. For some families, this is a highly desired trait. In general, large dogs are often a better choice than little dogs when your family includes small children and toddlers. Large breeds, like the GSD, are less likely to get hurt when accidentally stepped on or tripped over by kids. They must learn to discipline a German Shepherd the right way to maintain a kid-friendly German Shepherd. Small kids get over-excited, move rapidly and unexpectedly, and scream in high-pitched voices. GSDs may interpret these actions and noises as invitations to play. The German Shepherd is also a natural herder and has guarding tendencies. All of these normal behaviors can intimidate young kids. Luckily, there are some safety tips that you can follow to help your German Shepherd and kids get along. They are, however, much less friendly to strangers and visitors to the home. An exciting game of chase and tag nearly always ends with the child getting knocked over. GSDs love to jump and are highly active. Thus, small kids are easy targets for accidental knockdowns during greetings. This is terrifying for little kids not used to big dogs. Both friendly Shepherds and children need supervision to prevent misunderstandings. GSD puppies are a lot of work! Young families with preschool age kids are advised to delay getting a puppy until the youngest child is at least five years old. Some families with young children choose a puppy, thinking they are safer and easier to train than older, adult Shepherds. Puppies are fragile. They require more time and care. And German Shepherd puppies are especially prone to play-related scratching, jumping, and biting. Kids at least 8 years of age or older are better suited to living with German Shepherd puppies. Consider also how much exercise the German Shepherd needs. And what about training your GSD? Along with temperament testing and personality evaluations, the rescue or adoption agency will have more information about child-friendly German Shepherds available for rehoming. Always check with the dog adoption agency what the age requirements are before looking at German Shepherds to rescue. Not a dog who merely tolerates kids. Check with your local German Shepherd Dog rescues or other dog organizations for adoptable adult dogs that have shown success with families. When looking to get a German Shepherd puppy, always read up on how to buy a German Shepherd puppy first to avoid unscrupulous sellers. The best GSDs for kids are those who receive proper socialization, positive family-friendly training, proper amounts, and the right type of exercise and attention. Especially with kids. Teach Your Children to be Shepherd Savvy Your dog needs training so they can regulate their behavior around your family. Fortunately, this breed is one of the smartest dogs in the world and responds well to obedience commands. German Shepherds get along with children when both the child and dog take active and successful steps to live with one another. Success starts with adult planning, participation, and direction. First, parents teach the GSD how to act in a controlled manner through obedience, also known as German Shepherd lure and reward training. Second, parents must teach children how to interact with the dog. Third, remember that training is a family effort but must start with the adults. They take time, commitment, and plenty of the right socialization and training to avoid their guarding tendencies. Aggression in German Shepherds is generally from a lack of proper socialization early on in their life. Poor behavior management of these unwanted behaviors can cause unfriendless later on. Your dog soon learns to positively associate your kids with food. Rolling over on request, or performing another command such as down, means your dog shows willing and happy appeasement. A major side effect of lure-reward training is that your dog grows to like and respect his trainer. In this case, he learns that children are fun and give tasty treats! Besides socialization, basic training is one of the biggest contributors to a well-behaved dog. And all German Shepherds need the right home care to stay healthy and happy with their families. As a pastoral or herding breed, the Shepherd needs exercise to avoid behavioral issues such as anxiety, excessive barking , and chasing other pets. They do best with two hours of exercise a day. At a minimum, they need two minute walks daily and plenty of mental stimulation and training. Do you have an active family? Do your kids love to run, swim, and hike? If so, this breed will match your energetic family! If you prefer to stay indoors and are a quiet family, then they will likely overwhelm your family with their energy needs. German Shepherd Breeding Age Male German Shepherds Male German Shepherds become fertile after six months of age but should not stud until they have reached sexual maturity. Although males can technically impregnate a female, they should not be allowed to mate until they are fully sexually developed, so at least one year old. Once an adult German Shepherd is sexually mature, he can mate at any time. If the dog is healthy, he may be able to keep his fertility and be sexually active for his lifetime. However, just because German Shepherds can reproduce and have puppies well into their senior years does not imply they should. German Shepherds enter their senior years around seven years of age, and as they get older, their fertility and ability to whelp healthy puppies diminish. The quality and amount of male sperm are affected by age. So although males could sire puppies at 9 or 10 years old, many breeders will check the sperm count monthly to check for quality. Furthermore, if their doggy partner consistently delivers smaller litters or the puppies are weak and unwell, a breeder may decide that the male dog is too old to sire puppies. Responsible breeders are patient and wait for the perfect German Shepherd breeding age. A female German Shepherd will have her first heat cycle around months old. This is when she can technically get pregnant, although you should never breed a female dog during her first heat cycle. Mating during the first season increases the chance of pregnancy complications, premature labor, and stillborn pups. Labor can become complicated and comes with risks, and older females can have difficulty producing milk. You should retire a female GSD from breeding around years old or after four or five litters. Like the UK Kennel Club, many breed associations have enforced an age limit of eight years for breeding female dogs, as found in their Assured Breeders Standard. However, this is for all breeds. German Shepherds, as a large breed, age faster. Understanding Female Heat Cycles When a female German Shepherd goes into heat, her body prepares itself for conception. Heat, breeding cycles, and periods are all terms that refer to the same thing. Although a German Shepherd stays in heat for around three to four weeks, her most fertile days begin days into the heat cycle. This heat cycle consists of four stages: proestrus, estrus, diestrus, and anestrus. This stage can last around days. She may even tuck in her tail to cover her vagina and keep males away. Estrus : This is the main phase in the GSD heat cycle when ovulation occurs. The female dog is now fertile and ready to mate, and she will follow her bodily instincts and accept a male. This stage lasts between days. The swelling of the vulva will go down. Estrogen levels are low, while progesterone levels slowly increase. The fertile window has now closed, and she will no longer accept males. Anestrus: This is the final stage of the heat cycle of your female German Shepherd and will last about four months. Most female German Shepherds will go into season twice a year. The ovarian activity of a female dog starts to decline in the fifth or sixth year of life. Waiting until the dam is physically and mentally mature enough to bear and raise a litter is essential, as is waiting until the sire is old enough. This allows any genetic or conformation issues to become apparent, making breeding a poor decision. But what are the health concerns if a German Shepherd conceives too early? Physical maturity. The dam must be physically mature to carry a healthy litter to term. If the dog becomes pregnant before she has fully grown herself, it will put extra strain on her body, and she may not be able to deliver her pups. Young dams may miscarry, have puppies with disabilities, or have stillborn pups. Mental maturity. Pregnancy and raising pups require maternal instincts and a mature mind. If the dam is too young to breed, she may not understand what to do and may reject her pups. However, most females over the age of 8 have a tough pregnancy and difficulty giving birth. Significant problems are common during labor, and a caesarian section may be required. Unfortunately, one or more stillborn puppies in a litter are pretty common in older dams. Older German Shepherds may also have trouble producing enough milk to nurse their puppies, who will die if not bottle-fed. Senior female dogs are also at risk of pyometra, a potentially fatal uterus infection. Due to all these risks and complications, most ethical breeders will retire their dams at around five or six years old. Pre-breeding Health Tests Both German Shepherd parents require proper care and conditioning to produce beautiful, healthy, strong puppies. Apart from good physical health, they also need to be in good mental condition. A mentally strong and happy female German Shepherd will make a better mother than one that is insecure or has an unstable temperament. Regular exercise and an excellent diet and nutrition are essential parts of conditioning before conception. Bitches should not be overweight and should have good muscle tone before mating. A month before breeding, the female German Shepherd should go through a pre-breeding examination by a vet. You need to check her for common breed-specific health problems, such as hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy. Vaccinations, flea, and worming treatments for both parents should be current. Are you looking to buy something for your dog? Make sure to check out my favorite dog gear below. The new owners are very gentle with the puppy and simply talk softly to him and give him pats and toys as he gets settled in. Sadly, the Puppy Mill Project states there are more than 10, puppy mills operating just in the United States alone. Puppy mills keep breeding pairs of dogs in often horrific conditions and take the puppies away from their moms much too soon so they can breed another litter of puppies. The Humane Society states that there are some warning signs you can watch for to indicate you may be getting your puppy from an unethical breeder or even from a puppy mill: The breeder is willing to release the puppy to you at a very early age before the age of eight weeks. The breeder will not allow you to visit their kennel and see their operation or meet the parent dogs — they only sell at off-site locations or over the internet. Here again, this question is a topic of often intense debate between different breeders. As one canine biologist explains in Psychology Today , the very earliest any puppy should be allowed to leave the litter and go to their new home is 79 days seven weeks. But many other breeders feel that even seven weeks is too early, as the GSDCA article cited earlier here states. There are a variety of reasons why letting a puppy leave the litter sooner than seven to eight weeks is considered a bad idea. The puppy is still too little and fragile Some breeders believe a primary reason to keep puppies with the mom and littermates longer is that puppies are very little and easily injured. However, because the German Shepherd is a large breed dog and has a sturdier body to start with, some breeders may be apt to release GSD puppies closer to the eight week age range. In contrast, smaller and toy dog breeds that are very delicate may need a bit longer to grow up before going to their new home. The puppy needs to learn social skills Another common reason why many breeders feel that puppies should stay with their litters and mothers at least until they turn eight weeks old is that the puppy will learn important social skills. The best trainer for any German Shepherd puppy is typically going to be the mother dog. As well, GSD puppies will have the chance to play and learn from their littermates and get comfortable with having people around by watching their mother interact with the breeder. Some theories suggest that this initial period of dog-to-dog socialization needs to happen before the dog-to-people socialization so the puppy can learn to be a dog first and then to be a companion to humans next. This benefit is simply that the German Shepherd breeder is experienced working with this dog breed and can give your puppy some early expert training and socialization with people. The difference here would be bringing home a puppy that is already used to a collar and lead, puppy pads, and some initial potty training commands, playing with toys and being handled by people. The rehoming process is always going to be stressful enough on its own that you want to be sure your puppy has the most confidence possible before coming home with you. Set aside time to just be with your puppy Your puppy is going to be a bit nervous or even frightened at first — this is normal. Rehoming is a big change. You can make it easier by just carving out time to sit nearby, praising your puppy, offering pats, and talking softly. These guidelines can ensure that your new German Shepherd puppy feels at home right away living with you. EbubeLarson The German Shepherd dog is a very nice breed known as an all-purpose utility dog. The dog is also a great pet and home protection choice. If you own a German Shepherd, you will have a sharp and vicious dog to protect you and a warm and gentle dog that can give you great care and love. And if trained properly, the German Shepherd can be the perfect pet. You want to know the right age to get your kid a German Shepherd puppy. Well, there is no specific age to get your kid a German Shepherd puppy. The most popular opinion is that the earlier, the better. So if you have kids right now, go ahead and get them a GSD. The reason is that kids and adults interacting with dogs are very different. While your instinct as an adult is to pat, play and train the dog, your kids only see a giant teddy bear. So they might scratch, pull, and kick at the dog. If a German Shepherd puppy is not introduced to all these situations early, it may become aggressive when handled in such a manner. Then again, other questions are running through your mind. Questions include choosing the right German Shepherd puppy for your kid and how to do the introductions. You might also be wondering if older German Shepherds are good with kids and whether or not to get your kid an adult German Shepherd. We will answer all these questions in this post, so stay with us. Choosing the right Greman Shepherd puppy for your kids is no easy task. So with you in mind, I have broken it down into four simple steps. Do thorough research. Get to know your kid. Search for reputable and licensed breeders. Take your kid along for the selection. And if you are new and have little or no experience with the German Shepherd breed, you will most likely get scammed. So before you run off and buy yourself a GSD, do enough research about the breed and get to know what features make the German Shepherd stand-bred and of high quality. For more information on how to identify a purebred German Shepherd, be sure to check out my previous post here. Well, you may wonder what getting the right German Shepherd has to do with your kid. This is because you are getting the German Shepherd for your kid. And the fact remains that since the dog is for your kid, its personality has to work nicely with that of your kid. To do this right is to study your kid and get to know them well. You need to gauge the hyper nature of your kid. How much energy do they expend during the day? You might already know what you are looking for by steps one and two. Now is the time to look for your German Shepherd. And to ensure that what we said earlier does not happen to you, you will need to find a reputable breeder. Use the internet as your tool, and do a lot of digging. Ensure that the breeders you choose to visit our licensed and have generations of breeding pedigrees. Also, ensure they all have a hand full of litters for you to choose from. Since you are looking for a Greman Shepherd to serve as a pet, selecting home-licensed breeders with kids around will be advisable. They will be best positioned to help you select the right puppy. Now, you may be wondering how this is going to be helpful. And if you have a kid or kids who already love dogs, you may be worried they will like every puppy. The truth, though, is that no matter the age of your kids, they already have a preference. You will need this preference from them, which is why they are tagging along. As they inspect the litter with you, please pay close attention to how they interact with the puppies. Please pay attention to how the puppies interact with them and cross off your list of those that are timid. As cruel as that may sound, doing that will save you from a life of stress. Following this process will surely narrow it down and pick the right puppy for you and your kids. What if you already have an adult German Shepherd and a kid on the way? You might wonder if having the Germa shepherd around will be a problem. The answer is yes! Older German Shepherds are great with kids, especially if they view the kid as part of their pack. All you need to do is make your German Shepherd trained and well socialized. Doing this could make a difference in how your German Shepherd reacts to your kids. But what if your German Shepherd has never had experience with kids, and you have one on the way? What can you do to ensure the safety of both your child and the GSD? Well, you will need to introduce them properly. How do you do that? Here are two steps that can help. Well, this may seem basic, but it is vital in properly introducing your baby to your German Shepherd. If your child is months old, you can hold your baby in your arms while your German Shepherd watches, or you could put your baby in the carriage and then encourage your GSD to come around. Do this for some days until you are sure your dog is comfortable around the baby. Once you notice this, you can move over to the next stage. By now, your German Shepherd must already be comfortable around your kid. Now carry your baby in your arms and call your German Shepherd over. Once he gets close to you, kneel before it and allow him to smell like your baby. Watch him closely and pat him for being gentle. Do this several times, and then, voila, you are done. From here on in, your German Shepherd should interact nicely with your kid. And please be careful not to rush this process and only stop once you are sure your kid and German Shepherd have the best relationship. Related Posts.

Temperament: Playful, loving and independent. Chihuahua Poodle Mix Appearance A Chihuahua Poodle mix is a small, lightweight dog that you can carry around with you. Those who inherit more Chihuahua will be long and slender. Whereas those with more Poodle in them with be shorter and chunkier. Their eyes can be light or dark and their noses are usually brown or black. They walk and run with a real spring in their step. Height and Weight Males stand between inches tall and weigh between pounds. Females stand between inches and weigh between pounds. So as you can guess this mix is no different. Black, white, grey, and many shades of brown are all possible fur colors. They may be all one color, or a mix of two or three different ones. Their fur is medium length and can be styled to your fancy. While letting your pup hitch a ride in your bag can be fun, it is important that even the tiniest dogs get time on their feet to walk. The Chihuahua originated in Mexico, while the Poodle is a European breed. The mix is thought to have begun in the United States. Chihuahua Poodle mixes are safer for owners with dog allergies due to their minimal shedding. The Poodle is one of the smartest dogs there is and all Poodle mixes are renowned for this intelligence. They makes cute and cuddly lap dogs and love to be carried or held. As it is very easy to spoil them rotten they can develop a bossy streak. They will spend their day following you around right at your heels. Even as they grow up they never lose the curiosity and playful behavior of puppyhood. Every day is a big adventure for this lovable little pooch. They are surprisingly independent for a toy breed and do not mind spending time alone. These playful pups will keep themselves and their owners amused with all kinds of tricks. Just about anything will keep them entertained. Their energy comes in quick bursts and they enjoy short play sessions throughout the day. Both parent breeds are known for being very chatty dogs so you will likely hear a lot of yapping from your mix. Reducing excessive barking whilst they are a puppy should be a priority. These dogs will eagerly socialize with their family but can be shy and anxious around strangers. This anxiety will lead to much more barking and yapping. Keeping your pup close by your side while you take them out to socialize will help them feel much more comfortable. They tend to be very suspicious of other pets but will get along with other toy dogs with similar personalities. Never keep one with a large dog or an especially pushy breed. Young children are often too noisy and rambunctious for these delicate dogs to handle. These delicate pooches can snap or bite if handled roughly. Owners should be able to keep up with its bursts of wild energy throughout the day. These dogs are not at all difficult to care for and are in fact easier than other toy breeds. Housetraining and finding the right diet are the biggest challenges of the breed. Exercise Requirements A Chihuahua mixed with Poodle will keep its youthful energy throughout their life. When they want to walk or play they will bark and tear around the house until you take them out. They will need short walks a day — each walk should be about 10 minutes each. Your dog should be on leash while walking. When they are tired they will wait patiently for you to pick them up. For the rest of the day you should let them burn their energy as necessary. You can teach them how to jump small hurdles and catch a ball. Your dog will be happy playing indoors or out, so long as they have enough space. Giving them their own play room in your house is a good idea. Number of Walks Per Day: .Total Exercise Needed Per Day: 45 minutes. Feeding and Diet Finding a nutritious diet to a small dog can be very difficult. It is easy to give them too much or too little dog food. These formulas are packed with all of the nutrients your little pup needs to fuel their day. Split one cup of kibble a day into two half cup meals. A good small breed formula will be packed with protein and have very little carbs and fats. It should have a high vitamin content and no extra fillers or additives. This leads to weepy or crusty eyes, redness and irritation. Dogs that suffer from this chronically will need their tear ducts flushed every few months. With little planning ahead you could get reimbursed for every vet bill from now on! It loves to be on the move and play all day. Chipoos are social butterflies and thrive for attention. They are kind, loyal, loving, friendly and outgoing, so trips to the dog park will do him wonders. He does also love his family and will enjoy sitting on your lap and snuggling. Keeping them busy will prevent mischievous behavior caused by boredom! Who is the Choodle Best Suited For? A Chipoo is an indoor dog, so consider this before bringing one into your home. They do well in apartments, small homes, and condos. They get along with other dogs and are good with children. The Poodle Chihuahua mix is a great companion dog and loves to be part of a family environment. Does the Chipoo Require Exercise? Yes, the Poochi thrives on physical activity, but a lot of exercises is NOT required. Just be careful not to let the little guy overexert himself. Also, provide him with plenty of water to keep him hydrated. Potty Training the Choodle Small dogs have smaller bladders. House training them can be a challenge. The number one rule is to start early! Brushing at least one to three times a week will remove dander and loose hair. It also keeps the coat smooth and tangle-free. This breed can also inherit overactive tear glands, which may cause tears to dry under its eyes and turns the fur a dark color. So use a wet cloth or a very fine and blunt comb, as needed, to keep this issue under control. Dental health is also important, so brush their teeth times a week. Keep a close eye on the nails. Training and Socialization Tips Intelligent dogs like the Chipoo are usually easy to train. Keep things positive and offer lots of praise. For their safety, be sure to leash train them and socialize them early! A properly trained Poochi can go anywhere with its family. Once they develop their strong personality and independence, they can become stubborn. Handle this right away in a firm way and with patience. Your Chi-poo will likely alert you of intruders by barking. Low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia, can occur in this breed. To prevent this, feed several small meals throughout the day. Chihuahuas have soft teeth, which can lead to dental diseases. Keep an eye out for: Cardiovascular disease. Chi-Poo Highlights Chi-Poos are mixed-breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their Chihuahua or Poodle parents. The main colors of Chi-Poos are; cream, brown, blue, brindle, silver, grey, fawn, white, and black. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a blend of of colors. There are longer-coated Chi-Poos, as well as shorter coated Chi-Poos. Chi-Poos can adapt to any living situation. Apartment or large home, single person or big family, they will fit in anywhere. They handle heat better than cold, but you may need to apply doggy sunscreen in summer. Because the Chi-Poo is a small dog, they can be easily injured by overly excited children. Chi-Poos prefer to be mostly around adults or older kids who know how to play gently. Chi-Poo History The Chi-Poo dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Chihuahuas and Poodles in the US in the s—right around they same time they started developing Cockapoos. Mixing breeds can often minimize health issues, as well. They continued to create Chi-Poos as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed. Even though the Chi-Poo breed got its 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. Check your local shelters, look up Chi-Poo rescues, or check with breed-specific Poodle or Chihuahua rescues, as they sometimes try to re-home mixes. Chi-Poo Size As the Chi-Poo is a relatively new breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between Chihuahua and Toy Poodle parents, you can expect Chi-Poos to be on the small side. Most weigh in at five to 20 pounds and range in height from five to 15 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. While both parent dogs, the Poodle and Chihuahua do not like being left alone, the Chi-poo is an anomaly. Most of them do just fine with working parents who have to leave the house for long periods. These pup are energetic and definitely would need to be with a person who is on-the-go or busy around the house. They enjoy watching you and would even enjoy participating in lots of activities, including walks and play sessions. A few short walks per day should suffice with lots of potty breaks for their small bladders. Make sure to have an assortment of toys, as they will happily entertain themselves. They do well in single person families and large households with kids. They will adapt to just about any environment. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Different breed organizations have recognized it by various names. A significant trait that the Chi-Poo may have partially inherited from the Chihuahua is their habit of bonding intimately with a particular person of the house, following him wherever he goes. These amicable dogs are not a good option for children below ten years of age as the latter may harm or rashly handle them. They can thrive well indoors or even in apartments if they have sufficient space to run around freely. This Chihuahua-Poodle mix gets along well with other dogs and pets when brought up with then since their puppy days. They are however not too comfortable with strangers. Care Exercise These active, playful dogs require a lot of physical activities to be healthy and happy. Taking them out for a walk daily under moderate temperature is a good option. In fact when outdoors if the temperature falls below 50 degrees, it is safe to take a coat or sweater for them. They get bored and destructive when left alone for too long. Therefore, give them adequate mental exercise by introducing a lot of interesting toys to them. Grooming Though they shed less, their coats should be groomed at frequent intervals in a week on the basis of the length by using a brush with soft bristles. Bathe them once or twice when needed. It is best to brush your dog before bathing it as this will help in removing loose hairs, also preventing it from getting matted after being wet. In fact, if your pet Chi-Poo has a coat similar to Poodle then brushing at regular intervals as well as clipping is essential. Make sure to brush their teeth two to three times in a week to prevent any dental infections. Because of their overactive tear glands similar to Poodles, it is required to remove the dried tears by cleaning the region around their eyes using a fine tooth comb devoid of any sharp edges. Health Problems They may suffer from diseases like luxating patella, tracheal collapse, hydrocephalus building up of fluid in the cavities of the brain , dilated cardiomyopathy, glaucoma, and chronic valvular heart disease. They also have the problem of dry skin, being incapable of absorbing anything through their skin. Some of them may possess an inverted eyelid that may heal on its own or in the extreme case require surgery. This breed is also prone to hypoglycemia that can turn fatal if not treated properly. Training Being intelligent just like the Poodle they will respond well to training when handled by a tactful trainer who will not be harsh on them but handle their stubbornness in a firm and patient way. Loving to amuse their owners with impressive tricks, they will be adept at it when groomed with an efficient hand. The techniques of rewarding and praising will encourage them to respond in a positive way. Proper socialization training is also required to be given to the puppies to help them get over certain behavioral problems like barking, showing possessiveness regarding their toys or belongings or getting destructive. Moreover, they should be trained to get over their habit of being attached to a particular individual of the family as his absence may trigger intense separation anxiety in them. They are to be leash trained for their safety. Feeding They should be given the diet of small or toy dogs probably wet food as most of them may face difficulties in digesting the contents of the commonly used dog foods. This breed may be picky while eating, thus it can take time to feed them. Give your pet about three fourth to one and a half cup dry dog food. Feeding your chipoo healthy food many times in a day will reduce the risk of hyperglycemia. Interesting Facts They act as perfect alarm dogs, warning their family at the very sight of an unfamiliar person or any uncommon sound by barking. The earliest evidence of the Chihuahua is found in paintings and pottery from around AD. It is thought that the breed originated in China and was then brought to Mexico by Spanish traders. The Chihuahua is the smallest breed of dog in the world, and it is known for its large eyes and long ears. The average lifespan of a Chihuahua is about 15 years. The Poodle Poodle dogs are a popular breed of dog that is known for their intelligence and loyalty. Though Poodles come in many different sizes, they all share the same general characteristics, including curly hair and a highly trainable nature. Poodles are believed to have originated in Germany, where they were originally bred as hunting dogs. Though they were originally bred as hunting dogs, poodles quickly became popular as companion animals due to their loving nature and easy-going temperament. Today, poodles are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. The Chi-Poo The Chi-Poo is a relatively new breed of dog, so there isn't a lot of information available about its history. However, we do know that they were first bred in the United States in the s. The AKC only recognizes purebred dogs, therefore the Chi-Poo cannot be registered with the organization. While this may seem like a minor distinction, it does prevent the Chihuahua Poodle Mix from competing in AKC-sanctioned events. For those looking to purchase a dog that can compete in agility or obedience trials, the Poodle Chihuahua mix may not be the best choice. Poodle Chihuahua Mix Appearance Poodle Chihuahua mixes typically have a medium-sized build, with a long, slender snout and large ears. They come in a variety of colors, including black, brown, white, and cream. They usually have a curly or wavy coat, which may require regular grooming. The height of a Poodle Chihuahua Mix can range from 6 to 9 inches, and the weight can range from 4 to 8 pounds. As a designer breed, the exact height and weight of the Poodle Chihuahua mix can vary depending on which parent breed they take after more. Chi-Poo Temperament Chihuahuas and Poodles have very different temperaments, so the temperament of a Chihuahua Poodle Mix can vary depending on which traits he inherits from his parents. However, both the Chihuahua and the Poodle are intelligent, loyal, and loving dogs, so it is likely that the Chihuahua Poodle Mix will inherit these qualities. He may also inherit the high energy level of the Chihuahua and the need for regular exercise. Chi-Poos are small dogs that are intelligent and eager to please. They are also known for being loyal and protective of their owners. Chihuahua Poodle Mix dogs are generally good with children and other pets. However, they can be distrustful of strangers and may bark excessively. They should be socialized at an early age to help prevent these behaviors. Chihuahua Poodle Mix dogs are active and playful, but they can also be calm and quiet when they are in a comfortable environment. They are typically easy to train and make good house pets. It's important to introduce them to different types of animals early on so that they can learn to get along. With that said, some Chi-Poos may be more comfortable around other dogs than other types of animals. They may also become territorial and try to assert themselves as the alpha dog in the home. Proper socialization and training can help to reduce these tendencies. Poodle x Corgi — Corgipoo Poodle x Yorkshire Terrier — Yorkipoo The Chihuahua Poodle mix is not as popular as some of the other Doodle-dogs, but it will still make a fun-loving family pet. What are the main characteristics of the Chipoo? Crossbreed dogs, like The Chi-poo or Wapoo are no more likely to inherit health problems than purebred dogs; in fact, it is believed they may actually be stronger as they are adding more variety into the gene pool. It can be heavily weighted towards the characteristics of one parent. The characteristics of the Chipoo are a combination of nature and nurture: genetics of each parent, the environment, and the quality, type, and amount of training and socialization. The Chipoo dog coat: A short-haired Chihuahua is the usual dog in the Chipoo mix, with its moderate shedding, smooth, straight-haired coat, while the Poodle has a wiry and stiff, wavy coat that sheds less. Poodle—mix dogs, such as the Chipoo were initially crossbred, in the United States, to be hypoallergenic and be suitable for people with dog hair allergies; it had mixed results. Loyalty and companionship The Chihuahua Poodle mix breed will become very attached to its family and especially the master. Reputation: The Chihuahua and the Poodle are both intelligent and sociable dogs that are not known to be aggressive. However, they are known to bark at strangers and other dogs they see as a threat to them or their families. Their size and non-aggressive temperament make them an ideal house pet for any experience of a dog owner, in any type of living accommodation. The Poodle mix is quieter and more reserved than the Chihuahua parent, but both are known to bark when startled or challenged. The Chipoo will be playful and full of energy so be prepared, if you get one, it will expect you to play with it and to have sufficient exercise. Popularity: This Chihuahua and Poodle mix, the Chipoodle, is not the most popular of the designer poodle mix dogs; yet their parents rank as No 6 the Poodle and the No 35 the Chihuahua , in the AKC list of most popular dogs. Perhaps this mix is not as well-known as the other Doodle-dogs and in time could rise in popularity as its parent breeds have. Trainability: When both parent breeds are intelligent and easy to train the Chihuahua Poodle mix should be too. A Chipoo puppy may be tiny but it will be full of energy and high spirits. It will get excited and just want to play and run around, so it should be obedience trained and socialized early. The size of this small dog makes it delicate and vulnerable in play and handling, especially with young children. Therefore, it needs to learn control and understand voice commands, and know when to avoid a situation that might endanger its safety; especially when outdoors in public places or dog parks while playing with other dogs, or boisterous children. This Poochi is very active and needs to be kept occupied to stop boredom and from getting up to mischief; chewing, barking or destroying things. Positive reinforcement and small treats work best for this little pooch, as it likes to please and be praised. It will enjoy and need working challenges incorporating mental and physical stimulation. Socialization: A Chipoo puppy needs exposure to different situations and people early, and practice leaving it alone to help it manage its feelings of separation anxiety, but with you close by. This puppy does not like being left alone for long periods of time and will yap, and may annoy the neighbors! Early socialization and discipline are needed for any active mixed breed dog that likes to be protective of its loved ones. Despite its small size it will be fiercely protective and bark and try to guard its family in the company of other dogs or strangers. Purpose: It will just want to play and hang out with you. It does not have a prey or hunting instinct but it will get bored easily and want to be kept stimulated. In return, it will offer you its love, devotion, and companionship. Behavior: A Chipoo is smart and energetic despite its small size. Obedience training needs to begin early in the puppy years. It will need early leash training as it needs to learn to control its excitement outdoors. It will be naughty if it feels it is not getting enough attention. Physical Characteristics of the Chi-poo This small pooch is friendly, full of energy, and is very sociable. For Females up to lb 1. Temperament: A Chipoo is not known to be aggressive, but it can be mouthy with other dogs and strangers. How should you train a Chi Poo? A Chipoo is intelligent and active and needs to be trained early. You will need patience as the Chipoo can be quite a handful and at times stubborn or moody. Positive reinforcement and reward-based training work best, but never aggressive treatment. Types of training required: obedience, discipline, agility, and socialization. So, if you are not going to use a professional dog trainer: 1 Develop your basic command words: Find keywords such as Stop, Sit, Down, etc. You will have to lock the cage in the early days so it knows it can sleep there and be transported in it. There are products available to help, such as mats and odor sprays to attract puppy go to the same spot each time 4 Walking on a leash — this Poochi is playful and full of energy so early leash training is recommended. Also, practice voice commands and road safety awareness firmly but not harshly. Health problems and health issues Although mixing breeds can often minimize health issues, the Chihuahua Poodle mix could still suffer from certain hereditary health problems from both parent breeds, such as: Luxating Patella — dislocated kneecap — A congenital condition that affects the kneecaps often causes dislocation or loosening of the kneecaps and extreme pain and affected mobility. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA — this is a genetic condition where the retina in the eye degenerates and it can lead to vision loss if not diagnosed and treated early. Other eye problems include: Glaucoma, Cataracts, Dry Cornea or Overactive tear glands — watering eyes from blocked or narrow tear ducts; as a result of swelling, or inflammation and the tears are unable to drain away and will build up in the tear sac. Its eyes need to be wiped often. Other health issues include Cardiovascular Heart problems , Dental problems due to their very small jaws , Obesity as they like to eat a lot , and Allergies — dry ears and dry skin conditions and low blood sugar levels. Life Span Did You Know? Chi-Poos are compact and energetic little dogs that love their families. They tend to be energetic and playful, and love nothing more than being around their favorite humans. Although the Chi-Poo is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other notable canine organizations. A Chi-Poo tends to be sweet, loving, and affectionate with their families. They tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. They can be initially wary of strangers and strange dogs. But, as long as they have been well-socialized, they tend to warm up quickly. Chi-Poos are fantastic watchdogs because they will alert you to things, people, noises, etc. Because of this, they can be prone to barking a lot. If you start to train your dog to stop barking early on, you can keep this from becoming a nuisance behavior. Chi-Poos are highly adaptable dogs. They do well in apartments as well as larger homes with or without yards. These little dogs do well in most climates. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat. Due to their small size, they may also need to bundle up with some winter dog products to stay warm while out on walks when the temperatures drop. Because these little dogs bond closely with their families and crave attention from them, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. This also means they can be prone to developing separation anxiety. So, you will want to make sure you socialize your dog and spend some time making sure they can be comfortable when you are not around. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Chi-Poo include glaucoma , luxating patella , hypoglycemia, and overactive tear glands. As a small dog breed, the Chi-Poo is more prone to developing painful dental diseases later in life. Gum disease in dogs is one of the most common health issues and has serious consequences. Chi-Poos are highly intelligent dogs that are eager to please and pick up on things quickly. Inconsistent training can make them stubborn. But, as long as training is kept consistent and focused on positive reward and praise, they are a good fit for owners of all experience levels. Puppy training classes are still an option. Aside from the training, there are several other benefits of puppy training classes. If they take more after their Chihuahua parent, they will shed a little year-round, require weekly brushing, and need the occasional bath. If they inherit the Poodle coat, they may not shed, but they will need a lot more grooming. Daily brushing is required to remove tangles and prevent mats from forming. In addition, professionally grooming and clipping are needed every weeks. If you are visiting a dog groomer regularly, they may be able to help out with some things, but you will still need to do maintenance at home between visits. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep them from growing too long and causing issues. Weekly ear checks with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Dental diseases can be prevented later in life with consistent dental care. Daily brushing or use of an enzyme toothpaste in addition to cleanings at the vet as needed are ideal. Although a Chi-Poo will be energetic when they play, they are small dogs and will tire themselves out quickly. Usually, daily walks plus some playtime are enough to keep this little dog happy and healthy. Because they thrive being around you, they may be up for more activity if you are. Just make sure you keep an eye on them to make sure they are not overexerting themselves trying to keep up and be prepared to potentially have to rest or carry them. A fully-grown Chi-Poo usually averages inches tall and pounds in weight. Chi-Poos generally live for years on average. This mix is usually called a Chi-Poo. Other nicknames include Choodle, Poochi, Chipoodle, and Poohuahua. Featured Chi-Poo Article. The resulting dog is smart and confident and is gaining popularity thanks to its high trainability and low-shedding coat. In this guide, we will study everything you need to know about this gorgeous designer dog breed. What is a Chi-Poo? As the name indicates, these cute small dogs with soft wavy hair are obtained by mixing a Miniature or Toy Poodle with a Chihuahua. A Chipoo or Chidoodle may be a small dog but it is cute, smart, loyal, and highly protective of the people it loves. Origins Every breed of dog, even the ChiPoo, has wolves as its ancestors. Humans started domesticating and training wolves nearly 14, years ago. Mostly, people wanted animals to do various jobs and, over the years, they bred different species of wolves which created different dog breeds. The Chihuahua breed originated in Mexico and is one of the ancient dog breeds known to exist since the time of the Toltec tribes. Aztec paintings depict the Chihuahuas as much larger and heavier. Soon the Aztecs started breeding smaller and smaller Chihuahuas and even considered them as their treasure. Today, the smart Poodle is ranked second in the list of most intelligent dog breeds and is also extremely popular due to its hypoallergenic, low-shedding coat. In the s, the demand for cross-breed or designer dogs increased when the first hybrid dog- a Labradoodle — was created by crossing a Poodle with a Labrador Retriever. People loved the Labradoodle for its high intelligence and low-shedding coat. Soon dog lovers were demanding smaller cross-breed dogs. The exact origin of the Chi-Poo is unclear but it might have been existing for nearly 3 decades. Chi-Poo Physical Attributes Chipoo owners are curious to find out how big a Chipoo will get when they first bring home this sweet pup. Chidoodles are not purebred dogs so there are no standards as far as their physical attributes are concerned. Most ChiPoos weigh between 5 and 20 lb. They measure between 5 and 15 inches .Chidoodles have medium coats which can be straight, soft, long, short, or curly. The coat colours seen in the designer breed are cream, white, brown, black, brindle, silver, grey, blue, merle and fawn. Chi-Poos will need different frequencies of grooming based on the kind of coat they inherit. In general, you might want to brush your dog every days and wash or bathe it once a month. Is the Chipoo hypoallergenic? Like most Poodle mixes, the Chipoo sheds a lot less than the average dog breed. Therefore, if an individual is highly allergic to pets, then even the supposedly hypoallergenic Chi-Poo or any Poodle mix for that matter could still trigger an allergic reaction in them. Chi-Poo Temperament and Personality Chidoodles are known to be very smart like their Poodle parent although the Chihuahua is also quite bright. They are confident, highly trainable, and assertive dogs; sometimes overly so. This can hinder training so they need a consistent and experienced dog owner who will show them how to behave appropriately by rewarding their good behaviour. ChiPoos are sure to make excellent pets for families with slightly older children. It is important to understand that these small dogs are quite fragile so it is best not to have very boisterous kids playing roughly around them. Chidoodles make excellent lapdogs. This makes them ideal pets for elderly people but they still need a walk or two every day. This is important to prevent obesity in these small dogs. Are Chipoos yappy? Since Poodles and Chihuahuas are both very reactive and tend to bark at everything in their surroundings, the Chidoodles are also quite the barkers. You might find your little dog barking at every sight or sound. To curb this barking habit, you must train your dog to only bark on cue. You also need to desensitize and socialize your little pet to various experiences from an early age. This is very important to prevent separation anxiety , fear, and other behavioural issues in your Chipoo. Are Chi-Poos aggressive? Like their Chihuahua parent, Chi-Poos can have a wide range of personalities. Like terrier breeds, some Chipoos are in-your-face aggressive but others could be shy or timid. In general, aggression is not an inherent trait in the Chidoodle breed and, as such, must be nipped in the bud. No dog owner must tolerate aggression and must use training, socializing, and desensitization to ensure that their ChiPoo puppy turns out to be a friendly, loving adult dog with a sound temperament. The rates are not standardized or regulated so you will find a lot of variation. In addition to considering your Chi-Poo puppy price, you must also consider the lifetime costs that come with dog ownership. What is the Best Food for a Chipoo? Like all dogs, your Chipoo needs a balanced diet consisting of proteins, healthy fats, and vitamins and minerals. You can choose between high-quality kibble or go in for canned or wet food. In general, kibble may be a better choice since, like all small dogs, the Chi-Poo is prone to dental issues. Kibble with the proper texture can help eliminate plaque and tartar to some extent although your pet will also need daily oral care. You can divide this into 2 or 3 smaller meals although puppies will need at least 4 meals. This is important to prevent digestive issues in your young pet while it is still adjusting to the new surroundings. As your dog passes through different life stages, discuss with your vet the right diet to feed it. Some Chi-Poos are known to have food sensitivities so you may have to choose hypoallergenic dog food or special prescription diets to prevent symptoms. How Long Does a Chipoo Live? What are the Common Health Issues in the Breed? ChiPoos are known to have a lifespan of nearly years. The breed is quite healthy but, like all designer dogs, there is a chance that it inherits afflictions commonly seen in the parent breeds. From time to time, the following health issues are seen in Chidoodles: Idiopathic epilepsy — Since Poodles are known to suffer from idiopathic epilepsy, your Chipoo could inherit this disease. It is characterized by seizures, often without a cause. Luxating patella — Both Chihuahuas and Poodles are known to have this issue. It causes the knee cap to pop out of its normal position causing lameness. Legg-Calve Perthes disease — This results in the degeneration of the femoral head. Hypoglycemia — this condition is seen in Chihuahuas. It causes low blood sugar which can lead to lethargy or dizziness in the affected dogs. Tracheal collapse — this condition is also seen in Chihuahuas and it causes shortness of breath and a permanent honking cough. To minimize the chances of your having to deal with these health issues, only buy your ChiPoo from a reputable breeder. Good breeders conduct appropriate health checks on their parent dogs and only breed ones that have received the appropriate health clearances. Subscribe for free poodle mix breed information and exclusive offers on the best products for your pup! Leave this field empty if you're human: Share this.

For the complete list please see our German Shepherd Breeders page. The average price for a German Shepherd Puppy in Oregon will vary depending on the breeder that you choose. It is important to do your research before purchasing a puppy and to find a reputable breeder who is registered with the American Kennel Club. Prices may vary because of the pedigree of the dog, whether it is purebred or not and what training the puppy may have already undergone. The most important thing to remember is that you get what you pay for. It is not recommended that you purchase an animal on the cheap when it comes to matters of health and well-being. There are many breeders who are registered with the American Kennel Club and who adhere to the strict guidelines that have been put in place. When looking for a breeder, it is important to ask questions about the health of the parents and grandparents of the puppies. Breeders should be able to provide documentation that proves that their dogs have been tested for genetic diseases and are clear of any issues. The breeder should also be willing to provide a guarantee of the health of the puppy. If you are looking for a show-quality dog, then you will likely have to pay more for your puppy. However, all German Shepherds are beautiful animals and there is no need to break the bank in order to bring one into your home. When you find a responsible breeder, it is important to stick with them so that you can continue to get quality dogs from them in the future. This will allow you to see where the puppies are being raised and how they are being treated. It will also give you the opportunity to meet the parents of the puppies and ask any questions that you may have. A responsible breeder will want to meet you as well and will likely ask some questions about your lifestyle and what you are looking for in a dog. They should also be willing to provide references so that you can speak with other people who have purchased puppies from them in the past. If everything looks good and you decide to purchase a German Shepherd puppy from this breeder, be sure to get a written contract that outlines all of the details of the sale. This should include information about the health of the puppy, his pedigree and what type of training he has received. The breeder should also provide you with a list of supplies that you will need to get started, such as a food dish, water bowl, collar, leash, crate and toys. Purchasing a German Shepherd puppy is a big decision and one that should not be taken lightly. By doing your research and finding a responsible breeder, you can be sure that you are getting a healthy, well-behaved animal who will be a cherished member of your family for years to come. A breeder who has been breeding dogs for years should be able to provide you with references from other people that they have sold puppies to in the past. These individuals will have valuable information on the level of care and expertise offered by this breeder. If there is a particular reason why these former clients did not keep their German Shepherds, then it may be a good idea to steer clear of this breeder. Although it is impossible to find a perfect breeder, someone who has a long history of good reviews should be your ideal choice. When looking for a responsible German Shepherd breeder in Oregon, it is important to ask questions and do your research. By following these simple tips, you can be sure that you are getting a healthy, well-behaved puppy who will be a cherished member of your family for years to come. Sometimes this is done to make a quick buck. Other times it is because they simply do not know the proper way to care for their animals. If they are rushing through the process with little concern about who you are or what kind of life that their pups will have, then it might be time to find another breeder. This organization provides a list of breeders who have met certain standards of care and breeding. If the breeder you are speaking with does not have papers for their animals, then they are likely not a reputable source. Ask The Oregon Breeder if Your German Shepherd Puppy Has Any Health Problems When you go to pick up your new puppy from a responsible breeder in Oregon, they should be able to provide you with a health certificate that shows that the puppy is free of any serious medical problems. This certificate will also list all of the vaccines and preventative measures that have been taken for this animal. This should be a place where the pup can run and play without fear of getting hit by a car or becoming lost. Introduce The Puppy To All Of The Family Members: Once your new pup has had a chance to relax and play in their safe area, it is time to introduce them to the rest of your family. Be sure to have plenty of treats on hand to reward the pup for good behavior. It may take a little bit of time for the puppy to get used to everyone, but with patience and love, they will soon become part of the family. Install A Dog Door: If you want your German Shepherd puppy to be able to go in and out of the house as they please, then you will need to install a dog door. This can be a great way for the pup to get some exercise during the day when you are not at home. Bringing a new puppy into your home is always a joyous occasion. By following the tips above, you can make sure that your new German Shepherd has a safe and happy home to call their own. Potty Training Your New German Shepherd Puppy Potty training is one of the most important skills that any new puppy will need to learn. When you bring your German Shepherd home, there are certain steps you can take to make sure they pick up this behavior quickly and easily. Many owners make the mistake of introducing their dog to a potty spot in the yard and expecting them to know what to do from there. This strategy rarely works and can lead to accidents all over your house before you even knew what happened. If your new pup does not feel like it is necessary for them to go outside at certain times, they will wait until the last minute and often make a mess inside of your home. To get around this problem, it is important to keep your puppy on a strict schedule where they are expected to go outside every couple of hours or so. You can either use an app on your phone to set up reminders or you can mark off each hour as it passes with different items such as toys. This could be anything from a small treat to verbal praise or petting. If the puppy makes a mistake and goes potty inside, do not scold them. Simply clean it up and take them outside immediately so they can understand that this is not the behavior that you are looking for. Bringing a new German Shepherd puppy into your home is an exciting experience that will bring plenty of joy to your family. By following the tips above, you can make sure that your new pup has a safe and easy time getting potty trained. Congratulations on your newest addition! I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. German Shepherd Resources German Shepherds are arguably one of the oldest dog breeds in existence, as their history reads back to the early s, and even with all that history, they have still found a way to remain very popular breeds in modern times. According to the American Kennel Club, the German was ranked the 3rd most popular dog breed in the world as of the year .The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile dog breeds you can find. They can be used as family dogs, protection dogs, service dogs, therapy dogs, working dogs, and a lot more. If you are considering getting a German Shepherd puppy or considering adding one to the family, then you certainly have made the right choice. Another important decision you would need to make is the exact German Shepherd breeder you should work with. States like Oregon are blessed with a high number of German Shepherd breeders, but you have to be careful, as not all breeders are reputable breeders that truly care for the breed. In this article, we provide you with a list of some really good German Shepherd breeders residing in the state of Oregon. These are responsible breeders that are selected for their breeding programs as well as their socialization and training protocols. With that being said, it is essential that you only view this article as a guide to help you find the best breeder for you. They are focused on German Shepherd puppies. The breeding facility is located in Veneta, Oregon and the program is owned and managed by Kilynn Heinrichs. Heinrichs German Shepherds operates a very impressive breeding program that is blessed with some of the best sires and dams you can find in the world. Their breeding dogs come from West German show lines. They have mainly championed dogs with an equally impressive pedigree to show. Their dogs are genetically health tested before being added to the breeding program. They also have their orthopedic health tested by licensed professionals. Every dog that they produce is raised in the family house which is located in Veneta, Oregon. They are socialized using different protocols and enrichment tools, one of which is the Puppy Culture program. The puppies are also introduced to different stimulating experiences that help with improving the dog breed. All thor dogs come with a 2 years health guarantee. They are vaccinated and dewormed and each is registered with the AKC as well as microchipped. Our requirements for puppy adoptions are simple and necessary. Our puppies are not livestock guardians, they are family pets that live inside of the family home. Puppies must be placed in homes with a youthful, adult resident dog of similar size. This gives the puppy a mentor and a solid foundation for becoming part of the family. Puppies are only adopted to homes with someone at home at least part of the day. If no one is home for hours at a time, please do not apply. Preference is always given to those with Great Pyrenees experience. Applicants must have secure, visible fencing and a socialization plan in place. The fastest way to be considered for a puppy is to fill out an application. Adoption is not first come, first served. GPRS and its fosters work diligently to find the right fit for each and every unique dog and puppy. Adopters pay the cost of transport services outside of Texas area. Transport costs depend on location and company used. Our volunteers have over years combined experience fostering, screening, and placing this majestic breed into loving, forever homes. When adopting from us, you can rest assured that we provide life-long support and advice when it comes to your new family member. As always, our purpose is to find the best match for every unique dog that comes through our doors. Taking the time to find the right fit comes first and foremost at the Great Pyrenees Rescue Society. If you are interested in adopting, please take the time, and apply. You will see firsthand how much care, attention and love goes into the process, when you are guided a personal screener. This is why we have people come back again and again for their next family member! See all our dogs, fill out an application and discover why we are the BEST at placing the right dog in the right home! We have worked hard to cultivate a large network of volunteers to save this majestic breed. While monetary donations are always much appreciated, you can also help by donating your time as a GPRS foster or volunteer. Visit this organization's web site to see any additional information available about this pet. September 14, , pm.

She needs a good loving home. Ready to go to their fur-ever home now. Only 4 left! Deworming at 6 and 8 weeks. First set of shots given. Buy Now Two female pups about a year old I have two beautiful female pups about a year and need a good home for the fourth of July weekend. Buy Now Golden retriever rehoming Price negotiable, very playful, knows some tricks, potty trained, his very kind to everyone. His 8 months old. Has all his vaccinations. Buy Now Golden retrievers Golden retrievers puppies ready to go to a new home!! Fully AKC certified. Neutered, up to date on all shots. He will make you laugh, smile, and bring you much Joy. View Detail Puppy for sale Sweetie puppy 13 weeks all vaccines updates, he just need a new home View Detail Beautiful Puppy, dear to the heart. Beautiful 4 month Golden Retriever, his name is Safe. He is fully vaccinated. Looking for a beautiful family or couples that would care and love him. View Detail Beautiful Golden Retrievers I am rehoming georgeous 12 weeks Golden Retriever Puppie, vaccines up to date, dewormed, kennel trained, playful, the best dog rated for families. One female available. They were fed completely by her milk all they way to 3weeks when they began to be partially weaned. The puppies have had a rich and fun experiences being able to roam around in our safe backyard and sleep comfortably and cleanly in there pin inside. They are strong and very gentically robust, excellent body structures and no illnesses. Each puppies is extermely unique, some having short hair, some long and curly, some golden other black. Each has a quirkly personality ranging from play all day to sit back and relax. The puppies are 8 weeks old and looking for their forever home. Desiring to be by your side and if properly tranined capable of polite and helpful behaviours! These healthy pups are well-socialized and have a great temperament. The Dam and Sire are on site. All pups are up to date on deworming and vaccinations. They come with a one year health guarantee and AKC papers. We have three males and one female left. Act now! View Detail We have to rehome our little puppy due to personal reason Peanut is a2 months old male golden retriever puppy, he is very active, super healthy and sweet, he had his first shot, we will provide all his medical records and his breed certificate. My email:xxxxxxxxxx xxxxx. Currently 10 weeks. To AKC mom named Siber: medium gold color sweet, quiet, calm. Sire: Henry red golden color, playful, he was breed for hunting, like lots of red goldens. He is tall and long. He likes to sing along to music. He has been genetically tested and was cleared. The puppy is smart and very calm and gentle. Of course loves to play. She is adjusting to being away from her 6 other siblings like a champ. Her and her dad are together all the time. She is using the crate on her own. She uses the doggie door to go potty outside. 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While the dogs have a doggy door to access their dog park, they often choose to be in the house with us. We step over them to make dinner, move them over to make room on the bed so we can sleep, and some are not shy to follow us into the bathroom. Our mission is to produce English Golden Retrievers that excel in all aspects of life. Health and soundness is a top priority in our breeding program. Offering English Golden Retriever puppies with champion bloodlines.

German Shepherd puppies , like all puppies, go through a teething phase, and their biting behavior can continue until they are around 4 to 6 months old when their adult teeth have fully grown in. But how do you get German Shepherd puppies to stop biting, and when should you seek out more help? We dive into everything that you need to know here. German Shepherds are herding dogs, and as such, they love to go after anything that moves. This could be cats, kids, hands, fingers, or just about anything else. The more they get away with it, the more acceptable the behavior seems in the future. Addressing the problem early and consistently is vital. Just like babies need something to chew on when their new teeth are coming in, your German Shepherd needs something too! First, it stops when they get their adult teeth. Second, if you try to redirect them to something that they can chew on, most German Shepherd puppies are receptive. At this time, they should have all their adult teeth, which means no more teething to worry about. But at least you know the root of the problem and can start implementing the necessary strategies to address it. Instead, get them a few chew toys, bones, and other acceptable things to chew on as they teethe. You can also throw a few of these toys in the fridge or freezer to cool them down, and this will offer even more relief for your pup when they need it! While there are plenty of techniques to try, we recommend redirection and positive reinforcement. The method is simple. If and when they start chewing on the toy or other appropriate object, give them praise. German Shepherds love to please their owners, so this is typically an effective way to train your puppy. Therefore, you should have levels of concern. If they are still chewing and nipping at the 9-month mark, you should seek obedience training or talk to a vet to see what you can do. So, get on it early and often, and stick with it! Because with just a little work and dedication you can get your German Shepherd puppy to stop biting in no time. Check Price on Amazon 4. Use Positive Reinforcement Positive reinforcement means giving something pleasant to your German Shepherd when they perform what you want them to do so that they learn to associate the correct behavior with the reward. The more this is repeated, they will remember and do it more often. The reward is a reinforcing motivation. In the above example of redirecting your GSDs biting to a chew toy, once he accepts the toy and starts to chew or play with it, you then offer lots of enthusiastic verbal praise and reward with a treat. Again, timing is important, and this must be done instantly so that your German Shepherd will recognize or associate his behavior with the correct action. You can give other rewards, but these may be more suited to older pups, adolescent dogs, or adults. Alternatives could be giving them a special toy, playing their favorite game, such as fetch, or taking them on their favorite walk. Always use lots of verbal praise in parallel to the reward you choose. You will, no doubt, soon get to learn where your dog prefers to be pet. Go here for more guidance on where to pet your German Shepherd. This is also useful when your German Shepherd starts to put his mouth around your possessions or furniture, ready to have a good gnaw! Using a time-out can effectively discipline a German Shepherd for biting and other undesirable behaviors. A great way to do this is to grab their collar, push their bum down, and make them sit. The idea is that your German Shepherd will quickly learn to associate that the fun stops when his nipping starts! As always, timing is critical, so your pup learns what he has done wrong at the precise moment. For very young puppies, you should only put them in time-out for a few seconds, between 7 and 10, and no longer than 30 seconds. At the end of the time-out, redirect your pup back to play and use lots of verbal praise or offer a training treat for good onward behavior. You must time the click at the exact moment your pet is doing what you want to reinforce. If you quickly reward your dog with a positive experience such as a treat, he will soon learn to associate the noise of the click with great things. The idea is that you condition your German Shepherd so that when he hears the sound of the clicker, he knows he has done something to please you. In the case of puppy biting, we are simply rewarding the puppy for choosing not to bite. You can achieve this by using the distraction technique described above. When the puppy makes the right choice and starts to bite on his chew toy, he hears the click and gets his treat. Look out for other symptoms such as drooling more than usual, bad breath, loss of appetite, or sneezing. If you are consistent and patient with your methods, you will achieve great results. Be firm but fair, which also helps to strengthen the loving bond between you and your dog. It leads to fear, avoidance, hurt feelings, guilt, stress, anxiety, and lack of trust. Owners should use positive reinforcement methods as much as possible. In another year-long study by the University of Pennsylvania, researchers found that using confrontational or aversive methods to teach aggressive dogs did not work. The dogs continued to be aggressive until the training methods were changed. The same study found that punishing techniques and dominance-based training, such as hitting or kicking, growling, or yelling at your dog, can cause aggression, as stated by Meghan E. An even more recent study in companion dogs suggests that using even mild punishments like yelling and leash-jerking can stress dogs out more than dogs taught using reward-based training. This stress causes negative consequences and poorer welfare. Alpha rolling is a controversial and outdated technique that physically puts your dog on his back or side in a submissive position to show that you are dominant or the Alpha. This old-fashioned technique is a form of positive punishment and was often used to house-train pups. Many people will have used this method decades ago without success, but at the time, they believed it was the right thing to do. For a positive punishment to work, the problem is that it has to be administered during or immediately after the act within 2 -3 seconds ; otherwise, the dog will not make the connection. Sometimes puppies naturally get over-excited and overtired. When this happens, instead of using the crate as a punishment, lure him into the crate with a treat offering lots of praise and letting him go down for a nap. If you feel sorry for your German Shepherd after disciplining him, you must never reward him out of guilt. Again, this only confuses your dog. Remember to be firm but fair. While a muzzle can prevent your dog from biting, it is not a solution to the underlying behavior issue. Muzzling your German Shepherd without addressing the root cause of their biting can lead to further behavioral problems and may even make the situation worse. Is it ever too late to discipline a German Shepherd for biting? It is never too late to discipline a German Shepherd for biting, but it may take more time and effort to modify their behavior if the biting has become a habit. Start with identifying the root cause and then take the guidance of an expert to set boundaries and train better to eradicate unwanted behavior. Final Thoughts Puppy biting is natural in all dogs. However, you now know the importance of disciplining your German Shepherd as soon as he starts to exhibit biting, nipping, and chewing behavior and how to do it. This is especially important with the German Shepherd breed as they quickly grow into big strong dogs. That could end in disaster for all concerned. No matter what you are teaching your German Shepherd, try to train him when young; 8 weeks old is a great time to start. Make sure you properly socialize him and give him lots of exercise and training will be much easier. Related Posts You May Like:. Puppies Have you ever reached down to play with a German Shepherd puppy, only to have that adorable little fur-ball pierce your skin with its razor-sharp puppy teeth? When I brought Allie into the family, she was fully in the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — so that first month was tough! Unfortunately, biting is an inevitable phase of puppyhood — it comes with the territory when you decide to be a puppy parent. My goal with this guide is to get you through the biting stage with as few battle scars as possible. Why do German Shepherd Puppies Bite? Up until this time, your puppy was with its littermates, and playtime meant lots of mouthy, nipping fun. Accordingly, this is the only way your GSD knows how to play! A German Shepherd puppy also uses their mouths to explore different things like toys — or hands, ankles, furniture… pretty much anything they can get their mouth around. Your puppy could also be teething, which can increase their mouthy behavior. Just be patient as you work through the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — give your pup time to learn to be gentle when playing or seeking your attention. Nothing is worse than an ankle-biter! I was very lucky not to have this problem with Allie. Why does your German Shepherd puppy target the ankles? Because your GSD is a working dog trying to do its job — herd you around the house like livestock. German Shepherds were originally bred for herding flocks of sheep. Your furry pal may also think heel nipping is just a really fun game. Using a toy as a distraction and keeping your pup active will help nip ankle nipping in the bud! Because she was too busy biting hands! There are lots of reasons why a pup may decide to start biting your hands. For one, good things treats, toys, love, attention come from hands. Also, hands are almost like swinging toys from the perspective of a playful pup — too enticing to pass up! How to Discourage Biting Behavior While the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is a rite of passage, there are some ways you can discourage bad biting behavior without harsh discipline. This is one of the most effective ways to teach your German Shepherd bite inhibition — or how to be gentle with her teeth. Think about when your pup was rolling and playing with their brothers and sisters — if your GSD was too rough, their sibling would let out a yelp. This trick worked great with Allie! Just make sure to be consistent until your pup gets the idea and learns to master the power of her jaws. Puppies will be puppies! Redirect the biting to an appropriate toy. For example, when your fuzzy friend latches onto your ankles, give a little puppy-like yelp, and then whip out a toy and encourage your dog to chew on that instead. Tug-of-war is the perfect game for the puppy biting phase. Socialize your puppy as much as possible. Other dogs are great at teaching your puppy that they playing too rough and biting too hard. Try a deterrent to prevent your dog from chewing or biting. If all else fails, there are lots of products designed to deter your dog from bad biting behavior. How do they work? Well, they taste awful. But if used correctly, they can definitely work. This is still attention — your puppy bites, your puppy gets attention. Otherwise, your pup may see this as a fun new game, kind of like tug-of-war but with your hands or feet as the toy. You want your furball to love playing with you! The goal here is to encourage your German Shepherd to play as much as ever but to play gently. As a pup, Allie thought she should greet everyone by jumping in their face and nipping — kind of like a kiss hello, but with teeth. And as she got bigger, it was harder to control. But trust me, it got old quickly. Be proactive. If I knew someone was coming over, I would put Allie in another room or in her crate. Once our visitor was in the house and the initial excitement had passed, I would let her out. By keeping her from greeting people right when they walked through the door, I could minimize her overzealous behavior. This is a simple command that teaches your dog to stay in her place until you give a release command. This is another way to allow the initial excitement to pass and your German Shepherd to calm down a bit before greeting anyone. Redirect attention to a toy like I talked about earlier. Fold your arms and turn away. Keep turning until your GSD stops jumping, then praise them and use a treat as a reward. What to Do If Biting Becomes Aggressive Although puppy mouthing is normal, there can be cases where biting can signal problems and possibly even aggression. Look for physical differences in your pup. If your puppy is having a moment of aggression, their body may stiffen when snarling, and bites will typically be more painful than during regular play. Also, if your GSD puppy is biting out of fear or frustration, you may need to take action. These types of behavior are not something your pup will just grow out of. While the biting phase will inevitably end, you may find yourself asking the infamous question — when do German Shepherds calm down!? I asked myself and our vet this question more than once! It honestly just depends. Sure, she had her calm moments thanks in part to her training , but she was still very hyper especially in more excitable moments. The type of German Shepherd dog is yet another variable that plays a role in its energy levels. So when do German Shepherds calm down? It really depends on your individual German Shepherd. Final Thoughts Unfortunately, the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is something all GSD puppy owners will go through, but it will pass. Try the tips above to help keep your sanity during this phase. Or any tips to help the rest of us? Please share! Since puppies lack the dexterity that you and I have, they use their mouths to explore the world around them. By understanding the behavior of biting itself, you can begin to see just how normal biting is in German Shepherd puppies. Just because biting is a normal behavior in a puppy does not mean we should tolerate it or promote it. Since biting is a form of communication for German Shepherd puppies, there are many things our puppies could be trying to say! So why do Shepherd pups bite? Puppies often communicate with their siblings through biting and pawing, especially when they are trying to incite a play session. Your pup may gnaw on your hand as if it were a chew toy, especially when you are a moving target. Puppies play and bite their siblings from the moment they are old enough to do so. This is why the behavior is so common, and why our Shepherd pupswill need to learn how to transition to playing with appropriate chewing options. Not only are our hands and feet tempting enough, but even more so when a puppy has a high prey drive. A prey drive is an ingrained need to chase after moving objects, whether it is appropriate or not. A swinging hand as we walk by can be extremely tempting for a growing pup, causing them to jump up and nip. If it seems like your Shepherd puppy is always biting you when you are in motion, it may be due to their high prey drive! They Are Curious As we mentioned above, German Shepherd puppies use their mouth to explore the world around them. Biting can help them examine and understand an object, and our hands and feet can fall into that category as well! If you catch your puppy gnawing on everything around your home, it may be their curiosity getting the best of them! A dog quickly learns what behavior gets a reaction, causing them to do it over and over again. Even if their bites result in a negative reaction from you, it still counts as attention. They Are Teething Similar to teething babies, a German Shepherd puppy experiences teething pain as well. If your Shepherd pup seems to find relief when chewing on objects, they may be biting you due to teething discomfort. They Are Herding You If your German Shepherd puppy is constantly biting at your ankles, they may be displaying some herding behaviors. German Shepherds are ingrained with a need to work, especially in dogs with a working bloodline. If your German Shepherd is always nipping at your feet, running to your side when you are moving, or showing signs of anxiety or frustration when you are moving around your home; it may be herding behavior. So how can you stop this normal puppy behavior? Redirect The Behavior One of the most effective ways to stop your German Shepherd puppy from biting is by redirecting the behavior. An effective distraction is a wonderful way to end the behavior without punishment, and show them how much fun the alternative to biting can be. The next time your Shepherd pup is displaying undesirable nipping, try to pull out their favorite toy. Since this will need to be a toy that your dog enjoys, be sure to offer them the option that they find most exciting. This can be a Kong toy , rope, bone, or any other chewing option that your dog loves. By doing this each time your Shepherd puppy begins to bite you, they will begin to understand that they would much rather play with an acceptable chew option. Having a variety of chew toys can alleviate their need to bite our hands and feet, and offer them the relief they seek in this uncomfortable transition. There are so many toys created for teething puppies, that it should be easy to fill your home with plenty of appropriate options. One of our favorite chew toys is the Kong Teething Binkie. Any attention can validate the behavior, causing them to make it a habit. This shows them that the behavior is unacceptable, and does not involve any harmful negative reinforcement. Our attention is important to a puppy, and they do not want to be ignored. By showing them that biting will only result in us pulling away, they will learn to ditch the undesirable behavior. Interrupt The Behavior Sometimes a Shepherd puppy needs a sharp and sudden sound to pull them out of a bad habit. By giving a quick interrupter cue ouch, yip, eek , you can pull your puppy away from the action and gain their attention. Because of this, it is so important to offer plenty of mental and physical activities throughout your home. For example, if your puppy nips at strangers each time they walk in the door, it may be best to limit their time around the guest and send them to a separate play area. Once they begin to understand that biting is unacceptable, you can refrain from using their separate play area as often. Similar to what we discussed above about being proactive, a separate play area can help them calm down and collect themselves. Once your German Shepherd puppy begins to mature and understand that biting is unacceptable, they should require less time away. Just as there are effective methods in canine training, there are counterproductive actions as well. Do Not Hit Or Yell Since biting is a normal behavior that puppies must learn to grow out of, it is not productive to hit or yell at your puppy when they bite. Doing this can show them from a young age that interaction with you results in something negative, and can hinder your training process. By using other distractions and training methods when they bite, you can turn every bite into a learning experience for your pup! This can seem like a fun game to your pup, and can actually encourage the behavior. Try your best to go limp when they bite you, and pull your attention away from the pup. By doing this, you show them that this behavior does not offer them any extra fun. Extra attention can validate their undesirable behavior, making it challenging to break. Try your best to refrain from reacting to a bite outside of your interrupter cue, and pull your attention away from your furry friend afterward. Biting is a normal behavior in puppies of all kinds. Puppies begin to bite their siblings from the moment they can move, and will continue this behavior until they learn otherwise. A biting German Shepherd puppy is to be expected, and should not result in any discouragement on your part. As long as you are following the tips we mentioned above, your puppy should shy away from this behavior in no time! Biting in puppies is not usually a sign of aggression. Mild biting is usually a form of play, and should be easily corrected. However, there are some rare cases where biting in German Shepherd puppies is a sign of something more. If your pup is displaying any snarling, growling, ears pinned back, stiff posture, or any other signs of canine aggression, your pup may be biting in reaction to fear or pain. If you are unable to make any progress within a month of implementing the tips we discussed above, it may be time to contact a dog trainer. A trainer can not only help your pup refrain from biting, but offer other obedience training as well. Final Thoughts As you can see, biting is a normal behavior for our beloved German Shepherd puppies. Be sure to review the tips we discussed above on proper canine training, and you can banish puppy biting for good! An aggressive pound dog pouncing on you can get quite ugly fast. Think broken bones, damaged muscles, deep lacerations, bruises, scars, and expensive medical bills. German Shepherds have a bite force of PSI pound-force per square inch, or the measure of strength that a bite inflicts on the victim , compared to humans with a bite force of PSI. In fact, the American Animal Hospital Association lists the German Shepherd as one of the six breeds with the most dangerous bites, based on a US study. Therefore, training your GSD to inhibit her bite is mandatory as it not only rewards you with a well-behaved dog, but also ensures your safety as well as the safety of the people around you. A crucial step towards correcting this nasty behavior is to first understand why German Shepherd puppies bite. Nipping or biting stems from various reasons. Understanding the root of the behavior will equip you with the proper corresponding countermeasures to correct it. German Shepherds Have a High Prey Drive One of the primary and distinct characteristics thatmake a German Shepherd a popular choice for police and military work is their high prey drive, coupled with their intelligence and high trainability. Take a look at the video below showing what GSDs were originally bred for. GSDs also have a natural inclination to chase almost everything that moves in their surroundings. They Are Teething As early as two weeks old, the baby teeth of pups start to come out. Puppies use their mouth to explore their environment, so nipping is to be expected. This behavior, called teething, can last until the puppy is six months old when all her adult teeth have started showing. Teething is very uncomfortable for puppies and can lead to sore gums, so puppies turn to anything to chew to soothe the discomfort. Unfortunately, this can include biting you! They May Be Taken From the Litter Too Early Young puppies learn to naturally inhibit their biting through socialization with their mother and their siblings. A puppy does not quite understand yet the force of her own bite unless she bites too hard and the recipient reacts by yelping out of pain. Taking a puppy away from her mother prematurely will therefore deprive her the chance to learn important socialization skills. As a rule of thumb, the American Kennel Club AKC recommends that you take home a puppy that is no less than eight weeks old. By this time, the puppy should have had ample time to interact with her playmates and learn bite inhibition. We concur that you should never take home a puppy that is less than 8 weeks old. In fact, more than half of the states in the U. This does not mean, however, that your puppy will completely stop nipping. As the new parent, it is your job to continue training the dog so that any subsequent bites should be gentler. For more on selecting the right German Shepherd puppy from a litter, including additional information on the proper age, what to look for in a puppy, and what to expect from ethical breeders, be sure to check out the 2 articles linked below: How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy: A Step-by-Step Guide The Puppy Might Be Overstimulated, Fearful, or Anxious Sometimes puppies lose control of their bite because of overstimulation. Overstimulation can happen during playtime, or when your puppy has become cranky due to teasing. Your GSD puppy may also bite out of fear. Your puppy has but 2 defenses — to run away or to bite. If your puppy feels cornered, then biting is the defense that she will most often resort to. Because biting is normal canine behavior and GSDs are a breed that is more prone to it, the goal here is to inhibit the bite, not completely stop it. Do Start Training Early We keep mentioning throughout this site that training and socializing your GSD as soon as you get her home is crucial. Although training older dogs is not impossible, it is true that it is easier to train younger puppies, when habits are still new and can be easily corrected. If left untrained, adult German Shepherds can be prone to aggression towards other animals and humans, which can result in tragic situations. To get a better understanding of what is involved with these necessary steps, be sure to read these 2 excellent articles: German Shepherd Training Guide: All You Need to Know Do Use Toys as Alternative Items to Chew Puppies will nib on your hands or your feet especially during the teething stage. Train this behavior away by offering the puppy a toy whenever she starts biting your hand or your ankles. This teaches her what is acceptable to bite and which is not. It is good practice to always keep a chew toy nearby in anticipation of the biting behavior. She needs to understand that biting ends playtime and that it does not give her anything in return. In the Alpha Roll , the human pins down the dog on the floor on his side or back and holds that position to exert dominance. Besides, it has also been proven in many studies that dogs have very different behavior from wolves. Pinning your dog will cause him to freeze out of fear, which can also turn into aggression. It also teaches your dog that physical touch is something to be feared. Nobody wants to be punished by hand, not humans and certainly not dogs either. Do Reward Good Behavior Dog trainers and experts agree that positive reinforcement using rewards are highly effective in forming and keeping desirable behaviors as a puppy matures into an adult dog. If her nose touches your fingers without biting them, give her a treat and praise generously. Hold off the treat if she bites. Do this repeatedly until she associates the treat the reward with not biting your hand the good behavior. In fact, most dog bite cases in children occurred because of teasing! Instead, teach your child to be gentle with your pet , as even unintentional rough play can result in unwanted events. Dogs get cranky too, especially when they get hurt or feel that their privacy is being invaded. Never leave your child alone with your puppy unattended. Supervise their interactions at all times. Studies show that parents trust their dog around their kids too much that they overlook the signs that the dog is in distress. For tug games, keep in mind, however, that your dog must be calm and not overstimulated before playing. Otherwise, your puppy may get too serious and hold on to the rope too much. The AKC recommends that for breeds that are prone to aggression such as German Shepherds, tug-of-war can be safely carried out if the puppy knows you are in control and follows your commands. Once this has been established, a game of tugging can be used both as an exercise and as a reward for your dog. When playing, always remember to be gentle with tugging as your puppy still has baby teeth! By doing this, you are also socializing your puppy with other animals — an essential skill to learn for a well-rounded behavior. That being said, do not completely write off playing with your puppy! Playtime is still an excellent opportunity to bond with your dog, but make sure to keep it safe and fun by establishing boundaries. This method, however, is a matter of trial and error. Some puppies respond to this positively. On the other hand, many puppies get aroused by this and become even more aggressive. If you yelp and she stops biting without expressing any signs of aggression, the method has perhaps worked. You are then free to continue doing so until the puppy learns to stop biting hard. On the other hand, temper tantrums, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals , are characterized by a stiff body, lips pulled back to show teeth, and growling. Biting will be more forceful and painful, since the behavior is typically caused by fear or anger. A German Shepherd puppy may be more prone to displaying this behavior, especially around unruly children. Bite inhibition is crucial especially among German Shepherds, a breed that is widely reported to be the culprit of many dog bites in America. Bite inhibition is simply one of the many important skills that your GSD must learn during her training. It can spell the difference between gentle playing and aggressive biting that leads to serious injuries. Always remember that dogs have feelings, too. They are not perfect little angels that never get angry. Even the most well-mannered dog in the world will snap out of irritation. Hopefully, we will have the answers to all of your questions in this guide. But, all that cuteness quickly disappears when the biting phase starts. Puppy biting is normal in all breeds, including the German Shepherd. And, luckily, we have some great tips and tricks to minimize the painful biting period. In fact, it could have a number of causes. Here are a few of the most common reasons, in a little more detail. Teething One reason why puppies of all breeds may bite is teething. This stage often starts at around 3 or 4 months of age — only a few weeks after your puppy will arrive at their new home. Luckily, it only takes a few months for your puppy to have their full set of adult teeth. So, biting from teething is not permanent. If your puppy is biting or chewing because of teething, you may notice other symptoms like drooling, irritability, and going off their food. Boredom or Getting Attention Bored puppies may learn that biting gets some fun responses from you! Just like barking can. If your puppy has learnt that they can get some attention from you when they bite, they may do it to alleviate boredom. This can explain why puppies concentrate most of their biting on one family member — the person who gives the most fun response. Natural Play Biting is a natural part of puppy play — as much as some owners might not want to hear it! German Shepherd puppies, just like any other breed, will bite whilst they are playing with you or with other dogs. If this behavior continues into adulthood, the biting can be more problematic. Responding to Rough Play Some people like to play with German Shepherd puppies in quite a rough manner. This can include pushing them, or rolling them over. Behaviors like this can make puppies very excitable, and encourage biting during play. Encourage calm play between your family members or friends and your puppy. Herding Instincts The German Shepherd breed has a history as a herding dog. The creator of the breed, Captain Max von Stephanitz, bred the German Shepherd in an attempt to create the ultimate all-round herding breed. This was all the way back in the late s. Although the history of the breed has changed over time, from herding to working dog, their origins remain the same. Many herding dogs are prone to natural chase instincts. They may chase small children or other animals — particularly those that are making lots of noise. And, these herding behaviors can include nipping at heels. Once again, your behavior can minimize biting from this cause. Exploration Another common explanation for young German Shepherd biting is their natural curiosity. And, they may do this partly with their mouths. What you really want to know is, when will it stop? However, you can minimize the period by making a few easy changes to your behavior when biting occurs. The best ways to stop puppy biting and minimize the biting period are training and prevention. This means training your puppy to be gentle with you and other people, and taking away opportunities for your excited puppy to bite humans. You may need to go as far as to completely separate your GSD puppy from small children and people who insist on rough play with puppies. We know that this can only encourage biting. Remove Yourself Calmly If your puppy starts to bite you, during play or any other time, the best solution is to calmly and quietly remove yourself. You can use tools like baby gates to keep your German Shepherd in a puppy-safe room. In fact — your puppy will learn that biting during play or cuddles only results in you leaving, and them ending up on their own! Not only will this help to show your puppy that biting is not an acceptable part of playtime, but it can also help your own sanity to remove yourself from those sharp teeth occasionally. Think About Clothing You should also think about the type of clothing you wear around your puppy. Loose, hanging clothing can be appealing to your puppy, and provide something easy to grip on with their sharp teeth. Wear tight fitting clothing to minimize the number of things your puppy can bite at. Use Distractions If you, or young children in your household, are keen to pet your puppy without being bitten, you should make the most of distractions like treats or toys. You can hold a chew for your puppy to keep their attention and mouth distracted whilst someone pets them! Often, puppy owners only think about biting whilst their puppy is actively gnawing on them. One method is to reward them with treats when you are petting them and they are not biting you. Another is to reward them for calm behavior around the house. This way they learn that acting calmly and letting you touch them without biting will earn them good things! One popular method to stop puppy biting is to squeal, squeak, growl, or make another loud noise. Some people claim that this method replicates natural puppy play and tells your GSD when they are being too rough. For some owners, this may work. If this is the case, making a noise when your puppy bites will act as a reward, and encourage your German Shepherd puppy to bite you even more. This is one reason why puppies biting children is so common. Many children will make lots of noise, especially if a puppy bites them, which can lead to further nipping. This is similar to the method above, if used alone. This is why training has to be done in small stages — first you must teach the puppy what action you want, and then you can give the action a name, or command. Punishment Methods The best methods to stop your puppy from biting involve positive rewards for the behaviors you want. Studies on dog training and behavior have shown that punishment based methods are often associated with an increase of problematic behaviors. Punishing your puppy for biting can lead to distrust and fear from your puppy. The causes of puppy biting that we looked at earlier in this guide apply to all GSD puppies. In fact, they apply to all puppies of any breed. Biting and chewing is a normal puppy behavior, and a normal part of play. As long as you react to this behavior in the right way, it is a period that will pass. The biggest fear for most German Shepherd puppy owners is that their puppy is aggressive when it bites. German Shepherd puppy biting can be accompanied by ferocious growls or snarls. It can even draw blood. So are behaviors like snarling and growling. And, if your puppy is biting hard enough to injure you, they may not have learnt proper bite inhibition yet. This is the process where your puppy learns to be gentle with his teeth on your skin. The positive reward methods we discussed earlier in this guide are the best way to teach your puppy bite inhibition. Remove yourself calmly and quietly whenever your puppy bites. And make sure to reward any calm behavior — including when your puppy lets you pet it without biting. Speak to a Behaviorist If you think your puppy is exhibiting aggressive behaviors, such as guarding their resources, you may want to speak to a behaviorist. They will be able to look at your puppy as an individual case, and analyse their behavior properly. Do Adult German Shepherds Bite? The German Shepherd breed is known for being aggressive in some circumstances — they make popular guard dogs, and are number one candidates for working dog roles in the police and military.

Pin on Pinterest Royal Canin knows what makes your Labrador Retriever puppy magnificent is in the details. Lab puppies are energetic little learners eager to run, swim, and fetch. Although active, they also tend to overeat and gulp down their food. They can benefit from the right growth formula to provide immune system support, healthy growth, weight management, and digestive care as they take on puppyhood. Royal Canin Labrador Retriever dry puppy food is tailor-made nutrition created just for your pure breed puppy. Whether you have a Yellow Lab, Chocolate Lab, or Black Lab, this exclusive breed-specific diet is uniquely formulated for your Labrador Retriever puppy with specific nutrients to help them thrive. The unique donut-shaped kibble is specially designed to help your fast eater slow down and actually chew. An exclusive mix of antioxidants and vitamin E supports their developing immune system and keeps their body growing strong. 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Ingredients Chicken by-product meal, brewers rice, brown rice, corn gluten meal, wheat gluten, corn, chicken fat, natural flavors, dried plain beet pulp, fish oil, pea fiber, sodium silico aluminate, egg product, vegetable oil, monocalcium phosphate, psyllium seed husk, potassium chloride, calcium carbonate, fructooligosaccharides, sodium tripolyphosphate, hydrolyzed yeast source of betaglucans , vitamins [DL-alpha tocopherol acetate source of vitamin E , L-ascorbylpolyphosphate source of vitamin C , biotin, niacin supplement, D-calcium pantothenate, pyridoxine hydrochloride vitamin B6 , riboflavin supplement, vitamin A acetate, thiamine mononitrate vitamin B1 , folic acid, vitamin B12 supplement, vitamin D3 supplement, menadione sodium bisulfite complex], salt, trace minerals [zinc proteinate, ferrous sulfate, manganous oxide, sodium selenite, calcium iodate], choline chloride, glucosamine hydrochloride, taurine, marigold extract Tagetes erecta L. Guaranteed Analysis. Or use express checkout methods: Checkout Order now, fast shipping and specialized vet support About this item Details Labrador Retriever puppies are some of the most affectionate dogs you can have as a companion. They quickly become part of the family, and providing them with the best possible care is important. Royal Canin Labrador Retriever Puppy offers complete and balanced nutrition so you can enjoy many happy years together! Nutritionists at Royal Canin know each dog is unique. This recipe caters to your puppy's biological profile. Firstly, this formula helps maintain your woofer's ideal weight, keeping them light on their paws. Maintaining a healthy weight is especially important during puppyhood since a weight surplus can harm your puppy's joint health. So, through a mixture of balanced calories, protein, calcium, and phosphorus, this kibble supports your puppy's development while preventing excessive weight gain. 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Technological additives: clinoptilolite from sedimentary sources 10g. Sensory additives: yucca extract mg. Contains preservatives and antioxidants. Analytical constituents: Crude protein: .Dimensions This product is available in the sizes: 3 kg. Lab puppies are energetic little learners eager to run, swim, and fetch. Although active, they also tend to overeat and gulp down their food. They can benefit from the right growth formula to provide immune system support, healthy growth, weight management, and digestive care as they take on puppyhood. Royal Canin Labrador Retriever dry puppy food is tailor-made nutrition created just for your pure breed puppy. Whether you have a Yellow Lab, Chocolate Lab, or Black Lab, this exclusive breed-specific diet is uniquely formulated for your Labrador Retriever puppy with specific nutrients to help them thrive. The unique donut-shaped kibble is specially designed to help your fast eater slow down and actually chew. An exclusive mix of antioxidants and vitamin E supports their developing immune system and keeps their body growing strong. Calcium and phosphorus support healthy bone structure, while a balanced energy content helps them maintain an ideal weight. Once your Lab puppy is over 15 months old, transition them to Royal Canin Labrador Retriever Adult dog food for precise nutrition into the adult years. Read more Promoting pet health and wellbeing Creating value for our entire ecosystem Committed to become certified carbon neutral by Cookie Settings. Home Delivery Select a variant to view product availability Royal Canin knows what makes your Labrador Retriever puppy magnificent is in the details. Lab puppies are energetic little learners eager to run, swim, and fetch. Although active, they also tend to overeat and gulp down their food. They can benefit from the right growth formula to provide immune system support, healthy growth, weight management, and digestive care as they take on puppyhood. Royal Canin Labrador Retriever dry puppy food is tailor-made nutrition created just for your pure breed puppy. Whether you have a Yellow Lab, Chocolate Lab, or Black Lab, this exclusive breed-specific diet is uniquely formulated for your Labrador Retriever puppy with specific nutrients to help them thrive. The unique donut-shaped kibble is specially designed to help your fast eater slow down and actually chew. An exclusive mix of antioxidants and vitamin E supports their developing immune system and keeps their body growing strong. Calcium and phosphorus support healthy bone structure, while a balanced energy content helps them maintain an ideal weight. Once your Lab puppy is over 15 months old, transition them to Royal Canin Labrador Retriever Adult dog food for precise nutrition into the adult years. Chicken by-product meal, brewers rice, brown rice, corn gluten meal, wheat gluten, corn, chicken fat, natural flavors, dried plain beet pulp, fish oil, pea fiber, sodium silico aluminate, egg product, vegetable oil, monocalcium phosphate, psyllium seed husk, potassium chloride, calcium carbonate, fructooligosaccharides, sodium tripolyphosphate, hydrolyzed yeast source of betaglucans , vitamins [DL-alpha tocopherol acetate source of vitamin E , L-ascorbylpolyphosphate source of vitamin C , biotin, niacin supplement, D-calcium pantothenate, pyridoxine hydrochloride vitamin B6 , riboflavin supplement, vitamin A acetate, thiamine mononitrate vitamin B1 , folic acid, vitamin B12 supplement, vitamin D3 supplement, menadione sodium bisulfite complex], salt, trace minerals [zinc proteinate, ferrous sulfate, manganous oxide, sodium selenite, calcium iodate], choline chloride, glucosamine hydrochloride, taurine, marigold extract Tagetes erecta L. Digestive health Combination of nutrients with high quality protein L. Product description For your Labrador Retriever puppy, growth is an important stage of life. That's why your puppy needs nutrients to support this growth phase, as well as nutrients that help to maintain optimal health during this key phase. It also helps to facilitate harmonious weight gain, to help your puppy maintain an ideal weight as it grows. What's more, they also help to contribute to good stool quality. The shape and size of the kibble makes it easy for your puppy to pick up and chew, whilst the texture enhances its overall palatability - this will help encourage your puppy to readily consume its kibble in order to get the nutrients it needs. All of our products undergo an extensive quality control process in order to guarantee the optimum quality of food as well as catering to your puppy's specific dietary requirements and lifestyle. Feeding instruction: Feeding amounts provided are a guideline. Speak to a pet professional regarding specific amounts for your pet. Fresh water should be available at all times. Store the product in a cool, dry place. Please refer to the packaging for the batch number, factory registration number and best before date. Feeding Guide. Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your pet's temperament, activity level and environment. If you have any questions regarding your pet's health, please contact your veterinarian. Transition Instructions We recommend at least a 7 day transition before you begin feeding the new food exclusively. On the 7th day, you can feed the new food exclusively. All of our dry diets are preserved naturally with mixed tocopherols, citric acid, and rosemary extract. Our canned diets are naturally preserved and sterilized during the cooking and canning process. Where do the ingredients in Royal Canin diets come from? Royal Canin is making strides towards sustainability by attempting to obtain sources of raw materials as close to each manufacturing facility as possible. In some cases, we use international suppliers, because only those suppliers can offer raw materials that comply with our quality and food safety standards. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain by-products? Royal Canin chooses ingredients because they deliver high-quality nutrients that support our customized pet food formulas. Using chicken by-product meal instead of chicken meal for example will allow Royal Canin to maintain its highly customized nutrient standards while achieving a more secure and sustainable supply. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain grains? As always, we focus on the nutrients each ingredient provides and grains can provide many important nutrients. How do you ensure Royal Canin diets are safe for my pet? Our Quality and Food Safety systems are state-of-the-art and we continue to invest heavily in new technology to make sure they remain that way. We monitor every load delivered to our plants to verify the safety and quality of the ingredients we use to make pet food. We perform tests on finished pet foods before they are shipped to our customers. How do I know which Royal Canin diet is right for my pet? Based on size, age, lifestyle, and breed, each cat or dog has unique nutritional needs. For healthy pets, use our Product Selector to find the right diet for your cat or dog. If your pet is experiencing health issues, please refer to your veterinarian for more information. Your veterinarian will consider multiple factors when recommending an appropriate diet.

What Is A Mini Labradoodle? The difference is that the Labradoodle is mixed with a standard-sized Poodle, not a mini one. Some puppies will have more Lab in them, others will have more Poodle. A distinctive feature of multi-generational puppies is their ringlet coat, which happens to be super soft and almost rug-like. The Mini Labradoodle comes with many coats, either white, tan, black, apricot, caramel, chocolate, red, silver, cream, and grey. It almost sounded like we were naming off desserts for a while. When it comes to Miniature Labradoodles, the options are endless. When compared to its parent breed, the Mini Labradoodle has a heavier body than the Poodle with more muscular forelimbs. It has a more narrow snout and muzzle than the Labrador. As mentioned in the first paragraph the average lifespan of a Mini Labradoodle is 12 — 14 years. More research needs to be done on the distinct illnesses or diseases that could affect this dog. The Labrador, for example, is prone of hip and elbow dysplasia, obesity, eye disorders, and cruciate ligament injuries. Poodles, on the other hand, have their set of issues, including patellar luxation a knee injury of sorts , cataracts, sebaceous adenitis, and other skin problems. Mini Labradoodles are the America or, actually, it was the Caribbean islands of dog breeds. This breed can be found in a lot of pop culture memorabilia. Labradoodle Monopoly token Even some of the biggest celebrities in the world have Mini Labradoodles at home. The Prince and Princess of Norway are big fans of this breed. As mentioned above the smallest version of a Mini Labradoodle ranks between 14 — 16 inches 35 — 40cm at the shoulders. But what if a Miniature Labradoodle takes after its Labrador mom or dad? Mini Labradoodles can get as big as 21 — 24 inches 53 — 60cm if there are a lot of Labrador genes mixed in. One size does not fit all. In terms of weight, a smaller Mini Labradoodle will be between 15 — 25 pounds 6 — 11kg. A lager Mini Labradoodle will weigh between 50 — 65 pounds 22 — 29kg. This breed is full of surprises. Is The Mini Labradoodle Hypoallergenic? Want to know a secret? There is no such thing as a non-shedding dog. All dogs shed to some extent. This breed is considered allergy-friendly and hypoallergenic. That being said, we can never promise that you or someone you know will never get a reaction. It could be its saliva or dander. Because their parents are so different in size, temperament, and appearance characteristics, your life as an owner becomes a box of chocolates. The general temperament of a Miniature Labradoodle is silly, playful, and fun. These dogs are a safe choice because they tend to be friendly to everyone. Strange people, strange dogs, cats, babies, toddlers — you name it, they love it. Of course, there are some exceptions to the rule. And it all depends on genetics. If your Mini Labradoodle is more Labrador, it may be wary of strangers. Poodles are more aloof. Labradors are prone to boredom but more playful and sweet. They like to run around and swim. Poodles are smarter and more relaxed around the house. Less active and need less exercise. In China, for example, the first gene-edited dogs from were reported to have muscle enhancements and better running ability, making it optimal for hunting or police applications. They were two Beagles named Hercules and Tiangou. Here are other Poodle and Labrador mixes that qualify as designer dogs. Also called Miniature Labrapoos, Labradoodles, and Labradorpoos, the Miniature Labradoodle is a well-known hybrid breed in a smaller package. They are sweet-natured and smart, and they love to spend time with their people. They are affectionate with their family. They are also tolerant and compassionate, and they tend to be well-behaved around people of all ages and other pets. Labradoodles are generally healthy and should live to be 10 to 14 years old. These qualities make Miniature Labradoodles an ideal family dog that does well with other pets and children. Even the most inexperienced dog parents find this breed to be easy to train and eager to please. They are too gentle and sweet to make a good guard dog, but they can be useful watchdogs. They are small and fluffy, square and athletic. Long, furry ears are set on the top and back of their heads. Their muzzles can be medium to long. The Miniature Labradoodle coat varies a great deal, ranging from straight to loose curls, and usually kept about 4 to 6 inches in length. The coat may be one of three textures. They could have hair similar to fur in shedding dogs, they could have a more dense and non-shedding wool, or they could have more of a silky fleece. They come in a variety of colors: Gold. January 23, 0 Comments WorldAnimalFoundation. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. These cute little designer dogs can be great family pets and good companions for work-at-home people. They were bred for those who loved the standard Labradoodle but wanted something smaller. This crossbreed is a popular choice for both experienced and new dog owners because of their calm temperament. They get along with other people and dogs and are easy to train. They can be stubborn, but they are very reward-driven. Even someone with allergies can potentially keep this dog. The idea originally started when breeders bred purebred Labrador Retrievers and standard Poodles to make more hypoallergenic dog breeds with Labrador friendliness and intelligence, creating the standard Labradoodle. But as wonderful as Labradoodles are, they can get pretty huge. Both the Labrador and the standard-sized Poodle are pretty big. So reputable breeders started breeding the purebred Labrador Retriever with the purebred Miniature Poodle to make a smaller version: the Mini Labradoodle. These cute little dogs are known for having big personalities despite their smaller bodies. They love their humans and can sometimes be protective of them. They also love running around and playing. Mini Labradoodles are highly intelligent, like their parents, and are very easy to train. They combine the loyalty, intelligence, and easy trainability of the Labrador with the low-shedding, more allergy-friendly coat of the Standard Poodle and Mini Poodle. Vital Statistics Height: inches, highly dependent on parents Weight: pounds, highly dependent on parents Average lifespan: years Energy level: High energy and needs lots of exercise Trainability: Highly intelligent dogs and easily trainable Shedding: Low shedder, high grooming needs History of the Mini Labradoodle Miniature Labradoodles are a relatively new crossbreed. They are believed to have been bred in Australia in the s when a breeder made the first successful cross of a Labrador Retriever and a Mini Poodle. And so, a reputable breeder wanted to mix the Labrador Retriever with a breed having a non-shedding coat. The standard Poodle was the perfect candidate. Both standard Labradoodles and Miniature Labradoodles came along from this need. First, the standard Labradoodle came along. Standard Labradoodles were popular but much too big for some people. So then the Lab was mixed with the Mini Poodle to make a smaller pup. Generally needs .You should have a good decade or so before you have to worry about health problems related to aging. Some dogs may live longer or shorter lives depending on how healthy they are. Lifestyle management can help maximize the time you have with your dog. Be on the lookout for health issues potentially passed down from the parents. Size Miniature Labradoodles are meant to be smaller versions of the Labradoodle. The designer dog mixes the traits of Labrador Retrievers and Toy Poodles to make a smaller dog. Smaller individuals may be around 14 inches tall. That said, the exact size may depend on the characteristics of the parents. These dogs still come from a fairly big breed. Larger individuals may be closer to 24 inches tall. It can be difficult to determine how big a Mini Labradoodle puppy will get until they grow. Weight Smaller Mini Labradoodles may weigh around 10 pounds or more. Again, they may be bigger and heavier depending on the genes inherited from their Lab and Mini Poodle parents. Larger individuals may weigh up to 30 pounds. Coat The Mini Labradoodle is meant to have the Poodle coat, a low-shedding coat that is allergy-friendly. The coat type and color can vary from individual to individual based on the genes of the Poodle parent or Labrador parent. Some coats may have a wool texture, coming from their Poodle genes. These coats require a lot of grooming. Other coats may be a soft, fleece texture. It may be wavy or curly. Some individuals may also have a hairy, straight coat closer to that of Labrador Retrievers rather than a Poodle coat. Color Mini Labradoodles can come in many colors. They may also be single-colored or multi-colored. It depends on the genes they inherit from their very different-looking parents. Mini Labradoodle Temperament and Personality Mini Labradoodles are believed to be the perfect family pet and companion because of their family-friendly characteristics. They are great with kids and other animals and are all-around easy to get along with. That said, they can also be protective of their family. Miniature Labradoodles can get lonely easily, and they do not like being left alone for too long. Leaving them alone for eight hours or more a day may lead to depression, separation anxiety, and the destruction of your furniture. As adorable and friendly as they are, they may not be the best for families that are out of the house all day. As tempting as it can be, avoid overfeeding your Mini Labradoodle with high-fat treats, no matter how much they beg. Like their parent breed, the Labrador, they can get overweight if overfed. Also, keep their age in mind; puppies and senior dogs need different kibbles. Mini Labradoodles and any breed should be kept on a puppy-based kibble until they are a year old to ensure they get the nutrients needed to grow properly. Seniors, meanwhile, may need senior food that helps them get the most nutrients out of their food. As they age, some dogs have trouble getting the nutrients they need from normal kibble and lose weight at an alarming rate. Family Compatibility Mini Labradoodles are great family dogs because of their friendliness. They can get along great with families and other pets. These dogs are also very playful and love family interaction. You can potentially take your Mini Labradoodle on hikes, trips, or errands without too much trouble. Children should also be taught not to be too rough with them, no matter how easygoing they are. No jumping on them, pulling their tails or ears, or chewing on them. Even the gentlest dogs have limits. Mini Labradoodles can get lonely easily and even depressed if left alone for too long. That said, they can suffer from some health conditions passed down from their parent breeds. Some health concerns these dogs may be at risk of are hip dysplasia, obesity, and bloat. Hip dysplasia occurs when the hip develops incorrectly as a puppy, causing problems later on. It can cause pain and dysfunction as the dog grows. Over time it can cause problems like arthritis and mobility issues. Obesity is a common problem among Labradors that can be passed down to their Mini Labradoodle children. Therefore, avoiding high-calorie treats and overfeeding them too much is best. Obesity can cause a range of other health problems in the future, like arthritis or joint pain. This is a hereditary disease passed down from Labradoodle parents. Mini Labradoodle puppies are more susceptible if their parents had it. Do not breed your Mini Labradoodle for Mini Labradoodle puppies if they have this disease. Exercise-induced collapse occurs when a dog overexerts itself while exercising. This particular problem is more common among Mini Labradoodles, so keep an eye on them when running around. This can be life-threatening. While your Miniature Labradoodle is running around and exercising, watch for symptoms like a lack of coordination, muscle weakness, or other signs of exhaustion. Make sure they stop and take a break if they seem to be tiring themselves out. Owners should also be careful of diseases like hypothyroidism. In addition, you should clean their ears periodically to avoid ear infections. Mini Labradoodles need consistent grooming and coat care to keep their fur from matting and getting messy. They need to be groomed multiple times a week, at the least. Daily brushing is recommended if possible. These dogs are incredibly active, coming from two very active breeds. They need a good minutes of exercise a day. They enjoy running and need to be able to burn off all that energy. Mini Labradoodle Training The Miniature Labradoodle is considered very easy to train, even for new dog owners. When all else fails, you can pull out a bag of dog treats to get their attention. You should start training early to avoid behavior problems later on. Keep a bag of low-calorie treats handy during the early days of training. Praise good behavior with a treat as soon as it shows desirable behavior. If your Miniature Labradoodle does something wrong, do not lash out at them, as it may worsen things. Punishments like hitting may lead to fear or aggression that would not have existed without it. Instead, redirect them to the right behavior and then reward them. These little guys can be stubborn and set in their ways if you wait too long. They love their humans, but they can also be a bit protective of them. Teaching your Mini Labradoodle puppy early on that other people and animals are safe is a good way to avoid any future problems like growling or lashing out at strangers. Trust me; you do not want to wait until your dog starts getting nervous about new people and animals to start socializing them. Once they start getting antisocial, it gets harder to mingle them. So go ahead and start taking them out and letting strangers give them treats and pets. Do Mini Labradoodles Bark a Lot? Miniature Labradoodles are not known for barking a lot. Depending on the individual, they may occasionally bark at the door or bark while playing. This breed is generally seen as a moderate barker. Any excessive barking can usually be addressed through positive training by rewarding quiet behavior. They may get into trouble and chew things up out of frustration or just get depressed to the point of illness. Never leave a young Mini Labradoodle puppy alone. They may get into something and get themselves hurt. Is the Mini Labradoodle Hypoallergenic? The non-shedding coat of the Miniature Labradoodle is more allergy-friendly than most. They can also be a good choice for those with concerns about allergies. These small to medium designer dogs are intelligent, loyal, and love pleasing their humans, much like their parent breeds. Mini Labradoodles also require consistent attention and will get lonely if you leave them alone for too long. Make sure you have the means to care for any dog you decide to get. Kelly Smeby Kelly Smeby is a freelance writer specializing in pets and animals. She has written several articles about pet health, training, and behavior. Kelly has lived with many types of animals since early childhood. Kelly has also lived with multiple cats, birds, and fish. Kelly currently lives in Florida with a two-year-old Pekingese and a cat and continues to learn new things from them every day. She enjoys learning even more about animal health and behavior and sharing that knowledge with others through writing. She has a strong background in research, business, and writing from her time in college. Kelly hopes to use her experience to help other pet owners who need help understanding their dogs, cats, or other pets. She hopes her work will help promote better understanding between humans and animals. Leave a comment Your email address will not be published. Post Comment. But, unfortunately, there are so many organisations only in it for the money, charging exorbitant prices and neglecting the health and wellbeing of their puppies and dogs. One of the most obvious signs of an unethical breeder is the poor or neglectful treatment of their puppies and breeding dogs. An ethical labradoodle breeder in Australia will; Strive to find the right home for their puppies. Instead, they go above and beyond to make sure they find the perfect home for each puppy. Usually, the search involves asking potential buyers a range of questions about their home and lifestyle, so they can pair families with a puppy that has a temperament right for them. Provide the highest quality care and living conditions. Ethical breeders ensure that both the puppies and breeding dogs have premium quality care, including comprehensive health checks, socialisation, and training. Rehome adult dogs. Once the female is retired, she is de-sexed and either adopted by our internal staff or a loving family. Never separate the puppies early. Puppies Downunder waits until the puppy is ten weeks old before we allow them to join their new family. Meet and exceed all the necessary requirements. We comply with all codes and requirements set by the Domestic Animal Act, actively assist with inspections of our facilities, and have received approval from the Chief Veterinary Officer of Victoria to operate as a Commercial Breeder and the Minister for Agriculture. The breeder should be asking plenty of questions. A puppy is a long-term commitment, so ethical breeders ask plenty of questions to make sure the buyer is the right fit for the puppy. Here are a few examples of questions you can expect to hear; How much space do you have? Will you be home often? How often will you exercise the dog? Do you have kids? Do you have other animals? Where will the puppy sleep? They should encourage you to visit the breeding facility. When looking for Australian labradoodle puppies for sale, you need to make sure the breeder will allow you to inspect the facility and meet the parents. You can also ensure the dogs and puppies are raised in clean, high-quality conditions by visiting the facility. The Puppies Downunder team understands that not everyone can come and visit our facility, so we have plenty of photos of both the breeding facility, puppies, and dogs online. The breeder should try and find out the address the puppy will be living, the details of the new veterinarian, and any other relevant information needed to ensure the puppy is being well looked after. Your breeder should have organised the first two vaccinations, microchipping and worming and parasite prevention, before going home with their new family. At Puppies Downunder, we go above and beyond, providing a complete medical history. We also provide you with information about their individual dietary requirements, socialisation, registration, medications, and required vaccinations. An excellent ethical breeder should be vetting potential buyers to find the right family for that specific puppy. Is the puppy cheeky? How much exercise does the dog need? Unfortunately, a lot of unethical breeders will understate or flat out lie when telling buyers how much exercise their new puppy will need. For example, people looking for a labradoodle for sale in Australia might be told they have a moderate activity level, which is accurate. However, they may be given the same advice for bordoodle, which is wildly inaccurate for this high-energy, restless dog. Can you provide references? The breeder should be able to provide you with references from a veterinarian and previous customers. We offer lifelong support. At Puppies Downunder, we continue to provide support for our customers throughout the lifetime of their puppy. Do they offer a guarantee? At Puppies Downunder, we provide a health guarantee for the first 21 days of sale. Do they provide the essentials to give the puppy the best start to life? Dogs are our passion, and we dedicate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to their care. In fact, we have the highest ethical standards of any dog breeder globally. We absolutely adore mini labradoodles, and we take advantage of any opportunity to share our love of them with others. What Is A Mini Labradoodle? Their beautiful, calm temperament and high intelligence make mini labradoodles ideal candidates for therapy pets and service dogs for individuals with autism, PTSD, diabetes, and other disabilities. How big do they grow? A mini labradoodle will typically grow to cm in height and around kg in weight, so they stay relatively small. From elderly couples to families with small children, the mini labradoodle will fit right in. Do mini labradoodles shed? That all depends on their coat. If a mini labradoodle has a wool coat, the tight curls will catch any dander, fur, and dirt, thereby minimising shedding and reducing allergies. However, wool coats are high-maintenance and require brushing every day. It all depends on the type of coat your mini labradoodle has. Fleece and hair coats are very low maintenance, but wool coats are pretty high-maintenance. They have a pretty moderate level of activity, and they enjoy minutes of exercise per day as well as playtime and mental enrichment. Are there any health concerns we should keep an eye out for? Mini labradoodles are a crossbreed, so they have very diverse genetics making them less likely to develop genetic diseases. They may also develop hip or elbow dysplasia if over-exercised or overfed. Labradoodles have adorable long ears, but this means they are prone to dirty ears and ear infections, do their ears need to be checked regularly. From birth to 8 weeks, puppies benefit from valuable socialisation time with their siblings and mother. However, not crate training your puppy may be doing more harm than good. We suggest introducing your puppy to their crate throughout their first day, enticing them with treats and making sure they associate the space with positivity. Open the crate door throughout the day, so your puppy can retreat to their safe space whenever they feel the need. Make sure your puppy has a separate area to go to the bathroom at night. Puppies Downunder are an ethical mini labradoodle breeder, and we take great pride in our high-quality breeding facilities and our commitment to providing a safe, comfortable home for our dogs. They have incredibly high intelligence and need to be kept mentally stimulated; otherwise, they can become bored, stubborn, and destructive. Dogs with high intelligence love a challenge, and they love working for their food. You can either purchase puzzle or interactive feeders such as snuffle mats or Kong toys, or you can create your own DIY slow feeder bowl. We suggest having a few different puzzles in varying difficulty levels, so your puppy is always mentally stimulated at dinner time. The labrador retriever in your labradoodle will have an instinct to retrieve, and the poodle side will have an instinct to hunt, so try to incorporate these traits into games. Silicone licking mats are a fantastic way to keep your dog entertained. Smear some peanut butter, wet food, or baby food on the mat and pop it into the freezer. Once frozen, get it out and give it to your puppy to lick for a refreshing summer treat. You can buy or make plenty of toys that encourage your puppy to solve a problem before receiving treats as a reward. For example, grab a muffin tray, some treats, and some tennis balls. Put treats in a couple of the openings and block them all with tennis balls. Your dog will need to snuffle and work out which balls have treats underneath. Cut a slot in the bottle and fill it with food or treats, and let your dog bat it around to get the treats out. Dogs who are allowed to sniff and explore on their walk are far more stimulated than dogs that just walk. Dogs are our passion, and we dedicate 24 hours a day, seven days a week to their care. Labradoodle Puppy. 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. Active and needs lots of exercises History Of The Breed The labradoodle has been around since the s as a mix of the Labrador retriever and a full-size poodle. This breed was developed to create dogs with the loyalty, intelligence, and trainability of the Labrador retriever, with the low shedding coat of the poodle. The loyalty and high intelligence of poodles made them a great personality match for a Lab as well. Despite being bred as companion dogs, standard poodles are actually pretty big. They are at least 15 inches tall and can weigh anywhere from 45 to 70 pounds. When you combine that with a Labrador, which is inches tall and can weigh 70 pounds, you get a pretty big dog. They tend to be around inches tall and can weigh pounds. They are dogs that take up quite a bit of space! Of course, you can get a smaller labradoodle by breeding a Lab with a miniature or a toy poodle. This is not as easy to do as there can be a huge size difference between the pure-bred parents, but some breeders have been working for several generations to gradually reduce the size of their labradoodle pups. Mini Labradoodle Appearance There is still quite a bit of size difference between the miniature Labradoodles that you can get from a breeder; they can weigh anything from 15 to 30 pounds, and most will measure somewhere between 14 and 16 inches tall. The appearance of miniature Labradoodles can be more predictable than that of standard Labradoodles as they are usually bred from two labradoodle parents, rather than directly from the parent breeds. They will almost certainly have the low-shedding coat of a poodle since this is one of the principal traits that is controlled for. They could have a wool coat that needs daily brushing to release hair that gets caught up in the wiry texture or a fleece coat that is wavy. These may shed slightly more, but this coat is easy to care for. They can vary significantly in color since poodles come in a variety of colors, unlike Labradors which are yellow, black, or chocolate. They can be apricot, black, blue, brown, cream, gray, red, silver, silver-beige, or white. They may also be bicolor, though this is relatively rare. Temperament Labradoodles are highly intelligent dogs. Both Labradors and poodles are considered among the most intelligent breeds and can learn a new command with as few as five repetitions. Their offspring will certainly inherit this intelligence. Labradors are also highly trainable because they are eager to please and love having something to do! They are also reward-driven. This means that mini Labradoodles will be highly trainable as well. Both parent breeds love people and tend to form tight attachments with their families quickly. They are also pretty relaxed with strangers and are more likely to want to make friends than raise the alarm when someone shows up at the door. This is one of the reasons that they make excellent guide dogs or other working dogs. You should always pay attention when your miniature labradoodle starts barking. They can be a bit more standoffish with other pets, but socialization from a young age can teach them to make friends. You should take the time to introduce new pets into the home and let them get to know each other from a distance first when dealing with these dogs. Because both parent breeds love being around people, so do their miniature Lab children. They can become highly stressed and even develop depression. It is also common for them to become destructive when they feel frustrated. Since they are highly intelligent pups, they need a lot of mental stimulation. Teaching them tricks can be a great way to activate their minds, and puzzle toys can keep them distracted for a while, though they tend to figure things out pretty quickly. Be warned that they are also excellent escape artists, so all escape routes from the house need to be secured. Labradoodles love children and instinctively know how to be careful and protective of them. Of course, you should never leave children unattended with any dog for the safety of both, but a miniature labradoodle will love playing with kids, and the two high-energy forces can work to wear one another out. Activity Levels Despite their smaller size, miniature Labradoodles need almost as much exercise as their larger labradoodle cousins. They need at least an hour of active exercise each day, preferably split into two 30 minute periods. In addition to formal exercise, they do best when they have some outdoor space at home that they can potter around in and use to let off a bit of energy throughout the day. Nothing will make these dogs happier than accompanying the family on hikes and other adventures. Thanks to their Lab parent they also love the water and tend to be excellent swimmers. Health Concerns A miniature labradoodle may live as little as 10 or as long as 18 years, which can be very difficult to predict, but you should expect your canine companion to be with you for quite some time. While they are generally healthy dogs, they can be predisposed to a few health conditions that pet parents should be aware of. The first is gastric dilation, which is basically bloating. Gaining weight can be an immediate sign of this, but it wreaks havoc with many of their systems. This is another good reason to watch what you feed them, and consult your vet about relevant medication. These collapses can be life-threatening, so it is important to monitor your dog during exercise and rein them in if they show any sign of muscle weakness or lack of coordination. Consult your vet for long-term treatment. This can also be a sign of centronuclear myopathy, which is not unknown in this breed. Hip dysplasia can be another common issue, which is exacerbated if you overexercise your dog as a puppy. Restrict exercise until they are fully grown to ensure against abnormal growth. Eye conditions including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy are also pretty common, but most breeders should be screening for this. How To Find A Mini Labradoodle Puppy Labradoodles are a popular breed, so there are many active breeders, but finding one who specializes in miniature Labradoodles can be more challenging. Thankfully, there is a big community that loves this type of dog so there are many forums where you can ask around and get advice. Having read our guide to the miniature labradoodle, are you considering whether you should adopt one? Consider the following to make your final decision. This can lead to destructive frustration and serious depression. They do best in households when there is nearly always someone about, or when they can go to work with you. Their good behavior and low shedding mean that they are good dogs to take with you to other places. You also need to take the time to train these dogs, as they need lots of mental stimulation to keep them entertained. Are you willing to commit the time to their development? Despite their small size, these are high-energy dogs. As well as formal exercise, they will love joining you on weekend adventures and would rather be on the trail than sitting in front of the TV watching Netflix with you. Do you have the type of lifestyle that your dog will enjoy? Do You Have Kids? Miniature labradoodles are great with kids and they know how to both be protective and play gently. The key is to teach children how to treat dogs gently as well. They might not be the best fit for very young families just because they have lots of energy and need lots of attention. It can be a challenge to juggle the needs of young children and an energetic young pup at the same time. There are, however, lots of things to look out for to make sure these pups stay healthy and happy. They will bark during play or if they want to get your attention, but excessive barking is uncommon and is normally something that you should pay attention to. Do labradoodles chew furniture? Find our recommendations for the best puppy chew toys here. Can mini labradoodles be left alone? These dogs should not be left at home repeatedly for long workdays, though. These dogs do best when they have company for most of the day. Do labradoodles bond with one person? All dogs have a tendency to bond more strongly with one person than everyone else. This is usually their principal caregiver, but they have big hearts with room for everyone in the family, plus most of the strangers they meet. The miniature labradoodle is a smaller version of the original labradoodle that can do better in smaller family homes; however, they still have the same high energy and need at least some outdoor space to call their own. If you have always wanted a labradoodle, but resisted adopting one because of its size, the miniature labradoodle might be exactly the dog you are looking for. Do you have experience with miniature Labradoodles? 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. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.

Raising dogs for you and your family. Call or text .Every breed has different requirements, whether the space they must have or the amount of exercise they need. If you are not certain yet, check out our essential White German Shepherd breed info to find out everything about the White German Shepherd. How to find White German Shepherd puppies for sale? When buying a puppy, it is important to consider not only the pet but also the breeder. Because a responsible breeder will ensure their dogs come from the strongest bloodlines and have the best start to life. Ask about the health and temperament of their White German Shepherd pups as well as their living environment. But also find out about the breeder's practices and commitments. A good breeder will be happy to answer everything before you decide. After all, they will want to ensure that their dog goes to a good home. When you have done your research and got all the info you need, you can then choose the right breeder with confidence. To help ensure you choose a responsible breeder, all the White German Shepherd kennels you see listed here are verified by Pets4You. You will also find that the best breeders will provide a guarantee with their dog. This information, and more, is available on the breeder's website within Pets4You. Browse through our dog breeder directory with complete breeder profiles and current puppies for sale to find your dream dog. Disclaimer It is the duty of every person that is considering buying a puppy or dog to confirm all the information provided to them by the breeder is accurate. Pets4You makes no warranties, expressed or implied, as to the condition of any dogs offered for sale, the standards or practices of any breeder, the quality of their canines, or the accuracy of any information contained within our site. Pets4You does not endorse, recommend, or guarantee a particular kennel, breeder or dogs listed on the Pets4You website. For Buyers. Located in beautiful Southern California, we strive to breed superior quality family dogs that will not only make great companions and protectors for your family but that also represent the German Shepherd breed well with the exceptional temperament the breed is known and loved for worldwide. We breed only top German V and VA bloodlines that possess superior health and temperament through generations of hip and elbow certified and temperament tested dogs. Additionally all of our dogs are tested for Degenerative Myelopathy to be sure we are producing puppies safe from this disease. Additionally all of our dogs are DNA tested Clear for the MDR1 gene that can cause mild to severe reactions to a variety of medications. Please visit our testimonials page to read review from many of our clients through the years. Also be sure to visit our Dogs For Sale page to see retired females and males we currently have available to the right homes. Check back often as we are always updating photos of our available puppies. With keeping a small number of dogs we have time to give plenty of love and individual attention to them and the puppies when we have them. Our dogs are not kept in kennels, they live with us as part of our family, with room to roam outside on our one acre property and a warm spot inside to sleep. All puppies are raised inside our home in a clean and healthy environment. All whelpings are supervised by us and assisted as needed to ensure the best start and to protect the health of the mother and her puppies. All puppies are well socialized with small children, cats and our other dogs. Temperament is very important to us, our breeding dogs have wonderful temperaments that they pass on to their puppies. Puppies are temperament tested so that we can help you to find the perfect fit for your family and your needs. We actively show our dogs on the local, national and international level thereby striving to breed dogs of quality bloodlines and structure that adhere to the German SV standard for the German Shepherd dog. We make every effort to continue to learn and to improve our bloodlines by importing dogs of superior quality with top German VA bloodlines to bring you the highest and best quality puppy for you and your family to enjoy. Our hope as breeders is that we can provide the best quality German Shepherd puppy with an outstanding temperament that will in turn make a lasting impression on you and your family like they have in ours. I have so many customers that have been lifelong fans of the German Shepherd, that have grown up with German Shepherds and long for that companionship again with the dog of their childhood. I look forward to providing the dog of your dreams to you and your family! Call today to begin your future with a great German Shepherd Dog of your own. Call or email for an appointment to visit us and to meet our dogs and puppies. Male deposit 1- ES Female deposit 1-CM Male deposit 2- Female deposit 2-VP Male deposit 3- Female deposit 3- Male deposit 4- Female deposit 4- If you would like to know litters coming later than this please give us a call Before you place a deposit, Please download or print our guarantee and contract. Fill it out and return to us either by texting it, scanning and emailing or through regular mail. Remember that regular mail is slower and cause you to not get the spot you want if I get other deposits and contracts before yours. Once I receive your signed contract and your deposit, I will sign one and send one back. New-contract-June 15 We distribute the best dry food available for dogs and cats! Most people want to feed the best and LA is just that! Or if you will be taking home a puppy soon, make sure you buy a puppy start pack. The start up pack is on the same page as the food. Performance shows what the dog IS. If you wanted to ship your puppy, you would need to first come to our kennels and then ship the puppy out yourself. Or you can use a ground transportation company. By placing a deposit on a litter not yet born, please keep this in mind and be willing to move your deposit onto another litter at a later date. This allows us to offer puppies to pet homes at a more affordable price. You will still get AKC papers except they will say limited. If you bred a dog that was registered limited, then you would not be able to register the offspring. This limit however, can be lifted by the breeder. That said, while it can be done, I strongly urge anyone who lives in an apartment to think carefully about how much time and work it can be to keep a large, working dog in an apartment. I will not sell a puppy to anyone who lives in an apartment and leaves the dog home alone all day. At least one person needs to be home during the day. The dog needs to be taken outside to play at least once a day and taken for potty breaks many times EVERY day. Also, please check with your apartments rules on German Shepherds; some complexes do not allow them. New strains of the Parvo Virus are abundant and it is my job to keep puppies safe. I use a high titer Parvo Vaccine at 4 weeks but this may not protect all puppies. So please understand as much as you would like to visit with your puppies as they grow I can no longer allow this until they are 7 weeks. I will send out emails with pictures or videos weekly. No outside dogs are allowed at anytime. Thank you for understanding how important it is for me to keep the puppies safe. If you do visit other breeders, please do so on a different day that you visit. Von Ward Kennels will take back any puppy at any time in their lives if their owners can no longer care for them. Please never take a Von Wards dog to a shelter if you can no longer keep them. While most of our dogs are larger than the standard, we do have a couple of breeding females that are within standard. Their lovely mostly cream or white colored coat makes them quite rare and highly sought after among canine lovers within the country. Just like the regular German Shepherd, they are blessed with the same level of intelligence, which makes them easily trainable and highly versatile. They make great dogs as family companions as well as therapy and service dogs. As stated earlier, German Shepherds with a white colored coat are quite rare in the country, as only a handful of breeders within the US are dedicated to these German Shepherd coat types. With that being said, there are some white German Shepherd breeders residing within the country but you still would need to search for a reputable breeder with good breeding practices and programs. This article attempts to ease the search for you as we provide you with a list of some reputable white German Shepherd breeders residing in the USA. The article also provides the contact details of these breeders to help make it easy for you to contact them. It is very important that you only view this article as a guide toward helping you find the best breeder possible. Personal research is still highly recommended. We also recommend that you read this article till the very end as we reveal our personal pick from the list of white German breeders below. As their name already suggests, they are top breeders of premium quality white German Shepherds. They started their breeding program in the year , so they have over 10 years of breeding experience behind them. They are genetically health tested for genetic health issues and are rated by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, OFA to show they have good working hips, elbows, eyes, and hearts. Their newly produced puppies should each come with their written health guarantee. The puppies are raised as family dogs and not kennel dogs. This means they get to live in the family house in Middletown, Connecticut, and not in a kennel. They are loved and cared for by members of the family, given their full nutrients in puppy food and supplements and they are properly dewormed and vaccinated at the appropriate age ranges. All their dogs are properly handled by people of varying age groups. They are introduced to new stimulating experiences to help build their confidence. We have always enjoyed the outdoor life, hiking, camping, dirt bike riding, and horseback riding. The White German Shepherd has proven to be an amazing companion that fits right on in with everything we do and life is so much better when we have a loving, loyal companion in our lives. Many years ago our family bred Rottweilers. We still love the breed but found the White German Shepherd to be a better fit for our family and friends. We have had White German Shepherds in our lives since .We fell in love with the breeds family oriented personality, incredible intelligence, athleticism, sense of humor, adaptability, loyalty, kindness to children and smaller animals and traits of a loyal family protector. When searching for our parent dogs, we searched for intelligence, good conformation, good genetics, straight backs, upright ears, beautiful kind almond shaped eyes, athleticism, calmness, sweet temperaments and loyalty. We found all these traits in our Duke and Duchess. Our puppies are part of our family; they are raised indoors in a comfortable, climate controlled home. They play inside with us and outside in the sunshine with our watchful eyes on them. They are raised and socialized around children, our family, our friendly neighbors and our horses. We have a health guarantee with each puppy's bill of sale. We are here for support if a new puppy buyer has questions. Our puppies will have a health examination from a veterinarian before leaving for their new home. We love our puppies and want each of them to be the right fit for their new forever homes. We give the new owner an AKC Puppy Folder with healthcare tips and training tips, a bag of puppy food that the puppy has been used to eating, and lifetime support. Puppies will be 8 weeks old on April 18th and ready to join their new homes. We are often busy having fun with our dogs and horses. And we will respond as soon as possible. Thank you so much! We look forward to meeting you and showing you our beautiful dogs and puppies! We live near the beautiful Ventura County area of Southern California. AKC proudly supports dedicated and responsible breeders. We encourage all prospective puppy owners to do their research and be prepared with questions to ask the breeder. Rocky Oak. Questions about German Shepherd puppies for sale in Southern California? We have answers. How much do your German Shepherd puppies for sale in Southern California cost? German Shepherd puppies are priced on a wide array of factors including but not limited to gender, attributes, coloring, temperament and more. You may be connected with a puppy in your region but in addition to standard and white German Shepherd breeders in Southern California, we also have a network of breeders and companies nationwide that are able to safely make travel arrangements for puppies to any of the 48 states in the U. If you prefer to match exclusively with a Southern California German Shepherd breeder so that you can meet and pick up your puppy in-person, you can also specify that in our MatchMaking process. How do you vet breeders with German Shepherd puppies Southern California? The only German Shepherd breeders Southern California, and our larger national network, we work with are chosen based on their caring, expertise and commitment to legal requirements. What are the advantages of using Uptown Puppies? Uptown Puppies takes the stress and hassle of trying to research breeders and puppies on your own and makes it a fun, satisfying experience- just like finding a puppy should be! By using our completely free and unique MatchMaking service, we prioritize making the right connections and promoting the most responsible breeders and networks. Any German Shepherd adoption Southern California that goes through Uptown Puppies can rest assured that we do not allow puppy mill breeders or companies within our network. Unlike many puppy mills, we see puppies as much more than a mere profit and put the utmost importance on the humane treatment of animals. If you are looking for a conscious driven German Shepherd Southern California to adopt, Uptown Puppies has you covered. Are there purebred German Shepherd breeders in Southern California? Yes, the breeders and companies within our network do have purebred puppies in addition to German Shepherd puppy rescue Southern California. If you are ready for German Shepherd adoption Southern California style, we are ready to help! How will I be matched with a breeder or puppy? The Uptown MatchMaker process is designed for us to get to know your lifestyle and unique needs for a new puppy before matching you. Why should I choose Uptown Puppies? We think our reviews and reputation speak for themselves. Uptown Puppies has a proven track record of listening to our customers and connecting them with a trustworthy breeder or business so that the only thing our families have to worry about is welcoming the newest member of the family. First you must find your foundation. I started thinking about how nice it would be to have a German Shepherd Dog like when I was young. I remember how pretty they were so I told Jeffrey, "I want a German shepherd". He immediately went on the hunt. He loves that stuff. When Jeff started showing me the dogs he was finding I couldn't believe what I was seeing. It is so hard to find a old fashion discerning yet calm, straight back shepherd these days. We found out the show dog people, changed the appearance of the Shepherd. It all looks legit so we bought a couple. I didn't care how much money or time I had in them or how great their paperwork said they were I had enough. I couldn't take it anymore. It was not what I wanted. Next Shepherd dog we found was the working line. We got a beautiful pup we called Titus. When we went look at him as a pup I mean he shined. He was like his owners shadow. He never got tripped on and moved like the wind. I knew that this dog had a high prey drive but I didn't know he didn't have an off button. We loved him but at a year old we placed with a man who lived on an 80 acre farm. Lord Jesus, what happened to the big beautiful straight back family farm German Shepherd Dog? I mean who would have thought? How hard could it be? But nowadays, what we were wanting was the minority. Most shepherds now either have the curved back that they swear is healthier, tested and winning everything. That is how they separate them now. They need a job, a serious job. They to hyper and to prey driven for what I wanted. Thanks to The Good Lord Jeff had ask me several times if I would be interested in the white shepherd. I said, "That is exactly what I want. We bought off different litters. These dogs are mentally smart. They are like a human with fur. They will understand your language and they learn everything very very fast. You should just be able to tell them once or twice and they get it. They potty train very fast! They are clean dogs. Most GSD tend to be wary of strangers or aloof, but not ours. Their drive to retrieve things makes them a companion for entertainment. They love kids. Who better to trust watching over the kiddos than the trusted loyal White Shepherd. I know my own and my own know me. According to an article in USA Today, 1, sheep fell off a cliff to their deaths in Turkey in .One sheep fell, so the others followed suit and jumped. In the end, sheep died. The ones that survived only lived because they were cushioned by landing on top of their fellow herd members. As a child growing up in church, I remember seeing a picture of Jesus with a lamb wrapped around his neck. As I grew older and visited more churches, I remember seeing similar pictures at a lot of places. I never questioned the image. The Bible is clear that God is our shepherd, and we are the sheep of his pasture, so I assumed the image demonstrated that biblical truth. However, several years ago while I was attending seminary, the image of the lamb wrapped around the neck of Jesus was explained to me. Because sheep tend to stray and will also follow wherever they are led, shepherds often had to discipline lambs that would stray from their shepherd. The shepherd would use his rod to break the leg of a wandering lamb. After binding the break, the shepherd would carry the lamb on his shoulders while the wound healed. If the lamb struggled and fought, it would quickly realize that the broken leg wouldn't allow it to flee. The lamb learned during the healing process that the shepherd could be trusted. The lamb needed the shepherd to provide food, transportation and protection. Once the wound was completely healed, the lamb was fiercely loyal to the shepherd and wouldn't stray from the shepherd's leading. A few years ago a news story broke about Shrek the sheep. Shrek was a Merino sheep who lived in New Zealand. Shrek became famous because he managed to avoid being captured and shorn for six years. His wool continued to grow and thicken, and his eyes were eventually hidden behind the thick coat. Shrek dodged the sheering by hiding in caves and running from his master. Once Shrek was finally captured and shorn, he carried 60 pounds of wool on his body, nearly six times the average amount. The wool on Shrek's body was enough to produce 20 men's dress suits. It's easy to see why the Bible compares us to sheep. We often follow the crowd, even when it leads to our own demise. We stray from the shepherd who loves us and seeks to protect us. We don't appreciate when God disciplines us. But if we surrender to him we learn through the discipline that God can be trusted. We are often like Shrek the sheep as well. We hide from God, clinging to the things that need to be shorn from us. We become weighed down with the burdens God could easily remove from us. The Bible also shares with us that God anointed his people with oil just as the shepherds anointed the heads of their sheep with oil. This wasn't just a symbolic ritual. Sheep are easy targets for flies, lice and ticks. A sheep that was not covered in oil on his head could easily become the victim of infestations of these pests. However, it wasn't just a nuisance. Bugs would crawl through the ear canal of the unoiled sheep and nest in its brain, eating away at it. The pain from the bugs would be so severe on the sheep that the sheep would bang his skull on rocks and against trees to ease his suffering. The sheep could break his own skull seeking relief from the brain-eating parasites. When God offers to anoint us with his oil, it means he offers us protection from the parasites of this world that seek to eat away at us. If we hide in caves, or jump off the proverbial cliffs of this world, dodging his anointing and protection, we may become victims of this world. We may become so filled with pain that we hit our heads against rocks to ease our suffering. God seeks to shepherd us through this life. Oftentimes that is through discipline, sheering or anointing. But it is always with love, and it is always with our best interest at heart. He is our shepherd. He can be trusted when we surrender to his leading. Jamye Lanning Duncan is a curriculum writer and has served as a minister and teacher throughout North Carolina. She holds an Master of Divinity in Christian education and a Bachelor of Science in elementary education. She is married to Dr. Hunter Duncan, and they have two children, Katherine and Cameron. For six television seasons Bullet played in episodes of the Roy Rogers show called Bullet the Wonder dog. Bullet was fast enough to keep up with the camera shots of Roy Rogers galloping on trigger in pursuit of something. Bullet was an exceptionally smart dog. He did everything a good dog would do. Rin Tin Tin Rin tin Tin is a story of a dog who went from rags to riches. He was an orphan from world War 1 and was found by Mr. Lee Duncan. Mr Lee trained Rinty to do tricks and to do silent picture work for dogs. Rin Tin Tin immediately was a big success. He was responsible greatly for the increasing popularity of the German Shepherd breed as family pets.