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However, picking the right puppy from a litter can be overwhelming and stressful. So, what is the easiest way to pick a golden retriever puppy from a litter? An excellent way to see how your potential puppy will turn out is to take a look at his parents. Most importantly, ask the breeder a lot of questions before adopting. This article may contain affiliate links and loyalgoldens may earn a commission if a purchase is made. Unlock your goldens natural intelligence and see just how quickly problem behaviors disappear. This is the best at home dog training I've ever used! A responsible breeder is your best bet for a healthy puppy. A dog breeder like this will cut corners and overbreed in order to get as many viable Golden retriever pups to sell to unsuspecting puppy buyers as possible. Even if the price for a golden retriever puppy appears to be less initially, the potential long-term health and behavioral problems involved with a puppy from a genetically unhealthy litter will quickly surpass the cost of a puppy from a good breeder. Some of the best ways to find a quality golden retriever puppy breeder is to get referrals from your local veterinarian, a good friend, or a local golden retriever club. You can also find an excellent golden retriever breeder by attending professional dog shows. When you look each puppy over, you want to look specifically at their eyes, coat, build, and skin. Look at their eyes. They should look focused and clear. You want to keep an eye out for any golden retriever puppies that rub their eyes or appear to struggle with their vision, such as squinting. Touch their coat. The coat of your new perfect puppy should be shiny and healthy. Examine their build. Take a look at the overall shape of each puppy. Check to see if they are favoring one foot more than another foot. These could be signs of a more serious health issue. Check their skin. You want to keep an eye out for any flaky skin or skin with bald patches. Look for redness or signs of irritation. There are also instances when a puppy with anxiety will chew or scratch at their skin until the fur falls off. Things to look for when choosing a puppy from a litter. Even the runts are going to be bigger than a lot of other breeds. Many people wonder if the runt of the litter is a good choice when choosing a golden retriever. The runts are typically the pups who are weaker and smaller than the others in their litter. The mother produces the nutrients the litter needs to survive. The runts will be at greater risk of having weaker immune systems and getting infections. Choosing a medium-sized puppy will reduce your chances of getting a runt, an overeater, or a bully overly dominant pup. When it comes to temperament and size, there are differences between females and males. The most significant difference is going to be their size. A male dog will get slightly longer and taller than females, but they will also weigh more. There are also small differences in their faces. They can also come across as more territorial, but this is a very slight difference as well. While the females will still love you unconditionally, the males will be twice as doting and loving. Watch the way each member of the litter interacts with the others. This will tell you how your puppy will react to the other dogs or animals in your home. Extremely shy puppies may not have been socialized well so far, and could grow up to become distrustful dogs that are full of anxieties. Speak with the breeder or the owner of the litter. Ask them tons of questions about how socialized the puppies have been with other dogs and pets so far in their young lives. Make Sure the Golden Retriever Puppy Is the Correct Age Golden retriever puppies should stay with their mothers for eight weeks before being adopted and taken home. As mentioned earlier, the mothers produce vital nutrients that a new puppy needs to survive. If the puppy is taken away too soon, it puts them at greater risk of infections and other complications. It can also increase their anxiety, aggression and make them over-protective of their toys and food. Discover how to train your Golden Retriever by playing games : 21 games to play with your Golden that will make them smarter and better behaved! Before seeing the litter, research what a golden retriever puppy of eight weeks looks like. It will vary depending on the dog, but this will help you establish a clear idea of what the puppies will look like when you see the litter. The size and temperament of the parents are passed down to their offspring. What is the temperament of the parents? How does the puppy in question behave around dogs outside their litter? What kind of food are the puppies used to eating? Have the puppies all been dewormed? Are the puppies socialized with other animals besides dogs, such as cats or birds? Summary Adopting a puppy is a significant milestone for a family. Here are some things to consider: Size Do you want a big or a small golden? Sex Do you want a male or a female? Style Or a stocky, blocky-headed golden retriever? Color Do you want a dark gold or red golden , a cream-colored golden , or something more in the middle? Personality Do you want a calm golden or more of an energetic one? Nobody will be able to tell you what you want out of a dog but yourself. Consider your lifestyle, home, whether or not you have kids , what you like to do on the weekend, etc. If you want to get a good feel for what a puppy will be like, look at their parents. Temperament and health are hereditary and no puppy test or observation will be as accurate as what their parents are like. So that being said, pick a good breeder that is breeding dogs that resemble what you want. There are two important things here: Talk to the breeder and tell them what you want Observe the puppies and look for the puppy that resembles what you want Talk To The Breeder The breeder has spent the last eight weeks with the puppies and knows them best. By telling them what you want they can help you decide the right one for you. But assuming the decisions lays in your hands, this next section will help you out. Selecting A Puppy From The Litter When we went to pick our puppy from the litter we knew exactly what we wanted: a big, calm, sweet boy. He had probably worn himself out trying to impress them because two days later we were wondering what happened to that calm puppy as a fluffy little tornado was tearing around our apartment! Are they submissive? This might give you some insight into their personality. Take note of their energy levels. Consider how your puppy interacts with people. How are they with you, whoever is with you, and the breeder? Are they fearful? A friendly dog will be outgoing and interested in you. Toss your keys or a toy. Put the puppy on their back. Either cradle them in your arms on their back, or roll them on their back on the floor. A dominant pup may squirm a lot, but a well-adjusted pup should calm down shortly. They should be ok with being handled. Shoutout to Vet Street for a few of the tips above. In addition to choosing the right puppy, you also want to choose a healthy puppy. Now even if you have your checklist and run each pup through these tests, it may all go out the window if a puppy picks you. But as we tried to give each puppy a chance and interact with all of them, Oliver kept coming back to my wife and nuzzling his nose into her to tell her that he was the one. Conclusion When picking a puppy you first want to decide what you want. Then pick a breeder that breeds dogs that resemble what you want. When it comes to actually picking the puppy from the litter, talk to the breeder about it and try to see which puppies match up with what you want. However, know that puppies may be different than how they initially appear. And finally, you might not even need to worry about picking the right puppy because the right puppy just might pick you. Have any questions about picking a golden retriever puppy from the litter? Let me know in the comments below! And if you know someone who is about to pick up a puppy, please share this with them! Related articles:. But simply picking a Golden Retriever from the litter might not be quite as easy as it seems, remember, this pooch would be with you for the rest of its life, so you have to be sure that the Golden Retriever pup you are selecting is just right for you and your family. There are a lot of things to consider, and lots of questions to be answered: What color should I pick? What temperament would I want? Should I pick a male or female Golden Retriever? Lots of questions that require answers. Your experience with the beautiful Golden Retriever should be enjoyed. First off, is Golden Retriever the right dog for you? I assume that you probably did a lot of research on the Golden Retriever breed before picking a reputable breeder to patronize or work with. The Golden Retriever is quite energetic and clingy, and as such does require a lot of time and attention. It requires a lot of exercises to keep from being destructive and for an adult Golden Retriever, an average of hours would be required daily to properly exercise the breed. And for those allergic to dogs or dog coats, the Golden Retriever might not be the best breed for you. This is because the Golden Retriever is a moderate to heavy shedder during shedding season. You might want to consider a Labrador Retriever, checkout our comparison for more detail: Golden Retriever Vs. When trying to decide what sort of Golden Retriever is best for you, answers to these questions would be needed. Male or Female Golden Retriever? This sort of decision might be quite easy for some and incredibly difficult for others. This is because to some, any gender is good enough they have no preferences , while for the rest, specific reasons or purposes could cause them to favor a particular Golden Retriever gender over the other. Both the male and female Golden Retrievers are very lively and equally playful at this stage of their lives. The only slight difference, however, that might occur or might be noticeable between both breeds might be size, as the male Golden Retriever is only slightly bigger or larger than the female when looking at the same litter. As both Golden Retrievers approach their individual sexual maturity, you might begin to notice a lot more differences. A lot of generalization is done between both, the male and female genders of the Golden Retriever breed. Some might say that the male Golden Retriever is a lot more hyperactive and could be harder to train than the female Golden Retriever, or that the female Golden Retriever matures quite faster than the male Golden Retriever, but again, these are all generalizations and speculations. Another popular generalization or myth is that the female Golden Retriever is a lot more independent and affectionate than the male Golden Retriever, again, it could still just be a myth. What Size of the Golden Retriever should I pick? As we already stated earlier, the gender of the Golden Retriever has a huge impact on the size of the Golden Retriever. Golden Retriever males are bigger than Golden Retriever females when comparing two Golden Retrievers from the same litter. What style of the Golden Retriever should I go with? Deciding on what Golden Retriever style you would like is equally important. Are you looking for an athletic Golden Retriever or a slim Golden Retriever, or are you in search of a more stocky and blocky-headed Golden? What Color of Golden Retriever should I go with? Of course, the Golden Retriever has a variety of different coat colors that you could be interested in. Some of these colors are; red-gold or dark gold, or perhaps, maybe a cream-colored Golden Retriever. Either way, there are some interesting Golden Retriever colors to choose from. What sort of personality should I look for? This is yet another decision that can only be made by you. The personality of the Golden Retriever you choose is quite important, so you definitely need an answer to this question. Are you looking for an energetic Golden Retriever dog or a calmer and more gentle companion? You might be searching for a friendly and outgoing Golden Retriever or perhaps a shy or reserved Golden Retriever. The breeder should know them best, being that they have spent approximately 8 weeks with the puppies. The breeder should be able to tell in each litter which of the Golden Retriever puppies is more dominant, which is shy, which is, which barks a lot, which is calmer, and of course, which of the Golden Retriever pups is most energetic. So, by simply telling him what exactly you are looking for in a Golden Retriever, he should be able to make helpful suggestions and recommendations. This is quite common in breeders today, they usually do the picking for you based on the requests and information you give them, which I personally feel is better. These 6 tips would be quite beneficial in deciding which Golden Retriever puppy is best for you. Does it dominate the other Golden Retriever puppies or is it a more submissive puppy? Try to notice the energy levels of each Golden Retriever pup A great way to figure out the temperament of a Golden Retriever pup would be by checking out their energy levels. A Golden Retriever pup that spends half its time barking and the other half running around is a clear indication that it is anything but calm. Notice how your chosen pup reacts or interacts with people In addition to watching how your pup reacts with other littermates, you also have to watch how they react with people. When you interact with them, how do they react, also watch their interaction with the breeder and basically strangers? Do they react in a curious manner? Are they quite fearful? Or are they the outgoing and friendly type that seems to be quite interested in interacting with humans? Try tossing a toy or your keys at the pup This is a great way to identify how alert your Golden Retriever puppy really is. Once you toss your keys or a toy at the pup, try to notice how quickly your Golden Retriever reacts to it. Does your pup run after it? Or does it follow the toy or keys with its eyes? Try putting the Golden Retriever pup on its back As you pick and cradle the Golden Retriever pup, you could try placing it on its back while in your arms or placing it on its back while on the floor. For a dominant Golden Retriever pup, it should squirm or struggle a bit, while for a more submissive and calmer puppy, it should also struggle for a bit but shortly relax. Try Caressing your Golden Retriever puppy You could try caressing your chosen Golden Retriever pup by gently rubbing its ears, tails, paws, and mouth. A calm Golden Retriever puppy should be cool with it. Note: Be sure to check the health of your chosen pup before choosing. Also, your Golden Retriever might pick you. This is not new, as some dog owners have shared their various experiences. Some pups could run up to you all sweetly and cute looking for a cuddle, some could pee on you while others might even go as far as peeing on you, but all in all, when a puppy picks you, you would know. Final Thoughts Picking a Golden Retriever puppy that is just right for you and your family is not an easy task, but it is quite important as this dog would be with you for a huge part of its life. So do ensure you stay attentive when choosing. Ensure that your chosen pup is quite healthy, ensure they are well tested and strong. Following all the steps listed above should be enough to help you when selecting a Golden Retriever pup. In all you do, please ensure that you shower your new Golden Retriever with so much love and care. Drink a lot of water, eat well and of course, always stay devoted to dogs. How will we ever decide? Our Selection Process If you have ever chosen a puppy from a breeder, you were probably given a thirty-minute time slot, a pile of ten puppies and no behavior or temperament information. You likely chose your puppy based on color or gender, or both. You might have chosen the first puppy who came up to you, the puppy lying by himself over in the corner, or the puppy who kept crawling into your lap. Maybe you chose the runt because you felt sorry for her. Every single puppy has a purpose. Some dogs are meant to hunt or search, others are meant to perform valuable tasks, and still others are meant to offer comfort. Most dogs are meant for lifelong companionship. Service dogs and therapy dogs serve very different purposes. The testing and selection process for each is different, as is the training. A dog can never truly be a family pet AND a service dog. A therapy dog can never be an emotional support animal and a family pet, because an ESA is bonded to one person while a family pet divides his time with various family members or friends. Candidates for our therapy and service dog programs are chosen first We do not consider gender or color when temperament testing or placing dogs into our programs We can not control the number of puppies in a litter, nor the number of males and females in a litter. We usually take three male deposits and three female deposits prior to the birth of the litter. Once the litter is born and we know how many puppies we have, we accept additional deposits. We follow a puppy protocol from the day puppies are born, exposing them to different sounds and surfaces. We hold them in different positions and we move them around increasingly. We work with their pressure points and we use essential oils to relax and stimulate them. We construct these profiles based on observed behaviors during weeks such as barking, growling, shyness, food assertiveness, independence, maturity, patience, motivation. Temperament testing occurs during week 6. If the family with the third deposit on the list wants a pet, we will suggest the puppy ies that most closely match their family profile. If the puppy they wanted was selected by the family with the first deposit, they may then move to their second choice. A family who makes the LAST deposit in a litter may not get their first choice, however we do our very best to accommodate everyone. While families may have a color or gender preference, we suggest being open-minded and willing to consider the puppy with the temperament that best fits you and your needs. We do our best to get the right puppy for you, and we are unable to allow a family to wait until pick up day to select a puppy. Above everything, we must ask our families to trust us during this process. Our experience with goldens and goldendoodles, and the relationships we have with our families, have made us what we are today. If you do not feel comfortable with the selection process, please seek another breeder. By placing a deposit, you are agreeing with our testing and selection process. Your deposit is non-refundable, but it may be forwarded to a future litter. The selection process differs from those of other breeders and priority is given to our program. We make every effort to match puppies which best fit family profiles that are submitted in online puppy applications. We cannot determine the number of puppies or the number of males and females in a litter. When necessary, placement decisions will be made according to the order in which deposits are received. You love me when I am not lovable. You find me in the darkness. You keep my secrets and lick my tears. You teach me to live like someone left the gate open. While the puppy mills and commercial breeders almost always have puppies available and will let you take your pick, the people you really want to buy from are the hobby breeders who are breeding for themselves. Hobby breeders are always looking for great homes for dogs but they sometimes cannot let you know until the puppies are about 8 weeks old who is available. And the good breeders often have waiting lists. My comment to people who are puppy shopping is that if you can walk in and get a puppy, be alarmed. The AKC has a breeder list on its website but you should be advised that there are no criteria for quality used by AKC or most other websites. The Golden Retriever Club of America grca. So the standards may vary but there are standards. It's a good place to start. Go to some dog shows or obedience trials and watch people to see how they interact with their dogs. Plan to talk to multiple breeders to choose the one whose values are in line with yours. If the people you meet are not people you want to have a 12 plus year relationship, then keep looking. Because when you buy a dog from a reputable breeder you are entering into a relationship. This dog will live with you and your family for many many years. This is not a decision to take lightly. Indian Trail Golden Retrievers breedings produce a sweet and loving disposition in a puppy. We breed for conformation, as well as personality. We take special care in matching our stud dogs with our dams to produce beautiful, healthy, and long lived dogs. A Golden Retriever puppy should have bright eyes, a thick lush coat, a black wet nose, and clean ears. A puppy should have several puppy shots and be wormed by the time they are ready to go to their new homes. A Golden Retriever puppy should have both parents cleared by OFA for elbow, hip, eyes, and also have a heart clearance. These are weaknesses in Golden Retrievers created by over breeding and breeding too closely. Regardless of what you want your puppy to be- an obedience dog, a show dog, or a loving pet, you as a buyer need to make sure that the breeder follows strict breed guidelines. At Indian Trail Golden Retrievers, located in Connecticut, we take extra care to have all our breeding dogs screened and cleared for any possible health or hereditary problems, which will provide new puppy owners the best puppy available. Your puppy should reflect your family. Active families should choose an active and outgoing puppy that will thrive in a busy household. A puppy needs plenty of activity, and your puppy should be inquisitive, playful, and not shy. All new puppy families should plan to bring their puppy to puppy classes, it is as important for the owners as for the puppy. The investment in puppy school will reap endless benefits. Consistency in training, both for the owners and the pup, will make your pet expedience most fulfilling. Each puppy has an individual personality, and the fact that our puppies are home raised, helps us match pups with their prospective families. We have found that many pups choose their new families. Puppies just love children, and the bond will last for your dogs life. Remember that puppies are puppies, and they will pull on shirts, pants, hands, and your house will have to be puppy-proofed before you new puppy arrives. Puppies will be teething. They will need plenty of chew toys. Puppies will chew furniture, toys, shoes, whatever they are allowed to chew. Damage to your belongings is not the puppies fault, but the owners. Training and correct confinement, such as crating when they are not with you, will help to give a positive experience. Plan to spend time with your puppy. They will require a lot of exercise. The more positive activity you give your puppy, the less time and energy they will have to get into trouble. Our puppies love to retrieve. We take hikes, and just spend time outdoors playing tug of war. Consider how an Indian Trail Golden Retriever puppy will complete your family. You're looking for a dog that's healthy in both mind and body. Let's see how we can help you pick that perfect pup. Time To Buy a Puppy! It's the day you've all been waiting for. Golden Retriever PuppyYou finally get to visit that new litter of cute Golden Retriever puppies and make your selection. The ideal time to do that is when the puppies are around five weeks of age. That's when they're beginning to explore their world and love being around people. You won't be able to take the pup home for awhile. But at least you can figure out how to pick a puppy at your leisure. The first question you need to ask yourself is, would you rather have a boy or a girl? There are some minor differences in size and temperament between male and female Goldens. But it really boils down to your personal preference. If you're positive you want to buy a female puppy, for instance, ask the breeder to take the males out of the bunch for now. If you're dead set on buying a Henrietta, you don't want to lose your heart to a Henry. Golden Retriever Puppy With ChewieIn most Golden litters, the coat colors usually vary between shades of cream and gold. If you're choosing a Golden Retriever puppy for his color, check out the ears. A puppy's ear color is the best indicator of the color of his future adult coat. His ears are often slightly to moderately darker than the rest of his coat at this tender age. Distended stomachs could indicate a problem with worms. When you pick up one of those cute Golden Retriever puppies, he should smell nice. It's a "newborn thing," just like with human babies. And when you stroke him, his coat should be clean and plush, with no signs of fleas or other parasites. You're also checking to make sure there's no evidence of scabs under the coat on the skin. His eyes and ears should be clear, with no runny discharges from either place. His nose should be jet black. At this stage, a Golden Retriever puppy's eyes will be gray, but they'll gradually change to a permanent dark brown. Your prospective pup shouldn't have any bald spots or apparent sores. You should not see any evidence of adverse reactions to recent puppy shots. Are you choosing a Golden Retriever puppy to show him in the ring? Then you need to make sure there are no obvious markings or conformation problems that would disqualify him. But health and soundness is more than just clearances. Golden Retrievers are often known for skin problems, and the parents in question should be trouble free with no apparent allergies or susceptibility to hot spots. You should ask the breeder about the overall health of the parents, and how long ancestors in the first two or three generations have lived. The answers could indicate the quality of life your new pup can expect throughout his life, and how long you might be blessed with his friendship. Consider Personality When Choosing a Golden Retriever Puppy Sarah Cuddles PuppiesWhen you first see the litter together, they should mob you, absolutely thrilled at the sight of people--and new people at that! Peaches's puppies always enjoyed their play time with my daughter, Sarah seen here. Every puppy has an individual personality, and each litter contains a range of personalities. It's up to you to match your family's needs with your perfect pup's personality when selecting a Golden Retriever puppy. You can do this with the help of puppy temperament testing. Golden Retriever PuppyIf you're choosing a Golden Retriever puppy to take hunting, bring a duck wing or pheasant tail with you when you visit the litter, and tease the puppies with it. Some pups will immediately be fixated on the feather and chase it around constantly, even picking it up when you toss it. Other pups won't care one way or the other what's tickling their nose. Look for the pups that like to hold things in their mouths or carry them around. All Golden Retrievers have a natural retrieving instinct, but some have practically a compulsion to have something in their mouths at all times. There's your hunter pup. Now is the time to buy puppy supplies, make the veterinary appointments, check back with the breeder to make sure the puppy is up to date with his vaccinations, and spend time puppy-proofing your home in preparation for the canine invasion. In general, puppies should stay with their mother until sometime between the eighth and tenth weeks. By this time, the puppies have learned critical canine socialization skills from their mother and littermates. They're also weaned off their mother's milk, are eating puppy food, and are old enough to pass Beginning Housebreaking with flying colors. That means you've been blessed with a wonderful new best friend who will give you many years of unlimited, unconditional love. What more could any mere mortal want? Similar Articles :. This could cost you thousands of dollars in medical bills down the road. On the other hand, when you buy the animal from a licensed Golden Retriever breeder, you can pick out your future puppy with confidence. Not only will proof of his pedigree show that your breeder is certified, but it will also verify that your puppy is a true Golden Retriever. The best puppy breeders take pride in providing healthy dogs through careful genetic research. They should be so confident in their work that they offer you a health guarantee , which will tell you what to do if your puppy faces any unforeseen health issues. Since breeders are there from the day the puppies and their parents! And picking the right pet for your family starts with finding a breeder you can trust. No matter how nice they seem or how attractive their website looks, you should always do a little bit of research before choosing a Golden Retriever breeder. Here are important points that all breeders should address: Image Source Does the breeder give back to the breed? Breed preservation should be the primary goal of Golden Retriever breeders. They should participate in keeping the species alive through membership at a Golden Retriever breed dog club, a performance club, or an obedience club. What type of experience does the breeder have? Do they stay true to the pure genetic traits of the breed? Do they provide health screenings and health guarantees? Can you meet the puppies and parents in person? How many litters do the females have each year? Female Golden Retrievers can have up to two litters per year. However, breeders who follow ethical practices will only allow the females to have four to six litters in their lifetime. A female can breed between the ages of two and eight. Once you choose a breeder that seems like a good fit for you and your family, you should write up some questions to ask them. And in return, expect some questions about you, your lifestyle, and your home! One of the first things any breeder you inquire about should provide is a list of former buyers. Reviews posted online are one thing, but being able to talk with customers directly speaks volumes about the legitimacy of the breeder. When you speak with their former customers, ask questions about their buying experience and how their dog is doing years after purchase. Puppies should receive some level of preventative care that is appropriate for their age. Newborn puppies up to eight weeks old should stay with their mothers, but they will also receive their first round of core vaccines during these few weeks. They should have a yearly examination by a licensed veterinarian that will perform vaccines, flea, tick, and heartworm prevention, as well as general health checkups. A reputable, passionate breeder will be more than happy to receive updates and questions about their puppies well into adulthood. With that being said, the breeder should also provide a health guarantee. A health guarantee states that you are not financially liable for any genetic issues in the puppy, as long as the health condition is verified by a certified veterinarian. This is an essential point that you might not think twice about. A good Golden Retriever breeder will ask questions to determine if your household is a good fit for their puppy. Image Source 1 Why do you want a dog? This is a simple yet important question that you should have an answer to. Golden Retriever breeders that dedicate their livelihood to continuing the pure genetic bloodline will want to know what appeals to you about these energetic companions. Additionally, the breeder might ask who will be walking, feeding, and playing with the dog. Golden Retriever puppies require tons of attention, especially during the first two years of their lives. If the breeder asks this, they want to know how your children will be participating in the handling of the puppy. They also want to understand how you plan to introduce the puppy to other pets so they can coexist safely within the same home. No matter how nice a breeder may seem, you want to avoid accidentally contributing to backyard breeders or a puppy mill disguised as a reputable breeder. Doing so can cost you thousands of dollars in medical bills and years of potential heartbreak. Here are some of the most critical and obvious warning signs of an untrustworthy breeder. Less experienced breeders will charge on the lower end, and more experienced breeders usually with generations of pure genetic proof! Additionally, some of the best breeders will only sell trained puppies to ensure their pooches are family- and forever-home ready. Therefore, you should receive standard documentation upon adopting your new Golden Retriever puppies, such as care instructions, registration papers, vaccination records, and necessary contracts. The contract may also state that you agree to surrender the puppy instead of adopting him out to a shelter or the pound. Some warranties will say that the breeder should have the right to reclaim the puppy in an unexpected situation like this. If you do ask for references, and they give you a list of written reviews instead of contact information for former clients, this is a red flag. A refusal for a tour means that the breeder knows potential clients may be turned away by the environment. If you are invited to tour a facility, learn about what a professional kennel should look and smell like first. The bottom line is, you need to do plenty of research.

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

Black and White Boxer puppies There are quite a number of myths about the color of the black and white boxer puppies. The genetic combination of a black boxer puppy will play a huge role in determining its overall color. White boxer puppies lack melanin, the hormone responsible for the black pigmentation that ideally black boxer puppies ought to have. Mostly, white boxer puppies are associated with some deformities like deafness and are more prone to sunburns due to the lack of melanin. Black Boxer puppies Many dog lovers search for the pure black boxer puppy. It can be a bit hard to judge from photos of dogs that breeders claim to be pure black boxer puppies. Black boxer puppies have a very dark coat naturally that is also very thick. In the case of getting pure black boxer puppies, you need to look very carefully because the color can deceive your eyes. Never judge the color of the boxer in the first look. There are some black boxer puppies who are black in color and some just have a dark brindle. Image Source 3. Health of the black boxer dog Just like any other dog breed, the black boxer dog breed is also prone to some health issues. Some of the leading health issues that affect this breed is that they are likely to suffer from cancer, heart conditions like boxer cardiomyopathy, hyperthyroidism, hip dysplasia and even epilepsy. The main cause of death being stillbirth and infection. Remember, the original black boxer puppy was a hybrid of the English bulldog and the Bullenbeisser , which is now an extinct breed. The sole cause of infections among the current black boxer dog is as a result of inbreeding with other dog breeds. About .The lifespan of the black boxer dogs was therefore estimated to be an average of 10 years. Before you make your purchase from any breeder, make sure that you screen the black boxer dog to find out if he is likely to have any of these health conditions. This will greatly determine the lifespan of the black boxer puppy. Diet and nutrition of the black boxer dog The black boxer dog is a very energetic breed. This essentially means that you have to be very keen on the quality of dog food that you feed your furry friend. High quality wet dog food is recommended for the black boxer dog. Their diet should generally contain high amounts of calories because of their energy expenditure. You should mostly feed your black boxer dog meals which contain lean animal protein like lean chicken or fish which is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. You also need to be aware of the fact that black boxers may be vulnerable to dental issues hence have a high likelihood of developing bad breath. This is one of the reasons why you need to avoid dry dog food, especially cheap and low quality food. Always give your dog plenty of clean and fresh water to help maintain good oral hygiene and to keep him well hydrated. Weight and height of the black boxer dog The black boxer dog is generally a medium-sized dog. The male dog weighs approximately between kgs and the female counterpart too. The only difference between the male and female black boxer dogs is the height. The male can grow to a height of between cm and the female between cm. Image Source 7. The black boxer dog is quite a harmless one when it comes to family and has a very warm and social personality. However, this dog can be distrustful to strangers. The black boxer dog is the perfect family dog because of their patience and protective nature, especially around children. This dog breed is a very playful and energetic one hence a favorite of many children. Boxers can also be quite headstrong so you need to take them through thorough obedience training. Naturally, boxers are not an aggressive breed and they have natural guardian instincts too. Socialization The black boxer is a very friendly dog, which makes it easy for you to socialize your puppy. The dog gets along well with both humans and other animals. They generally love companionship and will immediately get along fine with strangers once their natural instinct assures them it is okay to do so. However, you need to know that black boxer dogs may not be very patient when it comes to larger adult dogs, especially those of the same sex. Boxers are generally patient with smaller dog breeds. In case you take your boxer out the dog park, one that is frequented by smaller dog breeds will be a good place to begin socialization. Recommended: Check the brain training for dogs program here 9. What is the price of a black boxer puppy? The price of the black boxer puppy is expected to be relatively higher than the price of other dog breeds. This is because of the fact that the black boxer is a rare breed and they are not very easy to get. Breeders who sell black boxer puppies sell them a bit expensive because this dog has a really beautiful black coat that is very thick and dark hence making him a very attractive breed. You need to be prepared to dig deep in your pockets to get one of these lavish black boxer puppies. Are black boxers rare? Getting a pure bred black boxer dog can prove to be quite difficult due to the extinction of one of the parent species, the Bullenbeiser. However, you can get black and white boxer puppies as well as crossbreeds of the black boxer dog. Real black boxers do not exist anymore. The gene that is responsible for the rich dark color is extinct and not available in the existing breeds. Never be misguided by some greedy breeders who claim to have the pure black boxer dog breed. Conclusion In conclusion, the black boxer dog was one of a kind. The current breeds are a crossbreed between the black boxer dog and another breed. This existing breed may have a fur coat that is a mixture of black and white, hence a black and white boxer dog or brown. The boxer is a great family dog and has a warm temperament too. The breed is also a friendly one hence very easy to socialize with both humans and other canines. Always give your boxer plenty of physical exercise because this dog is very energetic and needs the exercise to develop healthy and strong bones. Good nutrition is also very important to lower the risk of your boxer suffering from illnesses that can be avoided. Featured Image Credit: Source. There is a lot of talk about black Boxers dogs; some potential puppy buyers will actively seek out this colored puppy, but their searching is in vain. It may be hard to believe it when you see photos, but black boxers do not exist — the color gene responsible for black coat color does not exist within the breed. Brindle is a pattern of color, it is a striping effect. With most brindle Boxers, the dark stripes are clearly over a fawn background. However, with Boxer dogs that appear to have a black coat, this is due to super heavy reserve brindling. In fact, it can be so dark and so thick, that you cannot see any fawn beneath it. This gives the dog a very dark coat that does indeed appear to be black. Here, we'll go into the facts a bit more to talk about why black cannot exist with the breed and some myths are swirl about regarding this perceived coat color. Why Colors are Misinterpreted It is very easy to see a dog and immediately assume that he is a certain color, based on what your eyes are telling you. However, with some breeds, the Boxer included, you must take a second look. It is sometimes only when you realize how brindle can cause an effect of sorts, that makes a first impression of black, that it starts to make sense. In addition, some Boxers are given the term of black; however, in many cases, this is a shortened term that comes from longer 'black brindle'. The base color of all purebred Boxers is fawn. Brindles are actually fawn with a brindle marking. Those markings are made of a pattern for fur consisting of black striping which covers the fawn… Sometimes just a bit lightly brindled and sometimes a lot a heavily brindled dog. A black Boxer with white flash? Your eyes are playing tricks on you. This pup is super dark reverse brindle with white markings. Cassandra, 5 months old Photo couresty of Christopher Many wonder if perhaps there were black Boxers that were mostly bred out of the lines and that perhaps now and again a dog with a black coat shows up somewhere. However, if we look to the record keeping of the past century, we can see that this is not the case. In this year time period, a black Boxer appeared once, however there is a catch to this. In the Germany, in the late 's a Boxer was paired with a mixed dog that was part Bulldog and part Schnauzer. The resulting litter had puppies that had black coats. Since another breed was introduced into the bloodline, they were not purebreds. These dogs were not used for any further breeding and therefore did not have any influence on genetics going forward. Once in a while there will be a breeder that claims to have black Boxers and will point to this one incident long ago as evidence that black does indeed run in the bloodline. However, since those mixed dogs with black coats were never used for any sort of develop program this simply does not hold true. Another element that shows that this coloring does not exist in the Boxer line is the rule that the Munich Boxer Club created in .This group had stringent control over breeding and development of Boxers in Germany and set the guidelines for the standard, conformation and all elements regarding appearance including coloring. This group did not wish for any experimenting to be done that would introduce the color black and for this reason they made a clear rule that black Boxers would not be accepted. Some make the argument that programs may have ignored this ruling and still attempted to breed black Boxers. However it would have not been in their best interest to do so and additionally, any resulting dogs would have not been part of the Munich Boxer Club since they couldn't have been registered there. This means that any such hypothetical dogs could not have genetically been included in the Boxer's bloodline since they would have been barred from any programs that were developing and perfecting the breed. So, now that we know: This color does not exist in the line The only record of any black Boxer in the last century was a mixed dog and not a purebred Guidelines and strict rules of of the club in Munich that was the foundation of today's Boxers clearly excluded black Boxers.And it is also fair to say: The chance of there being some odd, rare gene mutation that brings black into the coat is extraordinarily rare; mathematically the odds are so low that this can be ruled out Black Boxer puppies cannot be born due to a hidden gene; this is because black is dominant over all other colors. It cannot be recessive, it always comes out over others Why are some people still adamant that this coloring exists? Diesel, at 2 years old Photo courtesy of Brittany Calvert This leads us to the conclusion of only two possibilities in this regard: A 'true' black Boxer simply cannot be a purebred. It is assumed that in this case, it would be done to sell the pups at a higher cost. Some elements to ponder.Their registration papers do not have that color code as an option. Therefore, even if someone verbally dubs a Boxer to have a black coat, the dog - if registered with a recognized club - would officially be another color; and that would most likely be brindle. Since the pup would be handed over to new owners with papers stating he was not black, how can they simultaneously claim to have black Boxer dogs? And this of course, is very unethical. In Summary Every being whether it is a mammal, like a dog, human, etc. These genes determine everything about the being, from skin color to the number legs to where the eyes are.Genes control coat color in dogs, too. In order for a dog to be black, that breed of dog must contain the gene for having a black coat. Boxer dogs do not have that gene. So, there cannot be any black Boxer dogs. It is genetically impossible. A Boxer that is black, or true black with brown points, for example, MUST be a mixed breed or a heavily brindled dog. Many people have made claims to owning black boxer dogs. In the boxer community, this can be a cause for argument, but the fact remains that it is genetically impossible for a boxer to be black in color. The color gene responsible for a dog being black does not exist within the breed. If you own a boxer that appears to be black in color, there are two possible explanations for this: Your boxer is not purebred It has been known to happen that somewhere down the line a boxer was bred with a mixed-breed dog and her puppies still have that boxer look. When breeds are mixed, certain genes can be inherited, like the gene that causes the black color. Your boxer is a very heavy brindle reverse brindle Brindle boxers are basically fawn colored with black stripes. In some dogs, the brindle is so dominant it gives the appearance of being black. It is the base color and is dominant in the majority of boxer dogs, as well as other dogs such as Great Danes and Pugs. Brindle Photo by Gunnshots Brindle boxers are basically fawn colored boxers with black stripes. These black stripes can vary in intensity, but they are never so thick that the dog is considered black in color. What About White Boxers? Although it is true that white boxer dogs are indeed a recognized group of boxers, they are technically not white in color. Conclusion There is a lot of talk about black boxer dogs; some potential puppy buyers will actively seek out this colorful puppy, but their search is in vain. It may be hard to believe when you see pictures, but black Boxers do not exist! The color gene responsible for the black coat color does not exist within the breed. If you "see" a black Boxer, if he is a purebred Boxer, he must be a very dark tiger. In this case, what happens is that the animal is tiger - yes, with the same stripes that the tiger has. In the "black" boxer these stripes are so dark that it is almost impossible to see them with the naked eye. Because of this, many believe that this breed has black dogs, but genetically, they are tiger boxers. This gives the dog a very dark coat that, in fact, appears to be black. Here, we'll get into the facts a little more to talk about why black cannot exist with the breed and some myths regarding this perceived coat color. Why Colors are Misinterpreted It is very easy to see a dog and immediately assume it is a certain color based on what its eyes are telling you. However, with some breeds, the Boxer included, you should take a second look. Sometimes it's only when you realize how tigerish can cause an effect, that it makes a first impression of black, that it starts to make sense. Also, some boxers are given the term black; however, in many cases, this is a shorthand term that comes from "tiger black". Boxer Puppy Black Brindle The base color of all purebred Boxers is fawn a coloration between brown and yellow. Brindles are actually fawns with a brindle marking. These markings are made of a coat pattern consisting of black stripes covering the fawn.Black Boxer Coloring History Many wonder if perhaps there were black boxers who were largely bred off the lines and that maybe once in a while a dog in a black coat would show up somewhere. However, if we look at the record keeping of the last century, you can see that this is not the case. In this year period, a black Boxer has appeared once, but there is a problem with that. The resulting litter had puppies that had black coats. Once another breed was introduced into the lineage, they were not purebreds. These dogs were not used for any further breeding and therefore had no influence on the genetics hereafter. Once in a while there will be a breeder who claims to have black Boxers and will point to this long ago incident as evidence that black really does run in the bloodline. However, since these mixed dogs with black coats have never been used for any kind of development program, this is simply not true. Another element that shows that this coloration does not exist in the Boxer line is the rule that the Munich Boxer Club created in .This group had a strict control over the breeding and development of Boxers in Germany and established the guidelines for the standard, conformation and all appearance-related elements, including coloration. Some argue that the shows may have ignored this decision and still attempted to breed black Boxers. However, it would not have been in their interest to do so, and furthermore, the resulting dogs would not have been part of the Munich Club, as they could not have been registered there. This means that any of these hypothetical dogs could not have been genetically included in the Boxer lineage, as they would have been barred from any program that was developing and perfecting the breed. So, now that we know: This color does not exist in the line; The only record of any black Boxer in the last century was a mixed-breed dog, not a purebred; Strict guidelines and rules of the club in Munich, which was the basis of today Boxers clearly excluded black Boxers.And it's also fair to say: The chance that there is some strange and rare genetic mutation that brings black to the coat is extraordinarily rare; mathematically the chances are so low that this can be ruled out; Black Boxer puppies cannot be born due to a hidden gene; this is because black is dominant over all other colors. It cannot be recessive, it always comes out of the others. Why are some people still convinced that this coloration exists? This leads us to the conclusion of only two possibilities in this regard: A 'true' black Boxer simply cannot be a purebred, there must be another breed in the lineage; The Boxer is not black and is actually a very spotted dog or a reverse brindle; What about the breeders who claim to have massive blacks? It is always possible that some very inexperienced breeders who have a litter of dark puppies will simply call them black dogs; An unethical breeder may purposely be misleading to appear to have 'special' dogs that are 'rare'. It is assumed that in this case it would be done to sell the puppies at a higher cost. Some Elements to Consider Any puppy that is sold and verbally deemed to be a black Boxer cannot be registered as such. Here in Brazil there is still no regulation about it, but the international rules say a lot about it. Black Boxer Puppies Their registration documents do not have that color code as an option, so even if someone verbally nominates a Boxer to have a black coat, the dog - if registered with a recognized club - would officially be another color; and that would likely be brindle. Since the puppy would be given to new owners with documents saying he was not black, how can they claim to have black Boxer dogs? Keeping the above in mind, if a Boxer showed up with registration papers that showed he had a black coat, those papers would need to come from some little known club that was not reputable or the papers would have to be forged. And that, of course, is very unethical. Conclusion Every being be it a mammal, a dog, a human being, etc. Those genes determine everything about the being, from skin color to the number of legs to where the eyes are.Genes control coat color in dogs too. For a dog to be black, that breed of dog must contain the gene to have a black coat. Boxer dogs don't have that gene. So there can be no black Boxer dog, it's genetically impossible. A Boxer that is black, or true black with brown dots, for example, must be a mixed breed or a heavily spotted dog.

With the health of our French Bulldogs being our main focus. We want our French Bulldogs to be structurally correct and color is just a plus. Our goal is to create relationships - not just sell you an animal. As well as, bring happiness and joy into your home. We are raising family members and know that these dogs will become a very important part of your life. With extensive knowledge and understanding in the French Bulldog breed, we always put our animals best intentions first. AKC inspected and approved, we know how to properly pair French Bulldogs for optimal health, temperament, and structure. We know how important it is when bringing in a new addition to any family and want that pairing to be well suited. We feel truly blessed to bring a very special part of our lives into your loving arms! All of our puppies come with a 1 year health guarantee against any life threatening genetic health conditions. Frenchie pups come with AKC papers. Limited AKC registration unless breeding or show rights have been approved by us. We send every puppy home with a wonderful care package that also includes the kibble we would encourage the pups to stay on. Last but not least, a lifetime of our support, advice and guidance from us at Roseflower Frenchies. Our French Bulldog Studs Our studs are well tempered, sweet and loving additions to our family! Paired correctly, they have produced amazing litters! We ensure that all of our studs are DNA tested to ensure the best quality genes are being passed down to our future French Bulldog generations. Please contact us if you have any questions! We take pride in our program because we breed healthy and happy puppies that will bring many years of joy to you and your family. Every dog in my program is a part of my family and is raised indoors with us so that they come to you well socialized and happy! We are located in beautiful Southern California. We are dog lovers and have been breeders of pure bred dogs for over 20 years! We specialize in brachycephalic breeds and always have. After many years we were introduced to the French Bulldog Breed. I think everybody should own one, or two, or 5! I have a vision for improvement of the breed. I believe in healthy dogs that can breathe well. Health is our first priority! Featured Puppies Learn more about our available puppies. I would recommend them for sure!! My first experience was delightful and the overall service was impressive. I highly recommend this breeder! This breeder is the real deal. You'll be asked to provide information about yourself and what you are looking for so the breeder can help you find the right match. Once you apply, Milla will get back to you about availability, pricing and next steps. Pricing is based on the structure, pedigree, color and overall quality of each individual puppy. On occasion, we have puppies ready to go right away. Go Home Date: 8 Weeks After Birth Puppies need time to nurse, grow and develop with their mother and littermates before they can join their new families. A newborn puppy should stay with their breeder, mom, and siblings as they develop physically and gain new social skills alongside their brothers and sisters. The age a puppy can go home depends on the breed, and even the individual, but generally is around two months. They are one of the few highly reputable French bulldog breeders in California. La Grenouille French Bulldog Breeder is a family-run business that has been breeding and showing dogs for over 20 years. They love the breed, and it makes them happy to see their puppies go home with loving families. Their Frenchies come with a one-year health guarantee, a sales contract, and a shot record. They have all of their shots and dewormings up to date, and they have been checked out by a vet and given a health certificate. Before going home, they start crate and house training so your puppy can adjust quickly. All of their puppies come with a starter kit that includes their food, toys, blankets, collar, and leashes. They have more than 20 years of experience in the field and a deep love for the breed. They specialize in all colors as well as short and long hair coats. They devote countless hours to raising each puppy, ensuring that it receives plenty of affection, attention, and training so that it can adjust to its new home with ease. Their Frenchies are fed high-quality food, exercised, and socialized on a daily basis. They are exposed to children and other animals at Norcal French Bulldogs, where they receive constant love and care from our family members before going home with you! Options for both delivery and pick-up are offered. The quality of their puppies is of utmost importance to them. Because Sactown Frenchies only produces one or two litters per year, they are able to give each puppy the attention and care it needs to grow into a healthy adult dog. The puppies are well-trained family pets who live with them. Sactown Frenchies offers stud services to those who want to breed their own French bulldogs. If you want to buy a puppy, past customers say they had the best experience at Sactown Frenchies. Great communication, dependability, and breed knowledge are just a few of the many reasons why people choose Sactown Frenchies as their preferred source for quality puppies! All puppies come with up-to-date vaccinations and deworming, as well as a 1-year health guarantee. They are committed to providing their customers with the highest standard of care for their French and English Bulldogs. They do not support line breeding or inbreeding. In addition, all of their puppies are fully registered, purebred, vet checked, and up-to-date on all shots and deworming. Big Bulldogs knows that your dog is an important member of your family, so they send each puppy home with a contract that outlines their health care responsibilities. If you ever have to give up your dog, Big Bulldogs will be happy to take the Frenchie back and find him a new home. Big Bulldogs provides excellent customer service in addition to being professional. They offer high-quality puppies at affordable prices while remaining reliable and responsive throughout the ordering process. Located in the Ojai Valley of Ventura County, Southern California, they are committed to providing you with the best quality of care for your new puppy. They require that all prospective owners must meet with them before agreeing to sell them a Frenchie from French Bulldogs LA. In addition, They use FaceTime, Skype, or another video calling service to bring your new puppy into your home without the need for a drive. Our family has waited almost 3 years for Kylie to join us. And we could not be happier. She is a welcome addition to our family. Marissa is a joy to work with. She always has time for questions. Even after Kylie has been with us for over a year, she still engages and checks in. I am so impressed. I would and will definitely go to Santa Cruz French Bulldogs for our next fuzzy family member. She responded super fast when we first reached out about a puppy. She was very direct and effective in her communication which made the whole process very pleasant. As a breeder, you could tell how dedicated and caring she is toward her puppies which made us very comfortable and confident in bringing home a puppy from Marissa. She was super welcoming the day we went to pick him up, and we got a glimpse at the loving home that these puppies are raised in. Looks and all else aside, his temperament and personality is out of this world and he brings joy to anyone who meet him. She breeds high quality puppies and is very knowledgeable when it comes to the breed. She is also very responsive to questions and offered great recommendations for care and maintenance. She was local to me so that was great but aside from that she is an amazing person and really loves her Frenchies and only wants the best for them. She answered all of the questions I had and still have to this day when it comes to anything Frenchie. I got to pick my puppy at 5 weeks old and that was the best experience ever, her dogs are all super sweet and amazingly well cared for, always vet checked and properly watched over until they are ready for you to take them into your life! We raise our French Bulldogs with lots of attention, love and care. They are part of our family and grow up socialized with kids, adults and both large and small dogs. Troy was our Black Russian Terrier. He was an amazing protector of our home, a wonderful uncle to all the Frenchie puppies, and was the sweetest giant we have ever known. He was the inspiration behind the name. In June of , we had to say goodbye to Troy as cancer took over his body and made it too painful for him to breathe and move. He will be forever missed and we are thankful for the almost 11 years of life he spent with us. At Black Fortress Kennel, we have made it a point to only breed French Bulldogs that have demonstrated health, good AKC standards and a wonderful temperament. Our puppies all go home with their first vaccine, microchip, their health exam, a goodie that will remind them of their mama and siblings, and a one year health guarantee of genetic conditions. We encourage our new extended families to keep in touch and are available for any questions or guidance on the first puppy years. Many of our puppies have instagram accounts, and we love to follow up and see how they grow. If you are interested in hearing about upcoming litters, the best location to start is our instagram page. Once you are sure you would love one of our puppies, the next step is an interview and an application. Please email us to schedule the interview. Check out our Instagram page for pictures of our puppies and our Frenchies, or contact us via email for questions. Our going home page has resources for the items we recommend and use with our Frenchies. We are affiliated with Amazon and as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

This comes at no extra cost to you. Getting a golden retriever is a big commitment, so to help you make the right choice, we made this list of pros and cons for you. Yes, we do love golden retrievers here this is a golden retriever blog, after all , but golden retrievers are definitely not for everyone. Golden retrievers are great family dogs and are good with children Goldens love nothing more than being with their families. Golden retrievers have great personalities They are sweet, loving, gentle dogs that like to please people. Golden retrievers are smart According to Dr. This is based on their ability to learn new commands and perform commands they already know. They can learn over words and are about as smart as a 2 or 2. You can start training them as soon as you bring them home at eight weeks, and many good breeders start training their pups even a little bit before that. This is a great way to build your relationship with them, plus it helps stop bad habits from forming. Also, not only are they easy to train , but they love to train. They like to be challenged and like to be rewarded with praise and food. Their long, golden coats, sweet smile, and joyful tail make them one of the best-looking dogs. Goldens wear their emotions on their sleeves and you can seemingly always tell what a golden retriever is thinking by looking at their body language. Below is a list of some of the cons of owning them, but keep in mind that many of these things, like grooming and paying for vet visits and food, will be cons of owning any breed of dog. It just seems to be in the atmosphere in our home. They need regular grooming tasks done, such as cleaning their teeth, brushing their coats, clipping their nails, cleaning their ears, and taking a bath. Of course, you can do these tasks yourself, or bring them to a professional groomer to get them done. Golden retrievers have quite a few health issues Because of things like backyard breeding and inbreeding, golden retrievers seem to have a lot of health issues. I wish it was longer, but larger dogs typically do live shorter lives than smaller dogs. Click here to learn more about how to give your golden retriever a long, happy life. But the good news is that golden retrievers do make great alarm systems. Golden retrievers need a lot of exercise Goldens were bred as hunting dogs, which means they had to have a lot of energy to retrieve gunned down birds out in the field all day. Goldens need one to two hours of exercise per day. Most people recommend only getting a golden if you have a fenced in yard. If not, expect to make lots of trips to parks and fields where your golden can run around and get their energy out. Golden retrievers are mischievous Goldens love to play, and their smarts and energy levels can sometimes get them in trouble. Take the adorable Thieving Archie in the video below for example. Oliver also likes to be chased and play keep away, but not quite as much as Archie. You can literally see the wheels spinning as he tries to decide whether he wants to obey or try to force us to play his favorite game. They would much rather prefer to be with their families all the time. Golden Retriever Facts We just covered a lot of pros and cons, but this next section covers some facts that might be a pro or con, depending on your preferences. Golden retrievers are medium to large dogs Goldens are definitely not small dogs. They range from inches tall and pounds. And even then, many people say golden retrievers are puppies for life. I was tempted to put this in the cons side because they can be difficult as wild puppies, but their goofiness and playfulness is endearing. But they will bring more love and joy to you than you could ever imagine. Are you thinking about getting a golden retreiver? Let me know what you decide in the comments below! Related articles:. The 6 Pros of Owning a Golden Retriever 1. Golden Retrievers Have an Excellent Temperament Golden Retrievers are popular for their fun-loving, affectionate, and intelligent personalities. They Are Easy to Train They are enthusiastic about learning new things and have a great ability to pick up on new commands. Paired with loyalty and a high potential to learn, they are easy dogs to train. Make your training sessions fun and rewarding. Golden Retrievers love games, learn well through them, and are highly motivated by rewarding treats. Make it a regular part of the day so that they master their skills and get every family member involved, so their training is consistent. Goldies Make Great Family Dogs They are great with kids and have a natural ability to calm people and intuit their emotions, making them the perfect pet for a big family with kids. They are patient, caring, and gentle with kids and will love joining in on family adventures. Image Credit: wavebreakmedia, Shutterstock 4. Golden Retrievers Love to Play Living up to their name, Retrievers are great at playing fetch and love the time spent with their owner. While you can enjoy the fun-loving and active nature of your Golden Retriever outdoors, they are calm and obedient indoors. Golden Retrievers love playing water games. In fact, they have slightly webbed feet, which is a genetic trait that helps them swim through marshes and rivers. Paired with their athleticism, they are amazing and very keen swimmers. They are loving and empathetic and are commonly used as therapy dogs because of these qualities and their ability to soothe and calm people. Image Credit: Dmytro Zinkevych, Shutterstock 6. Even though they were originally bred as hunting dogs, that is no reason to be concerned, as their friendly and lovable nature will override any prey drive that they might have. The 4 Cons of Owning a Golden Retriever 1. Golden Retrievers Can Be Expensive It is no surprise that golden retriever puppies are in high demand, so with that usually comes a high price tag. There are several factors that will influence the price of a golden retriever, such as color, age, pedigree, certification, and breeder location. Over and above the purchase cost of your pup, you need to consider healthcare and insurance, feeding, training, and grooming costs. In some cases, you can expect an even bigger figure than this. Golden Retriever puppies also cost more than adult or senior dogs, but this is the case with most dog breeds. Image Credit: Jagdprinzessin, Pixabay 2. Goldies Are Prone to Health Issues It is common for purebred dogs to encounter some breed-related health problems , and the Golden Retriever has a few worth mentioning. Hypothyroidism: An endocrine disorder in dogs due to an underactive thyroid that can cause bodily functions to slow down. Cancer: Golden Retrievers are prone to cancer. Your Golden Retriever puppy food will need 1. A diet that nurtures bone and joint development is crucial for a growing pup of a large breed. As your pup grows, its diet should be transitioned over 7 days to avoid gastrointestinal upset. Image Credit: PorChonlawit, Shutterstock 4. A deshedding tool is ideal for catching dirt and debris from the undercoat and can be done every few weeks. Check their ears regularly for cleaning to prevent infection, and give their nails a trim when you hear them tapping on the ground. Every 4 to 6 weeks, your pooch will enjoy a bath. Be sure to use a pet-friendly shampoo and rinse thoroughly to avoid left over suds that can cause irritation. Final Thoughts It is clear that the pros far outweigh the cons when owning a Golden Retriever. Knowing what to expect will help you in deciding and give you a realistic idea of life with one of these amazing dogs. Be sure and confident in your ability to raise, train, and care for your new family member before making the commitment, and do thorough research on breeders and shelters to adopt and buy responsibly. They will bring your family many years of companionship , joy, and unconditional love, which are primary factors when deciding to take one on. A Golden Retriever is guaranteed to bring you these elements in abundance while keeping you busy and active. The pros and cons are subjective to what suits you as a family, but we believe that a Golden Retriever will be a great addition with all the positive qualities and endless love they have to offer. See Also:. These dogs are perfect for anybody who wishes to find a loving and caring four-legged friend. However, just as with any other dog breed, there are some downsides of Golden Retrievers to keep in mind. What are the pros and cons of owning a Golden Retriever? Pros: Golden Retrievers are loving; make great therapy and family dogs, are playful and love people. They are also intelligent and easy to train. Cons: Golden Retrievers are not great guard dogs, can be mischievous, do not like being left alone, and are prone to health issues that can shorten their life. Golden Retrievers are special dogs that are bound to make you fall in love at first sight. This article may contain affiliate links and loyalgoldens may earn a commission if a purchase is made. Unlock your goldens natural intelligence and see just how quickly problem behaviors disappear. This is the best at home dog training I've ever used! The Facts Golden retrievers are considered a medium-to-large breed. They can be between 21 and 24in cm tall, and can weigh between 55 and 74lbs kg depending on gender and age. Their temperament remains playful for longer than other breeds. They descend from a Tweed Water Spaniel mix. They are naturally sweet, calm, and loving. This characteristic makes them the perfect dog breed for a family or being trained to be a therapy dog. In the video below, you can find a quick overview of the must-know facts about Golden retrievers. Facts about Golden Retrievers. However, according to the studies conducted by neuropsychologist Stanley Coren, Ph. They can learn up to words, and their intelligence can be compared to that of a 2-year-old child. Their training should start when they are eight weeks old and should continue throughout their life. If you are buying a Golden Retriever puppy, you can start the training Brain Training For Dogs as soon as your furry friend comes home. However, breeders tend to begin their socialization training when they are still with their mom. Golden Retrievers are naturally caring and protective, making them an ideal family dog. However, it is essential to keep in mind that Golden Retrievers are a larger dog, and their playfulness might have some downsides: it is easy for them to knock over or hurt a child accidentally. With supervision and proper training, Golden Retrievers make perfect dogs for your little ones. They Have Loving Personalities Golden Retrievers are goofy and playful, but they are also kind, loving, and incredibly caring. Whether you wish to introduce them in a household with children or to accompany older adults, Golden Retrievers are not short of affection! They Are Excellent Therapy Dogs If you have ever looked into canines who become therapy dogs or guide dogs, Golden Retrievers are always at the top of the list. These dogs make great pets to hug, cuddle and give comfort aka comfort retriever. They are excellent companions for kids and adults who are ssufferingfrom stress or anxiety regardless of the reason. Even if your Golden Retriever is not on the path to becoming a therapy dog, you can still enjoy all the love your puppy has to give! Discover how to train your Golden Retriever by playing games : 21 games to play with your Golden that will make them smarter and better behaved! They must receive the correct supervision when meeting others, but you are not likely to experience many socialization problems with Golden Retrievers. Golden Retrievers Are Prone to Health Issues Golden Retrievers are a beautiful breed, but they are undeniably more prone than others to deal with certain chronic conditions. Among the most common health issues that you will find affecting the Golden Retriever breed are hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and certain eye conditions. Golden Retrievers Can Be Expensive Golden Retrievers are a pure breed, and they are among the most expensive ones out there. If you want to be assured of a purebred Golden Retriever, you must find a respectable breeder. Costs where I break down the costs of owning a Golden. A key personality trait of a guard dog is some level of aggressiveness. Golden Retrievers, in most cases, are lacking this trait entirely and would be more likely to lick an intruder than to chase them off. They need to live indoors with their people. Golden Retrievers Shed Frequently Golden Retrievers are not one of the pure breeds with the longest hair, but they shed much more than fellow medium-length fur dogs. Without this amount of activity, Golden Retrievers can quickly become overweight and frustrated. And, since they are highly energetic dogs, this can turn into destructive behavior. While this makes them one of the best breeds for families and kids, there is a downside to this personality trait; it is not uncommon for Golden Retrievers to suffer from loneliness and seperation anxiety- even when you are just at work! Studies have found that the larger breed of bigger dogs can affect their life expectancy. Additionally, Golden Retrievers are more prone to several health issues that can be life-threatening in most cases. Conclusion The upside is that Golden Retrievers are great dogs for families with children. They love socialization with other animals and humans, and are incredibly loving and caring. Their personality makes them the best choice for therapy dogs and one of the most loved breeds in households around the world. The downside is that while Golden Retrievers are highly intelligent and trainable, they also need a lot of exercise, attention from their owner, and they shed a great amount. They are also prone to several threatening health conditions, high maintenance , and costly. Golden Retriever health issues Golden Retriever pros and cons Owning a Golden Retriever has advantages and disadvantages. Pros of owning a Golden include the dog's friendly and affectionate temperament. The sociable and playful temperament of the Golden Retriever makes this breed one of the most popular family dogs. Golden Retrievers make good family pets for older people and for families with children. Goldens are eager to please the owner and highly trainable. This easygoing breed is fit for first time dog owners, which is another con. Disadvantages of owning a Golden Retriever include the abundant shedding. Golden Retriever owners need to brush the dog often. Investing in a good vacuum cleaner is also a good idea as there may be plenty of dog's hair around the home where a Golden lives. Goldens have plenty of energy and need to get sufficient exercise every day. Goldens enjoy long walks and owners need to be energetic enough to take the dog out for several good walks every day. This is not an apartment dog. Goldens need enough space and a country home with a large yard is ideal. Goldens are companion dogs that need to spend most of the day with the owners. One of the cons of owning a Golden Retriever is that this breed is not fit to be a guard dog. Goldens are so friendly by nature that counting on a Golden to protect your home is setting unrealistic expectations. The Golden Retriever breed originated in the early 19th century in the Scottish Highlands. It was created by a gentleman named Dudley Marjoribanks, 1st Baron Tweedmouth Lord Tweedmouth to you , a Scottish businessman and politician who bred dogs as a hobby. The breed was developed from crossing bloodhounds, setters and the existing retrievers to create a breed of hunting dog that could retrieve a large number of game birds from land and water. Golden Retriever weight Golden Retriever male weight: 29 to 34 kg 65 to 75 lb Golden Retriever female weight: 25 to 29 kg 55 to 65 lb Golden Retriever size Golden Retriever male height: 56 to 61 cm 22 to 24 in Golden Retriever female height: 51 to 56 cm 20 to 22 in Golden Retriever coat: thick, long double coat Golden Retriever colors: Light Golden, Golden, or Dark Golden How many puppies do Goldens have on average? Golden Retriever litter size: 4 to 8 puppies How long do Golden Retrievers live? Golden Retriever personality According to the breed standard, the Golden Retriever personality is friendly, reliable and trustworthy. The highly intelligent Golden Retriever with a friendly temperament is among the most popular dog breeds in the United States. Originally developed to help hunters find ducks in the water, Golden Retrievers have soft mouths so they don't damage and chew up the birds during retrieving. The Canadian Golden Retrievers are the tallest of the three types males can reach 24" in height which is about 61 centimeters and females can reach .American types tend to be lankier and less muscular than other types. British type Golden Retrievers have broader skull and the forequarters are more muscular than in other types. Golden Retrievers are a versatile breed that can live in an apartment or in a large house. The large dog needs about two hours of exercise every day to stay healthy both mentally and physically. Golden Retriever's friendly personality makes him a perfect family dog. Are Golden Retrievers good with kids? Golden retrievers are playful, energetic and affectionate dogs and are very suitable for families with kids. Golden Retrievers love to play fetch with a ball or frisbee. The dog easily adopts to different environments and to different people. This breed can be a good hunting dog and a good show dog. The Golden Retriever breed is well suited for those who have little or no experience in dog ownership. Easily trainable Golden Retrievers excel in obedience. The Golden Retriever is not fit to be a guard dog. The dog may bark when a stranger approaches his territory but in general Golden Retrievers will not attack as the breed is known for its friendliness. Golden Retrievers are easily trainable and used by search and rescue teams, as Seeing Eye dog for the blind and as a hearing dog for the hearing-impaired people. Socialize your Golden Retriever early on. Take the Golden puppy to different environments and be sure to keep the dog comfortable at all times. Let the puppy meet people of different ages - from young kids to seniors. Letting the puppy befriend other family pets is also important. Keep new experiences short and always positive. Never let anyone play rough with your puppy. A well socialized puppy will grow into a confident adult Golden Retriever who can be comfortable in different environments and has a positive and friendly personality that makes this breed so irresistible to dog enthusiasts. See video below for more information about this Golden Retriever - the large family friendly dog breed. Thick, long and wavy coat with a good undercoat of the Golden Retriever protects this breed in the coldest water. The coat needs daily brushing to avoid tangles. Regular brushing helps to manage the shedding. Many dog breeds shed all year long, but most breeds, including Golden Retrievers, experience heavier periods of shedding in the spring and fall. Golden Retrievers have a double coat - a long, silky outer coat and a downy, insulating undercoat. In the spring, much of this undercoat sheds out and can get caught in the outer coat, forming mats, particularly around ears, tail and "underarm", where the front legs meet the chest. In the fall, the undercoat grows in more thickly again. During both these periods Goldens need extra grooming with a natural bristle brush and an undercoat rake to prevent mats and keep their coats looking clean, bright and shiny. Video demonstration of using a Furminator brush on a Golden Retriever. Using a Furminator deshedding tool helps to keep Golden Retrievers's shedding to a minimum. Golden Retriever supplies When you are getting ready to bring a Golden Retriever home, getting the needed supplies ahead of time is important. Here are the essential puppy supplies every new Golden Retriever owner should have on hand. Food and Water Bowls Weighted metal bowls or heavy ceramic bowls are the best. These won't tip as easily and won't tempt your dog to chew like plastic bowls might. These are also not likely to collect bacteria as they are easier to clean. Slow feeders for large breeds are great for Labradors. Slow feeders prevent the dog from eating too fast, thus swallowing air along with their food. Crate for a Golden Retriever Crates are very helpful and your dog will find a "den-like" environment comfortable for sleeping and relaxing in. Another important function of a crate is that dog crates can be used for housetraining. Crate-train your puppy right away and he will come to love and cherish his "den". Wire and plastic are both acceptable options, but dogs generally prefer an enclosed den that is only exposed on one side. If confined to a small space but exposed on all sides, dogs can get anxious. If you choose a wire crate, cover the top, sides and back with a blanket or, when outside, with a waterproof cover. This keeps the sun off and gives your dog a safe and secure feeling. Dog leash and collar for a Golden Retriever Every dog needs to learn how to walk on a leash. A light nylon collar and 6-foot leash are appropriate for puppies, but adults can use them too. Nylon leashes and collars are washable, and you can buy reflective kinds, which are better for walking dogs at night. Leather leashes are easier to grip, less likely to chafe your skin if your dog is pulling on the leash, and develop a lovely patina as they age. Retractable leashes are good options when walking in areas where you want to allow your dog to explore off the path, but they aren't a good idea if you are trying to teach your dog to heel and not to pull on the leash. If this isn't a problem, a retractable leash works fine. Just be sure you are still able to keep control of your dog if necessary. Identification Tag ID tag should be on the dog's collar so that whoever finds the dog can return the dog back to you in case your dog gets lost. Dog toys for Golden Retrievers Every puppy needs to play, learn interact and chew on something. Golden Retrievers will quickly learn which toys are theirs if you give them their own toy box - a simple box or laundry basket will do. Keep it full of interesting toys and rotate the toys from time to time so that the dog can find something interesting in that box. You can also teach your dog to recognize each toy by the name. You will need to give your dog one new toy at a time and let the dog play with that toy for a few days, making sure to repeat the word that you want to use to name the toy. This helps your dog to associate each toy with its name and soon he will learn names of all his toys and can bring you one when you request a specific toy by the name. Great way to help your puppy develop his intelligence! Goldens typically enjoy balls, Nylabone Frisbees, and anything appropriate for chewing. Try stuffable toys you can fill with treats, especially those that make your Golden work to get the treat out to keep him busy for hours. Dog shampoo and conditioner Choose a basic dog shampoo, or one specially formulated for medium-length coats. If your dog has sensitive skin, choose a shampoo designed to soothe the skin. Dog conditioners help to keep the coat smooth, shiny, and tangle free. Dog nail clippers Choose clippers designed for large dogs, never use nail clippers made for people on your dog. Some clippers come with a file or an electric smoother built into the clippers, to smooth out the rough nail surface after clipping. You can also use a nail grinder. Keep the dog's ears clean to prevent ear infections. Small blunt-tipped trimming scissors Golden Retrievers tend to grow long hair between and around their paw pads. This can get tangled and in the winter, can collect balls of ice or irritating de-icing salt. Keep your dog's paws trimmed, clipping out hair from between paw pads and around the feet. Brush your dog's teeth every day to prevent dental issues. Golden Retriever training Goldens take to training quickly and with enthusiasm, so housetraining and basic commands come easily to Golden Retrievers. It is up to the owner to invest the time and energy into training their dog so that the dog can earn that title of the "perfect family dog". Because Goldens are quick to learn and are sensitive, they don't need harsh training methods. They only need consistency, a fun approach to training, and lots of positive reinforcement for a job well done. Untrained and unsocialized Golden Retrievers who aren't taught good manners and not exposed to other people and dogs early in life can be pushy, nippy, aggressive, hyperactive, and destructive. Regular training and lots of positive, safe life experience is the way to bring out the very best in your Golden Retriever, so that his true nature and personality can shine. Golden Retriever puppies often display signs of oral fixation and the puppy will chew on things to relieve the oral fixation. To help your puppy be sure to provide the dog with appropriate dog toy that they can carry in the mouth and make sure the toy is safe for chewing and doesn't have small parts that the dog can accidentally swallow. A good toy would be a hard rubber ball to play with. Train your dog to retrieve objects to help the dog satisfy its natural desire to retrieve. This highly intelligent breed responds well to both basic and advanced training. House training should start the minute you bring the puppy home. Select a spot where you prefer to use as your dog's toilet and bring your puppy in that area immediately after each feeding and twenty minutes after feeding. These are the times when most dogs tend to need to relieve themselves. Very young puppies under 4 months of age may need to pee every hour or so. Take your Golden Retriever outside after a nap, first thing in the morning, before going to bed at night and also before leaving the dog alone. To prevent forming a habit of your dog eliminating itself in the house, watch the dog's behavior closely and whenever you notice that the dog is pacing, circling, sniffing and leaving the room - take this behavior as a signal to take the Golden Retriever outside so that the dog can relieve itself in the designated area. Praise your Golden Retriever or reward it with a treat as soon as the dog is finished relieving itself in the designated area. Always bring the dog to the same area designated as the dog's toilet so that the familiar environment will encourage your Golden Retriever to relieve itself. Never punish your dog or scream at the Golden Retriever if the dog doesn't do something right. Stay calm if you catch your puppy in the middle of an accident. Clap sharply in order to startle the dog. This will usually cause the puppy to stop. Then quickly run with the dog outside, encouraging the puppy to follow you. If your Golden Retriever finishes peeing or pooping outside, give a reward. If she has nothing left, don't worry about it. Screaming and punishing can only scare your puppy and make it more difficult for the puppy to learn. Instead be sure to reward the good behavior immediately so that the dog associates the reward with his behavior. Ignore the bad behavior. Staying consistent is the key to success. When it comes to intelligence, the Golden Retriever earned a spot in the top five most intelligent dog breeds. The eager to please the owner Golden Retriever is among the easiest dog breeds to train. Use motivators such as food, praise or play and you will be amazed at how smart the Golden Retriever is. Intelligence is determined not only by genetics. Environment plays a huge role in developing an intelligent dog. As an owner you have the ability to help your Golden Retriever puppy to develop its intellect. Teach your dog names of various objects as the dog is capable to remember hundreds of words. Develop his mental power by naming each of his toys. When you get a new toy for the dog, be sure to name the toy as you are playing with the dog using the toy. Let the dog play with the same toy a few days and keep naming the toy until your Golden Retriever knows the toy by the name and can bring it to you when you ask to bring that specific toy. You can also teach the dog names of other objects. Keep increasing the dog's vocabulary as that helps to create new associations. This is one of the ways to develop your dog's intelligence. Raising Golden Retriever Puppies Pet ownership is a commitment. A good Golden Retriever owner is prepared to put time, money, and energy into proper veterinary care, training, quality food, supplies, and invest quality time into building the relationship between human and dog. The reason why there are so many Golden Retrievers abandoned to animal shelters and rescue groups is because many people aren't suited for this breed of dog. Puppies require housetraining. They chew things you don't want them to chew. They require shots, worming, and checkups that can be expensive. They need obedience training and socialization too. Adolescent dogs aren't easier. Big and full of energy Goldens can easily get into trouble especially between 8 months of age to approximately 18 months until the dog will start maturing into an adult. In old age, Goldens may suffer from many diseases associated with aging, from arthritis and hip dysplasia to eye diseases, cancer, heart problems, and many other conditions. Senior Goldens need more frequent check-ups, tests and veterinary care than Goldens in their prime, and the committed owner will provide this care, along with sensitivity towards an aging Golden's changing needs. If you are ready to become a responsible and committed Golden Retriever owner, ask yourself the following questions: Having a fenced yard helps, but am I ready to spend about two hours every day walking and playing with my Golden Retriever? Am I active enough to keep up with this breed? Do I love to vacuum? Golden Retrievers shed all year, picking up the pace of shedding in the spring and the fall. That means a lot of vacuuming, and tolerance for the occasional stray Golden hair on your pillow, rug and even in your morning coffee. Is my home ready for a Golden Retriever? Is my furniture ready to be occupied by a big yellow dog? Your Golden Retriever will bargain with you for comfort privileges. Am I sure I want a dog around all the time? Golden Retrievers want to be a part of everything that you do. Best dog food for Golden Retriever is made of high quality ingredients and it should also be age-appropriate because dogs of different ages have different nutritional needs. Remove the food between feedings. Regular feedings make it easier to house train your Golden Retriever as your dog will have regular times when it needs to eliminate. A young puppy needs four or five small meals a day. By six months, it will need only two meals a day. How much to feed a Golden Retriever Golden Retriever puppies up to 6 months of age need to be fed 3 times per day. Feed the puppy the low end of recommended amount of food, or as much as the puppy will eat in ten minutes. Best dog food is a puppy food for large breeds specifically formulated to moderate growth, or a premium adult food. Golden Retriever adolescents between 6 months and 1 year old need to eat 2 or 3 times a day. Feed the adolescent Golden Retriever the low end of the recommended amount of food, or slightly more if you can see his ribs. Or, as much as the adolescent will eat in ten minutes. Best dog food for adolescent Golden is premium adult food. Active Adult Golden Retriever between 1 to 7 years old need to eat 2 or 3 times a day. Feed the adult Golden Retriever the low end to middle the amount of food, or slightly more on days of high activity. Or, as much as the dog will eat in ten minutes. Feed the dog premium adult food for active dogs or regular premium adult dog food. Sedentary Adult Golden Retriever between 1 to 7 years old need to eat 2 times a day. Feed the adult Golden Retriever the low end the amount of food, or slightly less if a dog is losing a noticeable waistline when viewed from above. Feed the dog premium adult dog food. Senior Golden Retriever are dogs that are approximately 7 years old and older need to eat 2 times a day. Feed the senior Golden Retriever the low end the amount of food, or slightly less if a dog is losing a noticeable waistline when viewed from above or reducing activity level. Feed the dog premium adult dog food or premium food designed for senior dogs. Golden Retriever grooming and care To prevent ear infections be sure to clean your Golden Retriever's ears regularly. Floppy ears of Golden Retriever are prone to ear infections when moisture gets trapped inside, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. If you notice your dog scratching his ears a lot, give your vet a call. The best way to prevent infection from occurring in the first place, is to keep your dog's ears clean and dry. Bathe your Golden Retriever once every couple of months. Some Golden Retrievers might not like standing in the bathtub, so get your Golden puppy accustomed to regular baths at a young age, when your Golden is physically easier to control. Brushing your Golden retriever before bathing will help to remove tangles that tend to get tighter in the water. Use positive reinforcement by providing your dog with some treats as you are bathing him. Nail trimming is important because long nails can easily scratch people and can also damage the dog's feet by causing foot pads to splay. Nails should be short, neat and smooth, and the best way to accomplish this is to trim your Golden's nails a little bit every week, rather than a lot every couple of months. Inside every dog's nail is a little vein called the quick. The longer the nail grows, the further down the nail the quick grows. When you clip your Golden's nails, you have to be careful not to clip the quick. It also causes bleeding which can be difficult to stop. To be safe, have a stryptic pencil or powder to stop bleeding. The bleeding will stop eventually, but in the meantime you are risking getting blood all over the house. Start nail trimming right away so your Golden gets used to it. Puppies may not like it, but they will get used to it if you do it regularly. Make the process rewarding to your puppy. At first, just do one nail each day, trimming daily instead of weekly. This will get your Golden puppy used to the routine. Work up to one paw each day. Take it slowly, and offer lots of praise, rewards and fun play session afterwards. Dental care could save your dog's life. A senior Golden Retriever with teeth covered in plaque can be at a greater risk for early death and heart disease. Dental plaque can lead to bacterial infections of the heart, so keeping your Golden's teeth clean from the start is important. Daily brushing can prevent the need for professional teeth cleaning later in life, and expensive procedure that requires anesthesia. Nylabone chew toys also can help keep the teeth free of plaque. Always use a toothpaste made for dogs. Toothpastes made for humans can be dangerous for your dog's health. Golden Retriever health issues Common health problems in the Golden Retriever Breed include hip dysplasia, heart problems, eye disorders and cancer. Take your Golden Retriever to the veterinarian once a year for a checkup. Compare Golden Retriever to other large dog breeds. Conclusion Golden retrievers are one of the most popular breeds in the United States. They're known for their beauty, intelligence, and friendly disposition. If you are considering owning a Golden Retriever, then you should know that there are both pros and cons to this breed. The following blog post will discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly of owning one of these dogs. We hope that after reading this article you can make an informed decision about whether or not a Golden Retriever is right for your family! They have a thick coat of fur that can be any color from light gold to dark red. They often have a white blaze on their chest, and their eyes are typically a light brown or green. They Are Intelligent Golden retrievers are known for being one of the most intelligent dog breeds. They are quick to learn new commands, and they are often used as service dogs because of their intelligence and gentle nature. They Are Friendly and Affectionate Golden retrievers love people, and they are always happy to see their owners. They will greet you with a wagging tail and plenty of kisses, and they will never hesitate to show you how much they love you. Dogs are more than just pets, they can be your friend and what better friend to have than a friendly and affectionate dog like the Golden Retriever. They are gentle and playful, which makes them the perfect pet to have if you have children in the house. They will play by their rules and never get too rough, which makes them perfect for small children. They have medium sized bodies and short fur which means you don't have to spend a lot of time grooming them. All you need to do is brush their fur once or twice a week and make sure they get plenty of exercise on the weekends, and your Golden will be happy as can be! With little effort you may be able to train your golden retriever without the help of professional. They Don't Bark a Lot Golden Retrievers are not known for being barkers, which is great if you live in an apartment or close to your neighbors. They will bark when they see someone or something new, but they typically won't bark for no reason like many other dog breeds. They Are Adaptable To Different Locations Golden retrievers are one of the most adaptable dog breeds, and they can do well in different locations. It's always best to research where you will be moving before getting your golden retriever just in case there aren't many areas to walk them or areas that will allow dogs. They Are Always Eager To Please Their Owners Most dog breeds are eager to please their owners, but Golden retrievers go over and above by always being willing to learn new tricks. They will never turn down a command because they just want to do what you say! It's not uncommon for people who own golden retrievers to teach them how to open doors or fetch items when needed. They Are Very Obedient Most dogs are obedient when trained properly, but Golden retrievers take it to the next level. A lot of dog owners consider their golden retrievers family members because they're so good at obeying every command and they are never annoying towards the family members or guests. They will always be up for a game of fetch or tug-of-war, and they will never get tired of playing. They are always happy and full of life, which is why they make such great pets. They may nip at your heels when they're playing or get a little too excited, but they will never intentionally hurt you. It's always best to be cautious around any dog breed, but Golden Retrievers are one of the most trustworthy dog breeds out there. They are very friendly and docile towards strangers so there is no reason for them to bark or protect your home if someone comes knocking. They are prone to health issues Any type of dog breed is prone to health issues, but Golden Retriever owners need to be aware that their dogs are more likely than others to get cancer or hip dysplasia. This is why the dog owners have to focus on keeping their golden retrievers healthy by taking them for a walk every day and playing with them daily so they stay healthy and active. They Shed a Lot of Fur If you don't like having a lot of dog hair on your clothes or furniture, then this is the wrong breed for you. Golden Retrievers shed fur year round and they have no way to control it because their coats are constantly growing in new hair. This can be very annoying if you're not used to cleaning up after dogs with long fur. It's not uncommon for them to disobey commands or show aggressive signs towards other dogs because they don't want to do what you say. They will also refuse to eat dog food when you buy it so make sure that you hide the food bowls if you don't want them to get spoiled. They Are Easily Bored If you don't train your golden retriever or give them a lot of attention, then they are going to get into trouble. They will constantly look for ways to entertain themselves by chewing on the furniture if they have nothing else better to do, which is why it's important that you take them out every day and let them run around in the yard. This will also keep them from getting too tired, which can lead to a lot of health issues down the road. Golden Retrievers Are Prone To Weight Gain It's not uncommon for golden retriever owners to notice that their dogs are putting on a lot of weight, especially if they don't exercise them or give them the right amount of food. It is good practice to feed your dog in moderation and take him out every day so he can build up some muscle. This will help keep his joints strong and healthy as well. This could help avoid obesity in golden retrievers. Golden Retrievers are prone to slobbering all over themselves when they eat or drink water which can be very annoying if you don't like cleaning up after your pets. Make sure that you keep them away from furniture or any other expensive things that you don't want to get ruined. They Can Be Very Smelly Along with the drooling, Golden Retrievers can also be smelly dogs because they tend to not bath as often as they should. This is why it's important that you give them a bath at least once a month and make sure that you dry their fur completely so they don't start smelling bad. They Can Chew and Damage Your Household Items Golden retrievers love to chew on things and they can easily damage your household items if you're not careful. Make sure that you keep all of your belongings out of their reach and put away any valuable items that you don't want them to get a hold of. This includes cords, shoes, and clothing. This can be a pain if you're looking for your car keys or remote control because there's a good chance that your dog has hidden it somewhere in the house. Be sure to keep an eye on him at all times so he doesn't get a chance to steal anything else. Even when you find them, the items would be covered with dog saliva. They Need a Lot of Attention Golden Retrievers are not the kind of dogs that you can leave for extended periods of time because they need a lot of attention and affection. If you have to go out, be sure to take them with you or better yet just don't leave without taking them in the first place. This way your dog will never feel abandoned and he will always be happy to see you when you come home. They Are Heavy Dogs Adult golden retriever can weight up to 75 pounds or more which when combined with their enthusiasm can be problematic for the owners. Imagine coming home after a long day's work and your 75 pound golden retriever runs towards you in enthusiasm and love. Now you know they are doing it to show love and affection but they might end up injuring you. Conclusion Golden Retrievers are great dogs but they also have their fair share of problems. As long as you're aware of these things and know how to deal with them, then owning a golden retriever can be a very rewarding experience. So, are Golden Retrievers the perfect dog breed for you? It really depends on your lifestyle and what you're looking for in a pet. If you're willing to put in the extra work to keep them healthy and happy, then they definitely make great pets! But, if you're looking for something a little more low maintenance, then this is not the right dog breed for you. It's always best to know both Pros and Cons of any dog breed before getting one because it will save you from running into serious issues down the road! More Dog's World. Avoiding stress Golden Retrievers Are Good Looking Golden Retrievers were bred as working dogs for temperament and purpose rather than appearance. Nonetheless, they are stunning-looking medium-sized dogs with gorgeous long silky golden coats and sweet smiles. They are typically light cream or light gold, gold, or red, with varying shades of gold within each color. Different regions have their own breed standard, and you can learn about the various types here, Golden Retriever Types: 3 Breed Variations. Or if you want to specifically compare the UK and the American types, head over here, English vs. That also implies your dog will keep up with you quite well during a hike or outdoor play with your kids. Golden Retrievers also make good company during summer vacations at the beach. Since they were bred to retrieve water birds for hunters, Golden Retrievers are natural swimmers, and their webbed feet make it easier for the dog to propel through the water. Their skill in water will create a lively fetch game in the water as you and your family enjoy your summer escapade by the beach. As you will see, these disadvantages can be offset with context and caution. So read this section carefully. Golden Retrievers Are Food-Motivated Food takes the most significant part of the cost of owning a Retriever, or any dog for that matter. You might then want to rethink your decision. They seem to be hungry all the time due to genetics and environmental causes. However, the exact cause is currently unknown and research is ongoing. During positive reinforcement training, use other rewards such as toys, fun games, and praise. Do you want to know what the best diet for Goldens is? Golden Retrievers Are Heavy Shedders Golden Retriever grooming is one of the roles you bargain for when bringing home a puppy. All dogs have a bit of a doggy smell because their skin produces natural oils that tend to smell with time, and their ear glands can give off a yeasty odor. Some dogs also have a strong smell due to medical conditions like skin and dental infections. When it comes to Golden Retrievers, their doggy smell is mainly due to their double, water-repellent coat that tends to retain odor in both the outer and the finer inner hairs. If your dog is a water magnet, its coat can hold dirt and bacteria, making the smell worse. These include: Hip dysplasia — Hip dysplasia is a hereditary condition that starts when the dog grows, resulting in a loose-fitting hip joint which leads to osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease. Elbow dysplasia — An abnormal development of the elbow joint in fast-growing dogs, usually larger breeds. Elbow dysplasia in Golden Retrievers also leads to chronic arthritis of the joint. Progressive retinal atrophy — An eye disease that causes the retina to degenerate slowly, leading to eventual blindness. However, scientists have identified the mutated genes so screening is advised. Fibrous tissue obstructs the aortic valve leading to fainting, a reduced lifespan, or sudden death. Cancer — The breed is known to be at a higher risk of cancer than other breeds. The ongoing Golden Retriever Lifetime Study attempts to identify the main dietary, genetic, and environmental risk factors for cancer in dogs. To help your dog stay healthy and happy, the Golden Retriever Club of America recommends the following health screening , especially when breeding Retrievers: Hip dysplasia. Wet chewers Remain young at heart Keep in mind that our dogs are not perfect, similar to humans. But that is not necessarily a bad thing. The Good Trust me; the Golden Retriever is a fantastic dog. If they were not, they would not have ranked as the third most popular dog in North America for over a decade. And, I suspect in the coming years that ranking will increase. Maybe not enough to unseat their cousin, the Labrador Retriever, but the German Shepherd better watch out. This majestic dog of Scottish heritage sports a long, lustrous golden mane, along with a strong, athletic body and straight muzzle. Like most puppies, Golden Retrievers are adorable. Good Natured Golden Retrievers are the epitome of joy. This easy-going breed has a vitality and zest for life that we could learn from and incorporate more into our lives. Their sweet love of life is evident in everything they do. Bailey just loving life. Rolling around and being goofy. Always present in the moment, rest assured the Golden Retriever is enjoying life to the utmost. Leery of conflict, the Golden is happiest when giving and receiving love. Not a dog to hold grudges or dwell on the past, the Golden Retriever truly exemplifies compassion and living life to the fullest. The world would indeed be a better place if we all were more like the Golden Retriever. Affectionate and Friendly The hallmark of the Golden Retriever is its friendly and kind temperament. A gentle dog with a soft mouth, the Golden is typically not a one-person dog. Instead, the Golden Retriever wants to share its unconditional love with as many people and animals as it can. Hostility or aggression is not characteristic of the Golden Retriever. The Golden Retriever is best described as friendly, affectionate, trustworthy, tolerant, and kind. These kindly traits are highly valued in therapy and assistance dogs and make Golden Retrievers especially well-suited to families. Intelligent and Obedient Golden Retrievers are very smart dogs. How smart? Canine researcher Stanely Cohen ranks dog breeds into intelligence tiers depending on their ability to learn commands and obedience. Golden Retrievers fall within the top tier of all dog breeds and rank fourth, behind the Border Collie, Poodle, and German Shepherd. If you are curious about how the Golden Retriever and German Shepherd stack up against each other, you might want to check out this article: Golden Retriever or German Shepherd: Which is the Better Dog? The majestic Golden also does well with canine sports such as rally, scent work, obedience, and other activities that the most intelligent dogs excel in. In fact, they are such smart dogs combined with their friendly temperament that they make wonderful tracking and search and rescue dogs. Eager to Please Golden Retrievers are among the breeds most eager to please their owners. Not all dog breeds possess this trait. Some are highly independent or stubborn and are content doing their own thing. Easy to Train Eager to please their owners, plus the ability to learn quickly and with a high level of obedience, is the definition of easy to train, and that is the Golden Retriever. Golden Retrievers do best with positive, reward-based training. However, the breed is also very food motivated, making training more straightforward, as food is a high-value reward to the Golden Retriever. The loving and sensitive nature of the Golden Retriever does best in a training environment that is rewarding and positive. Hold up. Are you looking for a good online training program for your Golden Retriever? I recently wrote an article comparing some of the most popular online dog training systems. Active and Sporty People often see a calm, well-behaved adult Golden Retriever and mistakenly assume that the dog was born with this chill nature. You would be wrong. That calm, well-behaved demeanor is a byproduct of their high intelligence and high trainability. But, Golden Retrievers, especially as puppies , are highly active and energetic dogs. Their dynamic energy and high intelligence mean they need regular exercise and mental stimulation. A physically and mentally under-stimulated Golden will become bored quickly and direct that energy into undesirable behaviors. Especially as puppies, Golden Retrievers can be highly energetic and border on crazy if not exercised and stimulated proficiently. Be prepared that Golden Retrievers have a very long and active puppyhood. Therefore, training will need to start early and be ongoing to ensure a well-behaved, calm dog into adulthood like the ones you see on TV. Or find alternatives such as dog sitters, daycares, or dog walkers to help out. Good With Kids and Pets The Golden Retriever is valued for its ability to get along with children , and other pets, including cats and livestock. A lot of dog breeds would not tolerate this. Not Incessest Barkers Another great trait of the Golden Retriever is they typically bark for a reason. Meaning that they usually bark because there is something to bark at. For example, a Golden may hear kids playing outside, a noise, or other dogs barking or expressing joy during play. Because the Golden Retriever is so intelligent and easy to train, an owner can control barking with consistent training. Highly Adaptable Very few dog breeds are as highly adaptable as the Golden Retriever, which should not be surprising. The dog loves life, has a gentle and kind nature, is affectionate, top-tier intelligent and obedient, easy to train, and highly active. In addition, the breed gets along well with everyone — other dogs, cats, children, women, and men. On the medium to larger side, the Golden Retriever is not a giant-sized breed; rather, a typical Golden ranges from about pounds, with females falling on the smaller side of the scale. However, they can grow up to pounds, like our dog Bailey. However, most tend to be smaller. Their size makes them great for the home and well-suited for indoor and outdoor activities. In addition, their size makes them adaptable to farms, acreages, homes with backyards, and even apartments and condos. Their easy-going, playful nature means they do well with families and active households. Do you or your family like to run, swim, hike, or bike and want a companion for these activities? Then, the Golden is a perfect choice. Yup, the Golden Retriever pretty much checks all the boxes. Soft Mouths All puppies play bite. Bite inhibition is an essential part of training in puppyhood. Maybe the most crucial part of training. For example, Golden Retrievers have very soft mouths. This instinctual trait translates into more gentle play with kids, and other pets once bite inhibition is taught. Puppy biting should be addressed early on for all dog breeds, including the Golden Retriever. To learn why addressing puppy biting is essential and how to do it, take a few minutes to check out this article: Golden Retriever Puppy Biting: When it Stops, What To Do. Remain Young at Heart Most dogs are considered puppies until about 18 months to 2 years old. However, Golden Retrievers often take their puppyhood well past two years, and some well into adulthood. How can it be? Ever met one of those charismatic older people with a joy and zest for life more reminiscent of someone much younger? They seem to have a childlike joy for life, even in later years, and live in the moment. That is the same with the Golden Retriever. Golden Retrievers maintain a joy for life and desire to play throughout most of their lives. Goofy and joyous, this dog breed can bring a smile to your face even when they are older. The Bad There are some issues with Golden Retriever that some may classify as undesirable. Some can range from mere annoyances to downright negative. Which of these traits, if any, is ultimately determined by your lifestyle, personality, and your preference. Or better yet, accept that these traits are just the cost of having a fantastic companion in the home. Health Issues If one issue stands out about the Golden Retriever as truly bad, health issues are the biggest. Unfortunately, Golden Retrievers can be prone to severe and costly health issues. In researching on the internet, you will find that the Golden Retriever consistently ranks in the top tier of dogs with health issues ranging from mild to severe. There are very few things in life that are as heartbreaking as watching a loved one suffer and make no mistake, our Golden Retrievers quickly become our children and valued members of the family. Sure, it could be if you want a companion that fits the role of a protection dog for your family and home. If that is the case, I might suggest choosing a dog better suited to that role, like the German Shepherd. However, Golden Retrievers, as a whole, do not make good guard or protection dogs. It is more likely a Golden Retriever will greet or run from an intruder than attack. The Golden Retriever is known for its friendly and kind nature, and most do not possess the courageous and natural guardian instincts of other breeds. Activities that require a temperament more aligned to one of a gentle companion. Those who choose a Golden Retriever are not looking for a protection dog. Instead, these folks are looking for the quintessential family dog — a dog that is social, friendly, gentle, tolerant, and good with children. The stubbornness seems to be most concentrated mainly during the ages of 6 — 18 months or their rebellious teens. Like a human teenager, the Golden Retriever may become stubborn during this time and not listen to you. Your Golden will also test boundaries and your patience during this stage. Hormones play a big part during this time, and you may find increased humping from males and less tolerance with some dogs. Behaviors can run the spectrum from laziness to being downright rowdy. All of this is normal. Patience and continued training are essential. After 18 months, your Golden will be on the cusp of adulthood and will become calmer and much more manageable. However, expect the odd stubborn or defiant interaction from time to time, even in early adulthood. Still, overall your Golden will listen much better around two years of age. Bailey is in his stubborn phase at just over six months old. He was just too comfortable. Can Forget Their Size Golden Retrievers love people, and few dogs greet their families as enthusiastically as the friendly Golden. Golden Retrievers can even share their joyous greetings with perfect strangers, much to the dismay of many people. Unfortunately, small children, pets, and older people might not be well-equipped to handle this exuberance. In turn, some adults — especially the elderly — may take exception to being jumped on by a larger dog. Training is the key, and so is requesting the help of all visitors. Fortunately, Golden Retrievers are so easy to train and obedient that this behavior can easily be managed. Prone To Weight Gain Golden Retrievers can be food-obsessed, making them prone to weight gain or obesity. However, most Golden Retrievers are always hungry and will inhale any food you put in front of them. Now, this food drive can also be very much positive. Specifically, food is a high-value reward that can be a source of motivation and make training even more straightforward. But just barely. Physical and mental stimulation is a must to expend that abundance of overactive energy. Therefore, activities that incorporate both mental and physical stimulation are most effective. Golden Retrievers are not lazy dogs. Exercise depends on the individual dog, but an adult Golden Retriever might need one to two hours daily. Inadequate mental and physical stimulation leads to boredom, which, in turn, leads to mischievous and unwanted behaviors. Or they might dig in the backyard. Activities like rally, dock diving, scent work, obedience, and other canine sports are great outlets for expending excess energy for Golden Retrievers. Bailey is a high-energy, level-3 dog. The Ugly The ugly refers to some unpleasant traits found in Golden Retrievers. Each dog breed has its share. For example, bulldogs are known for drooling and flatulence. Newfoundlanders drool and try to swim in their water dishes, plus they are huge shedders. These traits are just the cost of having a dog. Our dogs have less. I have not personally encountered this, but some people have. What is the cause? Often it appears due to a skin allergy or skin problems. Golden Retrievers can be prone to skin issues, allergies, yeast infections, and bacteria. The better the skin condition, the less likely there will be an odor. No different than us. If we fail to shower or have some skin condition, often an aroma accompanies it. Golden Retrievers can also be prone to ear infections. While not overly serious, it can be a cause of an odor. Maintaining a good grooming regimen and being proactive with any issues can go a long way to preventing or mitigating any odor issues. Overbathing can strip body oils, which can potentially cause itchiness and skin issues. Shedding Shedding is probably the most prominent complaint people have about the Golden Retriever. Shedding is regular throughout most of the year and requires weekly brushing once to three times. However, Golden Retrievers have a double coat and will undergo significant shedding events blow their coats twice per year. Brushing is undoubtedly the most important maintenance item for Golden Retrievers. For those who value a neat place, this is an ugly trait. And, yes, hair sometimes becomes a condiment as well. Drooling Not all Golden Retrievers drool. But some do. Ours does. Especially after drinking out of the water dish. Expect puddles of water strewn throughout the house if you have a drooling Golden Retriever, especially around the water bowl. Drooling is also linked to food, and because the Golden Retriever is so food-driven, expect a lot of drooling anytime there is food in the vicinity. Like to Steal Stuff Golden Retrievers like to steal. Some consider this a bad trait. I do not. Remember, good, bad, and ugly are relative and depend solely on your lifestyle and preference. Remember, the breed was bred to retrieve and carry game birds gently. That trait will manifest itself in the Golden carry stuff throughout the house, depositing it on the floor somewhere or bringing it to you. What a Golden Retriever steals and carries often depends on availability, which could be almost anything. His favorites are blankets, towels, jackets, beanies or toques to Canadians , and mitts. Once deposited, he can have quite a collection and quickly mess up the house. He may then pick an item to chew on. Like shedding, those who like an ordered and neat house or forget to hide valuable shoes and slippers may find this trait an ugly one. I find it endearing. Anything and everything is a potential toy to Bailey. All dogs do to varying degrees. After all, dogs do not have hands, so they explore much of their world through their mouths, some more so than others. As discussed, Golden Retrievers were bred to pick up, carry and return downed waterfowl and game for sportspeople. Their mouthiness is instinctual. So, they often like to chew or mouth things. So, those traits can result in a Golden Retriever chewing on whatever is available to them. Often, they will mouth something not chew or rip it apart and cover it with their dog spit. Final Thoughts Like most things in life, much of what we interpret as good or bad is subjective. In contrast, an active household might instead revel in a companion who can keep up with their energy level. Managing expectations is essential, and that starts with knowing what to expect from the outset. And that includes all traits — the good, the bad, and the ugly. The first is that most of us get a dog for the love and joy they bring into our lives. Everything else is secondary to that. And in terms of love and joy, rest assured the Golden Retriever will bring that in abundance. Everything else — or the so-called cons — is inconsequential compared to all the fantastic gifts the Golden bestows upon us during its lifetime. So pick the dog that best fits your household and lifestyle. Seriously, Golden Retrievers tend to live each day as if they have just discovered a swimming pool full of tennis balls and bacon. And while that sunny disposition is appealing, there are pros and cons to consider before bringing one of these blondies into your home. That happy-go-lucky image is not an empty stereotype. This breed is ridiculously good-natured. Smart and easy to train. Their size, speed, agility, and intelligence make them a fun animal to train. Not only for tricks like slow-dancing with you to Adele, but also service-specific skills for limited-ability companions. Loves large families and small kids. Unlike half of your friends. Golden Retrievers adapt well to other pets including cats, rabbits, and other non-dog house pets with a more-the-merrier mentality. Eternal puppy. This breed loves to romp and play and is especially energetic for the first years of life. Not barky. Or bitey. But totally dreamy. This breed gets big pounds and will gladly get bigger if overfed. Needs vigorous exercise and a lot of it. Daily workouts of minutes are a must for this breed. Without it, they can become restless, overweight, and chewy. Holy shed. This breed has hair and a boatload of it. Having a Golden Retriever means having lint brushes. Not great at being alone in an apartment all day.

Ian discusses how we should learn to see the world from our dogs perspective and in doing so, how we can better earn their love and trust. Armed with this love and trust, we will form a better relationship and as a result, effective training becomes just that much more effective and enjoyable for both you and your dog. But please, first make sure to use the search facility in the footer of this website and browse our other sections as the subject may have already been covered: Labrador health and care , Labrador behavior , Labrador puppies , infobites and Labrador breed information. External Resources On Labrador Training Although referring to all breeds in general and not purely Labradors, for those of you that love to watch and not read, the series of dog training videos on www. If you like reading books then check out one of our favorite Lab books: The Complete Labrador Handbook. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. If this is the case,…. How does it feel to be a new puppy parent? You must be chuffed. Take a look at these first few articles. All the ingredients you need for a happy home. But for now, beside your bed is the best place for your puppy to sleep — it will help them feel safe. Puppies like their crates rather cave-like; we suggest covering it with a blanket to block out light, but keep the front open so that they can see outwards. Make sure to make it snug inside with something like a vet bed or a blanket, or why not take it up a notch with a heat pad or hot water bottle to recreate the feeling of their mother. Nothing feels more comforting than that. Before you head to bed, take your puppy out for one last round of loo-going. Set your bedtime at a later time too — midnight sounds about right. Come back calmly, and place your puppy in the crate and turn out the light. Stuff you should know about Sleep Training your Labrador Your puppy will wake up several times in the night and will need the bathroom at least once! Be prepared for not-so-deep sleeps and tired mornings — just for the first few weeks. Having them sleep next to you is only temporary. Consistency is key! As for you, full nights of sleep will start getting closer and closer. Alone Training How can I teach my Labrador puppy to be ok on their own? Start by feeding your puppy in their crate during meal times. If they seem worried by you leaving, stay in view, and just pop right outside their confinement area. Keep it short and sweet: No need to stay away for long, 60 seconds tops will do for now. Repeat: Do this at least once a day to make progress go steady and smoothly. Socialization Exercises To Do this week Letting your Labrador puppy explore the yard Besides the gnomes and questionable yard furniture you may have, letting your puppy explore your own yard is a great and safe way to start showing them the sounds, lights and wonders of the outside world. Exploring different surfaces exercise Make sure that the surfaces you use are safe — nothing too crazy just yet. Gather surfaces such as An oven tray with a small layer of water A piece of astro turf A carpet tile A large piece of tin foil, cardboard or something crinkly PRO TIP: Set up for this exercise in the room your puppy spends most of their time in — it will help them to feel safe and confident. Pop the surfaces out safely on the floor and allow your puppy to investigate them. Nobody has ever enjoyed walking on those. Remember to be patient! Lucky for you — teaching them their name is easy peasy. Say their name in a happy jolly tone and reward with a treat. Repeat five times, 5 and take a break. Practice this 2 or 3 times a day so they get the hang of it. Teach your puppy to sit Teaching your puppy how to sit is a popular one. The first two are far more common though. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow it up with a food reward. In puppy logic, stinky means yummy. How to do it Start at home; where there are no distractions. Just make sure to shut off Gogglebox in the background. Recall — How to teach our Labrador puppy to come back when called Your puppy already knows their name at this point, so this should be a walk in the park. How to do it Treats and a cheerful voice will be what works here. Do these exercises before meal times so your puppy is more motivated. Practice this 5 times a day and in 3 different places in your house and yard to get them used to coming to you in all settings. How to do it Show your puppy that you have their favorite toy, and start to get them excited about it. When they show interest, throw it a little bit away from you. They will likely follow it and pick it up. If they do, encourage them back to you with your voice, so remember to sound happy! Swap the toy for a treat or another toy and do the process again. Repeat this about 5 times. Instead create more distance and excitement sounds to get them to come to you — spaniels like to show off, so they will likely want to parade what they have! Always swap the toy for something when they have it, this could be a treat or another toy. Resource guarding occurs when we force puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. For breeds like Labradors who are designed to want to hold things in their mouths, this is pretty important! Resource guarding is when a dog protects a resource from being taken by someone else — dog or human. For some reason, there is a solid list of things puppies find irresistible: Socks. Print Raising a retriever puppy like the pros Your Labrador puppy can seem small and fragile during those first few weeks home from the breeder. Labrador puppies will learn quickly about acceptable and unacceptable behavior those first few weeks, if you, the owner, are willing to set and enforce boundaries. Here is the training you should be working on with your week-old Labrador puppy. About this series of posts This is post three of a step-by-step training and socialization program for Labrador puppies. If you read our first post , you know that this series follows our training of Bubba, a female chocolate lab puppy. Bubba is already sold as one of our Custom Trained Retrievers, so it is our responsibility to raise and train her until she has progressed to the level of training the owner has requested. In this case, Bubba will be with us for almost a year and a half. Training and socialization for week-old Labrador puppy — week three home Your week-old puppy has been with your family for approximately 3 weeks now. This week you should start noticing some bigger changes with your puppy. Here are some of the changes I notice with Bubba. First, she is growing fast! Bubba is almost ready for a new collar already. I have loosened her current collar twice, and there is no more room to expand it. She is also learning a lot. Bubba is also becoming more personable. She likes and has more interest in people now and wants to be petted and scratched more often. Training equipment for Lab puppy We added a couple new training tools this week. But a thicker check cord will also work. We use this check cord for longer outside marks and assistant-marks which I will discuss more in a bit. Puppy sized canvas or light-weight plastic bumpers In week two, we introduced formal retrieving in a hallway in the house. In week three, we move outside with retrieving and introduce assistant throws, so it is helpful to have a few more bumpers. Puppy training that will continue Much of the training I have been working on for the past two weeks with Bubba will continue into this week and beyond. Dog training is not something that has a definitive end-date. For instance, you teach your puppy to SIT and then you must work and practice that command daily or weekly, often for months before the response to the command is solid. But even once the response is solid, you cannot completely stop training. If you stop training, even an older dog, the dog can lose the previous training. So, realize that you are never done working with your dog, especially on obedience training. Some areas that we will continue training Bubba on are: Crate training Bubba is doing great at crate training. She rarely makes any noise while in her crate and settles down quickly after being put into her crate. In the upcoming weeks, we will work towards getting Bubba to enter her crate on command. Looking for more information on crate training? Housebreaking Housebreaking Bubba is going well. We have caught her in a few accidents, but she already seems to understand that she is not supposed to go potty inside. This does not mean that she is done housebreaking. We still expect accidents and will for a few months, so we watch her carefully while she is running around in the house. We also praise her for behaviors like going to the door and tapping the door or whining at the door. These behaviors are rewarded with us taking her outside to go potty. When she goes potty outside, we praise her and then take her right back in. We want her to start understanding that these cue behaviors will get her out to go potty and that is all. Looking for more information on housebreaking? But we will also add a few new ones. We will use this while teaching our puppy the SIT command. It also will be used going forward, anytime we are done working on structured obedience work. We will release the dog from formal work with the OKAY command. But we also use it to mean go to a certain place, such as on a mat or stand. Or, when we want her to go into her crate or kennel. This is an associative command, meaning the puppy will learn the command through our repetition of the word as we tie it to a behavior. But over time, she will make the association and will perform it on her own. This is very important especially if you ever plan on doing more advanced training with your retriever. You will use whatever your dogs name is. A few commands that we will continue to work on this week We will continue to work on obedience commands this week and in the weeks to come. Each week we will expect a little more and better compliance and performance to the command. She is sitting when I put the leash and chain collar on her and when I am taking it off. This week we also added SIT before eating. We only make her SIT for a few seconds; we are working on control. She does not SIT on her own yet, but she will be doing that within a week or so I would guess. Right now, I grab her collar and say SIT. In week three, I have a slightly higher expectation. On walks, I make her walk right beside me for a minute or two using the HEEL command before releasing her and letting her run back and forth a bit. This tells me that she understands the command. Then release her. If every time your puppy comes to you, you put her away or take something away from her, soon your puppy will not want to come to you. You must work hard to make coming to you a good experience for your puppy. So, call her, praise her when she comes and release. Remember: Never use a HERE command if you are not in the position of being able to enforce the command. Make every effort to socialize your puppy You should continue to take steps to socialize your week-old puppy. Anything you can think of. The more things and situations you expose your puppy to, the better your puppy will be equipped to adjust and learn in the future. Learn more about socialization. Hand throws with a puppy bumper you are throwing out a bumper done outside will carry a lot more distraction than retrieves in a hallway. Just pick up the bumper and try again tomorrow. When retrieving outside, make sure you have a long foot rope attached to your puppy. Never try to do retrieves outside without a rope. You will have problems and encourage bad behaviors. You must have a way to get the puppy to come back to you, otherwise you should not be doing retrieves outside. Once your puppy is doing well retrieving outside, you are ready to introduce assistant marks. Introduction to assistant marks The most important thing we worked on with Bubba this week is assistant marks. Assistant marks are retrieves where someone else is throwing the bumper, not you. This teaches your puppy to watch out in the field for a mark. It is very rare that a duck will come from behind you, fly over your head and you shoot it. The ducks and pheasants will be falling in front of you, so the dog must learn to look out and watch for the mark. We start assistant marks on very short grass with white plugs so that the puppy can clearly see the item on the ground. We hold the puppy in a SIT position facing a thrower who is about 20 feet from you. When your puppy picks up the bumper, immediately start calling her back to you. Remember, you should have the foot check cord on her so you can pull the puppy in if needed. Then, take the bumper from her, throw it behind you, make your puppy sit facing the thrower again and repeat. Only do retrieves and then call it a day. Soon your puppy will learn this game and love it. They will start facing the thrower on their own and sitting and waiting for a mark. Final thoughts on training for your week-old Labrador puppy week-old puppies are so eager to learn, so be sure and take advantage of this enthusiasm to teach new concepts and enforce previous ones. Continue to teach your puppy to handle more and more pressure and correction while maintaining a good attitude. Lastly, assistant marks are a big deal. Once a dog learns this part of the game, you can work to increase the distance and complexity of the marks. If you are struggling or need additional help with your new puppy, you can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time, happy retrieving. Print Early obedience first step to better hunting dog Labrador puppies start out sweet and innocent. All you want to do is cuddle up with your pup and love them! And you should! But rest assured the innocence will not last. As your pup gains confidence and courage, they will begin to test you in many ways. That is why you must obedience train your Labrador puppy. Early obedience training is key to establishing borders and boundaries that will help your puppy grow, learn, and adjust with a good attitude. There is no shortcut to doing this, just use the name often when you talk to your puppy. Over time, the pup will start to respond to the name. Socialization, while not technically obedience training, is the single most important thing you can teach your puppy during the first few months of life. If you are not sure how to do this, refer to this post. Tools needed to obedience train Labrador puppy You will need a few tools to teach your puppy obedience. The products I recommend I believe are a good value or good investment for anyone working to train or maintain training on their retriever. When possible, I include links to the product. Some of these links may be Amazon or other affiliate links in which I am paid a small commission at no cost to you. All opinions and recommendations are my own. Collar — You should purchase a size appropriate collar for your new puppy. You may have to buy new ones as your dog grows, but it is important for your puppy to get used to wearing a collar early on. A simple nylon adjustable collar works great. Chain collar — If your puppy is more than a few months old, a chain or prong collar is extremely helpful in teaching obedience, but they must be used correctly. For more information on how to put a chain collar on your dog correctly refer to this video. A longer lead, called a check cord, is also useful for teaching HERE and retrieving. You can learn more about that here. Heeling stick optional — While optional, a heeling stick can be especially helpful in teaching basic obedience. Treats — Treats are good for teaching very young puppies. I use treats for pups under 12 weeks of age, but treats should be discontinued rather quickly. When to start basic puppy obedience training Obedience training can and should start within the first couple weeks of having your puppy home. Young puppies are ready and willing to learn and teaching obedience to a young puppy is much easier than teaching it to an older dog. How long should obedience sessions be? Most labs do not enjoy obedience training. For this reason, we aim to keep obedience sessions short, especially if your dog is under 4-months of age. Five to ten minutes of obedience a day can work wonders. Especially if you are consistent. Using rewards or praise to teach obedience Many people like to use treats or rewards for obedience training. And this can work, especially with very young dogs. But for hunting dogs, over the long-term treats can become a problem. We do not want our dogs, or the dogs we train to be obedient only because they are getting a food reward. We want them to be obedient because they understand their place in the family and respect the owners. To get these lasting results, we use praise words and petting and a reward that retrievers live for — retrieves! Well-timed praise is a particularly important part of dog training. A message that it is okay to ignore me the first 9 times! This simply means that after a few minutes of formal obedience training, we release the dog with an OKAY command and that means they can run around and be a dog. We then throw a bumper or plug a for the dog to retriever. We do this a few times with a lot of excitement and allow the dog to retrieve the bumper. For retriever breeds, this is often more effective than a food reward. Be careful that you are not letting your puppy get into bad habits with retrieving. For instance, if your puppy often goes out to retrieve the bumper but then runs away with it, or picks it up and drops it, do not continue doing retrieves. While retrieving is a reward for many Labs, it is not an excuse to engage in behaviors that are not going to be acceptable in the field. If you want to learn more about how to properly teach your Lab to retrieve, check out How can I teach my retriever puppy to fetch? Introduction to leash and nylon collar The very first step for any puppy obedience is to introduce your puppy to a regular collar and leash. This should be done in two separate steps, first the collar and then the leash. Introduce the collar by putting a nylon type collar on your puppy. This is normal and you should not react to it. Introducing the leash is a little different. We like to do this outside. After a few sessions of this introduction, you can start holding the leash by the end and walking with the puppy. When the puppy tries to run or walk away, hold tight to the leash, and just let the puppy get used to the resistance. Some puppies have a hard time with this and will growl or whine and whip themselves around at the pressure, but most will not. Remain calm and after a few sessions the puppy should get used to the resistance of the leash. Do not allow the puppy to pull you around. That will make for some bad behaviors that you will need to correct later. If you cannot control your puppy with just a regular collar and leash, you may need to move to a chain or prong collar to keep control. What commands to teach Lab puppy There are only four basic obedience commands that you need to teach your young puppy. Remember when it comes to commands, less is more. OKAY — this is a release command, basically tells your dog were done training, go be a dog. As your puppy grows and learns more, there are some other commands that may be needed, but for puppies I like to start with just the four above. Dog training requires consistency Before you start with obedience training, I want to make a note about the importance of consistency. Obedience training only works if you are consistent. This means that when you say a command, you expect the puppy to perform the command, and are willing to take steps to make the puppy perform the command. If you do not remain consistent in this expectation, you will confuse your dog and get poor results from your training. You and your family must be consistent! How to start obedience training Lab puppy The first command you want to start teaching your puppy is SIT. This is quite easy to teach with a small puppy but gets a little tougher as they get bigger. Then release the puppy with the OKAY command. Repeat this process several times, then stop. If your puppy is weeks old, you can repeat this training several times a day for only a couple minutes at a time. This will be a two-person job for a little while. The other person will put the food down a few feet from the puppy. Then release the puppy to eat saying OKAY. As the pup learns and understands the command better, you will no longer need a second person to hold the puppy. You must be a little careful here because young puppies do not have great bladder control and making them wait, even a few seconds, can mean the difference between an accident and them doing their business outside. But this is a great way to teach impulse control and manners to your puppy. I do not want to have to fight for a position by the door. You can usually start working on this within a week or two of teaching SIT. A great way to teach this command to young puppies is to use two people and sit in a long hallway, one at each end. Take turns calling your puppy with a HERE command. A toy or treat can often help the process. Let your puppy run around a bit but hold onto the end of the cord. Occasionally, call you puppy with a HERE command. It can be helpful at first to crouch down to encourage the puppy to run towards you. Then release the puppy with an OKAY command. Do this a few more times and repeat daily until the puppy is coming to you without you needing to pull the cord. It is also the command most of our clients struggle with the most. Mostly because they are using the wrong tool for the job. For heeling work, it is important that you work with a chain or prong collar. This will give you more control and stop the pulling and surging that many people struggle with. Using a chain or prong collar and a six-foot leash, start walking your puppy at your side. If your puppy is young, be sure to use a puppy chain collar which is smaller than chain collars for adult dogs. And make sure that you are putting it on correctly! An alternate tool to a chain collar and leash is the Wonder or Command Lead. These work great for teaching HEEL. As you start walking use gently tugs on the chain collar with the command HERE to keep your puppy at your side. If your puppy surges or pulls ahead, simply make a degree turn and start walking the other direction giving a sharp, upward tug on the chain collar and saying HEEL several times until the dog is back in a heeling position. Many of our clients have told us they never left their driveway the first few days! But if you are patient and consistent, your dog will quickly learn that if they want to go for a walk, they need to stay at your side. If you want to learn and progress in more obedience work, check out these obedience drills for retrievers. Final thoughts on how to teach your lab puppy obedience Teaching your puppy obedience may take a lot of patience, time and work, but it is such an important thing to do. You will never regret the time! A well-mannered dog is such a joy to be around both in the home and in the field. How to obedience train Labrador puppy. Labrador Retriever pups are working dogs. This means they live to please you for a treat. The more you engage them with different puppy training behaviors the happier they will be. Of course, Labs will be Labs, and this means that dogs do dog things unless they are trained to follow your expectations. Potty training your puppy is just the beginning of you making clear expectations for your Lab. Puppy training from long leash training to potty training, to not nipping is discussed in greater detail along with clear, easy to follow videos at www. But we will give you an expert training tip summary below. For this reason, you need to become an expert on puppy training. Contact us for a discount on the Puppy Trained Right positive reinforcement training program. Expose your puppy to as many different people and situations possible. Teach dog to dog manners when required. Use Positive Reinforcement. Allow for Play with Other Puppies. Play with other Lab Puppies not only allows your pup to get some exercise it is a form of puppy socialization. Bond with your Puppy. Once a strong bond is formed your Lab Puppy will want to please you even more. Potty Train Right Away. Learn how Dogs Learn. Training a Lab puppy is easy if you understand how to go about it. Give your Lab Puppy Play time to Explore. Labs need this as part of their natural development. Spend more time with your puppy when young. This is the time when your expectations should be clearly outlined and can decrease as she gets older. Begin Training day 1. This happens weather or not you intend it to. Every action and reaction is something your puppy uses to form new habits. So ignoring them jumping up as an 8 week old puppy is training them to jump up and will be much more difficult to un-train once they are 70 lbs. Relax and make learning fun. Your pup needs you happy and enjoying yourself! Use Positive Training Methods because they work. This means reward what you desire. Ensure most Experiences are Positive. Imagine a training session of No, No, No, No! Expose them to as Many Human Situations possible. One cause is that there was not adequate socialization with different men. Be Patient. You are building an amazing K9 personality. The window is between 8 and 20 weeks old. Make the most of it. The better your Lab is socialized the happier they will be. Anxiety in dogs comes from many things. The more things your dog is comfortable with the less chance for anxiety and therefore the happier they are. Prepare yourself, your family and your home before your puppy comes home. It is too late once you meet your puppy as simply interacting with her is training. Allow for Safe Experiences both in the home and outside. Seek professional trainers to help guide you when faced with a problem. Be consistent. Clear expectations are easiest to learn. Focus on Guiding not controlling. Best Start Training or Training Classes are beneficial for both you and your puppy. Expect Success. We tend to move in the direction we believe we will travel. Reward the Behaviors you want to see even something as simple as 4 paws on the ground if you are trying to train your Lab not to jump up on you. Become Well informed. You are teaching a skill like reading that takes clear expectations and builds upon last session. Lab Puppies need constant supervision either human, a crate, a fenced area or a baby gate across a doorway. Encourage a soft mouth. Keep your training up or it will be forgotten. Begin Walking on a Loose Leash Right away. This is always easier for your Lab when they are 12 lbs not 70lbs. Change direction before the leash tightens so they are followers not leaders. This is much easier to train before it happens than correct. Allow alone time for your Lab. Know when to end a training session. End training before your puppy quits. Make time for a few shorter training Sessions. Three fifteen minute sessions are better than one 45 min one. Teach your Lab to respond to their name. Teach your Labrador basic obedience before tricks-come, sit, stay, down, leave it. Have all humans learn the commands and be consistent. Ignore undesirable behaviors. Ignoring includes not saying no, bad dog, touching your dog or making eye contact. Find rewards that your Retriever loves and use them when you have breakthrough training moments. Adjust your expectations as your Lab puppy matures, the older more experienced the higher the expectation. Set Realistic Expectations. Minimize distractions when you begin training. Be aware of your Body Language, Labradors pick up cues from you. Be aware of your leash tension. A tight leash says anxiety from the handler. Know when to get Help .Have fun! Understand that Labs do Lab things. Make them work for food and treats. Exercise your Retriever properly for both intensity and duration. Learn some exercise games Labs love. Give lots of repetition. Stop before they get bored. Establish a Pattern by Praising. Redirect undesired behavior. Accept partial actions at first and gradually increase your expectations. When treats end Verbal treats and chin scratches rule. They will know. Enjoy your well balanced purebred Lab puppy for many years. Purebred Lab Retrievers, are they easier to train? The answer to that is definitely maybe! Not all purebreds are bred for intelligence. For example, if a Labrador Retriever breeder chooses to breed their dogs for a certain look then they may overlook intelligence as one of the important characteristics in order to get a specific Lab look. We however breed for intelligence, health and temperament. So in our case, yes, our Purebred Lab Puppies are easier to train than many because we choose the parents and their puppies specifically for their smarts!

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. The result is a medium-sized dog that hopefully offers the best of both worlds. Generally, a Lab Pei should be a friendly and loving member of the family like a Lab but have the guard dog instincts of a Shar-Pei and raise the alarm at home when something is not right. They should be intelligent and highly trainable like a Lab but have the independence of a Shar-Pei that allows them to tolerate being left alone for extended periods of time. They should have a coat somewhat like a Lab but less wrinkles than a Shar-Pei, meaning fewer skin issues. This is the ideal breeders are looking for when they mix a Labrador retriever and a Shar-Pei, but this kind of breeding can be unpredictable. As a result, it is often difficult to know exactly what to expect from any Lab Pei puppy. Read on as we take a closer look at the most important characteristics of the parent breeds and how they are likely to combine in a Lab Pei to help you decide if the Lab Pei is the right dog for you! Breed: Mixed breed combining Shar-Pei and Labrador retriever Height: 18 to 20 inches Weight: 55 to 70 pounds Lifespan: 8 to 12 years Coat: Short-to-medium coat with medium shedding and block color Trainability: Intelligent but stubborn and sensitive Energy: High energy but with a tendency to overheat Temperament: Loyal but wary of strangers and relatively independent History Of The Breed The Shar-Pei originates from southern China and seems to be a very old breed, as it closely resembles statues of dogs dating from the Han Dynasty around 2, years ago. It is certainly a basal breed that predates the modern breeds of the 19th century. In China, they were used as guard dogs in the early 20th century, but the breed almost became extinct by the s due to war, famine, and political turmoil. The breed was saved in the early s when Matgo Law, a businessman from Hong Kong, appealed to international kennel clubs to help save the breed. Following intensive breeding, much of it unscrupulous, the Shar-Pei was recognized by the American Kennel Club in .In the United States, Shar-Peis are often bred to be smaller than the standard, measuring no more than 16 inches tall and having extra wrinkly skin! They were bred to retrieve game from land and water. Labradors are known for being highly intelligent and naturally friendly, which is why they make excellent working dogs, especially in roles as service dogs. The Labrador is among the most popular breeds both as a pet and guide dog. Breeders started experimenting with mixing the two breeds in the s. The aim was to reduce the shedding of Labrador coats by mixing it with the lower shedding Shar-Pei and to improve the credentials of the Lab as a dual companion and guide dog. While this breeding has been relatively successful, mixed breed dogs can still be somewhat unpredictable. Appearance Both Labrador retrievers and Shar-Peis are medium-sized dogs, though Labs are notably the larger of the two. This is why you can always expect the Lab to be the mother in an Z1 Lab Pei. Labradors usually measure between .Shar-Peis are smaller, measuring 17 to 20 inches and weighing 35 to 45 pounds. It is unusual to see a Lab Pei that measures more than 20 inches, and they typically weigh 50 to 60 pounds, but they can be heavier, up to around 70 pounds. The dog will be a solid block color. Labs are black, chocolate, or golden. Shar-Peis can be any block color other than white, but they are most commonly black, red, fawn or cream. They can appear like their color is textured, but this is more due to folds of the skin creating dense areas rather than actual color. However, Shar-Peis do have a distinctive black tongue, and the skin around the muzzle also tends to be darker. You can expect your Lab Pei to be any of these solid colors. Labrador retrievers are known for their thick and soft double coat, which is beautiful and protective but also sheds a lot! The Shar-Pei has a short, harsh, and bristly coat that is low-shedding. Breeders will try to prioritize the low-shedding coat in Lab Pei puppies, but it is not always possible to control for this, and your dog could have either coat. Labradors have an athletic build with a square and long muzzle and long floppy ears. Shar-Peis have a melon-shaped head with a flat, broad muzzle. While they have athletic bodies, their heads are proportionately large. They also have clam-shell ears and excess skin that causes deep wrinkles. How these physical characteristics will combine in a mixed pup is difficult to predict. Very often you will see dogs with the longer muzzle of a Lab but the clam-shell ears or a Shar-Pei, though slightly longer than normal. Skin wrinkling is expected, but to a much lesser extent than on a purebred Shar-Pei. Whichever coat your dog receives, they will need quite a bit of grooming! Lab coats need to be brushed regularly to remove excess hair and limit shedding. Wrinkle coats mean frequent bathing to keep bacteria that can form in skin folds under control and prevent infections. Temperament Labrador retrievers and Shar-Peis have opposing temperaments. Labs are innately friendly dogs that love everyone and get on well with children , strangers, and other animals. Meanwhile, Shar-Peis are naturally wary and can be aggressive. They are likely to bark at strangers and chase and attack smaller animals if not properly socialized from a young age. From a Lab Pei, you can expect something between the two. They will probably bond quickly with your family and can be taught not to chase the cat if socialized early, but will continue to be wary of strangers, making them a better guard dog than a pure Lab. Labradors are highly intelligent and motivated to please, which makes them very easy to train. They bond quickly and are innately loyal, so they are easy to control, even if you are a first-time owner. Shar-Peis, on the other hand, are less intelligent, so they need more training to master new skills, and they can also be stubborn. They are quite independent and will test you if you show weakness. They are also very sensitive, which means that they can respond badly to any kind of punishment. When you mix the two, the result is often a dog that can tolerate being left alone for much longer periods but would really prefer to be around you! Energy Labrador retrievers are known to be high-energy dogs that need lots of exercise, usually at least an hour a day. But Shar-Peis are lazier, needing only about half that. They are also prone to overheating due to their wrinkly coat and breathing issues due to their relatively flat nose. When you mix the two breeds, what you often get is a dog with lots of energy that might not be able to keep up with itself. Always have water and shade on hand for them to recover. Labs love to swim , and their coats are designed for that purpose. Shar-Peis can either love or hate the water. Also, make sure you dry your dog thoroughly after swimming, especially if there are any wrinkles. Both Labs and Shar-Peis can be prone to weight gain as they tend to overeat. This is because they are unable to tell when they are full, and loving parents seeing empty bowls give them more food. Health Both Labradors and Shar-Peis are prone to specific health conditions due to breeding practices that make these prevalent. This is not to say that your dog will definitely have any of these conditions, but they are things you should monitor for so they can be dealt with swiftly and effectively if they do affect your dog. Watch out for elbow and hip dysplasia, which is when joints form incorrectly, resulting in mobility issues and pain later in life. One of the main reasons this happens is overexerting puppies, exacerbating growth issues. Avoid this by limiting your dog to five minutes of exercise per day per month of age while they are a growing pup. A four-month-old pup should only have about 20 minutes of exercise a day. Progressive eye issues are also common, and most Labs and Lab mixes will lose at least some of their sight as they enter their senior years. Shar-Peis can have the additional issue of entropion, which is when the eyelashes grow inwards. This can be painful and cause blindness if not treated swiftly. The skin of Shar-Peis comes with various health warnings, which are partially mitigated by mixing with a Lab. Nevertheless, still keep an eye out from chronic skin allergies and dermatological issues. Ear infections are also an issue, and they can be worse in Lab mixes as they tend to have longer ears that can completely close the ear canal. Shar-Peis can also inherit a chronic disease that causes short fevers that can last one to three days and swelling around the ankles. A vitamin B12 deficiency is also very common in Shar-Peis and their offspring. A Lab Pei will have a life expectancy of 8 to 12 years, and they will probably enter their senior years at around the age of seven. Read more about senior dogs and their specific needs here. You can expect Shar-Pei Lab mix puppies to be quite expensive and relatively difficult to find. While Shar-Peis are not at risk of extinction any more, they are still relatively rare when compared to other breeds. Labradors are popular, but as well as being bred as pure, they are also popular in many mix breeds. Interested in adopting a rescue dog? Find useful articles in our rescue dog archive. What do you think? Does a Lab Pei represent the best of both worlds when it comes to a friendly and compliant family pet and an effective guard dog? As is the case with many dogs, their temperament and behavior will depend very much on their environment and not just their breed! A dog that is properly socialized and trained from a young age can be a loving and friendly family pet that knows when to relax and when to be on high alert. If so, tell us about your dog in the comment section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Learn how your comment data is processed. Keep in touch. Is the Labrador Sharpei hybrid the right pet for you? What is a Shar Pei Lab mix? Most Labrador Sharpei dogs have almond-shaped eyes and black or dark brown noses. Their small, folded ears are reminiscent of those on the Labrador. How big does a Shar Pei Lab mix get? As mentioned above a full-grown Shar Pei Lab mix stands 18 to 25 inches 45 to 63 cm tall and can weigh between 40 to 60 pounds 18 to 27 kg. Some breeders may try to pass off a smaller hybrid as a mini Shar-Pei Lab mix. These undersized dogs are most likely bred from so-called Miniature Labradors, which are Labs that carry the gene for dwarfism. Regular-sized Shar Pei and Lab hybrids often have a compact, muscular physique. What is the temperament of a Shar Pei Lab mix? Shar Pei and Labrador mixes tend to inherit the independent nature of their Shar Pei parent. These dogs will prefer spending time with you to being alone. Shar Pei and Lab mixes, like Shar Peis, are also adaptable. They can easily adjust to a variety of living situations and environments. Training a Shar Pei Lab mix The most important factor in training a Sharpay-Lab cross is asserting your authority as a pack leader. Be firm during training sessions, but make sure you reward good behavior as well. With consistent training, your Lab and Shar Pei mix will quickly pick up and master commands and non-verbal cues. Early socialization is crucial for the Lab Shar Pei crossbreed, as this dog needs to learn how to properly behave around other pets and younger children in the household. Is the Shar Pei Lab mix hypoallergenic? Use a damp cloth to clean these folds regularly so you can prevent skin infections and allergies. Feed your Lab Shar Pei 2 to 3 cups of dry dog food daily. This amount of food should be split into 3 or 4 meals a day to prevent bloat, which commonly affects the Labrador and other large dogs. Ideally, the kibble should be large in size to keep the Labrador Sharpei from quickly gobbling it down. You can also keep your dog from eating too fast by using a slow feeder bowl. Keeping your Lab Pei at a healthy weight Their large size and healthy appetites make these crossbreeds prone to obesity. Shar Pei Lab mixes tend to put on weight quickly, so try not to go over the recommended daily amount of food for these dogs. Daily exercise also helps in keeping your Shar Pei and Lab crossbreed fit. Long walks, runs around the neighborhood, and short hikes are all activities that this hybrid will enjoy. What health problems do Labrador Shar Pei mix dogs have? As mentioned in the first paragraph a Shar-Pei and Lab mix has a life expectancy of 8 to 10 years, but several conditions can affect its health. As in most large dogs, hip and elbow dysplasia is common in this crossbreed. Histiocytoma , a skin cancer, also commonly affects Shar Peis. This serious skin condition could manifest in the Shar Pei Lab cross as well. Like its Labrador parent, the Lab Shar Pei can be prone to heart conditions, muscular dystrophy, and progressive retinal atrophy. The Shar Pei can also pass down to the Shar Pei and Lab mix a predisposition to respiratory problems, cherry eye, and deflated muzzles. You may have better luck looking for these dogs at breeders of Shar Peis and Labradors. You can get in touch with these breeders to see if they have any Shar Pei and Lab mix puppies:. Video: Shar Pei Lab Mix Puppies Temperament and Behavior These dogs generally have an even, protective, loving temperament which they inherit from their parents. If they take mostly to the sharpei side, they might at times be independent, dominant, alert, lordly and brave. Like their parents, they would try to protect their family members. They are emotionally responsive, loving, smart and kind. Though they are not aggressive to strangers, but would warn-bark if they come across intruders, strange noises or anything suspicious. Thus they make a good watchdog as well. They are good with kids and other pets provided they get the right training, and at the right age. This intelligent dog is ready to please you. However, in return, they would expect some attention and affection from their loved ones. They can adapt and establish itself very easily with family life, and thus makes a good apartment dog. Care Exercise Because they are average to large-sized dogs, the Lab Pei needs a pretty good amount of daily exercise. They need lots of physical activity all day, and a spacious apartment is always good for them. Their exercise requirements can be fulfilled through long walks and jogging. This should keep a balance between their physical and mental health, and prevent them from being flippant and destructive. They have a high playing instinct and would enjoy if they get an open yard to run and play around. But make sure the yard is fenced and safe before you untie your dog from its leash. Grooming Because they have a short coat, the grooming requirement for these dogs is moderate to easy. Brush them once to twice a week so as to retain the natural glow. Also, note whether your dog does not enjoy water like its sharpei parent. In that case, bathe it very rarely, may be once a year, if you think they are really untidy and in need for one. Dogs with wrinkles are susceptible to skin infections. If your pet has some wrinkles, cleaning them regularly by wiping the folds with a moist cloth. Rest of the grooming part, including nail-trimming or brushing teeth, are similar to other pet dogs. Health Problems Just like most other cross breeds, no breed specific issues have been determined in the lab pei. Dysplasia is a common issue with larger dogs, and both their parents are vulnerable to this. Similarly, other problems like entropion, luxation, cherry eye, ear infections, stenotic nares, tight lips, malocclusion, hypothyrooidism, demodectic mange, oleosa, hot spots, skin odor, etc. This might tend to make them disobey the trainer. In that case, a very firm hand, and some good amount of patience is required for it to be trained. You can consult a professional trainer the moment you find your dog displays the slightest behavioral issue. Give them socialization and housebreaking trainings from the time you bring them home from the breeders. Train the puppies consistently and with firm hands. Praise your dog or give them treats whenever it finds success or displays obedience. Stick to the same routine diet like the other large-sized dogs with the same energy levels. If you would go for dry foods like kibbles, be sure that you stick to quality and that, you are providing it with the right quantity of food. I have a 7 year old Sharpei Lab named Tyson. He has black fir and big brown eyes that are just full of love when I look in them. He makes me laugh and smile. He is always by my side. Not a complaint about him. Lifespan Sociability The Lab Pei is known to be protective of his estate and family. If he takes after his Shar-Pei parent more than his Labrador parent, there is a very high chance that he will guard his home. Although not aggressive, he will stand his ground and will not appreciate strangers coming to the house. In addition to his sometimes-overwhelming protectiveness, he can also be independent and stubborn. The Lab Pei needs a firm owner that is going to step up to the challenge of being the top dog and never allowing the Lab Pei to think he is. Training with any Shar-Pei mix is a lifelong requirement, not a quick 1-month obedience course down at your local center. But there is no doubt about it, this dominant dog is hard work and he needs an experienced dog owner. Being part Shar-Pei he will also not appreciate other animals or pets, especially other dogs. Even if he is well-socialized and the initial meet-up with other pets went swimmingly, he is known to change his mind overnight. So, if you have other pets or are planning to have other pets in the family home, you need to move on to another mixed hybrid altogether. Being the only pet also means that he will get your undivided attention. He is affectionate and loving with his family, and loves a hardcore afternoon snooze most days. He loves human companionship, but he is not over needy or anxious without you around. They usually inherit the hippopotamus muzzle. This means he will probably inherit the larger-than-life muzzle that really does look like a wrinkly hippo face. Scientific studies have shown that the Labrador can now blame his bottomless pit of a stomach on a missing gene. He may or may not inherit this genetically mutated gene, but either way, you need to keep an eye on his food intake to prevent him from becoming obese. They will be a water baby. If you can incorporate water into his exercise routine, he will love you forever. As we have already mentioned, this is exactly why you need to be an experienced dog owner who can show him the ropes and teach him the family hierarchy. If you find he challenges you as top-dog, correct him straight away, and if you still struggle, then you might need to reach out and seek professional help. He is also a confident dog both in the form of protecting his family and with strangers. Although he will be suspicious and aloof at first, as soon as his master welcomes them into the fold, he will warm up to them as well. If he takes after his Lab parent, he might even request a belly rub if they give off a friendly vibe. He is also courageous and will protect his family and estate if he feels he needs to. Full of love and loyalty, his family will be the apple of his eye. He will always be thinking of ways to impress his master, hoping for verbal praise and cheeky treats. He will always be up for a game of fetch or flyball and will spend hours and hours playing with his family. This makes him a fantastic companion for a family who loves to spend time outdoors, having fun, or adventuring. Being a well-balanced dog, he also knows when to be calm in the home. If you and your family are enjoying a relaxing Netflix evening, he will happily sit back and relax with you. The Lab Pei is a very intelligent dog, thanks to the Labrador passing on his intelligent genes. Especially if you tempt him with treats. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Firstly, he is not very tolerant of grabby, overzealous children. Like the best of us, he can get quite grumpy when annoyed, so he is best placed with older children who will know when he needs his own space. Secondly, because of his Shar-Pei genes, this pooch can be very dominant. This means that he might not respect younger children as being part of the pack or above him in the hierarchy. He needs to be with an older family that has experience with dominant dogs and can handle the potential pack challenges. Once he does understand the family dynamics, he is known to settle very well into family life. Also, many protective dogs have an affinity for the younger pack members, too, and the Lab Pei is one of these dogs. His Chinese Shar-Pei parent is famous for not liking the company or sight of other dogs, so this guy is strictly to be homed as the only dog. He extends this dislike to most other animals, so the Lab Pei really needs to be the only animal in the house. You need to bear this in mind when you are exercising him in public as well. You will undoubtedly come across other dogs and animals in the neighborhood. Socialization is key to minimalizing his dislike towards animals. You need to ensure that your yard is secured so that he cannot escape, but also because he will guard his perimeter. Coming nose to nose with another dog at the gate is dangerous, so remove this chance and secure all fencing and gates. Read through his following requirements so that you know exactly what he needs to live his best life. Feed him a high-quality dried kibble that is both age and breed size-appropriate. Dried kibbles are a great way to keep his teeth clean, as the hard kibble pieces help to break down the buildup of plaque. As tempting as it might be to feed him his favorite treats, an overweight dog is an unhappy one and obesity leads to untold health concerns. Always follow package instructions and switch him to a weight management kibble should he start piling on the pounds. Being intelligent, you should aim to mix up his exercise activities when possible. He will love to fetch and retrieve, so why not combine this with his love of water and get yourselves down to the local doggy lake? As he will probably not like other dogs, you need to keep him on a leash and be able to control him when faced with other dogs. Not only will it make walkies more enjoyable for both of you, but if he comes face to face with another dog, you know you can handle his power. This guy packs a lot of power, so you need to be a strong owner. Socialization is the most important part of his training, not only as a puppy but throughout his entire life. Keeping him cooped up all day long will only reinforce the fact that other animals are the enemy. Ensuring that he meets animals and other dogs of all shapes and sizes in a controlled environment will limit the amount of fear-aggression he displays. Obedience training is also important because of his dominant personality. If you are an experienced dominant dog owner, then you will know how important it is to maintain obedience training throughout his life. No matter how cute and squishy his face is , he needs to learn his place in the pack. It will shed moderately throughout the year and then probably experience a full blow-out during the shedding season. Brushing him 2 to 3 times a week will keep him looking fresh and healthy. Because of his skin rolls, he will need to be cleaned with a specially designed skin-fold ointment that will prevent bacteria and skin infections from developing. How often you do this will be dependent on how many folds he has. His eyes and ears will also need to be cleaned regularly and ensure that his nails are the correct length otherwise you risk paw injuries. Bathing him with a gentle shampoo once every 8 weeks or so is advised to keep him smelling clean. Take a note of the below health concerns that are most common to the Lab Pei and make yourself aware of the symptoms. Minor Conditions. Responsible Lab breeders will test their breeding stock and avoid passing diseases on to future generations. Your Shar Pei Lab mix breeder should provide proof that your puppy has healthy genetics on the Lab side. Additionally, there are health issues which are inherently associated with the Shar Pei skin folds. The unique Shar Pei head makes the breed prone to eye, ear, and respiratory problems. Conditions such as cherry eye, ear infections, and deflated muzzle are common. A particularly aggressive type of mast cell cancer is often seen in the Shar Pei. They are also prone to a type of skin cancer called histiocytoma. Shar Peis should always be monitored for abnormal lumps and bumps. The skin folds of the Shar Pei can lead to a serious skin condition called pyoderma. Pyoderma is a bacterial infection of the skin. While mild superficial cases are common in many breeds, Shar Peis can suffer from severe cases, due to moisture trapped in the skin folds. Hip and elbow dysplasia and skin problems are the most common. Reputable breeders will health test for dysplasia and provide buyers with certified test results. The skin issues can be more problematic, as pyoderma is associated with the Shar Pei wrinkles. Your Lab Pei puppy may grow up to have deep folds or moderate folds. This can determine how serious the skin problems will be. Special care always needs to be taken with the skin, ensuring that it remains clean and dry. The actual lifespan for Shar Peis may tend to be even shorter, from years, depending on health issues and the individual dog. Shar Pei Lab Mix Shedding The Lab has a double coat, consisting of a soft thick undercoat and a dense weather-resistant top coat. Labs tend to be fairly heavy shedders, and they will lose their undercoats in warm weather. Shar Peis, on the other hand, have a much shorter, rougher coat, and are less prone to shedding. Lab Pei Grooming Coat characteristics and grooming requirements are important to many people interested in the Lab Pei. While both breeds have short coats, they differ in both texture and grooming requirements. Labs require regular weekly grooming and will need to be brushed a few times a week during shedding season. However, a Shar Pei has unique grooming requirements because of the wrinkly skin. Health and temperament are of particular concern. A Lab Pei with excessive skin folds will require a significant amount of care to keep the skin clean and healthy. Other health concerns such as hip and elbow dysplasia, cancer, and eye disease should also be kept in mind. Potential owners should be careful not to assume that they will be getting a Lab Pei that perfectly combines the sunny Lab disposition with a few cute wrinkles! There are no temperament guarantees with mixed breed dogs, and the Shar Pei can have a challenging temperament for novice owners. Good training and socialization is a must for the Lab Pei. A Lab Pei may do best as an only pet in homes with adults and older children. Similar Breeds If you love the idea of this mixed breed but shy away from the health concerns or potential temperament issues, there are other mixes to consider. Since they are not as common as some other Lab mixes, finding one may require patience. As these dogs have so many potential health concerns, adopting an adult may be the kindest and best thing to do. Please make sure to consider whether you are able to offer the needed care for this mix. And remember that there may be a wide variety in appearance, with everything from coat color to size. This is true in the case of the Labrador and Shar Pei mix. Animal shelter search engines like Petfinder allow potential adopters to narrow searches by breed. Unsure if your dog is a true Lab Pei? Genetic dog breed tests are widely available. So you may be able to find a Shar Pei Lab mix puppy. However, there are a few things to note. Avoid buying a Lab Pei puppy sight unseen from a seller on the Internet. Your puppy could be coming from a large scale, for-profit breeding operation known as a puppy mill. Breeding animals used in mills are often kept in inhumane conditions and are not health tested for genetic diseases. For more specifics on finding a puppy, take a look at our puppy search guide. Shar Pei Lab puppies are available from breeders, but potential buyers need to be very careful about ensuring that they pick a reputable breeder. It is always best to work with local, small breeders who welcome potential buyers into their homes. Your breeder should be able to provide you with genetic health test results. Not all health issues have genetic tests, but many do. Here are a few curated suggestions for products for Lab mixes like the Lab Pei! In one of these shelters, there is a possibility that one of them is a Shar Pei mixed with Labrador looking for a new lovely home. Here are some reliable shelters and rescue groups you can contact. Try www. Thusly, their crossbred offspring is a dog of medium-length hair, and not that much of a shedder. It is an adorable pup that is average to low maintenance; in other words, they do not require much extensive grooming. For one, this crossbreed is not hypoallergenic and a bit of a drooler. As such, it is recommended that clothes be taken out of the way so as to prevent the hair and fur is a bit of a chore to clean. To ensure less shedding, one must brush the Shar Pei crossed with Labrador monthly in order to remove excess debris and loose fur, and properly distribute the natural oils. Should your Labrador Shar Pei mix have many folds and wrinkles on its skin, regular cleaning and cleaning of these folds is recommended to prevent yeast and bacteria build up? Do the cleaning of such folds during regular baths. While patting the Labrador mixed with Shar Pei down, you must properly wipe them with a damp wet cloth, while focusing on the following specific areas: Folds on the skin Anal region and tail Eye Region, especially the eyelids As with all dogs, regular brushing of the teeth is also recommended not only for good oral hygiene but also prevention of nasty dental disease. The ears must also be a focus of the cleaning, and must be regularly checked for signs of infection and nails should be trimmed frequently. Note, when trimming their nails need, one needs extra care and precision so as not to cause bleeding and prevent infection. Shar Pei Labrador Mix Health Problems It must be noted that all crossbreeds can be prone to an array of issues from either of its purebred parents. It is also possible, however, that the offspring not be totally vulnerable to these diseases. They are known to suffer from elbow or hip dysplasia. Similarly, they also develop eye problems such as cataracts or PRA blindness. They are known to face skin problems with their many folds and complicated eye problems such as entropion. Depending on its favored parent, the Labrador crossed with Shar Pei have usually been showing to be vulnerable to ailments that affect their parent such as: Eye Problems: The most common problem among these complications is Entropion. Without the proper diet and care, this can lead to taking and, worse, surgery. If not treated at the earliest instance, the Entropion can even cause permanent blindness. Skin problems: Because of its many folds, this crossbreed is prone to skin infections if not tended to properly. Avoiding skin complications means regular brushing and wiping of sensitive areas. Hip Dysplasia: A lot of crossbreeds with a Labrador Retriever parent suffer from this, and the Shar Pei crossed with Labrador is no exception. A focus on exercise and diet high in meat and glucosamine is recommended to prevent Hip Dysplasia complications. This is to prevent complications from suffering from Hip Dysplasia. With a tendency to overeat, the Shar Pei Labrador Mix are at high risk of becoming obese. You must have him do small frequent meals instead of one large meal to prevent bloating. Giving of treats and scheduled feedings must be intermixed with free-feeding of at least once per week. This is to make sure that your Shar Pei crossed with Labrador does not become obese. The proper mix of vitamins and minerals for your dog must be consulted with the veterinarian. The veterinarian will be able to assess the nutritional and essential needs of your dog according to their weight and size. Owners should focus on buying dog food rich in glucosamine or chronodotin, or both. These nutrients are vital in lowering the risk for hip dysplasia. Ask your local pet store or dog food provider for products with these specific characteristics. Here are some examples of high-quality dog food available in the market: BlueLife Food: DHA is incorporated into their ingredients for more significant help in mobility and brain growth In addition, the company which produces this food has a specialty in making all-organic and all-natural dog food. The multiple protein sources from this dry dog food provide a healthy balance of amino acids, supporting muscle development and maintenance. More importantly, this dry food has high levels of Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for a controlled diet rich in healthy fats. It is made as an ideal choice for average to large dogs for building their muscle fibers. Its main ingredients, among other things, are salmon meat high in glucosamine , chicken, and real beef perfect for a Labrador and Shar Pei mix to enjoy. This dog food is made with free-range chicken without added growth hormones and steroid to provide your dog with the necessary amino acids which help define muscle tone and fiber. It has fiber from real fruits and vegetables, which support digestion and intestinal health. Not only does this provide an answer for those joints, but it also stocks the fibers from berries and vegetable for their natural bowel movement. SmartBlend One: One of the essential benefits from this Purina One product is its ability to provide a rich and delicious diet for your pup. All dog parents want to keep their furry babies happy and healthy all the time. Whether yours is big or small, avoid giving them the worst dry dog food, and opt for some of the best dry dog food options, such as:. Training and socialization were key to her excellent behavior. She is my amazing sweet girl who has boundless energy, patience and loves everyone. She is very loyal to me and my family and wants to be were we are at all times. She is confident and agile with excellent recall and manners but can show her stubborn Pei streak from time to time. She loves to travel and enjoys swimming and rolling in the mud but is just as happy to nap on her dog pillow at home for hours. And snow, she loves snow and ice more than anything else. She is very good with kids, cats , dogs as long as they show no aggression towards her family , small animals and other people. She is protective when someone adult approaches when we are out of the house but listens well and accepts loves and pets once I give her the command to stop, she has never barked at a child , ever. Even as a 6 month old puppy she sat nicely and let three year olds love on her. She is not a vocal dog unless something is wrong, otherwise, she is pretty silent. She is extremely sensitive to tone, I use my stern voice and that is all it takes for her to know she did something wrong, heavy hands are never good but especially with this girl. She can smell a bit and gets dry skin if I don't use oatmeal shampoo but she loves loves the water so bathing is very easy. She sheds about a 7 on a scale of 10, 1 being the least amount of shedding as possible. She is very food motivated and is extremely willing to please, training was a breeze with her but be careful, the Lab side can bring on obesity daily quick. My girl has had Entropion and needed 2 surgeries for eye tacking, one when she was 6 months old when I found her and another when she was 4. Due to the length of time her previous owners let pass without eye tacking, she struggles to see some things if they are in shadow or reflect light. I love my Pig and think everyone should have a dog as amazing as her. This breed can be a challenge if you don't know how to be the pack leader. Shar Pei's are not for 1st time dog owners even though the Lab mellows out the intense protection desire and stubbornness a Pei has. This mix will still have these traits, just in lesser intensities. It is a cross between the Labrador Retriever and the Shar-Pei. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. She was tied to a stake in a rural area, and was chronically pregnant and producing puppies. When rescued, she was about 2 years old based on her vet exam. On July 7th we will celebrate 10 years together. Brooklyn is too intelligent for her own good, very sweet, inquisitive, loyal, and loving. I truly believe her mission on earth is to give love and healing. After having her for 2 years I began training her for therapy dog work. She took to it immediately. She has always had an affinity for those injured, ill, or disabled. Our travels have taken us to local hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, assisted living, and patients at home on hospice. She has been my partner at work for the last 6 years, with the last 2 years coming to the office with me. She was my "administrative assistant. They are very close. I feel she exemplifies both the best traits of the Lab and Shar Pei. This picture is Brooklyn at the beach when she was about 3 years old. I found him in the street at about 6 weeks old. He was flea infested and had worms so I took him to the vet that day. He is now healthy and happy. He is extremely active, loves to chew everything and has to sleep in the bed with me. I can't go anywhere without him or he whines. I think he is so adorable! He has a curled tail with black on the tip and some dark spots on his tongue, his ears are floppy and he has some white on his chest. At first he hated the bath but now he is learning to love the water and swims at the beach! They were found as very young puppies, walking along the freeway together. They are littermates, but couldn't be more different! Kazu the black one is very loyal, follows me around the house, gazes at me, etc. She's very excitable and has trouble—after 5 years—understanding that jumping when someone comes in isn't okay. She's a very happy dog who even wags her tail when she eats. She's quite aloof and bossy. Her affection is on her terms and she's the only dog I've ever seen who sulks. She does love to play, however, and frequently brings her rope to me, wags her tail, looking for some playtime. He loves to jump and play in the water. He is wary of strangers but once he knows you, he loves you. We didn't really know what to expect with this hybrid, because there are few out there. She has turned out to be a terrific little dog. The puppyhood was difficult, and she displayed typical Lab behaviors. Lucy would chew on everything and everyone! Now that she has passed the one-year mark she is really coming along. Lucy is extremely friendly, loves children and other dogs, and rarely barks. She is loyal, but not jealous, and is very smart. She responds well to both verbal and hand commands, and is a great exercise partner. One negative, though she has the great Shar Pei wrinkles and short hair, she does shed quite a bit. I wish that more people knew about this great hybrid! We feel very lucky. We got him from the local animal shelter when he was 8 weeks old. He was housebroken in less than 2 weeks. He is one of the smartest dogs I have ever encountered, and very affectionate. His only problem is he is extremely skittish. Since he has never been mistreated here, I can only assume it is just his nature. But I am still very glad we chose him. We have 19 grandchildren, so it was very important that whatever we got, it had to be good with them. He has both been great with all from 20 years, right down to newborns. Their face resembles very much like their lab parent and they weigh between pounds and standing inches in height. Lab Pei has a short coat that may be dense and water resistant, a trait they inherit from their Labrador lineage. These hybrids are not as wrinkled like their parent breed the Shar-Pei, but they will tend to have loose facial skin around their forehead. The Lab-Pei have small almond-shaped eyes and their ears are set high on the head and are semi-flopped down, with a pointed tip. They have a wide and broad head, while their muzzle tends to be medium in length, their noses are black to dark brown and their tails are set high and are semi-curved. Temperament and Behavior These dogs generally have an even, protective, and loving nature which they inherit from their parents. It has a very loyal and protective nature, making it a terrific watch and guard dog. The Shar-Pei and Labs have very different temperaments. While the Lab is friendly and outgoing pooch, the Shar-Pei can be more reserved, thus the resultant Lab-Pei can be difficult to predict at times. Their Labrador Retriever and Chinese Shar-Pei lineage make an intelligent and affectionate dog that is highly trainable and keen to please its humans. Exercise Adequate exercise and physical activities are recommended for this average large sized Lab Pei breed. He has a high instinct to play and run around so a fenced yard or off-leash spacious zone where he can run and interact with other dogs is ideal. An ideal balance between their physical and mental health should be maintained, and prevent them from being flippant, bored and destructive. They have a short coat, which makes brushing twice a week adequate to remove the loose fur and debris and shall maintain the natural glow. However, when untidy or you may bathe him maybe once months for proper hygiene. If your pet has some wrinkles and folds on their skin, it is essential that these folds be cleaned on a regular basis and wiped properly in order to prevent bacteria and yeast buildup. Ears should be cleaned and checked on a regular basis for signs of infection and nails trimming and teeth brushing as done to other similar pet dogs. Many genetic disorders bypass the hybrid entirely. Lab Pei Dogs may be prone to Dysplasia , luxation, cherry eye, ear infections, stenotic nares, tight lips, malocclusion, hypothyroidism, demodectic mange, oleosa, hot spots, skin odor, etc. This breed may suffer from entropion wrinkles causing eyelids to fold in from the Shar Pei side. Training Give them socialization and housebreaking training from the time you bring them home from the breeders. Train the puppies consistently and with firm hands. Praise your dog or give them treats whenever it finds success or displays obedience. The Lab Pei should eat 2 to 4 cups depending on the size of good quality dry food like kibbles every day. Meals should be small but frequent instead of one large meal once a day to prevent bloating. The Lab Pei dogs have a tendency to overeat and hence become obese. This gives rise to a high risk of developing hip dysplasia and joint problems is a recipe for disaster. Thus they should be fed with a controlled diet with the right amount of calories and nutrition to prevent them from being over-weight. Shar Pei Lab Mix Puppies Your Lab Pei puppy will need to be put on a diet specific for large breed dog puppies to help maintain a slower growth rate. Feed him over several meal periods and ensure he has plenty of toys to keep him mentally stimulated and out of trouble. Typically 1 cup per 6 pounds of body weight should be sufficient for growth of pounds per week. Too much exercise may tire him out but can also result in joint injuries that may plague him the rest of his life. Video: Lab Pei Puppies Playing.

Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.Top 30 Smartest Dog Breeds In The World If you're a dog lover, you've probably heard the age-old debate: which dog breeds are the smartest? While all dogs have their own unique intelligence and personality, some breeds have proven to be consistently brilliant over time. In this guide, we'll explore the top 30 smartest dog breeds ranked, from problem-solving whizzes to trainable and intuitive pups. We've done our research to provide you with an updated and informative.These pooches are joyful, lively, eager to please dogs. They are adventurous, kind, family-oriented pups who love hiking, swimming, canine games, sports and any, and all, family activities. These puppies are merry and bouncy little marshmallows. They are cuddly and sweet pups who love running around, playing, making friends and are very enthusiastic learners. The breed is divided into 3 recognized categories: Toy Poodle; Mini; Standard. Although they differ in size, one thing is for sure: they are glamorous companion pets. With my Dad's unexpected passing we were reminded of how short life can be and decided to follow our dreams by starting our breeding program. While working from home as a pharmacist and home schooling our children, we spoil our dogs and puppies throughout each day! Your new puppy will be given the love and nurture needed to go home well-socialized and ready to join your family! Our Health Guarantee Our parent dogs are from excellent bloodlines, have wonderful temperaments, and obtain extensive health clearances. Numerous hours are spent looking through Pedigrees and learning the quality and characteristics of our lines. Our breeding goal is to produce beautiful, healthy companion puppies with exceptional temperaments. When purchasing a puppy from us you can be certain the health and temperament of your new puppy is Above and Beyond Standards. We provide all of our puppies with a 2 Year Health Guarantee to support this. Puppy hall of fame Above and Beyond Standards Puppy Hall of Fame We invite you to submit your favorite stories, memories, or simply a testimonial. Be sure to also submit a photo we can share. It is our hope through this page a storybook photo album can be created of our wonderful puppies and we can enjoy in their adventures and proud moments together! See Testimonials and Fun Moments Here! DOB .All puppies will be vet checked and cleared, vaccinated, and dewormed. Puppies will come with CKC registration papers. Ready on .Can hold closer to Christmas if needed with a deposit. Puppies have had 1st grooming visit as well. Price is negotiable. Want loving forever homes for these fur-babies. Message if interested. He is half poodle half half chihuahua, unfixed male and weighs 8lbs. I work a lot and dont have much time for him anymore. I also recently started dating for the first time since I got him and he is extremely jealous of my boyfriend and has become very possessive of me. He is up to date on all his shots and I will also give you his new cage with a handle, pet bed, blanket, feeding dish, leash and dog travel bag to match, starter food and toys. He is house trained and knows what a puppy pad is used for in case of emergencies. He knows all the common commands as well as 'high five'. You can teach him any trick in 5 minutes, he is extremely smart. I suggest a home with a male present vs a single female that lives alone. I am located in Raleigh NC. View Detail Pup lover with allergies Mini poodle pup 10 weeks for sale. Owner is allergic and looking to find new home for this sweet, mild-tempered, playful smart boy. They would love to be a part of your family and get lots of attension. We need to find a loving home for our toy poodle pup as we have to move to a no pets location. We tried everything to keep her but we cant. My new job also wont allow me the proper time to love her. Only serious inquiries ok. This is very hard for is. She has beautiful brown eyes and shes all white with a touch of cream tan on the edges of her ears. Please contact contact petzlover. No man cometh unto the Father, but by me. I hope your visit to our site is fun, emotional and informative. Are you a Standard Poodle owner, or have you ever owned a Standard Poodle in the past? If you qualify as either of the above mentioned people, you know how loyal and loving the Standard Poodle is. The intelligence of this amazing breed is common knowledge for you. With each look of devotion from your Standard Poodle you have felt the goose bumps and familiar feeling each time they snuggle so close. If you do not own nor have ever owned a Standard Poodle you have so much to look forward to with one. These dogs will amaze you with their endless understanding of the human language. Whether you have been gone from home ten minutes or eight hours, the greeting you will receive will be exuberant. Their companionship will always be a comfort to you. The Standard Poodle is a large breed but the soft, feather like touch they have will surprise you. When your Standard Poodle jumps up to give you a hug it will be so gentle compared to the heavy touch or push from other large, but gentle breeds. Obviously your search for a new family member has led you here, to our Family Affair Standard Poodle website. Since you are here we hope our knowledge and our 30 plus years of experience breeding will help you find the perfect Standard Poodle puppy for you and your family. Each page is designed and written to help you and your families make a well informed, confident decision to purchase your Standard Poodle puppy here at Family Affair Standard Poodles. You will see slide shows of Holley and me including childhood pictures. You will also see us as we are today, with our own families. You will get to see pictures of our facility, which we are very proud of. In addition, you will see slide shows of the sires dads and dams moms of the younger litters of our Standard Poodle puppies that will be ready in the near future. There will also be a video of the entire litter. You can view slide shows, testing results and pedigree information on the canines, Ladies and Gentlemen of Family Affair Standard Poodles. In addition we have posted the color and approximate height and weight of each of our canine Ladies and Gentlemen at Family Affair Standard Poodles. You will also get to meet all the humans involved in this Family Affair. We retire all of our adult Standard Poodles between the ages of six and seven. Occasionally we will have a younger adult up for adoption or a puppy with special needs. This page will give you an idea of what to expect from these retiring girls and guys as new family members. You will be able to read letters or notes from previous people who have adopted our adult Standard Poodles. These are questions you need answered prior to the decision to adopt or purchase and after the arrival of your new Standard Poodle Puppy or Adoptee. Questions about the health issues and the wide range of colors in the Standard Poodle breed will be addressed. There will be training and grooming tips and lots more. We have provided an explanation of how the purchase process works from the deposit until the payment in full is made for your Standard Poodle Puppy or Adult or Special Needs Adoptee. These contracts serve as your guarantee, medical record and receipt all in one. Each contract has specific instructions at the top on how to fill out and submit these contracts. It will explain how our Standard Poodle Puppies are shipped and put your mind at ease concerning shipping. You can read about our personal delivery service, the advantages of this service and the fees involved. There are also pictures and letters concerning successfully shipped or delivered puppies. There are certain things you need when you take your new Standard Poodle puppy home. This package will have almost everything you need when you take home your Standard Poodle puppy. These packages will start with your correct size crate and end with the grooming shampoo and tools and everything in between. On this page we pay honor to the people in our lives that have made all of us who we are today and those who have helped to make our dream a reality and worked side by side with us through the good times, as well as the hard times. We also recognize the animals that we have been blessed to know throughout our lives and who have passed on to Rainbow Bridge and are sorely missed. Some of these people have been gracious enough to allow us to list their emails so you can email them directly for a reference. We also have a link to view a letter from our annual AKC inspection. You can view letters of our previous vet of 15 years and our present vet who we have been with since .It also has groomers and vets as well as trainers listed. This is where the puppies are raised. In our opinion the most versatile breed anyone could ask for is the Standard Poodle. Standards are very happy on a farm, hiking, swimming, hunting and playing games. They are also very content to be a couch potato in an apartment with brief outings to play. They enjoy homes with a houseful of children, older couples or a single human companion. They do great with other pets as well. Enjoy your visit to our Family Affair Standard Poodles website. We hope to hear from you soon so that you can become a part of our Family Affair.

They are intelligent dogs that learn quickly and enjoy being obedience trained. They also get along well with other dogs and children, making them ideal family pets. These pups are active dogs that need plenty of exercise, but they are also content to lounge around the house with their families. Overall, Toy Goldendoodles make wonderful companion animals for people of all ages. Toy Goldendoodle Puppy Health Considerations Though generally very happy and long-lived — with an average lifespan of around years — our Toy Goldendoodles for sale are not without their unique health concerns. Like every breed of dog, there are a few conditions you should be aware of before you consider purchasing one of our Toy Goldendoodle puppies for sale. Understanding the risks allows you to know the signs and prevent small health concerns from turning into big ones. Toy Goldendoodle puppies are at a somewhat elevated risk for developing the following conditions: Hip Dysplasia Elbow Dysplasia Von Willebrand Disease Some of the most common health concerns for Toy Goldendoodles include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and von Willebrand disease. Hip dysplasia is a condition that can cause pain and lameness in the hips and legs. Elbow dysplasia is a condition that affects the elbow joint and can also cause pain and lameness. Von Willebrand disease is a bleeding disorder that can be potentially life-threatening. Finding a Toy Goldendoodle puppy for sale from a reputable breeder can also dramatically — although, not eliminate — the risk of your dog developing some of these conditions. The coat must be brushed at least once a week, and more if the dog is shedding. The coat should be shampooed every few weeks, using a mild dog shampoo. The coat should also be trimmed every few months, to keep it from getting too long. Meet Toy Goldendoodle Puppies for Sale. We specialize in breeding Mini Goldendoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other high quality breeders that raise mini goldendoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! Not all mini Goldendoodles are equal, there are a few different versions to choose from each having a little different genetic background based on the pups parents. We will explain all the differences in Mini Goldendoodle puppies and how they are bred below. We raise all versions of the mini goldendoodle breed. F1 Mini Goldendoodle Pups. A F1 puppy is also known as a First Generation puppy. The puppies mother is a Golden Retriever and the pups dad is a Mini Poodle. This version of mini goldendoodle usually has soft wavy or curly puppy fur. They will shed until they lose their puppy fur, after shedding they will shed a lot less, but will shed. This version is partially hypoallergenic and usually requires low maintenance. F1 mini goldendoodles usually need to be groomed every 6 months along with daily brushing to keep their curly hair from matting and getting tangled. The dogs usually grow up having great temperaments similar to golden retrievers. They usually get about inches high at the shoulder and range in weight from pounds. F1b Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1b is known as a second-generation mini goldendoodle with the pups mother being already an F1 Goldendoodle and the pups dad being a mini poodle also. So the difference between F1 and F1b is that the mom is not a golden retriever but an actual F1 Goldendoodle. They also have very soft curly hair but with almost no shedding. This F1b version is semi-hypoallergenic and a better choice for anyone who has pet allergies. The F1b also should be brushed on a daily basis but will need to be groomed more frequently then a F1. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is recommended to keep their coat in perfect condition. F1b Mini goldendoodles get around 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders and range between pounds in weight. F1bb Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1bb goldendoodle is also known as a third-generation mini goldendoodle. This mini goldendoodle version has a coat more similar to a poodle than of a golden retriever. This is because the pup is more of a poodle than a retriever. Making it the very best version for anyone with pet allergies. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is required to help prevent knots or matting. This version is super intelligent and loving, and usually seems to have more energy than the other versions of Mini goldendoodles. This version is usually smaller in size, weighing around pounds and only getting inches tall at the shoulders. The smaller size makes them a great size for smaller homes and apartments. So if you live near Fremont California and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Goldendoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Goldendoodle Pups that have been adopted! We specialize in breeding Mini Goldendoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other high quality breeders that raise mini goldendoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! Not all mini Goldendoodles are equal, there are a few different versions to choose from each having a little different genetic background based on the pups parents. We will explain all the differences in Mini Goldendoodle puppies and how they are bred below. We raise all versions of the mini goldendoodle breed. F1 Mini Goldendoodle Pups. A F1 puppy is also known as a First Generation puppy. The puppies mother is a Golden Retriever and the pups dad is a Mini Poodle. This version of mini goldendoodle usually has soft wavy or curly puppy fur. They will shed until they lose their puppy fur, after shedding they will shed a lot less, but will shed. This version is partially hypoallergenic and usually requires low maintenance. F1 mini goldendoodles usually need to be groomed every 6 months along with daily brushing to keep their curly hair from matting and getting tangled. The dogs usually grow up having great temperaments similar to golden retrievers. They usually get about inches high at the shoulder and range in weight from pounds. F1b Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1b is known as a second-generation mini goldendoodle with the pups mother being already an F1 Goldendoodle and the pups dad being a mini poodle also. So the difference between F1 and F1b is that the mom is not a golden retriever but an actual F1 Goldendoodle. They also have very soft curly hair but with almost no shedding. This F1b version is semi-hypoallergenic and a better choice for anyone who has pet allergies. The F1b also should be brushed on a daily basis but will need to be groomed more frequently then a F1. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is recommended to keep their coat in perfect condition. F1b Mini goldendoodles get around 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders and range between pounds in weight. F1bb Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1bb goldendoodle is also known as a third-generation mini goldendoodle. This mini goldendoodle version has a coat more similar to a poodle than of a golden retriever. This is because the pup is more of a poodle than a retriever. Making it the very best version for anyone with pet allergies. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is required to help prevent knots or matting. This version is super intelligent and loving, and usually seems to have more energy than the other versions of Mini goldendoodles. This version is usually smaller in size, weighing around pounds and only getting inches tall at the shoulders. The smaller size makes them a great size for smaller homes and apartments. So if you live near Brentwood California and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Goldendoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Goldendoodle Pups that have been adopted! Mini Goldendoodle via sullytheminigoldendoodle How To Find A Reputable Mini Goldendoodle Breeder Selecting a breeder is a major decision that everyone who wants to bring a Mini Goldendoodle into their home has to face. You want to choose one carefully as their breeding practices will have an impact on the temperament and health of your Mini Goldendoodle puppy. Start by looking at online sources such as Google reviews, online forums, discussion groups and social media platforms to see what other people are saying about the breeder. Did they have a good experience buying from them? To take your research a bit further, you can ask Goldendoodle organizations and clubs based in your area about their opinion of the breeder you are considering to purchase from. Many Goldendoodle clubs also have their own lists of responsible breeders so they can give you additional recommendations for good Mini Goldendoodle breeders. You may also consider visiting some dog shows and events as they are a good opportunity to meet breeders in person and see their Mini Goldendoodles. You can also ask other dog owners that are showing their Mini Goldendoodles for breeder recommendations. Finally, ask potential breeders for references and consider contacting these people to ask about their experience with the breeder. Reputable breeders always prioritize the well-being of their dogs and strive for positive reviews. You should inquire about temperament and health of the Mini Goldendoodles these people purchased. Use this information to make an informed decision. All reputable Mini Goldendoodle breeders conduct them on their breeding dogs — whether they are breeding from purebred Golden Retrievers for F1 Goldendoodles and Poodles or from Goldendoodles for later generations like F2 Goldendoodles. A stipulates the health testing requirements for Goldendoodles and if the breeder is registered with G. A, you know that the breeding dogs have undergone full health testing. A heart clearance O. Ask to see documentation of these clearances before purchasing from a Mini Goldendoodle breeder. All responsible breeders should be willing to provide any health documentation. They should also be happy to answer any questions you have about their breeding program. However, if you have the opportunity to check out the facilities you should do it. Check that the kennels are clean, that they dogs and puppies have access to fresh water and also that there is not a build up of feces or urine. Comfortable living conditions: The breeder should keep their Mini Goldendoodles, Golden Retrievers and Poodles in comfortable living conditions. They should have large, comfortable kennels or dog beds and also have a decent amount of space to exercise and socialize with other dogs. Healthy breeding dogs and puppies: If you get the opportunity to meet the parents of the Mini Goldendoodle litter you are interested in, make sure they are well-tempered and also healthy. Sometimes the mother will be quite protective of her puppies so she may show signs of aggression. If you are purchasing a puppy online and getting it delivered, ask if the breeder would be happy to video call you or send videos of their Mini Goldendoodle puppies and breeding dogs to you. Ask About Socialization Mini Goldendoodle breeders should begin the socialization process before their puppies are sold. The puppies should be exposed to a wide variety of sounds, experiences, people and places so they can adjust to their new homes and adult life. Nevertheless, they should start exposing them to sounds like household appliances, provide mental stimulation with toys and games and also encourage playtime and interactions with their littermates and family. The most common ones are: Lack of registration: If a Mini Goldendoodle breeder cannot provide registration papers or other relevant documentation, it may be a sign that they are not operating a reputable breeding program. Overbreeding: Think twice about purchasing from a Mini Goldendoodle breeder who always has puppies available or offers an excessive amount of dog breeds. This may suggest that the breeder is overly focused on profit instead of the health and wellbeing of their puppies. Lack of health checks: A reputable Mini Goldendoodle breeder will conduct health clearances on their breeding dogs to ensure they are free of genetic health issues that could be passed on. If a breeder cannot provide documentation of these health checks, it may be a sign that they are not prioritizing health. Further Reading. We offer a personal touch to breeding and raising our puppies, ensuring that every customer feels like a part of our family. If you have any questions or concerns, we are just a phone call, text, or email away. About Our Miniature Goldendoodles Our Miniature Goldendoodles are an exceptional hybrid breed, resulting from a purebred Golden Retriever and a miniature poodle cross. At maturity, they typically average 25 lbs. Our mini puppies embody the best characteristics of their parent breeds, including the amiable temperament of the Golden Retriever and the intelligence and low-shedding coat of the miniature poodle, making them ideal allergy-friendly pets. While our puppies are generally low shedding, some shedding may occur when the puppy coat transitions into the adult coat. Our female, Paislee, has abstract pups. Our puppies are wormed at weeks 4, 5, and 6 and receive their first puppy vaccine at 6 weeks. Before leaving our possession, each puppy undergoes a veterinary check to ensure their health. If any issues are detected, we will assist you in moving your deposit to another litter, if you choose to do so. If you wish to purchase a puppy for the purpose of breeding multiple litters, the cost is double the pet price. Our Happy Clients Our puppies have found loving homes all across the country. Take a look at the map below to see where our Mini Goldendoodle puppies have been placed and join our community of happy puppy owners! We got our mini golden doodle here and had a great experience. Neely was amazing and so helpful in answering all my questions. Highly recommended! They have been more wonderful than we could have ever imagined. They are the sweetest and smartest puppies ever! I highly recommend Cheryl at Walters Mini Golden Doodles if you are looking for the perfect addition to your family! The team would send me weekly updates and provided the 1st round of vaccines for us. I would recommend using this breeder and would purchase another puppy from them again! This is Benny, whose parents were Mars and Bella. He just turned 2 in April and weighs 37lbs. I would highly recommend her services. We had the opportunity to bring our precious little puppy home on .Teddi Belle is such a joy to have and our family is blessed to add her to our addition. First, and all subsequent vet check-ups were excellent. Our niece has also purchased a Mini Goldendoodle from Walters and is experiencing similar enjoyment. I would recommend this breeder to anyone who asks me. Do not hesitate to consider Walters Mini Golden doodles as your breeder. We are here to help make your forever home complete with a happy and healthy Miniature Goldendoodle puppy.