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Be extra cautious with online transactions! We encourage you to read these guidelines before buying or adopting a dog. Have you done your research? Carry out the research so you have the necessary knowledge of the pet you are getting. Since owning a dog is a big commitment, you should research about the breed fully to make sure it fits your current lifestyle and budget. Have you seen the puppy? Take time to visit the advertiser's home to confirm if they are genuine. Do not settle for online communications and photos. UK Pets does not verify the authenticity of all advertisers. The advertiser should allow you to personally see the puppies with the puppies' mother. If they keep on giving you excuses why you could not visit their home or the address stated in the advert is not the accurate and permanent location of the pet, consider this a red flag. Avoid online payment Never pay anything online through money transfer companies especially if you have not personally visited the advertiser and seen the puppy, this includes deposit and delivery cost for the puppy. There is also no means to recover your money if issues arise. Before closing a deal, you must have signed a well-defined contract. Responsible Advertiser The advertiser should only release the puppies when they are 8 weeks old or older. They should be responsible enough to know that separating the puppy from the mother earlier results in medical and behavioural issues. Read our Labradoodle Dog Breed Information. It is important to consider these facts to help you decide whether you are ready for long-term pet ownership. We are a British Labrador certified Lab breeder that raises quality English Labrador puppies that are the best loyal friends and companions. Danikk breeds quality Labradors for show, hunt, obedience and breeds all 3 colors - yellow, black and chocolate. Labrador Retriever. Our Labs are known for their pleasant attitude, demeanor, and. Planned Breedings Here you will find information about our upcoming planned breedings. Lab puppies for sale in Minnesota MN. Cloud, Minneapolis, USA. Call Joseph or Stephanie www. We have quality Labrador Retriever puppies for sale in. Labrador Retrievers for Sale in Minnesota Sort Dogs by: Ads 1 - 8 for a quality English Labrador puppy to adopt into your family, you have come to the right place! We have been raising quality puppies for many years. I only have 5 available pens at one time, so openings are limited. Reinitz Chocolate Labrador Retrievers. He is calm, easy-going, and confident. Paul, Minnesota. Labrador puppies for sale MN - By selectively breeding some of the best of the American and English Labrador bloodlines, Cashman Kennels' mission is to produce an amazing all-around gun dog with sound genetics. Gets along great with other dogs, cats, and children. We are a very small hobby breeder, only 1 or 2 litters per year. We are located in scenic East Central Minnesota on a 57 rolling acre hobby farm where our dogs have plenty of room to romp and play. All he ever wants is pets and love. Kanabec Kennels Fox Red Labs. Welcome Home Labs Lab Puppies! If you are unable to find your puppy in our Puppy for Sale or Dog for Sale sections, please consider looking thru thousands of Dogs for Adoption. Luscomb Labs is a small kennel that raises quality AKC labrador puppies that are a perfect addition to your family as a pet or a trusted hunting dog or companion. Our aim is to produce a beautiful, healthy, intelligent, trainable, high energy dog that has an off switch. They are born and raised in Tennessee before coming to the state. Labrador Retriever puppies for sale in Minnesota are Labs is set on a family farm North of Clear Lake in picturesque countryside. Are you looking for a beautiful Labrador puppy to adopt into your family? Started Labrador Retrievers. He comes to you up to date on shots and de-wormer, with veterinarian examin more. We raise a limited He is calm, easy-going, and confident. Do you have Labrador Retriever puppies for sale near me in Minnesota? Preferable Pups is always adding new fully screened and healthy Labrador Retriever puppies. Labrador Retriever puppies for sale in Minnesota are available in a variety of colors, including black, yellow, and chocolate. Browse thru our ID Verified. Welcome to Silver Creek Labs! If you are looking for a quality English Labrador puppy to adopt into your family, you have come to the right place! We have been raising quality. Our top-quality UK puppies make perfect family pets as well as superior hunting companions. Labrador puppies for sale MN Cashman Kennels Home By selectively breeding some of the best of the American and English Labrador bloodlines, Cashman Kennels' mission is to produce an amazing all-around gun dog with sound genetics. Click to us forever. Hello and welcome! Loyal Labradors is a highly experienced, AKC certified Lab breeder that raises quality English Labrador puppies that are the best loyal friends and companions. The puppies come in colors of fox red, yellow, and black. His name is Miles! Miles is from outstanding, intelligent, and trainable lineage! Labrador Retriever Lab. We have no outside or inside kennels for our Labradors. This helps you get a general idea of when you could expect to get a puppy from us. Make sure you are not standards; cross between an English with blocky. We will be 'closing our doors' after our spring pairings. Very rarely, some pups will have occasional white spots. Black lab, red lab, chocolate lab, silver lab, charcoal lab, silver lab, yellow lab puppies. Labrador standards to ensure you receive the best puppy we can offer. Started Labrador Retrievers These dogs have had crate time in preparation for housebreaking, and are progressing nicely in their obedience training. We focus on temperament and genetic health to produce behaviorally and physically sound family companions of the labrador type. We have been raising puppies since and use the AKC Labrador standards to ensure you receive the best puppy we can offer. Welcome Home Labs for as if they will live with us forever. Labrador Retriever Puppies in MN. Description: The puppies in this litter standards; cross between an English with blocky. Labradors are top choice in dogs. Lab puppies for sale in MN. Black is the most common color in this breed. He is in training and will be ready for a new home in late May. If you are looking We have been raising puppies since and use the AKC Labrador standards to ensure you receive the best puppy we can offer. Find Labrador Retriever dogs and puppies from Minnesota breeders. Black lab, fox red lab, charcoal lab, chocolate lab, yellow lab, silver lab, charcoal lab, champagne lab puppies for sale in MN. Labrador Retrievers for Sale breeder that proudly serves residents throughout Minnesota and beyond. Call us! View Recent Updates Three male pups available from current litters. Our Labrador Retriever Puppies for Sale. Labrador Retriever Puppies for Sale near Minneapolis, …. Labrador Retriever Puppies for Sale. For more information, contact Jim Staupe, owner, via e-mail or by calling .Browse thru our ID Verified puppy for sale listings to find your perfect puppy in your. You will need to provide proof of Bordatella. They 10 per …. We are always striving to improve the Labrador Retriever breed when choosing which dogs to cross. Labrador Retriever Puppies for Sale in Minnesota. The Captain's Labrador Retrievers. Labrador Retrievers for Sale in St. See Our We breed yellow, ivory, black, and chocolate labs. Are you looking for a puppy with a great disposition and a fancy pedigree? Email us today at [email protected]. C in Duluth, MN. We currently have 3 males and 5 females. MN Started Labrador Retrievers These dogs have had crate time in preparation for housebreaking, and are progressing nicely in their obedience training. Breed: Labrador Retriever. We breed yellow, ivory, black, and chocolate labs. Labrador Retriever Puppies for Sale - Minnesota. MN Labradors is located they want to go outside to run and play safely, and a lake for additional exercise and fun. Meet our lab parents on Our Family page. Puppies Currently Available Here you can see the individual puppies we currently have available. Labrador Retriever Puppy for Sale near Minnesota, diseases. Fieldstone Kennels is located in Milaca, In Minnesota. Very sweet and » Read more » Fillmore County, Lanesboro, We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. In Minnesota. We are Minnesota Licensed Dog Breeders. About Us. Here are some of our puppies that have found good homes. Find your puppy for sale in Minnesota. Save this Search. Great Dane. Brainerd, MN. Male, 7 weeks old. Whispering Pines Labradors. Lab puppies for sale, Minnesota labrador retriever puppies for sale. Sharptail Ridge offers Golden retriever puppies for sale in MN, as well as dog boarding and high quality dog food. Contact Elisa or Eric Today! Minnesota Dogs and Puppies Classifieds Hoobly. Our labradoodle puppies are raised in the rural Corral in Wisconsin but are quite.If you are unable to find your puppy in our … Sales of Pets or Pet Supplies. Pets, pet supplies, and pet equipment leases or rentals are generally taxable. Sales of pets are taxable, including any adoption fees. Pets are any animal.English springer spaniel breeder find your puppy today! Commercial Dog and Cat Breeder License. The Minnesota Board of Animal Health BAH defines "Commercial" breeder as a person who possesses or has an ownership interest in animals and is engaged in.Labradoodle Puppies available! Australian Labradoodle puppies raised with love and care in our Minnesota home. Mini - mediums. ALCA Member. Since the passage of the MN Dog and Cat Breeder Regulation Bill, standards of care for commercial breeders have become more strict. Puppies by Possehl. Each puppy comes with a one year written congenital health guarantee and a puppy wellness check up. He was born March 8th, .Will be.Find your puppy for sale in Rochester, MN Puppies. The Bernedoodle coat is a unique mix of the Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle that tends to be soft, voluminous, and low-shedding. Depending on the ratio of each breed in the mix, the coat can vary from wavy to curly. Bernedoodles usually have a thicker, longer coat on their neck, chest, and tail which can give them an almost teddy bear-like look.Find your puppy for sale in Audubon, MN Puppies. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. Featured Listings. Default Sorting. Miniature Australian Shepherd. Campbell, … Pets for Sale. Available Pets. Four Paws and a Tail. Contact Us. Store Hours.Genetically tested with a guarantee! We can safely deliver your puppy.Minnesota dog breeder targeted by thousands of online.It's situated on Highway 55 in Eden Valley, behind their popular petting.Norwich Puppies for Sale - Minnesota. Please call us at if you need more information about our puppies! Norwich Puppies for sale. Click on a link below and see these.These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Minneapolis, Minnesota. To learn more about each adoptable dog, click on the "i" icon for fast facts, or their photo or name for full details. Pointer American Pit Bull Terrier. Female, young. Roseville, MN. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find … Finney Ranch: Aussiedoodle Puppies For Sale. Helping you grow your family one Aussiedoodle Puppy at a time! Licensed Aussiedoodle Breeder MN .Puppy scammers post fake litters online or pretend to be someone they're not usually an existing breeder to take advantage of puppy sales sans the puppies. Puppies for Sale in MN. Puppies Up North: Doodles. Member of the Minnesota Pet Breeders Association!! You are moments away from.Find Keeshond puppies for sale Near Minnesota. We are an ethical hobby breeder located in North Western Minnesota. Our family of six lives on a thirteen-acre hobby farm that is the perfect place for our dogs.Menning Enterprises Inc. Edgerton, MN. Cheryls Tiny Yorkies. Puppies near Minneapolis, MN. Golden Retriever Puppies. Sweetwater Shih Tzu is a non-profit organization located just west of Minneapolis. We are dedicated to genetically tested and health guaranteed Shih Tzu.I would recommend this breed and breeder to anyone looking for a Great Pyrenees! Puppies Northern Pine Doodles Minnesota. Located in Pine County in Minnesota, we are a developing small, family-based kennel, specializing in Poodle-hybrids, or Doodles. Schnoodle puppies for sale in Minnesota from trusted …. Minnesota Purebred Dog Breeders Association. Learn more about breeding, buying a purebred puppy and get information on finding.The new Minnesota breeder licensing bill passed in after years of.Teddy Bear Puppies for sale in Minnesota! UpNorth Pups. They make excellent family companions and are proven.Puppies For Sale in Minnesota Petzlover. Dogs, litters, puppy adoption and more! Browsing Pets. Every puppy is covered by the Minnesota Puppy Law. Beautiful Boston Pug puppies for sale 2 f 3 m 6 wks old nearly weaned. We are a small family breeder located in Central Minnesota, outside of Monticello. Please call, text or email [email protected] for more information. We live on a family run farm in southwest Minnesota, USA. We started with.All "buy puppies" results in Minneapolis, Minnesota. We have compiled a directory of Minnesota Puppies for Sale listings from breeders, rescues, and shelters to help you find the cutest Puppy for Sale or Adoptable.Puppies for sale in Minnesota Minneapolis MN. Puppies for sale in Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota. Local business. Find your puppy for sale in Virginia, MN Puppies. Pink girl. Sturgeon Lake, MN. Duluth, MN. Puppies and dogs in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Select from the options below to view adoptable puppies and dogs in Minneapolis, Minnesota and nearby cities. Popular dog breeds.Puppies for Sale in Minnesota PuppySpot. They are 7 weeks old and are all ready for a new home. Both parents are very small. Boxer puppies for sale in Minnesota from trusted breeders …. Untitled Site 3. Doberman Pinscher puppies for sale in Minnesota from …. Find a Doberman Pinscher puppy from reputable breeders near you in Minnesota. Screened for quality. Transportation to Minnesota available. Visit us now to find your dog. German Shepherd Breeder in Minnesota. Breeding health certified, German line German Shepherd puppies in central Minnesota. Country Hills Cavaliers.There is no clear-cut answer to this question as the adult size of your Bernedoodle puppy will depend on the type of Bernedoodle you have and the size of the parent dogs. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy … Lab Puppies for Sale MN. Find your Labrador Retriever puppy for sale in Minnesota. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we … Find your Siberian Husky puppy for sale in Minnesota. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we … Find your puppy for sale in Minnesota Puppies. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help … Commercial Dog and Cat Breeder License. English Setter puppies for sale in Minnesota from trusted …. Find English Setter puppies for saleNear Minnesota. Find English Setter puppies for sale. Calm and gentle, the English Setter is an incredibly sweet and jolly breed. With proper exercise, they are very peaceful companions. Learn … Puppies for Sale in MN. Our main focus is raising healthy, well-socialized puppies with amazing.Get a great family dog today! You can also find other Dog Breeders on MapQuest. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we … Eight Things to Know about Adopting a Puppy in Minnesota. We are accepting deposits for our upcoming litter of f1 medium goldendoodles. Charlie is our 55Lb golden retriever and she will be bred with our 40lb red poodle.Cloud, Crosslake area through Brainerd Guide Service. How big do Bernedoodles for sale in Willmar get? Bernedoodles are usually a cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle, so they can vary in size. On average, they are usually around inches in height and can weigh anywhere from lbs, but that depends on the mix of the parent breeds and also the size of the Poodle used. We have MN teddy bear puppies for sale or adoption. COM for additional information or contact us today for inquiries. Basset Hound puppies for sale. All our puppies will be vet checked, started on shots, and wormed every 2 weeks while they are with us. Each puppy comes with a 1 year MN health guarantee.We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy …. That's why you're always on the lookout for the most efficient two-way radios on the market. 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Homes for … Divide events June .People's Mountain Market farmer's market is held from 9 a. Fresh, handmade sandwiches.Valley Park, MO .Cool Valley is a Sellers Housing Market, which means prices tend to be higher and homes sell faster. How much do homes in Cool Valley, MO cost? You can also find other Grocery Stores on MapQuest. Americans have enjoyed unusual job security, despite the Federal Reserve's aggressive campaign to cool the economy and labor market in its bid.What is the market value for Cool Valley Business Park? ULI St. Louis Technical Assistance Panel Recommendations. Saint-louis Rental Properties and Market Stats. Gross Yield. Cap Rate. Neighborhood Rating. This event, held in conjunction with the Hidden Gardens Tour, will include garden vendors and dealers offering unusual plants, garden books, After a surprisingly painless debt ceiling resolution and a strong.Valley housing market cooling fast, analyst says News. Cool valley provides a new idea, new innovation and is creating new market. Page 4. Cool valley is an multi.View sales history, tax history, home value estimates, and overhead views. APN .Start this process by viewing the third-party valuations and then contact a Realtor to.KFSN -- High-interest rates and a low inventory have combined to slow down home sales in the valley. Get the latest business insights from.Aldermen votes to impeach Cool Valley mayor. Louis County voted to impeach their mayor on Wednesday. Mayor Jayson Stewart made headlines before.Louis, MO. Furnished multifamily communities are on the market near Cool Valley. A new apartment complete with furniture can be a great fit when you are.Valley Center Timeline. Tax information included: property tax, market value and assessed.Everything you need to know about agent activity in Cool Valley, with rankings, reviews, sale stats, market share, as.Will cooler temperatures finally bring rain back to the Valley? 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The past several years we have focused primarily on fox reds. We are always striving to improve the Labrador Retriever breed when choosing which dogs to cross. Labrador Retriever Puppies for Sale in Minnesota. The Captain's Labrador Retrievers. Labrador Retrievers for Sale in St. Are you looking for a puppy with a great disposition and a fancy pedigree? Email us today at [email protected]. C for a quality English Labrador puppy to adopt into your family, you have come to the right place! We have been raising quality puppies for many years. I only have 5 available pens at one time, so openings are limited. Minnesota Labrador Retriever Classifieds Hoobly. Also, specializing in the lightest color of English, Yellow Labrador. Find Labrador Retriever dogs and puppies from Minnesota breeders. Browse thru our ID Verified puppy Check us out on Facebook for the most up to date photos and videos of our dogs and current pups. Are you looking for a beautiful Labrador puppy to adopt into your family? We have Labrador Retriever puppies for sale all over Minnesota and the surrounding areas within our Preferable Pups family of breeders. Labrador Retriever Lab. We have no outside or inside kennels for our Labradors. This helps you get a general idea of when you could expect to get a puppy from us. Make sure you are not for sale listings to find your perfect puppy in your area. Labrador Puppies for Sale in We breed yellow, ivory, black, and chocolate labs. Labradors are top choice in dogs. Lab puppies for sale in MN. He comes to you up to date on shots and de-wormer, with veterinarian examin… more. We strive to create the best possible family companions by focusing our attention on creating pups with a sound temperaments and excellent health. All our puppies are AKC Registered. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. Carefully choosing our pairings to ensure all 3 qualities. Labrador Retrievers for Sale in Minneapolis. White Lab Puppies For Sale. For more information, contact Jim Staupe, owner, via e-mail or by calling .Black lab, red lab, chocolate lab, silver lab, charcoal lab, silver lab, yellow lab puppies. The puppies come in colors of fox red, yellow, and black. His name is Miles! Miles is from outstanding, intelligent, and trainable lineage! English lab puppies for sale White - Red - Chocolate - Black - Yellow or Ivory, perfect for any family looking to add another family friend. Meet our lab parents on Our Family page. Labrador Retriever puppies for sale in Minnesota are the American and English Labrador bloodlines, Cashman Kennels' mission is to produce an amazing all-around gun dog. They are born and raised in Tennessee before coming to the state. Puppies Currently Available Here you can see the individual puppies we currently have available. Whether In Minnesota. Very sweet and » Read more » Fillmore County, Lanesboro, We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. Browse thru our ID Verified puppy for sale listings to find your perfect puppy in your. You will need to provide proof of Bordatella. Labrador Retriever puppies for sale in Minnesota are available in a variety of colors, including black, yellow, and chocolate. Labrador Retriever Puppies for Sale near Minneapolis. We breed yellow, ivory, black, and chocolate labs. Smith Farms, in. Luscomb Labs is a small kennel that raises quality AKC labrador puppies that are a perfect addition to your family as a pet or a trusted hunting dog or companion. We focus on temperament and genetic health to produce behaviorally and physically sound family companions of the labrador type. We have been raising puppies since and use the AKC Labrador standards to ensure you receive the best puppy we can offer. If you are unable to find your puppy in our Puppy for Sale or Dog for Sale sections, please consider looking thru thousands of Dogs for Adoption. Black lab, fox red lab, charcoal lab, chocolate lab, yellow lab, silver lab, charcoal lab, champagne lab puppies for sale in MN. Minneapolis, USA. Call Joseph or Stephanie www. We have quality Labrador Retriever puppies for sale in. Planned Breedings Here you will find information about our upcoming planned breedings. Lab puppies for sale in Minnesota MN. Our Labrador Retriever Puppies for Sale. Labrador Retriever Puppies for Sale near Minneapolis, …. We will be 'closing our doors' after our spring pairings. Very rarely, some pups will have occasional white spots. Retriever We have 2 black male lab puppies that are looking for their forever. Reinitz Chocolate Labrador Retrievers. MN Labradors is located in the Upper Midwest. Started Labrador Retrievers. Labrador Retriever Puppies for Sale. Browse thru our ID Verified. Welcome to Silver Creek Labs! If you are looking for a quality English Labrador puppy to adopt into your family, you have come to the right place! We have been raising quality. We currently have 3 males and 5 females. MN Started Labrador Retrievers These dogs have had crate time in preparation for housebreaking, and are progressing nicely in their obedience training. Gets along great with other dogs, cats, and children. We are a very small hobby breeder, only 1 or 2 litters per year. We are located in scenic East Central Minnesota on a 57 rolling acre hobby farm where our dogs have plenty of room to romp and play. All he ever wants is pets and love. Kanabec Kennels Fox Red Labs. Puppies We do not currently have any puppies available and we do not expect to have any additional litters in .Danikk Labrador Retrievers Minnesota. The pups are bred to our Retriever We have 2 black male lab puppies that are looking for their forever. MN Labradors is located available in a variety of colors, including black, yellow, and chocolate. Our Labs have a very large corral when and trainable lineage! He is calm, easy-going, and confident. He comes to you up to date on shots and de-wormer, with veterinarian examin more. Danikk breeds quality Labradors for show, hunt, obedience and breeds all 3 colors - yellow, black and chocolate. Miles is from outstanding, intelligent, events and affiliated clubs to help you discover more. It has been a pleasure and privilege to serve you! Let us know if you would like to welcome one of the last Welcome Home Labs puppies. We offer Yellow, Black and Chocolate Labs for sale to loving homes. Cloud, Labrador Retriever breeders, rescues, and shelters to help you find the cutest Labrador Puppy for. The facility offers puppies for sale for conformation and field trials. Labrador Retriever Puppy for Sale near Minnesota,
By Chris The striking Poodle needs no introduction. Even people unfamiliar with dog breeds can easily identify one. But aside from their striking good looks, Poodles have many desirable traits, like their loyalty, intelligence, and hypoallergenic coat. The typical cost of a purebred Poodle ranges from USD. Smaller Toy and Mini Poodles typically cost towards the higher range. Papered show Poodles or genetically strong breeding dogs can fetch far higher prices. A Tan Poodle sitting on an outdoor lounge. How Much Are Poodles? First things first: Poodles are expensive dogs. The reason? Poodles cost a lot to breed and maintain. A reputable breeder puts a lot of blood, sweat, and tears—and money—to ensure that their dogs are healthy and well-maintained. Where you get your Poodle also affects how much you pay for it. There are three types, which differ based on size: Standard: the largest of the three types Miniature: a medium-size Poodle Toy: the smallest of the three types A guilty looking two color Poodle Reputable Poodle Breeder Anyone who wants a purebred Poodle should find a reputable breeder. A reputable breeder is someone with a specific breeding business whose job is to produce the best dogs. As I mentioned above, the cost varies depending on the Poodle type you choose. Accidental Breeder An accidental breeder is exactly what it sounds like—someone who is not in the business of breeding but has a pregnant dog. In most cases, people who run puppy mills do not prioritize the health and safety of their pups. They have lots of dogs, usually more than they can take care of, to make the greatest profit possible. Getting a dog from a puppy mill is risky; you may get a dog with long-term health problems, a shorter life span, or genetic issues. So how do you avoid puppy mills? Online forums are an excellent place to look, especially ones specific to your area. Be sure to also check out breeder reviews. Rescue Finally, you have rescue shelters, which are excellent places to obtain a Poodle for cheap. The big downside in going this route is that finding the dog you want is a matter of luck. The main advantage of shelter dogs is the price. Additionally, most of the time, the shelter ensures that the dog already has all its shots before it goes home with you, saving you some of the healthcare costs. However, if knowing that is not important to you, you can find a fantastic dog for cheap. In addition to the initial fee to take the dog home, you should be aware of the other many Poodle costs. Some are one-time, while others are recurring. You already know that you have to feed the dog throughout its life. Choosing between a Cockapoo vs Poodle can be tricky — they are both super cute, hypoallergenic , and can be non-shedding! Vaccinations Vaccinations are essential to keep dogs healthy. Some are free, while others are not. Health Care Just as you would take a child to the pediatrician for regular checkups, you should take your Poodle to the Vet for an six monthly visit. Your vet may also advise certain medications to keep your dog healthy, like deworming meds. A super cute Poodle sitting on its owners lap Training Training is critical to ensure that your dog is well-behaved. You may feel confident training your dog yourself, but most people choose to send their Poodles to puppy school. You can start Poodle training with potty training at home. There are milestones that Poodles should meet at different ages. Grooming All dogs need to be groomed to some degree to keep their fur and skin healthy. Poodles are no exception, but if you compare them to other breeds, their grooming requirements are much higher. Depending on your preferences, your dog should visit the groomer every month or two. While this breed makes a loving and intelligent family dog , the high cost of having a Poodle—both to purchase it and to maintain it—is not for everyone. Adopting a Poodle? My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. If you want to get a show dog from champion bloodlines, expect to spend more. Purchasing the purebred Miniature or Toy type of Poodle is pricier than buying other dog breeds from a backyard dog breeder. The Standard Poodles are typically less expensive than Toy Poodles since they deliver more purebred puppies per litter. The price of a Standard Poodle, as well as Miniature and Toy Poodles, does not often change between male and female dogs, but larger dogs are associated with a higher maintenance cost compared to smaller Poodles. A premium price tag also usually means you have a high-quality Poodle puppy from purebred breeders which could save you a lot of money in the long run. Female Poodle: Which Is Better? Factors Affecting the Cost of a Poodle Puppy Many people find Poodles expensive, but what is it about Poodles that makes them so costly? Well, there are many reasons why these fluffy dogs cost thousands of dollars. The size, age, health, lineage, and AKC registration of a Poodle puppy are essential considerations when determining puppy prices. Here are other factors affecting the price of a purebred Poodle: Age: Younger purebred Poodle puppies are far more costly than older puppies on average. This is due to the high demand for young pups. Meanwhile, purchasing an adult Poodle could save you at the very least a few hundred dollars. Appearance: Purebred Poodles that sport rare Poodles coats color are priced higher than others. Purebred Poodle breeders dedicate years to learning how to breed high-quality puppies. Those that gained recognition for their hard work often put higher price tags on their Poodles than others. Bloodline: Since they are bred for exhibition, champion Poodles will be the priciest. These are the canines that compete in athletics and breed representation. Health Screenings: Purebred Poodles are at risk of health issues, such as seizures. This means Poodle breeders must take measures to ensure the health of their pups. As a result, they will have to invest additional money to nurture proper Poodle health. Registration Papers: Your Poodle must have the required registration papers to be registered with a kennel club. This list contains the significant factors that influence the price of a Poodle. When purchasing a Standard Poodle puppy, keep them in mind and any additional fees that may be associated with it. A purebred backyard breeder might ask you for things like reservation charges, pet delivery, vaccines, and pup accessories that are not included in the Standard Poodle price range. Poodle costs of adoption will vary depending on where you get your dog. If you choose a senior or special needs adult Standard Poodle, the fee is significantly reduced or even free entirely in these cases. Poodle puppies can be found in abundance in local shelters. If you decide to adopt a Poodle, you can be assured that you will get a dog that has been well-cared for, unlike the ones found in a puppy mill. Here is the list of the essential things that people who love Poodles must prepare for: Food and Treats: Poodles can be picky eaters. Hence, it is important to invest in the right kind of high-quality food upfront. Poodles will need a diet high in fats and proteins. Bed: Because the Poodles are active dogs, it will require a nice bed. The size of your Poodle will determine which mattress is appropriate. Crate: A crate is a must-have for required vet visits or crate-training your Poodle properly. This is a must-have item for Poodles that enjoy running and playing. Toys: Teething is unavoidable for young pups, and restlessness can lead to destructive behavior. These toys are a great approach to alleviating these concerns while keeping your dog happy. A slick brush to clear unkempt hair and knots, a metallic greyhound comb to remove tangles and separate hair strands, a blow dryer, grooming clippers, nail clippers, and a toothbrush to maintain proper oral hygiene are all you need. Furthermore, deworming is a crucial step in keeping healthy pups. Initial Vaccine Shots: If you opt to purchase an unvaccinated Poodle puppy, you will be responsible for the expense of their first round of vaccinations. This is also another way of keeping your Poodle healthy. Neutering and Spaying: If you purchase Standard Poodle puppies, most likely, it is still intact. It is suggested that the puppy be spayed or neutered between six and nine months. Microchip: A microchip, about the size of a rice grain, should be implanted on your Poodle. This can be scanned by vets or other canine specialists for your contact info, health records, and health problems. Miscellaneous Supplies: Useful goods such as poop scoopers, cleaning materials, and urine pads could make Poodle care much more manageable. January 20, Written by Sydney Heupel Poodles are one of the most beloved dog breeds out there, with their adorable curly fur and friendly personalities. But how much does it cost to take home a poodle? From purebred puppies to adult rescue pooches, the price of poodles can vary widely depending on breeders, age and other factors. Read on to find out all you need to know about poodle prices! The cost of a Poodle can vary greatly depending on the size, pedigree and breeder. Average Poodle Cost The average cost of a Poodle will depend on various factors such as the type of Poodle, its age and size. Prices may vary based on geographic location and quality of breeding for each individual pooch. It is important to also factor in additional costs when considering purchasing a poodle puppy. Factors Affecting Poodle Price When considering the price of a poodle, there are several factors that come into play. The most significant factor is the size and type of poodle you choose. Standard and miniature poodles cost more than toy or teacup varieties. The other major factor in setting the cost of a poodle is where it was bred and raised. Cost of Teacup, Toy, and Standard Sized Poodles The cost of poodles can vary greatly depending on their size and type. Teacup or toy poodles are particularly small, often weighing less than 4 pounds, while standard-sized poodles generally weigh between pounds. This difference in size results in a significant price discrepancy between the two types of dogs. It is important to note that aside from the purchase price itself, there will also be ongoing costs associated with owning any kind of pet such as food, veterinarian visits, grooming supplies — these are all things you should consider when budgeting how much it will cost to own an adorable puppy! Adoption vs Buying a Puppy Poodle Adoption vs Buying a Puppy Poodle is an important debate when it comes to choosing the right pet for your family. Adopting a poodle can be less expensive than buying one, but there are pros and cons to both options. Adoption is often the most cost-effective way of getting a poodle as many shelters have fixed fees or even waived adoption fees during special events. On the other hand, purchasing a puppy from a breeder means you will know exactly what type of parentage your pup has and its specific breed characteristics — this can be especially beneficial if you plan on entering your pup into shows or competitions later down the line. Some breeders also provide guarantees regarding the health of their puppies so you can rest assured knowing that if any issues arise within certain timelines then replacements might be available too. Show quality poodles require significant investment in both time and money. In addition to this initial fee, other costs should be taken into consideration including health testing fees for breeding stock such as eye exams and vet checkups prior to making any purchase decisions. Additionally, training classes may also be needed if you plan on showing your dog — often these classes are structured over an extended period of time which can add up quickly in terms of both cost and commitment. Investing in a show quality poodle is not something that should be taken lightly — with proper research and due diligence however it can be incredibly rewarding! After you initially purchase the pup, ongoing expenses are necessary to keep the dog healthy and happy throughout its life. Veterinary care is an essential cost for any pet owner and should not be overlooked when considering owning a poodle. Routine checkups, immunizations, parasite prevention treatments, medications and other veterinary services will need to be purchased from time to time in order to keep your pup safe and healthy. Food is another major expense when it comes to owning a poodle. Quality food should be provided in order for them to have proper nutrition throughout their life. Grooming costs must also be factored into the overall price of ownership as well since regular brushing, bathing and trimming of nails is required for this breed in particular due its long locks of fur which tend to tangle easily if not treated properly on occasion. .Professional grooming services might come with some additional fees but they offer convenience since all tasks are usually completed during one appointment instead of having multiple visits per session like what would happen doing it yourself or hiring someone privately on an hourly basis outside of these shops specialized in caring for these furry pals specifically. Before taking the plunge, one of my main concerns was the cost. So, after doing some research, I came up with several ways that I could save money on the cost of a poodle. The first thing I did was look into adoption centers in my area. Plus, adopting an animal not only helps you save money but also saves lives! Next, I talked to friends and family who already owned poodles or similar breeds. They were able to provide me with valuable advice on things like food type, veterinary care tips and even grooming requirements — all without costing me anything extra! Finally and perhaps most importantly , before making any big purchases for my new pup food bowls or toys… , I shopped around online for discounts or sales. This way, instead of paying full price at the pet store down the street, I saved quite a bit by looking around different stores and websites until finding just what we needed at an unbeatable deal. In conclusion, there are lots of easy ways to save money on the cost of owning a poodle if you know where to look and who to talk too. By following these simple steps myself and researching beforehand ,I found that not only did having one fit within our budget but ultimately enabled us both more quality time together as well! Related posts:. Other sources of entertainment for your dog may include activities, such as agility. You can also purchase items to create brain games for your dog, like puzzles and Kong toys. Different diets, toys, supplies, and groomers all can vary significantly in cost. Additional Costs to Factor In Other costs you should be prepared for include pet sitters, trainers, and emergency expenses. Trainers usually charge by the session, but some offer packages to help limit expense. Setting money aside every month for any emergency or unexpected expenses will help you be prepared if anything comes up. You can also rotate through toys and supplies to keep things interesting and prevent items from wearing out quickly. Even on a budget, you should plan for the monthly expenses associated with food and medical care. These are expenses that cannot be skipped, regardless of budget. Coming up with creative ways to budget and stretch the use of items longer can go a long way in helping you to save money. Image Credit: susanne, Pixabay Saving Money on Poodle Care You can save money on a professional groomer if you take time to brush your dog well every day to ensure they are not getting mats and to monitor their skin health. You can also save money on grooming expenses if you are comfortable shaving or grooming your Poodle yourself. Another great way to save money on the care and maintenance of your Poodle is to watch online and brick-and-mortar shops for sales and coupons. These can be used to save a significant amount on foods, toys, treats, cleaning supplies, grooming supplies, and more. Conclusion: Poodle Price Owning a Poodle can be attainable, regardless of your budget. Poodles of all sizes and types are fantastic dogs with fun personalities. They are not low-maintenance dogs, though. This means you may experience higher costs associated with grooming and basic care than you would with a lower-maintenance dog. Set aside money every month as a backup option in case unexpected expenses arise or you find yourself in an emergency situation. Rescue Generally, adoption fees will always cost less than buying a dog from a breeder. If you prefer not to spend a lot of money upfront, getting a Poodle from a Poodle rescue organization might appeal to you. A small adoption fee means you can put that money towards initial veterinary care. Ready to Adopt Puppyspot Poodle Adoption 5. They have placed over , puppies into homes in the US! Buying a dog from a breeder may help you prepare for potential health issues. Dogs that come from breeders also tend to have a more predictable temperament. The Up-Front Costs of a New Poodle Aside from emergencies, the initial costs of bringing a new poodle into your home will always be the highest. The first expense will be the price of your new puppy or dog. The price of a puppy can vary greatly depending on where you get your new Poodle and what kind of Poodle you get. The typical route of getting a Poodle is to buy a puppy from a reputable breeder. Because of the rich history of Poodles, breeders have taken care to manage bloodlines and ensure that quality animals come from each generation. When you buy from a good breeder, you usually receive certifications and health histories for your animal. Your single Standard Poodle puppy costs less than a Miniature or Toy Poodle partly because they produce more puppies per year. Additionally, larger breeds are in less demand than small and Toy breeds. As a more affordable and convenient breed in the long term, some would rather pay more upfront. The popularity of Miniature Poodles makes for a higher price. Toy Poodles These little cuties come in as the most expensive type of Poodle. Irresistible in appearance and unmatched in temperament, Toy Poodles are the most desired of Poodle breeds. Their small size comes with careful, specific breeding to reduce disease and enhance desirable traits. There are several benefits to having such a tiny dog, from the cost of food to ease of travel. Finally, Toy Poodles have a lower yearly birth rate than their larger Poodle counterparts. Therefore, each puppy is all the more precious for this reason. A brown Poodle actually enjoying a Vet visit Initial Veterinary Costs of Getting a Poodle Veterinary costs will vary depending on the age of your new Poodle and whether you get it from a breeder versus a rescue organization. However, any dog can encounter health issues at any time in its life. Although these veterinary costs are estimates for healthy animals, emergencies can run in the tens of thousands. Is Puppy Care More Expensive? Puppies cost more than an already grown Poodle. Puppies also need vaccinations in their first year that can add up but are a critical part of care. Young Veterinarian doctor listens to the heart beat of a happy gray Poodle Pet Insurance and Preventative Care An additional medical cost to consider is insurance to protect yourself financially. Some pet insurance companies also cover routine veterinary care. Too often have I heard of unprepared people getting slammed with a massive veterinary bill. On top of the stress of an emergency vet visit, a cost can cause even more anxiety. They can be found under Available Puppies. Just like all the other toy and miniature poodles we specialize in breeding, our black poodle puppies are of a quality unlike any others you will find. Please keep in mind that just as we have high standards for our poodles, we have in many ways even higher standards for the homes and owners we send them to. We want each of our black poodles to go to an owner who we know will appreciate and care for the dog as much as we do. In order to help us make a decision on why you may be the right person for one of our black poodles, we ask that you kindly fill out our Puppy Application form to provide us with some initial information. We look forward to learning more about you and why you hope to bring one of our lovely toy poodles into your home. Before applying, however, we invite you to browse our selection of black poodle puppies for sale to learn more about them. You will be able to view pictures and learn about their temperament, birth date, size, and more! Explore our website today to learn more about our black poodle puppies and our history of toy poodle breeding in general, and please contact us if you have any questions! Less - The Standard Poodle is a medium-sized , squarely built dog with a distinctive harsh curly coat that may be presented in any of several traditional Poodle clips or corded. The ears are long, drop, and densely feathered. The tail is normally docked, set high, and carried erect. The length of body sternum to point of buttocks is equal to the height withers to ground. The Standard Poodle carries himself with an air of dignity and pride. Another essential characteristic is proper temperament. The breed is noted for its high intelligence, trainability and sense of humor. Poodles are highly social and require human companionship and regular, close interaction with family members. Because of their great intelligence and the joy they take in human companionship, Poodles excel in performance events of all sorts. They are extremely affectionate with children. In 18th and 19th century Europe, the Poodle served a wide variety of purposes, including duck hunting, guiding, and later circus performing, from whence the modern grooming style likely arose. The Poodle became a popular pet for the French aristocracy, and in time was officially adopted as the national dog. Poodles were imported to America in the 20th century. The origins of the poodles are still discussed with a dispute over whether the poodle descends from the old French Barbet breed or from Germany as a type of water dog. The Poodle is a regal purebred dog breed that is so instantly recognizable that he rarely needs any introduction! Standard Poodles , Miniature Poodles , and Toy Poodles are amazing athletes, loyal friends, alert watchdogs, and intelligent service dogs. Expensive Puppies Vs Low Price Puppies If this will be your first-ever puppy, or your first Poodle puppy, you may genuinely not be aware there are several different types of Poodle breeders. Here are the three main types of Poodle dog breeders: Purebred dog breeder. Backyard dog breeder. You may also choose to find a Poodle puppy or adult at a local rescue shelter or Poodle rescue organization. The former will often compete in dog shows or canine athletics and some puppies that are show quality may also be bred. The latter will be placed in high quality homes with families who have been thoroughly interviewed and vetted. Often, they will have paid an initial deposit and waited for a period of time before a puppy became available. Purebred dog breeders place Poodle health and breed longevity before profit. They pre-test their breeding dogs for genetic health issues. Parent dogs and puppies are fed high quality food, receive ongoing veterinary care, and are well-socialized for placement. But what is a backyard breeder? A backyard breeder generally gets into dog breeding for two reasons: their unfixed dog got knocked up by the intact daddy dog down the block, or they want to make some extra cash. They also are unlikely to know much, if anything, about canine genetics or breed health. They may not even be purebred Poodles even if the puppies look the part and the breeder tells you they are purebred. There are many unknown variables involved in purchasing a Poodle from this type of casual or accidental dog breeder. Backyard dog breeders often operate out of their car, hawking puppies at local flea markets or grocery stores. They may also work with local pet stores, although this is typically more the purview of puppy mills. One research authority states there may be as many as 10, puppy mills up and running in the U. Puppy mills are in it for one reason and only one reason — to make money. To this end, their business model is simple: spend as little as possible to make as much as possible, while flying under the local radar to avoid being brought up on animal cruelty charges. Some puppy mills are now importing puppies bred in other countries to keep a lower profile. These puppies may cost less than either a purebred dog breeder or even a backyard breeder will charge, but the profit margin on each Poodle puppy is likely to be far higher. This valuable article offers 41 tips to spot a puppy mill-type breeder and steer clear. Rescue Shelter Not everyone will have the financial means to purchase a purebred Poodle puppy from a reputable breeder. For some people, it is also important for other reasons to adopt rather than shop. Here, you are more likely to find an adult Poodle of any size rather than a Poodle puppy, but this can also offer its own advantages, including being able to skip teething and house training! Always look for a rescue organization that is a registered c 3 charity and re-invests adoption fees back into the organization. This puppy may lack the ideal coat color or conformation appearance to compete in the show ring. But they will be a great example of a purebred Poodle dog in all other ways temperament, athleticism, et al. Miniature and Toy Poodles average three puppies per litter. If you plan to add a Poodle puppy to your family, remember that the price tag on that precious bundle of fur is just one aspect of puppy budget! In addition to the price of your puppy, you need to purchase additional supplies to get ready to welcome your new fur baby home.
Fun fact: I honestly had no idea what a French Bulldog was nine years ago. I know. I was closed and now my eyes are open. I finally awoke from a bad dream, lol. I guess that was my first biggest surprise! I am just now so in love with the breed. Here are the other 6 things that totally surprised me about having French Bulldogs in my life. Since they have a single coat of short hair, I assumed they would be low maintenance. Their little hairs can actually be pretty coarse and stick in your clothes like needles. Since Fira is so small, she does tire eventually but Weston could run a marathon. They love to wrestle and play, have the zoomies and are up for a lot of activities. Their frenchie will not budge until their mom comes back. They are definitely an affectionate breed and are your best and most clingy friend. There are so many different factors to this, depending on how they were bred, their diet and genetics. Weston is 8. I think he may be the most least-seen frenchie at the vet, lol. They definitely need more care than other dogs. Like, cleaning their folds and wrinkles to prevent bacteria from growing. We even bought a flat japanese-style platform bed so they can climb up and down with ease. French Bulldogs also overheat. Consider a cooling vest , a cooling pad or bandana. Many French Bulldog owners get pet insurance for these reasons, so that may be something to look into. Breeders VS Adoption I never was the type that had a specific breed in mind when wanting a dog — I just wanted a dog to love. But then when I was introduced to frenchies, with their unique looks, personality and mannerisms, it was hard not to fall in love with them. I have this weird inner conflicting feeling about this topic. Because, I totally get it. Plus, be sure to check out the videos below of real parents surprising their kids with puppies. Puppies can be a lot of fun for children, but they need someone to take care of them, and that person should be someone who is responsible. Hide the puppy in a room that the child frequently visits, such as their bedroom or playroom. Have a family member or friend bring the puppy over, disguised as an unrelated item e. Take the child to the animal shelter and have them choose their own puppy. Bring home a puppy-shaped balloon that contains all of the details about getting a real puppy breed, size, etc. Wrap up some essential items such as bedding, food, and toys and announce they are getting a puppy. Create a scavenger hunt around your house with clues leading to their new pup! Taking the child for a walk and coming across a puppy along the way. Asking the child to help you with a chore, such as taking out the trash, and then rewarding them with a puppy at the end. Have a family member or friend bring over their puppy for a visit and then ask if the child can keep it. Buying the child a stuffed animal that looks like a puppy and telling them it is their new pet. Planting flowers with the child and finding a puppy hiding among the flowers when they are done. Bring the puppy along on a special outing or trip and reveal the puppy to your child when they get in the car. Here are three compilation video ideas from real parents surprising their kids with a puppy. Enjoy watching these! If you need help choosing a dog breed, check out this questionnaire that can help you decide which breed is for you on the American Kennel Club website: Dog Breed Selector. If you have other pets, make sure to choose a breed that is compatible with them. If your child has allergies, be sure to choose a hypoallergenic breed. And if you have small children, be sure to choose a calm and patient breed that will do well around kids. Start by letting your child meet the puppy outside of the house or in another room before bringing him or her into the home. Once the puppy is comfortable with your child, you can begin allowing him or her more time inside the house. Now, this can be tricky because, obviously, your goal is to surprise your child, so I would do the surprise and then start this step. Be sure to have plenty of cleaning supplies on hand, and be prepared to vacuum and mop frequently. You should also expect accidents indoors and be sure to have plenty of potty pads or newspapers available. This includes teaching basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, down, and more. You can enroll in a training class or read books and online articles about how to train your puppy effectively. Check out Dr. Exercise Is Essential Puppies need plenty of exercise in order to stay healthy and happy, so be prepared to take yours on walks or runs several times per day. And if you have an energetic child, consider getting a high-energy breed that will enjoy playing fetch and other games together. With Pictures 7. Choose a food that is specifically designed for puppies and make sure to follow the recommended feeding schedule on the package. Avoid giving your puppy table scraps as this can lead to obesity and other health problems down the road. This is a big step and one that should not be taken lightly. Be sure to check out these tips on how to train a puppy so they can become the best pet ever! He has been raising Bella the Boston since .He resides in Kansas with his wife, daughter, and Bella. His favorite activities are hanging out with family, traveling, running but has bad knees , and reading non-fiction books. Recent Posts.
They are moderately active, but highly social which makes them well suited to life as a family pet or companion. This is a guide to taking care of them through their early months, from birth to puppyhood. Neonatal During the first 4 weeks of your French Bulldog's life, they should spend most of their time with their mother and litter-mates. It is highly unusual for the puppy's owner to care for them during this time and is best left to a responsible, reputable breeder. Your puppy's body will double in weight as their muscles, organs and bones develop. Nutrition During the neonatal stage, your French Bulldog puppy will get most of their nutrition from their mother's milk. At around 4 weeks introduce a few dry kibbles soaked in warm water. Health During this time it is important to monitor your French Bulldog for any infections, diseases or birth defects. Puppies are unable to urinate or defecate by themselves initially, so their mother helps them but may additionally require your assistance. Keep your vet's contact details close by and educate yourself thoroughly on this stage of puppy development. By the end of this period, your puppy will be mobile and will explore the world mouth first — be sure to keep choking hazards and toxic foods out of their reach Behaviour During most of this time your French Bulldog will be asleep or inactive, but they will soon be playing with their brothers and sisters. After weeks they will go through as much sensory development as a human baby does in a few months. It is important to avoid disturbing the puppies' mother as she will be likely be protective, but some interaction with the young pups is normal so they become used to human touch. Weaning When you take your French Bulldog home usually at around 8 weeks you should shower them with love and attention. This is a formative time for your puppy and will be when they learn to walk, play, bite, hold their bladder, and interact with others. Make the most of this time and treat every interaction with your Frenchie as a learning opportunity to develop their fun, playful personality. Nutrition During the weaning stage, you should slowly introduce into their diet a nutritionally complete dog food which is appropriate to your Frenchie's small size and young age. French Bulldogs are notoriously food-driven, but if they develop a taste for human food, they will likely become fussy eaters and cause headaches later in life by refusing dog food. Be sure to familiarise yourself with lists of toxic foods and plants to avoid. Colostrum, rich in natural antibodies, proven to enhance immune response 2. DHA from omega-rich fish oil helps nourish brain and vision development 3. Colostrum proven to balance intestinal micro flora, helps protect your puppy from common intestinal upsets 4. Highly digestible quality ingredients for superior nutrient absorption 5. Easy rehydration of kibble for weaning 6. Scientifically proven antioxidants to boost immune defence 7. No added artificial colours, flavours and preservatives Know more Health During this time you should provide your puppy with a small, shallow bowl of clean water and refresh the contents frequently. Your puppy will also need to be toilet trained during this time so that they don't make a mess of your home. Your Frenchie will soon be a fun and loyal friend, but for now you will have to clean up if they have particularly unpleasant bowel movements. You can combat this by not changing their diet suddenly as this will stress their digestive system. Behaviour Due to changes in diet and environment, your Frenchie will likely be under a significant amount of stress. As a social breed, it is important that you are affectionate and supportive during this time so they feel at home in their new surroundings. Yelling at your puppy during this will only alienate your Frenchie as they are particularly sensitive to human voice — being too aggressive with them may cause fear and distrust. Puppy By the time your French Bulldog reaches puppyhood their personality will be well developed. Show them love by appealing to their intelligent and often funny personality by playing with them regularly, exercising daily and introducing them to new friends from an early age. Nutrition Your French Bulldog puppy's diet should be based around a high quality, nutritionally complete puppy food. You may also wish to introduce them to fresh, lean raw meat — however, don't feed your puppy any meat you would not feed to a fellow human being. Keep snacks such as dog treats and table scraps to a minimum during puppyhood and familiarise yourself with lists of toxic foods and plants to avoid. No added artificial colours, flavours and preservatives Know more Health French Bulldogs have a fair amount of energy and should be walked regularly to avoid excessive weight gain. Be aware that later in life, many French Bulldogs develop breathing difficulties due to their unusually flat face. While mostly up to genetics, you can reduce the symptoms of problems by keeping your puppy fit and not allowing them to exert themselves on hot or humid days. After around 8 weeks your puppy will be due for some vaccinations, so they will need a checkup at the vet and to arrange for boosters. Behaviour French Bulldog puppies are generally very friendly and well-suited to spending time around other animals and children. However, it's very important to proactively introduce them to the outside world including other people, dogs, places and children to avoid development of aggressive behaviours based on fear later in life. It is highly recommended that you take your French Bulldog to puppy training classes. Recommended Articles. Provides DHA from fish oil for healthy brain and eye development Promotes regular and healthy stools with the special blend of prebiotics Gentle of small stomachs Not suitable for pups with a maize or gluten allergy or intolerance FAQs How much food does a French Bulldog puppy need? The amount of food your Frenchie puppy needs depends on how much your pup weighs, and whether you're opting to give them a wet puppy food or dry food diet. Every type of food will have its own feeding guidelines so you can use these to figure out how much food they should have compared to how much they weigh. When they get to six months, increase their food intake to up to two and a half cups daily, but only feed them two times a day. Frenchies are prone to obesity, so it's important to keep an eye on their weight. If you start to notice your pup is piling on the pounds more than they should for their age, you should reduce their portion size by half a cup. If you have any concerns about your pup's weight, speak to your vet. Can French Bulldog puppies have allergies? Allergies are a common problem with French Bulldogs. These can be genetic, but they can also be food-based. They can usually get acne that causes sores or dry, flaky patches on their body. If you spot your Frenchie pup excessively and constantly scratching, chewing or biting at their legs, paws, face, sides or their behind, it could be a sign they have an allergy. We suggest eliminating or isolating certain ingredients in their diet to find out the trigger, which can be a little trial and error. You can then opt to feed them puppy foods for sensitive stomachs as these are typically made without ingredients that dogs are commonly allergic or intolerant to. We would also recommend collaborating with your vet to find the best food for your French Bulldog puppy. She grew up always having at least one dog as part of the family and has experience in owning a variety of breeds, including Labradors, Cockapoos and Yorkshire Terriers. Just so you know, whilst we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website, we never allow this to influence product selections - read why you should trust us. With their pointy bat ears, Frenchies are adorable miniature bulldogs with extremely flat muzzles. They can benefit from the right growth formula to provide immune system support and skin health, and aid with digestion to help cut down on their not-so-adorable gas during puppyhood. Royal Canin French Bulldog dry puppy food is tailor-made nutrition created just for your pure breed French Bulldog puppy. This exclusive breed-specific diet is uniquely formulated for your French Bulldog puppy, with the specific nutrients to help them thrive. An exclusive mix of antioxidants and vitamin E supports their developing immune system to keep their bodies growing strong. Exclusive nutrients reinforce the skin barrier for healthy skin. And a combination of highly digestible proteins, precise fiber content, and high-quality carbohydrate sources supports healthy digestion to help decrease flatulence and unpleasant stool odors. Once your French Bulldog puppy is over 12 months old, transition them to Royal Canin French Bulldog Adult dry dog food for precise nutrition into their adult years. Read more Promoting pet health and wellbeing Creating value for our entire ecosystem Committed to become certified carbon neutral by Cookie Settings. Regardless, it is best to feed your puppy their old food for at least two weeks if you can. Then, you want to swap the proportions. After a few days, you can give your puppy only the new food. The most common is diarrhea. It might be worth a trip to the vet if your pup starts throwing up their meals, refuses to eat, or has allergic reactions to the new food. French Bulldog Puppy Diets French Bulldog puppy diets may consist of kibble, wet food, raw food , or homemade food. Each of these has pros and cons. Some pet owners go all in and make their own dog foods. This can get complex, as, with raw or homemade food, you have to be sure to give your dog all the nutrients they need to stay healthy. It is also typically more expensive than prepared meals kibble or wet food. However, the benefits might be important if done correctly. You know exactly what your dog is eating, no questions asked. Frenchies often have allergies and sensitive tummies. So you should avoid foods with too much protein but make sure meat is still the first ingredient! Also avoid or limit grains, soy, and wheat, as these are common allergens. The number of calories your puppy needs will depend on their age, weight, and exercise levels. Different types of food will also have different calorie levels. For example, they will generally need to eat more wet food than kibble for a balanced meal, because canned food has fewer calories. At the start of the day, weigh out the right amount on some scales and divide it between five bowls. Four of these will make up regular meals spread throughout the day, the final bowl is for you to put aside to use as training treats or to reward good behavior. This will help you to resist the temptation to use higher carb training treats. Feeding a French Bulldog Puppy Kibble The most affordable option, when considering both your time and money, is kibble. The most time-consuming and expensive are raw and homemade diets. You can find it easily at the store, and your only prep time will be to open it and pour it into a bowl. The biggest con is that there are some low-quality brands of kibble out there. As in any business, some are just in it for the money. However, these disadvantages can be overcome by choosing a high-quality brand. Look out for formulas specifically tailored for French Bulldogs. Specialized recipes are carefully shaped to help them out. Another good thing about wet food is that it keeps your dog hydrated. However, due to the water in wet food, it has fewer calories. Your pup will need to eat more wet food than dry food, making it the more expensive of the two. Wet food is also messier than dry, especially if your pup is a messy eater. It also takes time to prepare as you will need to buy the ingredients individually, and prepare the meals. Raw food also requires more clean-up time than any other food. Feeding a French Bulldog Puppy a Homemade Diet Feeding a puppy a homemade diet has many of the same pros and cons of feeding raw. Homemade food with properly cooked meats is less risky than a raw diet. It will still be costly and time-intensive though. Leave a Reply Your email address will not be published. May 31, Are you head over heels for your adorable French Bulldog puppy? These little bundles of joy bring so much laughter and love into our lives. Best Food for your French Bulldog puppy According to vets and French Bulldog experts in the US, the best bulldog diet should contain proteins, carbohydrates as well as an equal amount of healthy fats for brain power and energy. Just like humans, your dog could be allergic to some kind of food, such as corn or soy, but in most cases, they are actually allergic to fillers found in processed food. These fillers are used to add mass to the product, but have no nutritional value and are difficult to digest. The best way to save your dog from this kind of suffering is avoiding fillers and giving him whole food ingredients. These budget-friendly choices mostly trigger allergies and contribute to various health problems. Having earned the highest of all ratings, NutriSource is a great choice for puppies! Contains all the essential nutrients for the optimum health of your pet. Contains no animal by-products, whole corn, artificial additives or preservatives. Fromm Besides containing nearly all of the essential nutrients, the fact that you can get grain-free varieties and non-grain-free varieties is great. Salmon oil and probiotics have been added to aid digestion and promote good health. No corn and no wheat. Highest consumer ratings!
Please be sure to provide many chew toys to help with this transitional period. Cow hooves can be found at many pet stores and are recommended. Stay away from pig ears and cheap rawhide, and "greenies," as these can cause severe diarrhea, bloat, and are a choking hazard. For instance, keep an eye out for diarrhea if you change your pup's food. If your bulldog develops diarrhea then stop all food for 12 hours. If it persists for more than 24 hours, contact your veterinarian immediately to prevent dehydration. Puppies can dehydrate very rapidly so you need to take it seriously when diarrhea occurs. Dogs can pick up some unwanted guests: ticks, fleas, mites, lice, and intestinal worms. Your dog can be the perfect host for these pests if regular treatment for these nasty pests is not given. Your veterinarian is the best source of knowledge for the local bugs that bug the local dog population and how to prevent these pests. Heartworm is a widespread disease present spread by mosquitoes throughout most of the United States. There is a treatment for heartworm, but it is expensive and takes a toll physically on the dog and can take months to combat. This is especially important for dogs that spend a lot of time outside, that live on farms, or that hunt, as they are at increased risk of contracting this tick-borne disease. Puppies will generally have a first veterinary visit at the age of six weeks by the person who has the mother dog. The veterinarian will examine the puppies to make sure there are no hernias, heart, lung, or eye or ear problems in any of the pups. At 9 weeks, and then again at 12 weeks, the de-wormer and distemper vaccines will be repeated. Then these can be given once a year or on a schedule determined by you and your veterinarian. Lowell Ackerman. This vaccination is required by many communities. There can sometimes be severe penalties if your dog is not rabies vaccinated especially if the dog bites a person or another pet. As your dog ages, more frequent examinations will need to be given. Twice yearly examination will catch medical issues before they become big problems. Older dogs frequently suffer from arthritis and heart disease just like elderly humans. There are effective and safe treatments that can help your older dog live reasonably pain-free and pleasant golden years. It is important to spay females or neuter male your puppy. In addition to various health benefits for the dog decreased chances of certain tumors and infections , there is a big societal benefit in the decreased number of unwanted dogs. Microchipping is also encouraged in case your dog ever becomes lost. The inner ear part of the ear is normally white or darker colored, usually corresponding to the color of the dog's coat, so look for discoloring. The puppy's ears should also not smell nor have any discharge in the ear or on the flap. The ear should be free of debris, dirt, or parasites, like ticks or mites. Any of the following are abnormal: [9] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source Scratching or pawing the ear. Shaking the head excessively. If in doubt, or if you suspect an ear infection, have your veterinarian look in the ear using an otoscope to examine the eardrum. Never stick a q-tip or similar type of product into the ear canal. You will not be able to see the entire ear canal and should not try to put anything down there. Never use human toothpaste on a dog; only use dental toothpaste made for dogs. The fluoride in human toothpaste is poisonous to dogs and can cause serious health problems. Place a little puppy toothpaste on your fingertip and let your puppy lick it off. The next day put it on your finger and rub it along the outer gums. Then try to put a little on a dog toothbrush, let the puppy lick it then run the toothbrush along the outer edges of the teeth and gums. Only the outer part against the cheeks needs to be brushed. Even with regular tooth brushing, dogs may need dental cleanings once in a while. Plaque and bacteria can build up under the gum line causing problems there or in the roots of the teeth. Just like with their human owners, regular mouth examinations by their doggy dentist should be done once a year. English Bulldogs are up there with Dalmatians and Golden Retrievers for being one of the most easily recognizable dogs around. They have a distinctive look to them, with their most prominent characteristic being their short snouts and chubby faces. English Bulldogs are short - only about a foot tall - and extremely stout. They're tough little guys and were originally bred to fight bulls. These days, they've lost all of their fight and have turned into super lovable dogs. They're very friendly, don't require much exercise, and have a lot to offer for new families. However, they do have a tendency to develop health issues later in life and require some extra attention in certain areas. In this medieval sport, Bulldogs would attack and taunt tethered bulls, eventually pinning the bull down to be executed. Bullbaiting was outlawed in , however, which seemed like the end for the little fighting machines. They were notoriously aggressive, and only bred for a singular purpose - so why keep them as pets? Well, over time, passionate breeders were able to turn these little fighters into the chubby cuddlers we know them as today. They're now one of the more revered breeds of dogs, and often can be found on display at dog shows around the world. Their heads are large and round, with a flat muzzle. They have large, broadly set jaws, and have droopy jowls and skin all around their face. They have a short and thick body, with broad shoulders and stocky legs. They come in a variety of color patterns, though the most well known is white and brown. Despite their fierce appearance and history, they are some of the gentlest dogs around. The English Bulldog personality portrays to be very sociable, especially with people, so you don't have to worry about introducing them to new animals and friends. That said, they are still loyal and brave, making them great watchdogs. They don't scare easy and will do more than just bark if they sense an intruder. The most obvious is its coat color. Blue English Bulldogs have a grey and white coat mix, as opposed to a brown and white coat. The second difference, and the characteristic most people seeking out Blue English Bulldogs are interested in them, is their blue eyes. Blue eyes are rare on just about any dog, but especially when it comes to English Bulldogs, who traditionally have dark brown and black eyes. While this may not seem like a big deal to most, this one change can be very difficult to breed for. And as a result, these dogs are much, much more expensive than traditional English Bulldogs. British bulldog British Bulldogs are the standard English Bulldogs that you think of or see the majority of the time. They have a brown and white coat with dark brown eyes and are the least expensive of the English Bulldog variations. Mini bulldog The Mini Bulldog - sometimes called the Toy Bulldog - is a variation of English Bulldogs that is the same in just about every way, except that they are much smaller. They also tend to have less wrinkly and chubby physiques, which may appeal to certain owners. Unlike other toy breeds, though, the Mini Bulldog is not as small as you might expect. It's somewhere in between the standard English Bulldog and a Chihuahua. So think of them as a slightly smaller Bulldog rather than a tiny one. Mini Bulldogs have been bred since the s, though they didn't really find their footing until the s and s. While the breed became popular, the reduction in health issues has mostly been negligible. They can eat any dog food and be ok, though high-quality dog food is generally recommended. Just make sure that whatever dog food you are feeding them is relevant to their needs puppy, adult, senior, indoor, outdoor, etc. The one thing to keep in mind about English Bulldogs when it comes to their diet is that they can be particularly prone to becoming overweight. This is because they don't exercise as much as other dogs. So, make sure that you aren't ever overfeeding your English Bulldog. Treats are ok to give them during training, although it's easy to overfeed them on treats if you aren't careful. Grooming English Bulldogs are prone to shedding more than most dogs, so you'll need to make an active effort to keep their coats in check. This can be done by giving them a thorough brushing two to three times each week. When shedding is heavier, you may find that a rubber curry brush works best. The wrinkles around your bulldogs face will need to be cleaned periodically, as food, dirt, and moisture can all become trapped there. A cotton swab dipped in hydrogen peroxide is helpful for cleaning their wrinkles. For drying their wrinkles after cleaning, applying cornstarch to moist areas works best. Just be sure that cornstarch is not applied near their eyes. Their nails should be trimmed every two weeks or so as well. Exercise English Bulldogs are not very athletic dogs, so laidback owners will have a nice time relaxing with their Bulldog. That said, like any dog, moderate exercise from time to time is still recommended. Casual walks or an hour or so in the backyard is usually enough exercise for these little guys. It's important to keep in mind, though, that English Bulldogs do not do well in heat. So during the summer, it's best that they stay inside, near an air conditioner if it's particularly hot. English Bulldogs will have a hard time going up and down stairs, so if you have stairs in your home, it might be good to build some kind of ramp or carry them up the stairs yourself. They should also be kept away from pools and bodies of water unless supervised closely since they are not strong swimmers. Training Like most dogs, English Bulldogs are eager to please their owners, so they are reasonably trainable so long as they are started at an early enough age, and checking out our Puppy Growth Chart may help you determine the best age for puppy training. They should also be socialized while they are young as well, or they may have a hard time interacting with new people and pets. Bulldogs love to chew, so they'll need lots of chew toys all throughout their life. However, it is also important to train them to release what they are chewing on command, as they may end up chewing something important to you or harmful for them. English Bulldogs can be very protective of their food, which can cause them to be aggressive as they get older. In order to curb this behavior, train them to get used to people and other animals taking food from their bowl at a young age. Health The primary health concern that most English Bulldog owners will face on a regular basis is overheating. English Bulldogs, due to their size and the way they breathe, are not good at keeping themselves cool. This means that it's your responsibility to keep an eye on them on hot days and keep them indoors during the summertime. If you live in an area of the US that is particularly hot year-round - like the southwest - it might be advisable to consider adopting another breed. English Bulldogs typically weigh around 40 to 50 pounds and live to be between eight to twelve years of age. They should stay indoors most of the time, and only go out for occasional exercise and playtime. They do not do well as outdoor pets because of their sensitivity to heat. While any well air-conditioned home will be suitable for an English Bulldog, they are very prone to overheating. So if you live in a particularly hot or desert-like climate, your Bulldog will end up spending the majority of its time indoors. They do extremely well with families, and in fact, love all of the extra attention and social interaction that comes along with kids. They can be territorial when it comes to other animals, though, as they prefer to have the attention on themselves. Health Issues In English Bulldogs Dry eyes English Bulldogs are notorious for their health issues, with some of the most common being related to their eyes. They often have inadequate tear production to keep their eyes as moist as they should be. This can lead to them developing a blue haze on their eyes, which can damage their vision and cause significant pain. Fortunately, there is a medication that your vet can prescribe to combat this issue. Another issue that Bulldogs are prone to get in their eyes is cherry eye. This is when one of the glands in their eyes starts to protrude, resembling a cherry in the corner of their eye. This will sometimes need to be surgically removed by a vet. Sneezing Sneezing may not sound like a serious health issue - in fact, most of the time it's a normal part of how your dog's body functions. In the case of English Bulldogs, though, they can have challenges related to sneezing and their health. Reverse sneezing, also known as inverted sneezing, is when nasal fluids drip into your Bulldog's soft palate, causing it close. This can be scary for them and cause them to cough and choke. It's generally not serious, however, so the best thing you can do is comfort your dog during a reverse sneezing fit. Brachycephalic Syndrome Brachycephalic syndrome is pretty common among dog breeds with short snouts like the English Bulldog. While the name is a little medical for most of us, the condition itself is pretty straightforward. There can be a few different causes, but the general issue with this syndrome is that your pet's airway is obstructed. This can be due to issues with their nostrils or palate. In mild cases, this just means your English Bulldog will have labored breathing and is likely to snort. In severe cases, though, your dog may have trouble breathing at all. This can require surgery and regular oxygen treatment to resolve. Head shakes Head shaking in English Bulldogs is exactly as the name sounds. Your dog will start to shake their head up and down or side to side over and over again for no apparent reason. While your dog may appear conscious of the movement, it is usually involuntary. This is usually caused by stress as well as low blood sugar. Most breeders recommend giving your dog a spoonful of honey if you notice their head shakes seem uncontrollable. If this doesn't work and you aren't able to come up with a reasonable explanation for your dog's head shakes, there could be a more serious health issue just below the surface. In these cases, take your dog to the vet to figure out what is causing their head shakes. Hip Dysplasia You've likely heard of hip dysplasia in dogs before, as it is relatively common in dogs of all breeds. Hip dysplasia is an inherited condition, so Bulldogs whose parents have hip dysplasia are likely to have hip dysplasia as well. This condition is when your dog's thigh bone doesn't fit snugly into their hip joint, causing it to move improperly. Most English Bulldogs will appear to have hip dysplasia just based on their natural build, which can make an accurate diagnosis difficult. If your bulldog is diagnosed with hip dysplasia , be sure to get a second opinion to confirm the diagnosis. While hip dysplasia is usually an inherited condition, it can also be caused by rapid growth, a sudden change in weight, or long term obesity in your pet. Reasons To Adopt An English Bulldog English Bulldogs are great pets to adopt if you have an easy-going family looking for an extra member. Aside from their health issues, they're pretty low-maintenance and don't require much exercise. English Bulldogs are also quiet for the most part, so you won't have to deal with loud barking in the middle of the night. They're also very loyal as well, making them decent guard dogs for your family. All in all, English Bulldogs are very laidback pets who love to socialize and chill with their owners. If that sounds like you, then an English Bulldog will more than likely make a great addition to your home. The biggest drawback to owning an English Bulldog is the health problems all throughout their life. You'll need to be prepared for this, as well as be an extra vigilant owner who isn't afraid to visit your local vet. While English Bulldogs are able to be kept around other pets, they tend to be pretty possessive of their owners' attention, as well as their food. So bringing an older Bulldog into a family that already has pets or introducing new pets into an older Bulldog's life can sometimes go awry. English Bulldogs are also one of the most popular breeds of dogs in the world, making them on the more expensive side of pet ownership. This upfront cost - coupled with the long-term costs due to their health issues - means you'll need to be willing and able to invest in them over their lifespan. Tips For New Bulldog Owners First and foremost, like any new dog, socialization is extremely important. If your new English Bulldog is a puppy, make sure they spend plenty of time around people and other animals. It also helps to get your puppy used to other people and animals messing with its food early on, as this can prevent them from being territorial and aggressive down the road. And lastly, make sure that you are on top of your Bulldog's health needs. This includes watching for common signs of health issues, visiting your vet regularly, and keeping them clean and healthy. Contact Us Buying A Bulldog The Definitive Guide English bulldogs are the mascots of choice for many colleges, organizations, and even military branches. Bulldogs are mostly docile and well-behaved, choosing sleep over other popular canine activities. For those looking to purchase a bulldog, there are several considerations that must be made beforehand. Below are some tips on how to shop and buy a Bulldog puppy, what to look for in a breeder, and what to consider when purchasing a dog. What should I expect to pay for a puppy and how do I choose a reputable breeder? Many are surprised to find out that bulldogs are an expensive breed. In fact, quality puppies will set you back anywhere from two to four thousand dollars. But, there is a reason for this. Bulldogs are the result of specific and selective breeding process especially when it comes to champion dogs and bulldogs that represent the breed well. There are huge expenses for the breeder as well such as progesterone testing, stud fees, c-sections, milk formula, vaccinations, de-wormings, puppy checkups, special diets, whelping gear, etc. Choosing a dog because of a smaller price tag could cost you more in the long-run. You should search for a reputable English bulldog breeder. But where to start? One of these requirements is health testing. This way at least you know that you are dealing with Breeders who are conscientious about producing healthy puppies. Do not look to purchase puppies through Craigslist, Social Media Sites, Pet Stores or the Walmart parking lot yes, I have seen them for sale in parking lots! Breeders who sell thru these venues are generally profiting and are not truly dedicated to the breed. These puppies are often poorly bred which results in an unhealthy puppy. A reputable breeder will be available to you for the long haul and eager to help with any questions or concerns throughout your bulldogs life. Look for breeders who can provide you with a complete pedigree of your dog, a health guarantee, and a bill of sale. Finally, never have a bulldog shipped to you. Since they are brachycephalic flat-faced , they are less likely to survive the shipping process compared to other breeds. What should I know about Bulldog health and Cost? You should know beforehand bulldogs can have minor but common health concerns, including cherry eye and skin allergies and require excellent veterinary care so before buying a puppy make sure to have the puppy checked out by a Vet. A reputable and responsible breeder will have a clear and transparent health guarantee listed on their website and give you hours to get the pup examined at your own vet just in case there are any costly or life-threatening conditions outside the minor issues common to bulldogs that can be easily treated. Check to see if they will replace the puppy; refund you in the event something is untreatable. Caring for a female dog in heat is messy and time consuming, and male dogs with their testicles intact tend to be more headstrong and have more of a tendency to lift their legs and mount yours than neutered males. Finally, decide on appearance. White bulldogs resembling the University of Georgia mascot are very popular, but the breed standard also allows for dogs to be brindle or red. Black or blue colors however, are not part of the breed standard. The English bulldog is a great breed, but be sure to know what to look for in a breeder and in a puppy before purchasing. Finally, if a puppy is not your thing, there are many bulldog rescues throughout the country that can provide you with an adult dog. Whatever method you employ, remember to take your time, do your research, and always opt for quality over cost. For detailed information or to have a question answered by a breeder click here. Since then they have been dedicated to responsible Bulldog breeding and passionate about breeding as well as competitively showing English bulldogs. This will ensure that the puppy comes from healthy parents and has been raised properly. How would you know which is the right breeder? There are many lists of good and trusted breeders online that you can check. Alternatively, you can look at dog breeder reviews in your area. After that, once you get in contact with a breeder, you should make sure that they are upfront and honest with you. And of course — always ask for a health certificate! What about adopting a bulldog from a shelter? Still, well-run shelters and rescues often provide health certificates and adequate health info. They also take good care of their animals. It should go without saying that young pups are full of energy but a lot of new bulldog owners get surprised by that. What does that mean? In fact, bulldog puppies are a lot of fun! However, you should be mindful of that before getting your bulldog puppy. The dogs from this breed are very loyal and defensive of their family Most dog breeds are known as loyal and loving toward their families but this goes doubly for bulldogs. This makes them an incredibly dependable breed — unless you mistreat it, your bulldog will always be by your side and will always be willing to help you out. Bulldogs often need to be taught not to bark. Because they feel the need to protect you, bulldogs often have the urge to bark not just at strangers but even just at outside noises. This can be annoying not just for you but for your neighbors too. Bulldogs can be a little jumpy. This is as much out of fear as it is due to their instinct to react to anything that might threaten their family. But while it is incredibly cute, it also leads to certain problems. Breeds with such flat noses are called brachycephalic dogs. With pretty much all of them, this unique facial structure is due to the way they were bred over the years. And with all of them, it has two negative side-effects: The potential respiratory health problems we mentioned above. Lots of snoring! Sure, the latter sounds much less problematic than the former. And it is! But the extra loud snoring and snorting are still important to keep in mind Why? This breed is extremely social and requires near-constant human presence A common misconception is that all dog breeds are social. Sure, all dogs are more social than cats but there are still dog breeds that are much more individualistic than others. Bulldogs always want to be near you, they always love sleeping on you, they love getting pets and belly rubs, and they adore any type of attention and pleasant physical interaction. Is there a downside to this, however? Unfortunately, yes. This hyper-social mentality of bulldogs makes them ill-suited for people who spend lots of time out of the house. Instead, bulldogs are best-suited for people who work from home. Get your bulldog a second canine buddy. A bored dog is a dog that takes out its frustration on your couch. Fortunately, bulldogs are not one of those breeds. Instead, all they need is a bit of running, a bit of ball play, and the rest can be hugs and petting on the couch. If you make the mistake of overplaying or overworking your bulldog there may be some unfortunate health consequences such as overheating, hyperventilating, or a stroke. In short bulldogs are lazy dogs for lazy people. Or, at least adult bulldogs are that way — as we said, bulldog puppies can be quite energetic before they grow up. Be mindful of overheating your bulldog Going on from the previous point, bulldogs are really easy to accidentally overheat. And not just with excessive physical exercise either. Instead, a bulldog can get overheated due to many different reasons: Stress.
Country Life June 21, This picture could only be improved if the puppies were using their paws to cover ears, eyes and mouth respectively.But, well, you can't have everything. Credit: Alamy If you're after a labrador — aka 'the world's favourite dog' — you'll need to take some expert advice. It is one of the most versatile breeds, capable of working in search and rescue, as a guide dog, in medical detection, as a sniffer or assistance dog and in the theatre of war. Labrador tips from the experts Go to a specialist breeder, so that you can see the different generations of a breeding line. Make temperament, not sex, your overriding factor when choosing. As soon as your puppy wakes up, take it outside. When introducing the labrador to a lead, walk it with an older dog. A yellow Labrador puppy. Possible labrador problems to look out for Canine hip dysplasia is a genetic disease, causing the abnormal development of the hip socket, resulting in pain and lameness. Listen for a popping sound when the dog walks, and look for reluctance to use stairs, as well as sensitivity when you touch the hindquarters. Labradors can also be prone to retinal dysplasia, an inherited condition that affects labradors used for field work, and results in their developing blind spots. Generally, the dog can work around this by changing head position. Reputable breeders will be able to show certification that the dog has no eye conditions, which you should ask to see when buying a dog. Head and skull: Skull broad with defined stop; clean-cut without fleshy cheeks. Jaws of medium length, powerful not snippy. Nose wide, nostrils well developed. Eyes: Medium size, expressing intelligence; brown or hazel. Ears: Not large or heavy, hanging close to head and set rather far back. Mouth: Jaws and teeth strong with a perfect, regular and complete scissor bite. Coat: Distinctive feature, short dense without wave or feathering, giving fairly hard feel to the touch; weather-resistant undercoat. No need to scroll down: we can confirm that the Golden Retriever is indeed on the list below. Credit: Alamy Which is the more popular spaniel, the springer or the cocker? Shooting Times's David Tomlinson weighs up the pros and Close up of dog. Credit: Getty Images With a silken coat, affectionate nature and boundless enthusiasm for life, the Cavalier King Charles spaniel lives up to its Credit: Getty As the dog world prepares for Crufts , we take a look at the breed of dog which has been A sprocker spaniel Picture: Alamy Whether you own labradors, springers, cockers or a mix of all three, debate over which gundog is best has raged Related. So Many Options! Where To Get a Labrador? We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Except, you remember hearing you should only buy from professional breeders?! But that puppy in the pet store was so achingly cute! This article discusses the things you should consider before making that life changing decision. From dedicated experts who breed pedigree dogs to work or for show, to those who breed too many puppies, litter after litter purely for sale without love nor care for the health of the mother or quality of the litter. For how to recognize who the good breeders are, read our article: Labrador breeders — How to find the good ones! Buying from a good, responsible breeder is without doubt the best source for a quality, healthy Labrador puppy. They care about the overall welfare of the breed, as well as the health of the mother, quality of the litter and giving the puppies the best start in life. Responsible breeders: Guarantee a purebred and pedigree Labrador. Screen the parents for health problems before breeding , so puppies will be as free as possible from inherited diseases. Selectively breed aiming for conformance to the breed standard, so your lab has the most chance of looking like the perfect lab. Carefully socialize puppies from birth so they are well-adjusted and confident before sending them to a new home. Help buyers to select the right puppy from the litter to suit their personality, hopes and expectations. Helping you to get the puppy of your dreams. Provide expert help and advice on caring for the dog from puppyhood right through to adulthood. When you go to a good breeder you should expect lots of questions. They will also help to match you to the perfect puppy that suits your personality, preventing you from getting the wrong dog on impulse. You know the cute but feisty one that got your attention by barging through his litter mates to run up to you and be the first to say hello? Well, he may very likely become a dominant and strong-willed dog! You May Need Patience You should note that many breeders will have a long waiting list for their Labrador puppies. Then this may not be the right way for you. But this is a good thing! And nobody should buy a puppy on impulse, it must be a well thought out and reasoned decision. Maybe you would like to give a lucky Labrador a second chance at life and happiness? Adopting an Older Labrador From a Rescue Kennel Can Have Many Benefits: They will have been house trained already — No getting up in the middle of the night to relieve your puppy…or cleaning your floor after the inevitable mishaps. An adult Labrador will already show signs of any underlying problems so you can avoid this. Many will have received a decent amount of training already — Saving you lots of time and work. Having said all that… There are Some Obvious Risks! Or perhaps due to health problems that developed. Some may have faced abuse and neglect leaving them with psychological scars. Behavioral problems are sometimes well hidden, and aggression may only surface in very particular situations only. But if you are patient, understanding and can inject some routine and love into one of these dogs lives, they can become absolutely wonderful pets. There are also different types of rescue center and animal shelters. You will be able to get a feel for the level of the center when you visit and how professional they are and the staff to dog ratios. The Process When rescuing a lab, a good, well staffed shelter will ask you to visit and spend time with your potential pet. They will have assessed the dog and will tell you all they know about the dogs history and temperament. They will ask you lots of questions to find out whether you and your lifestyle are a good fit for a Labrador. They will want to meet you and your whole family. They will want to see how the people the Labrador is to live with interact with it and how the lab interacts with them. And that your choice of dog is well suited to you and interacts well with you on visits will they eventually allow you to adopt. Rescuing a Labrador can be a very good choice as long as due care is taken to pick the right one. And you will earn many karma points for doing a very good deed. It is a massive risk to take a puppy from a litter like this. These dogs have more than the average number of inherited diseases and behavioral problems. So although you will be saving a bit of money compared to paying out to a professional Labrador breeder. Or you might even be saving a dog from being given to a rescue center and possibly eventually being put down. You just might be letting yourself in for some expensive surprises in the way of vets bills or behavioral specialists later. But having said that, of course many of these puppies do become very good pets indeed. In fact a few places in the world have now banned the sale of puppies from pet stores. In these places, dogs are often bred in poor conditions, sometimes kept in small wire cages and given very little chance to socialize and little if any personal contact with humans. Have you had any good or bad experiences of getting a Labrador from any of the places listed above? Is there anything you would like to add about the pros and cons of the various places you can get yourself a Lab? Please let us know in the comments section below and you just might help people reading this article to make the right decision! Related Article:. They are also very high energy. Labs are intelligent and well-tempered for becoming service dogs. You may have seen a Lab working as a guide dog or alongside a police officer. Labradors come in three distinct colors: black, yellow, and chocolate. There is no real difference between these sub-breeds aside from color. However, chocolate Labs and yellow Labs do tend to be favored as show dogs, while a black Lab is more likely to be raised as a hunting dog than a chocolate or yellow one. Labrador Retrievers are famous for being friendly and companionable to both humans and other dogs. This makes the Labrador an ideal breed to keep as a family dog. There are factors, however, which need to be considered before choosing a Labrador puppy. Bringing home a beautiful black Lab puppy? Check out hundreds of great black dog names here! The amount of maternal care a pup receives prior to adoption influences the adult temperament of your Labrador. A responsible breeder will not remove your puppy from its mother before it is ready. In the study, Labs belonging to extroverted owners had better social skills than those belonging to introverted owners. You may also look through your local classifieds for unregistered litters, although we do not recommend it. Even though Labradors are a generally healthy breed, it is important that both parents get screened for any health issues prior to breeding. Adopting from unregistered litters will also significantly increase your chances of encountering a puppy mill. No matter where you adopt from, it is essential that you meet both parents and access a history of good health for each parent before adopting a puppy from the facility. In other parts of the world, use the puppy search tool on the website of your regional kennel club or equivalent authority. You may also ask a local veterinarian for a reference to a quality breeder. Another option is to keep an eye out for someone with a purebred Labrador and request information on where they adopted from. Registered breeders use only top-of-the-line animals as parents. Puppies from responsible and registered breeders are given the appropriate amount of maternal care and not released to a new home until they are physically and mentally mature enough to do so. This lays the foundation for an affectionate and even temperament in adulthood. The cons of adopting from a breeder are higher costs and often longer wait times. Responsible breeders require a pre-adoption home check to ensure that their puppies are appropriately homed. You may also need to travel some distance to find the right breeder. Registered breeders usually breed a maximum of only twice per year. This maintains parental health and allows sufficient time for the puppies to progress. These breeders often have waitlists for upcoming litters before they are born, sometimes before the parents are even bred. While these practices maintain value, they also mean the puppies will cost a little more and take longer to bring home. Private Ads Private ads for puppies can be found in online classifieds or in your local newspaper. You may also spot them on the bulletin boards of various local businesses. The benefits of sourcing a puppy from a private ad is that the breeder is likely be located nearby, and the puppies will be available relatively quickly, if not immediately. The cons of taking this route is that you do not have pedigree parents to your puppy, and the risk of health complications down the road is much higher. Puppy farms will often advertise through private ads. For these reasons, we do not recommend sourcing a puppy through a private ad. Pet Shops We do not endorse purchasing puppies from pet shops, because the credentials of both parents and breeder cannot be provided. Parents of pet shop puppies may have been overbred, mistreated, or in less than optimal health. It is impossible to know without verified records. The puppies themselves could have experienced conditions and trauma that will negatively impact their behavior in adulthood, such as being separated from their mothers too soon or physical abuse. Avoiding Puppy Farms Puppy farms are unregistered breeding establishments that mass produce puppies in order to generate the highest amount of revenue. These farms, or mills, severely mistreat their animals and often produce puppies with little socialization skills and significantly increased health risks. To steer clear of these facilities, avoid pet stores, which often source stock from puppy farms because of the low cost. Also avoid any online advertisements for puppies at a low cost. If you do source a puppy from an online ad, call the breeder in advance and ask questions about the puppies, parents, and establishment to screen for any inconsistencies with industry standards. When you visit the breeder, if it comes to that, ask to have a look around and meet both parents in person. Is the space open? Do the parents look healthy? How many other dogs and puppies are there on the premises? Health Tests While Labs are generally healthy overall, it is important to confirm the parental health prior to breeding. If the breeder cannot show you certificates of health for both parents, adopting a puppy from those parents poses a risk for complications later on. The American Kennel Club recommends Labrador Retrievers get screened for: any hip and elbow defects that could indicate dysplasia heart disorders out of ordinary muscle weakness degenerative eye conditions. Make sure that the breeder can demonstrate certified health in each of these areas for each parent. The initial cost of requiring this level of screening for your puppy may be higher, but it will save you on veterinary bills down the road. Choosing Your Puppy Labrador Retrievers are friendly by nature and tend to get along well with other dogs. This breed very rarely shows aggression and must be provoked to do so. When it comes to children and other pets, a Labrador puppy would be a valuable family addition. Labs are companionable and socialize well. The Labrador Retriever is a high-energy breed and will need enough time and space each day to receive sufficient exercise. These exercise needs will continue to grow as your puppy matures. A Labrador is not designed to be an inside-only dog. This breed needs lots of activity to stay mentally and physically fit. Consider that your fully grown Lab will be between .We recommend that you take your Lab out for daily outdoor activities such as swimming and fetch. A Labrador that does not receive enough exercise time may rebel by engaging in destructive behaviors within the household. However, remember that the best-quality Labradors come from responsible breeders that produce only one or two litters per year. These breeders often have waiting lists due to high quality puppies and infrequent production. If you want the best which you should! Labradors are wonderful family dogs with lots of love for humans and other dogs. They are one of the lowest risk for health complications when properly screened, making them ideal as a long-term energy-filled companion. Considerations before jumping into the adoption of a Labrador puppy are how big your puppy will be when it reaches adulthood and the daily rigorous outdoor exercise it will require to keep it in peak physical and mental condition. Read more about Labradors here in our guide to Labrador lifespan! References and Resources Bray, E. University of Pennsylvania .Graham, L. Temperament and Personality in Working Dogs. CRC Press .Kuroshima, H. Kyoto University
Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here. You might be able to find a dog at a local shelter near you, but you could always contact Labrador Retriever breeders if you want a puppy of your own. The popularity of Labrador Retriever puppies has caused many people to unethically breed the dog for their own financial gain, resulting in sickly and aggressive dogs. By carefully considering your Labrador Retriever breeder, you can get a wonderful puppy that is healthy, happy, and well acclimated. Below are five Labrador Retriever breeders in New Jersey. Every one of these breeders are certified and approved by various Labrador Retriever clubs for ethical breeding standards. You can trust any one of these breeders to love your puppy just as much as you will. By raising their Labrador Retrievers within the home of a large family, all of the McClan Labradors are adaptable, friendly, and great for all families. McClan Labradors specializes in all Labrador Retriever coats, including yellow, black, and chocolate. All Labrador Retrievers bred by StormyC Labradors are raised within the home for friendliness and compatibility. They are also bred to be work and show dogs. No matter what the purpose of your Labrador Retriever is, StormyC Labradors likely has a dog for you. This breeder sells all Labradors Retriever coats, including yellow, chocolate, and black. As a result, Weymouth Labradors only breeds the official colors, including chocolate, yellow, and black. Weymouth Labradors is a great breeder if you are looking for breeders that are careful to not over-breed their dogs. As a small hobby kennel, Weymouth Labradors only has litters occasionally, ensuring the health and happiness of all their puppies. Paradigm Labradors raises their dogs to be obedient, agile, and great within all households. So, you can relax and unwind with one of these labs or show them off at a dog show. You can learn all about the Paradigm Labradors dogs on their site, which introduces you to all their boys, girls, youngsters, retirees, and litters. Unlike many other lab breeders, Shadowbrook Labradors primarily only focuses on black labs, but they occasionally breed chocolate and yellow labs too. No matter what coat style the lab puppy belongs to, all the dogs are bred for superior health and personality. Shadowbrook Labradors are especially great for showing and training purposes. Because they are bred and raised on a farm, they also make phenomenal family companions due to their flexibility and gentle nature. Related Read:. We never have more than two litters a year. Our litters are spoken for early, often before they're born, and we encourage new owners to visit their pups as often as they like until the day they can take them home. Our puppies can be watched and heard! All parents have been x-rayed, and have OFA certificates for both hips and elbows. We have the dam's certified x-rays on premises. All parents regularly see veterinary ophthalmologists and have current CERF certificates. The puppies are born in a 4' x 4' whelping box with pig rails for safety. It can be viewed on our live feed starting a day or two before our dogs go into labor. We have sound on during the birth it can be pretty exciting , but turn it off after the puppies are born. Generally, one of them escapes around 24 days and we move them all to an 8' x 8' pen in the basement. We have another camera there, and once they are in their pen, we turn the audio back on so the world can watch and hear them play. We don't introduce them to the outdoors until the day they leave us. We don't train them -- they train themselves. They need to be wormed again at 10 weeks, and we provide the solution, syringe and instructions to the new owners. We vaccinate for distemper and parvo at four weeks and again the day they leave. If we are convenient to their new owners, we will vaccinate again at twelve weeks and then annually. This provides us a means of monitoring the dog's health in the future. We give distemper and parvo shots for the life of the dog. Most important may be the DVD of the litter's history, including a recording of the puppies' birth if it happened on camera , though that generally isn't ready for many months sometimes years after they leave us. All puppies can be AKC registered. Everyone comes often to visit their puppies here, and they bring family and friends. This is a very social environment. Lynnwood Retrievers.
Fully vaccined 4 months pug puppy is available. In Delta, BC. Parents are family dogs with prefect demeanors and are great with children and chickens : even cats Pick up is an option in.Mom is a beagle and dad is a pug. We own both parents. Adorable brindle pugapoos! Are you searching for an adorable, affectionate, and playful furry friend to bring joy and laughter into your life? Pug, Golden retrievers, chihuahua. Terrace We are moving overseas and need to rehome our dogs. Well handled by children as we homeschool, and used to other dogs. This unique combination results in a dog.They were born May 21 and have had their first set of shots, been dewormed and come with vet.Pick your puppy now and watch him grow with weekly video updates. Mom is a pure bred English Lab and weights 70lbs she loves playing fetch and.Clinton I have 5 adorable puppies left available. Pug cross. Mom is a mix about 60lbs, my most loyal best friend. She loves guarding her farm but is gentle with all.Three amazingly coloured pug puppies. Raised with love as part of the family. Mom and dad on site. All babies are on a deworming program and will have a health certificate and first set of.This little girl is full of attitude and pizzazz! Mom is 4 pounds, Loves children and other animals. Browse other categories in Pets in British Columbia. Fully vaccined 4 months pug puppy is available. In Delta, BC. Parents are family dogs with prefect demeanors and are great with children and chickens : even cats Pick up is an option in.Mom is a beagle and dad is a pug. We own both parents. Adorable brindle pugapoos! Are you searching for an adorable, affectionate, and playful furry friend to bring joy and laughter into your life? Pug, Golden retrievers, chihuahua. Terrace We are moving overseas and need to rehome our dogs. Well handled by children as we homeschool, and used to other dogs. So get your pug off the rug and give a dog a throne! This unique combination results in a dog.They were born May 21 and have had their first set of shots, been dewormed and come with vet.Pick your puppy now and watch him grow with weekly video updates. Mom is a pure bred English Lab and weights 70lbs she loves playing fetch and.Clinton I have 5 adorable puppies left available. Pug cross. Mom is a mix about 60lbs, my most loyal best friend. She loves guarding her farm but is gentle with all.Three amazingly coloured pug puppies. Raised with love as part of the family. Mom and dad on site. All babies are on a deworming program and will have a health certificate and first set of.This little girl is full of attitude and pizzazz! Mom is 4 pounds, What is not to love about these pigs! They happily graze alongside my sheep and free range chickens. Shipping by seller Pug puppies Dawson Creek This little girl is 13 weeks and has all her shots, vet checked and ready to go to a loving family. Loves children and other animals. Just rite for Frenches, Pugs, Maltese, Min. Has primer ready for final paint. .Deluxe model with carpet
Conclusion 1. You must make room for your dog and her hair Golden Retrievers are medium — large dogs. A male Golden is about inches tall cm and weighs between 60 and 75 pounds kg. Females are smaller, but they still need space to move, being inches tall cm and weigh between 55 and 70 pounds kg. Free your schedule for cleaning up hair as Golden Retrievers shed all year, becoming heavier in spring and autumn. The easiest way to reduce the amount of lost hair is by brushing your dog time a week, for about 15 minutes. Leaving your Golden by herself all day will only make her suffer, which in time can generate depression, separation anxiety , and in some cases destructive behavior. Hiring a pet walker or taking your Golden to dog care during the day can help, but none of these solutions replaces your presence. Only buy or adopt one of these dogs if you or other family members have time to play with her every day. She should never go through your dinner leftovers as eating human food can harm Golden Retrievers. For safety reasons, hide all electric cables before bringing your puppy or new dog home. Besides running, Golden Retrievers need mental stimulation to thrive. You can teach her obedience training by yourself, as these dogs are known to be among the most obedient breeds. Other stimulating activities where Golden Retrievers register great results are canine freestyle and agility training. Golden Retrievers were bred to work, so they need to be active to stay happy. Furthermore, the lack of exercise will generate a series of medical problems, including obesity and other related issues, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or problems with ligaments and tendons. In this post, Dr. Karen Becker talks about alternative methods of keeping your dog from breeding, such as a vasectomy or tubal ligation. Golden Retrievers are wonderful, right? Well then, of course everyone should have one. Either way, it is vital that you examine your own lifestyle, needs and wants to see if a golden is right for you. And, conversely, you need to evaluate if you can meet the needs of a golden retriever. If you can, we can attest to the fact that owning a golden is one of the most rewarding experiences you will ever have! They are addicting and people seldom have just one in their lifetimes. Here are a few things to consider: Size Goldens are medium to large sized animals. The standard size for males range from 23 — 24 inches at the shoulder and weigh proportionally from pounds. Females stand around .They normally possess extremely active tails making clean sweeps of coffee and end tables. Quite simply they need room. Uncluttered houses are a must! A fenced in yard is especially important in providing the dog enough exercise. Another option is a fenced dog park or walking trail. You must have a plan to give your golden enough exercise on a daily basis or both of you will be miserable. The younger the golden, the more exercise they generally need. Velcro Dog Goldens are faithful companions. They are usually always by your side, many will follow you from room to room. They will lie in the kitchen while you cook and at your feet while you watch TV. They must be near their humans to be happy. Be prepared to do a lot of hands on petting with your golden — they love it. Some goldens are downright needy in their desire for attention from their humans. Leashes You may have visions of letting your dog play fetch in an open field or running free on the beach. As a sporting dog they are easily distracted by birds, animals or moving objects; they must be kept leashed when being exercised outside of a fenced yard to keep them from running off. Shedding In Florida, goldens shed moderately all year long. Brushing every other day is to your advantage. If you require a fastidiously kept house, a golden is not the dog for you unless you like to do a lot of cleaning. You will always have dog hair around, especially in rugs, on furniture, and OH YES, occasionally even in your food. With a golden in your house, hair becomes a condiment. Oh — and you will have to vacuum much more often than before — or little fur balls will accumulate along your baseboards! Make sure you have a really good vacuum cleaner that you love using before bringing a golden into your home. Health Goldens are prone to allergies, skin problems, cancer and hypothyroidism and you may have to spend a fair amount on vet care over the life of a golden. Common inherited health issues are hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, various eye problems and heart disease. That is relatively cheap compared to if your dog has a health issue and requires veterinary care which today runs as much as human health care. Setting aside a monthly amount for a future emergency is a must. There are also quality pet insurance programs available. Goldens must be fed a high quality premium food to prevent costly skin problems — which means you will not be able to buy your food at the grocery or discount store — and will have to make a special trip to the pet supply store. There are other expenses such as toys, collars and leashes, brushes, shampoos and soft cozy beds. A well cared for dog, like its human counterpart, is happier with regular checkups and daily care. Grooming Goldens can be adequately groomed at home without expensive equipment. Grooming includes brushing, bathing, trimming hair from the pads of the feet, light trimming on ears, tails and back legs when necessary, and trimming nails. Neatness Goldens are easily housebroken and make great housedogs. They tend to be messy drinkers, dripping water on the floor after they take their drink. You might even encounter a little slobber. Training Goldens are usually easy to potty train and make great house dogs. Many owners wish to make their goldens into good canine citizens. Moreover, goldens tend to be sensitive or soft in many training situations. They must be handled carefully with a loving, firm, but gentle approach. The end result is a well-mannered dog that is a joy to be around. Small Children People automatically assume goldens are the perfect dog for a family with children. Golden puppies quickly grow up to be rambunctious, strong bundles of energy that easily can play too rough with young children, especially when they are 6 months to two years of age. Though they may bark and growl defensively, when it comes down to brass tacks — they will gladly hold the flashlight for the burglar and give them a big kiss. Outside Dogs Goldens make poor outside dogs. Especially in Florida, they develop skin problems and flea allergies if kept outside. They frequently develop thunderstorm anxiety. As sporting dogs they are easily able to dig out of a fence or sometimes climb over it when left outside for long periods of unsupervised time because they want to be with people. They also are frequent targets for theft if left outside in a backyard when the owner is away from home. Goldens are very social and are pack oriented. They frequently develop behavior problems when they are kept separated from their families. A happy golden is an inside dog. Male or Female? Many people are fixated on getting a female golden, thinking that females are more laid back and affectionate than males. This is not true. Male goldens are blessed with loving personalities. Many people call them big teddy bears and even prefer male over female goldens. Well, there you have it — the inside scoop on owning a golden. Goldens Rescued Since .However, avoid retractable leashes whenever possible: Although they seem easier during walks, retractable leashes are actually dangerous, especially for young puppies who are still getting the hang of walking on a leash. Keep your puppy on a regular leash with a maximum of six feet of space between you both. Snowy Pines recommends slip leads: Slip leads are what puppies are taught to walk on from a young age at Snowy Pines, since they give you as the walker more control over the puppy as he gets the hang of normal walks. You can also opt for an embroidered collar if your puppy seems bothered by the noise or extra weight of the dog tags. Many puppy owners choose embroidered collars since dog tags should be removed when the puppy is left alone as they can pose a hazard. You can stick with a small food and water bowl. Puppy Food Your puppy will need high-quality food to grow strong! In most cases, this means his own dog crate. A good dog crate should be large enough for him to stand up, turn around, and lay down comfortably. You can choose a crate that expands as it grows to save money in the long run. Most of our puppies at Snowy Pines will do well in a inch wire kennel with a divider that you can remove once he gets bigger. Be sure to check out our dog bed reviews too! Remember that most toys should not be left alone with your puppy since unsupervised playtime can lead to a choking or blockage incident. Image Source Puzzle Toys Puzzle toys keep your pup mentally stimulated while they also have fun. Additionally, these interactive toys provide help with weight management, satisfy natural hunting instincts, and even relieve feelings of stress or anxiety. These toys can easily become a comfort item and help curb any potential anxiety as well. Chase Toys Golden puppies need to have regular exercise. Chase toys are simple things you can buy at any pet store, like ropes and balls, but some interactive chew toys are designed to add a little zing to your daily play routines. So, for example, if your puppy just woke up from his nap and pottied, but you need to do laundry and load the dishwasher, the exercise pen is a perfect solution. It enables your pup to enjoy safe solo playtime. Training Treats Food is a powerful reinforcer , so treats are incredibly beneficial in the early stages of puppy training. Try offering him a treat when he potties outside or uses a chew toy. Quick Tip: The treat should be small and chewy so that he can eat it fast and keep his attention on you! With the proper carpet cleaner and enzyme spray, you can quickly combat any potty mistakes anywhere in the house. Dog Shampoo and Conditioner The Retriever family has a unique, double-layered coat designed to keep them warm in winter and cool in summer. It also dries quickly after becoming wet. It is such an impressive coat that it is essentially self-cleaning when it comes to dirt and debris. Pooper Scooper and Poop Bags A pooper scooper is a handy tool that many homeowners with yards find essential. Instead of bending down every time your pup goes, you can use a pooper scooper to clutch onto the waste and quickly throw it in your outside garbage bin. They are also expected as a common courtesy to other people outside. So before your English Cream Golden puppy comes home, be sure that your home, backyard, and car are puppy-safe and puppy-proofed. In the Home: Image Source Keep the toilet lid closed. Believe it or not, open toilet lids have the potential to be drowning hazards. Secure medicine and cleaning products. Keep these products high up or use childproof locks and latches on lower cabinets. Garbage should be kept lidded and secure. Lidded, secured bins are the best type of garbage cans you can have with a young puppy. Not only do you want to avoid spilled garbage, but a locked lid will prevent your puppy from getting into any potential hazards. Hide electrical cords and blind cords. Exposed electrical cords and long blind cords can prove to be fatal for curious puppies. Keep electrical cords hidden away, buy cord wraps to keep them safely covered, and be sure that your blind cords are tied high and inaccessible. Invest in a pet or baby gate. Gates can be used for doorways or staircases to keep your puppy away from certain areas of the house. In the Backyard: Be careful of plants and landscaping that may be poisonous or dangerous. Many plants are toxic to dogs , so be sure to triple-check if any are growing in your yard. Secure your yard with fencing and add gates around bodies of water. If you plan to let your puppy roam freely in your backyard, you should have complete fencing with no puppy-sized gaps around the perimeter of the property. If you have any ponds or pools, block them off with appropriate fencing to avoid accidental drowning. Keep your yard landscaped and manicured. Long grass and brushy areas can invite ticks, which can be extremely dangerous if any potential bites are not discovered early on. Generally speaking, your grass should not be higher than a couple of inches and potentially even shorter while your puppy is still young. In the Car: Image Source Move any chewable items and lock loose items in the glovebox. Confine your puppy in one area of the vehicle, like the backseat. Keeping your puppy confined to one area of the car is safe for everyone. Many puppy parents choose harness seat belts and car seats for younger dogs, while older dogs are big enough to safely sit in the back seat or trunk with cargo barriers. As your Golden Retriever gets older, you may find yourself opting for different barrier methods that will better suit his size. Kennel your puppy while in the car. Crating your puppy is the safest mode of transportation while in the car. Deciding on a Daily Routine Like children, puppies thrive on a fixed routine because an orderly one instills structure and confidence. Sticking to a schedule can also help reinforce potty training and prevent behavioral issues , like separation anxiety and barking or whining. Think of a schedule that works best for your puppy, which should include: Feeding: Pick out regular meal times and stick to them as closely as possible. Golden Retriever puppies will need three daily feedings until they are six months old. After that, stick to feeding twice a day at the same time each day. Fixed meal times will help you predict when your puppy needs to potty each day, which better ensures easier potty training. Scheduled potty breaks: Take your puppy out to the yard or on a walk to potty immediately after a meal and after they wake up to enforce a schedule that will help with house training. Playtime and exercise: Playing and mental stimulation are key to a happy puppyhood. Even though they will mellow out in personality as they become adults, Retriever puppies are high energy! Place the dog crate in a quiet part of the house since we kennel train at Snowy Pines, and it helps ensure their safety and comfort. And now is the exciting part: Your puppy is finally home! But now what? Puppy Socialization Socialization is vital for young puppies, especially between 8 to 16 weeks of age: A well-socialized puppy will grow into a happy and confident adult that feels secure in various situations. You can also invite friends and family over to meet the puppy. In this case, more is always merrier! To help your puppy feel comfortable around humans in general, expose him to different types of people when he is still young. We also recommend holding off on public settings like dog parks until your puppy is settled into his new home and routine so as to not overwhelm him. Once your puppy is vaccinated, you can consider signing him up for puppy socialization classes. These classes, alongside training courses, can help prepare your pup for a long walk or a day at doggy day camp. Training Techniques Training is just as essential as early socialization. He may become disruptive and exhibit poor behaviors like jumping on visitors, chewing on furniture, and barking incessantly, among other frustrating challenges. Your puppy may also struggle with separation anxiety. They will comprehend basic commands and learn things such as his name, housebreaking, and early manners. They will be able to take on more advanced training and commands, and they should understand what good dog manners are. This age is essential when it comes to instilling how you want him to behave through adolescence. Puppies will begin teething at this point. Your new puppy might use anything possible to exercise his teeth, so you must start teaching him not to use your hand or furniture as chew toys. Anytime your puppy chews on something undesirable, have a toy nearby to put in his mouth instead. You can also try using bitter apple spray to deter biting and chewing on household items. Be firm but loving with clear, consistent commands and minute training sessions each day. Quick Tip: Keep in mind that at this age, this is when the key socialization period ends for your puppy: From this point forward, everything your puppy has learned will influence the way he behaves around people and other animals. While this is good, this age will also be a challenge because he will try to determine his ranking in the household, which can be frustrating when hormones play a role! Although spaying and neutering are standard for most breeds around six months old, studies have found that doing so for Golden Retrievers can actually increase the risk for joint disorders. Therefore, the standard for this breed has recently changed, and many vets suggest waiting to spay or neuter until 12 to 24 months. Training can be an overwhelming process, which is why many Golden puppy owners opt for working with a dog trainer or enrolling in training classes. Snowy Pines offers three levels of training when adopting one of their golden retrievers, which can save you tons of time and frustration in the long run. At your first checkup, you can also ask about getting your puppy microchipped!
labrador retriever puppies sc - We love the cooler weather! You will still LOVE us! Will You Adopt Us? LSBCR is dedicated to saving and re-homing Bulldogs so they can have the healthy, happy lives they truly deserve. Our volunteers support our cause in a multitude of ways, from big jobs to little projects, yet we always are in need of more helping hands. Learn More Donate Not everyone has the luxury of time to donate to our cause; however, you can still play a integral role in supporting the Bullies. You can make a tax-deductible donation via this Web site right now or you can donate food, dog medications, equipment and supplies. Check out all the latest shirts and items in our store. We have all sizes and many styles for men and women. Bulldog Spotlight Gordon James I joined rescue because my family became overwhelmed with five kids and life, plain and simply. I decided I was ready to go because we were in an apartment and every day, it was getting smaller and smaller and smaller. My family loved me, but sometimes, love is not enough because I can hardly breathe. Are you interested in preparing a dog for a forever home? For more information, email us. We want to provide our fosters and adopters with as much basic information as possible. Bulldog Spotlight Gordon James I joined rescue because my family became overwhelmed with five kids and life, plain and simply. I decided I was ready to go because we were in an apartment and every day, it was getting smaller and smaller and smaller. My family loved me, but sometimes, love is not enough because I can hardly breathe. We are dedicated to saving and re-homing Bulldogs so they can have the healthy, happy lives they truly deserve. The group has been dedicated to the breed since , as a component of Lone Star Bulldog Club. Lone Star Bulldog Club Rescue accepts Bulldogs from owners who can no longer keep them, as well as retrieves Bulldogs from shelters and other undesirable situations. Each Bulldog in the program is lovingly cared for in a foster home until the perfect forever family for that specific dog is found. Every Bulldog is different: personality, temperament, energy, comfort with kids and other animals, medical needs and more. We take all these factors into consideration when making a forever-home match. Adoption is a coordinated process between the coordinators, fosters and applicant. We work together with our knowledge of the dog to find the best home. When you apply, you might have a particular dog in mind. But please understand, that dog may already be in the process of being adopted by an approved family who has been waiting weeks to be matched with the right dog. But they would prefer to be the only thing with fur in their home. They still make a wonderful companion and deserve a loving home. For your convenience, they have been designated as Forever Single on our website. If you plan on only having one dog, we hope you will consider one of these. Since most of our volunteers live in the North Texas area, it is easier on us and the applying family if they live in this area. Because of this, our out-of-state adoptions are incredibly rare and only in neighboring states. If you are ready to submit your adoption application, please complete the Adopt A Bulldog Application. A volunteer will then review your application. This process can take some time, and not every home is a suitable home for a Bulldog, so please be patient. You are not buying a dog. My name is Monty and I am famous! Yesterday, my photo was all over social media and friends were begging someone to save me. The shelter said I had to be out by …. Vocality level 1 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. He is willing to please, although he retains a stubborn streak. He is very good with children. Most are moderately friendly toward strangers. Although some can be aggressive with strange dogs, the breed is quite good with other pets. Upkeep The Bulldog appreciates a daily outing but cannot tolerate hot humid weather, which can be deadly. He should not be expected to jog or walk great distances, or to jump from any heights. Most Bulldogs cannot swim. Most Bulldogs wheeze and snore, and some drool. Coat care is minimal, but facial wrinkles and any folds around the tail should be cleaned daily. Special precautions must be taken when anesthetizing a Bulldog. Caesarean deliveries are commonly needed. Hip radiographs show most Bulldogs to be dysplastic but few show overt symptoms. History With the most distinctive mug in dogdom, the Bulldog has an equally distinctive history. Some Bulldogs were also set against bears for bear baiting, purely for entertainment. In , bull baiting was outlawed, and a new phase began for the Bulldog. By all rights, the breed should have become extinct, except that it had gained so many ardent admirers that they set out to rescue the Bulldog by selecting against ferocity while still maintaining—and often accentuating—its distinctive physical characteristics. Its tough steadfast persona led it to be identified as a national symbol of England. Its amiable clownish personality belies its appearance, and the Bulldog is a popular pet. Related Content.
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labrador retriever puppies sc - Imagine you could come home to a lovable, dedicated, companion for life! If you knew what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy, you could find your next best friend. Before you buy your new best friend, read this information so you know what to look for in buying a healthy, quality German Shepherd puppy. I group them into major categories. Will you show him in conformation? Do you want to work with him in Schutzhund or herding? Or do you want a confident and alert companion? Know exactly what you want from your puppy. These dogs are the least costly since they have a trait that prevents them from winning in conformation competitions. These flaws rarely matter to most pet owners. And many minor faults like flat withers or slightly smaller offset ears will probably go unnoticed by most owners. The vast majority of GSDs are family pets. These dogs make great pets as long as they have sound temperaments! They breed some dogs for certain traits that are highly desirable but considered a fault. For example, long-coat or plush-coat GSDs. Show-quality dogs have good temperament and health. You usually buy them for their breed standard qualities that make them able to compete in confirmation or show events. A show-quality dog may cost significantly more if they have the traits desirable to win at a show. This group comes from Championship show lines with a long history of winning. If you plan on showing your Shepherd this is the quality you want. Beware of any breeder who claims they only raise competition-quality dogs. Even the best breeders produce many pet-quality dogs and if a breeder says they only breed perfect dogs, this is a red flag to not buy from them. The GSD is a herding breed, and the working-quality dogs excel at working trials such as scent competitions and Schutzhund. Other work includes climbing and jumping competitions or searching and tracking. They need mental stimulation to keep them occupied and take a lot of time to handle properly. These dogs are better with experienced handlers since you use them for high drive working and competition. They require hours and years of training and preparation for you to have total control during competition. We base this decision on preference. With the correct upbringing and training, both sexes are loyal companions and good with children. They may grow into more dominant dogs, so a confident handler is more desirable. Males may hike their back legs to mark their territory. This can occur on any object — chairs, walls, couches or even your leg. I suggest an extra bout of socialization during this stage, especially with other well-behaved dogs. So they may be better for the first-time owner. Unspayed females come into season every 6 months, so they must receive monitoring and watch to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Their season time can vary from as little as every 4 months to every 9 months. They can attract males to your property and on walks that will harass them if not spayed. Certain breeders and organizations will deal only in a certain coat length and color. The standard coat length is a short coat with double layers. Guard hairs on the top cover a softer underlayer of hair that provides warmth and protection. But there are many coat lengths available depending on your liking. Look online at the different GSD coat lengths to get an idea of what type of fur you want your dog to have. The longer the fur the more grooming involved. The color you choose is a matter of individual taste. Keep in mind the color of many Shepherds alters from their puppyhood to around 2 years of age. Your dog may become lighter or darker. Perhaps they will lose some of their markings as the color fades into the adult pattern. The best way to know what color and patterns your dog grows into is to see the parents of the litter. If the father is unavailable, then ask for photos. Why should you care where your dog comes from if you only want him as a pet companion? You want to get a dog that will live a long and healthy life from a source that has quality puppies. These tips will help you make the best decision on what type of pup fits in your life. Newspaper and Internet Classified Ads Newspaper and internet ads are in abundance. Many backyard breeders hide behind ads online or in local papers. But some breeders who use newspapers and classified ads are reputable and knowledgeable. The problem is you need to visit them to find out, and this can take time to sift through them all. Try the following more reputable suggestions to save yourself time. Dog Care Professionals Ask dog professionals for recommendations. Check with your local veterinarian, groomer, and boarding kennel personnel if they know reputable breeders in town. These professionals are good sources of quality leads. Use the same caution that you will for a classified ad. Verify their suggestions. Many of these organizations regularly receive puppies they need to re-home. While you might not know the full pedigree of the dog, purebred GSDs find themselves in shelters and rescues from no fault of their own. These organizations are a good resource for your first pup. Before adopting, find out as much information as you can. Was the puppy exposed to children? Did he live with other dogs or cats? A well-organized shelter or rescue helps you choose a German Shepherd match for your lifestyle. Start with looking online for GSD rescues and local shelters. Dog Clubs Dog clubs are local and national. These groups put you into contact with registered breeders through their own programs. They can give you the name of the GSD club contact closest to you for breed contacts. Dog clubs also have dog shows open to the public. This is a good time to watch the breed in action and to ask around for quality breeders. While using a dog club to connect you with a reputable breeder is not the only choice, it is one of the more reliable. If you are using a breeder to choose your German Shepherd puppy, this section will help you know the good from the bad. Use these tips to stay safe. Are selling overpriced or under-priced dogs. Lie to you and say you can make money off your new puppy by breeding them, despite them having flaws. Tells you that the GSD is a dog for everyone, with no disadvantages. Breeds multiple types of dogs and claims to be an expert on them all. If a breeder lets their mothers get pregnant more than once a year, this affects the quality of the puppies, so ask how many litters the mother has. These breeders selling unhealthy puppies also will refuse to take bag their dogs if you need to return them for any reason and have no contracts. They have healthy puppies and will answer your questions and have you make multiple visits. Openly show you where the mother and pups spend their time, including their garden or yard. Tells you the up and downs of owning the breed. Have all pedigree and vet paperwork on hand for your review. Specializes in breeding only GSDs source. They openly share this information with you. They have screened their dogs for health issues and can confirm this with documentation which they proudly give you a copy. Healthy mothers are given rest from breeding, and a reputable breeder gives their mothers time off from reproduction. Ask if your breeder if they are willing to take back their dogs if you cannot keep them, as this is standard for a quality breeder with a good reputation. Make sure your breeder has a written contract with detailed information and health guarantees. These are expected for safe breeding practices. How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy Following this guide gives you the best chance of buying a German Shepherd puppy that suits your lifestyle. Know what you want from your GSD and where to find quality dogs. Learn what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy to stay safe from a sick pup and a bad breeder. German Shepherds have their own unique set of challenges. They are a large, active, and intelligent breed that requires an understanding owner who is willing to train their GSD using positive techniques. Devote yourself to their overall health to see the best results and help give you and your dog a lifetime of happiness. Remember, your pup will need mental stimulation to keep their brain active , a gentle exercise program , and need daily love and affection. Buying a German Shepherd puppy is a choice for your whole life that will bring you many years of joy and excitement! Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Check with local veterinarians' offices, animal shelters, pet supply stores, and other area pet business for referrals to dog rescue organizations in your area. Contact one local dog rescue group for referral to other area groups. Some dog rescue groups work with all dogs, while others are breed-specific. Most rescues groups have established networks with other area rescues. The organization's website also provides links to rescue organizations. Although the majority of dogs looking for new homes through rescue groups are adults, sometimes rescue groups have puppies to place. Most German Shepherds looking for homes through rescue groups do not have papers. If registering your puppy is important, or if you intend to enter it into competitions, you will need its title papers and health records, so a rescued dog may not be right for you. Many dog rescues will require a thorough application process in order to assure that you will be a good fit for the dog. Be prepared to disclose your address and whether you own your home, as well as your employment status and your philosophy when it comes to raising a dog. You will want to make sure that the dog's temperament works well with you and your family. Ask whether you can get the dog checked out by your veterinarian. You will want your vet to check the dog's general health and for serious conditions, such as heart murmurs. Be sure to ask about the dog's health while the rescue has had it and if it is up to date on shots and healthcare. A good rescue should actually offer this information upfront. Get a history of the dog's healthcare up to that point. Has it had its first vaccination, had heart worm treatment, and parasite control? These should have all been done before the age when a puppy is adoptable. While many rescue organizations cannot tell you much about the dogs they place, because the dogs have been rescued off the street or they have been given up anonymously, sometimes they have a bit of information. Get all the information you can about the dog's past so that you can assess their general background and health. Dog rescue organizations are usually run on a shoe-string budget. While they depend mostly on volunteers, they do need funds to transport and care for dogs. Your adoption fee will most likely help to pay for the rescue of other dogs in the future. Do further research into these local German Shepherd breed clubs in your area. Whether you get information from their websites or contact them directly for help, local breed clubs are a great way to get the names of reputable breeders in your area. Veterinarians come into contact with a lot of different types of animal care-givers, from breeders to shelters to individual owners. Because they know so much about animal issues in the community, it's a good idea to talk to a few vets in your area for ethical breeder recommendations. Also consider speaking to other German Shepherd owners, dog groomers, or dog trainers. If you visit a breed show, talk to owners and trainers about who they've had good or bad experiences with. A good breeder won't have a variety of breeds available for adoption. Look for a breeder who specializes only in German Shepherds. Your best option is to find a breeder who has years of experience with the German Shepherd breed. They should be able to answer your questions about development, temperament, and training easily and without hesitation. A key marker of a good breeder is the amount of effort they put into early socialization. Puppies need to be taught from an early age to live harmoniously with humans. If a breeder keeps litters isolated away from the home, the puppies will not be used to the sights and sounds of a normal household, and won't be used to human interaction. This can become a problem by the time they are old enough to be adopted. Make sure the puppies spend at least some time in the breeders' home with them. The more time they spend with humans, the more you can trust the breeder. An ethical breeder will never try to breed a female who hasn't reached sexual maturity — about 2 years of age. Mothers should also be given enough time to recover from pregnancies and being separated from their litters as they get adopted. Females should be healthy and alert. Never adopt a puppy from a breeder who breeds a young or unhealthy female, or who doesn't give mothers time to recover before breeding them again. Puppies should never be sold or separated from their mothers before 8 weeks of age. The breeder should have begun the puppies' vaccination and deworming processes before adopting them out. Make sure that's happened, and ask about any health problems the vet may have reported in these early checkups. Ask if the breeders have their dogs tested for the Degenerative Myelopathy DM gene. This can determine whether a common inherited disease in German Shepherds is present in the litter's bloodline. Dogs with DM suffer from progressive paralysis, particularly in the hind legs. Note that being AKC-registered does not mean that you are getting a healthy animal. It means that the owner paid money to the AKC to register the dog. While experts recommend against breeding animals with known genetic problems, an OFA certification will give you proof. Be aware, though, that there's no guarantee of health in any animal. There's always a chance that two dogs free of known genetic diseases can still produce a puppy with genetic problems. The breeder should be evaluating you as a potential owner, just as you're evaluating him or her as a breeder. No good breeder will just hand over a puppy without being sure that the new owners will be able to provide it with a good, healthy life. Ask the breeder what they look for in a good owner, and whether they've ever turned potential owners away. The breeder should be able to answer these questions without even having to think about it. You might also ask the breeder for references so you can contact other families who have dogs from previous litters. A reputable breeder should ask questions about your dog background and experience, your lifestyle, and your family to guide you in making the best decision. As difficult as it may be, a good breeder will be willing to turn you away if they think you're a bad fit for their particular puppies. For example, if the litter has particularly inactive parents, the puppies may not be a good fit for your highly active lifestyle. If you get turned away, ask if the breeder can point you to other options and litters so you can expand your search. Also ask if they have any unborn litters coming up that may be a better fit for you. Be patient and don't get discouraged. With enough patience and legwork, you'll find the right puppy. Don't lie to a breeder just to get a puppy, though. Trust the breeder's decision-making process. You don't want to end up with a dog who doesn't fit your needs. Avoid any breeder who offers to cut you a "deal," who has unclean or smelly kennels, or who acts suspiciously in any way. Trust your instincts. A breeder who's in it just for the money has the wrong motivation, and likely isn't interested in the welfare of their dogs. Make sure the dogs are not crowded into cages. They should have plenty of room to stumble around and explore their surroundings. Part of the time, puppies should be kept in the home to expose them to household environments. There should be adequate food and water for all animals on the premises. Kennels should be cleaned daily. Although it may be that a dog had an accident just before you arrived, be suspicious of a kennel that looks like it hasn't been cleaned recently. If a breeder doesn't have a return policy, it suggests they don't really care what happens to their dogs once they leave their property. That's not a good sign! Also find out what kind of documentation you would get with your puppy. Would you get registration papers and pedigree papers? Negotiate for what you want if it's not included in the contract. Be very wary of a breeder who will not discuss the chance that a puppy may need to be returned. Does the contract require you to take the puppy for a vet visit within a set time? Does it cover hereditary issues for life? For only a certain period of time? What does the breeder agree to offer? Trade for another puppy when one is available? Are there restrictions on the activities you can do with your dog that will invalidate the contract or guarantee? Are you purchasing a show prospect puppy or a pet quality animal? Does the breeder have strong feelings or even bans about the vaccinations, foods or supplements for your puppy? Are these opinions based on solid science? Of course, you have already read a lot of books with advice on how to choose the right puppy of a German Shepherd, east European, as well as a Newfoundland, Rottweiler, Spaniel, or Spitz puppy. You understand what is the fundamental difference between these breeds and why a Retriever puppy will never become a VIP bodyguard, and a black terrier will hardly ever pass for a draft husky. Why Opting For a German Shepherd Puppy Is a Good Choice The German Shepherd is prone to learning from a very young to deep old age, while many other breeds cannot boast of this, even if their appearance is more perfect than that of a German Shepherd. The most well-known characteristics that a German Shepherd owns are: pronounced protective and guarding instinct; the ability to make independent decisions, and active actions, and at the same time be completely submissive to the owner; sociability, playfulness, and curiosity; lack of aggression signs towards others and deep affection for the owner; a willingness to happily take on tasks, learn, and remain completely fearless when faced with unfamiliar surroundings or unforeseen difficulties; In addition, the Shepherd dog is calmly confident and features strong nerves, combativeness, and assertiveness which are the main qualities of a good service dog. Perhaps, due to this set of breed characteristics, few larger and more ferocious breeds can compete with a GS, both for guarding the house and as a personal protector. It is not recommended to take puppies under 4 weeks old from their mother. This applies not only to GSs but other breeds. At the age of one month, the baby has already been given all the necessary vaccinations. However, only a person who can devote a lot of time to raising a puppy can afford to take a Shepherd at such a young age. In addition to 6 meals a day, and socialization, the new owner will need to complete 1, different tasks, which require, above all, a lot of time. If there is no time, it is worth finding a puppy aged 4 to 6 months. And it is advisable to take such a teenager from a nursery that focuses on breeding German Shepherds and not all the breeds at once. It happens that a puppy stays in the nursery because the money deposit was given for it but, for some reason, people could not pick up the reserved puppy. If the grown-up German Shepherd puppy constantly lived in an aviary and was deprived of close contact with people and the outside world, owners who have not previously dealt with this breed should not choose such a youngster. These young dogs are for experienced cinologysts. Lack of socialization can be corrected but it cannot be fully eliminated. Testing for the Puppy and Its Future Owner You may already know how to choose a purebred German Shepherd by external signs under the age of 3 months. Simple tests will help you choose a puppy with the desired character. Visit the breeder at a predetermined time when the puppies do not sleep or, conversely, are not hungry. You are taking a future friend for life, and enthusiastic emotions with such a choice are inappropriate. When buying a new friend, inspect the litter meticulously. Pay attention to the following: eyes do not water; traces of diarrhea under the tails are not observed; wet noses are without purulent crusts; legs are straight and strong; fur is clean, reminding of the plush; on the skin under the coat, there are no signs of peeling and scabs; all puppies are active and well-fed; the body is elastic and strong to the touch; the puppy has a pleasant dog smell; the mother is not exhausted; bowls and bedding are clean; there is enough heat and light. Of course, the owner of the dog mother has already taken her to the next room. Those who paid attention to the unusual sound are yours. Throw carefully, of course a tennis ball at the puppies. Those who were not afraid and did not try to escape are yours. Those who, having scouted the situation, did not begin to whine , pressing themselves onto the floor, but hurried towards the bedding are yours. Pay attention to those who have shown interest in a new object. The best are those who took and dragged it. Keys and money are the dirtiest household items. This testing method was used 20 years ago. Today, it is dangerous for the health of puppies! Invite those who dragged the rubber duck to pull a piece of fabric. If the baby dog willingly starts the fight, not letting the cloth go when you pull it towards you, they are good boys or girls. Turn the puppy you like on its back and hold it with an open palm for a few seconds. A clear alpha leader is easy to identify by its non-calming behavior for seconds, and even trying to bite you in this position. It may not be your choice! You will get too many problems associated with the puppy, or it will never be possible to completely subdue it. The puppy that squealed, pulled back its paw, and did not lose its interest in you is yours. The one who barks trying to drive brothers and sisters away from the bowl is not for you. The one who gives up its place at the feeder is also not yours. Yours is the one who, regardless of the obstacles, has taken its place and calmly devours food, without moving from its point, snapping, and running around the bowl. Now, you have at best 2 or 3 puppies left in front of you. You need to select the fat-footed one who will try to get out through the opening without panic and squealing. The tests are simple, but they will allow you to select a good puppy and raise a real working German Shepherd from it without unnecessary costs and nerves. Talk to the breeder. Such puppies are sold at a more reasonable price, but the puppy card for them is mandatory to be filled out as well. If you are given puppies for free, in the absence of their mother, there is a reason to seriously consider whether it is a Shepherd dog at all, even if their mother has pedigree documents. This is not a dog of one owner! The versatility and flexibility of this breed are proven by the fact that GSs accept a new family and a new environment without any problems. The main thing for it is to have its own business — to serve a human! Of course, parting with the former owner seriously affects the condition of the dog, but it will not have a destructive effect on its psyche. And the sooner you engage the German Shepherd in work, the more chances you will have to become a new God for it. If the German Shepherd was properly brought up and grew up surrounded by people, it has working characteristics in good conditions, and the reputation of its previous owner is beyond all questions, such a dog will be quite useful to your family. Finding out the previous story and background of an adult GS why it is refused, what the complaints about its behavior are, and other prompting questions is a must! The reason may be the saddest and most trivial — the previous owner died, and relatives are not able to either support or care for the dog. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. This guide will help you learn how to select the best German Shepherd puppy to add to your family. Is a German Shepherd right for me? This is the first question you should ask yourself before you even consider bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy. You need to evaluate your personal and family lifestyle by asking yourself the following questions: Where do you live? German Shepherds are often on the restricted breed list for apartments. Do you spend much of your time at home, or do you have an active work and social life? Are you willing to spend more time at home on the weekends and evenings during puppyhood, even if it means missing social events? Do you love traveling a lot? If so, will you take your puppy with you? If not, do you have someone or someplace you trust to watch your dog when you travel? Is your whole family excited about the idea of a new German Shepherd puppy? Are you already active or willing to become more active? Do you have time in your schedule to devote to training? Knowing the answers to those questions will help get you a couple of steps closer to deciding whether or not a German Shepherd is the right choice for you. Important things to know about German Shepherds: German Shepherd dogs are sometimes affectionately known as German shedders. German Shepherds shed all year long , however, they blow their coats twice a year during which time they will shed exponentially more. When considering getting this breed, you should be comfortable having a dog that sheds. Trimming their nails , cleaning their ears, brushing their teeth, and brushing their coat regularly is sufficient. Of course, during the shedding seasons more frequent brushing will be needed. German Shepherds were originally developed for herding sheep. Accordingly, they have the desire to work and respond best to proper training from a young age, and an active lifestyle. German Shepherds are known to be clingy, so be prepared to have a shadow following you around the house and maybe even in the restroom. German Shepherds are good with kids and are great family dogs. However, they need proper socialization and training at a young age so they can learn how to behave around both kids and adults. German Shepherds require a lot of mental stimulation and have high energy levels, especially as a puppy. As much as I love Allie, she was more than a handful as a puppy. I have seen instances where people underestimate the time, energy, and training a German Shepherd puppy requires and get overwhelmed after bringing their puppy home. These people end up giving up their puppies. It breaks my heart to know these awesome dogs are given up because of a lack of knowledge when selecting a breed of dog. Although they are a handful if you are willing to put in the effort they are in my opinion one of the best breeds of dog to own. German Shepherds are too smart for their own good. They learn things scary fast and sometimes get themselves into trouble because of how smart they are. They learn your routine and habits, and they also learn when and how they can get away with mischief. German Shepherds are incredibly loyal and become very connected to their owners and family. German Shepherds are typically loving and affectionate. From the second I met Allie she greeted me with a wet tongue to the face. That is still her favorite greeting she will kiss anyone that will allow her to get close enough. German Shepherds need training. They need to know that you are the leader and in charge. If not, they will quickly take over the role of being in charge and that is where problems arise. A bored, untrained, not active German Shepherd can become one of the stories you sometimes hear on the news about a GSD being aggressive. In most of those cases, the problem was with the owners and not the dog breed as a whole. Adoption or Breeder? First, you need to decide if you are going to adopt a German Shepherd puppy or buy one from a breeder. Here are some of the benefits of adopting: Rescue puppies are often already sociable, at least partially trained, and loving dogs. Therefore, you will save a lot of time on house training your new puppy. Older puppies or dogs are likely to be calmer than a younger puppy. You are saving the life of a dog that might not have otherwise found a home. The cost of adopting is typically much cheaper than buying a puppy from a breeder. If you decide to get a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder, here are a few things that can help you identify a good, ethical German Shepherd breeder: Ethical breeders care about the health and wellbeing of the puppy and are not just in the business for money. Ethical breeders always make sure that only healthy dogs breed together and follow a strict breeding program where they ensure that breeding and puppy spaces are clean. They should also have papers showing the age of the parent and the family tree of the puppy. Ethical breeders will happily show you around their entire setup; they should have nothing to hide. Ethical breeders will happily answer as many questions as you have to ask. You want to select one that will be compatible with you and your family. Consider the following when picking a puppy from the litter: Choose a puppy that is sociable around you and other puppies. Pick a puppy that walks confidently with its head high and tail up and wagging. Choose a puppy that has clear eyes, ears , and teeth, walks evenly, and appears clean. Basically, choose a puppy that looks healthy. Look at the personalities of the puppies. Choose a welcoming puppy that wants to greet you as opposed to one that retreats or appears shy. Ask to interact with each puppy one by one after seeing them with their littermates. That way you can get a better sense of how the puppy responds to you without distractions. If possible, visit the litter at least three times before making a final decision, this will allow you to determine the personalities of each of those little fluff balls, and see which would best fit into your family. How old should a German Shepherd puppy be when you take it home? Any puppy should be at least 8 weeks old before being separated from their mother. By this timeline, their sensory organs will have also developed fully which will help you to spot any deformities or medical issues. Be wary of any breeder that will allow you to take your puppy home before 8 weeks old. How do you puppy proof for German Shepherds? German Shepherds are naturally active and tend to explore the world with their mouths, especially during their adolescent period. So, before you can bring your new puppy home, there are a few things you can do to puppy-proof your house: Get rid of any poisonous plants or put them out of reach of your new puppy. Cover electrical cords with cable wraps or PVC pipes. Buy a new laundry basket that has a lid, no holes, and is tall. Make sure both your kitchen and bathroom trash cans have lids. Your new puppy will dig around for anything to bite, like chicken bones, diapers, used hygienic products, or even a disposable razor. If possible, you should buy new trash cans that only open when a button is pressed. Store all the chemicals in secured cabinets or even better on high shelves. German Shepherd puppies have strong teeth and can open plastic containers by biting through even the toughest of plastic! Put away any small items or toys that are small enough for your puppy to swallow. Think of small kid toys like Legos or dollhouse furniture that could be dangerous for a curious puppy. Find a safe spot for your shoes. Whether in a closed closet or in the laundry room behind a closed door. I remember losing a pair of brand-new shoes because I forgot to put them away and Allie thought chewing them was a fun idea. Bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy The period of bringing a new German Shepherd puppy home and introducing them to your home and family takes time and above all, patience. If possible, plan to take off work for at least a few days after bringing your puppy home. I picked up Allie on a Saturday, and then took most of the following week off to spend time getting her adjusted to her new home. Remember, your new puppy has been taken from the only family it knew, and you are now their new family. That first week home was a good week of bonding with Allie. It helped her feel comfortable with her new life and allowed me to really get to know my new beautiful energy filled puppy. The best tip for a smooth transition when bringing your German Shepherd puppy home is to begin crate training and potty training as soon as possible. As a breed prone to separation anxiety , you want to give your GSD a zone to feel safe, comfortable, and content to be on their own. While the initial steps of crate training can be time-consuming, it can make the difference between a dog that is a joy to own, and one that can never be left on their own — so, be the dog parent your pooch deserves and put the time in! New German Shepherd puppy checklist and things to buy It is important that your new puppy feels welcomed into their new home. Some items are ok to be left with your puppy, and other items are more dangerous or will be destroyed. This checklist will help you to know what to buy when getting a puppy. New German Shepherd Puppy Checklist. Feeding and grooming 1. Traditional leather collars with an engraved tag are a popular choice. They can be personalised with up to 25 characters of information which will help someone return your pup to you. But here at Happy Puppy HQ, we love them! If your puppy reaches the end of their leash quite suddenly, a harness distributes the impact over a large area of predominantly muscle, rather than concentrating it on a small area of delicate throat tissues. And they make it easier to safely control your puppy during training. Travel Restraint Most people want to be able to travel with their dog. But there are some things to buy German Shepherd puppies that will make this easier. Puppies who travel unrestrained in vehicles can be somewhat mischievous however! It can be all too tempting to try and climb into your lap or your footwell, for a bit of attention. Furthermore, unrestrained dogs are more likely to sustain serious injuries in a collision. However, if your GSD puppy is a destructive chewer, this kind of crate might not last long. Another Alternative A great alternative is anchoring their harness securely to the seat belt plug. This will keep your puppy in place, and distribute the impact of a crash as safely as possibly over his body. So one of the things to buy a German Shepherd puppy is a leash. Young puppies are very receptive to new experiences, so teaching them to accept wearing a leash is easiest while they are still young. Most GSD puppy parents find that they need two types of leash. The Two Types First, a short lead for keeping their dog under close control near traffic and whilst walking on the sidewalk. Crate People tend to have mixed feelings about dog crates. But used responsibly, they have heaps of advantages. They can become a cosy den for your puppy, which he will learn to associate with being safe and relaxed in. They can make toilet training quicker and easier. And they prepare your dog for being unavoidable crating in the future, for example if they ever need to stay at the vet, or travel by air. Our crate training article is all about how to choose the best crate, and use it correctly. And this article is all about choosing the right size for a German Shepherd. So add some bedding to your list of things to buy a German Shepherd puppy! If you decide to move onto something more supportive as they grow up, our review of the best beds for German Shepherds will help you find the perfect next step. Many of them are available in standard crate sizes too — perfect for making the bottom of a crate as luxurious as can be! Puppies are curious, playful, and at times even total trouble-magnets! Creating a safe place in your home where you can leave them for a few moments to visit the bathroom or answer the door protects them from harm and gives you peace of mind. Your puppy zone should ideally have wipe clean floors in case of toilet accidents, and you should invest a little time teaching them to associate it with good things — by leaving treats in it for them to find, and returning their favorite toys there when they leave them lying around. Toys Like all puppies, German Shepherd pups have stacks of energy. So, toys should be a priority on your list of things to buy a German Shepherd puppy. They love to play, and playing plays a valuable role in developing their muscles, motor skills and coordination. In fact, GSDs have pretty tough teeth and jaws, even from a young age. So we recommend choosing toys designed with durability in mind. Food and Water Bowls All puppies need access to clean, fresh water. And whilst we recommend using most of their daily food allowance as rewards during training, you might also like to give them small meals in a bowl. In fact it is estimated that bloat causes the death of approximately 1 in 7 GSDs. Food Your puppy should come home with a modest supply of the food they were weaned onto by their breeder. This will minimize the possibility of them etting an upset tummy. Our article on the best diets for German Shepherd Dogs will give you some food for thought. Are they just the start of a slippery slope towards canine obesity? Well, we think treats have an important role to play in successful German Shepherd training! But the best way to capture a new behavior, or advance an established area of training to the next level, is by offering a high value food reward at first. Pieces of cooked chicken or small cubes of cheese are equally effective. Some we Like You may need to experiment with a few brands to find out which your GSD will work the hardest for. These basics belong in every dog owners kit: A brush, for removing loose hair, debris, matts and tangles — German Shepherds need their coats brushing at least two or three times a week. Shampoo, for when they roll in in something stinky. Toothbrush and Toothpaste These could be considered part of general grooming supplies. Medical procedures such as setting broken bones and corrective surgery for bloat cost several thousand dollars. Most insurance plans have the added bonus of including public liability cover. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. Final thoughts Where do I start? The first thing that you have to do before you can pick out the best puppy, is to pick out the best breeder. This may come easily, as you may already have a breeder in mind that you trust and who has a good reputation. But chances are that you will have to do your research. And there is also a good chance that you may need to travel some distance to the right breeder. Even if the breeder is several states away, consider making the trip. Getting a new GSD puppy is a significant life commitment. The effort and time that you invest now in going about this properly will pay off for years to come. Here are some important things to look for in a breeder once you locate one that you are interested in pursuing. Call the breeder and have a conversation The first thing to do is call the breeder and have a conversation. A quality German Shepherd breeder will actually require this. They will not permit someone to just show up and purchase one of their dogs and take it home. They will ask you questions such as: Why do you want a GSD puppy? This will aid them in helping you choose. Where do you live, in an apartment or in a home? They will want to ensure that the puppy will not be in a cramped space. Do you have a yard, and is it fenced-in? They will want to make sure that the puppy will have adequate room to exercise as it grows. Do you have children in your home? They will want to make sure that you understand the importance of socialization and training to keep your family safe. Do you have other pets in your home? They will want to make sure that you know how to properly introduce the puppy to other animals, and whether any other pets you have may actually be a danger to the puppy. What type of work do you do, does it require you to be away from home for long periods of time? Because GSDs do not do well alone, they will want to make sure that you have adequate time to devote to your dog. Are you financially prepared to take on a GSD? While this may be a bit of a personal question, it is important to know that you are financially able to care for a GSD. They are expensive to care for, and it is fair for a breeder to ask this question. If a breeder does not ask you some form of these questions, then perhaps think twice. It may be an indication that they are more interested in profit than raising a quality puppy that they care will go to a quality home. Questions for you to ask the breeder: How many different types of dogs do you raise? Can you provide me with a pedigree of all of your puppies? A pedigree is essentially a family tree for your puppy. A good breeder should have a detailed pedigree for any dog they sell. Beware of any breeder that wants to charge for this or says that they will provide it at a later date. Do you have references? They should provide you with several without thinking twice. All reputable breeders will offer this guarantee in the form of a written contract. Do you breed your females more than once a year? Female GSDs should not be bred more than one time per year. This allows for adequate recovery time and maintains good health. Can you provide me with a detailed medical history for your puppies? Health screenings are essential for puppies, and a reputable breeder should be able to provide proof of these. Can you explain any potential health issues for GSD which may come up later in life? A knowledgable breeder should be able to clearly explain conditions like hip dysplasia and other health issues more common in GSDs than other dogs. If the answer to any of these questions comes up as unsatisfactory, move on. It is simply not worth the risk of pursuing the breeder any further. Unfortunately, there are far too many unethical breeders who take a lot of shortcuts which results in dogs prone to both health and behavioral issues. Why is this? You should never take home a puppy that is less than 8 weeks old. More than half of the states in the U. And out of those states, only 3 permit a puppy to be offered for sale under the age of 8 weeks. The reason for these laws is primarily so that puppies are properly weaned from their mothers and able to eat on their own. In addition to weaning, puppies need to be initially socialized by their mothers as well as their siblings. So a puppy will be taught that these things are bad during these 8 weeks. If you remove a puppy from the litter too early, they may not learn these lessons and develop behavioral problems as they get older. Much like a spoiled child that never learns, often times the source of an ill-behaved puppy can be traced to a lack of discipline at a young age. So to ensure that you have a healthy puppy, that is also sold in accordance with state laws and regulations, understand that it must be 8 weeks old see link above for exceptions — regardless of state law exceptions, waiting 8 weeks is good practice. Decide whether you want to male or female You may have a personal preference for either a female or a male German Shepherd puppy. It is important however to not necessarily just go with your gut on this one. Take a moment and understand some general differences between the two genders. I will explore this issue more in-depth in another post, but here are some important general points to consider. Territorial: Males are naturally more territorial than females. This may give them more of a tendency to wander off in an effort to broaden their territory. Very possessive: Male GSDs are generally more possessive than females. They may be possessive over food and bones, toys, and you! Dominance: Male German Shepherds tend to be more dominant than females. This may result in more of a proclivity towards aggressive bullying behaviors to make sure that it is understood that they are the boss. Dominance requires training to keep it in check. Singular bonding: Male GSDs tend to bond more closely with one person rather than a group of people like a family. Territorial: Females are therefore more welcoming and less territorial than males. They are also less likely to wander off as they have no desire to expand their territory. Dominance: Females display less dominant behaviors than males. Non-singular bonding: Females are more likely to bond with a number of people in a family rather than an individual person. So, how do I choose between the two? This question comes down to the purpose for which you want a German Shepherd. If you are looking for a dog to have trained in protection and are looking primarily for a four-legged security system for your home, then a male is a good choice. However, if your primary interest is to just have a family pet that socializes well with others, then a female is probably right for you. Testing the puppy There is no better way to determine whether or not a specific puppy is the right one for you than to actually get hands-on and doing some investigating. However, even before you begin any interactions with a puppy, make sure that you are testing the correct one. Never try and force any interaction, begin with puppies that are naturally drawn to you. Just like with people, you cannot force a match and expect fruitful results. So be patient and make sure at very least that the puppy is not aversive toward you before you being. The tests: Clap your hands: Does it run away or does it come? A more timid dog may, however, be apprehensive to approach. Make eye contact: When the puppy is looked at, does it stare back at you? If the puppy looks directly at you, it is showing confidence. Vocally call the puppy over to you: Does it come to you right away? If it does how not, however, this could show a behavioral issue or hearing problem, or it could be an indication of another illness as well. Pet the puppy: How does it respond to your touch? However, if it meets your touches with biting or growling, then this is likely an indication of an uneven or bad temperament. It will not just grow out of this, it will have to be trained out of it. Bring a ball with you to test with the puppy: Roll the ball and see what the puppy does. Does it follow it and then bring it to you? Or does it take it away for itself. A more dominant puppy will just take the ball and keep it for itself, reluctant to give it back to you. On the other hand, a more independent puppy may show no interest at all. And one that is submissive may actually be frightened. If you are looking for a very sociable puppy, look for the one that brings the ball right back to you to play some more. The puppy that brings it right back is also an ideal candidate for training in retrieving and other exercises. An even-tempered puppy will show interest in and play with the toy, but it will also allow you to participate and take the toy back without showing you any aggression. Roll the puppy over: Once the puppy comes over to you, gently roll it onto its back and hold it in place. Do not be forceful but be firm. See how the puppy reacts. Is it resisting, or is it just relaxing? A puppy with a more dominant personality will take the path of most resistance, and it may growl or attempt to bite at you. And the even-tempered puppy is the one that may resist for a short time but then submit to what you are doing. Pick up the puppy: Physically pick up the puppy by gently holding it underneath its chest with an open hand. Lift it up high, even above the height of your head and hold it there. What does the puppy do? Does it struggle, or does it stay relaxed? A puppy that struggles may be fearful or dominant. On the other hand, a puppy that stays absolutely relaxed is displaying confidence in itself and trust in you. Hold on to a paw and press it gently: This is somewhat similar to holding it on its back. If there is a response to be had, it will happen immediately. Resistance or pulling the paw away may show dominance and temperament towards aggression. The even-tempered puppy will be you curious as to what you are doing. It may investigate a little and might even lick you. Make an unexpected noise: Whether it is banging a pot and pan together or just yelling, create an unexpected noise. See what the puppy does, does it show fear, interest, or aggression? A fearful puppy may run away or even whimper. While an aggressive-tempered puppy may actually growl and try to bite you. An even-tempered puppy will simply look surprised, and may even want to investigate a little bit further. Meet the parents A lot of breeders will have both the father sire and the mother bitch of the puppies on site. However, some of them will only have the mother because sometimes the father is on loan as a stud from a different breeder. But the mother for sure should be on site, and you should get an idea of what she is like. In the case of my last German Shepherd, I was able to meet both parents. His mother was very kind and sociable and eager to be petted. While on the other hand, his father was clearly dominant, and not a dog to be messed with. Because of my prior experience and knowledge, my GSD turned out exactly as I thought he would — fairly sociable yet wildly protective of me. This was all right because I knew what to expect and I was able to train my dog properly to take the edge off of some of his more dominance behaviors. However, my choice was an informed decision based on years of experience. If you are new to owning a German Shepherd, this may not be an ideal combination. I would recommend for a new German Shepherd owner to consider making sure that both parents are more docile, and possibly even lean towards acquiring a female for your first German Shepherd. Visit the puppy on more than one occasion Just like people, puppies have their on days and their off days. You will not be able to get a very accurate picture of how your puppy will be on one short visit. In fact, with my last dog, I visited him at least 4 times and stayed for at least 30 minutes with him each time prior to taking him home. A good breeder will have no issue with you doing this, and in fact, will prefer it. They want their dogs to be well-matched with their new owners, so this is common practice. The puppy should become accustomed to the people it will soon be spending its entire life with. So the more familiarity that you build now in this phase, the easier that puppy will transition to home life with you and your family. All of these steps are positive reinforcement for your new puppy and will build familiarity and a bond even before you arrive home. Also, bring a small blanket or clothing item and ask the breeder to leave it with the puppy. This will allow your puppy to become familiar with the scent of you and your home. Making for a better transition. So by default, this knowledge enables the breeder to be very good at placing the proper puppies with the proper personalities. Remember to stay focused and not lose sight of your primary objective, which is to select the right puppy for you and your family. If you take the time and care to do your research and ask the right questions, you will come together with the right puppy for you. But remember, this is just the beginning of a major life commitment. So take this step of choosing the right GSD puppy seriously, and you will have laid the foundation for a loving and rewarding relationship for years to come. May not even be aware of the breed standard. Breeds to any convenient dog. Strives towards the ideal. Often helps to define it. Does not need to promote establishment; sells to brokers, pet shops, etc. Often rescues only to attain more stock. Rarely attends shows or trials. Shows and trials to objectively test breeding stock. Often judges, provides seminars, writes articles, and willingly mentors serious Hobby Breeders. Knowledge Often pretends to know some. May share false or incomplete information. Studies continuously. Impacts the breed for many decades with knowledge of dogs over many generations. All pups sold have full breeding rights. Yes, and diligently follows up on progeny. Keeps up with health and temperament issues affecting the breeding and provides in-depth guarantees No need to; mostly supplies brokers and pet shops. Meets minimum standards as required by state law. May refuse to acknowledge most problems. Maintains a solid support system — accepts full responsibility for every puppy produced. Performs health testing for all breeding stock for genetic diseases affecting the particular breed. No interest, may offer papers as proof of quality. Papers alone are not proof of quality. No interest. May provide undocumented paperwork for appearances sake. Is unfamiliar with health testing usually statements of good health are stated to impress consumers. Intensive testing always a priority. Often initiates club sponsored seminars and clinics. Maintains records on all dogs in gene pool including progeny. Often supplies brokers and pet shops, records unavailable. Dogs and puppies are often auctioned off in lots, records unavailable. Focuses mostly on current dogs, no records or knowledge of genes. Attempts to continuously track every puppy produced. Bases entire breeding program on extensive gene pool data. Clean environment always maintained Minimum standards vary greatly in cleanliness. Minimum standards maintained for state inspections. Conditions may vary greatly depending on available income, usually makeshift accommodations. Clean, healthy and mentally stimulating environment. Expected longevity with any particular breed Will continue as long as the sales are coming. Depends on popularity of specific breeds. Unrealistic expectations — easily disillusioned. On a mission-plans to stay for the long haul. Health guarantee provided No, it cuts into profits. No health guarantee beyond proof of first set of vaccines, if that. Not qualified to give advice if a problem arises. Offers written guarantee and is available to answer questions to new owners. Good knowledge of history in dogs. Extensive knowledge of health history, offers replacements to owners of genetically affected dogs. Ability to meet the parents of the litter If available, may be in poor physical condition. If available, dogs are not used to contact with people. May or may not be well loved and cared for companions, often unwilling to show entire litter or parents to buyer. Shows friendly mother and entire litter in clean environment; stud dog too, if in residence. Helps buyer choose appropriate puppy. Can explain how breeding was planned to emphasize specific qualities and can speak at length about how puppies compare. What you can expect after purchase Nothing, may not be able to contact at all. No concern for dog after sale is final. Available for questions, and wants to keep in touch. Will take back dog or puppy at any time. After purchase will help with training and grooming, available for all questions and knows the answers. Price Priced according to market, but is marked up from original source for profit. Mid-range to move puppies quickly. High end of mid-range. Price will not reflect all that is invested. Use only physically sound, mature dogs of stable temperament for breeding. These characteristics are rarely, if ever, determined before the age of two for females. Continue to educate themselves regarding genetic diseases pertinent to the breed including, hip and elbow dysplasia. Documentation of hip and elbow screenings should be available to prospective puppy buyers. Apply the same high standards to outside bitches sent to their stud dogs as they apply to their own breeding stock. Temperament testing of a litter before puppies are offered for sale is encouraged. Take appropriate steps to have each puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian for general health prior to placement. Each puppy should be vaccinated and de-wormed by a veterinarian. Endeavor to gain personal knowledge of the temperament and health of every dog they breed, or to which they breed, in order to gather information on which to base future breeding decisions. They share this information fully and honestly with other breeders and with prospective buyers. Sell breeding prospects to knowledgeable, ethical and experienced persons or are willing to help educate and guide novices. Do not engage in misleading or untrue advertising and do not use GSDCA membership as a marketing tool. Do not sell, supply, donate or surrender any dog for which they are responsible to a pet shop, catalogue house, wholesale dealer in dogs, Humane Society or to a laboratory. They should have reasonable assurance that each individual receiving a dog will provide a home with appropriate shelter, restraint, control and responsible care. Encourage puppy buyers to go to puppy obedience classes to help their puppies to become better canine good citizens. The achievement of a Canine Good Citizen certificate should be encouraged. Since homeowners insurance and local laws vary greatly, a refusal to let you visit the kennels may not, in and of itself, be a bad sign. You should ask for and receive a satisfactory explanation. The puppies are not social or look sickly. How to read those ads. A few more things to look out for. Anyone can buy a puppy from a champion, but it does not mean that they have any other interest in the breed but to bank on the name and make money. Having a Champion in a pedigree is like having a billionaire relative. AKC registration does not guarantee quality. AKC papers are much like the title of a car; papers are issued to the junked Chevy on blocks in your yard just as easily as they are on a brand new, shiny Jaguar. AKC does not control breeding, approve litters, or guarantee temperaments. AKC Registration is automatic if you buy from a reputable breeder — they will provide all necessary paperwork when you buy a puppy. There are several groups that are registering dogs, even mixed breeds, for a fee. This registration means nothing, and is of no value to you. Are there too many defects for the animal to be bred? Shop with care. Rarely will a good breeder have the luck to own both dogs for the perfect litter. There are some good and very reasonable reasons to have both parents on site. However, you need to ask the right questions and understand why this is true. They might be, they might not. Are they too big to be cute anymore? Need more money? Is there a problem? Usually because there are more on the way. Be very wary of this one. Will a Breeder Ask Me Questions? Conscientious breeders want the best available home for their puppies. This determines the amount of time you will have available for your new addition. There are very important items that should be supplied by the breeder. Breeders will typically give you the following items: A signed pedigree A current Health Record; including de-wormings and vaccinations. American Kennel Club registration papers or application Sales contract. The type of contract varies and must be mutually agreeable to the breeder and buyer. Much depends on what you expect from the puppy show, pet, or performance. Feeding schedule including the type and amount of food. Copy of OFA certification of sire and dam, if available.