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Check out our guides on best dog food for Doodle puppies here. The age at which a Bernedoodle reaches its maximum height is very much dependent on their type. Smaller dogs, such as Tiny Bernedoodles naturally achieve this much earlier at around months, while with Standard Bernedoodles may take up to 14 months to get to their full size. Miniature Bernedoodles will sit somewhere between this at months. When they get to their adult size, they will likely continue to grow outwards as their muscles develop. This means their weight will continue to go up. You can calculate their potential adult weight by taking what they weigh at 18 weeks and multiplying it by two. Medium and Miniature Bernedoodles Medium and Miniature Bernedoodles usually get to half their full weight around 3. You can calculate their potential adult weight at 18 weeks by taking what they weigh at that age and multiplying it by two. Standard Bernedoodles Standard Bernedoodles usually get to half their full weight around 4. You can calculate their potential adult weight at 23 weeks by taking what they weigh at that age and multiplying it by two. While there are no guarantees with hybrid dogs breeds, careful observation of the various types and generations of Bernedoodles now allows us to make some pretty decent predictions on their adult size and weight. Their specific rate of growth, as well as their final size, has a lot to do with the type of parent Poodle used in the original, as well as in any subsequent breeding. This enables us to categorize Bernedoodles in Standard, Miniature and Tiny sizes. Smaller dogs will attain their adult size much sooner than their larger counterparts who may not reach full maturity until well into a year of their lives. Either way, their weight is likely to continue to increase even once their size is fixed. Hopefully, the information included here will allow you to do that with a fair degree of accuracy. It is not intended to be a substitute for qualified professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified animal health provider with any questions you may have. You Might Also Like. There are four Bernedoodle sizes—tiny, mini, medium, and standard. Read on to find out how big do Bernedoodles get, what impacts the height and weight of a Bernedoodle, and when do Bernedoodles stop growing! The Toy Poodle stands around 10 inches in height and weighs between 6 and 9 pounds. The Mini Bernedoodle size varies between inches in height and pounds. Although you should always be careful about selecting a responsible doodle breeder , you should be even more wary when considering a toy or teacup size. Unfortunately, there are some unethical breeders out there who prioritize tiny stature over healthy puppies and those dogs often have major health problems throughout their life. Click here to get an instant, online pet insurance quote from Healthy Paws! How big do Tiny Bernedoodles get? On average, the full grown Tiny Bernedoodle size is around 17 inches tall 50 cm and weighs between 10 pounds and 24 pounds. Cody the Tiny Bernedoodle is 18 pounds. Photo courtesy of Caryn Zeman on Facebook. The Mini Poodle is around 15 inches in height, and pounds in weight. The Bernese Mountain Dog, on the other hand, is inches in height and pounds. How big do Mini Bernedoodles get? The full grown Mini Bernedoodle size varies between inches at the shoulder cm and they weigh around 25 pounds to 50 pounds. Luna the Mini Bernedoodle is 28 pounds. Photo courtesy of Christa Szczepanski Savage on Facebook. It is often used to describe larger Miniature Bermedoodles or smaller Standard Bernedoodles. How big do Medium Bernedoodles get? The Medium Bernedoodle size is generally between inches tall at the shoulder. Lucy Belle the Medium Bernedoodle is 40 pounds. Photo courtesy of Skinny Kidplaying on Facebook. The Standard Poodle is inches in height at the shoulder and weighs pounds. The Bernese Mountain Dog is usually slightly larger at inches in height, and pounds in weight. How big do Standard Bernedoodles get? A Standard Bernedoodle is generally between inches tall at the shoulder centimeters. While the weight of a Standard Bernedoodle starts at 50 pounds, they typically are between 70 and 90 pounds and can even go above pounds! Calvin the Standard Bernedoodle is 95 pounds. Photo courtesy of Lisa M. Harkins on Facebook. What Impacts the Height and Weight of a Bernedoodle? Some of these include their gender, the height and weight of the parents, and which generation of Bernedoodle your dog is. The combination of all of these factors make it somewhat difficult to predict exactly how big your dog will be, but it helps us come up with a general estimate. First, their gender plays a role in answering the question of how big do Bernedoodles get. Should you choose a male vs female Bernedoodle? In most cases, the height and weight of a male Bernedoodle will be slightly larger than a female Bernedoodle. In the smaller Tiny Bernedoodle size and Mini Bernedoodle size, the height and weight difference between males and females may not be as noticeable as with the larger Medium Bernedoodle size and Standard Bernedoodle size. Another important aspect to consider is the size of the parents. The genetics that are passed from the parents to their offspring play a role in how large a Bernedoodle will get. However, keep in mind that genetics are tough to predict. Finally, which generation of Bernedoodle your dog is will be a big part of how big they will get! Check out our article on Bernedoodle generations to learn more! Put simply, a Bernedoodle that has more Poodle than Bernese Mountain dog could be slightly smaller than a Bernedoodle that has more Bernese Mountain dog than Poodle. Simply, the higher percentage of the larger dog, the larger the dog is likely to be. When Do Bernedoodles Stop Growing? Savor these puppy days— time will fly by before you know it! Bernedoodles usually reach full size anywhere from 1. Just like other factors, this relies significantly on genetics. Bernese Mountain Dogs, like other large breeds, tend to grow over a longer period of time. Poodles, on the other hand, are a smaller breed and are generally done growing by 18 months of age. Due to differences in stature, in general, a Tiny Bernedoodle will be fully grown sooner than a Mini Bernedoodle, which will be fully grown before a Medium Bernedoodle or a Standard Bernedoodle. Related Articles:. Standards are usually 15 inches tall, miniatures are 15 inches or under and toys are no more than 10 inches in height. They can range in size depending on each Bernedoodle and whether their Poodle parent is standard, miniature or toy. Just like the Poodle breed, Bernedoodles have three different sizes: standard, miniature and toy. Toy Bernedoodle will usually be between 12 and 17 inches tall and weight between 10 and 24 pounds. Miniature Bernedoodle will reach a height between 18 and 22 inches and weigh from 25 pounds to 49 pounds. Standard Bernedoodles can be 23 to 29 inches tall and weight between 70 and 90 pounds. Dog Time write on their websites that male Bernedoodles will usually be larger than female Bernedoodles. However, prospective Bernedoodle owners should remember that their is a lot of variance within this particular cross breed. How Big Do Bernedoodles Get? We asked five Bernedoodle owners to give their insights into the size of these designer dogs. In doing some, we hope to provide our readers with a range of perspectives to give you an idea about how big your Bernedoodle could get if you decide to adopt one of these dogs. Dennis dennis. He will mature at approximately 55lbs and will be about inches in height at the shoulder. Brody brody. Standards are generally pounds. Minis are generally pounds. And Micro-minis, or toys, are typically .It also depends on their parents. Chewy is from a large standard poodle and Bernese mountain dog. Ziggy thebernedoodleziggy It depends on the Bernedoodle type! Bernedoodles come in three sizes — tiny, miniature and standard. So, they can range anywhere from 10lbs to 90lbs! I would consider the most important factors to be 1 the generation of the Bernedoodle and 2 the size of the parents most notably, the poodle parent. Due to the variation of sizes in poodles standard, medium, mini and toy , this results in different size categories for Bernedoodles. You have likely seen standard and mini Bernedoodles. To get such a small-sized Bernedoodle, pure bred parents are no longer involved, as that would increase the size of the dogs. Smaller Bernedoodles are likely a result of different generations of Bernedoodles f1, f1b, f2 being bred to one another, to continue to produce smaller and smaller puppies. Mini Bernedoodles are generally 25 to 60 lbs and males are usually larger than females overall. They were bred solely for companionship, so they love attention and lots of cuddles from their families. Bernedoodles are just as happy curling up on the couch as they are hiking a trail alongside their humans. They're playful and active dogs who can be willful as puppies but are highly trainable thanks to their big brains. Appearance Though Bernese mountain dogs have a black, tan, and white uniform, poodles can have a much wider range of coat colors. Because of this, Bernedoodles can vary in color. While they're typically tricolor like their mountain dog mom or dad, they can also be pure black, black and white, or a random mix. Their fur can also be curly like their poodle parent or straighter like a Bernese mountain dog. As a general rule, the straighter the coat, the more your Bernedoodle will shed. In both cases, the thickness of a Bernedoodle mane makes this breed suitable for colder temperatures. A curly Bernedoodle coat is typically sought-after because it's considered hypoallergenic. While no dog is percent allergen-friendly, this breed's coat can be a good option for those who tend to sneeze, sniffle, or itch around dogs. Bernedoodle breeders typically offer a tiny, miniature, and standard size, which allows for flexibility with the care and living needs of each pup. A smaller mix could easily live in an apartment as long as she gets plenty of walks and exercise. The standard Bernedoodle can reach up to 29 inches in height and weigh up to 90 pounds. A mini is between 18—22 inches tall and weighs 20—45 pounds. A "tiny," bred from a toy poodle, is only 12—17 inches and weighs 10—24 pounds, according to the United Bernedoodle Registry. Temperament Affectionate and playful, Bernedoodles are a perfect family pet. They are especially fond of younger kids and provide a wonderful lifelong companion as children grow into adults. Though they're intelligent pups , they tend to be goofy and love attention from their humans. Though they can't get enough of their family, Bernedoodles might first be apprehensive, sensitive, and skittish around strangers. As with all breeds, it's important to socialize your Bernedoodle puppy so she'll be comfortable and affectionate around new people, too. She can be very charming and charismatic with positive reinforcement training. Personal space is not a part of their vocabulary, and they should not be left alone much. Loneliness can result in separation anxiety, which could cause nervous habits like whining or chewing. They will end feeling more fulfilled and have less anxious, OCD behaviors. And no matter the size, this hybrid is especially gentle-natured and loves children. They're so gentle, in fact, they don't make good guard dogs: They bark infrequently and are more likely to befriend an intruder than scare them away. Care Most often, a Bernedoodle will have a wavy or curly coat that's ideal for those with allergies. In some cases, a Bernedoodle can have a straighter coat similar to that of a Bernese mountain dog. This means they'll shed more and might not agree with an owner who's allergic to pet dander. Once the litter is a few weeks old, a Bernedoodle breeder will be able to tell what kind of coat each puppy will have in order to match the right dog to the right owner. But with that curly coat comes a greater need for grooming. Bernedoodles don't shed much , so they'll need frequent brushing to prevent painful matting. Most doodles love being brushed, and the routine allows the owner to bond with their dog. Keep in mind a very curly, "hypoallergenic" dog will need a haircut every few months. Just because they're low-shedding doesn't mean they're low maintenance! They'll need daily walkies to burn off their energy, but so long as their physical needs are met, they likely won't turn to undesirable behaviors like digging to keep themselves entertained. They'll also need consistent social stimulation to reinforce positive behaviors. The more exposure they have to new pets and humans, the more likely they are to be well-behaved when introduced to a foreign person or situation. A Bernedoodle's smarts makes her typically easy to train. It also means she can learn behaviors good or bad quickly—that's why it's important to keep up with training, even past her puppy days. Training a Bernedoodle requires positive reinforcement and, in some cases, a high level of patience. Should the puppy inherit the Bernese's willfullness or the poodle's high energy, they'll need more of your time and attention. Health The Bernedoodle lifespan is 12—18 years. Luckily, the hybrid breed does not inherit the same health risks as the Bernese mountain dog. The Bernese side of their lineage has a life expectancy of only seven years and a high rate of cancer , hip and elbow dysplasia , heart disease , and epilepsy. And while Bernedoodles are far healthier than a purebred Bernese, they can still be "predisposed to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, ocular diseases, and some allergies ," Christman says. Just be on the lookout for [warning signs like] excessive drooling and ability to gain some weight quickly. Hot spots are primarily caused by excessive licking or chewing of an area. This is why it's so important to keep up with grooming—a Bernedoodle is more likely to pick at their skin when her coat is dirty and matted. History Being a relatively new breed, the history book on Bernedoodles is a short one. After years of breeding Bernese mountain dogs, Sherry Rupke of SwissRidge Bernedoodles wanted a way to make the purebreds more allergen-friendly and free from the health issues that plague the breed. Thus, the Bernedoodle or at least the first intentional pairing of a Bernese mountain dog and a poodle was born in .Now, dog owners everywhere have fallen in love with the loyal, loving breed that looks like a huggable teddy bear. She has more than 26, followers! Actress and filmmaker Greta Gerwig reportedly takes her mini Bernedoodle, Wizard, everywhere with her. Was this page helpful? Different Sizes of the Bernedoodles By Methew on Jul 16, If you are considering the Bernedoodle for your family, it's important to know about its different sizes. There are many sizes of the Bernedoodle to choose from, which include the Standard, medium, mini, and tiny size Bernedoodle. You need to decide which size is best for your family. All the sizes of the Bernedoodles are very sweet, goofy, loving, and least aggressive as compared to many other dog breeds. Moreover, these gorgeous dogs also come in a variety of colors and coat types. In this article, we will provide you a complete breakdown of the different sizes of the Bernedoodles. We will explain everything about the Bernedoodle sizes, which is important to choose the best size for your family. Bernedoodle sizes overview There are four main sizes of the Bernedoodles with pretty large size variations. The four main categories of Bernedoodles include the following. Standard Bernedoodle size Mini Bernedoodle size Tiny Bernedoodle size These are the standardized sizes of the Bernedoodles, which you can find at different breeders. Let's know more about these standardized sizes of the Bernedoodles. Standard Bernedoodle Size It's the largest size of the Bernedoodles, which typically ranges from 70 to 90 pounds. A full-grown standard Bernedoodle can reach up to 23 to 29 inches at the shoulder. Medium Bernedoodle size These are smaller than the standard size Bernedoodles, which can range from 50 to 70 pounds in weight. It's still one of the largest designer breed sizes as compared to the other doodle breeds. As a general rule, the larger Bernedoodles need more exercise and space to adjust as compared to the smaller sizes. They need at least one hour of exercise daily despite their easygoing personality. Mini Bernedoodle size The Mini Bernedoodles are a little smaller than the Medium size Bernedoodles, which sometimes fall into the Medium size category. This is one of the pretty considerable sizes of the Bernedoodles. A fully grown Mini Bernedoodle can have 25 to 49 pounds weight with 18 to 22 inches height at the shoulder. You don't need to have much space at home to own a Mini size Bernedoodle as compared to the Standard and Medium size Bernedoodles. Tiny Bernedoodle size It's the smallest size of the Bernedoodles, which is also known as the micro-mini Bernedoodle or toy Bernedoodle. Many breeders also call it "teddy bear" Bernedoodle. This smallest size of the Bernedoodle typically weighs between 10 to 24 pounds with the 12 to 17 inches height at the shoulders. But this special size of the Bernedoodles is a little bit controversial as they have more genetic health issues. What size should you get? You need to choose the best Bernedoodle size depending upon a lot of factors. For example, if you have plenty of space in your house or around your house, you can go for standard Bernedoodle as it's the best size in terms of temperament and potential health issues. But if you live in a small house or in a congested location, the mini, toy, or tiny size Bernedoodles will be the best choice for you. About the Author: I am Methew, a lecturer and writer. I have written for several professional organizations. Originally, belong to Guayaquil, Ecuador. But my family moved to Washington when I was only 14 years old. When it's come to writing, I am especially focusing on pet animals and birds related topics. Bernedoodle Temperament The Bernedoodle combines the intelligence of a poodle with the loyalty and easygoing temperament of a Bernese mountain dog, resulting in a cross that has all the best qualities of the two breeds. One of the most important characteristics to consider is Bernedoodle size, which varies based on whether the parent dogs are small, medium or large. Bernese Mountain Dog Size According to the American Kennel Club, a female Bernese mountain dog usually stands 23 to 26 inches high and weighs an average of 70 to 95 pounds , while a male Bernese mountain dog averages 25 to .The standard poodle is typically over 15 inches tall and weighs between 40 and 50 pounds for a female or 60 to 70 pounds for a male. Toy poodles are much smaller, with a standard height of no more than 10 inches and an average weight of 4 to 6 pounds. Bernedoodle Size Options Bernedoodle dogs come in four different sizes: micro, mini, medium and standard. The size of a Bernedoodle puppy depends on the size of its parents. Micro Bernedoodle Size The micro bernedoodle is a cross between a mini bernedoodle and a mini poodle. Also referred to as a toy bernedoodle, the micro version of this breed tends to be more excitable than larger bernedoodles due to the heavy influence of the toy poodle in its breeding line. Full-grown micro bernedoodles typically weigh 10 to 30 pounds. Mini Bernedoodle Size Mini bernedoodles are the result of breeding between Bernese mountain dogs and mini or toy poodles. Average mini bernedoodle size ranges from 25 to 55 pounds. Medium Bernedoodle Size The next largest bernedoodle size is the medium bernedoodle, which results from a cross between two smaller standard bernedoodle dogs or a smaller standard poodle with a smaller Bernese mountain dog. Average medium bernedoodle size ranges from 45 to 70 pounds. These dogs typically have a shoulder height of 20 to 26 inches. Standard Bernedoodle Size A standard-size bernedoodle is the largest of the bernedoodle size options, usually weighing 70 pounds or more and measuring 23 to 29 inches high at the shoulder. There are two ways to produce a bernedoodle puppy: cross two standard bernedoodles or breed one poodle with one Bernese mountain dog. Allowing a poodle to mate with a Bernese mountain dog usually produces a healthier bernedoodle puppy because it pulls from a larger gene pool, reducing the risk that undesirable characteristics will be passed from the parents to the puppy. No matter what size it is, a Bernedoodle puppy has a wonderful temperament. The influence of the poodle makes bernedoodles intelligent and easy to train, while the influence of the Bernese mountain dog makes a Bernedoodle puppy loyal and a bit goofy. Trained properly, a Bernedoodle makes a wonderful companion for children and adults alike. Size is an important consideration, however, as it affects how well a Bernedoodle fits into your home. You may also want to consider a micro or mini bernedoodle if you have arthritis or another medical condition that would make it challenging to control a large dog on a leash. Micro and mini bernedoodles also make excellent companions for young children. Larger bernedoodles are an option if you have a larger home with plenty of room for exercise. Bernedoodle Size and Temperament Remember that the size of a Bernedoodle also affects its temperament. Smaller versions have more poodle characteristics, meaning they may have more energy than medium or standard bernedoodles. Micro and mini bernedoodles also tend to bark more than their larger counterparts. If you live in an apartment building or condominium, you may want to get a medium or standard bernedoodle to keep your neighbors happy. All four Bernedoodle sizes have positive qualities, but be sure to consider your living situation and personal needs when determining which one is right for you. Thinking carefully before you choose your Bernedoodle puppy can help you avoid some of the most common challenges of dog ownership. To learn more about our breeding standards or reserve a bernedoodle of your very own, contact us at or visit our website.

However, as their genetics play a role here, some backcross generations like F1b, F1bb, F2b, and F2bb may show more Poodle-like characteristics, such as being more active and playful. It has also been reported that Mini and Toy Bernedoodles may be somewhat more energetic than Standard Bernedoodles. In general, the perfect dog! All in all, Bernedoodles are sweet and friendly Doods. As much as they love playing fetch and their daily walkies, Bernedoodles want nothing more than to snuggle up on the couch with you after a long day. Of course, early socialization is crucial to raise a well-socialized and confident Bernedoodle. For this, make sure you introduce your pup to adults and children, other dogs, and cats from an early age. Easy To Train From the highly intelligent Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle parents, the Bernedoodle has inherited its smarts and the ability to pick up new tricks and habits very quickly. See Also: Click the image As with any other dog, the key here is positive reinforcement and early introduction to good behavior and manners. Moreover, owners report that Berneodoodles respond especially well to positive reinforcement with tasty treats. Something worth remembering! The downside of having such a witty pup is that Bernedoodles can easily become bored and start showing undesired behaviors. Daily mental and physical stimulation are crucial to keep your Dood occupied with fun and interesting activities and games, and prevent them from becoming stressed or destructive. Poodles are highly active, whereas the Bernese Mountain Dog is more relaxed and laid-back. By combining these two outdoorsy breeds, we get rather active Bernedoodles that enjoy their daily walkies and playtime. Additionally, Toy and Mini Bernedoodles may also be more active compared to larger Standard Bernedoodles. Due to their size, Standard Bernedoodles would do better in a spacious home with a fenced backyard, where they have plenty of space to roam around. In contrast, smaller Mini and Toy Bernedoodles can also live perfectly well in apartments provided that they get to exercise each day. Are They Good With Strangers? Bernedoodles are outgoing and social, and enjoy being at the center of the attention. But as with any other breed, the key to raising confident and well-rounded adults lies in proper socialization and training. However, sometimes their protective mode may kick in, and they can be slightly cautious of new people. In addition to that, because Bernedoodles can be a little bit sensitive, they may also be a bit standoffish around new people and in new surroundings. Nonetheless, if your pup has met plenty of new people and other animals, they should generally do well around strangers. Unfortunately, this can also make the Bernedoodle a bit harder to train, especially during the adolescence period. Just make sure you stay consistent with training, and your pup will soon catch up. Fortunately, Bernedoodles usually grow out of their stubbornness as they mature emotionally. Of course, they may still show their stubborn side from time to time. Furthermore, their sensitivity is also something worth considering when it comes to training. Although we always recommend training puppies and dogs only with positive reinforcement, the Bernedoodle especially needs a gentle and loving approach. After all, they come from the Swiss Alps, where one of their main responsibilities has been herding cattle. If your pup has inherited this Bernedoodle personality trait, they may try to herd smaller family members, such as children, smaller dogs, and cats. Fortunately, the excessive need to herd can be prevented with proper training and socialization. If left undealt with, it can become a behavioral concern over time. Separation Anxiety As outgoing, loving, and affectionate as Bernedoodles are, their ability to bond so easily comes with its negatives. Namely, it can often lead to separation anxiety. Separation anxiety in dogs can manifest in various ways. Typically, dogs start excessively whining, barking, chewing, pacing, or digging. Some pups lose their appetite, others start leaving accidents around the house. Not only is this unpleasant for the owner, it also causes emotional distress to the dog. If you work long hours away from home, one option would be to sign your pup up for doggy daycare or hire a dog walker. For this reason, Bernedoodles might not be the best choice for people who have to leave them alone for long periods of time, including office hours. See Also: Click the image High Energy Levels Although we listed their energy levels as a positive for many reasons, it might also be a dealbreaker for many dog owners. As the Bernedoodle temperament can lean on either side of its lineage, some Bernedoodles are naturally much more active, just like their Poodle parents. These Doodles love to hike, jog, swim, and do almost anything outside. And if the pup is highly active, it can become a bit too much to handle for some people. Very active Bernedoodles may even need up to two hours of exercise each day. Are Bernedoodles Suitable For You? So, does the Bernedoodle temperament match your own lifestyle and family dynamics? Bernedoodles are the perfect pets for almost anyone. The Bernedoodle is a social and affectionate companion that thrives in human company. As an added bonus, the Bernedoodle comes in three different sizes. Firstly, Bernedoodles are highly intelligent and moderately active, meaning that these dogs require plenty of mental and physical stimulation every day to avoid destructive behaviors. Secondly, since Bernedoodles are social and affectionate dogs, they are prone to separation anxiety. However, with early training and socialization, puppies usually grow out of it once they reach adulthood. In terms of other negatives, the Bernedoodle is also rather expensive and high-maintenance. On top of that, there are all the ongoing costs of dog ownership , including regular trips to the groomers every few months, and time investment of daily grooming activities at home. On the other hand, as some puppies tend to be stubborn, it may take a little bit longer for them, and require more patience on your end. With consistent training, puppies can usually be mostly house trained within a month or two, especially with positive reinforcement and yummy treats. Realistically, Bernedoodles can be fully house trained somewhere between 3 and 6 months, sometimes even up to a year. We recommend you start your new puppy on potty training as soon as you bring them home to successfully establish good bathroom behaviors. We hope you gained some new insights into the Bernedoodle temperament, along with its pros and cons, so you can make an informed decision beforehand. By Chris Nothing is more exciting than bringing a new puppy into your home. With a new puppy, your home is transformed into a playground. What to do when your puppy growls and snaps at you? Reasons my puppy growls and snaps at me? It can become alarming, however, if your puppy starts to show signs of aggression. Puppies like to chew and often bite, but learning how to tell the difference between a natural, playful bite and an aggressive snap is critical. Teaching your puppy at a young age what is and what is not acceptable is very important for new dog owners. Even more critical is recognizing if your dog is behaving in an aggressive and potentially dangerous way. Aggression can make your dog unfit to live in your home, especially if you have young children. This guide will teach you everything you need to know about what to do if your puppy is growling and snapping at you. I will show you the warning signs of aggression to be aware of and how to teach your puppy that snapping is not okay. Mouthing is a natural way that puppies explore their environments and engage with things. Your puppy will likely put your hands and feet and any other objects it can find into its mouth and bite on them. This, however, is usually a very light pressure and will not be a powerful or aggressive bite. Puppies learn from their mother and their littermates how much biting pressure is acceptable before it begins to hurt. If a puppy was unable to receive these cues from its mother and siblings at a young age, it might bite harder than intended and even pierce the skin. If your puppy seems to be biting aggressively, and it is not a playful or curious nibble, then there may be a different underlying cause. If your puppy is growling and nipping, they are likely feeling threatened and in a situation they do not want to be in. Things That Could Cause Aggression Here are a few examples of reasons why your dog may feel threatened or aggressive: Your dog may feel frustrated, which is causing him to act out. Your dog may be in some sort of physical pain. If your puppy is feeling sick or hurt in some way, they may act out to keep you from bothering them. If your dog has a toy or treats that he does not want you to take from him, he may growl and snap at you to keep you away. This is a natural territorial instinct. If your puppy is showing aggression around their food and toys, this could be an early indicator of long-term aggressive behaviors. If your dog is feeling fearful and threatened, perhaps by another dog or a scary situation, he can communicate this by barking, growling, pouncing, and snapping. How To Teach My Puppy Not to Bite Check your dogs teeth for stuck food , build ups or inflammation If your puppy does not receive the training they need from their mother and siblings in the first few weeks of their life, you will have to teach them that biting is unacceptable. If your dog bites someone, owners are liable in most states. The first step is to take your dog to a veterinarian to ensure that there are no inherited or neurological problems that are causing your dog to act aggressively. You need to locate the root of the problem in order to solve the issue. Teething If your puppy is teething, this may be causing them to chew and bite aggressively. Ensure you provide your dog with adequate chew toys and teething-specific treats to keep them entertained and show them what is and is not okay to bite. There are a number of different toys created specifically for puppies that are teething. It can be an uncomfortable process for dogs, and they need to bite and chew. Fearful If your puppy is acting out of fear, it is critical to deal with the issue before it escalates. First, you need to identify what is causing your dog to be fearful. Slowly expose your dog to the source of fear. Put him in a comfortable environment and let him get close to the source at his own rate. Use treats, positive encouragement, and toys to make him relax. Give lots of positive feedback and affection. This takes time and resilience and will not be a fast process. Hang in there and be encouraging along the way. If your dog does not begin to improve, consider speaking with a dog behaviorist to see if anything more serious is going on. Rough Play A Chihuahua playing tug on a carpet If your puppy seems to show aggressive behavior when he is playing, simply walk away when playtime gets too rough. You need to teach your dog that growling and snapping lead to the end of playtime. Begin playing again when he is calm and happy, and when he growls, get up and leave. After enough of this, your pup will understand that he cannot get what he wants by growling, and if he wants to continue playing, he will have to stop. If he bites your arm or hand when playing, stop engaging with him and give him a chew toy to bite-redirecting his energy to an item that he is allowed to chew on will teach him what is okay to chew on and what is not. Providing proper stimulation for your dog is critical. Giving them enough toys and treats to keep them entertained and keep them from chewing on you or other unwanted items will help teach them what is okay to bite and limit their aggression towards you. Training When training a dog , it is crucial to reward their positive behaviors rather than punish them for their wrong behaviors. This is because dogs aim to please and understand positive reinforcement as a way of communication. Punishment can be unclear to dogs and confuse them further. Instead, you should reward your dog each time they pee outside so that they know they are doing what is right when they go outside rather than on the rug. One of the standard recommendations for dogs that are acting this way is crate training. Look into professional training if you feel that it is necessary to train your dog how to behave. There are trainers that focus specifically on aggressive dogs, so this could be something worth looking into. A curly tailed Shiba Inu having the time of its life at the beach Exercise Take them outdoors to exercise regularly. Puppies have a lot of energy and need to relive it regularly. If you do not provide your dog with enough exercise, they can get antsy and release it through aggression. If your dog is pacing and growling, it may need to take a trip to the park and chase the ball. It is also important to let your dog socialize with other dogs. Socialization will keep your dogs confident and comfortable in all situations and around any type of dog. Unsocialized dogs will get defensive and fearful when approached by other dogs, causing growling and aggression. There are many ways to reverse and correct undesirable behaviors, especially in small puppies. Consult with a veterinarian before jumping to any conclusions to make sure that your dog is healthy and fit for your home. Locating the issue and fixing the problem will ensure that your puppy grows up to be a loving, trained, and well-behaved dog. Tweet When two breeds are crossed, some of the advantageous and disadvantageous traits of the parent breeds are genetically passed on to the progeny. There are several reasons why Bernedoodles are a popular breed. They are beloved by many due to their adaptability, lovely curly coats, absurd habits, and clever temperament. Although the Bernedoodle is regarded as a fantastic substitute for the Labradoodle or Goldendoodle, they are not without problems. They Can Be Extremely Stubborn. The headstrong nature of the Bernedoodle is a well-known behavior among this breed. The Bernese Mountain Dog is renowned for its tendency toward stubbornness. Some of these obstinate traits may have been passed down to your Bernedoodle, but they will improve as your dog ages. The Bernese were bred to labor alone to guard the land and herd livestock. The Poodle is quite smart. When you mix the two, you get a dog that can occasionally be stubborn. They can also be raucous. Owners should never put off starting socializing and training because of this. Fortunately, with the right training, most of their intransigence disappears. Owners of Bernedoodles have remarked that even if their dogs were aware of commands, they would often choose not to carry them out, particularly if they dreaded doing something. But that does not imply that they cannot be trained. Although Bernedoodles adore their families and strive to please them, you must immediately set aside time to form a strong connection with your new puppy. With time and persistence, you will be rewarded with a lovely companion. Smart dogs also require ongoing mental engagement to prevent boredom. For example, a clever, bored dog who starts gnawing on things around the house can turn destructive. They Frequently Experience Separation Anxiety. The Bernadoodle is prone to separation anxiety, just like other doodle dogs. The Bernese was bred to be a working farm dog, but the Poodle was bred to be a hunting companion. Both kinds were developed to coexist with humans. Bernedoodles struggle in a home where there is no constant attention given to them. They are family-oriented dogs, after all. Bernedoodles require a home where someone is always present so they may receive care. For people who are employed full-time, Bernedoodles are not a good choice. It makes sense why Bernese always wanted to be nearby when they were also used as herding dogs. These canines function best when they are with a person most of the day. Bernedoodle owners frequently remark on how much their dogs follow them around. This is especially important for socialization, exercise, training, and overall excellent temperament while they are puppies. Start teaching them to spend time alone when they are still puppies for the simplest way to avoid separation anxiety. Start with a brief time, and extend it as they get older. These canines are not the kind that should be left alone all day. You are not the perfect candidate for this breed if your way of life requires you to be active all day. It can be difficult for people who spend a lot of time away from home because this breed frequently needs care from their owners. Instead, you should sign them up for dog boarding if necessary. They Take Time To Mature. The common Bernedoodle is known for maturing gradually. In actuality, larger dogs typically take longer to mature than smaller canines, and it can take a Bernedoodle up to two years to grow to full size and weight. However, not only their physical maturation is slow, but also their cerebral development. Owners of Berniedoodles report that their puppies settle down and put an end to their mischievous behavior between the ages of 2 and 3. This includes behaviors like counter-surfing and gnawing on prohibited goods. Additionally, housebreaking them might take more time. A Bernedoodle will settle down as it ages, just like any other dog, and then much more as it ages. The Bernedoodle is a fantastic option if you want a dog who behaves like a puppy for a long time. Miniature Bernedoodles will develop a bit more quickly. They Are Prone To Mischief. Although not all Bernedoodles behave this way, several owners have mentioned how they enjoy stealing items like socks and moving them from one location to another. It can be considered cute in some situations, but it can also be a serious issue in others—especially because they enjoy eating socks and other clothing. Although the larger doodle breeds have admittedly consumed objects made of material, the Bernadoodle seems to do it more frequently than any other doodle. They are known to surf the counter as well as steal things. Given their size, a normal Bernedoodle may easily reach the kitchen worktops or dining room table. They are not an ideal partner for someone who likes to leave things lying around due to this inclination. Highly Vocal Dogs. Bernedoodles enjoy speaking up. These dogs bark. A lot. Barking, whining, and grumping are examples of this. However, not everyone wants a canine that responds to commands or barks whenever someone passes by the house. If you leave your Bernedoodle alone for too long, it might start barking a lot. They are renowned for being highly sensitive and anxious. They become uneasy when left alone, which causes them to bark. They could feel safer if you play soothing music for them or keep the lights on. Placing the dog beside the window so it can gaze out is also a smart option. Your Bernedoodle may become bored and start barking if it discovers that it is idle. Give your Bernedoodle some amusing toys, or simply play with them. When they see their owner or anything else they enjoy, Bernedoodles are thrilled. Simply ignore the dog until it stops barking. Bernedoodles take their domain seriously and do not like having outsiders in it. They can lunge and bark when they see strangers or other new faces. They are also only worried about risks of any kind. Here, gradual socialization is crucial. As was previously mentioned, Bernedoodles take their territory seriously and may become aggressive when someone enters it, especially when they are eating or drinking. Due to their great sensitivity, Bernedoodles have problems handling loud, shocking stimuli. When they eat or drink, let them alone. Conclusion These dogs have kind, wise, and modest personalities. They get along well with children, which makes them excellent for families, but they also get along well with single owners. They frequently exhibit suspicion when interacting with strangers. To address this, however, early socializing skills development is very important. Bernedoodles do not exhibit aggressive traits, especially if they are raised in a favorable breeding environment. But because they need constant socialization from their humans, they are more likely to experience separation anxiety, which can result in other negative behaviors. For instance, chewing on objects around the house when their owners are gone is a typical symptom of separation anxiety. Bernedoodles get along well with other dogs in addition to people, but for this to happen, they often need to start socializing at a young age. If a Bernedoodle owner or breeder puts off socializing and training the dog for too long, the result could be a dog with no tolerance for other animals. These hybrids have been in existence since only the early s. The original breeder is Sherry Rupke, a Canadian who first bred her own Bernedoodles in Ontario in .In terms of personality, these dogs are loving, intelligent and modest. They get along well with kids, making them great for families, but they get along well with individual owners as well. Working on their socialization skills early on, however, can do a great job of combatting this. Bernedoodle puppies, however, can be a bit stubborn. They also can be rowdy. This is precisely the reason owners should never wait around to start socialization and training. Fortunately, most of their stubbornness goes away with some proper training. This breed often requires a lot of attention from their owners as well, which can be an issue for people who spend a lot of time away from home. But, regardless of what your schedule is, you should not leave a Bernedoodle on its own for extended periods of time. If necessary, you should enroll them at a dog boarding facility. Bernedoodle Training Tips These dogs do not typically develop aggressive behaviors, especially if they grow up in a healthy breeding environment. For example, a common sign of separation anxiety is chewing up items around the house when their owners are away. In addition to people, Bernedoodles also get along well with other dogs. However, this is typically contingent on them being socialized beginning at an early age. If an owner or breeder waits too long to socialize and train a Bernedoodle, he or she may end up with a dog that completely dislikes the presence of other animals.

Pin Recipe Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. Surprise your kids with a fun after school snack, stir together this easy no-bake dessert for your next party or potluck, or share a batch with the neighbors during the holidays, because this easy puppy chow recipe is always a hit! Puppy Chow Chex Mix Puppy chow or muddy buddies is a sweet snack mix made with 5 simple ingredients: Crispix or Chex cereal, peanut butter, chocolate chips, butter, and powdered sugar. Unlike the classic savory Chex mix, this version has the added benefit of being a no bake recipe. This unique treat has a crunchy texture thanks to the cereal , and a salty-and-sweet flavor profile thanks to the salted peanut butter, salted butter, and sweet chocolate chips. It satisfies every craving! Why is it called puppy chow? Is Muddy Buddies the same as puppy chow? Puppy chow is also known as Muddy Buddies, monkey munch, muddy munch, reindeer chow, and doggy bag. Is puppy chow a Midwestern snack? This muddy buddies recipe is popular in the Midwest, but the sweet snack mix has also become well-loved throughout the rest of the United States, including the southeast where we live. Ingredients This is just a quick overview of the puppy chow ingredients. As always, specific measurements and step-by-step instructions are included in the printable recipe box at the bottom of the post. Chocolate chips: we prefer the semi-sweet variety. Creamy peanut butter: use a processed peanut butter, such as Jif or Skippy brands. Salted butter: adds flavor and richness. The salt in the butter also serves as a nice balance to the sweet sugar and chocolate. Crispix cereal: we like the flavor and crunch that you get with the Crispix , but General Mills Rice Chex cereal or Corn Chex cereal are also great substitutes. Powdered sugar: to coat the mixture. Melt the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter in the microwave in a large bowl until smooth. Pour the Crispix into the melted chocolate-peanut butter mixture and stir gently to coat. Place the powdered sugar in a large paper bag. Add the cereal mixture to the powdered sugar, close the bag, and shake gently until all of the cereal is completely coated. Spread the puppy chow on a rimmed baking sheet to cool completely before storing. You can also keep the muddy buddies in the refrigerator if you prefer. Can you freeze puppy chow? Store the puppy chow in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it on the counter at room temperature, or enjoy it straight from the freezer! Puppy Chow Variations Use any variety of chocolate chips that you enjoy. We like semi-sweet chocolate chips, but milk chocolate chips or even white chocolate chips will work! This just gives the dessert a little bit more flavor. For a nut-free version, try this puppy chow recipe with butter , or swap out the nut butters for sunflower seed butter. Tips for the Best Puppy Chow Recipe Use a processed peanut butter, such as Jif or Skippy brands, instead of an all-natural peanut butter. Melt the chocolate mixture slowly, in increments, stirring between each. The large paper bag is convenient because you can add all of the mix at once no need to work in batches. I recommend shaking the bag outside or over the sink, however, since puffs of the powdered sugar may sneak out! Spread the sugar-coated mixture on a baking sheet to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. More Snack Mix Recipes to Try. I think the first time I heard of the Puppy Chow recipe was in the middle 's. So, it's popularity has withstood the test of time. Some of these Crispex recipes you can do in the microwave, but I like the ones you do in the oven. Crispix Mixes shook in powdered sugar Easy Crispix Puppy Chow Melt 1 stick butter or margarine , 1 cup peanut butter, and 1 large package chocolate chips in a large pot. Stir in a package of Crispix cereal. Dump this into a large brown paper bag with 2 or more cups of powdered sugar. Shake back and forth until it is coated. Place the cereal in another large bowl and pour the melted mixture over the cereal. Stir until the cereal is thoroughly coated. Pour the powdered sugar into a large plastic food bag. Pour the coated cereal into the powdered sugar and shake until it is well covered with the sugar. Pour the cereal onto wax paper to cool and dry. Store in tightly covered containers at room temperature. Crunchy Peanut Butter Puppy Chow 1 18 oz. Mix together until smooth Pour over large box Crispex. Put in large paper bag Pour in 1 box powder sugar, shake until well coated Add more powder sugar if too sticky Store in airtight container. Sweet Minglers Recipe 1 pkg. Take off heat and add peanut butter and peanuts. Pour mixture over cereal. Gently stir chocolate peanut butter mixture into cereal until coated. Place powdered sugar in a large storage bag, add cereal and close bag. Gently toss bag until well coated. Store in air tight container in refrigerator. Recipe from the back of a Crispix Cereal Box. Seasoned Crispix Mixes. Print Recipe Puppy Chow Cereal Snack is an addictively delicious treat with crunchy Crispix cereal, creamy peanut butter, melted chocolate, and covered in powdered sugar. So easy to make and fun for get-togethers or holiday parties! Peanut butter and chocolate are the perfect match! Cookies are the first thing that comes to mind like peanut butter blossom or peanut butter chocolate chip cookies. But in the midwest, puppy chow or muddy buddies is probably the number one requested peanut butter and chocolate recipe. This snack is equal parts delicious and addictive. While some versions are made with Chex cereal, this recipe is made with Crispix cereal. The pieces are a little bit bigger and crunchier to hold in all that peanut butter and chocolatey goodness inside. This is such a fun treat to enjoy with kids too! Ingredients Semi-sweet chocolate chips— this gives it a good balance of sweetness and chocolate flavor. But any type of chocolate like dark, milk, or white could be used for a different flavor. Even peanut butter chips would be good for an extra peanut buttery taste! Creamy peanut butter— it is important to use creamy so that when it melts with the chocolate, it will become smooth and be able to thoroughly coat the cereal. Crispix cereal— this makes the best puppy chow. Chex Rice Cereal can be substituted if you are not able find the Crispix. Powdered sugar Salted butter— you can use unsalted but I would recommend adding a pinch of salt if you do. A little salt will bring out the sweetness of the chocolate. How to make it This is an easy recipe to make. All you have to do is: Melt— butter, peanut butter, and chocolate chips in the microwave. Start by cooking it on high for one minute. Stir and determine if it is all melted. If not, microwave at second intervals until it is all melted. The chocolate chips may appear to not be melted but once stirred, they will melt when stirred together. Do not overheat or it will become unusable. Pour — mixture over Crispix cereal in a large bowl. Stir quickly and thoroughly to cover each individual piece well. Measure— powdered sugar and put it in the bottom of a gallon-sized freezer bag. Then take the covered Crispix and pour it into the freezer bag. Seal it well and shake shake shake! How to store puppy chow Puppy chow is best when stored in an air-tight container at room temperature for weeks! No need to refrigerate! Puppy chow can also be frozen! Just place it in an air-tight container and freeze for up to 3 months. It tastes good to eat it frozen or you can allow it to thaw at room temperature.

F1 Goldendoodle Puppies are the first-generation breed. Mom is a Golden Retriever and Dad is a poodle. They have a wavy or soft curly hair coat with minimal shedding after they have lost their puppy fur. They should be on a 6-month grooming schedule. They have the even-tempered personality that takes after the Golden Retriever. They vary in size from 45 - 85 pounds. They have a soft curly haircoat with almost no shedding. They are semi-hypoallergenic and are a great choice for a person who suffers from pet allergies. They require more frequent grooming and should be on a week grooming schedule. They have loyal and intelligent temperaments. Their hair coat is curly and much more poodle than Retriever. They are hypoallergenic and have no shedding. They should be on a week grooming schedule. They have loving and super-intelligent personalities but tend to have more energy. This variation is also smaller in size, they make great apartment dogs. Are Goldendoodle Puppies good pets? What are Goldendoodles Personality and Temperament like? They have loving and affectionate personalities like the Golden Retriever but also have the Superintelligence and hypoallergenic traits of the poodle. They are loyal, very eager to please, and make great companions for families or individuals. With their larger size, they make great dogs for active lifestyles with room to live. They get very attached to people that spend time with them and love to be close to them. Are Goldendoodles good pets for families with kids? Goldendoodles are very loving and have great temperaments. Doodles have lots of energy and will play for hours with children. They also love to cuddle with the family when they get tired. Doodles are also good with other pets in the household. Just beware of their larger size and the need for greater vigilance as a pet owner around smaller children and animals. What is the Lifespan of Goldendoodles? The average expected lifespan of a Goldendoodle is years. Some people like the look of longer hair and wait weeks between groomings. Most Goldendoodles have longer ears that need to be inspected regularly to make sure they are not dirty or have any signs of an infection. After a puppy is reserved it is our goal to make the update within minutes with few exceptions outside holidays and unforeseen events. You can be confident the available puppies and their pictures shown are accurate and up to date. What Is a Mini Goldendoodle? These adorable dogs have a wavy coat, which may shed to some extent, but significantly less than Golden Retrievers. Next, we breed an F-1 Goldendoodle with a mini Poodle to bring forth the endearing F-1B medium Goldendoodles, that have that adorable teddy bear look. These charming pups typically boast coats ranging from wavy to curly, and they are exceptionally low- to non-shedding, making them the perfect companions for families with mild allergies. This generation is highly sought after for being mostly non-shedding, making it an ideal choice for families with severe allergies. The careful selection of parents also ensures the puppies have the beloved teddy bear look. Mini Goldendoodles have a playful, yet gentle nature, and have a reputation for being good with kids. In comparison to larger dogs, Minis are also easier to handle on a leash and are less likely to knock over or play too roughly with small kids and toddlers. These fun-size dogs are also a good choice for families on the go, as they don't take up much room in a car. Some Mini Goldendoodles are even small enough to fit in an under-seat carrier on a plane. Miniature Goldendoodles can be slightly more affordable than larger dogs as they eat less food and cost less to board and groom. Considerations F-1B Mini Goldendoodles can be high-energy, so they do best with active families who will spend time playing, walking, or hiking with them. However, during long or strenuous outings or hikes, they may tire more easily than a larger dog. Your Mini Goldendoodle Is Awaiting Your Application All of our puppies are raised in our home , surrounded by love as they become accustomed to living with a family. Just as important, the parents of our puppies also live in loving family homes. Our dog parents are also genetically tested for issues common with Golden Retrievers and Poodles. We are, in fact, so confident about the health of our Miniature Goldendoodle puppies for sale that each comes with a lifetime guarantee. Are you interested in welcoming a Mini Goldendoodle puppy into your home? Please fill out this application. We specialize in breeding Mini Goldendoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other high quality breeders that raise mini goldendoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! Not all mini Goldendoodles are equal, there are a few different versions to choose from each having a little different genetic background based on the pups parents. We will explain all the differences in Mini Goldendoodle puppies and how they are bred below. We raise all versions of the mini goldendoodle breed. F1 Mini Goldendoodle Pups. A F1 puppy is also known as a First Generation puppy. The puppies mother is a Golden Retriever and the pups dad is a Mini Poodle. This version of mini goldendoodle usually has soft wavy or curly puppy fur. They will shed until they lose their puppy fur, after shedding they will shed a lot less, but will shed. This version is partially hypoallergenic and usually requires low maintenance. F1 mini goldendoodles usually need to be groomed every 6 months along with daily brushing to keep their curly hair from matting and getting tangled. The dogs usually grow up having great temperaments similar to golden retrievers. They usually get about inches high at the shoulder and range in weight from pounds. F1b Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1b is known as a second-generation mini goldendoodle with the pups mother being already an F1 Goldendoodle and the pups dad being a mini poodle also. So the difference between F1 and F1b is that the mom is not a golden retriever but an actual F1 Goldendoodle. They also have very soft curly hair but with almost no shedding. This F1b version is semi-hypoallergenic and a better choice for anyone who has pet allergies. The F1b also should be brushed on a daily basis but will need to be groomed more frequently then a F1. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is recommended to keep their coat in perfect condition. F1b Mini goldendoodles get around 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders and range between pounds in weight. F1bb Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1bb goldendoodle is also known as a third-generation mini goldendoodle. This mini goldendoodle version has a coat more similar to a poodle than of a golden retriever. This is because the pup is more of a poodle than a retriever. Making it the very best version for anyone with pet allergies. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is required to help prevent knots or matting. This version is super intelligent and loving, and usually seems to have more energy than the other versions of Mini goldendoodles. This version is usually smaller in size, weighing around pounds and only getting inches tall at the shoulders. The smaller size makes them a great size for smaller homes and apartments. So if you live near Laramie Wyoming and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Goldendoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Goldendoodle Pups that have been adopted! Goldendoodle Puppies: F1b vs. Both of these strains of the Goldendoodle breed come with slightly different sizes and appearances, but all will be some of the sweetest dogs you could ever meet! What is an F1b Goldendoodle? What is an F1bb Goldendoodle? This makes them .F1bb Goldendoodles are especially popular among families with moderate to severe pet allergies, as they are even less likely to shed or cause allergic irritation. They also have an even curlier, poodle-like coat and smaller body size than an F1b Goldendoodle. How big is a Medium Goldendoodle? Our F1b Goldendoodle puppies typically fall within the medium size category since they have slightly more Golden Retriever blood. Medium Goldendoodles can vary in size depending on which of the parent breed's genes are more prominent, but their size averages between: Weight: pounds These are the perfect size for families interested in a medium-sized but manageable dog! How big is a Mini Goldendoodle? Our F1bb Goldendoodle puppies typically fall within the small, or mini, size category since they have more Poodle blood. Mini Goldendoodles can vary even more in size because of the complicated mix of parent genes, but their size averages between: Weight: pounds Height: inches at the shoulder These are the perfect size for families interested in a smaller-sized dog! Goldendoodle Litters For Sale.

Furthermore, since they have deep ears, these dogs accumulate ear wax quicker than the other dogs. These dogs need 45 — 90 minutes per day of exercise These activities also reduce the chances of having health issues in the future. This said trait may result in an unintentional aggressiveness to strangers. To fix this issue, these dogs should have proper training and enough socialization in their early years. Note sure the Golden Shepherd is right for you? Ever wonder what a Golden Retriever Corgi looks like? These dogs are very loyal to their owners and are also intelligent which prevent the dogs from causing trouble. They are generally patient, attentive, and eager to learn and work. They are an affectionate and a great companion 2. Guarding Ability Golden Retriever mixed with German Shepherd dogs are large and muscular dogs due to the genetics of the parent breed German Shepherd. These features allow you to have dogs that can protect you and the people around you. Environmental Adjustments With proper training, these dogs are remarkably adaptive. This characteristic gives you an easy time particularly if you move around frequently to regions with many changes in the weather and environment. So, If you want to travel with your pet, this breed is the one for you. Their body is longer than it is tall. Golden Retriever mixed with German Shepherd dogs weigh from 60 lbs to 80 lbs while their height can range from 20 inches to 25 inches. This breed has variations in coat types and colors. Their coats are commonly long, dense, thick and doubled; resulting in a higher chance of constant shedding. These energetic dogs like outdoor activities such as swimming, long walks, and jogging but you need to be wary of extreme heat because of their thick coats. Early socialization training for these dogs is valued. This breed tends to be reserved and nervous towards strangers. Nonetheless, they can learn to be friendly immediately by going out regularly. German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix dogs usually express extreme loyalty and a loving personality to their owner and the family they belong to. The German Shepherd mixed with Golden Retriever is not an official dog breed yet; however, the following organizations recognize them as a designer mixed-breed. A reliable breeder should provide you with valuable documents. If everything checks out, a contract that shows clear briefing of the conditions is essential. Doing research and exploring your community is the best way to find reliable breeders. Remember, adopting a dog will always cost less. Visit your local animal shelter to ask about the availability of this dog breed. Moreover, try looking into the private dog rescues as some dogs may be transported there. Grooming Your Golden Retriever German Shepherd German Shepherd mixed with Golden Retriever dogs require regular coat brushing because their coat tends to be tangled and matted together. Regular brushing promotes a shiny and healthy fur for this mixed breed. Here are some products that you might need for this pet. Pro Slicker Brush for Dogs and Cats This slicker brush either has a flat or curved head with lots of thin wire pins which help to untangle and shed loose fur. This mixed breed features a double-coat that requires constant brushing making this item a must-have for all dog owners. Dog nails can hurt other people or animals when they get playful. Sometimes, dogs snap their nails off unintentionally, and the pain can be excruciating for them. To use, gently hold their paws and snip off small bits of the toenails. Promptly discontinue if any bleeding occurs. Apart from the items suggested, bathing is one of the most important steps in pet care to remove unpleasant odors and dirt on their coat. When giving a bath, make use of dog shampoo to avoid accidental allergy attacks and fleas. This dog breed typically has large ears that can accumulate wax. Observe your dog for symptoms of ear problems; healthy dogs do not habitually bother their ears. Wax, dirt, and other elements may cause ear infections. For better cleaning and disinfection, use liquid ear cleaners and cotton balls. Golden Retriever mixed with German Shepherd dogs need regular trimming, so make it a habit to schedule appointments with your veterinary clinic at least once or twice a month. Make sure they get trimmed around the eye area for better vision , around the anus for hygiene , and the chin for easy eating. Mixed-breed dogs are ordinarily healthier than their parent breeds, yet this specific breed is more prone to certain health conditions than others. Most of these health problems are seen as the dog gets older. This breed enjoys being active and playing which can cause a harmful impact and damage on their bones and joints. Receiving an average level of activity would prevent them from having these problems. Here are some more health hazards that you need to be aware of: Allergies Both parent breeds are prone to allergies and German Shepherd Retriever Mixed dogs share this trait. Their common allergies mainly affect their skin and flea bites or certain foods typically cause these. Fleas are tiny parasites that dogs can accumulate from outdoors. You can prevent this by avoiding physical contact with environmental allergens. The symptoms include mouth or nose bleeding, blood in the urine, and excessive bleeding, and unfortunately, there is no cure yet. Joint Dysplasia In dogs with joint dysplasia, the joints fail to develop correctly, scraping and grinding upon each other instead of sliding smoothly. Bloating Bloating in humans and bloating in dogs are different. It is harmless in humans, however, in dogs it is deadly. Immediate treatment for bloat is needed. It would be best to take your dog to a veterinarian as soon as possible because there is no first aid that you can do at home. Learning some first aids for this breed of dogs can also help. Awareness over these usual problems of the Golden Retriever crossed with German Shepherd breed will result to their proper care. Your furry friend should get the best, so pick their food wisely. You can find lots of options in the best dry dog food list. Whelps need energy to be active, which means lots of proteins too. Food that gives them everything their body needs is on the best puppy food brands list. Older canines have different requirements, so skim through the best senior dry dog food list. It will help them stay healthy and show off proudly. Steer clear of the worst dry dog food at all costs. You can also find some ideas on the best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food lists, which may contain some food that your pooch will love. Because of their energetic personality, these dogs need a diet that can fulfill their nutrition needs. Dogs may be omnivores, but they highly rely on protein to survive. It is also the building block of their muscles. Although dogs love fat in their meals, it is necessary to maintain the amount of fat that you give them. Too much fat is harmful to their well-being and too little creates skin problems. Make sure that your dogs are hydrated, especially if you live in a hot place. Ingredients and supplements for joint and bone development are also needed to prevent possible injuries for this very active dog. Giving your dogs vegetables, fruits, and other minerals is proper for their growth. However, you need to be wary of the portions since it varies depending on their age and body size. Avoid products that contain these ingredients since they are not good sources of carbohydrates for dogs. The German Shepherd is notable for its dark and tan coat, while the Golden Retriever is known for its brilliant jacket. They are mostly gold, dark, and tan. A typical shading mix is excellent with dark gag and ears. Moreover, Brilliant Retriever German Shepherd blend to have a straight back and thick chest. They have strong legs. The faces of these dogs may be like the Golden Retriever or the German Shepherd. Their ears could stand up or hang down. So the golden retriever is friendly, kind, and loving to their owners. Moreover, these German shepherds are working dogs. So these are utilized in government work or police work. Due to their friendly and kind nature towards their owner, they are highly preferable for guard dogs. So if you are searching for the best family dogs, then golden retrievers are highly recommended. The medium-length coat can be straight. Goldens have a typically agreeable coupling. They can come in 11 unique hues, including dark, white, and liver. They are more defensive than black German Shepherd. They also protect their own family if they are impressed by these members. But they have an accommodating character that makes them astounding family canines and friends. They will be inviting towards everyone except if incited. At that point, continue just on more than one occasion every week, inconclusively. Exercise and Living Condition As we mentioned above, the golden retriever is a very energetic and powerful dog, so they need at least 30 minutes in the day. Moreover, you can increase the exercise duration if your dog is not tired after 30 minutes of exercise. In addition to this regular exercise, golden Retrievers also need multiple physical activities or exercise sessions. These are all activities and sessions to keep the dogs active and healthy. Golden Retriever mix has the right IQ level, so they are like to play puzzle and challenging games. No doubt these types of games are healthy for dogs, keeping the dogs mentally stimulated through the day. As we mentioned above, the golden retriever mix is larger and sturdy dogs, so you need a perfect space in the home if you want to adopt a golden retriever. Mostly these breeding dogs are like to spend most of the time in the fresh and open air. So we can say that small or limited spaced homes are not suitable for the black german shepherd golden retriever mix. Moreover, if you want your dog is showing good behavior with family members and children, then give full attention to dogs and sharing their meals on time. Have guests gone to the house every day and take your canine out to occupied spots. Proceed with this day-by-day socialization program. When these dogs are more barking, it means they need training. Instead of that, the other meaning of over-barking is that your dog may be tired. Both the Germans and Golden need mental and physical incitement. Same as brilliant Retrievers have a water-safe double jacket; without stretching, their long hair can be tangled. This is generally diminished to 2 suppers for each day as a grown-up. Must use the brush that can go to two layers of a dog coat. There have anyway been situations where they acquire medical issues structure one of the two guardians. A German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix will live someplace from 10 to 14 years if appropriately thought. You should know about some well-being dangers before embracing a German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix little dog. Sensitivities Both parent breeds are inclined to a scope of hypersensitivities. It very well may be hard to identify specific allergens. However, manifestations will frequently incorporate; scratching, snacking, affliction, irritation, and expanding. Swell Common sickness in large breeds. Here, the stomach loads up with gas and winds; this is regularly deadly. Degenerative Myelopathy 3. Degenerative Myelopathy Acute, dynamic infection that influences the spinal string in hounds. It exhibits a defect in the rear appendages with the inevitable loss of utilization. Moreover, this dog is loyal and friendly, but they also serve his best to owners. Here we give you a suggestion before adopting a golden retriever: So if they are suitable for your lifestyle, then we must embrace them. Moreover, if your home is big and financially strong, they prove the right family pet. See Also:. The Golden Shepherd tends to be a friendly, energetic, and affectionate dog that is loyal to their family and tends to be protective of them. Although they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other notable organizations like the American Canine Hybrid Club, Designer Breed Registry, and more. A Golden Shepherd tends to bring the all-around friendly personality of the Golden Retriever and the intelligence and devotion of the German Shepherd into one dog. They love their families and tend to get along with everyone including children. These dogs are not necessarily suspicious of strangers, but they are alert and will tend to bark if they see something they feel you need to know about. Golden Shepherds are moderately adaptable dogs. Because they are high-energy, they tend to do better in homes with yards where they can run. They can adapt to apartment living as long as plenty of time is dedicated to giving them the daily exercise they need. They tend to do well in most climates. But, as with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat. Because Golden Shepherds are devoted to their families and thrive on spending time with them, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. A mixed-breed dog can inherit the potential health issues common to one, both, or neither of their parent breeds. As a larger, barrel-chested dog breed, the Golden Shepherd, like their parent breeds, is also at a higher risk for bloat. The Golden Shepherd is a highly trainable dog breed. They are intelligent, eager to please, and pick up on things quickly. This makes them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. Puppy training classes can still be a great idea because they offer opportunities to socialize a puppy while also strengthening your bond with them. The Golden Shepherd will have a thick double-coat that sheds moderately year-round and more heavily twice a year as seasons change. A quick daily brushing, especially during seasonal shedding sessions, will help remove loose fur to make your dog more comfortable and also help keep more fur contained to a brush instead of everywhere else. Bathing is on an occasional, as-needed basis. Monthly nail trims are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long or causing issues. Plus, if anything is starting to happen, you can get the vet before it gets more serious. Because many dog owners overlook this, gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is ideal. The Golden Shepherd comes from two high-energy dogs, so they require a lot of daily exercise to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime and time to run are the minimum. But, a Golden Shepherd will likely be up for more activity if you are. A trip to the dog park for some off-leash time, playing frisbee or chasing a ball, hiking, swimming, running, and more can all help this dog expend some extra energy. You want to keep their activity low-impact as they are still growing, but once they finish growing, try different activities to see what you both love doing together. You could even try training them for dog sports! A fully-grown Golden Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. A Golden Shepherd generally lives for years. Currently, we do not have any Golden Shepherd puppies available, but we can alert you when new Golden Shepherd puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! Please enter a valid email address! Related Breeds. This could make for a very powerful breed with a lot of hair. Those are the questions we will try and answer below. Continue reading below to see pictures, videos, and learn more about the beautiful Black German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix. While we really recommend that you acquire all animals through a rescue , we understand that some people might go through a breeder to get their Black German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix puppy. If you are interested in helping animal rescues raise money, please play our quiz. Each correct answer donates to help feed shelter animals. We will take a closer look at the history of both parent breeds below. If you are looking at breeders for new, designer dogs please beware of Puppy Mills. If you have a few minutes, Please sign our petition to stop puppy mills. Like many people of his era, he spent a lot of time trying to perfect different breeds. In fact this guy spent a great deal of his life breeding all kinds of different dogs to get various breeds. He was an avid waterfowl hunter so with the Golden Retriever he was looking for a strong, avid hunter but also a dog that was even-tempered in the home. Through various iterations and the breeding of many different breeds of dog, the Golden Retriever slowly emerged. At that time, they were classified as "Retriever — Yellow or Golden. The AKC officially recognized the breed in .Von Stephanitz had in his mind what a good working dog should be and a few generations of breeding fulfilled what Hektor envisioned. Horand von Grafrath is known to be the first German Shepherd Dog. Horand von Grafrath was bred to other similar styled dogs that were believed to have the same traits as what Von Stephanitz was looking for. His most successful offspring was Hektor von Schwaben. Von Stephanitz is widely credited for being the founder of this incredible breed. Von Stephanitz had intended for his breed to work as herding dogs, however, as Germany became more and more industrialized he saw the need to make it working dog. He convinced the German government to use the breed. The breed initially became popular in World War 1. Many American and allied servicemen grew attached to the breed during the war and brought them back to the states after the war was over. The Allied troops fell in love with the breed but not with the fact that it had German roots. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Golden retrievers and German shepherds are two of the most popular dog breeds in the world. Both medium-to-large dogs that are highly intelligent, easy to please, and great with families, it was only a matter of time before someone created the golden shepherd by mixing these two breeds. But what can you expect if you decide to adopt one of these amazing dogs into your family? Read on as I take you through exactly what you can expect from a golden retriever-German shepherd mix, including their size, appearance, temperament, and the care they need to thrive. Is the golden shepherd the right dog for you? Learn more below! Essential Statistics Breed: Mix of golden retriever and German shepherd Height: 21 — 26 inches Coat Type: Medium-long high shedding coat Colors: Black, cream, white, gold, yellow, brown, chocolate, liver Lifespan: 7 — 12 year lifespan Temperament: Highly intelligent, easy to train, playful, friendly, does well with families Exercise: High energy and exercise needs History Of The Breed Golden retrievers were first bred in the United Kingdom to retrieve shot waterfowl. Their soft mouths allow them to retrieve ducks and other game without damaging them. As a highly intelligent breed that is eager to please and with a naturally good nature and understanding of how to act around children, goldens have been popular working dogs since the s, and you will often see them working in search and rescue and disability assistance. German shepherds , also known as Alsatians, were first bred in Germany just before the start of the 20th century as herding dogs. When natural sheep predators began to die out in Germany at the start of the 20th century, German shepherds were taught to do other kinds of work. While German shepherds are not an aggressive breed, they developed a bad reputation in the 20th century when the German Nazi army started using them as working dogs. The breed was also adopted by gangsters and bootleggers in the United States. Fortunately, today, their reputation is largely recuperated, and they are often seen working with police and in roles such as search and rescue. Golden shepherds were first bred around .The intention with this mixed breed was to create a dog with the courage, quickness, and alertness of the German shepherd but also with the good nature of the golden retriever, which is also intelligent, highly trainable, and easy to please. The results are excellent working dogs and family pets. Golden retrievers are usually 21 to 25 inches tall and will usually be the mother in a first generation golden shepherd coupling. They weigh 55 to 75 pounds. German shepherds are slightly larger, measuring 22 to 26 inches tall and weighing 50 to 90 pounds. As you would expect, their golden shepherd offspring measure 21 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 90 pounds on average. Both parent dog breeds have medium-to-long coats that are known to be high-shedding, so you can expect the same from a golden shepherd. Being a mixed breed, they can come in an extensive range of colors, including black, cream, white, gold, yellow, brown, chocolate, and liver, and they will often be bicolor. The color of their coat tends to be highly unpredictable in the first generation. Because they are high-shedding, they do need regular grooming, which means brushing at least once a week to keep shedding under control. Still, there is no escaping all that dog hair, and you will definitely need to invest in a good vacuum cleaner. The way their facial features will develop is less predictable, since they are still a new breed and breeders are still learning to control for desirable features. They can also either have the pointed ears of a German shepherd or the drooping ears of a golden retriever. Either way, they are sure to be a gorgeous pup! Golden Shepherd Temperament And Intelligence Golden retrievers are known for being playful and friendly dogs that love everyone they meet and therefore make terrible guard dogs. They are playful and loyal to the family with whom they have developed a bond. While they can be wary of strangers or anything that seems out of place, they are more likely to alert you with a bark than attack. You can expect a golden shepherd to be playful and friendly, but a little bit warier of strangers than your standard golden retriever. Both parent breeds are highly intelligent and also eager to please. German shepherds, in particular, are also independent thinkers and problem solvers. This means golden shepherds are easy to train, as they learn new commands quickly and enjoy the rewards that come with completing them, but they are also good at knowing what is required of them in new circumstances. Golden shepherds, like both of their parent breeds, are incredibly loyal and will want to be around their people all the time, whether that is out and about, or curled up on the couch at home. This can lead to frustration and destructive behavior. They are naturally protective of children, and despite being large breed dogs, they are very aware of their own size and strength and know how to play gently with children. However, it could be a struggle to have this breed with very young children, as they have lots of playful energy, and this can be overwhelming for smaller folks. Golden Shepherd Energy And Exercise Golden shepherds, like both their parent breeds, are high-energy dogs. Additionally, golden shepherds need at least an hour of fairly intense exercise each day. This means running around the dog park and sniffing everything, playing catch, and going for a swim rather than just a casual walk. They should be getting less exercise as puppies, despite their apparent energy, as too much exercise can undermine their proper development. While they are growing, they should have about five minutes of exercise per day per month of age. So at four months, they need 20 minutes of exercise each day, and at six months, they need half an hour. As adult dogs, they will love joining you on longer adventures, such as hikes and boat trips and will have no problem keeping up. Bear in mind that, while they are natural swimmers, if you go out on a boat, they should be wearing a flotation vest. As well as formal exercise, they need to be able to move around and play throughout the day, and a decent-sized backyard is the best thing for this. Golden Shepherd Health Concerns Of course, when you adopt a dog into your family, you will want to closely monitor and care for their health. This means ensuring they are vaccinated for all the most transmissible canine diseases, such as Parvo , protection against fleas and ticks , and proper dental care, which ideally means daily brushing. But certain dog breeds are also more susceptible to certain health conditions than others. With mixed breeds, they could be less susceptible to some of the most common ailments of their parent breeds, or they could be more susceptible to certain conditions. The best thing to do is inform yourself about the common health issues for both parent breeds and monitor your puppy for all of them. This means for golden shepherds, you will want to be on the lookout for: Elbow and hip dysplasia, common in both parent breeds Eye conditions, common in both parent breeds Bloating gastric dilation volvulus , common in both parent breeds Epilepsy, common in German shepherds Allergies, common in golden retrievers Hypothyroidism, common in golden retrievers Degenerative myelopathy hemangiosarcoma, common in German shepherds Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, common in German shepherds Of course, just because some dog breeds are more susceptible to these conditions does not mean they will get any of them, and your golden shepherd could pass their entire 7-toyear lifespan without being affected by any of these. But if you know the symptoms, you can catch any problems early and ensure a better quality of life for your dog. One other health concern with both the parent breeds of golden shepherds is obesity. They love their food, and we love to reward them with delicious treats. Remember, every treat you give them also contains calories! Also, never feed them off your own plate. They already tend to think they are human, and this can just lead to begging at the table and food theft! Plus, a lot of the foods humans eat are toxic to dogs. This not only includes chocolate and fake sugar, but also common kitchen staples such as onion and garlic. Invest in good quality food for your dog and avoid giving them table scraps. No doubt having read my guide you are interested in bringing a fantastic golden shepherd into your family. These are the questions you should ask yourself to determine whether you are a good fit for this unique breed. Do you have an active lifestyle? Your dog is going to need lots of exercise and is happiest when they can accompany their humans in energetic activities. Are you out of the house a lot? Golden shepherds love company and need to be around their people most of the time. They need a home where there is usually someone about or where they can accompany someone to work. Do you have much space? Golden shepherds thrive when they have space to use their energy, and they are fairly big, so they can make a small apartment feel claustrophobic. Are you willing to accept dog hair as a part of life? Are you a first-time owner? Golden shepherds are easy to train and control, so they are actually great choices for first-time owners. Do you have kids or other pets? Golden shepherds are great around kids and other pets if they are properly socialized. But these big dogs with lots of energy could be challenging if you have very small children. Let these questions guide you as to whether a golden shepherd is the right dog for you. In short, if you are low on space, time, or energy, a different breed might be a better match. If you find a breeder selling for less than this, be wary, as you may be dealing with a puppy mill. You may also find golden shepherds in your local shelter , because despite being amazing and pliable dogs, their energy and attention and exercise needs often prove too much for some owners. What do you think of the golden shepherd? Does it mix the best aspects of the German shepherd and golden retriever? Is this the kind of dog you would like to adopt? Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.

If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. But before you run to the nearest pet shop or go with the first breeder you come across, you might want to take a moment to assess the right course of action. There are many Goldendoodle breeders in California, but not all of them do their job with the best intentions in mind. Unfortunately, most of the time these puppies struggle with serious health issues throughout their lives. Either way, the best way to adopt a Goldendoodle puppy is through a reputable breeder or from a shelter! Ethical Goldendoodle breeders are committed to only breeding new litters from healthy dogs. Of course, a breeder should provide proof for health testing and share details about the health of the parents and puppies. Additionally, a reputable breeder should also provide at least a two year health guarantee that covers all tested genetic conditions. This further ensures that Goldendoodle breeders take health and genetic testing seriously and commit to producing healthy litters. Of course, even if a breeder has listed any of these affiliations on their website, you can trace it back to the organization that they are affiliated with. Without further ado, here are the best Goldendoodle breeders in California. View all California Goldendoodle breeders listed in our extensive Doodle breeder directory! The puppies grow with their family of six and get to be a part of normal everyday family life, helping them adjust to sounds, situations, and learn essential socialization skills. What Makes This Breeder Unique? They take great pride in producing only healthy and happy puppies and ensure this with extensive genetic testing. Their Doodle pups come with a three-year health guarantee. We are a small, family friendly breeder of Goldendoodles and Labradoodles in Suisun Valley California. Our puppies are raised at our home and are socialized with adults, children, and other dogs daily. You can be sure your future furry family member will have a sweet, gentle disposition. We pride ourselves on our well behaved, cheerful, and intelligent puppies. Our labradoodles make terrific family companions, activity partners, and even therapy dogs. Our home is in Suisun Valley where our families have been farming for over years. To the west of our farm is Twin Sisters Peaks, the highest points in the part of hilly ridge that borders our little valley. This locally well known peak called Twin Sisters, and is where we take our name from. In this case, mom is a goldendoodle and dad is an Australian labradoodle. Since their settlement in this area, our past generations have always farmed our land. We continue to farm tree and row crops. But we also have great love for animals of all kinds. For many years, we helped our children learn to raise and respect animals through the 4-H and FFA. Just as our parents did with us growing up. Reserve your spot! Or give us a call today! A puppy can be the perfect addition to a home to give and receive love and build a strong mutual bond of devotion. Welcoming a new puppy into your forever home is an exhilarating time, but it also brings a wealth of responsibilities. At Almond Blossom Doodles, we want this homecoming to be a beautiful and joyous occasion, and we are here to support you every step of the way. We ensure that these adorably perfect family companions receive an abundance of love and affection from the moment they enter this world. Our hands-on approach helps socialize the puppies while also aiding in the development of their loyalty and trust. We put a piece of our hearts into each puppy that we raise and share with you so the transition into their forever home will be seamless. Our sweet and lovable puppies are ready to come home with you eight weeks after birth, and all puppies come with the following services: Two-year health guarantee A Start on crate training-one week before you take them home ENS Early Neurological Stimulation Age-appropriate shots and worming with records included Collar and leash Almond Blossom Doodle Swag Bag. We are located in Northern CA. Our dogs are family first. As a breeder we strive to produce intelligent companion animals with an emphasis on excellent structure, relaxed temperament, and a non-shedding to low shedding coat. We use DNA testing to predict the best possible traits in our lines. Our litters are raised indoors in the heart of our family, we do not use kennels. Our puppies are introduced to enriching environments to provide early neural stimulation. We breed standard, medium, mini and petite. Health is important to us and as such we spend a great deal of time testing and evaluating all of our dogs. We use genetic testing through embark to clear our dogs before a litter is produced. Thank you for your interest in our dogs we look forward to working with you! The desirable intelligence and non shedding characteristics of the poodle breed compliment the loyal friendly demeanor of the golden retriever. The combination results in an excellent family dog well suited to multiple roles in an individuals life, from service animals such as therapy, guide, and assistance, to hunting companions willing to retrieve. The increased genetic diversity also allows for a decreased risk in inheritable conditions They are gentle, loving dogs who live too please their families and as such require suitable households that will love them in return. These are not outside dogs, they crave human interaction and desire nothing more than being with their people. If you have any questions please send us a message we are always willing to answer as much as we can. Our Guarantee We strive to provide the healthiest companions possible physically and mentally! We use puppy culture to increase early neuro stimulation. Every pup is socialized with various objects, sounds and situations, including vacuums, thunder storms and fireworks. All of our puppies will be checked at the vet with a wellness exam, first round of shots, dewormed, a month supply of heartguard flea and tick and optional microchip. We offer a lifetime of informational support and enjoy getting pictures and updates of our babies growing up. Our puppies are sold on a companion only basis, potential breeders may contact us for additional information. It is our privilege to assist you in finding a spectacular furry addition to your family. Our dogs and past Puppies! We specialize in breeding Mini Goldendoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other high quality breeders that raise mini goldendoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! Not all mini Goldendoodles are equal, there are a few different versions to choose from each having a little different genetic background based on the pups parents. We will explain all the differences in Mini Goldendoodle puppies and how they are bred below. We raise all versions of the mini goldendoodle breed. F1 Mini Goldendoodle Pups. A F1 puppy is also known as a First Generation puppy. The puppies mother is a Golden Retriever and the pups dad is a Mini Poodle. This version of mini goldendoodle usually has soft wavy or curly puppy fur. They will shed until they lose their puppy fur, after shedding they will shed a lot less, but will shed. This version is partially hypoallergenic and usually requires low maintenance. F1 mini goldendoodles usually need to be groomed every 6 months along with daily brushing to keep their curly hair from matting and getting tangled. The dogs usually grow up having great temperaments similar to golden retrievers. They usually get about inches high at the shoulder and range in weight from pounds. F1b Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1b is known as a second-generation mini goldendoodle with the pups mother being already an F1 Goldendoodle and the pups dad being a mini poodle also. So the difference between F1 and F1b is that the mom is not a golden retriever but an actual F1 Goldendoodle. They also have very soft curly hair but with almost no shedding. This F1b version is semi-hypoallergenic and a better choice for anyone who has pet allergies. The F1b also should be brushed on a daily basis but will need to be groomed more frequently then a F1. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is recommended to keep their coat in perfect condition. F1b Mini goldendoodles get around 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders and range between pounds in weight. F1bb Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1bb goldendoodle is also known as a third-generation mini goldendoodle. This mini goldendoodle version has a coat more similar to a poodle than of a golden retriever. This is because the pup is more of a poodle than a retriever. Making it the very best version for anyone with pet allergies. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is required to help prevent knots or matting. This version is super intelligent and loving, and usually seems to have more energy than the other versions of Mini goldendoodles. This version is usually smaller in size, weighing around pounds and only getting inches tall at the shoulders. The smaller size makes them a great size for smaller homes and apartments. So if you live near North Fair Oaks California and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Goldendoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Goldendoodle Pups that have been adopted!

They are almost square in appearance, with a strong body and sturdy legs. The maximum height for a male is 24 inches, which puts them in the medium-size dog category, but their sturdy build can make them seem much larger. Weights range from 85 pounds for a large male to 55 pounds for a smaller female. Field line bred dogs are often taller and somewhat thinner in build. Labrador retrievers are easily recognized by their broad head, drop ears and large, expressive eyes. Two trademarks of the Lab are the thick but fairly short double coat, which is very water repellent, and the well known "otter tail. The feet are described as "webbed," with longer skin between the toes to aid in swimming. The Labrador retriever is a moderately fast maturing breed, reaching adult height from six to 12 months, but possibly still filling out up to 2 years of age. Many Labs reach 12 to 14 years of age. Personality: In general, Labrador retrievers are excellent family dogs, as long as you keep in mind their need for exercise and training. These are dogs bred to work and work hard and they love to have jobs to do, particularly retrieving. Labs are usually good with other dogs, other pets, and children as long as training has toned down their natural exuberance. They are strong dogs and need some obedience training at an early age or they can be seen dragging their owners down the street at will. Owing to their energetic nature, Labradors who are left alone or not well exercised can become destructive — chewing, digging and barking to excess. The field line dogs are especially high-energy dogs, while some of the show line dogs become perfect couch potatoes at an early age. Chewing can be a problem because the strong retrieve urge gives them an oral fixation. Sturdy chew toys, exercise and training all help with this. Living With: Obviously, Labradors have a number of endearing traits or they would not be so popular. They are intelligent and fairly easy to train, partly from their desire to work with people. They are "easy keepers" and can become overweight if they are not exercised and food portions adjusted as needed. Labs are excellent family dogs because they do want to be with people and many do not do well as kennel dogs. Labradors do tend to be protective of their families and homes but are usually happy to greet company, too. With the strong retrieving instinct, they can develop into destructive chewers if not given appropriate toys and guidance. Labs may tend to "mouth" people and the solution is often simply to give them a toy to carry around, so their mouths are already full! These are very strong dogs and early training is necessary to have a dog that walks nicely on lead. The wonderful double coat that keeps the Labrador warm while retrieving in icy water also gives this breed top billing as shedders. Normally, their coats do fine with a quick weekly grooming, but at shedding time daily grooming is needed. The amount of exercise they need varies with the different lines: field line dogs can run all day, whereas show line dogs only need moderate exercise. History: Early in the s, some of the multipurpose dogs used in North America mostly Canada by hunters were shipped back to England. Many of these "water dogs" were of the Newfoundland type, but the smaller ones were often designated "St John's" dogs. In England, the breed was developed and refined probably with some flat-coated retriever input into the breed we recognize today. As is evidenced by their name, Labrador retrievers were bred and selected for their outstanding retrieving abilities, particularly in water. They have worked as partners with duck hunters in all kinds of weather and conditions. Their intelligence and desire to work as a partner with man has led to many other jobs, and to their current status as popular pets. Today, Labradors excel as service and guide dogs, family pets, scenting dogs for the military, customs and arson task force dogs, search and rescue dogs as well as hunting companions and performance dogs. The breed's good nature has propelled it to the number one ranking in popularity in America, a position it intends to keep. Despite their fame as indoor pets, they are even more at home outdoors. It should always be remembered that Labradors are water retrievers at heart and from early on, puppies show a strong desire to carry things around with them and a strong attraction to water, even puddles! Related Pet Care Articles. Back to Top Labrador Retriever Temperament Cheerful and animated, this large dog breed has stamina and energy to spare, able to keep up with your family and all your activities. And thanks to their high intelligence, learning commands and tricks come relativity easy for them. Labrador dogs love having a job to do and excel at things like agility courses and, just like their name implies, retrieving items. In fact, their superior intelligence is why they often make great assistance dogs, working as therapy or service animals. A people-pleaser, Labrador Retrievers have a pleasant personality and love interacting with humans. Get ready to be showered with lots of affection! Slow and controlled introductions to other family pets will help make the transition go smoothly. Addressing any biting issues early on, providing proper socialization when they are puppies aka safely exposing them to lots of new people, places and things and working with a professional dog trainer can help avoid behavioral issues when they get older. Back to Top How to Care for a Labrador Retriever As you might expect with such a popular dog breed, Labs are relatively easy to care for and make great dogs for first-time pet parents. The toughest part about taking care of a Lab will likely be your ability to keep up with them! For more routine maintenance, brush them at least once a week. Consider using a tool like the Furminator to help brush out the undercoat and remove the excess fur. Labs who spend most of their time indoors should be bathed every four to six weeks. You can do this at home or have it done by a professional groomer. For those who get a lot of outdoor time, you should bathe them weekly. Training Labs are eager to please, making them highly trainable. You can begin obedience school with your Labrador puppy between the ages of 7 weeks and 4 months. They can learn the basics such as housebreaking, commands—sit, stay, speak, shake and roll over—and leash skills, such as heel. Labs can be leash-pullers and jumpers. To help train dogs more effectively, choose a headcollar to help prevent pulling and provide more control. A certified professional dog trainer can provide more guidance on correcting the issue. In general, Labs are extremely friendly and do well in most social interactions. As a working dog, they can compete in agility courses, retrieve fish, be excellent guide dogs for the blind and visually impaired, sniff out bombs and drugs, and help law enforcement in search-and-rescue missions. Your veterinarian can help you nail down a feeding chart to guide you on how much and how often to feed your dog based on their specific diet. Because Labs are so active and always on the go, they may benefit from a high-protein dog food. If your pup has digestion issues, you may need to seek out a different dog food formula. While treats are often used in training, be sure to limit the amount you dish out on the daily. An overabundance of treats, even if your pup is super active, is an easy way for them to pack on the pounds. Take them for runs around the neighborhood or at the dog park, in addition to regular walks and hikes at least once a day for an hour is ideal. A great way to burn off their energy is to enroll them in agility course training or let them swim in a pool, lake or ocean if you have those options nearby. Speaking of swimming, Labs absolutely love the water—they were, after all, bred to be waterdogs, retrieving fish and fowl. Lab parents should prioritize water-based outings as often as possible to ensure that their pup gets the precious water time they love. Since Labs are natural swimmers, dock diving makes for a fun exercise that will keep them entertained for hours on end. Ideal Environment Labs want love, affection and attention—and lots of it. Their ideal environment is, unsurprisingly, one where they can be smothered with cuddles, hugs and kisses. These family dogs generally do well with kids and other pets because of their amicable attitude and spirited energy. Having friends over for dinner? Your Lab is likely to steal the show with their cheerfulness. Labs are extremely versatile and tend to flourish in many different environments, from urban to rural. A game of fetch is always a fun option for Retrievers! Reputable breeders often look at lineage to eliminate health problems that can run in bloodlines and be passed from generation to generation. Elbow Dysplasia: When an elbow joint grows abnormally, your pup might experience stiffness in their forelimbs. Their mobility may be affected, and they might deal with some discomfort or pain over time. Treatment will depend on the primary cause of the elbow dysplasia, but in most cases surgery is recommended. Arthritis is common in older Labs because of their large size, which places more strain on their joints with age. There are hip surgeries that can mitigate the effects of hip dysplasia if identified early enough. Allergies: Labs are prone to environmental and food allergies, which can be, at times, rather relentless. Common signs of really bad allergies? Recurring ear and skin infections and chewing at their paws. If your Lab regularly shows these signs, check with your vet for the best way to help keep these reactions at bay. Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Otherwise known as PRA, this describes a number of diseases that can cause degeneration of the lining in the retina, which is in the back of the eye. In some cases, this condition can lead to blindness. But as a deep-chested dog, Labs are more likely to be susceptible to it. In severe cases, the stomach can twist upon itself and result in a condition called gastric dilation volvulus GDV. This is very serious and can be deadly if not treated immediately. Johns Dog or the lesser Newfoundland, Labrador Retrievers originated in Newfoundland not Labrador , Canada, and are longtime descendants of the now-extinct St. With their strong hunting heritage, Labradors first became popularized in the early s as a waterdog who could help fishermen retrieve fish and ducks and bring them back to their boats. Their soft mouths and gentle jaws made them perfect for delicately handling birds and fish. Eventually, they were brought across the Atlantic Ocean to England after English nobles visited Canada. There, the English continued to refine the breed in the second half of the 19th century. The popularity of the Labrador breed has only continued to grow since then. Today, modern Labs are the most popular dog in America, according to the American Kennel Club, which formally recognized the breed in .Labs are mostly sought after for their unmatched diving aptitude and ability to work in the water, largely thanks to their water-repellent coats, webbed feet and otter-like tail. You can also reach out to Labrador Retriever rescue organizations to adopt a Lab or keep an eye out for the breed at your local animal shelter. No, Labs are not hypoallergenic. In fact, Labs shed frequently. Overall, some dog breeds may have less reactive dander, which may make them be seen as hypoallergenic. But it mainly depends on how your body responds and how sensitive your allergies are to any particular animal. Can Labrador Retrievers swim? Yes, Labrador Retrievers can swim; they have webbed feet, which help propel them through the water. They readily jump into the water to retrieve fish or ducks when directed. Can Labrador Retrievers be guard dogs? They perform better at jobs that require constant stimulation, like sporting activities or being a therapy or service animal. What are the most common Labrador mixes? Labs are always up for anything. For those who love to stay active and want a loyal canine companion, Labs are undoubtedly the way to go. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Built for sport, the Lab is muscular and athletic. They have a short, easy-care coat, friendly demeanor, keen intelligence, and plenty of energy. Devotion to this breed runs deep; Labs are loving, people-oriented dogs who live to serve their families, and owners and fans sometimes liken their Labs to angels. The breed originated on the island of Newfoundland, off the northeastern Atlantic coast of Canada. Originally called the St. Today, most Labs skip the hard labor and spend their days being pampered and loved by their people. However, some Labs still serve as indispensable working dogs. They also excel as a search and rescue dog or as a retriever for hunters, thanks to their athletic build, strong nose, and courageous nature. And Labs have also become the breed to beat at dog sports such as agility and obedience competitions, especially obedience. In fact, owners say their sweet, helpful Lab is likely to greet an intruder and happily show them where the goods are stashed. One role has remained constant: wonderful companion and friend. Labrador Retriever Highlights Friendly and outgoing. Labrador Retrievers are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. They are good with people of all ages and other animals. Intelligent and trainable. Labrador Retrievers are intelligent dogs that are easy to train. They are often used as working dogs, such as guide dogs, search and rescue dogs, and therapy dogs. Active and playful. Labrador Retrievers are active dogs that need plenty of exercise. They enjoy playing fetch, swimming, and other activities. Loyal and devoted. Labrador Retrievers are loyal and devoted dogs that make great family pets. They are known for their gentle nature and love of children. Grooming needs are minimal. Labrador Retrievers have a short, thick coat that is easy to groom. They only need to be brushed a few times a week and bathed as needed. Overall, the Labrador Retriever is a versatile and popular dog breed that makes a great family pet. They are friendly, intelligent, and trainable, and they have a low grooming requirement. If you are considering getting a Labrador Retriever, be sure to do your research to find a reputable breeder. Labrador Retrievers are wonderful dogs, but they require a lot of time and attention. They are not a good choice for people who are not active or who do not have a lot of time to spend with their pets. Originally called St. Although their heritage is unknown, many believe the St. The second Earl of Malmesbury was one of the first, and had St. The third Earl of Malmesbury was the first person to refer to the dogs as Labradors. In Newfoundland, the breed disappeared because of government restrictions and tax laws. Families were allowed to keep no more than one dog, and owning a female was highly taxed, so girl puppies were culled from litters. In England, however, the breed survived, and the Kennel Club recognized the Labrador Retriever as a distinct breed in .They also top the list in Canada and England. Today, Labs work in drug and explosive detection, search and rescue, therapy, assistance to those with disabilities, and as retrievers for hunters. They also excel in all forms of dog competitions: show, field, agility, and obedience. Labrador Retriever Size Males stand .Females stand .Aside from a winning personality, they have the intelligence and eagerness to please that make them easy to train. Training is definitely necessary because this breed has a lot of energy and exuberance. The working heritage of the Lab means they are active. This breed needs activity, both physical and mental, to keep them happy. There is some variation in the activity level of Labs: some are rowdy, others are more laid back. All thrive on activity. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Elbow Dysplasia : This is a heritable condition common to large-breed dogs. This can lead to painful lameness. Your vet may recommend surgery to correct the problem or medication to control the pain. Osteochondrosis Dissecans OCD : This orthopedic condition, caused by improper growth of cartilage in the joints, usually occurs in the elbows, but it has been seen in the shoulders, as well. It causes a painful stiffening of the joint, to the point that the dog is unable to bend his elbow. It can be detected in dogs as early as four to nine months of age. Cataracts : As in humans, canine cataracts are characterized by cloudy spots on the eye lens that can grow over time. Cataracts can usually be surgically removed with good results. Early in the disease, dogs become night-blind. As the disease progresses, they lose their daytime vision, as well. Many dogs adapt to limited or complete vision loss very well, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Epilepsy : Labs can suffer from epilepsy, which causes mild or severe seizures. Seizures may be exhibited by unusual behavior, such as running frantically as if being chased, staggering, or hiding. Seizures are frightening to watch, but the long-term prognosis for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy is generally very good. Puppies are born with TVD, which is a malformation of the tricuspid valve on the right side of the heart. It can be mild or severe; some dogs live with no symptoms, others die. TVD is detected by ultrasound. Research is ongoing to learn how widespread it is in the breed, as well as treatment. Myopathy : Myopathy affects the muscles and nervous system. The first signs are seen early, as young as six weeks and often by seven months of age. A puppy with myopathy is tired, stiff when he walks and trots. He may collapse after exercise. In time, the muscles atrophy and the dog can barely stand or walk. There is no treatment, but rest and keeping the dog warm seems to reduce symptoms. Dogs with myopathy should not be bred because it is considered a heritable disease. Bloat occurs when the stomach is distended with gas or air and then twists. The dog is unable to belch or vomit to rid themselves of the excess air in their stomach, and blood flow to the heart is impeded. Blood pressure drops and the dog goes into shock. Without immediate medical attention, the dog can die. Suspect bloat if your dog has a distended abdomen, is drooling excessively, and retching without throwing up. Theyalso may be restless, depressed, lethargic, and weak with a rapid heart rate. If you notice these symptoms, get your dog to the vet as soon as possible. Acute Moist Dermatitis: Acute moist dermatitis is a skin condition in which the skin red and inflamed. It is caused by a bacterial infection. The more common name of this health concern is hot spots. Treatment includes clipping the hair, bathing in medicated shampoo, and antibiotics. Cold Tail : Cold tail is a benign, though painful condition common to Labs and other retrievers. The dog may bite at the tail. It is thought to be a problem with the muscles between the vertebrae in the tail. Weekly checking and cleaning if necessary helps prevent infection. Labrador Retriever Care The lovable Lab needs to be around their family, and is definitely not a backyard dog. Labs show some variation in their activity levels, but all of them need activity, both physical and mental. Daily minute walks, a romp at the dog park, or a game of fetch, are a few ways to help your Lab burn off energy. However, a puppy should not be taken for too long walks and should play for a few minutes at a time. It is up to you to end play and training sessions. Without training, a rambunctious Lab puppy will soon grow to be a very large, rowdy dog. Luckily, Labs take to training well; in fact, they often excel in obedience competitions. Start with puppy kindergarten , which not only teaches your pup good canine manners, but helps them learn how to be comfortable around other dogs and people. Look for a class that uses positive training methods that reward the dog for getting it right, rather than punishing them for getting it wrong. Normal play on grass is fine, as is puppy agility, with its one-inch jumps. Labrador Retriever Feeding Recommended daily amount: 2. They've won the dog personality popularity contest for so many years, as Labs are devoted to their owners—always willing to show you their affection and receive your adoration in return—are highly intelligent, and are happiest doing any and all family activities. Their enthusiasm not only makes them fun to be around, but also makes them a hard-working breed. Labs are companionable, bonding with all family members, and famously friendly to every person and pup they meet. While they have high energy and require lots of activity , they are eager to please and highly trainable. Appearance Thanks to their role as a hunter's companion, the Labrador retriever is a sturdy dog, weighing in at anywhere from 55—80 pounds. Labs come in three colors: chocolate, black, and yellow. While black Labs were an early favorite with breeders, all three types of Labs are common today. Some breeders do offer "rare" Labs, including polar white, fox red, and even silver, but these are simply variations of the three original Lab coloring combinations. Their top coat is short and thick. Their undercoat is softer and helps provide protection from the weather, especially cold temperatures and water, a nod to their original role as retrievers. A Lab's tail serves a purpose in their heritage as well. They are thick and tapered, an "otter tail" that acts as a rudder when Labs swim. But watch out on land—this happy breed gets to wagging their tail often and eagerly, and won't stop if you happen to be in the way. Yellow Labs might be easy to confuse with golden retrievers. Though both are friendly pups and popular with families, they distinctly different breeds. Temperament "The ideal disposition is one of a kindly, outgoing, tractable nature; eager to please and non aggressive towards man or animal," the breed standard says. They are friendly with new people and animals they meet. Tops in the personality department, Labs are also highly intelligent, making them very trainable. They do have lots of energy, so you'll need to stay active with them, but they are also happy to relax at home for family movie night. What many veterinarians do find, however, is that each Lab is an individual with his own personality. Some Labs are more mellow, while others can be higher energy. Some tend to be more anxious dogs. And you can even have a Lab that is a bit of a goofball. But no matter what personality your Lab puppy grows to develop, one thing is always the same. Living Needs Labs adore their owners. They will want to live indoors and sleep as close as possible to you—or even on you. They like to get outside to play, but don't leave them unattended for too long as they may prove they have a naughty side. Labs have been known to dig and chew, so invest in plenty of sturdy chew toys to keep yours entertained. If properly introduced and trained, Labs can also get along well with other pets in the home including cats , other dogs, and small animals. They are competitors, doing well in agility, field tests, and at dog shows. And they absolutely love to swim. Care When you welcome a Lab to your home, be prepared for lots of shedding. Grooming isn't substantial, but brushing your dog daily will help reduce the tumbleweeds of fur scattered about your house from their thick double coat. They should be bathed every other month to keep them smelling fresh. Brushing their teeth a couple of times a week, keeping their nails trimmed —likely once or twice a month—and checking their ears for redness or odor should also be on your Lab care checklist. A daily minute walk or a lively game of fetch will help your pup burn off some of his energy. Lack of activity could lead to undesirable behavior, but don't overdo it—this "workaholic" breed is apt to exhaust itself. Don't let Lab puppies run and play on hard surfaces for their first two years so they don't damage their joints. Of course their reputation for good behavior precedes them, but that doesn't mean you can skip training sessions with your Lab. Training is important to ensure they don't grow to become too rowdy. Introduce Labrador puppies to other humans and animals early to help socialize them properly. This, coupled with ample positive reinforcement , will allow your pup to grow into the friendly Lab many know and love. Health Labs are a pretty hearty and healthy breed , living 10—12 years. But, as with all breeds, there are some common conditions to be aware of. Elbow and hip dysplasia , heart disorders such as tricuspid valve dysplasia TVD , epilepsy , and hereditary myopathy or muscle weakness can all affect Labs. They can also face eye conditions, including progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts. Owners should also be aware of a condition called exercise induced collapse EIC. Labs may also develop hot spots —or acute moist dermatitis—cold tail, and ear infections. History A bit misnamed, Labs actually come from Newfoundland—off the northeastern coast of Canada—not Labrador, according to the Labrador Retriever Club. Descended from St. John's water dogs, Labradors are a traditional waterdog used to retrieve ducks and keep fishermen company. At the end of the work day, Labs were then happy to head home to spend the night with the fishermen's families. They became increasingly popular starting in the early s, when they were brought to England by nobles who appreciated their work ethic and disposition. Public Domain It may be hard to believe, but by the s, Labs were almost extinct because of government restrictions and tax laws—the same laws that led to the St. John's water dogs' extinction, according to the Canadian Broadcast Corporation. Thankfully saved by English breeders, they were introduced to the U. After World War II, the Lab's popularity took over and grew for decades until they ultimately achieved the status of America's—and England and Canada's—most popular pooch. Fun Facts In , for the 29th year in a row, the Lab was voted the number one most popular breed. King Buck was the model Labrador retriever featured on a U. Another famous Lab is Ben of Hyde , born in .Considered the first documented yellow Lab, today most lines of yellow Labs can be traced to his bloodline. The star of the show, Marley, is actually several different Labs who played the role to reflect the various age stages of Marley during the film. His family adopted another chocolate Lab, Seamus , after Clinton's presidency ended. Was this page helpful? Post by: Mara B. These dogs had black coats, sometimes white crests on their chests, and white feet. Portraits of them look like a cross between a modern Lab and a Border Collie. Like Labradors, the Newfoundland breed had webbed toes, a two-layered, water-repellent coat, and a strong, broad tail that works like a rudder in the water, making it a superb swimmer. The Labrador Retriever has grown to be the most popular dog breed in America. The fishermen found that these dogs had great endurance and strength, so some used them to tow barges. For a while, these trusty fishing dogs waned in popularity in Canada due to a tax imposed on dog owners. Fortunately, British travelers coming to port decided to bring the dogs to England. The breed was refined by English hunters to be better suited for retrieving game and named the Labrador Retriever. Since the 20th century, the Labrador Retriever has grown to be the most popular dog breed in America. Physical Traits of a Labrador Retriever Labs have thick, sturdy bodies, broad heads, and long, otter-like tails that help them to steer themselves in the water. Their webbed toes make for better paddling and keep snow from clumping up between them. They grow to be between 21 and 24 inches at the highest part of their back and may weigh pounds. Labs have an inner coat that is thick and soft to protect their skin from wetness and cold temperatures. Their special double coat makes them waterproof! Labrador Retrievers may be black, chocolate, or yellow, and all colors can appear in a single litter. The nose of the dog will match its coat. Labs usually have brown eyes. The exception to this is that some Chocolate Labs have hazel eyes. The Labrador Retriever Personality Labradors are known for their gentleness, tolerance, and intelligence. Their easy-going nature is what makes them the top choice as American family dogs. They are generally very good with kids and other canines. Of course, being completely adorable probably contributes to their popularity too! As natural hunters, Labs are also known to be active and love exploring. Regular exercise is a great way to let out some of their energy and help them maintain a healthy weight. With lots of playtime and proper training, even high-energy Labs can be calm and obedient. A coat cleaning every once in a while will help it look shinier and healthier. Labs tend to pack on extra pounds quickly if they are sedentary or overfed. Obesity is one of the most common health issues for Labradors, and hypothyroidism and diabetes are also not uncommon for the breed. When a dog becomes overweight, exercise can be tough on their joints and cause them pain. Moderating their treats and making sure to measure the proper amounts of food at mealtime are other ways to keep their weight in check. You can also opt for dog-safe fruits and veggies as an alternative to higher-calorie, processed treats. Labs are also known to develop cataracts and have troubles with their hips, knees, elbows, and shoulders. Annual and wellness exams for these doggies should include check-ups on their eyes and joints. Important wellness procedures can be covered by a dog insurance plan. Start a quote for your best friend. Great Games for Labs Try doing these activities with your Labrador Retriever for fun and exercise rolled into one! Go Fetch! These natural retrievers love to chase after toys and bring them back — in the yard or the water! Balls, rope toys, ring toys, Frisbees, and dummies will all work well for a game of fetch. Take them to the beach, a lake, a pond, or a backyard pool and let them paddle around. Playing a game of fetch or chase in the shallow waters near shore can also be lots of fun. Just to be safe, you may want to investigate purchasing a dog life jacket. Nose work, or scent work, involves hiding objects marked with various scents for your dog to track. The activity can be especially stimulating for Labrador Retrievers because of their natural drive to hunt, but any breed of dog may enjoy it. How to teach your Lab to do nose work: Get scents. Essential oils like anise, birch, and clover are great choices for nose work. You can douse the object with the oil or inject the scent using a special syringe called a scent injector, which you should be able to find at your local sporting goods store, or online. Choose the mark. Dummies work great for essential oils. Get a few and douse each one with a different smell! You can use plush dog toys, pieces of cloth, or strips of leather for scent marking too. It can also be fun to leave a scent trail to the objects. To do this, drag the scent-marked objects along the ground leading up to their hiding place, or squeeze some drops of essential oil on the way to the chosen hiding spot. And while their faces often express a sense of worry, their hearts are full of affection and fun — and a little bit of mischief. History and Origins The Labrador Retriever breed originated not in Labrador, but on the coast of Newfoundland, in the 17th century. They were trained to bring in the fishing-nets through the icy waters for the fishermen and, in the early 19th century, were brought to Poole Harbour in Great Britain. They were so attractive and with such appealing personalities that the fishermen had umpteen offers from Englishmen to buy them. The breed with their working abilities was instantly successful as a gundog. The Earl of Malmesbury became fascinated by these dogs, known at that time as Saint John's Dogs, and he started breeding them, calling them Labrador Dogs. Today, Labradors are still used as working gundogs as well as being beloved family pets. Ideal Owner Ideal Lab owners enjoy long walks, are mud-proof and water-proof, and have the time, patience and skill to teach this breed to be a polite member of society. Although universally thought of as the ultimate, easy-going family dog and they do generally love everyone! Great for active families with children who can take part in training and exercise — and who can walk this active gundog a couple of hours every day in all weathers. Exercise Needs Labradors will adapt to the amount of time you can allocate for their exercise, as long as they are kept active. Ideally, a couple of hours a day being a good amount for a healthy adult. They love long walks with a chance to run and play off the lead. Many Labradors, unfortunately, become overweight because they are bought by families who want them for their reputation as the perfect dog with children, without realising that this is a working dog, who needs a lot of exercise and training to stay happy and healthy. As well as walks, a Labrador will revel in games and play with their owner, as they are highly social, and need to be involved in all family activities. Space Requirements The Labrador is a large, active breed who is at heart a country dog, and so needs a good-sized living space. As the Labrador size is large and their energy is high, they will appreciate a large garden and need access to the great outdoors for long walks. Nutrition and Feeding Large breed dogs, as well as having large appetites, benefit from a different balance of nutrients including minerals and vitamins compared to smaller-breed dogs. The Labrador is prone to bloating and stomach problems; smaller, more frequent meals can help minimise this risk. Your dog's diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape and remember to feed them at least twice daily and in accordance with the feeding guidelines of their particular food. Proper nutrition along with care can contribute to a Labrador lifespan reaching 14 years. Grooming Labradors The Labrador grooming process is fairly easy as their coats are simple to maintain. Even though the Labrador size is large, their coat is thick and dense with a weather-resistant undercoat that can easily be kept clean with a simple brush through once a week, and more regular attention when moulting. However, they do love water and mud, and so they may need more regular grooming to keep them clean. Watch out for grass seeds in the summer as they tend to charge around the countryside! Training Labradors Labradors are generally a joy to train as they are both clever and biddable, and love working with their owner. Despite being generally unproblematic, they do still need training as they have a need to work and to keep their busy brains occupied. Plus, they can easily get overly-boisterous, and even destructive, if not given plenty of exercise, and an outlet for their hard-wired breed behaviours. Are Labradors Good Family Dogs? There is a good reason why the Labrador has a reputation as being, almost, the perfect family dog. This is a breed who loves everyone and everything. Their only drawback is that they need a lot of exercise, and so they need an active family who enjoy walking and games. All dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

Pudelpointer Puppies Video History In the year , Baron Von Zedlitz, a German breeder who specialized in tracking, pointing, and retrieving dogs cross mated a German Hunting Poodle with an English Pointer, with the former being the dam and the latter, the sire. Since the Pudel German Hunting Poodle had much stronger genes, it took Zedlitz 80 Pointers , 11 Pudels and 30 years to perfect this gun dog. However, this breed does not currently enjoy recognition by the American Kennel Club. Temperament The Pudelpointer is of a very composed, calm, inquisitive and social disposition. They exhibit enormous amounts of focus and skill, and are cordial, faithful dogs which makes them a great companion. Bred primarily as a hunting dog, this breed is full of stamina and is not suited to a sedentary lifestyle. They are perfect for active and adventurous families who prefer the great outdoors. Although they are country dogs, they will adapt to an apartment life provided they are granted a large living space and receive a good amount of exercise daily. Lack of the essential amount of physical activity may turn them into troublemakers. They are very gentle with children, and get along well with cats and other dogs when properly socialized and raised with them. However, they are not to be trusted around small animals and birds because of their predatory instincts. They serve as very good watchdogs and are protective of their families. Owing to their strong retrieving genes, they also make for efficient search and rescue dogs. Care Exercise This active hunting dog is bustling with energy and needs a lot of exercise every day. It loves both the water and open space and therefore can be allowed to indulge in at least an hour-long swimming session or a vigorous running session in a substantially large but enclosed space. Grooming This breed has a very low maintenance and naturally clean coat which requires no more than weekly brushing and a bath every now and then. Clip their nails and brush their teeth as required. Health Problems Fortunately, no notable health issues have been reported regarding this breed yet. Training They are intelligent, responsive dogs who are eager to please which makes them highly trainable. Stranger Anxiety: Start socializing Pudelpointer puppies with strangers from an early stage so that they do not act too reserved or timid around strangers later on. Obedience: The Pudelpointer requires a firm, consistent yet gentle pack leader. Start training them as early as possible for best results. Make the training interesting and be motivating in your conduct. Destructive Habits: Make sure they receive proper obedience training and sufficient exercise to prevent them from engaging in destructive behavior. Leash Training: Pudelpointers need to be strictly leash trained right from puppyhood or they will develop a habit of pulling at their leash. Due to their inherent small-game hunting and retrieving tendencies, avoid taking their leash off especially in an open or unsecured area. Feeding 2 to 3 month old Pudelpointers require 4 bowls of food everyday 3 to 6 month old Pudelpointers require 3 bowls of food everyday 6 to 12 month old Pudelpointers require 2 bowls of food everyday Pudelpointers over a year old require 1 bowl or 2 half bowls of food every day, depending on their eating habit. Interesting Facts Breeders have deliberately avoided official recognition of the breed by the American Kennel Club as they believe that AKC recognition would result in splitting of the breed into show dogs and working dogs. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. They have a short undercoat and a longer outercoat, but the density and texture varies. Pudelpointers can be prone to weight gain if they do not receive proper exercise, as they are high energy dogs. Make sure your dog gets at least one good half-hour- to hour-long walk per day with a few good, active play sessions and shorter walks mixed in. Because the Pudelpointer is a strong, medium-sized dog, they can easily injure smaller, overly excited children. The Pudelpointer has a high prey drive and may be prone to chasing smaller dogs, cats, or other critters in the house. This hunting breed needs a human with a firm handle on training, but with some consistency early on, training your Pudelpointer should go smoothly. Pudelpointer History In the late s, hunting was wildly popular in Germany, and enthusiasts wanted the ultimate hunting dog. Baron von Zedlitz, a respected dog breeding expert, suggested crossbreeding the German Pudel with the English Pointer. Hunters wanted a dog who could swim, track scents, retrieve game, and not shy away from the boom of a gun or larger game. Over the course of 60 years, breeders built up and refined the pool of Pudelpointers, making it the versatile and loving breed we know today. The Pundelpointer made its way across the Atlantic to North America in ; although, the breed is still relatively uncommon both in the US and its native Germany. Pudelpointer Size Male Pudelpointers typically stand 22 to 27 inches from the shoulder and weigh 40to 65 pounds. The female Pudelpointer is about 21 to 26 inches tall from the shoulder and also weighs 40 to 65 pounds. That said, some Pudelpointers may be larger or smaller than average for their breed. Pudelpointer Personality When the Pudelpointer is in action and in hunting mode, they love to have a little fun while they work. They can be a little rambunctious, but they always manage to get the job done. Instead, the Pudelpointer tends to be calm and thrives on snuggle sessions and lots of attention from their favorite human. This means the Pudelpointer might not be the best choice for someone leading an active life outside of the house — when they cannot bring their Pudelpointer, of course! Pudelpointer Health Pudelpointers are generally healthy, but like all dogs, they can be subject to certain health conditions or ailments. Some of the more common health problems Pudelpointer suffer from include: Hip dysplasia. Other Traits easy to train, good hiking companion, high prey drive, loves water, strong loyalty tendencies With an athletic build and a strong prey drive, the pudelpointer was bred to hunt. This German-bred dog is relatively rare in the United States , as pudelpointer puppies are predominantly placed in homes with active hunters. The breed brings a keen sense of smell, searching skills, a talent for retrieving, and pointing instinct to the field. With his friendly attitude and extreme intelligence , it's easy to see the pudelpointer as an ideal family dog. While that is true, the pudelpointer will not thrive as just a companion—he constantly wants to work and hunt. She said the breed is well-protected by people who recognize that they are happiest when working as hunting dogs. This is what they were born for. This is what they love. This friendly dog stands between 22—25 inches tall and can weigh between 45—70 pounds, with female pudelpointers a bit smaller than the males. Regardless of his coat type, the pudelpointer will always have deep brown or black fur with the occasional patch of white. His short-to-medium-sized ears hang down on either side of his face and match those of his ancestor, the English pointer. With deep brown eyes, the pudelpointer's gaze appears vigilant but calm. If you spot your pudelpointer in an alert stance with his front paw lifted, that's a sign of his strong hunting instinct. When he spots potential prey, he grows still and lifts a paw in the direction of what caught his attention, a move called pointing. His keen nose will often lift slightly as he tries to keep the scent of his prey. This is completely normal behavior for this breed, but your pudelpointer should be well-trained so he does not take off without permission. Temperament The pudelpointer is active, adventurous, even-tempered, and he will get along wonderfully in an outdoorsy family of hunters. As long as he is well-socialized and trained from a young age , he will have no problems living in a home with children and other dogs. But because the pudelpointer has an exceptionally high prey drive , he might mistake other pets like cats, rabbits, or birds as something to chase after. Courtesy of Pudelpointer Club of North America The pudelpointer is incredibly intelligent and trainable, especially when taught using positive reinforcement think: rewarding him with treats and praise for desired behavior. His strong hunting instinct gives him a lot of enthusiasm for playing fetch , both on land and in water. At the end of a long day outside, the pudelpointer will enjoy lounging in the house with his humans. He considers himself a key part of the family and will show affection to those he trusts, especially if that trust is built through consistent training and activities. They're going to need to be exercised , and when you let them off lead, they are going to hunt. He will not live well in a city apartment because he craves a large territory that offers a lot of activities and opportunities to hunt. And while the pudelpointer needs an active family, that doesn't mean you have to go on a hunting trip every weekend— frequent walks , swimming , and nature hikes with his family will tide him over until it's time to get back to the hunting field. Andy Hewett, the studbook keeper for the PCNA, says the pudelpointer thrives on human contact and should not be left alone for long periods of time. If bored and lonely, he'll develop undesirable behaviors. Courtesy of Pudelpointer Club of North America "He wouldn't be at his best as an outdoor dog in a kennel where he would never have any interaction with humans," Hewett says. But at the same time, he is a dog with a particular amount of drive. They like to work; it's what they love to do, and it's what they do well. The pudelpointer's brown coat, no matter the length, sheds very little , likely a result of his German hunting poodle lineage. And while he's not considered to be a "hypoallergenic" dog , his lack of shedding means he might be a good fit for hunters who suffer from dog allergies. With a short outercoat and a longer undercoat, the pudelpointer's fur repels water with a quick shake. With a weekly combing session and an as-necessary bath , your pup will be kept looking his best. Owners may also want to consider brushing their dog's teeth regularly to keep his mouth healthy. Hewett recommends that pudelpointer owners focus on teaching their dog basic cues in the beginning, such as teaching him to stand still on command and to come back when called. Just get the basics down, and you'll be good. Then, there are plenty of methodologies for specific training for retrieving work. Mark Olcott, DVM and President of the North American Pudelpointer Alliance , says that while there are no chronic health issues with the pudelpointer, owners will want to ensure that the parent dogs' hips and elbows are checked for potential problems. Olcott recommends that all dog owners consider pet health insurance to account for unexpected vet visits and emergencies. They could fall, scrape themselves, or get bitten by a snake. I'm a big fan of pet insurance, regardless of whether your pet has a job or not. It's also important for potential owners to meet the parent dogs, learn their temperaments, and see verified health screenings for them. Just because someone has a pup available doesn't mean that's good breeding. You need to carefully look at the pedigree," McNamee says. The pudelpointer was bred in with the idea of creating a smart dog driven to hunt ambitiously. Rather than specializing in one type of hunting, the breed is renowned for his ability to work well on land and water. Courtesy of Pudelpointer Club of North America The pudelpointer was brought to the United States in the s by Sigbot "Bodo" Winterhelt, a German native who helped create the standard for hunting dogs. He was especially involved in showcasing the pudelpointer across North America as an eager-to-please hunting companion. Today, the pudelpointer is recognized as a dog that can do everything when it comes to hunting. With over a century of breeding, he has gathered a tight-knit community of people who want to uphold the pudelpointer's hunting legacy and future. If you're looking for a dog to go to the park and go hiking with you, there's probably better choices than a pudelpointer," Olcott says. If you're not hunting, it's a mismatch. While the pudelpointer is known for hunting a wide variety of live game, they also work in some states to track wounded big game animals. The pudelpointer is known for sleeping with his legs straight up in the air, according to Olcott. But it's a thing among pudelpointers. The Pudelpointer: Breed Profile Versatile and personable, the pudelpointer makes for a great, if unexpected, hunting dog. The pudelpointer is well-equipped to be a high-functioning versatile hunting dog at pointing and retrieving game birds on both land and water. The handsome pudelpointer would venture out just a few feet in front of owner Luke Kennedy, then retreat, as if confused. Kennedy and I were hunting Mearns quail in southern Arizona and hoping to get into some birds, which he had never seen. But quail were down and coveys were few and far between. Advertisement "I don't get it," Kennedy said. He hunts scalies just fine. I'm hardly an expert on versatile pointing dogs , but I've hunted over a fair number of them in the last 30 years and seen some I really liked. I've also seen some that didn't have much interest in finding birds. I was hoping that wasn't the case here. I'd met Kennedy just that year, when he moved to Arizona as part of his helicopter pilot training for the Army. We hit it off immediately and I wanted to show him a good time. Like me, he's a former Nebraska boy with the good taste to have grown up hunting bobwhite quail. Ever notice how quail hunters are just a little bit more intelligent and better looking than your average Joe? Advertisement I believe we found one covey that morning, which one of my dogs pointed. Goat still seemed largely out of his element. I felt sorry for the little guy. Despite his name, you'll have to get Luke to explain how all that came about, he's an intelligent and handsome creature, the kind of dog you can't help but like. We decided to hunt scalies the next morning, and Kennedy all but promised we'd find some action. What a difference 24 hours can make! Not only did we find birds, Goat was a different dog. He made wide, sweeping casts out to yards or so, scoured every bit of cover where the birds possibly could have hidden, and found at least half of the birds in the two or three coveys we put up. If I hadn't known it was our boy Goat, I would have thought it was a different animal. Kennedy told me that was typical behavior for him, and I've hunted over Goat enough since to know he wasn't exaggerating. If you've never seen a pudelpointer, you've probably seen dogs that look like pudelpointers: German Wirehaired Pointers and Wirehaired Pointing Griffons. Yes, the aficionados can tell them apart, but the truth is I usually can't. Part of the charm of the pudelpointer is their distinct eyebrows, mustache, and beard. Chris Ingram photo Suffice it to say, pudelpointers are considerably more rare on this side of the pond than either of the other two breeds, but they have the same wiry, non-shedding coat, the same bushy eyebrows and "mustache. They're exceptionally handsome animals. Stiff Breeding Regulations Pudelpointers were originally bred in Germany and the dogs' unique looks come from a cross between German hunting poodles and English pointers , a process that took some 30 years to perfect. They were imported to the U. Breeding is strictly controlled, and if you want to breed your dog to an officially approved pudelpointer, your pup has to pass some pretty stiff performance tests. It tends to keep the riff-raff out. Kennedy owned Labs before Goat but when he decided to segue into pudelpointers he researched the breed, liked what he saw, and that was that. Back in the day, he was mostly a duck hunter. We would get done with a duck hunt in Texas and he would run around the lake as I was packing up, diving into the reeds and bulrushes, and I'd say that on half of my hunts, I'd end up with more birds than I shot because he would find birds other guys had shot and bring them back to me. Pudelpointers are known for having strong pointing and retrieving instincts. Chris Ingram photo "And I'm not joking about that figure; there were times when, if I'd already shot my limit, he'd bring back an extra bird. They can be soft in a way, although I don't know if they're any softer than any of the other pointing breeds. But you can't beat them with a frying pan. For the most part, you need a lighter hand. But Kennedy was on a roll. Both of my dogs will go tear it up on the prairie but also know when to shut that off in the house. Both live with us in the house and interact with our children very well. Bella, my new pudelpointer, will even lie on the floor and let James 10 months old crawl all over her and pull at her hair until we catch him and pull him away. Their ability to calm down once in the house is very much appreciated, and they don't shed! That means you should exercise due diligence before buying a puppy, but then that's true with any breed, even those with a vast and well-established breeding program. It never hurts to look before you leap. A number of years ago, I was hunting with Eric Trapp, a Montana friend, over his pudelpointer, the first I'd seen. That afternoon, standing on the bank of an intermittent creek bed that fell away 15 feet below me, I watched Trapp's dog trail a covey of Huns that were running along the far side of the willows. I figured they'd run out of range and then flush typical Hun behavior but then, to my amazement, the dog shot through the brush, came out ahead of the birds, and doubled back and pinned them. I'd heard of dogs who could circle around and point running birds, but I'd never actually seen it happen. Had it been an accident? I don't really know, but I know what I saw, and I'd like to chalk it up to intelligence. Looking for a true versatile hunting dog? Consider adding a pudelpointer to your pack. Chris Ingram photo And then there was this: Kennedy and I were hunting scalies again a few years ago, combing through a patch of catclaw, looking for birds. I carry a pistol in case I run into a charging pack of javelinas, an occupational hazard in Arizona scaled quail country, and sure enough, after a few minutes I heard a horrible howling and screeching from somewhere up ahead. I yanked my pistol out of my holster as I plunged through the catclaw, praying Goat had sense enough not to tangle with one of the vicious little peccaries, whose tusks can do serious damage to any dog foolish enough to mess with them. Just as I broke into the open, the javelina bolted out the far side, and Goat, bless his little heart, bolted out the other. Smart dogs know enough not to pick fights they can't win. Army life is an itinerant life, and by the time you read this Kennedy will be in Kansas, where he, Goat and Bella have plans to waylay the local bobwhite population. It will be another new experience for both his dogs, but I'm betting they rise to the occasion. More Articles From Breeds. Pudelpointers are originally from Germany, and are a cross between a German hunting poodle spelled, pudel, in German and an English pointer. The pudelpointer is a pointing breed of gun dog, but it does much more than that. Some pudelpointers have been trained as search and rescue dogs, which speaks to their high level of intelligence. While pudelpointers are very driven and focused in the field, once the hunt is over, they calm down and make great family dogs. Many of our owners comment on what great house dogs pudelpointers make, even after an intense day afield. That said, however, pudelpointers are elite hunting dogs, and we only like placing our pups in homes where we know they will be hunted with on a regular basis. While pudelpointers do not shed like most hunting dog breeds do, you will find some hairs around the house and some in the tub after a bath. You will not see hair left on furniture or your pant leg when they rub against it. Many families have children who are allergic to dogs that shed, and they get a pudelpointer with no problems. All of our breeding pudelpointers at Cabin Creek Gundogs have undergone extensive field trials and physical testing. We are very selective in our breeding process, which explains why we sometimes have a waiting list of more than a year. We pride ourselves on the quality of our pudelpointers, not quantity, and feel we have some of the most elite bloodlines in North America. We continue growing and diversifying our pudelpointer breeding line in an effort to produce the highest quality versatile gun dog possible. Our Pudelpointers "Sage" Registered Name: Tall Timber Sage While being one of my best personal gundogs as well as one of the most dominant dogs in my guide string Sage is also my best producing female. Her pups are very bold on land and water, her ability to work birds is unmatched by any Pudelpointer I have hunted over. She is extremely intelligent, loves to work, and retrieves naturally. Lilly began pointing, quartering and tracking at a very young age. She is a very stylish dog on point with a very nice tail set. Lilly produces pups that are very bold and have a strong water desire and prey drive. She has impressed me from the beginning. Her combination of prey drive, natural retrieving and water desire is unmatched by most dogs. My intention is to use her as Sage's replacement and so far I think she'll do it. I expect great things out of this dog in the future. Cabin Creek Kennels has been supplying the sporting community with top-notch gun dogs for over 40 years. Email us at cabincreekgundogs yahoo.

Some Final Words It is highly doubtful that there is a fast way to do this training. Every dog, no matter the method, takes its own time to learn. For Yorkies, some dogs get the idea in 2 months, while others of their breed take longer to learn. It is really up to the dog and how you treat them during this training. Positive reinforcement is always the fastest way to success. Negative reinforcement may set the training back while your dog adjusts to the treatment. Praising and rewarding your Yorkie will make them want to use the litter box over other options. The key to this process is to make sure you have the right size box for your Yorkie, use the right litter, and place the box in the best spot possible. You do not want it close to their food at any time. When you use consistency, patience, and persistence, your Yorkie should learn to go to the litter box on their own and without prompting from you. Click here to find out. Yes, it is possible to train any small dog to use a litter box. This is an advantageous method to use for your pet. It means that they do not have to wait till you get home or get up to go to the bathroom. They can just saunter on over to the litter box and do their duty without delay. That makes bathroom time more relaxing for your pet. Plus, it helps put your dog at ease as they know they will have no hassle when they go to the bathroom. The key to litter box training your small dog is to make sure the box is the right size. No dog will feel comfortable or will want to use the litter box if it is too small for them. Fortunately, litter boxes come in different sizes since cats come in different sizes. That means you can find a good-sized litter box for your Yorkie or other small dog breeds. Another key will be to let your dog become familiar with the box. Let them sniff and explore to make sure they know it is a safe place for them. Make sure the sides are not too high, or they may not be able to get in or out very easily. This will be up to you as there are several options. The content you use will depend on how much cleaning up you want to do. You can use newspapers if your dog is newspaper trained already. But that would be a short-term option once your dog gets the idea that the litter box is their bathroom. Another option would be pee pads. These are easy to clean up and can help keep the litter box clean and smelling fresh. If you can afford to buy these pee pads, then you can use them all the time. The best option would be actual kitty litter. But you do not want to buy low-quality litter as they do not absorb very well. These low-level options would be like using a newspaper. To make the time more enjoyable for your pet, make sure to get high-quality kitty litter. It should smell nice, absorb well, and make it easier to clean up when your dog is done. Some Final Words When you have a small dog and live in a small place, training your puppy to go in a litter box is a good idea. This allows your pet to go to the bathroom when you are at work or asleep, making it easier for your pet. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. House Training a Yorkie Overview This breed is actually more easy to house train than some other types of breeds. In general, the Yorkie aims to please. However, in order to have quick success, you'll need to be prepared. This involves having the right things in place in order for housebreaking to work. In addition, you'll want to have a clear understanding of all of the guidelines. If you are not following the rules, neither can your Yorkshire Terrier. This section will show you exactly how to house train a Yorkie with step-by-step tips and advice. Overview of What Will be Needed Before we dive into all of the details, it may help you to have a general understanding of what will need to be in place and be done for housebreaking to work. Then, we'll get into specifics. Realistic expectations. Yorkie puppies do not have full control over bladder and bowel muscles. These will develop as the pup grows. So, needs can only be held for so long. In general, a 2-month old can go about 2 hours, a 3-month old for 3 hours, and so on. This does not mean that your 3-month old puppy will pee and then not pee again for another 3 hours. It just means that this is the maximum time that should lapse between taking the pup out. A supervision method. If your Yorkie is let outside alone, there will be zero opportunities to learn. And if you are not keeping a very close eye on your Yorkie while inside, there will be pee and poo just about everywhere. Exact adherence to housebreaking rules. Every element that is listed is here for a reason. If you halfheartedly follow these, if just some of the household members do the steps, or if some steps are done but not others, success will be limited. Proper reaction to accidents. If you follow all of these steps to potty train your Yorkie, there will be very few accidents. However, some will occur, and it'll be important that you react the right way. Indoor Vs Outdoor House Training For the best and fastest results, we highly recommend housebreaking a Yorkie to eliminate outdoors. It is canine instinct to sniff around outside and choose 'just the right spot'. And, going to the bathroom outside is much easier for a dog than trying to hit the mark on pee pads set up indoors. This said, if you do choose the indoor method of setting up pee pads, do follow all of the same advice here. The main difference will be that the 'designated area' will be the pee pads instead of a bathroom area outside. Step 1 Choose the Bathroom Area One area should be chosen as the designated bathroom area. Here are some important elements about this: A huge part of housebreaking a Yorkie is that the pup will be brought to this area by you. This means that you will not just open the door and let your Yorkie outside. Not only is this very dangerous, but it brings the learning opportunities down to zero. The area should be easily accessible in all seasons and in all weather. What seems to work well in the summer may be hard to reach in the winter. We will also cover some things you can do to make heading outside more tolerable. This should be at least 10 feet away from any family areas, such as the barbecue, outdoor eating spot, etc. Not doing this is the downfall of many housebreaking attempts. An owner sees that their Yorkie is rather close by, they turn to tidy up the room.Or, the puppy is playing with his toys, so the owner looks through the mail and makes a call, and the puppy leaves a poo behind the sofa. So, unless you have your eyes directly on your Yorkie with no distractions, one of two things must be happening: 1 Tethered supervision. If you cannot give your Yorkie your undivided attention but can keep him by your side as you are doing other things, keep your Yorkie tethered to you via a harness and a short 6-foot leash. Note that the harness is vital; do not use a collar as this can cause neck injury. In addition, the leash should be short; 6 feet 9 at the most and lightweight those made of climbing rope are incredibly durable but light, and work well. Any time that your Yorkie makes a motion to pee or poo, you will immediately pick him up and bring him to the designated area. And you will carry him if you must a great benefit of having such a tiny toy breed. For any times that you cannot keep your Yorkie right by your side or for any times that you are not home, you'll need to keep your Yorkie in one specific spot. It is not recommended to use a crate. Crates are terribly confining, and can cause both physical and emotional stress. Since a dog will pee or poo regardless of the size of his area when he simply cannot hold his needs any longer, there is no benefit to keeping a dog in such a small cage. It is also not recommend to use a gate to give a Yorkie an entire room. This not only is potentially dangerous unless the room is fully puppy-proofed, but it also opens up a huge problem with destructive chewing many pups being housebroken are also in the teething phase. And, the pup will end up peeing and pooing all over the room. What is recommended is a properly sized indoor canine playpen also referred to as exercise pens. These offer just the right amount of space, and are often used to help cure separation anxiety it offers a secure feeling of a 'den', while ensuring that all of a Yorkie's necessities are right there with him. Let's take a pause to show our recommended supervision and containment items. Below you will see a harness that comes in extra-extra small, a 6-foot leash made of climbing rope which makes it very lightweight, and two great playpen options. If you do not see the images, try a refresh, and on mobile, you may need to turn the screen horizontal to see all 4. How to set up the playpen: Choose a spot in a room that is used by the family; dogs do not like to feel isolated. If you'll be putting this over carpeting, you may want to obtain a small piece of linoleum from your local home supply store to serve as the base. Within the pen will be a quality bed, a few helpful toys for teething or engagement, food if you'll be gone , water, and a spot for pee-pads. Dogs very rarely soil their own belongings, so any housebreaking accidents will most likely end up on the pads. Note, that if your Yorkie tends to move the pee pads or chews at them, using a canine litter box minus the sand, because that rarely works to hold the pads can work well to keep them in place. Below are some recommended items you may want to have inside the playpen. If you do not see the images, try a refresh, and on mobile, you may need to turn your screen horizontal to see all 4. This combination is how dogs learn best, and what will motivate them to keep working at something. Emmy, photo courtesy of Terry DeMeyer Once a dog carries out a particular action enough times, it becomes automatic; at that time, reward will not be a 'must'; however, it does help to reinforce good behavior. The praise. Choose a certain word or phrase that you will always use. This should be something that you do not mind calling out in public. Just saying 'bathroom' is perfectly fine; though, 'pitty-potty' or another like term will work as well. You will say this each time you bring your Yorkie to the designated bathroom area Let's go pitty-potty and immediately after your dog has done the deed Good pitty potty, good dog! The reward. Special treats should be at the ready, in a zipped sandwich bag, and placed near the exit door that leads to the bathroom area. You'll want to be able to grab and pocket these as you are taking your Yorkie out. As you offer praise, palm a treat and allow your Yorkie to mouth it. The type of treat that you choose as reward for housebreaking plays a big role. Here are 3 tips to keep in mind: This should not be a snack that would be given out regardless. It should be be highly tasty, giving a quick burst of flavor that offers immediate signal of a job well done. It should be small the idea is to offer instantaneous satisfaction and not something that a dog needs to sit down to chew on. Since you'll also want to take care that the treats are high-quality no chemical additives, no by-products, no artificial coloring, and made in the US , one great option is one of the flavors of Fruitables; these come in many flavors, so if your Yorkie is already being given these, try a new flavor like Crispy Bacon and Apple or Mango Blueberry. Below are our recommended treats to reward for housebreaking. If you do not see the images, try a refresh. And on mobile, you may need to turn your screen horizontal to see all 4. Step 4 The Actual House Training Rules Now that you have prepared and have things in place to allow your efforts to be successful, it is time to implement the training. Here are 8 rules to follow: 1. Take your Yorkie to the same designated area every single time. Stand in the center of that area, and allow your Yorkie to choose the exact spot within the diameter. Do not hesitate with praise and reward as soon as your Yorkie urinates or has a bowel movement. Say, 'Good, pee-poo! Bring your Yorkie there before each walk. Allowing a dog to pee or poo while out for his daily walks is a missed opportunity for teaching housebreaking. Be patient. Dogs can take anywhere from 1 to 15 minutes to relax bowel muscles. Bring a chair if you must, but do give your Yorkie enough time. Bring your Yorkie outside often enough. This should be: Right after your pup wakes up About 20 minutes after each meal Right after you arrive back home, if you've been out Every so-many hours depending on age 3 hours for a 3-month-old, 4 hours for a 4-month old, etc. Right before bed 6. Your Yorkie should right in your sights, be tethered to you, or in his playpen. As soon as you see a leg lift or a squat, give a loud hand clap to interrupt and bring your pup right out, even if you must carry him. Time meals. Most Yorkshire Terriers do well with 3 meals per day, 2 to 3 snacks, and with the last meal or snack about 2 hours before bedtime. But, if your Yorkie is waking up and having a bowel movement super early, you may want to try adjusting dinnertime. This may lead to a bowel movement later in the evening before bed, as opposed to 4 or 5 AM. React appropriately at night. Most young puppies will bark intermittently throughout the night and it will be important to try and ascertain if the barking at night is for attention or because there is a bathroom need. Most very young puppies do not yet know to alert you to needs, so the majority of vocalization will be to gain your attention. Since you do not want to your puppy to learn that he's allowed to wake you up times, unless you highly suspect that he needs to poo or pee, barking should be ignored and the pup will learn to self-sooth. If you do bring him out, you will want to strongly convey that this is a serious time and not one for play. Keep lights low and do not speak at all unless it is to offer praise for urinating or eliminating in the designated area. Step 5 Reacting to Accidents If you are home and always have your Yorkie directly within your line of sight, tethered to you, or in his playpen, there should be essentially no times of accidents. And, if when you are not home you have your Yorkie in a playpen, since this is a defined space, pee and poo will be kept to one small area, and hopefully on the pee pads. This said, if your Yorkie does pee and poo in the house, you'll want to react the right way and clean it in the right way. Reacting: If you see your Yorkie starting to pee or poo, interrupt him via a loud hand clap and a firm 'No. If you come across a puddle of pee or a little pile of poo but did not witness it happening, reassess what lead to this in the first place. Were you following the supervision and confinement methods? Also, do not bother reprimanding; it will do little good and being scolded or yelled at may only serve to make your Yorkie afraid of you. Cleaning: Both urine and feces leave strong, lingering scents. The enzymes in this waste matter are not washed away with soap and water. So, while you may not smell anything at all, and the spot may look clean once you've taken care of it, it may still be sending out an almost impossible-to-ignore message to your Yorkie that says 'This is the bathroom area'. For this reason, thoroughly clean any accidents with a quality enzyme cleanser. In most cases, this is a matter of the pup not being outside long enough. Unless a Yorkie urgently needs to go, it can take upward of 15 minutes for the pup to relax bladder and bowel muscles and focus on eliminating. It's a common occurrence for owners to rush back inside too early, particularly if the weather is unpleasant. So, if it is cold, be sure that you're dressed warm enough, and have a warm coat or vest for your Yorkie. If it is raining, why not try a pet umbrella? These work very well for tiny toy breeds like the Yorkshire Terrier not such a great idea for larger dogs. Another trick to try is to hold your Yorkie on your lap after coming back inside. Very few dogs will pee on their owner. Wait 10 minutes, and head out again. If your Yorkie eats grass, noses pebbles, chases butterflies, barks at the dog next door, lies down to take a nap, or otherwise does everything other than going to the bathroom, there are two things to take note of: 1 - Each time that you bring your Yorkie out, the goal is to offer the opportunity to pee or poo, not to insist that it happen. So, if a few of the trips are uneventful, that is fine. Remember, you are in charge. My Yorkie does everything outside other than pee. If your Yorkie eats grass , noses pebbles, chases butterflies, barks at the dog next door, lies down to take a nap, or otherwise does everything other than going to the bathroom, there are two things to take note of: 1 - Each time that you bring your Yorkie out, the goal is to offer the opportunity to pee or poo, not to insist that it happen. My Yorkie is out of control, and pees and poops everywhere in the house, even on my bed. And sleeping up on an owner's bed should not be allowed. See Step 2 in regard to setting things up for success by choosing supervision and confinement methods. A Word About Marking This is not actually a matter of house training; marking is a behavioral issue. Some tips to know if this is a marking issue include: The dog is not fixed. Marking is much more common with un-neutered males and un-spayed females. The dog only urinates inside; bowel movements are done outside. The dog does not release their full bladder; typically urine is sprayed. For this, you'll want to follow guidelines to help a Yorkie stop marking in the house. See Also: Spaying and Neutering a Yorkie - The age this is done, what is involved, expected recovery time, pro and cons. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Contact Us. Small dogs can be trained to use a litter box. My personal experience shows that small dogs, once trained, actually benefit from using a litter box. Small dogs have small bladders, and the opportunity to "go whenever" is a big plus! It's also possible to train a dog to use a litter box that previously used papers or went outside. Dogs can also travel using the litterbox in other locations, and are able to use the litterbox during the day, as well as "go outside" at other times. How Do I Start? What do I Need? You'll need several items to get started. Of course, a litter box is required. I suggest a Purina dog litter box -- or get the largest cat litter box available, and cut the top off the hood. Removing the top makes it much easier for the dog to use, and for you to clean. Use very rough sandpaper or a smoothing tool i. Dogs tend to "go" more frequently than cats, and they don't bury their waste in the same way cats do. People use a variety of "filler" for litter pans. Some folks like to use newspapers or absorbent "pee pads". Others prefer commercial dog litter or cat litter, so they can scoop out and dispose of the waste easily. A few folks have voiced concern over clumping litter in the event the dog ingests it. Personally, I've used all types of filler and haven't experienced a problem with any of it. If you use dog or cat litter, buy a large size litter scoop, it will work best! A 3 to 5 gallon size can works perfectly. I also use a standard diaper pail lined with a plastic bag in my dog room. Whenever the "step-on" pail is full, I empty the can into the diaper pail. This saves a lot of time, and my trips to empty waste are infrequent. Best of all, the diaper pail is designed to contain odors! Cleaning Supplies Are Essential! Most importantly, be sure to have plenty of cleaning supplies. Brooms and easy-to-use mops should be nearby. Lots of paper towels especially at the beginning should be kept on hand. I also find a Dust Buster hand vacuum makes it easy to clean up the sand and litter that inevitably gets kicked around. Bleach is a great odor mask, and putting some in a small container make sure it is completely out of the reach of the dogs goes a long way in odor control. Other odor controls such as candles, sprays and plug-ins can also work well. In general, if you just keep the area clean, odor won't be a big problem. Accidents Can and Do Happen.Be prepared for accidents when house and litterbox training. If you do not completely clean urine stains, they will become a reoccurring spot the dog will use. I've had great success with a product called Simple Solution. During the early stages, I purchased it by the gallon jug. I found no other product that worked as well -- even on my near-white carpet! I also purchased a small home carpet cleaning machine, but the "blot and dry" method described in the product directions will work as well it just takes longer. As with most tasks, there's more than one method to accomplish your goal. I have successfully trained dogs to use a litter box by using two methods: The first method is a gradual paper to litter box method. This method works well with dogs who are already solidly paper trained, and who tend to catch on quickly. The second method is a variation of the common "crate training" used to house train dogs. From experience, I think the latter crate style training is best. Some people find crate training to be drastic -- but it does work, and if done properly with lots of attention, care and praise for the dog -- it isn't harmful. If you're starting from scratch, you'll need to work with the dog very closely, and have your cleaning supplies even closer! The best method for housetraining is to design the environment so that it is difficult for the dog to fail. Your dog wants to please you, and you can help him or her succeed! Obviously, a tiled or easy to clean floor area is best. During the first few days, you will need to constantly monitor the dog when it is not in its bathroom area. In this initial period, the dog should have only two location options: either with you, or a direct path to his bathroom area. You can accomplish this by shutting doors, and using simple gating materials such as latex lattice, child gates, or even pieces of cardboard. In any event, make sure that the dog can ONLY go to his designated area when "caught in the act". Make sure there is a direct path between you and his bathroom only no open side rooms at all times. During the first few days the dog should either be with you, or in his area. If you are unable to watch the dog carefully, put the dog in his bathroom or crate area. If you notice actions such as circling or sniffing usually indicating the dog has "to go" , then encourage the dog to go to his area to do his business on papers. Develop a key word or key phrase for this action. It can be anything you want such as: "go pee", "get busy", "use the box", etc. Repeat the word or phrase often at the spot where the dog should do his business. All the World is a Stage.If you catch the dog in the act of going in wrong place, you need to "shock" the dog. A loud "NO! In any event, his direct path, his destination must be his bathroom area. Once there, start praising the dog and using the keyword. Soak a small bit of the dog's urine in a paper towel or newspaper and put in his bathroom area. If your dog smells his feces or urine in his bathroom area, he will be more likely to use that area. Clean any "accident" areas to an extreme degree. A dog's sense of smell is incredible. I "over-treat" using Simple Solution cleaner. After all the smells and stains are gone to my nose and eyes , I reapply the solution. It works! Of course my mother doesn't agree -- she swears by Woolite Carpet Cleaner apparently a special version for "pet accidents". In any case, get a product that works for you! When the dog goes to the right place to use the bathroom, you need to lavish praise and treats on him, all the time repeating the key word. Frankly, it works best if you overact when expressing your pleasure or displeasure. If by chance you see the dog in the act going on the papers or later in the litterbox , you simply have to be beside yourself with joy and happiness! Believe me, the dog will catch on when you are dancing, praising, and kissing his little head when he goes in the right place! Help the Dog Become Accustomed to the Litter box With either method "paper to litter box" or "crate style training" you'll need to get the dog accustomed to the litter box. It should be in his area from the beginning, with a tiny bit of litter in the bottom and some newspaper inside of it. Newspaper should also be put right next to the litter box if paper training. Some folks have reported better results by adding a one of the commercial "potty aid" liquids in the litter box during the early stages of training. At the outset, you'll need to get the dog used to simply getting in and out of the box. This can made into a fun experience for the dog. Simply lift and place the dog in the litter box and use the key phrase like "use the box". Praise him and be happy. He'll likely get out of the box. Repeat the "praise and happy" routine and even give a little treat. If the dog stresses or tires of the game, just stop. Repeat it another time or day. Soon, you'll be able to repeat the keyword, while gently guiding the dog in the box from outside the box. After a few sessions, you should be able to have dog go in the box on his own when the keyword is used. Placement of the box is also important. It must be next to the newspapers, and the open side should minimize "fallout". Dogs have a digging instinct. I haven't met a dog yet that won't try at least once to dig his way under the litter box! Notice the top picture on this page. See how the litter boxes face toward each other and a wall? This minimizes clean up in the event of digging episode! It looks like a tight spot, but honestly, the small dogs don't have any problem getting in and out. A well-arranged litter box will minimize the "fallout" from a digging episode or normal tracking. Progressing from Paper to Litter box If your dog is solidly paper-trained, you can make a gentle progression from paper to litter box. As I said before, the "crate style" training works best, but some people prefer a more gentle approach. I've used both of these methods successfully. The key for the "paper to litter box" method is to make it very gradual. You'll need a supply of cardboard boxes in various sizes. You can sometimes get these from grocery stores, a moving company or U-Haul store. Moving boxes work particularly well because they come in a variety of sizes. Some masking and duct tape is also useful as you change the sides and shapes. The first step is to make a flat "pan" area with the papers. You can cut out the bottom of a cardboard box and line it with papers, or get something like the washing machine pan pictured here and line it with papers. It should be a minimal "box" -- that is, simply enough side to it that it is not completely flat. This should be an easy transition for the dog. If not, start with the papers on a flat piece of cardboard, then move to a slight "pan shape" box. As time progresses, you need to change the cardboard "pan" to a "box" by gradually changing to boxes with higher sides. This needs to be done slowly, over a period of weeks. At some point, you should have a cardboard version of a VERY large cat litter box the "step up" or "step over" edge should never be higher than your real cat litter box. Next, slowly decrease the size of your "cardboard cat litter box" to be just slightly larger than your real cat litter box. At this point, put the cat litter bottom, or tray, into your cardboard box and line the bottom and sides with newspaper. Once the dog is comfortable with using that, you can clip on the plastic hood remember the top should be cut off. The key is for changes to be so gradual the dog doesn't notice. Next, slowly remove all the cardboard so the dog is using papers in the litter box. Finally, you'll need to slowly move from paper to litter. Start with a thin layer of litter in the front of the box, and paper covering almost all of the bottom of the box. Over a period of days, move to less paper and more litter covering more of the box, and slightly deeper with litter. At some point, you'll be putting a tiny piece of newspaper in the back of the box. It looks really weird, but it works! At some point, you'll be able to get rid of the paper altogether. Crate Style Training Crate style training is, in my opinion, the quickest and most effective means of litter box training. The concept is simple. Every creature has a natural aversion to soiling where it eats or sleeps. The crate style method for litter box training is similar, except than eventually, the dog will have greater freedom, even while you're away from the house. Prior to starting crate style training, you should already have the dog comfortable with the litter box, and able to hop in and out of it without fear see earlier section. The dog should also be accustomed to, or know that he is expected to use "his area" for the bathroom. Instead of just a travel kennel or cage, you make an area with a bed, food, water and the litter box. The area must be large enough for the dog to get up, turn around and lay down comfortably -- but there must be no open space for the dog to use the bathroom except the litter box. The cage material should be sturdy, and something the dog cannot jump over or hurt himself trying to escape from. Use bungee type strapping hooks to easily lash and hook your cage. It's also possible to use playpens or commercial cages. If using a pen or cage, be sure to fill any open space with plastic buckets or some other safe material that will prevent the dog from using open space in the pen or cage as a bathroom area. Once you have constructed your "crate area", place the dog in this "crate" at typical bathroom times after eating, after sleeping, etc. The dog should stay in this crate area until he uses the bathroom. Try to be nearby so you can catch the dog in the act and praise him right after he uses the box. Remember to use your key word or phrase! The crate area should also be the where the dog stays when you leave the house. When you are with the dog in the house, this crate area should be open, and part of his "direct path" to his bathroom area. If the dog uses the bedding material as his bathroom spot, change it immediately! Replace the bedding, and sprinkle bits of food on the new bedding. If there are treats frequently found on the bedding, the dog will not use it as a bathroom area! The crate training routine should continue until you see the dog use the litter box on his own. You should occasionally stay in the room with the dog at times you know he needs to go. With the crate area open, encourage him to use the litter box, repeating with the key word frequently, and praise him whenever he uses the box. Soon, you'll be walk with the dog into the room, use the keyword, and the dog will go in the litter box to do his business. Eventually, he will go there on his own. My dogs sleep in my bedroom. In the middle of the night, they will get up, go across the house to the litter box to use the bathroom -- and then come back to bed! When I leave the house, I can leave them in a small area of the house, and they use litter box! At home, they come and go as they please. Bad weather, cold weather -- it doesn't matter! Everyone is happier! What Can I Do? I've never seen the crate style method not work. Properly laid out, it simply doesn't give the dog any other choice. Check to make sure you have the area as small as possible, limiting his choices. If the dog won't go unless crated, then you'll need to spend more time teaching him to use the box -- simply reinforcing the command to get in the box, and staying with him in the room and gently guiding him in the box, repeating the keyword, and using lots of praise. Use treats as a reward for going in the box along with praise! You can eventually wean the dog away from treats and more towards praise. Remember, this process even crate training takes several weeks before the dog will reliably go in the box by itself, and several months of checking and monitoring before the dog will be fully "on his own". With every dog, there's frustration and you'll say "He just doesn't get it. He will never do this". Then, suddenly, he'll catch on! Another common problem is for some dogs to use the litter box to pee, but they'll poop outside this box or even worse, reversed. There are two factors here: First, dogs typically don't do all their business in one spot. Second, some dogs especially hound breeds sometimes need to "walk it out". That's impossible to do in a litter box. I have one dog who would happily do all his business in the box. My other dog finds it very difficult to poop in the box. Our compromise is that ALL peeing is done in the box. No exceptions. They are allowed to poop near the box, but always in "their room", on the tile, and preferably on the paper next to the box. This works well because I pick up and flush the waste with tissue, and dispose of the litter waste in pails and plastic trash bags. Also, I'll mention that I find that since converting to the Purina dog litter and box system, I've discovered not to use as much litter as the Purina folks would lead you to believe. It's actually easier and more effective to use a thin layer of pellets in the bottom of the litter box rather than the 1" to 3" deep they claim. Using that much wastes a lot of litter, plus it makes it more difficult to scoop out the "used" litter. The Big Mistakes From my own experience and in talking to others, there are some common mistakes to avoid: Be consistent. Pick the dog's area or spot and stick with it. Use the same keyword or phrase. Stay with one brand of litter. Keep a routine as much as possible. Any change must be very gradual. Watch the dog constantly during the first two weeks. If the dog is not beside you with you watching him, he should be in his crate area. There must be a direct path between you and the dog's bathroom area at all times. A single "uncaught" act of peeing or pooping in the wrong place will set you back nearly to the beginning. Never hit, beat or "grind" the dog's nose into the "accident". It will be a mistake your dog will never forget, and you will always regret. Keep the litter box clean. Regularly go into the litter box or boxes and dispose of all the waste. At least once a month, empty out the box and wash it out with soap and water. The dog won't want to use a nasty box. Always deal with relapses or accidents. Once the dog begins to use the litter box, you'll provide more freedom. Then, he or she will have an accident -- or simply decide to start using a different spot. NEVER let this go without dealing with situation. Immediately start the routine again, including crating, if necessary. If you don't deal with a relapse, the dog will revert to going anywhere and everywhere in the house. I disagree with the "experts" in one area: Every book and article I've read says that if the dog has an "accident", he can't make an association between the accident and a rebuke after the fact. In my experience, this isn't entirely true. If my dog has "an accident", I let him come to the spot and I quietly stand slightly away. When the dog inevitably starts to sniff the spot, I give him a sharp "NO! It makes a difference. They do make a connection. Understand, it's not a matter of yelling, screaming, or punishing the dog. Use common sense. If your dog acts confused and bewildered at this type of correction -- don't do it. Alternative Boxes There are also additional alternatives for litter boxes. You can use large plastic bins or the top of travel crates if you need a larger space. There are companies that build and sell self-contained litterboxes to which hoses can be hooked up to flush and exit waste water. You can also build your own custom Ultimate Litter Box! Click here to see one including photos, specifications, and parts required. The End Result What can you expect? After several weeks of work, and a month or two of monitoring and frequent checking, you'll be able to let the dogs roam freely and have confidence they will use the box. You'll be able to put them in their room and go work -- knowing they're not "holding it" or worse, walking in it. You'll be able to go dinner or a movie and not have to cut short just because you know he or she has to go. This isn't an excuse to abandon the dogs -- there are few places I'd rather be than with my little buddies! It gives me freedom, and it gives them freedom. Oh, and on those cold, wet days -- we just look out the window and smile