nh golden retriever puppies for sale

Next up is another thing to do before you bring your puppy home… How To Puppy Proof Your House When puppy-proofing your house, think like a puppy. Crawl around on the floor and take note of what you see. Puppies will chew nearly anything, so make sure that there are no valuables down at puppy-height, or things that could be poisonous to them or be a choking hazard. Make sure there are no open cabinets or pantries where your puppy could get into food. Be careful of small trash cans that could hold some smelly trash that would be enticing to a puppy. And finally, next are a few other random tasks to do before you bring home your new puppy. Getting a golden retriever puppy? Check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook! Not exactly. Find a vet. Find the closest emergency animal hospital. This is not something you want to wait until you need it before looking it up and making a plan. Find a list of local poisonous plants and animals. Talk to your vet and do some research so that you know which plants and animals to avoid. Find a puppy kindergarten class. This will help with training, socialization, and general learning how to be a puppy parent. Check your yard or house for any escape routes. This next section will cover everything from what to expect with a puppy, what to do the first 24 hours of bringing them home, how to train them, and more. A week after bringing Oliver home, it was very obvious to me why she asked me that. Puppies are hard work! Their little bladders can only hold it for a few hours, so this is expected. Chewing Puppies will try to chew any and everything. Like every thirty minutes often. Now, for the most important expectation of them all… You will miss puppyhood! Yes, you will miss the sleepless nights and puppy bites. So make sure to take lots of videos and pictures. How would you like to be treated in this situation? Here are some tips to help your puppy get comfortable in their new home. Let your puppy make decisions When you get to your house, set them at your open front door and let them choose to walk inside. Let them explore their new home on their own terms. Letting them make decisions can give them a sense of confidence, hope, and control, and ease into their new home. Limit visitors Now is the time to build the bond with your puppy and let them get to know you, not overstimulate them with a lot of people. Limit their access to your home Getting used to a new home with two rooms will be a lot easier than getting used to a new home with five rooms. Only let your puppy have access to a few rooms so that they get acclimated to their new area quicker, then as they get more comfortable you can allow them to explore new areas of the house. You can use baby gates to restrict access to sections of the house. Bonus benefit: this will also decrease the chances that they leave you a present in the guest room. In general, just keep things low key when you bring them home and let them get used to their surroundings. Training Your Golden Retriever Puppy Training your golden retriever puppy is one of the best things you can do both for them and with them. They have short attention spans and like to have fun, so short training sessions and training games work best. A lot of people think that training is just obedience training, like sit and stay , but it also includes life skills like crate training , potty training , how to not jump on people or bite them, and how to not pull on the leash. Socialization Socialization is something that is not talked about as much as it should be. It can help mitigate fear and aggression and help them become confident, well-adjusted adult dogs. You can socialize your puppy with other dogs by setting up play dates with gentle dogs that you know are vaccinated and by going to puppy kindergarten. Dog to other living beings includes humans, cats, and other animals. You can socialize them with other people by taking them to a pet-friendly store like home depot, and you can socialize them to other animals by taking a walk by the neighborhood cat with lots of distance between them, so neither animal gets overwhelmed. Dog to stuff is the broadest category, but no less important. When Oliver was very young we were on a walk and a FedEx truck drove by. He had never heard a big truck like that and was terrified. So make sure that your puppy is comfortable with trucks, cars, the garage door, buses, umbrellas, and whatever other objects they may encounter. For instance, if you live in Chicago, get them used to trains, buses and crowded streets. Every day, separate out five special treats for your puppy. For example, you might let your neighbor give your puppy a treat, or maybe you take your puppy to a bus stop and when the bus goes by you give them a treat, or maybe you introduce them to a cow and give them a treat. The treat helps them have a positive experience with these new things and people, plus it helps you easily remember to expose them to lots of these new things. Do this for the first four weeks of their life and before you know it, your puppy will have been exposed to new dogs, people, things, or environments, and will be well on their well to becoming a well-adjusted adult dog. Puppy Raising Mistakes Below are some mistakes that new puppy owners make that could make it harder to train and raise their puppy into a happy, confident adult. Not remembering how young they are Puppies are like little toddlers. Waiting to train your puppy until they have a problem Training your puppy before they have any behavior problems will make life so much easier for you. Forcing things too quickly Things like crate training and potty training take time. Setbacks hurt more than stretching their limits will help, so be patient and take things slowly. Conclusion Golden retriever puppies might just be the best living beings on the planet. However, they are a lot of work and can be quite naughty sometimes. Have any questions about golden retriever puppies? Let me know in the comments below! And if you know someone who is thinking about getting a golden retriever puppy, please share this with them. Related articles:. As long as they are socialised well as a puppy, Golden Retrievers can happily fit into family life. They are gentle but need to be treated with respect by all members of the family, including young children, as like any dog their patience will eventually run out. Common health problems in Golden Retrievers Like any purebred dog, Golden Retrievers may encounter some breed-related health problems throughout their lives. Often, Breed Clubs will also be able to provide advice on what tests your breed may need and where to get these done. Make sure the parents of your puppy have had the relevant health screening to reduce the chances of your puppy being affected by these upsetting conditions. For Golden Retrievers, this is because they can have short legs in proportion to their body and a tendency to become overweight. Eye problems — screening tests are available and dogs should be screened on a yearly basis, especially if intended for breeding. Multifocal retinal dysplasia - abnormal development and growth of the back of the eye retina which can lead to blindness. Generalised progressive retinal atrophy GPRA — slowly leads to progressive blindness over months or years. Retinal pigment epithelial dystrophy RPED, or central progressive retinal atrophy — a genetic problem which causes issues in the back of the eye retina and loss of vision. Glaucoma — high pressure within the eye causing pain and loss of vision. Ichthyosis — a skin disease that causes thickening of the footpads and makes other areas of skin rough and covered with thick, greasy flakes that stick to the hair. Caring for your Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers are usually real big softies and can make a great addition to a home. How much noise they make will be down to the individual dog. Training and socialisation Golden Retrievers thrive off training and are very intelligent dogs. They love nothing more than to be given tasks to do to keep them occupied and have fairly good problem-solving skills — for a dog! As long as your Retriever is properly socialised from a young age , they should be confident around new people and situations. Retrievers also like their chill out time but will be more than happy to show you plenty of affection on their own terms. Exercise Golden Retrievers are very active dogs and need plenty of opportunities to exercise , play and get rid of excess energy. Your Golden Retriever will need a minimum of two hours of good exercise per day. You can find out how much exercise your dog needs , or even find exercises you can do together. Because they are intelligent dogs, Golden Retrievers can get bored easily so make sure you keep their brains active as well as their bodies. As their name suggests, retrieving is what they were bred for, so nearly all Golden Retrievers love a good game of fetch! Grooming Golden Retrievers have medium to long coats and generally do shed a lot. They are not a dog to take on if you hate hoovering! Ideally, they should be brushed or combed three times a week at a minimum. Where necessary you can trim their coat with the right tools, but seek advice from a professional dog groomer or vet first. You may also find that your Retriever loves water including any and all muddy puddles and swimming. Make sure they stay safe around the water and if they get mucky, use a dog safe shampoo. Will you give now to help people and pets in need? As the cost of living continues to rise, vet care could be out of reach for many. Donate to our emergency appeal now to provide vital vet care to pets in need and keep families together during this crisis. Donate Golden Retrievers and children If you have a young family then Golden Retrievers can be fantastic with children. If socialised properly from a young age, Retrievers can be quite calm and tolerant. Always supervise children and vulnerable adults with your Golden Retriever and make sure you can recognise the signs of unhappiness or anxiety in your dog to help avoid any conflicts. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and play with dogs with care and kindness, to prevent any issues. Golden Retrievers and other pets Well-socialised Golden Retrievers are very easy-going, which usually means they can be great around other dogs and pets, too. Any introductions should be done carefully and following the right advice for your other pet, too. Always supervise your dog with other pets, even if they have known them for a long time. Obesity can cause other health problems for your Golden Retriever, so keeping them in shape is extra important. Make sure to monitor their weight and keep an eye out for any sneaky snacking. Your vet will be able to tell you how much your dog should be eating. If you give your dog an occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily food allowance. Use healthy treats in moderation instead. You should try to feed your dog at the same time every day to get them into a routine. Remember to leave a gap before exercising and after eating. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. If you want to buy a pedigree puppy, we recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they have to do extra health tests and meet higher standards. Set-up costs Puppy vaccines — if you rescue a dog, reputable centres will often vaccinate them for you. Remember that ongoing booster vaccinations will be needed to continue their immunity. Neutering — you should usually arrange for your dog to be neutered at around months old, though your vet will be able to advise you exactly when is best. Check prices at your local practice as these will depend on your vet and where you live. Some rescue centres will neuter any dogs they rehome, saving you this cost. Equipment — including a collar and tags, lead, harness, dog beds, dog bowls, pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes, grooming brushes and toys. Keep in mind that all these will need to be replaced with wear or damage or if your dog outgrows or damages them! Ongoing costs Food. Preventive healthcare — budget for routine vet visits to help stop your dog getting ill and catch any problems early. They need annual check-ups, vaccinations and regular flea and worming treatments. Check if your vet offers a health care plan as this can help spread the cost throughout the year. Accessories — including lots of poo bags, replacing worn toys and grooming accessories, buying doggy toothpaste and any other extras they might need. Other costs Training — basic training is very important and dogs can benefit from formal classes. Some dogs may have, or develop, behavioural problems which might need professional management. Boarding — you may also need to budget for boarding or dog sitting costs if you are planning to go away from home on holiday. If you are having difficulty with veterinary costs, you can check if you are eligible for treatment at PDSA here. PDSA Pet Insurance Fun facts As they were bred to fetch game, they have a naturally gentle grip, called a 'soft mouth', so they don't damage the birds they carry back in their mouths. Golden Retrievers have an amazing sense of smell and are often used as search and rescue dogs in other parts of the world. They absolutely love water well, most of them do. Most Retrievers will take any opportunity to have a swim. Luckily, their coats are thick to keep out water and keep them warm. Golden Retrievers make really good assistance dogs and are often a top choice for training to be Guide Dogs for the Blind. Make sure you have the knowledge and dedication to give to these sweet natured dogs to keep them happy and the time and space to exercise them. While they make great family pets, make sure you are absolutely ready to take on the commitment of getting a dog first. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a Golden Retriever. Breed-specific rescues that specialise in Golden Retrievers are out there too. Good rescue centres should let you know of any health and behaviour problems. Breeders If you buy a Golden Retriever puppy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will be well socialised and have all necessary health checks and vaccinations. We recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they meet higher standards. Not sure if the Golden Retriever is the right pet for you? Golden Retrievers were first bred in the early s in Scotland as hunting dogs. Although they are still used for hunting, Goldens also excel at many other activities, including search and rescue jobs and guide work. They require ample exercise—swimming in particular is a great outlet for their endless energy, and most Goldens love it! Their beautiful coats require brushing and in some climates a summer trim may be in order. Goldens are intelligent, understanding, and eager to please their families. The Golden Retriever is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of years. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Golden. By knowing about health concerns specific to Golden Retrievers, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in Golden Retrievers to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for Golden Retrievers. At the end of the article, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Golden looking and feeling her best. Unfortunately, your Golden is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. Dental disease starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Infections Golden Retrievers are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination , which we will recommend based on her age, the diseases we see in our area, and other factors. Obesity Obesity can be a significant health problem in Golden Retrievers. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms , and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. Spay or Neuter One of the best things you can do for your Golden is to have her spayed neutered for males. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions against common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. Genetic Predispositions for Golden Retrievers Cancer Cancer is a leading cause of death in older dogs. Your Golden will likely live longer than many other breeds and therefore is more prone to get cancer in his golden years. Many cancers are curable by surgical removal, and some types are treatable with chemotherapy. Early detection is critical! Hemangiosarcoma is a type of bleeding tumor that affects Golden Retrievers at greater than average incidence. These tumors commonly form in the spleen, but can form in other organs as well. Unbeknownst to a pet owner, the tumor breaks open and internal bleeding occurs. Some tumors can be volleyball-sized or larger before signs of sickness show. We often find clues that one of these tumors is present during senior wellness testing, so have his blood tested and an ultrasound performed at least yearly. Lymphoma or lymphosarcoma is a type of cancer that afflicts Golden Retrievers more than other breeds. This disease makes the body form abnormal lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell. Because white blood cells can be found throughout the body, this cancer can show up almost anywhere. Lymphoma is a very treatable form of cancer with an excellent success rate in dogs receiving chemotherapy. Luckily, lymphoma is one of the few types of cancer that can often be found with a blood test, so we may recommend a complete blood count twice yearly. Mast cell tumors are a particularly nasty type of skin cancer found more often in Golden Retrievers than other breeds. The sooner these tumors are surgically removed, the better. Unfortunately, mast cell tumors often look very similar to other kinds of skin lumps and lesions, many of which are not harmful. Therefore, all suspicious lumps should be tested and surgically removed as soon as possible. Many cancers are cured by surgical removal , so early detection is critical. Bloat Gastric dilatation volvulus, also known as GDV or bloat, usually occurs in dogs with deep, narrow chests. This means your Golden is more at risk than other breeds. When a dog bloats, the stomach twists on itself and fills with gas. The twisting cuts off the blood supply to the stomach and sometimes to the spleen. Left untreated, the disease is quickly fatal, sometimes in as little as half an hour. Your dog may retch or heave but little or nothing comes up , act restless, have an enlarged abdomen, or lie in a prayer position front feet down, rear end up. Preventive surgery in which the stomach is tacked down or sutured in place so that it is unlikely to twist is an option. If you see symptoms, take your pet to an emergency hospital immediately! Bone and Joint Problems A number of different musculoskeletal problems have been reported in Golden Retrievers. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. We can treat the arthritis—the sooner the better—to minimize discomfort and pain. Surgery is also sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases. And keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering! Unfortunately, Golden Retrievers can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs of concern. Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Goldens. Many dogs adjust well to losing their vision and get along just fine. Surgery to remove cataracts and restore sight may also be an option. Glaucoma, an eye condition that affects Golden Retrievers and people too, is an extremely painful disease that rapidly leads to blindness if left untreated. Symptoms include squinting, watery eyes, bluing of the cornea the clear front part of the eye , and redness in the whites of the eyes. Pain is rarely noticed by pet owners though it is frequently there and can be severe. People who have certain types of glaucoma often report it feels like being stabbed in the eye with an ice pick! Glaucoma is a medical emergency. Distichiasis is a condition caused by extra hairs that grow inside of the eyelid and rub on the surface of the eye. This is one of the most commonly inherited diseases in dogs, and your Golden is more likely than other dogs to develop this painful condition. If untreated, these abnormal hairs can cause corneal ulcers and chronic eye pain. Several treatment options are available, and the prognosis is good once the hairs have been permanently removed. Allergies In humans, allergies to pollen, mold, or dust make people sneeze. In dogs, rather than sneezing, allergies make their skin itchy. The feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears are most commonly affected. Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year. Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs of allergies. The good news is that there are many treatment options available for these conditions. Allergies, swimming, overgrowth of hair in the ear canals, and accumulation of earwax can all predispose your dog to ear infections, which are painful and annoying. Goldens are very often afflicted by allergies, which can cause itching and inflammation in the ears and elsewhere. The earlier we diagnose and treat these ailments, the less discomfort and pain your pet will suffer. Be sure to call us if you notice him scratching or shaking his head, a foul odor from the ears, or if his ears seem painful to the touch. By monitoring for ear infections and treating them early, we also reduce the likelihood of eardrum damage that can lead to deafness. Most ear infections tend to recur until we work together to control the underlying cause. Epilepsy There are three types of seizures in dogs: reactive, secondary, and primary. Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma. If no other cause can be found, the disease is called primary or idiopathic epilepsy. This problem is often an inherited condition, and Golden Retrievers are commonly afflicted. If your friend is prone to seizures, episodes will usually begin between six months and three years of age. An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause. Lifelong medication is usually necessary to help keep seizures under control with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and efficacy. Note the length of the seizure, and call us at or call an emergency hospital. Heart Disease Some Golden Retrievers inherit a heart condition known as aortic stenosis. This disease causes a partial obstruction to the blood flow leaving the heart, which means the heart must work harder to pump enough blood to the body. If the condition is severe, your dog may faint or seem to run out of energy during exercise. He may also have difficulty breathing, cough frequently, or have stunted growth. Golden Retrievers are also especially prone to a life-threatening heart condition known as dilated cardiomyopathy, or DCM, in which the heart becomes so large, thin, and weak that it can no longer effectively pump blood to the body. As this problem advances, your pet may act weak or tired, faint or collapse, breathe in a labored way, or cough. If indicated, treatment includes medication and dietary supplementation. Diabetes Diabetes mellitus is a fairly common disease in dogs. Any breed can be affected, but Goldens have an above average incidence. Dogs with diabetes are unable to regulate the metabolism of sugars in their bodies and require daily insulin injections. Diabetes is a serious condition and one that is important to diagnose and treat as early as possible. Symptoms include increased eating, drinking, and urination, along with weight loss. If he shows signs, we will conduct lab tests to determine if he has this condition and discuss treatment options with you. Treatment requires a serious commitment of time and resources. Well-regulated diabetic dogs today have the same life expectancy as other canines. Some of the blood supply that should go to the liver goes around it instead, depriving the liver of the blood flow it needs to grow and function properly. If your friend has PSS, his liver cannot remove toxins from his bloodstream effectively. Surgery may be needed, but in some cases, we can treat with a special diet and medication. Bleeding Disorders Your Golden Retriever is prone to a bleeding disorder called hemophilia. This is an important test as we may not otherwise know whether your pet has hemophilia until severe bleeding occurs during surgery or after a serious injury. Signs can include dry skin and coat, hair loss, susceptibility to other skin diseases, weight gain, fearfulness, aggression, and other behavioral changes. Treatment is usually as simple as replacement hormones given in the form of a pill. Taking Care of Your Golden Retriever at Home Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs. Routine Care, Diet, and Exercise Build her routine care into your schedule to help your Golden live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. She needs a thorough brushing at least weekly most of the year. Twice a year she blows her coat and loses crazy amounts of hair; daily brushing is recommended during this time. Golden Retrievers generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week! Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. She excels at dog sports like flyball, agility, dock diving, and obedience events. She has a passion for water, and swimming is a perfect form of exercise for this water retriever. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. What to Watch For Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help and how urgently. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your Golden Retriever needs help. January 24, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? What does it take to be considered ideal for a family dog? How do you know if the Golden Retriever is the right fit for you and your family? A Brief Background on Golden Retrievers! Bred in the highlands of Scotland by Lord Tweedmouth in the mid to late s, Goldens are a cross between a Yellow Retriever and an extinct dog breed, the Tweed Water Spaniel. Lord Tweedmouth wanted the ideal gundog to accompany him during fowl hunting and be able to withstand the rugged terrain and rainy conditions. Aside from being able to retrieve fowl, Lord Tweedmouth wanted an even-tempered dog to have at home when not hunting. And so, the Golden Retriever was born. Later in the s, they soon became a popular breed amongst American families when President Gerald Ford had a Golden named Liberty as his family dog. Golden Retrievers, like their name states, are golden! Their luxurious coats come in a variety of light to dark shades, ranging from light like the white Golden Retriever or English Cream to dark golden colors, even close to chocolate. Their coats feature feathering down their backs, chest, belly, hindquarters, and tails. Goldens have soft expressions combined with floppy expressive ears that give them a puppy-like appearance even as adults. Another thing to note of the Golden Retriever is that those fluffy coats are actually what are known as double coats. A strong water repellant coat on top coupled with a dense undercoat to regulate their body heat. This all means these pups can be heavy shedders! What are Golden Retrievers Personalities like? There is something to be said about being named a perfect family dog. The Golden Retriever breed is loyal, affectionate, playful, and gentle. If brought into a home with children, your Golden Retriever puppy will be a great addition for help introducing your new Golden Retriever pup to your kids and how to play together, check out our blog! But being a great family dog doesn't mean they are easy! Goldens have lots of energy which can come out in more jumping and being more mouthy, especially as puppies. Check our training tips for raising a well-mannered Golden at the end of this blog! Two to three daily walks are a must, and throw in fun activities like hiking or going for a swim, your pup will stay golden! Golden Retrievers are eager to please type of breed. They generally have happy go lucky demeanors which lends itself to affection and friendliness, including toward strangers. If you wanted a pup that could eventually become a service dog, a Golden Retriever is a great choice and make for excellent working pups! As a high-energy breed, Golden Retrievers do best in a home that will provide them ample access to romp around. Homes with fenced in yards or access to a park or field on a daily basis where they can run and fetch to their hearts content are the best environment for Goldens! These pups, with consistent early socialization, can adapt and thrive to living in a home with other dogs, or pets, and children! They love to play and make great playmates. That being said, their social nature can lead to dependencies on their owners and family. Golden Retrievers may develop separation anxiety if left alone and not properly trained from an early age. Golden Retrievers may also contract heart disease called subvalvular aortic stenosis SAS that with early diagnosis and treatment can allow for a regular life-span. When you are looking to add a Golden Retriever puppy, make sure you are working with a reputable breeder that cares for the health quality of the dogs they breed. Take advantage of that natural drive and eagerness to please by setting foundations at home. Start your puppy a regular daily puppy schedule to create structured routines in the home. Include consistent feeding, nap, play and obedience training times throughout the day to help your Golden pup learn what to expect and build confidence at home. During their puppy training focus on their obedience commands to help your puppy learn to look to you for guidance, build their communication with you, and solidify a trusting relationship! Since Golden Retrievers love to work, positive reinforcement and food rewards will be valuable motivators to get your puppy focused and listening. In-person and online puppy training programs will walk you through how to teach the commands, exercises to help your puppy learn them, and troubleshoot when your puppy needs it! Teach Your Golden Retriever How to Greet New People and Dogs While their open friendly disposition will help your puppy make new friends where ever they go, make sure to teach your puppy the right way to do so! Some overly energetic and friendly pups can get excitable around new people and dogs. That can result in some unwanted whining, lunging, and jumping. When done correctly, socialization helps teach your puppy the proper way to greet people, other dogs and create boundaries. During socialization sessions, you can work with your puppy on those common over-excited behaviors when meeting strangers. And if you're not sure how to do this on your own, hire a local puppy trainer or join an online puppy training school to help set you up for the best success! Do Calming Obedience Exercises With all their high-energy and high-drive, teaching your Golden how to be calm in everyday scenarios will help tame that wild side! Great calming exercises include having your puppy learn to wait for their food bowl and in thresholds each time you enter or leave a space. This also extends to activities like fetch. Goldens are a natal for this! This can be done simply by having your pup drop the toy when they return and pausing for a few moments giving them a chance to settle before throwing it again for them to retrieve. Teach Them to Walk Nicely on Leash Many high-energy pups have a tendency to lunge toward exciting new things! Couple that with a social nature, and you may encounter that your Golden Retriever puppy will start to pull on leash. Focus on teaching them proper leash manners including how to walk in Heel position and how to pass other people and pups without lunging, jumping and excited whining, barking or nipping at them! That can greatly help possible bad encounters with strangers and other dogs while teaching them great habits! Did you recently bring home a Golden Retriever puppy? Are you still planning and not sure what breed fits your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! Check out these blogs related to puppy training and more! My husband and I are bringing home our first puppy in September a goldendoodle and this was super helpful! Emily June 29, , am Thank you so much for this, Jen! I look forward to the post on favorite dog toys! We just got a puppy and, while its only been a week, we are definitely having some issues getting puppy to embrace his crate. He is doing really well with potty training, and has yet to have an accident in his crate, but soon after he enters his crate the howling begins. This way he associates it with a positive place. Also, leave treats in there. Some dogs do better with their crates covered so like drape a blanket over the sides so it feels more like a cave. You might also try placing a t-shirt or something that smells like you in there. Also, leave the door open all the time and praise him if he goes in on his own. Good luck! OH, what a difference! Long after they no longer needed their crates, we kept them and always left the door opened. They would go into them when they were tired, knowing they were in a safe place; their place. Friends always said to us that they would have a dog if it behaved like our dogs. Be consistent. Fun for all of you. I can definitely see how teaching while a puppy can make a huge difference. Looking forward to your next dog related posts :. Reply Link Megan June 29, , pm Ahh thank you for this post! My husband and I are looking into getting a pug puppy soon and these tips are so helpful. Looking forward to reading more posts on this, especially the crate training. Love the tips, we are still trying to stay the course with the UD group classes! Golden are the best! It has been such an eye-opening month with our new puppy. Our other dog is 8 so everything feels brand new. I actually wrote about it in my post for tomorrow, but a puppy is like a baby. My boyfriend and I are getting a golden pup in the fall and while I grew up with the breed I have never trained a pup on my own. We made the choice to get a puppy mostly to instil good habits and behaviour long term. So long story short, I would never put a puppy or young dog or any age in airplane cargo! Reply Link Megan June 30, , pm Good tips! Socializing him right away and crate training him were so key to having an awesome, well-adjusted dog! Reply Link Josi August 20, , pm Hello! Just wondering where you got your goldens? This really helped me figure out what to do when she gets here. Jen May 3, , pm YAY! Our 3rd Golden in about 33 years and know he has some big paws to fill Taegan was wonderful for 14 years. We are so excited!! I have a new English Cream Golden. I feel like I need to work for his affection. Great otherwise! Not super energetic. Bursts of energy followed up by lots of naps but never really interested in walks. First timer here. Your pup could really benefit from basic positive obedience! I would recommend seeking out an experienced trainer in your area to help you as your pup grows! Having a puppy in the home can be fantastic, but you also need to make sure that you can offer it the best as well. She has been really easy to house break. We are excited to bring her home. Thank you for the helpful tips. That is a good idea to make sure that we are committed to doing the work to train this dog. We do really want him to be well trained. Thanks for the tips! Thank you so much for this super informative post! Reply Link Jen January 22, , pm I always made sure she went before we got to the gym and walked her frequently. Meghan January 29, , am Thank you so much for the reply!! We kept each of our puppies on a leash in the house, never out of our sight except when they were in the crate for 4 months before we gradually gave them independence. We always messed with them and held them. They had accidents as you would expect until fully house trained at about 4 months, but never any destructive or aggressive behavior. We gave them plenty of tough chew toys. Also training classes. They were never nervous or skittish. They love to lay on us and never have had any trouble with grooming, food guarding, loud noises, children or other animals. Goldens are great dogs but like any dog, they can only know what you teach them. Great article!! Kathrinne May 5, , am Hi Jen, how old are your puppies when you let them go out? Jen May 5, , am What do you mean? Reply Link Carly September 8, , pm Thank you so much for your article! What would your input be? Do you think they would focus on each other more than their humans? Would 2 puppies be so much more difficult than 1? Any advice is greatly appreciated!! Love the name Zoey!! Any tips to Prevent that?? Reply Link Christine November 1, , am About to get golden 3. Learning all over about everything. Reply Link Jen November 1, , pm It is like starting over again but you will figure it out! Every pup is different but be patient and consistent! This is my first large dog breed so a little nervous. I read your post and you give wonderful tips that I will follow. Please let me know if it is safe to put a flea collar on the puppy. Thank you. Reply Link Jen January 29, , pm I would consult with your vet to see what they recommend for flea prevention and treatment. Also, about the scratching. It could be due to something else like an allergen outside. I have not had a dog in 3 years because I lost my last one in a painful way for me and I am afraid to get another one. I am now ready to get one and this page has helped me prepare for my new puppy. I am a 74 yr old male in pretty good shape no health issues, and retired so I should be around a while to look after a dog. My wife passed about four months ago so I guess I am looking to fill a void. I live in a single family home and have plenty of time to spare. Thanks Reply Link marion duffield April 14, , am I am picking my pup up in 2 weeks! This is the best AND most realistic article I have read about training…. My pup Tank will be 4 months when we get him. He is absolutely adorable. Have only seen photos. He lives with his breeder in Missouri and we live in Canada…. I am so excited for you!!!! Puppies are intense but so much fun. And wow, that is going to be an adventure! Reply Link Theresa April 30, , am Do you have suggestions about golden retriever puppy biting? We got ours at 7 weeks. She is now .How do we stop her from snapping and biting? She is smart and loving. The biting has been rough though. Can you help? But I love dogs soooo much. This info is everything to me. I love this post Soo much. Thanks a ton. You left puppy in car? Or what? Reply Link Madeline October 31, , pm I am picking up my 7 week old golden in 2 days! I am so excited! How did you go out taking him places before he had his full shots? I want to socialize him, and of course potty train him immediately, but obviously there are risks. Whats your take on this? So the whole crate training thing is not going so well. She hates it. Emily Camalo April 2, , pm Hi! Really appreciate you sharing all of this advice! It was super valuable. Reply Link Julie April 11, , am Loved your comments. I have a 9 week double doodle. I have crate trained since day 1 and she has been really good, day 1 upset for a couple of minutes. Day 2 no problem at all. Now just the occasional cry when I leave her but that is over with in a very short space of time. I also leave a low radio on for her. She uses the garden most of the time for toileting, but occasionally she will come into the house and do another wee. The problem I have at the moment is trying to stop her biting. I have tried the gentle command which she listens to some of the time. And I have tried standing and turning my back on her so she realises I am not playing when she bites, but she will then go for trousers or feet, which I try my best to ignore, or she will just go off and do something else like chew a mat or something which is a no no. Any ideas? Regards Reply Link Stephanie January 25, , am Really great info, thank you for your article. Our puppy arrives in 5 days and we have been preparing for months. Your advice is. Very helpful. Blessings to you. Read the full disclosure here. They rely on you for everything and their health and well-being is well and truly in your hands. In order for your Golden to live as long and as healthy and fit a life as possible, you need to first educate yourself on how to care for them properly and build this knowledge into actions and routines. A balanced and nutritious diet, regular exercise , grooming and regular veterinary health checks are all essential parts of maintaining good health and quality of life. All of these are under your control. By taking steps to do the best for your Goldens health and monitoring their well-being regularly, you can prevent illnesses happening, avoiding pain and discomfort for your Golden and vets bills and heartache for you. At first, being a caring and responsible owner can seem a daunting and herculean task, but breaking it down into little manageable routines really does make it easy. Health Care Routines For Your Golden Retriever You should keep a diary and set up daily, weekly, quarterly and yearly routines to make sure every need is met and your Golden is well looked after. Example routines would be: Daily: Provision of nutritious food and clean water, regular and sufficient exercise, general health check via bodily inspections. Weekly: Inspection of ears, eyes and oral health and hygiene. Comprehensive grooming and nail care. Quarterly: Bath your Golden. In the past, any more often than this was bad for their coat quality and skin. Scheduled visits to a veterinarian and canine dentist, perhaps alternating every 3 months so two visits to each per year. Yearly: Vaccination top-ups. Following is a brief discussion of areas you need to pay attention to in order to care for your Golden well. Particularly during their puppy years they can get themselves into all sorts of trouble around your home and garden so you have to undertake a certain amount of puppy-proofing your home : Fence off swimming pools or ponds in your yard as they will get in there but being so small they may not be able to swim well and could find it impossible to get out unaided. Research the plants and flowers you have in your home and garden as there are in excess of one hundred plants known to be toxic to dogs and Goldens love a good chew! Remove or make safe any sharp items in your home that your Golden may play with, rub against or walk over in their playing. Hide away any electrical cables because a dogs sharp teeth and electricity are a particularly dangerous combination. Goldens can learn to open simple storage units and household chemicals therein are extremely dangerous to your dog. For now, just pretend you are an inquisitive dog, tour your home and garden and imagine just how they could get themselves into trouble in any of the areas they have access to. Then take steps to make those areas safe. Diet, Nutrition and Water Intake Dogs in the wild would hunt and scavenge, eating a wide variety of different foods, taking care of their own diet and ensuring they get all the nutrients they need. Modern dogs no longer hunt and scavenge and instead rely on their owners to provide them everything they need. You need to research, find and provide a good scientifically formulated diet to match their very particular nutritional requirements. You should note that a puppy has different nutritional requirements to an active adult dog, that is again different to a very senior dog who may have somewhat slowed down. There are dog foods balanced to meet a dogs different needs for each stage of their lives and activity levels. One thing you really need to watch out for with Golden Retrievers is over-feeding. And a Golden will never say no, they just love to eat! So please be mindful of their food intake and monitor their weight. No dog should be overweight. It can lead to joint problems, which leads to mobility problems, as well as diseases of their internal organs which can really shorten their lives. As well as good food, your Golden needs access to a good, clean and fresh supply of water every day. Dehydration is a real problem, as is over-hydrating in some dogs. And any drastic changes in their intake usually signifies an underlying health problem and you should seek the advice of your vet. Exercise Golden Retrievers are a sporting breed, bred for working and hence considered a high energy breed. To keep them fit and healthy and to occupy their minds you will need to provide them with lots of opportunity for structured exercise. Notice I said structured exercise! This means you cannot simply let them out into your yard and hope they take care of exercise themselves. They will walk around a bit and mostly just spend their time begging to be let back in with you. You have to plan structured exercise such as running, playing fetch or swimming. You have to take them out for a minimum of 45 minutes of exercise per day on top of their normal walks, and preferably with a good 2 hour bout of longer exercise at least once per week. The five minute rule is that a puppy needs no more than 5 minutes structured exercise per day for every month they have been alive. So a 4 month old puppy needs just 20 minutes, a 5 month old puppy 25 minutes etc. So take it easy with a puppy. Training Just how important training is for your Goldens quality of life cannot be overstated. A dog that listens to and responds to just a few well-trained commands can be kept infinitely safer than an untrained dog. So you should provide your Golden with a decent firm yet soft bed and a nice comfortable lining for their crate if you use one. If you have a yard and your Golden will be expected to spend any length of time outside you should provide a form of shelter so they can keep off the cold wet floor in winter and get out of the sun in summer. There are many options for suitable kennels and many of them are reasonably priced. If you fail to keep up a regular schedule of brushing, their coats very quickly become knotted and then matted and these are all but impossible to remove without the help of a pair of scissors. Regular brushing also helps to keep your Goldens coat clean and removes dead hair. When it comes to bathing, Golden Retrievers have a double coat and natural oils that help waterproof them so bathing too often is actually bad for their coats…at least it always used to be. Just be sure if you do wish to bathe them often that you research the shampoo used and pick one suited to regular bathing for Goldens. Human shampoo will never do as it will strip their oils and is too acidic for their skin and will irritate them. And cheap dog shampoos will strip the oils too. You kinda get what you pay for. To keep their coat healthy and prevent irritation you need to remove all the soap. Note: Click here for a selection of the best dog brushes suitable for your golden Nail Care Depending on how often your golden walks on hard abrasive surfaces, they will probably need their nails trimmed every 10 or 12 weeks. But if your golden is constantly walking pavements and roads, they may never need a trim due to concrete and tarmacs abrasive, nail-file like effect. Anyway, you should regularly check your dogs paws. This can be very uncomfortable for your dog and if it gets out of control even painful. You can quite easily trim your dogs nails at home , or you can take them to the vet where they will do the procedure for you. If you do wish to do it at home, I recommend taking your dog to the vet first and asking for advice on how to do it, being shown and learning from the pros rather than risking it alone from a book. Better safe than sorry! Look inside to make sure they are a healthy looking color, not bright red and inflamed. Also check for lots of small little grainy looking brown dots. These are the droppings of ear mites and a sign of a parasitic infection which should be treated ASAP. Dental Care Dental hygiene is an often overlooked area of dog care by many people but is very important. Much like us, dogs can suffer with tooth decay, cracked teeth, gum disease and a build up of plaque and tartar. Not only does this detract from the overall good looks of your dog, it can be quiet uncomfortable, sometimes painful and can lead to more severe problems if left untreated. So you should regularly check their teeth and gums yourself, make use of available chews that help to clean their teeth and take your dog to a canine dentist every 6 to 12 months. Try to treat your dogs teeth as good as you would treat your own. Parasitic problems Fleas, ticks and other parasites can be a real problem for dogs, leading to many problems ranging from mild skin irritation, to extreme sores and infections, and in the most extreme cases dramatic weight loss, tape worms and Lyme disease. So you should regularly check for parasites in your Golden which is very easy to do if you are sticking to a regular schedule of brushing their coats. Simply spend an extra minute to inspect closer to their skin looking for ticks, fleas or small dots droppings in their fur which would indicate the presence of parasites. Treatment for fleas and ticks can be administered at home as there are many treatments for this available over the counter. Try to make it every 6 months, but once per year as a minimum. This will allow your vet to become familiar with your dog which makes spotting changes easier for them. And it gives them a chance to spot problems early that you without an untrained eye may not pick up on. As always, prevention is better than cure and if there is ever a problem then catching it as early as possible is vital for more effective treatment and minimal pain and discomfort for your pet. Regular visits to the vet allow this early discovery. You will also need to see your vet to have your puppy vaccinated. There are many diseases, some fatal, that can be prevented easily with a course of vaccinations. Distemper, parvovirus and hepatitis as well as the infamous rabies can all be kept at bay with vaccines. A puppy will require shots starting at 6 weeks with a course of various shots taking them up to 18 weeks or so. The rabies shot is administered at about 6 months of age and after this your Golden will require just a yearly top up to maintain protection. Highly Recommended Training Course For a detailed program to follow in the form of a video library, including a step-by-step roadmap for raising a puppy from 8 weeks old all the way to a confident, well-trained and happy adult dog, you could do a lot worse than checking out The Online Dog Trainer. This program contains over follow along videos of an NZ SPCA endorsed professional dog trainer, covering all aspects of dog training, solving behavior problems in real life scenarios, explaining the theory, giving practical advice and more. You can see him getting real results in real-life consultations with his clients, so if you ever have a behavior problem you need to solve, you can follow along for almost guaranteed results. Of course, we are developing a fantastic training resource here at TotallyGoldens. Click here to learn more at TheOnlineDogTrainer. Caring For Your Golden Retriever Final Thoughts Regular grooming will keep your Golden retriever not only looking at their absolute best, but also with your help and intervention it keeps them healthy and disease free too. You May Also Like. If you also have brought a newborn golden retriever puppy to your home, you need to be extra careful in handling him. It is significant to note that newborn golden retrievers should not be handled like human babies. In this article, I will suggest you 10 tips that will definitely help you to take care of a newborn golden retriever effectively. Before owning golden retriever, it is necessary to know about his temperament— Know everything about golden retriever temperament Ideally, it is better to allow the mother of golden retriever puppy to take its care and responsibility. The puppy must be allowed to stay with his mother and the litter for the first few days. The puppy owner must take care of the puppy as well as its mother and ensure that they are totally comfortable and at ease. Mother as well as the puppy must be fed properly and their nutritional demands must be met properly. A newborn golden retriever puppy may have a lot of needs and its mother can take better care of its growing needs. Since, initially, the puppy is non-explorative, it requires more attention as far its safety is concerned. Mother as well as the dog owner must take care of the highly vulnerable puppy. Proper diet and clean water must be provided to the mother, especially if she is nursing her baby. It is important to ensure that high quality ingredients are available in the food being provided to the mother and the kid so that their nutritional requirements are met in the most effective manner. I have listed some good commercial foods that are must have for the mother of new born puppy:. Grooming Gear like Shampoo, Brush, and Nail Clippers Fun Toys You may hear or read about certain items that people find ever so important to their time with a puppy. However, how you raise your puppy is completely up to you. What are some of the top suggested items you might consider? Car harness Poop bags and sanitary equipment Walking Harness Items such as a walking harness, car harness, and a crate can help you during the training process. These allow you to have better control over your golden retriever puppy during situations such as travel, times away, and even socialization. If you do not have a backyard area for your puppy to play and go potty in, there are many different sanitary objects you might consider picking up. Apartments, parks, and public areas will require you to pick up after your little buddy when they use the restroom, so having these handy will make things easier on you! Puppy Proof Your Home Having a puppy is exactly like having a new baby in your home. Puppies love to chew on things, get into trouble, and all around be mess makers. They baby-proof it! In areas, they are allowed to roam in, try to investigate any unsecured cupboards, trash bins, or cabinets they may be able to get into. You can either clear the space or get baby-proof locks to keep the puppy out. Take the time to also secure any loose wiring they can nibble on! Pick a Vet You Trust The puppy stages are when the most crucial health checkups and vaccinations occur. Take the time to research vets in your area who have good ratings and are available on your schedule. Then, call them! Finding a vet you can trust and who is happy to help can be a huge relief to you and your puppy. Puppies are hard work! There are certain steps you should take to make training and care of your puppy as easy as possible for the early learning stages and future situations. Let Your Puppy Acclimate When you go to a new place, it is all at once exciting, overwhelming, and a little upsetting. People get homesick and need time to acclimate to a new place, so is it any surprise the same is true for your new puppy? This may be their first time away from their mom and siblings. Let them investigate their forever home, find all the new smells, and get their legs. Make a Plan and Stick to It Before your golden retriever puppy arrives, build a routine and make a game plan for how you will handle situations. Puppies need a lot of care as they are learning, and knowing how you expect to handle accidents or missteps, such as accidental potty indoors, can help you remain strict but loving as you train your puppy. On top of that, keeping a routine such as set food times, walk times, and play times can help your puppy get the ropes more quickly. They will learn approximately when it is time to do certain things and allow you to get work done as they make naps fit your schedule. Socializing and Training Golden retrievers are smart, but just like any dog, working on socialization and training early can help you and your puppy build a stronger relationship. Potty training and obedience training are big hits, of course, but also keep in mind distance training and manners. Training your dog to understand when you are away that you are coming back can prevent them from having anxiety issues or dealing with damaged belongings. Manners training and socialization nearly go hand in hand. Having them meet new people and animals ensures they will be able to handle newcomers to your home or in public. Take the time to make every socialization a thorough learning experience where you train them not to jump or pull. Give Them Love Not every session with your dog should be training non-stop. Golden retriever puppies need love and cuddle time too! Be sure to play with your puppy and snuggle him as much as possible. You can even take him or her on adventures to let them have new experiences! Be sure to also offer them some alone time. It may sound silly, but letting them go around on their own allows them to explore the home and learn it is theirs. They can also process lessons they learned during the day! Share this:.

Typically a Black Poodle is bred with a Black Lab, but since black is a dominant color, sometimes another color of poodle red, chocolate, etc , can still have black puppies. Black Labradoodles have become wildly popular for their sweet, lovable nature, familiar black color, low-shedding and hypoallergenic coat characteristics. Labradoodles come in other colors, such as chocolate, yellow, cream, parti-colors, and occasionally red, but some people love the sweet nature of a Black Labradoodle. Many first generation Black Labradoodles f1 will shed. We recommend getting an F1b Black Labradoodle if you're worried about shedding or have dog allergies. Friendly Black Labradoodles One of the most desirable characteristics of the Black Labradoodle is their deep love of people. A Black Labradoodle is the happiest when they are surrounded by people that they love. They are highly intelligent and trainable, Black Labradoodles enjoy the stimulation of training and are eager to please their loved ones so they pick up on the cues very quickly. Some Black Labradoodle puppies receive many of the Poodle characteristics of being reserved, having a coat that is very fine and needs regular trimming. While other Black Labradoodles receive the excitable and almost immature nature of the Labrador Retrievers. As the Black Labradoodle becomes more common and breeders are crossing them with more consistency the discrepancies are becoming less of an issue and the breed is becoming more consistent. It is important to realize that the AKC does not yet recognize Black Labradoodles as an official breed, though most other registrations recognize them. The AKC actually does not yet recognize any of the doodles. Most families that want a wonderful dog, and are not concerned about show events do not care that the AKC does not officially recognize the Black Labradoodle currently. Black Labradoodle Best Breeders The best way to avoid the inconsistencies of the Black Labradoodle breed is to adopt from a reputable breeder. Avoid puppy mills at all cost and make sure that the breeder you buy from is caring for the health and wellness of your Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy from before conception until you take your Black Labradoodle home with you. A Black Labradoodle should have a sleek, black coat with no sprinklings of any other color and have a black nose. Talk to your breeder about silver and blue Labradoodles as they often appear black as puppies. Some people prefer the looks of a silver or blue Labradoodle to a Black Labradoodle. A Blue Labradoodle, for instance, will start out looking like a Black Labradoodle, but as it grows its coat will come in a beautiful "blue" color. Although the color is called "blue" in the dog world it is almost a gun metal gray. Silver Labradoodles are a lighter silver color than a Blue Labradoodle. Their adorable curly fur and expressive faces make you want to cuddle them — and these little guys love nothing more than a good squish. All this and more makes our labradoodle puppies for sale one the most in-demand in our center. Activity-loving families adore these dogs for their propensity towards sports, and anyone who prefers low-shedding pooch benefits from their wooly or fleecy fur. Labradoodle puppies for sale are so cute and come in such a wide range of colors that it makes choosing your new best friend super-hard! While spearheading the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia breeding program, he conducted the crossbreeding of a standard poodle and Labrador retriever in view of it being a hypoallergenic guide dog for blind people. The first example of this type of dog, called Sultan, went to live with a lady in Hawaii, where other breeders saw him as an inspiration and this is how Australian Labradoodle puppies started. Both the International Australian Labradoodles Association and the Australian Labradoodles Association of America are working hard to incorporate more intergenerational breeding so these dog breeders can register this type of dog as a purebred dog. Its gentle, obedient and intelligent personality combined with a hypoallergenic coat make it ideal for family members with allergies, but it also makes an excellent service or therapy dog. Labradoodle Puppies Lifespan When properly taken care of, healthy dogs tend to live anywhere from 10 to 13 years. The lifespan of our Labradoodle puppies for sale is slightly above average at 12 to 14 years. Here are the life stages of multigenerational Australian Labradoodles: Puppyhood: First five months Adolescence: Between five months and two years Adulthood: Between two and three years Middle age: Between seven years and 10 years Senior: Over 10 years Labradoodles need the most attention and care in the first and last stages of their life. During puppyhood, their minds are highly impressionable, which is ideal for training. During their senior years, Labradoodles are more susceptible to health problems, which means owners need to keep a watchful eye. Labradoodle Size The size of labradoodle puppies for sale directly relates to the size of their parents and which generation of breed Labradoodle breeders chose. The larger the puppies, the larger the adult dog will be, and the faster their growth will be coming out of the puppy stage. A standard labradoodle puppy will weigh from pounds by the time it reaches two months of age. By a year old, it will have grown dramatically to up to 80 pounds, depending on the size of its parents. Medium Labradoodles occupy a spectrum of sizes between standard and mini Labradoodles, with the specifics depending heavily on the details of the breeding pair that birthed them and the breeding program they come from. Labradoodle Puppies Temperament While Labradoodle breeders originally bred the Australian Labradoodles as therapy dogs, their fun, friendly personalities made them popular pets. Now you can find these sociable dogs in homes across the globe. Here are some of the top personality traits of our Labradoodle puppies for sale. They tend to do best in active households where they can work off all that pent-up energy. You can fulfill their needs through the following activities: Walks or jogs: Labradoodles make great walking companions and can even keep up with you during a jog. Playing in the yard: Enjoy a game of fetch with your furry friend in the yard or just let it loose on its own. Dog sports: If you stay active through sports, consider making your labradoodle a part of your routine. Bring it on bike rides, go for a run together or kick a ball around in the yard. Obstacle courses: Set up an obstacle course for your dog using household items. Scavenger hunt: Creating a scavenger hunt for your canine is a great way to exercise its body and brain. In general, Labradoodles need anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes of exercise a day. You can also enroll them later at a Labradoodle puppy alumni school for proper training. Friendliness What makes Labradoodles the perfect puppy compare to other dog breeds is their ability to get along with just about anyone. They inherit this trait from their Labrador retriever parent, a breed also known for its outgoing nature. You can trust your labradoodle to form friendships with everyone, from children and older adults to strangers and other puppies. Thanks to their affectionate, sociable personalities, Labradoodles make great pets for first-time owners, families, or anyone looking for a companion. Intelligence Thanks to their poodle parent breeds, Labradoodles are incredibly intelligent dogs. Because Labradoodles are intelligent, they often crave mental stimulation. Labradoodle Puppies Grooming Our Labradoodle puppies for sale have a variety of coat textures that dog owners enjoy, but in general, their low shedding coat needs brushing at least twice a week. Not only does this keep them tangle-free but it also removes excess debris from their coat, keeping them fresh and hygienic. Regularly trim the hair around their eyes and in between their paws to prevent these problem areas from causing irritation. Pooches with fleece coats tend to have longer fur and benefit the most from going to a professional groomer — although every dog loves getting pampered once in a while. At Pride and Prejudoodles, we send a can and a bag of the foods we use for free with your hand-delivered bundle of joy. If you need to change it for any reason, it must be done gradually to avoid stomach upsets. Just bear in mind that a diet is such a crucial aspect of wellness that feeding them good quality food will add years to their lives compared to opting for low-quality feed. Pride and Prejudoodles is here to help. We hope you found our guide informative. Please contact us with any other questions you have about our Labradoodle puppies for adoption. The multigenerational means that the pups we sell are the result of at least 3 successive generations of Labradoodles. This ensures that our dogs exhibit all the best Doodle traits while minimizing the undesirable traits of their parent breeds. Our medium Labradoodles are the result of years of hard work and dedication to breeding the best dogs possible, period. How big are medium Labradoodles? Medium Labradoodles fit exactly where you think they would on the Doodle size spectrum—smaller than standards but bigger than miniatures. The most important thing to note is that no matter the size, our Labradoodles are bred to have consistent personalities and coats. Whether your adult Doodle is 15 pounds or 50 pounds, we strive to meet the same expectations with all of our puppies. Should I buy a medium Labradoodle? Good question! That depends on how much exercise you can give your new friend, and how much space you have at home. While medium Australian Labradoodles are smaller than standard Labradoodles, these dogs still need lots of exercise to stay happy. Medium Labradoodles are great for active people or those with a big yard. Even though Labradoodles are very well-behaved, keeping a medium or large dog cramped up inside all the time will make him or her restless and unhappy. We breed Doodles in four distinct size ranges:. Before you even look at medium labradoodle puppies for sale, you should know what you need to do to take care of them. Dogs are pretty independent creatures, but still require a good bit of upkeep, so before you start looking at medium labradoodle puppies for sale, here are a few things you should know. How Do You Groom Them? Some labradoodles need only a little bit of brushing, while others require a lot of grooming. It all depends on their coat. Regular and thorough brushing is crucial, and will need to be done several times a week. However, they still require baths. What Do They Eat? Every dog is different, and has different dietary needs depending on their size, age, and levels of activity. Speaking of the vet, labradoodles under the age of 10 need to see a veterinarian once a year, or as directed. Dogs years and older, though, need to see a vet twice a year. That being said, there are creative payment options and other sources of assistance that can help cover vet bills. If you are, then head over and see what medium labradoodle puppies for sale we have! Not suited to apartment living due to size and exercise requirements. Good with Children Yes. A Standard Labradoodle is classified as a large dog breed. When they are fully grown, Standard Labradoodles get to a height of 20 to 26 inches .Their full adult weight is between 50 and pounds .Yes, Standard Labradoodles are a large breed because they weigh at least 50 pounds which is the condition for a dog to be considered a large breed. They also have an average height of 23 inches which is just over the 22 inch height requirement for a dog to be considered a large breed. Standard Labradoodles are 20 to 26 inches .Evidently, they are about 5 or 6 inches taller than this because of their head however the standard is to measure dogs at the withers their shoulders as their heads move so much. A Standard Labradoodle is between 50 and pounds in weight. Female Standard Labradoodles tend to be lighter weighing between 50 and 85 pounds while males generally weigh between 60 and pounds. There is such as wide weight range as they are a mixed breed dog and their weight highly depends upon the percentage of Poodle to Labrador Retriever genes they have. Generally Labradoodles that have a higher percentage of Labrador Retriever genes weigh more than ones that are more Poodle. Standard Labradoodles are fully grown between 12 and 18 months of age. As the largest version of the Labradoodle, they take the longest to reach their full adult size. The general rule is that large breeds grow at a slower rate than small breeds. It is expected that a Standard Labradoodle would reach its full height around 10 to 12 months of age and for the remaining months will gain weight at a steady rate. A Standard F1 Labradoodle is a first generation pup. This means that it was the result of breeding a purebred Standard Poodle with a purebred Labrador Retriever. A Standard F1b Labradoodle is the first cross-back generation. The main reason why breeders produce cross-back generations is to get a litter of Labradoodles that have curlier fur that more closely resembles a Poodle. This coat is more hypoallergenic and therefore more highly suited to allergy sufferers. Labradoodles can be both medium and large dogs, it depends on what size Poodle is bred with the Labrador Retriever. Standard Labradoodles are classified as a large dog breed while Medium Labradoodles and Mini Labradoodles that are on the larger size are considered to be medium sized dogs. Standard Labradoodles live for 12 to 15 years. This is the same lifespan length as Medium Labradoodles and only slightly shorter than Mini Labradoodles. As a mixed breed dog, Standard Labradoodles have less hereditary health issues than their purebred parents which prolongs their lifespan. This is one of the reasons why this cross breed was made in the first place. Check out the adorable Labradoodle puppies that are currently available here! PuppySpot is a dog adoption website that connects breeders with prospective pet owners. They have a zero tolerance policy for puppy mills which is why they screen every breeder annually! They have placed over , puppies in homes and offer various trusted, USDA-certified transportation options to deliver your puppy to your home safely! Further Reading.

The breed is known for its diverse coat color genetics, with the black and cream variation being a rare but increasingly popular coloration. This is not uncommon, since the coats of GSD puppies can often change with time. But even though the differences are subtle, they are still there. These dogs most often have the typical saddle pattern on their coats, where their back is mostly black, while their underside, legs, chest, and face are dominated by a pale shade of cream. The personality or temperament of a dog is unaffected by the color of its coat. The intelligence, loyalty, protectiveness, and all the other traits that make German Shepherds great for first-time owners are just as present in the black-and-cream variation. Genetics, socialization, and training, not coat color, dictate personality and temperament in animals. The AKC only recognizes the standard German Shepherd, which can come in a variety of colors, including black and cream. They are intelligent, loyal, and protective dogs that make great companions. German Shepherds are generally known for their intelligence, loyalty, and protective nature. You should always remember that all dogs, regardless of breed or color, are individuals and have unique personalities and traits. So while German Shepherds may have certain traits commonly associated with the breed, the specific dog you choose could have different characteristics. Seek out a great breeder and talk to them in depth about their pups. Owning a dog is a big responsibility and requires time, effort, and money for proper care. So make sure you are prepared for the commitment before getting a dog. Final Thoughts Black and cream German Shepherds are really a sight to behold! Actually, all GSDs are beautiful boys and girls, but there is always something special about a rare color pattern. Hiding treats for your dog to find. Obedience training Grooming The White German Shepherd is a heavy-shedding dog with a double white coat and requires regular brushing. Ideally, a White Shepherd should be groomed every other day, possibly daily, during the peak shedding season. Male vs. Female While for many animal species, the female is larger, with the German Shepherd, it is the males that are larger. While German Shepherds are all loyal and loving family dogs, it is often noted that females are more docile than males. This makes a female Shepherd a better choice for homes with young children. A female White Shepherd reaches sexual maturity at two years of age and has a litter of between five to ten puppies. They have an intelligent and fearless personality and are eager to learn and please. These traits make them wonderful family pets. A determined personality also makes shepherds adept at being working dogs. The White German Shepherd is a loyal and loving dog that quickly forms an unshakable bond with its family and is fiercely protective of them. It is vital for all dog owners to understand that training is important. Any German Shepherd breed needs to be trained and socialized correctly. Failing to do so leads to problems with jealousy and distrust of strangers. White German Shepherd Health and Care All dogs come with their own potential health problems and care requirements. For the White German Shepherd, there are several critical quality-of-life considerations to make. While both White and regular German Shepherds suffer from a lot of the same health issues, there are some with a higher prevalence in white breeds. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is one of the most common health issues faced by White German Shepherd dogs. Caused by a misformation of the hip joint, dysplasia is a painful condition resulting from bone-on-bone grinding. While it can be seen in White German Shepherd puppies as young as four months, it is more common in older dogs. It can be treated with the help of CBD Oil for hip dysplasia. Sadly, this painful condition is very prominent in German shepherds. This is largely due to their combined size and energy levels. Unfortunately, arthritis is a progressive condition that cannot be cured. In the White GSD, arthritis is more common in their hind legs than in their front. Gastric Bloat Gastric bloat is the common name for a serious medical complaint known as gastric dilatation volvulus GDV. Bloat commonly occurs in larger dogs, particularly German Shepherd breeds. There is no time to waste with this condition. If a dog is showing signs of bloat, they need immediate medical attention, as it could quickly become fatal. Canine Degenerative Myelopathy CDM Canine degenerative myelopathy is a degenerative disease that affects the spinal column. German Shepherds are one of the most commonly affected breeds. The result of CDM is commonly rear-leg paralysis. Middle-aged dogs between 4 and 14 years are more likely to be diagnosed with CDM. Pay attention to any limping or signs of motion impingement. Other Diseases Deafness is another disease that is more common for the White German Shepherd than other breeds. As a general rule, deafness is a common health concern for white-coated dogs and other animals. Some of the core allergies that affect this breed are related to chicken, wheat, and dairy. Dental decay is also a serious problem that is frequently observed in German Shepherds. More so with them than many other breeds. Using dental chews in combination with a healthy diet is a great way to promote healthy teeth and gums. They love to be challenged, while their loyalty sees them eager to please. While Shepherds make great pets, it is important to train them from a young age. Below are five training tips for White German Shepherds. Be consistent: White and other German Shepherds all respond better to training when there is consistency to things. Everything from your manner to the commands you use needs to be consistent from one training session to another. Layer your training in easy-to-iterate steps. Master one of two commands before introducing something else. Be a leader: It is important to remember that dogs are looking for you to be a leader and not a dominator. You must be prepared to take charge rather than use aggression as a training tactic. Communicate properly: Dogs do not communicate the same way humans do. It is important to understand the right way to communicate with your White Shepherd. Short and clear commands yield the best results. Also, avoid using similar-sounding commands, as these are likely to confuse your dog. Practice positive reinforcement: Never punish a dog for not doing well in training or for struggling to recognize a command. Instead, positive reinforcement is the recommended training practice. Reward your furry friend for every good deed. However, the exact costs will vary depending on where you are and the size of the litter. The price also relates to buying White Shepherd puppies from a recognized breeder and not from a puppy farm or through shelter adoption. White German Shepherds are different from other German Shepherd dogs in so far as they have a white coat rather than the traditional tan and brown. However, genetically, there is no difference between White Shepherds and other shepherds. The difference between them is that the White German Shepherd carries a recessive white gene that changes its fur color. This is the same way some humans are born with blond hair. Conclusion The White German Shepherd is the rare form of one of the most easily recognized dogs in the world. Wonderful family dogs. German Shepherds love to be part of the family. They struggle when home alone for long periods. Luckily, this breed is very good with children. The same as any other dog, White Shepherds need to be trained. Exercise is also crucial for this breed, as they can become destructive if they do not get enough physical and mental stimulation. If you work from home or have a family member at home a lot of the day, then a White German Shepherd is an ideal dog. Just make sure ahead of time that you understand the amount of work it takes to train a shepherd puppy from a young age. Whether you are a new or experienced dog owner, the White Shepherd is a great choice for your house. All dogs need love and affection, but the hyper-intelligent German Shepherd needs more than most in order for them to truly feel settled in their home. Luckily, the effort you put in is returned multiple folds in the affection your dog shows. Related Guide:. Color breeders often overlook the important health-related aspects of breeding, which can lead to unhealthy pups that achieve color preferences. Avoid purchasing these pups from pet stores as these animals always come from irresponsible breeders and puppy mills, with the exception of a handful of states that require pet store pups to be from rescues. You can also consider adopting a blonde German Shepherd. If you get a blonde puppy, you may end up with a dog that is tan or brown later in life. This means that blonde coats can occur in most breeding programs, even responsible and respectable programs. Part of this is due to the lack of understanding pertaining to which genes are directly responsible for the coat color. The other part of this is that many people think that blonde German Shepherds are mixed breeds, so many responsible breeders avoid breeding light-colored dogs in their programs. Image Credit: JB-Photography. They Cost a Pretty Penny Although undesirable coat colors often cost less, blondes may cost more than desirable coat colors due to their rarity. Albino is distinctly different from other colors, and they are all distinctly different from the blonde coat color. Blonde German Shepherds do have melanin, so they are likely to have brown, black, or tan eyes, and they will have darker colors on the nose and paws, usually from tan to black. The reason color breeding is a problem is because it overlooks health conditions present in the parents or their genes for the sake of breeding out a specific color. Blonde German Shepherds should have the same temperament as other coat colors, making them loyal, intelligent, and highly trainable. Related Reads:. Blue and liver are considered among the rare GSD colors, but even less common are blonde German Shepherds. What is a Blonde German Shepherd? Instead, the color of their coats is closer to that of a Golden Retriever or a Yellow Labrador. These are phaeomelanin and eumelanin. By default, eumelanin produces the color black while phaeomelanin produces the color red. Genes modify these pigments to produce a wide variety of coat colors. For example, gene dilution in the eumelanin pigment can produce liver or blue german shepherds. On the other hand, phaeomelanin can produce red in different shades. Genes can also influence it to produce orange, gold, and yellow coats. Some speculate that blonde GSDs might come from white parents. However, white coloring in canines is caused by the absence of pigment. So, genetically, white coats cannot become blonde. A study published by the Journal of Heredity in could be a clue to this incredibly unusual color. According to the research, the genotype ee at the MC1R gene produces the cream color in German Shepherds. How Rare is the Blonde German Shepherd? Blonde German Shepherds are remarkably rare because it takes a very unusual genetic combination to produce such offspring. Additionally, it is not among the coat colors that are considered desirable in show dogs. So, professional breeders are not motivated to produce them. Breeders also fear that blonde GSDs might bring up doubts about their pedigrees not being purebred. Are Blonde German Shepherds Purebred? When a blonde GSD puppy is the product of two purebred parents, the puppy is undeniably purebred. The color of its coat might be unusual, but it is only caused by a unique genetic combination and not because it is a crossbreed. Nevertheless, blonde-coated German Shepherds can also be mixed-breed dogs. They retain the general appearance of the German Shepherd parent but the coloring of the other breed. This is the reason why there can be speculation about whether Blonde GSDs are purebred in some instances. Apart from their color, these dogs are exactly what you would expect from a typical German Shepherd. As long as they are purebred, blonde German Shepherds will have the same build and general appearance as their GSD parents. They will also have the same grooming requirements. Additionally, you can expect their personality, temperament, and intelligence level to be comparable to any other dog of the same breed. Owning one means you need to be ready to offer strong leadership and take the time to socialize, train, and mentally stimulate your dog. The closest color it recognizes is white, but even that is considered a serious fault. So, blonde German Shepherds would not be allowed to enter conformation events. Because they are such athletic dogs, they are expected to perform well in canine sports such as Agility , Flyball , and Dock Diving. How Much is a Blonde German Shepherd? Because they are so rare, there is no documented average pricing for blonde-coated German Shepherd puppies. No, blonde and albino German Shepherds are vastly different from one another. Blondeness is a dilution in the red coloring. On the other hand, albinism is caused by the absence of the pigment eumelanin. An albino dog will not just have a completely white coat but also a pink nose and eye rims. Eye color is also affected, where it turns out to be light blue or, rarely, red. Final Thoughts Owning a blonde German Shepherd will definitely be a unique experience because they are incredibly rare. If you are not quite sure that the blonde GSD is your best option, you might also want to check out liver-colored , black , panda , or blue German Shepherds.

German Shepherd mix dogs for sale come in many different varieties. The most suitable breeder for you will ask you tons of questions regarding your dog knowledge, home, and how you plan to look after the puppy. Adopting a dog is normally a fairly inexpensive course of action. They will likely be fairly high shedding dogs, and that means you will need to put money into a great high-quality animal hair vacuum cleaner. Since purebred dogs are frequently the focus of breeders, it can be more probable you will find Shepherd Collie mix puppies offered for adoption at a nearby animal shelter or humane society. The German Shepherd Dog is sometimes the topic of controversy. My favorite issue is to get the other dogs to chase me, I really like to run! But before you begin to look, you need to determine the right match for your family. By knowing a little bit about German Shepherd puppies for sale, you can make a much more informed decision on what type of dog will work best with your lifestyle and needs. There is an easy way to do this. The American Kennel Club AKC has created a standard set of characteristics that a purebred dog must possess to qualify as a purebred. These include high stamina, muscular structure, muscular development, alertness, beautiful appearance, straight, elegant conformation, intelligence, responsiveness to human contact and affection, and mellow, confident behavior. AKC breeders are required to prove that all of these characteristics are present in the breeding stock that they provide for sale. When German Shepherd mix dogs for sale come along, AKC breeders must be able to prove that they meet the requirements listed above. There are many places to locate German Shepherd puppies for sale. You can locate them in your local pet shop or with a German Shepherd rescue group. German Shepherd breeders may advertise their puppies through classifieds, at dog shows, or through the Internet. Whatever source you use, you should be able to find a healthy happy German Shepherd that is good with children and other pets. German Shepherd mix dogs for sale come in all sizes and ages. The German Shepherd puppy you choose should have hips that are wide and strong; your new best friend will need a lot of room. Be prepared to give up some of the time when you adopt this type of dog. It takes time for a puppy to adjust to its new life. This type of dog requires regular exercise, health care, and socialization. German Shepherd mix dogs for sale come from a variety of locations. In the olden days, these dogs were raised by families as house pets. The modern history of the German Shepherd is quite different. Many modern German Shepherd pups are bred to be show dogs and not pets. A reputable breeder who has had his puppies rated in the top positions by the American Kennel Club, will usually only sell to experienced German Shepherd owners. The best German Shepherd breeders will have certificates of good breeding from the American Kennel Club, and they will also have the latest CERF tests for breeding purposes. A reputable breeder will want to be sure that their puppies will grow up to be healthy, strong, and obedient adults. German Shepherd mix dogs for sale have an increased risk of inheriting several health problems common to its breed. Health problems include hip dysplasia, epilepsy, congenital eye defects, heart defects, and several others. So you should always purchase your German Shepherd puppies from breeders who are willing to take on that added risk. German Shepherd mix dogs come in many colors and a wide variety of patterns. Because of this, sometimes the resulting offspring are just as dissimilar as purebred German Shepherd puppies. This is because the genetic material genetic markers in the dog is poorly distributed in the puppy population. So although the resulting puppies may look like their parents, they may be very different in terms of health and temperament. You can choose from pure-bred females Pembrotus virgins , males Bermann spaniel , litters of one to three mixed-breed pups including German shepherd, Alaunt, Doberman, and Weimeraner , and mix-breed designer males and females. Some German Shepherd breeders may offer only male or female dogs for sale. There are also toy, show, and rescue German Shepherd mixes for sale. These dogs vary widely in terms of their size, coat lengths, activity levels, and intelligence. The most important thing to remember is that German Shepherd mix dogs must be carefully evaluated before deciding on purchasing one of them. German Shepherd breeders that sell a dog to the general public should be fully acquainted with their stock. They should also be willing to provide information about the history of the dog and to answer questions regarding its temperament and breeding. By doing so, you can make an informed decision about the best German Shepherd mix to purchase for your family. Share this:. Applies to all dog food recalls in the U. Adopting an older dog will decrease the price tag. Lancaster Puppies in Columbus, OH. Owners will have a lot on their hands when grooming this hybrid dog. It is a heavy shedder, making it hard for owners to clean up while trying to keep their coat healthy. The German Shepherd Border Collie mix sheds more often as it grows old, so owners must brush its fur daily to remove dander and dead hair. Here are some of the most recommended grooming equipment to maintain the coat of the German Shepherd mixed with Border Collie: Slicker Brush Slicker brushes are great combs to remove tangles and mats on long-haired dogs. The slicker brush can save owners time when brushing the coat of the German Shepherd Border Collie compared to regular combs. Detanglers Before using a slicker brush, owners will notice that the Border Collie German Shepherd mix has a lot of tangled hair. Dematting sprays can relax and soften the hair to make it easier for owners to untangle the knots. Owners must resort to this solution if the tangles are hard to remove despite the use of detanglers as dogs are not fond of sharp objects. Owners must avoid buying shampoo based on the odor or the low price. Owners must be aware of its coat type and skin to help them find oils and specialty ingredients that will be beneficial for the Border Collie mixed with German Shepherd. Grooming Wipes The German Shepherd mixed with Border Collie is an energetic dog that will be dirty when it finishes playing outside the house. Wet wipes are essential for dog owners that want to prevent mud and grass inside their residence. Microfiber Towel Human towels do not absorb all of the water on a dog. Because of its heavy coat, the German Shepherd Border Collie mix will likely be dripping wet despite a heavy rinsing. Microfiber towels can help remove water on a Border Collie German Shepherd cross better than human towels. The legs and hips of Border Collie German Shepherd will deteriorate as it ages. The hybrid dog will experience problems at an earlier rate depending on its activities as well. It may also be born deaf if one of its parent breeds already have hearing problems. Epilepsy The Border Collie breed is widely known for its tendency to suffer from epilepsy more than other dog breeds. The Border Collie German Shepherd mix may inherit this health problem as well. Epilepsy happens when the dog is experiencing episodic seizures. Fortunately, it is a rare disease among dogs. Degenerative Myelopathy When owners notice that the Border Collie German Shepherd mix is starting to walk funny on its back legs, it can be a symptom of Degenerative Myelopathy. This disease currently has no cure. Irresponsible breeders are the most likely reasons for the health issues of a German Shepherd mixed with a Border Collie. Owners must make sure that they are adopting a healthy puppy from a reputable breeder to avoid dealing with a sickly puppy. If the hybrid dog is exhausted from more training than usual, owners can go for 4 cups a day. Bloat and diabetes are two main health problems that can affect a Border Collie crossed with a German Shepherd as both parent breeds may also suffer from them. It is essential for owners to avoid overfeeding this hybrid dog and prevent nutritional imbalances. In such scenarios, products such as Nutra Thrive dog food supplement can be a solution to regain the proper balance of nutrients. Dog owners and lovers must also keep in mind that they need to seek food for the best large breed dry dog food instead of best dry dog food for small dogs. Whatever you do, make sure you steer clear from the worst dry dog food. Try to learn more about the difference between poor-quality and premium-quality chows by checking our best dry dog food guide! The dog food must include joint supplements because large dog breeds are prone to hip dysplasia and other joint ailments. To avoid this, give them kibble that is rich in calcium since puppyhood. Pooches that have entered their golden years will maintain their health properly only if given the right amount of the best senior dry dog food! Dog food must also contain a moderate amount of calories to avoid obesity, which is a common problem among large breeds. The dog food chosen by owners must also have large kibble to avoid letting the dog eat too quickly, which may result in life-threatening conditions like bloat. Here are a few of the most recommended large breed dog food in the US: Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula The Blue Buffalo Life dog food is perfect for the German Shepherd mixed with Border Collie because it is full of ingredients rich in antioxidants like kelp, blueberries, sweet potatoes, and carrots. Deboned chicken is also its main ingredient. This brand does not have wheat, soy, or corn. Wellness Core Dog Food The nutritious proteins included in the Wellness Complete Health dog food for large breeds is beneficial for the German Shepherd crossed with Border Collie because it has all the nutrition it needs. This brand contains deboned chicken, salmon meal, and deboned whitefish, which gives the dog food a delicious flavor. It also includes flaxseed, which is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. It also provides for different probiotics for the German Shepherd Border Collie mix. Dog for Dog contains vitamins and minerals to give your Border Collie mixed with German Shepherd the nutrition it needs. This whole-grain brand also contains glucosamine, which helps keep joints healthy. Owners on a budget will find this product affordable. It also helps prevent nutrient deficiency with its vitamins and minerals. The brand also comes with glucosamine and chondroitin, which is good for joint health. Eagle Pack Natural consists only of natural ingredients with no artificial colors and preservatives. It also includes eight probiotic strains to keep the hybrid dog healthy. Pro Plan Focus Weight Management Large Breed This brand is beneficial for large dogs because it can supply them with many complex carbohydrates to sustain their energy levels. It is also helpful for the joint because of it contains glucosamine. This brand attacks specific health issues like joint problems or bloating that a German Shepherd mixed with Border Collie may cross. This brand contains joint supplements, probiotic supplements, and fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants. It is a natural and grain-free product with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It contains antioxidant-rich vegetables and fruits, as well as premium proteins. This brand is a grain-free product that will give your hybrid dog enough nutrition for its daily activities and exercises. There are a plethora of good choices for them out there, but make sure to find some of the best dry dog food , for example, Wellness Core Dog Food , Dog For Dog Food , or Nutra Thrive dog food supplement. Puppies and senior dogs have different food requirements, so go through the best puppy food brands in case you own a little munchkin and best senior dry dog food for grandpa and grandma pups. A checkup with your vet will help you opt for some of these. Both of its parent breeds are also very active. This hybrid dog does not do well indoors and needs to have a lot of time running and playing with its owners. An owner of a German Shepherd crossed with Border Collie must commit their time to engage this dog in activities if they want to avoid it from becoming bored and destructive. This dog will become aggressive and timid if it does not participate in mental and physical activities. Its daily exercise requires about 60 minutes of running and playing outside of the house. If you happen to raise a Border Collie German Shepherd mix as a calm and independent dog, 2 hours of separate walks daily can keep it satisfied. Any puppies that qualify as a German Shepherd Mix are a cross between a German Shepherd and another dog breed. In a mixed breed, you can get any mix of characteristics in the parent breeds. German Shepherds tend to be strong-willed, intelligent, playful, and loyal. To get a full idea of what to expect in your puppy, be sure to ask the breeder about the other dog breed in the cross and check out the mother dog in-person to get a general idea about size and temperament. On the German Shepherd side, you have an independent dog with high intelligence and a playful spirit. German Shepherds make great family pets and are born protectors. Because of their protective instinct, they can be suspicious of strangers. Socialization early and often can help curb this suspicion and make them more open to new people and situations. German Shepherds also tend to be loving and have a lively personality. The German Shepherd Mix can have any or all of these characteristics plus any characteristics from the other parent breed in the mix. Before buying a German Shepherd Mix puppy and bringing them home, be sure to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed. If the puppies are being family-raised around children, you should be able to get an idea of how they will do in a family setting that includes children. The German Shepherd is a moderately adaptable working dog that was bred to guard, work, and herd. They do not tend to do well in apartments and are best-suited for houses with yards. GSDs prefer to be with their families and do not like to be alone. They also tend to prefer cooler climates as they are sensitive to heat. With a German Shepherd Mix, you could get a moderately adaptable dog that is just like a purebred German Shepherd. You could also end up with a dog that is more like the other parent breed. Talking with the breeder about the other parent breed can give you a good idea of what to expect. German Shepherds can be prone to elbow and hip dysplasia. You will need to ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the cross to get an idea of any other health concerns to be aware of in your German Shepherd Mix. Health screenings, clearances, and the genetic history of the parents can help allay concerns about potential health conditions. On the German Shepherd side, training and obedience classes are highly recommended for novice dog owners. Although GSDs are highly intelligent, pick up on things quickly, and train fairly easily, they can be stubborn with an independent streak. Regardless of the other parent breed in the cross, you should be prepared to enroll in obedience and training classes with your German Shepherd Mix. The experience will be beneficial to both you and your puppy and will also offer some opportunities for socialization. You will still want to ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the cross to get an understanding of what to expect during the training process. Professional grooming a few times a year and the occasional bath is also recommended. Regardless of the coat type, your German Shepherd Mix will need to have their nails trimmed monthly and their teeth brushed regularly. Not every dog will allow you to do this, so try to get a tooth brushing session in at least a few times a week to reduce tartar buildup. This will help prevent dental problems like tooth decay and gum disease. Plus, it will help cut down on bad breath! German Shepherds tend to have a high activity level. They were bred to run, herd, guard, and protect, so they are used to working and having a job to do. They are definitely not a lazy dog breed! Be sure to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix. You will still want to go in prepared for a high energy dog with the understanding that your German Shepherd Mix puppy may have an activity level closer to the other breed in the cross. If both are high energy dogs breeds, expect to end up with a high energy dog. A German Shepherd is a large dog breed that generally weighs between 55 and 90 pounds. They also usually stand between 22 and 26 inches tall at the shoulders. The other dog breed in the cross could result in a smaller or larger German Shepherd Mix. A German Shepherd generally lives for years. You should be able to expect a similar range in your German Shepherd Mix, but the other dog breed in the cross could affect this range. Featured German Shepherd Mix Article.

I have owned both. They are remarkably similar. Goldens are far less suspicious and more outgoing. But the GSD is also very sweet and less likely to hound your guests. Goldens are only good at scaring intruders with their size and bark but unlikely to do anything about it. While the GSD may actually do something about it. Both shed but in my experience goldens shed much more contrary to what many GSD owners say. Goldens produce hair tumbleweeds weeds while GSD produce much less hair. You can actually get done brushing a GSD but you can never be done brushing a golden retriever. Pick a golden if you want a dog that will be friendly with no work. Love both of these breeds. Superior dogs for sure. October 25, at am Hey Evelyn, hope you can get your own dog! While every dog is different, golden retrievers are typically sociable. Make sure to socialize your dog early. Early socialization is one of the best ways to create a sociable dog! Sammy February 22, at am I would say that the two dogs are both really intelligent but I would rather chose the German shepherd because they are really kind and loyal. I have one of my one that is 6 months and she is already trained to sit lay down roll over play dead and stop. German shepherd is a really good dog!!!! JIll Michalski August 20, at pm Hi. Golden retrievers are also very kind. My golden was trained, gives paw, sits and lies down at a very early age. Do your research. They are both adorable dogs, depending on what you are willing to put in is what you get out of it. Connie March 23, at pm I have a white German Shepherd. He sheds a lot but nothing unreasonable. High energy and extremely playful, easy to train, but he is very suspicious of guests. He picks and chooses who he likes. I am looking to getting a dog in our family but dont have to deal with a lot of shedding. I understand dogs need to shed for many reasons and therefore wanting to know which is easier to clean, maintain,could decrease shedding, and could be inside my house without hair lying around the floor. The fur or hair was easily able to clean and spot which in comparison to the German Shepard is hard to clean and spot depending where the dog lays around and the color of the fur. I am just seeking into finding answers which breed I should get. I hope you guys can reach out to me and give me answers which fits more to my problem. They are highly intelligent as well and easy to train. We are going to move to our family farm in Minnesota as soon as my mom can find a job. We have a little family, its just me, my mom, my dad, and our tuxedo kitten Oreo. We do not know if we should get a GSD or a goldie. I have a few questions; 1. Who gets along with kittens better 2. Who sheds less 3. Who loves their humans the most 4. Who would follow their humans and take a walk with them with no leash? For your first question, a Golden would probably get along better with a kitten. German Shepherds have high prey drives and may chase the kitten, but either one could get along with it if they are introduced while the dog is a puppy. Make sure to keep the puppy on a leash during their first meeting, or keep them in separate rooms with a baby gate between them so they can get used to each other with no possibility for a fight. Make sure there is room for the cat to get away from the dog just in case there ever is a fight or the dog attacks the kitten. As for the shedding, both dogs will shed a lot. I had a golden mix and her hair was everywhere. Between loving their humans the most, both dogs would be great. German Shepherds are extremely loyal and would protect their owners from anything. They will bond to the family and be suspicious of outsiders. Golden retrievers are extremely friendly. They will love the family and love other people. If you want a dog that will love you and protect, get a GSD. No-leash walking needs to be trained. Some dogs do it naturally but they need to learn not to wander and when to come back. My golden mix was also trained to walk off-leash. You can research how to train them to walk off-leash, but you MUST train them how to walk on the leash first. Waking them on the leash will teach them how close they should stay to you and teach them how to match your pace. For the kitten question, a Goldie might be better. GSDs can have a high prey drive so they might chase the kitten, but a Goldie might too. You need to socialize them early. Make sure the puppy is on a leash for their first meeting, and keep them in different rooms separated by a baby gate so they can get used to each other with no possibility of a fight occurring. Shedding- both will shed. Brushing them a few times a week will help control the shedding and keep more of the fur off your floors. If you want a dog that will love their humans, either one will be perfect. However, they are still different. GSDs are extremely loyal and will bond closely with the family. They can have aggression issues but this should be no problem with proper training. They love everyone. If you want a dog that will love the family AND protect them, a German Shepherd is the dog to go with. As for no-leash walking, this will be trained. My German Shepherd mix and Golden retrievers mix are both trained to walk off leash. You can look up training methods to teach this. This will teach them how close they need to stay to you and not to wander or run away. Please teach them to walk on a leash first, and gradually release them for short periods of time once you are confident they will not run. I really hope this helps and you enjoy raising whichever breed you choose. GSDs are more intelligent than golden retrievers, meaning they are easier to train and excel at many jobs. GSDs are very protective of their owners. Also golden retrievers can pick up a lot of inappropriate habits when greeting visitors. GSDs are far more obedient and reliable. Both dogs are very good with children and other animals but, I would recommend the GSD because they are far more gentle and adaptable, but goldens can be a little boisterous. Goldens have high maintenance coat and shed far more than the GSDs. GSDs have medium maintenance coat, making it easier to groom. In conclusion, both are superior and lovable companions but, the GSD german shepherd is easier to care for and is more capable than the golden retriever. Two puppies, a 17 month old GSD and a 4 month old Golen. Great dogs! I like a lot of you am just a dog person. Stella is my 3rd GSD. More than what dog is a better family pet I want to talk about YOU as the pack leader. I think a avarage trained or better GSD is the best dog ever! In no way are they agressive just …. I dont know a little stand offish. If a Golden Retriever or German Shepherd? I want the dog to grow up with my little one. And to protect her n love her. Which one is the best one? Mustafa March 23, at pm The german shepherd is far more protective than the golden retriever thanks: Bradley July 20, at am If you want a dog that would love and play the goldie is the way to go. They are eager to please and very helpful. While they do shed quite a bit if you brush them a few times a week it wont be a big deal. They are also more likely to lick an intruder then hurt it but if you treat the dog right and it sees anyone in your house trying to harm your or your daughter you can count on it to be right there and getting that person away. Golden retrievers are sweet, playful, family dogs. They have beautiful coats that can range from cream , to gold, to red , and have floppy ears and feathered legs and tails. German Shepherd Overview German shepherds are herding dogs that like to work. Like golden retrievers, the traits that made them great herding dogs make them both great and occasionally difficult family companions. Energy Level Golden retrievers: Golden retrievers have a lot of energy. They need hours of exercise per day and need to be both physically stimulated by playing games like fetch and tug and mentally stimulated training and puzzle toys help here. German shepherds: German shepherds are high-energy dogs, too. Both dogs have a ton of energy, so no matter which one you go with, expect to do a lot of training, playing, and working to avoid potential behavior problems and keep your dog happy. Golden retrievers: Goldens are some of the best family dogs around. German shepherds: German shepherds make great family dogs, too. But if you have kids, golden retrievers will probably be a better choice to go with. Are They Easy To Train? However, they can be easily distracted, which may make training a little more difficult. Conclusion Although both dogs are relatively easy to train, German shepherds are the winners here. Temperament Golden retrievers are some of the sweetest, most loving dogs out there. They like to spend time with their families and are very playful and often goofy. They love just about everything and everyone. German shepherds: German shepherds are loyal and loving with their families, but usually a little more suspicious or aloof when it comes to strangers. What are the differences between German Shepherd and Golden Retriever? Besides significant differences in appearance, the two breeds have different original purpose. While the German Shepherd was originally developed as a herding breed, Goldens were mainly used for retrieving shot game. Despite significant temperament differences, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers are popular family companion dogs. Potential owners who are not sure which of the two breeds would make the right family pet can compare these large breeds in detail. German Shepherd is an excellent working companion dog. GSD dogs need to have a purpose - the active breed does best with an owner who can dedicate most of the time to this highly intelligent family pet. Whether the German Shepherd is trained to be a home guard or a search and rescue team member - this breed needs to have a purpose to live a happy life. This is not the right breed for a passive owner where the dog is left alone at home with nothing to do most of the time. Boredom and loneliness can result in various psychological and behavior problems in German Shepherds and in Goldens alike. In comparison to German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers also enjoy to be active throughout the day. Golden Retrievers are wonderful companion dogs for active families that like to have the family dog around most of the day. Just like German Shepherds, Goldens are happiest when in company of their owners. Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds can be trained to a high standard - the desire to please the owner is strong in both of these breeds. The one big difference between GSD dogs and Goldens is that a German Shepherd can do a great job as a guard dog when properly trained. Golden Retrievers are very friendly and owners of the breed should not expect protectiveness in a Golden Retriever as the breed is known for friendly and amiable temperament. The Golden Retriever German Shepherd mix puppies can resemble both or either of the parents visually. The hybrid dog that resulted from mixing the two different breeds may have variations in temperament that can be difficult to predict. Image of German Shepherd Golden Retriever mix. Golden Shepherds are large dogs that can reach up to 88 pounds in weight and up to 26 inches in height. GSD is a few pounds heavier than Golden Retriever on average. Detailed size comparison between a German Shepherd and a Golden Retriever can be found below. Golden Retriever male weight: 29 to 34 kg 65 to 75 lb German Shepherd male weight: 30 to 40 kg 66 to 88 lb Golden Retriever male height: 56 to 61 cm 22 to 24 in German Shepherd male height: 60 to 65 cm 24 to 26 in German Shepherd vs Golden Retriever: Shedding Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds shed a lot. Many first time owners are surprised by the amount of shedding that Goldens and German Shepherds produce. The dog's hair can be found everywhere and the best way to manage the heavy shedding is by brushing either a GSD or a Golden every day to remove the dead hair. Removing the dead hair by brushing helps to minimize the amount of hair that can be found on the floor and on furniture where the dog spends time. There are great deshedding brushes available to help German Shepherd owners and Golden Retriever owners keep the heavy shedding under control. A good vacuum cleaner can be very helpful in removing the dog hair from the floor and from other surfaces. Managing the heavy shedding can be accomplished with the right tools, such as the Furminator Deshedding tool for large breeds. Brushing either a German Shepherd or Golden Retriever regularly helps to remove the bulk of dead hair from the dog's coat, thus reducing the shedding. Brush the dog outdoors to make the clean up easier. German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers shed constantly with some heavier seasonal shedding. Fortunately, Furminator Deshedding tool makes managing the heavy shedding possible to a large degree. German Shepherd and Golden Retriever compared: Grooming Besides brushing a Golden or a GSD every day with a deshedding brush, grooming includes keeping the dog's teeth clean. Start training the GSD or Golden puppy to get accustomed to teeth brushing while the dog is still a puppy. Always use a canine toothpaste to brush a dog's teeth. Clip Golden's or German Shepherd's nails every six weeks or so. German Shepherd versus Golden Retriever: Lifespan With a healthy lifestyle and good care most German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers can live up to 12 years of age and sometimes longer. Overall health, genetics, care, diet, lifestyle and other factors affect a dog's life span. Purebred dogs with a well known pedigree, show dogs and dogs that received training that goes beyond basic can cost significantly more. These breeds are known for desire to please the owner, obedience and loyalty. Genetics, breed and the early stages of life deeply affect the temperament of the mature animal. When getting a dog from a breeder, pay close attention to the temperaments of the parents of the puppy and be sure to only select a reputable breeder who places a high value not only on the dog's appearance but also temperament. As an owner you will have a big impact on shaping the dog's temperament. Socializing a puppy from a young age, for example, helps to raise a confident dog who will be comfortable in different settings and environments. Golden Retriever breed originated in Scotland. Good with kids: German Shepherd vs Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers make reliable and easygoing companion dogs for families with kids. Families with very young kids need to be aware that Goldens can be very active as puppies and will require a lot of physical activity during the day. In comparison to Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds aren't ideal dogs for families with young kids. While a Golden Retriever is essentially a companion breed, a German Shepherd is a working dog breed that requires an owner who can channel the dog's energy in the right direction during the day. Both breeds are highly active and require a lot of attention from the owners throughout the day. Daily training, exercise, play time and mental stimulation is a must for owners of these energetic breeds. Golden Retrievers vs German Shepherds: Companion dogs Goldens and German Shepherds are great dogs for active owners who are looking for a companion dog to spend the day with. These breeds need long daily walks, coat maintenance and mental stimulation and an owner who is ready to share his or her day with the dog. Golden retrievers are generally friendly around strangers while German Shepherds may need some convincing that the stranger deserves the dog's trust. German Shepherds are more protective of their owners and do exceptionally well as protection dogs with the proper training. While a Golden Retriever is perfectly happy just being the best companion dog he can be, a German Shepherd needs to have a purpose even when the dog's main job is to be a good companion animal. German Shepherds that are left alone or bored throughout the day will assign a job to themselves and may start guarding the home from the mailman, for example. If you are considering a German Shepherd as a family companion dog, consider how much time you are willing to spend on making the best of the dog by providing sufficient exercise, training, mental stimulation, games and so on. German Shepherds are not for everyone - be sure to learn all you can about this breed before you make the final decision. Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds are large, active breeds that are happiest in a home with a large yard where the dog can run around and explore. Country living often offers more space for either of these dogs and is ideal. Can a German Shepherd or a Golden Retriever live in an apartment? If you have a small apartment and do not have a dog park or a dog run nearby - this is not a good situation for either of these active breeds. Apartment living is not ideal because these large dogs need space and a territory where they can stretch their legs. Living in the city environment puts these naturally energetic dogs in a situation where the animal is forced to live in a confined space with little exercise. This is not a happy situation for either a Golden or a German Shepherd. Good with other dogs: Golden Retriever compared to German Shepherd Golden Retrievers are happy to be friends with people and other dogs - with proper socialization this amiable breed normally gets along fine with other dogs. German Shepherds need to be socialized from an early age. Some German Shepherds can be aggressive towards other dogs, especially when the dog did not get enough socialization during puppyhood. Level of socialization depends of each individual dog how much time the owner spent getting the puppy comfortable around other dogs determines how good the dog is around other dogs. Both breeds are highly intelligent. Puppies are born with innate intellectual capacity that can be further developed by the owner during the puppyhood. Provide the dog opportunities with mind stimulating activities. Interactive games for dogs are available on today's market. Invest time into your German Shepherd or Golden Retriever so that the dog can grow into a confident and highly intelligent companion that will make you a proud owner. Difference between German Shepherd and Golden Retriever: Trainability German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers are quick to learn, eager to please and can be trained to a high standard. Short and fun training sessions work best. Start training a GSD or Golden during puppyhood. Reward based training approach helps to maintain a dog's interest during training. Positive motivation techniques get best training results for these intelligent breeds. If dog barking is an issue, train the dog the "Quiet! Professional dog trainers suggest to train the dog the "Bark! In some cases when a dog is left alone frequently with nothing better to do, he or she may start barking out of loneliness or boredom. Always leave a chewable toy or treat dispenser toy with the dog when leaving the animal alone for a while - this will help to keep the dog busy while you are away. Goldens and GSD dogs do not enjoy being left alone - consider a different breed if you are not able to dedicate most of your time to spending it with the dog. Owners of either of these energetic breeds need to allocate at least a couple of hours each day on walking and exercising the dog. Younger dogs have even more energy and although activities the involve high impact jumping are not recommended, low impact activities such as swimming and walking are great for younger Goldens and German Shepherds. German Shepherds and Goldens run a higher risk of joint problems as they age and putting too much pressure on the growing joints may result in earlier offset of health issues in dogs related to joints. That is one of the reasons why younger German Shepherds and Goldens should not be allowed high impact exercise during their first couple of years of life. Getting enough physical exercise is important for both breeds, but don't forget about the benefits of keeping the dog mentally sharp as well. Training a dog a new command or allowing the dog to play with an interactive dog toy are great for mental stimulation. Other health issues that German Shepherds and Goldens have in common include higher risk of bloat and eye related health problems. German Shepherds versus Golden Retrievers: Dog behavior issues Behavior problems often start when either a German Shepherd or a Golden Retriever are left alone for long periods of time. Destructive behaviors such as chewed up or ripped furniture, recreational barking and many other unwanted behaviors are often caused by boredom and insufficient mental and physical exercises. For that reason these active breeds are not ideal for an owner who does not have the time and energy to spend with either of these breeds. If you need to leave either a German Shepherd or a Golden Retriever alone for an hour or so, be sure to give the dog a good walk and tire him or her out before you leave so that the dog can spend the time away from you resting rather than being active and destructive. German Shepherds vs. Golden Retrievers: Popularity Both breeds are very popular. These two are among the best known and most popular breeds in the United States. Golden Retriever video. Is a Golden Retriever the right breed for me? Watch the video and see what it's like to own a Golden Retriever. Compare other dog breeds to Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds.

As a result of its genetic makeup as a cross between two dog breeds and pups may have an ultimate size that is difficult to predict. These puppies are enormous and develop quickly, so you may be wondering how much to feed a Goldendoodle puppy. What is the recommended daily amount of food for a Goldendoodle puppy? Most Goldendoodle pups need to be fed anywhere from 2 to 4 times a day, with each feeding consisting of around a third of a cup to as much as four cups of food, although this varies greatly with age and size, and type. Puppies develop rapidly, thus their dietary needs, including the amount and frequency of their meals, evolve with them. Keep in mind that this is not a question with a universally correct answer. Also remember that Miniature, medium, and standard Goldendoodles will have different feeding needs. Goldendoodle Puppy Feeding Chart There is a lot of nuance involved in feeding a Goldendoodle puppy since their nutritional requirements change with their age, size, and degree of activity. To do so, just divide the weight in pounds by 2. With this method, you may roughly estimate how many calories your Goldendoodle need each day when at rest. Keep in mind that this is only a guideline. They need to be with the mother and the rest of the litter, putting on weight healthily. You should count on them sleeping for the most of the day and moving just for brief periods. The best way to get them adjusted to the new routine is to feed them three to four little meals a day, gradually increasing the quantity and lowering the wetness. You should begin by giving them a quarter to a half cup of a soft, moistened puppy chow every meal. You should modify the dose according to their weight and hunger levels. Reduce the quantity of food at first, and then gradually increase it to three or four small meals per day of dry puppy food. You can bank on them being a lot more self-reliant and inquisitive. Make the necessary adjustments according to their weight and degree of exercise. Give them lots of chances to play and interact with others, and take them on short walks. Goldendoodles are prone to becoming overweight, so watch how much food you give them. Choose a suitable quantity by considering their weight and degree of physical activity and breed size. Keep close track of their weight to determine the appropriate dosage. Make sure they have much to do physically and mentally to keep them from becoming bored and acting out. Learn the basics and begin interacting with others. Keep an eye out for symptoms of separation anxiety in your Goldendoodle. This depends on breed size. Keep up with their education and socializing, and give them plenty of chances to play and exercise. Pay attention to how active they are feeling and feed them appropriately. Never stop encouraging physical activity, intellectual challenge, and social interaction. Make necessary adjustments based on their weight gain or loss. To maintain their health and happiness, provide them frequent opportunities for physical activity, fun, and intellectual challenge. Inspect your Goldendoodle often for indications of joint pain. Taking them to the vet on a regular basis is crucial to maintaining their health. Understanding Goldendoodle Puppy Nutritional Needs Puppies of the goldendoodle breed should be fed a healthy, well-rounded diet to ensure their optimal development and growth. Depending on their age, height, and amount of activity, a Goldendoodle puppy typically needs to 1, calories per day. Keep in mind that there are three different sized Goldendoodles. The smaller dogs would thus consume much less food. They need to eat a balanced diet of nutritious proteins, fats, and complex carbs. Calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for the healthy development of Goldendoodle pups. Healthy growth of bones, the immune system, and the brain all depend on these nutrients. To avoid obesity and encourage good digestion, pups should be given three to four modest meals each day rather than one or two big ones. This aids in controlling portion sizes and facilitating proper digestion. Because of their small stomachs, puppies need regular feedings to keep them energized and healthy. As your puppy gets older, you may cut down on the frequency of feedings and boost the amount of each meal. Kibble may aid in dental hygiene by scraping plaque and tartar off the teeth while the puppy eats. Picky eaters could be more enticed by wet food, and pups with dental issues or missing teeth might find it simpler to digest. In addition, you should make sure that the food is formulated for pups and prepared with high-quality components. Switching From Puppy Food To Adult Food Depending on their size and breed, you should transition your Goldendoodle puppy from puppy food to adult food between the ages of 12 and 18 months. You should start with a little quantity of adult food and puppy food mixed together, and then gradually increase the amount of adult food while lowering the amount of puppy food. This ease of adjustment may reduce digestive issues. When a Goldendoodle puppy stops eating, the first thing to do is to rule out any serious health problems. Feeding smaller meals more often, warming the food with water or chicken broth, or trying a new brand or taste of food are all options. Overfeeding, obesity, and gastrointestinal issues are all possible outcomes of free-feeding a Goldendoodle puppy. Because of their tiny stomachs, puppies need frequent feedings to keep them energized and promote their healthy development. Picky eating may be avoided and good eating habits can be established with a regular meal plan. Instead of two big meals, Goldendoodle pups should be fed three or four smaller meals a day. If you decide to free-feed your Goldendoodle puppy, keep careful tabs on how much they are eating so that you may alter their portions as they grow. Medium breed dogs require a high-energy diet throughout their brief growing phase. Prebiotic components improve for good digestion Unique kibble design 2. For a well-balanced diet, including more natural meats dogs love and healthy grains. This puppy food is designed to build strong, lean muscles and improve brain and eye health with taurine. DHA and ARA promote healthy growth and development, while LifeSource Bits provide a perfect combination of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to boost the immune system. It also lacks maize, soy, wheat, animal byproducts, and artificial tastes. Antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, for immune system No grains, maize, wheat, soy, meat by-products, or artificial flavors Taurine in the for eyes and brains. Introducing our tailored nutrition for medium breed puppies — a food designed to ensure your puppy receives the right amount of nutrients during their growth period. View Larger Image Introduction: The time will come when your little Goldendoodle pup will need to switch from puppy food to adult dog food. While you may think this transition is as simple as changing kibble brands, there are a few things you should consider before making the switch. This blog post will explore when to switch from puppy food to dog food Goldendoodle and what factors you should consider in making this decision. We will also give you tips on making the transition as smooth as possible for your furry friend. Puppy food vs. Puppy food is designed to meet the nutritional needs of puppies as they grow and develop. Dog food is formulated for adult dogs. Puppies need more calories, protein, fat, calcium, and phosphorus than adult dogs. They also need specific vitamins and minerals in higher amounts than adults. For example, puppies need more niacin vitamin B3 for proper growth and development. Some puppy foods contain DHA an omega-3 fatty acid to support cognitive development. When to switch from Goldendoodle puppy food to adult food? Smaller dogs can be switched to adult food as early as months old, while larger breed dogs may need to consume puppy food until they are months old. The food you are feeding will also play a role when you make the switch. For example, if you are providing your Goldendoodle with a grain-free diet, you may be able to switch them to adult food sooner than if you were feeding them a diet with grains. The American Kennel Club recommends switching to adult dog food around 12 months or when your pup reaches its full size — whichever comes first. If you are unsure about what age to switch from the puppy food, it is best to consult with your veterinarian. They will be able to take into account all the factors involved and give you specific advice for your dog. How much dog food should a Goldendoodle eat? On average, an adult Goldendoodle should eat cups of dry food per day. Puppies will typically consume meals per day until they are about six months old, which can be transitioned to 2 meals per day. The number of calories in a dog food cup varies based on the type of food. Puppies and active dogs will require more calories than sedentary adults. What are the benefits of switching to dog food? The benefits of switching from puppy to dog food are many and varied. Perhaps the most obvious benefit is the monetary one. Puppy food is generally more expensive than adult dog food, so making the switch can help to keep your costs down. Adult dog food is formulated to provide optimal nutrition for your pet, so making the switch can help to keep them healthy and fit. Finally, switching to adult dog food may also help to reduce or eliminate bad breath. Many puppies have bacteria in their mouths that cause bad breath, but this usually goes away as they age. If bad breath is a problem for your pup, switching to adult dog food may help to resolve it. Are there any risks associated with switching to dog food? The biggest threat is that your dog may not like the new food and refuse to eat it. It can lead to malnutrition and weight loss. If you notice any vomiting, diarrhea, or other signs of illness, stop feeding the new food immediately and consult your veterinarian. How do I transition my Goldendoodle from puppy food to dog food? During the transition period, you need to: Introduce the new food gradually. Mix the new food with the old, slowly increasing the amount until your Goldendoodle is only eating the new food. FAQs: Q1: When to switch to adult food? A: Every dog is unique, and there is no hard and fast rule for when to stop feeding Goldendoodle puppy food. Q2: Is it bad to feed a grown dog puppy food? Puppy food often contains more calories and fat than adult dog food, leading to weight gain and other health problems. Q3: How much to feed a Goldendoodle puppy? A: In the first twelve weeks, you should feed your Goldendoodle pup times a week. Later, you can switch to 3 times a day. Q4: What happens if a puppy eats adult dog food? A: Adult dog food vs. If you feed adult dog food to your puppy, you may be Conclusion: When can Goldendoodle puppies eat adult dog food? Switching from puppy to dog food is an important milestone for your Goldendoodle. The right time to switch will depend on your pet, but most Goldendoodles will be ready to transition between 6 and 8 months. Talk to your veterinarian about when they recommend making the switch, and then introduce the new food slowly. Related Posts. Obese puppies develop an improved risk for many types of cancer, diabetes mellitus, heart disease, and hypertension. Rickets: Rickets is a rare disorder of young, growing animals that causes soft and distorted bones. It is generally caused by poor phosphorus or vitamin D in the diet. More infrequently, calcium shortage is to blame. A quantity of calcium has caused rickets-like signs in some dogs. Allergies: In the dog, the most ordinary symptom associated with allergies is itching of the skin, either localized in one area or generalized all over the body. Occasionally, there may be watery release from the eyes or nose. How much should I feed my Goldendoodle puppy? Feel about its ribs — you should be capable to feel the ribs but not seeing them separately when simply glancing at them. Also, do your best to observe the advice in the chart above. You can also ask the breeder who sold you the puppy to see if they have any suggestions. Yet, this does not suggest that you should have big amounts of food willingly available to your dog all of the time. Since puppies grow fast, the importance and frequency of meals change as they develop. Summary Feeding a Goldendoodle can both be difficult and comfortable at the same time. Since they are not choosy eaters, these dogs can adapt well to new meals. The downside is that the Goldendoodle manages to have an acute stomach. This means you have to be alert about what you give your puppy. Remember, satisfied dogs are the healthful ones. In this article, I will answer a question mostly asked, When should you switch your doodle puppy to adult dog food? When your puppy enters into adult years, you may start to wonder about switching to adult dog food. This is a question that many Doodle owners have, and for a good reason. Changing too early could cause severe damage, and not switching soon enough can cause obesity. When will you know when your puppy is ready for a premium dog food? But we are going to answer all of your questions without being too confusing. What The Vets Say Most veterinarians will tell you a general age and size that you should wean from the puppy dog food. Small dogs under 20 pounds are ready to switch between months pound dogs can switch at months And giant breeds should be changed around months These are general guidelines based on how fast dogs grow according to adult size comparisons. There are lots of other ways to know when your dog is ready. Signs Your Puppy Is Ready If your dog is within the age group mentioned above, there are a few signs to look for before switching. Just because your dog meets the age requirements, does not mean you should automatically switch. Adult dogs do not need a calorie-rich food, and you may notice your dog skipping meals because they are still full. You see, switching from puppy food to adult food is not just switching formulas. It is also decreasing the calories needed. A puppy typically eats three meals a day. Your adult dog will only eat two, so they most likely will skip the lunch meal. If you notice this and your Doodle is feeling well, it is time for the switch. When They Calm Down Your dog may also be ready for a formula change when they have started to calm down. This also leads to our next point. Weight Gain If your dog is not as active, and they continue to eat high-calorie food, you may notice a weight gain. Weight gain is a sure sign that your dog has passed the puberty age and is ready to start eating high-quality dog food. You may also want to throw in a few extra walks to help lose the pounds in the meantime. Spaying and neutering your pet is recommended when your dog has finished growing. It also lines up with when dogs naturally start to calm down. We understand that fixing your pet may happen for different reasons before it is time to change the diet. All you need to do is watch out for the other signs mentioned above. Joint Issues Switching to adult food too early could cause major joint issues to most dogs. Larger breeds and ones already susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia are at even higher risk. All Doodles are prone to joint problems anyways, so switching early could cause even more damage. Joint damage is likely to happen because adult dog food does not have the proper nutrients for growing puppies. Puppy dog food is high in calcium and phosphorus that help support bone health. They will always be hungry and become underweight. All adult dog food is lower calorie than their puppy counterparts. If you notice that your doodle is more hungry than before, you have likely switched their food too early. Brain Development Puppy food has critical amino acids that aide in brain development. People who switch their dogs too early will miss out on essential factors that lead to intelligence and memory. Doodles are brilliant, and it would be a shame if you miss out on how incredible their full potential could be. Stunted Growth If a puppy is put onto adult food too soon, stunted growth could be the outcome. They will almost have a permanent puppy-like appearance to them from an improper diet. Not Switching At All Not switching your adult dog to an adult diet could be just as detrimental. Adult dogs can not handle the dense calories of puppy food. They will quickly become overweight, and all that entails. They will develop things like heart disease and diabetes. Your dog would not live the longest life possible and could suffer from vitamin overdose. How To Make The Switch If you believe that your dog fits all the criteria to switch to adult food, there is a simple way to do it. You want to make sure that you do this slowly as not to upset their stomachs. First, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian before changing to adult food. Your vet will then do a physical to make sure that your Doodle is growing appropriately. If this checks out, then you can begin the process. Doodles have sensitive stomachs, and some are prone to getting bloat. To reduce the risk of any adverse reactions, you will want to do this slowly. Be on the lookout for any allergic reactions, and make sure that your Doodle is eating the new food. If, after four days, they are still leaving all the new food behind, you may want to change flavors. If, after days, everything seems ok, then you can take the next step. Still, be on the lookout for any new behaviors or signs of a reaction. Some dogs may start to have an upset stomach at this time. If that is the case, reduce the new food added for a few more days. Some dogs just take a little longer to adjust, but if the upset stomach continues, speak with your vet. By this time, your dog should be accustomed to his new diet and flavor. You will want to continue with this for another days just to be safe. The most natural switch that your dog could make is to switch to an adult formula in the brand that they already eat. There are so many brands out there, and your dog might not like them all. So you may need to experiment with flavors or brands. Here are a few of the top brands for Doodle dogs to give you a few ideas. Of Course, there are many other great brands not included. They help support joint health and provide some of the most wholesome ingredients. They have great reviews from dog owners and vets alike. Merrick is a top-quality food for your Doodle dog. They use quality ingredients that you can feel proud to feed your dog. This brand is known for its high quality and love of animals. Your dog will love the savory flavors. In Conclusion No matter how old our dogs get, they will always be puppies in our eyes. We hope this article can assist you in making the right decisions for your beloved pet. Below is a Pinterest friendly photo…. Sharing is caring! By Kern Campbell Is there anything cuter than a Goldendoodle puppy? Not much. How long do Goldendoodles stay puppies? Puppies need different levels of nutrients than adult dogs. This is especially true for Standard Goldendoodles since large breed dogs are more prone to developing bone and joint issues if they grow too quickly or without the right nutrients. When in doubt, ask your vet. Just remember to transition your Goldendoodle from puppy food to adult food slowly to avoid an upset stomach. How Big Do Goldendoodles Get? Your Goldendoodle puppy may be cute and tiny now, but how big will they grow to be? That depends on how big their parents were. Standard Goldendoodles are usually pounds when fully grown. They will typically weigh between 35 and 50 pounds when fully grown. Toy Goldendoodles are usually a cross between a Mini Goldendoodle and a Toy Poodle and weigh less than 35 pounds. Ask the breeder how much each parent dog weighs to get an idea of what to expect. Lexie, A 5 year-old fully grown F2 Mini Goldendoodle. Do Goldendoodles Have Growth Spurts? Goldendoodle puppies do a ton of growing for the first 6 months to a year of their lives. All that growth can definitely happen in spurts. Growth spurts are more noticeable in Standard Goldendoodle because they have more growing to do than Mini or Toy Goldendoodles. One reason that puppies sleep so much hours per day! Stage 1: Birth to 3 Weeks Goldendoodle puppies are born blind, deaf, and toothless. Their entire existence is basically just eating, sleeping, and growing. Puppies open their eyes around 2 weeks old. Their ears open and teeth start growing around 3 weeks. At 3 weeks, your Goldendoodle puppy was finally aware of and interacting with the world. They were learning to crawl, bark, and play with their littermates. Stage 2: 3 to 7 Weeks During this period, your puppy was growing stronger and interacting with the world more. This stage is crucial for learning bite inhibition. When a puppy bites one of their littermates too hard, the other puppy will yelp and stop playing. By the end of stage 2, Goldendoodle puppies can eat puppy food , bark, run, wag their tail, and be left alone for a little while. Stage 3: 7 to 12 Weeks Stage 3 is a crucial stage for learning. Your puppy will learn more than you could expect. However, they will also start to develop fear at some point in this stage. Puppy classes, socialization, and training basic commands are all crucial during this stage. Stage 4: 12 to 16 Weeks During this stage, Goldendoodle puppies start teething and pushing boundaries. Just remember to be gentle — harsh words or punishments can cause your puppy to fear you. Stage 5: 16 to 40 Weeks During this stage, your Goldendoodle puppy will continue to grow and may test your limits. This is a critical time for training and socialization. This may also be a good time to get your Goldendoodle puppy spayed or neutered — talk to your vet about their recommendation. Stage 6: 40 Weeks to 1 Year Smaller Goldendoodle puppies will stop growing in this period. Standard Goldendoodles may stop growing in height but will still fill out for a few more months. This stage is like the teenage years — your Goldendoodle will have the body of an adult with the attitude and energy of a puppy. During this stage, your Goldendoodle may try to assert dominance over you and the rest of your family. You must gently remind them that you are the boss while using plenty of positive reinforcement. Shouting, hitting, or otherwise punishing your Goldendoodle may cause fear aggression. Stage 7: 1 Year and Up Your Goldendoodle should reach full developmental and sexual maturity between 1 and 2 years of age. Once your Goldendoodle is fully grown, you can switch them to adult food and increase the intensity of their exercise with less risk of damaging growing bones and joints. Goldendoodle puppies have LOTS of energy. So, what can you do? As a puppy, the best way to help your Goldendoodle burn energy is to play with them. This has the added bonus of being great bonding for you and your puppy. Puzzle toys are a great way to help your puppy burn energy while using their mind. Lexie, our Goldendoodle using her dog treat puzzle toy! How Long Do Goldendoodles Live? On average, Goldendoodles live around years. As your Goldendoodle reaches their senior years, you will want to switch them from adult dog food to senior dog food. Feeding Instructions Goldendoodle Kennels T 1. Their stomachs are too small to hold enough food at a single meal to sustain the proper level of nutrition for their full growth and proper development. Puppy food should be fed for the first year. I currently feed Natura Innova Evo dry kibble and canned food. Innova Evo is grain-free, so it was not affected by the expansive pet food recall of .Good quality pet foods are not usually available at the supermarket. There are a wide variety of premium pet foods available from pet or feed stores, both canned and dry, any of which provide a fully nutritious and balanced diet without the need of added mineral or vitamin supplements or specialized dietary products and additives. We feed Eukanuba Small Breed Puppy kibble as the kibble size is the smallest on the market. Again, the amounts will vary a little depending on the age, appetite and size of the dog. Feed this mixture in a flat dish as it allows the dog to eat without getting food in their whiskers and facial hair — encouraging the naturally clean nature of the Maltese. It is best to feed exactly what he has eating. If you desire to change his diet, do so gradually by mixing the new diet with the one his system is already accustomed to. Gradually, over a one 1 month period, increase the new diet while phasing out the old. Doing this will eliminate digestive changes, which can cause diarrhea or constipation. Table scraps should not be offered. Do not give them fresh milk as milk usually causes diarrhea. Older puppies and dogs do not need milk. Also, do not feed raw egg whites. Cottage cheese and scrambled eggs may be given on occasion. Be careful regarding the size of the kibble you give the puppy. Ask your veterinarian to demonstrate what to do if they are choking. Filtered or distilled water is best. Wash the bowl and change their water daily. It is very important that the puppy gets as much water as they want. Therefore, it is best not to solely use a water bottle as it can limit their water intak. Small breed puppies must be monitored and watched carefully to make sure that they are eating and getting enough rest. Young, small breed puppies can develop a low blood sugar condition due to overexcitement, overexertion, or injury and can very, very quickly become unconscious and even die without immediate treatment! If the puppy does not eat, is stressed by too much excitement, handling, or new experiences, it may result in a hypoglycemic low blood sugar attack. Prevention and treatment is simple. If it is not treated, it continues into coma and ultimately death! A high calorie supplement such as Nutra-Cal or Nutra-Stat can also be given in as a preventative or in the early stages of hypoglycemia. In addition, Gator-Aid given slowly into the side of the mouth with a syringe will also help. Once they seem to be recovering in response to the treatment of honey or corn syrup, you should also prepare a mixture of the following: 2 Tbs. Gerber Baby Rice Cereal, 2 tsp. Gerber Strained Chicken Meat, 1 tsp. Add water to make it the consistency of pudding. Fill a large syringe or a baby medicine dropper with mixture and give it to the puppy by squeezing the mixture either on the tongue or between the cheek and gum. Give the puppy a chance to swallow and then give them more. Give approximately 15 cc and repeat every 4 hours. This will need to be done until they feel better and start to eat on their own. The reason for this is that once a puppy has had a serious drop in blood sugar, it can occur again with even less stress and the veterinarian can help prevent this. Be very vigilant while the puppy is still young up to 6 months of age, depending upon their size! Young, small breed puppies tire very easily and quickly, especially if they are allowed to romp freely about the house or are handled excessively. They need their rest just like an infant. Should a puppy exhibit signs of illness such as vomiting, diarrhea, runny eyes or nose, excessive panting or whining, dizziness, lethargy, etc. It does not take long for a puppy to become dehydrated. Diarrhea, try cc Pepto Bismol or Kaopectate. I use a syringe, without the needle, to measure and dispense medications. Check daily for stuck stools as this can cause blockage disallowing the dog to eliminate. Keep the hair trimmed around the rectum to help this situation. This can cause serious problems and be very painful for the dog. Take them to the veterinarian until they have received the complete series of puppy shots. Do not let the veterinarian give more than one shot per visit. These small dogs are given the same amount of serum as the large breeds and too much at once can cause problems. It is important for their health that they have the proper protection. DO NOT put your puppy on the ground in public areas until their have received their full series of puppy shots. Disease can kill a small dog five 5 times faster than a large dog. Large dogs can live with worms in their stomach longer because they have more blood. A small dog has less than a pint or two of blood in their entire body. Have a veterinarian check their teeth when the puppy is about six 6 months old. Do not allow small children to handle or hold the puppy without close supervision. They are very wiggly making them difficult to hold onto and they can quickly leap from your arms. Mini Goldendoodle puppies can be injured quite easily even in a fall of only a couple of feet, especially onto a hard surface. Puppies are delicate, small-boned dogs despite their boisterous nature and fearless personalities. As puppies mature, they will learn what they can and cannot do. Until then, you must protect them from themselves. Be very careful and selective with the toys your puppy plays with. Rawhide toys are fine occasionally, but throw them away after they become too small. You must monitor your puppy whenever it plays with a latex toy that has an exposed squeaker as they can chock on the squeaker if they are able to remove it. You may choose to remove the squeakers yourself. Some infant toys are perfect. Make sure your house has been puppy-proofed. Clean-up anything they can pick-up and chew. As tiny as they are, small objects will look large to them. Make sure they do not get in the habit of chewing electrical cords as this can be deadly. If you see them chewing, immediately check it out to see what it is they are chewing. They are very easy and tempting for someone to steal. More importantly, large dogs can kill them in an instant. Poisonous frogs, snakes, and spiders have also been known to kill them and coyotes and hawks have been known to carry them off. If you choose to sleep with your puppy, be extremely careful not to accidentally and unknowingly lie on top of them and possibly suffocate them or allow them to fall or jump off of the bed. We encourage you to keep in touch and let us know how everything is going. After all, your new family member was a member of our family first and always. We would appreciate a picture of your puppy as it matures. We are proud of all of our family members. Your help is essential in providing us with enough data to make this possible. This means you should avoid leaving food out for them at all times, as they can eat too much and become sick or even develop bloat, which can quickly become deadly. How To Feed Your Goldendoodle Puppy This may seem like a silly question, but it is relevant because the answer is actually not that obvious! You should be able to cover the food with your hand without your puppy making too much fuss. Allow them to start eating. While they are eating, stroke them and pet their heads. This is an excellent time to brush them, too, as they are occupied and not scrambling around. This is an important practice to get them used to your presence and prevent food guarding and aggression. Considering how large Goldendoodles can get even when they are puppies, this is an important part of their training. Next, give your puppy about 15 minutes to eat their food. During this time, they will either eat all of their food or eat until they are full and lose interest in the rest. After 15 minutes is up, remove any of the uneaten food left behind. If your puppy is still eating, then let them finish their food. The number of options can be overwhelming! Hopefully, I can whittle it down for you and make the decision a little easier. The American Kennel Club recommends using premium or high-end puppy food as they typically have a higher nutritional density and are more consistent, whereas cheaper foods can be inconsistent and contain filler products. Puppies have higher nutritional needs than adult dogs. Their food should be more nutrient-dense because they can only eat a little bit at a time. Their food will generally be more expensive owing to its quality; however, it should last you longer than a bag of adult food. Just like with adult dog food, you can choose between kibble or solid food, pouches or semi-moist food, or canned soft food. Top Puppy Food Suggestions For Goldendoodles While there are innumerable options out there for you to choose from, I have carefully narrowed them down to three products that I highly recommend for your Goldendoodle. Your Goldendoodle will grow to be very large and be prone to joint problems, so it is a wise decision to start them on puppy food that will support their growth through the time when they are doing most of it. Here are my three favorite Goldendoodle puppy foods and the features I love about them: Product.

Medium and standard Goldendoodles live for an average of 10 years, and Mini Doodles have an average lifespan of 12—15 years. All three of these coats are known to be hypoallergenic, but there are some kinds of Goldendoodles that do shed. In addition to annual or more frequently, if needed professional grooming, a Mini Goldendoodle should be brushed once a day. This prevents their gorgeous coats from matting, which can result in unwanted dirt and allergens. Every 4 to 6 weeks to maintain Doodle hair. Every 3 weeks minimum. Energy Requirements Mini Goldendoodles are high-energy dogs! Like most designer breeds, Mini Goldendoodles are available from breeders. There are plenty of ethical, amazing breeders out there, but not all of them specialize in Mini Goldendoodles. Whenever you opt to purchase a pup, be sure to do your research! Look for signs of a good breeder and avoid puppy mills. For even more guidance, the Goldendoodle Association of North America has a handy list of trusted breeders. Can You Adopt a Mini Goldendoodle? With some luck, you may be able to find a Mini Goldendoodle in a shelter near you. However, when you go to your local shelter, remember to be open to all of the possibilities. As a result, many charitable organizations have been founded to protect them. A quick Google search will point you to your local Goldendoodle-specific rescue organization. How Much Do They Cost? Pups with particularly appealing coloration will cost more. A quick search on Facebook or Google will turn up plenty of local Goldendoodle and Mini Goldendoodle owner groups. Are Mini Goldendoodles Hypoallergenic? Like most Goldendoodles, these pups are hypoallergenic. A Mini Goldendoodle will reach full growth at roughly 14—17 inches tall and 26—35 pounds. Mini Goldendoodle Lifespan? Because these pups are smaller than standard Goldendoodles, they have a slightly longer lifespan. The average lifespan for a Mini Goldendoodle is 12—15 years. What is the Price of a Mini Goldendoodle? Are mini Goldendoodles hyper? Goldendoodles including Miniature Doodles are notoriously high-energy, playful, and yes, hyper. Both Miniature Goldendoodles and Miniature Labradoodles fall into the umbrella category of mini Doodle dogs, but have different parentage. What is the best food for your dog? The three foods that are super healthy and that almost every dog loves, even the pickiest dogs, are: 1. There are a number of fresh frozen dog foods available on the market and I tested them all. You can see the fresh frozen food test here. The Miniature Goldendoodle A miniature goldendoodle is quite an amazing creature that has been bred for its unique yet impressive qualities. Starting with the standard goldendoodle breeding of a standard poodle and golden retriever cross, the intelligence, common sense, friendliness, and trainability of a goldendoodle has made this breed a favorite of many dog owners and dog lovers. On top of this the cross retains a good portion of the non-shedding quality of the poodle, while also keeping part of the attractive look of a golden retriever. Combining all these traits into one dog seems quite appealing, but we have one more trait to add to this list. A standard goldendoodle will range anywhere from pounds, which is quite large for a house pet. To achieve the goldendoodle attributes in a more compact package, a miniature poodle is crossed with a golden retriever. Our Miniature Goldendoodles Sandy Ridge miniature goldendoodles are being raised to be the best pets for a dog owner. We have had consistent breeding of the mini golden doodle having a low to non-shedding coat and wonderful temperament suitable for just about any type of family. We have also found our minis to range on average from 30 to 45 pounds at maturity. There is a little variety in Sandy Ridge minis. We get coat types from slightly wavy to moderately curly and coloring from completely blonde to golden red. We cannot guarantee a puppy will be in the expected size range due to the differing genetic sizes to the parents, but our average generally holds true. With all health concerns addressed and responsible breeding practices performed, there still is the possibility a health problem could arise. We offer a two year genetic guarantee against any genetic defect or health issue that hopefully will not, but possibly could arise. If you have any questions, please contact us. A happy customer is our priority. Here are some pictures of some of our past miniature goldendoodle puppies.

Only interact with dogs that are safe and you know for sure will have positive reactions to your new German Shepherd. Forcing them will only make them develop stress and anxiety in new situations and with animals. Think quality, not quantity, when socializing your German Shepherd. There are tons of new things your dog needs to get comfortable with. Use treats and positive encouragement when they investigate a new situation with confidence. Train daily. Make it fun. Punishment will only cause your dog to fear you and increase anxiety. Crouch down to offer them a gentle scratch and pet. This connects their name to paying attention to you and marks you as a positive leader, which is important for obedience training and living with their new family. Always work on rewarding good behavior instead of punishing bad behavior. The goal is to build trust in the first few weeks and months that you have your new dog to create a bond. And dogs are actually happier when they are trained rspca. Keep the sessions short, but have multiple training sessions throughout the day. Never end training on a bad note. For example, give them a command they know for sure so they finish with success. Read this guide to learn all about the basics of proper German Shepherd obedience training , including a helpful training schedule and the foundation commands. Be prepared for chewing by offering the right options. Biting and chewing are natural instincts for dogs and puppies. These actions provide them with opportunities to investigate the different amounts of pressure to use in relation to the purpose of their biting. Your job as their new owner is to help your pup understand and educate them on what is appropriate to bite, nip, and chew. This teaches them your signal and cue. They should let go or look a bit startled. Follow their release with praise or a tasty treat when your dog stops the unwanted behavior. Do NOT physically punish your dog! Instead, redirect them to a proper chew toy. Sometimes puppies teethe and their gums are sore and need something to chew. Other times adult German Shepherds have a desire and natural urge to bite for relaxation and to reduce anxiety. Only use safe, non-toxic chew toys, which are found listed here, in the best strong chew toys for German Shepherds to avoid boredom. Avoid accidents by managing the home environment. Create a set routine and schedule and stick to it to avoid accidents and train your puppy faster. Say hello to your new sloppy family member… They not only shed everywhere but also dump water out when drinking, spill their food, and… Have total disrespect for your carpets! You must have them in a secure area or watch them all the time to avoid any accidents. No matter what you will clean up some kind of bodily function when owning a German Shepherd. So, do yourself a favor and stock up on pet stain and odor remover! Use food-dispensing toys and slow feeders to keep them at a healthy weight. This is a food toy called a Kong Wobbler. Keep to a schedule so that you can control their food intake and watch their weight. Instead, use rubber toys in which you place part of their food to help control their voracious eating. I like to use a Kong Wobbler for both puppies and adults. Even better? Puppies are more responsive to the Ignore method of training. As a new German Shepherd owner, you might think you need to appease your dog all the time or give in to their excessive attention-seeking. In my experience, this is one of the most effective training methods that you can use when owning a German Shepherd. Put simply, here are the basics to use the Ignore method of training: You ignore the behavior that you want to stop or reduce. On the flip side, you give attention to the behavior you want to encourage. The hard bit is ignoring a very intelligent German Shepherd who is persistent! Give your German Shepherd a job at home so they stay entertained. This represents big challenges as a German Shepherd owner. You must be smarter than your dog! But the jobs can be as easy or difficult as you have the time and energy to train. This is not a mentally lazy dog, but a breed with extremely high intelligence and a huge breadth of application for that intelligence. Of course, you have already read a lot of books with advice on how to choose the right puppy of a German Shepherd, east European, as well as a Newfoundland, Rottweiler, Spaniel, or Spitz puppy. You understand what is the fundamental difference between these breeds and why a Retriever puppy will never become a VIP bodyguard, and a black terrier will hardly ever pass for a draft husky. Why Opting For a German Shepherd Puppy Is a Good Choice The German Shepherd is prone to learning from a very young to deep old age, while many other breeds cannot boast of this, even if their appearance is more perfect than that of a German Shepherd. The most well-known characteristics that a German Shepherd owns are: pronounced protective and guarding instinct; the ability to make independent decisions, and active actions, and at the same time be completely submissive to the owner; sociability, playfulness, and curiosity; lack of aggression signs towards others and deep affection for the owner; a willingness to happily take on tasks, learn, and remain completely fearless when faced with unfamiliar surroundings or unforeseen difficulties; In addition, the Shepherd dog is calmly confident and features strong nerves, combativeness, and assertiveness which are the main qualities of a good service dog. Perhaps, due to this set of breed characteristics, few larger and more ferocious breeds can compete with a GS, both for guarding the house and as a personal protector. It is not recommended to take puppies under 4 weeks old from their mother. This applies not only to GSs but other breeds. At the age of one month, the baby has already been given all the necessary vaccinations. However, only a person who can devote a lot of time to raising a puppy can afford to take a Shepherd at such a young age. In addition to 6 meals a day, and socialization, the new owner will need to complete 1, different tasks, which require, above all, a lot of time. If there is no time, it is worth finding a puppy aged 4 to 6 months. And it is advisable to take such a teenager from a nursery that focuses on breeding German Shepherds and not all the breeds at once. It happens that a puppy stays in the nursery because the money deposit was given for it but, for some reason, people could not pick up the reserved puppy. If the grown-up German Shepherd puppy constantly lived in an aviary and was deprived of close contact with people and the outside world, owners who have not previously dealt with this breed should not choose such a youngster. These young dogs are for experienced cinologysts. Lack of socialization can be corrected but it cannot be fully eliminated. Testing for the Puppy and Its Future Owner You may already know how to choose a purebred German Shepherd by external signs under the age of 3 months. Simple tests will help you choose a puppy with the desired character. Visit the breeder at a predetermined time when the puppies do not sleep or, conversely, are not hungry. You are taking a future friend for life, and enthusiastic emotions with such a choice are inappropriate. When buying a new friend, inspect the litter meticulously. Pay attention to the following: eyes do not water; traces of diarrhea under the tails are not observed; wet noses are without purulent crusts; legs are straight and strong; fur is clean, reminding of the plush; on the skin under the coat, there are no signs of peeling and scabs; all puppies are active and well-fed; the body is elastic and strong to the touch; the puppy has a pleasant dog smell; the mother is not exhausted; bowls and bedding are clean; there is enough heat and light. Of course, the owner of the dog mother has already taken her to the next room. Those who paid attention to the unusual sound are yours. Throw carefully, of course a tennis ball at the puppies. Those who were not afraid and did not try to escape are yours. Those who, having scouted the situation, did not begin to whine , pressing themselves onto the floor, but hurried towards the bedding are yours. Pay attention to those who have shown interest in a new object. The best are those who took and dragged it. Keys and money are the dirtiest household items. This testing method was used 20 years ago. Today, it is dangerous for the health of puppies! Invite those who dragged the rubber duck to pull a piece of fabric. If the baby dog willingly starts the fight, not letting the cloth go when you pull it towards you, they are good boys or girls. Turn the puppy you like on its back and hold it with an open palm for a few seconds. A clear alpha leader is easy to identify by its non-calming behavior for seconds, and even trying to bite you in this position. It may not be your choice! You will get too many problems associated with the puppy, or it will never be possible to completely subdue it. The puppy that squealed, pulled back its paw, and did not lose its interest in you is yours. The one who barks trying to drive brothers and sisters away from the bowl is not for you. The one who gives up its place at the feeder is also not yours. Yours is the one who, regardless of the obstacles, has taken its place and calmly devours food, without moving from its point, snapping, and running around the bowl. Now, you have at best 2 or 3 puppies left in front of you. You need to select the fat-footed one who will try to get out through the opening without panic and squealing. The tests are simple, but they will allow you to select a good puppy and raise a real working German Shepherd from it without unnecessary costs and nerves. Talk to the breeder. Such puppies are sold at a more reasonable price, but the puppy card for them is mandatory to be filled out as well. If you are given puppies for free, in the absence of their mother, there is a reason to seriously consider whether it is a Shepherd dog at all, even if their mother has pedigree documents. This is not a dog of one owner! The versatility and flexibility of this breed are proven by the fact that GSs accept a new family and a new environment without any problems. The main thing for it is to have its own business — to serve a human! Of course, parting with the former owner seriously affects the condition of the dog, but it will not have a destructive effect on its psyche. And the sooner you engage the German Shepherd in work, the more chances you will have to become a new God for it. If the German Shepherd was properly brought up and grew up surrounded by people, it has working characteristics in good conditions, and the reputation of its previous owner is beyond all questions, such a dog will be quite useful to your family. Finding out the previous story and background of an adult GS why it is refused, what the complaints about its behavior are, and other prompting questions is a must! The reason may be the saddest and most trivial — the previous owner died, and relatives are not able to either support or care for the dog. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. There is nothing cuter than a fluffy bundle of German Shepherd goodness. Quickly, however, reality sets in. German shepherd puppies are a lot of work! From housetraining, chewed up household items, and establishing a routine, the very first day your adorable puppy enters your home, there are sure to be challenges as well as heart melting rewards. To help you and your puppy start off on the right paw, you need to set your puppy up for success. To get started, there are numerous books on puppy training that you can buy, free training advice online, and many opinions on the best way to raise a German Shepherd dog. You can also learn a lot from the mistakes that other German Shepherd owners have made and most are more than happy to share their experiences. Some of the most common mistakes that people make when raising a German shepherd puppy are: Getting a puppy that is too young According to the American Kennel Club, the best time for a puppy to leave its mom and littermates is at eight to twelve weeks old. Puppies develop many life skills from their mom and littermates. When placed in their new home too soon, they can develop anxiety, lack confidence, suffer from health issues, and have many more behavior problems. If a confident, healthy, well socialized dog is your goal, the wait is worth it. Trying to channel the energy of a true working line dog into the average pet home is unfair to the dog and often results in destructive behavior by the dog. There have been many frustrated owners who have ended up trying to rehome a dog with behavior problems or worse, dump them at a shelter. Before you choose a puppy, talk to breeders, rescues, and other experts to find the perfect fit for your home. Not puppy proofing the home German shepherd puppies are smart, full of curiosity, and love to chew. Left to their own devices, they will inspect every inch of your home and chew anything that catches their eye. Not being prepared for the pupping biting Like all puppies, German Shepherds like to chew. But given that they are herding dogs, they are mouthier than most breeds. Many first-time German Shepherd owners have been caught off guard by just how much their adorable puppy likes to bite and how razor sharp their teeth are. Although a small puppy nipping fingers and ankles can be cute, German Shepherds quickly start teething and soon grow into rowdy adolescents who may learn that biting is a fun game. This behavior can easily escalate and hurt someone. Chew toys can be used to redirect biting onto something acceptable. They also need plenty of chew toys to offer to teething puppies. Allowing resource guarding behavior German Shepherds are naturally protective and easily given to resource guarding. Owners should never allow their puppy to guard anything including their food, space, or favorite toy. Some signs of resource guarding include protecting an item, hard stare, laying on an item, growling, lunging, air snapping, chasing, and biting. This behavior could be as simple as a look, head turn, or slight baring of the teeth. Some ideas on how to prevent resource guarding include hand feeding and treating your puppy from their food bowl while holding it in your lap, trading up their toys and treats for higher value items, teaching them to allow you to take it, drop it and leave it, teach them to place, and letting them enjoy high value chews in peace. Failing to socialize Young German Shepherds not only need to learn the house rules, but they also need to be exposed to people and places outside the home so they grow up to be a confident dog. This should be done in a safe way, so they have good experiences and are not forced into fearful situations or hurt by other animals and people. Before your dog has its shots, you can start socializing by having people come to your home, taking your pup on car rides, drive throughs, and vet visits. Once your puppy has its shots, you can expose your puppy to all sorts of people and situations, such as people of different genders, colors, races, ages, sizes, disabled wheelchairs, crutches, etc. Not keeping to a schedule Puppies do best when they are kept on a schedule. When a puppy has regular mealtimes, potty breaks, walks, play time, and bedtime, it makes all training much easier and sets the puppy up for success. Conversely, lack of a schedule or an unpredictable environment can cause your German Shepherd puppy to develop behavior problems, cause training setbacks, and potty-training accidents. By sticking to a realistic routine, your dog will be calmer, happier, and grow up to be a confident dog. From the day you bring your dog home, commit to schedule that includes predictable mealtimes, potty breaks, training time, naps, play time, and bedtime. Avoid unrealistic schedules, such as expecting a young puppy to not have frequent potty breaks or to skip meals and drinking water. Not starting training immediately German Shepherd puppies love to learn to please their owners. Puppy training should begin the day the move into your home. By starting training early, you will help your puppy develop and grow into the amazing dog they were born to be. Young puppies can easily learn basic commands such as sit, down, wait, come, and more. We hope you enjoy this article. As always, please feel free to share with your friends. This guide will help you learn how to select the best German Shepherd puppy to add to your family. Is a German Shepherd right for me? This is the first question you should ask yourself before you even consider bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy. You need to evaluate your personal and family lifestyle by asking yourself the following questions: Where do you live? German Shepherds are often on the restricted breed list for apartments. Do you spend much of your time at home, or do you have an active work and social life? Are you willing to spend more time at home on the weekends and evenings during puppyhood, even if it means missing social events? Do you love traveling a lot? If so, will you take your puppy with you? If not, do you have someone or someplace you trust to watch your dog when you travel? Is your whole family excited about the idea of a new German Shepherd puppy? Are you already active or willing to become more active? Do you have time in your schedule to devote to training? Knowing the answers to those questions will help get you a couple of steps closer to deciding whether or not a German Shepherd is the right choice for you. Important things to know about German Shepherds: German Shepherd dogs are sometimes affectionately known as German shedders. German Shepherds shed all year long , however, they blow their coats twice a year during which time they will shed exponentially more. When considering getting this breed, you should be comfortable having a dog that sheds. Trimming their nails , cleaning their ears, brushing their teeth, and brushing their coat regularly is sufficient. Of course, during the shedding seasons more frequent brushing will be needed. German Shepherds were originally developed for herding sheep. Accordingly, they have the desire to work and respond best to proper training from a young age, and an active lifestyle. German Shepherds are known to be clingy, so be prepared to have a shadow following you around the house and maybe even in the restroom. German Shepherds are good with kids and are great family dogs. However, they need proper socialization and training at a young age so they can learn how to behave around both kids and adults. German Shepherds require a lot of mental stimulation and have high energy levels, especially as a puppy. As much as I love Allie, she was more than a handful as a puppy. I have seen instances where people underestimate the time, energy, and training a German Shepherd puppy requires and get overwhelmed after bringing their puppy home. These people end up giving up their puppies. It breaks my heart to know these awesome dogs are given up because of a lack of knowledge when selecting a breed of dog. Although they are a handful if you are willing to put in the effort they are in my opinion one of the best breeds of dog to own. German Shepherds are too smart for their own good. They learn things scary fast and sometimes get themselves into trouble because of how smart they are. They learn your routine and habits, and they also learn when and how they can get away with mischief. German Shepherds are incredibly loyal and become very connected to their owners and family. German Shepherds are typically loving and affectionate. From the second I met Allie she greeted me with a wet tongue to the face. That is still her favorite greeting she will kiss anyone that will allow her to get close enough. German Shepherds need training. They need to know that you are the leader and in charge. If not, they will quickly take over the role of being in charge and that is where problems arise. A bored, untrained, not active German Shepherd can become one of the stories you sometimes hear on the news about a GSD being aggressive. In most of those cases, the problem was with the owners and not the dog breed as a whole. Adoption or Breeder? First, you need to decide if you are going to adopt a German Shepherd puppy or buy one from a breeder. Here are some of the benefits of adopting: Rescue puppies are often already sociable, at least partially trained, and loving dogs. Therefore, you will save a lot of time on house training your new puppy. Older puppies or dogs are likely to be calmer than a younger puppy. You are saving the life of a dog that might not have otherwise found a home. The cost of adopting is typically much cheaper than buying a puppy from a breeder. If you decide to get a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder, here are a few things that can help you identify a good, ethical German Shepherd breeder: Ethical breeders care about the health and wellbeing of the puppy and are not just in the business for money. Ethical breeders always make sure that only healthy dogs breed together and follow a strict breeding program where they ensure that breeding and puppy spaces are clean. They should also have papers showing the age of the parent and the family tree of the puppy. Ethical breeders will happily show you around their entire setup; they should have nothing to hide. Ethical breeders will happily answer as many questions as you have to ask. You want to select one that will be compatible with you and your family. Consider the following when picking a puppy from the litter: Choose a puppy that is sociable around you and other puppies. Pick a puppy that walks confidently with its head high and tail up and wagging. Choose a puppy that has clear eyes, ears , and teeth, walks evenly, and appears clean. Basically, choose a puppy that looks healthy. Look at the personalities of the puppies. Choose a welcoming puppy that wants to greet you as opposed to one that retreats or appears shy. Ask to interact with each puppy one by one after seeing them with their littermates. That way you can get a better sense of how the puppy responds to you without distractions. If possible, visit the litter at least three times before making a final decision, this will allow you to determine the personalities of each of those little fluff balls, and see which would best fit into your family. How old should a German Shepherd puppy be when you take it home? Any puppy should be at least 8 weeks old before being separated from their mother. By this timeline, their sensory organs will have also developed fully which will help you to spot any deformities or medical issues. Be wary of any breeder that will allow you to take your puppy home before 8 weeks old. How do you puppy proof for German Shepherds? German Shepherds are naturally active and tend to explore the world with their mouths, especially during their adolescent period. So, before you can bring your new puppy home, there are a few things you can do to puppy-proof your house: Get rid of any poisonous plants or put them out of reach of your new puppy. Cover electrical cords with cable wraps or PVC pipes. Buy a new laundry basket that has a lid, no holes, and is tall. Make sure both your kitchen and bathroom trash cans have lids. Your new puppy will dig around for anything to bite, like chicken bones, diapers, used hygienic products, or even a disposable razor. If possible, you should buy new trash cans that only open when a button is pressed. Store all the chemicals in secured cabinets or even better on high shelves. German Shepherd puppies have strong teeth and can open plastic containers by biting through even the toughest of plastic! Put away any small items or toys that are small enough for your puppy to swallow. Think of small kid toys like Legos or dollhouse furniture that could be dangerous for a curious puppy. Find a safe spot for your shoes. Whether in a closed closet or in the laundry room behind a closed door. I remember losing a pair of brand-new shoes because I forgot to put them away and Allie thought chewing them was a fun idea. Bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy The period of bringing a new German Shepherd puppy home and introducing them to your home and family takes time and above all, patience. If possible, plan to take off work for at least a few days after bringing your puppy home. I picked up Allie on a Saturday, and then took most of the following week off to spend time getting her adjusted to her new home. Remember, your new puppy has been taken from the only family it knew, and you are now their new family. That first week home was a good week of bonding with Allie. It helped her feel comfortable with her new life and allowed me to really get to know my new beautiful energy filled puppy. The best tip for a smooth transition when bringing your German Shepherd puppy home is to begin crate training and potty training as soon as possible. As a breed prone to separation anxiety , you want to give your GSD a zone to feel safe, comfortable, and content to be on their own. While the initial steps of crate training can be time-consuming, it can make the difference between a dog that is a joy to own, and one that can never be left on their own — so, be the dog parent your pooch deserves and put the time in! New German Shepherd puppy checklist and things to buy It is important that your new puppy feels welcomed into their new home. Some items are ok to be left with your puppy, and other items are more dangerous or will be destroyed. This checklist will help you to know what to buy when getting a puppy. New German Shepherd Puppy Checklist. Final thoughts Where do I start? The first thing that you have to do before you can pick out the best puppy, is to pick out the best breeder. This may come easily, as you may already have a breeder in mind that you trust and who has a good reputation. But chances are that you will have to do your research. And there is also a good chance that you may need to travel some distance to the right breeder. Even if the breeder is several states away, consider making the trip. Getting a new GSD puppy is a significant life commitment. The effort and time that you invest now in going about this properly will pay off for years to come. Here are some important things to look for in a breeder once you locate one that you are interested in pursuing. Call the breeder and have a conversation The first thing to do is call the breeder and have a conversation. A quality German Shepherd breeder will actually require this. They will not permit someone to just show up and purchase one of their dogs and take it home. They will ask you questions such as: Why do you want a GSD puppy? This will aid them in helping you choose. Where do you live, in an apartment or in a home? They will want to ensure that the puppy will not be in a cramped space. Do you have a yard, and is it fenced-in? They will want to make sure that the puppy will have adequate room to exercise as it grows. Do you have children in your home? They will want to make sure that you understand the importance of socialization and training to keep your family safe. Do you have other pets in your home? They will want to make sure that you know how to properly introduce the puppy to other animals, and whether any other pets you have may actually be a danger to the puppy. What type of work do you do, does it require you to be away from home for long periods of time? Because GSDs do not do well alone, they will want to make sure that you have adequate time to devote to your dog. Are you financially prepared to take on a GSD? While this may be a bit of a personal question, it is important to know that you are financially able to care for a GSD. They are expensive to care for, and it is fair for a breeder to ask this question. If a breeder does not ask you some form of these questions, then perhaps think twice. It may be an indication that they are more interested in profit than raising a quality puppy that they care will go to a quality home. Questions for you to ask the breeder: How many different types of dogs do you raise? Can you provide me with a pedigree of all of your puppies? A pedigree is essentially a family tree for your puppy. A good breeder should have a detailed pedigree for any dog they sell. Beware of any breeder that wants to charge for this or says that they will provide it at a later date. Do you have references? They should provide you with several without thinking twice. All reputable breeders will offer this guarantee in the form of a written contract. Do you breed your females more than once a year? Female GSDs should not be bred more than one time per year. This allows for adequate recovery time and maintains good health. Can you provide me with a detailed medical history for your puppies? Health screenings are essential for puppies, and a reputable breeder should be able to provide proof of these. Can you explain any potential health issues for GSD which may come up later in life? A knowledgable breeder should be able to clearly explain conditions like hip dysplasia and other health issues more common in GSDs than other dogs. If the answer to any of these questions comes up as unsatisfactory, move on. It is simply not worth the risk of pursuing the breeder any further. Unfortunately, there are far too many unethical breeders who take a lot of shortcuts which results in dogs prone to both health and behavioral issues. Why is this? You should never take home a puppy that is less than 8 weeks old. More than half of the states in the U. And out of those states, only 3 permit a puppy to be offered for sale under the age of 8 weeks. The reason for these laws is primarily so that puppies are properly weaned from their mothers and able to eat on their own. In addition to weaning, puppies need to be initially socialized by their mothers as well as their siblings. So a puppy will be taught that these things are bad during these 8 weeks. If you remove a puppy from the litter too early, they may not learn these lessons and develop behavioral problems as they get older. Much like a spoiled child that never learns, often times the source of an ill-behaved puppy can be traced to a lack of discipline at a young age. So to ensure that you have a healthy puppy, that is also sold in accordance with state laws and regulations, understand that it must be 8 weeks old see link above for exceptions — regardless of state law exceptions, waiting 8 weeks is good practice. Decide whether you want to male or female You may have a personal preference for either a female or a male German Shepherd puppy. It is important however to not necessarily just go with your gut on this one. Take a moment and understand some general differences between the two genders. I will explore this issue more in-depth in another post, but here are some important general points to consider. Territorial: Males are naturally more territorial than females. This may give them more of a tendency to wander off in an effort to broaden their territory. Very possessive: Male GSDs are generally more possessive than females. They may be possessive over food and bones, toys, and you! Dominance: Male German Shepherds tend to be more dominant than females. This may result in more of a proclivity towards aggressive bullying behaviors to make sure that it is understood that they are the boss. Dominance requires training to keep it in check. Singular bonding: Male GSDs tend to bond more closely with one person rather than a group of people like a family. Territorial: Females are therefore more welcoming and less territorial than males. They are also less likely to wander off as they have no desire to expand their territory. Dominance: Females display less dominant behaviors than males. Non-singular bonding: Females are more likely to bond with a number of people in a family rather than an individual person. So, how do I choose between the two? This question comes down to the purpose for which you want a German Shepherd. If you are looking for a dog to have trained in protection and are looking primarily for a four-legged security system for your home, then a male is a good choice. However, if your primary interest is to just have a family pet that socializes well with others, then a female is probably right for you. Testing the puppy There is no better way to determine whether or not a specific puppy is the right one for you than to actually get hands-on and doing some investigating. However, even before you begin any interactions with a puppy, make sure that you are testing the correct one. Never try and force any interaction, begin with puppies that are naturally drawn to you. Just like with people, you cannot force a match and expect fruitful results. So be patient and make sure at very least that the puppy is not aversive toward you before you being. The tests: Clap your hands: Does it run away or does it come? A more timid dog may, however, be apprehensive to approach. Make eye contact: When the puppy is looked at, does it stare back at you? If the puppy looks directly at you, it is showing confidence. Vocally call the puppy over to you: Does it come to you right away? If it does how not, however, this could show a behavioral issue or hearing problem, or it could be an indication of another illness as well. Pet the puppy: How does it respond to your touch? However, if it meets your touches with biting or growling, then this is likely an indication of an uneven or bad temperament. It will not just grow out of this, it will have to be trained out of it. Bring a ball with you to test with the puppy: Roll the ball and see what the puppy does. Does it follow it and then bring it to you? Or does it take it away for itself. A more dominant puppy will just take the ball and keep it for itself, reluctant to give it back to you. On the other hand, a more independent puppy may show no interest at all. And one that is submissive may actually be frightened. If you are looking for a very sociable puppy, look for the one that brings the ball right back to you to play some more. The puppy that brings it right back is also an ideal candidate for training in retrieving and other exercises. An even-tempered puppy will show interest in and play with the toy, but it will also allow you to participate and take the toy back without showing you any aggression. Roll the puppy over: Once the puppy comes over to you, gently roll it onto its back and hold it in place. Do not be forceful but be firm. See how the puppy reacts. Is it resisting, or is it just relaxing? A puppy with a more dominant personality will take the path of most resistance, and it may growl or attempt to bite at you. And the even-tempered puppy is the one that may resist for a short time but then submit to what you are doing. Pick up the puppy: Physically pick up the puppy by gently holding it underneath its chest with an open hand. Lift it up high, even above the height of your head and hold it there. What does the puppy do? Does it struggle, or does it stay relaxed? A puppy that struggles may be fearful or dominant. On the other hand, a puppy that stays absolutely relaxed is displaying confidence in itself and trust in you. Hold on to a paw and press it gently: This is somewhat similar to holding it on its back. If there is a response to be had, it will happen immediately. Resistance or pulling the paw away may show dominance and temperament towards aggression. The even-tempered puppy will be you curious as to what you are doing. It may investigate a little and might even lick you. Make an unexpected noise: Whether it is banging a pot and pan together or just yelling, create an unexpected noise. See what the puppy does, does it show fear, interest, or aggression? A fearful puppy may run away or even whimper. While an aggressive-tempered puppy may actually growl and try to bite you. An even-tempered puppy will simply look surprised, and may even want to investigate a little bit further. Meet the parents A lot of breeders will have both the father sire and the mother bitch of the puppies on site. However, some of them will only have the mother because sometimes the father is on loan as a stud from a different breeder. But the mother for sure should be on site, and you should get an idea of what she is like. In the case of my last German Shepherd, I was able to meet both parents. His mother was very kind and sociable and eager to be petted. While on the other hand, his father was clearly dominant, and not a dog to be messed with. Because of my prior experience and knowledge, my GSD turned out exactly as I thought he would — fairly sociable yet wildly protective of me. This was all right because I knew what to expect and I was able to train my dog properly to take the edge off of some of his more dominance behaviors. However, my choice was an informed decision based on years of experience. If you are new to owning a German Shepherd, this may not be an ideal combination. I would recommend for a new German Shepherd owner to consider making sure that both parents are more docile, and possibly even lean towards acquiring a female for your first German Shepherd. Visit the puppy on more than one occasion Just like people, puppies have their on days and their off days. You will not be able to get a very accurate picture of how your puppy will be on one short visit. In fact, with my last dog, I visited him at least 4 times and stayed for at least 30 minutes with him each time prior to taking him home. A good breeder will have no issue with you doing this, and in fact, will prefer it. They want their dogs to be well-matched with their new owners, so this is common practice. The puppy should become accustomed to the people it will soon be spending its entire life with. So the more familiarity that you build now in this phase, the easier that puppy will transition to home life with you and your family. All of these steps are positive reinforcement for your new puppy and will build familiarity and a bond even before you arrive home. Also, bring a small blanket or clothing item and ask the breeder to leave it with the puppy. This will allow your puppy to become familiar with the scent of you and your home. Making for a better transition. So by default, this knowledge enables the breeder to be very good at placing the proper puppies with the proper personalities. Remember to stay focused and not lose sight of your primary objective, which is to select the right puppy for you and your family. If you take the time and care to do your research and ask the right questions, you will come together with the right puppy for you. But remember, this is just the beginning of a major life commitment. So take this step of choosing the right GSD puppy seriously, and you will have laid the foundation for a loving and rewarding relationship for years to come. May not even be aware of the breed standard. Breeds to any convenient dog. Strives towards the ideal. Often helps to define it. Does not need to promote establishment; sells to brokers, pet shops, etc. Often rescues only to attain more stock. Rarely attends shows or trials. Shows and trials to objectively test breeding stock. Often judges, provides seminars, writes articles, and willingly mentors serious Hobby Breeders. Knowledge Often pretends to know some. May share false or incomplete information. Studies continuously. Impacts the breed for many decades with knowledge of dogs over many generations. All pups sold have full breeding rights. Yes, and diligently follows up on progeny. Keeps up with health and temperament issues affecting the breeding and provides in-depth guarantees No need to; mostly supplies brokers and pet shops. Meets minimum standards as required by state law. May refuse to acknowledge most problems. Maintains a solid support system — accepts full responsibility for every puppy produced. Performs health testing for all breeding stock for genetic diseases affecting the particular breed. No interest, may offer papers as proof of quality. Papers alone are not proof of quality. No interest. May provide undocumented paperwork for appearances sake. Is unfamiliar with health testing usually statements of good health are stated to impress consumers. Intensive testing always a priority. Often initiates club sponsored seminars and clinics. Maintains records on all dogs in gene pool including progeny. Often supplies brokers and pet shops, records unavailable. Dogs and puppies are often auctioned off in lots, records unavailable. Focuses mostly on current dogs, no records or knowledge of genes. Attempts to continuously track every puppy produced. Bases entire breeding program on extensive gene pool data. Clean environment always maintained Minimum standards vary greatly in cleanliness. Minimum standards maintained for state inspections. Conditions may vary greatly depending on available income, usually makeshift accommodations. Clean, healthy and mentally stimulating environment. Expected longevity with any particular breed Will continue as long as the sales are coming. Depends on popularity of specific breeds. Unrealistic expectations — easily disillusioned. On a mission-plans to stay for the long haul. Health guarantee provided No, it cuts into profits. No health guarantee beyond proof of first set of vaccines, if that. Not qualified to give advice if a problem arises. Offers written guarantee and is available to answer questions to new owners. Good knowledge of history in dogs. Extensive knowledge of health history, offers replacements to owners of genetically affected dogs. Ability to meet the parents of the litter If available, may be in poor physical condition. If available, dogs are not used to contact with people. May or may not be well loved and cared for companions, often unwilling to show entire litter or parents to buyer. Shows friendly mother and entire litter in clean environment; stud dog too, if in residence. Helps buyer choose appropriate puppy. Can explain how breeding was planned to emphasize specific qualities and can speak at length about how puppies compare. What you can expect after purchase Nothing, may not be able to contact at all. No concern for dog after sale is final. Available for questions, and wants to keep in touch. Will take back dog or puppy at any time. After purchase will help with training and grooming, available for all questions and knows the answers. Price Priced according to market, but is marked up from original source for profit. Mid-range to move puppies quickly. High end of mid-range. Price will not reflect all that is invested. Use only physically sound, mature dogs of stable temperament for breeding. These characteristics are rarely, if ever, determined before the age of two for females. Continue to educate themselves regarding genetic diseases pertinent to the breed including, hip and elbow dysplasia. Documentation of hip and elbow screenings should be available to prospective puppy buyers. Apply the same high standards to outside bitches sent to their stud dogs as they apply to their own breeding stock. Temperament testing of a litter before puppies are offered for sale is encouraged. Take appropriate steps to have each puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian for general health prior to placement. Each puppy should be vaccinated and de-wormed by a veterinarian. Endeavor to gain personal knowledge of the temperament and health of every dog they breed, or to which they breed, in order to gather information on which to base future breeding decisions. They share this information fully and honestly with other breeders and with prospective buyers. Sell breeding prospects to knowledgeable, ethical and experienced persons or are willing to help educate and guide novices. Do not engage in misleading or untrue advertising and do not use GSDCA membership as a marketing tool. Do not sell, supply, donate or surrender any dog for which they are responsible to a pet shop, catalogue house, wholesale dealer in dogs, Humane Society or to a laboratory. They should have reasonable assurance that each individual receiving a dog will provide a home with appropriate shelter, restraint, control and responsible care. Encourage puppy buyers to go to puppy obedience classes to help their puppies to become better canine good citizens. The achievement of a Canine Good Citizen certificate should be encouraged. Since homeowners insurance and local laws vary greatly, a refusal to let you visit the kennels may not, in and of itself, be a bad sign. You should ask for and receive a satisfactory explanation. The puppies are not social or look sickly. How to read those ads. A few more things to look out for. Anyone can buy a puppy from a champion, but it does not mean that they have any other interest in the breed but to bank on the name and make money. Having a Champion in a pedigree is like having a billionaire relative. AKC registration does not guarantee quality. AKC papers are much like the title of a car; papers are issued to the junked Chevy on blocks in your yard just as easily as they are on a brand new, shiny Jaguar. AKC does not control breeding, approve litters, or guarantee temperaments. AKC Registration is automatic if you buy from a reputable breeder — they will provide all necessary paperwork when you buy a puppy. There are several groups that are registering dogs, even mixed breeds, for a fee. This registration means nothing, and is of no value to you. Are there too many defects for the animal to be bred? Shop with care. Rarely will a good breeder have the luck to own both dogs for the perfect litter. There are some good and very reasonable reasons to have both parents on site. However, you need to ask the right questions and understand why this is true. They might be, they might not. Are they too big to be cute anymore? Need more money? Is there a problem? Usually because there are more on the way. Be very wary of this one. Will a Breeder Ask Me Questions? Conscientious breeders want the best available home for their puppies. This determines the amount of time you will have available for your new addition. There are very important items that should be supplied by the breeder. Breeders will typically give you the following items: A signed pedigree A current Health Record; including de-wormings and vaccinations. American Kennel Club registration papers or application Sales contract. The type of contract varies and must be mutually agreeable to the breeder and buyer. Much depends on what you expect from the puppy show, pet, or performance. Feeding schedule including the type and amount of food. Copy of OFA certification of sire and dam, if available.

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