what size crate for a labrador puppy

what size crate for a labrador puppy

Water is an important part of the overall metabolic process, which includes digestion, brain activity, blood flow, and breathing, as well as kidney and liver function. It also helps young dogs grow big and strong. Recommended Videos And, since a dog cools by panting, drinking water is essential for replacing the moisture that evaporates from their tongues, nasal passages, and lungs during the process. Lastly, a well-hydrated dog has a moist nose, which aids in their ability to smell. One of the best ways to make sure your puppy is drinking enough water is to set up a schedule. Instead of leaving a bowl out for them to drink at will, ration their intake. Every few hours, measure the appropriate amount of water into their drinking bowl and call your puppy. Encourage your pup to drink the water, and when they do, reward them with praise and a few minutes of playtime. When you add potty training to the mix, you need to be mindful of a few other factors. First, you want to reduce water intake at night since the goal is to work your pup up to a full 8 hours of sleep. Make sure they get a drink after the evening walk, say half an hour to an hour following a meal. Then put the bowl away for the night. This works especially well if you otherwise confirm that Fido has had enough liquid during the day. Overheating and illnesses, especially those that include vomiting, diarrhea, and fever, put puppies at risk of dehydration. Chewing on ice cubes adds an element of fun while it aids in hydration. Flavor drinking water with chicken or beef broth. Put a treat at the bottom of the bowl. Overhydration If it seems your puppy is drinking too much water, pay attention. Dogs, and puppies, in particular, are super curious. Your little buddy may just be playing in the water bowl, which is more of a behavioral issue than a medical problem. But if you think your puppy is doing more drinking than playing, they may have an underlying medical issue that needs to be addressed immediately. Symptoms of overhydration include:. Related posts: How much water does a goldendoodle need per day on average? Goldendoodles are active and high energy dogs, so they require a lot of water to stay healthy and hydrated. On average, goldendoodles need between 1 and 2 cups of clean, filtered water daily. During hot summer days, goldendoodles require more water than other times throughout the year as they are extremely susceptible to dehydration. Everything You Need To Know What are some factors that can affect how much water a goldendoodle needs to drink each day? The goldendoodle breed is a hybrid breed that requires approximately one ounce of water per pound of their body weight on a daily basis. However, several environmental and health factors can affect just how much water a goldendoodle needs to consume in order to stay hydrated and healthy. For example, goldendoodles living in warmer climates with high levels of physical activity will generally require more water than those living in cooler climates without as much physical activity. Owners should always be mindful that goldendoodles are particularly prone to dehydration and should consult with their veterinarian if they have any questions or concerns about proper hydration habits for their pup. It can be tricky to tell if your goldendoodle is getting enough water. One way to monitor consumption is to check for signs of excessive thirst, like increased panting , frequent licking, and changes in the color and concentration of urine. If you are unsure if your goldendoodle has had enough water, try offering them small amounts throughout the day — a little bit more than they usually drink — and increase or decrease as needed. This can give you an idea if they need more or less than usual. See also Timing is Everything: When to Neuter Your Goldendoodle What are some signs of dehydration in dogs, and what should you do if you think your goldendoodle is dehydrated? Dehydration can be a serious issue for goldendoodles, or any pet. There are several signs to watch out for that can indicate that your goldendoodle is dehydrated. If you think that your goldendoodle is showing any of these signs of dehydration, you should take them to a vet as soon as possible in order to make sure they have enough fluids and electrolytes in their bodies. The vet may recommend adding fluids or electrolytes via an IV for extreme cases of dehydration. Taking note of how much water your goldendoodle drinks on a daily basis can help you stay ahead of dehydration issues in the future. Are there any home remedies or natural ways to help encourage your dog to drink more water if they seem to be struggling with it? If your goldendoodle loves the outdoors and is not drinking enough water , there are some effective natural remedies you can try. Adding a few slices of cucumber, orange or other firm fruits and vegetables to their water bowl can provide much needed flavor variation, which may encourage them to drink more. Moreover, adding cold chicken broth or low-sodium bone broth to their water bowl helps increase the taste appeal and further stimulates drinking. You might also find that introducing your goldendoodle to different containers of water around the house e. However, dehydration is nothing to take lightly; symptoms should be noted as soon as possible and professional help should be sought if necessary. By ensuring that their daily needs are met, you can keep your goldendoodle healthy and feeling good no matter the situation. Related posts:. How much water should a Miniature Goldendoodle drink? A Miniature Goldendoodle puppy should drink around six cups of water every day. An adult Miniature Goldendoodle should drink at least one ounce of water for every pound of their weight. However, the amount of water needed may vary due to the activity the puppy has during the day, the weather, and their health. Miniature Goldendoodle puppies should drink water throughout the day and not all at one time. The information that I provided above is just a guideline. For a puppy, six cups per day are the required amount, but your puppy may drink more and that is perfectly fine. You should always keep a water bowl near the crate or in your backyard. That is the best way to prevent unforeseen dehydration. Breed Water required for 24 hours Miniature Goldendoodle At least six cups of water per day Miniature Goldendoodle Older than 12 months 1 once of water per pound of body weight The amount of water your Miniature Goldendoodle drinks throughout the day will vary. On days where your pet is very active, he will drink more water. If your puppy is out playing in the sun will drink more water. Health and medications can also affect how much water a Miniature Goldendoodle puppy needs in a day. Some pet owners think that offering more water to your Miniature Goldendoodle will only result in more bathroom breaks. This can be true, but you have to keep your puppy hydrated at all times. However, you should monitor how much water they drink and give breaks if the pup is drinking a lot at once. Should I leave a water bowl in the crate overnight? If your puppy has water available inside the crate, it might need to go to the bathroom overnight and will end up doing that inside the crate. Have him drink water one hour before bed and make sure that he finishes with the potty before entering the crate. Should you leave a water bowl in the crate overnight has been a commonly asked question without a clear answer. Many pet parents argue that a dog should always have access to freshwater. But, if you crate your pet overnight and leave him with a lot of water, what will happen? What you can do is you make sure that he gets enough water during the day, and one hour before bedtime. I have never placed a water bowl inside the crate and my Miniature Goldendoodle is okay with that. Well, this question will be hard to answer because Miniature Goldendoodles are highly energetic and full of curiosity. Puppies grow very fast and keeping track is very hard. The best way to get an idea of how much water your Miniature Goldendoodle needs is to monitor how often they return to the water bowl. If your Miniature Goldendoodle is playing out and is drinking a lot of water but it is not going to the bathroom that much, it is safe to say that he needs that amount of water. Only do so if you think that your pup is not drinking enough water. I always keep a water bowl filled with fresh water at any time. I have one in the kitchen and one in the backyard. Why is my Miniature Goldendoodle refusing to drink water? Your Miniature Goldendoodle could be refusing to drink water because he is not feeling well. If your puppy goes a full day without drinking water, you should be concerned. Try to pour some chicken or beef broth into the water bowl. If your puppy is not drinking water in the morning, the reason for that could be as simple as that he is not thirsty. Then, I think it was around 6 PM he started drinking and everything was fine. Why is my Miniature Goldendoodle drinking so much water? There are many health problems that are associated with drinking a lot of water. There is also a health problem called hypercalcemia which is an elevated level of calcium. This health condition will cause the dog to urinate more frequently. The best way to rule out any of the health problems is by doing blood work and urine analysis. More specifically, your dog will dehydrate. You also need to be aware of when your dog is drinking more water than usual, as this could be a sign of illness. So how much water should a dog drink? Find out whether your dog is drinking enough water or more water than usual. There are several ways to estimate how much water an individual dog needs, and this tend to vary due to individual circumstances. Just make sure that your dog has plenty of fresh, clean water every day. You might notice that your dog drinks less than when eating only dry kibble on a daily basis. Your Dog May Be Sick or in Pain If your dog is sick from another underlying cause, or has mobility or pain issues, they also might not drink the amount of water they need. Talk with your veterinarian to figure out why your dog is not drinking enough water and how you can help. Your Dog Is Hot or Exercising Depending on the temperature and the amount of exercise your dog does, more water may be necessary. This is because water is lost with excessive panting and salivation. Can Dogs Drink Tap Water? Tap water that is safe for people is also safe for dogs. In most cases, tap water is fine for your dog. However, if you live in a place with unsafe tap or well water, please discuss options with your veterinarian for providing bottled or filtered water for your dog. Many important body functions require water, so without an adequate supply, your dog can become quickly become ill and dehydrated. Organs will eventually become damaged with sustained water deficiency, and if it lasts long enough, the kidneys, liver, and other organs will begin to shut down. Death will follow shortly after. In general, a healthy dog will drink enough water daily to stay well hydrated, but there are a few instances where dehydration can occur. Pull the skin up gently and release it. Watch for the skin to fall back into place. The skin should quickly return to place without any hesitation. If dehydration is present, the skin will slowly return or may even stay up for a time before falling back into place. If you notice your dog drinking or urinating more than usual , let your veterinarian know. There are many causes for this problem, since many disease processes show this symptom. Water and food bowls should be scrubbed with soap and water daily. Bowls should be smooth and easy to clean, without nooks and crannies or even scratches where bacteria can hide and survive. If you are concerned that your dog is not getting enough water to maintain their health, or is drinking too much water, talk to your veterinarian for advice. Featured Image: iStock. By Kern Campbell Goldendoodles are the newest craze in puppy-land since .They are a cute mix of golden retriever and poodle; this combination makes for a brilliant and playful dog great for families. If this is your first puppy, you chose well! They are easy to train and fun to snuggle at the end of the night. With a new puppy comes with a new set of things to keep in mind and look for when taking care of your new Goldendoodle. How much water should your Goldendoodle puppy be drinking? Every two hours, you should make sure your puppy is drinking about one-half cup of water. As your puppy gets older and is fully weaned off the mother, you will want to make sure your puppy is drinking one ounce of water per body weight every day. Owning a puppy requires a lot of time , and you must be willing to take care of them the best you can. Water seems like something minimal to deal with. However, if they do not drink enough water, there could be dire consequences. As your puppy gets older, you will be able to evaluate how much water they need on their own, and you will be able to pay less attention. It is crucial for your puppy, and even your older dog is drinking plenty of fresh water every day. This means they can fully break down their food. They will still be able to break down food without water, but not as well. On top of that, they are also able to better absorb the nutrients with the help of water. The answer is water! When your dog is drinking enough, they will be able to remove the toxins through potty time! This is especially helpful in older Goldendoodles. They pant. Fresh water moving throughout their bodies will help regulate their entire body temperature on a warm day. A grumpy dog who does not get enough water will be more aggressive. It is essential to try to keep your new puppy as happy as possible. This will help grow your bond. Consequences of not drinking enough water If your dog is not drinking the appropriate amount of water, it is essential to try to get them to drink a little. Your puppy will become dehydrated if they do not drink enough water. There can be some severe signs to look for. Signs of dehydration in a puppy: There are a few signs that can be a giveaway that your puppy may be dehydrated. If you notice any severe symptoms, it may be best to take your puppy to an emergency vet. If you do not think it is dangerous, there are a few tricks you can do to make your new puppy a little more comfortable. The first thing you can do is always fill up a bowl of water, changing it throughout the day. Your goldendoodle should always have access to fresh, clean water; even if you are potty training, they need to have clean water they can easily reach. There are certain things you can ask the store clerks for; they will be able to help you choose the best kind of electrolyte to add in the water. There will be different brands meant for different breeds or ages, so be very careful when picking out these mixtures to add in the water. If your puppy has severe symptoms, it is best to call the vet or take them into an emergency clinic. Letting them go dehydrated for an extended period could hurt your puppy. It could be their new favorite snack! Experimenting with different containers might benefit you. Your goldendoodle may prefer a ceramic bowl over a metal bowl. It is essential to note which one they prefer; it will help them drink more water. Believe it or not, if you make drinking water fun, a puppy is more likely to stay hydrated. A funny water fountain may promote a water drinking habit in your goldendoodle. You will want to make sure you get the right kind of wet food that supports what your goal is. Sneaking your puppy new ways to stay hydrated involves some experimenting. It is also crucial not to force your puppy to do anything. If you notice anything wrong and none of these tricks work, you will want to talk to a professional. Conclusion Goldendoodles are one of the sweetest breeds out there. They are extremely good with kids and other dogs making them the perfect family dog. These puppies are intelligent and easy to train; they will need a lot of exercises and a great yard to play in. As long as you take care of these puppies to the best of your abilities, they will love you for life. Owning a puppy is a huge responsibility; their diets and water habits are incredibly important to consider. You should always make sure your Goldendoodle has plenty of ways to stay hydrated and call the vet if you notice any signs of dehydration. When should you give puppies water? Start introducing water and food around 3 to 4 weeks of age. This is the best time to start slowly wean your puppy from their mother's milk and care, so they learn to become more independent. Should puppies have free water access? Julie and our team recommend providing clean water and free access to your puppy throughout the day to keep them hydrated. However, you'll need to supervise their water intake. Can a puppy go 8 hours without water? You also can help your pup stay hydrated by adding more moisture to their food. Should you leave water out all day for a puppy? Be sure to keep up the puppy water schedule and give them regular access to fresh water during the day with supervision. Can you give a puppy too much water? Supervising your pup's water intake is vital because not enough could lead to: Dehydration Kidney stones Organ failure Drinking too much can also be toxic. Setting up a water schedule for your puppy is essential for their health and happiness. How long does it take to potty-train a puppy? It often takes 4 to 6 months for most puppies to be fully housebroken , but some pups may need up to 12 months. The size and breed can be the main contributing factors. Implementing A Water Schedule for Your Puppy Just like people, puppies do well when they follow a set schedule that includes their water intake. They need time and guidance to understand how to adapt to their new family and environment! Establishing a schedule that monitors their water, food, play and sleep helps establish consistency. This consistency is essential when housebreaking and also helps promote: Proper potty training Good eating habits Healthy confidence and bonding Something as simple as a water schedule can create a routine that helps make your puppy less stressed and prevent bad habits and behaviors. Housebreaking Puppies: Getting Started in 3 Steps It's important to realize that when getting a new puppy the first few days are often the hardest. Change for any animal, especially young puppies is always an adjustment. Dogs are den animals by nature. These can actually encourage your puppy to go potty indoors if their area is inside. When housebreaking, balance is key. As a certified dog trainer, Julie recommends alternating between: Having your dog on a leash attached to you Tethered close to you inside for short time periods In their crate and only for a reasonable period of time. Be sure to provide consistent potty breaks as well! Potty training and teaching your pup to hold their bowel movements first requires you to understand their nature. The common areas can include: The dining room Living room Other, less used spaces Teaching them how to let you know when they need a bathroom break is essential. Since young dogs have not yet been taught the proper signals , supervision is vital. Quick tip: Never correct or scold your pup for accidents. Nose rubbing techniques will only confuse and upset them! The Crate While crate training is a simple yet effective to housebreak puppies, it doesn't teach them where the bathroom is. Creating a safe space for your puppy does help them learn to hold their bladder and bowels by confining them comfortably. Puppy crates should only be large enough for them to: Stand up Lay down Turn around Quick tip: Never leave your dog in their crate longer than a couple of hours, especially when potty training puppies. Housebreaking Supervision and Prevention Setting your puppy up for success is the foundation of proper housebreaking. The two keys of successful housebreaking are: Supervision Prevention We at CanineJulz cannot stress this enough. Fortunately, our certified dog trainer, Julie, provides classes that teach both puppy and owner the fundamentals of successful housebreaking! Taking the time to train your pup to go outside helps condition them to go potty outside. The more they make outside, the fewer accidents happen inside. This is known as housebreaking prevention. Daytime housebreaking prevention should include: Frequent potty breaks Free access to water Short, frequent nap times in their crate Our team recommends implementing crate time when you're participating in activities where you cannot supervise your pup. Young dogs need constant supervision , especially when potty training. Provide them with and then restrict water about 2 to 3 hours before bed to prevent accidents during nighttime. If you have a very young puppy, our team advises that you implement proper nighttime supervision by: Crating them in the same room where you sleep Tethering them if uncomfortable in their crate Remaining close to help them feel secure Remember, bonding is essential for you and your pup at this age. Supervision also makes nighttime potty time and training easier. If you took them outside, and they went potty, they want attention! Dogs younger than 12 weeks of age are more vulnerable to stress, anxiety, and bathroom accidents. The earlier dogs learn to be comfortable when left alone, the better. Establishing balance when housebreaking your puppy is key. At CanineJulz , proper housebreaking is a top priority to us. Contact our team to learn how we can help you create balance for a healthy and happy dog! One More Quick Tip for Housebreaking Success Dogs have a habit of finding places throughout the home to go to the bathroom. Common spots include: Behind furniture Out of the way places Tip: The next time you feed your puppy, try giving them food in places where they had an accident. This will help establish these rooms or spots as their den, not a bathroom! Do you need help housebreaking your new pup? Post not marked as liked11 Recent Posts.

Royal Canin makes dry food tailored explicitly to particular breeds. Its Golden food variation uses chicken and brown rice ingredients to support digestive health, strong bones, and a healthy coat. Gorgeous coats, healthy body conditions, great activity levels- perfect puppies! With a combination of healthy proteins, fruits, vegetables, and more, this dry dog food will encourage healthy muscle development in your Golden Retriever as well as strong teeth, a healthy heart, and improved skin and coat texture. Looking at the ingredients makes me feel that I have purchased a quality product for my guy. With ingredients like real protein, fruits, and vegetables, this dry food increases energy, strengthens bones, improves immune strength, and neutralizes free radicals. Her coat is healthier and shiny. She even trimmed down a little as her old dog food was making her fat. They produce high-quality dog food for your Golden Retriever at an affordable price. Veterinarians recommend IAMS Proactive Health because it uses ingredients like animal protein and antioxidant-rich veggies to nourish your dog and meet their complete health needs. Highly recommend it. Good for maintaining a decent weight too. Gobbles it down! With fish as the main protein, this kibble promotes a gorgeous coat and healthy skin and improves digestive issues. He eats it enthusiastically, and it has really helped him thrive! He is energetic, has a gorgeous coat, and devours his meals! She is a much happier dog. The Save Shredded Puppy Blend includes probiotics to help ease the digestion in growing Golden Retriever puppies with sensitive stomachs. I mix it with wet food, and he loves it. He loves the chunks of shredded chicken! I highly recommend it. This large-breed dry food can help your Golden Retriever maintain a healthy coat and great skin as well as smooth digestion. All of them love this food! Their coats are shiny and soft, and their poops are small! The exclusive formula also increases energy levels! We tried another brand, and it caused all kinds of allergic reactions. We went back to Eagle Pack, and all is right again. Great product! That may be because they have a senior Golden Retriever who is struggling with dental issues or feel that dehydrated food options are healthier. This particular food contains real protein and essential nutrients that can benefit dogs of all ages. Once we got this, she became a food-crazed puppy! This food includes a combination of freeze-dried raw-coated kibble with real pieces of freeze-dried raw meat! This variety has lots of meat sources plus several strains of probiotics. In general, your dog will benefit from puppy food from about 8 weeks of age until they are six months to a year old. Check with your vet to determine the right time to switch from a puppy food to one for adult dogs, as recommendations vary based on the size of your dog. A few days later, you can begin making it a half-and-half blend. Make sure to watch for loose stool from your pup as you transition — if you notice that your Golden is struggling with the new diet, wait for a few days before increasing the blend. When in doubt, check with your vet! Most dog foods come with specific volumes listed on the side. Overfeeding your pet can lead to a variety of health concerns. To determine what food will suit your dog the best, check out 17 of the top dog foods on the market for Golden Retrievers, no matter their age. Check with your vet to determine whether your Golden will need any special dietary considerations. Foods considered toxic to Golden Retrievers are macadamia nuts, chocolate, onions, garlic cloves, grapes, raisins, walnuts, alcohol, and any foods sweetened with xylitol. Try to avoid feeding your Golden food containing any of these ingredients. Grain is an essential component to the diet of Golden Retrievers. The absence of grain has been known to lead to a deficiency in taurine, which can potentially cause heart problems for your golden. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. They are growing quickly, so while they eat smaller quantities of food than adult dogs, they need to extract far more nutrients like protein, minerals, and vitamins, to sustain their growth and development. Different Dogs, Different Diets Nutritional needs vary from breed to breed. One only needs to look at golden retrievers to know they require a different diet than a Chihuahua! For example, joint and bone problems are much more common in big dogs than in little ones, but choosing the right puppy food can reduce the risk. Large-breed puppy food has reduced amounts of calcium and phosphorus, which helps control the rate of skeletal growth. Also, you may find puppy foods that contain glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and mobility. By consuming too much food, your puppy will have elevated levels of the very nutrients that should be limited. Additionally, overweight puppies may develop other health issues such as diabetes and heart disease. Good eating habits developed during puppyhood will lead to a healthy mature dog in the years to come. Nutrition For The Outside One of the most visible components of your dog is its fur. Nutrition plays a vital role in this area. A large percentage of the protein your puppy takes in goes towards maintaining its coat. Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids are also essential for healthy skin and fur. Which Food Do I Choose? There will always be those who buy the cheapest brand on the market. Some will opt for the most expensive, while others will simply go with a brand name they recognize. The key is to find the right food for your particular puppy. One thing you cannot afford to ignore is the nutritional content. Because they are still growing, puppies need more protein than adults. Proteins foster muscle growth and development in puppies and lean muscle maintenance in adults, so the more of it there is in a diet, the better it is for your growing retriever. Fats, too, are important for golden puppies because they provide the energy required for everyday activities. You should be careful, however, not to feed your golden excess calories because this will result in excess weight or obesity. Eventually, your dog will end up battling joint problems. For instance, less expensive dog foods typically have lower-quality ingredients. The contents are often inexpensive, low-grade animal protein sources, like by-products and fillers. Fillers are frequently things like cornmeal, rice flour, or seed hulls. In general, thoroughly review the nutritional content of your chosen diet. Are the ingredients wholesome and natural? Does the diet have controlled calcium and phosphorous levels? Is the calorie and fat content limited to manage growth? Does the label state that the diet is complete and balanced? This can lead to obesity and will certainly cause increased defecation. The latter of these two issues will make house training more difficult than it already is. By contrast, costlier dog foods usually have higher-quality ingredients. The scales will be tipped heavily in favor of high-grade animal protein sources and fillers will be few and far between. Price is not, however, a guarantee of quality. The best dog foods for a golden retriever puppy are made with high-quality natural ingredients and have high levels of protein. Make sure the food is complete and balanced for daily feeding and formulated to meet the nutritional needs of large breed puppies. At this point, golden retriever puppies have likely already been switched to dry puppy food and you should continue feeding your pup the same type of food the breeder used. From the day you bring them home until they are six months old, you should feed your golden retriever puppy three times a day. Ideally, your pup should have breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day. A grain-free diet is the default meal for golden retrievers that are sensitive to grains, but if your dog is healthy, feeding her such a meal boils down to choice. A lot has been said about grain-free diets. Reports and studies have been carried out in recent years trying to establish any connection between it and Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy DCM. That all starts with choosing the best puppy food for golden retrievers. Avoid low-cost foods that are more filler than substance, and look for better foods that are packed with nutrients to help your puppy grow. In particular, consider trying a large breed formula to meet the specific needs of your golden retriever puppy. Good nutrition is an essential part of any health regimen, and providing high-quality puppy food will lay the foundation for a long, and enjoyable life. You May Also Like.

Boxmatian Highlights The Boxmatian is a mixed breed dog. They are not purebreds like their Boxer or Dalmatian parents. In general, the Boxmatian is a dog that prefers to be in warmer rather than colder climates. The Boxmatian is a dog with exceptionally high energy and exercise needs. If you cannot commit to a bare minumum of one hour of exercise every single day, you risk bringing on weight issues. This mixed breed is very active. Boxmatian History Best guesses suggest that the Boxmatian originated somewhere in Europe; although, exact information about the history of this mixed breed is scarce. If we focus on the parent breeds, the Boxer breed began as both a working farm dog and fighting dog back in the 19th century. It also evolved into a role as a guard dog. Their fighting tendencies have since been bred out of them, and they now make wonderful, loving companions for any family. The Boxmatian has become known as a designer dog breed, but many of them unfortunately end up in shelters. Boxmatian Size The Boxmatian is a large dog. As is always the case with newer mixed dog breeds, exact size standards might vary. Most weigh in at 50 to 90 pounds and range in height from 19 to 25 inches. Boxmatian Personality First up, the Boxmatian is one of the most energetic dogs around. Always try and challenge the dog to think during outdoors games and play sessions. Boxmatian Health Boxmatians are generally considered to be healthy dogs; although, the breed can be predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Boxer and Dalmatian face. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Even standard walks with a Boxmatian should include breaks for games of fetch. Bathing is recommended every couple of months. Check their ears for debris or pests, especially after outdoor play sessions. Clean them as recommended by your vet. Boxmatian Feeding An ideal Boxmatian diet should be formulated for a large dog with high energy. Daily brushings will help cut down on shedding issues—ask your vet for a breed appropriate type of brush. Boundaries need to be set and interactions should be supervised, especially during the early stages. Ultimately, early socialization really pays off with this breed. Make sure to reward your Boxmatian for good behavior and adhere to a proper training regime when adding the dog to your family. Boxmatian Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Boxmatians because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Boxer or Dalmatian breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Lifespan Sociability There are a few things that you should know about Boxmatians before deciding whether to bring one home to your family. For instance, these dogs need at least an hour of vigorous exercise every day to stay fit and happy. Training and early socialization should be at the top of your to-do list when you bring home a Boxmatian puppy. The sooner you can train them and get them to know other pets, the better. These energetic dogs will require plenty of mental and physical stimulation to avoid boredom. The Boxmatian is best suited for active families who can dedicate enough time to these loving dogs. They Have Various Names While the Boxmatian is a widely accepted name for this hybrid dog breed, they get referred to as various names by breeders and owners throughout the world. Some simply call them Dalmatian mixes, while others have different names for them, including Dalmoxers and Boxermations. While some believe that they were invented in the United States, others think that they originated in Europe. No matter where they originated from, the Boxmatian is certainly not as old as their parent breeds. They Can Be Aggressive Boxmatians are naturally affectionate, and most owners never see their aggressive side. These dogs are highly intelligent and go great when it comes to obedience and agility training. They love chasing balls, running on the beach, and spending afternoons on long hikes. This is a mixed breed that needs stimulation while spending time indoors too. The Boxmatian can be taught to distinguish between friendly strangers and those who pose a threat, making them great watchdogs. While Boxmatians can become aggressive, this problem can be avoided by engaging in regular obedience training and making socialization a priority. These dogs will spend some time snuggling up on their beds while the family watches a movie. But dog-centric activities are a must before and afterward. Are Boxmatians Good for Families? The best way to do this is to start introducing new dogs to your pooch soon after bringing them home for the first time. Any chance you get, take them to the dog park or have friends bring their dogs over for a visit. Supervise the visits and interactions so any bad behavior can be corrected. Boxmatians can also get along with other animals like cats, but they will need to be trained and socialized to do so. Things to Know When Owning a Boxmatian You still need to know about things like what and how much Boxmatians eat, how to groom them, and what kinds of health conditions they might be prone to. This can add up to a great deal of food by the end of the month! To ensure a long, happy, and healthy life, you should splurge on high-quality food that contains no fillers or artificial ingredients. Stay away from the stuff that features chicken meal, corn, and soy. Look for food full of real meat, brown rice, and supplements like flaxseed. They wake up ready for a long walk, and they spend their days trying to find activities that will keep their minds and bodies busy. You can ride a bike or skate alongside your pooch to make exercise time more challenging for the dog, and more enjoyable for you. These dogs should be given plenty of opportunities to run and play in a yard too. Failing to do so can result in the destruction of your belongings and behavior that is hard to handle, especially in social situations. In addition to obedience training, these dogs do excellent in agility settings. Look for an agility club in your area to join. Doing so will provide your pooch with the socialization and exercise they need as they grow into adults. Because of the high amount of outdoor activity that this hybrid breed should get, they may need to be bathed once a month or so to keep dirt and grime from building up on their coats. All the exercise your Boxmatian gets should keep their nails nice and trim over time, though. Minor Conditions. If they take after their Dalmatian parent, a Dalmatian Mix is likely to be a loyal, athletic, and energetic dog that loves their families. Dalmatians tend to be loving and loyal dogs that get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. They tend to be loving and affectionate with their families and more reserved around strangers. Should a Dalmatian Mix take after their Dalmatian parent, you should be able to expect a similar temperament from them. You will still want to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed so you know what other traits could be in the mix. You can also meet the mother in-person to see the temperament she has and the manners she is modeling for her puppies. They do much better in homes with yards where they can run. They are sensitive to heat and may get cold easier in the winter than breeds with a thick coat. This makes them a moderately adaptable dog breed. If the other parent breed is similar, then you should be able to expect the same level of adaptability from a Dalmatian Mix. But, you still want to talk to the breeder about them as the other parent breed could introduce other quirks that could affect adaptability. Mixed-breed dogs can sometimes inherit none of the conditions common to their parent breeds. However, they could inherit any combination of them or all of them from one or both parents. From the Dalmatian side, potential health concerns to be aware of in a Dalmatian Mix include kidney stones, deafness, elbow dysplasia, and hip dysplasia. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing issues on to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. Dalmatians are highly intelligent dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. Generally, they are a good fit for dog owners of all experience levels. But, their high energy and tendency to get bored can be difficult for first-time dog owners to handle alone. Because of this, puppy training classes are recommended. They could have traits that could make a Dalmatian Mix easier or more difficult to train. You will want to be prepared for the possibility of needing training classes either way. A mixed-breed dog can inherit a coat that is similar to one of their parents or a coat that is a mix of both of them. Should they inherit the Dalmation coat, it will shed a little year-round, require weekly brushing, and need only a bath occasionally. It all depends on how quickly their nails grow. Because gum disease often leads to other health issues and is such a common problem for dogs, practicing good dental care for dogs throughout their lives is essential. A Dalmatian is a high-energy dog breed. They require daily walks plus time to run and other activities to stay happy and healthy. If the other parent is also a high-energy dog breed, then you can expect a Dalmatian Mix to be the same. Even if the other parent breed has a lower energy level, you will need to be prepared for the potential of a high-energy dog with a Dalmatian Mix. Dalmatians are usually inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent breed could affect this, so you need to ask the breeder about them and pay close attention to which breed is the mother. A Dalmatian generally lives for years. Although the other parent breed may affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar life span in a Dalmatian Mix. Featured Dalmatian Mix Article. Their similar size will make Boxmatian, as it is called, grow about 19 to 25 inches tall. It can weigh around 45 to 80 pounds. Although Boxer and Dalmatian have short hair, but both of them are shedder that you need to invest time to brush them at least twice a week to keep shedding under control. But if you want to invest some time to check at local shelters, that will save significant amount of money and… a life! Due to the nature of its parents, this mix will most likely be a large dog. Knowing that Dalmatian has potential as a watchdog, and Husky has tendency of not really good off-lease, you need to be sure that you can handle a large dog in lease. It is not a fixed trait you can expect, of course. But, better be prepared than not. This will be a medium sized dog which likely has stumpy body with dots. Dalmatian and Corgi are intelligent dogs, so their offspring will inherit it too. While Dalmatian has an athletic body and Corgi is an agile breed, make sure you give them daily exercise to make them calm and content, and the most important thing is not being destructive in house. Yes, Poodle Dalmatian Mix is a fun dog. They are intelligent and will be very active as well. The best owner for them may provide them a yard to run and play around, as well as consistent mental and physical stimulations. A proper training, exercise, and socialization will give you the best dog which knows many tricks, may like some show off, with dignity. Its parents are large dogs, so you need to be prepared to have a space and energy to handle a large German Dalmatian. It is also likely to have life span between 10 to 12 years, same as its parents. An owner which loves to work out will make the best owner for German Shepherd mixed Dalmatian since this dog will be such an energy bundle that will love to run and have a long walk daily with you. Some people call it Dalmeagle, some call it Beaglemation. Applies to all dog food recalls in the U. This is a dog which does not really shed and require little to no attention in terms of grooming. Make sure you have a regular check up to your vet to prevent those health problems. This is a wonderful outgoing dog which can be trained easily using positive reinforcement technique. They like and need daily physical exercise and mental stimulation since boredom can lead them to be destructive. Chihuamatian or Chimation has tendency to be protective to its family. The owner needs to train them with patience and consistency to make them act better with strangers. Although a hybrid is popular as they are more prone to genetic diseases than their purebred parents, Chihuahua Dalmatian Mix owner still need to watch its diet. Make sure that you feed them with diet that fits their age, size, and activity, as well as containing meat as the main ingredient to prevent urinary tract infection Chihuahua Dalmatian Mix is vulnerable to. Both of its parents have these personalities. For the energy, they are in opposite continuum. Dalmatian is very active and more a working dog, while Great Dane is a couch potato. So, you can expect Dalmatian Great Dane puppy is somewhere in between. A moderate exercise daily will be good to make them calmer and happier at home. An early training and socialization are also very important if you need a quieter house, since both of its parents have tendency to bark. Chow Dalmatian needs more attention to brushing since it is a shedder. Make sure that you have your vacuum handy. This dog has high energy so that you need to take it to a long walk as daily exercise to prevent them making destruction in the house. Border Collie mix Dalmatian is also known to be over protective around small kids, so supervision is needed for family with children. This intelligent dog will likely pick up training quickly but tends to be dominant as well so the owner to be extra assertive to be able to handle it. The best family and environment for this mix is where they can be active, working, being stimulated mentally and physically every day. They also prone to health issues such as hip dysplasia, eye problems, and skin problems. You can consider raw food diet or diet that has meat as main ingredient for this Australian Dalmatian. It will grow up to anywhere around 10 to 16 inch. This dog lifespan is range around 12 to 15 years. A Daschmatian will likely be an intelligent dog, just like its parents, although may not really like to obey. Their tendency to be dominant requires a firm and assertive owner. The good point is, this hybrid does not need a lot of attention for grooming. They are also friendly with family although early socialization is needed as well. However, they will shed like crazy since Dalmatian is a shedder, and Pug sheds crazily. This medium energy dog also needs daily exercise, but do not push it too much since Pugmatian will not respond well with heavy exercises. However, due to different size of its parents, it is quite hard to expect how big a Cocker Dalmatian will be. It can be anywhere around .This is also an intelligent family dog which will need human family who are active and consistently stimulate them mentally and physically. A house with backyard is also perfect for Dalmatian Cocker Spaniel Mix so they can freely run around and playing. Dalmatian St. Dalmatian, a mix of St. Bernard and Dalmatian is a rare hybrid to find. It is more likely because of accidental mating. You can expect a large to giant full grown puppy as St. Bernard and Dalmatian offspring. This will likely be a high maintenance as well, especially if St. Bernard gene is dominant. The good thing is both parents of St. Bernard and Dalmatian are affectionate and lovely dog for your family, although early training and socialization is still needed especially around children. This hybrid has been developed since 15 or 20 years ago, along with the increased popularity of designer dogs. Make sure you feed American Dalmatian, or Bullmatian, a high quality canine food without byproduct. A grown up American Dalmatian needs about 1. This is also not a dog for first timer, since train a American Dalmatian is not an easy one. Professional trainer might be needed to make this dog well-trained and well-behaved with his human pack, other pets and strangers. This mix of Shar Pei and Dalmatian is also intelligent and relatively easy to train. They are best living in a house with yard as space for physical activities. This dog will grow around 18 up to 24 inches and weigh about 40 to 60 pounds. Shar Pei mix Dalmatian hybrid has a life expectancy around 10 to 12 years. This dog is a high energy dog and needs supervision around children. Akita mix Dalmatian dog might also not really good with other pets. This is a working dog which will not be happy to lie around all day. Blue Dalmatian or Dalmatian Heeler needs a strong and active human leader to bring the best out of its characteristics. A consistent and early training is also needed especially because Blue Heeler Dalmatian Mix has tendency to bark and howl a lot. This is a lovely hybrid dog. However, this dog tends to be the alpha so that the best owner needs to be assertive and experienced to show it who the boss is. The grown up will likely be around 12 inches to 24 inches and weigh about 40 to 70 pounds. Consider to give your Dalmatian mix English Bulldog a raw food diet or food with meat as main ingredient to keep them healthy and having greater life expectancy. This is a fun loving family pet who likes to be with its pack the whole time. If you often go out for a long time, you better consider another breed that is more independent. Even though this is an intelligent dog, owner should take more patience and time on training especially to teach it Golden Dalmatian, or Goldmation, not to bark and howl. This dog likely becomes a large dog that grows up around 19 inches up to 32 inches and weighs around 45 pounds up to pounds. That makes it fit for someone who has a house with backyard or even better, in a countryside where there are still large fields everywhere around. This working dog needs exercise daily to prevent it being destructive. Dalmatian mix Great Pyrenees dog also likes extra exercises and consistent physical and mental stimulation to make this dog always happy and fulfilled. This is a rare hybrid, a playful affectionate large hybrid. Rhodesian Dalmatian is also a low maintenance dog which will help you save a lot of time and money to visit groomer and vet since this dog rarely needs it. However, by looking at its parents, a mix of Rhodesian Ridgeback and Dalmatian will need heavy exercise daily since it has high level of energy. Just like other large dog, Rhodesian Ridgeback Dalmatian mix is prone to get hip dysplasia although can be prevent by controlling their meals and not overfeed it. Both of Pitbull and Dalmatian are not instinctively good with kids. It also needs an experienced owner that can train this strong personality dog at its best. This is an active and intelligent dog which has tendency to be alpha if the owner is not assertive and strong enough. So, early training and socialization become highly important for this Pitmatian. However, grooming side is quite easy since this dog has short hair and, although it sheds, but still manageable with weekly brushing. This is a high energy dog which tends to bark and howl if not properly trained. Both of its parents are also instinctively protective and can be a good guard dog. Highly intelligent and stubborn, Dalmahoula, as it is called, need an experienced and strong owner with extra patience to train it and bring the best character out of it. This will not fit owner who often go out for long time. This friendly and intelligent dog needs moderate exercise daily to keep their energy low and calm. Tzumatian is also a moderate shedder which needs brushing several times a week. A handy vacuum is a good idea to keep your floor and sofa clean. This has tendency to be very aggressive, therefore will be recommended for someone who has worked with dogs and strong enough to train and handle it. Dobermatian will likely grow between 22 inches to 27 inches and weigh from 35 pounds up to pounds. So, be prepared for a strong dog to be trained and handled. However, this dog is also a family dog which loves to be around and will not do well if being left for a long time. Life expectancy for Newfoundland mix Dalmatian is around 9 years to 13 years, a common range for large dogs. If the Dalmatian personality is dominant, this Dalfoundland is better supervised around children. However, if the Newfoundland personality is dominant, this dog can be one of the gentlest dogs towards kids. When choosing the kibble, stay away from these worst dry dog food brands, and pick some of the best dry dog food , like Wellness Core Dog Food or Dog For Dog Food. Nutritional imbalances should be avoided, but if they occur Nutra Thrive dog food supplement can help your pooch achieve the right ratio of nutrients. Little munchkins will thrive on best puppy food brands , whereas older pups will be better off with the best senior dry dog food! Dalmatian mixes come in a variety of sizes and their stature should be factored in when shopping for food. Top Posts. Both of these dogs have very sweet personalities and will probably have a higher energy level. What does this mixed breed look and act like? Is it more like the Boxer or the Dalmatian? Those are the questions we will try and answer below. Continue reading below to see pictures, videos, and learn more about the beautiful Boxer Dalmatian Mix. While we really recommend that you acquire all animals through a rescue , we understand that some people might go through a breeder to get their Boxer Dalmatian Mix puppy. That is, if they have any Boxer Dalmatian Mix puppies for sale. If you are interested in helping animal rescues raise money, please play our quiz. Each correct answer donates to help feed shelter animals. We will take a closer look at the history of both parent breeds below. If you are looking at breeders for new, designer dogs please beware of Puppy Mills. If you have a few minutes, please sign our petition to stop puppy mills. Like nearly every dog breed, they were used as dogs of war, to help hunt, and to protect the villages and houses. To this day, the breed retains a high guarding instinct; although friendly and loyal to those the dog knows and trusts. They have a strong hunting instinct and have been used as an excellent exterminator of rats and vermin and bird dogs among other things. It is thought they became so compatible with firehouses since they and horses are very compatible. They are also pretty good watchdogs and were used to help protect the firehouse from would be thieves stealing strong, steady horses. Boxer History: The Boxer is part of the Molosser dog group, developed in Germany in the late 19th century from the now extinct Bullenbeisser, a dog of Mastiff descent, and Bulldogs brought in from Great Britain. The Bullenbeisser had been working as a hunting dog for centuries, employed in the pursuit of bear, wild boar, and deer. Its task was to seize the prey and hold it until the hunters arrived. In later years, faster dogs were favored and a smaller Bullenbeisser was bred in Brabant, in northern Belgium. It is generally accepted that the Brabanter Bullenbeisser was a direct ancestor of today's Boxer. The Club went on to publish the first Boxer breed standard in , a detailed document that has not been changed much to this day. The breed was introduced to other parts of Europe in the late 19th century and to the United States around the turn of the 20th century. During World War I, the Boxer was co-opted for military work, acting as a valuable messenger dog, pack-carrier, attack dog, and guard dog. Taken home by returning soldiers, they introduced the dog to a wider audience and soon became a favorite as a companion, a show dog, and a guard dog.

When your German Shepherd gives birth, it will be the happiest day of your life! But first you should learn about how to help and what to expect. German Shepherds typically deliver between 63 and 70 days after conception, or roughly 10 to 12 weeks from the time of ovulation. During that time, the female dog will often become quieter and less active than usual as she spends more time lying down and resting. You might also notice her nipples growing larger and darker as your German Shepherd prepares to feed her newborn puppies. What will my pregnant German Shepherd weigh? On average, pregnant German Shepherds are likely to gain anywhere from pounds during their pregnancy. Not all of that weight will come at once, but most owners report their dog gaining more weight towards the end of her pregnancy. There is a good chance that your puppy will weigh over pounds by when she is ready to give birth. Because of her larger size, some risks are associated with giving birth to large dogs like German Shepherds. If you notice any signs your pet might be in labor, make sure you take her immediately to a veterinarian. Make sure that both mom and puppies are healthy after she has given birth. Can I tell my dog is pregnant by looking at her belly? Most veterinarians can tell if a dog is pregnant by examining her abdomen. Typically, female dogs will experience some physical changes during pregnancy. For example, the vulva will become larger and more prominent, and she may leak clear or yellowish fluid. If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms, such as leaking vaginal fluids or waddling like a penguin, take her to your veterinarian for an examination. What is the maximum number of puppies that a German Shepherd can have? A purebred German Shepherd generally gives birth to fewer puppies owing to its genetic makeup. According to a Norwegian Kennel Club study conducted in , the average litter size for a German Shepherd is 5. A German Shepherd generally only has a couple of fertile days; the mating period during those two days goes a long way in determining the number of puppies that a single litter shall yield. What should you feed your pregnant German Shepherd? Your pregnant German Shepherd will require nutrition that it might not receive through traditional dog foods. Regardless of the kind of food that you feed your German Shepherd during pregnancy, you must not take any chances with the nutrition. Dog owners often think that there is not much difference between canine and human nutrition; the truth is that dog nutrition is a lot more complicated and might not be fulfilled using supplementary pills. If you are unclear about the diet you should feed your dog, it is best to consult professional breeders. Can you play with your gestating German Shepherd? Your German Shepherd can and should be played with throughout pregnancy. By exercising, your dog will maintain their strength and health. In addition, make sure that your dog does not run around too much, as it might impact the birthing region of the body. First, we would like to sign off by stressing the importance of working with a capable veterinarian throughout this phase to minimize the risk of complications. Discover how to create a joyful, healthy home for your pet. Subscribe to your weekly rundown of practice, real life ideas and training tips straight to your inbox. We offer practical, real life ideas and training tips for a joyful experince, with your pet. All rights reserved. Final Thoughts How to Prepare for Your German Shepherd Giving Birth German Shepherds are truly great pets, and preparation for your dog giving birth will be one of the most important things you do for her throughout the birth process. But first, take a look at this incredible 3-minute video of a German Shepherd giving birth. Nature is truly amazing: German Shepherd giving birth incredible video Even though dogs are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to the actual birth, there are still plenty of things you will need to do to get her ready and get the area ready where she will be giving birth. Talk to Your Vet The best way to be proactive in the success of your German Shepherd giving birth will be to have frequent discussions with your vet and maintain an open line of communication with them. In any case, once you suspect your dog is pregnant, you will need to take her to your vet for regular check-ups. Ensuring her overall health is the crucial first step. Your vet will conduct a thorough exam and alert you to anything you need to be aware of. As with pregnant humans, health concerns are elevated during gestation, so be sure to take your mom-to-be to the vet straight away and continue to monitor her throughout the pregnancy. Be sure to ask your vet any questions or concerns you may have about caring for your German Shepherd during the coming months and the birth itself. They will give specifics for your dog and anything else you need to be aware of. The third trimester is when the pups develop rapidly, and your girl will need more calories for energy, depending on how many pups she is carrying. You should gradually transition this, and the feeding schedule should be little and often aid digestion. But if your vet specified anything additional due to an individual circumstance for your GSD, always adhere to their instructions. Having the checklist ready is an essential step to making sure you are ready. And remember, you will want this checklist to include everything you may need before, during, and after the birth. That will also include emergency items that you hopefully will not need but should have ready. Standard Supplies: Clean sheets, towels, and blankets You will want to have some of the blankets around the mom. They will help keep her warm and feeling safe and secure. If she has a favorite blanket or an old shirt of yours that she loves to snuggle up with, use those. But you will also need additional towels and blankets ready for the little pups after birth. Ensuring they are all warm and cozy after the birth will be, first and foremost. A pile of German Shepherd puppies bundled up with mom surrounded by comfort blankets is also just really adorable. Heating Pad or Heat Lamp Newborn puppies are unable to regulate their body temperature. The new mama understands this and will do her best to keep her pups warm using her body temperature and cuddling them close. But having a heating pad or lamp ready to go will help keep the space warm for the newborns. If you opt for a heating pad, you can place it underneath the towels and blankets where the puppies lie. It also has loads of temperature settings and timer settings, giving you plenty of options. If you opt for a lamp, be sure it is far enough away not to be too hot and burn the puppies. Place your hand underneath it to gauge where it gives a subtle warmth without causing your hand to feel hot. I prefer a heating pad as it just seems the safer option. Whelping Box and Mat To prepare for whelping, a whelping box will be required for the German Shepherd puppies to snuggle up in after the birth while the mom is recovering. You can purchase a large basket or make one yourself using a large cardboard box. German Shepherd puppies, on average, weigh around 0. As we know, German Shepherds seem to go from adorable 2-pound pups to majestic pound protectors in the blink of an eye. So, knowing how much they weighed after birth and monitoring their weight gain throughout their infancy is an essential step to proper health. There is no need to take them directly from mom and plop them onto a scale straight away. Give them time. But have it ready to take their weights within the first day or so. According to VCA Hospitals, the area where the puppies are kept should be between degrees for the first four days. Then gradually decrease the temperature to 80 degrees by the 7th — 10th day, and finally, 72 degrees by the end of the fourth week. Emergency Supplies: Baby Nose Suction Bulb Sometimes newborn puppies have built-up mucus around their nose, and the mucus causes breathing troubles. The mom will do her best to lick it away, but if you see one of the German Shepherd puppies still struggling with taking breaths, you need to have a baby nose suction bulb , such as this one from Amazon, ready to go. Gently swaddle the puppy and use the bulb carefully to suction the mucus out and hold him for a while after, massaging his chest very gently. Gloves, Sterilized Scissors, Thread, and Antiseptic Solution Typically, the mom will cut the umbilical cord herself by biting through it. Once tied off, ensure the end of the cord is cleaned with antiseptic. Cleanliness during this is critical, so a pair of medical gloves and a clean workspace are essential. Soft Travel Crate Hopefully, the birth goes smoothly, and there is no need to take your German Shepherd to the vet during it. But if there is an emergency or you have any concerns, always call your vet or nearest animal hospital immediately. Have the crate by the door with plenty of cozy blankets and familiar smells ready to go if you need to transport your GSD. This is never an ideal situation, so it should be avoided whenever possible, but under emergency circumstances, you may need an impromptu trip to the vet. Pro Tip! Use the buddy system. If you need to take your German Shepherd to the vet during birth, it will help to have someone with you. Consider asking a few close friends or relatives. They can drive while you sit in the back with your girl to comfort her. This is going to be a scary moment for your German Shepherd, and she will appreciate being able to have you by her side. Ensure the Environment is Clean and Comforting You will take much of this care during the prep stage. You will be placing clean towels down, ensuring everything is sterilized and ready for the momentous occasion. But during the birth itself, you will want to help maintain that environment. Here are a few things to consider that will help you make this a comfortable environment for your German Shepherd: Have familiar sights and smells around, such as toys, soft clothing, and blankets that she likes. If there are open windows and loud noises, shut the windows and do everything you can to limit the amount of noise and distractions around her. Give words of encouragement occasionally in a soft and soothing voice, letting her know she is doing great. In between puppies, she will need a breather. Make sure she is supported and comfort her during these breaks. Your German Shepherd will begin nesting behavior during the onset of labor, and her temperature will drop. She will become restless and may refuse food, pant, pace, shake, or vomit. But how do you know when the birth is imminent? You will see clear fluid from her vulva before the first birth. The first puppy should be delivered within minutes of hard straining. Giving Your German Shepherd Space During the Birth Oddly enough, one of the best ways to care for your German Shepherd during her birth journey will be to leave her alone. All dogs are instinctual in ways that amaze us mere humans. GSDs are also incredibly smart. So, between their instincts and intelligence, they have a knack for understanding what to do during and after giving birth. They will know what is best for their health, as well as the health of their newborns. Interfering too much during birth can cause frustration and even anger in your German Shepherd. While she will most likely understand you are trying to help — she knows best, and she will need her space. Once you have completed all preparations and have done all that you can from your end, the best thing you can do is sit back and enjoy the incredible experience of watching your German Shepherd Dog give birth. Be Ready When She Needs You Part of sitting back and watching as your German Shepherd gives birth is also knowing that she may need you, and, if so — be ready. If you have done the proper preparations, everything will be ready in case of an emergency or even a small hiccup. Here are some warning signs to be aware of as you watch the process and when you need to intervene: Your GSD has shown signs of going into labor, including a temperature below degrees, and does not end up going into labor within 24 hours. A puppy has only come halfway out, and mom seems to be struggling. She appears to be in pain, and is yelping or crying. One of her breaks in between puppies lasts more than 4 hours, and you know there are more pups to come. Typically, a long break will happen halfway through, which can be up to 4 hours. But past that, there could be something wrong. She is having contractions for more than 45 minutes without another puppy coming. If there is something more complicated, you will need to take your girl to the vet. This is another reason the buddy system is a great step to take. Now what? A big part of the preparation is to ensure that everything is ready for the new mom and pups once she is done. She is going to be exhausted, needing lots of rest and love. And the newborns will be adorable little helpless creatures that need their canine mom and their human mom or dad too! Making sure they all stay home, clean, and healthy is the number one priority after birth. During your discussions with your vet, this should be something that is covered. Your vet will offer specifics if there are particular health concerns for your German Shepherd. But otherwise, they will have general guidelines to keep the new family safe and sound. Once your German Shepherd has had enough time to recuperate and seems to be doing well after the last birth, take her outside to urinate and get some fresh air. She may not want to, as she wants to stay with her newborns, but encourage her to go outside for a quick pee and move around. Next, try to get her to drink some water and see if she has an appetite. At this point, all the puppies should be warm and snuggled in the whelping box. Let Mom join them and begin nursing them. They are going to be hungry, sleepy, and hungry again. Your job is to make sure the pups are getting enough food from Mom, and that mom is getting enough rest to care for them properly. If your German Shepherd stops producing milk for a while, you will need to have supplements and formula on hand so you can feed them yourself from a bottle. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are smart, instinctual, and fiercely protective. They also make amazing moms. And they know exactly what they need to do during the birth of their puppies. We hope this article has given you confidence in knowing what to do when your German Shepherd is giving birth. You will know when you are needed, and you will have everything ready to go from your checklist if she tags you in. You will soon be hugging those little bundles of joy and wondering what to name them. This article is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to constitute pet medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment for your pet. Please consult a licensed veterinarian in your area for pet medical advice. Are you looking to buy something for your dog? Make sure to check out my favorite dog gear below.

The demand for the German Shepherd breed has been going up over the last few years, so you might have a bigger selection of German Shepherds available in Arizona if you look around a little bit. If you have your heart set on a particular bloodline, often the price will increase with demand — so it might cost more to get one from a top breeder. You can find different pricing from various breeders, based on where you live, the quality of the pup, and other factors. You can search for different breeders by using your favorite search engine and you might find some local dog breeders who sell German Shepherds available in Arizona on their own website, or you could also make a post on social media asking for recommendations. Since you are likely looking for a German Shepherd as your family dog, we can help guide you to those breeders who have been breeding dogs responsibly. Here are some things to look out for when it comes to German Shepherd breeders in Arizona : Is the breeder someone who breeds show dogs? They sometimes ask that buyers take back any pups or dogs they might not be able to keep due to space, time, or other factors. Some breeders will have a contract in place for pet-quality puppies. Be sure to look it over thoroughly so you are clear on their policies before you buy. Reputable breeders are very open to answering questions about the parents of the pups, their temperaments, and more. A breeder should be more than happy to have you stop by anytime during the day so you can see where your pup is being raised before you finalize a purchase. Visit Your German Shepherd Breeder in Arizona in Person If you are interested in purchasing a German Shepherd puppy, then look for breeders that are willing to have you come by during the day or even better — an evening. During your visit, check out what they have available. Are the dogs well-behaved? Are they healthy? Do things seem clean and organized? If you are looking for a good breeder, you will be convinced after your visit. If you have any questions about your puppy or its parents, ask. Most breeders can provide references from past buyers who have purchased their puppies to ensure the quality of the bloodline. They should be more than happy to answer any questions you have if they are proud of the quality of pups that they produce. The references might also be able to steer you away from any breeders you should avoid. If they are reluctant to give out references without meeting you in person, then this is a red flag. After all, the breeder should be proud of their dogs and willing to show them off. If they are reluctant to let you meet past customers when you call, then this is another red flag. You can also ask if you can see any blog posts or social media posts about their business in order to get an idea of what others are saying. Look for a breeder that is more than happy to have you meet their references. You will feel more at ease when someone else is with you, especially since many breeders are very particular about the clients they work with. Look for a breeder that has an online presence. You want to be able to look up reviews and testimonials about them in order to ensure your pup is coming from a quality breeder. Your puppy should be healthy and well-cared for. Ask if they will allow you to take your dog back to their vet even after you purchase it. Many breeders will be willing to go with you to your vet and help you with the veterinary care of your German Shepherd. Ask for any vaccination records of the dogs produced by the breeder. Look Out for The Signs of An Unethical German Shepherd Dog Breeder in Arizona While it can be difficult to determine if your potential breeder is unethical, there are some signs that you may want to look out for. Some breeders will not give the vaccinations required by the state of Arizona unless they are paid extra. An unethical breeder might sell their dogs as working dogs even though they cannot perform the tasks related to a specific job. They might even tell you that they are related to a specific bloodline in order to pass their dog off as purebred. There are many puppy mills in the United States, so be sure to do your research and ask questions. Ask The Breeder if they Can Provide You with a Health Guarantee A good breeder should be able to provide you with a health guarantee that will cover basic genetic health problems that your dog might develop. If they are not willing to do this, then it is probably best to seek out another Arizona German Shepherd Breeder. Some breeders will give you a guarantee on hip dysplasia, but this does not cover other genetic diseases or conditions. Some dogs sold by unethical breeders may be sold with congenital conditions. If you are looking at adopting or purchasing an adult German Shepherd, make sure the breeder will provide you with any AKC registration paperwork necessary for your new addition to your family. This includes having all of their necessary paperwork ready for them, as well as getting the right supplies and equipment. All of this is very important. You Will Need to Prepare a Specific Area for Your Dog Crate training is the best way to help your German Shepherd feel at home and reduce stress while you are not able to supervise them. They should have a designated sleeping area that they can get familiar with so that they know where their bed is in your home. Wherever your dog is going to sleep, it needs to be somewhere that they can feel safe and comfortable. Without training, your new pup will not know how to properly interact with others. Puppies need consistency in terms of what is acceptable behavior and what they are allowed to do around the house. You will need to have everything they need on hand before they come home with you. Martingale Collar — 6ft Leash. We strive to breed the right temperament and quality structure of our dogs. Our German Shepherds are known for their mellow temperament and their strength. But we do not Breed for the Show Ring. If that needs explaining I will be happy to do so. Both Females hips are Excellent. Most ratings come back with a Good rating. So were very Proud to have the Excellent Rating. Also OFA on the Elbows. Your Puppy goes home with a Good Health certificate from the Vet. You Might get a Puppy Cheaper, from another Kennel, but you need to make sure the breeders are doing the right preparations to make sure your New puppy has been bred properly. We know for fact, many kennels do not spend the money to give you the best pups possible. It cuts into their profits. Do your research now, or you will be doing 10 times more when things go wrong. The Proof is in seeing and touching our Dogs. People can talk and Blow smoke all day long. We want you to meet, and touch our Dogs. And let them show you what you will be getting in a Puppy. What people do not realize is how many different types of German Shepherds are out there, and what to watch out for, including your Vet. .Jennifer B. She started off in a bad situation with a person who never should have had her. They got tired of her and took her to a vet to have her euthanized, but the vet refused and was able to convince them to surrender her instead. The allergies were likely the source of the ear infections. We got her out of the kennel, got her allergies diagnosed and got her on the right food and her ear healed up. Fortunately, the food she needs to eat is easy to get and not expensive. She is very smart and knows the routine. We were told she is house trained and maybe she is, but she will likely need a refresher. Ridley needs somebody who is familiar with shepherds and understand she will need some extra work because of where she came from. She has come a long ways, put on weight and loves to play tug. Do not e-mail us with a request to call you, if you have a question please ask in the e-mail. Central Arizona Animal Rescue is a not-for-profit c 3 corporation. If you have other dogs already, you must bring them for introduction prior to adoption. Follow us on Facebook - www. That is where we get all of our dogs we are trying to save. September 11, , pm.

His chipped and comes with a cage, bed, bowels n stand, lead, harness, training lead, toys, paw n wrinkle cream, jabs records. .Read More Olde English bulldogge Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B61 8SH Hi all so unfortunately we are having to rehome our beautiful girl we rehomed her ourselves due to not getting on with the owners other dogs we have now realised she is not good at all with younger ch.Read More Beautiful kc registered English bulldog puppies Weoley castle, West Midlands B29 5LA Beautiful English bulldog puppies looking for their forever homes We have 5 girls and 2 boy left they are fully health checked, microchipped, Flea and dewormed and had their first injection get second.Read More 10 week englsish bulldog Swanssa, Swansea DA2 6LL Beautiful chocolate and tan engliah bulldog her name is coco brought up in family home she has had first injection and has been microchipped we have kc paperwork and she uses puppy pads please only en.Read More English bulldog puppies Birmingham, West Midlands B98 9AE We are proud to announce our loverly bitch has gave birth to 7 outstanding puppies 5 boys and 2girls all outstanding puppies mum is our loving family pet and dad is a stud from a friend of mine both a.Fully vaccinated and microchipped, wormed and flead. Read More British bulldog puppies kc registered ready 13th may Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire ST6 8JU Stunning chunky British bulldog puppies ready for there forever loving homes 13th may Both mum and dad are fantastic family pets Puppies will be Kc registered Micro chipped Wormed to date and flea tre.Read More. English Bulldog Companion Dog Group The goals and purposes of this breed standard include: to furnish guidelines for breeders who wish to maintain the quality of their breed and to improve it; to advance this breed to a state of similarity throughout the world; and to act as a guide for judges. Breeders and judges have the responsibility to avoid any conditions or exaggerations that are detrimental to the health, welfare, essence and soundness of this breed, and must take the responsibility to see that these are not perpetuated. After bull-baiting was banned by the English Parliament in , the English Bulldog eventually developed into a shorter-legged, thicker, companion version of its working predecessors. Bulldogs that are made to be massive, with excessive nose wrinkle, and muzzles of insufficient length, are unfit for an active, healthy lifestyle. For this reason, English Bulldogs of moderation are preferred. History The English Bulldog of today would not be recognized by fanciers of the earliest dogs of the breed. Those early dogs had a specific use, that of bull holding, which was a legitimate part of the butcher's business. Unfortunately, this also developed into the grisly sport of bull baiting, and they were also pitted against other animals, as well as their own kind. The Bulldog eventually developed into a shorter, squattier version of its progenitors, as that is what was preferred in the show ring. Regardless, the Bulldog has endeared itself to many because of its loving, gentle temperament. General Appearance The ideal English Bulldog is a medium size, short coated dog with a thick body that is wide and heavy in the shoulders and lighter in the hindquarters. When viewed from above, outline should be a pear shape. He is powerful and compact, with a head that is fairly large, short and broad in proportion to the size of the dog. General appearance, coupled with attitude, suggests great stability, vigor and strength. The dog appears fit and capable of great athleticism. When comparing both sexes, due consideration is to be given to females as they do not bear the breed characteristics to the same degree as the males. All points of the standard are well distributed and bear good relation one to the other. Disqualifications: Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid. Characteristics The English Bulldog has an equable and kind disposition; and is resolute and courageous. The characteristic demeanor is one of peace and dignity. These attributes are evident in the expression and behavior of the breed. Disqualifications: Viciousness or extreme shyness. Head When viewed from the front, the head is broad and square. In profile, the head appears high and moderately short from the occiput to the point of the nose. The forehead is flat, never rounded or domed; and never too prominent nor overhanging the face. The well-defined temples frontal bones are broad, square and high, causing a deep furrow that extends from the stop to the middle of the skull. The stop is a deep, wide indentation between the eyes. The well-rounded cheeks protrude sideways and outward beyond the eyes. SKULL The skull is relatively large in circumference, and appears high from the corner of the lower jaw to the apex of the skull. The muzzle is turned slightly upward and is very deep from the corner of the eye to the corner of the mouth. The distance from the bottom of the stop between the eyes to the tip of the nose should not be less than the distance measured from the tip of the nose to the edge of the under lip. The jaws are broad and very square. Jaws should not be wry. The thick, broad, pendant flews, referred to as the "chops", are very deep. They completely overhang the lower jaw at each side. In front, they join the under lip, covering the teeth, which are not noticeable when the mouth is closed. Serious Fault: Wry mouth. The canines are wide apart; and the incisors are in an even, level row. Eliminating Faults: Teeth or tongue showing when the mouth is closed. EYES The very dark eyes are quite round and moderate in size; never being sunken nor bulging. When the dog is looking directly forward, the lids cover the white of the eyeball. There is no haw showing. Viewed from the front, the eyes are situated low down in the skull well away from the ears. They are set in the front of the head and are wide apart but with their outer corners within the outline of the cheek, when viewed from the front. The eyes and the stop are set in the same straight line. Eyes are free from entropinism, cherry eye, and excessive amounts of loose skin. No white is showing while the dog is looking straight ahead. Serious Faults: Visible haw. Whites of eyes showing while dog is looking straight ahead. Eliminating Fault: Excessive amounts of loose skin around eyes. NOSE The nose is large, broad and black in color. Its tip is set back deeply between the eyes. The wide, large nostrils are open. Nose roll does not protrude over the nostrils, constricting breathing. Very Serious Fault: Any nose color other than black in adult dogs. Eliminating Faults: Pinched nostrils. Over-nose roll, even if broken, that covers any part of the nose. EARS The small, thin, "rose" ears are set high on the head. The front inner edge of each ear joins the outline of the skull at the top back corner of the skull, placing them wide apart and well away from the eyes. Very Serious Faults: Erect ears; prick ears; button ears; cropped ears. Neck The short, thick neck is deep, strong, and well-arched. The skin is moderately loose, thick and wrinkled, forming a dewlap on each side from the lower jaw to the chest. Forequarters The shoulders are very broad and muscular. They are widespread providing stability and great power. They are set wide apart. The legs themselves are not curved or bandy. The low elbows allow free movement of front assembly. Pasterns are short, straight and strong. Body The body is moderately short and well knit, with stout limbs, well-muscled, and in hard condition, with no tendency toward obesity. The brisket and body are very capacious, and the chest is very deep and well let down between the front legs. Forechest is prominent. The body is well ribbed up behind the forelegs, and the ribs are well rounded. The back is short and strong, wide behind the shoulders and comparatively narrower at the loin. The topline is a distinguishing characteristic of this breed. There is a slight fall off behind the shoulders to the beginning of the back, which is the lowest part of the entire topline. It then rises to the loin, which is higher than the shoulders. The croup then curves downward to the set on of the tail, creating the arch that is distinctive to the breed. The belly is tucked up. Hindquarters The rear legs are strong and large, and they are slightly longer than the forelegs, which elevates the loin above the shoulders. The stifles are rounded and they turn very slightly outward, away from the body, which results in the hocks turning inward and the rear feet turning very slightly outward. Feet The compact, thick feet are moderate in size. The toes are well split up and have high knuckles. The front and rear feet may point straight ahead or slightly outward. Flat feet or splayed toes should be penalized. Serious Faults: Flat feet. Splayed toes. Tail The short tail is set low, and has a thick root, a decided downward carriage and a fine tip. It may be straight or "screwed," but never curved or curly. A straight tail is cylindrical and is tapered uniformly. A screw tail has well-defined bends or kinks that may be abrupt or even knotty, but no portion of the tail may be elevated above the base or root. Absent, inverted or extremely tight tails should be heavily penalized. Serious Faults: No tail. Inverted tail. Tight tail. Skin The skin is soft and fairly loose, especially at the head, neck and shoulders. There should be two folds forming the dewlap at the throat, from the lower jaw to the chest. Eliminating Faults: Nose roll overhanging or partially covering the nose. Coat The short, straight coat lies flat and close, and is smooth, glossy and of a fine texture. There are no fringes, feathers or curls. Color Coat color is uniform, pure, and brilliant. The various breed typical colors are to be preferred in the following order: 1 Red brindle; 2 All other brindles; Note: to be considered perfect, brindles are to have a fine, even, and equal distribution of the composite colors. Note: a perfect piebald is preferable to a muddy brindle or a defective solid color. Solid black and black and tan are very undesirable, but black is not so objectionable if occurring, to a moderate degree, in piebald patches. Note: A small white patch on the chest is acceptable in brindles and solid-colored dogs. Color patches on piebalds are expected to be well-defined, of pure color, and symmetrically distributed. Disqualification: Albinism. Weight Dogs are to be fit and without excess weight. The weight range for mature males is from 50 to 55 pounds. The weight range for mature females is from 45 to 50 pounds. Serious Faults: Males over 55 pounds; females over 50 pounds. Gait Movement and carriage are distinctive to the breed. There is a characteristic roll to the gait, which allows effortless movement without the pounding of the front assembly on the floor, or having the rear assembly so turned in or out as to cause cow-hocked or spread-hocked rear movement. Movement is somewhat constrained, moving with short, quick steps on the tips of the toes. The rear feet appear to skim the ground; they should not be lifted high. They always appear sound and efficient while in motion. Eliminating Faults A dog with an Eliminating Fault is not to be considered for placement in a conformation event, nor are they to be reported to UKC. Teeth or tongue showing when the mouth is closed. Pinched nostrils. Over-nose wrinkle, even if broken, that covers any part of the nose. Disqualifications A dog with a Disqualification must not be considered for placement in a conformation event, and must be reported to UKC. Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid. English bulldogs for sale in texas "We pride our selves on making exceptional quality bulldogs" Health Guarantee We provide a limited 1 year health guarantee on your bulldog purchased from us. This helps guarantee the health of the bulldog. We want to make sure that our customers feel comfortable and trusted, when buying their English bulldog with us. The blueeyes Bloodline We have built up our English bulldog bloodline from scratch when we just started breeding 10 years ago. We have got colors such as Merle, blue, lilac, double chocolate, and features like Blue Eyes or exotic markings. One of the top canine color testers! This will assure you that what you see in the photo will be what you see when you meet us. We will guide you through every step from vet visits, to grooming, and feeding. If you are using your bulldogs to breed, we will also be their to help you with the process. As seen on.English bulldog puppies for sale As you can tell from our website, we mostly specialize in AKC English bulldogs for sale Texas and French Bulldogs for sale. Since we are a very small hobby breeder owning more than the breeds we already have will just overwhelm us and lower the quality of our dogs. Our main goals are to: 1. Make the breed have better health 2. Give a better quality of life to these amazing dogs 3. Give people the gift of owning a bulldog Some of the colors we offer are Lavender French bulldogs, Merle French bulldogs, Lilac French bulldogs , etc for our French Bulldogs. The Best Bulldog blog! Follow us on our bulldog blog where we frequently post tips, tricks, and new information about French and English bulldogs for sale. Additionally you can subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated on new Bulldog blog posts, and new French and new English bulldogs for sale on our website. We are trusted breeders for over 10 years, and have a lot of experience with English and French Bulldogs. So if you need some help go check out our bulldog blog and grow your knowledge of french and english bulldogs. Toggle website search English Bulldog Puppies for Sale Looking for a furry companion that will steal your heart and become a cherished member of your family? Look no further! We have a delightful litter of English Bulldog puppies ready to find their forever homes. Perfect for: Families, individuals, and anyone seeking a loyal and loving companion Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, and great with children Health: Vet-checked, up-to-date on vaccinations, and dewormed Registration: AKC American Kennel Club registered Quality: Our puppies come from reputable breeders who prioritize the well-being and breed standards of the English Bulldog. Why choose an English Bulldog Puppy? Endearing Personalities: English Bulldogs are renowned for their lovable and friendly nature. They thrive on human companionship and are always up for snuggles and playtime. Family-Friendly: These pups are fantastic with kids, making them the perfect addition to your family. Their patient and gentle demeanor ensures a harmonious bond with children of all ages. Low Maintenance: English Bulldogs have short coats that require minimal grooming. They are not excessive shedders, making them suitable for individuals with allergies or those seeking a tidy home. Companionship: Bulldogs are incredibly loyal and devoted companions. Whether you're looking for a hiking partner or a couch buddy, these pups will be by your side, offering unconditional love. Show-Stopping Looks: With their distinctive wrinkled face, charming underbite, and sturdy build, English Bulldogs are a breed that turns heads wherever they go. Prepare to receive lots of compliments! Our puppies are raised in a loving and nurturing environment, ensuring they are well-socialized and prepared for their new homes. Contact us today to order your adorable English Bulldog puppies today. Remember, a lifetime of love and companionship awaits with these irresistible English Bulldog puppies.

October 28, at pm I am very happy to rely to this slander of Melinda Radus, When I first applied to get a puppy from Melinda, my husband and I had to go through a screening process which took time which allowed her to get to know us. She wanted to be sure that the puppy would get a good home. I have two dogs from Melinda, Cara med who will be six years old on the 18th of November and Opal mini who will be five on the 10th of November, both of these dogs were in the family program, during the years I dealt with Melinda everything was about the dosgs well fare, neither of my dogs had puppies untill their second heat, and Cara who had her last lot of puppies in June this year only had four litters. Opal who had her last set of puppies in June this year only had three litters. During the years that I dealt with Sunset Hills Melinda made upgrades to the property and always took great care of the dogs in her care, she even went so far as to have a barbcue every year with an invite to the owner and for the dogs to come as well, this was so she could see and be sure they were all well. I have been thinking over the last almost six years and my association with Melinda and what took place was this. When I first got Cara, Melinda told me that she would not breed off Cara until she was at least a year old as she had to go through tests to make sure she reach certain standards. Also shortly after that I had to take Cara up to her place to go to the Vet to check out for this other test to make sure she met these standards so she could have puppies. Opal had to go through the same test before she was able to have puppies and again she was over a year old. I am an accountant, and I know that when all the puppies were born they had them DNA tested that is not cheap, and like any of who works, or are in business, no matter how much we may love what we do, we do expect that we willl gain some return for what we do, whether in wages or profit. I know that Melinda spent alot of time taking care of the dogs, and that is why she decided to sell her business, she has four children and they needed her attention and at times I am sure they probably missed out because she was delivering the puppies or taking car of the dogs. I know from experience what it is like when you have young children and you are runing a bussiness, some times it can pull you away from taking care of your family. I know of other families and their experience has been the same as mine. I believe that an old employee of the current company or possibily one of the carer home of whom I know Melinda had to take back a dog from, obiviouly, have spread lies that are unfounded. One more thing my dogs are in good health and are part of my family and also know of others who have been through this program and feel as I do. As to the new owners, I finished my contract that I signed with Melinda, this year with the new owners and they honoured that contract to the letter and during the time my girls where there I visited them and they were cared for as well as they were when Melinda was there. As to the barking some one mentioned I ave been there many times and stay for quite a while and there was not alot of barking going on escept for my two dogs who wanted my attention. Also I might add, yes sometimes there may have been more that twenty dogs there but only because Melinda took care of my dogs if I went away on vacation, so again you are wrong they were not all there to have puppies as you suggest. This Ubique Larkhill, I would bet is not their real name, and I would also suggest that who ever you are are just looking for attention. By neutering this puppy you are basically destroying its future Would you consider neutering this puppy? The RSPCA spays and castrates at this age, and apparently believes it is ethically and morally acceptable to do so. As do some breeders, rescue centres and a few vets. There is a breeder in Cardiff who was called Lisa Carson now remarried and so not Carson anymore but now Lisa Joyaa Rose I would recommend that no one buys any dogs or puppies from this woman. She neuters her Labradoodle pups, both standard and minis, at six to seven weeks of age. She states it is a contractual obligation from the Australian Labradoodle Association. Simple, do not be part of an organisation that suggests this horrific practice. There are only a few members in the UK and as far as I am concerned they are barbaric animal abusers. She is not the only breeder in this country to follow this disgraceful practice. I really hope she can sleep at night. However, I know of no other breed other than Australian Labradoodle where this is happening on a regular basis. She states it is to keep the bloodline pure. Unless I am sadly mistaken, Labradoodles are not pedigree dogs, they are what is euphemistically known as mongrels. The two main kennels involved in the breeding of these dogs in Australia have apparently been discredited. And I believe are no longer operating or trading. Why is it only Australian Labradoodle breeders do this? If I was a cynic, I would say they did it to limit the number of Australian Labradoodle puppies on the market. Thereby keeping the vastly inflated prices artificially high. More profit for the breeders. How dare they? Is that why these dogs are so ludicrously priced? Some for breeding purposes have been sold for far higher amounts. Choose a puppy who has been neutered at this age at your peril. See what the leading rescue charities and the Kennel Club have to say about this disgusting practice at the bottom of this page. I wrote this article in and this woman is still peddling her bundles of misery in .Neutering is one of the reasons this is happening. See my article and Video Clips on how to stop this. In nearly all cases aggression increased with neutering in both male and female dogs. The opposite of what we have regularly been told. If they imagine that it has no effect on the young pups then why is it that my records show that early neutering is the cause of high levels of medical and behavioural problems? That and the fact that many well-known vets and oncologists are stating that dogs that are neutered early can have severe medical conditions, cancer, spay incontinence, bone, hip, and knee problem are just some of them. Welfare organisation and the Kennel Club have stated their horror at learning this was done to puppies at this age. If you are concerned about this and other aspects of health, then read this as well I have recently written about the very real dangers of Annual Vaccinations. Read this and prepare to be shocked and frightened regarding the health and well-being of your dog. The picture on the right shows a three-week-old puppy. Would you 3 weeks later, take this pup from it mum and put it through a major operation? I saw some posts on a forum recently where this breeder in Wales Lisa Carson trotted out a previous client to confirm that the dogs she bought were perfectly healthy. That client was warned by many people including myself, but still went ahead and bought these puppies. She conveniently forgot to mention that one of them has Hip Dysplasia. When it was pointed out, she said her vet said it, was because of the way it was lying in the womb. If you believe that you will believe anything. She is still defending her decision to buy puppies that were neutered at such a tender age. I wonder if they have any idea why these puppies are born with three essential hormones. Progesterone, Oestrogen and Testosterone. Do they imagine those hormones are surplus to requirements, just an inconvenient extra that has been thrown in like the Sat Nav on a car? Imagine the outcry if it was done to our children at such a sensitive period in these puppies lives. Tinkering with nature at such a young age must have a cost and consequences I believe that it has severe and life-changing effects. As a Dog Behaviourist, I see the effects these actions have on the well-being, health and behaviour of these poor dogs. I kept records of all the dogs I treated for behavioural problems post onwards. The majority of the problem dogs I treated, were neutered before they reached social and physical maturity. The amount and severity of problems I saw increased exponentially the earlier the dog was neutered It beggars belief that any organisation. To put them through a major operation at such a critical and tender age is a national disgrace. In my humble opinion, I believe it constitutes serious animal abuse. I believe these actions may contravene the Animal Welfare Act of .The bill, possibly the most important legislative move on captive and domestic animals since the Protection of Animals Act of , came into effect on 6th April .It makes owners and keepers responsible for ensuring that the welfare needs of their animals are met. These requirements include the following: The need: 1. For a suitable environment place to live 2. For a suitable diet 3. To exhibit normal behaviour patterns 4. To be housed with, or apart from, other animals if applicable 5. To be protected from pain, injury, suffering and disease I believe the RSPCA needs investigating, as I feel it may be abusing its status as a charity, by what I can only describe as intimidation. Acting as if they have official status when they have no more powers than any other member of the general public. We donate to help real cats and real dogs, NOT fat cats and dirty dogs! You could be the next innocent victim of their war on pet owners Stan Rawlinson September .Updated regularly as further information on neutering is made public. Last update July Read further articles. October 31, at pm I have two of the dogs on the list and they live at my home with my family. My dogs go back to Sunset Hills for grooming which is free for family care homes , breeding and my family has been to their yearly get-togethers so we have been to the Sunset Hills property many times. The yearly get-togethers are a family fun day where the Labradoodles and their people families gather for a few hours. She sold the company to a group wishing to use the Australian Labradoodle as therapy dogs in nursing homes. She kept clients well aware of what was happening and provided information sessions with the family care families and the new owners during the changeover period. I never witnessed any ill-treatment of the dogs, it was just the property aesthetics. The Sunset Hills property has since been considerably upgraded and now looks fantastic. It has many areas for new litters to stay safely with their mums and plenty of space for all dogs to adequately exercise. Dogs are not kept at Sunset Hills long term. New puppies either: Get sold locally as pets or the occasional breeding dog; Are sent overseas to become therapy dogs in nursing homes, or; Join a family care home if they are considered suitable candidates for breeding. These dogs get medical testing at around 12 months old to confirm. If the test results show they are not suitable for breeding, Sunset Hills arranges their desexing and they live permanently with and belong to their family care family. If the test results show they are suitable for breeding they live with their family care family except when required for breeding. Sunset Hills may require the dogs for up to six years for breeding. After this time, or earlier at their discretion, they will arrange for the dog to be desexed and live permanently with and belong to their family care family. My family and I love our two Australian Labradoodles for whom we are the family care home. They are looked after well when they visit Sunset Hills, as are all the other dogs we see there.

We are a northern California breeder near Sacramento that prides itself on choosing our breeding dogs for top health, temperament, and beauty that conforms to the breed standard. Our dogs are selected from champion lines with health clearances. We will only breed dogs that pass all of these tests, so we can continue reaching to improve the breed through imposing high standards for our dogs. We breed dogs from these lines to continue a heritage of excellence in the breed. This standard is different from the AKC standard for golden retrievers, but both are accepted and licensed. The English type should have a blockier and fuller head, shorter muzzle, lower ear set, rounder eyes, stouter body structure, as well as a lighter color than the American type see comparison figure below. As an adult, it has been a pleasure to now show and selectively breed these beautiful English Golden Retrievers. Raising our English Golden Retrievers is a family endeavor that includes everyone from the youngest to the oldest. It is wonderful to make family memories with our dogs and children together. Our English Goldens are first and foremost pets who live and play among our family. Our children are involved from showing our dogs to whelping the puppies. Our puppies go home to their new families very loved and well socialized. In Northern California, we are located in Newcastle which is at the base of the Sierra Mountain foothills; close to Sacramento, and about miles from San Francisco or about miles from San Jose other cities near us are Roseville, Loomis, Folsom, Orangevale, Auburn, Lake Tahoe about an hour , and Reno about 2 hours. We can deliver our puppies to you if you are out of state, and personally travel with the puppy to bring your puppy to you. We cordially invite you to visit us and meet our beloved puppies and amazing dogs. We're located in the California Gold County just 25 miles east of Sacramento. Surrounded by golden foothills, we offer the perfect place to meet and enjoy the dogs. Expect to be greeted with wagging tails and wet noses during your visit, as our dogs are always excited to meet new people. Please let us know when you would like to visit by booking an appointment. The care and love you, Heather, and all at Classic Heritage devote to these pups is remarkable. The efforts taken to ensure pups are matched with their new happy forever home are excellent. Everyone I met was equally professional, educated, loving, kind, and a lot of fun. All of the dogs are beautiful and happy.We have had the best experience and have the most loving pup so anything we can do to help Classic Heritage we would. We have recommended you to everyone who has asked. Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Colorado Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Colorado? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Colorado? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Life Span Did You Know? The Golden Retriever has been an AKC-recognized breed since and was commonly used as a gun dog and for retrieving small game such as waterfowl, and for companionship. The Golden Retriever originated in the Scottish Highlands. The first Lord Tweedmouth, Dudley Majoribanks, is credited with developing the breed and keeping detailed records to create the ideal gun dog for the terrain. Great discipline and a gentle spirit make the Golden Retriever a perfect retrieval breed since the goal of this task is to bring the trophy back as undamaged as possible. Golden Retrievers first appeared in dog shows in at a British dog show. They also started appearing in the United States around the same time as they were brought across the Canadian border. They gained popularity with sport hunters and in general. Their popularity really took off in the s and they are consistently one of the most popular dog breeds. If you are not the sporting type, bringing a Golden Retriever into your family as a pet is just as rewarding because they are one of the most loyal and jovial breeds out there. One of the facts about Golden Retrievers is that they are the epitome of friendly and make fantastic family dogs. Golden Retrievers are considered one of the friendliest dog breeds. They tend to be good with kids, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. Goldens love attention and they bond closely with their families. They are affectionate with them, and also just about everyone else. Although they do tend to get along with everyone, they love being around their favorite humans the most. They will bark to alert you and can end up barking a lot if you do not train your dog to stop barking early on. Golden Retrievers are highly adaptable dogs. They thrive in homes with yards where they can run. They can also adapt to apartment living as long as they get enough daily exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. These dogs do well in just about any climate, but are sensitive to heat. As one of the most affectionate dog breeds , they are not at all happy about being left alone for long periods of time. Although super-friendly and attention-loving, Goldens can also be sensitive to their surroundings; make sure they feel included, but have a quiet place to go if things get too noisy or overwhelming. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Golden Retriever include progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, elbow dysplasia , and hip dysplasia. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Goldens are considered one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. They are highly trainable dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. These traits make them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. It also helps them excel at obedience competitions. As one of the smartest dog breeds , Golden Retrievers can get bored easily. Because they pick up things quickly, they can get bored with too much repetition in training. If your dog has mastered the command, move on to something more advanced or another activity. You can also enroll in puppy training classes for some variety in training and also some socialization. Golden Retrievers have a long double coat that will shed a little year-round and will be heavier twice a year as the seasons change. Brushing a few times a week and daily brushing during seasonal shedding along with a bath as needed is usually enough for at-home care. You will want to go to the dog groomer for a professional trim a few times a year, especially as the seasons change. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep nails from growing too long. Daily tooth brushing, along with cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. Golden Retrievers are one of the most active dog breeds. Daily walks plus some playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough to keep these dogs happy and healthy. But, they are high-energy dogs that will likely always be up for more activity if you are. Much like the Labrador , they also tend to have an extended puppyhood. They tend to start winding down a little around the age of 3 and settle into your lifestyle, but they will still be high-energy dogs that require a lot of daily activity. Goldens are known for being versatile and athletic dogs. They tend to love swimming. Once they are done growing and the vet clears them for higher-impact activities, you can try other things too. They are one of the dog breeds that make good running partners. You can also teach them how to play frisbee or play fetch. Training for dog sports is another good option. In addition to obedience, Golden Retrievers are well suited for agility, dock diving , rally, flyball, tracking, and more. Fully-grown Golden Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Golden Retrievers generally live for years on average. With their intelligence, eagerness to please, and gentle disposition, Golden Retrievers are versatile working dogs. In addition to being one of the dog breeds that make the best service dogs , Goldens can be found working as emotional support dogs, certified therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, military dogs, police dogs, animal actors, and more. Featured Golden Retriever Article.

These desirable qualities are a result of meticulous breeding practices and superior genetics. Ritterhund K9s are specifically bred for stability and soundness. Our German Shepherds exemplify the values of Obedience, Protection, and Service, making them exceptional ambassadors. While they possess strength, endurance, and speed, they are also affectionate and devoted family companions. These are the dogs you can rely on to safeguard your home and watch over your loved ones when you're away. German Shepherds view their family as their "pack" and are instinctively protective. They can cuddle with your toddler and accompany your child to the school bus, but should any threat arise, their strength and fierceness will manifest as an unstoppable force. When you become part of the Ritterhund Family, you become a lifelong member. We take great pride in our breeding program and are committed to surpassing expectations for both our K9s and customers. If you are fortunate enough to own a German Shepherd with these genetics, then you understand the difference in these K9s. Bomber is an absolute legend in the K9 Community. These puppies will be large, have high and medium drives, and be steady-tempered. We put countless hours into raising them with the proper foundation they need. Structural balance and harmony that you will only find in this genetic combination we have in this breeding. We are very selective in the homes in which our puppies are placed. A family who is educated on the breed, lives an active lifestyle, and who are willing and able to put the time and effort into properly raising their puppy. We are located near the Central Coast of California. We hand deliver our puppies to their new owners if within reasonable driving distance for no charge. Air in-cabin flight nanny and Ground transport are available for an additional charge for customers located out of the surrounding areas or state. We highly recommend placing a deposit early as our puppies do go quickly. Please download the puppy application or contact us via email or text for details. According to the German Shepherd Dog Club of America the coat color may vary although strong rich colors are preferred. Pale, washed-out off-colors and blues or livers are serious faults. A white dog must be disqualified. Black and Tan and Sable are seen mostly in Working Lines. Solid black dog with classic recessive black genetics is typically a working line, there are however, Solid Black dogs with dominant black genetics seen in Show line. This would be the most common color of this breed. Most of the time this is the type of dog that you would see in the movies or television or even the advertising of this breed. I would venture to say that b-tmore dogs of this color than any other color of this breed does the most winning in the conformation shows. In fact some judges have a hard time putting up some dogs of other colors like the black dog, the bi-color or even the sable dog. For some of them, this is not a color that they prefer. Of course the best structured dog with the most desirable temperament should be the dog that wins. However, it is a known fact that some judges just do not favor other coat colors besides the black and tan variation. West German Show Line The blanket type of coat is where the saddle part of the dog extends approximately to the elbow of the dog. There are no tan markings on this dog. However, sometimes this dog may appear to have a reddish undercoat. Most of the time that is due to the dog being out in the sun too long. Also I have seen a totally black dog have a white splash on their chest. The solid black is a recessive gene meaning that both parents must carry this color gene. Even with a sable, you can see variances in the color of the pigment. Sometimes you will hear people say they own a red sable. Sometimes you will hear them say that they own a gray. So you can find black sables, tan sables silver sables or red sables. This is how much the coat of a sable can vary. Vom Geliebten Haus. Discover the online program that more than 57, dog owners have used to rapidly transform their dog into a well-behaved, obedient furry friend. Ask almost anyone what color a German Shepherd is and they'll describe a saddle back GSD with a black mask in some combination of black and tan or black and red. While there are a number of German shepherd coat colors this is the combination that is most often considered the "classic" look of the German Shepherd. Most German Shepherds fall somewhere in between these extremes of coat colors and coat patterns - black and tan or black and red. Pale washed out colors, shades of blues and livers are considered serious faults in the GSD breed. The amount of tan interpreted as any shade of brown, from fawn, chestnut or silver to deep darker hues or red light red to mahogany markings can also vary quite a bit from black and tan German Shepherd to black and tan or black and red German Shepherd. Some GSD's may have very few markings with a lot of dark color as in the case of a bi-color saddle back German Shepherd consider a "blanket" as opposed to a "saddle" while other GSD's may display the more traditional saddle back coloration with a lot of tan, red or silver and much less black on the body with a dark mask. When born, a saddleback black and tan or red GSD puppy is much darker than they will be at adulthood. Oftentimes they may even be so dark as to appear to be solid black at birth - but this is not the case. When the German Shepherd puppy later dries off it's real marking colors will really be evident - especially around its anus and on the hairs on the puppies feet. Below find a few pictures representative of the traditional saddleback German Shepherd Dog and their coat colors and markings - of the black and tan GSD, black and red GSD and bi-color saddle back German Shepherds. Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article. Sep 27, Jul 8, This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Are you looking for a dog with all the amazing characteristics of a German shepherd, but you also want something a bit different and special? If so, then why not consider a sable German shepherd? The sable German shepherd is not a crossbreed dog but rather a recognized variation within the breed, so the dog retains all the benefits of a purebred pup. German shepherds are one of the most popular purebred dog breeds in the United States, in part thanks to their intelligence, trainability, and intense loyalty. They are also well-loved for their sleek, noble appearance. Interestingly, sable is actually the original color of the German shepherd breed. It is the only variation of the German shepherd that has the same color as the founding member of the breed. Read on to learn everything you need to know about these attractive, intelligent, and hard-working dogs. Sable German Shepherd Appearance Sable German shepherds look just like most other German shepherd dogs, with the exception of their distinctively colored coat. The German shepherd is a large breed. You can expect the males to reach up to 26 inches tall and weigh between 75 and 95 pounds. The females are a bit smaller. Their heads are domed in shape with a long, square muzzle. They have alert, erect ears and long necks that make them seem even larger than they are. It is considered ideal for the dog to be longer than it is tall with a proportion of 10 to 8. Their bushy tail should extend out in a hook-like shape. German shepherds tend to dip their head low like a wolf when they are running or prowling, which contributes to the consensus that they look very much like the wolf ancestors of dogs. These dogs have double coats with a soft undercoat and a denser guard layer. The guard layer can be either medium or long, though the medium length is significantly more common. Most German shepherds are either tan and black or red and black. The lighter brown shade is usually their principal color, with a black face mask and black markings on their back which often look like a saddle. A variety of other color variations exist, including pure black, pure white, liver, silver, blue, panda, and, of course, sable. Sable basically means the dog has mostly lighter colored hair with a black tips, which can make the dog appear grey or mottled. In reality, the actual color combinations are more varied, and the sable pattern could be any mixture of tan, black, brown, or red. The term is mostly used in the United States. In other countries, such as Germany, these dogs are often just called grey. It has since become a popular working dog for roles such as search and rescue, police, and military due to its strength, trainability, and intelligence. The breed emerged from the s trend to try to standardize dog breeds to assist in certain jobs, such as herding sheep. Max von Stephanitz was a leading thinker in this area and was specifically looking for canine specimens that matched his ideal vision of a working dog. He found that ideal dog at a dog show in .He purchased the dog and named it Horand von Grafrath and founded the Society for German Shepherd Dogs to promote the breed and others like it. Horand, who was in fact a sable-colored German Shepherd, became the center point of a breeding program. Horand himself had 84 puppies, and extensive inbreeding was required to secure the characteristics of the breed. When the German Shepherd was imported to the United States in the early 20th century, it became popular with gangsters and bootleggers for its strength, intelligence, and intimidating appearance. It was also popular in Nazi Germany, and even Adolf Hitler loved the breed. As a result, it has gained a reputation for being a fierce, intimidating, and even dangerous breed. However, this says much more about how the dogs were used than the natural temperament of the dogs themselves. German Shepherd Temperament The color of a German shepherd makes no difference to its temperament, so you can expect a sable German shepherd to conform to the general temperament of the breed. German shepherd dogs are often described as active and self-assured. This, combined with their intelligence and eagerness to learn and please, makes them excellent working dogs. They are also highly obedient and loyal. Their extreme loyalty also extends to family situations. They will raise the alarm with their loud, deep bark if they sense danger. However, German shepherds are not naturally aggressive. This is a reputation that stems from the way that the dog has been used in the past. That said, German shepherds are often associated with severe dog bites. This is largely due to the popularity of the breed and the strength of their bite rather than any innate aggression; there are simply more of them around than many other dog breeds. Tests suggest that German Shepherds have a bite force of over 1, newtons, which is less than a Rottweiler but more than a pit bull. They tend to have a natural suspicion of strangers and like to chase smaller animals. Their intelligence and compliance means they can be trained not to display this behavior, but as an owner, you need to put in the work of training them properly and consistently. German shepherds are a very curious breed in addition to being highly intelligent, which is why they are well suited for search and rescue missions. German Shepherd Energy Level German shepherds are very playful and active dogs, so they need lots of physical exercise and mental stimulation in order to thrive. This is another reason why they often do well as working animals. Working gives them both the physical and mental stimulation to complete these challenging tasks. Pleasing their handlers is also attractive to these highly reward-oriented dogs. Ideally, German shepherds need at least 60 to 90 minutes of exercise every day, preferably spread over at least two different sessions. However, this should be slightly less when they are puppies. There is always a risk of over-exercising puppies, especially when it comes to large dog breeds. As a general rule, you should exercise a puppy daily for five minutes for every month of their age until they are an adult. German shepherds reach adulthood at around 18 months. So, for example, a six month old pup should be getting 30 minutes of exercise a day if we follow this rule, as six months times five minutes comes out to 30 minutes per day. What to know more about exercising your puppy? Read our article: How far can I walk my puppy? German shepherds will love to accompany you on adventures, such as hikes and walks, and they also love swimming. They will do well at the lake, on the beach, or even accompanying you on a boat. However, even though they are excellent swimmers, they should have a doggy life vest if you are out at sea. They will struggle in an apartment, and their large size can make navigating small apartments challenging even for these nimble dogs. Ideally, they should have a backyard where they can move around freely, especially when left at home alone. The intelligence of these dogs means they can get bored quickly. While puzzle toys, such as a Kong , can help on the occasions when you do need to leave them alone, they are likely to become stressed if they are left alone regularly. German Shepherd Health Risks German shepherds have a life expectancy of a little over 10 years. This is normal for dogs of their size, and larger dogs tend to have shorter lifespans than smaller breeds. You should not expect a sable German shepherd to be immune from these, especially since further inbreeding is often required to produce the sable color. It is common for these dogs to develop hip and elbow dysplasia , which is a developmental abnormality of the joints that can restrict movement and cause pain. This is often the result of different elements of the body growing at different speeds. The best way to prevent this is to ensure good nutrition and the right level of exercise during their crucial growing period. Even if the development of hip and elbow dysplasia does not affect the dog at a younger age, it can make them more susceptible to arthritis and other forms of joint pain when they are older. Older German shepherds often benefit from an orthopedic bed to take pressure off their joints. The breed also appears to be predisposed to degenerative myelopathy. This is a degenerative spinal cord disease that generally shows up in older dogs after about the age of seven years. If you are looking for one of these puppies specifically, you may need to go to a breeder. The sable color is relatively rare, and breeders have to control specifically for this kind of coat. As a result, you can expect to pay a bit more for a sable puppy than you would a German shepherd of any other more common colors. Are you thinking of adopting a sable German shepherd, or any German shepherd, into your family? Here are a few questions to ask yourself to determine if you and your home are a good fit for this breed. German shepherds are highly trainable and obedient, which means even first-time owners should be able to take on the challenge of training them. German shepherds need a commanding presence to keep them in check. The sad reality is that many people are also afraid of big dogs like these, and their behavior and response to them can cause serious problems. You need to feel confident to take control of your dog in charged situations. These dogs are also very active, so they will do best if they have a bit of outdoors to call their own that lets them run around a little, dig, and play. Just be sure your yard is properly and securely fenced in! German shepherds are very energetic dogs that need to be active a lot, which means you will need to be active frequently as well. As well as daily exercise, they will want to join you on weekend adventures rather than weekends on the couch catching up on Netflix. German shepherds need to spend a lot of time with their owners, as they need both companionship and intellectual stimulation. Thinking about getting a new puppy? Check out our new puppy checklist. Sable German shepherds have a coat with lighter roots and darker tips covering most of their body. The tips are usually black, which means the dog looks as though it has a greyish color. It is a natural color variation within the breed. How common are sable German shepherds? Sable German shepherds are significantly rare in comparison to the popular tan and black or red and black colors that dominate the breed. This is why a sable puppy will probably cost you more than other color variations. However, pure black German shepherds are a bit more rare. Are sable German shepherds bigger? No, sable German shepherds are not bigger than other German shepherds. The females should weigh between 55 and 75 pounds and the males 75 to 95 pounds. Look at the size of the parents to get a better feel for how big your pup is likely to get. Are German shepherds good family dogs? With the right training and socialization, German shepherds are excellent dogs for an active household. They will be loving, obedient, and protective. They are good around children, though small children should always be supervised around dogs, regardless of the breed and their level of familiarity. Accidents happen, even when children are around dogs they have grown up with and know well. What is bad about German shepherds? German shepherds tend to be suspicious of everyone, which can contribute to overly protective and territorial behavior. Proper socialization can help minimize this personality trait, but they will probably carry an element of this with them for their entire lives. The Verdict Sable German shepherds are not exotic crossbreeds but rather a rare color of the purebred German shepherd dog. They are actually the original color of the breed, matching its famous founding member. Sable-colored German shepherds are actually relatively rare, so they can be expensive to procure. However, aside from their unique color, they are just like other German shepherds, one of the most popular breeds in the United States. They are large and strong dogs with a lot of energy, which makes them well suited to hard work. They are also highly intelligent and eager to please, which makes them ideal to train to complete complex tasks such as the roles of military and police dogs despite being originally bred as herders. Overall, sable German shepherds are: Rarer than just about any other color of German shepherd No different than other German shepherds as far as personality, temperament, etc. With the right training and socialization, they are very safe dogs. German shepherds are great dogs for active people who have a lot of time to spend with their pup and want a companion to join them on various active adventures. Do you have experience with sable German shepherd dogs? Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Related Article:.

what size crate for a labrador puppy - Breeds The link has been copied! Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world and for a good reason. They make wonderful family pets due to their friendly personalities, endless loyalty, and high intelligence. However, before bringing one into your home, it is essential to consider the costs associated with owning a Golden Retriever. In this article, we'll explore the question, "How much does a Golden Retriever cost? The overall price of a Golden Retriever can vary widely depending on a number of factors, such as the dog's age, lineage, and location. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that buying a puppy is just the beginning of the expenses associated with owning a Golden Retriever. In addition to the initial price, routine vet visits and vaccinations are necessary to keep your Golden Retriever healthy and prevent illnesses. These costs can add up quickly, especially in the first year of your dog's life when they require more frequent check-ups and vaccines. Your dog will typically require annual check-ups and routine vaccinations throughout their life. You can also choose to microchip your pet for additional security measures. Another ongoing expense associated with owning a Golden Retriever is grooming. While Golden Retrievers are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming compared to some other breeds, they do require regular brushing and occasional baths. So, you will need to set aside adequate funds for this care. A Golden Retriever puppy cost can vary. The overall price will depend on whether you choose to purchase from a breeder or adopt from a rescue organization. However, it is essential to note that some breeders will charge more for puppies that have exceptional bloodlines or rare coat colors. If you choose to adopt a Golden Retriever puppy from a rescue organization, the adoption fee is usually much lower than the purchase price from a breeder. It is important to note that adoption fees will usually cover the cost of veterinary care, food, and shelter for the puppy while in the rescue organization's care. Often if you choose to adopt from a rescue or dog shelter, the pet will come into your family already spayed or neutered and up to date on all vaccinations. Color One of the most significant factors is the color of the puppy. Golden Retrievers typically come in shades of gold, but some may have a slightly darker or lighter coat, which can create variations in their price. For instance, puppies with lighter-colored coats may be more expensive than those with darker coats. Bloodline Puppies with a pedigree from a well-known champion bloodline are often more expensive than those without a proven lineage. This cost difference is because they are likely to have a superior appearance, temperament, and overall health characteristics. Often dogs from such lineage come with documentation and official paperwork to verify their background. A quality breeder who has invested time and resources in breeding and raising quality Golden Retrievers may charge a higher price for their puppies. This reason is that they are more likely to provide you with a healthy and well-socialized puppy. Estimated Size Finally, the estimated size of the puppy can impact the cost. Typically, male Golden Retrievers are larger than females, and puppies from larger litters may be smaller than those from smaller litters. Owing to that, puppies from a smaller litter may be more expensive as they tend to be in higher demand. Overall, it is essential to consider all of these factors when looking to purchase a Golden Retriever to ensure that you get the best value for your money. As we've discussed, the cost of purchasing and maintaining a Golden Retriever can quickly add up. However, investing in a GPS-tracking dog collar is one way to protect your investment in your furry friend. A GPS-tracking dog collar can help make sure that your Golden Retriever doesn't wander too far from home or get lost. This feature is especially important if you live in an area with a lot of traffic or wildlife, where your dog could be at risk of injury or getting into dangerous situations. A GPS tracking dog collar can help you quickly locate your dog if they do manage to escape, allowing you to bring them home safely and quickly. No doubt a GPS-tracking dog collar is an additional expense, but it can provide peace of mind and protection for your furry friend, making it a worthwhile investment for any Golden Retriever owner. It can give you the confidence to let your dog explore and play freely while still being able to keep an eye on their location and well-being. Incorporating the Fi GPS Tracking Dog Collar into your Golden Retriever's routine can help ensure their safety and security while enjoying all the joys of owning this beloved breed. The collar has a long battery life and is water-resistant, making it durable enough to withstand daily wear and tear. The collar also offers activity tracking, which can help you monitor your dog's exercise habits and ensure they are getting enough physical activity to stay healthy. Golden Retriever Breed Guide The Golden Retriever is a popular breed known for being friendly and having an affectionate personality. They are intelligent, eager to please, and have a gentle nature, making them excellent family pets. They are typically very patient with children and get along well with other animals, making them an ideal companion for families with kids or other pets. Golden Retrievers are considered to be a medium to large breed in terms of size and weight. Males typically weigh between 65 and 75 pounds and stand in inches between 23 to .Alternatively, females weigh between 55 pounds to 65 pounds and stand in inches between .Golden Retrievers have an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years, but with proper care, they can live up to 14 years. Golden Retrievers are an active breed. They frequently require multiple sessions of daily exercise to stay in peak shape. They enjoy many types of outdoor activities, including swimming, fetch, and hiking. These dogs make great companions for those who enjoy an active lifestyle. However, they can also adopt a more laid-back lifestyle if they don't receive regular exercise. The lifetime care costs of a Golden Retriever will often depend on factors such as their health, age, and lifestyle. Budgeting for these costs and planning accordingly to ensure that your furry friend receives the care they need throughout their lifetime is essential. There are several ways to reduce the cost of owning a Golden Retriever. One option is to adopt a dog from a local animal shelter or rescue organization. Adopting a dog can be significantly less expensive than buying a puppy from a breeder, and it also helps to reduce the number of dogs in shelters. Another way to save money is to consider adopting an older dog instead of a puppy. Older dogs may have already gone through the training process, which can save on the cost of obedience classes and training supplies. They may also be less demanding in terms of exercise and may already be house-trained, which can save on cleaning and flooring expenses. When buying a Golden Retriever puppy, it's crucial to find a breeder who will always prioritize the health and life quality of their dogs. A breeder should be able to provide you with health guarantees, documentation of the puppy's lineage, and proof of vaccinations and other necessary medical treatments. Moreover, it's also a good idea to visit the breeder's facility and meet the puppy's parents, if possible, to get a sense of the breeding environment and the temperament of the puppies. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option when buying a Golden Retriever, doing so can lead to additional expenses down the line if the puppy develops health problems that require expensive medical treatment. A reputable breeder may have higher upfront costs but is more likely to produce healthy puppies with fewer genetic health issues. This initial extra cost can ultimately save you money and heartache in the long run. By taking the time to research breeders and consider all options carefully, you can save on the initial cost of owning a Golden Retriever while still providing a loving home for a furry companion. Conclusion: The Cost of Owning a Golden Retriever In conclusion, owning a Golden Retriever can be a fulfilling experience, but it is crucial to consider the upfront and ongoing costs that are commonly associated with owning one. By understanding the factors that impact the price tag of a Golden Retriever and exploring ways to reduce those costs, you can ensure that you are providing the best care for your furry friend without breaking the bank. Lastly, you will want to consider how to protect your newest family member and the investment that comes with them. The Fi GPS Tracking Dog Collar is a cutting-edge style of technology that offers dog owners an extra layer of protection for their furry friends. The collar uses GPS technology to track your dog's location in real time and sends alerts to your phone if your dog leaves a designated safe zone. This feature can be beneficial in the event that your Golden Retriever ever goes missing or wanders off, giving you the ability to quickly and easily locate them. For more helpful articles about pet-parenting tips, check out the Off Leash blog at TryFi. Want to know more about TryFi. This is the fastest way to find your dog after an escape. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. One or both of this puppy's parents is OFA Heart certified. This puppy has had early neurological stimulation exercises. It is also important to understand there are different types of golden retrievers which may affect pricing. For example, if you decide to choose the lowest golden retriever cost option, those puppies almost never have the necessary 3rd-party assurances or veterinarian procedures like dewormings, vaccinations, health-tested parents, or a thorough health checkup. These missing costs and services will be your responsibility, making the total cost ultimately the same. Not to mention the added stress on you these extra expenses and issues create! Adopting vs. Please note that depending on the shelter, you may have to pay additional costs for your Golden certain shots and procedures. Depending on if the golden retriever is a boy or a girl may affect the price as well. Some male vs female golden retriever differences may make you prefer one over the other. This will ultimately save you time and money on your golden retriever price because breeders often pay lower veterinary rates than individuals do. Distemper, for example, is a highly contagious disease that attacks the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and nervous systems of dogs. Unfortunately, there is no cure — just a lot of expenses and stress which really adds to the overall cost of your Golden Retriever puppy. It is wise to ask your vet for guidance on this decision. Talk with your vet about the procedure, when you should get it done, and how much it might cost. Dental Care for Your Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers, like many dogs, can be prone to dental issues such as plaque buildup, gum disease, and tooth decay. These cleanings typically involve scaling, polishing, and potentially extractions if necessary. Some insurance providers offer optional dental coverage as an add-on or as part of more comprehensive plans. If dental coverage is included in the policy, it typically covers a portion of the costs associated with dental cleanings, extractions, and other necessary dental treatments. This typically includes services such as bathing, brushing, trimming, nail clipping, ear cleaning, and sometimes additional services like de-shedding or dematting. Some groomers may offer package deals or discounts for regular appointments or bundled services. This monthly expense may seem like an additional cost, but it can be a worthwhile investment when considering the potential savings on veterinary bills for treatments, surgeries, and medications. By having pet insurance in place, you can ensure that your Golden Retriever receives the necessary care without straining your finances in the event of unexpected health issues. Puppy Training and Socialization Classes Attending puppy training and socialization classes is highly recommended for the comprehensive development of your Golden puppy. These classes provide structured learning environments, social interaction, and essential obedience training. By enrolling your Golden Retriever puppy in these classes, you ensure they receive the necessary foundation for good behavior, social skills, and overall well-being. The cost for food will depend on the size, age, and activity level of your companion. Fortunately, the cheaper brands of dog food can be just as good as the more premium brands as long as they meet the standards of AAFCO and are made with minimal processing. When making your decision, make sure to avoid artificial ingredients and preservatives where you can, since they could cause health problems for your dog.


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what size crate for a labrador puppy - From puppyhood to old age care The black Lab is up to 24 inches tall and weighs up to 80lbs. Depending on on their ancestors, your black Labrador puppy may be a little smaller than this when they are fully grown. And the hunting or American Lab may have a lighter frame and a strong drive for retrieving. The lifespan of a black Labrador is 12 years, and some purebred black lab puppies can live even longer given the right diet, exercise and a healthy dose of luck. He was my constant companion almost into adulthood. He came on countless runs through the woods, spent hours playing ball in the backyard, but also sat with his head gently rested in my lap whenever I was sad. It has always amazed me that despite the black Labrador being the most common color, it is in some ways the least appreciated. With an amazing history of working alongside human companions, and a fabulous temperament, this pup really is one to watch. This black retriever has been favored by the hunting community for generations. But they were bred from a fishing companion that has been extinct now for nearly fifty years. This breed was also most likely the route of the rather different, and bigger, Newfoundland. Albeit often with white markings. Do you ever feel like you see more black Labs around than any other color? The first chocolate Labradors that we know of were born in the s, but colors other than black were not at all popular until the mid 90s. Horribly, for many generations most puppies born with chocolate or yellow coats were routinely euthanized at birth! If a puppy has inherited the gene for black coat color from either of her parents, this is the color that her coat will be. These both come from a pigment called eumelanin. More eumelanin leads to a black Lab, less leads to a chocolate. Genes come in pairs. Here we are dealing with B genes at the B locus. B is dominant over b. So a pairing of BB or Bb will give a black coat. Only bb will give a brown coat. A puppy gets one gene from each parent. With me so far? This is because these genes are also effected by another set of genes, at the E locus. E is dominant, and does not get in the way of the B genes. But e is recessive, and this does. It has the potential to stop the B genes giving a black or brown dog, and gives us yellow Labrador pups. And these all interact with each other differently to give different coat colors. This diagram explains them nicely: You can see from these combinations alone that the most common result is a black Lab puppy. But also how chocolate and yellow Labs were hidden for a time through careful matings and selective culling. But there is another twist to the black coat color tale. Occasionally a Lab is born with the dilute gene. This genetic twist essentially tones down the shade of the dark coat color. In the same way that the chocolate Lab looks silver when this gene is activated, the black Lab looks charcoal. In genetic terms, this dilute gene lives at the D locus. Popularity of Black Labs Black Labs have always been the most prevalent color, but their popularity has changed over the years. In the sporting dog community owners of hunting dogs still often prefer the black coat, but pet and show owners often show a preference these days for the paler colors. Chocolate and yellow Labs can even fetch higher prices from some breeders, not to mention the less common fox red and silver tones. Black Dogs Are Harder To Rehome There is a sad phenomenon in pet shelters, which impacts the rehoming rate of black dogs. Prospective owners often pass them by, regardless of temperament, in favor of the brighter colored pups on offer. But these adopters are missing a trick, because black dogs have so much to offer beyond their coat. And what they do offer differs slightly between the Labrador types. English Black Labs — bred for show There are two strains of Labrador. One was bred for the show ring, and the other was bred for the field. Although they are both Labs in the true sense, these separate strains can be quite different and are easy to pick apart if you know what you are looking for. English black Labradors are often preferred by pet homes as well as owners interested in the ring. The English black Lab has a reputation for being a little slower to mature, and a lot more playful. American Black Labs — bred to work American black Labs are slimmer, less excitable but more driven. They stand around the same height, but their heads are less broad and their tails often have less of the otter quality that their show companions sport. Although still friendly, they are perhaps less inclined to play than their show bred cousins. And in contrast to this have a stronger drive to retrieve and hunt. The English black Lab was bred for looks over purpose. Their broad head and barrel chest is matched with a straight, thick furred tail and a heavier weight on the scales. Black Labradors bred for show or as pets tend to be slower to mature, with a more playful personality, and are arguably less likely to run off after wildlife! Which Type Suits You? American black Labs may need more exercise and mental stimulation than English black Labs. They will benefit from gun dog style training involving retrieving exercises. Black Lab Characteristics Although there is no denying that the different Labrador strains have separated to a fair dramatic degree, these are still all fundamentally black Labs. And they do have some features in common that makes them who they are. The Lab has a double coat, excellent for keeping them warm in and out of the water. Their thick straight tail is described as having an otter-like appearance. And they are almost all one single color with no other markings. Mismarked Labs rear their heads from time to time, but this is generally just a case of white toes or a splash of white on their chests. Grooming and Coat Care Your black Lab needs no special grooming due to his coat color. In fact, the grooming requirements of your Labrador Retriever are some of the simplest among dog breeds. Their coats are designed to take care of themselves. Though your furniture and floors may benefit if your dog has a twice daily brush when shedding heavily. Other than that Labs have a wonderful coat that requires only occasional washing. The eventual size of your black Lab puppy will depend a little upon their upbringing, and a lot upon whether they are from American or English lines. An adult black Lab will weigh anywhere from 55 to 80 lbs, and be from 21 to .The English black Lab will tend to be closer to the heavier end of the spectrum, and the American nearer to the lower. Black Lab Temperament Labradors are well known for being friendly. Perhaps sometimes a little too friendly! This bouncy breed is more likely to leap up and lick a burglar than to stop him in the act. The downside of this is that they can be easily distracted at the dog park by wanting to greet everyone they come across. Their jolly, lively nature can also lead them into trouble with people who are unsteady on their feet. Although lovably clumsy, this dog also has a brilliant brain. Intelligence Black Labradors have been bred for generations as hunting companions. Deliberately bred from dogs that were attentive to their handlers and relatively easy to teach commands to, they are absolutely an intelligent breed. Because to get that black coat expressed is just a matter of mating two dogs, whereas to get the recessive genes you need to at least partially make your breeding choices based upon the colors of the parents as well as factors to do with temperament and trainability. But the most important factor when bringing together two Lab lines should always be one of health. Training and Exercising Your Black Lab Black Labs are intelligent dogs and training is an absolute essential for them and their owners. RUnning, swimming, cycling, hiking and even dock diving are popular pass times. Although American Labs tend to be more driven to fetch, English Labradors are often still keen too. Both types need a good workout every day to keep them fit and healthy. And to help them relax at home. You can exercise your dog with a traditional walk, by going for a run together or through play. Retrieving games are a great way to give your Lab a lot of exercise without you having to travel quite such a long distance yourself. You can find some great ideas for games you and your Labrador can play together in this article. Black Lab Health The best way to avoid health problems is by purchasing a puppy from health tested parents. The main areas to be aware of are joint problems and eye problems. Hip and elbow dysplasia are common Lab complaints. This condition ranges in severity and an adult dog can have x rays to assess their joint health, and be given a score to let you know how well their joints have developed. To avoid your puppy suffering from this either both parents need to be Clear or one Clear one Carrier. If one is a carrier, your puppy might carry the gene too. A general eye exam once a year will make sure that there are no other vision problems manifesting over time. Most breeders advertise online now, so you will need to be careful to have a good chat with them before committing to buying a puppy. Do not put down a deposit before meeting the mother and the litter at their home. The mum should be relaxed and happy to meet you, and for you to handle her pups. If you are looking for a pet you will need to decide whether you think a show or working temperament is better suited to your lifestyle and family needs. Make sure the breeder willingly shows you copies of health certificates from both parents. As a minimum they should be PRA clear, have a recent clear eye check from a vet, have good hip scores and an elbow score of 0. If one parent has been shown as a carrier for dwarfism or PRA, be sure to check that the other has been tested clear. Good breeders ask lots of questions because they care about what happens to their pups, and will be open and willing to answer all of your questions too. You might find it helpful to check out our article on Labrador breeders before you start searching for a pup. You might also want to read this article: Choosing the Right Dog. The information in these articles will help you avoid some of the common mistakes people make when looking for their new best friend. Rescuing a Black Lab Rescuing a dog is a great thing to do if your circumstances are right. And rescuing a black Lab is even better, as this color can be hard to home. Reputable rescues will work hard to match you to the right dog, and help you to make a choice that fits in well with your family. Rescuing such a dog can be very rewarding. We hope you will find our article Should you adopt a Labrador helpful. You can view a list of rehoming societies on our rescue page. They will also offer plenty of support and help once you bring your dog home. Especially when it comes to behavioral and training problems. White or grey hairs may start forming around their muzzle, giving them a bearded or grizzled look. This pale hair is nothing to worry about and happens to most black Labs sooner or later. As your black Lab reaches old age, you might find that he slows down a bit. His typical energetic black Lab personality may mellow. He will be less boisterous, and more inclined to spend the day in bed than bouncing up and down by your side. The average lifespan of a black Lab is around 12, but if you are lucky your pup might be with you for 14 or more years. A more comfortable bed, ideally with memory foam, can help support those ageing joints. Ramps for accessing the car can really help them out too. Depending upon advice from your vet you might also want to switch them to a senior dog food , which is easier to digest and has additives that some believe can help slow the pace of arthritis. Life Span Did You Know? Black Labrador Retrievers, or just Black Labs, are a common coat color variation of one of the most popular dog breeds. The Black Labrador Retriever is not necessarily a separate dog breed. Black Labs are still Labrador Retrievers; they just have a distinct coat color that is a specifically-bred characteristic. Like other Labrador Retrievers, Black Labs are energetic, playful, and affectionate dogs that make great family companions. Although they are active and energetic dogs, Labs are also known for their gentleness and patience with other family members. Well-socialized Black Labs tend to get along well with just about everyone including children, other dogs, pets, and even strangers. They are considered one of the kid-friendly dog breeds. As one of the most affectionate dog breeds , Black Labs thrive on attention, especially from their favorite humans. They are happiest when they are spending time with their families and receiving affection and attention from them. Despite their high energy, Labs are highly adaptable dogs. They do tend to be better suited to homes with fenced yards where they can run, but they also adapt well to apartments provided they get enough daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation. They do well in just about any climate, but are sensitive to heat and extreme cold like many dog breeds. As such, they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Black Labrador Retriever can include elbow dysplasia , hip dysplasia, heart disease, hereditary myopathy, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy. Another potential health concern is EIC exercise-induced collapse , which can occur in young adult Labs and has a genetic link. Because carriers can be identified by DNA tests, it is recommended that breeders test for them. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you talk to the breeder about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large, deep-chested dog breed, Labrador Retrievers are at a higher risk for bloat. Labrador Retrievers are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. Although their high energy and puppylike exuberance can sometimes be a challenge, they are intelligent dogs that are eager to please. As long as training is kept consistent and focused on positive rewards and praise, novice owners still tend to do well with Black Labs. Puppy training classes are always an option and offer plenty of benefits aside from training too. Black Labs have a short, water-resistant double coat that sheds year-round and sheds heavier as seasons change. Depending on how active your Black Lab is and what they get into, they may need a bath more often, especially if they are swimming a lot. Weekly ear checks and careful cleanings when needed help prevent ear infections. Good dental care for dogs , like daily brushing and cleanings at the vet when needed, can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. As one of the most active dog breeds , a Black Labrador Retriever will need a lot of daily activity to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus some playtime and time to run are a minimum. Your Black Lab will likely be up for more activity if you are. One of the facts about Labrador Retrievers is that they have an extended puppyhood. They tend to maintain a puppylike exuberance until they are years old. Although they do tend to mellow out as they get older, they are still active, energetic, and playful dogs. Once they are fully grown, you can try other things like hiking, running, dock diving, and more to find other activities you and your Black Lab can enjoy together. Fully-grown Black Labrador Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Black Labs generally live for years on average. Black Labrador Retrievers came before the also-popular Chocolate Lab. All modern Chocolate Labs can be traced back to three Black Labs in the s. It was the December issue of .Featured Black Labrador Retriever Article.