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An empty outlined icon indicating the option to save an item Save Article play icon The triangle icon that indicates to play Any dog lover can agree that when it comes to deciding on which cuddly cutie you want to take home as your own , the options can be a bit overwhelming. There are so many different types of bulldogs — American, French, Victorian, the list goes on! You could choose to invest your time and love into one of the larger breeds see: Bullmastiff , which is likely to serve as the ultimate guard dog. Regardless of the type of bulldog you pick, know that overall, they are sociable, friendly and gentle pups that make great family pets. Get to know the different bulldogs a little more: 1 American bulldog KJG Photography, Kim Guisti These loyal and self-confident cuties have traditionally been known as work dogs. After coming to America in the s, they aided farmers and ranchers as guard dogs and catch dogs. Today you can expect these athletic and agile mid-sized dogs to get along well with children and other dogs. They are also easily trainable. Most American bulldogs weigh pounds and have a year life expectancy, according to the American Kennel Club. They are super affectionate towards children, and can grow between 77 and 83 pounds. It keeps the same loyalty as the English breed, but can be a bit taller and suffer from less breathing issues. When properly socialized and trained, they can also learn to channel their energy into work. But beware, the lovable cuties do tend to slobber. The Victorian bulldog has many of the same calm, friendly and playful characteristics as the English bulldog, but can live years longer. It also is known to get along well with children. Experts say that proper training and multiple walks a day are essential to committing to the care of a Catahoula bulldog. Though their size may be intimidating, they are actually gentle giants that are great with children and highly trainable, according to the AKC. Bullmastiffs typically weigh between and pounds. It's known to be a loyal dog that gets along great with other pups as well as children. They can weigh up to pounds, and grow to about 26 inches in height. Their ability to sense danger and weariness of strangers makes them adaptable guard dogs when they have the right training. They are great for apartment living and are super affectionate. They typically weigh between 45 and 66 pound s. Because of its gentle and loving nature, it is usually touted as a wonderful family pet, according to UKC. These adorable pups are extremely loyal and love their families. They are also the perfect small breed, weighing just about 20 to 45 pounds and standing between 12 and 16 inches tall. She is a graduate of Syracuse University, where she received a B. In her spare-time she can be found scrolling TikTok for the latest cleaning hacks and restaurant openings, binge-watching seasons of Project Runway or online shopping. They have a specific look, personality, and temperament that may not be for every new or previous dog owner. But if you follow a bunch of French or American bulldog accounts for their utter cuteness, then adopting a pup from one of the dozens of bulldog breeds out there is probably a dog match made in Heaven. Still, it can be a long and emotional decision process that requires time and thought, which is why we've rounded up some of the most adorable, loving , loyal, and kid-friendly types of bulldogs to help you find the best bulldog for your home. Regardless of breed, all bulldogs have that standout muscular build with a pushed in nose, small ears, and rolling gait. They have a short and smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors. Some types can even be classified as large dogs while other breeds are more of a tiny dog. Although bulldogs love curling up in your lap, they are not strictly lazy dogs and enjoy moderate exercise. That said, many can live happily in a city apartment or a countryside home with a backyard. What's important is that you give these pups the care and attention they need so they are fed a proper diet and are trained well from a young age. They should also stay in air-conditioned rooms in hot or humid weather as their short snout makes breathing difficult. Bulldogs are a popular choice for many families across the U. They may act powerful and confident, but all bulldogs still need lots of love and care. If you are considering adopting a bulldog, familiarize yourself with the following types of bulldogs before heading over to a trusted adoption site to welcome your newest cuddle buddy to the family. They have a short and soft coat in various colors. Although American Bulldogs may appear intimidating with a large head and height of 20 to 28 inches, they are actually extremely gentle and affectionate. According to Pet MD, they're known to be a "big lap dog" that loves children. They are also brave dogs; in fact, there are countless stories across the internet of American Bulldogs saving their owners from fires or other serious accidents. They have a bulldog's personality in a small dog's body — which means they are playful, alert, and totally irresistible watchdogs. They're known for their bat ears , according to the American Kennel Club. Their adorable wrinkles roll around their short nose, adding to their charming personality. Frenchies are also super adaptable which makes them a great choice for single dog owners, couples, or families. They also don't require a lot of exercise so you won't necessarily have to get up early for that morning walk and they get along great with other animals if you already have a furry family at home. They're very affectionate dogs who want to be around their humans constantly, and they're especially big fans of kids. English Bulldogs weigh around 50 pounds depending on whether they are male or female, and require moderate exercise about 20 to 40 minutes per day. It's important to note that English Bulldogs are particularly at risk for breathing problems , heart problems, and other health issues due to how they've been bred. So if you adopt an English Bulldog, make sure you stay on top of their vet visits. Like all other bulldogs, they love being part of a family and won't leave your side. They are affectionate, loyal, and intelligent dogs who weigh between 50 and 78 pounds. These bulldogs were bred to adapt to the Australian environment as their breed name suggests , which means they may be more active than their cousins but aren't the most active dog out there. They have a similar build to other bulldogs, but they're athletic and have a bit more stamina. Their ears can be perky or hanging and they have thick, powerful necks and stocky legs. They have a short coarse coat that can come in solid colors ranging from fawn to black and white. Olde English Bulldogges are loyal, protective, and docile, making them great for families but also athletic dog owners. These bulldogs also have a longer lifespan than other breeds, living up to as many as 12 yaers. That said, they are taller than English Bulldogs at about 17 to 19 inches and have a larger snout plus fewer wrinkles. This means their face isn't so squished that it inhibits their breathing. They have similar personality traits to other bulldogs such as being super loyal and protective, but very gentle and affectionate. Victorian Bulldogs demand lots of attention as they can suffer from separation anxiety, but they aren't overly active dogs — so just curling up with them at night is enough comfort. Unlike some other bulldog breeds, they are incredibly energetic and athletic, meaning they'll need quite a bit of exercise. These bulldogs are very intelligent, loyal, and protective, making them stellar watchdogs. DogTime notes that you can often find them in shelters and breed-specific rescues, and recommends generally trying to adopt a bulldog breed before shopping for one. Before the s, the English then brought over their bulldogs and mastiffs. Ca de Bous are quiet, playful, and friendly family dogs, but they won't let you down as a watchdog either thanks to their loyal, courageous, and protective traits. They do, however, need socialization and training from an early age since they were originally bred to be fighting dogs. They have a short coat and can weigh between 66 to 88 pounds. Ca de Bous also have a longer lifespan of up to 12 years. Alapaha Blue-Bloods are protective and possessive, but they are also playful and devoted dogs. With the proper training and socialization, they enjoy playing with children and love attention. Vet Street notes that they are best suited to more experienced dog owners who can train them well from a young age. These bulldogs can also be a bit indifferent towards strangers and don't necessarily get along great with other dogs so they may thrive best if they are your only household pup. Mastiffs and Bulldogs were breeded together to develop a stealthy and fast dog that could help gamekeepers stop poachers from stealing. These impressive and cunning canines protected the lives of gamekeepers and poachers. They are larger bulldogs, clocking in at to pounds and reaching 24 to 27 inches in height, but they aren't aggressive towards other dogs and can behave well around their furry friends with proper care. But don't be deceived by the breed's history, these bulldogs are huge cuddle buddies who just want to be in the same room as their owner. Since they are a larger breed, they are more susceptible to bloat which requires emergency surgery and can be fatal. They have a shorter life span, as well, at 7 to 9 years. Indeed, they are discerning and confident dogs who can be aggressive towards other dogs and animals if not trained from an early age. While they are gentle towards children, it is recommended that they receive proper training from an early age so they are more welcoming towards strangers. Red-Tiger Bulldogs thrive best with a daily long walk but can do just as well living in an apartment as at a home with a yard. Typically, they have a "mantle" coat design with at least 70 percent color and no more than 30 percent white fur. They weigh between 75 and pounds and can live up to 16 years, making them one of bulldog breeds with the longest life expectancy. She also has experience fact checking commerce articles and holds a B. With their wrinkly skin, stumpy legs, large heads and undershot jaw, Bulldogs have become a staple dog breed in America. In fact, the Bulldog ranks the 5th most popular breed in the country .Even the smaller cousin of the Bulldog, the French Bulldog, cracks the top 5 list for popularity. However, did you know that there are many more variations of the Bulldog? By crossbreeding Bully dogs with various breeds, we now have at least two dozen Bulldog-type breeds. While some may be extinct, many have thrived in our modern-day society. Read on to learn more about the different Bulldog type dogs. Bulldogs, both American and English, may be the two most popular bulldog-type dogs outside of the French Bulldog. While the two may slightly differ in looks, the temperaments are relatively the same. However, bulldog-type dog breeds have undeniably similar physical traits seen all across the board. That is, bulldogs will be wide and short with plenty of heft. Other defining characteristics of these dogs are the short snout and flat face. We call them, brachycephalic dogs. Bulldogs are wonderful dogs and they are not lazy. Mine is also very treat-motivated, so you can get him to do just about anything you want with food. But in time, Bulldogs evolved into the docile and friendly companion dogs we see today. Because of their past, Bulldogs still retain the braveness and alertness that these dogs once needed to excel at their jobs. Bulldog-Type Dog Breeds There are so many types of Bulldogs, each with their own unique characteristics and charm. In fact, a few of them have already gone extinct, unfortunately. American Bulldog Highlights: Loyal, Confident, Friendly The American Bulldog is the classic all-american canine that demonstrates superb endurance, strength and agility. Back in the early 19th century , oversea Bulldogs first arrived in the United States of America. Eventually the breed was developed to have qualities more in-line with farm work. The American Bulldogs had several jobs as companions for farmers and ranchers. These multi-purpose working breeds guarded livestock, caught feral pigs and also did some herding. They were essential to farms in the 19th century. But as farming became less popular in the country, the American Bulldogs once again had to evolve into companion pets. However, with their favorable even-tempered personalities, the transition was smooth and widely successful. For starters, they are as loyal as dogs come — always having your back in any situation. While tough and courageous workers, American Bulldogs are calm and gentle in the home. They can make good playmates for older children if properly trained and socialized. Though, the stubbornness can make training difficult. The American Bulldog will need a firm and consistent leader of the pack. Historical evidence points to these dogs first being developed in the 13th century in England. Back then, some were guard dogs. However, they were primarily used for the blood-sport, that is, bull-baiting. Once ferocious, fearless and tenacious dogs, English Bulldogs were thrown into a pit of angry bulls to battle it out. With their strong jaws, a Bulldog would taunt and pin down the animals in front of spectators. Today, English Bulldogs are not the same dogs as they once were. After the ban, there were still many Bulldogs all around the country. So, breeders started breeding for temperament. The more gentle and calm English Bulldog became a hit with families in England. As such, the breed gained international attention and eventually made its way outside the country, where the dog was further developed into all the Bulldog-types we have today. Rather, these dogs have a bit of silliness with a soft spot for members of the family. From the past, English Bulldogs still retain their courageous nature. With that said, these Bulldogs are a great second pair of eyes on your kids. But even so, we suggest parental supervision, socializing, and training before trusting these dogs. It was during the Industrial Revolution in England when Frenchies first started popping up. They were toy-sized companions that could easily live in the often small apartments of lace makers in Nottingham, England. However, as the hub for the lace-making industry shifted to northern France, many of workers had to relocate. So, they brought their toy-sized bulldog companions with them. And in the rural areas of the lace factories, Frenchies became a huge hit. Through the next decade, the old Frenchies were crossbred with other popular toy dogs to develop the modern French Bulldog we know. French Bulldog Temperament French Bulldogs are the most popular bulldog-type breeds for a reason. There are few dog breeds as lively and optimistic as them. Given their history as companions in all types of situations, Frenchies are some of the most adaptable dog breeds. They were developed for small enclosures, such as apartments and small homes. Frenchies are the ultimate companions and lap dogs. And as the name says, this bulldog-type originated from down under, in the rurals of Australia, circa .Australian Bulldogs were first developed by Noel and Tina Green, the founders of an Australian breeding program. Their goal was to develop a functional bulldog that was more suited for the harsh living of the Australian outback. Of course, the main breed used for this bulldog was the English Bulldog. The result was a Bully with less wrinkles and longer limbs. Australian Bulldog Temperament The Australian Bulldog, like other bulldog-types, is a sweet-natured and affectionate dog, bred to thrive in family environments. Not only are they extremely devoted dogs, but they also have high intelligence, thus making training easier. They were developed for the Australian lifestyle and they match perfectly. In the home, expect to see a laid-back dog willing to adapt to various lifestyles. Whether in an apartment or your rural farm, these adaptable dogs will do well. Exercise is still crucial for the Australian Bulldog. After all, they were bred to be better athletes than their English cousins. The most important thing is their need for love and attention. Leavitt wanted a Bulldog that retained the looks, health and athleticism of the old bulldogs. The result provided an athletic bulldog that had all the physical traits of the past bull-baiting dogs, but a sweet temperament. Bulldogge Temperament Given the many parents of the Olde English Bulldogge, you can probably already guess the temperament of these dogs. Bulldogges are brave, confident and proud dogs. But in the home, they still retained the friendliness of modern bulldogs. As Leavitt intended, Bulldogges will be very energetic and enthusiastic dogs. And despite being a hybrid, this bulldog-type has been around for over years. Catahoula Leopard Dogs originated from Louisiana. These bulldogs were developed for popular jobs in the region, such as hunting large game and herding cattle. Catahoula Bulldogs had become a hit. Unfortunately, there currently are plenty bulldogs living in shelters around the southern states. And without it, they will become less controllable. However, Catahoula Bulldogs are very loyal dogs with the typical bulldog protective instincts in them. They tend to get along better in homes with older kids, but supervision is still highly recommended. These dogs had a long history, dating back to the Victorian era. Because of this, Mollett wanted to bring back the bullies of this iconic era. Not only did he breed a dog that appeared similar to the old Victorian dogs but also created a much healthier bulldog. Victorian Bulldogs are slightly taller, thus not as wide than the typical bulldog-type. They have fewer breathing problems , which is a concern for many brachycephalic breeds, such as your traditional bully. Victorian Bulldog Temperament There are few dog breeds as trustworthy and reliable as the Victorian Bulldog. Not only are they excellent with children, but tend to get along with other pets in the family. As with most Bulldogs, the Victorian is protective of the family. Today, the modern Ca de Bou is primarily a family companion, often used as a guard dog in the home. These dogs had a rough past, though. Historians believe that the ancestors of these dogs were on the brink of extinction after World War II. In fact, there were only a handful of Bulldogs left on the island. Eventually, they were crossbred with other Spanish bullies , such as the Perro de Pastor Mallorquin and the Alano Espanol to create the Ca de Bou of today, which made its mark as a top working dog. Ca de Bou Temperament Although the Ca de Bou is smart, they need a firm and consistent owner to handle their dominant personalities. Obedience training and socialization is essential with the Ca de Bou. Without it, they may be very difficult to deal with. And because of this, they make formidable watchdogs and guardians. Though, that would be something spectacular. The breeder, named Papa Buck Lane, is responsible for the blue blood Bulldog. He began by breeding his favorite dog, named Otto, through several generations all named Otto. Even as Buck Lane passed away, his granddaughter continued the tradition. Physically, the Alapaha is bigger and stronger than the English Bulldogs. Plus, they were bred to have excellent work ethics. In the southern states, the Alapaha Blue-Blood Bulldogs served as herding dogs, hunters and guard dogs. But off the field, the Alapaha Bulldogs are naturally great watchdogs and guardians. They can be a little over-possessive due to their territorial instincts. In fact, they take their role as a member of the family more seriously than most dogs. However, their history and origin story is a murky one. Historians believe that the Serrano was developed from dogs brought to the south of Brazil in the s by immigrants. Because most of the immigrants at the time came from Europe, they brought along their Bulldogs, which were popular at the time. In fact, some believe the Alano Espanol had a role in it too. As a guard dog, the Serrano will be a confident and courageous bulldog. They will always submit to their owners when properly trained. They were bred to be catch dogs, hunting companions and guard dogs. In the past, they even served as bullbaiting dogs in Spanish bullfights. Alano Espanol dogs are believed to have arrived from the Iranian tribe, called Alani. They were a nomadic tribe that migrated to Spain during the 5th century. As such, they brought these dogs with them on their journey out west. Shortly after, the Alano Espanols became widely used by Spanish explorers. In addition, Alanos became war dogs during the subjugation of native Indians. After all, they were bred to hunt in packs. Thus, the Spanish Bulldogs retain their pack-dog mentality. Due to the sheer size of these dogs, they must be socialized and trained. As multi-purpose working dogs, the Spanish Bulldog has a lot of energy. Even more than other bulldog-type breeds on this list. And like many of the modern Bulldogs, the Continental was developed to reduce the number of health problems in these dogs. Her family had been breeding English Bulldogs all her life. However, there were problems she wanted to fix. Not only did she want a more agile Bulldog, but also one with fewer breathing problems. That said, she tried crossbreeding with many similar dogs. Continental Bulldog Temperament The Continental Bulldog is a friendly and affectionate dog, despite having high confidence on the field. These Bulldogs are bursting with energy. Continentals are smarter than you think. With proper training and socializing, the Continental Bulldog will have a mild temperament. Some believe that Valley Bulldogs naturally existed without the need of deliberate crossbreeding for the designer dogs. Even so, breeders have started to purposely breed these bulldogs due to the demand for the friendly yet well-tempered companion. These great bulldogs were first popularized in the mid s in Nova Scotia, Canada. They quickly grew out onto the international scene due to their favorable personalities. Valley Bulldogs are more active than your typical English Bulldog, mostly thanks to the Boxer parent. Valley Bulldogs are naturally loving, so making them the center of attention is ideal. These dogs thrive on human interaction and their people-oriented personalities prove this. But the good news is that they have retained all the best qualities of both parents. This meant that the game preserves were high targets to poachers. The aristocracy needed a dog that would fiercely protect their property from outsiders. Needless to say, they were excellent at their jobs. Bullmastiff Temperament There are few dogs as loyal and brave as the Bullmastiff. Their physical prowess makes them excellent at hunting and tracking down intruders. Plus, few dare to mess with one. However, Bullmastiffs have dominant personalities and are best for experienced owners. In fact, many owners will go as far as calling them reserved. They are smart enough to know when to be energetic, but also when to calm down. After all, these dogs needed to understand situations to be effective guardians. However, they have a even murkier history than the Serranos. Most historians believed that the Campiero Bulldogs are descendants of the extinct Old English Bulldogs. After the immigrants brought them into Brazil, they may have bred with local dogs. Another theory is that Campiero Bulldogs are actually the evolution of the Terceira Mastiff, a landrace dog. No one knows for certain. Nonetheless, Campieros developed into highly sought-after cattle and guard dogs in Brazil. On the other hand, Campiero Bulldogs make great guard dogs. They absolutely love the chaos that kids bring to the table. Did we miss a type of Bulldog that deserves to be on this list? Also, let us know in the comments section, which is your favorite Bulldog breed? Posts you may like:. These three bulldog breeds are perfect for folks who just can't get enough of those wrinkly faces. By Tracey L. Kelley After loving 19 cats, 11 dogs, and a canary, Tracey married someone allergic to all those creatures. Thankfully, she receives oodles of animal goodness sharing stories on Daily Paws! When not traveling, teaching yoga, or doing voiceover projects, she's an editorial strategist and developer for print, digital, and multimedia platforms. Daily Paws' Editorial Guidelines Published on September 21, Enthusiasm is so high for all the wiggly, snuffly types of bulldogs, three different countries clamor to claim one. America, England, and France each have a distinctive bulldog breed people absolutely adore, and for many reasons. Bulldogs tend to be intensely dedicated to their humans and are overflowing with unique appeal and endearing personalities. No wonder some pooch parents refuse to have any other dog once they've had a bully. A Little History Whoops! We kind of let that doggie out the front door already, didn't we? Three countries, three different types of bulldogs. Are they all related? Sort of. We'll sniff more around their family tree in a bit. She says if you're trying to tell the difference among the three bulldogs, here are some pointers: French bulldog s can be somewhat rowdy but always charming. They're very social, friendly, and devoted. English bulldogs are equal parts playful and peaceful. They're ultimately quite relaxed. American bulldogs are the most active of the three breeds, and they're also very loyal to their people. Let's take a closer look at what makes these adorable dogs so beloved by pet parents today. In fact, the origin of the Frenchie began in the s as a bulldog toy crossbreed. They also used to have the same folded rose ears of British bullies instead of the erect radar beacons we know and love today. Where did those come from, anyway? The French Bulldog Club of America hints that a few different terriers with perky ears are part of their ancestry. Frenchies were faithful companions to all types of people, from lace workers of England to members of high society in France. With the wit of a jester and the heart of a lion, ready to play or to contentedly nap by you, these cuddlesome pups eventually gained fans in America, competing with the Boston terrier as a favorite among the nation's elite. Although these two could practically be twins, here's how to tell them apart. On the other paw, they're mellow mushpuppets who positively cherish everyone in the family and appreciate a casual stroll through the neighborhood. The laid-back bulldog is a surprisingly popular mascot, representing the toughness of hundreds of sports teams, schools, and universities around the world. For example, Yale University states, "a bulldog has represented Yale as mascot since at least , and Handsome Dan is widely regarded as the first live animal collegiate mascot. Although often the lesser known of the three types of bulldogs in the U. The United Kennel Club actually considers today's breed to be more aligned with the original bulldogs from the English countryside dating back to the 13th century. When butchers, farmers, and other laborers immigrated to the Southeastern states in the 17th and 18th centuries, they brought these stout working dogs with them. Working breeds need a job to do, and the American bulldog isn't any different. Smart and sporty, if they're not helping on a hunt or around the ranch, they need daily mental and physical engagement to shine as the canine companions most know them to be. Out of all types of bulldogs, this one is probably going to be a great pal for an active and experienced dog owner. Differences Between English Bulldog vs. French Bulldog vs. American Bulldog So there you are at the dog park , and a pack of bullies race by. All you see is a blur of wrinkles and snubbed noses, so who's who? Here's a handy 'types of bulldogs' chart featuring them side-by-side that might help. Here are some other telling features of each bully: A Frenchie struts his stuff in many short-haired coat variations, including cream, fawn, and white, just black, black and white, and even bi-color. He can also have brindle patterns or a black mask. He has a bit of a tail nub. There's a bright gleam in his brown or black eyes and when he opens his mouth, his smushed snout forms a natural smile. The English bulldog is stylish in red, white, fawn, and fallow light brown colors, as well as any combination of these with additional brindling, ticking, or black masks. Her tail is a mere suggestion. She has the most squished mug of all, with loose jowls and sometimes a pronounced underbite also known as to 'hang a fang'. Her low, furrowed brow and droopy black or brown eyes give the appearance that she's thinking too hard about politics. An American bulldog always has a smooth white coat usually marked with black, brindle, brown, or tan. He sports a thin whip tail with a little curl at the end. His muzzle, although slightly snubbed, is longer than those of other bullies, and his broad forehead really highlights wide brown or black eyes, and he'll easily break into a wide smile, too. Size All three types of bulldogs got the stocky going on, with muscular chests appropriate for their sizes. But the height and weight really vary between them: At 16—28 pounds and 11—13 inches tall, Frenchies are compact, small dogs that love riding in darling strollers. If you'd like a workout, you might be able to tote around your bulldog's 40—50 pounds in a bike trailer so she doesn't have to do anything but admire the scenery! Since she's about 15 inches high, she'll have plenty of room to look out. Long and lean—averaging 20—25 inches tall and 60— pounds—an American bulldog will probably race up the hiking trail , then wait for you under a tree. Health Remember when we mentioned how wiggly and snuffly bulldogs are? Let's review that snuffly bit. All bulldogs are considered flat-faced or brachycephalic breeds. This means they have shorter skulls and muzzles than other dogs, which creates narrow, restricted airways. Since dogs regulate their temperatures by panting to avoid overheating , bulldogs—especially the English—don't fare well in hot weather or with vigorous exercise. Frenchies are a little more tolerant, but there's still no need for roughhousing, as they might develop heat exhaustion quickly. Make sure both breeds have plenty of fresh water, and place their doggie bed in the coolest part of the house. American bulldogs are somewhat of an exception, since they're a lot more athletic—they can actually jump as high as 7 feet! But during the heat of summer, they won't want to do much either, so set up a wading pool in a shady spot or let them chill indoors, and schedule walks and games of fetch in the early morning or late evening. Hodgson says bulldogs are prone to obesity. Consult your veterinarian to establish a proper diet and feeding schedule. Save treats for positive reinforcement training sessions and advancements in socialization. She adds that each bully has particular health concerns: Frenchies are vulnerable to ear infections as they have very narrow ear canals. Conjunctivitis , also known as pink eye, is a common issue due to their genetic makeup. Because of an English bully's excessive wrinkles, "they often get skin infections easily unless regularly groomed ," Hodgson says. Personality Having read this far, it's easy to see why bulldogs are so popular. Each one is an affectionate bundle of joy eager for a family to love. Hodgson notes they'll truly thrive with direction in puppy kindergarten and early, consistent socialization. Which type of bulldog is the best for your lifestyle? Hodgson offers these tips: French bulldogs are extroverted creatures, making them the perfect companion for someone who lives in a big city or an apartment with dog parks nearby and playdate opportunities. Also great for apartment dwellers, English bulldogs are calm and relaxed , and they would be the ideal company for individuals who follow more laidback lifestyles. As the most active of these three types of bulldogs, American bulldogs are great for people who take their dog on adventures and play sports. Now that you're familiar with the three types of bulldogs, test your knowledge and see if you distinguish between these other look-alike pups. Was this page helpful? She currently works as a relief veterinarian for various emergency and specialty hospitals. Washington recognizes the importance of education and also works as a freelance veterinary writer. Although the bulldog is the most popular bulldog type breed, several other breeds fall into the bulldog family. Most bulldog breeds are wonderful for families, including families with kids. That means no pulling on ears or tails, no attempts to ride the dog, and giving the dog personal space when it needs it. Additionally, an adult should always supervise all interactions between kids and dogs of any breed. Breed Characteristics Bulldog-type breeds vary in size, from the smallest the French bulldog to the largest the Dogue de Bordeaux with several bulldog breeds falling somewhere in between. Bulldog breeds also differ somewhat in personality, though most bulldogs tend to be a little bullheaded i. Some bulldog breeds are moderately energetic and others are couch potatoes. Bulldogs are brachycephalic , which means they have flattened faces with short muzzles. Brachycephalic breeds more easily become overheated, especially in very warm weather, so they must be kept cool and not exercised in hot temperatures. Many bulldog breeds also have droopy jowls, and underbites, which can lead to drooling. For hundreds of years the bulldog was used in England for bullbaiting, a gruesome sport that was outlawed in early s. Back then the bulldog larger and more ferocious than the mellow couch potato we know and love today. The transformation came about when breeders sought to remake the bulldog into a sweet family pet rather than a fierce fighter. The breed is a popular school mascot and family dog. They are famous for their friendships with children, making the bulldog an excellent companion for families. In the mids, some toy-sized bulldogs were being bred in England, and they were brought to France with their emigrating owners. In France, these small bulldogs were bred with other breeds, possibly pugs and small terriers, and transformed to the French bulldog we know today, a small bulldog with large bat ears and a huge personality. French bulldogs, or Frenchies as they are affectionately known, are exceptional companions, particularly with children. They are adaptable, active and playful with very steady temperaments. Back then bulldogs were much larger and taller than the short, stocky bulldogs we know today. In the New World, farmers and ranchers put these bulldogs to use as working dogs, where they were especially good at guarding the homestead, herding, catching livestock and hunting feral pigs. American Bulldogs are loyal, affectionate and known for being great with kids. The olde English bulldogge should mirror the looks of the bull baiting bulldogs of the early s. The Olde English bulldogge possesses the drive, temperament and agility to perform for sport or working purposes, but is confident, friendly and alert—never vicious. They are excellent companions for both adults and children. After the French Revolution, the dogue de Bordeaux saw yet another career change—this time being used to drive livestock. Though they may be standoffish with strangers, the dogue de Bordeaux is very affectionate with its beloved family. Most bulldog breeds are considered good with children, but this is provided the dog is well bred and well socialized and trained as a puppy and beyond. Some large, assertive breeds that resemble bulldogs are not the best choices for families with kids, including the cane Corso and dogo Argentino. The bullmastiff , which was created by breeding mastiffs with bulldogs, can be good with kids if well socialized to them, but their massive size can be intimidating for small children. They have looks to swoon and sloppy kisses to give. The 13 Types of Bulldog Breeds 1. Their famous wrinkly face and stocky body have left an impression on dog lovers everywhere. These beefy canines are short but stable, weighing an average of pounds. While they may be slightly intimidating-looking because of their structure, they are quite docile and affectionate. Most are laid back and lackadaisical, making them patient and loving toward children. They serve as great companions who are highly sociable and gregarious. They get along great with other pets when properly socialized. However, they may show territorial aggression toward unfamiliar dogs. Because of their watchdog nature, they will also alert you if they sense a potential threat. The lifespan of this breed ranges between 8 and 10 years. As a result of generations of poor breeding, they suffer multiple health issues like cancer, heart failure, allergies, skinfold infections, and breathing obstructions. When full-grown, these brutes weigh between 60 and pounds. While they are friendly, they are on guard, defensive, and protective of their owners. They are alpha-minded , so it is important to show them you are boss from an early age to set the hierarchy of the household. Unlike their sluggish cousins, they are equipped with stamina, strength, and athletic abilities. They will require moderate exercise. Because they are more active, toys can ease boredom and deflect destructiveness. The lifespan of this breed ranges between 9 and 14 years. Contrary to other bull breeds , health issues remain low risk. The most commonly noted problem is hip dysplasia. French Bulldog Image Credit: Patryk Kosmider, Shutterstock These little guys have an adorably distinct look, making them instantly recognizable to most. They are one of the tiniest bull breeds with oversized pointed ears and a smooshed snout. These dogs are compact, weighing only 20—28 pounds as adults. These stout little cuties are excellent companion animals. They exhibit traits like playfulness, curiosity, and an eagerness to please. While they may not require extensive exercise, they do love to romp. They are very excitable, mouthy, and humorous. While sweet, they may be a little selfish with attention, which can cause jealous inclinations toward other pets. The lifespan of this breed ranges from 10—14 years. They are susceptible to health issues like allergies, breathing problems, and ear infections. While they carry facial similarities, such as the shorter nose and face wrinkles, they have thinner and longer frames. An adult American Bulldog weighs an average of 60— pounds. They are known to be big, goofy lapdogs who live to love you. American Bulldogs are also incredibly brave and ready to defend. They are very doting toward children and tend to get along well with other animals. They are cautious of newcomers but generally stranger-friendly. Muscular and athletically built, they are agile and high-energy. They will need appropriate exercise to accommodate their dynamic personalities. If they do not have a proper outlet, they may develop destructive tendencies. They can suffer from health conditions like cherry eye, hip dysplasia, ACL tears, and thyroid issues. It is highly intelligent, physically capable, and easily trainable. They are a well-statured dog weighing between 55 and 88 pounds. While very lovable, loyal, and nurturing towards their masters and children, they rarely share the sentiment for outsiders. They have a dominant disposition, so they must have adequate and assertive training. They were initially purposed as work dogs and should get plenty of physical activity. Because of their hardiness and adaptability to weather, many thrive as outdoor pets. The lifespan of this breed ranges from 11—14 years. They are incredibly resistant to illness or disorders. While they can suffer from many generalized problems any dog could have, they are very healthful. They maintain a closely similar look, making them nearly indistinguishable from their English cousins. Full-grown, they weigh between 50 and 75 pounds. This dog has the same happy-go-lucky personality, calm disposition, and squishy rolls of the English Bulldog. They are also just as vastly affectionate and emotionally intuitive. The lifespan of this breed is 12—14 years. Because of selective breeding, problems for them are much rarer. The only remaining concern is skin-related conditions, such as allergies and infections. They are known for their coat of many colors, intensively vivid eyes, and pleasant attitudes. The mixture produces a beautiful companion dog. They are incredibly loyal, situationally protective, and brilliant. Not only do they make fantastic family pets, but they also serve as efficient work and guard dogs. The lifespan of this breed is 13—15 years. They are prone to blindness, deafness, and hip dysplasia. They are typically very good-natured but may be a challenge for inexperienced dog owners. They are quite large, weighing 55—99 pounds. It is best to socialize them from adolescence. These animals are very loving to their owners. However, because they are so muscular, they can be hard to manage. Training them to be obedient and well-mannered is a necessity. This breed serves as an excellent watchdog. The lifespan of this breed is 12—13 years. They have the classic ailments of many bull breeds, including hip dysplasia, eye issues, deafness, and skin problems. This thick, sturdy powerhouse is known for its massive, blocky head. They are in the medium-size range and weigh up to 84 pounds. They are incredibly devoted to their families and fondly patient with children. However, because of their enormous size and keen intelligence, establishing a hierarchy in the relationship is essential. They need to respect owners and know you are the alpha. They have a very high defensiveness alert. If trained to channel this instinct properly, they are excellent watchdogs. The lifespan of this breed is 10—12 years. They are a stocky build with ears cropped inward, making them look somewhat intimidating. Full-grown, they weigh between 70 and pounds. They are lovely family pets, as they are gentle and loyal. They have an aversion toward strangers and will be suspicious of new people. They also have a very high prey drive, making them potentially dangerous to smaller animals. The lifespan of this breed is 12—16 years. While they thrive, puppies must get adequate nutrition. Mammut Bulldog Image Credit: Connie Sinteur, Shutterstock These beautiful creatures are the combined product of only bulldog bloodlines. Because of their longer snouts, they have less breathing trouble. They are also leaner and more agile than some bull breeds. These dogs are medium-sized, weighing up to 60 pounds as adults. They are kind and loving towards all people in their tight-knit families. Strangers and other animals can be a different story. They can be reserved, shy, or even aggressive toward outsiders. Due to their athleticism and breeding, they can be activity-intense in a variety of temperatures. They may be stubborn and hard to handle if not raised with discipline. The lifespan of this breed is 9—11 years. While not notably unhealthy, they can struggle with breathing and skin issues. They are quite a popular bull breed and are known for their loveable personalities. They are hefty, weighing up to pounds. They make incredible additions to families with children and other pets. Bullmastiffs are warm-hearted, devoted, and shielding. They are not inherently aggressive without proper provocation, but they do make excellent watchdogs. Because of their large size, they will need proper care to develop appropriate manners. That is manageable with proper rearing. Sadly, the lifespan of the Bullmastiff is only 7—9 years, which is not uncommon for a dog of this size. They have risks for hip dysplasia, thyroid complications, skin ailments, and bloat. Not only are their looks on par, but they also share similar personality traits. These husky canines are short in stature and weigh an average of 50—78 pounds. They are highly adaptable to many environments, making them suitable for both small and spacious living. While they may have issues with dominance, they tend to get along quite well with humans and creatures alike. They are exceedingly intelligent , charmingly spirited, and fiercely loyal. Because of their breeding, they have a reduced number of ailments. However, they are prone to heat-related issues and skin infections. Each has an exceptional array of personality, purpose, and appeal. Bull breeds will continue to develop , adding even more quality to existing bloodlines. They are everything on the spectrum from large to small, stoical to silly, and lazy to ambitious. You are sure to find one that stands out above the rest. One thing is for sure—there is no shortage of diversity here. They have so many different characteristics throughout the different variations of this wonderful breed. Bulldogs are well-known and loved for their iconic wrinkles, expressive faces, and cuddly stocky build. Bulldogs come in all different breeds and variations, but they all have the same distinctive muscular frame, pushed-in nose, tiny ears, and rolling gait. Below, we have listed the top 16 most popular bulldog breeds. As you will see, the variety in the breed is vast. They come in many different colors and hues, with some classified as tiny dogs and some as giant dogs. These little dogs are absolutely adorable, with their square heads and big ears. In addition to being cute , Frenchies are also known for their funny snorting noises. They can be quite a stubborn breed, especially when training them as a pup, but overall they are great companion dogs, and will quickly become a well loved member of your family. The English bulldog, so-called for its role in the bloodsport of bull baiting, appears to have been originated in the British Isles before the 13th century. The Olde English Bulldogge is a medium-sized, powerful dog with strong muscles and fluid, swift movement. They appear capable of performing without any breathing difficulties in hot or cold conditions since they are balanced and proportionate. Serious flaws in the breed include excessive wrinkles and a lack of colour around the mouth, nose, and eyes. They have a friendly temperament with a high level of alertness. They are confident, loving, courageous and strong. They are descended from the Old English Bulldog, which is supposed to have been brought to America by working-class immigrants from England as early as the 17th century. American Bulldogs are frequently exuberant, confident, outgoing, and comfortable around their families. They form close bonds with their owners and are happiest when they can receive lots of time and attention from them. This included making them both taller and with fewer health issues than the English Bulldog, yet they still have the short, round, wrinkly features that makes them a traditional Bulldog! These pups are low maintenance and make excellent family companions due to their love for people, especially children. The English Bulldog was first used for bull and bear baiting in England as far back as the s. Back then, the English Bulldog was a taller and heavier dog than it is today. Luckily, a few breeders wanted to save the English Bulldog and kept breeding and the first Bulldog breed club was formed in .It has at various points served as a military dog, a bullfighting dog, a cattle manager, a hunting dog, and a guard dog. The Alano has been employed as a military dog since the Middle Ages. Since then, like many other bulldog breeds, it has been used as a guard dog, for boar and deer hunting, and for managing cattle in pastures and slaughterhouses. With its loved ones and acquaintances, this breed is incredibly loving. It is also excellent with kids and very patient. They rarely bark and are dependable, stable, and very submissive. The Alano, however, will monitor outsiders suspiciously and will attack with very little warning when it feels threatened. These puppies, who were agile, active, and devoted, have some of the greatest traits from both of their parents. American Mastahoulas is another name for Catahoula Bulldogs. The Catahoula Bulldog has short, sleek hair and skin that is tight. While the Catahoula Bulldog is known for its placid demeanour, this breed can also show its alert side when called upon. They are very trainable, faithful, and devoted to their families. This breed is eager to please its master and responds well to consistent, early training. They are great with kids. The Catahoula Bulldog has a very expressive way of communicating through its ears. Useful as a guard or watch dog. There are times when they are employed for hunting or trapping. They are a well-balanced dog, that will think things through carefully before acting upon their instincts. Both their bark and their piercing look serve as warnings to the visitor, giving him the opportunity to flee if they so chooses. They are gentle with their masters and loves children. Strong and muscular, with a massive skull and short muzzle. They were bred in the American South to herd livestock and trap strays. Alapahas have a reputation for being attentive, sociable, and assured. They are reserved with newcomers and avoid dogs they are unfamiliar with. They make great family pets for those with the proper training and environment. It possesses a bold personality, along with the assurance and intelligence to match. It makes a good working dog, from agility to protection training and beyond. This dog is great for families and makes a wonderful pet. The breed gets along well with young ones. It is very resistant to pain. The best way for owners to handle their pets is with calm determination, consistency, and love. The dog will act stubbornly if he thinks you lack the mental fortitude to be the pack leader. As long as their owner is confident and authoritative, they make great pets. The Australian bulldog is a well-mannered dog that is also smart, affectionate, and loyal. This is a laid-back breed that gets along well with kids and enjoys playing. It is playful and aquatic, and will enjoy playing with a ball or Frisbee. Although its presence may discourage potential intruders, the dog is best used as a watchdog rather than a guard dog. This newish breed of bulldog has eyes that are set into the top of its cushioned muzzle. Nostrils are huge and well-shaded, and the nose itself is quite large. Thicker than average neck and well-developed muscles complement small ears that hang close to the head. The chests of these dogs are extremely large. Its tail is broad and thick. Tiny but sturdy legs. In general, this dog appears to be quite athletic. The Amitola is bred to have moderate wrinkling, a lot of muscle, and agility sufficient for routine sports like swimming and weight pulling as well as for withstanding the intense heat of the South and other parts of the country. Despite their devoted nature, they were not created to act as guard dogs. Multitalented, upbeat, perceptive, sociable, and devoted. They bark about as much as the normal dog and will watch out for their family instinctively, without any training. Threats will be immediately apparent to them. Kind and compassionate toward other individuals. When with his loved ones, he is extremely affectionate, but he can be hesitant to trust new people. Pleasant, funny, and devoted to its family. It came from bulldog breeds brought to Brazil by European immigrants. This breed was formerly mostly employed in slaughterhouses where it could drag pigs by the ears and tame animals. This is a far cry from what they are used for nowadays, which is as loving pets. The Serrano bulldog has a balanced temperament, who is not aggressive to people or other dogs. They do however attack and defend themselves or owner when ordered to or when provoked. They are completely loyal and submissive to its owner. The Conti is a medium-sized bulldog-type dog with a silky coat, an almost square appearance, an athletic physique, and has lot of stamina. They weigh between 20 and 30 kg and has a smaller head than other Bulldog breeds. Temperament of a Conti is attentive, confident and friendly. They are neither aggressive nor shy.

Our puppy Price is for limited registration non breeding rights. Deposit are non-refundable. Full AKC Registration breeding and show rights contact us for an additional fee. Even though the poodle is so popular in France, the poodle first originated as a duck hunter in Germany. Because of its curly coat to protect it from the outdoor elements, its superb swimming abilities, its keen intelligence, the standard poodle was back in the day, and still is a magnificent retriever. Hunters wanted the poodle to have free range of motion in the water but they also wanted to protect their vital organs and anatomy from the cold. They shaved the legs, neck and tail, but left the chest, hips and leg joints covered. Poodles were imported to America in the 20th century and slowly rose in popularity. They are now among the top 10 most popular breeds. Training Needed The Standard Poodle is highly intelligent, making training a fairly simple process. They quickly understand what is expected of them and can learn a wide variety of tricks and games. Black Standard Poodles are likely to enjoy the training process. Any effort put into training the Poodle will reap large rewards. They can also excel in many canine sports such as agility, obedience, dock diving and hunting. They make great swimmers and will enjoy long walks, outdoor activities and most activities with you or your family. All our black standard poodle puppies come from champion lines and go through extensive testing to make sure our clients get puppies with premium pedigrees. At our 9. Each one leaves us fully up to date on vaccinations, and healthcare, too. To place a deposit for your own black standard poodle pup from us as top black standard poodle breeders in Michigan go to our contact page! I am a small breeder of beautiful red and black standard poodles located in Boise Idaho, an all-round nice place to be! I breed for health, temperament, structure and size. Everyone loves the larger poodles! I also focus on keeping those remarkable dark red and inky black colors that everyone loves! Boise, ID Large Standard Poodles: Parents An extensive amount of research, testing, assessment and time have gone into finding and testing my poodles. Scarlet is a beautiful deep, dark holding red standard poodle. Both sire and dam are fully health tested, including Embark DNA, and evaluated for sound structure and solid temperament. I adhere to the highest quality breeding standards. My poodles are lovingly cared for. They are never kenneled and live inside with the family. I believe these are responsible protocols, and the best assurance that you will have - not only a nice poodle - but an exceptional poodle! In growing Large Standard Poodles my focus is to build the confidence of the puppies by exposing them to new people, noises, surfaces, and environments. At 6 weeks old, puppies will begin taking trips in their wagon to schools, malls, hardware stores, nursing homes, police and fire stations. This is how they get extensive socialization to become the best they can be. I welcome your questions with enthusiasm because I love the breed and want to ensure that every pup from Marvels develops as they should. They will be ideal companions you can be proud of; and that is the ultimate goal of what I do as a breeder. Please read more about my poodles and complete the Large Standard Poodles Contact Form if you are interested in reserving a puppy. They can be found under Available Puppies. Just like all the other toy and miniature poodles we specialize in breeding, our black poodle puppies are of a quality unlike any others you will find. Please keep in mind that just as we have high standards for our poodles, we have in many ways even higher standards for the homes and owners we send them to. We want each of our black poodles to go to an owner who we know will appreciate and care for the dog as much as we do. In order to help us make a decision on why you may be the right person for one of our black poodles, we ask that you kindly fill out our Puppy Application form to provide us with some initial information. We look forward to learning more about you and why you hope to bring one of our lovely toy poodles into your home. Before applying, however, we invite you to browse our selection of black poodle puppies for sale to learn more about them. You will be able to view pictures and learn about their temperament, birth date, size, and more! Explore our website today to learn more about our black poodle puppies and our history of toy poodle breeding in general, and please contact us if you have any questions! Our first priority, in the process of selecting our standard poodles, is health and temperament. Because of research and selection, we are able to combine these two conformation types to produce a superb, well-rounded Standard Poodle puppy who can be your newest family member. The Poodle Club of America is, of course, made up of humans that are pretty special, amazing and dedicated people. They write the standards for the breed, and the standard has to some extent changed the original look and purpose of the Standard Poodle. Our primary goal is to enrich the very small gene bank of the Standard Poodle pedigrees, which is and will continue to be the best weapon against genetic disorders. The preceding statements may raise some eyebrows and ruffle some feathers. It might even become a topic on Poodle Forum, but we stand firm in our belief and respect those who disagree. Again, because of our selective breeding, we can produce every color available in the breed of Standard Poodles. We have white standard poodles, cream standard poodles, apricot standard poodles, and red standard poodles. We offer the striking colors of jet black standard poodles, blue standard poodles, grey standard poodles, and silver standard poodles. In , after lots of research and prayer, we added the ability to produce the very controversial colors of phantom standard poodles and parti standard poodles. We also have brindle standard poodles and sable standard poodles. We are concentrating on the diversity of these colors by crossing our solid color Gentlemen with our parti and phantom Ladies. In the selection of our color variety of Standard Poodle Ladies we are striving to improve on the health and conformation. These colors are allowed to be registered with the AKC but not allowed in the conformation show ring. Our hope someday is that the non-solid variety of a Standard Poodle will be accepted in the show ring as a color variety just as the Cocker Spaniels and other breeds of color. However, a self-portrait of Rembrandt shows him with his parti colored standard poodle, in ! To see early history pictures and read more about the origin of these poodles of color, please click here. Below are slideshows of our Canine Ladies and along with links to their Pedigrees and any Health Testing. I have worked very close with my mom now for many years. I try very hard to be the manager, but my mom, who is supposed to be retiring in , sometimes has a hard time letting go. My mom and my sister Holley, helped me design and write the website in the beginning. I did all the technical work on the website as well as the routine updates. I was finally able to pass that on to my Aunt Beth when she came on board. I designed and created all of our forms and records we use in our daily work and routines, i. One of the most fascinating things I do is the research on color genetics and then studying the pedigrees for low co-efficiency. I give advice where needed as a nurse and mid-wife. I also spend a great deal of time with our Standard Poodle puppies. I thoroughly enjoy the responsibility of examining and performing our socializing protocol with our Standard Poodle puppies. In addition to taking care of our puppies at a young age, I work with the ones we keep and the ones we buy for our breeding program; on leash training, crate training, basic commands and socialization. I can often be found in the pictures and videos as well. During these times I receive a lot of puppy kisses and I get to smell the sweet scent of puppy breath. I am very involved and busy in the public relations department. I take very serious the responsibility of placing our puppies into the right forever home. This is exceptionally important to all of us and I assure you we all take it very seriously! I also manage our relationships with other reputable Standard Poodle breeders. I appreciate all your phone calls and emails, so daily, many hours are spent fielding your questions about Standard Poodles. All Standard Poodles possess specific qualities, but with varying degrees of these qualities. I make it my mission to get to know each potential new puppy owner and introduce them to puppies who match their lifestyle and personality. Darlene and April and the other ladies here, also meet and greet our families and help in the role of placing puppies in their forever home as well. Her wisdom and talent have proven to be outstanding in the design of our breeding facility and the structure of the entire breeding program. The knowledge she has passed on to me is invaluable. It makes me so conscious of the importance of superior maintenance and routine repair of the grounds. Mom still helps me answer health questions or training issues that her years of experience better qualify her to answer. I am still learning and am sure I will for many more years to come. Most of the website photography, up until was done by my mom with all of us behind the scenes making all kinds of weird noises to get the canine Ladies and Gentlemen as well as puppies to look at the camera and smile. She still is editing and preparing the photos for the website which she enjoys very much. She also did our co-efficiency work-ups and kept our pedigrees up to date with our canine Lady and Gentlemen information. In addition to all of this, Holley handled our litter registrations and all of our AKC paperwork. She was in charge of getting our contracts and guarantees to you. She also helped me reply to emails and phone calls from you about our standard poodle babies. Late in Holley weaned herself from working full time with our Standard Poodles because she was offered a wonderful opportunity to go back to her first love of training and showing American Saddlebreds. She works with an amazing woman who has shown and trained Saddlebreds for years. My mom is very thankful to Mary Ann for giving Holley the chance to do what she loves best and is such a great mentor and friend to Holley. Holley helps train and works the horses and has a great riding lesson program for children. Now I have been able to relinquish those responsibilities to April and my Aunt Beth. Blake is now a wonderful stay at home dad to our son born July 28, .She started out doing the daily poop scooping, cleaning, feeding and watering. She gave vaccines and medications. The list was endless. No one can deal with all of us with a smile every day. Her winning smile and her bubbly personality adds to the comradery among our team. Darlene now helps me manage the kennel and is the official full time groomer of all our Family Affair Standard Poodles. Our Standard Poodle puppies get their first face and tail haircut, ear cleaning and nail cutting from Darlene. Each of our adult Standard Poodles get groomed every 8 to 10 weeks, so the grooming is a never-ending cycle. Then moms and puppies are let out into their yards and exercise runs to potty and play all day. We are so blessed to have Darlene. She is pictured below with her beloved Raven. Although her first canine love is her Miniature Dachshunds, she is as dedicated to our Standard Poodle Ladies and Gentlemen and our Standard Poodle puppies as we are. Darlene is loved and appreciated by all of us, and enjoys spending time with us even on her days off. I think we can make it happen! She was very responsible and dedicated at that young age. When she wanted to join our team again at the age of 25, we were very pleased. She came back to us on a part time basis in early .She was reliable and observant when examining and observing puppies and adults. We quickly realized she was also a great asset in the office and computer department as well. In just a few months, she started full time and then took over a lot of the task Darlene had been responsible for over the years. Erica begins her day with a quick hands-on inspection of all the babies. She gives medication, routine wormers and vaccines. Erica weighs and individually identifies each puppy with different colors of fingernail polish the day they are born. For three weeks all our Standard Poodle puppies are weighed every day. All of that attention to babies must have affected her, because in early , Erica gave birth to a beautiful baby girl that looks like a china doll. Her name is Kaelyn. We are looking forward to working with Erica for many years to come and watching Kaelyn grow up.

Product Description Classic Sticker Our classic stickers are printed on self-adhesive foil. The stickers are a great idea for a quick makeover of walls, furniture, doors, windows, laptops, and household appliances. This design can also be cut to shape — please contact us for more detail. If the ordered size exceeds the maximum width, the print will consist of multiple evenly cut sheets. For use on: smooth, even walls as well as other smooth surfaces, such as furniture, glass panes or household appliances Cleaning: with a wet cloth Finishing: semimatte Stained Glass sticker Our stained glass stickers are printed on translucent foil, which creates a stained glass effect. It is recommended for use on windows, glass-panelled doors and furniture closets, cupboard, tables as well as smooth, unicolored walls. We can also cut the sticker to shape for you. Please contact our customer service to learn more. If the ordered size exceeds the maximum width, the print will consist of multiple evenly cut sheets For use on: smooth, even walls; glass or plexiglass surfaces Cleaning: with a wet cloth Finishing: shiny FrontStick option: This product is also offered in an alternative version with the adhesive on the printed side of the sticker. This type of sticker is a fantastic way to decorate glass surfaces from the inside. If you are interested in this option, please contact our office. Option at an additional charge Magnetic sticker Our magnetic sticker are printed on a magnetic material. It allows for easy installation and removal at will. Magnetic stickers can be used to decorate metal surfaces e. The elastic material facilitates the installation of the product. If the ordered size exceeds the maximum width, the print will consist of multiple evenly cut sheets For use on: household appliances, metal surfaces Cleaning: with a wet cloth Finishing: semimatte. If you're a fan of my boxer is my valentine funny puppy with heart and sunset t shirt, then this design is definitely the one for you! You can find this design available on any style from a ladies fitted shirt to a men's crewneck sweatshirt. Digital printing is not a heat transfer or applique, as the ink directly adheres to the fabric of your shirt. Each printing process has its strengths, and our artwork team will weigh these when deciding which to use for your art. Flex images are smooth, a little plastic like and a tad bit glossy. Flock images have a fuzzy velvet-like texture and appear slightly more elevated. Think of drawing just the shadows and how that would appear without color. Everything on the Artistshot Marketplace is printed just for you, so a lot of thought goes into the way each item is made and shipped. We work with a global team of manufacturers and shipping partners to get your order from the site to your door. Manufacturing Process Buy your new thing.You have created or found an amazing product for you. Congratulations If you want to know when your new thing gets to you. You can find an estimate delivery date on the product page or in the add to cart. Once you buy, we'll send you an order confirmation email, with some important details like order number, order summary, total cost, and chosen shipping address. Production the idea

This is the space between the shoulder blades. They will continue to grow at a less rapid pace up until their first birthday, when they will likely have achieved both their adult height and weight. These are the Mini or Micro and Teacup ones. The smaller dogs are created by breeding the runts of various litters and can weigh as little as 5 lbs and certainly no more than 18 lbs. Be cautious about getting one of these Frenchies, though. However cute they may seem, runts are often the weakest dogs of the litter and, as such, are more susceptible to various health conditions. They can also develop specific problems related to their unnaturally small size. Photo by J oshua McArthur on Unsplash Aside from breeding variations, there are also slight size differences between male and female Frenchies. Males tend to be a little larger — mostly in terms of body size and weight than height. Although this is not as noticeable as with some other breeds of dogs. French Bulldog Growth Patterns Growth patterns for a healthy French Bulldog follow the same progression as for many other smaller dogs. While the chances are good that your Frenchie will hit their adult size somewhere between 8 and 12 months, a very few may keep growing outwards beyond this as they bulk up on muscle weight. Check out these guides on best dog food for puppies here. All of this, though, is very dependent on their physical health, exercise levels, and the type and quality of the food they receive during this time. Depending on whether your Frenchie falls on the lower or upper end of the scale, they will likely reach their adult height somewhere between 8 and 12 months of age and their adult weight between 10 and 12 months of age. There is also a chance that larger dogs could continue to gain muscle weight a couple of months past that. For this reason, we can estimate that they will be fully grown around 12 to 14 months. Photo by Deric Yu on Unsplash If you want more specific information about your pet, you should be able to calculate their potential adult weight and height at 3 months by taking their measurements at that age and multiplying them by two. You can calculate their potential adult weight at 23 weeks by taking what they weigh at that age and multiplying it by two. Hopefully, the information included here has proven useful whether you are thinking of adopting a Frenchie or have already welcomed one into your home. Please keep in mind that these are estimates to give you a general idea of how tall your French Bulldog puppy will be. At what age is a French Bulldog fully grown? A French Bulldog will reach close to their full weight around eight to twelve months old and maximum height around nine to twelve months of age. French Bulldogs will continue to slowly fill out anywhere between nine to fifteen months of age. They are considered fully grown around 12 to 14 months old, but may continue to put on muscle until they are two years old. How big should a 6-month-old French Bulldog be? A male French Bulldog will weigh between 17 and 22 pounds at six months old and have an average weight of .A six-month-old female French Bulldog will weigh between 13 and 20 pounds with an average weight of 17 pounds. Both male and female French Bulldogs will stand around seven to nine inches on average. Learn all about your puppy's physical characteristics, breed history, personality traits, and more in our comprehensive guide. French Bulldogs usually reach their full height when they are between nine and twelve months old. As short dogs, French Bulldogs barely double in height from three months of age to 1 year old. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, this is a telltale sign that they are still growing! What is the size of a full-grown French Bulldog? Most female French Bulldogs will weigh about 17 to 24 pounds, while male French Bulldogs weigh about 20 to 28 pounds. Both male and female French Bulldogs will stand 11 to 13 inches tall and have a muscular, heavy-boned build. How do I make sure my French Bulldog is healthy? As a purebred dog breed, French Bulldogs are more prone to genetic health problems. In particular, French Bulldogs are predisposed to skin problems, ear infections, diarrhea, eye problems, spinal injury and respiratory distress caused by their brachycephalic syndrome. Brachycephalic syndrome causes them to have a flat nose and shorter esophagus, creating a heightened risk of breathing problems. The Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine found that about half of French Bulldogs have significant breathing problems and .In addition to this, French Bulldogs are prone to obesity , which can lead to type 2 diabetes, osteoarthritis, disc disease, high blood pressure, heart disease, and further respiratory issues. Pro Tip: Compare pet insurance plans to save on veterinary expenses and ensure that the cost of care never interferes with the essential treatment your pet deserves. Most French Bulldogs do well with a leisurely walk or active playtime. Be careful with taking your French Bulldog out in hot weather though as their brachycephalic syndrome makes them prone to overheating and heat stroke. As a general rule temperatures over 80 degrees should be avoided for French Bulldogs. As loving pet parents, we never want to think the worst could happen to our furbaby. However, we must prepare for both everyday costs, like vaccinations and veterinarian appointments, and emergencies. Dog Insurance is here to help you with emergency costs, as well as expected costs like veterinarian care see the wellness options many pet insurance plans offer. Only .Pet insurance can help you provide your pup with quality routine and emergency care. Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance. Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top providers so you can find a great deal with great coverage. Key Takeaways On average, French Bulldogs weigh between pounds at age one, with inches in height. French Bulldogs stop growing around months old, so pet owners should be mindful of weight gain after their first birthday. As a breed, French Bulldogs are exceptionally prone to obesity, which can worsen breathing problems and lead to a number of secondary health concerns. Use our French Bulldog growth chart to monitor your puppy's weight and ensure they stay within a healthy range. Pet insurance promotes positive veterinary care and offsets the cost of services should your Frenchie get sick or injured at any point in life. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Knowing these stages and characteristics can help you to determine how big your Frenchie will be when they finally reach adulthood. It might also help you to determine their personality and other physical traits. There are seven stages of French bulldog growth. The first stage begins at birth and the seventh stage of growth ends at 18 months. At the end of the seventh stage a French bulldog is done growing. One thing to keep in mind is that their size is determined by the height of the withers and the length from the base of their neck to their buttocks. So while it only will take about a year for your Frenchie to grow to full size, they will still put on some weight and bulk up until they fully mature at about two years old. Frankly, the difference in weight between male and female French bulldogs is nominal. When they are adults the weight differential between male and female Frenchies is only about 3 to 5 pounds, with the males being the bigger of the two. We created a recommended products page that links to every product we personally use for our English bulldog, Ollie, which will also work great for French bulldogs! Females French Bulldogs Female French bulldogs grow at a little less than a pound a week, on average, and at the end of their first 3 months should weigh somewhere between 7. Between 3 and 6 months that growth slows down a bit. The average French bulldog female weighs between .Their growth slows even more between 6 months and their first year of life. By 12 months old your female Frenchie will weigh between .Male French Bulldogs Male Frenchies average a little bit more than a pound of growth per week and thus at the end of their first 3 months should weigh between 8. Between 3 and 6 months, just like females, that growth slows down a bit. The average French bulldog male weighs between .Their growth, just like females, slows even more between 6 months and their first year of life so that by 12 months old your male Frenchie will weigh between .Of course, all of these numbers are just speculative and averages. Some French bulldogs will grow a little faster and end up a little bigger and vice versa. Like their rate of growth the numbers and factors that we will discuss below are subject to change from one French bulldog pup to the next. That includes eyes, nose, ears, paws touch , and tongue taste. Their weight will be about 3 pounds at the end of Stage 1. Stage 2 Stage two is from 3 to 4 weeks and is a time of rapid sensory development. Also, your French bulldog puppy will want to avoid any sudden changes and exposure to strange people or other animals. Their weight will be about 4 pounds at the end of Stage 2. Stage 3 Stage three is a critical time for social development between 4 weeks and 7 weeks. It is during this time that your French bulldog will learn how to socialize with its mother and also learn how to behave well with other dogs. Their weight will be between 5 to 7 pounds at the end of Stage 3. Stage 4 Between eight weeks and three months is when your Frenchy will learn rapidly about everything in its world. They also will become much more independent and form the human bonds that will be significant in their life. Their weight will be about 6 to 9 pounds at the end of Stage 4. Stage 5 During stage five, which is from 3 to 4 months, your French bulldog will become very independent. It is during this time that you must be firm with them so that they develop a well-balanced personality. Their weight will be about 9 to 12 pounds at the end of Stage 5. Stage 6 During stage six is when your Frenchie will begin to demonstrate dominance traits and also start teething. Their weight will be about 14 to 18 pounds at the end of Stage 6. Stage 7 It can be said that your French bulldog will learn something new every day during the 6 to 18 months of stage seven. This is a critical period for their social adjustment as they step into adulthood. Their weight will be between 19 to 30 pounds at the end of Stage 7, depending on whether they are male or female. Several factors influence the height and weight your French bulldog will reach as an adult, including genetics, their growing environment, and the type of food they are fed. The first, as with all dog breeds, are the genetic factors that are given to your French bulldog puppy from its mother and father. For example, French bulldog pups that breastfeed and eat well during their first few weeks of life will usually grow faster and end up being a bit larger. Another factor is what kind of kibble your puppy gets after that are weaned from their mother. Nutritious and well-balanced food will help them grow bigger and faster. Pups that receive low-calorie kibble or nutritionally void kibble will usually grow slower and be smaller. Overfeeding during this time can cause obesity and other health problems. Not really, no. The fact is, French bulldogs are very small dogs, to begin with, and trying to figure out how large they will be as adults using their tiny paws as a guide is difficult at best. One method that you can use is to look at their height and weight between the time that they are 14 and 16 weeks of age and then double that. Yes and no. Unless you were to give your puppy growth hormones, which are unsafe, they will grow to be a specific size and stay that way. You can help them to become more muscular which, technically, will make them a bit bigger. You can also supplement their diet with high-protein foods like eggs and yogurt, which will help build muscle. Also, as we mentioned earlier, the more breastmilk and regular feeding that your French bulldog gets as a puppy, the more likely that they will end up being a bigger adult. You can, however, ensure that they do not become too muscular or become obese. Again, a well-balanced kibble will help them to grow at a normal rate and normal size. Do not overfeed them and make sure that they get regular exercise. If a smaller French bulldog is what you desire, you can always pick one of the smaller puppies from a particular litter. The smaller they are as a puppy, the smaller they will likely be as an adult. Male French bulldogs are typically larger than female French bulldogs. In the first few weeks of their lives, the males will grow faster than the females but, around stage 3, their rate of growth equals out. Closing Thoughts French bulldogs are a wonderful breed and one of the smaller breeds no doubt. Hopefully, this article has given you the information that you seek about how they grow and when. If you have more questions, need advice, or would like to leave a nice comment, please do so in the space provided, and best of luck with your French bulldog! Here are some of my favorite Dog and Bulldog Products Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found it helpful for your dog and bulldog questions. These are affiliate links, and I am compensated for referring traffic. But in all honesty, these are the exact product that I use or recommend to everyone. Food For Bulldogs: Royal Canin Bulldog was the dog food our breeder recommended for our bulldog with a bit of canned pumpkin added for each meal to give a bit of extra fiber Poo Bags: For poo bags we use Greener Walker poop bags. We have used them for over a year without having a single leak. Also, these bags are made to be friendlier for the environment. They are good for sensitive skin which bulldogs are known to have. I love this dog bed because it has an outer liner which can be replaced if it gets too beat up. To see all our most up-to-date product recommendations , check out this resource that I made for you! French bulldogs go through several growth and developmental stages as they mature from puppies to adults. Socialization stage weeks : This is when French Bulldog puppies start to become more social and start to learn how to interact with people and other dogs. They become more active and playful. Adult stage years : This is when French Bulldogs are fully mature and have developed their adult personalities. They may become less active as they age but still require regular exercise and mental stimulation. Understanding the developmental stages of a French Bulldog can help you provide the appropriate care and training for your pup at each stage of their life. By providing proper care and socialization, you can help ensure that your Frenchie grows up to be a well-adjusted and happy adult dog. Most Frenchies are born via cesarian C-section due to dystocia — a medical term used to diagnose a difficult birthing experience. Brachycephalic breeds are predisposed to have a difficult birth because of the size of their head and narrow female pelvis. So, what is a French Bulldog litter size? On average, French Bulldogs have a 3 puppy litter, higher litter size is unusual due to the size of the dog. During the neonatal, aka newborn, stage: Puppies are blind, deaf, and toothless. Touch and taste are immediately present after birth. Their mother has the most influence over the puppy. She will feed them and keep them warm too. Puppies will mostly nurse and sleep during this stage. At the transitional, aka baby, stage: Their sense of hearing and smell will develop. Their eyes will open and will develop. Puppies teeth will begin to appear. Also, puppies will start to move. They begin to stand, take their first steps, wag their tail, and even bark. During the socialization stage, the highlights are: By 3 to 5 weeks, play becomes important as puppies become aware of their surroundings. From weeks 3 to 4, pups develop control over their bladder and bowel movements. This is when they start learning to leave their sleeping area before relieving themselves. From 4 to 6 weeks, puppies start learning dog social skills such as play, interaction with littermates, the inhibited bite, etc. Pups also explore their social boundaries, how to communicate effectively with other dogs and improve physical coordination. From the 4th week, puppies begin forming emotional attachments and bonds with the people around them. A good time to meet your future pup. Between 6 to 8 weeks, puppies should start receiving vaccinations source: American Kennel Club. After being fully weaned, pups start to be ready to leave their canine birth family and go to their new human homes. By 7 to 9 weeks, puppies can begin to be housetrained , including potty training. At 9 to 12 weeks, puppies can start learning basic commands as they start focusing on people their new parents. Socialize your French Bulldog daily. At the ranking, aka teenage, stage: French Bulldogs start teething. It will last for several months. You are the main influencer for your pup. They become more active and playful, and their energy levels increase. This is a good time to start more advanced obedience training and socialization. Usually, French Bulldogs reach adulthood between 9 to 12 months of age. They may also experience a growth spurt during this time. They may become less active and playful than when they were puppies, but they still require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. Senior French Bulldog Stage The senior stage is not typically included as one of the developmental stages because it is not a stage of growth and development like the other stages. Instead, it is a stage of aging and gradual decline in physical and cognitive abilities. During the senior stage, French Bulldogs may experience age-related health issues, such as arthritis, vision or hearing loss, and cognitive decline. However, with proper care and attention, they can still enjoy a good quality of life well into their senior years. This includes: Regular veterinary check-ups. A healthy and balanced diet. Regular exercise. And accommodations for any age-related issues they may be experiencing. French Bulldog Growth Chart This chart will give you a guideline for what to expect on how fast your French Bulldog grows and how quickly he or she will gain weight. The early months are critical. The timing is vital. Some apply to all dogs, such as distemper and rabies. If your French Bulldog is in contact with other pups, you should get him a kennel cough vaccine. Likewise, if you take him on the trail with you, consider getting him a Lyme disease vaccine. They are starting to learn social skills and how they fit in the hierarchy with their littermates. They are becoming more independent and starting to show signs of their unique personalities that will define them as adults. Socialization is critical at this age as it will determine how well he gets along with other people and pets. Anything is fair game for this pup. You can transition him to a dog food for pups at this life stage. A French Bulldog reaches his adult size at 12 months. Unfortunately, this pup has a relatively high tendency to gain weight. That puts him at risk for many chronic health conditions that can complicate the ones associate with him being a brachycephalic breed. That brings a host of other health issues that advisable to avoid. While breeding also can have adverse effects, keeping your pet intact may offer a viable option. More likely, stunted growth is the outcome. Growing up takes a lot of energy. The danger of stunted growth also extends toward so-called teacup varieties. These pups are at a greater risk for health problems because of their size. We recommend buying puppies from reputable breeders who understand the particular needs of the French Bulldog. The best way to gauge the weight of your French Bulldog is to look down at his body shape from above him. He should have a well-defined waist. You should also be able to feel his ribs. The feeding guidelines on the back of the package or can are not written in stone. Base his feeding schedule on his current weight and state of health. An online calorie calculator can help you plan his mealtimes correctly. Conclusion The cuteness of the French Bulldog makes it easy to overfeed him. His cute face begs for a treat. It will reduce his risk of chronic health conditions and improve his quality of life. After all, you want him to hang around as long as possible as your BFF. See also:. French Bulldog Adults: Average Weight and Height On average, a full-bred adult French Bulldog weighs between 18 and 28 pounds and is 11 to 12 inches tall. Again, this can vary, and all pups grow at different rates. Everything you need to know about French Bulldog weight can be read here. Can I predict the size that my French Bulldog puppy will be? Double up: Typically, an adult dog will weigh twice as much as it did when it was 4 months old. This may vary. You can also compare your pup to the height of their mother for females or their father for males. Genetics As mentioned, genetics play a major role in the size of a puppy. A high-quality breeder will happily answer questions. A responsible breeder also ensures that the mother is provided with top-notch nutrition before breeding. Diet Like with plants and babies, puppies need proper nutrition in order to grow. Keep in mind some dogs show less interest in food and may not finish their entire bowls at meal times. Vets tend to recommend giving your dog a certain amount of time to eat. After a certain amount of time is up, you pick up the bowl with the remaining food. This is to train your dog that they need to eat all of their food at one time, or they will have to wait until the next scheduled meal time. Check out this complete guide to French Bulldog food. Mental Health If a French Bulldog is under stress or suffers from anxiety, it may show a loss of appetite. If you notice your pup being uninterested in meal times, try changing up its food. When is a French Bulldog full grown? Is my French Bulldog overweight? You can determine if your French Bulldog is overweight by noticing the following: Stand over your Frenchie and feel their ribs. You should be able to feel the ribs, but not see them. While Frenchies may show difficulty breathing due to being a Brachycephalic breed short muzzles can cause obstructive breathing , dogs of a healthy weight should be able to exercise at least for a bit without struggling. Of course, getting a second opinion from your vet is the best way to determine if your French Bulldog is overweight. Can I help my French Bulldog lose weight? Providing your pup with regular exercise and a balanced diet that includes protein, fat, fiber, and water and following the serving size provided on the nutrition facts is the best way to ensure your Frenchie is at a healthy weight. Wholesome food made with natural, high-quality ingredients like this can help your pup maintain a healthy weight. Less active dogs, like French Bulldogs, should eat about 25 calories per pound a day. So, if your pup is 20 pounds and eating about calories daily, its daily treats should consist of about 50 calories. Apple slices and carrots are nutritious, tasty treats. Is my French Bulldog underweight? Can I help my French Bulldog gain weight? When a pup gains too much fat instead of healthy fats combined with muscle, it can face health issues such as joint, heart, and lung problems. If your pup seems to be underweight according to the French Bulldog growth chart or it looks malnourished, certainly contact your vet. Disclosure HappyFrenchBulldog. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary advice. Always seek advice from a certified veterinarian in a case of emergency. Contact Have questions about our content? Contact us at info [at] happyfrenchbulldog. Footer Nav. Excellent nutrition is important in order to have a healthy and happy dog. There are many varieties of food out there; wet, dry, freeze dried, raw, or cooked. Regardless of what food you decide on, they do need to be on a high-quality and nutritionally balanced dog food. What are the signs of high-quality dog food? The food should contain lean meat-based protein sources such as chicken , turkey , pork and beef. Feeding Your French Bulldog at Different Life Stages Once your puppy is fully grown, generally, between months of age they will progress on adult dog food. As young puppies, they have a huge requirement for calories and high-quality ingredients to promote puppy growth. Puppies grow rapidly during the first six months of their life and they continue growing more after this period. Without proper nutrition, they might be stunted and underweight. Check out our other article to learn how to switch puppy to two meals per day! Once your puppy is fully grown, generally, between months of age they will progress to adult dog food. This food will provide the nutrients and calories required to maintain an adult weight. Very active dogs will need more calories while sedentary dogs will need less. Dogs that have been neutered will have slightly different nutritional requirements than other adult dogs. They generally need fewer calories to prevent weight gain which can happen in the months after neutering surgery. This can be achieved by feeding a diet with relatively low carbohydrates and high-quality lean protein. Senior dogs require highly digestible foods and a good source of omega fatty acids for potentially stiff joints. They might require varying levels of protein depending on their kidney function and body condition. Good quality nutrition will keep your dog at optimal body condition and health. Feeding stage-of-life specific recipes allows your dog to have the optimal nutrients for the life stage they are in. However, regardless of small differences, most dogs will loosely follow the growth chart below. Age of French Bulldog.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Imagine you knew how to discipline a German Shepherd puppy the right way so that your bond with your dog grew instead of fell short! Learn how to communicate with your pup and get the behaviors you want using these simple and easy methods for training a German Shepherd puppy. They may become frightened of you or fear your presence, depending on how severe your discipline is. Anxiety may even develop with too much punishment or useless corrections. Training a German Shepherd puppy at 8 to 12 weeks old? Yes, you can! A GSD pup of 8 to 12 weeks of age or older still needs positive reinforcement for the best behavior changes. Disciplining your GSD should not involve hitting, kicking, slapping, intimidation, or yelling. Do you want your German Shepherd puppy to stop their unwanted, bad behavior and turn into the sweet angel you want them to be? You can easily learn how to train a German Shepherd puppy if you work smarter… Not harder! Start early and remain consistent with your expectations. Training a German Shepherd means knowing what to do when your puppy acts up. Shepherd pups are one of the smartest dogs on the plant and learn quickly what you expect of them. But the best way to learn how to train a German Shepherd puppy at home is to work on your own behavior first. You should show them what behavior is unacceptable in your house. This means that you must stay consistent when responding to their behavior. For example: If your pup jumps on you and you redirect their attention to a toy to chew on instead. But, then your pup jumps on your friend and your friend lets them and you say nothing. This makes it likely that your dog will jump on whoever they feel like in the future. Use reward-based training. Use reward-based German Shepherd training techniques to get the quickest results. Reward-based training helps your puppy recognize when something is a bad choice source. When your pup performs what you ask, offer a tasty treat and words of praise. For example: Have your pup sit when you are by the front door getting ready to go for a walk. This teaches them that when they behave, they are more likely to get what they want. The best way to train your German Shepherd is by following a fun, engaging program that teaches not only the basics but covers problem behaviors, too. Sound difficult? It teaches you how to get your pup to learn positive behaviors. You can also have fun right at home with these games for German Shepherd puppies. Offer your puppy another option when they begin jumping on you for attention. Think about what your puppy is trying to get when engaging in jumping and bad behavior to determine when to ignore them. When your pup jumps on you when you come home, they probably want your attention. Withholding your attention when they are acting out shows them they need to act differently to get your approval source. Instead, offer them pets and praise when they have all 4 paws on the floor. You can also place them behind a puppy gate until they learn not to jump in order to avoid them scratching or nipping house guests when they arrive. After you teach them their basic obedience, ask them for a competing behavior like a sit or down when they begin to jump. Always remember to reward the behavior you want to see again! Ultimately, your puppy learns that good behavior earns your affection and attention more quickly. Your dog soon understands that they get nothing from you when they act badly. Here are some great commands for a German Shepherd that you can work on training. Redirect bad German Shepherd puppy behavior. Does your puppy jump, nip, chew, bite, or dig and you want to know the right discipline? The noise and disapproving tone distract your dog from bad behavior source. Showing them a favorite toy. Offering them another option you would like that is more constructive. You want to remember to watch out for: If your dog chews inappropriately on a pair of expensive shoes, get their attention by making noises or calling them to you and immediately offer the correct approved chew item. If you know your dog tends to bite you during play, have a toy nearby you can show them that you want them to bite instead of your arms. If you know they get wild and crazy in the evenings, have a list of these easy German Shepherd brain games to distract them and funnel their energy. Use time-outs appropriately when training a German Shepherd puppy. When your dog engages in bad behavior, remove them from what is causing the unwanted behavior. Put them in a different environment that is more calming and quiet instead. Respond immediately to the bad behavior and use the same routine every time to maintain correct discipline. Time out should: Not be done with force or yelling. Not be in a closet or other dark, scary area. Work to calm your puppy down, not frighten or stress them. Give your puppy a break from over-excitement. Not be a long punishment. Timeouts are generally recommended for only 1 to 2 minutes for puppies. Also, remember that closed doors can cause anxiety in dogs, so use a reliable pet-safe baby gate so that your puppy knows that you are still nearby. Remember, when training a German Shepherd puppy: Time out should not last over minutes. Watch for when your puppy is calm and quiet for a very brief period seconds long of calm. Then let them out quietly, without scolding them. This can cause anxiety. Remember to use a pet gate to separate them from the excitement that caused the unwanted behavior, while still allowing them to see you and not feel trapped. Ignore the unnecessary barking. German Shepherd puppies bark, but there are positive ways to help train them to bark and whine less. When they finally quiet down, even if only for a few seconds, reward them with a treat or praise. To have success, wait until they are quiet and stop barking, even if only for a few seconds in the beginning source. For example: If your puppy barks at joggers out the window every morning pull the blinds or curtains. If the behavior continues, place your dog in another room for a couple of minutes and repeat the previous time-out procedure every time they bark at the joggers remember to use the pet safe baby gate and to not shut a puppy behind a solid door because it can give them anxiety. If they are whining and crying at night, this could be a warning they need to potty. Make sure you read this post to know how to potty train a German Shepherd before you ignore all whining, barking, and crying. If your puppy barks during play they might be too excited and you can offer them a chew toy instead or cut your playtime short to allow them to calm down. Puppies bark for a number of reasons. But it does get easier to train your GSD over time as they learn what you expect. Keeping your pup from nipping and chewing. Puppies have sharp teeth, especially German Shepherd puppies! Puppies are energetic and must learn their limits for playing too rough source. Puppies view you jerking your hand back quickly as part of a game and could also tear your skin. And physical punishment should never be given! Show them what they can chew, instead, such as their favorite chew toy. Have plenty of safe chew toys to grab nearby to give your pup when they get wild and decide to bite you. Always use toys that your puppy can chew and bite to play with — pick from this list of German Shepherd Chew Toys to Prevent Boredom so you have a safe puppy toy that can take their bites. When they stop biting or nipping reward them with verbal praise and pets. Return later to try playing with your pup again and repeat the procedure. Read this information for more helpful tips to stop your German Shepherd puppy from aggressively biting and nipping you. Catch your dog being good and reward them out of the blue. See your puppy acting the way you want? Reward them out of the blue! Keep small bits of treats in jars around the house out of reach of your pup or in your pocket or a treat bag on your waist and use any opportunity your catch your pup doing good to reward them. If they sit and wait at the door, instead of dashing out ahead of you, reward them! Aim for one of these healthy treats that are the best for German Shepherds and pick carefully to ensure your dog stays athletic and fit. Food-based rewards are very motivating when training and disciplining a puppy. Avoid physical punishment and harm. Your German Shepherd is your companion for life. Research shows that physically punishing your dog for example hitting, kicking, growling, or staring them down increases aggression in your dog study source. Never use physical punishment to correct undesirable behavior. Not only can this punishment injure your puppy, but it also ruins your relationship and causes anxiety. It means setting expectations that they understand and staying consistent. Physically hurting your German shepherd will ruin your relationship with them. They will lose their trust in you and begin to avoid you. In the worst case, your dog could develop anxiety disorders, health issues, or even more problem behaviors. You could even accidentally injure your dog and they need vet care! Use the right tone and body language to communicate. Different commands and body language conveys information for training to your German Shepherd. The different tones of your voice and body movements are better understood by your dog. The actual command words are of less importance to your puppy. Use a direct tone and body language that matches what you want to say to your dog. Even pointing to a missed treat on the ground is body language your dog learns to understand. Still not convinced? Try out your training with this extensive list of helpful German Shepherd commands and watch how much your dog is capable of understanding. Shepherd pups want to please and have order in their home. To do this, stick with your training. Begin with a plan in place and disciplining your GSD will go smoother from the start. Persevere with your training and discipline. Remember that your German Shepherd is highly intelligent and needs your help to get the best from them. If you feel like giving up, take a break from training for a day or two. In order to avoid training frustration, remember that just like you a German Shepherd needs time to learn the rules of the house and new commands. This is true especially of puppies or rescue dogs. If you want to take a break from training and have fun, then include a few days a week of puzzles. German Shepherds are one of the smartest dogs in the world, so training them generally takes a short time. Never discipline a German Shepherd puppy for having accidents during potty training. Whether your German Shepherd is potty trained or not, never push their faces into their potty accidents. Your dog is counting on your leadership to show them the rules in a positive manner. Work on setting a consistent schedule with feeding and walks to avoid potty accidents indoors. German Shepherds are easy to train given the right attention. And they need to understand their schedule by having you teach them using consistent patterns, rather than receiving punishment or discipline. Keep a potty schedule posted nearby so all your family can see it and help prevent your puppy from having an accident. Use your bond with your puppy to your advantage during recall training. Use your positive bond with your German Shepherd puppy to work on early recall training. Especially when there are so many natural pleasures to see and explore outside. When you call your German Shepherd, its obedience simply depends on whether the motivation to obey your commands outweighs what your dog is focused on at the moment. Use this to your advantage! Tips for great German Shepherd puppy recall training: Begin calling your puppy in as many locations inside as you can. Give them a tasty reward or play a game with their favorite toy when they come. Work your way up to a perfect recall by having others try to distract your puppy while indoors. Next, move to your back or front yard with your dog on a long leash like this so they stay safe nearby and do the same. You can disciple them by showing them your tasty treat and walking backward a few steps to encourage them to move toward you. Train the come command in all situations, including the home and outdoors, from the time your puppy is 6 to 8 weeks old to avoid discipline problems later on. Need to train your German Shepherd on their recall? Only interact with dogs that are safe and you know for sure will have positive reactions to your new German Shepherd. Forcing them will only make them develop stress and anxiety in new situations and with animals. Think quality, not quantity, when socializing your German Shepherd. There are tons of new things your dog needs to get comfortable with. Use treats and positive encouragement when they investigate a new situation with confidence. Train daily. Make it fun. Punishment will only cause your dog to fear you and increase anxiety. Crouch down to offer them a gentle scratch and pet. This connects their name to paying attention to you and marks you as a positive leader, which is important for obedience training and living with their new family. Always work on rewarding good behavior instead of punishing bad behavior. The goal is to build trust in the first few weeks and months that you have your new dog to create a bond. And dogs are actually happier when they are trained rspca. Keep the sessions short, but have multiple training sessions throughout the day. Never end training on a bad note. For example, give them a command they know for sure so they finish with success. Read this guide to learn all about the basics of proper German Shepherd obedience training , including a helpful training schedule and the foundation commands. Be prepared for chewing by offering the right options. Biting and chewing are natural instincts for dogs and puppies. These actions provide them with opportunities to investigate the different amounts of pressure to use in relation to the purpose of their biting. Your job as their new owner is to help your pup understand and educate them on what is appropriate to bite, nip, and chew. This teaches them your signal and cue. They should let go or look a bit startled. Follow their release with praise or a tasty treat when your dog stops the unwanted behavior. Do NOT physically punish your dog! Instead, redirect them to a proper chew toy. Sometimes puppies teethe and their gums are sore and need something to chew. Other times adult German Shepherds have a desire and natural urge to bite for relaxation and to reduce anxiety. Only use safe, non-toxic chew toys, which are found listed here, in the best strong chew toys for German Shepherds to avoid boredom. Avoid accidents by managing the home environment. Create a set routine and schedule and stick to it to avoid accidents and train your puppy faster. Say hello to your new sloppy family member… They not only shed everywhere but also dump water out when drinking, spill their food, and… Have total disrespect for your carpets! You must have them in a secure area or watch them all the time to avoid any accidents. No matter what you will clean up some kind of bodily function when owning a German Shepherd. So, do yourself a favor and stock up on pet stain and odor remover! Use food-dispensing toys and slow feeders to keep them at a healthy weight. This is a food toy called a Kong Wobbler. Keep to a schedule so that you can control their food intake and watch their weight. Instead, use rubber toys in which you place part of their food to help control their voracious eating. I like to use a Kong Wobbler for both puppies and adults. Even better? Puppies are more responsive to the Ignore method of training. As a new German Shepherd owner, you might think you need to appease your dog all the time or give in to their excessive attention-seeking. In my experience, this is one of the most effective training methods that you can use when owning a German Shepherd. Put simply, here are the basics to use the Ignore method of training: You ignore the behavior that you want to stop or reduce. On the flip side, you give attention to the behavior you want to encourage. The hard bit is ignoring a very intelligent German Shepherd who is persistent! Give your German Shepherd a job at home so they stay entertained. This represents big challenges as a German Shepherd owner. You must be smarter than your dog! But the jobs can be as easy or difficult as you have the time and energy to train. This is not a mentally lazy dog, but a breed with extremely high intelligence and a huge breadth of application for that intelligence. The transition period can be a little intimidating once you get over the cuteness overload and realize that your new puppy has no training whatsoever and it's up to you how things will progress from there. We'll try to make it easier for you with this short list of things to do the first 2 weeks after bringing your new puppy home. Your puppy is in a brand new place and it's their first time being away from their mom and siblings. I know you want to bring the puppy with you everywhere, play all day and show him or her off to all of your friends and family. But take it slow at first so that your new puppy can get settled and relax. Hang out at home. Become a professional treat dispenser. And begin the foundation of building your bond with your pup. Crate training is the best way to house train. Introduce your puppy to the crate early on by making it a positive experience. Toss a high value treat inside and let them explore and go inside on their own volition. Place a chew toy that can hold treats into the crate and close the door. Make sure the puppy sees you do this. When the puppy tries to paw and get inside the crate, open the door and let them in. When they start chewing on the toy, close the door for a few seconds before opening. And remember to reward your puppy when it's playing quietly inside the crate and to ignore any whining. Also remember the rules of potty training using the crate. If the pup just ate or drank, let them outside. If the pup is coming out of the crate for any extended time, let them outside. If your pup is so much as sniffing the ground a little too much, you guessed it, let them outside. The fewer accidents inside the house, the less likely it is for the puppy to get into the habit of going inside the house. Start immediately with potty training and socialization. Puppies aren't fully protected until their final vaccination at weeks, so openly socializing in public isn't the best idea. But you can have friends and family come over to meet your puppy, as well as their fully vaccinated, well behaved dogs and puppies. You can also begin the foundation of basic obedience commands. All that's necessary later on is getting consistency and working around distractions. Unless of course you want to compete in obedience or a sport that requires obedience. Competition makes things a little more complicated than that. This step is often overlooked and it's arguably the most important step for a new puppy. Puppies love a routine. It's comforting knowing what's going to happen. Wake up in the morning, outside to potty. A little training with treats, breakfast, outside to potty again. A little play time etc. If you have to go to work, make sure you have a friend, relative, dog walker or dog sitter to let the puppy outside if you can't make it home during your break to let the puppy use the potty. They have a tiny bladder and can't hold it for a full workday. When you have a routine that works, things will go smoothly. If you stray from that routine or never establish one, you'll have more accidents, a confused puppy, and quite possibly a headache. Consistency is key, and make sure you throw in several short training sessions. Most places require these. It may sound silly that you're probably legally required to get a license for your dog, but.But rules are rules. Better safe than fined! A vet who has fair prices for your area, yet is also professional and competent is a must. You will see your vet often enough that they will eventually know your name without having to check the paperwork. So your best bet is to find a good one! Routine checkups, vaccinations, and minor or even major health issues will happen. So build a relationship with a local vet as soon as possible. Also, if you have a German Shepherd or any other large breed and ever intend to breed, you should try to find either an orthopedic vet or a vet who is experienced in taking and sending in hip and elbow x-rays to the OFA to be graded. This may not be your primary veterinarian, but it's good to plan ahead. Even if you don't intend to breed, most breeders state in their contract that they will cover hips and elbows, but only if you get preliminary x-rays or have x-rays graded within a certain amount of time usually 2 years. As a bonus, taking hip and elbow x-rays at 2 years old can help extend the quality of life for your dog if they do end up having dysplasia. You'll know to dial down exercise that is hard on the joints, and that can mean the difference between a dog with pain at 5, and a dog who lives its whole life without pain. It'll also give you a head start on a medication and treatment plan. There are dogs with moderate hip dysplasia that live a very comfortable, long life without the need for surgery thanks to their owner taking that extra step of getting x-rays done. The advanced notice gives their owner a head start on supplements and getting into therapy programs, like swimming, to strengthen the muscle around the joint before they're ever in pain. So this may not be a necessary step if you don't care about your breeder's guarantee, but it can help ease your mind or give you a heads up before a problem even surfaces. But it'll be much less stressful if you have a plan in advance and stick with these 6 tips. If you have any other tips or tricks, leave them down in the comments below and be sure to leave a like and share! There is nothing cuter than a fluffy bundle of German Shepherd goodness. Quickly, however, reality sets in. German shepherd puppies are a lot of work! From housetraining, chewed up household items, and establishing a routine, the very first day your adorable puppy enters your home, there are sure to be challenges as well as heart melting rewards. To help you and your puppy start off on the right paw, you need to set your puppy up for success. To get started, there are numerous books on puppy training that you can buy, free training advice online, and many opinions on the best way to raise a German Shepherd dog. You can also learn a lot from the mistakes that other German Shepherd owners have made and most are more than happy to share their experiences. Some of the most common mistakes that people make when raising a German shepherd puppy are: Getting a puppy that is too young According to the American Kennel Club, the best time for a puppy to leave its mom and littermates is at eight to twelve weeks old. Puppies develop many life skills from their mom and littermates. When placed in their new home too soon, they can develop anxiety, lack confidence, suffer from health issues, and have many more behavior problems. If a confident, healthy, well socialized dog is your goal, the wait is worth it. Trying to channel the energy of a true working line dog into the average pet home is unfair to the dog and often results in destructive behavior by the dog. There have been many frustrated owners who have ended up trying to rehome a dog with behavior problems or worse, dump them at a shelter. Before you choose a puppy, talk to breeders, rescues, and other experts to find the perfect fit for your home. Not puppy proofing the home German shepherd puppies are smart, full of curiosity, and love to chew. Left to their own devices, they will inspect every inch of your home and chew anything that catches their eye. Not being prepared for the pupping biting Like all puppies, German Shepherds like to chew. But given that they are herding dogs, they are mouthier than most breeds. Many first-time German Shepherd owners have been caught off guard by just how much their adorable puppy likes to bite and how razor sharp their teeth are. Although a small puppy nipping fingers and ankles can be cute, German Shepherds quickly start teething and soon grow into rowdy adolescents who may learn that biting is a fun game. This behavior can easily escalate and hurt someone. Chew toys can be used to redirect biting onto something acceptable. They also need plenty of chew toys to offer to teething puppies. Allowing resource guarding behavior German Shepherds are naturally protective and easily given to resource guarding. Owners should never allow their puppy to guard anything including their food, space, or favorite toy. Some signs of resource guarding include protecting an item, hard stare, laying on an item, growling, lunging, air snapping, chasing, and biting. This behavior could be as simple as a look, head turn, or slight baring of the teeth. Some ideas on how to prevent resource guarding include hand feeding and treating your puppy from their food bowl while holding it in your lap, trading up their toys and treats for higher value items, teaching them to allow you to take it, drop it and leave it, teach them to place, and letting them enjoy high value chews in peace. Failing to socialize Young German Shepherds not only need to learn the house rules, but they also need to be exposed to people and places outside the home so they grow up to be a confident dog. This should be done in a safe way, so they have good experiences and are not forced into fearful situations or hurt by other animals and people. Before your dog has its shots, you can start socializing by having people come to your home, taking your pup on car rides, drive throughs, and vet visits. Once your puppy has its shots, you can expose your puppy to all sorts of people and situations, such as people of different genders, colors, races, ages, sizes, disabled wheelchairs, crutches, etc. Not keeping to a schedule Puppies do best when they are kept on a schedule. When a puppy has regular mealtimes, potty breaks, walks, play time, and bedtime, it makes all training much easier and sets the puppy up for success. Conversely, lack of a schedule or an unpredictable environment can cause your German Shepherd puppy to develop behavior problems, cause training setbacks, and potty-training accidents. By sticking to a realistic routine, your dog will be calmer, happier, and grow up to be a confident dog. From the day you bring your dog home, commit to schedule that includes predictable mealtimes, potty breaks, training time, naps, play time, and bedtime. Avoid unrealistic schedules, such as expecting a young puppy to not have frequent potty breaks or to skip meals and drinking water. Not starting training immediately German Shepherd puppies love to learn to please their owners. Puppy training should begin the day the move into your home. By starting training early, you will help your puppy develop and grow into the amazing dog they were born to be. Young puppies can easily learn basic commands such as sit, down, wait, come, and more. We hope you enjoy this article. As always, please feel free to share with your friends. Calm older dogs are good for this one. Most importantly for German Shepherd puppies, it will give you a chance to work with them around other people, and different dogs from a young age. Settle on a mat German Shepherds are incredibly curious, which can make it difficult for them to relax while out and about. Leash walking — no one wants a large breed of dog pulling them down the street, so be sure you teach loose lead walking and how about some heelwork too? Recall games — Play a game of tennis with your pooch! Calling them from person to person with treats on either side. Get started with grooming and brushing sensitive areas — In long-haired German Shepherds, this is typically the case with the face, legs, and ears, which become tangled the most and may hurt when brushed. Remember to brush carefully, do a little bit of brushing on a sensitive area while feeding them treats or letting them have a lickimat, and then brush an easier to brush area. For socialisation, start working on items that are vital to your lifestyle this week, such as if you have a horse and want your puppy to be comfortable with horses, or if you enjoy sailing, having them near water will be important to you. Getting your puppy exposed to new experiences early on can help them accept them much more easily. Socialization exercises to do this week Training to do this week Husbandry Tasks to do this week — Go to the pub — you deserve it! Remember that settle training you did before, take your mat and get your German Shepherd puppy to settle on it with a nice stuffed kong. Alone training: increasing time alone is important for your puppy. It gives them essential coping skills. Recall — Practise this outside, using a lead, and lots of rewards. Lead walking — Take this outside. Make sure you keep a strong pace going, since German Shepherds enjoy walking quickly, and praise often to keep your puppy interested. Pretend Nail Clips — simply holding a claw, pretending to clip , and rewarding your puppy with a treat is enough. Following on walks — Bring special toys, like the Tug-E-Nuff Pocket tugger, with you on walks to ensure your German Shepherd puppy enjoys hanging out with you. Playing with them will make you irresistible! Week 7 — Training your German Shepherd puppy The 7-week itch! Nah not really. I bet your German Shepherd puppy is doing wonderfully and growing rapidly! Tick 3 things off your personal socialisation checklist — How about taking your German Shepherd to a city farm, letting them watch from afar and rewarding them for being such a calm puppy? Teach your German Shepherd puppy to stay — this will be a great one to show off at the park, trust us. So, first, take a walk with a dog that your German Shepherd puppy has already met. At first, it may be difficult for your puppy not to get distracted, so keep the rewards coming and try to keep them interested in you, rather than the other dog! Recall — off the lead Make sure you do this in a secure and confined area and bring plenty of smelly treats, a fun toy to play with, and your silly high-pitched voice so you can call your German Shepherd puppy back regularly. Remember, German Shepherds enjoy learning! Tick 3 things off your personal socialisation checklist — maybe take your German Shepherd for a swimming lesson? Practice exercises in different locations — how about a train station, or in a shopping centre or mall? Teach a hand target — This is a favourite among pups and their owners. Hand Targeting or touching is the foundation for additional trick behaviours like leg weaving and closing doors. Introducing nose work to your puppy — We mean it when we say your German Shepherd puppy has a better nose than you! Play a game of hide and seek with their favourite toy to bring out those excellent search skills. Looking for more great puppy training tips? Check out our overview of when to start teaching your puppy anything , next. It will be fun they said. We go the extra mile for you. If you want a stress free puppy experience, get this downloaded! Worth every single penny! This app is very helpful. It helps you to understand and gives you a path to follow. The coaching support is excellent and super speedy. Download the app now. To train a German Shepherd puppy dog you must be consistent, kind and clear. German Shepherd dog puppies are divinely cute and for a reason! Just like babies are cute, puppies will win your heart even after destroying your favorite pair of shoes or that expensive carpet! Making sure you use them will start you on the right side of training and pave the road for you to get an obedient dog. The good news is that you do not need any special equipment to have an obedient GSD puppy. All you need is love and treats. The most important German Shepherd puppy training tip is socialization. Some vets will tell you to keep the pooch inside until the full set of vaccines is completed. Unfortunately, if you do keep your pooch safe inside until he is months of age, his socialization period will have closed forever and your chance to raise a friendly and confident dog drops significantly! That said, it is ultimately your decision whether you want to take the risk to take him outside or not. Most large US cities do not have too many disease problems and taking your puppy to a class where the trainer checks that every puppy has had the first set of shots is mostly safe. However, if you leave in a rural area, make sure there is not an outbreak of a disease that can affect your pooch. Of all the German Shepherd puppy training tips, I suggest you really think this one through. As a dog trainer, I recommend you find a safe puppy socialization class because this developmental period is critical to prevent behavior problems in the future. Apart from that, you also need to socialize your puppy daily on your own, this link will explain the process and give you a list of things to check as you go! Tip 2: Teach your German Shepherd puppy to use his mouth properly. You may have noticed that your German Shepherd puppy likes to chew on your shoes, toys, boxes, carpets, pillows, your hands…well, pretty much everything! Before you loose your mind and all your precious possessions let me tell you that this is normal puppy behavior. At this age dogs explore everything with their mouths and even though annoying, it is a great time to teach your pet what is appropriate for his mouth as well as how to soften the bite. The reason German Shepherd dog puppies have sharp teeth is because they are capable of learning how much or how little pressure to apply when biting different things. This is good news! To train a German Shepherd puppy to do this follow this link! Tip 3: Potty train your German Shepherd puppy the right way. Right around now you are also probably dealing with potty training, the best German Shepherd puppy training tips for potty training are outlined below. You should know how many times, and when to take you puppy out. I am sure you have heard all sorts of things against the use of food for training. To do this, you need to find the things that your dog likes most and use them as rewards. Food will be one of them, so use it. But also use anything else, like walks, petting, play time, toys, etc. So, of all the German shepherd puppy training tips here, I don't want to hear any excuses for this one! Done the right way, your pooch will respond to your command even when empty handed. Hope my website is helping you better understand and train your dog. Do you want to help? Be a modern philanthropist through Patreon. This is a hard concept to understand for us, clever human beings. When we learn something new, we can very easily generalize the concept to any situation, that is what makes us creative creatures. Fortunately, you have a German Shepherd puppy, they are clever and chances are they will need less repetitions than the average breed. To help you out on this matter, this link will take you to a step-by-step guide to train a reliable command. Tip 6: Train your German Shepherd puppy to ask for permission. Dog commands and fun and useful and you can probably find hundreds to teach your GSD. This one though - Ask for permission - is technically not a command, because you will not ask your canine to do it every time, instead you want to teach him to do it on his own every time the occasion requires it. Take time to do this with your puppy, it will be worth it! This is another one of the most important German Shepherd puppy training tips because a dog that asks for permission is an obedient and safe dog. To prevent a dog from jumping on people it is imperative to teach that same dog not to jump when he is a puppy. If he jumps again, then ignore again. When I say ignore, I mean it! No eye contact, no pushing or kneeing…nothing. Keep turning around if you have to. Pulling on the leash is another of those dog behaviors that people think come out of the blue, but actually they happen because there was never formal training done. To prevent pulling on the leash all you have to do is make sure your puppy understands that he gets rewarded food, petting, attention, verbal praise, keep on walking, etc. Pay close attention to what he does during those first few walks together and make sure you reward him for staying close to you! Got any German Shepherd puppy training tips to share with us? Tell us about them here! Those ideas came from research done in wolfs in captivity and have now been debunked by new research done in wolfs in the wild. The new research says that you need to be a good leader, kind of like a parent. Alphas are most often the parents of the group. Provide shelter, food, safety and limits. This article tells you more about it! Tip The best German Shepherd puppy training tip is… Reward good behavior and ignore bad behavior. This rule is amazing and will work wonders, besides it is really easy to apply, all you have to do is pay attention to your German Shepherd puppy and reward the good things he does. You need to figure out what the reward is and remove it. For example, when a dog is laying down, it is harder to bark. This Form cannot be submitted until the missing fields labelled below in red have been filled in What is your DOG's name? Please note that all fields followed by an asterisk must be filled in.

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. What is a Hyper Dog? You should watch out for signs like: Jumping up on people and furniture Excessive barking and whining Extreme chewing or scratching Rough housing These all indicate a dog that needs to be carefully managed to ensure that they remain calm throughout the day. Some breeds are more inclined to be hyper than others, particularly working dogs who have been bred to exert physical energy all day. This should guarantee that your pup expends their energy on their walk, rather than in your home. That means not paying them any attention during their spells of hyperactivity, even to tell them off. Next, you need to make sure that the energy you project throughout your household is consistent, calm and authoritative. Dogs respect the boundaries of routine and the position of the Alpha so make sure that you embody those principles. A great way to reinforce your position as the benevolent pack leader is to have a daily obedience training practice. Manage Their Behavior with Tools There are certain tools at your disposal that can help you calm down a hyper dog in the short term and also modify their behavior for the better in the long term. As well as the obedience training we mentioned earlier, crate training your dog is a great way to establish boundaries in the home and to give your dog their own space to simply be a dog. Never use the crate as a punishment tool for a hyper dog, but instead gradually introduce them to the concept so they get to the point where they are happy and emotionally secure enough to spend a few hours in there alone with the door closed. Sufferers have symptoms like raised heart and respiratory rates, an inability to calm down unless under the influence of medication, and abnormal reactions to household noises. Another medical reason for hyper dogs is a food allergy. If your dog is allergic to these ingredients, symptoms can include restless and erratic behavior. This is usually accompanied by a bevy of physical symptoms, like hives, flatulence and increased shedding, so you should be able to tell easily if this is to blame. Disclaimer All content on this site is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to be nor can it be considered actionable professional advice. It must not be used as an alternative to seeking professional advice from a veterinarian or other certified professional. Please consult a professional before taking any course of action with any medical, health or behavioral related issue. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Learn how your comment data is processed. When will my Labrador calm down? At what age will my Labrador calm down? Labradors are wonderful dogs with happy and loving personalities. They also have lots of energy, and while this is great for walkies or playtime, sometimes it can make taking care of them harder than you might think. How can I calm down my Labrador? The good news is that even though you may have a bouncy pup there are lots of ways to engage with them and help them to focus that delightful energy. Give them the right amount of physical exercise. This may sound obvious, but getting the exercise balance right for your dog can be a big help. Mental enrichment. Reward calm behaviour. It always feels great when we get praised for doing something well, and this is no different for our dogs. So keep some treats nearby and make sure that any calm behaviour, like lying down in their bed, is rewarded. This type of positive reinforcement is a great way to encourage this behaviour to occur on a more regular basis. So next time your Labrador is driving you a little bit crazy, take a breath and give some of these things a try. To keep playtime new and exciting, here are our favourite cost effective games to play with your dog. Single page Single page Puppy Blues: How to cope when things go wrong Feeling down after getting a puppy? We talked to Becky Baker at K9 Nation to find her tips for getting through the puppy blues. A large bouncy dog usually makes more impact on those around him than a small one. But fortunately there are several things that we can do to help our young Labs relax and calm down a little. Knocking children over, barging into old ladies, and jumping up at visitors are common crimes. This is the peak age for excitable behavior. It can feel as though every social occasion is doomed to end up in tears. And it is no coincidence that this is the age at which many rescue dogs are given up to animal shelters or simply abandoned. When Do Puppies Calm Down? Puppies generally reach a peak of bounciness and mischief at months old. Smaller breeds often mature more quickly and may be pretty sensible by the time they are 9 months old or so. Big dogs often mature more slowly, mentally as well as physically. When do Labs Calm Down? Labs can be a little later than the average puppy in reaching the point at which you suddenly realise your pup is all grown up. But hang in there, it will come! With the right handling techniques, most young Labradors begin to calm down around their first birthday. He might seem happy as he leaps about — air nipping, barking, jumping at people, and so on. And he is often actually quite upset. Many people are quite shocked when the nice game they were playing with their young dog begins to get rougher and rougher. You may be tempted to shout at your dog if he nips you, or to give out a squeal. He needs you to help him. The first two steps help you cope with the situation when it arises. The remaining three steps help to prevent your dog having a hyper episode in the future. You do not want to fight to clip a leash on a 70lb dog while he is nipping your sleeves or barking in your face. So have him wear a training leash outdoors and a house line indoors. Never use a choke chain or slip lead on a dog that has hyper episodes. Step 2: Calming Your Dog Outdoors, the best thing to do is stop whatever you were doing with the dog when he got carried away, and start briskly leash walking. Keep walking until the dog begins to relax as he walks along next to you. If other people, children, or animals were exciting your dog, move him away from them. Indoors you can use time out. Stop all play and place the dog in a crate or room by himself to calm down for a few minutes. Give yourself a chance to calm down too, before bringing the dog back out again. Step 3: Change What You do Around Your Dog Very often dog owners unwittingly cause excitability, or at least contribute towards it, by their own behavior. This is not your fault. Fortunately, you can soon put all this right. Top Tip — be Low Key Lots of over excited greeting and squeaky voices are rewarding for your excited puppy. Pretend to be underwhelmed by your dog. Talk to him quietly and calmly, and persuade other family members to do the same. Top Tip — Avoid Physical Play Another common mistake that new puppy parents make, is getting involved in a lot of physical play with a large young dog. Inexperienced owners and teenage children often rough-house with a dog, pushing and pulling him, even rolling on the ground with him. This is something you will need to avoid completely in future. Have a look at this article — how to play safely with your dog — for better ways to engage with your growing puppy. Your dog will be calm sometimes. A while back my husband took one of our dogs to the vet for a booster. An elderly couple arrived with their Golden Retriever. The young dog lay down quietly and the owners ignored it completely, chatting to one another. After a few minutes the dog whined, and both owners turned to make a fuss of him. They then started chatting again, ignoring the now quiet dog. Each time the dog whined, the owners paid him attention, and each time he lay quietly they ignored him. This Encouraged Agitated Beahvior Within twenty minutes, the dog was whining constantly and starting to become agitated. They were no doubt convinced that the dog was upset because he was at the vets, when in fact he had been perfectly happy when he arrived. The moral of this story is: rewarding and reinforcing good, calm, behavior is very important. Step 4: Provide Activities for Your Dog Young Labradors need exercise, mental stimulation and attention, but it needs to be the right sort of exercise and the right sort of attention. Ignoring bad behavior, jumping, nipping and so on is important. But it is not the end of the story. Your young dog needs an appropriate way of engaging with his family. The Best Ways to Engage The way to achieve this is through exercise , training and brain games. Indoors, you can use puzzle toys and indoor games to entertain your dog in a calm and controlled way. Outdoors you can focus on training your dog to do what he was born to do — fetch stuff for you. But there is one more thing you can do to help. Dogs can be taught and encouraged to relax at home, and even in public places. But nonetheless some Labs do experience anxiety, and some individuals are more disposed to be nervous of things than others. Bad experiences in the past can make Lab anxious of repeating the encounter. Labs can also experience separation anxiety, or anxiety relating to old age. The behavior of an anxious dog is very different to that of an over excited dog, so the process for how to calm an anxious dog is different to managing an excited dog. Recognizing an Anxious Dog Signs your Labrador is anxious include: panting. Around six months of age, labrador puppies often start to quiet down. In order for readers to understand when Labradors will start to get calmer, this article will present a summary of the important developmental stages of Labradors. The most effective methods for training your Labrador puppy and assisting them in developing into well-mannered adults will also be covered. In order to raise your Labrador puppy to be a happy and healthy companion, we will also go through how to exercise and stimulate their minds. Because of their limitless energy and eagerness, labrador puppies may be a real handful for their owners. There is however hope because Labrador puppies will eventually learn to control their behavior as they get older and enter maturity. So when might owners anticipate their Labrador puppy starting to relax? When Labradors settle down depends on a number of variables, including the personality of the particular puppy, their age, and the amount of structure and training they receive. Labradors typically attain adult size between the ages of 12 and 18 months, though they may continue to develop until they are two years old. Around this age, Labradors will start to quiet down, but they may still be very energetic and enthusiastic. Exercise is crucial for calming down your Labrador dog in addition to training and structure. Regular exercise aids in energy burn-off and can teach your puppy to concentrate and unwind. To help pet owners provide their Labradors with the guidance they need to become well-behaved and obedient companions, dog training courses have been designed specifically for this breed. These courses offer a range of training options, from obedience training to behavior modification, and are taught by experienced trainers Your Labrador puppy will remain calm and satisfied if you take him for regular walks , give him many of toys and hobbies, and engage in activities with him. Additionally, socialization is essential to ensuring that your puppy develops into a self-assured and adaptable adult dog. This may entail exposing kids in a healthy and controlled manner to various people, animals, and environments. Around six months old, this often begins, and it will improve over the following year or two. Labradors will learn how to obey directions and behave in various settings throughout this time. Your puppy will develop into a patient and kind companion with the correct environment and training. The best way to assist your dog get used to their new home is to establish a schedule. Your puppy will feel more at ease and confident in their surroundings if you keep them on a regular feeding, resting, and activity schedule. Additionally, giving your dog lots of exercises and mental stimulation chances will help burn off extra energy and prevent boredom. Use positive reinforcement to make sure your Labrador puppy understands and learns the right behavior. Treats, compliments, and other prizes can be used to promote desirable behavior and punish unacceptable ones. To strengthen the link between the conduct and the reward, rewards should be given right away after the desired behavior. Check out these healthiest dogs treat options for your adult or puppy labradors. If a correction is required, it should be given calmly and gently, and any positive conduct should be rewarded immediately after. Praise and awards should be given for desired behaviors, while corrections should be used sparingly. Your Labrador puppy will be well on their way to developing into a well-behaved adult dog with persistence, patience, and plenty of training. You probably anticipate a Labrador puppy you bring home to be enthusiastic and bursting with activity. Although that is undoubtedly the case, there are a few things you can do to get ready for when they do ultimately quiet down. Although none of this is simple, there are methods to make it less difficult for you both. Giving your puppy a lot of structure and training is the first step. They will get the ability to maintain their attention and manage their energy as a result. In order to prepare your Labrador puppy for adulthood, exercise is also crucial. You may help them expend some of their energy while also teaching them how to concentrate and unwind by taking them on frequent walks and giving them lots of toys and activities. Additionally, it will teach them to restrain their innate eagerness, allowing them to become more composed and submissive. The use of positive reinforcement is crucial when teaching your Labrador puppy. When discipline is required, it must be done calmly and gently, and it must be followed with a reward for good conduct. For desired behaviors, praise and awards should be given, while corrections should be used sparingly. Due to their slow maturation rates, labradors require patience and understanding from their owners. Your Labrador puppy will eventually calm down and develop into a well-behaved adult dog with plenty of training and structure. Among all dog breeds, lab puppies are among the most active. Since they are still developing as puppies, they require a lot of instruction, mental stimulation, and exercise to help them concentrate and maintain their composure. They have a lot of excitement and energy, which needs to be appropriately managed or they would get bored easily and act out in inappropriate ways. Due to their breeding as working and athletic dogs, labradors have a lot of energy that needs to be channeled properly. Giving your Labrador puppy plenty of exercises and mental stimulation will help them have the correct amount of energy and prevent boredom. Labrador Dog Positive Reinforcement Training One of the best ways to train Labradors is through positive reinforcement. Labradors can learn to concentrate and maintain their obedience by receiving rewards and praise for desired behavior. You can add more difficult commands and exercises, such as agility and chasing a toy, as your Labrador gets better. These exercises will teach children how to maintain their attention and manage their energy. For every good behavior, praise and incentives should be offered, and fewer corrections should be given overall. Exercise is a crucial component in Labrador positive reinforcement training. Giving your Labrador puzzle toys and games or exposing them to new experiences and places are two ways to stimulate their minds. Your Labrador can learn to concentrate and maintain obedience by being mentally stimulated, which will keep them entertained and involved. Although Labradors are intelligent and capable of learning quickly, they require regular reinforcement in order to retain their knowledge. Additionally, keep in mind that Labradors mature more slowly than other breeds, so exercise patience and compassion when dealing with them. In general, positive reinforcement training is a successful method for teaching your Labrador to remain attentive and submissive. You may aid your Labrador in developing into a well-behaved adult dog by consistently rewarding and praising desired actions, as well as by giving them lots of opportunities for exercise and mental stimulation. When teaching your Labrador puppy, utilize positive reinforcement to help them acquire desired behavior and maintain concentration. Rewarding positive behavior with praise and minimizing negative behavior with gentle, calm corrections are the best practices. In addition, giving your Labrador a lot of physical activity, mental challenge, and engaging activities like agility and fetch can help them concentrate their energy. Your Labrador puppy will eventually mature into a well-mannered adult dog with persistence and patience. Due to their high energy levels, labrador puppies need a lot of training, mental stimulation, and exercise to help them concentrate and maintain their composure. You can help your Labrador focus their energy and eventually develop into a well-behaved adult dog by consistently rewarding and praising them for appropriate behavior and by giving them plenty of exercises, mental stimulation, and activities like agility and fetch. Your Labrador puppy will eventually learn to focus and settle down when necessary with time and effort. Labs are known for having a lot of extra energy, and puppies, in particular, will often struggle to contain themselves when they are feeling energetic. There are simple steps you can take to calm a lab puppy down when it starts to show signs of over excitement. Stop doing whatever it is you were doing before the lab puppy started to get excited. There are all sorts of things that can excite a lab puppy. Whether that means putting away a toy the puppy was playing with or stopping a game that you were playing with the puppy, you need to remove the trigger for the excitement right away. Take your lab puppy to a quieter environment. To reach a calmer state, the puppy will need to be placed in a quiet area where it can relax for a few minutes. This could be a crate, a dimly-lit room, or even your backyard. The key is finding a place where the lab puppy can compose itself before it gets too out of control. Avoid situations that make your lab puppy excited in the first place. Once your lab puppy has calmed down, take note of what caused it to get so excited. Then, steer clear of that activity for the time being. Labs make excellent dogs, and as long as you work at it, you can keep them calm at all times. KT British Labs can provide you with a lab puppy if you are looking around for one now. Call us at today to see how you can obtain a lab puppy through us.

Your local veterinarian is your best resource when determining the proper exercise regimen for your specific dog. So many health problems in Labradoodles have obesity as a cause or contributing factor such as cancer, kidney disease, arthritis, and heart disease. Behavioral issues like jumping, barking, and destructive behavior are often made worse by lack of physical activity. Labradoodles tend to be an easy breed for trainability. Keep in mind, sometimes too much of a good thing can be bad. Until your dog reaches their full height and weight, their joints are still developing. Too much exercise or too vigorous of activities can mean life-long bone and joint problems for your Labradoodle. Getting your Labradoodle the proper amount of exercise for their size and age may decrease their risk of many health issues, but there are no guarantees! Puppies are curious, energetic, and love to play. However, their joints and bones are still just beginning to develop. Vigorous or extended periods of physical activity can permanently damage their development. One thing puppies and older dogs both have in common is that they require lots of rest throughout the day for their bodies to recover. Larger dog breeds, such as the Standard Labradoodle, tend to need more physical activity than their smaller counterparts. On the other hand, smaller dogs like the Teacup, Toy, or Mini Labradoodle sizes may need less exercise as adults, but they finish developing quicker. A Teacup Labradoodle, for example, may be done growing as early as months in age. At that point, more strenuous activities like jogging and hiking can be incorporated in addition to longer exercise sessions! Have a question to ask a veterinarian? Click here to be connected via live chat to a real, verified veterinarian! As always, keep watch for signs of injury, heat exhaustion, or fatigue no matter how old your dog is. Be on the lookout for signs like excessive panting , drooling, or laying down. Personality While Labradoodles tend to be an active breed in general, each dog has a unique and individual personality. Some dogs are naturally couch potatoes while others are born to be athletes! Genetics play a role in this and as a result which generation of Labradoodle your dog can make a difference. In general, the closer in DNA your puppy is to a Labrador Retriever, the more high-energy they will be. That being said, you should expect and be prepared for a Labradoodle of ANY generation to be high-energy. Labradoodles that are over-exercised may show physical symptoms like sickness, limping, or avoiding going outside. While walking, they may pant excessively and choose to lie down instead of continuing. On the other side of the coin, if your Labradoodle is being destructive or unusually naughty, more exercise may be a good way to calm them down. Exercise combined with mental stimulation does wonders for obedience training! Still unsure about how much exercise your Labradoodle puppy should be getting? However, they grow quickly to their full size so they can ramp up their physical activity early on. When you bring home your Toy Labradoodle puppy at around 8 weeks, start them off with 10 minute play sessions or short potty-break walks times per day. Each month older they get, you can add 5 additional minutes to their daily exercise sessions. Still have them occur times per day as needed. When they reach a full year old, they can start their adult exercise requirements of minute sessions, once or twice every day. For example, two 45 minute walks would be great. An hour walk and a 15 minute game of fetch in the backyard would do as well! When they reach their golden years, scale back the exercise a little to minute sessions once or twice per day. Mini Labradoodle Puppy Exercise Requirements Mini Labradoodles still can have a lot of energy despite their small statures! For the first 3 months, exercise your Miniature Labradoodle in 10 minute sessions times per day. When they reach 4 months in age, you can add 5 minutes to their maximum session time. When they reach their first birthday, you can ramp up their exercise to minute sessions occurring once or twice per day. At 18 months in age, a Mini Labradoodle is likely full-grown and you can increase their exercise to the adult level of minute sessions, one or two times each day. At years old when they start to slow down a bit, ease up their exercise routine to minute sessions, once or twice a day. Remember, getting plenty of rest is key for the health and happiness of older dogs. Standard Labradoodle Puppy Exercise Requirements Standard Labradoodles are large, active dogs and need a lot of exercise. However, due to their growing joints, they need to be eased into this exercise very slowly. Have multiple, short timeframes for walks or play each day to use up their puppy energy! From months in age, 20 minute exercise sessions are appropriate times per day. From months old, increase that to 25 minutes, once or twice a day. When your Standard Labradoodle reaches 18 months in age, they can have minute exercise sessions once or twice a day. Plan for around hours once or twice a day. Combine walking with other activities and games for best results! As your Standard Labradoodles ages and becomes a senior, reduce their exercise to minute sessions, times per day. Remember, the lifespan of a Standard Labradoodle is shorter than the Toy and Mini versions of this breed. While walking is by far the most common way to exercise your puppy, there are so many more options to consider! What type of exercise your Labradoodle puppy partakes in is just as important as how long they spend doing it. Opt for lifting or carrying your pup when possible. Keep your games of fetch low-impact. Long Hikes — Hikes are normally fairly lengthy. Safe Exercise Ideas for Labradoodle Puppies Play Dates with Other Puppies — This not only provides a great opportunity for physical activity, but socialization as well! Slow Walks on a Leash — Going slow allows your Labradoodle to sniff , which is great mental stimulation! Obedience Training — Training wears your puppy out both physically and mentally. Keep sessions short and fun! Keep games of fetch short and in-control. Avoid lots of jumping or other high-impact movements if possible. Here are a handful of creative ways to sneak in some fun physical and mental activity for your pup! Snuffle Mat or Ball Instead of feeding your Labradoodle out of a bowl, try using a snuffle mat or ball on some days! This makes them use their sense of smell and creativity to find it and get to it! It may not seem like it uses a lot of energy, but mental stimulation can be just as tiring as physical activity! There are lots of wonderful snuffle toy options available on Amazon and Etsy. However, if you prefer to make one yourself, we have a simple DIY snuffle ball tutorial here! Hide and Seek This is an easy, fun game for both you and your dog! Start with some easy locations and watch your pup search until they find you. Once they understand the game, start hiding in harder spots to give them a challenge! Tug of War This is a time-tested game that most dogs naturally love! It also does a great job of helping them reach their Labradoodle exercise needs! They also do an amazing job of incorporating obedience training concepts that will make your dog naturally better-behaved. How Far Can a Labradoodle Walk? When your Labradoodle reaches their adult weight and height, they can walk miles comfortably as long as their stamina is built up. Particularly as a puppy, it can be a real balancing act getting them enough exercise while not overdoing it. More About Labradoodles…. Post header Skip post header How much exercise does a Labradoodle need? Affectionate, sociable, intelligent, and a lover of water, are just a few ways you could describe a Labradoodle. Their loveable traits are what make them a pawfect family dog, and with an eagerness to please, first time owners should definitely have a look at these guys. The combination of a Labrador and Poodle means Labradoodles are often easier to train than a lot of other breeds. How much exercise does an adult Labradoodle need? Whether you decide to do long walks or short walks, Labradoodles need at least 60 minutes of exercise a day. Although these dogs love their walkies, playing around the house also counts as exercise, so be sure to consider this when planning the routine for the day. How much exercise does a Labradoodle puppy need? Exercising your newborn adventurer can raise many questions, as too much activity can cause bone and joint issues further down the line for any breed. Luckily, you can use the free PitPat app to see exactly how much exercise your furry friend should be getting. How much exercise does a senior Labradoodle need? Once your pooch hits 8 years of age they can be considered a senior. If you do start to notice changes when walking, let your dog set the pace. Luckily, we got you. Which types of exercise are best for Labradoodles? So why not factor in their love for leaping into training? Setting out courses that involve hurdles, weaving, and tunnels is a great way to kick their brains into action whilst also getting some command training done. Obedience — Thanks to their low dander coats and eagerness to please, Labradoodles are a top choice for obedience trials. But swimming is a great exercise for these highly capable pups. Plus, because PitPat is completely waterproof, you can track all that doggy paddle too. You might also like: Single page Single page Top 10 most popular crossbreed dogs Crossbreed dogs are fast overtaking traditional breeds in popularity as dog owners seek out the pawfect companion for them. So which crossbreeds are the most popular pooches on the block? Single page Single page Taking your dog swimming: what you need to know Swimming is a fantastic exercise for your dog. The Labradoodle is one of the most popular doodles and makes a great addition to any family. My Labradoodle Max is a bundle of joy and excitement. It is essential to teach your doodle restraint without breaking its spirit. Easier said than done, I agree, but this is a breed that is easy to train. The bonus- they are intelligent and eager to please. The Labradoodle is a boisterous pet and requires some daily physical activity to help it expend energy. Walking is a great way to build its strength and help it socialize with other animals and people. It can calm an over excited Labradoodle and even help stop a Labradoodle that likes to chase your cat. Exercising your Labradoodle is part and parcel of taking good care of it. Remember that this is a breed with boundless energy. So, the more you exercise them, the less likely they are to be bored or destructive Your Labradoodle should be made to follow a schedule from the beginning. Labradoodle puppies are very energetic and need minutes of activity daily. This will, to some extent, help in exerting their energy. For a LabradoodleYou can combine minutes of walk with 10 minutes of a fun game of catch twice a day to help burn up their pent up energy. A daily walk is also an excellent way to bond with your pup. Remember to consider the age of your pet while deciding on an exercise routine. Compared to a puppy, a young adult will need more vigorous exercise. An older dog may not have the stamina for long excursions. Ten minutes of walk or a quick game of fetch should be more than enough for such older dogs. Anything more will tire them. In other words, if not a planned exercise schedule, ensure that they have plenty of time for physical activity throughout the day like running around the yard with the kids, swimming, playing fetch, etc. As with humans, your Labradoodle will also show signs of a sedentary lifestyle: The most obvious is an increase in weight, especially if it has been coupled with a poor diet. An overweight pet is at the risk of several conditions that can affect its health, including joint problems, back problems, and heart and lungs issues. If your dog is overweight , you may have to consult a vet for appropriate exercises to help it lose weight. Lack of exercise will also make your pet restless since it is unable to exhaust the pent-up energy. Barking continuously for no reason or destroying things around the house are signs of restlessness brought on by lack of exercise. If muscles are not exercised enough, they lose their strength, leading to stiffness and movement difficulty. Dogs with low physical activity have been known to suffer from diabetes. Other factors, like diet and energy levels, also play a part. You can, however, follow some general guidelines: Puppies between 10 weeks to 5 months can safely do a minute light walking. Puppies are not very strong yet, so make sure there is no strain on their legs. The walk is to get them used to it and build up their stamina. Bigger puppies between 4 and 8 months could do up to 30 minutes of daily walking and intermittent sprinting, followed by a few minutes of rest. Between 8 and 12 months, your pup has developed more endurance and stamina and can walk for up to minute once daily. You may follow it up with a short walk towards the end of the day or before bedtime. Adults Labradoodles are those between 12 to 18 months and are fully grown. They are strong enough and will enjoy at least an hour of medium-paced walking each day. Some may prefer a bit more or a bit less, but that should not cause worry. Older dogs will typically have less energy than they had when they were younger. But it is still important to keep them physically active daily. These can be shorter strolls or a walk on the beach or in a park. Not only will it keep them fit, but it will also help relieve any age-related stiffness. After they are trained, the walks can be off the leash. Labradoodles are very sociable and enjoy meeting with other dogs and humans as well. A ball or frisbee can be an excellent outdoor toy to train your Labradoodle to stay fit and focused. Keep their walking routine interesting. Change your route every other week if possible to allow your pet to experience new scenes and unique scents. Instead, early mornings or late evenings after sunset are good times to walk your pet, especially during hot summers. It also pays to keep a bottle of water handy for your pet. Hypothermia can happen to pets too. Play indoor games when it is freezing outside. Keep your doodles warm and make sure they are well fed since winters tend to make them hungry, just like it does to us, humans. The walk can wait for a few days until your pet is back on its feet again. Play a fast game of fetch. This can be done in your backyard or open ground. A quick game of ball in the garden will also help give it an oxygen boost. Playing indoor dog games and activities. This is perfect for slightly grown-up puppies. They will enjoy chasing a ball down the hall and bringing it back to you for more. A puzzle toy filled with his favorite dog food is an excellent option for any size or breed. This game can be scheduled during his snack time. Make sure that the puppy does not choke on its chow. In times of excitement, a dog can choke in its food! You can freeze a stuffed Kong for example and it will distract and exercise your Labradoodle for a surprising amount of time! Quick training sessions with a series of sit-downs, stays, or whatever else your pet has learned can challenge its thinking, reinforce good behavior, and its instructions following capacity. You can also try teaching them something new. This is a very intelligent breed. If your Labradoodle loves to follow you around, walk all over the house and let them follow you. Do it a few times, and you will see that your pet now knows where you are going next. You can also play hide and seek while doing this. Hide some treats throughout the house while playing hide-and-seek, and let your dog find them. This helps them discover and learn new things. This is essentially housework or scent training. Try a simple nosework game like the muffin tin game for dogs. If your dog understands instructions, have him go and find your kids or spouse. Swimming is an excellent exercise for all, and dogs are no exception to this. Socializing with other dogs can also benefit your doodle mentally and physically. Furnishings for Labradoodles roughly translates to… a moustache! Young pups should not be made to perform stunts, too, since it can impair their joints and cause serious issues. Puppies are also used to frequently change their walking pace, sprinting one minute, trotting the next, and then standing still looking around. If your pup is forced to maintain a steady pace for a long time, it can damage ligaments and immature joints. Playing outdoors for a short while or short walks on a leash will provide your puppy with a safe amount of exercise. Making them do the same mechanical movement for extended periods will also cause boredom and dislike for that activity. Humans may be creatures of habit, but dogs are not. This will prevent it from running into oncoming traffic, which may end up having disastrous results. It is always better to err on the side of caution where your pets are concerned. Similarly, be that protective shield against any other dog trying to threaten him. To Summarize Where the oodle dog is concerned, the more the activity, the happier the dog! Labradoodles make lovable companions. They love playing and spending time with the humans in the family. This is why they quickly become an integral part of the family. How often should you walk a Labradoodle? At least once per day and minutes depending on age and other activity. This is a breed that is also great with kids- loving and gentle. In terms of suitability, the Labradoodle makes for a great family pet , even for first-time pet owners. As for me, home is where my doodle is. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Energetic and playful, a Labradoodle does require a fair amount of walks and exercise every day. Labradoodles need at least two hours of exercise each day to burn off the excess energy these dogs are known for having, and you can split up the two hours into two or three separate walks. If you have to regularly leave your Labradoodle home alone for a period of time because of work commitments, always aim to schedule the first walk before you set off for work. Several factors will determine the time needed to walk a Doodle. If you and your Labradoodle live in an apartment , for instance, the lack of space and no regular access to the outdoors would mean three walks a day would be necessary. Dogs need exercise to help support cardiovascular fitness, stronger muscles, bones, and decreased stress and overall well-being. Routine Like any dog, Labradoodles like routine. As mentioned earlier, if you do have to go out in the morning, take him before you leave. Try to get a brisk walk in in the afternoon when you arrive home from work, and a simple toilet trip on the night before bed should be enough to keep your Labradoodle happy and content. When you arrive back home from taking your dog for a walk, leave it thirty minutes before you feed him. Exercising your Labradoodle before or straight after eating a meal could cause your dog to bloat. Mix it Up Taking your Labradoodle to the same place every day for his walks will soon become boring for both you and your pooch. Try to vary the walks once or twice a week. If you are restricted to only a few places, try to take a different route to break up the monotony. Remember to take a ball, a favorite stick, or even a frisbee. But is the opposite also the case? When humans first started breeding dogs they were used for work every day. They could be anything from guard dogs to hunting or tracking dogs. But no matter what they did there was one thing they had in common, dogs had a purpose with their lives, and they were proud to be able to do the tasks they were meant for. Most dogs no longer have the tasks that they used to, and what this means is that the typical working dogs no longer have their instincts and behavior stimulated naturally. These days the vast majority are regular family dogs where all they have to do each day is eat and sleep. Of course, a lot of dog owners do a good job of stimulating their dogs physically, but mental training is often overlooked. Many dog owners have the mistaken idea that as long as a dog gets its food, sleep, and physical exercise, they will get a happy and satisfied dog. Mental Stimulation But dogs are intelligent animals. A Labradoodle is one of the smartest dogs , and they have a need for mental stimulation that is equal to their need for physical exercise. Without the adequate amount of mental training, you will most likely never succeed in getting a happy and satisfied dog, but will most likely end up with serious behavior problems. Let me show you an example of why lack of mental stimulation could be a big problem. If you frequently take your dog for long walks or hiking adventures, the dog will get its physical demands met pretty easily, and quite well. But if you fail to challenge its mind, your labradoodle will end up feeling bored. Try to compare it to the needs of a human. We all need a certain amount of physical exercise to keep going, but most certainly we also need to be stimulated mentally. We do that by either reading a book, watching a movie, solving a puzzle or just by surrounding ourselves with other humans. What would happen if somebody told you to just go for a walk instead of watching a good movie? Or to go hiking instead of having a nice dinner with great food and wine? We need socialization and mental stimulation before we would call ourselves truly happy. And that is the same thing when it comes to our dogs. And it is really easy to combine mental training with physical training, and here is how you can do that. Try mixing up the afternoon walk with different fetch games, or some hide-and-seek. All these things help stimulate your labradoodle both physically and mentally. Hurried walks Try bringing your dog to a busy area like the local supermarket or the parking lot of the nearest mall. Try spending minutes there before returning back home. During this time your dog will receive plenty of new impressions from smelling, hearing, and seeing lots of new and interesting things. There might also be a pet store of some kind in your area where you could bring your dog. Bring your dog with you If you have to go for a short drive to fill up your car on gas or going to buy that winning lottery ticket, why not bring your dog? For a human, a minute drive might seem boring and something you just have to get done with, but for a dog, this is a way to experience a world of new sounds and smells. Try taking your dog out of the car and onto the parking lot, and allow it to go number one somewhere around there. This also allows your labradoodle to leave a few interesting new smells for the next dog that might feel like stopping by. Labradoodle Exercise Needs So even though a Labradoodle has reasonably high exercise needs , following the advice above should give you some tips on how you can do it. And at the same time, I can almost guarantee that you will also end up as a healthier and happier person. Just like your Labradoodle. The program has a pretty unique way of looking at dog training, and especially the mental part. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. Here are some benefits that daily exercise does for your doodle and you: Strengthens respiratory and circulatory systems Helps get oxygen to create new cells Wards of obesity Keeps muscles tones and joints flexible Helps digest Whether you live in an apartment or on a farm, start regular exercise and feeding patterns early at an early age, so your dog gets used and adapts to his and your daily routine. Daily exercise helps to keep your Labradoodle healthy, happy, and free from disease. Labradoodles generally require medium exercise. But there is no one-rules-fit-all solution. The amount of activity or exercise that each dog will need varies tremendously. It depends on several factors, including size , temperament, energy level, your living condition, whether you keep him with other dogs, and importantly what he is used to. According to the Vets, you should take your labradoodle out for at least one decent walk every day. Even better if you can take him out two or three times daily. A miniature Labradoodle will need at least 30 mins of exercise every day, while a large one will need at least an hour or more. Labradoodles are not lazy by nature. It will be an advantage if you have a fenced garden or yard so your doodle can burn off some energy between walks. You should not get a Labradoodle or any dog if you cannot commit at least one walk every day with your dog. Dogs like routine, but remember, there are strict guidelines to stick to with puppies. It is important not to over-exercise them, particularly with large breeds and crossbreeds like the standard Labradoodles. While their bones and joints are developing, they cannot tolerate a great deal of stress. So, playing Frisbee or fetch for hours with adolescents or puppies is not a good option. You will end up with a dog with health issues and a pile of veterinary bills. Establish a Routine Establishing a routine at an early age is a good idea. Try to get your dog used to exercise at the same time every day that fits in with your daily routine. For example, take the dog out after his morning feed , then perhaps a long walk in the afternoon or when you come home from work and a short toilet trip the last thing at night. Daily exercise could mean a walk around the block, jogging on the bike path, playing fetch the ball, or swimming. Labradoodles love all these activities. Swimming is an excellent way for dogs to exercise in the summertime. A lot of Vets suggest a small water tank not only for remedial therapy but also for canine recreation. Your Labradoodle will dash in and out of the water all day if you let him. Just remember that swimming is a lot more strenuous and tiring for dogs than walking, so do not over-stretch him. Whatever the routine you decide on, your dog should be getting out on a walk at least once a day, and you should stick to it. If you begin by taking your Doodle out three times a day and then suddenly stop, then he will become restless and start to seek attention only because he has been used to having more exercise. Same way, do not take your dog on day-long hikes unless you trained him for it. The dog will probably struggle. Medium and larger Labradoodles may make suitable hiking or jogging companions, but they will need to build up gradually to that amount of exercise. These activities are not ideal for puppies. Exercise for Older Dogs Older dogs also need exercise to keep their body, joints, and systems functioning properly. They will need a less strenuous exercise than younger dogs but still enough to keep them active, alert, and healthy. Physical and Mental Stimulation Labradoodle need sufficient exercise for their physical well-being as well as their mental well-being. They are very intelligent dogs, and without adequate exercise, they can become bored and restless. It can result in behavioral and attention-seeking problems, and some of them may become destructive. Before, experts used to recommend training dogs when they are one year old, but that has changed now. You can start training your Labradoodle from the day you bring him home, even as early as eight weeks. Boredom through lack of exercise or stimulation leads to bad behavior. This is one of the reasons why some Labradoodles end up in rescue centers, through no fault of their own. On the other hand, a Labradoodle that gets plenty of exercise is a happy Doodle and a wonderful companion. It does vary depending on whether you have a Miniature, Medium or Standard Labradoodle, and their energy levels. Labradoodle puppies have different temperaments, and some will be livelier and need more exercise than others. Puppies require much less exercise than fully-grown dogs. If you over-exercise a growing puppy, then you can overtire and may even damage his developing joints. This can cause early arthritis and other issues. The golden rule is to start slowly and build it up. The worst danger is a combination of over-exercise and overweight when the puppy is growing. Increase the walking time slowly as he gets used to the exercise. It will gradually build up his muscles and stamina. Once he becomes adult and fully grown, he can go out for much longer. Puppies have enquiring minds. Make sure that your puppy can exercise every day in a safe and secure area. As I mentioned earlier, your labradoodle can get used to an exercise routine. If you overstimulate and regularly exercise him as a puppy, then he will think this is the norm. The Key is to start a routine that you can follow. Note Do not take your puppy outside until his vaccination is complete, and it is safe to do so. Start with short walks on the leash every day. An excellent guideline is five minutes of exercise x per month of age up to twice a day until the puppy is fully grown. Exercise Tips Never exercise your dog on a full stomach. It can cause bloat, particularly in large dogs. You should not take your dog for exercise within an hour before or after eating. Do not throw a ball or a toy repeatedly for a puppy, as he may run to fetch it to please you. He thinks it is a good game, but he may become overtired and damage his joints, pull a muscle or strain his heart. Most Labradoodles love swimming. Swimming is an exhausting exercise for a dog. It can be great fun for him to fetch a ball or stick, stop the activity after a while. Repeatedly retrieving from water may cause him to overstretch himself. If you over-exercise your dog, it can place a strain on his heart just like humans. The best way to train him to retrieve while he is young. Give him praise or a treat when he brings the ball or toy back to your feet. No related posts. But, both the Labrador Retriever and the Poodle are historically working dogs with large exercise requirements. Labradoodles adult dogs need around minutes of moderate activity spread over a day. But, younger puppies and senior Labradoodles should be treated individually to prevent joint issues. Their joints are still developing, and any excessive pressure on them can cause damage that may affect them later in life. Exactly how much exercise depends on your Labradoodle puppy. But playing it safe and not exercising them more than five minutes for every month they have been alive is best. Adult The amount of exercise that an adult Labradoodle requires can also vary greatly. Most of it depends on the way that the Labradoodle has been raised and whether they have any genetic conditions, such as dysplasia, that affect the amount of exercise that they require. On average, Labradoodles will need between 60 and minutes. If they are healthy, a full minutes may be required. This is a rather large amount of time but can be split into two sessions of one hour each. Senior Senior Labradoodles might be affected by their health issues and injuries as puppies. They also calm down a great deal as they age. Although they may want to exercise less, it is important to keep them moving. However, the intensity of the exercise can be decreased. The difference in time requirements for moderate exercise does not differ between sizes. The minute guideline refers to moderate-intensity exercise, so if the intensity of the exercise is increased, the overall time requirement decreases. People sometimes forget that covering the same distance in the same amount of time is far more intense for a little dog than it is for a bigger one. Importance of Exercising Your Labradoodle Enough Labradoodle outdoors Weight Management One of the biggest reasons you should ensure your Labradoodle exercises enough is to manage their weight. Labradors are particularly prone to overeating. Being overweight can exacerbate other health issues, particularly those affecting their joints. Managing the weight of your Labradoodle may prevent these issues entirely or may reduce the severity of symptoms. Cardiovascular Health and Muscle Strength Just like people, regular exercise can help dogs increase the health of their hearts and circulatory systems. Additionally, regular movement can build and maintain muscle strength as your Labradoodle ages. Behavioral Issues A tired dog is a well-behaved dog. Dogs with enough exercise are usually calmer, partially because they are physically and mentally exhausted. A Labradoodle that has been exercised is more likely to listen and follow commands because its excitement is mitigated. How to Exercise Your Puppy and Senior Labradoodle Black and white Labradoodles indoors Puppy and Senior Labradoodles may need less exercise, as mentioned above, but also very different exercise than that of a healthy adult Labradoodle. Here are some things you can do to ensure they get enough exercise while preventing excessive pressure on their joints. Gentle Walks Gentle walking is one of the easiest things you can do with a Labradoodle. Doing this on a leash is encouraged, especially with puppies who may get overly excited. This can double as training and socialization, depending on the setting you decide to walk in. Obedience Training Labradoodle lying down outdoors Obedience training is a great way to tire out your Labradoodle, whether young, old, or somewhere in the middle. It does not put much physical pressure on them but is mentally stimulating. This is just as necessary as physical exercise. It is also a great way to bond with your Labradoodle. Swimming Swimming allows your Labradoodle to move their muscles. The resistance of the water helps build strength too. But all of this is done without the sudden pressure on their joints that they may get when running on the ground. In my experience, swimming can improve symptoms in arthritic dogs because it allows movement without pressure. This means it may even be viable for dogs that struggle to walk. And, if you have a pool, swimming with your puppy and teaching them how to leave the pool will help keep them safe if they ever fall in when you are not present. Tug-of-War You can play a fun game of tug-of-war with your Labradoodle at any age but it is particularly good for puppies to get out some of their excess energy. I really like this Flirt Pole Toy but be warned, your adult dog will love it just as much as your puppy! You may find that your dog loves some of these ideas and does not enjoy others. Each Labradoodle will differ, so try to find the right exercise or combination of exercises for your dog. Brisk Walks and Runs High-intensity walks and runs are great at tiring out your Labradoodle. It has the added benefit of getting you to exercise too. The faster you run, the faster you will reach your exercise requirements. But make sure that you build speed and distance slowly. And, if you are forced to take a break for whatever reason, come back to this intense exercise tentatively to ensure your Labradoodle stays healthy and uninjured. Swimming Swimming is not only good for puppies and senior Labradoodles. Most dogs in this breed, especially the larger ones, will love the water and may get into your pool of their own accord. Just ensure you supervise your Labradoodle. Obedience Training Obedience training is great for mental stimulation. It is best if it is done in a park or school with many distractions. The focus required for this is incredibly tiring for dogs. Agility The high-energy and eager-to-please nature of the Labradoodle makes them ideal for agility training. The variety of obstacles will tire them out physically. The obedience portion of agility will tire them mentally. This combination makes agility particularly good as a form of exercise for a Labradoodle. You can set up your own agility course at home with a simple starter agility kit like this one. Frisbee or Fetch If you are after maximum intensity or have less time than you would otherwise like, consider a game of frisbee or fetch with a ball. Your Labradoodle will sprint after the object as fast as possible, often reaching speeds that it would never have been able to if you were running with it. Just make sure you discourage jumping, as this may lead to back injuries. Indoor Activities for Labradoodles Labradoodle sitting indoors Outdoor activities are great. In cases like this, there are several activities that you can do indoors. These are not as physically demanding but provide great mental stimulation Puzzles and Snuffle Mats Usually involving food, you can load up a puzzle or snuffle mat and leave your Labradoodle to figure it out. This means that you can get some work or household chores done. If you see they are struggling, help them after a few minutes to prevent excessive frustration. Hide and Seek Hide can be done with treats, toys, or with people. If you have kids, try to get them involved in the game. One person keeps the dog on one end of your home while another hides. It sometimes takes a while for dogs to understand the game, but it is great fun once they do. Learning New Tricks Obedience training at a school is great, but training at home is also very stimulating. This is very rewarding for both you and your dog. Related Reading:. Labradoodles are a popular crossbreed between Labrador Retrievers and Poodles. This hybrid breed was developed in Australia in the late 20th century with the aim of creating a hypoallergenic guide dog. Labradoodles are known for their friendly nature, intelligence, and wavy or curly coat. They come in various sizes, including standard, medium, and miniature, with heights ranging from 35 to 63 cm and weights varying from 7 to 30 kg. Their life expectancy is typically between 12 and 15 years. What is the temperament of Labradoodles like? Labradoodles are generally friendly, sociable, and affectionate dogs. They are known for their gentle and patient nature, making them good family pets. Labradoodles often get along well with children and other pets if properly socialised from an early age. They thrive on human companionship and enjoy being part of the family. Labradoodles are intelligent and eager to please, which contributes to their trainability. They are known for their loyalty and adaptability, making them suitable for various living environments. Due to their Labrador Retriever and Poodle heritage, Labradoodles can display a mix of traits from both breeds, so individual temperaments may vary. How much exercise do Labradoodles need? Labradoodles are moderately active dogs that require regular exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. They generally need about 1 to 2 hours of exercise per day to meet their needs, this depends on their fitness and their size due to the variation in labradoodle sizes. This exercise should include activities that allow them to burn off energy, such as walks, runs, interactive play sessions, and time to explore safely in a securely fenced area. For Labradoodle puppies, exercise should be tailored to their age and physical development. It's important to provide age-appropriate activities and avoid excessive high-impact exercises that could strain their growing joints. Short, controlled play sessions and gentle walks are suitable for young Labradoodle puppies. As Labradoodles mature into adults, they can handle longer and more challenging exercise routines. Engaging them in mentally stimulating activities, such as puzzle toys or obedience training, can also help keep their intelligent minds occupied. For the smaller ones they tend to mature at around 12 months, but for the larger bred ones, crosses of standard poodles, they should not be at adult exercise levels until months old. Do Labradoodles need a lot of grooming? Labradoodles have a unique coat that requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and free from matting. The coat can range from wavy to curly and can come in different lengths and textures. Labradoodles may have a low-shedding or non-shedding coat, making them potentially suitable for individuals with allergies. Grooming needs may vary depending on the type of coat your Labradoodle inherits. Regular brushing, at least 2 to 3 times per week, is essential to prevent matting and to remove loose hair. Professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks can help maintain the coat's appearance and manage its length. Like any dog, regular tooth brushing with a dog-specific toothpaste twice daily is ideal. Are Labradoodles easy to train? Labradoodles are known for their high intelligence and trainability, making them generally easy to train. They have a strong desire to please their owners, which can aid in the training process. Labradoodles respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewards, praise, and treats to reinforce desired behaviours. Early socialisation and obedience training are crucial for Labradoodles. Start training them from a young age to establish good behaviours and manners. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are key to successful training. Keep training sessions engaging and varied to prevent boredom and maintain their focus. Labradoodles excel in various dog sports and activities, such as agility, obedience, and therapy work. They thrive on mental stimulation and enjoy learning new tricks and tasks. Enrolling them in puppy classes or working with a professional dog trainer can help you establish a strong foundation for their training. What do Labradoodles eat? Labradoodles require a balanced and nutritious diet to support their overall health and well-being. Feed them high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Follow the feeding guidelines provided by the food manufacturer and adjust the portions based on your dog's individual needs and body condition. For Labradoodle puppies, provide them with a specially formulated puppy food that supports their growth and development. Puppies should be fed times a day until they are 6 months old when it can be reduced to twice daily. Consult with your veterinarian for more specific recommendations for your pooch. As Labradoodles transition into adulthood, gradually switch them to an adult dog food. Choose a dog food that is suitable for their size and activity level. Avoid overfeeding and monitor their weight to prevent obesity, which can lead to health issues Are Labradoodles healthy? Labradoodles, as a hybrid breed, can inherit health conditions from both Labrador Retrievers and Poodles. While Labradoodles are generally considered healthy dogs, they may be prone to certain health concerns. Some potential health issues in Labradoodles include: Bones and Joints Cruciate Disease - when a cruciate ligament of the knee is either partially or fully torn leading to discomfort and lameness Elbow Dysplasia - this condition is where there is an issue with how the bones fit together at the elbow joint Hip Dysplasia - a condition where the thigh bone and pelvis do not sit together properly at the hip joint, which can lead to discomfort and arthritis Eyes Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA - this is when the retina of the eye breaks down, leading to blindness Gastrointestinal Gastric Dilation Volvulus GDV - usually more likely in the larger breed Labradoodles, this occurs when the stomach twists and gas and contents get trapped inside. It is a very serious condition and a vet should be contacted immediately! BorrowMyDoggy loves Labradoodles BorrowMyDoggy has Labradoodle members Information on this page should never replace advice given by your veterinarian. Potential health issues presented are given as a guide only and are not meant to be comprehensive. If you ever have any concerns about your dog's health, contact your local vet. Poodle Guides. Well, even if your Labradoodle puppy seems active and hyper , the truth is that they actually need to sleep for a lot of the day at this young age. Puppies need plenty of good, quality sleep to help their brains and bodies develop. So, ensuring your Doodle gets enough sleep is just as important as ensuring they get enough exercise. On average, Labradoodle puppies should be getting around 18 to 20 hours of sleep a day. So, you only have 4 — 6 hours left for your puppy to play, exercise, learn, and eat. The Dangers of Over-Exercising Labradoodle Puppies As well as the need for lots of sleep, too much exercise can result in bone and joint damage, or can hinder development and growth. Labradoodles come from two large and hard working breeds. But, they are also prone to certain joint issues, including hip and elbow dysplasia, and arthritis. Routine exercise can include walking, running, or even an energetic game of fetch in the backyard. But, throughout the day, your puppy will also get exercise from following you around the house, training sessions, playing inside, and playing with other doggy playmates. Many puppies also have a burst of energy at least once a day when they race madly around for a few minutes. This is often referred to as the zoomies. Like all puppies, your Labradoodle explores the world with his mouth and nose. When he first comes home with you, everything he experiences is going to be new. And, exploring his or her new home will take a lot of energy in those first couple of weeks! So, you might find that formal exercise is the least of your worries in the first week or two. The best type of exercise for Labradoodle puppies will depend on their age, and on protecting their joints. Why Age Matters Most Labradoodle puppies will be fully vaccinated by 12 weeks. But for some, it may be a little later. If your Doodle comes home with you at 8 weeks, this means you have an entire month where exercising outside is unsafe. Putting your pup on the ground outside where other animals can go can put your Labradoodle puppy at risk of diseases like parvovirus, canine distemper, and leptospirosis. As they get older, you can not only go outside with your puppy, but also increase the amount of time you spend exercising them. So, a short walk could turn into a lovely long hike or swim once your puppy is over 6 months old. Protecting Their Joints The other factor that influences the best type of exercise for your Labradoodle puppy is the need to protect their joints. Whilst puppies are young, their joints will be at their most vulnerable, still undergoing a period of development. But, the type of exercise you let your puppy do can also have an impact. For instance, one study recommends that puppies under 3 months of age should not be allowed to use stairs, as this can potentially increase their risk of hip dysplasia. So, whilst your Doodle is still very young, calmer forms of exercise are going to be best, particularly things that can be done on flat surfaces. Why is Exercise so Important for a Labradoodle Puppy? All puppies and dogs need a certain amount of routine exercise, and the Labradoodle is no exception. In fact, Labradoodles will need more exercise and mental stimulation than some other, less active breeds or mixes. Exercise is important because puppies are active, playful, and curious. If they are bored, they can become destructive and get into trouble. Proper exercise will help to reduce problematic behaviors like chewing, potty training accidents, and hyperactivity. Remember, keeping your puppy well rested is just as important as meeting their exercise needs. Exercise Can Improve Health On top of the benefits of exercise listed above, proper exercise will also help to keep your Labradoodle puppy physically healthy. Exercise will help to: Regulate their weight Strengthen bones and joints Aid in overall healthy development Best of all, consistent Labradoodle puppy exercise routines go hand-in-hand with training and socialization. Exercising Your Labradoodle Puppy Without Going on a Walk There are plenty of ways you can give your Labradoodle puppy exercise without taking them on a walk. In fact, since very young Labradoodle puppies need around 30 minutes of exercise a day, you can achieve this by just investing in a few good toys. Here are some fun game ideas to try out with your Labradoodle puppy: Play fetch in the backyard Create obstacle courses in your lounge avoid steps if under 3 months Play tug in the house Play hide and seek with some smelly treats Teach your puppy some new tricks Labradoodles are very intelligent and will enjoy learning and exploring. So, when exercising your Labradoodle puppy, work to implement structure and rules. Walk or exercise your Labradoodle around the same time each day, even if the exercises or games are different. But, avoid anything that clearly scares your puppy. Remember that the world around him is new, and every experience can have a major impact on his well being as an adult dog. Along with some added mental stimulation, this will make future walks much easier and more enjoyable. Even if your puppy is waiting on vaccines, you can still begin leash training at home. Gently encourage your Labradoodle to love the leash and harness by introducing it gradually. Pair it with some tasty treats and lots of praise. Once your puppy is happy with getting the harness and leash on and off, practice taking a few steps in the home and backyard. Remember, your puppy is a puppy, and all of these behaviors are normal! The best way to help him learn as quickly as possible is to keep walking sessions short, fun, and game-like. You can even start on the basics of heel with a training course. Have you already mastered polite leash walking, or is that something you and your Doodle are still working on? Related Articles. Learn more here or other smaller breeds. You can always check with your breeder and vet, but as tracheal collapse can happen in miniature poodles, for miniature Labradoodles this is a preferred collar type. Lack of mental stimulation can result in destructive behaviors from your pup. To learn more about this and the added benefits of mental exercise, we put together our favorite games and tips for Labradoodles. All puppies need a good foundation to start from. When born, a puppy needs to get used to handling and contact with their human friends. Holding their paws, touching their muzzle, tail, ears… all go towards the goal of getting them used to experiences with people. Letting puppies get used to sounds and sights is encouraged, and starting at a few weeks old you can let her explore. This is just the beginning of the process known as socialization, which you can learn more about in our detailed guide. Attention and contact are great stimulation, as well as playtime. Just be mindful they are still very young and developing! Still have questions or concerns? We covered everything from obtaining your puppy to surviving puppyhood in one piece to caring for adult dogs. A loose leash walk is the ability to walk your dog at your pace without him pulling you along. The dog is accustomed to staying near you and letting you take the lead. This takes some training and practice. There are a few ways to train a dog to do this. Among them are working with no leash and rewarding them for staying nearby. Other methods include gently encouraging them to stay at your pace with the leash. For example, if they pull forward you can stop, cheerfully call them, and take a few steps back. It will not happen immediately in most cases. In the end, she will naturally follow you along and at your pace. Smaller Doodles might be easier to keep near you, while larger ones might tend to pull a bit more. Each dog is unique though! If you struggle with it, try and find a professional early on. How much exercise should I expect when my Labradoodle is full-grown? Labradoodles, in particular, can be high-energy dogs, so as they grow you should be sure they get enough attention and activity. We have an entire guide covering exercise from puppy to adult, including our favorite activities, which you can read here. Ample room both indoors and outdoors are ideal for this breed. They are athletic, active and agile. Like people, they will work their way up to more strenuous activity. At full grown, they will be active and playful! They typically love the water and are natural swimmers. As a retriever breed, a nice game of fetch is always a good idea! Remember that each puppy is an individual. Regardless of his size, parents, and breed, each puppy will have his own personality. How long do Labradoodles live? Some studies have shown that mixed-breed dogs have a greater life expectancy than pure breeds. Your Doodle might surpass either of its parents in age. Smaller Poodles tend to live longer and Poodle mixes from a small Poodle may do likewise. So again, talk to your breeder, and see what the lineage of your puppy is. How healthy are her parents; how old were her grandparents? You can have at least a good idea of what you might expect from that information. A trip to your vet can confirm her health and of course, get her any needed shots. Ideally, your Labradoodle will have a lifespan of 12 years or more! Providing your dog a safe and nurturing home can only help her. Proper nutrition, care, socialization, and exercise will all help your Doodle live a long, happy life. Hungry for more? Check out all of our Labradoodle articles to become an expert on the breed. Many owners also wonder how much and what types of exercise they should be doing with their Labradoodle. We created this exercise guide to help owners understand the proper amounts of activity to keep their pups healthy and happy. The exercise levels and different activities appropriate for dogs change as they grow and develop. Recommended Exercise Time — How long should you exercise your pup? We give rough guidelines on how long Labradoodles should exercise. How much is too much? At this stage, they will want to explore their new living environment. Be sure to puppy-proof the main area they will be spending their time in and remove anything that might be dangerous to them. It is important to monitor their activity with kids, people, and any other household pets. It will decrease the chances of your beloved pooch becoming overly anxious or simply overwhelmed. The puppy should be in a safe environment at all times. This is where crate training can make a huge difference. It not only allows you to keep your puppy safe, but it can expedite housebreaking tremendously. See which crate I use with my own dogs and highly recommend in this article. Recommended Exercise Time It is crucial to follow some common-sense exercise time recommendations for an 8 week old Labradoodle puppy. Keep intensive exercise sessions short at 10 minutes or so. Some terrific age-appropriate exercises and game ideas for young puppies include: Slow and easy walks for short distances on a leash. Free play in the backyard for a minutes. Short indoor walks through the house. Relaxed play with some of their smaller toys may start introducing fetch by rolling a ball. Cuddles and one-on-one interaction. You can take a look at toys we recommend here. What To Avoid You want to be careful not to overwork your pup. Here are some examples of exercises or activities that would be too much for a puppy: Expecting your pup to keep up with you when running or jogging. Having your puppy play with young kids for longer than a few minutes. Having your pup climb lots of stairs or run up steep hills. This is when the dog begins to develop their tiny ligaments, tendons, and other small body structures. At around 14 weeks up to approximately 26 weeks of age, your bouncy Labradoodle puppy is continuing to develop their skeleton and joints. This development is so important, and dog owners might notice that their pup appears more tired than usual during these initial growth spurts. It is crucial to ensure that your puppy is getting the proper nutrition and proper rest to aid in their normal growth process. Recommended Exercise Time Like other dog breeds, there are recommended exercise time limits for 3-month-old Labradoodle puppies. At this stage of their young lives, Labradoodles can usually handle up to 15 minutes of more vigorous exercise levels two to three times per day. Your puppy should be settling into a normal daily routine, and new activities should be initiated every so often to keep these curious and energetic puppies from getting bored with their lifestyles. This dog breed is obtained by blending Labradors with Poodles. The resulting Labradoodle puppy typically inherits the higher intelligence levels that these breeds are known for. This pack of toys makes it easy to keep your puppy interested. They were favorites of my dog when he was a puppy, and he still enjoys them today. No products found. Initiating more activities into their daily routine also helps to keep their minds sharp and focused. Dog owners should be sure to monitor any new activity, game, or exercise to help prevent their puppy from overexerting themselves. New activities should be introduced slowly. These can be increased as your puppy masters the task without any adverse reactions. This comes from their hunter and retriever ancestors. Gradually, hide it out of sight, then direct your dog to find it. Other appropriate Labradoodle activities include teaching your pup tricks that build on their backgrounds. Are they easy to train? Find the answer here. Playing fetch with a ball, Frisbee, stick, or other objects is something that your dog might find simple to do. Advanced Tricks — Shake, roll over, or even dance. Start easy by making noises to give them clues. Tug-of-War — Be sure to keep it gentle and stop if your pup starts to use their teeth. Encourage Water Games — Most Labradoodles love to swim, so exposing them to water early can be a fun way to keep them fit. Just be careful not to get water in their ears. Nose-Work Games — Hide some of her favorite treats and encourage using her nose to find them. Make sure they are current on their shots and friendly! What To Avoid At 3 months of age, your favorite puppy is still young and growing fast. Like people, your dog will need the right amount of sleep and relaxation time following these harder activities. There are many exercise options that should be avoided or put off until a later date. Extended periods of running or jogging. Lots of jumping up and down from things like the bed and couch when playing. Back-to-back sessions of exercise without proper time for rest and hydration. It is appropriate to increase their daily level of exercise on a daily or regular basis, but it should be kept in check with what the puppy is able to safely perform. This should be implemented 2 times a day for safer results. Dog owners should always keep in mind that their puppy is still undergoing a lot of growth during this first year, and activities should be added as the dog matures and masters the beginning tasks. Water Activities — Explore more water activities , like dock diving, swimming, fetch balls from water. Visit Dog Parks — Great for additional socialization. Introduce Agility — Build a simple dog agility course in the backyard. Advance Learning — Teach your pup how to find colors or identify their toys by name. Hikes — Explore the environment more and take them on hikes or even camping. In fact, your dog prefers to use his intelligent brain to try and solve all of those challenges that their favorite people in their life often give them. While your pup might be beginning to look like a full-grown adult, in reality, their bodies are still growing with many important body systems still in development. Recommended Exercise Time The owners of Labradoodles still need to carefully shield their loyal pets from overexertion due to too much or too intense physical exercise. At this stage, your dog should be pretty good about self-moderating their exercise. At months, 30 minutes of exercise two to three times daily should be good. When owners do not include plenty of mental stimulation for their pet each day, Labradoodles become bored swiftly. The danger here is that these ever-resourceful dogs will gladly find something within their reach to keep their minds occupied resulting in chewed table legs or shredded pillows. Here are some extra activity ideas to work in: Increase the complexity in some of their nose-work and hide and seek games. Change the route you take on your walks to make things more interesting for them. Change the pace of your walks. Add to your outdoor agility course or enroll them in agility classes. Teach them how to bark on command. However, your dog will still likely gain weight for approximately 6 more months. Of course, Mini-Labradoodle breeds will have smaller sizes respectively than their larger counterparts. A routine of 30 minutes of exercise two to three times daily should be continued. As they age, you may need to cut back on certain physical activities that involve lots of jumping and excessive running. Here are some things to look out for: Stiffness when they walk. Hesitation for normal movements, like standing or running. Generally seems overly tired or fatigued. Weight loss. Not urinating enough a sign of dehydration. Tries to avoid normal activities. Increase in destructive behaviors, such as chewing, biting, excessive barking, digging, or scratching. Weight gain. Common Exercise-Related Injuries in Labradoodles While Labradoodles from reputable breeders are typically healthy, there are some inherited health conditions and exercise-induced injuries owners should be aware of. Labradoodles can experience injuries due to overexertion and too intensive exercise sessions. These include muscle sprains, tears or stiffness, joint damage, tendon or ligament injuries and painful muscle spasms, as overworked muscles break down and secrete toxins into the bloodstream. Exercise Cautions Important exercise cautions for Labradoodles include waiting at least 1 hour after eating before playing or exercising. Owners should also wait 30 minutes following a walk or exercise session before feeding their dog. These measures help to prevent gastrointestinal issues like bloating from occurring. Related Questions: When can a puppy jump? Twelve months is around the time their growth plates have fully closed. If they jump excessively before then, especially from bigger heights, long-term damage can be caused. Is jumping bad for a puppy? Labradoodle puppies that jump too early can do long-term damage to themselves. Any jumping before that age risks long-term damage. Common jump-related injuries include hip and other joint problems along with torn tendons. How soon after a dog eats can they play? Wait at least an hour after eating before letting your dog play to avoid gastric distress and bloating. Additionally, wait approximately 30 minutes after physical exercise before feeding your dog. Labradoodles are friendly, smart, and make wonderful family pets. This physical exercise guide for Labradoodles can help owners keep their dog safe and healthy during exercise sessions. It is truly a must-have for all owners and anyone considering this awesome breed.

These friendly animals are always willing to please their masters and love spending long hours with them. At some point, the Puginese might display obstinacy and willfulness, though they are mostly playful as well as well-behaved with kids. Some of them seem to snore when sleeping; a trait inherited from their Pekingese parent. Their barking tendency on seeing strangers or other animals make them good watchdogs. Care Exercise Puginese dog does not need robust activities since it is already playful by itself. Only a moderate amount of jogging or daily walks, especially to some dog park, is sufficient. Grooming Brush their body hair around twice a week, or even thrice in case your Puginese has long hair. Bathe them only when you feel the need. Health Problems Like most mutts, the Puginese are healthy and do not suffer from any breed-specific issues. Training To help them avoid snoring, train them to curl up and sleep on their stomachs rather than on their backs. Sleeping positions can be a big reason to trigger snoring habits. Expose them more and more to other animals and pet from childhood. This practice would surely grow an instinct in them to tolerate other animals. Obedience training is necessary to control stubborn behavior, in particular for issues like incessant barking. Hold on for a few seconds before giving away the reward. Lifespan Sociability We know that all puppies are adorable. So, each pup, even those from the same litter, will be a little different! Of course, this is part of the charm of choosing a hybrid pup. Your Puginese may end up with the longer coat of a Pekingese but the coloring of a Pug, or vice versa! They might also end up as a complete blend of both parent breeds. The only sensible way to prepare yourself is to make sure you like the appearance and characteristics of both the Pekingese and the Pug. Pugs were kept as a closely guarded secret from the rest of the world until the 16th century, when Dutch traders started to return home with Pugs. From there, their popularity across Europe and the U. The Pug was recognized by the American Kennel Club in and is currently the 28th most popular breed in the U. The Pekingese also hails from China and was a prized pet. Legend states that this breed was created by Buddha when he shrank a lion. The Chinese emperors managed to keep this breed hidden until well into the 19th century, when British troops stormed the palaces and found Pekingese dogs there. Once these dogs were brought back as a present for Queen Victoria, they became a highly prized breed. A Pekingese dog was one of only three pups to survive the shipwreck of the Titanic. While this is a cute look, it can also lead to health problems. They can suffer from eye problems due to the fact that their eyes protrude from their skulls. You need to look out for dry eye and corneal ulcers. These pups can also suffer from breathing problems in hotter weather or when they exercise excessively. Hot weather is not the friend of the Puginese, and they much prefer a colder environment. For this reason, they can make good little guard dogs, and while they will bark to warn you of visitors, they soon settle down. This hybrid breed can be a bit stubborn when it comes to training, so consistency and positive techniques are key here. Are These Dogs Good for Families? If you do want to keep your Puginese in a multi-pet household, then make sure to keep initial introductions brief. Your pup may not enjoy living in a house with an energetic dog that wants to play all the time, as your Puginese would probably rather just chill out! Before you make your decision, here are more details to help you make up your mind. They can have tooth problems, so make sure to check their teeth regularly. Hot weather can be particularly stressful for Puginese dogs, as they can struggle to breathe. Many owners choose to use air conditioning and cooling pads during warmer weather. They can also be a little stubborn, so consistent and patient training is the key with this breed! With that said, they are also eager to please their owners. While they can pick up a new command, it might just take them a little longer than most! If your pup has a longer coat, you may decide to have them clipped to reduce maintenance. This can also help them feel more comfortable over the summer. Using a pet wipe every few days to clean these areas is a good idea. The Puginese has sensitive skin and can easily develop allergies or dermatitis. Make sure you bathe them only when absolutely necessary, and always choose hypoallergenic grooming products. In addition to those, there are a few other conditions that can affect this breed. Minor Conditions. Puginese Highlights The Puginese is a mixed breed dog. They are not purebreds like their Pug or Pekingese parents. The main colors of Puginese dogs are cream, brown, gray, black, or brindle. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors. They are not a good choice for allergy sufferers, as they tend to shed a moderate amount, especially in the summertime. Their coats require weekly brushing. The Puginese is prone to weight gain as well as diabetes, and has medium energy levels. They have moderate exercise needs and do not require a lot of walks. Make sure your dog gets a short daily walk, weather permitting, and some indoor playtime mixed in as well. The Puginese is prone to being frightened by loud noises and stressed in hectic environments. Some Puginese pups are difficult to train and are described by owners as not being the most intelligent mixed breed. Patience and early training are key. Puginese History The Puginese mixed dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Pugs and Pekingese in the early s. It is not known why these breeds were crossed, but designer breeders continued to create Puginese pups as the demand for them increased. Even though the Puginese got its start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the breed for you. Check your local shelters, look up Puginese rescues, or check with breed-specific Pug or Pekingese rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. Puginese Size As the Puginese is a relatively new mixed breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between Pug and a Pekingese parents, you can expect a Puginese to be on the small side. Most weigh in at seven to 18 pounds and range in height from six to 14 inches at the shoulder. However, many can be smaller or larger than average. They require only a moderate amount of exercise and would much rather stay indoors on the couch with their owner than play at a dog park. Patience and early training are key, as well as using plenty of positive reinforcement while obedience training. These dogs tend to have a short attention span and will become frustrated if overwhelmed with learning new tricks. Again, patience is key! While it is common for the Puginese to be startled rather easily, their loyalty and desire to protect those they care about makes them excellent watchdogs. Since the Puginese is prone to being frightened by loud noises and stressed in hectic environments, they do best in smaller, calmer households. They make wonderful pets for those with busy schedules, as they are independent little dogs, but will also love being the companion of a senior just as much as being a family pet. Puginese Health The Puginese mixed breed is predisposed to the same conditions that the Pug and Pekingese also face. While most are fairly healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Life Span Did You Know? A Puginese is a cross between a Pug and a Pekingese. Puginese are small, energetic, and playful dogs. They tend to be social and thrive on attention and affection, especially from their favorite humans. Although they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other notable dog organizations. Puginese are affectionate dogs with cheerful, playful personalities that bond closely with their families and love spending time with them. They tend to have a sweet disposition. As long as they have been properly socialized, they tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. They also tend to open up quickly to strangers and are happy to receive attention from them once they have been introduced. Although they tend to be social and friendly dogs, Puginese are alert watchdogs and are prone to barking. Puginese tend to be highly adaptable dogs that do well in just about any living situation. They thrive in homes with yards and adapt well to apartment living. As a snub-nosed breed, they are particularly sensitive to heat and will need some winter dog products to stay warm when temperatures drop. Because they bond so closely with their families, they do not tend to do well with long periods of time alone. Potential health conditions to be aware of in the Puginese include skin issues, heart issues, epilepsy, luxating patella , hip dysplasia, and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable health issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic of both of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a brachycephalic dog breed, Puginese are also prone to allergies and developing respiratory problems. Because they are a small dog breed, they are also more prone to developing gum disease and other dental diseases, which makes practicing good dental care for dogs throughout their life even more important. The Puginese is a moderately trainable dog breed. Although they do tend to respond well to consistent training focused on positive reward and praise, they are also known for being stubborn. This can be a challenge for first-time dog owners to handle alone. So, puppy training classes are recommended. Not only do they strengthen the bond you have with your puppy and help reinforce training, but they also tend to offer opportunities to socialize a puppy. A Puginese could have a shorter coat like their Pug parent, a longer coat like their Pekingese parent, or something in between. They will shed moderately year-round and require brushing at least a few times a week. Bathing is on an as-needed basis, but you may need to visit the groomer every weeks to maintain your preferred clip on Puginese with longer coats. Weekly ear checks with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Brushing teeth daily or using an enzyme toothpaste every day in addition to cleanings at the vet when needed are recommended to help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Puginese usually fall into a low to moderate activity range. They will often have short bouts of higher energy while they are playing, but they tend to get tired quickly. Daily walks plus some playtime or another activity are usually enough for this small dog. Your Puginese will likely be up for more if you are and will usually just be happy to be spending more time with you. There are plenty of safe ways to exercise flat-faced dogs. A fully-grown Puginese usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. Puginese generally live for years on average. Puginese Puppies for Sale Thanks for visiting our Puginese page! Currently, we do not have any Puginese puppies available, but we can alert you when new Puginese puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! Please enter a valid email address! Related Breeds.

This alone can make them more expensive, as well as being crossed with a rare purebred dog. Some Rhodesian Shepherds inherit the Ridgeback. Although not all Rhodesian Shepherds will, some are lucky enough to inherit the classic Ridgeback strip. Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a strip of fur along their spine that goes in the opposite direction of their coat, which is not only a breed standard but a requirement for purebreds. Rhodesian Shepherds can weigh over 75 pounds. Rhodesian Shepherds are big dogs, with the average dog weighing around pounds. This makes them not suitable for most apartments and city living, especially with their exercise needs. Rhodesian Shepherds are hard workers. Just like their purebred counterparts, Rhodesian Shepherds are natural working dogs that need some purpose. This can be a real challenge for inexperienced dog handlers, so this mix is definitely not for everyone. However, as long as their exercise needs are met, Rhodesian Shepherds will repay you with affection and loyalty. The next best way is to study the temperaments of German Shepherds and Rhodesian Ridgebacks. German Shepherds are one of the most sought-after working dog breeds, having been around for centuries. Originally developed for herding, German Shepherds are extremely versatile dogs due to their high intelligence levels. They also require hours- no exaggeration-of exercise to keep them calm and well-mannered. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are, by contrast, calmer and more laid-back than German Shepherds, though they still have the instincts of a hunting dog. Originally bred for hunting and homestead protection, Rhodesian Ridgebacks can seem quite intimidating. Often reserved and even aloof with strangers, these large hunting dogs need to be socialized early to establish proper social etiquette. Except for their early years as puppies and young adults, Rhodesian Ridgebacks tend to be calm and quiet indoors. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Generally, Rhodesian Shepherds are great for active families, especially families that are outside daily. Families with children that enjoy playing and spending time with their dog are the ideal situation for Rhodesian Shepherds. As for cats and small animals, it depends on each individual dog. Some Rhodesian Shepherds have little to no prey drive, whereas others will chase your house cat into hiding on an hourly basis. The German Shepherd is known for its protective and loyal qualities, as well as high intelligence. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is known for being a good hunting dog. Crossing the two breeds can create a dog that has qualities that are both loyal and independent, a good guard animal but also an excellent hunting companion. The best thing about owning one of these dogs is their ability to go on outdoor adventures with you! They love to explore new territory, and they will never turn down the opportunity to spend time in nature, so if you have been looking for your next adventure buddy, then this is the dog for you. At this point, Germans were starting to get really into dog breeding. Many people wanted dogs that would make excellent companions and be able to perform important jobs. One of the most famous shepherds was Rin Tin Tin, who starred in many films and helped to influence many more who wanted their own dogs. It is believed that one breeder started the German Shepherd breed in .Max von Stephanitz is credited with creating this magnificent animal, which has contributed much to society over time. German Shepherds are usually black and tan or black and gray in color, although they can have a sable or blue coat too. They share a lot of characteristics with wolves or foxes in terms of their appearance. Male German shepherds typically weigh around 75 to 90 pounds when fully grown, while females are usually around 55 to 70 pounds. This dog breed developed in Africa, where it was used as a hunting companion. The dogs were traditionally used for hunting lions and other wild game. The ancestor of these dogs is believed to be the ridged hunting dogs of the Khoikhoi. The breed was originally called the African Lion Hound because of their ability to hunt lions, but when European settlers came to Africa, they found this breed and began breeding it with other common breeds in Europe at the time, such as Great Danes and Bloodhound. This led to crossbreeding between two dog breeds, which resulted in the name being changed to Rhodesian Ridgeback. A Rhodesian ridgeback is a dog with an unusual appearance. The ridge can be straight or wavy, depending on how tightly curled each individual hair is. They are typically muscular, around 70 to 85 pounds, with long legs and a decent-sized head. They are highly intelligent, alert, and independent. This dog was bred for hunting, so it does have a tendency to roam. It can grow to be around 65 to 95 pounds. It is common for these dogs to have a Fawn, sable, black, and tan coat. Temperament Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd Mix is very independent and quiet with a gentle temperament. However, it does tend to have quite a bit of dominance, which can be good and bad depending on the situation, so you do need to be assertive when training it, or else it will not listen. They can also benefit from the diet by having some supplements like fish oil. You can either pick a dry food or wet food or a blend of both. In my opinion, a blend of both is best. Dry food is usually a better option than wet food. That is, for every 1 cup of dry food that you give the pet daily, you can also add 12 oz of wet food to it. But as it gets older and begins to get bigger, that amount should gradually increase until the dog can finish about 11 cups of kibble every day. As for the feeding frequency, puppies can eat three times a day, but as they get older, you can reduce the feeding frequency to twice a day. It is best to feed dogs at the same time every day. So, for example, if you want to feed your dog in the morning at 7 AM, then do so and repeat the same schedule every day. If your dog has long fur, then trimming might be necessary to prevent the hair from matting together and causing discomfort to your dog. When giving it a bath, you may want to use a hypoallergenic dog shampoo and conditioner. Hypoallergenic shampoos are specially designed for pets that might have allergies to certain types of products. They have no harsh chemicals or perfumes in them, which can irritate your pet. This makes hypoallergenic dog shampoo perfect for dogs with sensitive skin, like Ridgeback Shepherd Mixes. Exercise Needs As highly energetic and athletic dogs, the Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix will benefit from a regular 30 — 90 minutes daily exercise. A good walk around the neighborhood on a leash is sufficient for this breed. You can also include more outdoor activities like running, swimming, hiking, and such. So once again, make sure to give them the amount of exercise that they need. This is the condition where the joints deteriorate and may result in pain for your dog. Since, in most cases, this disease is passed along from the parents, it would be best to get your dog tested before getting it. Dermoid sinus can be treated through surgery and are not usually fatal. For deafness, while there is no definite cure for deafness, you can treat the underlying health issues that cause it. Training Requirements and Tips Dog lovers should note that this breed is very intelligent. So, all it takes is a bit of hard work and patience to train it. Just remember that you should be firm during training sessions, so the dog will know what you want from them. Socialization, obedience training, crate training, and housebreaking are all part of the standard home-training requirements for this breed. Male vs. Female Male and female dogs have their own unique advantages. Male dogs tend to have greater territorial instincts, so they are considered better for guarding property. On the other hand, females are more protective of their families, so they are better for personal guardians. Males also need more robust, assertive training than females, but once trained though, they tend to be more stable and steady family dogs. They also naturally more protective of young kids and tend to treat kids as oversized puppies. They love to cuddle as much as males do but are usually okay to stay by themselves in a separate room. This makes them great for single owners or families with active work schedules. So for those who are considering a Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd Mix, they should consider which one of these characteristics appeals to their needs and lifestyle the most. Before you decide to get a Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd Mix, make sure that there is enough time in your schedule to take care of a dog. As mentioned earlier, these dogs need plenty of exercise and attention from their owners. They are also known to be very protective when it comes to their family members, so constant obedience training is a must. The best home for these dogs would be in a house with a large, fenced-in yard space where they can run and play freely. Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found it helpful and useful as you raise and train your German Shepherd. Here are some of my favorite reviews for German Shepherd supplies that I personally use and recommend. Here is my recommendation for the best dog food for German Shepherds. Leash: A leash is a must-have for any German Shepherd owner. With a good leash, you can give your dog the freedom they need while keeping them safe and under control. Here are my top picks for the best leashes for German Shepherds. A harness that is improperly fitted or used can cause serious injury to your dog. Read my review of the best harnesses for German Shepherds here. Different bowls serve different purposes, and the bowl that you need will depend on a number of factors. See my recommendation for the best dog bowl for German Shepherds here. There are a ton of different factors to consider when choosing a crate. Beds: German Shepherds need a bed that is comfortable, supportive, and durable. This breed is known for being high energy, so you need a bed that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. House: It can be tough to find the best dog house for German Shepherds. Shampoo: You want to find a shampoo that is specifically designed for German Shepherds. This breed has a lot of furs, and you need a shampoo that will be gentle on their skin and coat. Shock Collar: A shock collar is a training tool that can be used on German Shepherds. It delivers an electric shock to the dog when they exhibit certain behaviors. While some people are against the use of shock collars, I believe that they can be helpful in certain situations. Read my review of the best shock collar for German Shepherds here. Vacuum: If you have a German Shepherd, you need a vacuum that is specifically designed to deal with all of the furs they shed. Shedding is a natural process for dogs, but it can be hard to keep up with. The right vacuum will make your life much easier. Related posts:. Black and tan, sable, solid black, fawn Activity level High; requires up to minutes of exercise daily Suitable for families Yes, for active families that can meet the exercise and training requirements Dietary needs High-protein diet; adults require approximately cups of high-quality food per day depending on activity level Potential health issues Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, obesity, bloating, cancer, epilepsy, and cataracts History The Rhodesian Ridgeback x German Shepherd is a mix of two dogs, the German Shepherd, and the Rhodesian Ridgeback. The German Shepherd is a working dog breed that was originally bred in Germany, while the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a hunting dog breed that originated in Africa. The German Shepherd is a versatile breed of dog that can be used for a variety of tasks, such as herding, guarding, and tracking. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a powerful dog breed that was originally bred for hunting lions in Africa. Today, the Rhodesian Ridgeback and German Shepherd mix is a popular companion dog breed that is known for its loyalty and intelligence. This breed of dog is also known for its ability to get along with children and other pets. If you are looking for a loyal and smart companion dog, then the German Shepherd and Rhodesian Ridgeback mix may be the right breed of dog for you. Image Source: Velroy Fernandes — pexels. They have a long head and muzzle, and their ears are erect and pointy. Their tail is thick and tapers to a point. German Shepherds are also large, but they have a more slender build than Rhodesian Ridgebacks. They have a thick, double coat that is either black and tan or all black. Their ears are floppy and their tails are long and bushy. When these two breeds are mixed, the result is a dog that has the best of both worlds. They have the size and strength of a Rhodesian Ridgeback with the intelligence and trainability of a German Shepherd. Size Rhodesian Shepherd are some of the most popular mixed breeds. They are a mix of two large and athletic dog breeds, making them ideal for families who enjoy an active lifestyle. German Ridgeback are large dogs. They typically weigh between 65 and 95 pounds. They are also fairly tall, standing between 24 and 27 inches at the shoulder. They are very intelligent and have a high prey drive. This mix is not for first-time dog owners. They require an experienced owner who can provide them with firm, consistent training. Socialization is also important for this breed. Without it, they can become aggressive. The German Shepherd Rhodesian Ridgeback mix is a loyal, protective breed that makes a great family pet. If you are considering adding a German Ridgeback to your family, be sure to do your research and find a reputable breeder. Grooming Rhodesian Ridgebacks are known for being one of the most low-maintenance dog breeds, which is great news for those of us who are not professional dog groomers. German Shepherds, on the other hand, are known for being high-maintenance when it comes to grooming. So, what can you expect when you mix these two breeds together? When it comes to grooming a Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix, you can expect to spend a little bit more time on it than you would with a purebred Rhodesian Ridgeback. If your dog takes after the German Shepherd parent more, then you can expect to spend a little bit more time on grooming than you would with a purebred Rhodesian Ridgeback. On the other hand, if your dog takes after the Rhodesian Ridgeback parent more, then you can expect to spend less time on grooming than you would with a GSD. Image Source: Laurie Gouley — pexels. This hybrid dog is a cross between the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the German Shepherd. These dogs are known for being alert, protective, and intelligent. They make great family pets and are excellent with children. Exercise If you have a German Ridgeback, you know that they are high-energy dogs. They need plenty of exercises to stay healthy and happy. A tired dog is a good dog! Here are some ideas for ways to get your German Shepherd and Rhodesian Ridgeback mix the exercise they need: -Take them on long walks or runs. That means plenty of protein and healthy fats, as well as some carbohydrates for energy. The best way to ensure your Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix is getting all the nutrients they need is to consult with a veterinarian or animal nutritionist. When it comes to feeding your dog, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, this is a large breed of dog, so they will need more food than smaller breeds. Second, because of their high energy level, they will need more calories than the average dog. And finally, because they are a working breed, they will need a higher quality of food than the average pet food. When choosing a food for your Ridgeback Shepherd mix, look for something that is high in protein and fat, with moderate carbohydrates. Avoid foods that are high in fillers and artificial ingredients. They are very quick learners, but can also be stubborn at times. This breed is not for everyone, as they require a lot of patience and consistency when it comes to training. However, if you are up for the challenge, the rewards of owning a Rhodesian Shepherd are endless. One of the most important things to keep in mind when training a German Ridgeback is to be consistent. This breed needs a firm hand, but also needs to know that you are in charge. They will test you at every opportunity, so it is important to stay calm and be consistent with your commands. This breed is very food-motivated, so using treats as a reward for good behavior is often very effective. Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix are extremely active dogs, so they need abundant exercise. Are Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix good guard dogs? The answer is yes, they can be excellent guard dogs. They are large and strong and have the ability to intimidate intruders. They are also very loyal to their family and will do whatever it takes to protect them. However, it is important to note that not all German Shepherd Rhodesian Ridgeback will make good guard dogs. Common diseases among Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd mix Unfortunately, there are several health problems associated with the Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix. Some of the most common include hip and elbow dysplasia, skin allergies, bloating, obesity , and eye problems. Hip and elbow dysplasia are both hereditary conditions that can cause a great deal of pain and suffering for your dog. Skin allergies are also fairly common in this breed and can be extremely uncomfortable for your pup. Eye problems are also relatively common and can range from minor irritations to serious conditions that could cause blindness. While there are certainly some health risks associated with the German Ridgeback, there are also many joys that come along with owning one Are Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd Mix good with children? When it comes to children, Rhodesian Shepherd are good with them. They have a lot of patience and they are very protective of their family. However, they need to be trained properly so that they know how to act around children. If you are thinking about getting a Rhodesian Ridgeback x German Shepherd, then make sure you are prepared to train them properly. Otherwise, they may not be the right dog for you. How much does a Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd puppy cost? This breed is a great choice for families looking for a confident and protective dog. With proper training , they make excellent guard dogs. They are also good with children and other pets. Rhodesian Ridgeback mix puppies for sale When it comes to finding the German Ridgeback puppies, be sure to do your research. There are many reputable breeders out there, but there are also many who are not so reputable. This will give you a good idea of what to expect when your puppy grows up. Ask lots of questions and get to know the breeder before making a decision. With a little bit of research, you will find the dog you are looking for. These dogs are a mix of two of the most popular breeds: the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the German Shepherd. Sergey Uhanov, a certified veterinarian, has authored all of the content here. With over 20 years of experience in dog care and breeding three dogs of his own, he has a deep passion for these furry friends. Sergey owns a pet clinic in Israel where he provides care and treatment to dogs. He enjoys sharing his expertise and knowledge to assist others in caring for their dogs. All content on this site is written by Sergey Uhanov who is an experienced veterinarian. For more information about Sergey, click here. As Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Males are expected to be about .Females are slightly smaller at approximately 24 inches and about 60 pounds. The appearance will depend on which parent it takes after. From the Ridgeback parent, they could take various shades of wheaten although the lighter varieties are less common. On the other hand, German Shepherds come in a wide variety of coat colors. GSDs also come in rare colors like blue , blonde , and panda. Grooming Rhodesian Ridgeback — German Shepherd mixes that takes their coat after the Ridgeback parent will be fairly easy to groom. They will need occasional baths and weekly brushing to keep their coat and skin healthy. On the other hand, offspring that take after the GSD parent will require brushing several times a week. They will also shed profusely twice a year. During those times, they will require daily brushing and more frequent baths. Their teeth should be brushed frequently to avoid periodontal diseases. Strength The GSD-Rhodesian Ridgeback cross does not only have a strong, solidly built body but also a powerful bite, which it inherits from both parents. Speed German Shepherds run fast and, in fact, can reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are slower at 25 miles per hour. Nevertheless, Rhodesian Ridgeback — German Shepherd mixes are expected to run fast, show incredible agility, and have remarkable stamina. For working dogs, these traits can be very useful. For household companions, however, this needs to be addressed through exercise. They love to run, play with their humans, and go on long walks. The more opportunities they have to burn off their excess energy, the happier and healthier they will be. Apart from physical exercise, these dogs need mental stimulation. They enjoy puzzle games as well as regular training sessions. Additionally, they do well in canine sports like flyball , rally, and agility. They typically need fewer than 5 exposures to learn something new. On the other hand, Rhodesian Ridgebacks do not place very highly in the dog intelligence ranking. Nevertheless, their willingness to learn new things and eagerness to please their humans make training them enjoyable and fulfilling. Temperament The Rhodesian Ridgeback — German Shepherd cross is a protective dog that is ever vigilant of potential threats. They are wary of unfamiliar people but may welcome their presence once they are accepted by the rest of the family. Despite their protective nature, these mutts are very affectionate. Early socialization and proper handling also make them excellent companions for the entire family , including young kids and other animals. Health Like other large breeds, the GSD — Rhodesian Ridgeback mix can be prone to bone and joint issues like hip and elbow dysplasia. The best way to avoid this is to screen both parents before mating. Other than that, you should avoid jumping and running on uneven surfaces while their bones are still developing. Other health issues this cross can inherit are poor thyroid function from the Ridgeback and bloat from the GSD. Ridgebacks typically live between 10 and 12 years while the expected lifespan of German Shepherds of between 7 to 14 years. Nevertheless, dogs often surpass their expected lifespans. With a high-quality diet, ample exercise, and regular access to veterinary care, a happy Rhodesian Ridgeback-German Shepherd mix can easily live well beyond 10 years old. You might find a breeder mating these two breeds in pursuit of a designer working dog. Each of these two breeds is more valuable as purebreds. For this reason, their respective breeders find no motivation in crossing the two. Final Thoughts The German Shepherd Rhodesian Ridgeback mix is a large dog with an incredible work ethic as well as the courage and stamina unique to hunting dogs. This cross needs plenty of opportunities to exercise but can also switch off to relax. Additionally, they are adaptable, trainable, and protective of their home and family. Rhodesian Shepherds may not be hypoallergenic The parents of this breed have different coats. This makes it difficult for one to predict if the mix will shed heavily or not. Because of this uncertainty, it may not be suitable for allergic sufferers. They are not a good first-time dog Though the mix is intelligent and learns easily, it can be a handful like its parents. With an independent streak and a tendency towards dominant behavior, it may sometimes be unwilling to obey. The owner should not be inexperienced or timid, but firm and knowledgeable. Exercise and work are needed for both parents and the offspring, a situation that may tire out an introvert. They make good guard dogs and watchdogs The qualities it inherits from both parents make it an asset in security. It plays the role of both a guard dog and a watchdog. It is not aggressive unless badly trained but will protect its family when needed. Watch out for separation anxiety Many owners make the mistake of assuming this mix would love being alone because of its independent spirit. However, just like its parents, it is used to company. Being alone can trigger separation anxiety which leads to destructive behaviors. Because there are no Kennel standards or similarities in the looks of the parents, the puppies will grow to exhibit different physical characteristics. Genetics plays a major role here. Some of these dogs may look more like the German Shepherd, others will favor the Rhodesian Ridgeback. Some may combine both features to create an unusual look. Therefore, you may find some with the erect ears of the German Shepherd or the floppy ones of the Rhodesian Ridgeback. Most get the ridge on their backs, but the face usually is that of the German Shepherd. Size The Rhodesian Shepherd mix is a medium to large dog breed like its parents. It weighs between 64 to 95 pounds and grows up to 27 inches. It could either be short and shiny like the Rhodesian Ridgeback or a medium, dense double coat like the German Shepherd. Coat colors include gray, black, liver, and gold. There could be some differences in the behaviors of every individual. Also, factors like good training and the right environment influences personality. That being said, there are some traits you can expect from any member of this mixed breed. The first common trait is loyalty. This hybrid looks out for its family and is devoted to them. Loyalty is one attribute that makes it a good guard dog and watchdog, and it would defend its family to the last. Not surprisingly, it is also protective. Another good guard dog quality is its wariness towards strangers. Like its parents, the mix is friendly only towards members of its family or those it knows well. With strangers, it is aloof. Socialization stops it from developing aggression towards strangers, but wariness is essential for its guard duty. It is courageous as well, a trait gotten from both parents. The Ridgeback hunted lions and the German Shepherd protected flocks against wolves. You can count on this Rhodesian Shepherd to face danger without hesitation. As highly intelligent as its parents, expect this mix to understand and respond to commands with ease. You have to be patient while training this breed. The Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix is a loyal and gentle companion, friendly with its family and loving with those it knows. This mix can defend its family with its life and stay faithful throughout its life. It is also good with kids, especially when socialized early. However, its large size makes it unsuitable for toddlers, so it is more ideal to have them in a house with older kids who can respect a dog. To get this hybrid to get along well with other dogs and pets, it should be socialized from an early age. An adult with no prior experience in living with other animals may not fit in well. The male unneutered dog could also be aggressive towards other males. With smaller pets, its high prey drive could get in the way. This is why socialization is vital if you want a home with multiple dogs and pets. Because of its novelty and rareness, it is hard to determine the average cost of this breed, or where to find it. For the price, the cost of shopping the parents could give you an idea of what to budget. Cost varies, though, as the breeder could charge more or lesser than our estimate. Regardless of the cost, the breeder should be reputable. Ensure you get a pup with no underlying medical conditions or undesirable behaviors. Some breeders may offer advice and ask questions of their own. Do not buy a puppy based on a guarantee alone. Another option is adoption, though with this breed it could be harder than shopping. That said, you might stumble on a Rhodesian Shepherd in a rescue shelter specializing in German Shepherds or Rhodesian Ridgebacks. Adoption is cheaper and more canvassed for, but you also should ask questions. Some abandoned dogs suffer trauma from abuse or a medical condition that made the previous owner abandon it. As such, it requires a rich kibble fit for its size. While some dogs can manage a poor diet, this hybrid would have health problems if fed a subpar meal. Keep it hydrated too by providing enough water. Supplements like fish oil are also good for its system. Glucosamine and chondroitin are some other supplements that would help strengthen its bones. Like its parents, it can get overweight. So you should regularise its meal and stop it from free feeding. Human food and treats should be minimal as those can make a dog gain weight. You could keep it on a raw meal or give it a blend of dry and wet dog food. Dry food is usually preferred as the main meal, then wet food adds variety. Consult a veterinarian or nutritionist to know what to feed your pup. Another rule of thumb is to know the factors that influence feeding. Like other dog breeds, do not feed a Rhodesian Shepherd puppy with the same meal or ratio that you would an adult. The same applies to seniors. That is the age factor. Size is another, and you should also determine the energy level of your mix while establishing its diet. A bored and restless Rhodesian Shepherd is a recipe for destruction. It loves the outdoors and should be taken outside numerous times a day. This is a win for you if your hobbies involve stepping out of the house, not board games and binge-watching series. It is advisable to keep your mixed dog on a leash, at least till it is well trained to obey a recall command. Its high prey drive may push it to dive after a smaller animal. It needs at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. Sometimes it could get to an hour or more, depending on your dog. Some activities fit for the Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix include walking, running, hiking, swimming, playtime at a dog park, or games like fetch. These borders on the physical. Age and size also determine how much exercise this crossbreed needs. It is advisable to start small with a puppy and stick to light activities. As for size, an obese dog would need a different exercise requirement than its slimmer counterpart. For this Rhodesian Shepherd, training is both easy and frustrating. It is easy because of its intelligence, but frustrating due to its stubbornness. The best way to start training is when your pooch is still a puppy—if you adopted it as an adult, you would have a different set of challenges. Ensure your pup knows its place in the human-dog relationship and acknowledges you as the leader. Only then would you make headway with this stubborn breed. As usual, obedience training and socialization are a must. Let your pet learn simple commands and respond to them. It should also get to meet new people and visit foreign places. For this breed, training has to be consistent, not random. This mixed breed is sensitive to harsh words, yelling, and punitive methods—so you must keep your cool and be patient while training. Use treats, praises, pats on the back, and other forms of motivation to encourage it. Also Read:. It seems easy to fall in love. These dogs have long hair that covers most of their body, but it also has a thick coat on top and short fur around its face which gives an interesting variety in appearance. A lot goes on during puppyhood — most specifically in terms of how big your dog gets. If this sounds like something up your dog then make sure to be more familiar with the adoption of this breed. The average lifespan for this animal ranges from 14 years old, which makes them one of the longest-living breeds on earth. A lot of people feel intimidated when they first meet a large, powerful dog. They are often dogs who do not know their own power and need some time to get used to; just remember this about them: they can also surprise you with how well-behaved these big breeds really are. Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd Mix can come in all sorts of different shades, like Fawns or sables with black spots on them to mix it up even more. They have easygoing personalities and are generally affectionate and sweet-natured. They usually take a lot of time to warm up to a new person and require training before they are ready to handle a household. The Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd Mix is a tough breed and can be hard on themselves and others. They need a strong-willed owner. In training a Ridgeback, you must start early. They can be extremely stubborn and may resist a lot of your training. Ridgebacks are excellent guard dogs. They are extremely loyal, have little tolerance for chaos and noise, and enjoy a secure environment. In this situation, the joints can be damaged and also can become the reason for pain in the body. These are some of the diseases that this breed bears, and there are also genetic health issues that would influence their health, so it is advisable to check the dog before taking it. Deaf and bare feet are sometimes visible in this breed. Dermoid sinuses can be treated surgically and commonly are not lethal. Although, until now none of no specific treatment has been discovered for the deaf you can avoid the underlying hygiene problems which could be the reason for this. With age, they will not usually have as many complications as young dogs. It is therefore vital that you get them regularly. So the training requires dedicated work and diligence. Be sure that you must be strong when the dog knows what you want to know. The best thing about your young Rhodesian Ridgeback becomes social training from a child and how other dogs and people are engaged. Social education has trained education and tree training and improvements are all areas of the usual household requirements. As a very dynamic and muscular dog, the German Shepherd Rhodesian Ridgeback will be useful for 30 to 90 regular minutes of everyday workout. You can also add other outdoor activities such as long walks, mountain hiking, and running in a large yard. Raw foods with twisted bones, firm flesh, and a fine quantity of ingredients are the best for this type. In case, if raw food is expensive and difficult to maintain a diet, look for fine standard dog food that will fulfill its nutritional needs. As this breed has been one of the athletic breeds, it will demand more than the normal quantity of water intake on a regular basis. The combination of food varieties such as dry and wet food could be a good choice to be included in the diet chart. Whether he is training for competitions or just enjoying a walk around the neighborhood, he will enjoy the experience. However, you should always be careful not to neglect your dog. Make sure that he or she has proper space and training so that you and your dog can share a happy life together. This breed is an incredibly satisfying dog and one that will make sure to keep you active- be sure that you are completely set to be a good keeper of this breed. Post navigation. The Rhodesian Ridgeback was developed in southern Africa to hunt lions. German Shepherds are also large, athletic dogs that were originally bred for herding and protection work. Together, these two breeds make excellent working dogs with strong hunting instincts and loyalty to their family. While the exact origins of this mix are unknown, it is thought that this cross was first developed in the United States in the s. Today, this mixed breed is still primarily a working dog, but they can also make exceptional family pets. If you are looking for a smart, protective, and active companion, this may be the perfect breed for you. The most distinctive feature of this breed is the ridge of hair running along its back in the opposite direction to the rest of its fur. This ridge is caused by a genetic mutation that causes the hair follicles to grow in different directions. Ridgebacks Shepherd mixes are also known for their short, shiny coats, which are either light wheaten or red wheaten in color. They have long, floppy ears and a tail that is usually docked. While males typically weigh more than females, the average weight of this mixed breed is between 65 and pounds. The average height is around 24 — 27 inches. The shape of their head is similar to the German Shepherd, which is typically wedged-shaped. Their nose is either black or brown and their eyes are either dark or amber in color. This hybrid is an excellent companion dog who is loving and affectionate with family members but still reserved around strangers. This breed is also highly trainable, making them an ideal candidate for obedience training and even agility courses. With proper socialization, this breed gets along well with other dogs and pets. These dogs excel in obedience training and respond well to positive reinforcement methods such as treats and praise. They need consistent training from a firm, experienced owner. These dogs are not suitable for first-time owners or those who are not willing to put in the time and effort required to train them properly. This mix is an active breed that needs plenty of exercise. A daily walk is a minimum, and they will also enjoy hiking, running, and playing fetch. This breed is not suited for life in an apartment or small home; they need a yard where they can run and explore. Socialization is also important for this breed, as they can be suspicious of strangers if not properly introduced to them from an early age. With proper training and socialization, the Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd mix can be a loving, loyal companion. Rhodesian Shepherd — Are they Aggressive? The Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd Mix is a large, powerful dog that was originally bred for hunting. However, this aggressive streak can also make them difficult to handle, and they are not recommended for first-time dog owners. As a loyal and protective dog, they can be very suspicious of strangers. If not properly socialized, they may become aggressive toward people and other animals. In addition, this mix is a high-energy dog that needs plenty of exercise. Without an outlet for their energy, they may become destructive or even aggressive. For these reasons, it is important to consider whether or not this mixed breed is the right breed for you before making a commitment. This high-energy breed needs at least an hour of exercise every day. A Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd Mix is the perfect companion for runs, hikes, and any other outdoor activity you can think of. Remember, this breed was originally bred to hunt lions, so they have plenty of stamina. In addition to their daily walk or run, this mixed breed will also appreciate some playtime in the yard. Mental Stimulation The Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd mix is an intelligent breed that requires regular mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. One way to do this is to give them puzzle toys filled with treats, which will keep them occupied and mentally challenged. You can also vary their walking route and introduce new playthings regularly to keep them from becoming restless. With a little effort, you can ensure that your Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd mix stays happy and mentally stimulated. They need to be groomed on a regular basis. The Ridgeback Shepherd is not a hypoallergenic breed, so they do shed relatively frequently. As a result, they will require daily brushing in order to keep their coat healthy and free of tangles. They should also be bathed on a monthly basis, using a mild shampoo to avoid drying out their skin. With proper grooming, this mix will be a handsome and healthy dog. As a result, they inherit many of the same health conditions as their parent breeds. However, there are steps that owners can take to help their dogs stay healthy. For example, regular exercise and a healthy diet can help to prevent obesity, which is a major risk factor for many health problems. Additionally, keeping up with routine vaccinations and vet check-ups can help to catch any potential health problems early on. With proper care, Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherds can enjoy long, happy lives. Rhodesian Shepherd — What should they eat? As any pet owner knows, what you feed your animal companion can have a big impact on their health and well-being. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, there are a few general guidelines that can help you make the best choice for your dog. This will help to ensure that your dog is getting the nutrients they need without ingesting too much filler material. Focusing on their nutrition will help to avoid problems such as obesity and joint problems. By following these guidelines, you can help your Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd mix stay healthy and happy for years to come. Rhodesian Shepherd — Dog Friendly? The Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd mix is a large, powerful dog with a strong prey drive. This can make them difficult to socialize with other dogs and can also make them a danger to smaller pets. However, with patience and training, many Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherds can learn to live peacefully with other dogs and animals. Rhodesian Shepherd — Child Friendly? This is because they are loyal, protective, and patient. As a result, young children should always be supervised when around a Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd. Rhodesian Shepherd — Do they Drool? One of the less desirable traits of this breed is their tendency to drool. While all dogs produce saliva, some breeds are more prone to slobbering and drooling than others. The reason for these drooling tendencies is the shape of their skull and muzzle. This structure allows more saliva to pool in their mouth, which leads to drooling. In addition, this breed is also known for being very food-motivated, which can further contribute to drooling behavior. If you are considering adding a Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd to your family, be prepared to deal with some drool. However, regular grooming and cleaning can help to minimize the mess. Rhodesian Shepherd — Weather They can be sensitive to weather changes. While all dogs can be affected by extreme weather conditions, some breeds are more prone to problems than others. The Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd is one of those breeds. This type of coat does not provide much insulation, making the dog more susceptible to cold weather. In addition, this breed is also known for being very active. As a result, they may have difficulty regulating their body temperature in hot weather. If you are considering adding this mixed breed to your family, be prepared to deal with some weather-related issues. Life Expectancy The Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd is a mixed breed of dog with an average life expectancy of 14 years. This lifespan is about average for most dogs, but it is on the shorter end for large breeds. Large breeds are more likely to experience health problems and joint issues than smaller breeds. As a result, they often do not live as long as smaller dogs. The reason for this lack of AKC recognition is the mixed nature of the breed. Puppy Prices Prices for Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd puppies can vary depending on the breeder and the individual puppy. This price range is about average for most mixed-breed puppies. This unique and amazing dog is sure to make a great addition to your family. And as always, thanks for reading! Facial features tend to resemble the GSD, while the body takes on Ridgeback qualities. You can expect this mix to have a shorter coat than a GSD, and a less muscular body. Colors will often include shades of brown, and the sable or dark GSD coloration. These mixes are fortunately not heavy shedders. Brushing them once per week is often enough. Lifespan: up to 14 years on average. Prone to obesity. This mix can be great for families, and can get along well with kids. These high-energy dogs will form close bonds with their owners. They're lively, intelligent, nosey, friendly, and brave. An hour of daily exercise at minimum is recommended to help curb destructive behaviors. These dogs were officially named Rhodesian Ridgebacks in in Zimbabwe. The Rhodesian Ridgeback breed is known for its distinguishing feature — the ridge of hair running along its back. This ridge stands out as it is composed of hair that is growing backwards. An adult Rhodesian Ridgeback can grow up to 27 inches tall, and can weigh up to 80 pounds, while its female counterpart can grow up to 26 inches tall and can weigh up to 71 pounds. The Rhodesian Ridgeback can be aloof to strangers but is very loyal to its owner. It is intelligent and teachable. When it comes to health, Rhodesian Ridgebacks are at high risk of developing dermoid sinus, degenerative myelopathy a neurological condition affecting the spine , hypothyroid, and gastric dilatation-volvulus. Dermoid sinus is a condition that can be screened for at birth. Affected puppies can be saved through a surgical operation where the affected dermoid sinus is removed. The life expectancy of Rhodesian Ridgebacks is roughly 10 years. Sadly, he passed away a few years ago at the age of .Big thank you to his owner Erik for letting us post this great picture! Originally used as a working dog and a herding dog, German Shepherds are now often seen with the police, patrolling malls and areas where security is of utmost protection. This breed is known for its handsome and well-built features. It is hardworking, fearless, obedient, and trainable according to dogster. If you are energetic with an active outdoor lifestyle, this is the pet for you. An adult German Shepherd can grow up to 25 inches or .It has a thick coat that sheds heavily throughout the year, and blows its coat twice per year. Regular brushing will be really important with GSDs, and is thankfully all you need to do for coat maintenance for the most part. When it comes to health, GSDs are at high risk of developing elbow and hip dysplasia, and skin allergies. German Shepherd can live up to 12 years on average. Although this a relatively well-known breed, it is not yet popular because there are very few breeders who focus solely on producing Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mixes. For more information on the differences between these two breeds, feel free to read our comparison article: Rhodesian Ridgeback vs German Shepherd. It stands like it is ready to fight at all times! Its face and head will more so resemble that of the GSD, but their backs will have the famous Ridgeback line. These are obvious signs to look out for when trying to identify a Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix. The average lifespan of this mix is up to 14 years according to shopforyourcause. Since GSDs and Rhodesian Ridgebacks are both known for their overall strength, power, and love of active lifestyles, we can expect the mix to be quite similar in this regard. Although German Shepherds are used extensively in police work , the same cannot be said for these mixes — these are strictly house pets. In terms of exercise, these dogs love running outdoors and playing with other dogs. Just like its parent GSD, it is best to allow a Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix to play outdoors in order to curb its aggressive behavior and excessive energy levels. Keeping it locked up inside all day can be very stressful for this breed — it is highly recommended to get these dogs at least an hour of exercise every day. Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd Mix Health One of the common health problems that medium to large dogs face is dysplasia, and the Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix is no different. It is at high risk of developing both hip and elbow dysplasia. Before accepting a puppy from your breeder, verify if the parents have gone through the required genetic testing designed to identify dogs that could potentially pass on heritable health issues to the puppies. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is also prone to having dermoid sinus — so this mixed breed will also be at risk of developing the condition. Always have your puppy checked every six months to correct possible dermoid conditions. Both breeds are also susceptible to skin, ear, and eye infections — try your best to be on the lookout for any signs of irritation or infection on these body parts. If your pup continually scratches any of these areas, you may need to have it checked out by your veterinarian. Tip: Great breeders always ensure that they are breeding from healthy parents. They should have the proper documentation proving that their breeding dogs are healthy, and without genetic conditions that can affect the cross-breeds. Feel free to check out this YouTube video from Dogs Naturally Magazine for tutorials on how to prepare a raw diet for your dog. If preparing a raw diet is simply not feasible for you, you can still purchase high-quality commercial dog food that will be relatively healthy for your dog. You can also ask your vet for any advice regarding ideal brands for Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd Mixes. You should also be careful when giving your dog a treat during training — the Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix can easily become obese like its parents. Despite being active all day, eating too much sugary food can lead to high sugar levels and their bodies might not be able to break it down naturally. Their diets should ideally be high in fish oil, glucosamine, and chondroitin supplements to help lower the risk of joint problems like hip and elbow dysplasia. The Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix is a large breed that may not be ideal for first-time dog owners because of its sheer size and strength. These dogs are best for people who are looking for a friend that they can run with and take on hikes, since this breed thrives on vigorous amounts of daily activity. Despite this, one of the the best traits Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mixes have is the ability to just chill out and remain pretty calm when around its owners. They will absolutely love spending time with their families. This dog needs constant attention, an energetic owner, and mental distractions from time to time. Leaving a Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix on its own for too long may not be the best idea since these dogs can be prone to separation anxiety. Unfortunately, when this happens, these dogs can be prone to destructive behaviors. You should also bath your Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix at least once per month. There is no need to give it a daily bath because it will dry its skin out. Most Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mixes have thin coats so there is no need to brush them too often. Brush it once a week to give it a shinier and softer look. In terms of physical activity, this hunting and guarding dog loves moving around! Its parents are active dogs so expect the cross-breed to be very active as well, loving long hikes and runs. Aim for one hour of activity per day. You can also run with your Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix in the morning. It will help your dog child release some energy before you leave for work. Here are signs that your pet dog is feeling stressed. Whining — a GSD whines when it is bored, and when it wants to go outside. As the Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix is from a family of intelligent breeds, expect it to whine when it cannot do what it wants. Pacing — when your dog continually walks back and forth, it is a sign that is stressed or anxious. Iheartdogs explains that this happens when a dog is in a very small enclosure or on a leash, and they are feeling suffocated. Lip-licking — lip-licking or lip flicking they bring their tongue in and out for no reason is also a sign that your dog is stressed. It is either that they are hungry, want to move around, or something is bothering them on their skin. Lowered-Ears — this trait is from GSDs. If you see your Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix with its ears down, it is a sign that it is feeling anxious over something. Barking — the Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix barks at people they are not familiar with. If your dog keeps on barking when there is no stranger around, then it means it is feeling off about something. Drooling — drooling can mean two things — your dog is not feeling well or is anxious and nervous. If you notice that your GSD and Rhodesian Ridgeback mix is drooling for no reason, take it to your vet immediately. Scratching — if your Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix continually scratches its ears, tails, or a part of its body, check it out for any signs of rashes and other infections. Tail-chasing — this behavior is common to German Shepherds. They often chase their tail when they are bored or anxious. Displaying excessive behavior — this hybrid produces a very active dog. However, if your dog keeps on moving around, barking, and drooling, put it on a leash and bring it to your vet immediately. Frequently Asked Questions Are Ridgebacks aggressive? Historically, Ridgebacks were bred to be hunting dogs. This means that they are naturally territorial and protective dogs, however, this does not translate into aggression. Instead, they are generally well-mannered and even-tempered, making them a great breed for families with or without kids. They are extremely intelligent, which means that they might be able to suspect an intruder or bad energy from a person, where they might become somewhat aggressive. However, this is only due to their territorial nature. It all depends on how the dog has been trained and treated. Despite their hunting background, Ridgebacks are tender and gentle dogs who are highly protective over their companions. Can Rhodesian Ridgebacks be left alone? As Rhodesian Ridgebacks are such loyal and affectionate dogs, they can be prone to separation anxiety. This can result in separation anxiety. The best way to tackle separation anxiety is to bite the bullet and leave them alone in a room for an hour every day. This time should increase after a couple of days. When you do return, make sure not to excite them with praise. You should walk into the room and ignore their excitement, as this will help them to normalize you wandering in and out of the house. Eventually, they will learn that you will return and there is no point worrying. Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks easy to train? In fact, their intelligence makes them notoriously difficult to train! This should include simple recall training and obedience training, so you can learn to trust them off the leash. To tackle this, you must commit to consistent training until they get the hint. While it will take a long time, the results will be worth it! Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks bark a lot? For example, if they can sense an intruder or a suspicious person, they will probably bark to threaten them. You can enjoy up to 14 years of great companionship with this hunting and guard dog. Reduce risks of common medical problems like dysplasia and infection by giving your Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix a proper diet, vaccines, and plenty of exercise. This large dog is gentle and very loyal to its owner.