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Will be medium sized pounds. Pug puppies Larry HannanIn order to see if a breeder in your area has any pugs available, you will need to check directly with each breeder for information about occasional puppies and. Welcome to Meg's Pug Place. Pug Puppies for sale and breeders near Vermont Find Pug puppies for sale and breeders near Vermont using our free Pug breeder search tool below! Americanlisted has classifieds in East Berkshire, Vermont for. Once the companions of Chinese royalty, their distinct faces are complemented by sweet demeanors. My love of pugs started when I was a teenger. Find Puppies and Breeders near. I just know that we are meant to be. They are placed in loving foster. Beagles usually stand 13 to 16 inches tall and weigh between 18 and 30 pounds. We prioritize the health and well-being of our puppies, and we are committed to providing our customers with the best possible experience when it comes to finding the perfect Pug companion. The puppies and their parents receive the best care with regular grooming and health inspections. Look at pictures of Pug puppies in Vermont who need a home. Puppies For Sale in Vermont, VT - Teacup Dogs pug puppies for sale in vermont french bulldog puppies for sale in vermont puppies for sale vt french bulldog rescue vt Middlebury, VT Search for pug all dogs near Wilder, Vermont. Pug, Vermont » Windsor Premium. Click to browse. A Beagle generally lives for years. You've come to the right place. Also, be sure to check the Pug Dog Breeder listings in our Dog Breeder Directory, which feature upcoming dog litter announcements and current puppies for sale for that dog breeder. Find breeders who care near Burlington, VT and find your precious fur-baby today. Why buy a Pug puppy for sale if you can adopt and save a life? Pug puppies Larry Hannan. We are a small, family-run business, allowing us to keep our hands on the many aspects of caring for our dogs. Head to the App Store and download the free Woof Trax app. Looking for a cute Pug puppy for adoption near Shelburne, Vermont? Pug Dogs of Springfield, Vermont We are absolutely delighted to present to you the amazing adult Pug dogs of Springfield, Vermont that have been adopted from Premier Pups as puppies. Find Pug Puppies and Breeders in your area and helpful Pug information. Pug Breeders Servicing and Delivering Puppies to the Morristown, Vermont Area The Pug is a small, playful, and affectionate breed of dog that is known for its wrinkly face and curly tail. At Premier Pups, we take great pride in providing healthy and happy Pug puppies to families in the St. Advertisement Find a Pug for adoption at dog rescues or shelters near. Browse photos and descriptions of of Vermont Pug puppies of many breeds available right now! The search tool above returns a list of breeders located nearest to the zip or postal code you enter. Pug Breeders Servicing and Delivering Puppies to the Bennington, Vermont Area The Pug is a small, playful, and affectionate breed of dog that is known for its wrinkly face and. Our Pug puppies are raised in a family environment and interacted with daily to prepare them for a smooth transition to their new homes. The Pug is a small breed of Dog with distinctive features, specifically a wrinkly, short muzzled face and curly tail. Pug Breeders Near St. We do not consider ourselves concerned with earning money. It's also free to list your available puppies and litters on our site. At Premier Pups, we take great pride in providing healthy and happy Pug puppies to families in the Morristown, Vermont area. Are you looking for the best Pug breeder in Vermont VT? Black And Fawn "Pug" Puppies vermont, vermont .For out-of-state customers, we have nationwide delivery options tailored to every need. About Free Kijiji Puppies. Search for pug all dogs near Wilder, Vermont. We breed to our own standard and strive to. Brought up with children and well socialised. They are up to date on their shots of. My love for pugs has grown to almost an obsession, I do have a variety of pugs a couple of them. Our concern is that our puppies will be going into the best available permanent loving homes. Look at pictures of Pug puppies who need a home. Pug breeders directory Enter your 5-digit U. Albans, Vermont area. Because all breeding programs are different, you may find dogs for sale outside that price range. Pug Breeders Servicing and Delivering Puppies to the Burlington, Vermont Area The Pug is a small, playful, and affectionate breed of dog that is known for its wrinkly face and curly tail. Pugs for adoption in the Shelburne, Vermont area come with a year health guarantee. Pugs for adoption in the Bennington, Vermont area come with a00 depending on destination and airlines. Lancaster Puppies has Shih-poo puppies available today. Size: inches tall, lbs. Adopt a rescue dog or bring home a dog through PetCurious. Here, at Premier Pups, we specialize in raising happy and. Learn more puppies available certified breeders Transportation Location Color. Transportation to Vermont available. Find a Pug puppy from reputable breeders near you in Vermont. Pug, Vermont » Hardwick. Give us a call or complete the form below to contact us! Our puppies are carefully bred and raised to the highest standards, yp; sb; ah; hg; ih; kh; sq; dn; nt; sc; jk; lj; ma. Welcome to Hug A Pug Forever. At Premier Pups, we take great pride in providing healthy and happy Pug puppies to families in the Burlington, Vermont area. We raise A. Tri colored Australian Shepherd x Border Collie pup. They have had their dewclaws removed. Learn care tips about your pug dog, including the pug life span and pug health problems. We're sorry but this site doesn't work properly without JavaScript enabled. History: The Pug is one of the oldest breeds of dogs that is still around today. Our puppies are carefully bred and raised to the highest standards, ensuring that they are well-adjusted and ready to join their new forever homes. As a family, we have loved, cared, breed, and lived with different kinds of puppies for over 10 years, quite an experience. We are located in southern Vermont and will travel to meet with our pups for a small fee, within reasonable distance or we. Prices for Pug puppies for sale in Burlington, VT vary by breeder and individual puppy. Puppies and Dogs for sale or Adoption in New. Our puppies are carefully bred and raised to. Jan 23, - Visit Kijiji Classifieds to buy, sell, or trade almost anything Used cars, pets , jobs, services, electronics, homes, boats for sale and more locally anywhere in Canada. Pug puppies for saleNear Vermont. If you are unable to find your Pug. Cheap pugs also can be found in pet stores and through online classified ads, but this can be a risky way to find them. A charming home with 3 bedrooms and 2 baths in Columbia is NOW available for move-in! Pug puppies! Pug Breeders Servicing and Delivering Puppies to the Bennington, Vermont Area The Pug is a small, playful, and affectionate breed of dog that is known for its wrinkly face and curly tail. All our Pug puppy for sale are transferred according to the law with documentation and all our Pug puppy and puppies are with registration AKC. One of the safest places to find inexpensive pugs is an animal shelter or rescue group. Pugs for adoption in the South. Learn more puppies available certified breeders Transportation Location. Our puppies are carefully bred and raised to the highest standards, ensuring that they are well-adjusted and. At Premier Pups, we take great pride in providing healthy and happy Pug puppies to families in the Bennington, Vermont area. We can spend all day playing if you'dPug Breeders Near St. See beautiful pictures and stories about the amazing Pug dogs of Springfield, Vermont that have been adopted as puppies from Premier Pups. They are up to date on their shots of vaccines and they will come Pug Vermont handsome pug puppies. Pug originated from China and were originally brought to Europe in the sixteenth century. Already using puppy pads for the toilet very well. Make sure to select Green Mountain Pug Rescue as the organization that you are walking for. Our puppies are carefully bred and raised to the highest standards, ensuring th. Ready for his forever home October 29th .I just know that we are meant to. Below is a sample search of our Pug breeders with puppies for sale. The Pug is a small, playful, and affectionate breed of dog that is known for its wrinkly face and curly tail. They are excellent with kids and other home pets. Here are some cute, rolly-polly puppies that would love to meet you. If you're still interested in speaking with Petite Fleur Pugs about their dogs, you're welcome to send a message with any questions. Warren Gosdin is from Pennsylvania and breeds Pugs. As a brachycephalic dog, they are more sensitive to heat and can easily become overheated. The Pug is a small breed of Dog with distinctive features, specifically a wrinkly, short muzzled face and curly tail. Pug puppies for sale near me. Pug originated from China and were originally brought to. Pug, Vermont » Windsor Premium. Pugs for Sale in Brattleboro, VT. Where can I adopt a Pug? This area of Vermont is the picturesque Vermont we all love and right on a lake. Don't miss what's happening in your neighborhood. Browse thru our ID Verified puppy for sale listings to find your perfect puppy in your area. Pug Puppies for Sale in Maryland. Puppies for Sale from Vermont Breeders. Our Pug puppies are raised in a family environment and interacted with daily to prepare them for a smooth transition to their new homes. Pug Puppies for Sale in Connecticut. Pug puppies for sale in Vermont with Price. Pug Puppies for sale In Vermont! We have 2 handsome black with small white stripes on the chest boys, 1 black with a thin stripe girl, and 4 fawns girls. Choosing a new puppy can be an exciting yet challenging experience. If you are unable to find your Pug puppy in our Puppy for Sale or Dog for Sale sections, please consider looking thru thousands of Pug Dogs for Adoption. The search tool above returns a list of breeders located nearest to the zip or postal code you enter. Pug Puppies for Sale in Nevada. Pug puppies for sale in New Hampshire from trusted breeders. In contrast, buying Pugs from breeders can be prohibitively expensive. Pug puppies for sale in Burlington, VT from trusted breeders. Gretchen has been spayed, fully vetted and is pending a dental, date yet to be scheduled. They will be ready to go April 24th I am taking deposits. But, there are safe ways to exercise brachycephalic dogs to help your Bugg get the movement they need to stay healthy. They have received all their shots and de-worming. Pugs for adoption in the Rutland, Vermont area come with a year health guarantee. We will have auctions, raffles, contests and more! The people and pugs will have access to the lake if its a warm day. Loves kids and other dogs. Pug Vermont handsome pug puppies. Find a Pug for adoption at dog rescues or shelters near Vermont. If you want an affectionate companion that resembles a monkey with its impish looks and childish pranks, you cannot overlook the Pug. Pug Puppies for Sale. Vermont Litter. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find. We will have both males and females available. They are ideal house dogs good in. Pug Puppies for Sale Rated 5. Our Pug puppies for sale are sure to bring joy, cheer, and laughter into your home! Pugs may be small, but they have a huge heart that loves being with humans and bringing joy and laughter to their owners and families. Pugs for adoption in the Shelburne, Vermont area come with a year health guarantee. Find your Pug puppy for sale in Vermont. Our pups are born right in my living room. Find your Pug puppy for sale. Petite Fleur Pugs is not currently accepting new applications for puppies. Our beautiful Pugs are raised with the utmost care by our licensed and responsible breeders. Get notified when they become available. Find a Groomer Trainers Search. Looking for a cute Pug puppy for adoption near Rutland, Vermont? You've come to the right place. Vermont: Pug Breeders Below is a sample search of our Pug breeders with puppies for sale. You want a puppy that will fit well with your lifestyle and family dynamic. They are up to date on their shots of vaccines and they will come Pug Vermont handsome pug puppies. They wil Pug Vermont beautiful males and females pu Vermont, Stowe, .These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Vermont. Find a Puppy Groomers Find the right local groomer for your dog's grooming needs. They grow up to 20 pounds 10 inches, and their coat comes in black, silver or fawn with black markings. Blue Healer, Vermont » Hyde Park. Find a Pug Non-standard puppy from reputable breeders near you in Vermont. These pups have been loved around the world for their charming, loving, and curious personalities. Johnsbury, VT More. Despite their tiny size, they have the biggest hearts. Our pups are raised in my house with my kids and VERY well socialized. We are located in southern Vermont and will travel to meet with our pups for a small fee, within reasonable distance or we will ship our pups, buyers expense. Recently Sold Puppies. Pug originated from China and were originally brought to Europe in the sixteenth century. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. Pug puppies for sale Find Pug breeders with puppies for sale near Vermont Pug breeders directory Enter your 5-digit U. Awesome pups with great personalities. They come with papers, first shot and dewormed. French Bulldog Puppies. Transportation to Vermont available. Learn more puppies available certified breeders Transportation Location Color. Find Pug breeders with puppies for sale near Vermont. Green Mountain Pug Rescue. Female Available. Search for your perfect puppy. Box Brownsville, VT More. Pugs are true joy bringers from the moment they are born. BUDDY is our beloved family pet and proven stud dog. Originating in China to be a pampered and cherished pet, your new Pug. VT Find Pug puppies for sale Near Vermont Smart and playful with a short muzzle and expressive eyes, the Pug's low-key lifestyle makes them perfect city dogs. Pug Puppies of Boston. To learn more about each adoptable dog, click on the "i" icon for fast facts, or their photo or name for full details. Here, at Premier Pups, we specialize in raising happy and healthy Pug puppies. Pug For Sale in Vermont .Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. Pug Puppies For Sale in St. Choosing a new puppy can be an exciting yet challenging. Nickname: Belle on PuppyFinder. Find your Pug puppy for sale Puppies. For out-of-state customers, we have nationwide delivery options tailored to every need. Find Pug puppies for sale Near Burlington, VT Smart and playful with a short muzzle and expressive eyes, the Pug's low-key lifestyle makes them perfect city dogs. Bugg Puppies for Sale Thanks for visiting our Bugg page! Currently, we do not have any Bugg puppies available, but we can alert you when new Bugg puppies are available! Pugs for adoption in the Rutland, They are the best companions and get along wit. Use the search tool below to browse adoptable Pug puppies and adult Pug in Montpelier, Vermont. Use the search tool below to browse adoptable Pug puppies and adult Pug in Newport, Vermont. This ensures a lasting relationship with your new furry family member. Pug Puppies for Sale in Vermont. They come with full AKC registration, micro-chipped, wormed, and with the first set of vaccine. Pug Zu Puppies for Sale in Vermont. Best Pug Puppies for sale In Vermont! Our mission is to raise healthy, happy, adorable Presa Canario puppies and connect loving families with their new best friend! Petite Fleur Pugs in Vermont. Looking for a Pug puppy can be extremely exciting, however there are. She will be ready for adoption 72 hours afterwards. Check out some of the recently sold puppies in Vermont. A fully-grown Bugg usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. I have both parents on premise. A companion dog, pugs are very sociable, even tempered and charming. Box Memorial Drive St. Browse our Pug puppies for sale to add a fun, small companion to your home! Find Puppies in your area and helpful tips and info. A Bugg generally lives for years. Once the companions of Chinese royalty, their distinct faces are complemented by sweet demeanors. Why Is My Dog Shaking? Dogs are known for their loyalty and companionship, but when they start shaking, it can be a cause for concern for pet owners. Shaking in dogs can be a sign of various issues, from dog anxiety and dog fear to dog medical conditions. In this blog post, we will explore the common causes of a dog shaking and what pet owners can do to identify and treat the problem. We will also offer tips for preventing dog shaking and ensuring.By doing regular grooming at home, you can help your dog look its best between visits to the groomer. You also get to bond more closely and build stronger trust with your dog. Routine grooming sessions will keep your dog clean and feeling fresh, but it will also.Their personality is lively, their nature fun-loving, and their disposition affectionate. As even-tempered, sweet, and playful dogs, Pugs make wonderful playmates for kids of all ages and lovely companion pets for couples, singles, and seniors. These little joy bringers love to cuddle and are generous with their Pug love. When it comes to their family, Pugs attach like magnets. They are known to happily shadow their humans in every activity and are just as happy lazing on the couch all day as they are going for a long evening stroll around the neighborhood.

At what age is a Poodle fully grown? Poodles are considered fully grown adults at two years old and tend to show emotional signs of maturity, like a calmer nature, around 18 months. At a year old, most Poodles will have reached their final height or very close to it. However, most Poodles will require a full two years to fill out their chest and reach their final weight. Image Source: Pexels How big should a 6-month-old Poodle be? A six-month-old male Poodle will weigh around 41 to 48 pounds, while a six-month-old female Poodle will weigh about 28 to 34 pounds. Both male and female Poodles at this age stand at around 18 to 22 inches tall, which for some Poodles is already their full adult height. Pro Tip: Check out this ultimate pet parent guide with 39 dog care tips on pet first aid kits, puppy-proofing practices, training, veterinary appointments, and more! How much bigger will my Poodle get? There are a few ways to assess how much bigger your Poodle will get. The first is age. If your Poodle is less than a year old, they still have significant growth left! If your Poodle is between one and two years old, they are likely still filling out a bit, but are probably at their adult height. Do they still look oversized next to their legs and body? If this is the case, they are probably still filling out as this is a classic puppy feature! A Poodle puppy will rarely grow larger than their bigger parent, so this will also give you an idea of their maximum size. What is the size of a full-grown Poodle? According to the American Kennel Club Official Poodle Standards , an adult male Poodle is 60 to 70 pounds while an adult female Poodle weighs between 40 and 50 pounds. By these standards, full-grown Poodles will be over 15 inches tall when measuring from the ground to the highest point of their shoulders while standing. Most Standard Poodles will stand between 18 and 24 inches tall. Smart lifestyle choices are essential in keeping your Poodle happy and healthy. The Veterinary Centers of America recommend a long walk, jog, or intense play to fulfill their daily exercise needs. Poodles were bred as retrievers and, as such, are keen on games involving retrieving like fetch. Many Poodles also enjoy swimming. Due to their full coats, Poodles can put on excess weight without their pet parents realizing it. Poodles are not overly prone to weight issues with a balanced diet, but their coat can disguise weight changes. Their full coats also require regular upkeep like brushing and combing every other day, professional grooming every six weeks or so, and watching for potential eye problems. Poodles are prone to weeping eyes and eye irritation from lashes or hair, so keeping their eye area free of long hair is ideal. As a purebred dog breed, Poodles are more susceptible to genetic health problems. Many of these genetic health problems can be screened for early on using DNA technology. These early screenings can help you and your veterinarian prevent and minimize health complications from these genetic diseases. A bove all else, regular veterinary care is the best way to make sure your Poodle stays healthy. Between health screenings, regular veterinary care, bloodwork, x-rays , dental cleanings , and more, your veterinarian is your best resource in caring for your precious Poodle puppy. Be aware, vet visits can quickly become expensive - especially when immediate treatment or surgery is needed for an emergency or illness. With many treatments and surgeries costing thousands of dollars, this can quickly put pet parents in a pinch should the worst happen to their pet. Poodles are larger dogs, which can also increase the price of treatment. This is where pet insurance comes in. Pet insurance reimburses you for out-of-pocket veterinary costs and provides a safety net should the worst happen to your Poodle. As purebred dogs, Poodles are more prone to genetic health problems, like bloat or hip dysplasia, which can quickly become expensive to treat. Final Considerations Poodle puppies grow into elegant, proud dogs who are true aristocrats of the dog kingdom. We know how much your Poodle pup means to you and that they deserve the best! Give yourself peace of mind today when you use Pawlicy Advisor to compare personalized pet insurance quotes from the top Poodle pet insurance companies. 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. We will pause our breeding program until futher notice. Your puppy can remember which behaviors he is allowed and where and when he is fed. He can even begin house-training and start becoming used to being groomed. He is ready to leave his mother and littermates to go home with you, fully capable of taking his place in the family. The following list will help you know what to expect from your puppy has he develops. Most puppies will gain or grow rapidly between birth and 6 months of age. How much they grow or gain will depend on their breed, diet, and ultimate adult size. Growth is generally steady until they attain their adult size. You need to build trust with your puppy. Don't ignore crying but address the cause for the crying with attention and care. Touch is the first sense a dog develops and remains a powerfully important sense throughout his life. The entire body, including the paws, is covered with touch-sensitive nerve endings. Although they can see and hear, their sense of vision and hearing is quietly maturing. They are also developing their general sense of smell. This means you will need to take them out at least every 3 hours to get them "housebroken". A general rule of thumb for how long puppies can hold their bladders: one hour for every month of age, plus one. So if a puppy is two months old, he can wait up to three hours. Although capable of learning, they have a very short attention span. Keep a variety of simple toys for your puppy to investigate. He will also play rough and tumble with his littermates and will gradually begin learning to play by himself. It is extremely important that puppies socialize with people at this age. Include lots of people of varying ages, sizes and shapes to interact positively with your pup. Some puppies have a brief phase of "fear" at this time as they may respond to noises or new objects. Expose your puppy to new objects and allow them to investigate on their own terms until they are comfortable with the new situation. After all, most puppies just learned to walk at 3 weeks of age and run at 5 weeks of age, which was just a few short weeks ago. They are developing their gross motor skills that help them to run, play, and "hunt". Their fine motor skills will come later. Puppies also learn to jump up at this stage. This is a normal behavior that can turn into an undesirable behavior when the puppy reaches adult-hood and jumps on every visitor. You can begin correcting your puppy and giving him positive reinforcement for good behavior. Get your puppy used to the brush and comb by gently using them on him for very short sessions that are kept positive. Don't hold your puppy down to be brushed or combed if he does not want to be. Their muzzle is getting longer but overall they have the characteristics of a puppy. The ears may begin to stand up in some breeds. The rest is spent eating, playing and eliminating. Their body temperature at birth is around 94 — 97 degrees. They are not able to regulate their own body temperature so they depend on their mother for warmth. They also cannot see or hear or eliminate on their own. They cannot walk. About all they can do is smell, suckle and crawl. They are totally dependent on their mother and the environment the first 2 to 3 weeks. They are mostly influenced by their mother and litter-mates during this period. We weigh the puppies everyday the first 2 to 3 weeks. Week Two: Poodle Puppies usually open their eyes around 8 to 10 days and their ears around 13 to 17 days. While sleeping all healthy and contented puppies will twitch. This is an activated sleep, characterized by muscle twitches. This is normal and healthy. Week Three: During the third week we will often see teeth start to erupt and the puppies will start to stand and walk around. Everyday is amazing to see these helpless puppies start to become independent. At this age their nervous system is more developed so that they can urinate and defecate by themselves. This is when the puppies will also start to play a little bit more with their litter-mates. This week is very important in the puppies emotional development. They will start not only the interaction with their litter-mates but also with their mother. We never start the weaning process during this week. While mother may come out of the whelping box during this week she will never be far. Week Four: At this age the puppies will be introduced to our own homemade puppy mush and their supplement which will help grow their immune systems. Puppies are born without an immune system and depends on their mother to supply this protection through her milk. Their body temperature will usually be around degree and they will be able to begin regulating their own body temperature. Every day they will eat more and more. The puppies will start to eat more food and move around more easily. They may even start to chase each other, bark, and bite. We still weigh them at least every other day if not every day. This is the time that the mother starts leaving the puppies at longer intervals of time and start to regulate their nursing. So this is a good time for us to introduce the puppies to the weaning box and start the weaning and potty box training. Week Five: Puppies start to establish some sort of dominance in the pack. Growth and development is rapid in this week. They become very aware of their surroundings and respond quickly to training. They begin to growl, play, challenge, and learn disciple from their mother. They also develop a bit of a competitive spirit. Training ability is developed and puppies are ready to begin learning. They also start to discover their toys and play with them more. Keeping them stimulated is important. Puppies can start to control their need to potty and now know they need to move away from the sleeping area. Good experience with people from week 5 — 7 will play a large roll in how they will continue to interact. Week Six: By this time it is amazing to see that little puppy wake up and walk over to the potty box to eliminate. Puppies enter their socialization period by the end of the third week. However, the most critical period — age six to eight weeks — is when puppies most easily learn to accept others as part of their family pack. The integrating of the human family is so important and will effect them for the rest of their life. The puppy brain waves look of an adult dog by about the 50th day, but he is not yet programmed — that is the job of the human trainer, and the job of his mom, siblings and other canine family members. This is when the fun begins for all humans and puppies. We know how important this time is for puppy to adjust to humans and how playtime stimulates their little brains to grow smart and wise. We introduce them to the outside. We bring in more interactive toys. We introduce them to the pool, weather permitting. If outside pool is out we use the grooming bath for water play. They also learn not to bite the human hand ever! It is at the 7th week, day 49, that we conduct the Volhard Test. This is actual one of several that will occur through its life. Instead of meeting new or familiar people and objects with curiosity puppies start to react with fearfulness. Anything that frightens them at this age may have a lasting impact. So take care that the baby is not overstimulated with to many changes or challenges at one time. This does not mean that your puppy will grow up to be a scared-y-cat; it is simply a normal part of development where puppies learn to be more cautious. Careful socialization during this period helps counter fear reactions. Because your puppy is actively working on social skills and is paying attention to both litter-mates and humans. Your puppy is learning at an extremely fast rate. This is why we will NOT hold any puppy beyond the 9th weeks. All puppies that cannot be picked up during puppy pickup week must enter their puppy into a training program. Weeks Thirteen — Sixteen: During this phase a puppy will attempt to challenge you for dominance. Here is where they test to see just how much they can get away with and test your level of tolerance. The more a puppy is allowed to get way with during this phase, may cause the dog to lose more and more respect for his owner. This may result in behavioral issues that can snowball if not corrected through training and obedience. Formal obedience should begin here. This will assist the dog in becoming the best he can be. This is the time your puppy will begin to understand and use ranking in terms of submission and dominance. Are you the owner going to be a good pack leader? Puppies will need to be taught what they can and cannot chew. Puppies need to be taught that it is never acceptable behavior to jump on a human, small or big. This is the time that the pack leader, the human in charge, especially needs to be confident, but firm with positive reinforcement. An obedient dog, a good canine citizen, is a pleasure to be with. A disobedient dog causes stress for all and can cause damage to things and other humans. What do I mean by that? The canine depends on a human, however, he is and his thinking is canine. He needs the human to communicate and set the standards for him. If the human does not then the dog will have no choice but set his own standards, doggy style. Be prepared to be a Good, very good, pack leader! Your puppy now understands that he has a pack which may consist of both humans and canine and his behavior will be most influenced by this group. You can expect your dog to challenge you more as he explores dominance and his role in the pack. Rather they are just working out what their rank is in the pack and what is expected of them in their position. Again: be a Good, very good, pack leader! Canines that are not spayed or neutered will also start exhibiting sexual behavior during this period. Be responsible and spay or neuter you canine. Some puppy owners hire a canine trainer to come to their home to teach them how to train. Some owners learn ahead of time what they need to do and immediately begin their puppy on this program. Still others have their puppy enter into our training program. We have much information on the website about training. And for our puppy buyer we are here whenever they need any coaching along the way. Be Consistent, Persistent and always have a Routine! Category : Puppies When you take your puppy home usually around weeks of age they will need to eat 3 or 4 times a day. At 8 weeks old we feed small meals 4 times a day at 7 am, 11 am, 2 pm and then at 5 pm. We allow them free access to water until 7 pm in the evening. An alternative is to feed 3 times a day at 7 am, 12 noon and at 5 pm. If your puppy is hungry split the meals to 4 times a day. By the time they are 10 weeks old they can go to 3 meals a day. If your puppy feels thin you can feel all the ribs and backbone easily increase the amount of food. If your puppy feels fat you should be able to feel some of the ribs reduce the amount of food. Some puppies are very active and burn up every calorie they eat, some are prone to being a little rounder and their food intake needs to be carefully monitored. Research has shown that dogs that are not overfeed have a much lower risk of developing hip dysplasia. Keep your puppy thin and healthy. We do not recommend free feeding of puppies as this makes it more difficult to housebreak your poodle and regulate their diet. Better to move to free feeding after housebreaking if you choose to. It is harder to monitor how much food they eat when free feeding and a glutunous puppy may quickly become fat. Remember a thin puppy is less likely to develop hip dysplasia. We strongly encourage you to keep your puppy on the same food we provide for the first month. Both coccidia and giardia may live in the gut of a healthy poodle and they never have an outbreak. When their bodies are stressed they are more likely to develop an unhealthy balance and the result may be a sick puppy. Moving to a new home, leaving their Mother and siblings and diet changes are all stressful. We encourage you to make as few changes as possible to your puppies diet the first month. Changing to a different dog food — go slowly. It may take a month or longer to switch foods. If at any point your puppy develops an upset stomach go back to the level of food mix that they were doing well on. Should your puppy develop bloody diarrhea take them to the veterinarian, they have most likely developed gastroenteritis and may need some medication or possibly fluids. Go slowly, new protein sources require time for the stomach to adjust. This is true not only in puppies but also adults. We continue to feed our puppies 3 meals a day until they are 6 months old. Our belief is that in keeping food moving through the puppy it allows for better consistent growth and health. At 6 months of age we start to feed 2 times a day with snacks throughout the day. We continue to feed our dogs 2 times a day throughout their life. We feed snacks several times a day to both puppies and adults which may be carrots, green beans, eggs or chicken or pieces of their kibble. We feed our poodles both kibble and home cooked food. Bully sticks are given occasionally for chewing. No Comments.

Breeds The link has been copied! Creating dog hybrids is a practice that started several centuries ago. The Catahoula hybrid is one such hybrid that has emerged over time. Some historians hypothesize that its origins date back to the mids and specifically to French emigrants that settled in Louisana with their Beauceron dogs. Over time, the French emigrants crossbred their Beauceron dogs with Native American swamp wolfdogs in their bid to create a family dog that not only has better work and hunting attributes but is also comfortable with and friendly towards children. Catahoula Bulldog Breed Appearance When it comes to appearance, Catahoulas have varying physical characteristics. But a typical Catahoula has a muscular intimidating appearance with a spotted coat and rectangular-shaped body. Their usually large head includes drop ears and a tough muzzle that is slightly tapered. The Catahoula has a thick and muscular neck while its tail is long and curved. They have varying color attributes such as brindle, solid coat colors, blue merle, and red merle. Some Catahoulas with solid coats often come with other colors e. Though deeper colors are usually preferred and white coats often discouraged, coat color tends not to be a major consideration since the Catahoula is primarily a working dog. Catahoulas tend to have a single smooth short coat but may also have a coarse medium coat. The former seems almost painted in appearance while the latter may include an extended "feathering" on the chest, hind legs, and tail. They may have a single eye color or a mixture of colors such as brown, blue, amber, or green. The hog dog nickname was coined by their earliest breeders because they were intended to be wild pig hunters. In those days, legend has it that what is now Louisiana was home to a large number of wild hogs. They are popular elements of American history and culture. They also have enhanced hog-hunting capabilities, just like the Catahoula Leopard dog. At the end of the Second World War, American bulldogs were nearly extinct. Because of the myriad of duties they performed, breeding them again in larger numbers was a challenging project. They often exhibit minimal or no shedding because of their smooth, short coat characteristic. Shedding usually arises if situations that lead to stress occur. They are also not known to exhibit drooling. Hence, brushing it once a week will do. Brushing helps remove hairs from your furniture, clothing, and other areas. Long unkempt nails can induce pain and may even alter the way it walks or runs which can result in injuries with time. If your dog is not a fan of having their nails trimmed, you can try introducing a Scratch Board. Bathing should be discretionary and only done when you deem it an absolute necessity. However, American bulldogs are an exception to this rule. This is because dirt and bacteria can gather quickly on the folds and wrinkles in their skin. Hence, these wrinkles and folds should be under careful observation with a view to constantly cleaning them up to ensure they do not lead to infections. Using very mild shampoos made for dogs will help keep their skin and coat healthy. If well-trained, these energetic dogs can be very intelligent, which is why they are valued as working and hunting dogs. However, it is essential to commence training at an early age. Though the Catahoula Bulldog has a somewhat wild temperament, they are always tame and will rarely exhibit aggression, especially toward those they are familiar with. They are fairly sensitive and cautious or not so friendly with strangers. In summary, Catahoulas are an obedient and playful breed that tends to be sometimes misunderstood, thanks to their spotted coats and being linked with Pitbulls. These dogs are not only extremely attentive and alert but are also not easily distracted from the instructions provided to them. Catahoula Bulldog Activity Requirements Even with their loyal and obedient nature, Catahoula bulldogs can be stubborn at times. This trait can make it a bit challenging for anyone trying to train them effectively. But this is something you can easily overcome. Apart from this stubborn streak, Catahoulas are eager-to-please dogs that enjoy potty training and typically respond well to instructions. As noted above, early initiation of training is necessary. It will enable your Catahoula to get used to training and also develop a fondness for all aspects of it. Be sure to include positive reinforcement as part of your training techniques because it will help build trust between trainer and trainee in addition to ensuring that training becomes an activity that your dog will eagerly anticipate rather than fear or loathe. The main takeaway here is that though Catahoulas can be very receptive to training, they can also be stubborn sometimes. Catahoula Bulldog Health Problems Catahoula Bulldogs are famous for their relatively strong health and lack of genetic predisposition to health problems. The main health problems to watch out for in your Catahoula are bloating and the possibility of some allergies. Cancer may also be a challenge, especially in old age. Apartment Living with a Catahoula Bulldog Being high-energy dogs can make some Catahoulas difficult to manage in an apartment. This is another reason why early training is important. If they are properly trained, their high-energy drive can be effectively managed to ensure that they are not destructive in-house. Lifespan of a Catahoula Bulldog The average lifespan of Catahoulas is years, which is not bad when compared to other medium to large-sized dogs and a fairly decent lifespan for a dog that weighs between 75 and pounds. Moreover, with extra vet care, good dieting that guards against obesity, and improved hygiene, you can get a few extra years of life for your beloved pet. This energetic breed is not only very effective for working and hunting but also a highly protective and loyal family dog. Training them is easy, though they can exhibit signs of stubbornness that can be easily subdued. In all, this is one nice dog breed that any pet lover will love to have. Little wonder the US state of Louisiana formally passed a bill to declare the Catahoula as its official dog! For more helpful articles about pet-parenting tips, check out the Off Leash blog at TryFi. Want to know more about TryFi. This is the fastest way to find your dog after an escape. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. Back then the ranchers needed a multi-purpose dog that would have the size, strength, and weight of American Bulldogs along with the endurance and agility of Catahoula Leopard Dogs so that it could be used for herding, catching hogs, and hunting bears. As a result, the Catahoula Bulldogs were developed. Temperament and Behavior The Catahoula Bulldog though works aggressively in rounding up hogs or cattle, is quite gentle towards humans. Being devoted, loving, and protective with family members, it makes a great companion animal that is always eager to please its people. Even though it is calm and laid-back, it keeps a watchful eye on its surroundings. It is always suspicious of strangers and will warn its owner when it senses danger. The dog is typically at ease with kids and can get along well with other dogs when raised with them. Care Exercise Give your Catahoula Bulldog a minimum of minutes of daily exercise. Aside from taking it on daily walks, engage its mind with fun activities such as play and training sessions in a solidly fenced yard. Do not tie it out and leave your pet dog on its own in the yard. Grooming Bathing it times a year and brushing its coat once a week will take care of its minimal grooming needs. Make sure that its nails be trimmed, and the teeth are kept clean. Health Problems Although no breed-specific diseases have been reported, the Catahoula Bulldog can get affected by any of the health issues commonly seen in its parent breeds. These include canine hip dysplasia, deafness, cherry eye, ectropion, entropion, bone cancer, problems of the kidney, and thyroid disorders. Training Catahoula Bulldogs respond well to training because of their inherent smartness and devotion to their owners. Socialization: To make it friendly towards other animals, especially dogs, early socialization is needed. You can enroll your puppy in socialization classes, but make sure that you take your pet to parks, dog-friendly stores, and events where you can introduce it to other people and their pets. Leash Training: In order to control its hunting instincts, begin leash training and let it wear the harness and leash for short durations. If your dog pulls in the opposite direction, stand still and do not jerk the leash. Start moving once your dog settles down and comes to you. Do not drag your Catahoula Bulldog along with you. Feeding Ensure that your Catahoula and Bulldog mix is on a nutritious diet. You can give it four to five cups dry dog food on a daily basis. Interesting Facts Catahoula Bulldogs shed more when they are stressed or excited. They can use their ears in such an expressive way that it is believed that they can communicate with them. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Catahoula Bulldog Highlights Catahoula Bulldogs are mixed breed dogs. Catahoula Bulldogs come in a range of colors. They can be all white or all dark, or they can come in a mix that also includes gray and brown. These dogs posses short, dense, and straight coats that are often described as looking glossy. Weekly brushings will suffice for the breed. Shedding is very low, too. Catahoula Bulldogs are some of the most loyal dogs around. This is not a a dog that will do well living in an apartment—and destructive behavior might occur due to boredom and restlessness. The breed has a record of being a very popular dog in the southern states of the USA, mainly due to their ability to hunt down and catch bears and hogs and herd cattle. Although, as is always the case with newer dog breeds, exact size standards might vary. Most weigh in at 75 to pounds and range in height from 24 to 26 inches. It goes without saying that such a powerful and energetic dog needs to be socialized properly from a young age. While the breed can form strong bonds with children, correct training is key. Catahoula Bulldog Health Catahoula Bulldogs are generally considered to be healthy dogs—although the breed can be predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Catahoula Dog and American Bulldog face. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Catahoula Bulldogs require lots of exercise—as with any dog, obesity can become an issue if suitably satisfying walks are not maintained. If you have access to very large, open outdoor spaces, this dog will enjoy running alongside you. Catahoula Bulldog Feeding An ideal Catahoula Bulldog diet should be formulated for a medium to large breed with high energy. Catahoula Bulldogs posses short, dense, and straight coats that are often described as looking glossy. Weekly brushings will suffice for the breed—the likelihood of developing mats is exceptionally low. Thankfully, for a dog who loves to spend so much time engaging in energetic pursuits outside, the Catahoula Bulldog rarely suffers from any odor issues. If you live in a place with harsh winters, the Catahoula Bulldog is not likely to appreciate the environment. Also, make sure to teach your children how to properly act around the dog. This might not be the best dog to bring into a house already ruled over by a couple of cats. As with all dogs, early socialization pays off—so make sure to reward your Catahoula Bulldog for good behavior and adhere to a proper training regime when you bring them home. Catahoula Bulldog Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Catahoula Bulldogs because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Catahoula Leopard Dog or American Bulldog breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Lifespan Sociability With these dogs being steeped in such history, they are a popular family pet. If you have an active family with a large and spacious backyard, have the time and patience for training, and are up the challenge of taking on such a powerful animal, they are not a difficult puppy to find. They are frequently bred with each other as opposed to being first-generation mixes, which makes them a healthy and robust breed with few genetic health issues. Catahoula Leopard Dogs were originally bred to hunt pigs. This somewhat unflattering name was bestowed upon them by their original breeders due to their original purpose of hunting wild pigs. The story goes that when the first settlers came to what is now known as Louisiana, it was overrun by wild hogs. The Catahoula Leopard Dog must have done its job well, as the dogs were so revered that they were named the official state dog of Louisiana in .American Bulldogs also have a history of pig-hunting, and so if hunting is your thing, Catahoula Bulldogs may just be an ideal choice! There are different breed lines. These massive dogs can weigh in at up to pounds. The McMillin line in particular is known for stunning glass-blue eyes. These three lines have mixed back and forth over the years and caused a massive variation in the size and coloring of the Leopard Dog breed as it is today. American Bulldogs were almost extinct at the end of World War II, and re-establishing the breed posed a challenge due to the wide array of different functions that the American Bulldogs were typically used for. American Bulldogs have large litters of puppies With most medium-sized dogs, you can expect a litter size of around five or six puppies, eight at the most. But American Bulldog females are known to routinely have nine or 10 puppies per litter and in some cases, up to 16! An American Bulldog crossbreed clinched the Guinness World Record for the largest litter of puppies ever , giving birth to an incredible 21 puppies. Despite these intimidating looks and somewhat wild temperament, these dogs are rarely aggressive. They are gentle and sweet animals that are wary of strangers and are known to be fairly sensitive pooches. They are also highly intelligent dogs, which is what makes them such valued working and hunting dogs. In general, they are a loyal and playful breed that is often misunderstood due to their spotted coats and association with Pitbulls. They are highly attentive and alert dogs that are not easily distracted from their given directives. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They are gentle and sweet dogs that love children and are rarely, if ever, aggressive toward them. These are dogs that you can count on — loyal protectors of the family that will stay cool and calm unless absolutely necessary. Both the Catahoula Leopard Dog and the American Bulldog have traits that will translate well into family life, so you can be sure that this hybrid descendant will be a firm favorite in the family. They do have a strong prey drive due to their hunting heritage and may see smaller dogs and family pets as prey. But the right training is sure to keep this instinct at bay, as these dogs are highly intelligent and obedient. She has one blue and one brown eye. She's the best dog I've ever had, great personality, good calm easy going dog. LOVES tennis balls but easy to calm down. Great house dog, great around livestock, amazing with kids. Everyone wants to steal her from me, lol. She's 55 lbs of amazing. He is a 9-month-old Catahoula Bulldog. He loves to play.He is really laid back, especially for a male puppy! He does great around the kids and our other dogs, even the neighborhood dogs! She was from our last litter and she is a doll! He is a Catahoula Bulldog with the most unique colors I have seen in them. He can play in the yard and be very watchful of my daughters at the same time, but friendly to "invited" guests as well. He is also a very aggressive hog hunter who gets down and dirty as one of the best catch dogs I know, that can also trail the hog. Puppies can come in a wide range of coloring from merle to white with eyes being brown, green, ice blue, gold, or a combination of these. Not only are these dogs excellent all-around dogs, but they are truly beautiful to look at with their rainbow of coloring. This is Wilson's Shugah. She is a wonderful dog, full of fun! She loves kids and playing with other dogs. She especially loves puppies. She is very motherly, and will clean the puppies and take care of them, even though they are not hers! She is the Bomb! Less - The Catahoula Bulldog is not a purebred dog. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. The Catahoula Bulldog has tight skin and a very short, smooth coat. In most cases the Catahoula does not have an undercoat but may develop one if it is living in a seasonal or colder climate. Ears come in rose type or button over and are sometimes cropped for a noble look. Eye color can come in brown, ice blue, gold, emerald green or a combination of all of these. Coats come in a wide variety of colors from merle to pure white. Though utilized as a hunting, working, and guard dog , Catahoula bulldogs are often companion animals. They are said to be loyal and devoted to their people and to have strong protective instincts; they are generally calm though also alert to their surroundings. History Less - Catahoula bulldogs have been around for over years, for the most part in the southern United States. It is reported that ranchers wanted a dual-purpose dog for herding and catching hogs as well as for hunting bears. While the Catahoula Leopard Dog was very skilled at luring a hog to a pen then escaping over the back of the pen, it was not large or rugged enough by itself to catch a hog. The American Bulldog had the extra size, weight, and strong jaw as well as being an excellent catch dog, while the Catahoula Leopard had the intelligence, speed, endurance and the instincts of hunting and herding. Catahoula bulldogs are one example among many of niche working crossbreeds as opposed to "designer dogs" crossbred for appearance that are in development. Others often with pseudo-archaic names have been dubbed the Olde English Bulldogge recognized as a breed by UKC and Perro de Presa Mallorquin "saved" from extinction by extensive crossbreeding , among more experimental crosses. Although a mixed-breed dog can take on any combination of traits from one or both parent breeds, a Catahoula Bulldog tends to be a loyal, loving, and hard-working dog that can take on a variety of jobs and still fit right in at home with their family. The American Kennel Club does not currently recognize the Catahoula Bulldog, but other notable dog organizations do. Catahoula Bulldogs tend to have a calm demeanor and sweet disposition when they are at home with the family and are focused and determined while working a job. They tend to get along well with children and other dogs in the family. They also have a high prey drive, which means they need extra socialization and training when it comes to smaller pets in the household. They are fiercely loyal to their families and are protective of them, which makes them naturally suspicious and wary of strangers. Socialization and training early and often are even more important with this dog breed because of their protective instinct. A Catahoula Bulldog is a moderately adaptable dog breed. Their larger size and high energy level make them a better fit for homes with a fenced-in yard where they can run. But, they can adapt to apartment living as long as their exercise needs are met. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat. Their thin coat can also make them sensitive to cold. So, they may need to dress up with some winter dog products to stay warm when the temperatures drop. They also do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. Also, because they tend to have a high prey drive, they also have an urge to chase and follow interesting smells. Even if they are well-trained off-leash, they may still ignore your recall commands when faced with an interesting smell or chase. They can inherit none of the health conditions common to their parent breeds or they could inherit a combination of them or even all of them. With a Catahoula Bulldog, potential health concerns to be aware of include hip dysplasia, eye conditions, thyroid issues, and kidney disease. Deafness in one or both ears and blindness can also be common in older dogs of this breed. You can also ask to see the results or clearances from any health tests that have been done. The Catahoula Bulldog is highly intelligent and eager to please. This means they are generally obedient and pick up on things quickly. But, they can be stubborn at times and are intelligent enough to get away with things if you let them. These classes offer a bunch of benefits, including opportunities to socialize a puppy , so they tend to be a good idea regardless of your experience with dogs. Catahoula Bulldogs have a short, smooth coat that can come in a myriad of colors and color combinations. They shed a little year-round. Weekly brushing and the occasional bath as needed is usually enough to keep their coat healthy and looking great. Plus, if anything is happening, you can catch it early and get to the vet. You also want to practice good dental care for dogs to help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste daily is ideal. Catahoula Bulldogs are high-energy dogs. They are also working dogs, so they need a job to do to be happy. Daily walks plus plenty of playtime, time to run, and other activities will keep this dog happy and healthy. They are a powerful and athletic dog breed, so once puppies finish growing , you can try a bunch of different activities with your Catahoula Bulldog. Playing frisbee, hiking, swimming, training for dog sports, and more can all be fun things to try with your dog. You could end up finding a new favorite activity! A fully-grown Catahoula Bulldog tends to stand inches tall and weigh pounds. A Catahoula Bulldog generally lives for years. Currently, we do not have any Catahoula Bulldog puppies available, but we can alert you when new Catahoula Bulldog puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! Please enter a valid email address! Related Breeds.

Hello there! Tiny Tim was a long name for my foster momma, and one day she started calling my tiny bean and beans and I immediately responded to the nickname! I am roughly 7 months old, with the most beautiful 2 different colored eyes that always have a playful hint in them! I have lots of energy to explore, run, jump, play, and curiosity for a puppy! I love finding the mangoes in my foster parents backyard and eating them up! Some structure and guidance will help me feel more confident and make new friends! Playing outside is the best, but keep an eye on me, I love to dig holes in search of buried treasure! I am great with other dogs and people big and small! Food is left down at all times as is water, so please make sure I have plenty of water after coming in from playing so hard. I am given 1 chew a day, and training treats for learning how to sit, stay, and lay down. I used to have toy aggression and food aggression, but my foster momma always made sure I had plenty of food and toys to play with when I was bored I absolutely LOVE squeaky toys, from small unicorns to giant snake toys, I love nibbling, chewing, and squeaking them for hours. I have been known to run with mangoes and be vocal all the while! I am not your typical puppy, I am a sweet and loving boy looking for my furever home with my furever parents! I am neutered, up to date on vaccines, and microchipped. Adopt at www. This mixed breed requires plenty of exercise and games to avoid boredom—otherwise, they'll tend to find their own mental stimulation in the form of naughty. The genetic mix of the brave, strong German Shepherd and the hard-working Husky results in a family-friendly German Shepherd Husky Mix. Florida Siberian Husky Rescue. Looking for a Shepsky puppy or dog in Pinecrest, Florida? Adopt a Pet can help you find an adorable Shepsky near you. Browse search results for german shepherd husky puppies for sale in Florida. Shepsky puppies. A National Breed Club Parent Club is a national organization that is dedicated to the preservation, protection and advancement of a dog breed. She's about 3 months old and » Read more ». Florida German Shepherd Rescue. Many factors affect the price, including gender, breeder, location, availability, and even things like eye color and markings. So, once puppies finish growing, you can try a range of higher-impact activities like playing frisbee, running, hiking, or even training. Whereas purebred dogs have a wealth of proven knowledge, most mixed-breed dogs, such as the German Shepherd Husky mix, do not. German Shepherd Mix Puppies for Sale. Thankfully, they are versatile and athletic dogs. German Shepherd Husky Mix breed information. Be Bright German Shepherds. This active, intelligent, working dog is a regular puppy powerhouse when it comes to cool genetics. Temperament Athletic, loyal, independent Breed fast facts. AmericanListed features safe and local classifieds for everything you need! The mother is a terrier Pets and Animals. When buying any dog category, it is best to discover a valid breeder with an excellent record. Learn more about the temperament and health of a Shepsky and how to adopt one. This pup is prepared for anything. When you mix together an intelligent German Shepherd and a majestic Siberian Husky, you get a mix also known as a Shepsky or a Gerberian Shepsky. However, there are many types of huskies, and not all of them are from Siberia. Top FAQs. I am no longer able to take care of her due to my busy schedule. Siberian Huskies for Sale in Jacksonville. German Shepherds for Sale in Jacksonville. The Shepsky — a German Shepherd and Husky mix — is a comparatively new dog breed that is gaining popularity quickly. Age approximately 2 Husky Mix Male. She loves people and gets along with other dogs. An obedient yet independent dog, the German Shepherd Husky Mix loves spending time outdoors and could make the perfect hiking or camping companion. These dogs make great pets and working companions for humans. Check out Gerberian Shepskies on PuppySpot The price of crossbreeds are usually heavily dependent on current availability. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. Shepherd Husky For Sale .German shepherd husky mix blue eyes for sale When buying any dog category, it is best to discover a valid breeder with an excellent record. Husky German Shepherd mixes have gained mass awareness and popularity since this period, and with both breeds being individually popular, this interesting mix will forever be in demand. Georgia German Shepherd Rescue. German Shepherd Husky Mix. German Shepherd mix Sweet 4 year old girl, extremely high energy but if you exercise her enough she's a cuddle bug. Most dog owners hope to get an energetic and loyal medium-sized dog that inherits the best qualities of both parents. Use Petfinder to find adoptable pets in your area. A National Breed Club Parent Club is a national organization that is dedicated to the preservation, protection and. Shelby is sitting waiting » Read more ». If you want to adopt a dog, this breed would be a good choice due to its friendliness and loyalty. Tucker Tucker is a three-year-old German Shepherd, Husky mix that is looking for his forever home. Medications exist to help manage this condition. German shepherd mixed husky puppy. Nickname: Litter of 5 on PuppyFinder. She is just over a year old born April. Find Wolf Hybrid puppies for sale and dogs for adoption. View Ad: German Shepherd Dog. He is full of energy and enjoys daily walks and a lot of playtime. German Shepherd Husky mix is a sensitive dog They can not tolerate being alone German Shepherd Husky mix can easily tolerate Cold weather. German Shepherds for Sale in Tampa. German Shepherd Dogs adopted on Rescue Me! The blue-eyed german shepherd husky mix is constantly attentive, daring, and lively. This active, intelligent, working dog. German Shepherd MIX puppies! Fitz was Rescued out of a very High Kill Rural. Rescue and Health: Fitz is what. The daddy is a strong black AKC German shepherd champ bloodline. He is neutered, up to date on vaccinations, flea, tick and heartworm prevention he is microchipped. Rescue and Health: Fitz is what we believe to be a Husky Mix. Browse thru our ID Verified puppy for sale listings to find your perfect puppy in your area. Good in a home with Other dogs, children. Malamutes have a dense, weatherproof coat that needs daily brushing. The above paragraph provides an easy guide for. Parents have all vaccines up to date, so babies have antibodies! Also, will have first shots before you get them. We've got puppies!! Adopt German Shepherd Dogs in Georgia. With socialization and training, these pack animals will haul heavy loads over long distances. German Shepherd Husky mixes are also slightly more susceptible to developing epilepsy than most other breeds, though the condition is still relatively rare. This hybrid goes by many nicknames, including Gerberian Shepsky, German. German Shepherd Mix Puppies for Sale Alaskan Malamutes are large, hard-working, trusting Spitz-type dogs bred in the Arctic for endurance and strength. Shepherd Husky, Florida » Bristol. Find your new companion at NextDayPets. German Shepherd Mix Puppy Male puppy. German shepherd husky mix blue eyes for sale. The following are the traits: Loyal The dogs are as loyal as they come and will never disappoint you. It is an excellent partner for someone who leads an energetic way of living. Dad is a calm, intuitive German Shepherd.

We are a small family operated kennel located in the Northern Piedmont area of North Carolina. I only have dogs with excellent temperaments, good minds, strong character and nerves, nice structure and willing to please attitudes. Puppies will all have plenty of drive for training and working, but not over the top prey-monster types. Some will have more drive than others and will be very suited to sport, police K9, and other working endeavors. While other puppies will be a bit more laid back and fit in well with families as companion dogs. Over these years Janette has evaluated many hundreds of puppies and has become very adept at pegging what an individual puppy will be like as an adult. Robert Oglesby and Janette Oglesby have been involved with German Shepherd Dogs, puppy care, and training for many years. In her previous life Janette was a veterinary practice manager, veterinary technician, and kennel manager. During the past 15 years she has been evaluating, working, training, titling, and breeding these fabulous dogs. Robert, now retired, has been in veterinary practice for over 32 years and maintains the successful website www. He is responsible for the veterinary care of the dogs. A Little About the German Shepherds Our male and females are often purchased titled or started prospects from Europe after a thorough evaluation. We also use quality outside males for genetic and color diversity. More recently we are breeding, raising, training, then titling our own dogs. Occasionally some of these older puppies or young green dogs are available. Our goal is to be able to offer your family the opportunity to welcome into your home your new best friend and family protector. Coldwater German Shepherds. Our home and German Shepherd kennels reside on the waterfront of Pamlico Sound , in kennels inside our home, with ceramic tile floors which can be kept clean. The others have playtimes and training times every day with us. Our German shepherd puppies are raised inside our home, with carpet floors regularly cleaned to encourage solid footing and appropriate development of muscles and tendons. Our German shepherd puppies are handled daily from birth to ensure good socialization and imprinting. Our GSD puppies are played with daily and raised with a variety of toys and surfaces, to maximize their confidence and intellectual stimulation. The puppies from our German shepherd breeding program are suitable for Schutzhund, agility, protection, police duty or as family pets. Our goal is to produce the best German shepherd puppies that we can produce. Evidence that we have been successful is our website Testimonials page and our clients' reviews and testimonials that they have written on Yellowpages. Our German Shepherd puppies come from big boned, old style, straight backed, Schutzhund titled, imported Slovakian and Czech German shepherds which have superior drive and are pronounced in temperament. Our Czech Slovakian German shepherds male and females were imported directly from Czech German shepherd breeders, in our efforts to breed superior German shepherd puppies for sale. We purchase only German shepherds with highly rated, X-rayed, hips and elbows. All of our breeding German shepherds are certified DM free. You will not find a more conscientious and honest breeder of German shepherd puppies for sale. We are so confident in the quality of our German shepherd puppies that we offer a full health guarantee. Our breeding male and female German shepherds have been X rayed for hips and elbows to ensure that their structure is sound. They have been tested to be DM free, genetically. Their hips and elbows are OFA certified; this enables us to give such a guarantee. We are one of the few German shepherd breeders who will refund a puppy deposit, no questions asked. Most German shepherd breeders state that your deposit is non refundable. Those who have the earliest deposits on future litters are first to choose from the German shepherd puppies available. At 4 week of age we send each of the people on our deposit list three videos a week of the puppies, to help them decide which puppy they will want. Call to speak to Sandra Weiland, owner of VomWeiland German shepherds, to inquire about making a refundable deposit on a future litter. Sandra Weiland. For the complete list please see our main page page. Why Use Dog Breeders? There are many reasons why people decide not to adopt a dog from a shelter or rescue and instead go to a breeder. Other people may be looking for something more specific, such as a puppy that is bred with the intention of being trained to become a service animal for someone in need. Yet others may want to buy a dog from a breeder as a way of supporting the humane treatment of animals. When it comes to purebred dogs you should always expect to pay more than what you would pay for a mixed breed or rescue dog. A purebred dog will have a better chance of growing up to be healthy and may have fewer behavior problems than a dog who is mixed with unknown breeds. Some questions you might want to ask include: How long have you been breeding German Shepherds? Do you have any health guarantees for your puppies? What genetic tests have you had done on your dogs? What is the average price of your puppies, and what factors affect the price? When meeting with a breeder, be sure to ask lots of questions and inspect the facilities where the puppies are being raised. The puppies should be clean and well-socialized, and the parents should be friendly and healthy. Finding a reputable breeder is an important part of finding a healthy, well-adjusted German Shepherd puppy for your family. Visit Your North Carolina German Shepherd Breeder in Person Before you bring home a German Shepherd puppy, we highly recommend that you visit the breeder in person to see where and how the puppy was raised. This will give you a much better idea of what type of temperament to expect from your dog and whether or not it will be a good fit for your family. Also ask plenty of questions about the breeding process, genetic health tests performed on parents, and overall care provided to dogs involved in the breeding. Visiting your breeder in person will also give you a better idea of their personality which can help you determine if they are the right kind of breeder for your family. This will give you a better idea of the quality of puppies they produce and how well they take care of their dogs. References can be a valuable tool when determining whether or not a breeder is right for you and your family. References are a must when looking for a German Shepherd breeder in North Carolina. This will give you a clear indication of the quality of puppies that breeder provides and how satisfied their past customers have been. Meeting past customers is a valuable way to determine whether or not a breeder is right for you and your family. Make sure to ask your North Carolina German Shepherd Breeder plenty of questions about their policies, breeding practices, and overall care of dogs before purchasing a puppy from them. This is important because the breeder will need to get regular health checks on the parents and puppies. A good relationship with a veterinarian is an important part of being a responsible breeder. You should also ask your North Carolina German Shepherd Breeder for copies of all health certificates and genetic tests that have been performed on the parents. This will give you peace of mind that your puppy is healthy and has a clean bill of health. If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. Sadly, not all breeders care for their dogs and puppies the way they should be cared for. They will also be able to provide documentation that proves the puppies have been health checked by a veterinarian. Responsible breeders will always take the time to answer any questions you have about their puppies. The American Kennel Club AKC is a not-for-profit organization that is dedicated to upholding high standards in the breeding and showing of purebred dogs. If your breeder is registered with the AKC, it means they are committed to following these high standards. A good way to determine whether or not a breeder is responsible is by checking to see if they are registered with the AKC. Here are a few things you should do: Set up a crate and put a bed inside of it. Buy a few toys and treats to keep your puppy entertained. Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. They will need to get checked out and begin their vaccinations. Start training your puppy as soon as possible. It will make life much easier for both of you in the long run. Potty Training your New German Shepherd Puppy One of the most important things to do when you bring home a new puppy is to start potty training them. Here are a few tips: Take your puppy out every hour, on the hour. Reward them with treats and praise when they go potty in the right spot. Simply clean it up and continue to take them out regularly. By potty training your puppy, you will be saving yourself a lot of headaches down the road. Most of the time, a wire dog crate with a foldable metal frame will do just fine. However, keep in mind that every dog is different and some might require a plastic or wood kennel instead. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. A photo of Alwa X Alan Schrom previous litter taken when they were six weeks old is on the right. To see other YouTube videos of other litters, go to YouTube. Alwa z Eurosportu X Alan Schrom pups at 6 weeks. The barrier is 16 inches high. These were HUGE puppies! Our goal is to provide the best German shepherd puppies that we can produce. To that end, we provide meticulous prenatal care and nutrition to the pregnant dam, followed by intensive socialization of the puppies, including play with a wide variety of toys, supervised play with children, trimming of nails, tattooing of their ears, and potty training. Evidence that we have been successful is our Testimonials page which has many notes from happy puppy clients. Also, check out our reviews and testimonials on yellowpages , then click REVIEWS and read over 30 reviews submitted by happy owners of our puppies. We strive to breed the best German shepherd puppies possible. Read the Diary of a German shepherd puppy to get a sense of the intensive care that we give our puppies. Call to speak to Sandra Weiland to inquire about placing a refundable deposit on any of our future litters. Our kennel and each pup's baby book See a 5 minute visit to part of our kennel that shows you the baby book that we make for each pup. We have one page for each week the pup is with us. We insert a puppy paw print at the beginning of each week. We add daily weights, and document all procedures, such as nail trims, worming, vaccinations. We are proud of the care we give our pups The book starts with photos of sire and dam, followed by pedigree of sire and dam, titles and achievements of each of their Slovakian ancestors. Next are the 9 weeks of the pup's life, with milestones described, and notes on each puppy's behavior. We send three videos a week to our clients, starting at 4 weeks of age, to help them choose their pup. Images internally provided The majestic German Shepherd is renowned globally, not just for its striking appearance, but also for its intelligence, loyalty, and trainability. Among the diverse color variants of the German Shepherd, the black short-haired version is a captivating sight, a blend of power and elegance. Historical Roots Originating from Germany in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the German Shepherd stands out not only for its imposing stature but also for its unparalleled combination of intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. This breed has secured its spot as one of the most recognized and beloved dogs in the world. Physical Attributes Short haired German Shepherds are medium to large-sized dogs, showcasing a blend of strength, agility, and elegance. They have a dense double coat that can vary in length and color, from black and tan to sable or even all-black. Their almond-shaped eyes exhibit intelligence and curiosity, while their ears — often erect and forward-pointing — add to their alert demeanor. Temperament German Shepherd puppies are known for their intelligence, making them quick learners and highly trainable. Their loyalty to their handlers or family members is unmatched, often leading to strong protective instincts. This protective nature, coupled with their bravery, has made them indispensable in roles like police work, search and rescue, and military operations. Socialization from a young age is crucial to ensure that their protective instincts are well-balanced, preventing undue aggression or timidity. By visiting their website, potential adopters can gain insights into available litters, the health and pedigree of the puppies, and the meticulous care they receive. Complete with photographs, detailed descriptions, and contact information, the German Shepherd Puppies NC website simplifies the journey of finding and adopting a short-haired German Shepherd puppy, ensuring that residents of North Carolina are only a click away from their future four-legged family member. Their years of expertise have given them a unique understanding of the breed, allowing them to provide puppies that are both healthy and well-adjusted. Top-Rated Breeder: The accolades speak for themselves. Their meticulous care ensures that every puppy is healthy, well-socialized, and ready to be a part of a loving family. Passion for the Breed: Their undying love for the German Shepherd breed is palpable in every interaction. In Conclusion The journey to finding the perfect pet can often be filled with uncertainty and countless options. However, when it comes to black short-haired German Shepherd puppies in North Carolina, the path becomes straightforward. German Shepherd Puppies NC, with its impeccable reputation, decades of experience, and genuine love for the breed, is undeniably the best choice for families looking to adopt. Ambassador With a passion for storytelling and a commitment to the highest standards of journalism, Victor Williams brings his extensive experience and global expertise to his contributions for NY Weekly. His education in world history sparked his interest in traveling the globe and gaining a deeper understanding of different cultures and societies. Through his travels, Williams has gained a wealth of knowledge and experiences, which he draws upon in his reporting. With a commitment to journalistic excellence and a love of adventure, Williams continues to be a leading voice in the world of news reporting. Next Post. Puppy pads Create a Schedule German Shepherd pups would do well with a schedule. Dogs live with a routine, and they are easy to train by having one. For this reason, make a schedule of the things you need to do regularly. Eventually, your pup will learn the routine events and will make itself adept at them. It will help you prepare for your pet, especially in the first few days of living together. As you allow your pet to adjust, do your best to create a stress-free environment for it. Always supervise it as it familiarizes itself with its new home. Still, it would be best to prepare yourself for loud noises when your pet is asleep. Moderate Training German Shepherds are highly trainable. It simply means they respond well, especially to positive reinforcement. Squeaky Toys Out of all toys, your pet will love the squeaky ones. For this reason, prepare for a lot of loud squeaks every time your pet is active. Thus, in picking your pet, you may want to consider getting it from the best. Tells you any health problems A good breeder will tell you any significant health problems in any of the dogs he or she bred. Asks more questions than you A good breeder would ask for more items from you than you would for him or her. Not in a hurry to send off A good breeder is not in a hurry to send the puppies off and get your money. He or she will even show you other breeders and veterinarians caring for their dogs. Requires expectations on both sides A good breeder will create a contract that offers not only what he or she expects from you. More than that, he or she will also show what you can expect from him or her. Sends puppies properly A good breeder will never send a puppy in a compartment and without any responsible person to go with it. Works only with one or two breeds A good breeder works only with a single or a couple of species. Shows breeding experience A good breeder shows her dogs in recognized confirmation shows. He or she will also join his or her breed in other breed-related performance events. Other states. Located on the East Coast of the United States, North Carolina is known for its scenic landscapes, bustling cities, and an abundance of dog-friendly activities. Our mission is to connect you with the most outstanding NC German Shepherd breeders and puppies for sale in the region, ensuring you find the perfect addition to your family. Our site features a wide variety of reputable breeders who specialize in raising healthy and happy puppies. Our North Carolina breeders are committed to raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations and veterinary checkups to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide ongoing support and advice to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new furry friend. Explore the vibrant dog-friendly scene in North Carolina, featuring welcoming restaurants, expansive dog parks, and captivating dog shows. For those passionate about dog shows, events like the Tarheel Cluster Dog Show and the Carolina Kennel Club Dog Show offer an opportunity to appreciate the elegance and charm of German Shepherd canines while connecting with fellow enthusiasts. With an estimated 2. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our reputable German Shepherd breeders provide safe and affordable flight delivery, complete with a dedicated flight nanny who accompanies your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring their safety and comfort as they travel to their new home in North Carolina. Many breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery, utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option allows your German Shepherd puppy to be transported directly to your door by a professional who understands the unique requirements of pet transportation. Begin your search for the perfect German Shepherd puppy on TrustedPuppies.

They Are Naturally Mouthy Golden Retrievers are a mouthy breed, to begin with, they are naturally inclined to pick up and hold anything and everything in their mouths. While it may seem like there is something wrong with your puppy to cause him or her to bite so much, rest assured, all puppies bite, not just Golden Retriever puppies. Play Behaviour When you see a litter of pups play together, they often nip and bite at one another. It is their way of socializing and initiating play. Your puppy will bite and nip at you during playtime with you because it is a natural behaviour to them. They Are Teething Many people associate puppy biting with teething, however when a puppy is teething they will resort to chewing and mouthing in order to relieve their pain. They may chew or mouth on your hands and fingers, but teething is not the cause of biting that every puppy owner experiences. Puppy biting is most often just play. To summarize, puppy biting is normal and should be expected as a puppy owner. In general, biting will naturally subside in Golden Retriever puppies around the age of months. This is around the time that their adult teeth have come in. Puppies at this age usually already know how to moderate their bite, and will not bite or nip at you as much as they did when they were younger. While biting anything and everything is normal behaviour to your puppy, it is not something that you want your puppy to continue to do. It is up to you to teach your puppy not to bite humans, especially children. Take a look at the common mistakes puppy owners often make, and learn to avoid them. Puppies who are excited bite more. Children often fall victim to the most puppy bites because they get very excited around puppies and this just gets the puppy going which results in biting. Any attention that you give your puppy after they bite you will seem like a reward to your puppy, and the biting will just continue. Yelling at your puppy, pushing them away, talking to your puppy, or even looking at them is giving them the attention that they want. Bite inhibition is when your puppy learns how to control the strength of his bite. Puppies learn this skill when they are with their littermates, which is why they need to stay with them and their mother until they are 8 weeks old. Playing with their littermates teaches puppies that biting too hard hurts and will end playtime. The puppy then learns to bite softer. When your puppy comes home with you, it is up to you to teach your puppy how to control the force of their bite. Biting down on the thick fur coat of his mother or littermates is a lot different than biting down on human skin. By not teaching your puppy bite inhibition, you will risk your puppy turning into a dangerous adult. Puppy bites are a lot different than adult dog bites. Once your puppy learns how to control the strength of his bite, eventually the bites become gentler, and in time, your puppy will learn to stop biting altogether. This is part of teaching your puppy bite inhibition. This is a way to mimic how puppies play together, when one puppy bites another puppy too hard, that puppy yelps in pain, and will walk away. In some cases, puppies could get even more worked up by the noise and keep on biting. This is when you need to walk away. When your puppy has calmed down, you can resume playing with your puppy. When your puppy bites you again, repeat the steps of yelping and walking away. Eventually, your puppy will learn to soften his bite, because biting too hard ends playtime. The following video discusses why puppies bite, how to teach bite inhibition and how to survive puppy biting. It is a good idea to have a few chew toys on hand to offer up as a distraction from your skin. Check out this list of the best teething toys for puppies. This will get your puppy to stop and focus on being obedient. A great way to solve boredom is by going for a walk with your puppy. How much exercise should you give your Golden Retriever puppy? A good rule of thumb is 5 minutes of exercise for every month that your puppy is alive. So a 3-month-old puppy should get 15 minutes of exercise a day, a 5-month-old puppy should get 25 minutes per day, and so on. This is in addition to and not instead of playtime. Bitter Apple Spray can also be used to prevent your puppy from nipping and biting at you. Before you interact with your puppy, spray it on your arms, legs, pant legs, or sleeves, anywhere that your puppy likes to nip at you. Once your puppy bites at you, he will get a bad taste in his mouth and will stop. Bitter Apple Spray may not work on all puppies, some may actually develop a taste for it. I know that when my Golden Retriever Ellie was a pup this stuff worked amazingly well, but as she got older she developed a taste for bitter things such as crab apples which are extremely sour and she once sucked on a vinegar packet that was lying on the ground! Reward Good Behaviour Every time your puppy stops biting and nipping at you, you need to see this as positive behaviour. Good behaviour should be rewarded so that your puppy learns that he did something good. Rewarding good behaviour with affection and praise is great, you can also use treats, or toys, sometimes the best reward for your puppy is just spending time with them. Be Patient and Consistent Owning a puppy requires a lot of patience! It is so easy to lose your patience at times, but you need to know that your puppy is learning what is right and wrong, and that takes time. It might not happen overnight, but as long as you remain consistent and patient, your pup will learn good behaviour. If your puppy is nipping at your pant legs or sleeves, chances are he is loving the tugging feeling and is actually already playing tug-of-war. Instead of using your clothing, redirect his attention to a rope toy. One thing to be careful of is being too rough with tug-of-war, especially when your puppy is going through his teething phase. A game of fetch offers your pup a distraction from biting, and Golden Retriever puppies naturally love to retrieve things. This is a great way to also teach your puppy to drop it, by offering a treat when your puppy drops the ball or rope toy. A well-socialized puppy will be less likely to exhibit any unwanted behaviours later on. Enrolling your pup in puppy kindergarten or arranging some play dates with other dogs who are friendly and vaccinated is a great way for your pup to learn social skills. Other dogs are sometimes the best teachers for a puppy because they will let your puppy know what is okay for play and what is not okay, in terms of biting and nipping. Always supervise your puppy while playing with other dogs. Yelling at your puppy will only make your puppy scared and confused as well as lose trust and respect for you. Common mistakes people make when their puppy is biting are pushing them away, clamping down on their mouths or spraying them in the face with water. All of these are a bad idea! Your puppy could see this behaviour as a form of play and continue biting and nipping at you even harder. If you remain calm and use a firm voice not yelling , your pup will see you as in charge. Puppies and dogs often exhibit the same behaviour as we do, if you get upset and start yelling, your puppy will just get even more excited. As unpleasant as puppy biting is, it is normal behaviour. Your puppy biting and nipping at you with a mouth full of shark teeth may seem aggressive, but it is most often just out of curiosity and play behaviour. Golden Retrievers are known for their calm and gentle demeanour, but there are rare instances where you may have an aggressive puppy on your hands. Puppies who have been taken away from their litter earlier than weeks, bad breeding, being abused, a chemical imbalance, and not being socialized are all reasons for aggression in puppies. Signs of an aggressive puppy include barking, growling, lunging at you or another dog, a stiff posture, and showing teeth. If you think your puppy is aggressive, it is important to work with a professional dog trainer or behaviourist in order to find out the reasons for aggression and work on correcting the behaviour before it gets worse. It is important to keep your calm and work with your puppy to teach him the important skill of bite inhibition, and to redirect his biting to more appropriate behaviour. Socializing your puppy, as well as rewarding good behaviour will all help to turn your puppy into a well-behaved dog. Have you tried any of the tips mentioned above? Do you have any other tips to stop Golden Retriever puppy biting? Share your thoughts and comments below, as well as any questions you may have. I would love to hear from you. Jenny I am the proud owner of a Golden Retriever named Ellie. She keeps me busy, and when she is resting, you can find me working on my blog. She is always close by though. I live in Stirling, ON Canada with my husband, and we both enjoy the never a dull moment life with our Ellie. Spread the love. Managing biting in a puppy cannot be overemphasized in importance. So, if you are taking steps to teach bite inhibition, at what age do Golden Retriever puppies stop biting? Golden Retriever puppies must learn to decrease bite force and frequency by no later than 18 weeks of age and should no longer make skin contact by six months. Puppy biting should be progressively eliminated using a two-stage training process that decreases biting force first and then frequency. Puppies have a window early in their lives where they can learn what is appropriate for biting. They should know this long before the jaw develops the strength to do damage as an adult. All owners need to be proactive early on to ensure their Golden Retriever puppies learn to bite softly. How essential is bite inhibition to learn for your Golden Retriever puppy? According to the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior , bad behavior is responsible for more deaths than infectious diseases for dogs under three years of age. As well, behavioral problems are the number one reason dogs are relinquished to shelter. While biting is not the only behavioral problem, it is the most severe and the most likely reason for a dog to be put down. So, just like going potty, eating, and sleeping is normal for puppies and us , biting is a normal and natural part of all puppy behavior, including Golden Retriever puppies. ALL puppies bite, regardless of breed, including Golden Retriever puppies. Puppies use their mouths to explore their worlds, and play biting provides puppies feedback on what is appropriate biting pressure and what is not. Puppies are not unlike toddlers, who often bite, chew, or put things in their mouths to gather information about the world or help with teething. The main difference is that human children have hands which whereas puppies do not Puppies have teeth. Puppies bite to initiate and engage in play, to get feedback about their environment, to receive feedback on bite pressure, and because they are teething. So, ultimately the only way a puppy can engage the world — be it for play or learning — is through its mouth, and for developing puppies, that means a lot of biting. But, mother nature put it there for a reason. So, the key is to work with the behavior instead of stopping something as natural to a puppy as eating, sleeping, and going potty. The first opportunity that most Golden Retriever owners have with their puppy consistently is at eight weeks. At eight weeks, owners are quick to realize that puppies at this age like to play, and play biting is a normal part of that play. But play biting among puppies starts much earlier than that. Golden Retriever puppies start play biting between weeks five to eight. During this period, puppies begin to learn critical socialization skills, including bite inhibition. In addition, play biting with its mother and littermates provides the puppy its first opportunity to learn appropriate levels of bite pressure. A Golden Retriever puppy should not be removed from the litter before eight weeks of age. Doing so compromise the early stages of bite inhibition training and socialization that your puppy requires. Quite often, homeowners punish a puppy for play biting. After all, their sharp puppy piranha teeth hurt human skin, and an exuberant puppy has not yet learned what is appropriate. However, punishing the puppy for play biting is a mistake. Biting is normal and natural for puppies. When puppy biting stops, so does the opportunity for bite inhibition training. The more your Golden Retriever puppy play bites, and receives appropriate feedback, the safer its jaws will be in adulthood. Consider an adult dog that has not been taught bite inhibition as a puppy. It seems friendly and has never bitten anyone. However, when this friendly dog is threatened, startled, or injured like when a child accidentally steps on its tail , it may react by biting without the necessary skill to control its bite pressure. A well-socialized dog with good bite inhibition often does not bite at all when startled, threatened, or injured, and even if the teeth do make skin contact, it does not break the skin. Ian Dunbar says punishing a puppy to stop biting is a big mistake. With no opportunities to play-bite, the puppy never learns how to inhibit bite force or frequency. Let your puppy play-bite but teach it what is acceptable to develop a soft mouth and gentle pressure. This bite inhibition behavior taught early then becomes ingrained as a puppy and well before adolescence, when the dog has developed significant and powerful jaw pressure. What Is Acquired Bite Inhibition? They have teeth. They pick things up with their teeth, play with their teeth, explore their worlds with their teeth, and defend themselves with their teeth. Our responsibility as dog owners is to teach our puppies that humans are not dogs but sensitive and fragile beings. Dogs learn to moderate bite pressure and frequency through acquired bite inhibition or ABI. Puppies must be taught to decrease bite force and frequency towards people, dogs, and other animals. If a dog is threatened, scared, or in pain, a dog can often bite. When we teach bite inhibition to our puppies, it grows into an adult dog that is much better equipped to moderate its bite force even when it feels necessary to bite, like getting stepped on or closing a door in its tail. As discussed in the next section, timing is critical in teaching ABI, and you must teach it during early puppyhood. I cannot emphasize this enough. Bite inhibition training is so important, says Dr. Dunbar further notes that bite inhibition does not mean a dog will never bite. Instead, it means that bite inhibition decreases the likelihood that a teeth-on-skin bite will occur. Therefore, if one does happen to occur, it will cause no, or very little damage. Hold up. Puppies should learn to bite with no pressure as part of ABI training. There are two stages of bite inhibition training: force and frequency. A Golden Retriever puppy needs to be trained to decrease the force and frequency of bites in two stages and four steps. First, the puppy must learn to bite softly and then with no pressure force. Next, a puppy must learn to stop biting upon cue and finally to never touch human skin with teeth frequency. The window for the puppy to learn ABI is within the first 4. The ability to control its bite becomes locked in during this window, provided bite inhibition is taught. Beyond that window, nothing can be done. In contrast, frequency has no such window. Therefore, decreased frequency can be taught anytime; however, it is advisable to reduce frequency by six months before an adolescent Golden Retriever has fully developed its jaw strength and all or most of its permanent teeth. Force MUST always be taught before frequency. Force has a time limit, frequency does not. Stage 1: Decrease Force Soft Bite As a first step, you should always consider hand-feeding some food at mealtimes to your puppy. Hand feeding helps your puppy get used to human hands around food, and it begins to associate your hands with good things…food! You want the puppy to release the pressure, and pulling it out removes that opportunity. It hurts, so be prepared. Your squeal and howl may actually be real. The vast majority of puppies will stop biting if you let out a high-pitched squeal or howl. When your puppy releases pressure, praise the puppy and restart the play session. Continue playing and repeating the process of squeal, praise, and reward for pressure release, and so forth. You may encounter an overstimulated puppy or tired puppy in some circumstances, and they will not stop biting. In contrast, they will escalate the biting. As a result, the puppy may have a look and act like a demon dog from hell. You may find that is escalation occurs at specific times of the day. Most notably, the puppy witching hour, which is usually in the early evening. Remove all attention by leaving the room. Go to another room and do not let your puppy in, even if it follows. You are teaching it that play of this magnitude is inappropriate, and the consequence is you will leave and not play. Wait a few minutes, return and call your puppy over; ask for sit if it knows it. When your puppy seems calm, you can try playing again. If the puppy escalates, repeat the process or end the game until some other time. As a quick side note, you should be playing with your puppy in a confinement area, so it cannot follow when you leave. Puppies should not have free access to the house, and a playpen or a gated-off room works well. In this way, you can leave, and your puppy is confined to its designated area, where it cannot follow. Why do we leave the room instead of removing the puppy instead? Because physically restraining the puppy and then forcibly removing it when the dog is already in a state of escalation is not ideal, nor is it quick enough. Ian dunbar In other words, it makes things worse. It is easy to lose your temper when your puppy behaves like an out-of-control hyena and is not listening. But, trust me, you will feel guilt as heck afterward if you allow the situation to escalate. It is much more effective to put yourself in a timeout. It teaches your puppy that the reward of play you is removed when misbehaving, and it also gives both of you a few minutes to cool down. No Bite Pressure After some time, your puppy will bite less hard or even softly. Some will almost suckle your hand. You will continue to follow the process but reduce the limit of what you find as a sensitive bite each time. Move at a slow pace. With each successive bite, even if it is a very soft bite, squeal, or howl. When the puppy reduces pressure, then praise. Keep in mind that it may take some time to reach the no-pressure stage. Be patient but consistent. Never punish the puppy for biting. Stage 2: Decrease Frequency Next, we need to focus on decreasing the frequency of biting. Using a food lure works well for this exercise. Once the pup lets go, reward the pup with ample praise for stoping when asked. Allow a few minutes for the pup to cool down, return, ask for a sit and begin again. With consistent repetitions, your puppy should quickly learn to let go of your hand when asked. Watch Ian Stone teaching puppy bite inhibition in the video below. Ian explains the importance of teaching bite inhibition and demonstrates bite inhibition training firsthand through all stages. No Mouth on Skin At five months of age, your puppy should no longer be biting with pressure, and it should stop immediately when asked to do so, including no longer making contact with skin or clothing unless invited. If your puppy has progressed through the previous three steps, it should be well equipped to bite with no pressure and stop when asked. For most people, it is recommended the puppy discontinue all mouthing behavior by 6 months. If your puppy wants to play-bite, give the puppy a chew toy as a mouthing outlet or distraction, and avoid offering hands or play fighting. However, all puppies must continue to practice bite inhibition regularly throughout the rest of their lives. According to Dr. Dunbar, bite inhibition worsens as a dog ages. And, the best way to ensure this does not happen is to hand-feed your dog and brush its teeth regularly. Your dog should also have regular access to playtime and socialization with other dogs and animals. The good news is puppies teach each other bite inhibition when playing with each other. Teaching your Golden Retriever puppy bite inhibition with other dogs requires socializing your dog with other puppies as early as possible. Puppies teach each one another bite inhibition when playfighting. Once your puppy is vaccinated, enroll it in puppy classes, take it for walks, and to the dog park daily. The bad news is until such time that your puppy is fully vaccinated, bite inhibition training must not be put on hold. That responsibility falls upon you. Most puppies are not fully vaccinated until 12 to 16 weeks of age, so you must begin teaching bite inhibition immediately when you bring the puppy home at eight weeks of age. The more your puppy bites, the more practice you have to teach it to bite softly. Be consistent and make bite inhibition training the focus of your training in the first few months. Puppies love to bite while playing, so you should get ample opportunities to work on this. You are bound to want to know when your biting puppy will grow out of this phase and how you can speed that process up. Biting, as you will have discovered is usually accompanied by lots of noise! Why do puppies bite? So why do puppies bite? My puppy is biting hard Puppies do bite hard and it does hurt. But I want to reassure you that even at 8 weeks old, your puppy has learned to moderate his bite in play. Puppies have powerful jaws designed to tear through flesh and crush bones. Those of you who feed your puppy a raw diet will know that even an 8 week old puppy from a medium sized breed can crush bones the size of your little finger. He is deliberately attempting to be gentle. Puppy Biting — Bite inhibition This ability, that your puppy has, to moderate the power of his jaws in play, is called bite inhibition. It is something that his mother started to teach him when he was just a few weeks old. And now it is your turn to take over and complete the training process. Growling and Puppy biting One thing that often worries people who have a new puppy in the family, is the growling that accompanies puppy biting. It sounds horrific. Great snarls and snaps accompany the biting and the puppy can appear quite demonic as he grabs onto your skin, or clothes. Tugging away with all the strength he can muster. Ninety nine times out of a hundred this is completely normal play biting. Is my puppy biting aggressive? You cannot determine whether or not a puppy is biting aggressively by how hard he bites or by the volume of the noise he makes. Play biting puppies bite hard and growl fiercely. Some puppies do occasionally draw blood. But these are not normally savage or crushing bites and the puppy is clearly enjoying himself. Fierce but fun! The play biting puppy will launch himself at the target of his bite. Whether it is your slippers or your fingers, with equal tail-wagging enthusiasm, hanging on grimly and grabbing repeatedly when the item is removed from him. All this, shocking though it may seem, is normal, and is not a sign that your puppy is going to be an aggressive dog! In fact some of the gentlest and most amiable breeds the labrador for example are the worst and fiercest play biters. The puppy that is a cause for concern is the puppy that is frightened. Because although puppies rarely bite through aggression, the nervous puppy may become aggressive as he matures Is my puppy afraid? A scared puppy may bite and scared puppies can grow into scared adult dogs so this is something you need to address quickly. You will know that your puppy is scared because he will try to avoid whatever it is he is scared of. A really frightened puppy will sometimes give off a distinctive musky smell. This hiding, and retreating, and the scared smell are warning signs that you have scared your puppy badly, or purchased a poorly socialised puppy. In this situation you need to get specialist help right away. Your vet should be able to advise you. For the vast majority of puppy owners then, biting is normal puppy behavior. Will my puppy biting stop naturally? To some extent biting is a phase caused by natural puppy playfulness and teething. Some puppies do stop biting with very little input from their family. Which is great. You may feel he should have grown out of it by now. We can physically prevent puppies from biting and we can train puppies not to bite. Both of these are good strategies. Or when children are getting upset, or visitors are winding your puppy up. Prevention usually involves interrupting the biting behavior, then redirecting the puppy into an alternative and more acceptable behavior, such as chewing on a toy. Or, it may involve temporarily separating him from his playmates. Interrupting the puppy biting In mild cases you may simply be able to put a toy in your biting puppy's mouth and get him tugging on that instead of on your fingers. If you are on the floor with the puppy stand up. And if you are standing up, turn and walk away from the puppy. This is where dog gates come in very handy with small puppies. A standard baby gate works fine for most breeds of dog. Managing the puppy You may have to pick up your biting puppy to remove him from the scene if he is biting your children for example, rather than you If he bites your hands and clothes as you try to restrain him, put him on the other side of a barrier or in his crate or puppy playpen for a short while. Although the puppy does learn from them, these are useful management techniques to enable you to control the situation. They help you to keep your puppy calm, and prevent the biting escalating through over excitement. Over-excited puppies Puppy play biting is directly linked to excitement. The more excited your puppy gets, the more and the harder he will bite. And the harder it will be to interrupt and distract him. Rough play excites puppies and noisy play does too. Children tend to squeal when they play and get very physical with puppies. One of the first rules they need to learn when playing with dogs, especially big dogs, is to stand up and stand still when the game gets too much. Limit such play and call a halt to it if your puppy is biting. With medium to large breed dogs, physical rough and tumble play is not a great idea. It can lead to dogs bowling people over or humping them, neither of which is very pleasant. Stopping play when it gets rough is a good management strategy and it is a form of training too. Over time, your puppy learns that biting and rough play loses him his playmates and that people simply leave if he is being mean. When do puppies stop biting? Many puppies have stopped biting completely by six months of age and biting is usually subsiding by the time that the puppy is heading towards five months old. This is if the puppy has been managed appropriately If people have been exciting him, or rewarding him for attention seeking behavior then biting can persist And it can be much more of a problem in bigger stronger puppies than in little ones. Training Puppies Not To Bite The idea of this exercise is to teach a puppy to accept being stroked and handled in any way, without touching us with his teeth. The event marker is a distinctive sound. Even around his mouth, without him making any attempt to bite you. You can also make it easier for him by starting this training when he is calm and not distracted. But for now, keep things simple. It can be a good way of getting the training started so that you have chance to say YES and give the puppy the opportunity to learn what you want him to do. Over the next few sessions, you can work on getting your hand closer and closer to the puppy. Until you are brushing the sides of his face without him making any attempt to mouth or bite at you Progress to touching and holding his collar, stroking his ears, grooming him, examining his paws and so on, all the time rewarding him for the correct behavior. Anytime the mouthing returns, back up to a point where he can succeed and move forward more slowly again Bite Inhibition Training Some experts feel that puppies should be allowed to mouth and even bite gently for a week or two before being prevented from biting altogether. Simply follow the instructions for managing your puppy above when he bites hard. But allow him to mouth you when he bites gently without much pressure. This is a great way to teach a dog excellent control over his mouth. After a couple of weeks of this, you can progress to the training exercise I outlined in the previous section. Older puppies that bite in play have often learned that this gets them a lot of attention. They have discovered that people squeal and shout and get quite cross. Sometimes these people push and shove the dog around which young dogs quite enjoy when they are playing. For these dogs it is important that you stop all physical play, with all family members If a puppy is biting hard at your hands when you try to interrupt his game. Or an older puppy is getting out of hand biting at clothing, you need to put your puppy on a harness and house-line a short trailing leash. This will enable you to control your puppy, and take him to a calming place, without handling him. You can just pick up the end of the line and lead him away. Older biting puppies are often bright and bored. And the best approach to avoiding future episodes of bad behavior is a structured programme of training and interesting activities. A professional dog trainer using modern positive training methods will be able to help you with these. Summary So now you know some tips on how to stop your puppy from biting. The first few weeks can be tough with a determined biter in the house, but you will get through this and come out the other side. A few months from now, this difficult period will be a distant memory In the meantime, focus on keeping your biting puppy calm, avoiding too much rough play, and redirecting his biting onto appropriate toys and activities. Spend some time on the training exercise set out above. Are you a proud new golden retriever puppy parent or considering getting a furry friend? While puppies are adorable and full of energy, they can also be a handful, especially when it comes to biting. This article will cover practical strategies to manage puppy biting and help you and your pup develop a solid and loving relationship. Thus biting is natural. Their bites will become softer as they practice and learn to manage their bite strength. They will eventually stop biting entirely. While biting is a natural part of the learning process, it is essential to train your puppy not to bite excessively. Here are a few tips to get you started: Providing Chew Toys for Redirecting Biting Behavior Providing chew toys is an excellent approach to help your puppy stop biting. When your puppy begins to bite you, remove your hand or foot and replace it with a chew toy. This teaches them that biting is acceptable, but only when done with toys, not people. It is essential to keep an eye on your puppy when they play with chew toys to ensure they do not consume anything toxic. By exposing your puppy to a variety of people, animals, and environments in a controlled and positive manner, you can help them develop proper social skills and reduce biting tendencies. Socialization helps puppies learn appropriate bite inhibition and establishes boundaries for acceptable behavior during interactions. Through well-planned socialization experiences, you can guide your puppy towards becoming a well-behaved and gentle companion. Employing the Time-Out Strategy for Persistent Biting Use the time-out strategy when other methods fail to stop your puppy from biting. If your puppy continues to bite, place him on a time-out for 30 seconds before allowing him to return to play. This teaches your puppy that biting is unacceptable and will result in a loss of playtime or attention. Again, use a gentle tone and avoid shouting or scolding your puppy. When your puppy plays gently with their toys instead of biting you, shower them with praise and perhaps even a tasty gift! This teaches your puppy that good behavior leads to beautiful things. Instead, concentrate on encouraging appropriate behavior and redirecting any inappropriate biting. Your puppy will learn to control their biting and play in a friendly and safe manner with time, patience, and positive reinforcement. This entails repeating the same commands, techniques, and rewards each time you train. When you do this, your puppy learns what is expected of them and how to get rewarded. On the other hand, if you are inconsistent, your puppy may get confused and unsure of what they need to do to please you. This can make training more difficult and frustrating for you and your puppy. So, strive to be consistent in your training. However, they can get nippy during their fun exploration of the world around them. The good news is that this is a natural habit for pups, and there are ways to deal with it. Puppies prefer to bite to initiate play, learn more about their surroundings, and adjust their bite pressure, especially when they are teething. These actions are part of how they play, interact, and learn about their environment. First, however, puppies must be taught how to control their biting pressure and redirect their biting to appropriate toys and chew objects, which we will discuss later. Puppy bites, for example, can become more painful and even harmful as they increase in size. Additionally, it might lead to destructive chewing if you do not divert their biting habit to appropriate chew items. As a result, it is critical to address this habit early on through regular teaching and positive reinforcement. Understand what motivates them and what makes them more likely to engage in biting. Adjust your training methods: Not all puppies respond to the same training techniques. Some may respond better to positive reinforcement, while others may require more redirection and distraction. Consider their energy levels: Golden Retrievers are known for their energy and enthusiasm. Be patient and consistent: Training takes time, and each puppy learns at their own pace. Be patient with your puppy and provide consistent guidance. Remember, every Golden Retriever puppy is an individual, and what works for one may not work for another. With a customized approach, you can effectively address biting behavior and set your unique puppy on the path to becoming a well-behaved and happy companion. So, most puppies begin to bite and mouth less frequently when they are 8 to 10 months old. However, this varies greatly depending on the individual pup. Some may stop sooner, while others may take a little longer. Golden retrievers, for example, love using their tongues. At the same time, herding dogs such as border collies or corgis may continue to nip at ankles as they age. Just keep working with your pet and providing the guidance they require to create positive habits! Conclusion As you begin the joyful road of raising your Golden Retriever puppy, keep in mind that training and socialization are essential for producing a happy and well-behaved dog. You can teach your puppy what is expected of them and create healthy behaviors that will last a lifetime using consistent and positive reinforcement techniques. Remember that each puppy is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. You will be rewarded with a devoted and well-behaved companion if you are patient and committed to the training process. Remember to give your puppy enough exercise and mental stimulation and to continuously reward positive behavior. You can help your puppy grow into a happy and healthy adult dog who will provide you happiness for many years by doing so. By the time your puppy reaches around three months of age, they should start to develop bite inhibition and learn to control the force of their bites during play. As you continue to interact and train with your puppy, you can gradually increase your sensitivity to the level of bites you find acceptable. By the age of four or five months, their play bites should no longer exert any force. Can I use physical punishment to stop my puppy from biting? Certainly not! To stop a puppy from biting, never use physical punishment. It is not only ineffective, but it can also be harmful and cause long-term behavioral issues. Instead, train your puppy using positive reinforcement techniques, including redirection, time-outs, and excellent rewarding behavior. What can I do? Puppies frequently nip and bite while playing with other dogs, but teaching them to control their bite force is essential. My puppy is teething. What can I do to stop them from biting? Teething is a normal developmental stage for puppies , and they naturally want to chew and bite things. Similar to what we discussed earlier. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. Golden Retrievers are notorious for this, and it often lasts so long that people wonder if it ever stops. Consider how sociable and friendly they are by nature. Why is this habit so difficult for them to break? Golden Retrievers follow their basic instinct to bite because of their history with hunting, chasing, and even biting in some situations. Why Do Golden Retrievers Bite? Golden Retrievers start to explore the world with their mouths and eventually start to enjoy chewing on whatever they can get into their mouth. It strengthens their gums and teeth, but it is not a behavior most people want to encourage. This breed is also more inclined to bite things because they were bred for hunting and retrieving small game. Aside from following their instincts, there could be other reasons that they are nipping at you or your possessions. Some dogs bite when they are scared, need help, or are in unfamiliar environments. Biting is a natural reaction for many situations. Still, it must stop before it turns into a habit. Golden Retriever litters typically stop biting around 8—14 weeks old. The pain conditions them not to bite without a threat. Keep Them Active Dogs who are mentally and physically stimulated are less likely to have behavioral issues. Exercise them daily. When playing, keep the sessions gentle. However, do not do this while they are still being trained. Image Credit: Photology, Shutterstock 3. Socialize Them If possible, enroll your dog in obedience classes as soon as possible. Some dogs feel threatened more easily than others, and they may act out around other dogs if not properly trained and socialized. Introduce them to new people and animals as often as possible. Positive Reinforcement The best form of training is with positive reinforcement. Use lots of praise and treats whenever your dog is acting in a way you want them to. You cannot afford to skip this type of training because it is the most effective. The older they get, the bigger a sign it is that you need to fix the problem. If you continue to allow your dogs to bite people , animals, or objects, someone is going to get hurt. She attributes her passion for the environment and all its creatures to her childhood when she was showing horses on weekends and spending her weeknights devoting her attention to her pets. She enjoys spending most of her time in Michigan playing with her two rescue cats, Chewbacca and Lena, and her dog, Clayton. Read more Advertisement. Read the full disclosure here. Tasty finger! Your golden retriever puppy is as friendly as can be — great with kids, respectful of other dogs, and not overly attentive to your cat. Yes, golden retrievers are known for their good-natured demeanor, but they are still dogs — not so very far removed from their wild cousins, and they can be unpredictable when faced with stressful, disturbing, or frightening situations. One of our jobs as responsible dog owners, of course, is to keep our dogs safe, but we may not always be able to protect them, and we may not always be able to prevent them from biting through fear or when in pain. What is Bite Inhibition? Puppies begin learning this from their mother and siblings as soon as they start to tumble around with each other in play. If they bite too hard, they are scolded by their mother or alerted with a yelp from their siblings. Eventually, they learn how hard is too hard, and they use their teeth more gently in play. Human Sensitive or Advanced Bite Inhibition By the time your puppy moves into your home, they will have been using their bite inhibition skills for weeks. Your puppy needs to learn that human beings are fragile and should be treated with care. There are many professional trainers who recommend that you simply train your puppy not to bite. This seems like a practical course of action, and it does work — in the short term. Teaching a puppy not to bite will give you quick results, but it may mean they never learn how much force is safe to use on people when they are forced to bite in an emergency. So if they do eventually bite, they will know to hold back the pressure safely and will not cause anywhere near as much pain or damage as they otherwise might. Why is Bite Inhibition Important? Believe it or not, even the most gentle dog that has been trained from a young age never to bite, can react to certain triggers. Those triggers are fear and pain. Consider these situations: Your dog has been suffering from chronic ear infections and hates to have his ears handled. The neighbor stops by with her toddler, who immediately runs to your dog and fondles his sensitive ears roughly. What will he do? You and your dog are walking down the road like you do every morning when out of nowhere comes a huge dog who attacks your dog without thinking twice. You manage to pull your dog away, but in the process, your frightened dog bites your arm. Your sweet golden retriever has gotten themself tangled in some barbed wire while hiking. As you loosen the wire from her skin and fur, she snaps at you, biting your hand. You may never experience any of these situations. By teaching bite inhibition while your puppy is young, you will be far safer and ready for any of these situations should they occur. Teaching Advanced Bite Inhibition Following is a general guide to the bite inhibition skills your puppy learns and when, as well as where you should aim for their skills to be at certain ages. She will start the puppies off by teaching them how rough is too rough during nursing and play. These lessons begin when the puppies start nursing day 1 and continue until the day you pick your puppy up from the breeder. This works for some puppies, but for others, it just seems to arouse the pup and make matters worse. You will have to experiment to find out what works for you and your pup. You should withdraw all of your attention from your puppy for very hard bites. Do not over-correct your puppy so they become afraid of biting. After your puppy has calmed down, use a chew toy as a reward and let them chew it in your lap or lying by your side. This teaches you puppy that there are other ways to keep their mouths and teeth busy. By four or five months, all force behind play bites should be eliminated. Kids tend to play rough with puppies, and puppies will get rough right back. Your puppy needs to know that every human being is sensitive to their bites, not just you. It is a process that sometimes lasts months, depending on your puppy. Be prepared for this, and remember that long-term results in your adult dog are more important than curtailing puppy bites as painful as they may be. Supervise your puppy around children — If you have young children at home, you will have to think carefully about how you will protect them and your puppy. Little puppy teeth can cause a lot of pain, especially when your pup is still learning to control those urges. Young children can also cause a lot of pain to small puppies. Always supervise very carefully when your pup and children are together. A tired puppy is a happy puppy — It will be much easier to teach bite inhibition if your puppy is not bouncing off the walls. Make sure they get enough exercise every day. Not only will this help with training, but it will also help prevent all kinds of other destructive behavior. Conclusion Teaching bite inhibition to your golden retriever puppy is a gift you give to your pup that will last forever.

Labrador Retriever Stages of Development Labrador Retriever Stages of Development If you are new to the Labrador Retriever world and you have a new puppy, you may be wondering when Lab puppies finally calm down. First, for those that do not know, the Labrador Retriever breed is not for those that want to lay back on the couch and toss back a few beers. Labs are people dogs meaning that they are very sociable and do not like to be left on their own all the time. They have a great deal of enthusiasm and energy. That is why it is important for this breed to get plenty of exercise and social interaction. We did a lot of research about the breed and found that many people have their own ideas on the age of maturation. In all honesty, there are differing levels of energy that the Lab will go through during its life and from the age of about 10 weeks old to 5 years old, the energy level can remain quite high. Stage 2: Toddler — This stage starts around weeks old and goes until about 5 months old. The energy level is quite high at this time as the puppy is learning all it can about the world and go through many biological changes. It tests its environment with its mouth and as it gets towards the end of this stage, it begins to chew on everything it can to try and get relief from teething. It is usually to have some terry cloth towels that have been soaked in water and sitting in your freezer, waiting to be gnawed on! Stage 3: Adolescent — This is a tough stage and starts around 5 months old and go anywhere up to a year, depending on the dog. Some would call it the terrible twos because all of a sudden, your sweet Lab baby has forgotten everything you have taught it and has the manners of any human teenager out there! Sure, they know not to go on the couch but they will test you again and make sure you meant it. This is when you need to reinforce all your training because if you let them get away with it now, it is harder to break them of it later! Stage 4: Maturing — Usually this starts around a year old and goes until the 5-year old stage. The level of energy is still high and is equal to a college student or young twenty-something adult. They get more comfortable with their surroundings and take a little more time to enjoy life and the company of their owner and family. This is more of an enjoyable time with your family Lab! Stage 5: Senior — Around 5 years and up, the little puppy you once knew with all the energy level of an energizer bunny is there in spirit but the body is slowing down more. They still have a good amount of energy but nothing compared o stages 2 and 3! Life is good and comfortable. So, when does a Lab puppy start to calm down? Well, generally it is around stage 4 but can happen before that stage. The one thing people with Labrador Retrievers, or any dog for that matter, need to understand is that each dog is different. Yes, there are certain traits in the Lab breed for which we eagerly welcomed them into our home, but just as human identical twins can have opposite personalities, so can your Labrador Retriever. For example, if you are in stage 2, there is housebreaking and teething to deal with. Your puppy also needs help with getting rid of some of that pent up energy it has and it is your responsibility to give it safe and structured ways to expel that energy. Short walks work well on soft surfaces for young pups as well as schedule play times. Whatever you choose to do, high energy levels in Labs are normal during certain stages — just remember to enjoy them while you can because your Lab will only be a puppy once. Post navigation. But those first weeks of puppy development are very similar whatever the breed, and these landmarks are good general rules for any dog. Puppy development week by week, changes quickly. Newborn Puppies Newborn puppies are born at the end of nine weeks of pregnancy, with their eyes and ears tightly closed. They already have a fur coat but they cannot yet control their own body temperature. They are dependent on their mother or another heat source to keep them warm. Newborn puppies may cry if cold. But they do not have the strength to cry for long. Newborn Labrador puppies snuggle together to keep warm when their mother is away How Helpless are Newborn Pups? Although they rely on mom for a lot at this stage, newborn puppies are not completely helpless. They can use their front feet to drag themselves towards a heat source or their milk supply. This means their mom, not milk alternatives like cow or goat milk. Newborn pups have no teeth yet. But they can move their heads about to search for a nipple, and they can latch on and suck strongly. Their mother leaves them only to eat, drink and for bathroom purposes. While she is away, the puppies will crawl together to preserve their body heat, as you can see in the photo above. They may also crawl under a heat lamp source to keep warm. In every other respect newborn puppies are completely dependent on the care of their mother. Newborn pups have little control over the rear end of their bodies. The mother dog washes them and licks their bottoms to encourage elimination, licking up and swallowing anything they produce to keep her babies and their nest scrupulously clean. In fact, he may even double his birth weight! One week later and the puppies have doubled their birth weight. Changes are taking place under his eyelids to prepare them for opening. And usually begins during the second week of life. Ears open at this point too, so your puppy will begin to hear. The Labrador puppies in this picture are two weeks olds. Two weeks old and the puppies eyes are now open! You can see that their eyes are now open and the puppies are beginning to look a little more dog-like. The breeder will be handling the puppies more now. And most puppies are wormed for the first time at two weeks old. Most 3 week old puppies can stand and sit, and are beginning to totter about. They are also starting to develop their individuality. No longer are they just a row of identical little fat furry sausages! This little three week old puppy :- Can easily be distinguished from his brother: Teething and Further Development At 3 weeks old, this is also the point at which puppies start teething — cutting their first deciduous baby teeth. Obviously the teeth are appearing for a reason! Some breeders will start to offer the first tastes of solid food at this point. Especially if the litter is a large one and putting a strain on the mother dog. It is lovely to watch a litter of 3 week old puppies beginning to interact with their brothers and sisters. They are running, playing enthusiastically, and have started to wag their little tails. The puppies will start to show bowel control as they move away from the other puppies to defecate. And solid food is becoming a major part of their diet. These little pups are tucking into some puppy food. Four week old puppies having their dinner in the fresh air If the weather is warm enough, puppies will be spending some time outdoors now. Mealtimes are a messy process, so feeding puppies out in the yard can be a good idea. Breeder Involvement Some mother dogs will lose interest in cleaning up after their pups at this point or soon afterwards. And many puppies will be wormed again this week. Vocalizations are becoming stronger at this puppy development stage. The litter will greet their mother noisily when she returns to them, and try hard to follow her out of the whelping box whenever she leaves. The puppies themselves are now eating solid food several times a day and gradually being weaned of their dependency on her milk. Puppies will still suckle ravenously when their mother returns and she will now often feed them standing up and only for a short time. She will also be teaching the puppies not to bite too hard. So, they should be increasingly spending time with humans and learning to be familiar with the sounds and sights of a human family environment. Puppies being raised in kennels must be brought into a home environment regularly from now on to ensure they develop into confident, friendly dogs. Six weeks old and full of mischief Puppies Still Have a Lot to Learn at 6 Weeks In some countries, puppies are taken to their new homes at this age. But this is not a good idea, and can result in a puppy that has poor bite inhibition and is challenging to manage. The puppies are learning not to bite too hard from the reactions of their mother and siblings. Growth is not quite so fast now. But the puppies will still grow strongly for the next few months. Many puppies will be wormed again this week. All that remains is for plenty of great socialization experiences to be packed into this week, with final checks on health. Many breeders will arrange for each seven week old puppy to have a vet check this week. And though some vets advise against it, some puppies are also given their first vaccinations before they leave for their new homes. Some breeders will now have the puppies trained to pee and poop on puppy pads or newspaper. And some will have been whistling to the puppies at meal times to get them used to coming to a human signal. Potty training is now underway and puppy socialization plans are being made. At this point, many of you will be thinking about training your puppy too. The next four weeks are vital in puppy development stages. Your main job is socializing your puppy. This means taking him to lots of new places and exposing him to lots of new experiences. So, life will be starting to get back to normal. Most puppies in the U. In the U. So, not all puppies will get their vaccinations at the exact same age. Socializing your puppy is still the most important job for you at this age. But, you cannot put your puppy on the ground outside until they have received their final vaccination. So, make sure you know exactly when their final jab is. And carry on introducing them to as many new people, things, and experiences as possible throughout this puppy development stage. Some people can suffer from the puppy blues at this stage too, as your life has completely changed! But, that does not mean socialization can stop. Puppies who are isolated at this point will soon lose that friendly fearlessness. You have an important job now, building on what has been achieved so far, and introducing your puppy to the world at ground level. This part of his education can begin once his vaccination cover is complete. He should be fully immunised at around this point. But check with your vet for confirmation of the actual date. Three months also marks the point at which many puppies will drop down from four daily meals, to three. This can cause problems for some puppies because the portions are larger If your puppy gets an upset tummy when you make this change, just go back up to four meals again for a few days, and give smaller portions for a few days when you try again. But, many will need another month before they can cope without frequent bathroom breaks and the occasional accident. Your puppy will begin to lose his baby teeth. This can also be a time at which biting can be most challenging. And try not to worry, this stage will soon be over! A few will need another month or two to complete the process. Remember, no two puppies are the same. That puppy fluffiness will have gone. For many puppies, five months is an awkward, gangly time. A five month old puppy may have shed the last of his soft puppy lines and be looking quite skinny. By the end of this month most puppies will have finished teething but an urge to chew may continue for another few months in some breeds, Labradors included. Some female dogs will have their first season during this month. But, for many, it will be another three or four months before this happens. This is a major milestone for your puppy. He is now looking very much like an adult Labrador. Still a Puppy Because he looks quite grown up, people expect a lot of their 6 month old puppy. But inside, he is still very much a puppy. The beginnings of adolescence and with it an increasing independence of spirit can bring its challenges, but also a whole lot of fun. Almost Home Campaign Puppy Developmental Stages and Behaviour To have a well-adjusted and social dog, you need to ensure his needs are met during each phase of development. Building the foundation for a great dog starts with appropriate training at each stage of development and establishing appropriate guidelines so that that your puppy is properly integrated into the family. You will see many behaviour changes during the life stages of your pup. Knowing how to handle your pup through each developmental stage will help to shape your puppy into a lifelong family member. Puppy Developmental Stages The puppy development process covers five distinct stages. However, puppies grow through these stages at their own pace and these timelines can vary. Stage 1: Neonatal Period 0 — 2 weeks This is the first stage of puppy development and begins at birth. At this age, puppies only have the sense of taste and touch and rely totally on their mother. Stage 2: Transitional Period 2 — 4 weeks Sensory development continues with hearing and sense of smell. Puppy teeth start coming through and their eyes will begin to open. Puppies will interact with their litter mates, wag their tails, stand, walk a little and bark. It is vital to understand this stage as most puppies go home to their new parents between 7 — 12 weeks. During this period, changes start to occur rapidly. Between 3- 5 weeks puppies start to become aware of their surroundings and have the ability to develop a relationship with people This is the period where puppies get familiar with the day-to-day noises of a regular household such as TVs, vacuum cleaners, telephones, etc. At this age puppies are just learning to interact with each other and beginning to play. They are also learning their doggie social skills and exploring their ranking status within their pack. Their curiosity is developing, as are their biting skills. Nipping behaviours begin as they practice biting behaviour with their mother and litter mates. At the weeks stage, they will have full use of all their senses and will be ready to go home to their new owners. Bringing your pup home usually between weeks is right in the middle of his socialization period. Therefore, it is vital that you introduce your puppy to as many new dogs, people, objects and surroundings as you can. BUT, make sure you do so in a controlled manner and never put your puppy in a dangerous situation where they can be injured, scared or contract disease. This is a great period to begin crate training, for a variety of reasons. Puppies are old enough to start getting used to being left alone to avoid separation anxiety from developing and are capable of being house-trained. Even though your home is likely puppy proofed, it also saves your possessions. During this phase of development, puppies are developing their reactions to things much more consistently. They are also likely to focus more on different types of people and should be friendly and approachable to strangers. During this time they are also going to continue to practice their biting skills a whole lot more! It is important to learn how to manage this behaviour early on. You may also notice that they are more curious and will probably look to explore their environment more. Be prepared for this and keep your puppy close to you and leashed. Stage 4: Testing Period 3 — 6 months This is the time your puppy starts to test their boundaries within their world. They will test the limits with their owners and other animals. At this age many adult dogs will start to enforce manners. Problematic behaviours can begin to arise in this period. At this age your puppy is going to go through teething and chewing is a common side effect. Make sure he has plenty of chew sticks and toys. Use commercial sprays or gels that dissuade your puppy from chewing your belongings. Try soaking a cloth toy in chicken stock and freezing it if your puppy is experiencing pain while teething. Once frozen, this can be given to your puppy as a chew toy and will help to relieve sore gums. Puppies are usually finished teething by the age of 6 months when the upper fangs canines come in. Your cute little puppy is becoming a teenager and will start producing hormones which may result in changes in behaviour. Dogs go through adolescence much earlier than people; for small breeds, is can be as early as six months old while larger dogs starting at nine or 10 months of age. Adolescence in larger breed dogs continues until they are two or three years old with smaller dogs reaching maturity at about 18 months. Typically the larger the dog, the slower the development. Signs of Puberty in Canines Here are the typical signs to watch out for to tell you that your own puppy has hit puberty: Males. Save to Pinterest The Stages of Puppy Growth and Development Month by Month The following are the stages of puppy growth and development, starting at birth and ending when your dog reaches adulthood. The Neonatal Stage 0 to 2 weeks This is the newborn puppy growth stage that lasts until two weeks of age. At this developmental stage, puppies are blind and deaf. Expect puppies at this point to sleep almost constantly and their mother will take care of everything, keeping them warm, feeding them, and keeping them clean. The Transitional Stage 2 to 4 weeks At this puppy growth stage , they will start to open up their eyes and respond to sounds, light, and movement around them. You will also notice a puppy at this point starting to get more mobile, although they will still tend to crawl instead of walking. They do, however, have enough strength to stand up, but will stumble a lot. A puppy in this developmental stage will just be starting to recognize their siblings and mother. Lab puppies open their eyes at about two weeks old. By this time, Labrador puppies will have their eyes fully open and most will be at least partly open. Ears open at this point too and your puppy will begin to hear. Period of Awakening of Senses 3 to 4 weeks At this period , a puppy develops various senses rapidly. They start to get fully alert and aware of their environment and may recognize you and other humans that are frequently around. The Socialization Period 4 to 7 Weeks Once a puppy is around four weeks old, they start to learn the most important things in life-related to social development. They will learn to not bite all the time and how to interact with their siblings. Interactions with humans are especially important between five and seven weeks. This is also the time they will start to understand discipline thanks to their mother. She will start weaning her puppies and teaching them manners, like acknowledging she is in charge. As the owner, you can start introducing food to your puppy when they are around four weeks old. Start small and begin to give them more food as the mother continues to wean them. You should also continue handling the puppy every day. However, be sure not to separate them from their siblings or mother for over ten minutes each day, since this can lead to issues with training and socialization. Dogs who are separated too soon may also be nervous and more likely to bark and bite. During this period, let the mother dog take care of discipline; you should not correct the dog for mouthing or housebreaking mistakes until later in life. To help ease them through this process, avoid traumatic events, loud voices, or harsh discipline. You should also make sure your pooch has plenty of human contact during this stage. If you want, you can start leash training and even teach simple commands such as sit, down, stay and come. In terms of development, you will notice that your puppy can sleep through the whole night and starts to develop better control of its bowels and bladder. Most vets suggest that new outings should wait until they are fully vaccinated. We rub the Calmeroos Puppy Toy on littermates and mom to get their scent. When we get home the Calmeroos Puppy Toy helps our puppy feel comfortable and adjust more quickly to his new environment. Many puppies will go to their new homes at around 8 weeks old. We recently put together a blog post on our sister site detailing what you can expect from an 8-week-old puppy. The Juvenile Stage 3 to 4 Months At this point in development, a puppy can be compared to a juvenile. They will be more independent and may ignore the basic commands that they know very well. If this happens, firmly and gently reinforce the commands and other training. You may also notice your pup starting to test your authority by play biting or similar actions. You can also redirect your dog to a toy that they can bite. Either can end up teaching your pooch that it is okay to fight with you and challenge your authority. The Ranking Period 3 to 6 Months When your puppy is between four and six months old, you should expect them to be somewhat bratty, showing more willfulness and independence. They are more likely to test your limits and may try to show dominance over children or other family members. If they fail to listen to you or come when called, it can be dangerous as it puts them at risk of injury when in public. It can also hurt future responses to you, making them less likely to listen. This is also when your dog will be teething, so give them toys like frozen dog Kong toys to relieve pressure and pain. Chewing behaviors will also start growing at this point so look for some safe chew toys to keep your dog entertained. This is when hormonal changes start to occur and is the ideal time to spay or neuter your pup. UC Davis published a study comparing the long-term health effects of neutering in Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers. Adolescence 6 to 18 Months After six months, your pup is already in the final stage of puppy development but is still young. This is a fun and exciting time for your pooch since they will be learning, full of energy, and exuberant. During this time, it is important to remember that even if your puppy now looks like a grown-up dog, they are still a puppy, at least in its mental capacity and emotional maturity. Work to slowly increase training and other activities. You can even work on advanced training such as agility or herding. Another option is to simply keep training them to ensure they interact in a non-aggressive and non-threatening way with other animals. It is also possible that your dog will go through another fearful period of time at some point after they reach six months. You can speed up the process with counter-conditioning and desensitization. It fits very well and is quite apt! Final Thoughts With the knowledge of how and when your new puppy will develop, you are better able to meet their needs. Provide socialization at the appropriate times and be sure to give your puppy plenty of social interactions with their siblings as well as humans and any other pets in your home. Your dog should reach maturity at some point between one and two years old with plenty of variation based on breed, Labradors are considered mature at between 2 and 2. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining. Donate Now Developmental Stages of Puppy Behavior A puppy needs proper, appropriate and regular socialization in order to grown into a well-adjusted adult dog. This guide explains the different stages puppies go through as they grow. Interactions with mother and siblings teach bite inhibition, appropriate submissive and attention-soliciting behavior, attention-receptive behavior, and general confidence with other dogs. Orphan puppies and single-pup litters are at a disadvantage when it comes to learning how to be a dog among dogs. Some of these lessons can be learned later though how late is too late has not been clearly determined under carefully arranged and supervised conditions. Orphan puppies, especially those bottle-fed from a very early age without mother or siblings, make very problematic pets without knowledgeable remedial behavior shaping. This is the very best age for forming strong bonds with people. Puppies are mentally mature enough to adjust to changes, and to begin their training in manners. Research on this critical period has even pinpointed the 49th day as the ideal day for going into a new home. Object-associations formed during this period leave indelible imprints. They teach you how to teach your puppy how to learn. Make sure all training sessions are fun and successful. Get the puppy out into the world and expose him to as many new things and different ages, sexes and races of people as possible. Always make sure you can control the situation so the experiences will be positive. Have the puppy on a leash so that you can intervene if anything threatens or frightens him. The puppy will venture further and further from you side, motivated by his own curiosity and increasing confidence in the world. Continue training, in a class if possible. Begin incorporating distractions into your practice sessions. Take the puppy with you everywhere! This period is very important in cementing a bond strong enough to withstand the trials of adolescence right around the corner. Make certain your puppy is spayed or neutered by six months we spay and neuter puppies as young as eight weeks old at PAWS. This is the period in which sexual maturity is reached in unaltered animals. Guardians will experience testing behaviors reminiscent of human teenagers. This is not the time to expect model behavior. At that time, dogs with tendencies toward dominance will begin to assert themselves, hoping to raise their status in the pack your household. This behavior occurs within a structure of familiar relationships and only when the animal is approaching emotional maturity. But challenges from the dog must be recognized immediately and taken seriously. Punishment is not the appropriate method of dealing with this, and is likely to provoke a dangerous response. Consult a competent behaviorist whenever the first warnings of dominance aggression manifest. Share This. Image from Pixabay Labrador Puppy Behavior and Growth Stages Labrador retriever puppies do plenty of growing, learning, and maturing in a short amount of time, especially when compared to humans. Labs also change quite a bit, both mentally and physically from even birth to 8 weeks, which would be around the time you would bring your new puppy home. They are dependent on their mother for most things and although they have fur at birth, their mother keeps them warm because their internal thermostats have not begun to work yet. Their mother only lets them alone for bathroom trips and to eat and drink while the puppies huddle together for warmth. Two Weeks Newborn puppies cannot see or hear but by 2 weeks their ears and eyes should begin to open, allowing for hearing and sight. Handling should begin with the breeder for their first introduction to socialization. Puppies will receive their first worming. Three Weeks Puppies will begin teething as teeth come in and some solid food will be introduced gradually. Puppies can sit, stand, and trot about, a little unsteadily, at this time and even play with littermates, each developing their own personalities. Four Weeks Labrador puppies are becoming a lot more vocal and they are looking and acting more like dogs, wagging tails and playing with enthusiasm. Their mother who has kept everything clean until now is beginning to grow weary, so clean-up will now fall to the breeder. Puppies will receive their second worming. Mothers also teach pups not to bite so hard when feeding and playing. Six Weeks Worming will take place for the third time. Puppies are eating all solid food about six times a day and are totally weaned. Their mother still works with them in regards to biting and gives them a sharp bark, or reprimand, when they play too roughly with littermates. Seven Weeks Puppies will be socialized more, often with breeders beginning initial housebreaking. Usually, puppies will be checked out by a veterinarian before leaving their mother, brothers, and sisters for their new home at 8 weeks. Potty training and socialization should continue. Even though your pup was checked out by a veterinarian, you will need to make an appointment to begin the necessary vaccinations. Before bringing your new puppy home, make sure you have all of the necessary supplies for the pup such as bed, blanket, crate, toys, dishes, food, treats, collar, and leash. Keep in mind that this is the first time puppy has been away from their mother, littermates, and their familiar home. Have patience and give them reassurance and love. They may cry or be shy or fearful until they feel comfortable in their new home. Nine Weeks Your Labrador puppy should feel more familiar with its surroundings. Keep on top of housebreaking, taking them out every 20 to 30 minutes, especially after meals. Work on some basic training but keep sessions short. Socialization will be your biggest task now. Take them to as many places as you can so they can see situations as an adventure, not something to be feared. Ten Weeks Your puppy will need more vaccinations and their veterinarian will check them out and their weight to ensure that they are growing properly. Keep working on socialization. By this time your pup should be properly socialized, but continue to take them to as many places as you can. They may act independently and test you by ignoring certain commands that they are very familiar with. Be firm. Five Months Your puppy may be totally housebroken by this time and able to be left alone a little longer without accidents. Some pups take a little longer just as children may for potty training. They are beginning to be stronger and when they become too weighty, pulling on the leash will be a chore if not properly trained. Six Months Between 4 and 6 months your pup may try to challenge you or other family members. You and others must be the dominant forces in the family. Your pup is also looking more like a dog, but keep in mind, they are still a puppy at heart. Meals can now be reduced to two times a day. You will need to continue with training and obedience classes can be a huge benefit. Your pup will be quite a lot of fun at this time with lots of energy, stamina, and exuberance but will also show some characteristics of a rebellious teenager which may be frustrating. Be patient, yet firm. They may have the appearance of an adult Labrador but are without the maturity of one. When is Do Labs Stop Growing? Keep in mind that just as humans are individuals, so too are dogs and some may be full-grown at a certain age, while others may add a few more pounds after this time. Their full height, however, will be reached by nine months of age. A full-grown Lab will range in weight from 55lbs — 75lbs for females and 64lbs — 85lbs for males. Your Labrador retriever may grow to be large or be a smaller version. This helps to ease your mind. Enjoy every moment with your Labrador puppy as they grow through the stages. Recent Posts.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Our litter theme is Irish for St. Upcoming litter is to be announced likely winter .At The RedBrick Farm we raise our puppies with puppy culture, they are Vallard aptitude tested, vet checked with UTD vaccines and dewormer appropriate for their age. They are exposed to kids, chickens, ducks, cattle, goats, bunnies, and cats. So well socialized! They will come with a puppy package of the essentials for their first couple weeks. Which includes their own collar, food, a toy, a blanket rubbed down with mommas scent, sample vitamin supplements and puppy passport vaccine record. They will also be started on basic commands sit, down, come, kennel as well as beginning leash training. Some specialized training is available. Contact us for more info on that. Wendy and Chief are both genetic tested and is clear of all genetic conditions through Embark. They are CKC registered. Both parents are also vet checked and have great bill of health. Puppies come with a 2 year health guarantee. Contact us for more info. We are located near Payette Idaho. Additional training as guardians and Obedience training for an additional fee. He is a solid white. Please read the info at the top of the page for what we do with our puppies. He is white with badger markings. She is a white with badger markings. He is a white with badger markings. She is a solid white. Poodles are highly intelligent, non-shedding, and generally healthy. Great Pyrenees also known as the Pyrenean Mountain Dog are huge, majestic dogs. Known for their unconditional love for family, guardian instincts against intruders, and elegant thick white coats, Pyrenees are well-known as livestock protectors as well as wonderful family dogs. Great Pyrenees typically rank as being excellent family dogs; very friendly with their family and great with kids. There are five main reasons many people consider a Pyredoodle a better fit for their family than a Purebred Pyrenees: Hypoallergenic: The Poodles' non-shedding coat is hypo-allergenic. Because the poodle coat is the dominant gene, many poodle crosses often called doodles get the non-shedding coat. This is particularly the case with thick coated dogs like the Great Pyrenees. Families who want an inside dog appreciate a low-to-non shedding coat that the Pyredoodle offers. Trainable: Great Pyrenees are not recommended for novice dog owners. Because of their stubborn streak, Pyrenees can be difficult to train. By contrast Poodles are extremely easy to train. They are the most frequently used dog in circus acts or on shows like America's Got Talent, because they are extremely intelligent, eager to please, and easy to train. Pyredoodles are much easier to house train and teach other basic training commands than a pure Great Pyrenees. Most Pyredoodle owners find their Pyredoodle puppy to be eager to please and pleasant to train. Healthy: The Great Pyrenees lifespan is usually years. On average, doodles live years longer than that. Hybrid vigor the added strength by combining different breeds causes doodles to typically be healthy. Because Poodles are far less likely to develop Gastric Torsion bloat , hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, Addison's disease, or Entropian than Great Pyrenees, the Pyredoodle is much less likely to struggle with these health issues that are common in a purebed Pyrenees. Quieter: The Great Pyrenees are known for their incredible watch dog ability, which means that most of them bark--quite a bit. We intentionally cross the Great Pyrenees with very quiet poodles. Pyredoodles can be bred with a variety of color combinations much greater than that of a purebred AKC Great Pyrenees. Most families who have owned a Great Pyrenees have fallen in love with their devoted, affectionate, family protector. They've learned to live with their drawbacks, but in private conversation they might tell you that if only their beloved pet "didn't bark quite so much, wasn't quite so stubborn, didn't shed all that hair, and lived longer than 11 years they would be the PERFECT dog. With any mixed breed it's impossible to perfectly predict the outcome of the hybrid, but so far Pyredoodles have been met with enthusiastic response. Pyredoodle owners love their devoted, affectionate nature, low-to-non shedding coats, more quiet temperaments, and outstanding intuition. Pyredoodles are perhaps the best of all doodles for being like a "nanny"--entirely devoted to children and small animals. Pyredoodles love to protect small things. They are one of the only doodle breeds that can function as a watch dog. Most doodles are just as likely to lick as intruder as to bark. Pyredoodles tend to be fine with "strangers" who are welcomed by the family, but anyone that is uninvited will be very suspect to a typical Pyredoodle. Since Poodles love to stay close to home, a Pyredoodle is much less likely to wander than a purebred Great Pyrenees. However, we still recommend that all Pyredoodle owners to have a fence. Great Pyrenees can be wanderers. Pyrenees are believed to have descended from huge dogs that wandered the mountains of Asia thousands of years ago. Great Pyrenees History For generations, Pyrenees have been the world's most famous livestock protectors. It is deeply ingrained in the Pyrenees to protect the young, small, and helpless. They're the best friend of children and small animals. Pyrenees were accorded royalty status by becoming the famous guardians of French royalty for generations. The young French prince instantly fell in love with this elegant giant dog that was so loving towards him and protective. The eight year old prince brought the Pyrenees back to live with him at the Louvre. Several aristocratic French families fell in love with the prince's Great Pyrenees and bought their own. A few decades later the Great Pyrenees had transformed from a country guard dog to the official French dog of royalty. Today the breed has been popularized by it's many appearances in movies and TV shows. Because of their devoted, affectionate nature, Great Pyrenees are used as therapy and service dogs. Because of their guardian instincts to care for their own, while protecting against enemies, many Pyrenees are still used as livestock guardians throughout the world today. They are gorgeous, majestic, head-turners. As large as the Newfiedoodle and Saint Berdoodle, Pyredoodles look more majestic, regal and statuesque than most other large dog breeds, which often are described as cuddly, or teddy bear like. Many people who own Pyredoodles talk about the head-turner nature of their dog. You'll be asked by people everywhere about your huge white, thick coated, straight-standing attentive, nanny dog. Because of the independent nature of the Great Pyrenees, we typically do not recommend the Pyredoodle for a first time dog owner. We also like to point out to families that this is the only doodle we breed that has watch dog characteristics. Many families appreciate the watch dog nature of the Pyredoodle who sees itself as a protector of the family, but others desire a gentle giant Newfiedoodle who lumbers around the house and almost never barks--a dog who would roll over on its back when someone knocks on the door. Men and women alike tend to love Pyredoodles. We've found that some doodles i. The Pyredoodle has strong appeal to both men and women. Many men love the thought of a huge majestic guard dog, and women love the Pyredoodles' nanny nature, love for family, and gorgeous white coat. Like any dog, it's important to train the Pyredoodle at an early age, so that your majestic guardian is well trained from its earliest months. Pyredoodles have great appeal to families who were considering a Sheepadoodle. Old English Sheepdogs are originally herding dogs, similar to the livestock protection nature of the Pyredoodle. Pyredoodles tend to be a little larger than Sheepadoodles, calmer than Sheepadoodles, much less nippy as puppies, and much less likely to try to "herd" children. Many families that initially contact Crockett Doodles interested in a Sheepadoodle end up wanting a Pyredoodle instead after further research. Our dogs and goats are loved on daily with extra special attention given to our pregnant mamas. Since we only have one litter of puppies per year, we can spend time with each puppy and give them the best start at life. While mama Bishop is pregnant, we supplement her feed with free range chicken eggs and pet her extra every day. Studies have shown that relaxed and pampered mama dogs give birth to calmer, happier puppies. After birth, the puppies stay with mama to be fed, comforted, and cleaned. We handle the puppies daily to get them used to human interactions right from the start. On day three, we start early neurological stimulation ENS. ENS consists of four short movements for each puppy that stimulate the nervous system daily. ENS is completed through day 16 and more information about it can be found here. We watch our puppies closely and when they first startle at a noise, we begin habituation exercises. They normally start hearing around two weeks and we want them to hear a new noise daily after that. Noises we ensure they hear include, but are not limited to: vacuum, hairdryer, dropped pans, kids screaming, and cows mooing. As the puppies grow, we introduce them to new experiences and people. Dogs do not generalize so they need to meet people of all ages, shapes, sizes, colors, and clothing choices. Our puppies are socialized with kids daily since we have kids so they will be very ready for human siblings! To begin the weaning process, we give the puppies goat milk from our grass fed, holistically raised goats. Their first foods include raw goat meat cuts before they are transitioned to puppy food. Their puppy food is soaked in homemade bone broth to soften it while they are still little. Some Pyredoodles do have separation anxiety, so we make sure each puppy gets individual time away from their siblings daily. While this does not guarantee the dog will not develop separation anxiety, it should help reduce the chances. Our puppies are also introduced to a crate. They are allowed to explore the crate at their leisure and learn that it is a safe place to relax or nap. Once the pups show an interest in treats, clicker training begins. All pups learn basic clicker training and are taught to sit, rather than jump up, when they want attention. Although the puppies mainly live in our detached garage turned puppy palace, we give them inside time daily. We know our puppies will eventually be family dogs, so they need to feel comfortable inside and out. They learn at a young age to poop outside their sleeping and indoor area. It takes a bit longer with pee, but they will have the basic idea of where to go potty when they go home. Our Pyredoodle puppies are only available once per year, and we accept deposits once pregnancy is confirmed. While we cannot guarantee coloring or gender, we do our best to match puppy personality with families on our waitlist. Contact us now to chat about availability and upcoming litters! A doodle is less likely to shed than its purebred, non-poodle parent. Based on the history of the Poodle, most doodles do well with kids, are gentle, and tolerant. What is a Pyredoodle? The Great Pyrenees is a large dog known for their love for family, guardian instincts, and thick white coats that shed a lot. They are often utilized as livestock guardian dogs, like our mama dog, Bishop. They normally seem very calm but can jump to action if a threat is detected. The Standard Poodle is a very intelligent, athletic dog known for its versatility and desire to please. They are affectionate with family, good with children, and very playful. They do not shed and are less likely to drool than other breeds. A Pyredoodle inherits many of these wonderful traits from both breeds. They are known for being the protectors of the house. Normally calm and gentle, they will notify their families of any perceived threat. What type of socialization will my puppy have? We raise our puppies using Puppy Culture methods. Puppy Culture is a training program that produces confident, balanced, easy to train dogs. Puppies will be introduced to as many different sights, sounds, and experiences as possible before they go home with you. We will also start clicker training with your pup and each puppy is sent home with their own clicker to continue training. They will want further training, of course, since training is so fun! And it is a great bonding experience for everyone involved. How big do Pyredoodles get? Based on the size of Mama Bishop and Dad Jazz, our puppies are estimated to grow to pounds. When can my puppy come home? Puppies are generally weaned and ready to go to their forever homes between weeks of age. We will plan a time that works for all of us once you have selected a puppy. How can I reserve a puppy? Can I visit my puppy before bringing them home? We encourage visitors as it is good for socializing the puppies. We do ask that all visitors are feeling healthy and have not been around sick dogs, though. What type of dog food are puppies started on? Puppies eat Taste of the Wild grain-free puppy recipe food. It can be found on Amazon here. We soak the puppy food in homemade bone broth to soften it while they are still little. Your puppy will be sent home with enough food for a few days worth of meals. How many puppies in a litter? Litter sizes vary, but are generally between pups. How many boys and girls per litter? This also varies. The generation in dogs reflects if the puppies are purebred or hybrid. P1 is the parent generation or purebred such as a Great Pyrenees, Standard Poodle, etc. When two P1 generations are bred, the resulting puppies are considered F1. Normally, the F1 dog is bred back to a Poodle, but technically, any back cross is an F1b cross. The F1 is half Poodle and half Great Pyrenees. When a dog from that type of cross is then bred to a Poodle, the amount of Poodle DNA inherited from parents is increased, and the non-shedding trait enhanced. In theory, an F1b should be less likely to shed and more hypoallergenic than either an F1 or an F2.

It loves to be on the move and play all day. Chipoos are social butterflies and thrive for attention. They are kind, loyal, loving, friendly and outgoing, so trips to the dog park will do him wonders. He does also love his family and will enjoy sitting on your lap and snuggling. Keeping them busy will prevent mischievous behavior caused by boredom! Who is the Choodle Best Suited For? A Chipoo is an indoor dog, so consider this before bringing one into your home. They do well in apartments, small homes, and condos. They get along with other dogs and are good with children. The Poodle Chihuahua mix is a great companion dog and loves to be part of a family environment. Does the Chipoo Require Exercise? Yes, the Poochi thrives on physical activity, but a lot of exercises is NOT required. Just be careful not to let the little guy overexert himself. Also, provide him with plenty of water to keep him hydrated. Potty Training the Choodle Small dogs have smaller bladders. House training them can be a challenge. The number one rule is to start early! Brushing at least one to three times a week will remove dander and loose hair. It also keeps the coat smooth and tangle-free. This breed can also inherit overactive tear glands, which may cause tears to dry under its eyes and turns the fur a dark color. So use a wet cloth or a very fine and blunt comb, as needed, to keep this issue under control. Dental health is also important, so brush their teeth times a week. Keep a close eye on the nails. Training and Socialization Tips Intelligent dogs like the Chipoo are usually easy to train. Keep things positive and offer lots of praise. For their safety, be sure to leash train them and socialize them early! A properly trained Poochi can go anywhere with its family. Once they develop their strong personality and independence, they can become stubborn. Handle this right away in a firm way and with patience. Your Chi-poo will likely alert you of intruders by barking. Low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia, can occur in this breed. To prevent this, feed several small meals throughout the day. Chihuahuas have soft teeth, which can lead to dental diseases. Keep an eye out for: Cardiovascular disease. Chi-Poo Highlights Chi-Poos are mixed-breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their Chihuahua or Poodle parents. The main colors of Chi-Poos are; cream, brown, blue, brindle, silver, grey, fawn, white, and black. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a blend of of colors. There are longer-coated Chi-Poos, as well as shorter coated Chi-Poos. Chi-Poos can adapt to any living situation. Apartment or large home, single person or big family, they will fit in anywhere. They handle heat better than cold, but you may need to apply doggy sunscreen in summer. Because the Chi-Poo is a small dog, they can be easily injured by overly excited children. Chi-Poos prefer to be mostly around adults or older kids who know how to play gently. Chi-Poo History The Chi-Poo dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Chihuahuas and Poodles in the US in the s—right around they same time they started developing Cockapoos. Mixing breeds can often minimize health issues, as well. They continued to create Chi-Poos as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed. Even though the Chi-Poo breed 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 Chi-Poo rescues, or check with breed-specific Poodle or Chihuahua rescues, as they sometimes try to re-home mixes. Chi-Poo Size As the Chi-Poo is a relatively new breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between Chihuahua and Toy Poodle parents, you can expect Chi-Poos to be on the small side. Most weigh in at five to 20 pounds and range in height from five to 15 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. While both parent dogs, the Poodle and Chihuahua do not like being left alone, the Chi-poo is an anomaly. Most of them do just fine with working parents who have to leave the house for long periods. These pup are energetic and definitely would need to be with a person who is on-the-go or busy around the house. They enjoy watching you and would even enjoy participating in lots of activities, including walks and play sessions. A few short walks per day should suffice with lots of potty breaks for their small bladders. Make sure to have an assortment of toys, as they will happily entertain themselves. They do well in single person families and large households with kids. They will adapt to just about any environment. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Different breed organizations have recognized it by various names. A significant trait that the Chi-Poo may have partially inherited from the Chihuahua is their habit of bonding intimately with a particular person of the house, following him wherever he goes. These amicable dogs are not a good option for children below ten years of age as the latter may harm or rashly handle them. They can thrive well indoors or even in apartments if they have sufficient space to run around freely. This Chihuahua-Poodle mix gets along well with other dogs and pets when brought up with then since their puppy days. They are however not too comfortable with strangers. Care Exercise These active, playful dogs require a lot of physical activities to be healthy and happy. Taking them out for a walk daily under moderate temperature is a good option. In fact when outdoors if the temperature falls below 50 degrees, it is safe to take a coat or sweater for them. They get bored and destructive when left alone for too long. Therefore, give them adequate mental exercise by introducing a lot of interesting toys to them. Grooming Though they shed less, their coats should be groomed at frequent intervals in a week on the basis of the length by using a brush with soft bristles. Bathe them once or twice when needed. It is best to brush your dog before bathing it as this will help in removing loose hairs, also preventing it from getting matted after being wet. In fact, if your pet Chi-Poo has a coat similar to Poodle then brushing at regular intervals as well as clipping is essential. Make sure to brush their teeth two to three times in a week to prevent any dental infections. Because of their overactive tear glands similar to Poodles, it is required to remove the dried tears by cleaning the region around their eyes using a fine tooth comb devoid of any sharp edges. Health Problems They may suffer from diseases like luxating patella, tracheal collapse, hydrocephalus building up of fluid in the cavities of the brain , dilated cardiomyopathy, glaucoma, and chronic valvular heart disease. They also have the problem of dry skin, being incapable of absorbing anything through their skin. Some of them may possess an inverted eyelid that may heal on its own or in the extreme case require surgery. This breed is also prone to hypoglycemia that can turn fatal if not treated properly. Training Being intelligent just like the Poodle they will respond well to training when handled by a tactful trainer who will not be harsh on them but handle their stubbornness in a firm and patient way. Loving to amuse their owners with impressive tricks, they will be adept at it when groomed with an efficient hand. The techniques of rewarding and praising will encourage them to respond in a positive way. Proper socialization training is also required to be given to the puppies to help them get over certain behavioral problems like barking, showing possessiveness regarding their toys or belongings or getting destructive. Moreover, they should be trained to get over their habit of being attached to a particular individual of the family as his absence may trigger intense separation anxiety in them. They are to be leash trained for their safety. Feeding They should be given the diet of small or toy dogs probably wet food as most of them may face difficulties in digesting the contents of the commonly used dog foods. This breed may be picky while eating, thus it can take time to feed them. Give your pet about three fourth to one and a half cup dry dog food. Feeding your chipoo healthy food many times in a day will reduce the risk of hyperglycemia. Interesting Facts They act as perfect alarm dogs, warning their family at the very sight of an unfamiliar person or any uncommon sound by barking. The earliest evidence of the Chihuahua is found in paintings and pottery from around AD. It is thought that the breed originated in China and was then brought to Mexico by Spanish traders. The Chihuahua is the smallest breed of dog in the world, and it is known for its large eyes and long ears. The average lifespan of a Chihuahua is about 15 years. The Poodle Poodle dogs are a popular breed of dog that is known for their intelligence and loyalty. Though Poodles come in many different sizes, they all share the same general characteristics, including curly hair and a highly trainable nature. Poodles are believed to have originated in Germany, where they were originally bred as hunting dogs. Though they were originally bred as hunting dogs, poodles quickly became popular as companion animals due to their loving nature and easy-going temperament. Today, poodles are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. The Chi-Poo The Chi-Poo is a relatively new breed of dog, so there isn't a lot of information available about its history. However, we do know that they were first bred in the United States in the s. The AKC only recognizes purebred dogs, therefore the Chi-Poo cannot be registered with the organization. While this may seem like a minor distinction, it does prevent the Chihuahua Poodle Mix from competing in AKC-sanctioned events. For those looking to purchase a dog that can compete in agility or obedience trials, the Poodle Chihuahua mix may not be the best choice. Poodle Chihuahua Mix Appearance Poodle Chihuahua mixes typically have a medium-sized build, with a long, slender snout and large ears. They come in a variety of colors, including black, brown, white, and cream. They usually have a curly or wavy coat, which may require regular grooming. The height of a Poodle Chihuahua Mix can range from 6 to 9 inches, and the weight can range from 4 to 8 pounds. As a designer breed, the exact height and weight of the Poodle Chihuahua mix can vary depending on which parent breed they take after more. Chi-Poo Temperament Chihuahuas and Poodles have very different temperaments, so the temperament of a Chihuahua Poodle Mix can vary depending on which traits he inherits from his parents. However, both the Chihuahua and the Poodle are intelligent, loyal, and loving dogs, so it is likely that the Chihuahua Poodle Mix will inherit these qualities. He may also inherit the high energy level of the Chihuahua and the need for regular exercise. Chi-Poos are small dogs that are intelligent and eager to please. They are also known for being loyal and protective of their owners. Chihuahua Poodle Mix dogs are generally good with children and other pets. However, they can be distrustful of strangers and may bark excessively. They should be socialized at an early age to help prevent these behaviors. Chihuahua Poodle Mix dogs are active and playful, but they can also be calm and quiet when they are in a comfortable environment. They are typically easy to train and make good house pets. It's important to introduce them to different types of animals early on so that they can learn to get along. With that said, some Chi-Poos may be more comfortable around other dogs than other types of animals. They may also become territorial and try to assert themselves as the alpha dog in the home. Proper socialization and training can help to reduce these tendencies. Poodle x Corgi — Corgipoo Poodle x Yorkshire Terrier — Yorkipoo The Chihuahua Poodle mix is not as popular as some of the other Doodle-dogs, but it will still make a fun-loving family pet. What are the main characteristics of the Chipoo? Crossbreed dogs, like The Chi-poo or Wapoo are no more likely to inherit health problems than purebred dogs; in fact, it is believed they may actually be stronger as they are adding more variety into the gene pool. It can be heavily weighted towards the characteristics of one parent. The characteristics of the Chipoo are a combination of nature and nurture: genetics of each parent, the environment, and the quality, type, and amount of training and socialization. The Chipoo dog coat: A short-haired Chihuahua is the usual dog in the Chipoo mix, with its moderate shedding, smooth, straight-haired coat, while the Poodle has a wiry and stiff, wavy coat that sheds less. Poodle—mix dogs, such as the Chipoo were initially crossbred, in the United States, to be hypoallergenic and be suitable for people with dog hair allergies; it had mixed results. Loyalty and companionship The Chihuahua Poodle mix breed will become very attached to its family and especially the master. Reputation: The Chihuahua and the Poodle are both intelligent and sociable dogs that are not known to be aggressive. However, they are known to bark at strangers and other dogs they see as a threat to them or their families. Their size and non-aggressive temperament make them an ideal house pet for any experience of a dog owner, in any type of living accommodation. The Poodle mix is quieter and more reserved than the Chihuahua parent, but both are known to bark when startled or challenged. The Chipoo will be playful and full of energy so be prepared, if you get one, it will expect you to play with it and to have sufficient exercise. Popularity: This Chihuahua and Poodle mix, the Chipoodle, is not the most popular of the designer poodle mix dogs; yet their parents rank as No 6 the Poodle and the No 35 the Chihuahua , in the AKC list of most popular dogs. Perhaps this mix is not as well-known as the other Doodle-dogs and in time could rise in popularity as its parent breeds have. Trainability: When both parent breeds are intelligent and easy to train the Chihuahua Poodle mix should be too. A Chipoo puppy may be tiny but it will be full of energy and high spirits. It will get excited and just want to play and run around, so it should be obedience trained and socialized early. The size of this small dog makes it delicate and vulnerable in play and handling, especially with young children. Therefore, it needs to learn control and understand voice commands, and know when to avoid a situation that might endanger its safety; especially when outdoors in public places or dog parks while playing with other dogs, or boisterous children. This Poochi is very active and needs to be kept occupied to stop boredom and from getting up to mischief; chewing, barking or destroying things. Positive reinforcement and small treats work best for this little pooch, as it likes to please and be praised. It will enjoy and need working challenges incorporating mental and physical stimulation. Socialization: A Chipoo puppy needs exposure to different situations and people early, and practice leaving it alone to help it manage its feelings of separation anxiety, but with you close by. This puppy does not like being left alone for long periods of time and will yap, and may annoy the neighbors! Early socialization and discipline are needed for any active mixed breed dog that likes to be protective of its loved ones. Despite its small size it will be fiercely protective and bark and try to guard its family in the company of other dogs or strangers. Purpose: It will just want to play and hang out with you. It does not have a prey or hunting instinct but it will get bored easily and want to be kept stimulated. In return, it will offer you its love, devotion, and companionship. Behavior: A Chipoo is smart and energetic despite its small size. Obedience training needs to begin early in the puppy years. It will need early leash training as it needs to learn to control its excitement outdoors. It will be naughty if it feels it is not getting enough attention. Physical Characteristics of the Chi-poo This small pooch is friendly, full of energy, and is very sociable. For Females up to lb 1. Temperament: A Chipoo is not known to be aggressive, but it can be mouthy with other dogs and strangers. How should you train a Chi Poo? A Chipoo is intelligent and active and needs to be trained early. You will need patience as the Chipoo can be quite a handful and at times stubborn or moody. Positive reinforcement and reward-based training work best, but never aggressive treatment. Types of training required: obedience, discipline, agility, and socialization. So, if you are not going to use a professional dog trainer: 1 Develop your basic command words: Find keywords such as Stop, Sit, Down, etc. You will have to lock the cage in the early days so it knows it can sleep there and be transported in it. There are products available to help, such as mats and odor sprays to attract puppy go to the same spot each time 4 Walking on a leash — this Poochi is playful and full of energy so early leash training is recommended. Also, practice voice commands and road safety awareness firmly but not harshly. Health problems and health issues Although mixing breeds can often minimize health issues, the Chihuahua Poodle mix could still suffer from certain hereditary health problems from both parent breeds, such as: Luxating Patella — dislocated kneecap — A congenital condition that affects the kneecaps often causes dislocation or loosening of the kneecaps and extreme pain and affected mobility. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA — this is a genetic condition where the retina in the eye degenerates and it can lead to vision loss if not diagnosed and treated early. Other eye problems include: Glaucoma, Cataracts, Dry Cornea or Overactive tear glands — watering eyes from blocked or narrow tear ducts; as a result of swelling, or inflammation and the tears are unable to drain away and will build up in the tear sac. Its eyes need to be wiped often. Other health issues include Cardiovascular Heart problems , Dental problems due to their very small jaws , Obesity as they like to eat a lot , and Allergies — dry ears and dry skin conditions and low blood sugar levels. Life Span Did You Know? Chi-Poos are compact and energetic little dogs that love their families. They tend to be energetic and playful, and love nothing more than being around their favorite humans. Although the Chi-Poo is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other notable canine organizations. A Chi-Poo tends to be sweet, loving, and affectionate with their families. They tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. They can be initially wary of strangers and strange dogs. But, as long as they have been well-socialized, they tend to warm up quickly. Chi-Poos are fantastic watchdogs because they will alert you to things, people, noises, etc. Because of this, they can be prone to barking a lot. If you start to train your dog to stop barking early on, you can keep this from becoming a nuisance behavior. Chi-Poos are highly adaptable dogs. They do well in apartments as well as larger homes with or without yards. These little dogs do well in most climates. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat. Due to their small size, they may also need to bundle up with some winter dog products to stay warm while out on walks when the temperatures drop. Because these little dogs bond closely with their families and crave attention from them, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. This also means they can be prone to developing separation anxiety. So, you will want to make sure you socialize your dog and spend some time making sure they can be comfortable when you are not around. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Chi-Poo include glaucoma , luxating patella , hypoglycemia, and overactive tear glands. As a small dog breed, the Chi-Poo is more prone to developing painful dental diseases later in life. Gum disease in dogs is one of the most common health issues and has serious consequences. Chi-Poos are highly intelligent dogs that are eager to please and pick up on things quickly. Inconsistent training can make them stubborn. But, as long as training is kept consistent and focused on positive reward and praise, they are a good fit for owners of all experience levels. Puppy training classes are still an option. Aside from the training, there are several other benefits of puppy training classes. If they take more after their Chihuahua parent, they will shed a little year-round, require weekly brushing, and need the occasional bath. If they inherit the Poodle coat, they may not shed, but they will need a lot more grooming. Daily brushing is required to remove tangles and prevent mats from forming. In addition, professionally grooming and clipping are needed every weeks. If you are visiting a dog groomer regularly, they may be able to help out with some things, but you will still need to do maintenance at home between visits. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep them from growing too long and causing issues. Weekly ear checks with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Dental diseases can be prevented later in life with consistent dental care. Daily brushing or use of an enzyme toothpaste in addition to cleanings at the vet as needed are ideal. Although a Chi-Poo will be energetic when they play, they are small dogs and will tire themselves out quickly. Usually, daily walks plus some playtime are enough to keep this little dog happy and healthy. Because they thrive being around you, they may be up for more activity if you are. Just make sure you keep an eye on them to make sure they are not overexerting themselves trying to keep up and be prepared to potentially have to rest or carry them. A fully-grown Chi-Poo usually averages inches tall and pounds in weight. Chi-Poos generally live for years on average. This mix is usually called a Chi-Poo. Other nicknames include Choodle, Poochi, Chipoodle, and Poohuahua. Featured Chi-Poo Article. Chocolate, gray, black, fawn, white, brindle, brown Suitable for Smaller families; those looking for an active, smaller dog Temperament Devoted, energetic, intelligent Because these dogs are a mixed breed, it is difficult to determine how a particular puppy will turn out. These dogs tend to be quite varied, even within the same litter. However, there are a few traits that they typically inherit. While these dogs are smaller, they are not necessarily easier to care for than other dogs. Their temperament and exercise needs can make them one of the more difficult breeds, so we typically only recommend them for experienced dog owners. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. Most of the time, these dogs are the result of accidental litters. A Poodle and a Chihuahua happen to get together and produce a litter of puppies. In these cases, the dogs may be very cheap. You may even be able to get them for free. However, some breeders may specialize in these dogs as well. They typically run health tests on the parents before breeding and then get the puppies a considerable amount of vet care. You may be able to find this mixed breed in an animal shelter. Typically, these organizations are not-for-profit. Most of the time, they only charge in accordance with the care that the dog needs to receive. Puppies will often be more expensive, as they require vaccinations and similar care at the shelter. Many are also prone to parasites and similar conditions, which the animal shelter will pay to treat. If the dog needs to be spayed or neutered, this may be added to the adoption price. They are people-oriented and tend to be very devoted. However, they may not be very friendly with strangers. They are known for being one-people dogs in many cases, which means that they will bond closely with a single person and pretty much ignore everyone else. They can be protective of their owners as well. Many may bark and act tough when strangers come by. They can be quite yappy, which makes them great for alert dogs. However, they also need extra socialization to help ensure that they are accepting of strangers into their home when guests do come to visit. These dogs are known for being possessive with their people. They can be a bit too protective in some cases, which is why socialization is so important. They do prefer to play over cuddling. However, they will cuddle after they have had their exercise needs met. They can be quite active in some cases, especially when they are little. They may not be the best option for those who are simply looking for a cuddly dog. Because these dogs are half Poodle, they are often quite intelligent. This means that they will be able to learn commands very easily. However, they will also need quite a bit of mental stimulation. If they are not challenged mentally, then they may start showing destructive behaviors. They will try to make their own fun, which often involves tearing something up. This can be done through puzzle toys, training, or competing in canine sports. Anything that makes your dog think should be enough to mentally stimulate them. However, they tend to be one-person dogs. They will bond closely with one person to the exclusion of everyone else. This tends to happen no matter what genes they inherit, as both the Poodle and Chihuahua are prone to this trait. This is a very individual trait, though. You never know what traits a dog is going to inherit and display. In some cases, these dogs will make great family dogs. On other occasions, they will only bond heavily with one person. There is no way to know. Therefore, we recommend these dogs for smaller families or those looking for a personal pet. Otherwise, they may not bond easily with everyone in the family, which can be a problem. With the proper socialization, they can often get along with other dogs. However, they may be a bit too protective to get along with other dogs if they are not socialized correctly at first. It is essential for your dog to be introduced to many different dogs at a young age. We recommend puppy classes. These provide both training and socialization—two things that these canines absolutely need. For this reason, we recommend avoiding them if you have a cat. Some of them may get along okay with cats after extensive socialization. Once again, there is no way to tell. It largely depends on the traits a dog inherits and their personality.

american bulldog puppies oregon - Although she stands no more than 10 inches tall and weighs between 4—6 pounds, the Toy Poodle has a big, playful personality that can fill up a room. While frequently associated with France, Standard Poodles were first developed in Germany, where they were used in duck hunting. They have lower exercise needs than many other dog breeds, but still benefit from a daily walk and play session. Poodles of all sizes have curly coats with extensive grooming needs. Their coat grows continuously, calling for a trim every four to six weeks. However, there is no such thing as a completely "hypoallergenic" dog. People with allergies should spend time with the breed before officially bringing home a Toy Poodle puppy. But during this long life , they are predisposed to a few health issues that may require care. Pet parents may benefit from investing in pet insurance early in life. Progressive Retinal Atrophy Progressive retinal atrophy PRA is a group of diseases that cause a breakdown of the photoreceptor cells rods and cones on the retina. Initially, the dog may have difficulty seeing in the dark, but the condition can cause blindness over time. PRA is an inherited disease and there are currently no effective treatments available. Patellar Luxation The patella kneecap is a small bone that normally sits in a groove within the femur at the knee. In dogs with patellar luxation, the patella moves luxates outside of its assigned groove when the knee is flexed. This movement can cause discomfort and may eventually lead to arthritis. Many pets will skip or run on three legs when the patella is out of place. While some cases will correct themselves, in more severe cases the patella remains out of place. In mild cases, joint supplements such as fish oils and glucosamine or anti-inflammatory medications are used to control pain and prevent arthritis. In more severely affected dogs, surgery may be recommended. This causes pain and limping occur as the bone breaks down. In some cases, pain can be controlled with medications. In severe cases, surgery to remove the head of the femur may be recommended. Symptoms include visible debris, redness, odor, head shaking, and scratching. If any of these signs are noted, take your dog to the veterinarian for an exam. In most cases, ear infections can be resolved by cleaning the ear and with topical medications. Toy Poodles develop ear infections more often than most other breeds. This may be partly due to Poodles having long ear canals with excess curly hair to trap in moisture and debris. Trimming not plucking the hair from the ear may help reduce the incidence of ear infections. Dogs with chronic or recurring ear infections frequently have allergies that should be addressed. Dental Disease Dental disease is one of the most common conditions seen in dogs as they age, especially in small breeds like the Toy Poodle. Dental disease occurs when bacterial tartar and plaque build up, leading to inflammation of the tissues around the teeth—and eventually to tooth and bone decay. Daily tooth brushing with a dog-specific toothpaste is the best way to prevent dental disease, though some diets, treats, and chew toys also help prevent plaque and tartar. Tracheal Collapse Tracheal collapse occurs when the trachea commonly called the windpipe flattens. This happens due to weak cartilage rings or the sagging of a membrane along the trachea. Most cases are treated using medications, but in severe cases where breathing is impeded, surgery may be necessary. Toy poodles are likely genetically predisposed to tracheal collapse. When on walks, use a harness instead of a collar, as pressure on the trachea can cause further damage. The condition causes a deficiency in a protein called the von Willebrand factor, which is necessary for platelets to stick together and form a clot. In dogs that are deficient in this protein, the blood may have difficulty clotting, which can lead to bleeding from the nose, vulva, bladder, or gums. Additionally, dogs with this condition may bleed for a long time after trauma or surgery. If there is concern about VWD, a screening test may be performed. This test measures how long it takes for a small cut in the mouth to stop bleeding. If the time is longer than usual, additional testing is needed to confirm VWD. Because some dogs with VWD do not have notably prolonged bleeding until later in adulthood, blood levels of von Willebrand factor can be measured to help with diagnosis. Most veterinarians recommend testing for VWD prior to any planned surgery, including spays, neuters, and dewclaw removals. Puppies should be fed a diet formulated specifically for puppies or designated for all life stages. For Toy Poodle adults, dental-focused diets may be recommended by your veterinarian to help prevent dental disease. Toy poodle puppies, however, should eat three to four small meals per day on a consistent schedule to help maintain their blood sugar. Additionally, the feeding guide labels on the dog food provides valuable information for pet parents. Just remember: In small breeds like the Toy Poodle, calories in treats add up quickly. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in skin and joint supplements , fish oil, and even in some specially formulated dog foods. These fatty acids act as natural anti-inflammatories that help support the skin, coat, kidneys, joints, and heart. They are playful and self-confident when socialized at a young age. While relatively calm, Toy Poodles enjoy playtime and exercise with the family. The breed is gentle with children and other pets, though all interactions between dogs and kids should be supervised. Because these pups are so tiny, they can accidentally be hurt during playtime. Toy Poodles have lower exercise needs than many other dog breeds, but still benefit from a daily walk and play session. Toy Poodle Behavior Toy Poodles bond closely to their families and may develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. They can also be sensitive to stress, and sudden changes in the home environment may lead to gastrointestinal upset. Additionally, because Poodles are so smart, they need mental stimulation to keep themselves entertained—and out of trouble. Bored dogs are more likely to bark, jump, be destructive, or misbehave. Toy Poodle Training Toy poodles want to please their owners. Paired with their smarts, this makes them an easy breed to train. As always, training is most successful when based on positive reinforcement with praise and tasty treats. Fun Activities for Toy Poodle Obedience training. Toy poodles double down on the froofroo rep with their tiny size and by sometimes sporting those fancy haircuts. But trust us, poodles are more than happy to get down and dirty. In fact, poodles started life as hunting dogs for the rich and famous in Europe. What made them so popular, however, is their incredible intelligence. Generally regarded as one of the smartest dog breeds , poodles are highly trainable, extremely eager to please people, and love being the center of attention through tricks and activities. None of that has changed over the years: The poodle consistently ranks as one of the 10 most popular breeds in the world. Appearance Toy, miniature , and standard poodles are all the same breed of dog, so they'll look more or less the same—except for their size. Toy poodles are the smallest of the three, standing no more than 10 inches tall and generally weighing right around 5 pounds. All three classifications of poodle have squarish bodies, generally about as long as they are tall. Poodles have a proud bearing, with heads kept high and their large, dark-colored eyes looking alert. Poodle coats come in a stunning array of colors from black, through the browns and yellow colors all the way to white. Bi-colored coats are also seen, though not hugely common. Poodles don't shed much , making them great for owners with allergies. While there aren't technically any hypoallergenic dogs , most people will find toy poodles close enough to not really quibble over it. Additionally, groomers can style a poodle's fur many different ways, and the breed has become famous for its outlandish show cuts. They tend to consider themselves a vital part of the family, have strong personalities, and learn things in a flash. They will get legitimately disgruntled if they think they're being left out of family activities. Of course, this temperament is kind of a double-edged sword. Toy poodles are devoted family pets who love to be the center of attention, learn tricks, and take walks. They're excellent in agility and obedience training and will play with children for hours. Because of their extreme intelligence, poodles are even quick to learn how to engage in more complex games such as hide and seek. On the flip side, poodles can develop common stress behaviors associated with separation anxiety. If you leave them alone for too long or don't give them the attention they deserve, these pups can be passive aggressive and do things they know you don't like—while you're there to watch. The toy poodle's teensy-tiny size makes it tempting to carry him everywhere, and he's so cute that it's no surprise owners are tempted to spoil him rotten. But, again, poodles are brilliant. A toy poodle who is carried everywhere will start to expect to be carried everywhere. As a result, every poodle owner should take full advantage of the breed's brilliance and eagerness to please, and obedience train their pet as quickly as possible. Living Needs Here is where the toy poodle's aptitude as an ideal family pet really shines. While poodles can be active dogs and will require some kind of daily exercise, toy poodles can get all their needs taken care of right there on the living room floor. Nichols says these little dogs will be happy with whatever type and amount of exercise their owner provides. Their tiny size makes them marvelous apartment-dwellers , and their innate desire to be lapdogs makes them great for seniors and people with mobility issues. Poodles of all sizes make great therapy dogs , and toy poodles in particular will love sitting near you for hours at a time. Toy poodles do great in households with other dogs, and the breed's lower prey drive , high intelligence, and friendly attitude make them ideal for houses with cats as well. Poodles love children and are eager to play, but most vets and breeders will steer households with children under the age of 10 toward the miniature or standard varieties, simply because the toy poodles are so small. They can be easily hurt by a falling child or by being handled too roughly. Always supervise children when they play with any dog and teach them how to properly interact with pets. Care No breed is perfect, and for poodles the biggest setback is going to be their grooming needs. That coat that is so shed-free and allergy-friendly? It's going to need brushing. A lot of brushing —ideally, every day. Because his hair curls in on itself, it's extremely prone to matting and, if left unchecked, can cause skin infections and have to be shaved off entirely. Aside from the brushing, poodles will need a bath and haircut every four to six weeks. While show dogs have a variety of complicated cuts to choose from, most non-show owners opt for a more standard sporting cut because of its ease to maintain. Like all dogs, you'll need to trim his nails regularly. Special attention should be paid to the ears , as their hair will grow up inside the ear canal, trapping wax and dirt and leading to infections. Because toy varieties have the same number of teeth as other poodle varieties but their mouths are smaller, it's easy for food to get trapped and decay to occur rapidly. Health Though the three varieties of poodles are the same breed, they do not suffer from the same conditions. While the standard poodle will be more prone to bloat , toy poodles can be slightly more susceptible to blood clotting disorders including Von Willebrand's disease and hemophilia , Beck says. Finally, smaller dogs can have a higher propensity for dental problems. In addition to being at greater risk for tooth decay , they don't lose their puppy teeth as easily as bigger dogs, Beck says. Reputable toy poodle breeders will conduct all health tests recommended by the Canine Health Information Center. History The poodle is the national dog of France, which is why you'll hear many people refer to the standard poodle as the "French poodle. Today in France, the poodle is known as the caniche, which translates to "duck dog. Toy poodles began to see favor by the late 18th century, appearing in artwork and in the courts of French aristocracy. The American Kennel Club recognized the poodle as a registered breed in .Jinkee , a 5-year-old red toy poodle, has more than 70, followers on Instagram. Was this page helpful? Temperament: Self-confident, friendly, and intelligent. Toy Poodle Appearance The only real difference between a toy Poodle and a standard Poodle is their height and weight. They share the same coat colorings, markings, behaviors as a standard-sized Poodle. The toy in their name implies that they are smaller than 10 inches and were created for companionship. This pooch appears squarely built and well proportioned. They will have black noses with very dark and dazzling eyes. Size Males should be between inches tall and weigh between pounds. Females should be between inches tall and weigh between pounds. Coat and Colors They come in a variety of colors so it can be hard to choose just one! These colors range from blues, grays, browns, creams, and other shades in between. However the most popular is the red toy Poodle and the black toy Poodle. As for their coat there is virtually no shedding — it is amazing for people who suffer from allergies. However, it will require more time and effort than other dog breeds. Without proper care their coat is prone to matting that can cause painful infections. This coat should be groomed every 4- 6 weeks. Poodles come in 3 different sizes and the toy size is the smallest of them all. They excel at agility and obedience competitions. Their curly coat is virtually non-shedding and great for people who suffer from allergies. Royalty liked to use them as warmers because of their fluffy coat. Toy Poodle Personality and Temperament The toy Poodle has a superb personality which explains their immense popularity. They are very adaptable and can thrive in an urban environment if given daily walks. If you are looking for a dog to have in your apartment this is a good pick as long as they still get outdoor exercise. Toy Poodles are companion dogs and will require companionship from you. If they are left alone for long periods of time they could develop separation anxiety. This is not a breed that is suitable to be left alone the entire day and will get anxious and possibly destructive if this happens. They are inquisitive and very trainable — they are eager to please and love working alongside humans. Due to their low aggression levels, they are a safe and curious breed to have around others. Their ability to socialize with other animals humans and children relates to their friendly nature. However, since they are very small, they could easily be hurt by another animal or young child. Unfortunately, they are, at times, too eager to sound the alarm, and their endless barking can quickly become a problem for both owners and neighbors alike. Thankfully, the toy poodle is highly intelligent, and with a little work and training, you should be able to rid your pooch of this annoying trait. This is a naturally athletic and active dog that will require lots of daily physical and mental stimulation. Just because they are a small dog it does not mean that they will like to lounge and lay on the couch all day. They have been bred to be more of a companion animal but they still yearn for exercise. Although the toy Poodle is an exceptionally friendly and loving breed, it is not recommended to place them in a household with small children due to their fragility. However, they do make excellent family dogs in households with older children. Caring for a Toy Poodle The toy Poodle will make a great companion or family dog for anyone that wants an intelligent and agile smaller dog. They will be a very rewarding and affectionate dog if you are willing to provide them with physical and mental challenges. When they are not challenged they can get destructive. Professional grooming will be required every couple of weeks and it is a very important part of owning a Poodle. Brushing will also have to be done daily to keep it from matting. As long as their requirements are met they should fit perfectly in a family with older children. Exercise Requirements Although toy Poodles do enjoy being athletic it is important to keep their small size in mind. Their size can make them prone to injuries if an owner is not careful. Around an hour of daily exercise is enough to keep them happy. You can keep this pooch even if you only have a small year. A fun exercise they would enjoy is being in water. They have a retrieving background so the water is a happy place for them. Number of Walks Per Day: 1. Grooming and Shedding One of the main reasons someone might be attracted to a Poodle is their minimal shedding allergy-friendly coat. However, this does come at a cost and this coat will require more clipping and maintenance than many other dogs. You should get accustomed to daily brushing and combing of their curly coat to keep it from matting. It is common for toy Poodle owners to keep their dogs coat short to save some time combing. If you are unfamiliar with grooming a dog with a coat like this you should set up a monthly appointment with your groomer. When feeding them and monitoring their growth you should keep in mind that males should be between pounds and females should be between pounds. You should be cautious with table scraps and treats since this could lead to obesity. A high-quality ingredient dog food should be chosen for your toy Poodle. Since they are a small and toy breed, they should be given kibble that is made especially for them. This kibble will likely have less fat and carbohydrates than the food you would feed a larger breed. However, there are some health problems that they can be predisposed to: Hip dysplasia. Post by: Emily W. While many may associate Poodles with being prissy indoor dogs, that could not be further from the truth. Poodles will happily go on a hike or jump into a puddle of mud like any other dog. History of Toy Poodles For years people have associated the Poodle breed with France, but these curly-haired canines actually originated in Germany. In fact, the pom pom haircut that these dogs are known for was inspired by their first job as retrievers. The fur around their organs and joints would be left longer, in order to protect them from the cold water temperatures. The rest of their hair would then be trimmed to lower resistance and lower the risk of getting caught on something when they were in the water. Although they originated in Germany, Poodles quickly made their way to France, where people fell completely head over heels for the canines. Over time, many people began wishing for a smaller, more manageable size of the Standard Poodle. Breeders began pairing the smallest Poodles from different litters, and as a result, the Miniature Poodle came into existence. While the larger, Standard Poodle was used for hunting and retrieving purposes, the Miniature Poodle was used to sniff out truffles a type of mushroom in the woods. After the success of creating the Miniature Poodle, people once again wished to create an even smaller version of Poodle. Breeders followed the same pattern as before, and they bred together the smallest Miniature Poodles. This soon resulted in the creation of the Toy Poodle. Unlike their larger ancestors, the Toy Poodle was not used for any type of job or service. Instead, people simply wanted Toy Poodles as companions and lapdogs. Considered to be the same breed, the Standard, Miniature, and Toy Poodle were bred to be identical versions of one another, but just at three different sizes. Besides a few slight variances, chances are, if you have enjoyed living with a Standard Poodle, you will equally love living with a Miniature or Toy Poodle. Attributes of Toy Poodles The Toy Poodle is an old dog breed that has remained popular among families everywhere, since nearly the day they were created. Learn more about what makes these dogs such a great choice. While living with an intelligent dog can be an extremely helpful trait when it comes to training, Poodle parents should still take heed. For instance, if you choose to feed your Toy Poodle scraps from the table, they will quickly begin to expect scraps every time you sit down at the table. Chances are, they will also turn their nose up to their own food because they will quickly learn to expect delicious human food. Besides creating poor manners, feeding your dog from the table can also be dangerous, since a large amount of human food is toxic to dogs. Toy Poodles are friendly and outgoing, so they are often happy to meet new friends. Toy Poodles are also known to get along well with other pets, but take note that if they live in a multi-pet household, they will generally want to be the center of attention. Toy Poodles cap out at 10 inches in height, and they typically weigh between pounds. They can also be found in nearly any solid color, including apricot, cream, white, brown, red, silver, grey, and black. Poodles can also be found in a phantom pattern or a two-toned pattern, consisting of a combination of colors. One of the many reasons why people are drawn to these dogs is because of the claim that Toy Poodles are hypoallergenic. In truth, though, no one type of dog is completely hypoallergenic. However, Toy Poodles shed very little when compared to the majority of other breeds—which means there will be less dander present. People with dog allergies will oftentimes experience less of an allergic reaction, or none at all, when they are around Poodles. How to Groom a Toy Poodle Even though they do not shed excessively, Toy Poodles still require regular brushing in order to minimize mats in their coat. These weekly or more often, if needed brushings should be done in addition to your Poodle being professionally groomed. Clipping is recommended to be done about every three months, and about every month for the face and feet. Some Poodle parents have even learned how to do these trims on their own. When it comes to Toy Poodles, brushing their teeth is essential. Due to them having a small mouth, their teeth may become cramped, which in-turn can cause dental issues. One of the best ways to help your dog have a healthy mouth is to brush their pearly whites at least once a week. On top of brushing, clipping, and teeth cleaning, your Toy Poodle should additionally be given regular baths and nail trimmings. Caring and Exercise Although a small dog, Toy Poodles still require daily exercise. Walks are always a great choice, but these little pups do equally as well with a game of fetch in the yard or some playtime inside. Besides physical exercise, it is just as important that your pup receives mental exercise. Keep in mind that a bored Poodle will become a destructive and sometimes disobedient Poodle. Training Your Toy Poodle When it comes to training, three of the most important items to keep in mind include: 1. Start as soon as possible Whether you adopt your Poodle when they are four months old or four years old, it is important to begin training as soon as possible. In fact, an ideal time to begin training is the very day you bring them home. By starting training early-on, this will help establish good manners, it will deter bad habits, and it will serve as a good time to build the bond between you and your dog. Be consistent Consistency is key, especially in how often you have training sessions and the words and motions you use for commands. By remaining consistent with your techniques and how often you train, this will allow your Poodle to quickly learn what is expected from them in their new household. Use positive reinforcement Toy Poodles thrive off of positive reinforcement. Great rewards for your dog can include a treat, a toy, or affection. By receiving rewards, your dog will better understand that they are doing the correct command, and chances are they will become more eager to practice the command again. Poodles are known for being among the most intelligent dog breeds, so chances are they will catch onto new commands and tricks rather quickly. Common symptoms include excessive drooling, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, and loss of appetite. While gastrointestinal issues can stem from a variety of causes, regardless, most will clear up in just one week. Ear infections: With their floppy ears, Toy Poodles can be prone to getting ear infections. Allergies: Just like humans, dogs can also develop allergies to pollen, dust, dander, grass, perfume, and food, among many other items. Common allergy symptoms can include: excessive itching, red or watery eyes, frequent sneezing or wheezing, swollen pads, and paw chewing. With food allergies, you will want to keep an eye out for vomiting or diarrhea. Skin irritation: Many Poodles are prone to having sensitive skin. Various household products such as carpet cleaners, detergents, and various grooming products can cause dry, itchy, or irritated skin on your dog. A quick fix for some households is to simply switch these products over to the hypoallergenic option. However, since puppies are born with this condition, veterinarians are often able to catch the problem when your dog is still young. While these are the most common health conditions among Toy Poodles, that does not mean that your Poodle will be affected by any or all of these conditions. If you want a dog that loves to play, is energetic, and small enough to fit in your lap, look no further. Nutrition and Feeding Small dog breeds , such as the Toy Poodle, have a fast metabolism, meaning they burn energy at a high rate, although their small stomachs mean that they must eat little and often. Small-breed foods are specifically designed with appropriate levels of key nutrients and smaller kibble sizes to suit smaller mouths. This also encourages chewing and improves digestion. Discover more about how to offer your dog a balanced diet with our easy-to-follow guide. Grooming Toy Poodles Toy Poodles do not shed and are often though not always tolerated by allergic people. Their coats do take a great deal of care, though, generally requiring professional dog grooming , as well as regular combing and brushing at home. The poodle should be taken to a groomer about every six weeks to be clipped, or you can learn how to do it yourself. A groomer will also advise on ear care. Training Toy Poodles Poodles are a joy to train as they are clever, quick to learn and love working with their owner. They can also turn their paw to dog sports such as mini agility, heelwork to music and even obedience with no problems whatsoever - and in fact training and working with their owner will keep this often-busy little dog happy and relaxed. Best Family Dog Breeds The Toy Poodle can make a fabulous family dog but are better for older children and quiet households as, especially as puppies, they are very small and easily injured by rough or boisterous play. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with each other and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them. Poodles - especially the ones you see in the show ring - seem to have all kinds of crazy hairdos but these often flamboyant-looking styles all started off with a purpose. Poodles were originally water-retrieving dogs but their coats could easily get water-logged and pull them down. The answer was to clip off all their hair but leave some around their vital organs to keep them warm, and around any vulnerable joints to protect from injury. Similar breeds:.


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american bulldog puppies oregon - Imagine you could come home to a lovable, dedicated, companion for life! If you knew what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy, you could find your next best friend. Before you buy your new best friend, read this information so you know what to look for in buying a healthy, quality German Shepherd puppy. I group them into major categories. Will you show him in conformation? Do you want to work with him in Schutzhund or herding? Or do you want a confident and alert companion? Know exactly what you want from your puppy. These dogs are the least costly since they have a trait that prevents them from winning in conformation competitions. These flaws rarely matter to most pet owners. And many minor faults like flat withers or slightly smaller offset ears will probably go unnoticed by most owners. The vast majority of GSDs are family pets. These dogs make great pets as long as they have sound temperaments! They breed some dogs for certain traits that are highly desirable but considered a fault. For example, long-coat or plush-coat GSDs. Show-quality dogs have good temperament and health. You usually buy them for their breed standard qualities that make them able to compete in confirmation or show events. A show-quality dog may cost significantly more if they have the traits desirable to win at a show. This group comes from Championship show lines with a long history of winning. If you plan on showing your Shepherd this is the quality you want. Beware of any breeder who claims they only raise competition-quality dogs. Even the best breeders produce many pet-quality dogs and if a breeder says they only breed perfect dogs, this is a red flag to not buy from them. The GSD is a herding breed, and the working-quality dogs excel at working trials such as scent competitions and Schutzhund. Other work includes climbing and jumping competitions or searching and tracking. They need mental stimulation to keep them occupied and take a lot of time to handle properly. These dogs are better with experienced handlers since you use them for high drive working and competition. They require hours and years of training and preparation for you to have total control during competition. We base this decision on preference. With the correct upbringing and training, both sexes are loyal companions and good with children. They may grow into more dominant dogs, so a confident handler is more desirable. Males may hike their back legs to mark their territory. This can occur on any object — chairs, walls, couches or even your leg. I suggest an extra bout of socialization during this stage, especially with other well-behaved dogs. So they may be better for the first-time owner. Unspayed females come into season every 6 months, so they must receive monitoring and watch to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Their season time can vary from as little as every 4 months to every 9 months. They can attract males to your property and on walks that will harass them if not spayed. Certain breeders and organizations will deal only in a certain coat length and color. The standard coat length is a short coat with double layers. Guard hairs on the top cover a softer underlayer of hair that provides warmth and protection. But there are many coat lengths available depending on your liking. Look online at the different GSD coat lengths to get an idea of what type of fur you want your dog to have. The longer the fur the more grooming involved. The color you choose is a matter of individual taste. Keep in mind the color of many Shepherds alters from their puppyhood to around 2 years of age. Your dog may become lighter or darker. Perhaps they will lose some of their markings as the color fades into the adult pattern. The best way to know what color and patterns your dog grows into is to see the parents of the litter. If the father is unavailable, then ask for photos. Why should you care where your dog comes from if you only want him as a pet companion? You want to get a dog that will live a long and healthy life from a source that has quality puppies. These tips will help you make the best decision on what type of pup fits in your life. Newspaper and Internet Classified Ads Newspaper and internet ads are in abundance. Many backyard breeders hide behind ads online or in local papers. But some breeders who use newspapers and classified ads are reputable and knowledgeable. The problem is you need to visit them to find out, and this can take time to sift through them all. Try the following more reputable suggestions to save yourself time. Dog Care Professionals Ask dog professionals for recommendations. Check with your local veterinarian, groomer, and boarding kennel personnel if they know reputable breeders in town. These professionals are good sources of quality leads. Use the same caution that you will for a classified ad. Verify their suggestions. Many of these organizations regularly receive puppies they need to re-home. While you might not know the full pedigree of the dog, purebred GSDs find themselves in shelters and rescues from no fault of their own. These organizations are a good resource for your first pup. Before adopting, find out as much information as you can. Was the puppy exposed to children? Did he live with other dogs or cats? A well-organized shelter or rescue helps you choose a German Shepherd match for your lifestyle. Start with looking online for GSD rescues and local shelters. Dog Clubs Dog clubs are local and national. These groups put you into contact with registered breeders through their own programs. They can give you the name of the GSD club contact closest to you for breed contacts. Dog clubs also have dog shows open to the public. This is a good time to watch the breed in action and to ask around for quality breeders. While using a dog club to connect you with a reputable breeder is not the only choice, it is one of the more reliable. If you are using a breeder to choose your German Shepherd puppy, this section will help you know the good from the bad. Use these tips to stay safe. Are selling overpriced or under-priced dogs. Lie to you and say you can make money off your new puppy by breeding them, despite them having flaws. Tells you that the GSD is a dog for everyone, with no disadvantages. Breeds multiple types of dogs and claims to be an expert on them all. If a breeder lets their mothers get pregnant more than once a year, this affects the quality of the puppies, so ask how many litters the mother has. These breeders selling unhealthy puppies also will refuse to take bag their dogs if you need to return them for any reason and have no contracts. They have healthy puppies and will answer your questions and have you make multiple visits. Openly show you where the mother and pups spend their time, including their garden or yard. Tells you the up and downs of owning the breed. Have all pedigree and vet paperwork on hand for your review. Specializes in breeding only GSDs source. They openly share this information with you. They have screened their dogs for health issues and can confirm this with documentation which they proudly give you a copy. Healthy mothers are given rest from breeding, and a reputable breeder gives their mothers time off from reproduction. Ask if your breeder if they are willing to take back their dogs if you cannot keep them, as this is standard for a quality breeder with a good reputation. Make sure your breeder has a written contract with detailed information and health guarantees. These are expected for safe breeding practices. How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy Following this guide gives you the best chance of buying a German Shepherd puppy that suits your lifestyle. Know what you want from your GSD and where to find quality dogs. Learn what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy to stay safe from a sick pup and a bad breeder. German Shepherds have their own unique set of challenges. They are a large, active, and intelligent breed that requires an understanding owner who is willing to train their GSD using positive techniques. Devote yourself to their overall health to see the best results and help give you and your dog a lifetime of happiness. Remember, your pup will need mental stimulation to keep their brain active , a gentle exercise program , and need daily love and affection. Buying a German Shepherd puppy is a choice for your whole life that will bring you many years of joy and excitement! Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Are you at home to devote time and training to their growth? What open space environment is your home? German Shepherds are on the no dog list in apartment buildings. Do you have a family with other pets? Also, a good breeder will ask you why do you want this particular breed? The breeder should be concerned that a German Shepherd puppy is being placed within the best living environment. Here are some insights to help you bring home the perfect German Shepherd puppy: Types of German Shepherd Puppies Pure-bred German Shepherd puppies are available in a variety of colors and built. The typical description is light brown and black. Black: Rare and beautiful. Their coloring is either all black or a deep dark bluish hair tint. Panda: their coloring consists of black, white, and tan. This is their natural coloring, not contributed to being a mixed breed. Sable: A unique coloring of this breed consists of light black, grey, tan, or gold. As puppies, the Sable German Shepherd puppies are fully tan. As they age, fur begins to develop stronger natural colors. White: No, this German Shepherd breed is not due to albino coloring. Though rate, white is their natural coloring. This German Shepherd puppy will be smaller in size, whether male or female. The reason for this question is that German Shepherds are intelligent and engaging breeds. They can be trained to thrive in any situation and climate. Their ability to cope in any situation is amazing. German Shepherds make great companions, protective family pets, and they are hard workers. Knowing how to choose a German Shepherd puppy, you are wondering what things you should look for. In other words, you are looking to see if it has a good temperament. German Shephard puppies demand and exhibit affection rather aggressively. Parental Traits If you are choosing a puppy from a kennel or a breeder, inquire about its parental background. You want to know if both parents were healthy and friendly. Carefully Examine the Puppy You want to look again for a puppy that is active and healthy. To choose the best German Shepherd puppy, you must become an amateur canine detective and examine the puppy closely. Here are things to look for: A German Shepherd puppy should not look thin. Instead, they should look full-bodied. Their eyes should appear bright and clear. Also, you must invade their personal space by examining their butt area to make sure it is clean. Their nose should be clean and not runny. Their teeth and gums look healthy. Their hair coat should not have bald spots and should not be matted. Your German Shepherd puppy should be free from odors. Pick a puppy that has a good gait, and their tail is up and actively wagging. All puppies need their mothers when they are very young. A German Shepherd puppy can be purchased when they are between the ages of eight and twelve weeks old. If you decide on an older puppy, just make sure that it has retained its socialization skills with both people and other animals. Make sure that the puppy has gotten all its vaccinations and deworming medication. However, within 48 hours of purchase, take your German Shepherd puppy to your vet for a complete exam. The Kennel or Breeder Environment Whether you are purchasing your German Shepherd puppy from a kennel or a private seller, look at the conditions of both. How does the kennel look to you? Both kennels and private breeder yards should be clean, and all puppies should have clean water. Please do not buy a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder where the conditions are unclean. How Instinctive Are You? Many potential dog-owners state that they knew that this was the one when they first saw their puppy. We all have instincts; therefore, you will know what the right buying environment is when you look at the puppies. If you get a feeling that something is not right, leave and find a different breeder. When you purchase your German Shepherd puppy and bring that bundle of joy home, you want to feel confident that you have made the best decision. After all, the relationship with your German Shepherd puppy can last easily for up to thirteen years. Male vs. Female German Shepherd There are many people who only choose a German Shepherd puppy because of their gender or appearance. What is most important in purchasing any puppy is their physical and mental stability. Gender and looks should never be a deciding factor when choosing a dog that will live in your family for the next 12 years or more. Please perform thorough breeder research so that you can choose the right German Shepherd puppy that will fit into your living lifestyle for years to come. Do you want to select a female puppy for future breeding? If not, both your male and female German Shepherd puppy should be spayed and neutered. Female German Shepherds are found to have a sweeter temperament than their male counterparts. Male German Shepherds are more territorial. They also are a little more stubborn and proud. Male German Shepherds are generally larger than their female counterparts. The male can grow to a height range of up to 26 inches. Meanwhile, the female can grow to a height of up to 24 inches tall. Their weight will range from a full-bodied 75 to 95 pounds. When you are trying to decide whether to purchase a male vs. They make excellent watchdogs. Socialize Therefore, if you are going to be around other individuals each day, your German Shepherd puppy must be trained to accept people outside their family unit. Introduce your German Shepherd puppy to strangers so that they will feel comfortable in front of people. By introducing them to strangers, will help them stay calm. They do not like to be left alone for too long. Because they were originally bred for herding, German Shepherds have high energy and thus require physical and mental stimulation. Make sure you have the time and patience to own a German Shepherd puppy. In patiently taking time with their active habits, it will work out to your benefit. They become loyal and loving breeds, especially when raised in a family setting. Remember the TV show Dog Whisperer? The host always referred to a dog requiring a pack leader. German Shepherds must learn that you are the pack leader. If not, they will take the dominant lead, and this is not good. They must be trained and actively exercised to be happy. German Shepherds love to explore and investigate everything. If you live in an area where there are porcupines, lookout. Young German Shepherd puppies will probably come home with quills all over their body. Well, you would be wrong. A German Shepherd puppy will want to correct this wrong and approach another porcupine! Grooming a German Shepherd puppy is simple and easy. Yes, they do shed year-round, so brush them occasionally. But mostly keep their nails trimmed, their teeth and ears cleaned. Dog breeders believe that to help your new German Shepherd puppy adjust from a litter to your new home, they should be crate trained. They need to feel safe and comfortable. Crate training is a learning experience for a German Shepherd puppy, but it eventually helps them get used to a family who perhaps must go off to work every day. Further Reading. Do further research into these local German Shepherd breed clubs in your area. Whether you get information from their websites or contact them directly for help, local breed clubs are a great way to get the names of reputable breeders in your area. Veterinarians come into contact with a lot of different types of animal care-givers, from breeders to shelters to individual owners. Because they know so much about animal issues in the community, it's a good idea to talk to a few vets in your area for ethical breeder recommendations. Also consider speaking to other German Shepherd owners, dog groomers, or dog trainers. If you visit a breed show, talk to owners and trainers about who they've had good or bad experiences with. A good breeder won't have a variety of breeds available for adoption. Look for a breeder who specializes only in German Shepherds. Your best option is to find a breeder who has years of experience with the German Shepherd breed. They should be able to answer your questions about development, temperament, and training easily and without hesitation. A key marker of a good breeder is the amount of effort they put into early socialization. Puppies need to be taught from an early age to live harmoniously with humans. If a breeder keeps litters isolated away from the home, the puppies will not be used to the sights and sounds of a normal household, and won't be used to human interaction. This can become a problem by the time they are old enough to be adopted. Make sure the puppies spend at least some time in the breeders' home with them. The more time they spend with humans, the more you can trust the breeder. An ethical breeder will never try to breed a female who hasn't reached sexual maturity — about 2 years of age. Mothers should also be given enough time to recover from pregnancies and being separated from their litters as they get adopted. Females should be healthy and alert. Never adopt a puppy from a breeder who breeds a young or unhealthy female, or who doesn't give mothers time to recover before breeding them again. Puppies should never be sold or separated from their mothers before 8 weeks of age. The breeder should have begun the puppies' vaccination and deworming processes before adopting them out. Make sure that's happened, and ask about any health problems the vet may have reported in these early checkups. Ask if the breeders have their dogs tested for the Degenerative Myelopathy DM gene. This can determine whether a common inherited disease in German Shepherds is present in the litter's bloodline. Dogs with DM suffer from progressive paralysis, particularly in the hind legs. Note that being AKC-registered does not mean that you are getting a healthy animal. It means that the owner paid money to the AKC to register the dog. While experts recommend against breeding animals with known genetic problems, an OFA certification will give you proof. Be aware, though, that there's no guarantee of health in any animal. There's always a chance that two dogs free of known genetic diseases can still produce a puppy with genetic problems. The breeder should be evaluating you as a potential owner, just as you're evaluating him or her as a breeder. No good breeder will just hand over a puppy without being sure that the new owners will be able to provide it with a good, healthy life. Ask the breeder what they look for in a good owner, and whether they've ever turned potential owners away. The breeder should be able to answer these questions without even having to think about it. You might also ask the breeder for references so you can contact other families who have dogs from previous litters. A reputable breeder should ask questions about your dog background and experience, your lifestyle, and your family to guide you in making the best decision. As difficult as it may be, a good breeder will be willing to turn you away if they think you're a bad fit for their particular puppies. For example, if the litter has particularly inactive parents, the puppies may not be a good fit for your highly active lifestyle. If you get turned away, ask if the breeder can point you to other options and litters so you can expand your search. Also ask if they have any unborn litters coming up that may be a better fit for you. Be patient and don't get discouraged. With enough patience and legwork, you'll find the right puppy. Don't lie to a breeder just to get a puppy, though. Trust the breeder's decision-making process. You don't want to end up with a dog who doesn't fit your needs. Avoid any breeder who offers to cut you a "deal," who has unclean or smelly kennels, or who acts suspiciously in any way. Trust your instincts. A breeder who's in it just for the money has the wrong motivation, and likely isn't interested in the welfare of their dogs. Make sure the dogs are not crowded into cages. They should have plenty of room to stumble around and explore their surroundings. Part of the time, puppies should be kept in the home to expose them to household environments. There should be adequate food and water for all animals on the premises. Kennels should be cleaned daily. Although it may be that a dog had an accident just before you arrived, be suspicious of a kennel that looks like it hasn't been cleaned recently. If a breeder doesn't have a return policy, it suggests they don't really care what happens to their dogs once they leave their property. That's not a good sign! Also find out what kind of documentation you would get with your puppy. Would you get registration papers and pedigree papers? Negotiate for what you want if it's not included in the contract. Be very wary of a breeder who will not discuss the chance that a puppy may need to be returned. Does the contract require you to take the puppy for a vet visit within a set time? Does it cover hereditary issues for life? For only a certain period of time? What does the breeder agree to offer? Trade for another puppy when one is available? Are there restrictions on the activities you can do with your dog that will invalidate the contract or guarantee? Are you purchasing a show prospect puppy or a pet quality animal? Does the breeder have strong feelings or even bans about the vaccinations, foods or supplements for your puppy? Are these opinions based on solid science? Of course, you have already read a lot of books with advice on how to choose the right puppy of a German Shepherd, east European, as well as a Newfoundland, Rottweiler, Spaniel, or Spitz puppy. You understand what is the fundamental difference between these breeds and why a Retriever puppy will never become a VIP bodyguard, and a black terrier will hardly ever pass for a draft husky. Why Opting For a German Shepherd Puppy Is a Good Choice The German Shepherd is prone to learning from a very young to deep old age, while many other breeds cannot boast of this, even if their appearance is more perfect than that of a German Shepherd. The most well-known characteristics that a German Shepherd owns are: pronounced protective and guarding instinct; the ability to make independent decisions, and active actions, and at the same time be completely submissive to the owner; sociability, playfulness, and curiosity; lack of aggression signs towards others and deep affection for the owner; a willingness to happily take on tasks, learn, and remain completely fearless when faced with unfamiliar surroundings or unforeseen difficulties; In addition, the Shepherd dog is calmly confident and features strong nerves, combativeness, and assertiveness which are the main qualities of a good service dog. Perhaps, due to this set of breed characteristics, few larger and more ferocious breeds can compete with a GS, both for guarding the house and as a personal protector. It is not recommended to take puppies under 4 weeks old from their mother. This applies not only to GSs but other breeds. At the age of one month, the baby has already been given all the necessary vaccinations. However, only a person who can devote a lot of time to raising a puppy can afford to take a Shepherd at such a young age. In addition to 6 meals a day, and socialization, the new owner will need to complete 1, different tasks, which require, above all, a lot of time. If there is no time, it is worth finding a puppy aged 4 to 6 months. And it is advisable to take such a teenager from a nursery that focuses on breeding German Shepherds and not all the breeds at once. It happens that a puppy stays in the nursery because the money deposit was given for it but, for some reason, people could not pick up the reserved puppy. If the grown-up German Shepherd puppy constantly lived in an aviary and was deprived of close contact with people and the outside world, owners who have not previously dealt with this breed should not choose such a youngster. These young dogs are for experienced cinologysts. Lack of socialization can be corrected but it cannot be fully eliminated. Testing for the Puppy and Its Future Owner You may already know how to choose a purebred German Shepherd by external signs under the age of 3 months. Simple tests will help you choose a puppy with the desired character. Visit the breeder at a predetermined time when the puppies do not sleep or, conversely, are not hungry. You are taking a future friend for life, and enthusiastic emotions with such a choice are inappropriate. When buying a new friend, inspect the litter meticulously. Pay attention to the following: eyes do not water; traces of diarrhea under the tails are not observed; wet noses are without purulent crusts; legs are straight and strong; fur is clean, reminding of the plush; on the skin under the coat, there are no signs of peeling and scabs; all puppies are active and well-fed; the body is elastic and strong to the touch; the puppy has a pleasant dog smell; the mother is not exhausted; bowls and bedding are clean; there is enough heat and light. Of course, the owner of the dog mother has already taken her to the next room. Those who paid attention to the unusual sound are yours. Throw carefully, of course a tennis ball at the puppies. Those who were not afraid and did not try to escape are yours. Those who, having scouted the situation, did not begin to whine , pressing themselves onto the floor, but hurried towards the bedding are yours. Pay attention to those who have shown interest in a new object. The best are those who took and dragged it. Keys and money are the dirtiest household items. This testing method was used 20 years ago. Today, it is dangerous for the health of puppies! Invite those who dragged the rubber duck to pull a piece of fabric. If the baby dog willingly starts the fight, not letting the cloth go when you pull it towards you, they are good boys or girls. Turn the puppy you like on its back and hold it with an open palm for a few seconds. A clear alpha leader is easy to identify by its non-calming behavior for seconds, and even trying to bite you in this position. It may not be your choice! You will get too many problems associated with the puppy, or it will never be possible to completely subdue it. The puppy that squealed, pulled back its paw, and did not lose its interest in you is yours. The one who barks trying to drive brothers and sisters away from the bowl is not for you. The one who gives up its place at the feeder is also not yours. Yours is the one who, regardless of the obstacles, has taken its place and calmly devours food, without moving from its point, snapping, and running around the bowl. Now, you have at best 2 or 3 puppies left in front of you. You need to select the fat-footed one who will try to get out through the opening without panic and squealing. The tests are simple, but they will allow you to select a good puppy and raise a real working German Shepherd from it without unnecessary costs and nerves. Talk to the breeder. Such puppies are sold at a more reasonable price, but the puppy card for them is mandatory to be filled out as well. If you are given puppies for free, in the absence of their mother, there is a reason to seriously consider whether it is a Shepherd dog at all, even if their mother has pedigree documents. This is not a dog of one owner! The versatility and flexibility of this breed are proven by the fact that GSs accept a new family and a new environment without any problems. The main thing for it is to have its own business — to serve a human! Of course, parting with the former owner seriously affects the condition of the dog, but it will not have a destructive effect on its psyche. And the sooner you engage the German Shepherd in work, the more chances you will have to become a new God for it. If the German Shepherd was properly brought up and grew up surrounded by people, it has working characteristics in good conditions, and the reputation of its previous owner is beyond all questions, such a dog will be quite useful to your family. Finding out the previous story and background of an adult GS why it is refused, what the complaints about its behavior are, and other prompting questions is a must! The reason may be the saddest and most trivial — the previous owner died, and relatives are not able to either support or care for the dog. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. November 8, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? The German Shepherd Dog, one of the top ten popular breeds in the United States, is known for their regal appearance, bravery, intelligence, and noble character. They are hard-working dogs that fit into a variety of service jobs, but can also be amazing family dogs, making them an all-around great breed for dog lovers! How do you know if the German Shepherd Dog is the right fit for you and your family? German Shepherd Dogs are a younger breed that started in Germany in by Captain Max Von Stephanitz who sought to create an unmatched herding dog. But as Germany became more and more industrialized, the breed shifted from herding work to police and military training. Hundreds of these dogs made their way to the United States during WWI, one such being a small five-day-old puppy that was rescued from a destroyed kennel in France and brought home to the states to Los Angeles. This puppy later grew up to be one of the most famous four-legged movie stars, Rin Tin Tin, starring in 26 movies, forever making the German Shepherd Dog breed a popular choice in the nation! If you are looking for an attractive dog, look no further! German Shepherd Dogs have beautiful coats, strong muscular builds, a square muzzle, long bushy tail, and a black mask. Some colors like red and black, or tan and black, have distinct markings such as saddle or blanket on their back. However, German Shepherd Dogs come in a variety of colors: sable, silver, liver, panda, solid black, and solid white. What are German Shepherd Dog Personalities like? German Shepherd Dogs can be reserved, often appearing aloof toward new people, but this very loyal breed loves their families and can be very affectionate. While they can be wary of new people and protective of their family, with the right socialization, German Shepherd Dogs can be friendly and easy-going. They are an intelligent and high-energy breed that thrives with a job to do. Due to this, without the proper or consistent amount of stimulating work, they can easily become bored and frustrated. Those feelings could translate into behaviors like barking, howling, or chewing. As they get older, they'll equally enjoy relaxing with you at home and getting up with you to do the next fun activity! If you are a lover of going for long walks or runs, enjoy hiking on the weekends, or trips to the beach depending on where you live, a German Shepherd Dog will gladly trot alongside you! German Shepherd Dogs while they can be independent, do crave to be with their family and offer great companionship. With crate training, your German Shepherd puppy will learn to adapt to being left alone for periods of time without developing separation anxiety, however, this breed thrives with interaction and will do best a puppy parent that can provide them with a balanced amount of alone and accompanied time throughout the day. Like many large breed dogs, German Shepherd Dogs can suffer from some common illnesses including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, degenerative spinal stenosis, and Von Willebrand disease. Thankfully, responsible breeders today have bred out many of these and improved the health of the breed significantly! When you bring home your new German Shepherd puppy, schedule their first veterinarian visit to discuss appropriate health care, proper nutrition and supplements, and exercise. German Shepherd Dogs tend to shed regularly and heavily twice in the year during the Spring and Fall season. With soft undercoats and harsher topcoats, they would do best with regular brushing once a week will help remove their dead fur and maintain healthy skin! Note: When looking for a reputable German Shepherd Dog breeder, go through an accredited website such as AKC for their breeder locator. Additionally, many pure-breed and mixed German Shepherds are available in rescues and shelters for adoption! German Shepherds are smart and hard-working, so puppy training will not only provide them with the stimulation they crave but also solidify your communication, trust, and overall relationship! Early puppy training Lay the foundation for good behavior the day your puppy comes home, introducing them to basic obedience. Keeping your puppy on a leash at home while under supervision will help to build their focus on you as their leader and also help keep them from darting away. Soon, build up to more obedience training commands, work on their focus through distractions, and start to introduce training in different locations such as your yard, or neighborhood to solidify their communication with you in any situation. Also, check out the rest of our Puppy Training and Puppyhood Made Easy for New Owners series to guide you through what to train your puppy next, how to troubleshoot, and other important topics every puppy owner should know! Going back to their wilder instincts, puppies will naturally avoid soiling where they sleep. Crate training your German Shepherd Dog puppy will help boost their confidence and resilience while learning to be alone at home. Socialization is a must German Shepherd Dogs are natural protectors and benefit greatly from being socialized with other dogs, people, new places, textures, and sounds. When done correctly, s ocialization helps teach your puppy the proper way to greet people, other dogs and create boundaries. During socialization sessions, you can work with your puppy on barking or jumping, which are common puppy behaviors when they are excited or over-stimulated when meeting strangers. And if you're not sure how to do this on your own, hire a local puppy trainer to help set you up for the best success! Consider advanced training to keep them engaged German Shepherd Dogs are very intelligent and have high-prey drives which mean they love to work! Along with basic obedience, dog sports like agility are a great way to motivate them and help your puppy work out their energy. Agility helps establish a stronger communication bond through body language while your puppy is participating. Developed as part of K9 and military dog training, this is a perfect activity for your German Shepherd to burn off some mental and physical steam! Did you recently bring home a German Shepherd Dog puppy? Are you still planning and not sure what breed fits your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! Check out these blogs related to puppy training and more! This guide will help you learn how to select the best German Shepherd puppy to add to your family. Is a German Shepherd right for me? This is the first question you should ask yourself before you even consider bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy. You need to evaluate your personal and family lifestyle by asking yourself the following questions: Where do you live? German Shepherds are often on the restricted breed list for apartments. Do you spend much of your time at home, or do you have an active work and social life? Are you willing to spend more time at home on the weekends and evenings during puppyhood, even if it means missing social events? Do you love traveling a lot? If so, will you take your puppy with you? If not, do you have someone or someplace you trust to watch your dog when you travel? Is your whole family excited about the idea of a new German Shepherd puppy? Are you already active or willing to become more active? Do you have time in your schedule to devote to training? Knowing the answers to those questions will help get you a couple of steps closer to deciding whether or not a German Shepherd is the right choice for you. Important things to know about German Shepherds: German Shepherd dogs are sometimes affectionately known as German shedders. German Shepherds shed all year long , however, they blow their coats twice a year during which time they will shed exponentially more. When considering getting this breed, you should be comfortable having a dog that sheds. Trimming their nails , cleaning their ears, brushing their teeth, and brushing their coat regularly is sufficient. Of course, during the shedding seasons more frequent brushing will be needed. German Shepherds were originally developed for herding sheep. Accordingly, they have the desire to work and respond best to proper training from a young age, and an active lifestyle. German Shepherds are known to be clingy, so be prepared to have a shadow following you around the house and maybe even in the restroom. German Shepherds are good with kids and are great family dogs. However, they need proper socialization and training at a young age so they can learn how to behave around both kids and adults. German Shepherds require a lot of mental stimulation and have high energy levels, especially as a puppy. As much as I love Allie, she was more than a handful as a puppy. I have seen instances where people underestimate the time, energy, and training a German Shepherd puppy requires and get overwhelmed after bringing their puppy home. These people end up giving up their puppies. It breaks my heart to know these awesome dogs are given up because of a lack of knowledge when selecting a breed of dog. Although they are a handful if you are willing to put in the effort they are in my opinion one of the best breeds of dog to own. German Shepherds are too smart for their own good. They learn things scary fast and sometimes get themselves into trouble because of how smart they are. They learn your routine and habits, and they also learn when and how they can get away with mischief. German Shepherds are incredibly loyal and become very connected to their owners and family. German Shepherds are typically loving and affectionate. From the second I met Allie she greeted me with a wet tongue to the face. That is still her favorite greeting she will kiss anyone that will allow her to get close enough. German Shepherds need training. They need to know that you are the leader and in charge. If not, they will quickly take over the role of being in charge and that is where problems arise. A bored, untrained, not active German Shepherd can become one of the stories you sometimes hear on the news about a GSD being aggressive. In most of those cases, the problem was with the owners and not the dog breed as a whole. Adoption or Breeder? First, you need to decide if you are going to adopt a German Shepherd puppy or buy one from a breeder. Here are some of the benefits of adopting: Rescue puppies are often already sociable, at least partially trained, and loving dogs. Therefore, you will save a lot of time on house training your new puppy. Older puppies or dogs are likely to be calmer than a younger puppy. You are saving the life of a dog that might not have otherwise found a home. The cost of adopting is typically much cheaper than buying a puppy from a breeder. If you decide to get a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder, here are a few things that can help you identify a good, ethical German Shepherd breeder: Ethical breeders care about the health and wellbeing of the puppy and are not just in the business for money. Ethical breeders always make sure that only healthy dogs breed together and follow a strict breeding program where they ensure that breeding and puppy spaces are clean. They should also have papers showing the age of the parent and the family tree of the puppy. Ethical breeders will happily show you around their entire setup; they should have nothing to hide. Ethical breeders will happily answer as many questions as you have to ask. You want to select one that will be compatible with you and your family. Consider the following when picking a puppy from the litter: Choose a puppy that is sociable around you and other puppies. Pick a puppy that walks confidently with its head high and tail up and wagging. Choose a puppy that has clear eyes, ears , and teeth, walks evenly, and appears clean. Basically, choose a puppy that looks healthy. Look at the personalities of the puppies. Choose a welcoming puppy that wants to greet you as opposed to one that retreats or appears shy. Ask to interact with each puppy one by one after seeing them with their littermates. That way you can get a better sense of how the puppy responds to you without distractions. If possible, visit the litter at least three times before making a final decision, this will allow you to determine the personalities of each of those little fluff balls, and see which would best fit into your family. How old should a German Shepherd puppy be when you take it home? Any puppy should be at least 8 weeks old before being separated from their mother. By this timeline, their sensory organs will have also developed fully which will help you to spot any deformities or medical issues. Be wary of any breeder that will allow you to take your puppy home before 8 weeks old. How do you puppy proof for German Shepherds? German Shepherds are naturally active and tend to explore the world with their mouths, especially during their adolescent period. So, before you can bring your new puppy home, there are a few things you can do to puppy-proof your house: Get rid of any poisonous plants or put them out of reach of your new puppy. Cover electrical cords with cable wraps or PVC pipes. Buy a new laundry basket that has a lid, no holes, and is tall. Make sure both your kitchen and bathroom trash cans have lids. Your new puppy will dig around for anything to bite, like chicken bones, diapers, used hygienic products, or even a disposable razor. If possible, you should buy new trash cans that only open when a button is pressed. Store all the chemicals in secured cabinets or even better on high shelves. German Shepherd puppies have strong teeth and can open plastic containers by biting through even the toughest of plastic! Put away any small items or toys that are small enough for your puppy to swallow. Think of small kid toys like Legos or dollhouse furniture that could be dangerous for a curious puppy. Find a safe spot for your shoes. Whether in a closed closet or in the laundry room behind a closed door. I remember losing a pair of brand-new shoes because I forgot to put them away and Allie thought chewing them was a fun idea. Bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy The period of bringing a new German Shepherd puppy home and introducing them to your home and family takes time and above all, patience. If possible, plan to take off work for at least a few days after bringing your puppy home. I picked up Allie on a Saturday, and then took most of the following week off to spend time getting her adjusted to her new home. Remember, your new puppy has been taken from the only family it knew, and you are now their new family. That first week home was a good week of bonding with Allie. It helped her feel comfortable with her new life and allowed me to really get to know my new beautiful energy filled puppy. The best tip for a smooth transition when bringing your German Shepherd puppy home is to begin crate training and potty training as soon as possible. As a breed prone to separation anxiety , you want to give your GSD a zone to feel safe, comfortable, and content to be on their own. While the initial steps of crate training can be time-consuming, it can make the difference between a dog that is a joy to own, and one that can never be left on their own — so, be the dog parent your pooch deserves and put the time in! New German Shepherd puppy checklist and things to buy It is important that your new puppy feels welcomed into their new home. Some items are ok to be left with your puppy, and other items are more dangerous or will be destroyed. This checklist will help you to know what to buy when getting a puppy. New German Shepherd Puppy Checklist. Final thoughts Where do I start? The first thing that you have to do before you can pick out the best puppy, is to pick out the best breeder. This may come easily, as you may already have a breeder in mind that you trust and who has a good reputation. But chances are that you will have to do your research. And there is also a good chance that you may need to travel some distance to the right breeder. Even if the breeder is several states away, consider making the trip. Getting a new GSD puppy is a significant life commitment. The effort and time that you invest now in going about this properly will pay off for years to come. Here are some important things to look for in a breeder once you locate one that you are interested in pursuing. Call the breeder and have a conversation The first thing to do is call the breeder and have a conversation. A quality German Shepherd breeder will actually require this. They will not permit someone to just show up and purchase one of their dogs and take it home. They will ask you questions such as: Why do you want a GSD puppy? This will aid them in helping you choose. Where do you live, in an apartment or in a home? They will want to ensure that the puppy will not be in a cramped space. Do you have a yard, and is it fenced-in? They will want to make sure that the puppy will have adequate room to exercise as it grows. Do you have children in your home? They will want to make sure that you understand the importance of socialization and training to keep your family safe. Do you have other pets in your home? They will want to make sure that you know how to properly introduce the puppy to other animals, and whether any other pets you have may actually be a danger to the puppy. What type of work do you do, does it require you to be away from home for long periods of time? Because GSDs do not do well alone, they will want to make sure that you have adequate time to devote to your dog. Are you financially prepared to take on a GSD? While this may be a bit of a personal question, it is important to know that you are financially able to care for a GSD. They are expensive to care for, and it is fair for a breeder to ask this question. If a breeder does not ask you some form of these questions, then perhaps think twice. It may be an indication that they are more interested in profit than raising a quality puppy that they care will go to a quality home. Questions for you to ask the breeder: How many different types of dogs do you raise? Can you provide me with a pedigree of all of your puppies? A pedigree is essentially a family tree for your puppy. A good breeder should have a detailed pedigree for any dog they sell. Beware of any breeder that wants to charge for this or says that they will provide it at a later date. Do you have references? They should provide you with several without thinking twice. All reputable breeders will offer this guarantee in the form of a written contract. Do you breed your females more than once a year? Female GSDs should not be bred more than one time per year. This allows for adequate recovery time and maintains good health. Can you provide me with a detailed medical history for your puppies? Health screenings are essential for puppies, and a reputable breeder should be able to provide proof of these. Can you explain any potential health issues for GSD which may come up later in life? A knowledgable breeder should be able to clearly explain conditions like hip dysplasia and other health issues more common in GSDs than other dogs. If the answer to any of these questions comes up as unsatisfactory, move on. It is simply not worth the risk of pursuing the breeder any further. Unfortunately, there are far too many unethical breeders who take a lot of shortcuts which results in dogs prone to both health and behavioral issues. Why is this? You should never take home a puppy that is less than 8 weeks old. More than half of the states in the U. And out of those states, only 3 permit a puppy to be offered for sale under the age of 8 weeks. The reason for these laws is primarily so that puppies are properly weaned from their mothers and able to eat on their own. In addition to weaning, puppies need to be initially socialized by their mothers as well as their siblings. So a puppy will be taught that these things are bad during these 8 weeks. If you remove a puppy from the litter too early, they may not learn these lessons and develop behavioral problems as they get older. Much like a spoiled child that never learns, often times the source of an ill-behaved puppy can be traced to a lack of discipline at a young age. So to ensure that you have a healthy puppy, that is also sold in accordance with state laws and regulations, understand that it must be 8 weeks old see link above for exceptions — regardless of state law exceptions, waiting 8 weeks is good practice. Decide whether you want to male or female You may have a personal preference for either a female or a male German Shepherd puppy. It is important however to not necessarily just go with your gut on this one. Take a moment and understand some general differences between the two genders. I will explore this issue more in-depth in another post, but here are some important general points to consider. Territorial: Males are naturally more territorial than females. This may give them more of a tendency to wander off in an effort to broaden their territory. Very possessive: Male GSDs are generally more possessive than females. They may be possessive over food and bones, toys, and you! Dominance: Male German Shepherds tend to be more dominant than females. This may result in more of a proclivity towards aggressive bullying behaviors to make sure that it is understood that they are the boss. Dominance requires training to keep it in check. Singular bonding: Male GSDs tend to bond more closely with one person rather than a group of people like a family. Territorial: Females are therefore more welcoming and less territorial than males. They are also less likely to wander off as they have no desire to expand their territory. Dominance: Females display less dominant behaviors than males. Non-singular bonding: Females are more likely to bond with a number of people in a family rather than an individual person. So, how do I choose between the two? This question comes down to the purpose for which you want a German Shepherd. If you are looking for a dog to have trained in protection and are looking primarily for a four-legged security system for your home, then a male is a good choice. However, if your primary interest is to just have a family pet that socializes well with others, then a female is probably right for you. Testing the puppy There is no better way to determine whether or not a specific puppy is the right one for you than to actually get hands-on and doing some investigating. However, even before you begin any interactions with a puppy, make sure that you are testing the correct one. Never try and force any interaction, begin with puppies that are naturally drawn to you. Just like with people, you cannot force a match and expect fruitful results. So be patient and make sure at very least that the puppy is not aversive toward you before you being. The tests: Clap your hands: Does it run away or does it come? A more timid dog may, however, be apprehensive to approach. Make eye contact: When the puppy is looked at, does it stare back at you? If the puppy looks directly at you, it is showing confidence. Vocally call the puppy over to you: Does it come to you right away? If it does how not, however, this could show a behavioral issue or hearing problem, or it could be an indication of another illness as well. Pet the puppy: How does it respond to your touch? However, if it meets your touches with biting or growling, then this is likely an indication of an uneven or bad temperament. It will not just grow out of this, it will have to be trained out of it. Bring a ball with you to test with the puppy: Roll the ball and see what the puppy does. Does it follow it and then bring it to you? Or does it take it away for itself. A more dominant puppy will just take the ball and keep it for itself, reluctant to give it back to you. On the other hand, a more independent puppy may show no interest at all. And one that is submissive may actually be frightened. If you are looking for a very sociable puppy, look for the one that brings the ball right back to you to play some more. The puppy that brings it right back is also an ideal candidate for training in retrieving and other exercises. An even-tempered puppy will show interest in and play with the toy, but it will also allow you to participate and take the toy back without showing you any aggression. Roll the puppy over: Once the puppy comes over to you, gently roll it onto its back and hold it in place. Do not be forceful but be firm. See how the puppy reacts. Is it resisting, or is it just relaxing? A puppy with a more dominant personality will take the path of most resistance, and it may growl or attempt to bite at you. And the even-tempered puppy is the one that may resist for a short time but then submit to what you are doing. Pick up the puppy: Physically pick up the puppy by gently holding it underneath its chest with an open hand. Lift it up high, even above the height of your head and hold it there. What does the puppy do? Does it struggle, or does it stay relaxed? A puppy that struggles may be fearful or dominant. On the other hand, a puppy that stays absolutely relaxed is displaying confidence in itself and trust in you. Hold on to a paw and press it gently: This is somewhat similar to holding it on its back. If there is a response to be had, it will happen immediately. Resistance or pulling the paw away may show dominance and temperament towards aggression. The even-tempered puppy will be you curious as to what you are doing. It may investigate a little and might even lick you. Make an unexpected noise: Whether it is banging a pot and pan together or just yelling, create an unexpected noise. See what the puppy does, does it show fear, interest, or aggression? A fearful puppy may run away or even whimper. While an aggressive-tempered puppy may actually growl and try to bite you. An even-tempered puppy will simply look surprised, and may even want to investigate a little bit further. Meet the parents A lot of breeders will have both the father sire and the mother bitch of the puppies on site. However, some of them will only have the mother because sometimes the father is on loan as a stud from a different breeder. But the mother for sure should be on site, and you should get an idea of what she is like. In the case of my last German Shepherd, I was able to meet both parents. His mother was very kind and sociable and eager to be petted. While on the other hand, his father was clearly dominant, and not a dog to be messed with. Because of my prior experience and knowledge, my GSD turned out exactly as I thought he would — fairly sociable yet wildly protective of me. This was all right because I knew what to expect and I was able to train my dog properly to take the edge off of some of his more dominance behaviors. However, my choice was an informed decision based on years of experience. If you are new to owning a German Shepherd, this may not be an ideal combination. I would recommend for a new German Shepherd owner to consider making sure that both parents are more docile, and possibly even lean towards acquiring a female for your first German Shepherd. Visit the puppy on more than one occasion Just like people, puppies have their on days and their off days. You will not be able to get a very accurate picture of how your puppy will be on one short visit. In fact, with my last dog, I visited him at least 4 times and stayed for at least 30 minutes with him each time prior to taking him home. A good breeder will have no issue with you doing this, and in fact, will prefer it. They want their dogs to be well-matched with their new owners, so this is common practice. The puppy should become accustomed to the people it will soon be spending its entire life with. So the more familiarity that you build now in this phase, the easier that puppy will transition to home life with you and your family. All of these steps are positive reinforcement for your new puppy and will build familiarity and a bond even before you arrive home. Also, bring a small blanket or clothing item and ask the breeder to leave it with the puppy. This will allow your puppy to become familiar with the scent of you and your home. Making for a better transition. So by default, this knowledge enables the breeder to be very good at placing the proper puppies with the proper personalities. Remember to stay focused and not lose sight of your primary objective, which is to select the right puppy for you and your family. If you take the time and care to do your research and ask the right questions, you will come together with the right puppy for you. But remember, this is just the beginning of a major life commitment. So take this step of choosing the right GSD puppy seriously, and you will have laid the foundation for a loving and rewarding relationship for years to come. May not even be aware of the breed standard. Breeds to any convenient dog. Strives towards the ideal. Often helps to define it. Does not need to promote establishment; sells to brokers, pet shops, etc. Often rescues only to attain more stock. Rarely attends shows or trials. Shows and trials to objectively test breeding stock. Often judges, provides seminars, writes articles, and willingly mentors serious Hobby Breeders. Knowledge Often pretends to know some. May share false or incomplete information. Studies continuously. Impacts the breed for many decades with knowledge of dogs over many generations. All pups sold have full breeding rights. Yes, and diligently follows up on progeny. Keeps up with health and temperament issues affecting the breeding and provides in-depth guarantees No need to; mostly supplies brokers and pet shops. Meets minimum standards as required by state law. May refuse to acknowledge most problems. Maintains a solid support system — accepts full responsibility for every puppy produced. Performs health testing for all breeding stock for genetic diseases affecting the particular breed. No interest, may offer papers as proof of quality. Papers alone are not proof of quality. No interest. May provide undocumented paperwork for appearances sake. Is unfamiliar with health testing usually statements of good health are stated to impress consumers. Intensive testing always a priority. Often initiates club sponsored seminars and clinics. Maintains records on all dogs in gene pool including progeny. Often supplies brokers and pet shops, records unavailable. Dogs and puppies are often auctioned off in lots, records unavailable. Focuses mostly on current dogs, no records or knowledge of genes. Attempts to continuously track every puppy produced. Bases entire breeding program on extensive gene pool data. Clean environment always maintained Minimum standards vary greatly in cleanliness. Minimum standards maintained for state inspections. Conditions may vary greatly depending on available income, usually makeshift accommodations. Clean, healthy and mentally stimulating environment. Expected longevity with any particular breed Will continue as long as the sales are coming. Depends on popularity of specific breeds. Unrealistic expectations — easily disillusioned. On a mission-plans to stay for the long haul. Health guarantee provided No, it cuts into profits. No health guarantee beyond proof of first set of vaccines, if that. Not qualified to give advice if a problem arises. Offers written guarantee and is available to answer questions to new owners. Good knowledge of history in dogs. Extensive knowledge of health history, offers replacements to owners of genetically affected dogs. Ability to meet the parents of the litter If available, may be in poor physical condition. If available, dogs are not used to contact with people. May or may not be well loved and cared for companions, often unwilling to show entire litter or parents to buyer. Shows friendly mother and entire litter in clean environment; stud dog too, if in residence. Helps buyer choose appropriate puppy. Can explain how breeding was planned to emphasize specific qualities and can speak at length about how puppies compare. What you can expect after purchase Nothing, may not be able to contact at all. No concern for dog after sale is final. Available for questions, and wants to keep in touch. Will take back dog or puppy at any time. After purchase will help with training and grooming, available for all questions and knows the answers. Price Priced according to market, but is marked up from original source for profit. Mid-range to move puppies quickly. High end of mid-range. Price will not reflect all that is invested. Use only physically sound, mature dogs of stable temperament for breeding. These characteristics are rarely, if ever, determined before the age of two for females. Continue to educate themselves regarding genetic diseases pertinent to the breed including, hip and elbow dysplasia. Documentation of hip and elbow screenings should be available to prospective puppy buyers. Apply the same high standards to outside bitches sent to their stud dogs as they apply to their own breeding stock. Temperament testing of a litter before puppies are offered for sale is encouraged. Take appropriate steps to have each puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian for general health prior to placement. Each puppy should be vaccinated and de-wormed by a veterinarian. Endeavor to gain personal knowledge of the temperament and health of every dog they breed, or to which they breed, in order to gather information on which to base future breeding decisions. They share this information fully and honestly with other breeders and with prospective buyers. Sell breeding prospects to knowledgeable, ethical and experienced persons or are willing to help educate and guide novices. Do not engage in misleading or untrue advertising and do not use GSDCA membership as a marketing tool. Do not sell, supply, donate or surrender any dog for which they are responsible to a pet shop, catalogue house, wholesale dealer in dogs, Humane Society or to a laboratory. They should have reasonable assurance that each individual receiving a dog will provide a home with appropriate shelter, restraint, control and responsible care. Encourage puppy buyers to go to puppy obedience classes to help their puppies to become better canine good citizens. The achievement of a Canine Good Citizen certificate should be encouraged. Since homeowners insurance and local laws vary greatly, a refusal to let you visit the kennels may not, in and of itself, be a bad sign. You should ask for and receive a satisfactory explanation. The puppies are not social or look sickly. How to read those ads. A few more things to look out for. Anyone can buy a puppy from a champion, but it does not mean that they have any other interest in the breed but to bank on the name and make money. Having a Champion in a pedigree is like having a billionaire relative. AKC registration does not guarantee quality. AKC papers are much like the title of a car; papers are issued to the junked Chevy on blocks in your yard just as easily as they are on a brand new, shiny Jaguar. AKC does not control breeding, approve litters, or guarantee temperaments. AKC Registration is automatic if you buy from a reputable breeder — they will provide all necessary paperwork when you buy a puppy. There are several groups that are registering dogs, even mixed breeds, for a fee. This registration means nothing, and is of no value to you. Are there too many defects for the animal to be bred? Shop with care. Rarely will a good breeder have the luck to own both dogs for the perfect litter. There are some good and very reasonable reasons to have both parents on site. However, you need to ask the right questions and understand why this is true. They might be, they might not. Are they too big to be cute anymore? Need more money? Is there a problem? Usually because there are more on the way. Be very wary of this one. Will a Breeder Ask Me Questions? Conscientious breeders want the best available home for their puppies. This determines the amount of time you will have available for your new addition. There are very important items that should be supplied by the breeder. Breeders will typically give you the following items: A signed pedigree A current Health Record; including de-wormings and vaccinations. American Kennel Club registration papers or application Sales contract. The type of contract varies and must be mutually agreeable to the breeder and buyer. Much depends on what you expect from the puppy show, pet, or performance. Feeding schedule including the type and amount of food. Copy of OFA certification of sire and dam, if available.