black and tan poodle puppies

Black German Shepherd — Important Information Puppy Price There are numerous german shepherd breeders as they are very popular dogs in many parts of the world. However, it is often hard to find breeders producing black german shepherds. Most of the time you will need to find someone who specializes in the breeding of black german shepherd puppies. The fact that these all black german shepherd puppies are quite rare, and are simply not available in numbers that can meet demand, makes them a lot more expensive than your classic colored german shepherd. It is important to look into the pedigree of the parents, as well as inquire with the breeder about health testing and registration of the dogs and the facility. Rescue Price When it comes to rescuing a black german shepherd, it is hard to provide an accurate price range as the cost will depend on a number of factors. Temperament German Shepherds as a breed are often considered by people to be naturally aggressive, perhaps because they are used by most police departments as criminal trackers and chase dogs. The truth however, is that they are genuinely kind-hearted animals, but have been bred to be incredibly protective to the point of being potentially dangerous to anyone threatening their people. German Shepherds are known for their unwavering devotion, as well as the fact that they are incredibly intelligent and as a result are one of the easiest breeds to train. When trained properly, they are one of the most responsive and obedient canine breeds on the planet, which is made evident in their high-quality police work and other occupations. It is important to ensure that as an owner you are actively socializing your german shepherd from a very young age so that they are accustomed to people, both strangers and familiar presences. This is crucial because if they have not been properly socialized, strangers will make them uncomfortable and cautious, which can in some cases lead to bad situations. Origin The German Shepherd comes from a generalized group of European herding dogs that were used frequently in the early to mid s. Throughout the s, people were making attempts to standardize dog breeds in order to target specific characteristics and preferred genetic traits. At some point that year, a dog named Horand von Grafrath sparked the creation of the Society for German Shepherd Dogs. This organization was founded by believers that the German Shepherd dog breed, postered by Horand Von Grafrath, was a breed that could provide incredible working ability and intelligence. From here, the German Shepherd breed standard was developed and became known as one of the highest quality all around breeds. In a few short generations, the German Shepherd became one of the most common and highly populated dog breeds in the world. Honrand fathered many litters of puppies in his time, to the point where a large part of German Shepherds today would be descended from him. Dimensions The relative dimensions for Black German Shepherds will vary slightly between males and females. They will end up having the same build and grow to be around the same sizes as the more commonly colored version. Males will usually grow to weigh between 70 and 90 pounds, whereas females will end up at a full grown weight of 50 to 75 pounds. This weight range classifies these dogs as a medium to large breed. Take this into consideration when deciding whether or not you have the space and capacity to properly provide for your German Shepherd. In terms of height, Black German Shepherds will typically grow to be about 22 — 26 inches. This is true for both males and females, however the males will inherently be much bulkier than the females. Their body length will usually fall within the range of 36 to 42 inches, which will also remain true for both genders. Grooming Grooming recommendations and the relative extent of which you as an owner will need to groom your Black German Shepherd will depend significantly on the type or length of coat that you would like to maintain. German Shepherds with medium-length coats will only need to be brushed on average two or three times a week, unless they get extra matted for some reason. Dogs with a longer coat will typically need to be combed at least once a day to prevent mats and maintain a nice comfortable, good looking coat. German Shepherds have a double coat, and are known to shed excessively. Do not purchase or adopt one of these dogs unless you and the others living in your household can deal with the extra hair. People with allergies may be significantly affected by a high volume shedding dog breed living with them. You can employ anti-shedding shampoos and try high-quality diets in order to try to regulate the amount of shedding that your dog will experience. Lifespan The average lifespan of a Black German Shepherd is expected to be somewhere between 9 and 13 years of age. This is around the running standard for dogs of this size, although there are other breeds that have longer life expectancies. These dogs have a variety of commonly known health issues that will play a part in their relative lifespan. Things like hip dysplasia, osteoarthritis and CDRM spinal cord degeneration are often found in this breed of dog. In general however, they will be the same dimensions and proportions as a run of the mill German Shepherd dog. The main difference, as the name itself makes quite clear, is the fact that these dogs have a coat that is completely black, as opposed to the common black and tan color combination that we see in a standard German Shepherd. This feature is quite rare, and is the reason that this type of German Shepherd is significantly more expensive than the standard style. The Black German Shepherd is actually incredibly rare, as opposed to other breed alternatives that appear when recessive genes show through. It has been estimated through data analytics that as little as 6. If you are after one of these rare and incredibly striking dogs, it is best to find a breeder who specializes in this color of German Shepherd. One of the most important things for breeders and hopeful owners to remember is that just because you have a parent that is a black German Shepherd, does not mean that you will end up with all black puppies. The truth is that you are much more likely to end up with the standard black and tan color in your litter of puppies. This is the main reason that these dogs are so rare and hard to find, and as a result are a lot more expensive. Grooming Tips For Black German Shepherds One of the most common tips provided for Black German Shepherd owners is the fact that grooming will be accompanied by lots of hair! These dogs are known for shedding excessively, as they will typically have longer coats than the standard colored German Shepherds. It is important to invest in a high quality comb that can easily comb through longer pet hair without causing pain or discomfort. Make sure that you are properly grooming both the thick top coat, as well as the undercoat. More grooming will not only make these sessions easier and more pleasant for both parties, but will also leave them feeling more comfortable and allow them to show off a beautiful coat! Dan J. Dan is a well respected content researcher who has vast experience working projects in the pets niche. He is a frequent contributor to dogtemperament. Check out our. Think of the right breed you want, your space, time, and lifestyle. Most of all, consider if you can afford to buy a GSD. This article will focus on the cost of buying and raising a GSD so you know what to expect and how much funds to allocate ahead of time if you finally decide to buy a GSD. German Shepherd Puppies Price Range The following price range is from reputable or responsible breeders who can show bloodline certifications and proof of health testing so expect the initial purchase price to be high. Owning a purebred German Shepherd will always come with a high price tag because breeders often charge high prices for purebred dogs in order to ensure that they find good owners. Additionally, this price can be even higher if the German Shepherd is a show dog or comes from a kennel known to produce prize-winning dogs. Purebred GSD s have certain genetic traits or appearances like their parents and other ancestors. This means purebred GSDs belong to the same breed. So if you buy a purebred puppy, you already have an idea about his general physical appearance and behavioral characteristics. Czech German shepherds have been used for working purposes because of their strength and intelligence. If you want to buy a good Czech GSD, you need to find a good breeder. Is It Normal? All GSDs can be born either black, grey, or white and can change color as they grow but black german shepherds are born black as the name implies until they reach adulthood. Also, expect to pay a pretty penny if you want a show quality black GSD. Finding a good breeder who has puppies available is not easy since it is such a rare color. Why Does the Cost Vary First of all, the price depends on the breeder. It also depends on the pedigree and colorings of the German shepherd puppy. Well-reputed breeders price their German shepherds by considering their expenses in breeding, raising, training, and showing their dogs. Of course, German shepherd puppies bred for show quality are more expensive than dogs bred for companionship or family pets only. Sometimes the only difference between the two is their color. Most of the time these organizations health screen German shepherd puppies before placing them for adoption. It is advisable to set aside a monthly budget for your GSD. Food The amount of food you give depends on your GSD. Just make sure you give a balanced diet rich in protein and healthy fats. Because German Shepherd puppies are constantly exploring their environment most of the time, they eat more high-energy food than adult GSDs. They need to eat smaller meals each day. Aside from their main meals, treats are also important to have a healthy and happy German shepherd puppy. Shelter Since every GSD deserves a good home, you should provide your German shepherd puppy with a comfortable bed inside your home. For your GSDs outside, you may provide a kennel for them and make sure their shelter is cozy and free from dirt. Expect to pay a hundred dollars for annual exams and vaccinations. However, too many vitamins can also have negative consequences so before giving any supplements, ask your vet first. Other factors to consider Aside from making sure they have enough food, comfortable shelter, and keeping up with the vaccination schedule of your GSD, there are other miscellaneous additions to consider. Take into consideration obedience training; grooming essentials brushes, combs, toenail clippers, and shampoo toys, and other unforeseen problems. You may also go to professional dog shows to meet with several breeders. Take your time to meet them, visit their homes, and get to know their dogs. Buy from a reputable hobby breeder, experienced breeder, or responsible breeder. You can recognize if the seller is a responsible breeder if he has clean facilities, well-fed dogs with complete records and certifications. Conclusion Finding the best breeder of German Shepherds is not easy. Do your research and avoid impulse buying because if you purchase a German shepherd puppy that is improperly bred, he may grow up with health and behavioral problems, such as disabilities and aggression. Start preparing your budget or save up now to buy the GSD of your dreams. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. When we are thinking about the German Shepherd breed, we rarely think about black German Shepherds. Most of our minds go straight to the black and tan dog that we know and love. The truth is that a pureblooded German Shepherd can come in a variety of colors. To be completely honest, our favorite color of the German Shepherd is black. They look somewhat intimidating and mystical. Even though it may seem like a completely different breed, the black German Shepherd is your typical GSD. It is a dog breed developed by a former German veterinary student and an ex-military officer Max Von Stephanitz. In , Von Stephanitz attended a dog show and was introduced to a dog named Hektor Linksrhein. He was so impressed with the dog he had to buy the dog immediately. Hektor was an impressively smart dog who had a tremendous ability to follow commands. He was also quite powerful and loyal to his family and owners. At that moment, Von Stephanitz decided to create a breed based on this dog and his abilities. What is the difference between a black German Shepherd and a black and tan German Shepherd? The main difference between these dogs is the color of their coats. One dog has a completely black coat with possible small white or brown markings on their paws or chests. These dogs are alert, extremely intelligent, they have a great work ethic, and they are energetic. Black coat color has no impact on their characters or temperaments. The color black is accepted by all major cynology associations. Does the black color impact their health? German Shepherds have some potential health problems; hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, or degenerative myelopathy, but none of these potential problems have been related to their coat color. Does it influence their working ability? No matter what color these dogs are, they are still one of the most trainable dog breeds in the world. Black German Shepherds and black and tan GSD-s is still the breed of choice for many law enforcement agencies worldwide. These dogs are versatile and adaptable. German Shepherds are often police and military dogs, shepherds, and service dogs performing different duties humans entrust them with. The German Shepherd is one of the smartest dog breeds in the world, so why not get them a toy that will engage their minds? Are black German Shepherds good family dogs? Black German Shepherds are excellent family dogs. They are active and fun. Training them is fun because they are quick learners that can pick up commands after only a few repetitions. Black GSD-s make great guard and watchdogs. They are alert and always aware of anything suspicious going on in their proximity. Like any other dog breed, the black German Shepherd should also be socialized while they are still young. These dogs are not naturally aggressive, but they can develop behavioral problems if they are not properly socialized. Socialization is the key if you want to have a well-rounded and well-behaved dog. Where can I get a black German Shepherd? Many breeders specialize in breeding black German Shepherds, and you only have to contact them and ask for information about their dogs. Statistically speaking, black dogs are less likely to get adopted from shelters, so it might be worth your while to take a look at your local animal shelters. Black dogs can be a bit frightening to some people, and they can be reluctant to adopt them. How much does a black German Shepherd puppy cost? Black German Shepherd puppies are considered a bit rarer than traditional ones, so their price will most likely be a bit higher. Before you decide to look for a dog, make sure you read this article. World Dog Finder team. German Shepherd puppies are not easy to breed, especially when they are happy and healthy! German Shepherds cannot be crossed easily. A puppy with a good temperament and genetic health will, however, require additional costs for rearing and breeding. German Shepherds should pay special attention to this. Puppies with dysplastic hips or that grow up aggressive are not what you want. Papers The cheapest German Shepherd puppy is one without papers. Due to the lack of documentation from the breeders, there is no documentation for these puppies. These puppies are typically treated with as little care as possible by breeders. The lineage of a puppy is not known when you buy it. There is more money involved when a puppy has registration papers, health certificates, and temperament test results. The puppy will also benefit from those papers as well as you. Purebred dogs meet the breed standard, which means the dog is up to standard. German Shepherd-wolf-mixes are non-purebreds, so you should never buy them thinking they are purebreds. Whole litters are often registered by breeders instead of registering a single puppy. Veterinarian Visits Genetic health testing is done by reputable breeders, but the puppies are also examined by a veterinarian before eight weeks of age. Breeders also vaccinate, deworm, and place puppies on preventatives during these visits. A reputable breeder guarantees the health of your German Shepherd puppy if you purchase a German Shepherd puppy. Tests to measure temperament can also be provided by most breeders. Training Puppies are also socialized and trained by some breeders. Basic obedience and potty training are often the first steps in the training process for experienced breeders. As a result, housebreaking your puppy will be easier, but it will cost you! Your puppy will be of high quality if it exhibits all of these signs. By doing this, you will be less likely to experience temperament issues and costly vet visits for osteoarthritis diagnosis and treatment. Bloodlines Champion bloodlines are more expensive to breed, so breeders strive to breed them as a priority. There might be no need for a German Shepherd of such high quality for a family. The only thing they require is a puppy that is well-behaved and healthy. A working breed, however, is needed by many people. A champion dog or one that is intelligent and hardworking is the most expensive model. The training of a professional service dog can cost breeders thousands of dollars. There is a difficulty in consistently breeding a guard dog that is family-friendly and protective. The temperament and training of the animal must also be considered by breeders. Origin A German Shepherd that is directly imported from Germany is among the most expensive types. These dogs must be imported and bred by breeders, a costly process. It is common for breeders in the United States to import German Shepherd dogs for the purpose of breeding purebred puppies since the German Shepherd breed originated in Germany. There are more regulations for breeding in Europe, so there is better protection for the bloodlines. There are fewer of them, and their backs are straighter, and their coats are brighter. Their appearance is similar to that of a Belgian Malinois, according to some people. Dogs bred for companionship in the United States are more commonly bred for working rather than companionship in Europe. Rottweilers from the U. Are you at home to train them and spend time with them? Apartment buildings do not allow German Shepherds. Is there another pet in your family? A good GSD breeder will not hesitate to show you how and where their pups are raised — it is one of the ways to recognize good breeders. Which German Shepherd puppy is right for you? On average, a litter of German Shepherds contains eight pups. There are a lot of options there! When it comes to choosing one, how do you decide? The first thing to do is to observe the physical appearance of each GSD puppy. Eight-week-old German Shepherd pups should weigh about 15 pounds when they are ready for adoption, according to the German Shepherd growth chart. As a form of communication, they should walk evenly, wag their tails, bark, whine, growl, even howl! It is, however, important that they do not overdo it with their vocalization. Despite being slightly smaller than adult dogs, German Shepherd males are still a bit bigger than females, despite their size difference. In addition to its body posture, clear eyes, and healthy vocalization, you can tell if a puppy is healthy by observing its body posture. Through interaction with you and their littermates, healthy pups appear energetic and eager to play. A reputable breeder should be the first thing you look for. The reason is as follows. The process of finding one is now as simple as clicking a few buttons. However, there are a lot of unethical breeders out there, so you may end up with a dog that is unhealthy and empty-handed. Find the right breeder before you begin your search for the perfect GSD puppy. Doing proper research will lead you to finding the right German Shepherd breeders, even though finding them can seem challenging at first. Registries with kennel clubs, pedigrees, genetic health tests, temperament tests, and health guarantees are just some of the amazing features reputable breeders offer their clients. Play With The Puppies You should avoid being pushy or irritating to the puppies when you interact with them. You should let your puppy choose you, not the other way around! Many GSD owners have experienced this. All that remains is for it to choose its human! You may, however, ask the breeder for assistance if you are still unsure. If you are looking for a German Shepherd dog for display, work, or family use, make sure the breeder knows what kind of dog you are searching for. In addition to watching all of the puppies interact with each other, you can also ask the breeder to bring each puppy so you can see their individual personalities. Despite appearing shy, some people are not aggressive, sick, or unsocialized just because they are shy. You will also like:. Way back in the s, the Black German Shepherd made its first appearance. The Solid Black GSD was favored as herding dogs at the time because they took directions very well and performed with very little training. Dog owners love the appearance of the Black German Shepherd. This working dog is a wonderful dog that makes excellent family pets. However, the rare nature of the Black German Shepherd makes it an expensive pick. They played a part in the First World War as service dogs. The exact year of origination hovers around ; however, the very year is speculated among breeders and dog enthusiasts. This German breed of dog makes excellent service dogs, which is why they have been selected over the years by breeders, law enforcement authorities, and dog owners alike. It is these erect ears that make them such great guard dogs. Not just that, but they have a keen sense of smell and can be trained to sniff out illegal substances. It is this double coat which makes their fur really soft. If you have ever touched a German Shepherd, you would know how smooth this double coat can be. They have a height of between 22 to 26 Inches and can weigh between 50 to 90 pounds. They shed just as much as any other German Shepherd. The standard German Shepherd features are all present in the Black German Shepherd, erect ears, pointed muzzle, and a glaring look. They have a medium or long coat, which is hard to determine when looking at German Shepherd puppies. Some pups are born black, while others have black and tan counterparts. These are pure black military dogs that are made black by a rare recessive gene. This is a large dog in comparison to other breeds of dogs. Though at the puppy stage, a pure Black Shepherd will not weigh that much. Black German Shepherd puppies are about 1 pound when born and grow to about 15 pounds at eight weeks. As full-grown adults, however, they could weigh over 90 pounds. Though not as big as breeds such as Saint Bernard, who weigh as much as an average human, Black GSDs are still considered large and will grow to almost half the size of an adult human. A Black German Shepherd dog is a rather large dog. Personality At a young age, they are known to be very playful. Black German Shepherd puppies are adorable at a young age. As the years pass and the Black German Shepherd grows into an adult, they become stern with a more authoritarian personality when it comes to fun. That being said, Black GSDs have a warm personality toward their owners. They have a calm temperament, which is why they make such great working dogs. Working dogs such as the Black German Shepherd are helpful in law enforcement, farming, and other walks of life. They even make great companion dogs for the blind. They have a loving personality, and a properly trained Black German Shepherd can be considered safe around children. Though I would be careful with untrained dogs of this breed, a trained and familiar pet, which is part of the family, will have the intelligence to know the children, thereby unleashing their playful side. These Black GSDs are very active dogs. They love playing fetch or running after squirrels. All in all, Black German Shepherds have an award-winning personality, making the breed great as a working dog and companions as a pet. Other dogs of other colors and breeds can be easily differentiated by the apparent solid black of a Black German Shepherd puppy. Considering the value of a German Shepherd puppy, illegal operations called puppy mills, where puppies are bred using unethical standards, are common. The Black German Shepherd puppy has a very playful nature. If you have seen German Shepherd puppies, you will note how lively they are with each other. Black German Shepherd puppies are no different. So if the Black German Shepherd entices you, maybe it is time to consider bringing a puppy home! If you can find one at a young age, you can train the dog VERY well! Black German Shepherds are a double-coated breed of dog and have fur, not hair. Their fur does shed; hence you should be aware of fur shedding. They require a high-quality diet to maintain optimum health and awareness. Their protective nature is also another reason they make such great guard dogs. The Black German Shepherd is black because the black gene determines the coat color. Technically, Black Shepherds are not a breed of their own. The breed is the German Shepherd. However, Black Shepherds are unique in color and rare. The breed standard will tell you that these dogs have a GREAT personality, so they make great companion dogs. Now here is the sad part, because these dogs are known to be aggressive, many times, these dogs are caged up. However, it is essential to note that the personality of a caged animal is very different from one allowed to roam free. The living conditions are dependent on the dog owner. Just like any pet, it is best that you create a space for them. If you can, maybe make them a lovely little Dog Home. You must feed a Black German Shepherd two to three times a day. These are big dogs that require quite a bit of food. The health of the dog is dependent on the food you feed it. The diet will play a significant role in the health and well-being of the dog. Hence, ensuring that a Black German Shepherd is fed a high-quality diet rich in nutrients will ensure better well-being. The health of the coat is an indication of the health of the dog. Dogs with healthy coats are generally intended to be healthy. Further to feeding and creating a space for them, you will also have to separate a little drinking bowl because these guys get thirsty, especially when given the freedom to run around. The Black GSD has a beautiful personality that deserves your attention and care. Though these dogs can be aggressive and are considered guard dogs, it is best not to cage them up unless necessary. You will most certainly have to clean and brush the coat on an occasional basis. A Black German Shepherd dog is black due to a recessive gene. The color of the offspring is in the hands of the breeder. Though sourcing through a breeder can help you get your hands on a rare color, such as the Black German Shepherd, the local animal shelter may have dogs looking for a new home. Who knows, you may find a Black German Shepherd at the shelter. When it comes to breeding, reputable Black German Shepherd breeders will use ethical breeding standards to ensure that the parent dogs are adequately cared for and fed a high-quality diet. Similarly, if you are lucky, you may be able to source a Black German Shepherd puppy through a reputable breeder, who may have naturally bred offspring at home. While a male German Shepherd can start breeding after 12 months of age, a female German Shepherd will have to wait until the third heat cycle, which usually occurs between 18 and 24 months. They are brilliant and attentive and are eager to communicate and express themselves. These traits make it easy for you to train a German Shepherd. When it comes to dogs, German Shepherds are considered one of the most trainable breeds of dogs. They take quickly to instructions and can understand commands. A professional dog trainer can work wonders with a German Shepherd. Have you seen police dogs sniffing out drugs? That is because these German Shepherds can be trained to find a smell. The breed is much easier to train than other dogs. In fact, you have a better chance of being able to train a German Shepherd than any other breed of dog. If you need help training a German Shepherd, plenty of online resources can instruct and guide you on what you need to do to train your dog to basic and advanced commands. The Black German Shepherd is more attentive, responsive, energetic, and alert than other dog breeds; it is considered more intelligent than other breeds of dogs. Considering all this, it goes without saying that you will have an easier time training a German Shepherd than most other breeds of dog. Conditions such as elbow dysplasia are relatively common. If your Black German Shepherd suffers from elbow dysplasia, it is essential that you take it to the vet to have the condition treated. Other health problems that may arise in a Black GSD include heart disease, spinal disease, eye diseases, digestive problems, allergies, and even cancer. Hip dysplasia is another common health issue that usually comes about as the dog ages. Conditions like hip dysplasia will require medical intervention, and it is essential that you consult a vet if the condition arises. Diabetes, dental infections, and nose infections are also VERY common in this breed, with bloating being the most common issue most dogs experience. Other conditions such as cataracts, epilepsy, and thyroid issues are too common health problems with the Black German Shepherd. In actuality, these are healthy dogs; however, like other dogs, they have health conditions that can be common to the breed. These health conditions are not causes for worry. Though some of these health conditions are quite serious, most such conditions can be appropriately diagnosed and treated by a good veterinarian who can understand the health issue impacting the pup. The health of the dog is something that is a genuine concern to dog owners. Regardless of how trivial you may think the health condition may be, it is essential that you take your dog to frequent vet visitations to ensure that its health is in good condition. When caring for a Black German Shepherd, you have to provide it the attention it deserves. If you keep the poor dog locked up in a cage all day and night, obvious to state the personality of the dog will be affected. When properly caring for a Black German Shepherd, it is vital that you create a space for it that it can call its happy home. Making a Dog Home for the pup can be a great way to express love and ensure that your dog has a place it can call its own. Apart from providing a place to rest and sleep, you must feed the German Shepherd a high-quality diet. Without proper nourishment, the coat of this dog will look poor, establishing the fact that the dog is malnourished and unhealthy. It is best that you feed a Black German Shepherd about two to three times a day. They are big dogs and require constant feeding. Black German Shepherd dogs are known to be loyal and compassionate creatures, hence it is crucial that you understand this and care for them appropriately. German Shepherds also have a very thick coat, which means it is essential that you properly clean the fur frequently. Depending on where your dog has been roaming, there are chances that the coat has gotten dirty. A good wash and proper coat brushing are necessary to ensure healthy skin, thereby a healthy dog. When caring for a Black German Shepherd, it is essential that you provide it with everything it needs, including access to healthcare to treat any conditions it may develop. Yes, these breeds are some of the best family pets. They are incredibly loyal and very protective of their owners, aka the family. However, if the dog is untrained, it would be best to keep an eye on both the dog and the child. That being the case, they are gentle with children and have a very playful side. This is precisely why children love the German Shepherd breed. German Shepherds have a lot of energy, and this energetic feature makes them so appealing to children who love playing fetch or anything else. A Black GSD is extremely loyal to the family and is easily trained. That is considering where you choose to buy the breed from. The cost variance is actually due to various factors such as the location of the pet store, the age of the dog, and other factors such as parents and genetics. In general, a Black German Shepherd will cost more than a regular German Shepherd due to the rare nature of the coat and color. If you buy an adult dog, it will probably cost you less than buying a puppy. Taking into consideration the initial cost of purchase, you also should consider the average cost of raising a Black German Shepherd. Apart from this, you would also have to consider medical costs such as vet visitations. They have a high maintenance cost, added to the obvious high initial purchase price. See the standard GSD price in this guide. The lifespan of any dog is dependent on a host of factors such as breeding conditions, parent health, environmental factors, diet, and exercise. Exercise is an important aspect of health and well-being for this breed, which is known to be more athletic and muscular dogs. These dogs love to run around in the park, so ensure that you get them a good amount of exercise every week. Black German Shepherds are also called Black Shepherds. They are varied from other German Shepherds by their distinctive black coats. Related articles:. Finding a responsible breeder is an important part of getting a dog. Why pricing matters, not all dog breeders charge the same prices. My Story, How it worked out for me, and what I learned about purchasing a puppy. The black German Shepherd was the first dog that I have ever owned. I just love how beautiful the solid back color looked. Is the black German Shepherd Right for you? He told me that the solid black German Shepherd was the color people were looking for along with the black and tan and black sable color. These were becoming the most popular color he was selling. Why, because more breeders were starting to see other GSD breeders selling more puppies with the popular colors. They decided they needed to start breeding these colors too. The more popular color, the more demand for breeding them. It makes sense to me. Now over the years of owning multiple German Shepherds, I have black, black, and tan colors and solid black. Now, I like to take you back to the year when I purchase my first black German Shepherd. Everywhere I went people stop and ask me questions about the color because they have never seen a black German Shepherd before. I have one guy ask me how much I pay for my dog, and I told him the cost was .But for me, I was happy to pay for the color. I got the exact temperament dog that I was looking for. Now you will pay anywhere from .The shipping cost runs around .Do black German shepherd puppies stay black? If you see a dark brown that would be a black sable color. Are all German Shepherd puppies born black? All puppies are born black and will stay black throughout their adulthood. This is a must-have Both parents must have the recessive gene for solid black to appear in the litter. This is why we get a lot of good mixes of both colors in our puppies. Black sable male puppy. Anywhere from 10 weeks to 14 weeks of age, the ears will start to stand on their own. How much does a German Shepherd cost? Anywhere from .My puppies sell for .This is important for you to understand before you buy a German Shepherd Puppy or adult trained German Shepherd dog. Now, I like to give you a good base price on what you and I would pay for a GSD puppy that was six months old to 12 months old, that already has been trained with basic obedience training and properly socialized and housebroken by a good trainer. The cost would be around six-month-old .There are a lot of breeders out there, who will charge more for a solid black puppy. In the last litter, I had four black and four black dark black sable color puppies. I sold my puppies for the same price. But a lot of German Shepherd breeders do. How many puppies do German shepherds have in their first litter? When it comes to breeding dogs, anything can happen. There are no guarantees. I have seen GSD dogs bred that sometimes only had one single puppy. The normal litter size is about 8 puppies. But I have seen some females that have bred up to 10 puppies at a time. The last litter I bred had 8 beautiful healthy puppies. A good friend of mine had bred his German Shepherd and had 12 puppies. But most of the time eight puppies are a normal litter size. Is a German Shepherd a good family dog? Are you considering bringing a puppy into your home? If so, you should do a fair amount of research into the hundreds of breeds that are available both for purchase and adoption. Considered by many to have the most beautiful coloration in the breed, the all-black GSD is quickly gaining popularity as a pet. If the stunning good looks of the black GSD are attractive to you, here are some things that you should consider before bringing that adorable puppy home. About the Breed The German shepherd dog originated in Germany in .A working dog in the herding group, the GSD was originally bred to herd and guard sheep. The breed is amazingly intelligent, fiercely loyal and protective of its human family. The breed is also extremely popular in the United Kingdom, with over 8, currently registered. The all-black German shepherd dog is a striking animal to look at and is becoming the popular variant of choice among new owners. Family The GSD is an excellent family dog, provided that it is well socialized and raised with children. Though these dogs bond deeply with children whom they have been raised with, they can be nervous and skittish around strange children and adults alike. If you choose to bring home a GSD puppy, be sure that you have a plan in place to socialize the dog. Additionally, if you choose to rescue an adult GSD, you should ensure that the dog has been raised with, or at least socialized with, people of all ages to ensure the safety of your family and friends. Teaching German shepherd dogs are incredibly smart and eager to learn. Teaching should begin as soon as you bring your puppy home. The easiest way to begin teaching your black German shepherd puppy is to set a schedule and stick to it. Dogs, especially GSDs, thrive with routine and are happiest when they know what to expect. Training Because of their intelligence, high work drive, and loyalty, German Shepherds excel at obedience, agility, herding, protection, and even flyball. If you plan on bringing home a GSD, you must enroll in some type of formal training. If your GSD is not permitted to drain its energy, you will have a destructive, unruly dog in a matter of months. The type of training that you enroll your puppy in should be something that you can enjoy together; neither of you will have fun if training becomes a bothersome chore. Dark Black Sable. A black German shepherd dog can be an excellent choice for families of all types. You should have at least some experience with dogs before you choose to welcome this breed into your family. This is not a dog to be spoiled and coddled; it needs to be raised with a firm but gentle hand if it is to thrive. The dark black Sable German Shepherd is really popular in the Schutzhund training world today! Schutzhund is a dog training sport that was developed in Germany. The Germans use this for testing their dogs to see how far they could go in training as a temperament test for training the German Shepherd Dogs. It is a great dog sport. What does the word Schutzhund mean? This is the owner of Kraftwerk K9 kennels. Wayne has trained and handled many different dogs in competitions worldwide today. I highly recommend checking out his website. Conclusion: We cover a lot of information in this article about some of the most popular questions most people are searching for. If I miss anything that you were looking for. Please post in the comments. Talk, soon!

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Also known as a borador, or border Lab, this energetic and clever mix combines the best traits of its parent breeds. If you are looking for an affectionate and lively companion dog that loves children and can keep up with your active lifestyle, check out the border Lab! Medium to large in size, these pups are best suited for active families and homes with access to securely fenced backyards. Take this to heart. We had a borador who was an absolute escape artist. He found his way out of our backyard and to the local park on nearly a daily basis. This exceptionally smart mix craves attention and needs a lot of mental stimulation to stay on the best behavior. When bored or left to their own devices, border Labs can become destructive and resort to chewing or digging just to have fun. If you want an outgoing, eager-to-please, loyal, and smart mixed-breed dog for your family, read on! Border Collie Lab Overview Size — 19 to 24 inches tall, weighs between 40 and 65 pounds Coat — Short to medium-long double coat, color varies Shedding — Moderate to heavy shedding Lifespan — 10 to 15 years Temperament — Eager-to-please, outgoing, clever, and energetic Trainable — Highly trainable but can become bored if not mentally stimulated Activity — Very active needs around one to two hours of activity every day Best For — Active families and people, and homes with outdoor space What Is A Labrador Border Collie Mix? As you may have guessed, the Labrador border collie mix is a cross-breed created by mixing a purebred Labrador retriever and a purebred border collie. While both parent breeds are officially recognized by the American Kennel Club, the borador is considered a designer dog breed. Border Collie And Lab Mix Appearance Like all other mixed-breed dogs, no two border Labs are the same and there is no way of knowing exactly what you will get when mixing a border collie and a Lab. Most, however, have a Lab-like build, although they are on the thin side. When it comes to the head and general features, this mix takes more after the Labrador, but they do have the slightly pointed nose of a border collie. However, nothing is set in stone, and the only thing you can do is wait and see how your border collie and Lab mix puppy will grow up to be. With that being said, there are some things you can expect from your mixed breed, mainly when it comes to size and coat color. Size As a mix between Labrador retriever and border collie dog breeds, expect your border Lab to be a medium to large size dog. Most border collie Lab mixes are between 19 and 24 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh between 40 and 65 pounds. There are yellow, brown, black, and fox red Labrador retrievers , but border collies come in many different colors and markings. Most border Labs have brown, black, or tan coats and white markings like their border collie parent. The amount of white fur varies greatly from one borador to the next, with some dogs having completely solid coats and others having several white markings. Coat Depending on which parent they take after, boradors can have short to medium-long coats. Having a double coat means your Lab mix is going to shed moderately all year round, and lose more hair during the shedding season. Most border Labs are outgoing and people-loving dogs that make amazing family pets. In fact, this mix is so friendly that they will likely meet everyone with a wagging tail. They generally become fast friends with children and are very gentle with them. However, thanks to their border collie ancestry, some boradors may try to herd and nip smaller children or other pets. If your mix exhibits this trait, know you can curb their nipping tendencies with training and positive reinforcement. As an offspring of the border collie — the smartest dog breed in the world — the borador tends to be pretty smart as well. Aim to take your border collie Lab mix for at least two long walks every day and also include several playing sessions throughout the day. Games such as fetch, tug-of-war, hide and seek, and flyball are some great ways to exercise your borador and keep it mentally stimulated. Our Border Lab mix, Maffy was high, high, high energy. Obviously inherited from the Border Collie side of the equation. However, a Lab is no slouch when it comes to energy level. Caring For A Borador As with any other dog, you should develop a care routine as soon as you bring a border collie Lab mix puppy home. Exercise Ideally, boradors need around one or two hours of exercise every day. Activities such as running, swimming, jogging, cycling, and hiking are just some ways you can keep your mix exercised and in good shape. Boradors also excel at agility, which is a great way to keep your dog both physically and mentally challenged at the same time. Intellectual Stimulation Since they are very smart, border Labs do best with lots of mental stimulation. If not properly challenged, your mix will become destructive and turn to digging and chewing to relieve boredom. A word of caution, a bored Lab border collie mix might be a recipe for disaster! You might return home from work only to find your shoes, pillows, or carpets chewed and shredded to pieces. Invest in durable chews, interesting puzzle toys to stimulate your dog , and spend some time every day interacting and playing with your pooch to keep them mentally stimulated. Our Border Lab got into all kinds of trouble in the yard digging holes and hiding treats throughout the yard. Another game he enjoyed playing was dropping his ball into the swimming pool. Then wait till it floats to the middle then jump in after it. Without mental stimulation Boradors definitely invent their own games. Companionship Eager-to -lease, loving, and friendly border Labs are true companions and are happy as long as they are involved in all family activities. These dogs crave attention and companionship, and they are best suited for homes where there is someone who can spend a better part of the day playing and interacting with them. When left at home alone a lot, this mix can develop separation anxiety and become destructive. Grooming When compared to other Lab mixes, the borador is a fairly low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. Although they shed moderately all year round, their coats are easy to groom and need to be brushed two times a week. Brushing your mix regularly with a slicker brush will help you remove loose hair and keep the shedding to a minimum. Diet An ideal diet for a border Lab should be formulated for medium to large size dogs with high energy. Make sure to feed your mix with age-appropriate high-quality dog food that contains all essential micro and macronutrients. Avoid free feeding your mix and set up a regular feeding schedule to prevent obesity and health problems associated with it. Although border Labs are generally healthy, they are prone to some of the same health problems that affect Labrador retrievers and border collies. This can be extremely painful for a dog, causing arthritis, difficulty walking, and lameness later in life. Collie Eye Anomaly: This is a congenital eye disease that occurs in border collies and affects the retina, sclera, and choroid. CEA is caused by a recessive gene defect and can be a mild condition or cause blindness. Hypothyroidism: This is a condition in which the thyroid gland is no longer able to produce the hormone thyroxine. Life Expectancy The border Lab has an average life expectancy of 10 to 15 years. When properly cared for and taken to regular veterinary checkups, some boradors can reach senior years completely healthy. We had a Border Collie Lab mix that we rescued from our local animal shelter. They told us he was approximately 2 years old when we rescued him. He lived with us for 18 years! Add on the approximately 2 years he lived before he came to our home he lived a whopping 20 years! True to their parent breeds, border Labs are eager to please and very intelligent, which makes them highly trainable. Like all other dogs, the Lab border collie mix responds well to positive reinforcement and reward-based training. Start training and socializing your borador puppy as soon as you bring them home when they are eight to 12 weeks old. While your pup might seem small, you can start potty training and teach them basic commands. Border Labs make truly wonderful companions and pets to active people or families with children. Couch potatoes be warned; this designer hybrid needs a lot of exercise and will keep you on your toes. Due to their energetic nature and high exercise needs, boradors need a home with access to a fenced yard where they can run around and play. Buying A Border Collie And Lab Mix Puppy If you want to purchase a border collie and Lab mix puppy, find a reputable breeder and schedule an appointment to visit their facilities. A reputable breeder will let you meet the mother and all the puppies. Check your local shelter and rescue groups to see if they have any border Labs. You can also contact Labrador retriever and border collie breed-specific rescue groups since they often take care of mixed-breed dogs too. History Of The Breeds Labrador Retriever One of the most popular dog breeds in the world, the Labrador retriever originated in Newfoundland where they helped fishermen catch fish. Universally loved for their kind, friendly, fun, and loyal nature, Labs make great family pets and companions. Highly intelligent, gentle, and eager-to-please, Labrador retrievers are favored as service dogs and are often seen assisting people with disabilities to lead fulfilling lives. Border Collie Developed in the border country between Scotland and England, the border collie is a working and herding dog breed. Originally bred to herd sheep, border collies are a highly intelligent and very trainable dog breed. Naturally athletic and energetic, border collies need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and thrive. Boradors are good companions and amazing pets to active people and families with children. They tend to be friendly, loving, eager-to-please, and smart, which makes training fairly easy even for novice owners. As long as they are properly exercised and provided with the attention they need, border Labs make wonderful pets. Are boradors aggressive? Boradors are rarely aggressive towards people or other dogs and tend to greet everyone with a wagging tail. Inherently friendly and kind, the collie Lab mix gets along well with children with whom they become fast friends. How much does a border collie Lab mix cost? Conclusion Extremely clever, eager-to-please, and friendly, the border collie Lab mix makes a great pet for active people and families with children. True to its parent breeds, this mix has a lot of energy and needs lots of exercise and mental stimulation, otherwise, they can become bored and destructive. Boradors are best suited for: Outdoorsy people and active families with children Homes with securely fenced backyards People who can interact and play with their pup every day We told you a little about our Border Collie Lab mix, Maffy, but how about you? Have you ever owned a Borador? What was your dog like? Tell us about your experiences in the comment section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. The borador, a Labrador retriever and border collie mix, displays some of the most sought-after traits of its parent breeds. Like their parent breeds, boradors are extremely active and will do best in families that provide a lot of exercise and social interaction. Appearance Because the borador is a mixed breed that inherits traits from both parent breeds, what a pup can look like can vary wildly. If a borador takes after his Lab side, he can have a short coat in black, brown, or yellow. Or, if they lean more toward their border collie parent, they can have a medium-length coat that's solid black or black and white. Depending on the traits inherited from their border collie and labrador retriever parents, boradors can stand 18—25 inches tall and weigh anywhere between 30—70 pounds. Most border collie and Lab mixes, Derse says, tend to be on the smaller end of the range. But, she adds, "It depends on whether an [shorter, stockier] English lab or an American lab [which is taller and has a more athletic build], was the parent. Just like with their looks, boradors will inherit these traits from their parent breeds. In other words, these are dogs that need jobs, Derse says. Boradors are energetic and intelligent ; without outlets to channel their physical and mental energy, Derse says boradors can be prone to "naughty behaviors" like chewing the sofa. They are especially affectionate with their families and appreciate opportunities to tag along on all kinds of activities. Overall, Derse calls the mixed breed "well tempered" with one caveat: Boradors must have healthy outlets to channel their abundant energy. They'll enjoy fast-paced, heart-pumping activities that require problem solving—with training, your borador might just be the next agility champion. Living Needs When it comes to their dream living situation, boradors have one wish: space. Your borador might romp around the backyard solo for a short period, but sniffing around the fence line solo won't be enough to fulfill his need for exercise. You'll need to provide plenty of opportunities for him to burn off his boundless energy, from long—very, very long—walks and trips to the dog park to epic games of fetch. The adage, "A tired dog is a good dog," definitely applies to the borador. Whether you're hiking , running , or swimming , a borador will want to be right by your side. They are also naturals at dog sports like agility, rally, obedience, and dock diving. Basically, the more exercise, the better. Although boradors are easygoing dogs that will happily nap on the sofa after a good workout, they are probably not the right dogs for apartment life. In fact, Derse says, "If you live in an apartment and you're thinking about [a borador], you might want to rethink it. But with early and consistent training and adult supervision during puppy and kiddo playtime , a borador can quickly learn that kids are not something to herd. Training is a great way to give them a mental challenge—but it's not just about teaching basic cues like " sit ," " stay ," and "leave it. Labs tend to have short, straight, and dense coats, while border collies have longer, coarse, often wavy coats; boradors can have some combination of these coat types. Both parent breeds are heavy shedders , which means boradors will need regular grooming, regardless of which coat type they inherit. Expect to brush your borador daily to remove dead hair and keep it off your couch. Thanks to their love of outdoor adventures, boradors will also need regular baths. Frequent nail trims , routine dental care , and monthly preventives to protect against fleas, ticks, and heartworm disease are also an essential part of caring for your borador. Health The typical borador lifespan is 10—15 years and they are typically healthy pups. However, these border collie and Labrador retriever mixes can develop a few health issues their parent breeds are prone to. This includes: Hip dysplasia: Both border collies and Labrador retrievers are prone to hip dysplasia. The condition, which causes grinding and pain, is diagnosed when the hip joint and socket don't fit together. There is no cure, but physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications can help ease the pain. Sometimes surgery is needed. Ear infections: Excessive head shaking, pawing or scratching the affected ear, odor, discharge, redness, swelling or scabs in the ear canal are common signs of ear infections. Thanks to their floppy ears and love of swimming, boradors may be diagnosed with ear infections more often than breeds with small, pricked ears. If your borador has chronic ear infections, your vet may also look for underlying causes such as allergies , thyroid disease , or other endocrine disorders and autoimmune disorders. Epilepsy: Epilepsy is an inherited disorder that causes recurrent seizures. It's the most common neurological condition diagnosed in dogs. While the condition isn't painful, it can cause dogs to feel anxious and confused. Medication can help control seizures. Keeping up with regular veterinarian appointments will keep your pup healthy, and make sure to consult your vet if you notice signs of any of the above conditions. History Both border collies and Labs have centuries-long histories. Border collies are known as indispensable working dogs, herding sheep and other livestock in the Scottish Highlands and in Wales for generations. Labs were also bred to work , though on the other side of the pond; they were used to retrieve ducks and keep fishermen company in Newfoundland, Canada. Given that the border collie and Labrador retriever consistently rank among the U. In fact, there were likely a lot of Lab and border collie crosses before anyone dubbed the mixed breed a "borador. But one thing is certain: These outgoing, active, athletic dogs are the ideal companions for active owners who want enthusiastic four-legged companions for outdoor adventures. Was this page helpful? 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 Borador Highlights The Borador is a mixed breed dog. They are not purebreds like their Border Collie or Labrador Retriever parents. The main colors of Boradors are brown, black, tan, and white. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors. Boradors are very easy to groom. A good brushing per week will probably do. Most Boradors are so outgoing that they will often greet any stranger with a wag of their tail. This makes them better as companions than as watchdogs. Any nipping related to herding tendencies can be easily curbed with positive reinforcement and training. Boradors are generally great with kids, other pets, and all members of the family. Playtime between dogs and kids, as always, should be supervised. Borador History The Borador dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Border Collies and Labrador Retrievers in the early s, likely in North America. Breeders likely started to cross-breed the Labrador Retriever and the Border Collie to create a smart, family-friendly dog. Both parent breeds are working and herding dogs, and when combined, they make for an intelligent, affectionate pup. Breeders continued to create Boradors as demand for the mixed breed dogs climbed. Even though the Borador mixed breed got their 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 Borador rescues, or check with breed-specific Labrador Retriever or Border Collie rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. Borador Size As the Borador is a relatively new mixed breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between Border Collie and Labrador Retriever parents, you can expect Boradors to be on the medium to large side. Most weigh in at 40 to 64 pounds and range in height from 19 to 24 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. Borador Personality Many Borador enthusiasts stress that the mixed breed is truly a family dog. The good-sized pooch is eager to please, and they are just as happy to participate in agility contests as they are to snuggle on the couch—as long as its with their family. In fact, they are so outgoing that they will often greet any stranger with a wag of their tail. Since they are smart and highly energetic dogs, Boradors do best with lots of activity and stimulation. If not properly exercised, the Borador could fall into some bored destructive behaviors. Prevent unwanted chewing and digging by providing plenty of physical and mental stimulation for your Borador. Borador Health The Borador breed is predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Border Collie and Labrador also face. 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. Some of the more common health problems Borador suffer from include : Collie Eye Anomaly. Breeders vs rescue dogs A Combined History Mixing dog breeds is not a new thing. In fact, cross-breeding has been around for centuries. But, it takes many years to create a distinct breed that is recognized and registered. Designer dogs are typically named based on the breeds used for mating. Border Collies and Labradors are both intelligent working dogs. They have been selectively bred for generations to choose dogs that are driven as well as cooperative, but in slightly different ways. Border Collies are a traditional herding breed mostly used by sheep farmers to control their unruly flocks. Labradors on the other hand spend more time waiting than working, then have bursts of energy fetching fallen birds over long distances and tricky terrain. Like many of the other designer breeds, the Borador has come into existence within the last 10 to 20 years in North America. By mixing the lovable Labrador with the hard-working Border Collie, breeders hoped to get the best of both worlds — an intelligent, energetic, and people-oriented dog that suits almost any role. Most Labradors are quite a bit bigger than Border Collies. But, your mix could fall anywhere between the sizes of its parents. Most Borador dogs will be somewhere between 40 and 60 pounds. Females are usually smaller than males. While Labradors are seen with a solid yellow, brown, or black coat, this mix often takes on the distinct dual or tri-coloring of the Border Collie. You could also end up with a beautiful black Lab Border Collie mix. Black is a dominant coat color, so the black Lab Border Collie mix is one of the most common colors. This can be in a plain form, or bi-color pattern, such as a white and black Lab Border Collie mix. Grooming and Shedding The Border Collie parent can have long or short fur. Labs will have short dense fur. Your Borador mix could be anywhere inbetween. Both parent dogs are known to shed all year round, and heavily during hotter seasons. So, expect to find lots of fur around your home if you own one. Use a bristle or pin brush for grooming once or twice a week and use a slicker brush to remove any mats that you see. Especially if your dog spends a lot of time exercising outdoors. You may need to groom more frequently when shedding is at its heaviest. Border Collie Lab Mix Temperament These dogs can inherit some very unique and positive personality traits from their parent breeds. For starters, Collies are extremely intelligent. According to studies completed by the American Psychological Association, the dogs have the same mental abilities as a two to two-and-a-half-year-old child. While Labradors may act more like toddlers, and have a good deal of smarts themselves, what really stands out about them is their kindness, happiness, and generally easy-going attitudes. Socialization Early socialization is hugely important if you want to raise a healthy, happy, outgoing dog. This process involves exposing your puppy to other dogs and to different people when they are young. It is done so that your dog will not be fearful or aggressive around new people or dogs. Ideally, socialization should begin when your puppy is between 3 and 14 weeks of age. Luckily, both the Border Collie and Labrador are known for their easy, kind temperament, so you should find this process easy and effective. Training Both Labradors and Border Collies are dogs with high levels of intelligence. So, a Borador is likely to become bored and disruptive if not properly entertained. Training can go a long way to help with this. There are various programs that can help you with training. Keep in mind that studies show that positive reinforcement or reward based training are best for your dog. Not only is it highly effective, but it reduces the incidence of problem behaviors and anxiety issues. Borador Energy Levels It should not come as a surprise that the Border Collie Lab mix also needs a fair amount of exercise. They are extremely active dogs that love to run, play, and exert energy for hours each day. The Lab part of the mix typically calms down the hyperactive nature of the Border Collie. But, it depends entirely on the traits they inherit. Some Borador mixes will still have strong herding instincts and could even try to herd young kids or other pets in the house! Border Collie and Labrador Health All dogs are at risk of certain illnesses. The Borador is no exception. Here are some health problems that potential owners should be aware of: Hip dysplasia. Breeds By Meg Marrs 6 min read September 24, Comments K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. When you combine two already-awesome things, you usually wind up with something even better. And this is especially true when you are talking about mixed-breed dogs. For example, Labradoodles, chorkies and Gerberian Shepskies are a few of the most well-known and popular designer dogs, but few mixtures are as reliably awesome as the borador — a cross between a border collie and a Labrador retriever. Labrador Retrievers Labrador retrievers are one of the most popular breeds in the world the most popular breed, according to the AKC. They are famous for being loving, fun, energetic and intelligent pups, and most people who can provide proper training and sufficient exercise fall in love with their labs. Although originally developed to help fishermen collect their nets and retrieve escaping fish, they also excel in hunting, therapy and bomb-sniffing contexts. Of course, labs also make fantastic family pets; they are gentle with children, friendly with strangers and simply love to hang out with their people. Labs are medium-sized dogs, who typically weigh somewhere in the to pound range. They have very thick, short- to medium-length hair and come in three different color forms: Black, golden and chocolate. Border Collies Border collies were originally used as herding dogs, but they also make great family pets. Border collies have one of the most well-developed work ethics of any breed, and they are very smart many authorities consider them the most intelligent breed. This means that you must keep them busy and stimulated, or else they may become destructive. Border collies are very good at a number of different jobs, and people frequently use them in agility, disc, obedience and tracking competitions. Most are very friendly and loving with their families, although they occasionally exhibit a bit of dog aggression. Border collies are covered in fairly long, soft hair, and they are generally black with white masks, chests and feet. However, some border collies also display patches of brown. Most weigh between about 30 and 50 pounds. Borador Traits and Characteristics While boradors can vary from individual to individual, most are relatively similar in terms of appearance, personality and skills. Image from Pinterest Size and Shape Boradors are medium-sized dogs, who are generally about 15 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 35 and 65 pounds. However, all dogs are individuals, and some will fall outside of this range. Boradors usually have a lab-like build, although they are often on the thin side. Color Patterns Most boradors have black and white markings, like their border collie parent. However, the amount of white fur varies greatly, with some individuals being nearly black and others possessing several large, white patches. The most common places to see white on these dogs is the face and chest. Temperament Boradors are typically lovely dogs, who are sweet and affectionate with their families. While they will gladly bark at strange noises or people, they make friends quickly and generally get along with people and dogs alike. Neediness Boradors usually prefer to be with their pack as much as possible. This can lead to separation anxiety and other problems, if they are left alone for long periods of time. Image from Pinterest Intelligence As you may expect, when you cross two of the smartest dog breeds in the world , their offspring tend to be pretty sharp puppies. Make sure to have some dog puzzle toys on hand to keep those canine brains sharp! Energy Level Given the fact that both of their parent breeds are bursting with energy, it should come as no surprise that boradors are some of the most energetic dogs on the planet. Owners who are not willing to go on multiple walks and toss the ball for a while on a daily basis should look elsewhere for a pet. Boradors who do not get enough exercise and playtime often become very destructive and depressed. Training Potential Most boradors love to work with and please their person, so they are generally easy to train. However, their impressive intelligence can occasionally make training difficult, as they can be headstrong from time to time. Nevertheless, most boradors respond well to firm, consistent training based on positive reinforcement, so grab your clicker and a handful of treats and teach your borador a new trick! Health Profile Boradors are generally healthy dogs, who are not especially susceptible to many illnesses or ailments. Bloat can also be a concern, given their relatively deep chests, so encourage your dog to eat slowly consider investing in a slow eating bowl or — even better — start a hand feeding routine and insist on a period of calmness after meals. Maintenance Needs Boradors tend to have the short hair of their lab parent, which means they need relatively little grooming or maintenance. Lifespan The average lifespan of boradors can vary widely, but most probably live between 10 and 12 years. Best People and Families for Boradors The best families for boradors are active and love to get out and about with their pooch. They may not be the best choice for families that already have other pets particularly cats , although some seem to get along with other pets more than others. What kinds of things surprised you about your borador? Did she present any special challenges? Let us know in the comments below! Like it? Share it! We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. If you are looking for a friendly and energetic dog to adopt into the family, then the Borador, which is a mix between a Labrador retriever and a border collie, might be a perfect choice! Attractive, intelligent, and friendly to a fault, these dogs have the perfect temperament for playing at home with the kids or accompanying their parents on epic adventures. However, they do need lots of love and attention to thrive. While there exists a diverse range of different types of Boradors, the most popular mix is between a black Labrador and a border collie. This typically results in a distinctive and sleek black pup, often with white accents. Always consider heading to your local shelter before purchasing a pup. Read on to learn everything you need to know about Boradors and decide whether they are the perfect pup to join your home. The breed was established in the s and has been one of the most popular dog breeds in the Western world ever since. Their friendly nature, intelligence, and eagerness to please make them ideal working dogs, and you will often see Labs in service dog roles such as disability assistance. Their composure makes them the ideal dog to accompany their owners into public spaces, though they are known as big shedders. The border collie is a herding dog that was developed along the Anglo-Scottish border. It was officially recognized as a breed in .Border collies are both intelligent and athletic, which has made them favorites as sports dogs, particularly in sheepdog trials. It is believed that initial combinations of Labs and border collies were probably accidental, but breeders soon realized the combination made for a very desirable mix. While all kinds of Borador mixes exist, the most popular mix is between black Labradors and border collies, creating distinctive-looking black dogs with white accents. The term is not generally used for accidents, but rather specifically for these designer dogs that are emerging. However, it is important to differentiate between crossbreeds and pure breeds. Pure breeds tend to pass down physical and character traits in a very predictable way, making it possible to define the breed. When it comes to crossbred dogs, though, there is less consistency in the way characteristics manifest. It is possible to generalize to an extent about what to expect from a crossbred dog, and breeders do control for characteristics as much as possible. Luckily, when it comes to Boradors, you are working with two incredibly intelligent and friendly breeds, so the result always tends to be something special. Borador Appearance Labrador and border collie mixes are medium-to-large-sized dogs that tend to fall somewhere between the size of their two parents. Breeders typically make sure the mother is larger so they have no trouble passing the baby pups. Labradors tend to be between .They usually weigh between 55 and 80 pounds. Border collies are a bit smaller, reaching between 18 and 22 inches in height and weighing between 30 and 55 pounds. They tend to have a longer muzzle and a leaner physique, though this is not always easy to see through their medium-length hair. As a result, you can expect a Borador to be between 19 and 24 inches tall and weigh between 40 and 65 pounds. Remember, you can get a better idea of the potential height and weight of a puppy by looking at their parents. Most Borador pups tend to have the slightly heavier build of the Labrador, though they are usually a little on the thin side. They also tend to have the broad face of their Lab parent, though with a longer, more pointed nose. You can usually expect your Borador puppy to be a mix of whatever color their parents were. Most puppies take on the more solid black color of their Lab parent coupled with the white markings of their border collie parent. So, if you are mixing a black Lab with a border collie, you can expect a mostly black dog with white accents. Boradors typically have a double coat that will either look like the short hair of a Labrador retriever or the medium-length hair of a border collie. Regardless of their coat color, your Borador will shed quite a lot, as both Labradors and border collies are known for their high-shedding coats. Borador Personality Labradors and border collies have a lot of personality traits in common, so the characters and temperaments of Boradors are relatively easy to predict. First and foremost, both breeds are considered to be highly intelligent. They can both learn new things quickly, and they are also able to think independently. This allows them to adapt to new situations and determine what is expected of them, even if they have not been provided with specific instructions. But unlike very independent dogs that can be difficult to train due to their stubbornness, both Labradors and border collies were bred to work alongside humans. This has made them very eager to please, which makes training through reward and positive reinforcement highly effective. This is also why Labradors can be trained to complete the complex tasks required of a guide dog for the blind and why border collies can be trained to deliver elaborate tricks in a sporting dog competition. You can expect a Borador to be highly trainable as well. Both dogs tend to be friendly with strangers and other animals rather than territorial. They are more likely to be curious and keen to make friends than raise the alarm. This quality makes Boradors great companions but not very effective guard dogs. Their affectionate nature tends to be particularly notable with children, around whom they are instinctively careful. It is generally considered safe to let Labradors and border collies play with small children, though they should be supervised at all times in case of any mishaps. This can involve giving them a nip that is designed to surprise rather than hurt. Fortunately, they can easily be trained out of this behavior if you notice it and implement corrective training early on. While they can safely be left alone for up to four or five hours at a time, they can develop anxiety if they are left alone for long periods of time while everyone in the household is off working. You can expect them to respond with destructive behaviors, such as digging and chewing. This is not done out of vengeance but rather boredom or frustration. Finally, these dogs are very energetic, and they need lots of exercise. Ideally, they should get at least an hour of activity each day, spread out over two shorter sessions. They will also love to accompany you on weekend field trips and hiking adventures. Due to their size and energy levels, Boradors do best when they have a big home with a nice backyard to play in. While they can be trained to put up with apartment living as long as they have regular opportunities to stretch their legs, it is not the ideal environment for them to thrive in. Borador Health Risks You can expect a Borador to have a lifespan of around 10 to 15 years, which is respectable for a dog of their size. While they are generally healthy dogs, they are at risk of some health conditions. In particular, they may develop elbow or hip dysplasia, which is a painful malformation of the joints that can make movement difficult, especially as they get older. Boradors are less likely to develop this condition if they get sufficient exercise and have a healthy diet. An orthopedic bed will also give them a lot of comfort in late life. Boradors are susceptible to a variety of different eye conditions that can cause them to partially lose their sight in later years. This can be highly disorienting for them, but they can still feel comfortable in a familiar home where they know where everything is. Finally, Boradors can also be prone to obesity, as they have little control over their hunger hormones. This is why it is imperative that they get enough exercise and that you monitor their calorie intake, reducing or increasing portions as required. Never leave food out for these dogs; they do best with strict and limited meal times. With all that information in mind, you might still be wondering whether a Borador is the right dog for you. Here are a few questions to consider when making your decision. A Borador can actually be a great dog for first-time owners. They are easy to train and they have a friendly temperament, so you are unlikely to find yourself dealing with an aggressive or troublesome dog. A Borador will want to be part of the family and involved in everything. You also need to invest time in exercising them and teaching them, as they need the mental stimulation of training. Do you have time to look after a dog like this? If so, the Borador is likely a good choice. How Big Is Your Home? Boradors are pretty big dogs with lots of energy, so they do best when they have quite a bit of space. Will your home feel full with a inch-tall dog wandering about? Additionally, do you have an outdoor space where they can let off energy when needed? When you bring a Borador puppy home, you can expect them to live for anywhere from 10 to 15 or more years. Can you handle the responsibility of caring for them for that time, including the financial responsibility of caring for them? Do you have people who can look after them when you go away or in case of an emergency? Dog ownership is a big responsibility, regardless of the breed you adopt. Yes, Boradors are considered very good dogs, especially if you are looking for a loyal and fairly easy to manage family dog. They are highly intelligent, very trainable, and bond with families quickly. Boradors are high-energy and need a lot of attention, so they are best for families that have time to enjoy them. How smart are border collie Lab mixes? Both border collies and Labrador retrievers are considered among the smartest dog breeds, alongside the likes of poodles and German shepherds. As a result, you can expect crossbreeds that bring together their genetics to be highly intelligent. How much does a border collie Lab mix cost? Can Boradors swim? Labrador retrievers are known for their love of playing and swimming in water, so there is a good chance their Borador offspring will also love a good swim. If they have the longer coat of their border collie parent, just beware of the amount of water that they are likely to drip after a swim! When is a Borador fully grown? Boradors actually remain playful puppies for quite some time and can take quite a long time to reach their full size. You can expect females to reach their full adult size when they hit around 24 months, while males take a bit longer and are not fully grown until around 36 months. While the dogs will also lose most of their puppy energy upon reaching adulthood, they will remain energetic and athletic dogs for most of their lives. The Verdict If you are a first-time dog owner or anyone looking for a friendly, intelligent, and easy to manage dog to adopt into your family, a Borador is a great choice. Since their Labrador and border collie parents are both intelligent, trainable, and friendly dogs, their offspring are sure to inherit these wonderful traits. Overall, the Borador crossbreed is: High-energy and needs plenty of space to feel comfortable Agreeable, friendly, and loyal, though they are prone to developing separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time Quite large dogs, like their Labrador and border collie parents While Boradors are generally easy to manage, they also need quite a bit of your time and dedication to stay happy. Take time to consider whether you have the time to look after one of these pups properly before taking them home. Do you have any experience with Boradors? Share your insights with the community in the comments section below. Related Article:.

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter to get latest worksheets and study materials in your email. These dogs have been crossed with the Labrador Retriever , Pitbull, Chihuahua , German Shepherd , Husky, Boxer , Poodle, and many other purebreds to produce friendly, loyal, and active companions that also excel as show dogs. Bullhuahua Terrier Bull Terrier X Chihuahua Its courage and protective instincts, along with a sweet disposition, make it a devoted companion and an excellent watchdog. Bully Jack Terrier Bull Terrier X Jack Russell Terrier It is suitable for those looking for a small to medium-sized companion with entertaining antics, fearless personality, and boundless energy. Bullmatian Terrier Bull Terrier X Dalmatian Although it makes a wonderful housemate, its high energy level can be difficult to handle, especially for a novice owner. Rottbull Rottweiler X Bull Terrier The Rottbull is a robust and tenacious dog, affectionate with its family while being watchful around strangers. Aussietare Australian Shepherd X Bull Terrier Known to be playful, protective, active, and social, the Aussietares can be occasionally aggressive because of their Terrier ancestry. Subscribe to our newsletter Join our subscribers list to get the latest news, and updates delivered directly in your inbox. Follow us on:. This unique mix can be prone to some health problems that are common to both parent breeds. Known diseases of English Bulldog-Bull Terrier mixes include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation and congenital heart defects. Hip dysplasia is a condition in which the hip joint does not develop properly, resulting in pain and lameness. Elbow dysplasia is a similar condition that affects the elbow joint. Patellar luxation is a condition in which the kneecap dislocates. Congenital heart defects are abnormalities of the heart that are present at birth. While these health problems can be severe, they are not necessarily found in all English Bulldog-Bull Terrier mixes. However, it is important to know them so that you can seek treatment if the dog develops any of these problems. What does this mixed breed look like? The coat of the English Bulldog-Bull Terrier mix is short, stiff and sparse. The hair is usually black, brown or brindle, with some white markings. The undercoat is soft and fine. It is difficult to predict what an English Bulldog and Bull Terrier mix will look like, as each dog is an individual and may have different characteristics and behaviors. It is possible that such a dog will have characteristics from both parents, but it is also possible that it will resemble more of one of the two breeds. The English Bulldog is a strong and muscular breed with a short and clipped coat, while the Bull Terrier is also a strong and muscular breed but generally has a longer and shinier coat. A mixed breed of these two breeds could be somewhere in this size range, but it is impossible to predict exactly what it will look like. It is also difficult to predict what the head, eyes, coat, and other physical characteristics of such a dog will look like, as this depends on a variety of factors, including the dog's genetic makeup and the environmental conditions in which the dog was raised. It is best to look at the character and behavior of such a dog individually, rather than judging it based on its appearance. What are breed characteristics of this mix dog? The English Bulldog-Bull Terrier mix is a strong, muscular dog with a short, thick coat. They typically weigh between kg and are cm tall. Fur length. Lifespan Sociability Deciding to add a new puppy to your home is not a decision you should take lightly. These dogs have plenty of energy but can also be challenging in terms of training. You must socialize them extremely well as puppies to avoid them becoming overly wary of strangers as adults. They can also be a touch stubborn, thanks to their Terrier heritage. It takes an experienced eye to pick up when your dog is starting to switch off and change up your commands accordingly. This is especially true with a less well-known cross such as the English Bull Terrier. You could get a pup that looks like their English Bulldog parent but with the personality of a Bull Terrier, or vice versa! You might even end up with a puppy who seems like a fairly even mix of both parent breeds in terms of both appearance and temperament. The most important thing when looking at getting a hybrid breed puppy is to familiarize yourself with both parent breeds and make sure you like everything about each of them. The tenacious and powerful nature of both these breeds meant that they were brave enough to take on a much larger foe. Bull Terriers came about by crossing the slower English Bulldog with Terrier breeds, in an attempt to create a powerful yet quick dog with spirit. Both breeds have been in the U. While the Bulldog is now the more popular of the two breeds by a significant margin, the Bull Terrier was the first to be accepted into the American Kennel Club. They were recognized as a breed by the AKC in and were the 13th breed to be placed on its books. The Bulldog was accepted into the American Kennel Club in , as their 26th breed. This means their owners need to be experienced at training dogs or happy to work with a professional for extra guidance. They can have a territorial streak and will take it upon themselves to protect their families if they are not properly socialized from a young age. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Any family will need to make sure that they place a high priority on training an English Bull Terrier right from the start. They can be a little too big and bulky for very old or young family members, as their exuberance may knock people and objects flying. Remember the fighting instinct of both parent breeds, and know that care will need to be taken with small pets, especially any that would run away rather than stand their ground. Free feeding this breed is not a good idea, as they will eat everything in sight rather than self-regulate. Another issue that can affect English Bull Terriers with shorter noses is that they cannot swim well , so they should never be allowed around bodies of water without being constantly monitored. Keeping training sessions short and sweet and using positive reinforcement techniques is a great way to make sure you keep their attention. This breed needs significant amounts of socialization when young, to make sure that they learn to accept other people and dogs both within their home and outside. They can excel at agility, tracking and obedience, but remember to take into account that you may need to reduce high-energy activities during hot weather if your pup has a short nose and is at risk of breathing problems. These are the most common health conditions to affect the English Bulldog and the Bull Terrier. Minor Conditions. The American French Bull Terrier is intelligent, but needs extra work with training due to their stubbornness and confidence. Daily training sessions of around five to ten minutes help this breed keep on track. Additionally, basic obedience classes with a professional trainer can be helpful, especially in puppyhood. It may be helpful for this breed to continue on in adult classes to maintain good manners. On the plus side, this breed is often engaged and interested in training. There is plenty of potential to trick-train this breed or go for more complicated tasks like agility. The American French Bull Terrier is loyal and intelligent, but not a good match for beginner dog parents. They can be strong-willed and need stimulation and routine exercise. Without proper stimulation, the American French Bull Terrier will grow bored and frustrated — regardless of how much love there is for them. This breed easily develops separation anxiety. Dog parents who are frequently home or able to bring pups to work are a good match for this breed. This breed should receive walks for at least 45 minutes a day. Keep in mind that this breed is brachycephalic and needs exercise, but also needs a slower pace. Ideally, they will also have a fenced in backyard to burn off extra energy. Both parent breeds, however, are well known and loved. The American Pit Bull Terrier was created in early 19th-century England for the popular spectator sports of bull- and bear-baiting. When those sports were finally recognized as inhumane and became illegal , dog-fighting sadly took its place. Thus, the Pit Bull became known for aggression. Handlers reaching into the dog-fighting rings wanted to be able to separate dogs without getting hurt themselves, and so breeding dogs willing to maul humans was counterproductive. The breed developed a reputation as a strong, protective dog, but one also known for being gentle and family-friendly. Today, many view the breed as inherently scary or mean, but they have just as many supporters on their side. The French Bulldog was first developed in England and was created to be a toy-size version of the similar English Bulldog. The breed thrived in France and Europe, and they were soon discovered by Americans as well. Today, the breed is beloved as a lazy but loving household companion. They have no breed standard, so their coats may be found in a variation of colors from either parent. However, they will tend to favor variations of tan, fawn, brindle and cream; these are colorations that the American Pit Bull and French Bulldog are both found in frequently. They will have a short coat based on both parent breeds. American French Bull Terrier Personality The American French Bull Terrier is often good-natured and loving, but they also can tend to be overprotective or easily startled. Training them consistently when young will ultimately improve their quality of life and yours as an adult. American French Bull Terrier Health While American French Bull Terriers originating from responsible breeders are often healthy, there are some genetic predispositions towards health issues to be aware of with this crossbreed. Dogs that favor their French Bulldog parentage are more likely to suffer from health problems. Patellar Luxation.

July 12, If you are looking for the perfect French Bulldog puppy to add to your family then this list of French Bulldog breeders in Virginia should get you started down the right path. Before contacting any Virginia Frenchie breeder I highly recommend reading these tips to find a reputable French Bulldog breeder. Below is a list of some of the Virginia French Bulldog breeders to begin your search with. You want your puppy to be healthy, happy, and safe as possible and proper breeding practices can ensure you get a great Frenchie to add to your home. Their kennels are located in Virginia, and they have a large selection of beautiful French Bulldogs that are all well-socialized, up-to-date on vaccines, and ready to go home with you. They offer various options regarding the type of French Bulldog puppy you want such as color or temperament and the gender s you wish to breed your puppy with. They also have an online store where you can purchase some items for your new puppy. Their goal is to produce healthy, happy puppies with excellent temperaments and personalities. They breed for temperament, health, and longevity. They also breed for longevity by including hip dysplasia screening on all their dogs. They have various options for their future customers: black, blue, chocolate, and white pups; males and females; short coats or long coats; short legs or longer legs; healthy hips or not; the list goes on. The Kaigan Kennels team takes its time to ensure that every puppy leaves their home with proper care instructions and socialization tips. They also offer a lifetime support program that includes training classes held every month at their house, allowing customers to come to watch puppies grow up from birth while they develop. They can help you find the perfect puppy for your lifestyle and needs. Brick House Bulldogs breed only French Bulldogs—they have no other breeds of dogs on their roster. If you want a great-looking French Bulldog that will be a joy to own, this is the breeder for you. Their focus is on quality over quantity when it comes to breeding Frenchies. They only have 15 puppies per year, so they can spend time preparing them for their future homes without sacrificing quality control or consistency. They also strive to maintain an environment that promotes healthy relationships with humans and dogs—they will only sell fully vaccinated puppies and microchipped at 8 weeks old or older depending upon what vaccine was given. They specialize in breeding Frenchies with health problems such as hip dysplasia or blindness, which makes them easy to adapt to families looking for a companion or therapy dog. They offer several options for choosing what type of puppy you want: boy or girl; black or white; short-haired or long-haired; purebred or mixed breed; Labrador Retriever mix or standard poodle mix this option is only available if you live outside VA. The McCoy family started with two dogs—a male named Mac and a female named Piper. Their first litter consisted of three puppies: One male and two females. The second litter was a bit larger, with six puppies: Two males and four females. The third litter had seven puppies total: Four males and three females. Some are females only, others both male and female; some are purebred French Bulldogs, while others are crossbreeds mixing other breeds. Throughout all this time, Jackie McCoy has always focused on finding the right mix of personality traits in her dogs so they can be loved by everyone who comes into contact with them. The owner has been breeding Frenchies for over 20 years and has no other French bulldog breeders Virginia. They have had many litters of puppies over the years but are currently only breeding one litter per year. They do not open up for tours or meet visitors as more extensive facilities might, but they let visitors see the dogs at their homes or in a local park. The dogs are all born to parents registered with the American Kennel Club since birth and have been DNA tested to ensure that they are purebreds. The dogs are raised indoors in a free-range outdoor area with fencing so they can safely roam around when outside is too cold or too hot for them. However, most people purchase them as pets right away so they can start training immediately instead of waiting months after being purchased before training begins. They are located in Virginia and currently have two litters on the ground at any time. Their current focus is on Frenchies, but they can also take in other breeds. They only use certified genetic parents who have been tested for every health condition their puppies could inherit. This includes hip dysplasia and eye conditions like patellar luxation, which can affect the quality of life for your puppy if not caught early enough. The owner, Sueann Merrick, has been breeding Frenchies for over 20 years and has been thrilled with the results. Shenandoah Valley Bulldogs is located in Virginia but serves clients from all over. The dogs they raise are always kept indoors, where they can get plenty of exercise and playtime with each other. Shenandoah Valley Bulldogs also offers puppy training classes so owners can learn how to train their new pup without having to do it themselves this helps them avoid any potential accidents at home or in public. Shiloh French Bulldogs breed healthy and happy puppies of all sizes. They focus on producing well-balanced puppies in all aspects: health, temperament, conformation, and movement. The dogs at Shiloh are all purebred French Bulldogs, meaning they all share the same genetic makeup and bloodline. The owners do not use any other breeders or kennels for their dogs; instead, they only use them for breeding purposes. Shiloh French Bulldogs offers two different types of dogs: Standard and Miniatures. Both breeds are 25 pounds or under, making them perfect for families with children or small apartments. The Standard is a medium-sized dog, while the Miniature is smaller than the Standard but more significant than its companion breed, the Toy Poodle. Proper breeding practices and care is essential in order to get the French Bulldog your heart desires. Meet the puppies! We are located in Powhatan County in Virginia and have over seven years of breeding Bulldogs. We love dogs just as much as you do! We make sure that all of our puppies are raised and treated with lots of love, and have special attention paid to them. Both English and French Bulldogs are an attractive and eye-catching breed. They love car rides, leash walks and just spending time with you. They are the most lovable and sweetest dogs available, learn quickly and are always eager to please you. Our selective breeding process ensures you get the best dogs available. We make sure our puppies are of the highest quality around. We take pride in our process. All of our puppies come with a 6-month health guarantee, club registration, microchip and have age appropriate vaccinations and deworming. We would love the opportunity to be a blessing in helping you find the perfect English or Frenchie for your family. Let us guide you to the perfect addition to your family! Check out our available puppy page. Meet the Puppies! See all of the puppies! I would highly recommend Cute Ugly Bulldogs if you are looking for a puppy. We are considering adding a second one to our family. They are honest, fair, and good people to work with. I would do business with them again! Carly Kimble Johnson We got our Frenchie in January and the vet says he is by far the healthiest she has seen in a long time. We love our Zeke boy! Thank you guys for allowing us to make him part of our little family! Rebecca Cash Rawe We just added a new addition to our family today…. The vet saw her and just could not express how healthy she was and how well kept she is. I would definitely be coming back for another addition!!!! Liz Yun Veronica was super nice and answers texts if I have questions about our pup. We love our pup. I definitely recommend. Winnie McKinstry My family got our Frenchie from Veronica and she was so nice, helpful, and responsive. We love our baby Bella!! Thanks so much! Taylor Colly We have a beautiful new baby girl from this wonderful family! Talullah is a bundle of energy and sweet kisses. We would do business with them again! Jourdan Jones Veronica and her husband are wonderful and care a great deal about their bulldogs. Melissa Reinhold McDaniel. Questions about French Bulldog puppies for sale in Virginia? We have answers. How does French Bulldog puppies for sale in Virginia work? You might have noticed that the prices from Virginia French Bulldog breeders tend to be a little higher than they would be with other breeds. The reason for this is that breeders of Frenchies have to spend more money to raise these dogs due to their unique skeletal structure. The females have to have C-sections in order to deliver their litters safely, leading to higher expenses for both breeders and buyers. What are some health issues associated with Frenchies? French Bulldogs for sale in Virginia can live for 14 years or more in some cases, but they are also at risk of several health issues. Their snub noses make it hard to breathe, so they can snore and wheeze quite a lot, and they often develop bone and joint issues too. Be sure to buy your Virginia French Bulldog puppy for sale from a trusted breeder to have the best chance of a happy, healthy dog. How do you vet businesses selling Frenchies? Trying to find the best French Bulldog breeders Virginia can feel like quite a challenge, and it can be hard for a typical person to tell breeders and businesses apart from one another. At Uptown, we have lots of experience when it comes to finding top tier breeders, and we've developed one of the strictest screening processes around to help our users find French Bulldog puppies Virginia from only the best sellers. How does Uptown work for finding a Frenchie pup? Ready to begin your journey to find French Bulldog puppies for sale in Virginia? It all starts here, and the first step is to browse through the various pups that are currently available from our listed breeders and businesses. Speak with the sellers to learn more about any pups that catch your eye and then make arrangements to bring one home. It's as simple as that. Can I find the cheapest Frenchies here? If you're trying to find the cheapest possible French Bulldog for sale Virginia, we urge you to reconsider. There are many scammers and bad breeders out there who sell their pups at super low prices, tricking people into buying unhealthy, socially difficult dogs and then having to spend way more money later on for vet bills and socialization training. You'll find fair, competitively priced pups on Uptown. Why shouldn't I buy my dog from a shelter instead? For example, if you're looking for a specific breed, like French Bulldogs for sale Virginia, you might not be able to find the right pup at local rescue centers. How do I know that my French Bulldog will be healthy? The vetted breeders and businesses of the Uptown Network always carry our nose-to-tail veterinary checks of their French Bulldog puppies in Virginia, providing you with full health reports and giving you all the details you need to know. This way, when you buy a Virginia French Bulldog for sale from one of our featured sellers, you won't have to worry about any hidden health problems Is it enough to walk my Frenchie, or do they need more exercise? French Bulldog puppies for sale Virginia aren't the most energetic dogs around, and they can get by with a single moderate-length walk each day, but they still need regular playtime and other forms of physical and mental stimulation in order to lead happy, fulfilling lives. If a French Bulldog for sale in Virginia doesn't get enough exercise, it might start gaining weight and developing health issues. How do I know I can trust Uptown? Looking for a French Bulldog Virginia online can feel quite intimidating, and it's hard to know which sites you can trust. At Uptown, we strive on a daily basis to be your No. What type of dog is a French Bulldog? Virginia French Bulldogs for sale are all unique, with their own little quirks and personality traits, but most Frenchies tend to be very fun, affectionate, inquisitive animals that like to spend time with people of all ages. They're super friendly and like to learn new things too, so can be quite active around the home, but also appreciate a good nap and lots of cuddles on their best friend's lap.

A New Litter of Puppies is in the making! Our puppies are always happy and healthy Another Litter of Puppies is on the way!! Another Litter of Puppies is on the way!! We thank you all for the interest in our upcoming litter. We are so excited! The last Spring puppies are all with their new families now The last Spring puppies are all with their new families now The last Spring puppies are all with their new families now We keep our puppies until the age of eight weeks - they will have had their first set of vaccinations, will be wormed up to date and will be microchipped before they leave here. Call Us for more information! The last Spring puppies are all with their new families now The last Spring puppies are all with their new families now Please give us a call to find outmore information! We milked cows on our acre farm with our two sons in the mountains above the Village of Middleburgh in the beautiful Schoharie Valley of upstate New York. We bred her to General's Maxim Bullied and a wonderful thing happened.Cripple Creek German Shepherds. Ever since, there have been many beautiful and quality German Shepherd dogs raised here on the farm. We pride ourselves in the disposition of our dogs as they are raised as part of the family. Our dogs are good, sturdy and strong and are quite handsome to see. Our dogs absolutely love to play fetch with any stick, ball or Frisbee any time. We actually have to hide the toys sometimes at the end of the day so we get some rest. They are tireless to say the least. When you visit our photo gallery, you will see pictures of some of our pups that are enjoying their lives with their new families. We always welcome visitors although being farmers, we do request that you first make an appointment. One thing as a breeder is that we always stress to any prospective puppy owner is that the pup will likely be a full member of your family for many years to come and taking the time to choose and decide is the most important part of ownership. Visit many breeders and be sure of your choice of pets. This is why we never mind visitors, it is all part of the decision making process. Powered by GoDaddy Website Builder. Email: [email protected] 5. Gale I. Dinces LLC. When choosing a future family member, especially a purebred German Shepherd, you should pay attention to those breeders who have special breeding programs. The Gale I. Bonnie was the star girl of all dog shows and the recipient of many blue ribbons. These days, Gale I. Dinces strives to produce top-quality German Shepherds for Schutzhund service. Of all the listed breeders, their website offers the most useful information on the German Shepherd dog breed, along with their history and puppy development. The German Shepherd breed is a pretty usual one. The biggest price-affecting factor is the location. On the other hand, the difference between lines of German Shepherds also alters the price. Most reputable breeders will ask for more money. A detailed interview with the breeder should help you determine if you should buy from that breeder. As I mentioned, recognizing which breeder is a good one and which one is not can be determined in a few short steps. Availability The biggest tell-tale sign of an unreliable breeder is their unavailability. Such dogs often have mobility issues, as well as hereditary health problems. Breeding dogs with hip dysplasia, for example, is considered unreliable. This is a painful condition for dogs, and transferring it from parents to puppies and even further is pretty curel. Expect some questions in return because a good breeder wants to make sure their puppy goes into a safe new home. Meet and greet Lastly, ask to meet the puppy in person a few times before the adoption. Sure, the whole pandemic situation has got us locked down. But, if a breeder is a reliable person, he will find a way to update you. Also, they all seem to offer photos from day one up to the day of the adoption. This is lovely memorabilia for when your puppy grows up. I find them very remarkable and stunning dogs. You will, too, once you go through these reasons why German Shepherds are awesome! Their intelligence German Shepherds are known as some of the smartest dog biscuits in the bag. They come in third, right after Border Collies and Poodles. Their loyalty It is no wonder why German Shepherds are considered terrific guard dogs! Their loyalty is never questioned. Once a German Shepherd creates a bond with its owner and the rest of the family, he will do whatever it takes to keep the family safe. Their friendliness Whether they live surrounded by kids or other pets, German Shepherds are very affectionate and caring. German Shepherds can be very sweet with the little ones. There were even some cases noted when a GSD mom adopted a lost kitten! She took care of it like it was one of her own pups. Their health We all know that every dog is prone to a certain health condition. However, German Shepherds are very healthy, but they, too, have some minor health problems that may or may not occur. With proper care, German Shepherds can live a happy and long life of up to 13 years! Their adaptability German Shepherds should live in a house with a fenced yard. But, even if you have a place in the city, you can still own a German Shepherd, of course, if you exercise regularly. Also, German Shepherds are okay in all weather conditions. They have a nice, double coat in various colors , which sheds when they need extra coolness, and fluffs up when they need warmth. Despite being so amazing, German Shepherds may not work for all dog lovers. There are some downsides of this dog breed that might be big issues for potential dog owners. The shedding gets worse in the spring and fall when dogs like GSDs experience a seasonal blowout. Their dog hair will go everywhere — really everywhere! You may either lack the time for proper exercise, or simply be a couch potato. These dogs need at least an hour and a half every day of extreme exercises. Their size German Shepherds are large doggos. The only puppy thing they keep forever is their playful personality. German Shepherds can be pretty hefty. To put them in a fenced yard in order to keep a facility safe would be just cruel. German Shepherds are sociable dogs that need interaction. Commitment As I said, German Shepherds are sociable dogs. All dogs need attention. Some love being alone more than others, but not our GSD! Conclusion German Shepherd breeders in New York are finally all here in one place. That is — only the best GSD breeders in this state and the area. I exclude unreliable breeders and puppy mills from my lists. I will never recommend you buy puppies from such people. Yes, they cost less, but just imagine how many health defects these pups may have! But, think about it: do you really prefer easy access to puppies over their general health? Up above, you have some tricks to help you with finding a good dog breeder. PupVine has got some pretty pawsome articles on German Shepherds. After all, these pups are extremely popular in the states — hand in hand with Golden Retrievers and Labradors! If you want to explore the wonderful breed of German Shepherds, my recommendations go to the following topics:. We can assure you that our puppies are bred responsibly and receive the highest quality care. We are licensed by New York State as breeders and provide proof of such if requested. Happy, Healthy Bloodline Happy, Healthy Bloodline Happy, Healthy Bloodline All our dogs are provided with the highest quality of care and are offered ample exercise each day. They are on a raw food diet and enjoy all the amenities our 20 acre property has to offer. More details about our dogs' lifestyles can be found under the "Life at Graceland Farm" section. German Shepherds are highly protective of their families yet maintain a friendly and playful nature. All of our dogs are properly socialized and puppies receive plenty of human interaction as they grow. Meet our dogs Graceland's Kamilla Kamilla is one of our black and tan long-haired females. She is European descent and has 5 champion Shepherds in her direct bloodline. She is incredibly well mannered, friendly, and obedient. She is an absolute joy to be around. Graceland's Olive Olive is a very playful and energetic pup. She is black and tan and loves attention from people. She also loves playing with the other dogs and is registered by the AKC. Pride of Graceland This is one of our most energetic and playful studs. He is black and tan and loves attention and playing with people and other dogs. He loves to jump, has a high ball drive, is protective, vocal, and is a joy to be around. In addition, he is registered by the AKC. Clocking in at over pounds, this is one big boy. Graceland's Hazel Hazel is one of our breeding females, she is registered by the AKC and has a very calm temperament. She is a very loyal dog, enjoys working, and is extremely obedient. She is a beautiful black and tan girl. Update: Hazel has retired in .She is living her best life with her loving new family on the Jersey Shore. Graceland's Hunter Hunter is our resident stud at Graceland Farms. He is a solid black shepherd and has a very calm temperament. He loves attention and enjoys running and playing with the other dogs. He loves hanging out in the house. In addition, Hunter is registered by the AKC and is the grandson of a world champion shepherd. At over pounds, Hunter is a very big boy and OFA certified for healthy hips and elbows. Graceland's Zara Zara is one of our black and tan long-haired females. She is an absolute joy to be around and loves people. Graceland's Zoe Zoe is one of our newest additions! She is a sable female who is extremely playful, obedient, and a joy to be around. She will begin breeding in a couple of years. Graceland's Holly Holly is a very playful and energetic pup. Graceland's Maple II Maple is a super excited, extremely social, and very outgoing pup. She loves to play with both humans and people and is a joy to have around. Maple is named after our first dog and is a favorite of kids and adults alike. She is registered by the AKC. Graceland's Aspen Aspen is one of our black and tan females who tends to be more reserved. She loves to play with other dogs and is otherwise very social. Aspen is registered by the AKC. They are super social, playful, and smart. They love being around people and other dogs and are living out their puppyhood years on the farm until they are ready to breed in a few years. Life at Graceland Farm All of our dogs are very-well taken care of and enjoy our newly built barn, offering them plenty of space to run and play. They are all treated like family and each have their own ft runners on which they get effective exercise daily. Many of them enjoy swimming, so on hot summer days they enjoy the pond on our acre property nestled in the heart of the Catskill Mountains. All of our dogs are fed an all-natural diet consisting of raw meat, raw eggs, and holistic dog food on occasion. They are all very well socialized, often coming into our home to enjoy time with the family. For the complete list please see our German Shepherd page page. The average price for a German Shepherd puppy in New York can vary depending on the breeder. Some breeders may charge more for certain colors or markings. German Shepherds with a normal temperament are more expensive than those who have an aggressive temperament due to health or poor breeding practices. Puppies from working parents tend to be more expensive as well, because of their intelligence and high energy levels which make them excellent service dogs. Some things you may want to ask the breeder include: Are the puppies parents certified free of genetic defects? Do the puppies have a health guarantee? What vaccines and deworming medications have the puppies received? What type of food and exercise do the puppies receive? Can I see the parents of the puppies? How often do the breeders screen for potential health problems in their breeding stock? Do they offer help with training or behavior issues after I take my puppy home? These organizations are full of wonderful dogs who need homes, and most of them are already housebroken and know basic obedience commands. You can see how they are being raised, which will give you an insight into their personalities and temperament. Also, you may have the opportunity to meet the mother of your future puppy which is also important when choosing a breeder. When you buy your puppy from a reputable breeder, you are getting the highest quality GSD that money can buy. You know that their puppies come from healthy parents and have received appropriate vaccinations for their age. The breeder ensures their pups are dewormed, microchipped, and spayed or neutered before they leave for new homes. Good breeders are happy to provide this information because they want you to find the perfect puppy just as much as you do. They will be able to tell you about other families who have purchased puppies in the past and give personal testimonials about their experiences with the breeder. Breeders should offer help long after you take your GSD home. A responsible breeder will have years of experience working with German Shepherds and be able to answer any questions you may have about the breed. When looking for a reputable breeder, always remember that price is not everything. The health and temperament of the puppies should be your top priority when making this important decision. Take your time in finding the perfect breeder and puppy and you will be rewarded with a lifetime of companionship from your new best friend, the German Shepherd. A good breeder will have nothing to hide and will be more than happy to provide you with contact information for families who have purchased puppies from them in the past. References can tell you a lot about a breeder, such as how healthy their puppies are, how well they were socialized, and if the breeder was helpful after the puppy was taken home. When meeting past customers, make sure to ask lots of questions. A reputable breeder will have years of experience working with German Shepherds and be able to answer any questions you may have about the breed. They should also be willing to provide references from past customers and allow you to meet puppies and their parents. The puppies should be healthy, well-socialized, and come from healthy parents. Make sure that the breeder has a good relationship with a veterinarian, as this is a sign of a kennel that cares about the overall health and well-being of their dogs. Good breeders will typically go to their veterinarians for vaccinations, check-ups, and other issues relating to the puppies. Be aware that if your breeder does not have a veterinarian they use or trust, then this may indicate larger problems within their kennel. What kind of facility are they using? Do they have any references from past customers? Do they care about where their puppies end up once you take them home? These questions can help you determine whether or not this is the right German Shepherd breeder for you and your family. A good breeder will be able to answer any questions that the veterinarian may have about the breed and their individual puppies. If they do not have a current relationship with a veterinarian, ask them why? How often do they visit their vet? What kind of services does the veterinarian offer? Is this someone you would trust with the well-being of your German Shepherd? Signs that you may be dealing with an unethical breeder include: The breeder is not willing to provide references from past customers. The puppies are unhealthy or have health problems. The breeder does not have a good relationship with a veterinarian. The puppies are not well socialized. The breeder is asking for more than the average price for a German Shepherd puppy. If you encounter any of these red flags, it is best to walk away and find another breeder who can provide you with a healthy, well-socialized puppy. It is better for everyone involved to know who the reputable breeders are so that they can be trusted by future families looking for a German Shepherd puppy. All puppies are born with a predisposition to certain health problems, and the German Shepherd is no exception. Some common health problems that can occur in German Shepherds include: Hip dysplasia. They are all a part of our everyday life. We have put a lot of time in finding the right dogs for our breeding program so we can provide quality puppies. Our puppies will make exceptional family companions or working class dogs. Upon viewing our many pictures on our site you will see how happy and healthy all of our dogs are. Our main goal is to provide happy, healthy puppies that make excellent companions. They need lots of personal attention so when considering to buy one of my dogs you need to be willing to have another FAMILY member. Why Choose Us We Strive to Provide We strive to provide our puppies with owners who love and cherish them as much as we do. My puppies mean a lot to me, they are a passion that I love, they are not a business. People have asked me how I let my puppies go when it is time for them to go to their new homes. A Wonderful Dog to Add to Your Family Once you have owned a German Shepherd it is very hard not to have one in your life, they are the most dedicated dog there is. I grew up with German Shepherds in most of my childhood life and my husband and myself have had them in our life together for over 30 years. If you would like to come and visit let us know, we would love to meet you and have you meet our FAMILY, and if you ever decide to make one of our puppies your own, you will know that they were given the very BEST start in life. Take a tour of our site if you have any questions or comments about any of our dogs or puppies feel free to contact us. We feel this step will be VERY beneficial to both puppy and new owners. I am amazed at how well behaved and taken care of they are. Easy and honest people to work with…Simply Amazing! If you are looking to find a German Shepherd breeder in New York that is reliable, this list will start you off with five of the best that can be found in the state. German Shepherds are a prized breed that is known to be hard-working and loyal. All German Shepherds need attentive new owners that can continue training and socialization efforts upon bringing them home. A reputable breeder should always include information about the breed they specialize in. Most will also have an application process or a waiting list that you need to sit on until a litter is born when your name is at the top. Breeders should also have programs for health and genetics. Vaccines and worming should be something offered as well to provide the puppies protection from the moment you take them home. It can be one of the most intelligent, hard-working dogs out there, but also need extra attentiveness. All German Shepherds need extensive socialization and care to become well-tempered and adjusted dogs. German Shepherds can be difficult and stubborn if not trained or socialized properly. They are also very loyal dogs, but only to one person in the family, this makes them seem suspicious or wary to anyone outside the home. Socialization is key to avoiding a lot of the crummy behaviors that can arise in German Shepherds. These breeders are from all around the state of New York and offer up the best quality German Shepherd puppies available. Some of these dogs are bred for show, companion, or work, and each breeder breeds a dog that will serve a purpose in its future family. If you choose to buy a German Shepherd puppy, take a look at these breeders to start. You will also like:. We offer both puppies and adult-trained dogs that will be your new best friend! Our goal is to provide you with an unforgettable experience as a top German Shepherd breeder nearby in New York State. Our GSDs are known for being intelligent, loyal, and balanced. They are also great at obedience training and make wonderful companion animals. You will see our dogs on Instagram around children and adults. The state capital is Albany, but the largest city is New York City, which is home to more than 8 million people. The Brooklyn Bridge connects Manhattan with Brooklyn, another borough with a rich history. Open tennis tournament. Staten Island is home to the Staten Island Ferry, which provides free transportation to and from Manhattan. New York offers a variety of hiking and training for German Shepherds that make the state an ideal location to raise both a family and a German Shepherd puppy. What Sets Us Apart? Regardless of which option you choose, we will work with you to find the perfect GSD for your family. Contact us today to find the perfect German Shepherd for your needs. Visit us on Instagram to see photos and videos of our adult German Shepherds and puppies. All Rights Reserved.

Whether you want a good family pet or an AKC show dog, this breed is the perfect choice. Our Labrador puppies in Michigan come in all three recognized colors — chocolate, black and yellow. We breed the classic English Labrador, known for its stocky appearance and otter tail, and all our adult dogs are AKC pure English lines. Because of this, many of our Labrador puppies for sale in Michigan have excelled in rally, obedience, conformation and agility. This is all on top of being loving family companions. Our available puppies are great choices for multiple needs and tasks. To learn more about the breed and breed standards of our Lap puppies, visit this helpful American Kennel Club resource. Interested in purchasing one of our Labrador retriever puppies for sale in Michigan? Check out the individual page for a specific litter. You can also contact us to be put on the deposit list for picks, and to also hold a puppy. Our puppy Price is for limited registration. Deposits are non-refundable. Full AKC Registration breeding and show rights contact us for an additional fee. Finding the right Labrador Retriever puppy can be mind boggling We here at Rozey K9 Farm provide a convenient and efficient means of selecting and purchasing the perfect Labrador Retriever puppy or Labrador Retriever puppies from your home through videos and pictures or on a visit to our farm. Take advantage of browsing our puppies or adult dogs. We are known as reputable Labrador Retriever dog breeders. Take a look at our individual Labrador Retriever puppy for sale listings with photos and detailed descriptions. We also offer shipping for our Labrador Retriever puppies for sale. As one of the trustworthy Michigan Labrador Retriever dog breeders with puppies for sale we offer a health guarantee. With several Labrador Retriever puppies for sale and numerous Labrador Retriever dog breeders, you're sure to find the perfect Labrador Retriever puppy with us. We are located close to Grand Rapids, MI. You can have your new family home soon. Check out the different Labrador litters and give us a call at to get started. Our Poodles, and Labrador Retriever Puppies Standard Poodle Puppies All of our poodles are very intelligent, aim to please and are friendly and loving. We strive to breed well rounded puppies suited for multiple tasks. View Puppies Labrador Retriever Puppies They're friendly, playful, adventurous, good with children and highly trainable -- is it any wonder that Labrador Retrievers are some of the most popular dogs in America? As dog breeders in Michigan specializing in quality pure bred Labradors, Standard Poodles, Miniature Poodles and Toy Poodles, our pups are bred for health, gentle temperaments, and wonderful companions. Here at Rozey's K9 Farm we are a small family farm that specializes in our breeding. Fabulous Miniature and toy poodle puppies are also bred once in a while. Most importantly, we breed to better the quality of the Standard, Miniature and Toy Poodle, as well as the Labrador, and to preserve fabulous bloodlines. Our top priority here at Rozey K9 Farm is the happiness and health of our puppies. We are trusted and experienced Lab breeders in Michigan, priding ourselves in raising Standard Poodle, Miniature Poodle and Labrador puppies that make wonderful companions for your family. Each puppy leaves here ready for a lifetime of love and companionship with their new families. Our thrill especially comes from seeing our puppies bring joy and happiness to their new homes. As a result of this they all have wonderful, gentle and friendly personalities. According to AKC standards, our parents also meet and have great build and conformation. Because of these outstanding qualities, our Poodles and Labradors excel in AKC performance and many also hold therapy titles. Consequently, we are always working above and beyond to bring out the best in all of our Poodles, and Labs, Our Poodle, and Labrador Puppies Welcome to our Farm Kathy I just wanted to drop you a note regarding our puppy Woody. I have never had a puppy so perfect! He has everything: a wonderful temperament, intelligence and gorgeous features. Everyone just marvels at his loving eyes. He's perfect on the leash, in fact he'll grab the leash in his mouth and take me for a walk. It's very cute. He loves other dogs and people of all ages. He is just a pleasure in every way. Click Here to Help Stofer's Labs make a difference in the lives of children! Sawyer has a fun, confident personality and loves to explore. He will make a wonderful, loyal family dog, therapy or service dog. Training price reflects a go home date of Sept 16th when he is 18 weeks old. She will make a wonderful, loyal family dog, therapy or service dog. She is doing well on her crate training, potty training and obedience training. Training price reflects a go home date of Sept 2nd when she is 28 weeks old. Training price reflects a go home date of Sept 3rd when she is 26 weeks old. Visit her in San Martin, Ca. Indy is the biggest male quite mellow and really white. Training price reflects a go home date of Sept 2nd when she is 23 weeks old. Training price reflects a go home date of Sept 2nd when he is 23 weeks old. Training price reflects a go home date of Aug 30th when she is 27 weeks old. Training price reflects a go home date of Sept 16th when she is 18 weeks old. He will make a wonderful, loyal family dog or therapy dog. He is doing well on his crate training, potty training and obedience training. Training price reflects a go home date of June 16th. Training price reflects a go home date of Aug 26th when he is .Bosa is very mellow and sweet. He is happy to lay at your feet and chill. Training price reflects a go home date of August 23rd when he is 15 weeks old. Visit him in San Martin, Ca. She is smart and lovely. Training price reflects a go home date of Sept 1st when she is 19 weeks old. Training price reflects a go home date of Aug 20th when he is 17 weeks old. She is smart and personable. Training price reflects a go home date of Aug 20th when she is 17 weeks old. Soka is sweet, attentive and loving. Training price reflects a go home date of Aug 20th when she is 24 weeks old. Training price reflects a go home date of Aug 5th when she is 12 weeks old. Training price reflects a go home date of Aug 5th when he is 12 weeks old. Training price reflects a go home date of Aug 5th when she is 24 weeks old. Training price reflects a go home date of Aug 11th when he is .This includes: Black, Chocolate from light to dark and Yellows from light cream to fox red. This will be another exceptional cross that will produce the total package! Freya had a beautiful litter on July 28th. They will be ready to go to their new homes on September 22nd when they turn 8 weeks old. Only 1 male spot open! We have had such wonderful feedback on the first litter that we did it again. This will be a fantastic all chocolate litter that can go any direction! Ditto gave birth to a gorgeous litter of 10 on August 11th. They be ready to go home on October 6th when the puppies turn 8 weeks. Accepting deposits to hold spots! Males and Female available! Remi is in absolute perfect health and she absolutely loves being a mom. So we decided to give her one final opportunity. We are expecting 4 to 6 puppies! These puppies are going to be incredible! We are now accepting a limited number of deposits. All will depend on the timing and the availability of the special stud. We will begin accepting deposits later into , once the breeding has taken place. When Molly comes back in heat anticipated in December are planning to bring Molly all the way down to Baton Rouge Louisianna to make this extremely special breeding happen! This will be a black and yellow litter. Once the pregnancy is confirmed we will begin accepting deposits. This cross is a proven producer of the total package! The puppies can go any direction and make absolutely wonderful companions too! Tentative plan is for a spring litter. Each boy would bring something special to the table with Bailey. So we are taking our time making this decision. One thing we know is that this will be a gorgeous total package chocolate litter! We anticipate this to be a spring litter. Our studs are all proven in the field and live as part of the family. They all have strong proven pedigrees and are some of the most extensively health tested studs available anywhere. This is one of the best chocolate pedigrees we have ever seen! Master titled as a 2 year old! Mojo is the result of over 4 years of planning and research. He is the first chocolate dog in over 10 generations. Mojo has a loaded pedigree and is an excellent out cross option for females with more traditional chocolate pedigrees. He is currently in Texas training with Justin Drake. Houdini will be coming home for a couple of months this winter, before heading back south to finish his Master Hunter title. After he completes his MH title, Houdini will be available for stud services. We focus on producing the best all around Lab puppies from champion Field Bred and Hunt Test bloodlines that are healthy and free of hereditary disorders. Our dogs are selected for their natural hunting instincts, desire to please, intelligence, versatility, gentle temperaments, ability to compete in hunt tests and field trials, train-ability, pedigree, health clearances, and attractive physical features. We take pride in our dogs and with our careful research and selection processes, our puppies should satisfy the most challenging buyer. Our labs are bred to be working dogs and have the potential to excel in any direction. They are also bred to have wonderful dispositions and make great family companions. All of our dogs live in our home and are part of our family. We actively use them for upland and waterfowl hunting, and have started running them in AKC Hunt Tests. We do everything we can to try and ensure we produce healthy puppies. We go above and beyond when it comes to health testing and it shows. We have also started the process of testing for OFA Thyroid. The results of all of this health testing is readily available online on the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals website as well as on the Paw Print Genetics Pedigree Database. We only offer a limited number of litters of puppies per year. We focus on quality and not quantity and believe in having a personal touch. All of our puppies are born and raised in our home and are thoroughly socialized. Our puppies are actually born in our bedroom and stay there until they are between 3 and 4 weeks of age. This way we can ensure that they are safe, clean and comfortable at all times. Not to mention the countless hours of attention they get during the day and late into each night. Once they are 3 to 4 weeks old, we will move them into one of our two puppy nursery rooms where we can expand their box and begin the introduction to potty training. We LOVE our puppies and it shows in their care. We will only breed litters when we can guarantee that each puppy will receive daily individual love and attention. When we have multiple litters on the ground we hire in special daily helpers to ensure that our strict standards of care are always met. Our puppy program is extensive and comprehensive, yet we are continually fine-tuning and looking at ways to incorporate more. At a bare minimum this program includes: early neurological stimulation called ENS or Biosensor , early scent introduction ESI , introduction to crates, car rides, birds or bird wings, gunfire from a distance, water weather permitting , outdoor adventures in different types of environments, daily loud noises, introduction to potty training and lots of socialization with adults, kids and other dogs. We strive to give every puppy the best start possible. By the time they are ready to go to their new homes at 8 weeks of age, each puppy should be well prepared for whatever direction their new family takes them. Our very first litter was in and then we took a short hiatus from breeding until .Since resuming, we have had tremendous success with our very limited number of litters. The majority of our puppies have gone to homes where they live as part of the family and have proven themselves as exceptional hunting-working-competition dogs.

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. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here. Their popularity makes Labrador Retriever puppies easy to find. Each breeder on this list specializes in the traditional yellow, chocolate, and black Labradors. A few even breed the less common silver color. The 7 Labrador Retriever Breeders in Washington 1. Familiar with people, other animals, machinery, and a variety of other situations and noises, these dogs are loyal, intelligent, and trainable. Trainable and friendly, these Labradors come in black, yellow, or chocolate and are regularly screened for health issues. T, a program run by the American Kennel Club. Spokane Labrador Retrievers Visit Their Website Spokane, WA Family-owned and operated, Spokane Labrador Retrievers pay attention to the personality, genetics, and characters of their dogs to provide you with the perfect companion. Instead, they focus on keeping their stock manageable and paying attention to choosing dogs with the perfect mix of personality, intelligence, and longevity. These Labrador Retrievers are available in the traditional chocolate, yellow, and black, along with chocolate-nosed yellow. With their careful breeding program, these dogs are perfect family pets, hunting companions, service dogs , or search-and-rescue partners. Desert Wind offers shipping for families outside of Washington and a 1-year health guarantee. Free of hip dysplasia and eye defects , these dogs are intelligent and great problem solvers. Settled on 38 acres, Silver Bow specializes in chocolate and black Labradors. All the dogs are fully vaccinated, wormed, and AKC registered. Shipping for buyers living outside of Washington is available for an extra fee. With just over 2 acres to explore, their dogs are both active and happy to cuddle. Carver Labradors make sure their puppies are vaccinated, wormed, and examined by a veterinarian before heading to their new home. Their dogs make good family members and therapy or service animals. The puppies are socialized with children and other animals from chickens to horses, and they are friendly and loving. Ready to join their new home at 8 weeks old, the dogs are health checked, vaccinated, wormed, and accompanied by AKC registration papers. Next on your reading list:. My husband Shawn, two beautiful daughters, Chloe and Shaylie, and I live on a small farm with our group of Labradors, six cats, two goats, Memphis three rabbits, a pony, a goose, two ducks, chickens and some goldfish! My love for animals started out very young, and I can't recall any time in my life without them. Now, it seems I've passed this "bug" onto Shawn and our girls! Most of my weekends growing up where spent on the back of a horse, competing in the show ring, but I had always dreamed of showing dogs. I can remember reading any kind of book about dogs I could get my hands on. I even had my Golden Retriever jumping over barrels in the arena pretending to be in an agility competition. My very first registered Labrador came to me from a friend of mine who could no longer keep him. He was eight months old, black as tar, sweet as could be, his name was Lenny and I was in love! The Labrador Retriever had stolen my heart. So, kind of like a potato chip, I couldn't have just one Stacey and Shawn Parsons My Labradors Boys Interested in enhancing your breeding program, see my stud dogs that are available to approved bitches. On occasion, we also host dogs from other well-recognized kennels for stud service. Learn More Puppies Careful planning goes into each litter with the goal to improve the breed. We ensure parents meet both breed standards and established health clearances. Plus, we ensure parents possess a sweet-natured and hard-working temperament true to a Labrador. Learn about our upcoming litters and puppies looking for responsible homes. Learn More Girls Meet my girls who have proven worthy of being included in our breeding program. Each not only successfully passing their health clearances, but celebrated success in the conformation ring as well. In the past, I trained Labradors as service dogs for those with disabilities and participated in AKC retriever hunting tests. Lately, you will find me more often in the AKC conformation ring showing my home-bred dogs, and at home raising puppies and managing the kennel. In addition, I am a founding member of a club closer to home, the Mt. Rainier Labrador Retriever Club Washington. My Involvement Since , I have been involved in Labradors in some form. In addition, I am a founding member of a newly forming club closer to home, the Mt. Announcements We have Youngsters doing well in the ring too—see wins and ribbons that Marvin brought home! Look who's visiting the Northwest! Watch for this handsome guy at select shows. What an honor and thank you judges Jim and Elizabeth Bowron for finding my silly girl in such a beautiful line up! Share 0 Shares When looking for the perfect canine companion, Americans have chosen the Labrador Retriever as their number one pick. This wonderful, loving breed is an excellent hunting companion and a great family dog. Finding a great breeder in your state who is qualified, respectable, and raises healthy dogs can be difficult. Silver Bow Labradors Lauren Seitz and her family raise their Labrador Retrievers with love, compassion, and a drive to produce healthy dogs. For over thirty years, Lauren has bred chocolate and black Labradors that excel in the field and as family companions. Each puppy purchased from Silver Bow will be clear of any hip and eye genetic health issues, have their first vaccines, and limited AKC registration papers. This breeder stands out for their hunting bloodlines and unique puppy picking process. They invite you to their home to meet the puppies in person and play with them to determine the best fit for you or your family! Reading through the reviews and going through their website, Silver Bow Labradors are an amazing breeder of Labradors. Many owners have reached out to mention how their pups have natural hunting instincts and adapt naturally to being in the field and in the home. We strongly believe this breeder is worth a visit as they offer amazing puppies and are hands-on for the whole process. Foxtail Looking for Labrador breeders in Washington? Puppies are charming, lively, and cheerful animals. As pet parents, it is our obligation to keep them happy and content. And that makes it important to conduct your research before making any major decisions to ensure that you choose a competent breeder. Continue reading to find yourself some of the best Labrador breeders in Washington. Maple Lane Labradors are located on a hobby farm in Washington. They aim to breed and serve people with exceptional labradors. The reason behind the success of this place is their passion for the quality and conformation of their Labradors. Additionally, they also come with a health guarantee against hip, eye, elbow, and genetic problems. They assure that their labradors can play all the roles. Their dogs can be your family buddy, hunting partner, hiking companion and can even compete in show rings. They wish to provide you with labradors of the best disposition who make perfect companions. Twin Lakes Kennel has now been breeding and coaching top-notch Labrador retrievers for nearly four decades. They have delivered a large number of high-quality Labrador retriever puppies around the United States. Naches Valley is owned and run by Michelle Orser and her husband Brandon. They started their breeding business in and have been continuing ever since. They test all their puppies for eye issues. Naches Valley properly tests dogs before breeding. Their dogs are all-rounders. From being your hiking partner to your cuddle buddy. It strives to produce quality beagles from its home in Snohomish. To help make this happen, they focus on the health, enrichment, and socialization of their dogs. All pups are medically tested, vaccinated and most have been neutered. They are dewormed as well. The pups come with AKC registration. Their puppies also receive regular checkups with the veterinarian as well as standard vaccinations. All our puppies have new homes! Be first in line for your new puppy! Get on the waitlist for Silver Labs and Golden Retriever Puppies due beginning of October Past litter of male puppies Looking for a puppy to add to your family? Golden Retrievers Labrador Retrievers Chocolate Labs Silver Labs Meet The Puppies These are gorgeous, and energetic dogs who: require daily exercise and are perfect for you, if you love being outdoors and living an active lifestyle are easily trained and very intelligent, making them great family companions. We are located just 60 miles outside of Seattle on a 50 acre farm that's been in our family since my grandfather purchased it when he returned from Europe after World War II. Our dogs love it here. The mamas will even hop in the back of the truck to go help us feed the cows or play in the grass while we're tending to the horses. Our puppies are well socialized as they spend time with our family and with regular visits to the vet you have our assurance that not only are they cute but healthy. Golden Retrievers Silver Labrador Retrievers Chocolate Labrador Retrievers Healthy Your puppy is ready to go home with you at 8 weeks old, with AKC registration, a healthy puppy vet check, their first shots, and age appropriate wormings. Adorable You will literally have your pick of the litter depending on who the mama is. Whether it's an English Style Silver or Chocolate Lab or a beautiful Golden Retriever you are sure to find the puppy that steals your heart. Raised With Love Our dogs are our family pets and are a part of our everyday lives. They spend their days with us and you may find them roaming the farm or on a trail ride. They are raised with chicken, cows and horses. Our puppies also spend lots of time playing outside so they are well socialized, great around children and other pets. Have questions? We are a phone call, text or email away! Testimonials Meet Boone What a wonderful, friendly, dog loving, farm home to buy our beautiful Silver Lab, Boone, from! We were able to make trips to visit Boone while he grew, Wendy was always accommodating and super nice. During these visits we also became more acquainted with Boone's mom and grandmom, they are both loving and gentle souls. These are qualities we were looking for in our next dog as we have young grandchildren that will be a big part of Boone's life. We have had Boone for two weeks now. And he surprises us daily with how smart he is. We could not be happier with the start in life he had at Wendy's, his breeding, and HIM!! And I haven't even mentioned how absolutely beautiful Boone is! We collectively decided on getting a dog. We wanted a happy, smart, loyal breed that could fit in and grow with our kids. With those criteria we started looking for a Labrador Retriever. We soon drove to the farm to pick out our puppy. From that moment, until today, we have been so happy with our choice! Our silver lab, Rumble Rainier, has been value added to our home. He is perfect with our sons, he learned our routines quickly, and he keeps us smiling every day. Say Hi to Boomer.They were amazing to work with thru the whole process. We first picked him out in January and we got to visit every other week to watch him grow and get him familiar with us. He was the cutest little brown fur ball and it was fun to see him interact with all his siblings and his mom. He was also very loved and handled by their kids during the times we could not visit. He is a year old now and a very healthy and beautiful lab. He loves being outside, playing fetch, playing with his soccer ball, or being anywhere our 12 year old daughter is. He has been a great addition to our family! They really love their dogs and know how to breed healthy, well-adjusted dogs. Our Boomer loves all dogs, adults and children because of this. We are so thankful to Green Valley Pups and Paws for this whole experience! Amber McKinney.

So, is adding a second golden retriever to the family a good idea? But what are the pros and cons? If your golden has separation anxiety, another dog will really help them out. No more fighting about who is going to pet or play with them because now you have two. When your retriever has a buddy, it can make them feel more secure They will never be alone or lonely Retrievers are cheerful dogs and one of them can light up your life so can you imagine what two of them will do. If the first dog is well trained, the second dog will copy most of their actions and make training them on commands much easier The cons Cleaning up will be a pickle because now you will clean up after two which means more hair all over your place You will need to make more budget for their food and needs, there will be twice the vet bills as well. Your retriever might be the jealous type which will make adding a new retriever to the family harder. You will need more energy for exercising two energetic retrievers Training two dogs will be more difficult if the first one is not already well trained. If they are chewers then it means twice the damage control Also, two dogs mean twice the potty pickups Want to learn more about how you life changes with a second golden retriever? Read my post on why are golden retrievers better in pairs here. So here is how you should introduce your second golden retriever to both your family members and first dog. Step 1: let the dog approach the children and not the other way around because the new dog might feel threatened and will snap in self-defense. Step 2: tell your children to sit down while holding a toy to encourage the puppy to approach them. Step 5: prevent any hugs or cuddles till the dog is completely ready for them. Step 6: After the first meeting, ask your children to give the puppy some space so they can explore the new environment. Golden Retrievers get along very well with other dogs, and they almost always get together super well, so this will be quite easy, but you still need to do a bit of effort. Step 5: for the meeting take them both out for a walk never introduce them inside the house. Step 6: you should take your first retriever in front of you and the new retriever behind with the person who is helping you. While you are both walking, start slowly to work your way to get them closer to each other. Step 8: After a minute of sniffing, start walking again, you need to keep their first interactions short and nice. Step 9: repeat the whole walking and sniffing part several times until they are both calm. Step since they both seem calm, you can bring both dogs inside the house, let your first retriever enter first then allow him to welcome the new retriever. Step give your new retriever more space in the house so they can adjust and explore the house. If you have a backyard, you can let the dogs run around and play together but still limit their playtime and keep it short a first. Do not leave them alone together Important Tips for introducing your second golden retriever Give both of the dog love and attention equally Keep their feeding areas separated Keep them both active, for example, take them for a walk or find an activity that can be both fun and burn out all their extra energy. Watch out for any signs of stress or aggression, if you do notice any sign of stress, reduce their time together. Golden retrievers are the best family dog because they are great with both humans and animals, getting a second retriever will be great because they will be both super friendly, however, golden retrievers are rarely aggressive but if they get jealous they can display some unwelcoming signs to the new dogs. So the most important thing is to spend time with each one of them equally and love them both unconditionally. If you liked this article you can share it with your friends and family, they might be considering adding a second dog to their family and it can help them as well, also It would make me really happy and grateful. Related Questions Is it good to have two golden retrievers? Can you have 2 male golden retrievers? What is the best age to add a second dog? The best age to add a second dog is one year according to many behaviorists because it can take up to six months for any dog to adjust to their new home then they take six more months to bond in the right way with their owner and to learn your commands and house rules. Helpful Resources. Golden Retrievers: 0. First, you might choose to bring home two puppies at once, usually littermates. Or, you might opt to get one Golden Retriever and then later on add a puppy or another adult Golden. Perhaps the idea of separating your puppy from their family makes you sad and you think that bringing home two will make it easier for them. Maybe the breeder suggested that you take two puppies. Or you think the idea of having two puppies at once seems like double the cuteness and fun, and that you can just get the puppy stage done with both dogs all at once. Are any of these ideas true? What is Littermate Syndrome? Littermate syndrome is when two puppies from the same litter , or two puppies from different litters but similar ages, are raised together and develop problematic behavior issues. There are several main categories of undesirable behavior that are associated with littermate syndrome: aggression, separation distress, fear of novelty, and lack of human-dog bond. Aggression In some cases, you might see that two Golden Retrievers display aggressive behavior towards each other, or toward others, both dog and human. Often the aggression arises around the time of adolescence or social maturity 6 months to 18 months. The two dogs might start having more conflict, whereas before they got along without issue. One dog might start becoming a bully towards the other. Perhaps intense conflicts break out over toys or bones. Maybe fights come out of nowhere without any apparent provocation. This can be extremely distressing to witness as an owner, and obviously frightening for the recipient. Two dogs snarling, barking and lunging at another dog or a person is probably not what you signed up for when you brought home a pair of fluffy Golden puppies. Separation Distress Another common result of littermate syndrome is intense separation distress. This can start much earlier than the aggression discussed above, and even puppies three months or four months old can show distress when separated from their littermate. Puppies or dogs might start screaming or thrashing around if separated even a short time or distance. You can imagine how hard this can make life for both you and the dogs. If one dog needs to go to the vet or have surgery, the other dog will be panicked. Crating or otherwise confining them separately might be impossible. Even trying to train them separately could be met with extreme anxiety from your pair of pups. Fear of Novelty This one sounds a little odd, but another way littermate syndrome can manifest is through the dogs showing fear of novelty, also known as neophobia. This can start when the littermates are young, and can worsen as they get older. They might show strong fear of new people or dogs, as well as new locations, environments or objects. Lack of Human-Dog Bond Because the two littermates spend so much time together, they may bond more closely with each other than with their human family. This hyper-attachment with each other can result in two dogs that care way more about each other than you, or what you have to say. Getting their attention might be a real struggle. They might blow you off when you call in favor of continuing to wrestle and play. Littermates may be so preoccupied with each other that they never really develop a social bond with you or your family. Your two Golden Retrievers may struggle to learn house rules and boundaries, and it can be harder for them to understand how to regulate themselves emotionally. Training can also be a challenge, as mentally, they are more focused on their sibling. Ask any experienced dog trainer, behavior consultant, or veterinary behaviorist, and they will tell you that littermate syndrome can happen when someone brings two pups home. And despite this breed being notoriously social, sweet and bonded with their humans, it can happen with Golden Retrievers. Bringing home two puppies does not necessarily mean they are doomed to experience littermate syndrome, but it is absolutely something to be mindful of and to proactively avoid it from happening. Want to potty train your Golden Retriever puppy fast? Click here to get the Potty Training Cheat Sheet! What Causes Littermate Syndrome? Again, there have not been formal studies, but there are some likely factors to which littermate syndrome can be attributed. You might know two people that have an unhealthy attachment, maybe romantic partners, a parent and child, or friends. The relationship impedes normal social, emotional, and mental development, and has a negative impact in other areas of their life. This is exactly what can happen with canine littermates too. They are missing out on some critical development due to this hyper-attachment. Behavior like aggression or separation distress may arise out of that unhealthy attachment. The thought is that they can entertain each other and tire each other out, which will make your job as the owner easier. The cost to this is that they are then spending a lot of time together, rather than getting one-on-one time with their owners, which is so crucial to properly raising a puppy. This lack of individualized attention may contribute to the dogs not closely bonding with their humans. Letting two pups spend all day every day together without enough solo time and attention could potentially lead to littermate syndrome. Lack of Training Training two Golden Retriever puppies at once is nearly impossible! It will be hectic, frustrating and confusing for both you and the puppies. In order to effectively teach anything, you will have to dedicate time to work with each puppy individually, which means double the time spent training. Some people might not have the time to train each puppy one-on-one, or may just not have the desire to put in double the effort. Training is also an excellent way to bond with your puppy, and so if training is minimal, you will miss out on a crucial opportunity to bond with each pup. Lack of Proper Socialization Socialization is critical to raising a confident, well-behaved dog. The prime time for socialization is before sixteen weeks of age. What your puppy learns and experiences during these first sixteen weeks of age can have a permanent effect on their temperament and behavior. Just like with training, socialization needs to be a one-on-one activity. Again, this means double the socialization, which is a huge time and energy investment for you. Each puppy needs to meet new people and new dogs away from the other puppy. Each puppy needs to visit new environments and have new experiences without their sibling. Each puppy will need to be walked individually. They may always need their sibling next to them in order to feel okay about the world. Lack of one-on-one socialization also leaves a gap in their relationship with you as their owner. Learning about the world with you as their guide creates a strong, positive relationship. Without that foundation, your puppy may choose to take their cues from their puppy sibling, instead of you, which can be very frustrating as they grow up. How To Avoid Littermate Syndrome As mentioned previously, littermate syndrome is not a guaranteed outcome if you do bring home two puppies. The idea that bringing home two puppies will make your job as their owner easier could not be more wrong. Properly training, socializing and raising two puppies at the same time is double the work. The obvious solution to preventing littermate syndrome is to only bring home one puppy. Life with a single Golden Retriever puppy is plenty busy and you completely avoid the risks associated with littermate syndrome. But if you are set on getting two puppies and fully understand the responsibility and risk associated with this, or you already have two, here are some ways that you can prevent littermate syndrome from happening with your pair of pups. This is absolutely crucial to building a strong relationship with your puppies. Play with each puppy one-on-one. Go on walks with each puppy individually. Romp around the yard with them separately. So to counteract any potential for hyper-attachment, commit to spending one-on-one time with each puppy. They may become very distressed if they are separated, which might include destructive behavior, barking, peeing or pooping , or even self-injury. When you work on this in addition to spending one-on-one time with each puppy, you set everyone up for success for the times where one dog needs to go to the vet and the other needs to stay home, for example. Train and Socialize Each Pup Individually While your pair of pups might be two peas in a pod, they are, in fact, two unique individuals, and should be treated as such. Each Golden Retriever puppy has their own distinct temperament, strengths, and weaknesses. Treating the puppies as a unit does them a disservice and might create issues as they mature. Perhaps one puppy can chill in their crate and practice their confinement skills while you work on training the other puppy. You will likely find that each puppy learns things at different paces, and what was easy for one puppy is harder for the other, and vice versa. Spending training time with them individually will help you learn about their unique personality so you can help them really shine. Likewise, socialization should also be done one-on-one. Socialization is a process of exposing your puppy to the world in a way that builds their confidence and teaches them how to feel and act in various environments. Introducing your Goldens to new people, other dogs, new locations, new experiences, new surfaces, new sounds, etc. For example, you take one puppy with you on an errand to a local dog-friendly gardening store. You notice that they are scared when someone else enters the store with a big dog. Your puppy cowers and bit and hides behind you. Ideally, you want each puppy learning how to confidently move through the world with you as their guide. You want them to learn that you are trustworthy and to look to you if they are unsure or scared. Double the Fun, Double the Trouble Bringing home two Golden Retriever puppies has the potential to be a highly rewarding experience, or a disaster waiting to happen. If you are dedicated to putting in the effort to help each puppy mature into a happy, confident, well-behaved dog, it can potentially have a positive outcome. You can always add another puppy to the family when they are more mature and well trained. This is generally a better way to go about it if you want to have two or more! Golden Retrievers. It allows you time to fully bond with your first dog and focus on their training and socialization before you get a second. Typically, things will go more smoothly by getting the two dogs with some time in between, but there are certainly considerations to keep in mind to set everyone up for success from the start. Now, no dog is perfect and they all have their little quirks, but if your current Golden loves to bark out the windows at every passerby, just imagine two Goldens engaging in that behavior. Dogs are social learners and they do learn from each other. You should feel overall comfortable with what your current dog might teach the newcomer. That terrible counter-surfing behavior might get way worse now that your attention is split between your dog and the new pup. You want to feel happy with where things are at with the current dog. However, it is generally a good idea to wait until two years old so that you have really formed a positive relationship with your first dog and have good habits in place. Is it possible to bring home another Golden Retriever when your first one is, say, one year old? Yes, but it might be more work for you. Every dog is different and some older dogs genuinely love interacting with puppies, while others find them to be utterly annoying. Some dogs just adore puppies while others find them repulsive. If your dog has positive, but more lowkey feelings about other dogs, then your process might move along at a quicker pace. Pick a Location First, decide on where the two dogs will meet for the first time. If your dog regularly has playdates at your house and is okay with sharing their space with other dogs, then setting up the first meeting at home might be an option. That way by the time the newcomer is in the house, your older dog is at least aware that they exist and knows their smell. Pick a Time Sometimes picking up your puppy from the breeder is an adventure in itself with road trips and flights involved. And that can mean your puppy might get home at a really odd time. Midnight may not be the ideal time to have your adult dog meet the new baby. Giving them a nice walk before they meet their new sibling can help your dog feel content and more relaxed when the meeting happens. You really need to know your dog and proactively set them up for the most possible success. You can put the puppy in the exercise pen and let them sniff and say hi through the pen at first, which can give you an idea of how both parties are feeling. Loose, wiggly, waggy body language is a positive indication. Signs that a dog is unsure or fearful include tucked tail, cowering, stiff body, hard stare, freezing in place, and growling or snapping. While this might seem sad, it can go a long way to keep everyone safe, and is a completely humane precaution to take. A basket muzzle allows dogs to pant, eat and drink, but prevents teeth from making any contact. If you feel a muzzle is necessary, you should also hire a professional trainer to help you facilitate the meeting process. Plus, getting professional help is never a bad idea. How to Integrate a New Dog with Your Dog Beyond the initial meet and greet, there is the whole process of integrating the new puppy into daily life with your current dog. Again, this requires some planning and strategy to ensure everyone is safe and happy. Management Tools It can help to let them drag light leashes around the house, at least for the first few days, so that you can easily redirect them if needed. This prevents you from having to manhandle your dog or puppy, which can sometimes make them uncomfortable and stressed. It is unrealistic to expect your dog and puppy to spend all day everyday together without issues. Your puppy will get overexcited. Your dog might be too exuberant and you will worry they will squish the baby. Use management strategies like crates , gates , leashes , and pens to give them separate spaces. Your adult Golden might not be too keen on this new punk puppy trying to lick up kibble crumbs while they are still eating dinner, so have a plan for keeping them separate during meal times to prevent any resource guarding issues. Similarly, things like toys and bones can become points of contention, depending on the dog. Or maybe they want to just sniff the toy your older dog is playing with. Keeping an eye out for these situations, and running interference when needed, can go a long way to get your two-dog household off to a good start. Play Times Always monitor play times to ensure that each dog is safe and having fun. You can call them over periodically for some treats and then give them a little down time before allowing them to go back to playing. Alone Time Any time you cannot be actively supervising the two dogs, confine them separately. Separate Spaces Provide them both with their own comfy places to relax. You might find that your puppy struggles to settle with your other dog around, or vice versa. Giving them each their own space, using a gate, crate or pen, can help them learn how to coexist peacefully without constantly erupting into play. Expect Some Bumps in the Road This can be a rocky process sometimes, and just know that is normal. You might find that your existing dog picks up a new bad habit when the puppy comes home. Remember that you have plenty of time to integrate the new pup into your home with your current dog. Do not rush the process! There is always the disappointing possibility that your current dog just cannot cope with another dog in the home. Some dogs truly do best being the only dog in the family. Getting help from a certified dog behavior consultant can help you evaluate your situation and process making a hard decision if necessary. Work on teaching the puppy new skills without your other dog, and then you can add them in as a distraction while you continue to strengthen their skills. Balance all this new attention on the puppy with some quality one-on-one time with your adult Golden Retriever. They used to be the solo light of your life, and now they are sharing you with a new puppy. While the puppy naps, perhaps you go for a walk at the park or hit up a favorite trail for a fun hike. Twice as Nice There is a lot to love about life with two Golden Retrievers. It can really help to have realistic expectations before you become a two-Golden family. Have a plan, and a plan B. The key is to be consistent with proactively avoiding negative interactions and unwanted behavior, while fostering positive interactions and behavior. Do you have two Golden Retrievers? Would you recommend it? Let us know down in the comments! And if you liked this article, check out the ultimate guide to raising a Golden Retriever puppy. Getting a Golden Retriever puppy? Check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook. Related articles:. If you already have a Golden, how about doubling the fun by getting another one? Are Golden Retrievers better in pairs? Yes, Golden Retrievers will do better in pairs. Due to their social nature, they will have each other for constant companionship throughout the day and anytime you are away or busy. On the downside, taking care of two Golden Retriever dogs will double your chores and expenses. This article may contain affiliate links and loyalgoldens may earn a commission if a purchase is made. Unlock your goldens natural intelligence and see just how quickly problem behaviors disappear. This is the best at home dog training I've ever used! What if you can add another Golden Retriever dog to the household mix, and they could use some of their abundant energy wearing each other out instead? As you may already know, the purebred Golden Retriever was initially bred in Scotland around the s when breeders wanted a powerful hunting dog who could retrieve game from both land and water while running through the countryside all day long. Because of this, Golden Retrievers were bred to have abundant levels of energy. The rule of thumb with a Golden Retriever is you should take your pup for a minute walk at least 2 times per day more is better to keep him healthy and entertained. Between wrestling and chasing each other around the house, two Golden Retrievers will easily get their allotted exercise time each and every day. Note: While a second dog of the same breed is great, a Golden Retriever will be just as happy with a different breed of doggy companion. For the best level of exercise, however, another Golden or a breed with similar energy levels ie. Labrador Retriever would be best. This family picked out two Golden Retriever puppies right from the start! Why is this wrong? Having two dogs can be an excellent way to deal with spoiled behavior. When you go for walks, your dog will also learn to curb his urge to move around each time the other dog stops for a potty break. It Satisfies the Pack Instincts Regardless of the breed, all dogs want to live in a pack. They want to have an alpha leader to look up to, promoting their sense of overall security. It will also alleviate any separation anxiety that is common among Golden Retrievers. It Grants Your Senior Dog a New Sense of Purpose Like most large breed dogs, senior Golden Retrievers have a high risk of developing hip dysplasia, a destructive bone disease that limits their activity level. Getting a younger Golden Retriever can be the best way to rejuvenate your senior dog without demanding excessive physical activity. The older dog will teach the new member all the house rules, including where to do his business, how to react politely to visitors, how to play with kids without hurting them, and so forth. This really works! Not only did it give them a sense of purpose it seemed to make them feel more relaxed when we were away from home knowing they had a buddy in the house still. Discover how to train your Golden Retriever by playing games : 21 games to play with your Golden that will make them smarter and better behaved! If they should each need veterinary treatment at the same time, it can really add up fast! If you thought one Golden could eat through a expensive 40lb bag of kibble quickly, just wait untill you see two in action! Consider grooming, for instance. Since Goldens have long, wavy coats, you should brush them at least once per week. Because Golden Retrievers have floppy ears, they may also develop nasty infections without regular ear cleaning. If you let that go for a day or two your backyard will look like poopageddon! You May Not Have Enough Space If you already have a Golden, you probably know that they can grow taller than 25 inches 63 cm and heavier than 60 pounds 27 kgs. In that case, you could still reap the benefits of getting a second dog by opting for a smaller breed, such as a Pug, Basset Hound, Boston Terrier, or even a Miniature Goldendoodle. Check out the following tips to ensure that your dogs get along well, especially when first introduced. Pick Neutral Ground For Introductions No matter how friendly your Golden Retriever is, his territorial instincts could kick in if a new dog invades his personal space all of a sudden. Encourage them to sniff and play together, but keep an eye out for the following signs of aggression so that you can intervene right away if necessary: Growling. Naturally, one would assume that having two of a good thing is better than one! Owning two Golden Retrievers means twice the fun, cuddles, and love! Golden Retrievers are highly social, and owning two means that they would have each other to play with, and keep each other company while you are away or busy. But, there are many downsides as well, owning two means double everything! Golden Retrievers do best when they are in the company of their family. It takes time for your Golden to adapt and accept another Golden into the household. Owning two means they will become best friends. Well, having two means twice the fun, laughs, love and cuddles! One might be very sweet and submissive, while the other may be more assertive. A common dilemma that many owners face is whether to get a male or female Golden Retriever. In fact, many fellow Golden Retriever owners enjoy having two dogs of the same sex, without experiencing any issues like dominance or aggressiveness. But, also because your older Golden Retriever will be able to teach the younger one new tricks. Your older Golden will be a role model for your younger one, making things like potty training, basic commands, and rules of the house much easier and faster to learn. Since most dogs naturally go potty where other dogs have gone, potty training can be accomplished with fewer problems. But, having two Golden Retrievers, will alleviate some of your responsibility, especially because they will do most of their playing together. Two Golden Retrievers means plenty of wrestling sessions, chasing each other, tug-of-war, and tiring each other out. Con 1: Double Everything! Cost, Work, Hair, Etc. Owning one Golden Retriever is expensive, it requires plenty of work and devotion from you, and you certainly need a lot of patience. And one Golden Retriever produces plenty of dog hair and dog poop! But, owning two Golden Retrievers means double everything! Plus the time and effort it takes to brush and bathe two Goldens. Owning two dogs means that you will need to allocate time to spend with each one on an individual basis. This means extra time spent going for walks, training, playing and grooming. Can your couch accommodate two full-size Goldens laying on it, plus yourself? Or, will you find yourself sitting on the floor while your two Goldens occupy your couch? Owning one Golden Retriever means giving up half of your couch and your bed. But, owning two means you might have to sacrifice your own comfort or invest in twice the furniture! Having two Goldens means you need plenty of space, not only in your home but also in your vehicle. This is especially true when it comes to fighting over food, toys, and your attention. Adding a second Golden Retriever to the household, suddenly means your current dog has to share your attention, love, and food. It could lead to competition and jealousy between the two dogs. It certainly is devastating for you to have to say goodbye, but, it is just as devastating for your remaining Golden to lose a best friend. Owning two Goldens means eventually the time will come when one dog outlives the other. Some will whine and cry out for their best friend, become lethargic and depressed, and many will search their home, yard and neighbourhood for their best friend. The more bonded your two Goldens are, the more difficult it will be when you lose one. Many owners find that adding another Golden to the household helps the other dog heal, as well as themselves. Con 6: Bad Habits Can Form If your current Golden Retriever has some bad habits, you can guarantee that those bad habits will be taught to the younger one. Make sure your current Golden is fully trained and obedient, before introducing a second Golden to the mix. This, however, can be reversed as well. For instance, a younger Golden can teach your older one some new bad habits as well. Training sessions and spending equal amounts of time with each dog individually can help to curb some of the bad habits. Their current Golden is amazing, and they just want a second one. They feel their current Golden could use a companion. Here are some important things you need to consider beforehand: Your Financial Situation Can you afford to properly care for two Golden Retrievers? Adding a second Golden Retriever to your family will certainly pull on the purse strings! The cost of food and treats, toys, grooming, vet bills, pet insurance, training, and other expenses quickly add up. You need to be sure that you are financially capable of caring for two Golden Retrievers. Consider how your current Golden will feel about sharing his home, toys, and your love and attention with another dog. Very few Golden Retrievers accept a new dog into their household right away, usually, there is a lengthy adjustment period lasting a few weeks to a few months. There are also a few instances where adding a second Golden has not worked out. This usually results in having to rehome the new dog. Before making the commitment, be sure to evaluate your current Golden Retriever, and if they enjoy being around other dogs, their energy level, play style, and health. Sure, the two of them will keep each other company and play together, but, they will both want your attention as well. Your new Golden Retriever will require plenty of your time and commitment to train and bond with, and your current Golden will require your attention equally to prevent feeling neglected. Space Having enough space for two full-size Golden Retrievers is an important factor to consider. When fully grown, these dogs range in height from 51 to 61 centimetres and weigh anywhere from 55 to 75 pounds or more. Goldens can easily adapt to smaller homes, as well as apartment living. That is as long as they get plenty of daily activity in the form of exercise and mental stimulation. Some, however, enjoy being motherly toward them and taking them under their wing. Age is an important factor to consider. If you currently have a senior, a puppy might bring out the playfulness in him, but it could also wear him out and affect his health and mobility. Typically, the most compatible arrangement is having two Goldens of similar ages, at least 2 years apart, so that they will have the same energy level. It just means you might have to step in and ensure the puppy is not too rambunctious for your older one. Gender Most dog experts agree that dogs of the opposite sex get along better than dogs of the same sex. Plus, for many Golden Retriever owners, having both a male and a female allows them to enjoy both genders. While gender is an important factor to consider, it is more important to consider compatibilities, such as temperament and personality. Two alpha males and two alpha females are likely to have jealousy and aggressive tendencies. This is easier if you are bringing home a puppy, but can also be accomplished when bringing home an adult. You can rub a blanket, towel, toy, sock, or any other item on the puppy, and bring the item home with you for your current Golden to sniff. This way neither dog will feel like their territory is being invaded. Let both Goldens sniff each other, and become familiar with each other. Once both dogs are comfortable around each other, you can return the items. Many Golden Retrievers become territorial over food, and an incident can occur. Supervise Play For the first little while, and especially if you have a puppy and an older dog, you will want to supervise their playtime. A young puppy can be too exuberant for a senior dog, as well as a bigger dog can hurt a puppy by accident. I have heard of too many close calls, from dogs almost being strangled because their collar got caught. But, realistically, you should expect there to be an adjustment period. It could take days, weeks, or even months for the two of them to accept each other. This short video demonstrates the adjustment period of Sterling and Colin, the same two Golden Retrievers we watched in the video above. However, there are certainly many factors to take into consideration such as your financial situation, and how your current Golden feels about sharing his home and you with another companion. Are you thinking of adding a second Golden Retriever to your family? Do you currently own two Golden Retrievers? Share your thoughts, experience, and comments below. 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. That includes Puppy and Training classes, take them to a trainer that understands the inherent difficulties of raising two puppies together. Take them on separate nights hopefully to the same trainer. They can play together but only at strict designated times and for a period of no more than 15 minutes each designated play time. This regime will not be for life as the pups will, after a period of about 12 to 14 months have formed their own personalities and temperaments; at this age they will have become confident of their own individual abilities. Not as in most cases total inter-dependence to each other when siblings are raised, trained, and fed together. Without the total reliance on their sibling for constant support they will grow and blossom into much rounder and less aggressive and fearful individuals. I cannot stress how important it is to separate the siblings until they are older. It will produce two individuals rather than an impaired two parts of the whole. It is worth stating that it is not only siblings that have these problems. If you raise two young pups from different litters or even breeds, you can have similar problems. I always recommend my clients to wait till their puppy is 14 months old before purchasing another puppy this then allows you to concentrate all your efforts on that individual and hopefully it will take on some of the good traits of the older more experienced dog. I have no respect for a breeder that uses these tactics or that sell litter mates to one owner. If they are experienced and not a first time breeder then they are well aware of the pitfalls of these actions, and that the dogs will suffer for the rest of their lives. Post Reply Preview alsdengoldies btinternet. I'm so sorry, it must have been very hard. Post Reply Preview todd. For the first few years the vet bills will be rather straight forward, just beware as the dogs age you'll probably be faced with double the expense when the dogs reach the age of eight or so, which is when the health problems this breed is known for usually start to surface. Post Reply Preview alanckaye 13 years ago Hi, I'd just like to comment as I have only recently learned of "littermate syndrome" recently. Two years ago my wife and I decided it was time to give a good home to another golden. We lost KC to cancer after 14 years a few years prior. When we went to the breeder in Ocala, Fl. The girls were bottle fed. It was their mother's third litter which to me seems excessive since she was only six when she died. We had been told it would not be good to take two puppies from the same litter - for reasons I'm guessing mentioned above but our hearts went out to the sisters and we ignored the rules taking both home. KD and Karma are close, they play together but they also fight - one will wine for attention from my wife or I but aside from that they have both bonded with us remarkably well. Karma adores me and often positions herself in our home to where she has full sight of me or I have to step over her so she knows when I'm on the move. The only thing I have noticed is when we walk them together and one is out of sight of the other they begin to search for the other. One is picky with being friendly to strangers or strange dogs. The other will be friendly to any and all people and dogs. They were raised in separate crates in the same room as puppies and I take them for their morning walk separately. I suppose I'm lucky that I did not have to return the girls because we fell in love with them at first sight and they are a very important part of our life - especially for me as a retired law enforcement officer, I spend about 16 hours a day with them. I take care of all their needs, even to the point of expressing their anal glands when I notice they have become uncomfortable with full glands. This seems to happen mostly at night when I am ready for bed and I notice a subtle change in one girl and how she seems to be feeling not up to par. I appreciate this information as it does give me some insight into why they act the way they do at times but all in all this has been a very good experience for all - the sisters are together and do love each other and they love us as much as we do them. I guess my point here is that if you do get litter mates it doesn't have to turn out to be a bad thing. The puppies in the photo are adorable - it's a shame you had to return them. Post Reply Preview gabbi 13 years ago Thanks everyone for such a great discussion and willingness to share your experience and expertise. Like everyone here I am a dog lover! I have a 7yr old husky-sheperd mix. Very sad. Took me three years to get over it enough to be able to get another dog. So cute and can live up to the name Nightmare 2. I have always wanted and loved the look of the Bernese mountain dogs. So I ended up getting a puppy from there two.His name is Armegeddon. I read about how important it was to make sure they bond with etc. So I put in a lot of hard work.Walks, separate training from the same trainer. I'm also very lucky that I can bring my dogs to work. This I think made all the difference in socializing them to be their own dogs and further reinforce me as alpha. So like other people, I am having a positive experience. They are 13 monthes now. They were getting into fights for a couple of weeks.But I made sure to assert myself right away if I saw Nightmare's body language indicating he was gonna start something. Nightmare was the one starting it, so I would confront him with my body and walk toward him. So he would back away and be focussed on me instead of picking a fight. This nipped it in the bud. They have been good. I have no idea how this is going to work out. They weren't raised together, so I'm hoping this helps. To complicate matters, Cocoa is in heat at 13 monthes old. Both boys are neutered, but Nightmare is trying to mount Cocoa. Armegeddon is not, which is good. But he is not happy with her. They had a squirmish last night, so we will see what happens over the next couple of weeks. Any suggestions are welcome or ideas of where to find similiar situations would be great! Post Reply gouldj Posted 12 years ago. Edited by gouldj member 12 years ago We purchased two Golden Retrievers over 8 years ago, they were brothers. Sadly one of our Goldens just passed away. While they were both alive we never once experienced the troubles associated with "littermate Syndrome". To the contrary, our Goldens were best of friends and they were also best of friends to my wife and me. I had actually never heard of this syndrome until very recently and was amazed at the "issues" people were having. I am not sure what we did differently from other owners so I do not have any advice to share. I will not hesitate one second to get two Golden brothers again. They are sister and brother. I never knew of same litter syndrome, I just thought the problems with the dogs was a follow on from my circumstances changing. I lived alone but then shortly after getting the dogs I meet a guy with two kids we now all live together and recently had a baby myself. But the dogs have had three huge fights were they have been pulled apart before the male killed the female, but then when it has all calmed down they dont want to be seperated, even from another room the female gets anixious. They are together all day and sleep together. They love the kids but the female is shy and doesnt always want to interact. But yet she is great with other dogs and the male attacks other dogs feeding off her insecurity. I am booked in for dog training classes tonight one dog per session. I hope that something can be done eve though they are 3. I feel so bad I have left it go but in the case I was totally ignorant! Post Reply. Many people who have a dog often ask themselves whether they should get another. I did! I often asked myself; Does my golden retriever need a companion? He is a social dog and will not have any issues adjusting especially when he spent his puppy life in a multi-dog family environment. Many fellow Golden Retriever owners say that having a pair of Goldens is a good thing. Golden Retrievers are known to be very social dogs, and always get along well with other Goldens. Before bringing a new puppy or adult Golden dog into your home, it is important to evaluate your current Golden and carefully assess if having a second golden dog will be beneficial. Here are ten things you may want to think about when asking yourself if getting a second dog is a good idea. Dog ownership cost has to be a top consideration. Food, vet bills, dog care supplies, and pet insurance can add up to a hefty amount. It is important to make sure your household budget can cater to owning a second dog. Everything works out if you plan well. How will your dog feel? It is crucial to consider how a second dog will make your first dog feel. Your first dog is used to being the only companion and might act upset or jealous and develop anxiety. So, consider a thorough assessment evaluation of your current dog before adding a second dog. Another Golden Retriever is the best companion dog for your Golden Retriever. However, Golden Retriever also gets along well with most other breeds of dogs. If you are considering a different breed, read up on their different character traits and behavior to make sure it is a good match. To further your dog breed education, consult your veterinarian and connect with other Golden Retriever owners who currently have a two-dog household. Gender Matters: Male or Female Dog? Gender plays an important role in whether your second dog will get along with your current dog. And, many experts tend to agree on this as sometimes bringing a same-sex second dog into the home can create problems: Female dogs can often display jealousy to each other, and male dogs may show aggression to each other. In our case, we did not follow this rule and decided to welcome another male dog into our household. No aggression and jealousy occurred. Is it better to get a puppy as a second dog? A puppy is always a temptation, but it may not be a good idea especially if you have an elderly or sick older dog. Do You Have the Space? Having adequate space to play and for comfortable living, eating and sleeping is another important factor. Golden Retrievers are considered big dogs but can definitely live in a small home as long as you provide adequate exercise, mental stimulation, proper training, and routine grooming. Do You Have the Time? As much as two dogs can keep each other company, they will still want a piece of you. So before you decide whether you should get another dog, make sure you can provide both dogs the energy and attention they both need; especially the new dog that will require a lot of your time. A good play routine for each dog is one way to stay on top of this requirement. Make sure you have your first dog fully-trained before introducing a second dog. Any new dog will learn from the older dog. Remember you will have to contribute a lot of your time and energy to this process also. So be honest and ask yourself — Do you have the ability to commit to all the responsibilities for another dog? Is a second dog really the right decision for your family? Having a second dog is double the joy if it is done for the right reasons. Does your family want a second dog? Make sure to include your whole family in making decisions. Owning dogs involve a huge commitment. Are you in for the long haul? When life changes occur unexpectedly, your family must be able to continue providing the best life for your dogs. No matter what, bringing a dog into your home will change your life. There are lots of responsibilities to having two dogs, but the pros definitely outweigh the cons. Two dogs mean double the fun, love, and will definitely keep you active. Be prepared to plan your life and your time around your dogs. Adding another dog to your life is a big decision and will definitely enrich your life. Hopefully, the above points will help you to decide if getting a second dog is a good idea. But one thing is for sure if you do it right — two dogs equal twice the fun, happiness, unconditional love, and enjoyable companionship for everyone around. Related Posts:. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. But if you do find yourself doing it, there are things you can do to ensure a greater level of success and happiness within your household. So, you head down to the breeder or the shelter to choose a new puppy to adopt into your family. But when you get there, you see two adorable sibling puppies together. Hello Little Golden Puppy! Plus, they will be able to play with one another, which will make everything easier. No joke this happened to me before I got my first puppy, Linus. When I went to the shelter there were two cute little Australian Shepherd Lab mix puppies. That is just not the case! There are a lot of things inherent in the way that sibling puppies respond to one another that makes it harder to integrate two of them together into the same home at the same time. But, for whatever reason, if you do find yourself getting sibling puppies, there are a few things you can do to raise them successfully. Read on as we explain why sibling puppies are such a challenge, share our top tips on how to raise sibling pups together, and walk you through how to side-step some of the problems inherent to raising two puppies from the same litter. Sadly, no. The main problem with adopting sibling puppies is that they are going to bond with one another over you. This is a problem because the bond they have with one another can diminish the bond they have with you. This can make them much more difficult to train. Add to this that they are pack animals, and in addition to bonding you can expect them to fight, as it is common to fight for dominance within the pack. The two siblings will very often gang up on the third dog, and it is not unknown for them to seriously injure, or even kill, a third dog introduced into the home. This is not only for the health and happiness of both you and the dog, but many sibling dogs soon find themselves back in a shelter because of the difficulties associated with raising them. When I went to obedience class with Linus there were sibling Husky mix dogs in the class. They literally could not be 20 feet apart. They would whine and yelp until they were back together. Before You Get Sibling Puppies Ask Yourself… So you should seriously consider whether you are prepared to raise sibling puppies before agreeing to take them home. Ask yourself: Are you going to be able to look after them financially? Twice the food, twice the toys, twice the vet trips? Do you have time to give both dogs the individual attention they require? Are they a sociable breed that is more likely to get along with other dogs, or are they a problematic breed? You can learn more about picking the right dog breed for you here. Do you have a family member who can take on responsibility for one of the pups? Also, consider the gender of the puppies you are adopting. Puppies of the same gender are much more likely to fight as a result of their pack instincts. If you get a male and a female puppy, you have the risk of them breeding unless you choose to have them spayed and neutered. Suffice it to say, there is a lot to consider before taking on this kind of responsibility. Here are the things we think are the most important: 1. Invest In Crate Training Crate training is one of the most effective training tools. While some people consider it cruel to confine a pup in this way, this is looking at it from a human rather than a dog perspective. Not only does the crate contain them, but it also gives them a secure place to call their own, where they can retreat when things get stressful. They are also less likely to get stressed out by you overreacting to any accidents or mishaps. So, in this way, the crate can make you both feel better. It also means the puppies can be near you, inside their crates, when they also have to be restricted. Crates one each are the most effective and human way to keep the puppies apart without causing them serious anxiety. We purchased this crate for our first puppy, Linus, over 15 years ago and still use the exact same crate today. It is adorable! But when you bring your litter puppy siblings home, that needs to come to an end. Sleeping together forms a deep and unbreakable bond, which is lovely but will make them impossible to control when they are together, and undermine their ability to bond with you and the other members of your household. Sibling puppies should sleep separately. You might not want to do this from day one. Being introduced to a new home can already be a challenging and scary experience, so ripping them away from their sleep buddy at the same time just seems cruel. But you should have them sleeping separately within two weeks of bringing them home. If they are sleeping in crates, as we recommend, you can start with the crates next to each other and then slowly move them further apart. Rip off the band-aid. Some puppies will bark in the crate on their first night while others do just fine from day one. We got our most recent puppy, Elsa, from a breeder and she started the process of separating her pups in crates at 5 weeks old, several weeks before puppies went to their new homes. This will only reinforce their strong and exclusive bond with one another, and make it more difficult for them to bond with you and other human family members. While you will certainly do things together, you will also want to do things alone with each of them. You should maintain this until they are at least one year of age, and probably long beyond this. This means walking them separately, playing with them separately, taking them to the vet separately. This is why sibling puppies are a huge time investment. They should also have their own possessions. They should never share leashes, bowls, or toys. You should even feed them separately, in separate parts of the home, or one at a time with the other waiting in the crate. Invest In Professional Training Training is also something that should be done separately. Not only will the professional trainer be able to guide you on a thorough training process, but the act of being in the class with other dogs will be an essential part of the socialization process. If at all possible, the sibling pups should not be part of the same class. If they are, they should be kept separate and cared for by two different family members, both during the course and when doing homework exercises. You can read other puppy training tips here. Use Their Names If you want your dogs to be able to distinguish which one of them you are calling, it is very important that you use their names from day one. Monitor Domineering Behavior You will need to monitor the bonding that is happening between your pups, as there will be a tendency for one to try to dominate the other. You can limit the likelihood of domineering behavior by ensuring that you treat the puppies equally. Socialize With Older Dogs It is not uncommon to hear people say that puppies will socialize and teach one another. But this is a case of the blind leading the blind, and usually reinforced negative behavior. So you just end up with two misbehaving pups. However, pups do learn good habits and socialization from older dogs. So, do what you can to let them spend time, separately, with older dogs. Raising two sibling puppies at home can be easier if you already have an older dog, who is likely to take on a parental role and occupy the position of leader. You can keep sibling puppies together, but it is generally not advisable. This is because the sibling puppies have a tendency to form a close bond that undermines their bond with the human members of their household. This makes it much more difficult to train and control them. Also, while having two puppies means they always have a playmate, rather than keeping one another out of trouble, they are more likely to egg one another on and get into even more trouble. It is challenging to raise two puppies together because their natural tendencies as siblings can make it more difficult for them to integrate into a broader household. While you might think that it is an economy of scale raising two together, this is not the case, as they will need everything to be separate and double: twice the food, twice the gear including everything from leads to crates , and twice the veterinary bills. Why Do Sibling Puppies Fight? Dogs are pack animals, so it is natural for them to bond—and also natural for them to fight for dominance. While sibling puppies will play-fight, they will also fight to be the dominant member of their pack of two. This is much more common when the two puppies are of the same gender. For this reason, if you are adopting sibling pups, it is advisable to get a male and a female pup, as long as they are neutered and spayed to prevent breeding. Can Littermates Eat Together? They should either eat in separate places in the home or at separate times, with the other dog waiting in the crate. This is essential for teaching the dogs the difference between their food and that of their sibling. It is probably best to maintain this practice for about the first year. After this, you may be able to place their bowls alongside one another, but you will need to monitor this for the first few weeks. Yes, puppies from the same litter need lots of individual attention. This is about them forming a bond with you. If you want the puppies to bond with you, they are going to need to do this without the distracting attention of their sibling nearby. So, it is a good idea to take dogs out for walks and play separately for at least the first year, and probably longer. Yes, it is better to have two dogs of the opposite sex. This is because dogs are pack animals and will naturally vie to be the alpha male or female of the pack. Therefore, two dogs of the same gender are much more likely to fight. However, if you get two dogs of opposite genders, you need to consider how you will prevent them from breeding unless you are planning on having at least one of them neutered or spayed. The ideal age gap between dogs is about two years. This means that the first dog has been fully trained and is settled in the home, but is still active and energetic and so will be able to keep up with the new puppy addition. My first puppy Linus stayed young and energetic and loved playing with younger puppies right up to his final days. By that age, he was done playing with energetic puppies and would rather rest on his bed. The Verdict It is generally not advisable to take home two puppies from the same litter. This is because their special bond represents a challenge that will make it more difficult for them to bond with you. This makes it harder to train them and gives them a tendency for disobedience. However, if you do decide to take home sibling puppies, there are things you can do to make a success of it. The key to this is managing their tendency to become involved with one another to the exclusion of all other things and to foster their bond with you. And the key to this is giving them individual attention, and keeping them separate at important times such as when eating and sleeping. While it is certainly challenging, it is rewarding to see two happy pups successfully integrated into your family. Have you ever raised sibling puppies? Were you successful or did they form a close bond with each other rather than with the family? Tell us about your experiences in the comment section below. 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.

This is the space between the shoulder blades. Toy Poodles follow the small dog pattern of hitting their height and weight milestones a little earlier. These dogs stop getting taller at around months and stop growing entirely by the time they are a year old. Are There Different Sizes of Poodles? As covered above, there are three recognized sizes of Poodle: Toy up to 10 inches, lbs , Miniature inches, lbs , and Standard inches, lbs. The larger dogs are the originals, bred for retrieving. Both smaller types came about later as the French cottoned on to what excellent companion animals this breed made. Beyond this, people may also speak of Klein Moyen Poodles which fill the gap between Miniature and Standard Poodles at inches in height and lbs, and Teacup Poodles that are around lbs. These are both unofficial sizes, and Teacup dogs are discouraged in most breeds because of the potential health implications of breeding dogs so small. Photo by Linda Segerfeldt on Unsplash There may also be some slight size differences between male and female Poodles. Poodle Growth Patterns The growth patterns for your Poodle are very much based on which Poodle they are and their potential adult size. Most dogs of every breed and every size do an exceptional amount of their growing in the first half-year of their life. With small dogs, this happens in the first three months. Your Poodle will likely reach their adult height somewhere between 6 and 12 months. Larger dogs will continue to increase in weight for a further 6 to 12 months after that, although their growth rate at this stage will be much slower than before. Check out these guides on best dog food for puppies here. How Big is a Full-Grown Poodle? Depending on the type of Poodle you have opted for, they might be anywhere between 7 to 27 inches in height and 2 to 70 pounds in weight at full size. As you can see, there is a massive range of Poodle sizes. You can get some idea of what to expect for each kind from the tables above. Photo by Arjan Stalpers on Unsplash Beyond that, keep an eye on how your puppy is growing. For a Standard or Miniature Poodle, you will be able to calculate their potential adult weight at 5 months by taking what they weigh at that age and multiplying it by two. For Toy Poodles, you will be able to calculate their potential adult weight at 3 months by taking what they weigh at that age and multiplying it by two. You can calculate their potential adult weight at 23 weeks by taking what they weigh at that age and multiplying it by two. Poodles are generally considered full-grown somewhere between 12 and 24 months of age, depending on their type. This is when they will have reached both their adult height and weight. As the breed has been around for a while, the standards are pretty much set in stone, so you can know precisely what you are getting. What kind of diet do we give our pooches for a healthy weight? What you should never overfeed a dog? You should never ever overfeed your dogs too much carbs as they get stored as fat in the body if they are not used. Unfortunately, carbohydrates are much cheaper an ingredient as compared to the other nutrients like protein. Hence, they are often used by major large dog food manufacturers to make up the weight of dog food whilst keeping the prices of the dog food low. This is the main reason why pets all over the United States are getting obese. And, ironically, this became the driving forces behind the rise of these healthy pet food startups , as their founders seek to provide their own proper and much healthier alternatives. The high fiber content will make your dogs feel content faster and thus eat less. And since fiber does not get stored in the body like carbs do, it can be promising measure to keep your pooch's weight under control. Mathematically, eating less will reduce weight gain. However, it can easily lead to malnourishment if your dog is not given the proper nutrition. We are talking about nutrients beyond the common proteins and carbohydrates. They include omega fatty acids, minerals, vitamins, amino acids and many more! The key here is not to eat less. The key here is to maintain a balanced diet. And what constitutes a balanced diet? That requires a deep understanding and a wide study in the field of pet nutrition to truly determine it; so much that it warrants a university degree. To get the most balanced, holistic and healthiest dog foods , it is often better to leave it to the experts. Have you been scheduling your dog's meal time wrongly? And does it really matter? Scheduling your dog's meal time will tune their stomach to become hungry only at their meal times. Combining this with the right amount of dog food given to them, it will keep your dogs from becoming hungry out of meal hours. In turn, this will maintain their metabolism rate and utilize all the food they consume fully and appropriately. As a bonus, regular meal time will also discourage them from scavenging around the house like little vacuum cleaners as they grow accustomed to the amount of food they are given and to be used for the intervals between meal times. These food brands are not your typical corporate pet food manufacturers. These are pet food startups fueled by the passion from their pet enthusiasts founders who only want the best for all dogs under the sky. Each of them have came up with their own unique formula that will surely satisfy your dogs' taste buds without compromising their health. Click here or the button below to learn more about these bespoke food brands. Underweight and undernourishment is as real an issue as obesity among dogs. Underweight dogs appear thin and frail. And before you know it, they will start to lose all the hair on their coat and look like anything but a dog. These cases created a market of specialized dog food that help your dog to gain weight healthily. Here are 7 of the best dog foods for weight gain that can help your underweight dog get back its glory. Read more by clicking the button below. Toy Poodle Puppy Development Stages Birth — 2 Weeks Some newborn toy poodles weigh only a few ounces and measure little more than just a few inches in length, at which point they are at their most fragile. In fact, newborn toy poodles are so little that they can fit into your hand. However, at that moment, they develop rapidly. When compared to their miniature and standard poodle counterparts, toy breeds mature and reach their full size at a younger age. When they are 12 weeks old, toy poodles often weigh at least half as much as an adult dog. Toy poodles are typically ready to join their new families at about weeks of age, at which point they weigh between 1. Six-month-old toy poodle puppies should weigh between 4 and 5 pounds. By 6 months of age, toy poodles almost reach their maximum height of approximately nine inches. The moment has come when they begin to reach their maximum weight and height potential. At 9 months to a year of age, they may weigh 4 to 5 and a half lbs and grow to a maximum of ten inches in height at the withers. Adult When a Toy Poodle reaches the age of two or three, it is called an adult. To keep their hypoallergenic coat looking its best, frequent maintenance is required. With regards to nutrition, mature toy poodles need a diet of premium dog food made for toy dogs particularly. They need to keep an eye on what they eat and make adjustments to their portion sizes as required to keep their weight in check. Keeping their vitality up calls for constant activity like daily walks and games. Toy poodles, once they reach adulthood, have a reputation for being very trainable and loving companions. Furthermore, they have a reputation for being easily offended and may benefit from mild teaching techniques. Examining the parents of a toy poodle pup might also provide you some insight into the likely adult size of your new addition. One parent dog often dwarfs the other. Puppies often end up between the sizes of their parents, however sometimes one may remain as little as its smaller parent or one will grow as huge as its larger parent. Many people also examine the paws which lets them know that the puppy has more growing to do if the paws are a bit larger in proportion to the rest of his body. Toy Poodles are typically little dogs, with males weighing 4 to 6 pounds and standing 10 inches at the shoulder, and females weighing 4 to 5 pounds and standing 10 inches at the shoulder. You may find poodles of all shapes and sizes. In the United States States, you can get them in three distinct dimensions: toy, miniature, and standard. Poodles are separated into several distinct breeds based on their various sizes. The toy poodle is the smallest poodle that may come through ethical breeding. Making sure your Poodle is healthy also requires measuring their height. Put down some ground or a tile floor for your Poodle to stand on. Take a tape measure and measure your Poodle from the floor to its withers to get its height. Spaying your Poodle prevents breast cancer, pyometra, and extends life. General anesthesia and significant surgery might harm your Poodle during spaying. Early spaying or neutering of a toy poodle may impair development. It should not be done before 12 months of age. But it must be done properly. A non-ethical breeder may want early spaying and neutering or, worse, does it before the dog leaves her home. Neutering or spaying your toy poodle puppy should not influence its size. Hip dysplasia may be more likely in early spayed or neutered dogs. When compared to Toy Poodles, Miniature Poodles are on the bigger side. Miniature Poodles average 15—17 pounds, and Toy Poodles are smaller yet at 4—6 pounds. The size of the dog is the primary distinction between Miniature Poodles and Toy Poodles. If you have kids or just want a bigger dog, a miniature poodle is a better choice than a toy poodle, which is a smaller but still loving companion. Toy poodle size might vary depending on the gender of the dog. When compared to females, male toy poodles may be just a bit larger. The ancestry of a toy poodle impacts its size far more than its gender. There are little poodles that descend from big dogs. There is little doubt that these toy poodles will develop into large adults. Toy poodles who come from smaller parents will be tiny. Because of this, it is not uncommon to come across a male toy poodle that is much smaller than a female toy poodle, even when the two are the same age. Nutrition Your toy poodle puppy needs high-quality food designed for pups or suitable for all life stages. Your toy poodle puppy does not need or want adult dog food. Protein levels in puppy food are greater than those in regular dog food so that it can sustain the expanding bodies of pups. The first component in these dog meals is a true protein source like chicken, fish, or beef. Keep your miniature poodle away from human food leftovers since doing so might reduce the quantity of protein and minerals he consumes. Your puppy will not get the right amount of high-quality, high-protein puppy food he needs to grow and develop properly if he consumes too much human food. Poodles may benefit from exercise in a number of ways; it keeps their muscles in shape, builds their bones up, and even helps them avoid conditions like diabetes and arthritis. Irritability, destructive behavior, aggressiveness, excessive barking, and attention-seeking may all be reduced or eliminated with regular exercise. By encouraging regular physical activity, you can strengthen relationships, instill social skills, boost mood, and even help your kids sleep better. Activity level, age, and health determine how much toy poodle puppies need to eat. As a rule, toy poodle pups should eat little meals every day. They eat more as they mature. These are just tips; your dog may require more or less food. To find out how much and what kind of food your puppy requires, go to your vet. To keep your puppy healthy, watch their weight and alter their meals. Obesity in Toy Poodles may cause several health issues. To stay healthy, dogs need adequate activity and nourishment. Talk to your veterinarian about your overweight toy poodle. Your vet may recommend a high-protein, low-grain dog food if your dog is overweight. After choosing high-quality dog food, restrict or eliminate table leftovers. This would also assist your toy poodle with shedding weight to a healthy weight. Again, consult your vet before making any nutrition modifications for your underweight tiny poodle. Your vet may recommend feeding your poodle high-quality dog food and limiting table scraps. Eating too many table scraps might make some dogs overweight and underweight. To make sure your Poodle puppy is at a healthy weight, regular weigh-ins are a must. Poodles should be weighed at least once a year, but more frequent measurements might reveal health problems sooner. Find out how much of a Poodle you have by using the scale in your bathroom. Put your bare feet on a scale and record your weight. Then, with your Poodle in tow, get on a scale and make a note of your weight. If you want to know how much your Poodle weighs, you can perform the math by deducting your body mass from the combined weight of you and your dog. Toy Poodle Genetics And Common Health Problems Poodles, like people and other pets, face both breed-specific and more general health issues. Fatigue, nausea, and loss of appetite are early symptoms of this illness. Standard Poodles with Atrial Septal Defects: Having a hole in one of the upper chambers of the heart is a very unusual ailment. Constricted airways, coughing, dizziness, collapse, and inability to exercise are all symptoms of autism spectrum disorder. As tragic as it is, heart failure may be the cause of unexpected death in certain cases. Conditions such as bloating, chronic active hepatitis, Cushing syndrome, hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and hypothyroidism also often arise. Final Words A Toy Poodle could be the perfect dog for you and your family provided you have the space and time to devote to its care. Due to its small size seven to ten pounds at maturity , it makes a great pet for city dwellers and those who travel often in small vehicles. If you own a large home, this is an ideal solution. Find a trustworthy rescue organization to deal with or a responsible breeder to buy your toy poodle from. Keeping a toy poodle on a nutritious diet can increase its chances of enjoying a long, happy life with you. You should also look for a toy poodle that fits the breed standard in terms of size. You may discover a healthy, long-lived puppy by inquiring about and genetic tests with the breeder or rescue group. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. Toy Poodle Growth Chart in Pictures Toy Poodle Growth Calculator Use the calculator below to predict the future weight and height of your toy poodle from its current weight and height. If you want to know if your toy poodle is currently of normal weight, is overweight, or is underweight, check out this article and toy poodle weight calculator on how much a toy poodle should weigh. Toy Poodle Weight Calculator Recently, researchers from the University of Liverpool collected and analyzed data on the weight of over 6 million healthy dogs in the United States. The dogs studied included dogs of the toy poodle size. Data on male, female, neuter, un-neuter, spayed, and un-spayed dogs were analyzed in the study. We used the information from this research to inform you on how much your toy poodle should weigh. Use the calculator below to find the ideal weight and the normal weight range of a toy poodle of any age between 12 and weeks. The calculator will also tell you if your toy poodle is of normal weight, overweight, or underweight. A toy poodle as overweight if its weight falls above the 91st percentile. A toy poodle whose weight falls between the 9th and 91st percentile as normal. There are many factors that determine how big a toy poodle will get. Gender is one of the factors that affect toy poodle growth. Male toy poodles tend to be bigger than female toy poodles. The lineage of a toy poodle affects its size more than its gender. Some toy poodles come from large parents. These toy poodles will grow to be big. Toy poodles that come smaller parents will be small. Therefore, it is possible to see a male toy poodle that is smaller than a female toy poodle even if both toy poodles are of the same age. Weight and Height of Toy Poodles at Birth Toy poodles are most delicate at birth, some being born at just a few ounces in weight, and no more than a few inches long. Toy poodles can fit easily into the palm of your hand at birth. They grow very quickly from that point on, however. Toy breeds tend to grow faster and they stop growing sooner than their standard poodle and miniature poodle counterparts. Toy poodles are often at least half of their adult weight by the time they are only twelve weeks old. Toy poodle litter at 3 weeks old Weight and Height of Toy Poodles at Four Weeks Old By the time a toy poodle is four weeks old, a toy poodle should weigh about one to three pounds. At this age, a toy poodle puppy will only be four to five inches tall at the withers shoulders. Weight and Height of Toy Poodles at Eight Weeks Old By the time a toy poodle is ready to go to his new home at eight to ten weeks old, a toy poodle should weigh between one and half pounds and four pounds and should be about eight inches tall. What Weight and Height of Toy Poodles at Six Months A toy poodle will likely be almost its full size by the time it reaches six months of age. A toy poodle puppy should be between three and eight pounds at six months. Most toy poodles are their full height of up to ten inches by six months of age. At this time, they begin to fill out and put on their full weight without getting any taller. A 6-month-old toy poodle Weight and Height of Toy Poodles at One Year Toy poodles mature more quickly than the larger poodles and they tend to reach their full height and weight by nine months to one year of age. At nine months to one year, they will reach the size of four to ten and a half pounds in weight and up to ten inches at the withers in height. As we mentioned earlier, adult toy poodles will grow to be five to ten pounds. However, in a dog that size, there is a huge difference between a five-pound dog and a ten-pound dog. So how can you know what size your puppy toy poodle will grow to be? One way to determine the size of your toy poodle will grow to be is to use our toy poodle growth calculator to predict the weight and height of your toy poodle from its current weight and height. Another way to determine what size your toy poodle puppy will grow to be is to look at the parents. It is not uncommon for one parent dog to be bigger than the other. If this is the case, the puppies in the litter will end up being right in between. So if you have a litter with parents where one is seven pounds and the other is ten pounds, your puppy will grow to be eight or nine pounds in weight. Sometimes there will be a puppy that stays as small as the smallest parent or one that grows to be as large as the largest parent, but generally, they will land right in the middle. Some people assume that if they choose the smallest puppy of the litter, the puppy will be the smallest of the litter as an adult. But that is not necessarily the case. Many puppies that are the smallest of the litter at birth will outgrow their littermates within the first year. In America, they come in three sizes: Toy, Miniature, and Standard. Some European countries classify poodles into four different sizes. The Klein-sized poodle is a mid-sized poodle between the size of a miniature and a standard. However, there is no official classification for that size within the AKC. Each different classified size of the poodle is its separate breed. The toy poodle is the smallest responsibly bred poodle size. Here are the factors that will determine how big your toy poodle will get: Ancestry: The most important factor in determining how big your toy poodle will get is his ancestry. The size of his or her parents matters more than any other factor. Proper Nutrition: Nutrition can also play a part in how big your toy poodle will grow to be. A poorly-fed toy poodle will be underweight. A puppy that is fed too many table scraps will be overweight. That does not necessarily mean that your puppy will stay small. However, this has to be done responsibly and correctly. A sign of a non-ethical breeder is one that requires early spay and neuter or, even worse, one who has a spay or neuter done before the puppy leaves her home. Spaying or neutering your toy poodle should not affect the size that your puppy will grow to be. Early spay and neuter may not necessarily cause your puppy to stay smaller, but it can affect their bones and platelets so that as they grow, they do not have the right hormones in their bodies to keep their bones growing at the same rate. There is some evidence that hip dysplasia is more common among dogs who were spayed or neutered too early. You will want to feed your toy poodle puppy a high quality food that is specifically for puppies or for all stages. Do not feed your toy poodle puppy adult dog food. Puppy food has a higher protein content to meet the needs of growing puppies. For these types of puppy foods, you will see real foods such as chicken, salmon, or beef listed first in the ingredient list. Some owners prefer to feed grain-free food to their poodles, but recent studies suggest that a grain-free diet may not be the best choice for all dogs. Talk with your vet and decide on the best diet for your toy poodle. Finally, make sure that your toy poodle does not eat table scraps as this can interfere with his getting the proper amount of protein and nutrients. If your puppy eats too much human food, he will not eat enough of the high-quality, high-protein, puppy food that is necessary to help him grow and develop properly. What Should you do if your Toy Poodle is Overweight? If your vet agrees that your dog is overweight, your vet will probably advise a diet of dog food that is high in protein and low in grains and fillers. This should help your toy poodle lose weight to get to a comfortable and healthy size. What should you do if your Toy Poodle is Underweight? If your toy poodle is underweight, again, you will want to discuss your concerns with your vet before you make any drastic changes to his diet. Your vet will probably advise you to put your poodle on high-quality dog food and limit or eliminate table scraps. While some dogs can become overweight by eating too many table scraps, other dogs can become underweight this way. This is because the food that they are filling up on may not be nutritious enough for your puppy. Toy Poodle Life Expectancy The toy poodle breed is known for its longevity. By some accounts, the longest-lived dog ever is a toy poodle. A well-bred Toy Poodle could live from twelve to fifteen years. Keep in mind that when you purchase a puppy from an ethical breeder that has done genetic and health testing, you are more likely to have a dog that lives to its full life expectancy. Puppies that have hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, or other genetic diseases or deformities can have much shorter life expectancies. Most toy poodles live long and happy lives. If you are looking for a companion that will be around for many years to come, the toy poodle is just the dog for you. Maturing at seven to ten pounds, it is the perfect sized dog for apartment and RV life. It is also perfect if you have a lot of space in your house. Purchase your toy poodle from an ethical breeder or find a reputable rescue to work with. It is important to keep your toy poodle on a healthy diet to give it the best chance at living a healthy life. It is also important to make sure that you find a size that has been bred to standard for the toy poodle breed. Do not get a toy poodle that has been bred to be too small. Asking your breeder or rescue organization about health and genetic testing will also help you to find a puppy that will live a healthy, long life with you. Most dogs, Toy Poodle or otherwise, stop growing around 24 months. Small dogs, in particular, may stop growing completely before they reach a year old. While you have minimal control over the first two, you can provide quality nutrition for your pup to encourage its optimal growth. Poor nutrition deprives your puppy of the essential nutrients it needs, which can delay growth, or in severe cases, inhibit growth permanently. Always speak to your vet about the best puppy for your Toy Poodle to set it up for future success. Adult maintenance food is not appropriate for a puppy, which needs higher protein, fat, and essential nutrients. For the first six to 12 weeks, puppies may need to eat small portions three or four times a day to meet their nutritional needs. Image Credit: Lucas Seijo, Shutterstock Once your puppy reaches three to six months, the feedings can be decreased to two or three a day. If your pup is still pudgy, stick to smaller portions. At six to 12 months, you can feed your puppy twice daily. If you neuter or spay at this stage, your puppy may need adult maintenance food. Small breeds can typically have adult food around seven to nine months. After one year, dogs are considered mature adults and can be fed two servings of adult maintenance food each day. Weighing a puppy is easy to do on your own—simply stand on a scale holding your puppy, then weigh yourself alone and subtract the weight. Toy breeds may be too small for a bathroom scale, but you can use a kitchen scale with a bowl to get more precise weights. Growth is straightforward to measure with a tape measure or seamstress tape, though it may not be easy with a squirmy puppy! If you want to track these numbers, take advantage of the distraction while your puppy is eating to get approximate measurements. Though Toy Poodles are basically guaranteed to stay tiny, some individuals may be a little closer to the Miniature Poodle end of the spectrum. Teacup and tiny toy poodles are still toy poodles, only smaller. There is no separate classification for them. Height: A puppy will grow at least 8cm more from the 8 week stage until maturity. Meaning a puppy that is 13cm tall at 8 weeks will be at least 21cm at adulthood. If you want a small not so tall teacup, make sure the puppy you are thinking of buying is no taller than 13cm at 8 weeks. Puppies may or may not grow very much between 8 and 12 weeks, depending on if they are in the teacup range or not. This is why we choose to keep our puppies until they are 10 to 12 weeks of age so we can better judge an approximate adult size. Weight: Teacup poodle puppies are born very small, they usually weigh between 70g and g at birth. Most puppies in a litter are born about the same size, give or take a bit. They may even grow and gain weight at the same rate as each other. It is impossible to tell what the adult size of a 2 to 3 week puppy will be. Parental genetics are a good indicator but not an absolute. We cannot be sure what its adult size will be until the puppy is at least 6 weeks of age and even then it is a guesstimate. We will have a much more accurate estimation when the puppy reaches 12 weeks of age. Teacups and tiny toy poodles are usually finished growing in height by 6 to 8 months but will still fill out a little more. We do our very best to estimate the adult size of our puppies based on previous litters if applicable , sizes of parents and their ancestors as well as the toy poodle growth chart shown above. Genetics is very complicated and recessive genes can come into play. Like humans, female puppies tend to be a similar size to their mother, whereas male puppies tend to be the same size as their father or grandfather.