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This is perhaps the reason why many dog lovers want to buy one nowadays. True, different dog breeds have different needs, but they all have something in common. After all, different breeds tend to have unique personalities. Short-haired shepherd breeds are no exception. They are loyal and obedient Short-haired shepherd breeds are extremely loyal to their owners. But as usual, too much is bad. They are cautious and loving Short-haired German shepherds also tend to be cautious around strangers. And you can expect that your relationship will last forever. After all, the hard-hearted personality of short-haired German shepherds makes it impossible for them to get used to many people at once. Thus, sufficient knowledge about them is necessary in order to avoid disappointment later on. Frequent vacations, trips, and overtime are the perfect ingredients for disaster when it comes to short-haired German shepherds. You only see them as watchdogs It goes without saying that short-haired German shepherds need freedom, just like how other dogs do. So keeping them restrained with chains for a long time will only lead to problems. Paying no attention to their behavior can only spell disaster, so watch out for sudden changes. The best thing about dogs is that you can take advantage of these to suit your needs. Here are some tips on how to do so. Teach them new skills regularly While dogs are known for being fast learners, short-haired German shepherds are beyond that. When buying… Due to the popularity of such breeds, there are many shams selling short-haired shepherd breeds. So, what you need to do is limit yourself to respected breeders. To avoid health issues , you might have to spend more on your initial purchase. They can even shed more than their long-haired counterpart. Purchase chew toys, the durable ones With proper care, short-haired German shepherd puppies can grow with tenacious jaws. Surely no one wants to fix damages in their yards or home, so buy some chew toys. Secure a regular check-up with the vet As previously said, the short-haired shepherd breeds tend to endure the toughest struggles. Even when they appear healthy, they might not be. So send them to the vet once in a while. Ensure a healthy diet If you think their shedding, chewing, and health issues are tiresome to deal with regularly, you can minimize it through their diet. Feed them fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, berries, while providing them protein with meat. If properly fed, they can shed less and experience fewer health issues. Conclusion Short-haired German shepherds are strong, flexible, reliable, and loving dogs. If this is the kind of dog that appeals to your sensibilities, then they might be the perfect fit for you. When properly taken care of, they can be a new addition to your family. And that includes spending money on them along the way. 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 you think of a GSD, the short-haired variety is probably the one that comes to mind. These dogs are distinguished by their double coats that are only about an inch in length. Short-haired GSDs are robust dogs that are very athletic. These obedient working dogs are easy to train and highly intelligent. Aside from being family companions, they are also used as police dogs and guide dogs. On the other hand, a recessive gene causes the long coats on other GSDs. Short-Haired vs. Obviously, the coat length is the most striking difference between the short-haired and long-haired German Shepherd. For short-haired GSDs, their thick double coat grows slightly longer around their necks and legs. On the flip side, long-haired German Shepherds have single-layered coats that hang from their bodies. When standing, the GSD with longer hair will have the coat near its belly hang closer to the ground. This is probably one of the easiest ways to tell them apart. The coat textures on these dogs also differ slightly. The coat on the short-haired GSD is coarse and dense, while the coat on the long-haired GSD can either be wooly or wavy in texture. Both variants are loyal, intelligent, and trainable. Both dogs can also be friendly and docile, especially if they are socialized early on. Health-wise, short and long-haired GSDs are pretty much on par. Both dogs are at risk of hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, common eye problems, and a few others. It is worth mentioning that German Shepherds with short hair are more robust when exposed to the elements. These dogs have double coats that can protect them better under extreme heat or cold weather. No, short-haired GSDs are not rare. According to a list made by the AKC, the German Shepherd is the third most popular dog breed, and it goes without saying that many of these GSDs are short-haired. After all, short-haired shepherds make up most of the population of the breed. Furthermore, because long-haired GSDs are not accepted in breed standards, many breeders are nudged towards raising and selling short-haired GSDs instead. As a result, there are more short-haired variants of this breed. Similarly, most breeders avoid producing long-haired GSDs because they aim to meet the breed standards. Meeting breed standards means getting kennel club accreditations, which is always good for the business. Of course, some breeders still breed long-haired GSDs. Because of their perceived rarity, these shepherds are usually sold for a higher price. If anything, long-haired GSDs are the rare ones! German Shepherds with short coats have strong and athletic bodies. These dogs are medium to large in size, and they come in a variety of coat colors. In terms of height and weight, short-haired German Shepherds measure 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 90 pounds when fully grown. In reality, males are larger than their female counterparts; however, the difference is not substantial. Males also have a tougher appearance, thanks to their well-defined muscular structure, longer noses, and a slightly taller pair of ears. The topline of the short-haired GSD is straight, although a slight sloping is still acceptable from time to time. German Shepherds with overly sloped backs are results of irresponsible breeding and should not be condoned. Their outer coat is dense and sits close to the skin. Although it is desired to be straight, the breed standard allows for a slight waviness. These dogs have a thick, woolly undercoat. This is what gives them robust protection against the elements. The possible colors of the short-haired GSD are completely black , black and tan, red and black, sable , and grey. These dogs can also sport pale coat colorations, but these are not accepted by most kennel clubs and breed standards. This means, if nature takes its course, almost all German Shepherds will have short hair. However, they come by less often than short-haired GSDs. The short fur on most German Shepherd Dogs is caused by a dominant gene, while the long coat on some is a manifestation of a recessive gene. Scientifically speaking, the chances of a recessive trait surfacing is slimmer than a dominant trait. Breeders do this by performing tests on parent dogs to find out which carries the recessive gene. Because of how genetics play out, the process of breeding long-haired GSDs is more deliberate than breeding short-haired ones. In fact, it is estimated that only 10 to 15 percent of the GSD population is long-haired; the rest is short-haired. Regardless of coat length, German Shepherd Dogs shed frequently. For any German Shepherd, regular brushing will always be necessary. For the long-haired German Shepherd, most of their loose hair gets caught up on their fur. This means these dogs do not have as much hair fall as their short-haired counterparts. On the other hand, short-haired GSDs tend to have loose fur everywhere. You should expect their fur on your sofa, carpet, and all over the house! This will also help your dog maintain its attractive looks and eliminate random clumps of fur in the house. Brushing frequency should be increased during shedding seasons such as spring and fall. Usually, these pooches will shed their thicker undercoat and replace it with a thinner undercoat during summer. You should also invest in a high-quality hairbrush for your pup, preferably the ones designed for their coat texture and coat length. This is when your pup begins to smell or gets too dirty. Some disqualifications include cropped or hanging ears, a nose color that is not black, and docked tail. AKC also specifies that any dog that attempts to bite the judge will be subject to disqualification. Aside from these, other disqualifications are linked to the color of the dog. Pale colors, blue shades, white, and liver , for example, are considered undesirable flaws. Long-haired GSDs, on the other hand, do not fit the breed standard. These dogs will never be able to participate in any AKC dog shows. However, other kennel clubs might still allow them. Hair length is not a big deal when it comes to the temperament of the German Shepherd breed. These dogs make excellent family members regardless of whether they have long or short hair. Like most breeds, the German Shepherd can get along with other pets and children. Of course, this is provided that they are socialized and trained early on. One area where the short-haired GSD excels over other breeds is in working. This pup is a working dog that loves challenging tasks! That said, their exercise and training requirements might be a bit demanding compared to other dogs. The best way to train a short-haired German Shepherd is by using the so-called positive reinforcement training. This is a scheme that uses treats and praises as encouragement for your pup. This is not a dog to be left behind for long hours as it is prone to separation anxiety. As long as you can provide for its emotional and physical needs, this pup will prove to be a fantastic pet for your family. The life expectancy of a short-haired German Shepherd is between 10 and 13 years. On some occasions, a German Shepherd Dog can even live past 15 years old! Needless to say, the German Shepherd is a healthy pup that lives a pretty long life. However, their health is not perfect. There are a couple of things to watch out for if you wish to own one of these pooches. Hip dysplasia affects the area near the pelvis, whereas elbow dysplasia affects the elbows. A dog with dysplasia will experience pain when moving and will have poor posture. Cataracts: Cataracts in German Shepherds are most commonly caused by old age. Proteins cluster together and produce a cloud-like fluid in the eyes, causing this disease. While dogs can live a complete life without their eyesight, cataracts should be prevented if possible. Pancreatitis: Pancreatitis in German Shepherds is usually caused by a poor diet. The main culprit of this health condition is eating too many fatty foods. Some symptoms accompanying this condition are nausea, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Bloat: Bloat, also known as gastric dilation-volvulus , is a fatal health problem that affects GSDs. Bloat, if left untreated, can result in sudden death. As you can see, some of these health issues are caused by environmental factors, while others are genetic. Luckily, all of these health concerns are avoidable or, at the very least, preventable. If you see anything suspicious about your dog, visit the vet immediately. Because while this guide might be helpful, this is no veterinary advice. At this range, these dogs are priced relatively lower compared to other similar dog breeds. Of course, you should expect to pay more if you are looking for a GSD from a champion line. Aside from the price of the dog itself, there are also costs to consider. You must keep these in your budget before rushing out to get your own GSD dog! Lifespan Sociability Since the German Shepherd is one of the most popular breeds in the United States, there are plenty of reputable breeders, and finding a puppy is usually not a problem. That said, they can vary fairly widely in price, as some are bred purely for the pet trade, while others are bred as working dogs and will cost a fair bit more. While the German Shepherd is one of the most recognizable breeds in the world, they are actually a fairly recent breed. German Shepherds as we know them today were first bred in the late s by Max von Stephanitz, with a dog by the name of Horand becoming the first officially registered German Shepherd. They have American Kennel Club recognition. They go by several names. During World War I and II, both Americans and Europeans sought to get rid of the German part of the name due to its association, and the dog thus became known as the Alsatian in most of Europe. Image Credit: Pixabay 4. They are highly intelligent. German Shepherds are widely considered among the most intelligent dogs on the planet. They are immensely popular. According to the AKC, since , German Shepherds have consistently ranked second in the United States for the most popular dog breed, with only the family-favorite Labrador Retriever above them. They served in both World Wars. During World War I, German Shepherds were used by both the Germans and Allied forces for carrying messages and distributing food and as rescue dogs and as personal guards. After the war, soldiers were impressed by the capabilities of the breed. They are Hollywood stars. German Shepherds have long had starring roles in many Hollywood movies, with Rin Tin Tin being the most well-known, with dozens of movies throughout the early s. They were one of the first seeing-eye dogs in the U. Dogs are commonly used as an aid for people with visual impairment or complete blindness. Although this role is now often associated with Labradors or Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds were among the first. There are few dogs more adorable than German Shepherd puppies, and there is no shortage of homes for them. They come in eleven recognized colors. The classic black and tan German Shepherd is the color most associated with the breed, but these dogs actually come in 11 different colors. Their loyalty, intelligence, and versatility are almost unmatched by any other breed, evidenced by their use in so many ways. It is sometimes referred to as a regular coat or a short stock coat. These dogs are amazingly loyal, and they can feel anxious when you are not around. It explains their unfriendliness to strangers. Moreover, they do not easily make new friends, and a lot of socialization techniques are needed to reduce their aggression and rejection. Short haired GSDs are quite energetic, so they need at least two hours of exercise every day. Your pup will join you in all your activities, be they walking, running, swimming, or riding a bike. Their coat has a double layer, so they can withstand cold and severe weather conditions. However, such a coat needs constant grooming, at least every days, especially in spring and fall, when their shedding can become a true catastrophe for your household. The origin Short haired Shepherd Dogs, as well as long haired, are the result of the long and deliberate work of German breeders, whose goal was to breed an ideal herding dog with a stable mentality and good health. Only those with the best physical and mental conditions were allowed for further breeding. Already at the beginning of the twentieth century, the Shepherd Dogs were reclassified from Shepherds to guards and police dogs. However, the same creator, Max von Stephanitz, advocated strongly for shorter hair on German Shepherds. Then why did he prioritize eliminating the long hair feature from Shepherd dogs? Because lengthy hair hinders the capacity of a dog to work. Long fur is a liability for a large working dog, due to the absence of an undercoat and the ease with which it becomes dirty. Even modern-day working line German Shepherds must be agile and athletic. When long hair became somewhat more troublesome than short hair, breeders producing working dogs began removing the long-haired variety from the stud pool. We can easily recognize them in movies, such as Strongheart or Rin Tin Tin. Size and Appearance A short haired German Shepherd dog is usually athletically built. Its height is inches at the wither, and it can weigh pounds. Males are obviously bigger than females, and they look quite masculine. Their muzzle is long and the ears are erect, facing forward. The back should be straight, and a sloped back that has appeared nowadays can cause severe health problems. The outer layer of the coat is usually dense and located close to the skin. The fur is straight, but sometimes slight waving occurs. The undercoat is wooly and thick because it is meant to protect the animal from severe weather conditions. The short haired GSDs look like wolves. Nevertheless, they can be of different colors. Black, black and tan, sable, gray, or red and black colors are acceptable. However, lighter colors are not popular among breeders and owners. That is why they are appreciated as working dogs in many jobs, including the police and the army. These dogs are perfectly protective. They are always alert if they need to guard the family or household. They can even seem too possessive to their owners. However, these animals are very clever and trainable. They always want to please you. So, if you reward them with some treats, training will have much better results. Separation anxiety is one of the most severe behavioral problems. They feel lonely, frustrated, and anxious if they cannot see you for a long time. They may even start chewing your clothes, footwear, and furniture if you are out. A German Shepherd can start barking and howling, and it may cause some trouble in your relationships with neighbors. Anyway, the dog needs an exciting job to do, even if it is just playing with a toy. To keep your dog healthy and comfortable — adhere to the following care recommendations. Hair A short haired Shepherd has a fairly stiff coat, and during shedding , it covers the entire environment, including the furniture and the carpet. To prevent this from happening, brush your pet twice a week with a special brush. Bathing Two to three baths per year, excluding fall and winter, is the optimal number of water treatments for this breed. Washing more often will cause its coat to lose its natural shine. Teeth Shepherds often suffer from tartar, so once a week they should be given a special chew stick. This could cause its bite to become deformed. Walking A German Shepherd needs to get both mental and physical exercise every day. The best way to do it all at once is to train outside. If you keep your dog in an apartment, take at least two hours of daily walks. Training The German Shepherd requires mental workouts at least three to four times per week for 20 minutes each. It is important to remember that the muscles and joints in puppies under 6 months old are still developing. Training must be demanding but fair and kind. Violence is not permitted. The Shepherd may become hostile or cowardly as a result. It is best to start training your puppy when they are between two and three months old, starting with simple commands. It is advised to get in touch with a qualified dog trainer if you have no prior experience with dogs of those breeds. Feeding For a healthy pet, choosing a balanced diet is crucial. German Shepherds with short hair require a diet high in protein and low in fat. Dry food and natural food are also acceptable. Fish is beneficial to these pets. Calcium-enriched goods should only be consumed in moderation. For the short haired German Shepherd, it is preferable to select premium ready-to-eat food. Make sure there is enough water while using dry food. The following daily feeding schedule is advised by experts. When a puppy is born, it is fed 6 times in the first two months , 5 times in the third month, 4 times from the fourth to six months, and 3 times per day from six months to 1 year. When the dog is older and is considered an adult, meals are only given twice daily. Feed the Shepherd dog at the same time every day. The food should be served at a medium temperature. This is crucial for the development of its proper posture. They may suffer from such health issues as hip dysplasia, heart and eye conditions, and generative myelopathy. Getting insurance is a good idea, too. FAQ How rare are short haired Shepherds? Short haired GSDs are not rare at all. You can see these dogs almost everywhere. According to the AKC, German Shepherds are the third most popular breed, and its short-haired representatives make up most of the population. Short hair is a dominant gene, so the chance to get a long-haired puppy from its short-haired parents is quite minimal. Do short haired German Shepherds shed less? Short haired German Shepherds shed continuously throughout the year, however, the fall and spring are the seasons when they shed the fastest. In contrast, long-haired individuals do not shed more in the fall or spring. However, they must also be brushed on a regular basis. Do short haired German Shepherds Get Cold? Short haired GSDs do not become cold because of their thick undercoat, which serves as an insulating layer and keeps their body heat from escaping, keeping them relatively warm in colder weather. If taught and introduced from a young age, the breed is completely capable of sleeping and living outside. What is a short haired German Shepherd? A double-coated standard German Shepherd is a short haired German Shepherd. It is also known as a regular coat or a short stock coat. Final Thoughts A pet, a reliable guardian, or a dignified exhibitor — the short haired German Shepherd easily copes with any of the roles. The breed combines endurance, trainability, and affection for humans. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. The fur sometimes flies among German shepherd fanciers regarding coat lengths. What the hairball, right? The overwhelming majority of German shepherds have moderately short to medium-length hair, as dictated by the breed standard. The term is primarily used to distinguish them from long-haired GSDs. Some long-haired individuals lack an undercoat, and they sometimes cost more due to their rarity. However, they are essentially the same pooch otherwise. Long-haired shepherds also occur, but both the AKC breed standard and UKC standard call for one coat length as we mentioned: medium. Excessively long or short, close-cropped coats are deemed faults. A standard German shepherd has a thick, medium-length coat that may appear slightly longer around the neck and rear legs. This is a point of contention in many breeds with differing looks, including Chihuahuas who can be short or long coated and Labs, who come in three colors. Many owners insist there are behavioral differences between types, while others disagree. Personality Differences Generally speaking, appearance has little weight on personality. A German shepherd is a German shepherd. They are large, athletic dogs who love human interaction and thrive when faced with challenges. Dogs from working lines are usually more active with a strong drive compared to show stock. Health Differences As with personality, there are few health differences noted between the short-coated and long-coated shepherds. Any potential health differences between the two can likely be attributed to the coat length. For example, the long-coated variety may be at greater risk of developing hot spots in wet weather. Also, and somewhat counterintuitively, long-coated shepherds are sometimes more susceptible to hypothermia, since they sometimes lack an insulating undercoat. All dedicated GSD breeders as well as those working with any other breed should screen their breeding stock for common health concerns of the breed. Certain colors can lead to issues, however. For example, pale, blue, and liver colors are considered faults, and white is a disqualifying color. On the other hand, long-haired German shepherds do not meet the breed standard since a long coat is considered a fault. These dogs cannot compete in a show ring. No — short-haired GSDs are not rare. In fact, short-coated German shepherds are more common than those with long coats. Additionally, since long-coated GSDs are seen as going against the breed standard, most breeders avoid producing them, or they choose to sell them on a pet-only contract. The point behind this is line of thinking is that every generation of puppy should strive to reach the breed standard. But on the other hand, because of the rarity of the long-coat gene, some breeders deliberately produce them and charge a premium for these long-haired doggos. Also, note that those who opt to breed long-coated shepherds may not always have the same goals as traditional GSD breeders. Now, while the standard calls for a double coat, the undercoat is sometimes lacking in long-haired GSDs. On the surface, this may not appear to be a big deal, but in colder climates, an undercoat is vital in insulating your dog from the elements, so these long-haired pups may actually have a tougher time staying warm. Because the vast majority of short-haired shepherds have an undercoat, they shed more than longer-coated pups who lack one. They also require more brushing around shedding season to remove any loose undercoat. The same is true of long-haired GSDs with an undercoat. Image from Pinterest. The German shepherd dog has a dense coat that sheds regularly. Weekly brushing is recommended to maintain his handsome looks and cut down on tumbleweeds around the house. Brushing should increase during heavy shedding periods, such as when seasons change. Regular tooth brushing and ear cleaning are also musts to keep him in tip-top shape, as is a good flea prevention program.

Varying Textures The links above will take you to product information and reviews on Chewy. Puppy Chew Toys From Kong Kong is a market leader who produce a wide variety of toys best known for their durability and entertainment value for puppies and dogs. You just have to make sure you get the right size for your particular breed of dog large for labs and other large breeds. Pros: Made from incredibly tough, durable rubber so is safe and will last for even the most aggressive chewers. Hollow and can be stuffed and even then frozen to keep a puppy entertained for hours as they work to get at the treats inside, with the coldness of the toy soothing for teething gums. Made in America a sign of quality some like to see! Kong Puppy Goodie Bone The shape gives your pup more chance to grip the toy and really go to town chewing, whereas many other toys can be hard for a young pup to tie down. This fact alone is a bonus. But as with many Kong toys, the standout feature of this chew toy is you can stuff tasty treats in each end of the bone to keep your puppy happy for a good length of time. If stuffed then frozen — and we recommend you sometimes you do — it can relieve the pain of inflamed gums while teething. Available in blue and pink. Made in America. So — rotate the toys! Pros: Easy for a puppy to hold in place for a good chewing session. Fortified with Omega 3 fatty acids. Another bone shaped toy, though this time from Nylabone, another big player in the pet toy market. Pros: Made from a soft material designed to be kind on puppies teeth, yet tough enough to be durable and long-lasting, suitable to be left alone with a puppy in their crate. Textured with numerous different surface shapes that keep a chewing pooch happy as well as clean their teeth. Can be stiffed and frozen for an interactive chewing session while soothing gums. Cons: Not so great for the most aggressive of chewers who some people have reported make short work of this toy. This is the second toy from Nylabone featured in our roundup. A fun, textured, chain link style toy that has many features to keep a puppy engaged, entertained and happy chewing for hours. Made from material soft enough for a chewing puppy, yet strong enough to withstand aggressive and sustained chewing. During chewing, bristles raise on the toy that help to keep teeth clean and healthy. Cons: Hard to find any — But perhaps the fact it cannot be stuffed with treats is a negative compared to the toys above? Another classic and extremely popular puppy toy from brand leader Nylabone, the puppy key-ring has many good features going for it: Pros: Soft enough for enjoyable chewing, strong enough to withstand it. Lots of moving parts that make a sound when shaken — and toys that make ANY sound are always more preferable and fun for a puppy. Irregular shapes and textures provide choices of different surfaces and feelings while chewing. After some chewing, raised bristles are released that clean teeth to help dental health. Small enough to throw and multiple holding points make it an interactive toy, useful for gentle games of tug or fetch. Not a toy that can be stuffed with treats though variety is good! To overcome these two cons, just make sure to rotate the toys, variety is key! Pros: Made from a tough Nylon material so will outlast most other chew toys. A unique and interesting, patented wishbone design that really appeals to puppies as a break from the norm. Easy for a puppy to hold down with their paws for some really concentrated occupational chewing sessions. Flavored with either one of two things dogs like the best: Bacon or peanut butter. Puppies go mad for these! Strong enough to be left alone with a puppy unsupervised — they will not be able to tear chunks off it. Cons: Made of nylon, it is a little harder than most other chew toys on this page. NOTE: This toy is bacon or peanut butter flavored, but it is not an edible toy. This toy is a great one for throwing, fantastic for tug, a great item to chew on and the perfect toy to rotate in and out of use to keep your puppy interested in the right things. This toy is also vet recommended an approved, made from luggage material, plastic and an outer soft fleece. Pros: Extremely tough and long lasting. A great toy for teaching retrieving. Flying discs are a great toy to start games of fetch with. It floats so can be used on water. Available in a wide variety of shapes colors to suit every taste Cons: Mixed views in the customer feedback regarding the durability of the toy, with some saying their dogs made short work of it. I recommend this toy for puppies with whom it will last for ages, but for an aggressive chewing adult there are better options you can find by clicking here. With a small investment in some of the best teething toys for puppies featured above, you can keep their teeth on appropriate items and away from your household items. Choosing a good selection of the right toys can keep your sanity and your home intact! During this 4 to 5 month period the urge to chew is as all consuming as it is entirely natural. They simply have to. Much like a human baby finds relief with chew toys while teething, so must a puppy. Knowing this, if you provide a suitable outlet for their needs in the shape of fun puppy teething toys, you can keep their chewing away from your soft furnishings and family heirlooms. If your puppy is faced with the choice of either specialized teething toys that are more fun, relieving and ultimately fulfilling to chew on in comparison to your household items, they will always — OK, mostly — aim for their toys. Their needs are met more precisely and there will be no destruction and cost for you to deal with. A win-win. What To Look For in the Best Toys for Teething Puppies While teething, the urge to chew comes from the fact that the very act of chewing relieves the pressure of all these new teeth breaking out through and hurting their gums. Furthermore, we want a toy with some durability or we will forever be spending on new ones and, of course, we must always have safety at the forefront of our minds. It must be soft enough to feel like prey, to keep their interest in it high, and so they continue to use the toy. We need to find a good middle ground between softness and durability. Must Be Shatter-Proof and Must Not Break Into Pieces It is a sad fact that many dogs and puppies die every year from choking on or by ingesting small objects — and fragments or small pieces that have broken off from cheap or unsuitable toys are high on this list. So a suitable toy must be shatter proof and made from material that your puppy is unable to tear small pieces away from. Otherwise costly surgery — or worse — could be the result. Try Different Shapes and Textures Different dogs have different likes and dislikes. A toy one puppy goes mad for might be completely shunned by another. Familiarity leads to boredom. With a few toys at your disposal you can rotate them in and out of use. Make sure the toys you buy are appropriately sized for the breed. Why, chewing on something that tastes simply great of course! Many teething toys are edible these days though still long-lasting , and many more can be stuffed with goodies that will keep your puppy entertained for hours as they try to work out the treats out. Invest in tasty chews, not to use all the time, but to mix in for use now and then. These will become highly valued toys that your puppy will truly look forward to. Some will last just 5 minutes, some your puppy will simply turn their nose up at, and others can be downright dangerous! They can be very easy for your puppy to tear apart and if your pooch eats the squeaker it can be very dangerous indeed! Make sure all toys are BPA free: BPA is a harmful chemical found in some cheaper toys, and studies have shown it to be toxic in even small quantities. Avoid at all costs. This carries a little extra cost. Small breeds need far smaller toys than puppies from large breeds. Rule of thumb: Make sure the toy is larger than they can fit whole in their mouth. If you give your puppy edible toys, you should supervise their chewing. No need to watch them like a hawk, but at least be in the same room so you can hear if they get into trouble. Some puppies may try to swallow too large a piece and get it stuck. You want to be there to help. Avoid anything that looks like household items: If you buy your puppy a cute rubber slipper to chew on, guess what will happen when they cannot find it? Try popping toys in the freezer: A nice, cold toy to chew on is just the thing to help relieve the pain of inflamed gums when a puppy is teething. A teething puppy will choose this over your belongings in a heartbeat. Interactive dog toys keep a pup entertained: There are many toys that can be stuffed with treats , are edible themselves or give a puppy a job to do in order to get a treat. These can be truly addictive for a puppy, working hard and feeling rejoiced after being paid of with their reward! This has absolutely no effect on the eventual price that you pay and we are very grateful for your support. 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. Durability and material quality are crucial factors. Look for ones made from durable rubber or hard nylon materials. They must have been tested against aggressive chewers like our beloved Labs. Kong Toy uses natural rubber, which offers toughness while gentle on sensitive teething gums. Another popular option is rope toys made from fibrous material with multiple knots. Durable toys help clean puppy teeth and provide a satisfying chewing experience. It is the best thing for a teething puppy. Very young puppies under six months old benefit from small or medium-sized toys. Later you can upgrade to a bigger, appropriate toy for adult teeth. The best chew toy texture should provide comfort. Soft materials like plush toys can offer relief for sore gums. Harder rubber or nylon-based items such as Kong Puppy Toys and Nylabone chews work great for large breeds. Keep in mind how determined young puppies can be! It minimizes the possible ingestion of harmful materials. Even hard chew toys need supervision. Discard damaged items immediately. Select toys that can withstand their powerful bites. What is the best teething dog toy for a 6-month-old puppy? The soft Kong Toy is made explicitly for puppies. You can also fill it with treats for additional fun. What can I give my week-old puppy to chew? At what age do Lab puppies stop chewing on everything? The intense chewing phase usually ends by the sixth month in Lab puppies. Puppies also go through a stage like humans. They lose their old teeth and experience pain when the new teeth arrive. What is the best chew toy for a dog? These are the very best teething toys for dogs. What is a good daily chew for dogs? It is designed for active dogs and is good for a daily chew. What are safe chew toys for puppies? They are non-toxic and provide the highest quality safety standards. What do vets recommend for puppy toys for teething? They are produced using quality materials and promote healthy development. What are the best chew toys for puppies? Hard nylon toys from brands like Nylabone and Kong are some of the best ones. They come in several shapes and sizes. They are fun and easy to carry around and chewing. What are the best things for a teething puppy to chew on? Edible things like bully sticks, pig ears, pigskin rolls, rawhide bones, etc. However, dogs can choke if they bite off these edible chews. Rubber chew toys are best for Labradors and most dogs. It is the safest option. Choose toys that can stand firm against the aggressive Labrador chewing. What are some good teething toys for puppies like labs? Chewing keeps the jaws solid and puppy teeth clean. Labradors love to chew sticks, bones, and anything else available. Dog chew toys are excellent for fun, physical and mental stimulation and anxiety. What dogs teething toy is best for 8-week-old puppies? Softer toys are ideal for young puppies. They are yet to chew at their full potential and destroy the toy. Soft Chews like Kong Toys are perfect for puppies of about 8 weeks. Even softer rubber puppy version toys work great What is best for teething puppies to chew on? Should Lab puppies chew sticks? Long-term chewing can cause further wear and tear and pain. It is because they are not designed for chewing. Labradors are s heavy chewers. Even for adult dogs, ensure they have ample toys for entertainment for their adult teeth needs exercise. Look for durable rubber toys, as Labs can be aggressive. Are Labradors strong chewers? Labs are vigorous power chewers. They can destroy the average toy in minutes. Labrador puppies start losing their baby teeth at around 4 months old and the process is usually complete by 7 months old. The first baby teeth to fall out are usually incisors, the canines, and the premolars. The molars are the last to fall out. With extensive research and personal experiences, Aritra has become a Labrador expert, offering a rich resource on the breed. The site serves as a comprehensive resource, offering a wealth of up-to-date information for Labrador owners and enthusiasts alike. Type And Materials The material used to make dog toys affects their safety and durability. It makes it long-lasting enough even for rough play. Always check labels on stuffed toys to ensure they meet safety standards and do not contain dangerous fillings. It provides a gentle chewing experience promoting dental health without choking. Safety And Durability Labs are powerful chewers. Find toys made from high-quality materials like durable nylon bones or sturdy rubber. The best dog toys will stand up to their strong jaws without breaking into small pieces. Teething chew toys should be gentle on their developing gums but tough enough to endure the constant gnawing. Avoid thin rubber squeaky-type toys because they can easily break apart or get swallowed. Quality And Price As a devoted dog owner, you might be tempted to buy the most affordable dog toys. However, balance quality and price when choosing toys for your labrador retriever. Investing in top-notch Lab puppy toys ensures you get long-lasting products. Choose toys with different textures and shapes, as the same toy can become boring. Pick toys that are easy to clean and avoid toys with small parts. Puppies have different chew strengths than adult dogs. Therefore, teething toys will work well for puppies. Durable rope or tug toys are also appropriate for young adult dogs. Soft durable rubber balls or puzzle treat dispensers cater to mental and physical stimulation. They keep the puppy entertained in safe ways. Invest in rope and woven toys with knotted ends perfect for tug-of-war games. They offer interesting textures to chew on and keep the pet busy. Besides, textures like ribbed rubber or bumpy surfaces can stimulate their senses. Opt for machine-washable toys that can easily be wiped down with soap and water. An easy-to-clean toy is the Kong Classic Dog Toy. Made of durable rubber, it can be hand washed or placed in the dishwasher for hassle-free cleaning. Another option is rope toys. They can be thrown into the washing machine and dried afterward. Lab pups are instinctive to chew on things, so choose appropriate toys. It had a small hole in the surface. The toy got stuck in his throat, and thankfully, they could remove it before any serious harm. Interactive And Mental Stimulation Toys For Lab Puppies Labrador puppies need interactive and mental stimulation toys to keep them entertained and engaged. But the best part? It is made from durable materials and is a safe puppy toy. Not only will your growing puppy be entertained, but also improve their cognitive abilities! My own Lab puppy loves this toy — it has become his go-to whenever he wants some fun playtime. The Sensory Ball Toy is a popular toy used for sensory stimulation. This interactive toy keeps your puppy interested with different textures, colors, scents and tastes. This ball promotes physical activity while improving mental health. Its chew-resistant design and high-quality materials can withstand even aggressive dog chews. Hol-ee Roller can also be used as a treat dispenser puzzle ball. It provides extra entertainment and mental fitness for your pup. This dog treats dispensing ball provides mental stimulation and rewards during playtime. This innovative toy is included in the 29 best interactive dog toys list. While providing a mix of mental stimulation and rewards, note that this may not be suitable for all puppies. The squeaky feature will keep your dog entertained and engaged as they figure out how to access it. Kong is world-renowned for its best dog toys, providing natural enrichment and play. One popular option among pet parents is filling Kong toys with peanut butter as a happy distraction for their dogs. This ball is made from a tough and flexible material, making it perfect for a game of dog soccer. Since balls are versatile, they also provide opportunities for fetching, gnawing, bouncing, pawing, and chasing fun! We have curated a list of the best puppy toys for Lab at weeks old, months old, and months old. Puppies at this age explore the world through their mouths and chew on anything they can access. Providing them with specific puppy toys that cater to their chewing instincts soothes their gums and provides mental stimulation. Safety is key during this stage, so avoid small parts or loose threads that may pose choking hazards. Encourage socialization through interactive ball play or gentle tug-of-war games with a teething toy. They may also start teething heavily during this time. Puzzle treat toys keeps them occupied and mentally stimulated while promoting healthy teeth growth. Sensory balls like the Chuckit! Ultra Ball or Hol-ee Roller can provide both physical exercise and mental stimulation. They add different shapes and textures to playtime. They may have a higher play drive and require many toys that can withstand rougher play sessions. Ropes are a great option. Interactive puzzle games will be highly beneficial as your Lab becomes more intelligent. During the month-old stage, continue supervising chew toy usage as adult teeth start replacing puppy ones between months old. FAQ on best puppy toys for labs What can 8-week-old puppies chew on? At 8 weeks old, puppies are teething and need safe chew toys to relieve discomfort. Soft rubber, nylon, and rope toys are good options for your chewing puppy. Avoid giving them anything that can break into small pieces and pose a choking hazard. What do Labradors like the most? Labradors are known for their love of food and play. They enjoy activities like retrieving, swimming, and playing fetch. They also love spending time with their humans and receiving attention and affection. At what age do Labrador puppies calm down? Labrador puppies can be high-energy and excitable, but they typically start to calm down around years. However, every dog is different; some may remain energetic well into their senior years. What toy should I give to my puppy? Choose something safe and durable that they can chew on and play with. Soft rubber puppy toys, chew bones, and puzzle and interactive dog toys are good options. What should I get my puppy to chew on? Puppies need safe and durable chew toys to satisfy their natural urge to chew. Look for soft rubber or nylon toys, specifically for teething puppies. How do you stimulate a Labrador puppy? Labrador puppies are intelligent and energetic. They need plenty of physical and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Activities like playing fetch, walking, and learning new tricks keep them engaged and stimulated. How do you entertain a lab puppy? Labrador puppies need plenty of physical and mental stimulation to stay entertained. Activities like playing fetch, walking, and learning new tricks can help keep them engaged and stimulated. Are Labs clingy dogs? Labradors are known for their friendly and sociable nature. They often form strong bonds with their humans. While they may enjoy spending time with their dog owners, they are generally not considered clingy dogs. With extensive research and personal experiences, Aritra has become a Labrador expert, offering a rich resource on the breed. The site serves as a comprehensive resource, offering a wealth of up-to-date information for Labrador owners and enthusiasts alike. What is a dog chew toy, and does your dog need one? When it comes to dogs, there are two distinct chewing personalities: 1. It takes a lot of chewing for a nibbler to destroy a toy. Destroyers — These destructive dogs aggressively bite and tear into their toys. They will sit and work the toy over and over until it finally breaks. A destroyer can crunch through most dog toys in under an hour. Destroyers are the most difficult dogs to find toys for. Their powerful jaws dish out serious damage. Many owners find themselves buying toy after toy, only to have their dog chew it to pieces in minutes — those costs soon add up! As you might have guessed, a chew toy is the ideal dog toy for destroyers. Typically made from rubber, chew toys are often more expensive than other dog toys. However, they make up for this by lasting considerably longer than toys that were not designed with destroyers in mind — saving you money in the long run. Another way chew toys save you money is on vet bills. Any dog toy that breaks into pieces poses a choking hazard to your dog. Even worse, if your dog eats any small bits, then that could lead to intestinal blockage. Buying the right chew toy is a balancing act. But a chew toy that is easy to destroy means playtime ends too quickly. It is for this reason that people who look for an indestructible chew toy are constantly disappointed. Too hard, and your dog will reject it, or worse, break a tooth. Too soft, and it will be easily torn into pieces. We have you covered — check out the best chew toys we reviewed later in this guide. But as you know, if your dog is an aggressive chewer, then a good chew toy is a must. Not only will it keep your tough pup entertained for hours at a time, but it also beats your dog chewing on your furniture! How to pick a safe chew toy for your dog Does your dog gnaw on his chew toy for hours at a time? Too much of a good thing can be harmful. And chewing is no exception, especially if your dog loves the following… Rawhide Bones Wood and sticks Many owners love these hard chew toys. And I can see why — they are incredibly long-lasting. The solid surface holds strong even when being crunched by sharp teeth and powerful jaws. In fact, these hard chews can give your pooch weeks or even months of chewing fun. Each year, dog dentists and vets see hundreds of cases of chipped, fractured, and broken teeth. The cause? These rock-solid chew toys. But problems with teeth are not the only issues brought on by gnawing on unsafe chew toys. Overly hard chew toys, like bones and antlers, can splinter. Thousands of destructive dogs aggressively chew on these products every day without issue. Will your dog be okay? So, what makes a safe chew toy for your dog? We asked four different veterinarians for their opinions… All agreed that the safest chew toys for dogs should have some give. Each had their own suggestion on how to determine if a chew toy is hard enough to be unsafe. Sara, our veterinary consultant, says that if you can tap your knee with it and it hurts, then the toy is too hard. Other veterinarians recommended the fingernail method. Interestingly, there was one chew toy that the veterinarians were divided on… Nylon bones. It is for this reason that we recommend you speak with your own veterinarian before choosing to give your pup a nylon bone. On the flip side, chew toys that are too soft can also be dangerous. Softer toys are easier to chew to pieces. In the heat of the moment, your dog could swallow a piece of the broken toy. If your pup is unlucky, this could cause an intestinal blockage or even choking to death! Finally, pay attention to the size of the chew toy. This will prevent your pooch from accidentally swallowing or choking during a chewing session. So erring on the side of caution, all our top picks in this review are soft enough that you can press into them with your fingernail. However, we include a nylon bone recommendation for those with super-aggressive chewers who want a harder option. For those of you who are looking for a toy made of wood, check out our review of wood chew toys for dogs. Remember: No matter what chew toy you pick, monitor play closely and remove it from your dog once it shows signs of wear. The best dog chew toys In our hunt for the best, we tested and reviewed over 80 different chew toys. It was a long journey, but we eventually narrowed them down to the 6 best chew toys for dogs. When it came to tough chew toys, one reigned king. In fact, this brand of chew toy won 4 out of the 6 categories — nothing else came close. The chew toys this company makes right here in America are nothing short of amazing. No other rubber chew toy lasted longer. While Goughnuts makes a range of different toys, such as a big rubber chew stick. However, we found their rubber rings to be the most durable. The round ring moves around as your dog gnaws and plays. This prevents your dog from chewing the same spot over and over — spreading out the wear. Hidden inside these rings is a red rubber core. This is a safety feature not found on any other chew toy we reviewed. To show you what this looks like, we cut one of the Goughnuts rings with a saw… There is no missing that bright red center. Even using a saw, it required a bit of muscle to cut through the ring — the rubber is impressively durable. Do you see red? Mail your broken chew toy back to Goughnuts along with a check for return postage , and they will send you a new one. The toughest chew toy and amazing customer service too? Standard — A heavy-duty chew toy. Depending on the size, it is available in multiple colors. And they float in water. These stronger chew toys can be identified by their all-black appearance marked with a single yellow dot. These do not float in water. After hundreds of hours of reviewing, I recommend starting with the standard Goughnuts chew toy instead. Especially if you are new to heavy-duty chew toys. Even without the extra carbon, these are already the toughest chew toys on the market. The reason I suggest this is that the 50 version is considerably harder and heavier. As I discussed earlier, many dogs prefer a chew toy with a good amount of give. The Goughnuts 50 range is hard enough that, unless your pup is a super-aggressive or powerful breed, he may reject the toy. If your dog does manage to gnaw his way through a standard Goughnuts chew toy, then upgrade. Fortunately, the Goughnuts guarantee allows you to swap up to the 50 version — all you need to do is pay the difference in price. It is also worth mentioning that new Goughnuts toys give off a noticeable rubber smell, kind of like a car tire. They are made of rubber, after all. Luckily, this smell soon faded to the point where my friend and I only noticed it if we held the chew toy under our noses. Perhaps my only complaint is that when shopping online, it can be difficult to tell the Goughnuts toys apart. Each size and version look very similar, and it can be easy to buy the wrong size for your pup. That is not a problem for you because we list the Goughnuts rings that are best for your pup according to size. Freezable and edible chews Chewing on objects is a normal part of growing up for puppies. Pups experience the world with their mouths, and get relief from teething by chewing. Here are some of our top choices when it comes to the best chew toys for puppies. Safety First Because your dog will be chewing on it, the best teething toys for puppies are durable and non-toxic. Inexpensive toys may be tempting for budget conscious folks, but cheaply-made pet toys can contain toxins like BPA or even lead in some cases! The poor durability of these cheaply made pet toys means they can result in pain for your pup. A few could even cause serious damage if your pup ingests pieces. Ideally those with lots of positive reviews from conscienscious puppy owners. And come to think of it, which brands are we referring to? Hard Chews Hard nylon toys like Nylabones give pups something to safely bite and tug on. This starter pack includes two of the best chew toys for teething puppies. A hard nubbed chew toy that rubs the gums to ease pain during teething, and softer bone for the youngest chewers. Keeping them entertained for a long time and helping them to chill out too. Rubber Kongs are considered the go-to chew toy by many dog lovers, but the standard sizes are likely too big for little puppy mouths. Fortunately they also do some great small puppy chews. The open center is perfect for holding treats like peanut butter and a couple hours in the freezer turns these into perfect frozen puppy teething toys. Puppy Kongs can take a good chewing, and stand up to even the most powerful puppy. It is also great for active play between pup and their owner. The Kong Goodie Bone is a perfect tug-of-war toy. It is made in the USA of nontoxic natural rubber. They are good for chewing sessions with our without treats. The super durable rubber holds up to puppies that already have some power to their bite. The tire shape is tons of fun for puppy to flip with his paws and mouth. Elk Antler Hard puppy toys can be great for teething puppies too. Probably the small or medium. It is a great, natural way to keep your chewy puppy happy. This makes the chewing and treating last longer. It is also soothing to teething gums in small puppies. This toy can be filled with kibble or treats to engage your pup in active play. They have plenty of places for grabbing hold, and can help to keep their teeth clean too. These fun toys are also great for games of tug. This set of four different ropes is perfect for teething pups. They are very hard and take pups a long time to chew through. Great for keeping busy jaws occupied! They are digestible and a good alternative to rawhide too. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. For example, a lab puppy will need toys to chew on - or rather, to destroy! Fortunately for you, we've put together a list of the top seven best chew toys that'll have your lab pup chewing their way through hours of enjoyment. Note: We're not saying this is the only list you could consult - in fact, it's just our opinion on the best options out there right now. And, if you're looking for a more general list of the top toys for lab puppies, then be sure to check out our Best Dog Toys listing. Kong Wobbler Cube Dog Toy 2. Chuckit balls 4. Nylabone Puppy Chew Toy 6. Dog Dental Chew Toy Bone 7. This toy is great for pups who like to chew on their toys without destroying them in seconds, as the soft and flexible design makes it easy for your lab to chew without doing any damage. However, keep in mind that if your pup really likes to tear up their toys, then the softer Nylabone Chew Toy may not be the best choice. This toy is better suited to pups who are still learning to chew, or who just want something they can play with and enjoy safely. This toy has a natural rubber bone design to help encourage your pup's chewing, while also giving them something to gnaw on while they play. The unique design makes this a great toy for your lab pup, as they can use it to chew while they play with their toys. Plus, the toy can be filled with treats or peanut butter if you want to give your pup something extra special to chew on! This toy is made to help increase your pup's oral health, which will make sure that their teeth are protected from infection and sickness. The unique design also allows you to choose how durable this toy is, making it easy for you to buy the perfect level of strength for your pup. And, the brand is known for making great products that dogs certainly can't destroy, which is a definite bonus for pups who are still learning to chew. The unique design is great for pups who like to be left alone with a toy and a snack, as the opening means that you can fill it up with treats for your pup to enjoy. The soft material makes it easy for your lab to play with, and there are also no small parts that could get caught in their mouths. This makes this toy a great choice for any pup looking to enjoy an afternoon with some snacks and fun playtime! This ball is precisely designed to be easy for small dogs to pick up and throw around - even pups who are young puppies. This makes it a great toy for interactive playtimes with your lab pup, who will enjoy playing with their ball and fetching it back over and over again. If your lab puppy likes to chase, then they'll certainly love this toy! And, the unique design helps them to play on land or in water, meaning you can take the ball wherever you want - whether you're on a vacation or an energetic morning jog. This toy is specifically designed to help dogs with sore teeth, which can be incredibly painful for your pup. The unique design means that your lab can chew on this toy without getting its teeth caught on anything it shouldn't have - making it a great choice for any dog who's just beginning to teethe. The soft and flexible material used in this toy makes it a perfect choice for any doggy playtime, as well - especially if your pup has a ton of energy! This piece of chewing equipment has a soft, flexible body design that's perfect for your puppy to chew on and dig into. The unique design is not only safe for your pup to play with, but it also helps to keep its teeth healthy and clean. This toy is also dishwasher-safe, making it easy to clean after your pup has chewed on it for a few days straight. And, the entire thing can be easily frozen to make the Kong Wobbler an even more exciting plaything for your lab. A great choice for all doggy playtimes. The Bottom Line Hopefully, one of these top 7 best chew toys for labs has found a place in your pup's daily routine and has made it into their daily toy rotation. But, if your pup is more destructive than average, then you may want to take a look at our list of the best chew toys for puppies as well. Either way, we're sure that you'll find something to suit your doggy's needs. And, if your pup is still too young to chew on toys, then don't worry! It is not a luxury. A tough chew toy for your Labrador is essential. The chew toy is important because it will provide comfort in times of anxiety, help curb certain problem behaviors, and fight boredom which will help curb behavior problems. When Looking for a Long-Lasting Chew Toy The most important thing you need to consider when you are looking for an indestructible chew toy is the safety of your dog. Chew—Chew—Chew Here are some of the considerations that you will need to keep in mind when looking for the perfect chew toy: Proper size—toys that are too small can be swallowed Where will your dog play with the chew toy? We were on a trip and I did not want him to get bored on the way. So, I gave him the rawhide to chew while we were in the car. He was in the back and by the time we got to where we were going, my dog had choked to death. I know they put the choking hazard warning on the rawhide packages, but I always thought it was one of those things that would probably never happen. Boy, was I wrong. It was a terrible way to start a Thanksgiving vacation. I have never forgotten it, and I have never purchased rawhide chew treats since that day. Like most marketing ploys, you cannot take their claims at face value. The best advice to ask other people what kind of chew toys they prefer with their Lab. Avoid These Chew Toys at all Costs! The danger of choking increases anytime a toy that is big enough for your dog goes up as soon as they start tearing pieces off. Stuffed toys are more than a huge mess waiting to happen. Never buy one of these types of toys for your Lab. Chances are, that your dog will have the toy reduced to a pile of dirt and stuffing before you can make amends. You should also avoid toys made of vinyl, leather, or latex. Each of these materials will shred under the voracious chewing of a determined Lab. The dangers become even more serious when the toy comes with a squeaker inside. Most Labs will find the squeaker and destroy the toy in the process. The squeaker then becomes a drop of rain or a flash in the pan. Flossy-Fibrous Rope Chew Toys for Labradors Close up of a cute yellow labrador puppy playing with a green tennis ball in the grass outdoors. The additional benefit of dental hygiene is one of the reasons why I put these kinds of toys at the top of my list. I think this is bad dog behavior in any situation and try to discourage everyone I know from it. So, here goes my plug. The Cotton threads are washable—which is important because dog toys tend to get stinky and dirty when you mix dog slobber and dirt. Hard Plastic Chew Toys are a Close Second After the rope toys, there is no such thing as a truly indestructible, everlasting chew toy for your Labrador. There are, however, some toys that will last a few months rather than a few moments. These will not last the life of your dog, but you buddy will get some good use before you have to buy another one. Most of these toys come in unique shapes and sizes. This gives your dog the thrill of the chase when you play catch. The extremely durable rubber is designed to last longer with determined chewers like Labrador Retrievers. If your dog is engaged with something like the Kong Extreme toy, he will not be chewing up your favorite boots! The only reservation I have with these toys is the possibility of a piece tearing off and becoming a choking hazard for your dog. Make sure you quickly check the condition of the toy at the beginning and the end of each play session. If you see any evidence that the integrity of the toy is spoiled and pieces could start coming off, discard the toy. Antlers as a Chew Toy Option I am seeing more of these toys on the shelves and I know my dog loves them. I let her chew on two deer sheds that I found on a walk through the woods near our house. The antler chew toys lasted her longer than typical toys that claimed indestructibility. I include the new brands of horn chews treats in this category as well. Although they are meant to be treats, they seem to last a long time. In fact, I was initially worried about the calories in these treats, but I realized that the intake was going to be spread over several days or even a week or longer. However, I have one concern with the antler option for chew toys because I recently decided to see if I can get Lady ready to retrieve sheds next season. It will shake up our training regimen this winter. I am worried that letting her chew on them might encourage her to treat antlers like chew toys up in the mountains. I am doing a little more research on this topic. And the Winners are…. Some say that this is the most durable of all dog chew toys. In fact, if you are constantly surprised by how fast your dog destroys your stuff—it will shock you how long this toy will stick around. This toy is a favorite of the police, drug enforcement, and military K-9 trainers. Now that is a pretty good endorsement of toughness! AKC trainers are also found of this toy because of its durability. Like the Wobbler see 5 , you can stuff this toy with treats. Your dog will be mentally challenged with the effort to shake out more goodies. You will be fighting boredom and hunger at the same time. This toy can be used to help a young dog that is suffering from some separation anxiety. Because it is made of rubber, it is very bouncy. This makes it great for an interactive playtime toy to interact with your puppy or grown dog. The shape of the KONG Extreme will provide unexpected bounces that will keep your dog chasing it all afternoon. This ring is made of solid rubber. The Goughnuts chew ring is a little more expensive than any of the other chew toys I have recommended here but is an extremely durable and well-made piece of doggy playtime. If you want a little extra durability, consider the MAXX .This definitely gets on the list for one of the best chew toys for Labradors. This way he will grab the ring at a different place every time and thus extend the life of the chew toy overall. If you notice any red while examining the ring, you know that it is damaged and should be replaced. You already know that the rope is going to act like a daily floss for your puppy. Any quality rope chew toy makes playtime healthy time. If your little puppy is experiencing a sore mouth because she is teething, soak the rope part of this toy in cool water to offer a little relief. Her favorite chew toy just became her favorite ice pack. In addition to the rope, this toy comes with a section of a water buffalo horn. These are grass-fed animals and the horns have no preservative or additional chemical gunk. Chewing on this bone will provide additional minerals that your puppy needs. You fill it with the doggy kibble of your choice and then let your Lab go to town trying to get his favorite snacks out. It is bigger than the typical KONG products, but it is still made from the same incredible rubber as the rest of their dog toys. Your Lab will love this toy. The tails are great for playing catch. The nylon covering makes it easy to clean when it gets dirty and nasty. The crazy shape of the head will get this goofy looking toy bouncing all over your yard. Your dog will love the action and he will go crazy in delight chasing this thing all over. It is a great fetch toy. My reservations about this toy must do with the fact that it has a squeaker and could entice your Lab to aggressively chew even more intensely to get to the noise maker. This one is no different. The knot on this toy is about the size of a fist. I also mentioned that I am not in favor of every playing tug-a-war with dogs. Consistency is an important part of training a dog. I mention this because the shape of the rope will lend itself to tugging back and forth. They really hold up in the face of consistent chewing. The Goodie Bone is just as tough and resilient as any of the other things we have reviewed from this company. It may be a little too big for your younger puppies to carry around, but even the little guys will love chewing on this toy. You can stuff KONG treats at either end of the bone. Some people have said that this bone lasted them over two years. The colors will stand out in about any situation unless you throw it into a pile of leaves. That way you will be less likely to lose it. This will help with tartar buildup and bad doggy breath. Although this will not last as long as some of the other toys I have listed here, the dental benefit makes this a great chew toy for Labradors. The Stuff-A-Ball comes in various sizes. If you are looking for a chew toy for Labrador Retrievers, make sure you get large or x-large. Make sure you check this ball regularly for cracks or other evidence that it might be breaking down. I am a fan of this because of the rope. Labs love packing their toys around in their mouth. This toy will give them hours of fun.

However a small white marking on the chest is also permitted by the AKC. What is Brindle Coloring? Brindle is actually a type of pattern that can be seen on Labradors. In fact, it can even be seen on rodents and horses. Brindle pattern appears as irregular dark brown or black stripes and flecks over a brown background. This is when brindling is so extreme that it seems like the shades have reversed. Dogs with reverse brindles look as if they have lighter stripes over a dark base of fur. Not all brindle dogs have this pattern all over. You might find Labs with slight brindling on parts of their bodies, and solid color fur elsewhere. Brindle Lab Genetics So, how does such an interesting pattern occur in dogs? For this pattern, we need to look at the K locus. There are 3 alleles that interact at this locus. These are K or Kb dominant black , Kbr brindle , and k non-solid black. K is dominant to Kbr, but Kbr is dominant to k. If a Lab has either of the combinations above, any phaeomelanin in his coat red pigment will be brindled. But the appearance of this depends on certain genes at the A locus. If you want to show your Lab, you will have to avoid the brindle pattern. AKC only accepts the three standard colors: black, yellow, and liver. The only marking that is acceptable on Labs is a small white marking on the chest. This is only really a problem if you want to show your Lab at AKC shows. As long as they have been bred responsibly from healthy parents, they will be as healthy as any other Lab. For a closer look at Labrador health, you can check out our breed guide. But at a glance, here are some health conditions to know about before you bring home a brindle Lab. This week, I come to you with some useful less information about Brindle Labs- something I only recently discovered exists. How did I come by this information? I know, I know. Santa Hat. The smile on that pups face. Are you melting?? Now focus a little closer and look at the paws on these pups. Black lab in the face, something else on the paws. Yes, I know the next question- and yes, they are pure bred Labrador Retrievers. The Labrador Retriever, according to the American Kennel Club is ranked 1 in popularity out of breeds. They are sporty, friendly, social, and most commonly referred to as the top of the line when it comes to family pets. With their amazingly soft ears and what looks like a never ending smile — how can you not like them? Any other color or a combination of colors is a disqualification. A small white spot on the chest is permissible, but not desirable. White hairs from aging or scarring are not to be misinterpreted as brindling. Black- Blacks are all black. A black with brindle markings or a black with tan markings is a disqualification. Yellow- Yellows may range in color from fox-red to light cream, with variations in shading on the ears, back, and underparts of the dog. Chocolate- Chocolates can vary in shade from light to dark chocolate. Chocolate with brindle or tan markings is a disqualification. If only the 3 colors are permissible, then what is a brindle lab? To answer this question, let us first lets looks at what makes Lab coloring. Unlike what you might think, Lab coloration is not based on just one gene. It is actually the result of two different genes, one coding for Black and Chocolate and a separate gene coding for yellow. These are referred to as the B gene and the E gene. Before your eyes glaze over like my husbands did , here is a visual graphic to help bring home the basics. The basics of this image shows that if the dog has at least 1 B and no ee, it will always be black. If the dog has ee, regardless of the B gene, it will always be yellow. And if the dog has bb two copies of the recessive b it will be chocolate unless in the presence of ee. This is why chocolate is the least common, due to the fact that it cannot have a B or ee in order to show this trait. Black is most common, because all the dog needs is 1 B and at least 1 E and it is black. Though the presence of two recessive ee will beat out any combo and make the lab yellow. So what is brindle? Brindle is defined as : a brownish or tawny color of animal fur, with streaks of other color. It is fairly common in breeds, such as Boxers, but incredibly rare in pure bred Labs. My first example of this cool coloration comes from our newest addition to the family, Rosalee a. My little girl was 1 of 3 brindle labs to come out of her litter. Check out her beautiful brindle coloration, she has slightly more golden colored fur on her left paw. So are brindle labs pure bred? The simple answer is YES. Although, even our vet had assumed that there must be a mix of something in there. Most people, like me, have never seen a pure bred brindle Lab. When you see a pure bred Labrador Retriever, most think of solid coloration. The mixed color of a brindle can often be confusing. But lets take a look at our girls parents: Mom, is a pure-bred black Lab left image and Dad is pure-bred yellow Lab right picture These two have mated before. Their previous litter consisted of 8 pups: 4 black, 3 yellow, and one chocolate. Looking at that in genetic terms, we know that Dad has the ee gene making him yellow, but also that he must carry at least 1 b gene. Mom must carry at least 1 e gene, to make yellow pups, and 1 b gene creating the 1 chocolate pup. So what gene is responsible for that? This is actually due to another gene, not the standard B and E genes that we think about when predicting lab coat color. What we have learned is that this gene is actually at the K locus. For most labs their K gene is dominant, which is why we note most labs as solid colors. In the case of brindle labs, they have the recessive version of the K gene, known as kbr. These genes are so rare to show up in the litter because the K is completely dominant over the kbr. Meaning that the only way for brindle to show is if both parents donate a recessive, meaning the pup has a kbr from both parents. As you can tell, this makes it very hard for any breeder to know the likelihood of brindle pups. Has this gene always been a part of pure-bred Labs? Again, the simple answer is yes. The majority of Labs in the beginning were black, with yellow being the less frequent color. According to vetgen. They have always been there, simply at a very low frequency. Making it a little confusing why they do not recognize it as they did when the chocolate coloration came about, since it is just a matter of recessive genes being passed down. Are brindle labs desirable? Obviously this is a matter of preference. Some breeders may use the uniqueness of the coat color to charge more for dogs like this. It could even be something that they breed for if demand for unique Labs is up. I had never heard of brindle before picking out my Rosie. We were planning on getting a yellow until my kids saw pups with brown feet and they were in love. For us, we thought they were so different and embraced that. The AKC does not permit brindle coloration, making me believe the majority of breeders do not prefer this in their litters. Many might even give a discount for pups that do not come out with solid coloration and cannot be pedigree dogs. I guess it is all comes down to a matter of preference. Do you have a brindle Lab? Leave a pic in the comments of your brindle, tan point, or unique colored pooch. Share this:. Sep 30, Jun 2, This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Have you ever seen a Brindle Labrador Retriever? As far as I know I have not seen one in person. Just about everyone has heard of the Labrador Retriever breed. However, have you heard of or ever seen the other Labrador Retriever coat colors? The coloring is very similar to a Rottweiler or a Doberman Pinscher. If you want to see a picture of Egan take a look at the article on Black and Tan Labrador Retrievers. Brindle Labrador Retriever The second unusual color variation in the Labrador coat color is brindle. As I mentioned in my previous article the brindle coloring is seen less often. Labs with brindling have tan speckling on their forelegs, muzzles, and chest. Here at Puppy In Training we were lucky enough to receive some pictures from one of our readers who has a couple brindle Labrador Retrievers. Each leg has a different pattern. Her inner thighs have yellow hair as does her butt area. At 8 months I began training her to hunt pheasant, quail and chukar. Often times she will hold a strong point and I have hunted her with some professionals and she holds her own. At nearly six months she swims like a fish and retrieves very well. Raising a guide dog requires a specific training program as we prepare our puppies to lead their blind handlers in many different places and situations. One thing that caught my interest after reading the short snippet about Maia and Tora the Brindle labs is that they are being trained as hunting dogs. I would be interested to see exactly what kind of training a hunting dog goes through. What do you think of these Purebred Brindle Labrador Retrievers?

Jumping You probably noticed that all of the things above are unwanted behaviors. This can lead to heart problems, joint problems, and other potential health problems. These following suggestions for exercising your pup will cover both mental and physical exercises. Play tug with your golden Another good game to play with your pup is tug. This is also a great opportunity to work in some training, as you can teach your golden to drop it , take it, and even have them do sits or downs to resume the game. Play chase This is a great game to play, especially with puppies, since most puppies love nothing more than to chase or be chased. Get your dog hooked on chew toys Teaching your dog to love to chew on chew toys is one of the best things you can do for your puppy. Chewing releases feel-good endorphins and channels their chewing energy into an appropriate toy, instead of something in appropriate, like your household items. It can also help them relax, and put overtired puppies to sleep. Play with a flirt pole Using a flirt pole is great for young puppies because it allows them to chase and pounce a toy while you stay a safe distance away from their razor-sharp teeth. Oliver loves it, plus it takes a ton of mental energy to figure out how to get all of his kibble out of it. Other puzzle toys include the Kong Wobbler , snuffle mats , and food balls. This is a win-win since he loves the puzzle toys and it takes more energy to work for his food than to just gobble it up from a food bowl. Play hide and seek This is a great game that combines training and a little bit of exercise, but it does require that your golden knows how to stay. Just be sure to fully dry them off because goldens are susceptible to hot spots. Take your golden to doggy daycare After a day of daycare, Oliver is usually wiped out for the night, as well as half of the next day. Set up a doggy playdate If you have any friends that have nice dogs, or if you meet anyone in a local Facebook group, try to set up a doggy playdate. Your golden will love it! This is especially good for young puppies, since they need to be socialized with other dogs and you can make sure the other dog is up to date on their vaccines. Conclusion Since golden retrievers were bred to hunt out in the fields and marshes all day, they need a lot of exercise. How much exercise does your golden need per day? Have any questions about exercising your golden retriever? Let me know in the comments below. Related articles:. By Tom Massey Apr 22, Most pet lovers know how vital exercise can be for their furry friends. Establishing a reliable exercise routine also deters dogs from destroying your house during a burst of high energy. Our Golden Retriever pals are renowned for their happy-go-lucky personality — these dogs are young at heart long after growing from the puppy stage. No matter how much you love your dog, nobody likes to find chew marks on their prized possessions. Dogs who receive too little exercise will have a round physique. But they are also likely to exhibit these unwanted behaviors. This article will review everything you need to consider when creating an exercise routine for your Golden Retriever. Very young Golden puppies only need a few minutes of exercise a day, although the length of time increases with each month of age. Our growing companions do not realize how delicate they are within their first year of life. Growth plates help cartilage grow into bone as puppies mature. However, they are very sensitive and can damage easily. In the meantime, this means your Golden Retriever pup should avoid activities that have a high potential for growth plate injuries. Here are some activities that could hurt puppies who are still growing: Jumping from too high off the ground Twisting too fast Consistent repetition of the same activity Extended periods of high energy play Injuries to growth plates can hinder bone growth and, in extreme cases, cause uneven limbs when your pup grows up. Unfortunately, Golden Retrievers are a breed at risk for developing hip dysplasia. This disorder can start as early as four months old but typically occurs as a dog ages. Obesity, excessive exercise, and too little exercise can cause hip dysplasia in dogs. This is why finding the perfect amount of activity for your dog is crucial to maintaining health throughout his life. In the first few months of life, your pup will be curious to explore the world around them. Most of the exercises for young dogs focus on socialization and behavior training. Learning these tools will ensure your dog is friendly, obedient, and ready for higher-level exercise routines later in life. Typically, a Golden Retriever puppy should have 5 minutes of exercise for every month of age. At 9 to 12 weeks of age , a Golden Retriever puppy will begin integrating into your family. Socialization during this age is crucial, so their primary source of exercise should be playing with you and other members of your household. This includes any other dogs or pets you have in the home. But remember to keep a close eye on your furry friends as they learn to interact with each other. At 13 to 16 weeks, your Golden Retriever will start teething. Playing with chew toys will be a great opportunity for your puppy to learn what they can and cannot munch on. You might see some challenging behaviors arise around 16 to 24 weeks of age. An exercise playpen with lots of toys, food, and drink is an excellent idea to keep the pup entertained while also keeping them out of trouble. From 6 to 12 months, a Golden Retriever puppy will have lots of energy, and an exercise routine that includes physical and mental exercise will be essential. At Snowy Pines, for example, our customer communications specialist Julia reaches out to families at 2 days, 1 week, and around the day mark after homecoming to answer any questions about training or your puppy in general. The world is a big place for little pups, and they need relaxation after stimulating activities. Over years ago, Golden Retrievers were bred to be high-energy hunting companions. Enough exercise will also minimize the chances that your Golden will engage in destructive behaviors around the home. Also, Golden Retrievers also love to eat, so exercise will be important to prevent weight gain. A healthy adult Golden Retriever should receive 40 to minutes of exercise per day, broken up into two sessions. And because Goldens are easy to please, they will be content with a wide range of different activities. This breed loves going on nice, long walks through nature. Walking is a great low-impact exercise for dogs and their owners. Try to go out for about an hour when walking to give your dog and you! You can also visit a fenced dog park for a game of fetch. Golden Retrievers also love mental stimulation, which keeps their mind active. A good mix between high stimulation, low impact, and intellectual exercises will keep your beloved pet physically and mentally healthy. If you see your Golden Retriever sitting or lying down during their daily walk or exercise routine, your dog is tired and needs to relax. If your adult dog is overweight and needs a lot of exercise, try gradually increasing their exercise time by five minutes every day or two to increase their stamina. In addition, dogs who receive infrequent exercise will exhibit some undesirable behaviors. Without proper daily exercise, Golden Retrievers can become socially withdrawn, destructive, or hyperactive. If you have difficulty meeting their exercise needs, consider hiring a dog sitter or investing in interactive toys. This is an entirely normal activity and provides an excellent opportunity for playtime. Special Considerations for Senior Golden Retrievers Our precious pets have a shorter lifespan than humans. Golden Retrievers are classified as seniors when they reach eight years of age. As Golden Retrievers age, you may see their energy levels decrease. This is normal — much like older adult humans, senior Golden Retrievers tire easily. When high-energy tasks like long-distance running and playing fetch become hard, walking and mentally stimulating exercises are great ways to keep senior dogs healthy and active. But always remember to watch for signs that your pet needs rest. If your senior Golden takes a long time to get up while on a walk, this signals that they are tired. Consider taking them home instead of continuing the exercise. If you notice your senior dog is frequently extra lethargic, you may want to visit a veterinarian. Remember, as dogs age, they can become susceptible to hip dysplasia from too much or too little exercise. Golden Retrievers were bred to be hunting companions — needless to say, they love being in nature. Long walks where they can stop and sniff their environment will mentally and physically stimulate your Golden. In addition, early Golden Retrievers were bred to be natural swimmers, so dock diving is a great physical exercise. Dock diving is the game of fetch with the addition of water: your dog runs after the object, swims to fetch it, and returns the object to you. Swimming is a wonderful activity, especially for senior Goldens who may be experiencing the aches and pains of old age. This activity is easier on their joints but still gives them an appropriate amount of movement. Most dogs love playing fetch or catching frisbees, and Golden Retrievers are no different. This is a great activity for children who want to participate in playtime with the family pet. Golden Retrievers are well-known for their obedience during agility courses. Creating an obstacle course where your dog can practice different exercises like running and jumping will keep your furry pal entertained for a long time. If your dog is trained to walk safely and will stay to one side of your body, you can introduce running. However, remember to start slowly. Activities like hide and seek with treats , puzzle toys, and trick training are great brain exercises to get your dog thinking. As a reminder, dogs can never have too much positive reinforcement for their good behaviors. Conclusion Golden Retrievers are an energetic dog breed that loves playtime and requires lots of exercise to keep them from exhibiting unwanted behaviors. However, you should always watch for signals that your dog is tired or overworked. This is especially true for puppies who could damage their growth plates with too much exercise, as well as senior Goldens, who may need to scale back their normal 40 to minutes a day. We all want our fluffy companions to live long and healthy lives. By establishing regular exercise into their daily routine, you can help keep your Golden Retriever physically and mentally fit. At Snowy Pines, we start teaching our puppies lifestyle skills from a young age. Contact us today to learn about our available English Cream Golden Retriever puppies! Share on. Read the full disclosure here. All dogs need exercise to live a fit, healthy and fulfilling life. No matter the breed, no matter how large or small, no matter their age, they all need exercise. But some need more than others. So what are the Golden Retriever exercise requirements? Golden Retrievers Are A High Energy Sporting Breed As the name suggests, the Golden Retriever is a sporting breed initially created to retrieve fallen game for hunters in the Scottish highlands in the 19th century. Retrieving in the Scottish Highlands, with its mountainous landscape pot-holed with ponds, lakes and streams is very physically demanding work. So when they set out to create the Goldens, they had to be a high energy, sturdy breed with lots of stamina and an affinity for water. They needed a dog that could travel large distances, hiking and swimming in rough terrain for the best part of a full day. And with this breed, this is exactly what they got. They need physical activity. They become very destructive , chewing , digging, and running around your home and garden like little tornadoes. Too full of pent-up energy to be able to concentrate and behave themselves well and some will even try to escape their home and garden at every opportunity. Only now, all that food will just turn into fat and lead to poor health and weight issues. Yes, Golden Retrievers are very prone to obesity. Usually a combination of their owners doing two things: Giving in too often to those expertly crafted begging routines. Not giving their pooch anywhere near a sufficient level of exercise. Excess weight leads to a variety of problems such as heart disease, increased risk of diabetes, high blood pressure and damage to their hip and elbow joints. Keeping your Golden at a healthy weight is the responsibility of any caring owner. This rule basically states: A puppy needs no more than 5 minutes of exercise for each month it has been alive. So a 3-month-old puppy needs only 15 minutes exercise per day, a 5-month-old needs 25 minutes. This exercise is a proper, structured exercise. Meaning brisk walking on leash, gentle games of fetch. Puppies are growing fast and their bones and joints can be easily damaged by over-exercising. Follow the 5 minute rule and encourage very little jumping or vigorous exercise! Continue the 5 minute rule until your golden is nearing one year old. As a general rule to follow, a healthy adult Golden retriever exercise needs consist of a good hour of exercise every day. But the genetics of your dog could mean you need to increase or decrease this. Those retrievers from a working field line will be more energetic and have higher exercise needs, perhaps as much as 2 hours per day. Whereas those from show lines could get by on 45 minutes. But all Goldens need regular exercise, at least twice per day or they will become bored and probably destructive. Try to provide different forms of exercise such as hiking, running, swimming, playing fetch…you need to stimulate their minds as well as their hearts and muscles. They will take every bit of physical activity you throw at them and then be able to do much more. You will tire yourself out long before you can tire them! Some Golden retrievers suffer arthritis and other joint pains as they age. If this is the case with your dog, please speak to your vet and follow their advice. With some ailments exercise can make things worse and you do not want that for your dog. Like humans, dogs are individuals and age differently. Just be mindful of not asking too much of your elderly dog. They can still enjoy walking long distances and swimming, just avoid jumping hedges and chasing balls for an hour straight. Believe me, you will know! In all cases, if your Golden has behavioral problems and seems highly strung and out of control, the first thing you should do is have them checked by a vet for health issues. And if they receive a clean bill of health then the simplest of cures for a better behaved dog is to exercise them more. Try it for a few days, you just may be surprised at the results: An exercised Golden is a calm and happy Golden! Conclusion Golden Retrievers are a high energy sporting breed and require a lot of exercise. A lack of it can lead to a variety of health problems, hyperactivity and behavioral problems! So for a healthy and happy dog…and owner…provide your beloved puppy with just as much physical activity as they need and deserve! Jogging alongside you, running along as you cycle, going for long hikes , the occasional swim and sessions of playing fetch all qualify as good Golden Retriever training. You will stay fit and active and happy together. You May Also Like. Sep 13, Sep 20, This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Our goldens are such high-energy dogs. In order to stay mentally and physically healthy, they require exercise. They need more exercise than many dogs. Of course, the amount and type of exercise will vary based on their age, genetics, health, and overall health and fitness. He may become destructive or he may gain weight. So, to keep him healthy and happy, he should be well-exercised. Even adult goldens may chew the wrong items like your furniture and dig in your garden when under-exercised. Or they may bark excessively, jump on counters or people even when trained not to, or be mouthy. Also, he may gain too much weight. This can lead to heart disease, risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, and damage to hips and elbows. A dog who receives enough exercise has toned muscles. Exercise also keeps his body and metabolic system functioning properly and engages his mind. Of course, puppies, adult goldens, and seniors will require various amounts and types of exercise. But generally golden retrievers, being sporting dogs meant to work, need more exercise than many breeds. Genetics enter into the equation. This can also help you determine what type of exercises to include in his regimen. So a three-month-old puppy should receive no more than 15 minutes of exercise up to two times a day. And break up the time he plays. For example, have a short minute walk and, after a break, a three-minute fetch session. Then, after another break, a two-minute training session. Vary the activities. Doing all these activities will not only help your pup exercise, but it will also help further your bond. My rescued golden retriever Riley came to me when he was about six months old. To say that he was energetic would be an understatement. He would jump on us, be mouthy, and generally destructive when he arrived. Of course, he needed training. But I also had to meet his exercise needs so that we could have a great relationship. So I took him on long walks, played fetch with his Kong ball, played tug and release, and played with puzzle toys. He also played with my other dogs. And he went to daycare two or three days or half-days per week. Between mental and physical exercise, he became the great dog he was meant to be. He enjoys life, loves everyone, and is very well-behaved wherever he goes. But he was worth it. Of course a young adult or one from hunting lines may need more. They may even need an hour-and-a-half or two hours per day. Just like us, goldens are individuals. But others may still be very active at 10 years old. Of course, some goldens are still very active at that age and beyond. But how much and the type of exercise they should engage in depends on their general health. The same is true of goldens with disabilities. They still require a sufficient amount of exercise according to their needs. Types of Exercise for Your Golden Of course both physical and mental exercise are required to have a healthy dog. There are many choices that will help your dog be fit and happy. Always monitor your dog to see if he seems too tired or appears to be injured. Stop and seek veterinary advice. Start out slowly and add time over many sessions as your pup can handle it. Vary the exercises. Some can be performed inside as well as outside. So even on a rainy day, you can sufficiently exercise your dog and meet his needs. Walking or Running Of course, you should first teach your dog to walk on a loose leash before exercising him on a leash. Walks at a natural pace are best for most goldens. Start with short walks, increasing them over time. Avoid walks on the hottest or coldest part of the day. Always walk on safe footing and avoid slippery or sharp surfaces. Of course, running is another matter. The pounding may be too much. Running on soft running paths or level grass can be alright for some dogs. Of course, a full vet checkup should occur before starting any running program with your beloved golden retriever. Some people jog with a dog. Others may skate or ride a bike with their golden alongside. Of course, some dogs enjoy hiking with their people. There are many sights and smells for a dog to enjoy. Play Groups Your puppy or dog can also get a lot of varied exercise playing with appropriate dog playmates. Dogs romp and wrestle together. You can set up your own or join in to well-run dog playgroups or even dog daycares. Playing With Your Dog You can play fetch with your dog if he knows how to retrieve and give up the toy on cue. He may even fetch a favorite ball. Or play tug with a toy like a rope or fleece toy if your dog will take it and release it on cue. The options are limitless. You can play hide and seek with your golden while inside. You can heel with him, have him come on cue, or teach him to wave! Mentally Stimulating Toys There are many activity toys you can buy or you can make your own. Some are puzzle toys where your golden seeks out kibble or treats. Or treat-dispensing balls. If you or a friend has a swimming pool, you can teach your dog to swim. They make life vests for safety. Start him in shallow water and build from there, with you accompanying him. Always make sure that he knows where the steps are and how to get out of the water. My golden Spencer used to like to swim in the bay when we vacationed at the shore. He was a great swimmer, but he wore a doggy life vest and I had him on a long-line for safety. There are also dog facilities like boarding and daycares and vet hospitals that have facilities where your pup may swim. Swimming provides a great cardio workout as well as being easier on joints than many land exercises. This can be good for dogs with joint problems and arthritis. In fact, aqua therapy is often used for dogs who need physical rehabilitation from injuries or surgery. The following suggestions can be performed in competitions or just for fun and exercise. You can even join a dog training club or take courses to learn how to perform these activities. There are so many choices, including: Lure coursing, where a dog chases after a plastic bag attached to a lure that whizzes by on a specially designed course. Sight hounds often participate in this sport. Scent work, in which a dog finds something by scent. Agility, where a dog learns to run a designated course with tunnels, weave poles, dog walks, and teeter totters. Flyball, where a dog learns to jump over a course of jumps and retrieve a ball. Rally obedience, in which you train your dog to walk through a course accompanied by you. He performs certain tasks at each sign on the ground that you encounter. He may have to sit and lie down and perform other obedience exercises throughout the course. Dock diving is a sport in which goldens and labs excel—usually being water-loving dogs. He stays on the dock, awaiting your command. He then runs along the dock and flings his body into the water to retrieve the toy. In competition, the goal is to have the longest jump possible. You should be able to feel his ribs without seeing them. Some occasional zoomies are natural. And he should also be able to listen and pay attention to you and to perform known commands, Too much exercise can be as bad as not enough. Final Thoughts Just like us, goldens need physical and mental exercise to remain healthy. It will also further the bond with your four-legged best friend. How much exercise does your golden receive? What activities have you tried? Please leave your comments in the 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. Debbie has been training dogs for over 24 years and has nationally ranked obedience and rally dogs, agility dogs, trick dogs, and therapy dogs. Post navigation. Excessive ball throwing and catching. Fast-paced walks. Walking on hot days. Running a puppy alongside a bike. Dogs and puppies should not be exercised immediately before or after eating, as this can cause problems such as bloating. How to Exercise A Golden Retriever Puppy Providing puppies with the opportunity to exercise is a very important aspect of their healthy life. Not only does exercise have multiple health benefits, but it also gives them a good opportunity to socialize and bond with their owner. Check the temperature outside to avoid overheating. Make sure they wear a proper collar and tag. Make sure they are comfortable with their collar and leash. During Eeercise One way to help your puppy get exercise is by having them on a leash with you and following these tips: Walk at a normal pace. Stop to rest if your puppy keeps sitting down and continue when they get back up. Avoid over-exercising. You can also allow your puppy to exercise without a leash. Allow your pet to run freely in a safe environment, such as a backyard or designated dog park. Having them off the leash is a good way for them to regulate their own pace and exercise they want but do watch for: Watch out for signs of fatigue, including panting, slowing their pace, and lagging behind you. Watch for overheating signs such as excessive panting, drooling, vomiting or agitation. Keep your puppy hydrated. Signs that your dog is overheating and what you can do to help After exercise After your puppy has finished his exercise, make sure to offer them plenty of fresh, clean water and allow them to rest. After they have calmed down and rested, you can offer them a healthy treat or feed them. Exercise For Your Puppy In addition to giving your puppy short, daily walks, here are some other options of exercise that your pup will enjoy. Swimming Swimming is a great exercise for all dogs as it helps strengthen and tone muscles. Get your puppy familiar with water first after they are 3 months old. Fetch Golden Retrievers are meant for retrieving, so a good game of fetch will come naturally to them. Just make sure to watch for any signs of tiring. Dog toys that move There is a wide variety of interactive toys for puppies that are highly stimulating and can help with exercise. Play with other dogs Having your puppy be around other dogs is a good way to give them an exercise buddy while they work on important social skills. Whist Golden Retrievers instinctively know how to retrieve, they need to be trained from a very young age to catch. Signs Your Puppy is Getting Too Much Exercise Exercise keeps joints limber, promotes good range of motion, maintains muscle mass, and can help prevent injury. But too much of it can actually cause injury. Watch out for signs of over-exercise like sore muscles, behavioral changes, and joint injury. Sore Muscles Sore muscles are a sign that your pup is getting too much exercise. Refusing or struggling to go up and down the stairs. Refusing to eat because it hurts to lower down. If you notice signs of soreness, give them time to rest and lower the amount of exercise they are getting. Continuing to exercise, at this point, can lead to injury. Behavioral changes If your puppy usually enjoys going for walks with you but starts to shy away from walking or whimpers when you begin the walk, this is showing you that something is not right. Inconsistent conditioning can lead to changes in behavior as well as injury. If there is a joint injury, your puppy will begin to limp or favor one leg over the other. Another sign that is said to be a sign of joint injury is if you notice your dog putting its head down while walking on the good leg but lifting its head when walking on the bad leg. Heat sickness Heat exhaustion is a concern during the warmer months. Younger dogs have difficulty regulating body temperatures, so too much exercise can cause them to overheat. Signs of heat exhaustion are excessive panting, disinterest in eating, and drooling. Stopping suddenly can also scrape the bottom of the paws, causing the outer layer of the pad to wear off. It is good not to drag your dog while they are leashed, instead, be patient with them and listen to their cues. Golden Retrievers are popular dogs for outdoor activities. That is why we feature them here at Outdoor Dog Fun with these articles:. Without adequate exercise, few puppies will be able to control their energy. Families see an out-of-control puppy and immediately think exercise is the answer to their problem. Often it is, but exercise can also be overdone. There is a balance. The information below has exercise guidelines for large breed puppies along with a broad range of various ways for your puppy to get that exercise. Make sure that you have a fenced area or that you are far from any place that cars or other dangers might be. For off-leash strolls, let the puppy set the pace. If he lies down, let him rest. Here are a few general guidelines. Keep in mind that puppies that are used to active lifestyles can handle longer excursions. Conversely, puppies that have not had opportunity to exercise off leash need to start off at a slower pace. For your average puppy, start off with minutes for an 8-week old puppy. Increase to up to 20 minutes for week old puppies. By the time your puppy is 6 months, the time can be increased up to as much as 45 minutes and for a month-old puppy, you can go for as long as an hour as long as you are going at a slow pace with plenty of opportunities for your puppy to sniff around. If you miss a week or two of the work, decrease your distance when starting back and gradually build up the distance again. This long distance exercise must be off-leash so that your puppy can take breaks and slow down as needed. The puppy must set the pace. Forced running on a leash is never good for a growing puppy. Leash Walks as Exercise for a Golden Retriever Puppy Leash walking can be a good form of exercise when certain criteria are met. First puppies need to be trained and socialized to the environment. Second, leash walks need to be done in a certain way. Leash walking can be overdone. One of the biggest causes of growth plate and soft tissue injury in young puppies is repetitive exercise. Leash walks for puppies must be broken up with training sessions or opportunities for free off-leash play or time to sniff around on the leash. At 3 months, you can go for 20 minutes and at 6 months, you can walk up to 30 minutes. You must be much more careful with leash walking since you and not the puppy control the pace. Leash walking provides an excellent way of combining a little bit of physical exercise with mental exercise, obedience training, socialization, and environmental desensitization. It is a fantastic way to introduce a puppy to his world. It gives a bit of exercise while at the same time giving opportunities for socialization and training. However, strolls on a leash are not enough. Puppies must have an opportunity to run and play. Again, off-leash walks are best if your goal in your walk is to provide adequate exercise. A week old Golden Retriever puppy will have a neck that is about 12 inches. Get a collar of any brand that includes 12 inches in the size range. An adult female will have about an 18 inch neck. A male adult will need a collar that fits a 20 inch neck. Similarly running on a treadmill or any other types of forced running are not appropriate forms of exercise for a golden retriever puppy. Free Play as Exercise for a Golden Retriever Puppy Free play is always an excellent form of exercise for a golden retriever puppy. Dogs and puppies of all ages can play as long they like in your safely contained yard. If your puppy is playing with another dog in the family, make sure you supervise their play until you are sure that they play well together and that the older dog is not too rough. End the play if the other dog is getting too rough, if your puppy is starting to annoy the other dog, or if your puppy shows signs that he is ready to quit playing. Strange dogs are not worth the risk. Getting on the ground or running around with your puppy can be one of the best ways to exercise your puppy. Fetch and tug can be options if played within certain guidelines. Whether you are playing tug or fetch or just running around with your puppy, there are a couple of rules that need to be followed. Instead, ignore him. Wait until your puppy is behaving. Then, once you begin playing with your puppy, periodically, stop the game and make him gain control of himself before resuming the game. Ask him to do a simple behavior such as a sit or a down. Then start playing again. We recommend teaching your puppy the game of fetch at a young age. Going and getting a toy, bringing it back, and giving it to you is easier to teach when they are young. Chasing balls causes puppies to twist, roll, jump, and tumble while trying to grab a moving ball. Instead, use toys. Then, combine your game of fetch with a game of tug. Tug is discussed in detail in another section. Once your puppy has learned to tug, teach your puppy a release command. Save longer throws for your dog until after he is over 2 years of age. Teach The Wait Command Once your puppy has learned to bring a toy back to you reliably, you can begin teaching your puppy to safely retrieve a ball. Before moving from a toy to a ball, teach a wait command. Playing fetch with a dog with a wait command is a tremendous exercise. It not only provides physical exercise, but it also provides a super opportunity for a puppy to learn self-control. Here is how to teach it. I like to use what is called a pull tab. A pull tab is a very short leash that you attach to a collar. Pull tabs are typically 6 inches or shorter. A pull tab is long enough to give you control over your dog, but short enough for the dog to be able to run and play with it dangling from his collar. Once the dog relaxes and I require a sit as well , throw the ball. When the dog is dependable with regard to waiting on the release, you can do away with the tab. Having a dog wait before chasing a ball is a necessity with puppies because it eliminates the problem of the dog twisting, turning, and diving for a moving object. Fetch is a great exercise for an adult. Once a dog is over 2, you can begin throwing balls and even add a Chuck-it ball thrower to your game. Tug as a Form of Exercise for a Golden Retriever Puppy Tug is a very good exercise for dogs of all ages except for during the stage when puppy teeth are coming out and new adult teeth coming in to replace them. Make sure you stop before he looses his first teeth at around 4 months. Tug can then be resumed when all adult teeth are in. The most current training recommendations for tug no longer include the idea that the dog can never win and that you must always be in charge. This is not true. Consider a child racing his Dad down the street. The Dad lets the child win and the child beams. It gives the child confidence and makes him want to be faster and better. The same holds true with puppies. Let them win when they do a good job! The Release Once a puppy is tugging vigorously and understands the game, you can teach a release cue. Teach this by making the tug toy become motionless and no fun. Just keep the toy still until the dog opens his mouth on his own. Then immediately give the toy back to the dog and start the tug game again. Begin integrating the release into your play session in such a way that you are giving the toy back far more often than not. The dog needs to associate his releasing the toy with a restart to the game, not an end to it. It encourages forced running, jumping, and twisting, all bad for the growing puppy. Frisbee throwing can be dangerous for any dog, but especially for a puppy. We personally never play frisbee with our dogs. There are many other better exercise choices. Digging Digging is actually a very good exercise for a puppy though it may not be so good for your lawn! If you should have a place that your puppy can dig, maybe a soft spot in the corner of your yard, train him that that place and only that place is his digging spot. Puppies Should Avoid Full Flights of Stars Your Summer Brook puppy will be trained shortly before changing homes to safely navigate a set of 3 or 4 steps. If your set of steps is more than half a full flight, we require that you carry him up them until he is 4 months old. Even after this, we recommend keeping him off the steps as often as possible. Dogs tend to get excited and fly down them, often leaping over 4 or 5 of them at a time. This can result in injury. As with so many other repetitive or impactful activities, we highly recommend waiting until growth plates are closed. Baby gates can be a huge help until that time. Swimming Swimming is super exercise for a Golden Retriever puppy and most dogs enjoy playing fetch in the water. See our website page on teaching a puppy to swim for more information. This includes jumping up on and off of furniture until he is fully grown and growth plates are closed. Growth Plates and Exercise We have mentioned quite a few times on this page the importance of limiting certain activities with your puppy until his growth plates are closed. Some of you might be wondering what growth plates are and why they matter with regard to exercise. What Are Growth Plates? Growth plates are soft areas that are at the ends of the long bones in puppies. These growth plates gradually get thinner until they completely close. The closure of growth plates is brought on by hormonal changes during puberty. When growth plates close, they harden as they calcify and the rapid cell division stops. The growth plates become what is called an epiphyseal line. The epiphyseal line is sturdy and not so prone to injury as the growth plates. These are collectively referred to as soft tissue. In an adult, when there is a soft tissue injury, a sprain will result. However, in a puppy, the soft tissue is stronger than the growth plates. An injury that would only cause a sprain in an adult dog could cause an injury to the growth plate in a puppy. The soft tissue can actually pull the growth plate apart. Growth plate injuries can sometimes not heal properly and keep a dog from growing straight and strong which can subject him to problems for his entire life. Conclusion Although you need to be much more careful with the type of exercise you provide your puppy, exercise is still very important to a growing puppy. Appropriate exercise is key to building strong bones. Another key to good puppy development and a relaxed puppy is mental exercise. Give your puppy appropriate physical exercise and give your puppy a long life with healthy bones and joints. For more information on our puppies, see our page on Golden Retriever puppies. Primary Sidebar Breeders and Trainers of English Golden Retrievers We focus on breeding and training beautiful English Golden Retriever puppies with health tested champion parents, great pedigrees, and fantastic temperaments.

There were two cute little puppies in the same cage together, brothers from the same litter. One looked more like a rottie , and the other more like a shepherd. When we took them both into the room to play with them, the little black one came up and laid his head down on my foot. The night before I had been watching the new Rocky flick, and had a dream of adopting a little black puppy and naming him Rocky. Looking down at this pup on my foot. I softly spoke his name and he just looked up at me, tail wagging. It was love at first sight. He went home with us that day. We loved him so much, but unfortunately he was not meant to stay with us on this earth. We found out in January he had severe hip dysplasia. I had spoken to several surgeons, and one surgeon sat me down, willing to do the surgery, but with the understanding that he would never be a happy dog. He would never be allowed to go for walks, run even in the back yard, go to the dog park or play with Molly at home. He would be on pain medicine for the rest of his life, and would require numerous surgeries that were taking a risk on his quality of life for his joints. It killed me to make the decision but we did. And as he went to sleep I held him in my hands, quietly talking to him, promising him a better life in heaven, and that in time I would see him soon to play catch with him and take him on long walks amongst the clouds. DogTime The team at Dogtime has been keeping tails wagging since .Puppy pads Create a Schedule German Shepherd pups would do well with a schedule. Dogs live with a routine, and they are easy to train by having one. For this reason, make a schedule of the things you need to do regularly. Eventually, your pup will learn the routine events and will make itself adept at them. It will help you prepare for your pet, especially in the first few days of living together. As you allow your pet to adjust, do your best to create a stress-free environment for it. Always supervise it as it familiarizes itself with its new home. Still, it would be best to prepare yourself for loud noises when your pet is asleep. Moderate Training German Shepherds are highly trainable. It simply means they respond well, especially to positive reinforcement. Squeaky Toys Out of all toys, your pet will love the squeaky ones. For this reason, prepare for a lot of loud squeaks every time your pet is active. Thus, in picking your pet, you may want to consider getting it from the best. Tells you any health problems A good breeder will tell you any significant health problems in any of the dogs he or she bred. Asks more questions than you A good breeder would ask for more items from you than you would for him or her. Not in a hurry to send off A good breeder is not in a hurry to send the puppies off and get your money. He or she will even show you other breeders and veterinarians caring for their dogs. Requires expectations on both sides A good breeder will create a contract that offers not only what he or she expects from you. More than that, he or she will also show what you can expect from him or her. Sends puppies properly A good breeder will never send a puppy in a compartment and without any responsible person to go with it. Works only with one or two breeds A good breeder works only with a single or a couple of species. Shows breeding experience A good breeder shows her dogs in recognized confirmation shows. He or she will also join his or her breed in other breed-related performance events. Other states.

Golden Retrievers are wonderful, right? Well then, of course everyone should have one. Either way, it is vital that you examine your own lifestyle, needs and wants to see if a golden is right for you. And, conversely, you need to evaluate if you can meet the needs of a golden retriever. If you can, we can attest to the fact that owning a golden is one of the most rewarding experiences you will ever have! They are addicting and people seldom have just one in their lifetimes. Here are a few things to consider: Size Goldens are medium to large sized animals. The standard size for males range from 23 — 24 inches at the shoulder and weigh proportionally from pounds. Females stand around .They normally possess extremely active tails making clean sweeps of coffee and end tables. Quite simply they need room. Uncluttered houses are a must! A fenced in yard is especially important in providing the dog enough exercise. Another option is a fenced dog park or walking trail. You must have a plan to give your golden enough exercise on a daily basis or both of you will be miserable. The younger the golden, the more exercise they generally need. Velcro Dog Goldens are faithful companions. They are usually always by your side, many will follow you from room to room. They will lie in the kitchen while you cook and at your feet while you watch TV. They must be near their humans to be happy. Be prepared to do a lot of hands on petting with your golden — they love it. Some goldens are downright needy in their desire for attention from their humans. Leashes You may have visions of letting your dog play fetch in an open field or running free on the beach. As a sporting dog they are easily distracted by birds, animals or moving objects; they must be kept leashed when being exercised outside of a fenced yard to keep them from running off. Shedding In Florida, goldens shed moderately all year long. Brushing every other day is to your advantage. If you require a fastidiously kept house, a golden is not the dog for you unless you like to do a lot of cleaning. You will always have dog hair around, especially in rugs, on furniture, and OH YES, occasionally even in your food. With a golden in your house, hair becomes a condiment. Oh — and you will have to vacuum much more often than before — or little fur balls will accumulate along your baseboards! Make sure you have a really good vacuum cleaner that you love using before bringing a golden into your home. Health Goldens are prone to allergies, skin problems, cancer and hypothyroidism and you may have to spend a fair amount on vet care over the life of a golden. Common inherited health issues are hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, various eye problems and heart disease. That is relatively cheap compared to if your dog has a health issue and requires veterinary care which today runs as much as human health care. Setting aside a monthly amount for a future emergency is a must. There are also quality pet insurance programs available. Goldens must be fed a high quality premium food to prevent costly skin problems — which means you will not be able to buy your food at the grocery or discount store — and will have to make a special trip to the pet supply store. There are other expenses such as toys, collars and leashes, brushes, shampoos and soft cozy beds. A well cared for dog, like its human counterpart, is happier with regular checkups and daily care. Grooming Goldens can be adequately groomed at home without expensive equipment. Grooming includes brushing, bathing, trimming hair from the pads of the feet, light trimming on ears, tails and back legs when necessary, and trimming nails. Neatness Goldens are easily housebroken and make great housedogs. They tend to be messy drinkers, dripping water on the floor after they take their drink. You might even encounter a little slobber. Training Goldens are usually easy to potty train and make great house dogs. Many owners wish to make their goldens into good canine citizens. Moreover, goldens tend to be sensitive or soft in many training situations. They must be handled carefully with a loving, firm, but gentle approach. The end result is a well-mannered dog that is a joy to be around. Small Children People automatically assume goldens are the perfect dog for a family with children. Golden puppies quickly grow up to be rambunctious, strong bundles of energy that easily can play too rough with young children, especially when they are 6 months to two years of age. Though they may bark and growl defensively, when it comes down to brass tacks — they will gladly hold the flashlight for the burglar and give them a big kiss. Outside Dogs Goldens make poor outside dogs. Especially in Florida, they develop skin problems and flea allergies if kept outside. They frequently develop thunderstorm anxiety. As sporting dogs they are easily able to dig out of a fence or sometimes climb over it when left outside for long periods of unsupervised time because they want to be with people. They also are frequent targets for theft if left outside in a backyard when the owner is away from home. Goldens are very social and are pack oriented. They frequently develop behavior problems when they are kept separated from their families. A happy golden is an inside dog. Male or Female? Many people are fixated on getting a female golden, thinking that females are more laid back and affectionate than males. This is not true. Male goldens are blessed with loving personalities. Many people call them big teddy bears and even prefer male over female goldens. Well, there you have it — the inside scoop on owning a golden. Goldens Rescued Since .However, avoid retractable leashes whenever possible: Although they seem easier during walks, retractable leashes are actually dangerous, especially for young puppies who are still getting the hang of walking on a leash. Keep your puppy on a regular leash with a maximum of six feet of space between you both. Snowy Pines recommends slip leads: Slip leads are what puppies are taught to walk on from a young age at Snowy Pines, since they give you as the walker more control over the puppy as he gets the hang of normal walks. You can also opt for an embroidered collar if your puppy seems bothered by the noise or extra weight of the dog tags. Many puppy owners choose embroidered collars since dog tags should be removed when the puppy is left alone as they can pose a hazard. You can stick with a small food and water bowl. Puppy Food Your puppy will need high-quality food to grow strong! In most cases, this means his own dog crate. A good dog crate should be large enough for him to stand up, turn around, and lay down comfortably. You can choose a crate that expands as it grows to save money in the long run. Most of our puppies at Snowy Pines will do well in a inch wire kennel with a divider that you can remove once he gets bigger. Be sure to check out our dog bed reviews too! Remember that most toys should not be left alone with your puppy since unsupervised playtime can lead to a choking or blockage incident. Image Source Puzzle Toys Puzzle toys keep your pup mentally stimulated while they also have fun. Additionally, these interactive toys provide help with weight management, satisfy natural hunting instincts, and even relieve feelings of stress or anxiety. These toys can easily become a comfort item and help curb any potential anxiety as well. Chase Toys Golden puppies need to have regular exercise. Chase toys are simple things you can buy at any pet store, like ropes and balls, but some interactive chew toys are designed to add a little zing to your daily play routines. So, for example, if your puppy just woke up from his nap and pottied, but you need to do laundry and load the dishwasher, the exercise pen is a perfect solution. It enables your pup to enjoy safe solo playtime. Training Treats Food is a powerful reinforcer , so treats are incredibly beneficial in the early stages of puppy training. Try offering him a treat when he potties outside or uses a chew toy. Quick Tip: The treat should be small and chewy so that he can eat it fast and keep his attention on you! With the proper carpet cleaner and enzyme spray, you can quickly combat any potty mistakes anywhere in the house. Dog Shampoo and Conditioner The Retriever family has a unique, double-layered coat designed to keep them warm in winter and cool in summer. It also dries quickly after becoming wet. It is such an impressive coat that it is essentially self-cleaning when it comes to dirt and debris. Pooper Scooper and Poop Bags A pooper scooper is a handy tool that many homeowners with yards find essential. Instead of bending down every time your pup goes, you can use a pooper scooper to clutch onto the waste and quickly throw it in your outside garbage bin. They are also expected as a common courtesy to other people outside. So before your English Cream Golden puppy comes home, be sure that your home, backyard, and car are puppy-safe and puppy-proofed. In the Home: Image Source Keep the toilet lid closed. Believe it or not, open toilet lids have the potential to be drowning hazards. Secure medicine and cleaning products. Keep these products high up or use childproof locks and latches on lower cabinets. Garbage should be kept lidded and secure. Lidded, secured bins are the best type of garbage cans you can have with a young puppy. Not only do you want to avoid spilled garbage, but a locked lid will prevent your puppy from getting into any potential hazards. Hide electrical cords and blind cords. Exposed electrical cords and long blind cords can prove to be fatal for curious puppies. Keep electrical cords hidden away, buy cord wraps to keep them safely covered, and be sure that your blind cords are tied high and inaccessible. Invest in a pet or baby gate. Gates can be used for doorways or staircases to keep your puppy away from certain areas of the house. In the Backyard: Be careful of plants and landscaping that may be poisonous or dangerous. Many plants are toxic to dogs , so be sure to triple-check if any are growing in your yard. Secure your yard with fencing and add gates around bodies of water. If you plan to let your puppy roam freely in your backyard, you should have complete fencing with no puppy-sized gaps around the perimeter of the property. If you have any ponds or pools, block them off with appropriate fencing to avoid accidental drowning. Keep your yard landscaped and manicured. Long grass and brushy areas can invite ticks, which can be extremely dangerous if any potential bites are not discovered early on. Generally speaking, your grass should not be higher than a couple of inches and potentially even shorter while your puppy is still young. In the Car: Image Source Move any chewable items and lock loose items in the glovebox. Confine your puppy in one area of the vehicle, like the backseat. Keeping your puppy confined to one area of the car is safe for everyone. Many puppy parents choose harness seat belts and car seats for younger dogs, while older dogs are big enough to safely sit in the back seat or trunk with cargo barriers. As your Golden Retriever gets older, you may find yourself opting for different barrier methods that will better suit his size. Kennel your puppy while in the car. Crating your puppy is the safest mode of transportation while in the car. Deciding on a Daily Routine Like children, puppies thrive on a fixed routine because an orderly one instills structure and confidence. Sticking to a schedule can also help reinforce potty training and prevent behavioral issues , like separation anxiety and barking or whining. Think of a schedule that works best for your puppy, which should include: Feeding: Pick out regular meal times and stick to them as closely as possible. Golden Retriever puppies will need three daily feedings until they are six months old. After that, stick to feeding twice a day at the same time each day. Fixed meal times will help you predict when your puppy needs to potty each day, which better ensures easier potty training. Scheduled potty breaks: Take your puppy out to the yard or on a walk to potty immediately after a meal and after they wake up to enforce a schedule that will help with house training. Playtime and exercise: Playing and mental stimulation are key to a happy puppyhood. Even though they will mellow out in personality as they become adults, Retriever puppies are high energy! Place the dog crate in a quiet part of the house since we kennel train at Snowy Pines, and it helps ensure their safety and comfort. And now is the exciting part: Your puppy is finally home! But now what? Puppy Socialization Socialization is vital for young puppies, especially between 8 to 16 weeks of age: A well-socialized puppy will grow into a happy and confident adult that feels secure in various situations. You can also invite friends and family over to meet the puppy. In this case, more is always merrier! To help your puppy feel comfortable around humans in general, expose him to different types of people when he is still young. We also recommend holding off on public settings like dog parks until your puppy is settled into his new home and routine so as to not overwhelm him. Once your puppy is vaccinated, you can consider signing him up for puppy socialization classes. These classes, alongside training courses, can help prepare your pup for a long walk or a day at doggy day camp. Training Techniques Training is just as essential as early socialization. He may become disruptive and exhibit poor behaviors like jumping on visitors, chewing on furniture, and barking incessantly, among other frustrating challenges. Your puppy may also struggle with separation anxiety. They will comprehend basic commands and learn things such as his name, housebreaking, and early manners. They will be able to take on more advanced training and commands, and they should understand what good dog manners are. This age is essential when it comes to instilling how you want him to behave through adolescence. Puppies will begin teething at this point. Your new puppy might use anything possible to exercise his teeth, so you must start teaching him not to use your hand or furniture as chew toys. Anytime your puppy chews on something undesirable, have a toy nearby to put in his mouth instead. You can also try using bitter apple spray to deter biting and chewing on household items. Be firm but loving with clear, consistent commands and minute training sessions each day. Quick Tip: Keep in mind that at this age, this is when the key socialization period ends for your puppy: From this point forward, everything your puppy has learned will influence the way he behaves around people and other animals. While this is good, this age will also be a challenge because he will try to determine his ranking in the household, which can be frustrating when hormones play a role! Although spaying and neutering are standard for most breeds around six months old, studies have found that doing so for Golden Retrievers can actually increase the risk for joint disorders. Therefore, the standard for this breed has recently changed, and many vets suggest waiting to spay or neuter until 12 to 24 months. Training can be an overwhelming process, which is why many Golden puppy owners opt for working with a dog trainer or enrolling in training classes. Snowy Pines offers three levels of training when adopting one of their golden retrievers, which can save you tons of time and frustration in the long run. At your first checkup, you can also ask about getting your puppy microchipped! The AKC states that they are incredibly hard workers whose physical strength aids in their ability to perform their duties well. Though their capabilities certainly have a lot to do with intelligence, their excellent job performance can also be credited to their amazing adaptability. After all — they are super friendly! You may not want to trust your Golden Retriever to protect your home. Golden Retrievers are first and foremost devoted to their families. If an immediate threat was obvious, they may certainly step in. But when a stranger comes to the door, the typical reaction of a Golden is to bark until the new person comes to greet them. And before you know it, the new person has quickly become a new friend — no matter who they are! This is in part due to the fact that Golden Retrievers do not do well alone. It is recommended that Golden Retrievers never be left home alone for more than 4 hours at a time. Golden Retriever require a decent amount of both mental and physical stimulation otherwise they can resort to destructive behavior out of boredom. Most of the dogs we come across were not bred to hunt and retrieve. Instead they are bred to work as service dogs which means jumping into a body of water would not be looked highly upon when their job is to guide a blind person or open a door for a person in a wheel chair. However, you might have to teach them some of the nuances of the game of fetch. If your Golden is having some troubles with the game of fetch your might try reading this article on how to teach your dog to fetch. Goldens Are Mouthy Dogs What one person considers mouthy another might consider bitey. Anyhow, Golden Retrievers are mouthy. They are bred to retrieve and carry birds and other game back to their owners. The good news is they are meant to softly carry birds back to their owners without damaging the bird. The bad news is they like to put their mouth on inappropriate things like your arms, hands, and legs. We often joke that Raven likes to shake hands with her mouth. Here are the top 5 dog breeds in Labrador Retriever.

A pungent scent is introduced to the puppy each day for short intervals. Their reaction to the scent is then recorded. A positive reaction is when a puppy will try to move towards the scent with their nose highly engaged in the scent. A negative reaction will have the puppy pulling back from the scent. A neutral reaction will be when the puppy does not seem interested or disinterested. If a puppy is being purchased for specific training in the future, having information on their reactions is how you start. They are provided cuddles throughout the entire process. They are exposed to children, other animals and are very well rounded happy puppies. They go outdoors in our fenced in yard numerous times each day starting when they are about 4 weeks of age. Next litter potentially will be F1B Bernedoodles. If you are interested in submitting an application for a future litter, please reach out to us. Looking forward to hearding from you. AI services available. Three sessions are recommended for better results. Success rate mirrors natural breeding. If you have a litter of puppies and are unable to whelp, if you relinquish ownership, I will train as I do with all of my pups, vaccinate and find optimal homes for each as I do my own. Life sometimes gets in the way of things and I took a break from breeding for several years. Many of my dogs have gone on to be support animals thanks to the training that the puppies receive prior to and after going to their new homes. In my application, I ask alot of questions to make sure that your home is "their" forever home. They are exposed to all the smells, sounds of a normal busy household. They are handled by children, exposed to other animals and trained starting at 3 days old. Potty training outside starts when they are old enough, usually about 4 weeks of age depending on the weather. Prince Edward Island. What is an 'English Teddy Bear Doodle'? The English Teddy Bear is derived from European lineage that produces a thick bone structure and wide body style giving our Goldendoodle puppies their signature 'Teddy Bear Goldendoodle' look. They are full of personality and have a zest for life. They are everybody's friend and devoted to their family. They are friendly towards children, other pets and are very social dogs that are happiest when with their family. Their intelligence, eagerness to please and love of learning make them easy to train. They are easily adaptable to any lifestyle and can live in the city or country. Miniature, Toy and Micros are very versatile and love activities such as hiking, boating, longboarding, kyaking, etc. They are excellent companions who love to relax with their family when they are not participating in activities. Their life expectancy is approximately 15 years. Miniature, Toy and Micro Goldendoodles and Labradoodles are very low to no shed depending on generation and live easily with families with moderate to severe allergies. When Puppies are Available: Puppies are adopted out via non-breeding contract only. Puppies will also be accompanied by a puppy pack that includes a blanket, toy, a bag of high quality dog food, a harness and a leash. All puppies will be offered with a 5 year health guarantee against life threatening hereditary genetic diseases. All items listed above are sent home for the benefit of your puppy therefor no discounts are offered if you already have these items or if you choose not to take them. We offer various delivery options, all of which include human companionship for the duration of thier travel. These crosses will often produce puppies in the same litter with different variations of each of these qualities. Gender and size cannot be guaranteed for advanced reservations. Some breeders are required to obtain a provincial or general kennel license simply meaning they are inspected in the province of which they reside and are provided with a 'registration" number if available in their province. Some breeders choose to become members with general alternative dog clubs or independent registration organizations. Our dogs are very much a part of our family and as such we take great care when considering breeding. We take advanced reservations only as our way of ensuring that potential adopters take the life long commitment of adding a puppy to their family very seriously.

Choosing a reputable breeder is important for a number of reasons. For one, responsible breeders take good care of their dogs and puppies, and they only breed healthy dogs with sound temperaments. Here are a few things to help you with that. With that being said, responsible breeders will also back their programs with one or two-year genetic health guarantees, usually covering any severe genetic conditions that the parents have been tested for. This can help you weed out the bad apples and find a Goldendoodle breeder in Maryland that you can trust. We recommend you look for reviews on Google, Facebook, and Yelp. Or, you can check out user submitted Doodle breeder reviews here at Doodle Doods. Located in the neighboring state of West Virginia, Fox Creek Farm specializes in all sizes of the amazing Goldendoodle — from the smallest Petite and Mini Goldendoodles and up to the largest Standard Goldendoodle pups. Fox Creek Farm specializes in Multigenerational Goldendoodles, as their traits and characteristics are more predictable. This means that these pups are more often than not very low-shedding, making them ideal for people with allergies. What Makes This Breeder Unique? As a responsible Goldendoodle breeder, Fox Creek Farm follows and stays up to date on the most current ethical breeding practices. They introduce the puppies to potty training, crate training, basic manners, and socialize them with people of all ages and other pets. Waitlist: Yes. Yes, email me when puppies become available. Message sent. Because of flight shortages, we are offering these puppies only to families that can either come and meet them in person for pickup or meet at the Pittsburgh PA airport. Please contact Rita Power directly about this litter at: and schedule a facetime call or call. Please ask Rita about pricing. Goldendoodle Puppies for Sale in Maryland Yes, email me when puppies become available. We are a family partnership. Sisters and brothers, Mom and Dad, we all are breeders! We have puppies in a couple different states because we are family breeders. We raise puppies in our home, highly socialize our goldendoodle puppies, use high quality food, and health test our parent dogs! We are so excited to be a high quality puppy breeder and work with you on your journey. We have a few dogs and run a Guardian Program just like a few of our family members do. That keeps all of our urban doggies in less than 2 dog homes and also keeps them from ever being rehomed! We really enjoy our little business, and we hope you will enjoy the process with us too! About our English Goldendoodles English Goldendoodles have better health testing and more mellow personalities. This makes them extremely suitable for urban areas. They have such amazing temperaments! We chose this breed starting out with the English Cream Golden Retrievers and absolutely adore our stud dog, Ace. Add the poodle for non-shedding and intelligence and, whalah! The most perfect blend of all time! Goldendoodle Puppies Please feel free to contact us! We are horse lovers and dog lovers. We still enjoy both in the DC Maryland Area. Our experience growing up on the farm in Pennsylvania gives us a love for the farm life. We are so happy to be able to develop puppies and breed amazing lifetime companions. Please reach out to us and get to know us better, see our available puppies below and enjoy watching them grow. Please reload Did you Find Answers Frequently asked questions such as "Do you have any puppies available right now? Do you take a waitlist? Do you know when the next litters are going to be? Will you have litters later in the year? Most of the puppies are being raised in Idaho right now, but we have a couple litters a year in PA right now. We are all blood family members The Power Family. Rocks and Roses Doodles Rocks and Roses Goldendoodles With over 4 years of breeding history, Rocks and Roses have been able to earn a decent reputation as top breeders of the Goldendoodle. Rocks and Roses Doodles are located in Street, Maryland. They are a blue ribbon breeder of the miniature Goldendoodle under the Goldendoodle Association of North America. They are also a recommended breeder by Good Dog. Their Goldendoodle pups are raised in the family home where they are provided with enough space to run and play to their satisfaction. They get to sleep in a clean and temperature-regulated area and are provided with the right supplement and food to foster strong growth. Each Goldendoodle is exposed to basic puppy training and is also exposed to a wide variety of enrichment protocols like puppy culture and Early Neurological Stimulation. All their puppies are bred to high standards and stay with them until 10 weeks. They are multigen puppies so they come with hypoallergenic coats. In addition, the puppies all come from a healthy, impressive bloodline. To achieve this, careful, selective breeding must be done. This is why they spare no resources into researching the right sire and dam for their program. The dogs are tested for genetic health issues that are common to the Goldendoodle breed. They also have their hearts, patellas, hips, and eyes tested and certified by licensed professionals. Your Goldendoodle puppy should be exposed to basic potty and crate training. They also come with a 2 years health guarantee. They are health checked by a licensed vet and are each properly vaccinated and dewormed with records to show this. We specialize in breeding Mini Goldendoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other high quality breeders that raise mini goldendoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! Not all mini Goldendoodles are equal, there are a few different versions to choose from each having a little different genetic background based on the pups parents. We will explain all the differences in Mini Goldendoodle puppies and how they are bred below. We raise all versions of the mini goldendoodle breed. F1 Mini Goldendoodle Pups. A F1 puppy is also known as a First Generation puppy. The puppies mother is a Golden Retriever and the pups dad is a Mini Poodle. This version of mini goldendoodle usually has soft wavy or curly puppy fur. They will shed until they lose their puppy fur, after shedding they will shed a lot less, but will shed. This version is partially hypoallergenic and usually requires low maintenance. F1 mini goldendoodles usually need to be groomed every 6 months along with daily brushing to keep their curly hair from matting and getting tangled. The dogs usually grow up having great temperaments similar to golden retrievers. They usually get about inches high at the shoulder and range in weight from pounds. F1b Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1b is known as a second-generation mini goldendoodle with the pups mother being already an F1 Goldendoodle and the pups dad being a mini poodle also. So the difference between F1 and F1b is that the mom is not a golden retriever but an actual F1 Goldendoodle. They also have very soft curly hair but with almost no shedding. This F1b version is semi-hypoallergenic and a better choice for anyone who has pet allergies. The F1b also should be brushed on a daily basis but will need to be groomed more frequently then a F1. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is recommended to keep their coat in perfect condition. F1b Mini goldendoodles get around 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders and range between pounds in weight. F1bb Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1bb goldendoodle is also known as a third-generation mini goldendoodle. This mini goldendoodle version has a coat more similar to a poodle than of a golden retriever. This is because the pup is more of a poodle than a retriever. Making it the very best version for anyone with pet allergies. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is required to help prevent knots or matting. This version is super intelligent and loving, and usually seems to have more energy than the other versions of Mini goldendoodles. This version is usually smaller in size, weighing around pounds and only getting inches tall at the shoulders. The smaller size makes them a great size for smaller homes and apartments. So if you live near Lansdowne-Baltimore Highlands Maryland and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Goldendoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Goldendoodle Pups that have been adopted! They were helpful from beginning to end and answered any questions we had. Parker is absolutely the best pup in the world. Angela F. Good communication was kept and our puppy is perfect. Coley D. December We are more and more in love with our Gracie Mae as each day goes by. She has been such a good girl from day one. She has slept in her crate from the first night with not so much as a whimper. She eats well and pees and poops on demand. She is so smart, loves to play and is very cuddly. The Dr said that Gracie is very healthy. Everyone there commented on how beautiful she is. She has been pure Joy for us. Thank you so much!! Lisette G. January Milo has been a tremendous blessing to our family and we love him fiercely! He is calm, sweet, eager to please and super quick to learn. Our experience with Copper Oaks was amazing. Becky was more than willing to answer any and all questions I had before purchasing Milo. Highly recommend!!! Adel R. He has brought our family such joy and is an amazing and fun loving little guy. He was super easy to train and is great with people and other dogs. Our experience with Copper Oaks was excellent: Duncan is our first dog, and we would definitely choose them again in the future. Daniel S. We love Copper Oaks mini Goldendoodles so much. We received a girl puppy from one of their fall litters and she is the best dog. Bea was spunky and loving right from the start. She bonded with us so quickly! She loves walks, meeting new furry friends and people, and playing fetch! Bea is super smart too and excelled in her puppy classes. She got a clean bill of health at all her puppy visits and the vets just love her. Everywhere we go people stop us to ask what kind of dog Bea is and where we got her from. I tell everyone she is from Copperoaks! From beginning to end Becky was informative and very helpful with the transition from her home to ours! She has continued to stay in contact and check on sweet Bea! I want to get Bea a sister soon! We love her so much! Amber G. April Wonderful breeder! They provided great information and resources and they truly care about the pups! Penny is the sweetest dog and is so smart! I already want to get my sweet Penny and sibling Aimee J. July Barkley is a wonderful addition to our family! He is energetic, smart, playful and cuddly! He picked up potty training quickly and loves to go camping and play on the beach! Big thanks to Copper Oaks and the amazing job they do! Our sweet Barkley is perfect! Krystle S. August Our little mini goldendoodle from Copper Oaks is the best little dog! She has been super easy to crate train, and is so sweet. You can tell these puppies are loved as family when you pick your pup up in person. I kind of want another one already!!!! Jada B. May Choosing Copper Oaks mini Goldendoodles for our puppy was the best decision. Stoli is such an amazing puppy - he loves people, playing fetch, he is super smart, fun, and all around great. Becky was amazingly patient and kind through the entire process. There is no doubt Becky and her entire family love the doodles, every one of them - the kind nurturing nature of the family continues to shine through via the follow ups since we brought our puppy home. To top it off, the puppy parents have a wonderful demeanor and are so kind and well behaved. Highly recommend Copper Oaks - we are thrilled to be a part of the family. Lisa R. March Payton is the sweetest little dog! Payton was one of Ivey's puppies and we picked him up from Copper Oaks at the end of September. Becky was so wonderful in responding to all of my questions. When we met Becky, her husband and their adorable children, I knew that Payton was coming from a loving place! Payton is now 4. He always wants to be around people and other dogs and is great with children too. He is kind, playful, smart and looks like a little teddy bear. He loves to play fetch, go on walks and go to day care with his dog friends. We can't thank Copper Oaks enough for helping us find the perfect addition to our family! Kate F. December Santa delivered a mini golden doodle this year! Becky was very helpful in answering all my questions regarding the purchase of a puppy and so many more questions about the breed. Willow and Tucker are super sweet puppy parents! I also loved that our puppy was surrounded by children. Dasher has been a playful and cuddly puppy! Our vet has been pleased with his puppy well checks: I have an allergy to dogs and Dasher has joined our family with no problem. I highly recommend Copper Oaks! Marianne N. February We got our sweet Teddy Bear a couple of days before Christmas, and we are so in love with him already! Amanda D. December My precious little mini golden doodle Savannah loves to go on rides in our pick up truck- she has her own little seat- the best one in the house! She is the smartest puppy we have ever had. She has learned so many tricks since bringing her home 3 months ago! She loves playing with the grandkids- played on the slip and slide- funny sight - loves Pwnn State football with her own little tee shirt, and loves going out and about meeting new people every day! We are hoping to be able to take her into nursing homes to meet the residents and cheer them up. We are so happy we found Copper Oaks mini Golden Doodles! Julie A. September We had a very good experience purchasing from Copper Oaks. Our puppy, Ginger, is a wonderful addition to our family. She is very smart and sweet. Her veterinarian commented on her confidence, how comfortable she was being handled, and the documentation we brought with us and said they were all signs of a good breeder. Tracey R. March Princess Hazel has adjusted very well into our family which is not a surprise because she came from a loving home to begin with. She is super sweet and doing fabulous in her obedience classes. I am so happy I was able to meet Becky and my husband and I were able to bring Hazel into this family. We would like to thank Becky and her family for raising such sweet dogs and being so loving and helpful. We cannot wait to see what Hazel has in store for us in the future. We will be sure to keep you updated. Elizabeth B. December Maple is turning 8 months and has been great from crate training to playing fetch. Would definitely recommend Copper Oaks. Some of her favorite things.Matt M. July We love our mini golden doodle, Bear! We highly recommend Copper Oaks! Sama G. March Our little Coco just had her half birthday and is now 6 months. We just love every moment we have with her; she brings so much joy into our lives. Copper Oaks is a great place to find a furry family member. Their whole family shows so much love to each and every puppy. This breeder is very knowledgeable and has lots of advice to share when it comes to the breed. When we are ready to add a little boy to our mix, we will definitely go through this breeder again! Helaine H. June Becky and her family provide so much love and attention to their pups.She is a responsible loving breeder who treats each litter like family. Our sweet boy Rowan is just perfect in everyway.If you've done your homework on Doodles and breeders.Jennifer M. We loved the experience with Copper Oaks from start to finish. Becky was always so warm and helpful. She always responded to my emails right away. I highly recommend purchasing your mini golden-doodle from Copper Oaks Mimi M. February Absolutely the best experience. Our puppy is perfect! Becky is so knowledgeable and great at answering our questions very quickly. Our pup flew across country and Becky made the transition very smooth. We were always informed. His personality is adorable. We can tell that he came from a warm loving environment. He is very social and paper trained. If you are considering a mini golden doodle copper oaks is a must to check out! Ramona B. He quickly adapted to our family and has been happy and cuddly since we brought him home. He is so smart and has even learned to ring a bell when he needs to go potty. Thank you Becky for making the transition so smooth for us. I highly recommend Copper Oaks!! Kimberly G.

Temperament: Loyal, energetic and confident. Rottweiler Lab Mix Appearance Because this is a mixed breed, their physical appearance will vary depending on which parent breed the puppy takes after more. In general Labradors are thinner than Rottweiler, so Rottweiler Lab mixes will fall somewhere in the middle of these two breeds. Both breeds are broad-shouldered with a slight tuck and a large head. The first thing that you should notice with the Rottweiler Lab mix is how athletic they are. They should look muscular and give off a commanding presence. Their body usually resembles a Rottweiler, but their head and longer muzzle has more resemblance to the Labrador. Size The typical size of one of these dogs is anywhere between inches in height, with a weight of around pounds. Remember those pups with more Labrador will be on the smaller side, whilst those with more Rottweiler are on the heavier side. Coat and Colors These dogs come in a handful of darker colors including brown, black, gray or black and tan. A black and tan coat like that of a Rottweiler is the most common. The short to medium length coat of a Rottweiler Lab mix should be smooth to the touch. Because they have a double coat, these dogs shed quite a bit. To keep up with their shedding you should expect to brush your dog every other day or at the very least, weekly to keep the coat healthy. They are one of the largest hybrid dogs around. Despite the short coat these dogs are not hypoallergenic. This is a very adaptable dog and is suitable for most households. Rottweiler Lab Mix Personality and Temperament Rottweilers and Labradors vary quite a bit in their personalities, so it can be difficult to predict exactly how your mix will behave when fully grown. One thing you can know for sure is they love to be with their family. They will follow you all over the house and are happiest when they can be by your side. Because of this they are often prone to separation anxiety, so please be ready to work through this with your new dog. These dogs tend to be very playful and love nothing more than to play a game of fetch or tug with their owner or other dogs. And like working Labs they have boundless amounts of energy meaning that they will play for hours. Rottweiler and Lab mixes are a protective breed but are not typically aggressive — still caution is needed when letting your dog interact with strangers. Proper socialization when they are young can help to curb this but they will most likely never be very welcoming of strangers. Both Rottweilers and Labradors make great family dogs so expect this mix to be no different. They are more than willing to participate in any antics that their kids get up to. Just remember these mixes are protective by nature and will often view other children as a threat to their own kids. Caring for a Rottweiler Lab Mix The Rottweiler Lab mix is a highly active, very strong breed that needs discipline and a strong owner. They require obedience training from day one to make sure that you can keep control of them when they grow bigger and stronger. Other than that they do great in almost any household. They are a very adaptable dog that do not bark much. The biggest issue with this breed is the huge amount of physical exercise they need. Exercise Requirements Both the Labrador and the Rottweiler are high energy and athletic breeds, so your mix will be the same. These dogs like to go and need a lot of daily exercise. At least one hour walk a day with another hour of playtime is the bare minimum required for these dogs. Hiking or even swimming are great ways to tire out your dog physically. So make sure that you have the time to take them for an extra-hard hike at least once a week. You can also do dog sports with your Rottweiler Labrador mix, such as agility and rally. If these dogs do not receive the proper amount of physical stimulation they can become destructive. Number of Walks Per Day: 2. Grooming and Shedding Because of their short coat these dogs do not require regular trips to the groomers or daily brushing. However they do need to be brushed every other day or so. Regular bathing is also not necessary for these dogs. You can give them a bath just when they smell or look like they need it. Too many baths can dry out their fur and cause skin irritation. To remove dead hair and skin you can also use a wet washcloth and wipe it over their body. Feeding and Diet A high protein food specialized for large breed dogs is best for your mix. You should speak with your vet to establish the protein content your pooch needs it differs depending on how active your dog is. Because the Rottweiler Lab mix is prone to bloat it is best to feed this dog in smaller portions throughout the day. Giving them a cup of food three times a day is best. Never leave food out freely for this breed — they are prone to being overweight. Having pet insurance could save you from the headaches of going to the vets with reimbursement for every vet bill from now on! These devoted and docile animals are often seen following their owner and always trying to please their family with a clownish behavior. They might become destructive if you keep them separated for long periods. The Labrotties are not known to welcome strangers or other unfamiliar pets due to their territorial instincts. This makes it necessary to expose them to different people as well as sights and sounds. These pets get along fine with kids if raised with them. Care Exercise Since it has a working heritage, the breed requires a fair amount of regular activity to keep it happy. Even though it remains somewhat inactive indoors, it will appreciate a minute walk or a romp in a fenced yard. It also enjoys one or two sessions of interactive games including retrieving a ball, which it will happily carry in its mouth. Do not over-exercise your pet as its double coat could cause its body to become excessively hot. Grooming When it comes to grooming, your Labrottie needs a weekly brushing using a firm-bristled brush. This will help in not only removing the loose hairs but also distributing the skin oils much more evenly. To keep it looking clean as well as smelling good, you need to bathe your Rottweiler-Labrador mix once or twice every two months. If its nails do not wear down naturally, trim them down once a month. Health Problems Like all big dogs with a deep chest, the Labrotties are susceptible to bloat or torsion. Therefore, do not feed your dog a single large meal, neither encourage it to eat rapidly nor make it exercise vigorously after a meal. Moreover, this breed is sometimes affected by hip and elbow dysplasia, bone cancer, PRA, canine cataracts, and allergies. Training This breed is not suitable for those owners who lack confidence or do not have the time to supervise and train their dogs. Obedience Training: Keep the commands short, one or two words at the most. You may use clicker training that is based on positive reinforcement, consistency, and cooperation to curb its natural aggressive behavior. Socialization: Carefully introduce your Labrottie to other dogs, which will help it to learn to coexist with its new companion. Feeding Apart from feeding your dog on canned food and dry kibble, you could provide it with bones and raw meat. Feed your pet a quality dog food that has at least 30 percent protein, 20 percent crude fat, and less than 4 percent fiber. No, is the short answer to this question. Both parent breeds have coats that require little maintenance. Naturally, as it gets warmer, they get rid of their excess fur. This means your Rottweiler Lab Mix may need more regular grooming. Not all Labrotties inherit this feature. On the whole, Labradors tend to be faithful retriever dogs. If your lucky, your pup will inherit these fabulous qualities. On the flip side, a Rottweiler Lab Mix may inherit the characteristics of a Rottweiler. This breed is famous for being an excellent guard dog, so they have a natural distrust of strangers. Their aggressiveness can range anywhere from barking at strangers walking up your driveway to a full-on attack. Sadly, Rottweilers are responsible for a disproportionate amount of dog attacks, the majority of which are children. According to Dogsbite. The same principle applies to other pets. Leaving them alone for long periods of time not only triggers destructive behavior, but it can also cause separation anxiety. The last thing you want is for your pet to be unhappy. The best way to combat their aggression is to socialize them as much as possible as early as you can. Introduce your dog to lots of other dogs and different kinds of people from the offset. As puppies, this breed is supremely confident. A Rottweiler Lab Mix is best suited to a child-free household, where someone is around for most of the day. You should have time to take your dog on long walks. So grab your walking shoes and a coat and be prepared to get active! Ideally, you should take your Rottie on at least two 30 minute walks daily. You should also be an experienced dog handler. Due to their mixed lineage Lab Rottweilers are generally healthier than their pedigree parents. If left untreated, the disease can cause the bone to gradually deteriorate and eventually result in the hip joint losing all function. Hip dysplasia can also trigger a disease called degenerative joint disorder. This refers to the progressive deterioration of the cartilage surrounding the joints, the damage is sadly irreversible. Other illnesses to watch out for include: Hypothyroidism. Rottador Highlights Rottadors are mixed breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their Rottweiler or Labrador Retriever parents. The main colors of Rottador coats are black, brown, and grey. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors. While they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job. When around children, especially young ones, they should be supervised because they are so big and strong. When Rottadors are raised with other dogs and cats, they generally get along well with them. They are highly trainable, and thrive on positive reinforcement. Do not leave them alone for long periods. They can easily become board, depressed, and frustrated, which will result in unwanted behaviors. Rottadors are prone to weight gain, and they have high energy levels. Make sure your dog gets at least one hour-long walk per day. Rottador History The Rottador dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Rottweilers and Labradors in North America, likely in the s. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to minimize health problems that affect many purebreds as well as create an ultimate family companion and watchdog. They continued to create Rottadors as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed. Even though Rottadors 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 dog for you. Check your local shelters, look up Rottador rescues, or check with breed specific Rottweiler and Labrador rescues, as they sometimes help to re-home mixed breeds. However, as a mix between Rottweiler and Labrador parents, you can expect the Rottador to be on the large side. Most weigh in at 70 to pounds and range in height from 24 to 27 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. Rottador Personality Rottadors make affectionate family companions and watchdogs. Protective in nature, they will alert when strangers approach. However, once they befriend you, you have a friend for life. These pups hail from a line of two working parents. Their Rottweiler parents regularly work as police or guard dogs or cattle herding, while their Labrador Retriever parents have jobs as hunting or guide dogs. They make excellent family companions. Just make sure you have a lot of time and attention to devote to them. Rottador Health The Rottador mixed breed is predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Rottweiler and Labrador Retriever 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. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Fetch and other adventurous activities are also recommended. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. You should brush their teeth three times a week minimum, or daily is even better. Crate and kennel training should start in puppyhood. Rottador Feeding An ideal Rottador diet should be formulated for a large breed with high energy. Limit their amount of treats, as well. They usually have medium-to-short, dense coats, and while they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job and bathing is recommended every few months with a mild shampoo. Too much bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils. Their double coats do shed quite a bit. You will definitely want a vacuum on hand. Have you tried robot vacuums? See if the Eufy RoboVac is right for you! Their double coat gives them an edge when it comes to extreme weather. Many of these dogs absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also help to keep them cool during hot summer months. Keep in mind they are indoor dogs and need to live indoors. Because of their cattle-driving heritage, they have a tendency to lean and push and can accidentally topple a toddler with a nudge. Always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog should ever be left unsupervised with a child. They may have issues with strange dogs or adult dogs that are introduced into the home, being intolerant of same-sex dogs. With your training and guidance, however, they should accept new animals peaceably. Keep your Rottador on leash in public to prevent aggression or belligerence toward other dogs. Rottador Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Rottadors because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Rottweiler or Labrador Retriever breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. A Rottweiler crossed with a Lab is a large dog and will require at least 1, calories a day. The only way to achieve that is to go for recipes developed particularly for giant pups, such as these best large breed dry dog food brands. You may also serve them the overall best dry dog food , but remember to increase the portions. This crossbreed will have an insatiable appetite from their first months, so only give them the absolute best puppy food brands or even the best dry dog food for small dogs. Old goggies will still want to munch a ton, but the food needs to be appropriate for their age. The best senior dry dog food will have adequate ingredients for this age group and it will be softer so they can eat it with ease. This lessens the amount of food they will have per meal and reduces the risk of bloating, something that typically afflicts large breeds. Low-quality meals are also detrimental to their health, so keep your pooch away from the worst dry dog food out there. There are several good dry dog food for large breeds like the Rottweiler Lab cross. It also uses deboned chicken as its primary ingredient and eschews corn, soy or wheat. It reportedly also alleviates allergies and poor digestion. It also has flaxseed, which is abundant in omega-3 fatty acids. Nutra Thrive dog food supplement : Although not food per se, supplements are essential for the necessary intake of vitamins and minerals that your pup may need if they are particularly active or muscular like a Rott Lab mix. It also has glucosamine to improve joint health. You should expect their offspring to inherit that trait as well. A Lab crossed with a Rottweiler needs to be taken on long walks daily, with each trip lasting about 30 to 60 minutes long. The question here is whether you have the energy and stamina to match your dog. Lack of activity and eating too much can cause your dog to put on weight. Being overweight or obese can lead to diabetes and other health problems. A Lab crossed with Rottweiler also needs a lot of attention. It needs company and puzzles and toys that will keep it engaged. Otherwise, it will become bored and develop separation anxiety. These can manifest into some pretty destructive behavior, like incessant barking, chewing, biting, and digging. The right toys can give your dog an outlet for their energy. It also helps sharpen its mind and reflexes. Here are the top toys for a large breed like the Rottodor. This KONG dog toy has been bringing joy to countless dogs for years now. The toy is designed to be filled with treats to keep your pet occupied for hours as it tries to get to the goodies. Nylabone Big Chew: This toy has a distinct shape and is made from extra-strong nylon. A lot of dog owners claim that it takes years for their dog to wear down this toy. Kick Fetch Toy Ball: Another great toy for large and active dogs, the Chuckit allows you to play fetch with your dog. But instead of throwing the ball, you kick it like a soccer ball. The grooves on the ball make it easier for your pet to carry it back to you. Rottweiler Lab Training Training the Rottweiler Lab can be easy, especially if you already have experience with dogs. Having two intelligent parents, Rottador is also smart and quick to learn. Its instinctual need to please its human gives it the motivation to work hard and learn new tricks. Like other breeds, a Rottweiler Lab mix will respond to positive reinforcement better than through punishment or other harsh strategies. However, you should tap the services of an experienced dog trainer to help train your dog. Expose your puppy to other dogs and people by bringing it to a dog park. You might have to keep it on a leash initially until it learns to interact peacefully with others. Even if your Lab Rottweiler mix is socialized, you should not let it play with very young children. Training and socialization will be a lifetime process. Punishment-based training never works. Studies have also shown that using this technique raises less obedient dogs that are more likely to attack strangers and even their owners. Have a lot of visitors over while your dog is still a puppy. Puppies are very confident, so this is the best time to introduce them to new situations. They should not become afraid of other people as fear is what makes dogs attack. Correct nibbling behavior immediately. A quick tap or a spray of a citrusy mix will put a stop to it. Redirect their gnawing tendency towards an appropriate chew toy. This strong dog has an equally strong will and drive. It needs someone who knows how to handle powerful, intelligent canines and who can step up and be firm with it. In short, it needs a no-nonsense Alpha. The Labweiler also needs a family who has an active lifestyle since it needs to be exercised regularly. This dog has boundless energy so it needs a place to romp around. It will not do well in small apartments or with owners that are more inclined towards a sedentary lifestyle. This can lead to very destructive behavior. You could come home to a ruined couch or to complaints of excessive barking. Families with young children should also choose another dog. The Rottweiler Lab mix can be the greatest canine companion for the right person. This lovable giant needs a confident and experienced dog owner who leads an active lifestyle. The appearance of this crossbreed dog will depend on the parent mix, but the Labrottie is likely to inherit a solid and sturdy body like the Rottweiler, a broad head like the Labrador and a short to medium length, shiny double coat. A Rottweiler Lab mix is one of the largest hybrid dogs around. It may look like a fearsome large dog but it can be very friendly, loyal, and loving. The Lab Rottie is a very energetic and muscular dog whose exercise needs should not be underestimated by any potential dog owner. Early behavioral and socialization training will help this Rottweiler mix show its affectionate and positive protective nature. A Labrottie puppy is an adorable crossbreed dog. A brief history of this mixed-breed dog A Rottweiler Lab mix is a cross between a purebred Rottweiler dog and a purebred Labrador Retriever dog. When two different dog breeds are deliberately mixed, the crossbreed is known as a designer dog ; this Rottweiler and Labrador hybrid dog is sometimes nicknamed a Rottador. This breed is very confident and determined and is regarded as the No1 guard dog. Rottweiler dogs were as used to herd and guard cattle for Roman soldiers as they traveled around in their quest to conquer Europe; these cattle were the primary food source. Their alertness, discipline, and endurance made them an ideal guard dog. Fact: The Rottweiler is probably the oldest known herding dog breed with its origins traceable back to Roman times. The Rottweiler dog breed is believed to have descended from Roman drover dogs: a mastiff-like dog. Their intelligence, strength, and energy levels meant that these large dogs were used during the World Wars as guard dogs and for messenger or ambulance duties. They are still used today for this type of support and search and rescue activity. So what color is a Rottweiler dog? Parent 2: History of the Labrador Retriever — a purebred dog The Labrador Retriever is the best-loved and most popular dog breed in the world! It has a solid double coat in one of 3 colors; pure black, chocolate brown, or yellow. Whatever the coat color this is just an attractive and loveable dog breed for any level of dog owner or as an adorable and friendly family dog. The Labrador Retriever dog is from Newfoundland, Canada, and was used by fishermen to retrieve their fish from nets and catch any that escaped back into the sea. They are good swimmers and have a gentle mouth grip that will not further destroy any prey they are ordered to retrieve. The Newfoundland and Labrador Province, in Canada, provided this hunting and retrieving dog with its name — the Labrador Retriever or Lab to its friends! The Newfoundland Labrador Retriever dog breed came to Great Britain around , to be used as gun dogs for retrieving waterfowl from land and water, during the shooting season, in Scotland and England. Ongoing breeding is believed to have continued the pure Newfoundland lab bloodline in our Labrador Retriever breed today. The lab is gentle, fun-loving and loyal with an easy-going temperament. A Labrador Puppy, when trained and socialized it can be trusted and protective around anyone. Meet the offspring: The hybrid offspring of these two purebred dogs is the Rottweiler Labrador mix — the Labrottie puppy. Designer dogs gained popularity in the United States during the s and this increased demand and popularity for cross-breeds such as the Labrador Rottweiler mix. The Labrottie puppy is a hybrid dog breed and is therefore not recognized as a breed in its own right, by the American Kennel Club; nor can it be awarded pedigree papers. Any other colors may be due to a gene mutation and are rare. What are the main characteristics of a Labrottie? Any crossbred dog, like the Labrador Rottweiler mix, could inherit the characteristics and the health problems of either parent or from both; or perhaps they could get the best of both and be stronger and inherit fewer health problems than their parent breeds. It can be heavily weighted towards the characteristics of one parent more than the other. With any mixed breed dog, you just have to wait and see how it turns out. Labrottie puppies tend to have more of the classic appearance and sturdy build of the Rottweiler but with the friendlier facial features and floppy ears of a Labrador. This mix is likely to be courageous, confident and smart and also loving and affectionate. They will show devoted loyalty to their dog owner and family. They will be fairly active and enjoy having lots of company. Reputation: Any Rottweiler mix dog could be thought of as a fierce guard dog. The Rottweiler is a confident breed that looks fiercer than its behavior displays. When a Rottweiler is mixed with a Labrador Retriever, the perception changes, as the Labrador is considered a highly friendly, soft-natured, and docile family pet. When mixed the Labrottie will be loving, loyal, and protective of its loved ones, but wary of strangers, with a big bark. This mix is not recognized by the American Kennel Club AKC as it is not a purebred dog, but this will not affect this attractive dog being in demand. Trainability: Any Rottweiler mix puppy needs to be trained and socialized as early as possible. This Rottweiler Labrador mix puppy will be a powerful and muscular large-dog breed that needs to learn control and discipline early. They are intelligent and determined so training should be fairly easy, but this powerful dog is not recommended for an inexperienced dog owner or anyone who cannot provide it with lots of exercise and long walks. Positive reinforcement and reward-based training are recommended for this large dog breed as is very confident, and strong-willed, so it will need to build trust with its owner. Rottweiler mix puppies should be trained slowly and never negatively punished, challenged directly, hit, or locked up for misbehavior. Always reinforce change gradually and praise good behavior and learning. Clicker training would work well with this puppy. This powerful mixed breed dog is no more likely to bite than any other dog breed however with their muscular build they could be very physical in their attempts to play; therefore they should be supervised at all times around young children and smaller animals. The Labweiler is fairly energetic, so a Labrador Rottweiler puppy will need at least one hour of daily exercise and playtime, building up hours a day in adulthood. Power and intelligence: Labrotties are smart, very powerful with a protective nature. They are fast learners but can be stubborn and aloof, so they will need to be trained and handled properly to be able to socialize in public with other dogs and children. They will love to keep active and play games with their family in a way that keeps them challenged; catch the ball or frisbee, puzzles or interactive toys are popular with this breed. Socialization: Early socialization dog training and discipline are strongly recommended for any Rottweiler mix dog. This type of hybrid dog has two highly active parents and one is a powerful guard dog. This mixed breed dog will need to learn to control its strength and have discipline training early to become well—behaved and trusted with other dogs and children. It will thrive in an outdoor environment. Purpose: A Rottweiler Labrador mix will be observant and have herding and retrieving instincts and want to be kept busy. The Labradors have a soft bite that is delicate and careful when retrieving anything and the Rottweiler is determined and forceful. Over time both have used their skills for good activities such as search and rescue, as both can follow orders and commands. A Labrottie can be a disciplined and protective family pet or a good service dog. Behavior: A Rottweiler Lab mix can be strong-willed, occasionally stubborn, and physically powerful, therefore it needs to be trained early as it can become destructive, bark, or chews things if under-stimulated. Physical Characteristics of the Labrottie Size: The Rottweiler Lab mix is considered a large-sized dog breed that has a solid and muscular build, with the build of a fearsome guard dog but the face of a loveable Lab. Weight: You can expect both male and female to reach between 70lblb kg in adulthood. You can expect a Labrottie to live between years, and to spawn a litter size of between pups on average. Temperament: The Rottweiler Lab mix can be strong-willed and stubborn. This Rottador has a very high energy level and can be destructive and bark if not occupied. With careful training and socialization they can be affectionate, pleasant and kind and protective How should you train a Rottweiler Labrador mix dog? The Rottweiler breed has had a reputation for being aggressive and dangerous if not trained properly. The boundaries need to be set early for this mixed breed dog. Fun and positive reinforcement and reward-based training work best. Never hit or raise your voice to this breed during training as it may challenge this Labweiler to rebel and refuse to cooperate. Types of training required: obedience, discipline, agility, and socialization. So, if you are not going to use a professional dog trainer: 1 Develop basic command words: Stop, Sit, Down, etc. This hybrid dog will try to dominate and this must be controlled early in training. This will eventually become its nest and it will sleep there. Eventually, the puppy with your help will learn where and where not to go. They will eventually become creatures of habit and regulate their need and place to use. Health problems and health issues What health problems can a Rottweiler Lab mix suffer from? Hip Dysplasia and elbow dysplasia — common in many large breeds of dog. Hip dysplasia is a malformation of the hip joint, where the ball at the top of the leg does not fit properly into the socket and the ligaments attaching it are weak. This allows excess movement of the fitting which can eventually lead to stiffness and pain for the dog. Early warning signs are visual stiffness then walking, a reluctance to get up when prompted, and a difference in walking style; limp or caution. Bloat — any large dog that eats quickly or drinks a lot before exercising can suffer from bloat. This dangerous excessive gas build-up can cause the stomach to twist and damage other organs. Other health issues include ear infections, bone cancer, heart problems, skin conditions and allergies, epilepsy, and cold tail. How do you care for a Labrottie dog? Exercise needs A Labrottie is outgoing, athletic, and energetic so it will need lots of mixed exercises that blend fun and challenges. They need outdoor space to run around and burn off their excess energy, long walks, and activities that involve exercising around 2 hours a day as an adult. Feeding Feed as a large-sized dog, around 3 cups of Kibble dry formulated food per day. They should be fed twice a day and slowly to prevent bloat. Grooming This mixed breed dog inherits a short to medium length, shiny, dense double coat. Bathing This shortish-haired, water-resistant coated dog does not need regular bathing, only when required. Certain dog formulated shampoos have a double effect of cleaning the coat and protecting it against fleas and insect bites. Cleaning teeth, nails and ears As with all dogs, their teeth need to be cleaned regularly to prevent a build-up of plaque. Chewing breaks down plaque, so use doggie chew-toys, bare-bones and soft toothbrushes, and toothpaste. Nails grow quickly and need trimming regularly, say monthly, and ears need to be checked for debris that could cause infection. Lifestyle This breed is very confident, intelligent, and highly energetic. It will try to be dominant unless controlled and needs to be kept occupied otherwise it can become destructive. They can be stubborn and aggressive until trained. They will chew things if bored or left alone for long periods of time, so keep stimulated and busy. Chew toys can help with boredom. They need your company and outdoor space to run. This breed is a natural watchdog that will act on instinct to be very protective of its family. Positives and Negatives of ownership Positives A Family dog and loyal companion Intelligent and affectionate. Tweet on Twitter A black Lab Rottweiler mix has one purebred Labrador parent with a black coat, and one purebred Rottweiler parent. The black Lab Rottweiler mix is loyal, clever, and hard working. Puppies will grow into large dogs with lots of muscle. So, socialization and training from a young age are vital. Are you getting ready to bring a black Lab Rottweiler mix dog home? What is a Black Lab Rottweiler Mix? A black Lab Rottweiler mix is the same as any other Rottador mix. But, the Labrador parent will have a black coat, rather than chocolate or yellow. So, if your heart is set on a black Rottador or a black and tan Rottador, choosing a puppy with a black Lab parent can be a great idea. Because the black Lab Rottweiler mix has two purebred parents, it is a first generation mix. First generation mix puppies are much less predictable than later generations, since they can inherit any genes from either parent. And if the two parent breeds are quite different, this can cause some real variation, even within a single litter! Luckily, the Rottweiler and Labrador breeds share a lot of traits. So, predicting what a puppy will be like is a little easier. Purebred Rottweilers are black with either mahogany, rust, or tan markings. This is because the genes for black fur are dominant over other shades. Some may have markings, like the Rottweiler parent. And some may have different fur altogether, with other common Labrador mismarks, or even chocolate and yellow coloring. This is because black Labradors can carry the genes for chocolate or yellow coats. Ultimately, you will have to wait for the black Lab Rottweiler mix puppies to be born before you know whether they will have a black coat. But, if this is something you want, speak to your breeder and they may be able to give you first choice of any black puppies in the litter. This means a puppy will often be intelligent, friendly, and very loyal. This mix is also highly energetic. They will love spending plenty of time with you, and need a lot of mental stimulation each day. The friendliness of the Labrador is well known. But, some people can be wary of Rottweilers. However, with proper socialization and training, Rottweilers will be just as friendly and loving as a Lab. A study into canine aggression found that Rottweilers scored slightly higher than average for stranger-directed and dog-directed aggression, but lower than average for owner-directed aggression. Rottweilers form very strong bonds with their owners. So, if not socialized properly, their protective instincts may kick in, prompting potential aggression. Socializing your black Lab Rottweiler mix from a young age will help them feel comfortable and happy in the presence of unfamiliar people and animals. Black Lab Rottweiler Mix Exercise On top of training and socialization from a young age, the black Rottador mix will need plenty of exercise, as it comes from two high energy breeds. Both the Labrador and the Rottweiler parents have histories working alongside humans. And, both can be seen working with humans today, for instance as police dogs or guide dogs. This working ability is shared by all Rottadors. Training is a great way to provide some of this. But, these dogs will also need dedicated time outside to stretch their legs and run about. If they take after their Lab parent in particular, they will love fun retrieving games like fetch! Generally, this mix does best in a home with plenty of space. Ideally, they need a large and safely enclosed yard to explore and run around in. Black Lab Rottweiler Mix Health Fortunately, there are no specific health risks linked to black fur in dogs. In fact, puppies can inherit health issues from either parent breed. Rottadors are prone to the following: Hip and elbow dysplasia. Do Rottweiler Lab mixes have health concerns? Labrador Retrievers got their start when they were imported from Newfoundland to England in the s. They were hunting and fishing dogs. Rottweilers are of German descent. They have been traditionally used as guarding, herding, and hunting dogs. The Rottweiler Lab mix was perhaps inevitable with two such high demand parents. One of the best things about crossed breeds is the wide range of potential shapes and personalities your dog could grow to have. But this can have its downside as well. In the case of the Labrottie, there are several different possibilities for both appearance and personality. Labradors and Rottweilers are different sizes, and your puppy may fall anywhere between. Rottweilers generally weigh up to pounds, while Labradors are significantly less heavy set at pounds. Rottweiler height can be up to 27 inches at the shoulder, whereas Labs only grow to a maximum of .Both breeds can vary in size within themselves, so it stands to reason that larger Labrador and Rottweiler parents will have a larger Labrottie pup. Most, however, should fall somewhere in the middle. Labrador Rottweiler Mix Coat Rottweilers are well known for their classic black and tan coloring. They have short, low-maintenance coats. Labs come in different colors. Yellow, chocolate, black — they could pass down their coloring to your Labrottie puppy, resulting in a unique coloration. All you can bank on is the range from both parents. Labrador Rottweiler Mix Shedding Labradors have a double coat that protects them from the cold in winter or while swimming in cold water. This is especially true during certain times of the year, as their winter coat starts to come loose. The Labrottie has the benefit of two parent breeds with generally low-maintenance coats. Both Labradors and Rottweilers have short, easily groomed coats. Rottweiler Lab mix pups will definitely have the same length coat. Then they may need a little more. Rottweiler Lab Mix Temperament Labradors have a proud history as faithful retriever dogs, whereas Rottweilers have an equally proud history as guard dogs. Labradors are generally friendly, and are bred specifically for the task of returning hunted game to their owners. A dog bred for this purpose needed to be comfortable around all sorts of people. Rottweilers, in their guarding capacity, have been bred in a way that a fearful and distrusting attitude toward strangers. But how does this combination affect your pup? Labrottie Personality First generation mixes are kind of like rolling a dice. Or you might end up with a protective guard dog that looks exactly like the Labrador. Rottie Lab Mix Aggression As a breed, Rottweilers are responsible for a disproportionate amount of dog attacks. They certainly appear to be among the more aggression-prone breeds. This should be seriously considered by people with kids. Guarding dogs are generally good with their families, but families have friends. Kids bring over other kids, and a family pet needs to be accepting of this. One is by meeting the Rottie parent and making sure they are totally at ease in the presence of you and your family. Socialization is vital for any breed, but especially for a breed like the Rottweiler. Rottweiler Lab Mix Socialization The idea of using traditional training techniques on your Rottweiler mix may be a daunting task for some owners. Fortunately, nowadays we have better and safer methods for training dogs. The first step is always socialization. Introduce your dog to lots of other dogs and people at a very young age to help desensitize them to strangers. You want them to happily accept people coming and going in their home as nothing to be afraid of. Your Rottweiler Lab mix puppy must meet new visitors every day. Make sure a large proportion of them are children. In the wild they would be under the protection of their family, so fear would be unnecessary. Therefore, this is the best time to throw them into all sorts of new situations. Training And Exercising Your Rottweiler Lab Mix Positive training techniques also play a vital role in crafting the obedience and temperament of a dog. For anyone still considering punishment-based training, I would strongly advise against it. Studies have shown that dogs trained in this manner are less obedient, and more likely to attack both their owners and strangers. Rottweiler Lab Puppy Training Like any puppy, your Rottador will require specialized training when they are young, in addition to socialization. Rottweiler Lab Mix Exercise All dogs require a good amount of exercise to keep them in shape. This is especially true with physically capable breeds like the Rottweiler and Lab. Given a good amount of space to run around in, your Labrottie will thrive. Lack of exercise combined with poor diet can unfortunately be deadly. Obesity in dogs, as in humans, leads to diabetes and other complications. Breeding two dogs that are genetically dissimilar results in a phenomena called hybrid vigor, whereby outbreeding undoes a lot of the harm done by inbreeding. These dogs can still carry on genetic diseases from either of their parents given the right circumstances. Labrador Health Both Labradors and Rottweilers suffer regularly from hip dysplasia, meaning their hips are improperly formed. One nasty complication of hip dysplasia is a disease called degenerative joint disorder. One of the more commonly reported concerns in Labradors is exercise induced collapse. This strange condition means that Labradors in the full swing of physical activity may suddenly be unable to hold themselves up. It has actually been linked to a gene, so it is doubtless inherited from dog to dog. Other problems commonly seen in Labradors include elbow dysplasia, PRA, obesity, ear problems, and skin allergies. Hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as PRA, can be tested for. Health testing is an important part of the process of taking care of our pets. Rottweiler Health Elbow dysplasia is also a very common condition in Rottweilers. A study of German Rottweilers found more than half suffered from this ailment. Rottweilers also appear to be susceptible to a few nasty neurological disorders, namely nueroaxonal dystrophy and leukoencephalomalacia. Both of these diseases are degenerative, meaning they gradually get worse and worse. Unfortunately there is no cure or treatment for either, and they sadly can be fatal. For more information on health tests and screens that should be done for Rottweilers, visit the British Veterinary Association and this panel from UC Davis Veterinary Medicine. Although he is potentially less likely to suffer from any of these diseases than a purebred dog, the risk is not removed. Health testing is still a vital part of good breeding practice, even for mixes. Rottweilers have a shorter span of years. Your Rottweiler and Labrador mix could fall anywhere in that range, depending on the health of the dog. What makes a pet good depends on the person, and also the individual pet. Your Lab Rott mix could look like a Labrador, but with the guarding instincts and characteristic wariness of the Rottweiler. Equally, your dog could look much more Rottweiler-ish and have the gentle, easily trainable personality of a Labrador. The likelihood is it will be somewhere in between. Socialization and training go a long way to producing a happy and friendly dog. But genetics play an important role. The Labrador Rottweiler mix is best suited to an active adult home, where the family is around for much of the day and is committed to positive reinforcement training methods. But they will need a lot of work in terms of socialization and training, to make sure you reduce the possibility of bad behavior later on. Both parents should be friendly, healthy and confident. This is by no means a guarantee, but stacks more of the odds in your favor. Please avoid buying from puppy mills or pet stores, as these have no real concern for the health of their animals. Rottweiler Lab puppies are now deliberately bred, but they have existed for quite a while by accident. You need to avoid backyard breeders by only going to someone who has mixed a beloved pet due to their excellent health and wonderful temperament. Good breeders ask lots of questions, and are happy to answer them in return. Both the Lab and Rottie parent of your puppy must have excellent hip and elbow scores. The breeder should provide you proof of this. They must also be clear for PRA and have recent unaffected eye tests from their vet.