dwarf golden retriever puppies

There are two of us here at Puppy Love. This enables us to have several dogs in our breeding program and still ensure that each one gets the love and attention they deserve. We raise our dogs in our homes where they are part of our busy families. We both have five kids each who help to love and train our dogs and socialize the puppies. When we purchased our first Australian Labradoodle about 12 years ago, we were surprised to find that everything we had been told about this wonderful creature called the Labradoodle was true! They are friendly and fun loving, making them a wonderful family pet for children as well as adults. They are highly intelligent, easy to train and very intuitive, making them great for animal assisted therapy. We have sold many puppies over the years for therapy purposes to families who have kids or adults with special needs and also for therapy use in health care or educational settings. They truly are amazing animals and they will have you wrapped around their little paws before you know it. We breed only true Labradoodles or the Australian Multigenerational Labradoodles. We do not breed any early cross labradoodles or any labs to poodles as we have found that there is not enough consistency in temperament as well as coat. We like to be able to ensure that all of our puppies will have great personalities combined with fleece or silky soft coats that are allergy friendly. Not all Labradoodles are Created Equal! Our labradoodles are members of our families and have really enriched our lives. We want to bring them, a wonderful family pet and companion to your home. If you have allergies and have previously been unable to enjoy a dog for a pet, our puppies are the perfect choice for you. We only breed pure Australian Labradoodles. Because these are multi generational dogs, they have a much better, hypo allergenic, very little to non shedding coat. Most of the early crosses have a tendancy to shed. With multigenerational Labradoodles you get the benefit of may years of selective breeding by the breeders that started it all in Australia. In terms of Labradoodles, you really do get what you pay for! We are not a kennel. Our Australian Labradoodle puppies are hand whelped in our home and spend the first weeks of their lives in our Master Bedrooms where they and the moms feel the most safe and secure. At 3 weeks they move into the main living area of the house. From here they can see and hear just about everything that goes on in our homes on a day to day basis. Our children, who range in ages from toddler to young adult help to love and socialize the puppies until they are ready to be adopted and go home with you. Puppies raised in this environment make the best pets because they have been given the best possible start. They will enjoy running with you, swimming with you, they are great at fetch, highly intelligent and easily trained. When you are all done playing, what the Labradoodle enjoys the most is a nice, warm cuddle with you! Start your summer off in the best way possible by adding a new puppy to your family. Get out and enjoy the beautiful season with your new best friend! Contact us for details. Testimonials Our experience with Puppy Love Labradoodles has been a very good one. Right from our first call from Darice asking us all kinds of questions about our home life so that she could decide if we were the right people to purchase one of their puppies. We could not be happier with Darice and her family's professional and caring help. No questions have gone unanswered. We would not hesitate to buy another puppy from them. Contact Details. I work with a number breeders in the Dallas - Fort Worth metroplex, helping them create beautiful imagery of their puppies and breeding pairs for websites, social media and other branding needs. Responsible dog breeders invest heavily in both time and money to ensure the health and well being of their animals and Endless Pawsabilities is no exception. As a dog trainer I'm always keen to chat with them on their latest puppy developmental regimes; from early neurological stimulation to desensitization and socialization, they are an exemplary breeder many of their puppies go on to become service and support animals and their dedication shows in their litters as with these little reindeer. As soon as the litter had been delivered shortly after Christmas hence the holiday themed names , Endless Pawsabilities scheduled their studio session, and as soon as I learned there was a mixture of yellows, chocolates and a black, I started counting the days until I met them! It's "photographer's choice" this week in the Pet Photographer 52 Week Project and so I thought I'd share some adorable puppies with you. You're welcome :.

Life Span Did You Know? The Boxer is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. It has been recognized by the AKC since .Although the Boxer dog breed originated in Germany, their ancient ancestry can be traced back to the Assyrian empire war dogs of BC. The modern Boxer breed we know and love today was originally developed in Germany in the late s. English-bred Bulldogs and the Bullenbesiier were crossed to create an energetic and agile hunting dog to chase wild game. The Boxer is a popular family companion and a versatile working dog. As a member of the Working Group, Boxers can be found competing in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding. They also make great service and assistance dogs, as well as therapy dogs, and can be found working as search and rescue dogs, drug detection dogs, police dogs, and military dogs. The Boxer is a muscular and energetic dog that tends to have a happy, friendly disposition. They bond closely with their families and tend to get along well with children and other dogs. They can even do well with other pets despite their high prey drive if they are socialized and trained with them. As long as they are well-socialized, Boxers are generally upbeat, playful, and friendly. Although they have a natural instinct to protect their family from unwanted visitors, they do tend to warm up once introduced and are happy to make a new friend. They can be prone to barking a lot if you do not work on socialization and training your dog to stop barking early on. Boxers can be highly adaptable dogs. Although they have a lot of energy and are better suited to homes with yards where they can run, they can adapt to apartment living as long as they get the daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need. As with any non-arctic dog breed, they are sensitive to very cold temperatures. Boxers are also a brachycephalic breed, which means they are even more sensitive to heat than other dogs. A Boxer is also one of the most affectionate dog breeds. Because they bond so closely with their families and get bored easily, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health conditions to be aware of in a Boxer include hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, thyroid issues , and heart conditions like aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy. Good breeding practices make a big difference and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents and about any health tests that have been done. Boxers are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. Despite their energetic personality, they are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and are highly trainable dogs. They tend to excel at almost any task put before them! Because of their open, friendly nature and high energy, they have a tendency to jump up at people in excitement and playfulness. Since they grow into powerful dogs, you will want to make sure you train your dog not to jump up. Boxers have smooth and short coats that will shed a little year-round and require minimal grooming. A brush-down once or twice a week and the occasional bath as needed will keep their short coat healthy and looking great. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Checking ears weekly and carefully cleaning as needed can help prevent ear infections. Checking and wiping their facial wrinkles weekly or a few times a week if your dog is prone to getting into things can help keep their wrinkles clean and free of irritation. Dental diseases, like gum disease, are the most common health issues in older dogs because dental care is often overlooked; and, it can lead to other serious health issues. Brushing daily, plus cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. The Boxer is a high-energy dog breed that needs plenty of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Due to their high prey drive and urge to chase, they should only be let off-leash in secure areas. Boxers tend to get bored with repetition, are excellent problem solvers, and are naturally exuberant. A fully-grown Boxer usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. Boxers generally live years on average. In Germany, the Boxer was one of the first dog breeds chosen for police training. Featured Boxer Article. Questions about Boxer puppies for sale in New York? We have answers. How much are Boxer puppies for sale in New York? There are a lot of factors to take into account when you are looking for Boxer puppies for sale New York. Breeders will price their Boxers differently based on factors like gender, color, size, eye color, and more. Will I only find local Boxer pups here? No, you will find Boxers from all over the country. Our network of breeders and businesses is located all over the country, including New York Boxer breeders and those in other states. They are experienced at transporting pups safely and securely, so wherever you find your perfect pup, you can go and meet them at your nearest major airport. Do you screen and vet the breeders in the network? We are very strict when it comes to adding Boxer breeders New York to our network, and only the best are approved. We have a strict set of standards that must be met. We take ethics, cleanliness, legal compliance, and more into account, so you can search for Boxer puppies for sale in New York with complete peace of mind. You can search online for Boxer puppies New York, but be aware that what you are likely to find are the Boxer New York breeders that are just best at marketing. There is absolutely no guarantee they are the best. Puppy mills are sometimes chosen by people looking for the cheapest Boxer puppies in New York they can find. But puppy mills are best avoided. They are like factories for dogs where proper breeding practices are often not followed. And dogs who are not bred properly can be more prone to developing harmful behavioral problems and health issues. Are Boxer puppies available right now? Do you have something very specific in mind for your puppy when you begin searching for a Boxer for sale New York? Then search our network today to find exactly what you want. We have a huge number of businesses and breeders in our network, and they have lots of Boxer puppies to choose from, making it easier than ever to find your perfect puppy. Where exactly do Boxer dogs come from? Boxers were bred as guard dogs in the s from a mix of dogs including the Bulldog and the German Bullenbeisser. They quickly became popular for their mix of desirable characteristics including strength, loyalty, intelligence, and playfulness. What are Boxers like? Boxers are famously clownish in their behavior, and they just love goofing around. They are also very intelligent and incredibly loyal. If you find a New York Boxer for sale, they make great guard dogs and will take their job of looking after you and your family very seriously. How big are Boxers normally? Boxers are characterized as medium to large dogs. However, as with all dog breeds, some will be larger than others. On average, fully grown Boxers usually weigh between about 60 and 70 pounds. If I live in an apartment, can I still get a Boxer? As Boxers are dogs with a lot of energy, you may be wondering whether they are suitable for apartment living. The answer is yes! But just keep in mind when you look for Boxers for sale New York that they will need a lot of exercise. Daily exercise is essential, so make sure you take them out for a long walk or two.

More Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Welcome to Rosehill Boxers, located in Riverside County. We are David and Lori Rose. He was in the Army, and his running buddy and best friend was Apollo, a fawn male boxer with a full black mask. When we married and had children, we were missing the pitter pat of puppy paws. After a careful search, we adopted our lovely girl, Sadie. I am so glad we chose a boxer. They are full of life and love. Needless to say, I have become a bit partial to the Boxer breed. After a great deal of research and study of the breed, as breeders we will strive to breed quality boxers that not only represent the breed standard, but also breed for health and temperament. Every effort will be made to ensure our boxers are well cared for and health tested prior to breeding. I have been a member of the Southern California Boxer Club since .And am now the Vice President of the club. Since we have started showing our Daughter is also showing in Junior Showmanship along with the Breed ring. Madison does a fabulous job presenting each dog and strives to bring out their great qualities. Madison has also qualified for Westminister for her second year in a row. She has even branched out a bit showing other breeds. Boxer Puppies For Sale Near Me Boxer puppies Beautiful pups rare colors tails and claws done shots and dewormed very healthy Buy Now Rare Boxer Pups Beautiful rare colors and markings tales docked and dewclaws removed professionally they make great family pets and love kids 3males 3females first pictures are mom and dad Buy Now Boxer pups.I have 5 boxer poppies available with docked tails,first set of shots and dewormed all are ready for new home and just turned 8 weeks old located in Riverside CA. Mom and Dad on site. I have fawn and brindle, white pups asking for a rehoming fee. They eat Dry food and friendly registered pups. Contact me for updates on pictures. She was born on March 16th. She is available NOW. She will have two shot and be wormed when she is ready for her new families. View Detail 6 weeks old boxer puppies 6week old purebred boxer puppies. Brindle and black sealed. They all have their tails. Both parents are on the property. She has 2 shots and 3 dewormers she is registered AKC! Mom and Dad on site! Ready for new home! They are good around other people, more of a family dog. .You can get one or both. View Detail 13 month old puppy for sale Dilla is a 13 month old Puppy which is a mixed breed. Della would make a fantastic pet provided it receive some training he has absolutely none and very much in need of training very undisciplined. They have docked tails and dew claw. Will have first set of shots,deworming, and a Vet well check before releasing them to new owner. Pm me xxxxxxxxx xxxxx. Boxers are very loyal, intelligent, and very friendly and lovely. Boxers are very cheerful, and their inquisitive nature means they love to be silly, explore, and play games. Boxers are champion smugglers. Many owners have reported that their boxer loves to be held like a baby and is excellent with children. Has knowledge of the Boxer Breed. Ready for there new homes one week before Christmas. Currently taking deposit to hold your new fur baby. Please email for more info.

Articles Sit. Heal German Shepherd Hip Dysplasia Signs and Treatments Muscular, intelligent, and loyal, German shepherds are steadfast guardians and all-purpose workers. Highly trainable and obedient, German shepherds provide a range of services—excelling as show dogs and household companions, as well as military and search and rescue animals. Exuding confidence, this breed is royalty of the dog family. They are susceptible, however, to challenging hip and joint issues like hip dysplasia any time from puppyhood all the way through maturation. As with many large breed dogs, German shepherds are prone to canine hip dysplasia CHD , a dog skeletal condition that can be inherited or caused by a traumatic fracture or other environmental factors. CHD occurs from malformation of the ball and joint socket of one or both hips the hip joint is called the coxofemoral joint. If so, it maybe be because of breeding. The exaggerated hind leg angulation is often bred into the dog because of standards that dictate rear legs upper and lower thighs should come as close to a degree angle as possible. Along these same lines, a sloping back causes hindquarters to become more angulate and, thus, prone to lower back pain. These bent legs could point toward one of many health problems, one of which is hip dysplasia. Although irreversible, canine hip dysplasia can be monitored and treated to reduce chronic pain. According to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals , .The progression of it and the treatment options available depend on a number of factors, including the degree of misalignment and age of the dog. CHD has a range of signs, depending on the severity of the disease and degree of looseness in the joint. The severity also ranges from mild to extreme pain—some German shepherds even have to use a wheelchair. CHD Treatment Options Dog hip dysplasia surgery for severe cases in medium to large dogs can be expensive. If invasive surgery is not the best choice for your dog, look into non-surgical, conservative management options, such as dog leg braces, physical therapy, weight control, acupuncture, anti-inflammatories, and massage therapy. Ortho Dog specializes in flexible, adjustable, and affordable dog leg braces. Additionally, leg braces for hip dysplasia may slow the progression of this chronic issue. Is a Hip Hound Brace right for your pup? Designed for dogs who suffer from arthritis and mild to moderate hip dysplasia. Below are four common disorders of the hip and joint commonly seen in this breed: Degenerative Myelopathy As a German shepherd owner, you have likely heard of the fatal, chronic, and progressive disease called degenerative myelopathy that is most prevalent in this breed. Typically apparent between the ages of , degenerative myelopathy is a neurological disorder that affects the spinal cord and muscle coordination, ultimately leading to paralysis of the back legs within months. CHD shares several symptoms with early stages of degenerative myelopathy, including difficulty rising and jumping, and progressive weakness of hind limbs. As with any signs that something may be off with your dog, contact your veterinarian for a full exam. Canine Myasthenia Gravis A rare neuromuscular disease, canine myasthenia gravis is a disorder of the signal transmission between nerves and muscles, resulting in progressive muscle weakness, and fatigue with mild exercise. This disease is not typically confused with CHD because the signs tend to show up on the face more than the hindquarters. This incorrect movement can put a strain on their hips, which causes them to walk with an irregular gait. Our Hock Holder brace offers stabilization and support to the hock to help relieve stress. Osteoarthritis Most often seen in senior dogs, osteoarthritis is the inflammation of the hip joints due to cartilage deterioration. You may notice your dog moving a bit more slowly and having trouble with stairs. With less cartilage, bones can grind against each other and cause inflammation. Much like a human wearing a wrist or hand brace for arthritis, the Ortho Dog Hip Hound brace limits the movement of the joint, which helps with the pain. References 1. Clinical and pathological effects Hip dysplasia HD is a disease of the hip coxofemoral joints. Dysplasia means abnormal development. Both hips are usually affected Brass .It is a complex disease that results from a combination of genes that predispose a dog to developing hip dysplasia interacting with environmental factors that lead to its full development and expression Riser .It is characterized by hip joint instability which, if compounded by environmental factors, then results in secondary osteoarthritis and the clinical signs of hip dysplasia which include pain, lameness and disability Zhang et al .To fully understand hip dysplasia, it is necessary to understand the structure of the hip joint. The hip joint is the joint at the top of the hind leg, where it articulates forms a joint with the pelvis. It is described as a ball and socket joint, as in normal hips the ball-shaped head of the femur the thigh bone fits perfectly into a cup-shaped socket in the pelvis, the acetabulum. The head of the femur femoral head and the acetabulum are normally covered with cartilage which produces a smooth, low friction surface. Within the joint there is also a fine layer of synovial fluid that acts as a lubricant between these cartilaginous surfaces. This thin layer of synovial fluid, along with the round ligament a ligament that runs round the edge of the acetabulum — between the acetabulum and the femur , keeps the two cartilaginous surfaces together by creating a suction-like effect. The ligaments and the joint capsule also help to hold the ball and socket closely together. In newborn puppies, because the bones are soft and not fully ossified turned into bone as they need to grow and develop, they are still deformable if abnormal movements or stresses and strains occur in them. Riser suggests that, in a normal six month old individual, ossification of the bones and soft tissue strength the strength of the surrounding ligaments, joint capsule and muscles have developed enough to prevent hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is described as a biomechanical disease. The hips appear normal at birth. However, in affected individuals, the hips develop abnormally due, at first, to joint instability sometimes called joint laxity Riser .This means that the developing femoral head and acetabulum are not held constantly, closely together, and can move into abnormal positions relative to one another. This puts abnormal stresses and strains on the joint. Riser states this is due to the soft tissues, such as ligaments and muscle, not being strong enough to maintain congruity between the articular surfaces of the femoral head and the acetabulum ie the constant contact between the surfaces of the bones is not maintained. The pathological changes seen due to the joint instability are progressive inflammation and degeneration of the tissues that together form the joint. Brass details the following changes in the joint: The joint capsule can become thickened and the round ligament can become stretched or ruptured leading to additional, excessive movements. The synovial fluid increases in volume and changes in nature, due to inflammation, this pushes the joint surfaces apart. The cartilage on the bone surfaces gets worn away exposing subchondral bone the layer of bone beneath the surface cartilage. Unlike cartilage, bone contains nerve endings and such exposure will commonly cause pain. The rim of the acetabulum becomes damaged and flattened and later new bone starts to grow here as the body tries to stabilize the joint. The femoral head becomes deformed and flattened and also grows abnormal bone called exotoses or osteophytes. This changing of the shape of the joint with new bone growing in abnormal positions, and being lost in others, is called joint remodelling. The signs that are seen with hip dysplasia can vary hugely in their severity, the age at which they first appear and their progression. In mild cases dogs can be free from clinical signs for years; however, for more severely affected individuals, signs of pain can develop whilst they are still immature less than a year old Signs include acute pain, particularly after strenuous exercise or movement. This may show as lameness or reluctance to jump, to go for walks, climb steps or move at all if really severe. The pain may be worse in cold, wet conditions Brass .These signs may start intermittently, but over time can become constant. Muscle wastage is often seen in the hindlegs Brass .There appears to be little correlation between the severity of pain shown by the dog and physical abnormalities felt on examination by a vet or revealed on an x-ray Brass ie some dogs can be in severe pain but have few changes on x-rays and vice versa. This is typical of any joint disease. Controlling food intake during growth has been shown to decrease hip dysplasia in Labradors ie by reducing excessive energy intake and therefore excessive weight gain during growth Kealy et al .High calcium intake during growth has been shown to delay maturation of the skeleton and increase the risk of hip dysplasia in Great Danes Hazewinkel .It is thought that controlling the amount and form of exercise during development may also help Corr .Bennett and May suggest excessive exercise during development can lead to hip dysplasia. Treatment for hip dysplasia is complex; many surgical interventions have been developed to prevent signs appearing in young animals with high joint laxity and to treat dogs with severe osteoarthritis. All need specialist surgeons. Various medications to aid pain relief are also available, along with recommendations to reduce the effect of environmental factors. Return to top 2. Intensity of welfare impact Though some dogs may be mildly affected, for many German Shepherd dogs with hip dysplasia, the impact of the condition is major and life changing. These animals suffer pain that is severe and debilitating, leading them to be in pain even with small everyday movements such as standing up. Their quality of life is severely affected so that they are unable to enjoy normal canine behaviours such as walking and running. It is not uncommon for dogs to be euthanased due to the pain and disability of arthritis associated with hip dysplasia. Return to top 3. Duration of welfare impact Hip dysplasia is a progressive disease with signs seen from any age. For some dogs pain starts before a year of age. Signs may be intermittent to start with but often progress to be constant. Medical treatment and advice can help control pain and possibly slow progression, though a cure can only be obtained with major surgical intervention in dogs that are considered suitable candidates for such surgery. Return to top 4. Number of animals affected Hip dysplasia is the most common joint problem of large dogs Smith et al .UK VetCompass data for dogs overall, showed that 7. In this sample, diagnosis of conditions affecting the pelvis eg hip dysplasia did not significantly differ between purebred and crossbred dogs. Figures vary greatly for how frequently German Shepherds are affected by hip dysplasia, depending on the method by which they have been screened and the database reviewed. The frequency is likely to vary for geographically different populations of the same breed Brass .However, Paster et al suggested that the OFA population was biased, as it is not compulsory for radiographed dogs to have their x-rays submitted to the OFA scheme so some owners may have had dogs pre-screened and only submitted apparently non-dysplastic ones for consideration and scoring. In this study, German Shepherd dogs had a higher odds ratio of hip dysplasia occurrence than Dobermanns, Labradors and Rottweilers, indicating that the breed is at a significantly higher risk of hip dysplasia development. Return to top 5. Diagnosis For a young dog suspected of hip dysplasia, a diagnosis can be made on the clinical signs shown at home and on examination of the dog, including assessment of joint laxity and joint pain plus evaluation of radiographs x-ray pictures of the hip joints Corr .Assessment of the joint laxity and radiographs may need to be performed by a specialist vet who is used to checking for this condition. For a formal diagnosis, the radiographs are usually submitted to a panel for evaluation. There are three methods of assessing joint laxity. Radiographs and assessment of joint laxity need to be performed under heavy sedation or anaesthesia Corr .Return to top 6. Genetics Hip dysplasia in dogs is a polygenic disease; many genes are thought to play a role in its development. Most of these genes probably have small additive effects quantitative, polygenes and some probably have larger effects Zhang et al .Heritability estimates are used to demonstrate how much variation in a phenotypic trait is due to genetic variation among individuals in a population. Using hip scores published by the British Veterinary Association, heritability for hip scores of German Shepherd dogs was 0. Genes are not solely responsible for whether a dog with the genetic potential for hip dysplasia develops the condition. Environmental factors play an important part. They are discussed in the clinical and pathogenic effects section above. However, there are significant breed predispositions to this condition and the German Shepherd dog is one of the breeds affected. Return to top 7. How do you know if an animal is a carrier or likely to become affected? There are a number of breeding schemes around the world developed to decrease the incidence of hip dysplasia in dog breeds. These schemes assess potential breeding animals in somewhat different ways. All aim to give breeders and owners a strong indication of which dogs are likely to produce healthy offspring and which should not be bred. However, this is by no means straightforward for hip dysplasia as it is a polygenic condition in which the genetics are poorly understood and which is also affected by environmental factors in a major way. This lack of clarity has produced much debate over the best way to assess potential breeding dogs. A brief summary of the various schemes follows including some current evidence for their benefits. All dogs must be at least 12 months of age. There are nine radiographic features which are scored, including the Norberg angle NA - a measurement for hip laxity taken from the EHR and each dog is given a score out of 53 for each hip total of up to for both. A low score indicates healthy hip joints eg Greyhounds would score 0, as is not seen in this breed and a higher score indicates worse hip dysplasia. Breeders are recommended to only breed from animals with a score lower than the breed medianscore e. It is also based on an extended hip radiograph EHR , which is then graded by three independent experts to give an overall grade. All dogs must be over 2 years of age to be assessed. There are seven possible grades for the radiograph: excellent, good, fair, borderline, mild, moderate or severe hip dysplasia. Dogs must be between 1 and 2 years of age and the radiograph is graded by someone appointed by each breed club — they do not have to be an expert. Grades include: A- no signs of hip dysplasia, B — near normal hip joints, C — mild hip dysplasia, D — moderate hip dysplasia, E — severe hip dysplasia. Older dogs can be assessed but the likelihood of more secondary osteoarthritic changes is taken into account. Dogs from 4 months of age can be assessed. It involves the assessment of three different radiographic views of the hip joints called the distraction view, the compression view and the EHR. The radiograph must be taken by a vet who is registered with the scheme and the radiographs are assessed by vets at the PennHIP Analysis Center. Dogs with a DI lower than 0. Dogs with increasing DI values over 0. Advocates of the PennHIP method like it because it accurately identifies individuals who have hip laxity - the primary phenotypical abnormality that predisposes dogs to hip dysplasia. The other schemes only look at the EHR and though the NA can be measured from this, the NA has been shown to be an inaccurate method to assess hip laxity Culp et al .Much of what is assessed on the EHRs are secondary arthritic changes, these are not specific to hip dysplasia and are affected by many environmental factors. Recently, researchers from the University of Pennsylvania have confirmed that the Distraction Index DI is a significant risk factor for the development of hip dysplasia. In other words, DI scores give a very good indication of the likelihood of osteoarthritic changes, due to hip dysplasia, developing in the future Smith and others , , , Smith , Runge et al .These and other researchers argue that the other schemes are not as good at detecting animals that have hip dysplasia as the PennHIP method and, despite older schemes existing for over 40 years, little improvement has been seen in hip dysplasia in the general pet population Corley , Kaneene et al , Leppanen et al , Paster et al .In fact, one recent study looking at a database of over 1,, dogs found an increase in the prevalence of hip dysplasia Witsberger et al .However EHR scores were found to have a much higher heritability 0. Heritability studies are difficult to compare between different populations with different environmental influences. To improve the gene pool, phenotypic traits that can be easily detected with strong links to the genotype genetic make-up of animals have to be found. Ideally, any potential pet would have had its hip joints assessed by one of the above schemes prior to purchase, although this is often unhelpful, as most pets are purchased as young puppies. Unfortunately, this does not guarantee all their offspring will be free from hip dysplasia. Certainly any potential breeding animal should be assessed prior to breeding using an appropriate scheme. Return to top 8. Methods and prospects for elimination of the problem Hip dysplasia is a complex trait which involves multiple unknown genes and environmental factors. Eradication schemes have been running in some countries for decades and still it is commonplace. Thus prospects for its quick elimination are low. In a recent study, Zhang et al suggested that using scores from four hip traits combined to create a breeding value for each animal would help speed up elimination of the condition. They felt that information on the single joint trait EHR eg the OFA scheme gave insufficient information to provide the basis for breeding decisions. The DLS is a measurement made from an x-ray taken in a weight-bearing position to measure the subluxation of the femoral head Farese et al .In this study on two populations of dogs where environmental factors were strictly controlled, heritabilities for all these traits were found to be relatively high eg heritabilities were 0. The researchers suggested these heritabilites were higher than expected due to the controlled environmental conditions. Zhang et al suggested an improved way for selectively breeding out hip dysplasia would be if breeders could be given breeding values derived from the four traits for each potential breeding animal, plus a measurement of the inbreeding of any potential mating eg the inbreeding coefficient. This way, they suggest, inbreeding can be avoided and only animals with phenotypes strongly indicative of healthy hip joint genes would be bred from. This scheme is a more organised form of others that have suggested using a combination of breeding values determined from pedigree information and phenotype score Ginja et al , Hou et al .As described by Bell , when breeders are prioritising raising dogs that have good hip dysplasia genotypes for future breeding the phenotype has to be used as a marker for the genotype. Although the diagnostic signs can be affected also by environmental factors such as feeding and exercise regimes. It is important that the puppies are raised in a standard and not excessively protective way. Otherwise, dogs that would normally have developed radiographic signs of hip dysplasia will have this masked and their genes will be perpetuated. Future development of genetic tests to help identify some of the hip dysplasia genes, along with more use of pedigree data that includes the health of ancestors and progeny for clinical signs of hip dysplasia and also for other inherited defects of German Shepherd dogs , may well help to improve methods used to eliminate this condition. Currently we have to continue to rely on choosing phenotypical traits which apparently indicate the presence of healthy genes. Return to top 9. Reviewed by Petal Smart Petal Smart is a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and has been an editor in the veterinary and medical sciences since .She has edited more than assignments, including research studies published in various academic journals, continuing medical education materials, and articles on pet health. Canine hip dysplasia is most often seen in large breeds like German Shepherd dogs , Saint Bernards , and Greater Swiss Mountain dogs , but a dog of any size and both male and female dogs may be affected. The cause of canine hip dysplasia isn't known. The condition is thought to have a genetic link, and dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Puppies from parents that have hip dysplasia will be more likely to develop the condition than puppies born to parents with normal hips. However, even dogs with normal parents can develop hip dysplasia. What Is Canine Hip Dysplasia? The pelvis cradles the head of the femur thigh bone in a cup-like socket of bone that forms the hip. Puppies typically are born normal, but as the puppy matures, the hip joint alignment becomes progressively worse. This places abnormal stress and wear on the bones when they rub together, and causes further joint degeneration and pain. Bones respond to stress by growing thicker, which makes the fit even worse. As the dog matures, this damage predisposes to arthritic changes and painful joints. Signs and Symptoms Severe hip dysplasia may become noticeable as early as four months of age, but is more typically seen in pups aged 9 months to 1 year. The painful condition causes limping , favoring of limbs, and difficulty rising, running, or jumping. Dysplastic pups may exhibit an odd wobbly gait when walking and "bunny hop" when running or climbing stairs, which may help to ease joint stress. Stairs can prove a particular challenge for these dogs, and sore hips and pain may prompt aggression , causing the pup to snap or flinch when touched. However, there are degrees of severity. Some pups may show few to no signs at all, and mild cases may go undiagnosed until the dog reaches middle age or older. How quickly, or to what extent degeneration occurs is in part determined by the pup's activity level. While healthy, normal hips probably won't be adversely affected by hard work or exuberant play, the dog with mild to moderate hip dysplasia develops more noticeable signs more quickly when excessive stress is placed on these joints. Fortunately, only a relatively small percentage of pets suffer the severest, most crippling form of the condition. The condition may also be influenced by lifestyle, nutrition, body weight, and activity level. The puppy is placed on its back and the veterinarian looks for the typical arthritic changes and subluxation laxity of the joint. Some changes may not become evident until the pup reaches 2 years old, and experts say there may be considerable changes from 6 to 9 months up to 1 year. The OFA provides a consulting service for purebred dog owners and breeders, through which it reviews hip X-rays provided by an owner to evaluate the dog's conformation and, when normal, certifies that fact. The PennHip testing method, developed by Dr. Reputable breeders have dog parents tested prior to breeding to make sure they do not have hip dysplasia and reduce the chance of the condition in puppies. Dogs can be certified free of hip dysplasia by sending appropriate X-rays to either the OFA registry or the PennHip registry. This is evaluated by three radiologists who score the hips fair, good, or excellent. PennHip evaluation uses computer analysis to compare the X-rays to all the other dogs of that breed in the registry. Management of Hip Dysplasia There is no cure for hip dysplasia. Treatment is aimed at relieving pain and improving joint function. How well treatment works depends on the severity of the problem. Often, mild to moderate cases of hip dysplasia can be managed with gentle exercise, a healthy diet, and oral pain relievers like buffered aspirin or Rimadyl as prescribed by the veterinarian. Moderate exercise helps maintain and improve the puppy's muscle tone, which alleviates painful wear and tear on the joint. Encourage your dysplastic puppy to take short walks with you. Swimming is an ideal exercise, but jumping and prolonged running should be discouraged. Keep your puppy lean; obesity increases joint strain and can make the condition worse. Massage can also help the dog feel better. Severe cases of hip dysplasia may benefit from surgery that rebuilds or removes bone or alters the muscles and tendons to reduce pain. More from The Spruce Pets. If your dog qualifies for surgeries, you have even more options. Tips for Preventing Hip Dysplasia in German Shepherds Although not all cases of hip dysplasia can be prevented, a good majority can. Even if hip dysplasia is not preventable in your dog, you can use these tips to minimize pain caused by the condition. This can make a huge difference in whether your dog develops hip dysplasia. The best reputable breeders will even provide a screening for their puppies. After the screening, which can only be done after 16 weeks of age, you can know if a puppy is predisposed to hip dysplasia. From an early age, make sure to provide your dog with high-quality dog food specific for large breeds. For example, get a large-breed puppy-specific dog food when your dog is young, and switch to an adult dog food once the dog ages. Note that most senior dog foods are not generic, so your vet will be the best person to help you choose which product is best for your older German Shepherd. Only provide your dog as much food as they need, never under or over. Both malnutrition and obesity increase the risk for hip dysplasia development. If you are unsure how much to feed your dog, talk to your vet for recommendations. Right Exercise Exercise is another factor you need to consider carefully if you want to prevent hip dysplasia in your German Shepherd. Preventative Supplements Image Credit: ElenVik, Shutterstock You can begin giving preventative supplements to your dog to nourish their joints. One of the most popular is glucosamine. This supplement is prescribed to dogs with arthritis and hip dysplasia, but you can use it for preventative measures too. Of course, preventative supplements will have a lower glucosamine count than prescribed medications. Final Thoughts If you suspect that your German Shepherd is experiencing hip dysplasia, please visit the vet right away. Luckily, most German Shepherds with hip dysplasia live long and robust lives. If they get a great treatment, you can expect your dog to be happy and carefree. By starting a well-rounded prevention plan from an early age, you can help your dog grow with minimal issues. Featured Image Credit: makeitclear, Pixabay Contents. Helps with joint lubrication 4. NSAIDs Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs Just like humans, dogs can benefit from taking certain pain medications to treat their hip dysplasia. In particular, NSAIDs can benefit your dog by reducing some of the pain and inflammation that hip dysplasia causes. There are some great charts available online that show you how much your German Shepherd should weigh at various stages of his life. Hard surfaces can be especially painful for your dog to walk on, so avoid walking on asphalt and sidewalks and instead take him for a walk in a grassy park. Repair and Prevent Cartilage Deterioration We mentioned cartilage a bit earlier. When your dog moves, cartilage helps cushion the joint. But it can become damaged when your dog has hip dysplasia. Over time, this cartilage deteriorates, causing pain and inflammation. Another word for this cartilage deterioration? Fortunately, certain active ingredients can help maintain joint health and reduce the likelihood that the secondary condition of arthritis will form as a result of German Shepherd hip dysplasia. In particular, the active ingredients of chondroitin and glucosamine for dogs help maintain cartilage health. These two naturally occurring substances work together to not only repair damaged cartilage but also prevent it from deteriorating in the first place. Lubricate Joints Hyaluronic acid is another key active ingredient that benefits dogs suffering from German Shepherd hip dysplasia by improving joint mobility and reducing discomfort. In particular, hyaluronic acid may help reduce the pain your dog experiences as a result of hip dysplasia. And how does it do that? Well, hyaluronic acid is an important component of synovial fluid. So it stands to reason that making sure your dog has enough hyaluronic acid is a great way to ensure his hip joints can move as smoothly as possible. But fortunately, MSM, a powerful antioxidant and building block for healthy joints, can help reduce the pain and inflammation your dog experiences from hip dysplasia. And the great news is that this ingredient is often found in joint supplements. Additionally, MSM may become even more effective when used alongside glucosamine, another common active ingredient. Yes, that is indeed our product. His once-sprightly steps may now be slightly slower, and he may have difficulty getting up after lying down. These are common signs of hip dysplasia, a congenital, degenerative joint disease that can cause significant pain and discomfort as your fur friend ages. Our Misty Mae had horrible hip dysplasia, and at 17 years old, we said farewell to her. As a result, they rub against each other out of sync instead of sliding smoothly like they are supposed to. This abnormal wear and tear eventually leads to deterioration and loss of function of the hip bone structure. Your trusted veterinarian will physically examine your dog, which may include watching your dog walk if possible , manipulating the hips, doing blood work to rule out anything else , and taking X-Rays. Treatment of Hip Dysplasia: Treatment of hip dysplasia depends on the severity. Typically, mild cases may include lifestyle changes, such as losing and maintaining weight. But as the disease progresses, incorporating pain management tools such as NSAIDs, cortisone, and even therapy such as hydrotherapy will become part of the treatment plan. More severe cases may require surgery, if feasible. Prognosis For Older German Shepherds With Hip Dysplasia Like Elbow dysplasia, if diagnosed early, the outcome for our dogs with hip dysplasia certainly looks more optimistic. But unfortunately, the prognosis for hip dysplasia in older German Shepherds comes down to maintaining the disease. The signs of canine hip dysplasia can be evident in older German Shepherds. Here are some tools we use to help our older German Shepherd residents with hip dysplasia: Keep them at an ideal weight Short walks, if possible.

Jean-Francois: How much is a purebred German Shepherd puppy without papers worth? I'm guessing it's a rip-off. Our nonpaper German shepherd just had 12, her 1st litter of no papers German shepherd pups. You can visually see the traits. I do suggest making sure vaccinations are given before buying the puppy. Answer by JTP Actually, that is a great price! I would even say that's pretty cheap, especially since it's a German Shepherd. Answer by SuperGirl It doesn't matter if the parents have papers. Parents with papers should have puppies that have papers as well. I'm also guessing mom and dad don't really have papers either, because papers come to puppies with papered parents. Answer by Kayleigh Let me explain what happened to us. I was young at the time and didn't realize what "limited" rights were. This means the woman who sold me my puppy would not give me the right to register my purebred GSD as a purebred GSD unless I got her spayed. We bought her with the intention of eventually breeding and keeping some puppies for ourselves but also selling a few. I would be breeding my dog with a purebred GSD who is registered, but since I cannot register my dog due to this lady's way of giving me limited rights I would not be able to register the pups either. She is our rescue dog. I got a blood test done that shows she is a purebred German Shepherd, but there is no way of knowing whether she was registered or not. We are going to breed her with one of my friend's purebred German Shepherd males. I was thinking of selling the puppies for around , which is about 1, dollars cheaper than what they are selling registered puppies for in this area. Sound in mind and body, strong, functional, intelligent, trainable, courageous, and resilient. These are the natural qualities that can only be realized through the incredible genetics of purebred German Shepherds. We only import the best-of-the-best. Certified champions straight from Germany! Due to his home being burglarized in , Wayne decided to train dogs in tracking, obedience, and protection. His untrained Staffordshire Bullterrier was unable to protect his home and he then decided to obtain a Rottweiler for protection. Wayne continued to train Rottweilers up until the early 90s where he purchased his first German Shepherd. He was raised along side German Shepherds which had a huge impact toward his love and respect for the breed. At Kraftwerk K9, we honor the history of the German Shepherd. We here at Kraftwerk K9 care for and teach these world-class dogs to live up to their full potential. Our ethical breeding facility sits on 25 gorgeous acres of Washington soil and is available for touring before purchase. Take a look at our facility Learn more about our certified German Shepherds by calling today at or visiting our Available Dog page! However, here in the U. When it comes to determining health, temperament, conformation, and working ability, these papers can mean diddly squat. What about the pedigree? The pedigree shows that this dog, its parents, and its grandparents all were registered with the large breed organization as purebreds—which is important if you are seeking a dog that is of a particular breed. The pedigree is intended to serve as a record of the ancestors behind your dog, but it is only as good as the genetic heritage passed on through each generation. As we have seen, simply being registered with a breed organization as a purebred says nothing about the genetic quality, temperament, and health of the dogs in that pedigree. A pedigree can be used to trace the inheritance of certain traits, whether it be coat color, good or bad hips and elbows, health issues, and to a certain extent temperament and working ability if the parents have been titled and proven in working ability, these titles should be recorded on the pedigree, unless they are titles earned in Europe or under another organization not associated with the AKC. But if the puppy has generations of untitled, untested dogs lacking health clearances, then what are you really getting? But the two parents are not required to have any health checks, temperament tests, working titles, conformation titles, or ANYTHING before they can be bred and their offspring can be registered. This means two dogs with poor temperaments, hip dysplasia, and a host of health problems can still be bred and have their puppies registered and sold as purebreds. Sadly, it is no indication of quality. This myth is just that—a myth! What determines the quality of the dog is the dogs behind it and the traits they possessed. Quality must be bred for. Temperament, health, working ability, and conformation must be selectively bred for. About the Author. If a breeder tries to tell you that his puppies are healthy because their parents never had any issues — do not believe him! It is impossible to diagnose e. Where can you find cheap German Shepherd Dogs? The question is — do you want to purchase a dog with questionable health and temperament? These dogs often are not purebred German Shepherd puppies, but are mixed with e. Labradors, Pitbulls or Golden Retrievers. If you end up with a dog with genetically based health conditions however, be prepared to spend a multiple of the original purchase price on vet costs! Temperament and behavior While a lot of good manners can be taught through consistent training, temperament is genetic to a certain level. When you buy an extra cheap German Shepherd puppy, you not only get a dog with questionable health, but also with unpredictable temperament! Even aggression can be genetic and can be passed on from the mom and dad to the offspring. You can save yourself a lot of time, nerves and money spent on future behavioral training by getting a well-bred and more expensive dog. What is the most expensive type of German Shepherd? Like in many dog breeds, certain rare German Shepherd colors are much more expensive than the most common colors and patterns. It is much more important that your puppy has a sound temperament and fits in well with your family and lifestyle than that he has a certain rare look. These dogs are mutts German Shepherds mixed with Miniature Poodles, Shelties or other smaller breeds. Once more, be certain to not decide on your future dog based on looks alone. A stable temperament and good health is much more integral than a certain size or weight. Working lines vs show lines The German Shepherd was originally bred as a working dog. Since his original use as a shepherd dog however, he has filled many different roles — from guarding properties over being used in the show ring to participating in Schutzhund and IPO trails. Depending on which lines your German Shepherd Dog comes from, the prices can vary a lot! Show line German Shepherds are the dogs that are bred for conformation shows. These are the type of dogs you should decide on if you would like a shepherd puppy as a pet and companion animal. If you are interested in using your German Shepherd as a protection dog and to participate in IPO trials, you should pick one from working lines. There are a lot of highly successful working line breeders both in North America and Europe. For this price, you get an absolutely flawless dog with extensive skills and perfect obedience. Some US dog owners interested in Schutzhund choose to import a puppy from old European working lines. While this might sound insanely high for a pet dog owner, for Schutzhund enthusiasts it is a typical price for a pedigreed German Shepherd pup. How much does it cost a month to own a German Shepherd? This will cover the basics: high-quality food and regular vet checks. Some German Shepherd owners spend considerably more money. Professional grooming is necessary for many German Shepherd owners, as these dogs shed heavily. This breeds tends to exhibit several behavioral issues that can be difficult to fix for first-time dog owners, including: Separation anxiety.

Home Blog Irish Doodle: The most desirable of designer dogs? Irish Doodle: The most desirable of designer dogs? Published: 26 November , last updated: 3 February Irish Doodle: The most desirable of designer dogs? I mean just look at the giant fluffy teddy bears! What is an Irish Doodle? An Irish Doodle is a breed of intentional hybrid dog- often referred to as a designer dog- which is a cross between an Irish Setter and a Poodle. Both Irish Setters and Poodles are known to be intelligent hunting breeds, so this dog was originally bred specifically for its exceptional hunting and retrieving skills. It was a happy coincidence that the result Irish Doodle turned out to be exceptionally cute and has thus become a popular family pet too. Recognising an Irish Doodle The long, dense, and wavy coat of an Irish Doodle may be its most distinctive feature, and it is usually red, apricot, or black in colour, sometimes with patches of white. How tall is an Irish Doodle? A fully grown Irish Doodle would typically measure between 24 and 26 inches tall. How heavy is an Irish Doodle? The average size for a female dog is about 40 to 65 pounds, whereas a male dog generally weighs in between 50 and 75 pounds. Poodles are considered to be one of the most intelligent dog breeds in the word, second only to the border collie, which mean that Irish Doodles are pretty smart dogs too, and should be easy to train. When cross breeds are created, the idea is to combine the best parts of two existing breeds of dogs, and so the poodle genes are credited for bringing a high IQ into the doodle mix. From the Irish Setter side of their mix, Doodles get all the traits that make them great family pets. They are affectionate, kind, patient and playful, and fit well into all kinds of homes, with a reputation for being great with children and other pets. History of the Irish Doodle Designer dog breeds are a new concept, and the Irish Doodle is one of the newest ones out there. We can surmise that the Irish Doodle was developed as an intentional mixed breed at some point over the last 30 years, although there may have been accidental litters around before that. We also know that it is likely to have been first seen in the United States, but their history is not well documented. Amazingly, in this time, opinions have changed and many designer dogs, including the Irish Doodle, are now more coveted and expensive that their purebred parents! Despite the unknown details of the exact origin on the Irish Doodle, through the parents breeds they do have a long history of sorts. The Irish Setter originated in 18th century Ireland, and the Poodle is an even older breed, with records stretching back as far as the 15th century in Germany. Due to the inconsistency of the resulting pups, as some bare more traits from the poodle side and some from the setter side, there is not yet a recognised set of breed standards for Irish Doodles. This means they are not recognised by the Kennel Club and your pup cannot have pedigree papers. Most commonly a standard poodle is used to create these dogs, but sometimes a miniature poodle is used as the stud and mixed with a smaller Irish Setter bitch. This produces the Mini Irish Doodle. Irish Doodle Puppies We may be biased, but we think Irish Doodle puppies might just be one of the cutest kinds around! Like their parents, Irish Doodle puppies crave time and attention from their human families from a young age, and they will thrive in a bustling family home. Although Doodles, as mentioned above, are usually bright intelligent dogs, they can sometimes be unpredictable. For this reason it is important to start puppy training as early as possible to combat this. How much does an Irish Doodle cost? Caring for your Irish Doodle Irish Doodles thrive on company, in fact they need attention and stimulation more than they need vast amounts of physical exercise. They are not a breed of dog that would be happy to be left alone for any length of time. But if you put the time in with your dog you will be rewarded with an eternally loyal and loving companion. Generally though the fur will be long and dense and is considered medium to high maintenance. If your pets coat is kept long and not regularly clipped it will need to be brushed daily. Fortunately most dogs enjoy this and it can be a fun bonding exercise. If you employ a dog groomer to clip your dog they would probably suggest paying a visit around every 6 weeks. As crossing two breeds dilutes the gene pool, the resulting offspring often become more resilient than their parents. Irish Doodles can still be susceptible to several potential health problems that you will need to keep an eye on throughout their lifetime, such as hip dysplasia and bloat. It is always worth keeping up to date with your vet check ups, especially as your pet gets older, to keep an eye on any potential issues developing. Life expectancy Most Irish Doodles live to between 10 and 15 years. Quick Facts Most Irish Doodles would make the ideal pet for allergy sufferers. Poodles are generally considered as hypo-allergenic, and even though Irish Setters are not, most Doodles will be low shedding dogs. These dogs are known for their memories- once a new skill, task, trick, or habit is learned, it is tough to get this mixed breed to unlearn it…. So make sure they learn the good habits before the bad! These are the perfect family pet because they LOVE children. Find Us. They are eager to please and have significant native intelligence inherited from their parents. It is their intelligent mind and careful disposition that have made them equally good with kids and other family pets. This makes them an excellent family dog ideal for apartment life. Not do they just love the members of their families, but they are also comfortable meeting strangers. Though, it is alert and attentive. If it happens to come across anything suspicious, it would immediately alert its family. Care Exercise Not much exercise is required for this breed. Only a moderate amount of daily walk is recommended in for a happy mind and a healthy body. You can also take them out on leash for a small jogging session every day either on foot or with your bicycle. Allow them to play freely every day. It is best if you have an enclosed yard for it to play around. Grooming As discussed, the Irish doodles practically do not shed. Hence, it is pretty much easy to groom them. Simply brush their coat with a solid bristle brush at least twice a week. Bathing and dry-shampooing is advisable when your dog is dirty, or in need for one. These long-eared dogs need your attention to maintain their ear hygiene. Clean their ears when dirty. Health Problems Normally these dogs are very hardy and healthy. No breed-specific issues have been reported. However, watch out for general health problems like hip dysplasia, deafness, or blindness, common to dogs in general. Training The trainability of the Irish doodle is unpredictable. The standard poodle is a happy-go-lucky and easily trainable dog. But the Irish setters are not always so, but would rather get bored easily. Those Irish doodles that take after their setter parents sometimes demand commitment and patience from their trainers. But once the training process is successfully over, your Irish doodle will be the best trained dog in the neighborhood. Begin obedience and pack leader trainings from an early age. Train them to socialize and get accustomed to meeting new faces. Like their parents, the Irish doodles are naturally clean, and hence, are easy to be housetrained. The quantity may vary from dog to dog, depending upon the individual energy level and everyday activity. Interesting Facts Researchers have studied that, when poodle is bred with some long-haired, soft-coated breed like the Irish Setter , the offspring is almost invariably a dense, wavy-coated, non-shedding breed. The Irish doodle too is no exception. Poodles are often used as circus dogs, and probably this explains the reason as to how the Irish doddle ended up inheriting the quality of being an amusing, clownish dog with funny instincts, as also, a good sporting dog. Photo by tony. They may have darker tones on some parts of their body, similar to cream-colored Poodles. Irish Doodles are medium to large dogs. Female Irish Doodles are 22 to 26 inches tall and will weigh 40 to 60 pounds. This is, of course, different from the size of mini Irish Doodles. Similar to their parent breeds, they are expected to be fully grown at 18 months. Of course, since there are no standards that breeders can follow, their full-grown height and weight can still vary. To better estimate how big your Irish Doodle will be, simply take a look at the parents and previous litters, if there are any. This breed combines the intelligence of Poodles and the happy-go-lucky nature of Irish Setters. As such, Irish Doodles make great family dogs. Irish Doodles are known to be gentle and very friendly, so they would be good playmates to children. However, let me emphasize that it is still important to supervise children when they are with your dog. Their gentle and sociable disposition also makes them good with other family pets. But like all canines, early socialization is essential. So start introducing your Irish Doodle pup to other dogs and pets as early as possible, and keep an eye on their interaction to prevent any incident. Like their parent breeds, Irish Doodles are intelligent and active. They would need lots of exercise and interaction. Activities like taking a walk in the park or playing games like fetch would stimulate them mentally and physically. Exercise sessions can also be a good way for them to be socialized with other people. Irish Doodles are friendly, so you should not have problems with strangers. But like all canines, it will take some training to get them accustomed to interacting with people outside your family. All in all, if you are looking for a light-hearted dog that likes to hang out with your family all the time, an Irish Doodle will be a good choice. Their temperaments make them fantastic with pets and other people, but you have to do your part and socialize them early on. On the same note, do not leave them for long periods of time because they may develop separation anxiety. Irish Doodles are generally considered healthy. Like other designer breeds, they may benefit from hybrid vigor. However, because this Doodle breed is still developing, you have to look out for diseases common to both parents. Below are some diseases that Irish Doodles may be susceptible to: Bloat: Also known as gastric dilation , this condition occurs when the stomach dilates and food or gas cannot be expelled. It can cause the stomach wall to rupture, and in extreme cases, the stomach will rotate in the abdomen. Bloat can be fatal when not corrected immediately. Hip Dysplasia: This condition occurs when the hip joint does not develop correctly and eventually weakens and deteriorates. Hip dysplasia is common in large and giant dog breeds. Eye Problems: Unfortunately, Irish Doodles may inherit eye problems common to their parents. Optic nerve hypoplasia, cataracts, and entropion corneal dystrophy are known eye problems for Poodles. Progressive retinal atrophy is also common in both Poodles and Irish Setters. This condition occurs when the adrenal glands do not produce enough adrenal hormones. Since these are essential hormones, the insufficiency will affect normal bodily functions. This protein is required for normal platelet binding or clotting. This disease can lead to excessive bleeding if your dog gets injured. Since they are mixed breeds, it is difficult to predict what diseases they may exactly inherit. As a paw parent to an Irish Doodle, what you can do is help your dog live a healthy lifestyle and take them to your vet regularly for preventive care. These are some of the reasons why Irish Doodles and other mixed breeds are appealing to a lot of people. Lower risk for some genetic diseases: The main idea of hybrid vigor is that mixing two breeds would produce healthier puppies. According to PetMD, combining two genetically different dogs lowers the risk of diseases that may come from two recessive alleles. Unique temperament: Different Doodle mixes cater to varying needs and preferences. In the case of the Irish Doodle, breeders focused on combining the personality and intelligence needed for great companions or family dogs. Because they have a hunting and working heritage, Irish Doodles can also become good service dogs. The result of the Irish Setter Poodle mix is a cute and cuddly dog that you can also count on for serious tasks. Minimal shedding: This is a common reason why Poodle mixes are very popular. Not everyone can tolerate shedding and hair all around their household, and some people are simply allergic. For some people, these can be overlooked. But for others, these can be a real cause of concern. Unpredictable diseases: Although studies show that mixed breeds have a reduced risk for some diseases, there is still a chance that your Irish Doodle pup will inherit some from its parents. The bad news is that you will never know which one, so you have to be on the lookout for all the diseases common to Poodles and Irish Setters. Risk of losing desirable traits: When breeds are mixed, it is uncertain which parent they will take after more or what traits they will inherit. It is never guaranteed that you will only get good genes. This concern is worsened by puppy mills or irresponsible breeders whose concern is only to profit from the popular Poodle mixes. Varying sizes and looks: Irish Doodle puppies have similar looks, but their overall appearance and build can still vary from litter to litter. They do not have standard heights and weights yet, so you might get a smaller or larger dog than you expected. Before purchasing an Irish Doodle puppy, make sure that you have weighed these pros and cons carefully. Do your research on both parent breeds, and talk with other owners of mixed breed dogs about their experience. If you have your heart set on an Irish Doodle, then you must do all you can to prepare yourself for life with your new canine companion. Here are some basic tips on how you can take care of your Irish Doodle: Feeding and Diet Your Irish Doodle would need a high-quality diet. Ask your breeder about the sizes of the previous litters so you can evaluate what kind of food you should buy. Remember that different sizes have different nutritional requirements. As puppies, they would usually need three to four meals a day because of their energy level. You can reduce this to two meals when they reach adulthood. Freshwater should also be available to your Irish Setter Poodle mix at any time. If you can, you may also choose a treat to feed your pup in between meal times. Cleaning and Grooming It is not difficult to maintain and groom an Irish Doodle because of its non-shedding coat. Their fur would only need brushing twice or thrice a week. Watch out for the ear hairs as they may cause dirt to build up. Like all breeds, you would need to clean their ears and brush their teeth regularly. To make your routine easier, introduce grooming at a young age. Make sure that it is a positive experience for your Irish Doodle puppy. Training and Exercise Standard Irish Doodles are intelligent dogs. However, this does not mean that you should spend less time training them. Training and socialization should start as early as possible. It will take some effort, but training them would make things a lot easier for you wherever you go. But if your pup is more like the Irish Setter, then it would need a strong leader. This is because Irish Setters tend to get bored or distracted easily, and they have a high activity level. Because this breed comes from dogs with a hunting heritage, they may inherit the need for activity. Standard Irish Doodles would be happy with walks and playing games, but they could also do well in activities like swimming and trekking. In general, designer breeds can be more expensive than purebred dogs because they are not as common. Irish Doodles are a bit rarer than other Poodle mixes. Mini Irish Doodles would be a bit more expensive than standard ones. All in all, owning an Irish Doodle would not come cheap. Your Irish Doodle will live with you for at least ten years, so consider these expenses carefully. Finding a reliable breeder near you might take a while. However, getting a healthy and well-raised Irish Doodle pup will be worth all your effort. Most breeders sell F1 puppies that come from an Irish Setter and Poodle. Some may also sell F1b puppies. These are Irish Doodles mixed with a Poodle, so they are more Poodle-like. You might encounter this during your search. Here is a list of Irish Doodle breeders you can get in touch with if you want this cross to be your family dog: Irish-Doodles Crockett Doodles — Irish-Doodles belongs to a network of Doodle breeders called Crockett Doodles. They breed standard red and apricot Irish Doodles, as well as miniature Irish Doodles. Crockett Doodles handles all applications. You have the option of placing a deposit once your application is accepted. This will allow you to pick an Irish Doodle from upcoming litters. They breed standard and miniature Irish Doodles, and they also produce medium-sized Irish Doodles from a Moyen Poodle parent. Purchasing a puppy from them comes with a two-year health warranty, a puppy care package, day pet insurance, and lifetime breeder support. They post their scheduled litters well in advance, and you have to send them an email to express your interest. If you are lucky enough to get on the list on time, they will require a deposit. If you find yourself on very long waitlists, you can also consider adopting. Irish Doodles may be a bit more difficult to find in rescues, but there are also a lot of similar Doodle dogs in need of new homes. All the dogs in their care spend a minimum of three weeks in their foster homes to ensure that their needs are addressed first. Doodle dogs available for adoption are posted on their website. Their organization is run by volunteers in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. Their application process starts with submitting an application form. Subsequent steps will include a telephone interview, reference checks, and a home visit. Petfinder — This website lists dogs of all breeds in need of adoption, including Doodle dogs. As of writing, there are no Irish Doodles on their site yet, but there are other Doodle mixes you can choose from. You can contact the organization handling the dog on their individual information pages. Adoption fees will vary per organization, but usually, it is only up to a few hundred dollars. Getting and raising an Irish Doodle would take time, commitment, and money. Take time to learn more about this Doodle mix and carefully evaluate if an Irish Doodle is right for you. If you do not want dog hair all over your house, this breed would be good for you. Despite their long, wavy hair, Irish Doodles shed minimally. If you want to keep their coats long, regular brushing and grooming would be essential to keep the shedding at a minimum. Are Irish Doodles Hypoallergenic? According to PetMD , no dog is truly hypoallergenic. The allergens dogs produce are also on their skin and salivary glands. However, because Irish Doodles almost have a non-shedding coat, they would be a good choice for people with mild allergies. Do Irish Doodles Bark a Lot? One remarkable trait of Irish Doodles is that they are relatively quiet dogs. They rarely bark and would probably only do so when something is wrong. This is also a reason why they are said to be good for apartment living. Because Irish Doodles are intelligent and friendly dogs, they might be good for first-time owners. If you are a novice owner, the key is to prepare well and get your Irish Doodle puppy from a reputable breeder. Aside from being good family dogs, their intelligence and strength can also make them do well as service or therapy dogs. Your Irish Doodle will be quite unique because they are still a breed in development. Therefore, their looks and temperament can vary, but of course, their personalities will also be affected by their environment and human families. If you are looking for a fun and easygoing family dog and you think you can meet their need for activity, it would be hard to go wrong with an Irish Setter Poodle mix. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. The Standard Irish Doodle is the largest of the Irish Doodle breed, weighing between 45 to 75 pounds 20 to 34 kg and standing between 22 to 27 inches 56 to 69 cm tall at the shoulder. The Mini Irish Setterdoodle weighs between 20 to 30 9 to 13 kg pounds and stands between 14 to 18 inches 30 to 43 cm tall at the shoulder. How big does the Toy Irish Doodle Get? The Toy Irish Doodle is a smaller version of the Irish Doodle breed, weighing between 12 to 20 pounds 5 to 9 kg and standing between 10 to 15 inches 25 to 38 cm tall at the shoulder. Irish Doodle Temperament and Intelligence Irish Setters are known for being friendly, outgoing, and affectionate, intelligent, energetic dogs. They are generally good-natured, love to be around people, and enjoy being the center of attention. They are known to have their goofy moments thanks to their playful Poodle side. Poodles are highly intelligent and versatile dogs. They are typically considered highly trainable and excel in various activities such as obedience, agility, and even therapy work. Their empathy can also make them successful service dogs. Brushing Grooming an Irish Doodle is essential to keep their coat healthy and clean. They have a wavy or curly coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting. It is recommended to brush their coat at least twice a week to keep it clean and tangle-free A slicker brush or a comb can be used to remove loose hair and prevent matting. A professional groomer can also help maintain their coat and keep it trimmed. Check out this Irish Doodle being professionally groomed 2. Baths Irish Doodles also require regular bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy. It is recommended to bathe them every 3 to 4 weeks using a mild shampoo. Avoid using human shampoo or harsh chemicals that can cause skin irritation and itching after grooming. Other Grooming Be sure to trim their nails and clean their ears and eyes monthly or bi-weekly with quality clippers , ear wipes , and eye wipes , respectively. What Should an Irish Setterdoodle Eat? Irish Doodles have a high energy level and require a balanced diet to maintain their health. It is important to feed them high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs. Avoid feeding them table scraps or human food that can cause digestive issues. Exercise Requirements It is recommended to provide them with at least 60 to 90 minutes of exercise daily. Regular exercise can also help prevent obesity and other health issues. These are active and energetic dogs that need a lot of daily activity. Both parents are hunting breeds, so they really love to chase. Irish Doodles are an active breed and require regular exercise to maintain their health and energy level. They enjoy activities such as walking, running, and playing fetch. Research has shown that Poodles are at a higher risk of developing this condition. Autoimmune thyroiditis where thyroid cells are destroyed by immune responses Epilepsy Arthritis Canine leucocyte deficiency Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus GDV : A life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself, commonly referred to as bloat. Other common health issues like allergies, skin and ear infections, obesity, and dental issues How long does the Irish Doodle Live? Mini vs. Standard life expectancy On average, Irish Doodles have a lifespan of years. However, this can vary depending on a number of factors, such as diet, exercise, and genetics. Miniature Irish Doodles tend to have a slightly longer lifespan than standard-sized Irish Doodles. Behavioral training is essential for any dog, and the Irish Doodle is no exception. It is important to start training your Irish Doodle early and be consistent with your training methods. Positive reinforcement is the best way to train your Irish Doodle, as they respond well to praise and rewards. Socialization is also an essential aspect of training your Irish Doodle. Socializing your dog helps them become comfortable with new people, animals, and environments, reducing the risk of fear-based aggression or anxiety. Choosing a Breeder Choosing a responsible breeder is crucial when looking for a healthy and happy Irish Doodle puppy. Here are some things to consider when selecting a breeder: Health testing: A reputable breeder will conduct health testing on their breeding dogs to ensure that their puppies are healthy and free from genetic diseases. Socialization: A good breeder will socialize their puppies from a young age to ensure they are well-adjusted and comfortable with people. Contract: A responsible breeder will provide a contract outlining their responsibilities and expectations and your responsibilities as a puppy owner. Adoption Options Adopting an Irish Doodle is a great way to give a loving home to a dog in need. Here are some adoption options to consider: Rescue organizations: There are many rescue organizations that specialize in Irish Doodles and other doodle breeds. These organizations rescue dogs from shelters or take in dogs from owners who can no longer care for them. Shelters: Check with your local animal shelter to see if they have any Irish Doodle puppies available for adoption. Online adoption sites: There are many online adoption sites that list Irish Doodle puppies available for adoption. However, be sure to research the site and the breeder before committing to adoption. By following these tips, you can find a healthy and happy Irish Doodle puppy that will make a great addition to your family. The cost of a mini Irish Doodle puppy for sale can vary depending on the breeder and location. How much does a standard Irish Doodle puppy cost? The cost of a standard Irish Doodle puppy can also vary depending on the breeder and location. Do Irish Doodles shed? Irish Doodles have a wavy or curly coat that sheds minimally. However, regular grooming is required to prevent matting and keep their coat healthy. Are Irish Doodles Hypoallergenic? Irish Doodles are more hypoallergenic than most dogs, but no dog is completely hypoallergenic. Are Irish Doodles good with kids? Irish Doodles are known for their friendly and social nature, making them great companions for kids. However, as with any dog, it is essential to supervise interactions between children and dogs to ensure safety. Are Irish Doodles good with other pets? Irish Doodles can get along well with other pets if they are properly socialized from a young age. However, it is important to introduce them slowly and supervise their interactions to ensure they get along well. Final Thoughts Irish Doodles are a unique and charming breed that combines the intelligence and loyalty of a Poodle with the friendly and outgoing personality of an Irish Setter. They are highly adaptable to different living situations and make great family pets. While they are a relatively new breed, Irish Doodles have already gained a loyal following thanks to their friendly and affectionate nature. Tamsin De La Harpe Author Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs. Got Questions? Lifespan Sociability Irish Doodle puppy prices vary depending on a wide variety of circumstances such as where and how the puppies are bred, the color of the pups, and how well they are cared for. Vaccinations, lineage papers, and included accessories are also considered when pricing Irish Doodle pups. In general, Irish Doodles are an expensive breed and will tend to be more expensive than other dog mixes. Lesser quality breeders may charge a lower price than others, but this could mean a low quality of care that results in health issues as time goes on. And thoroughly inspect the health documentation and lineage papers before making any commitments 3 Little-Known Facts About the Irish Doodle 1. Your Irish Doodle pup may turn out to be even tempered and good-willed, or it might be a bit mischievous and unruly. Therefore, training should be a priority before your Irish Setter pup grows into an adult. New names are invented regularly, so expect this list of nicknames to grow as time goes on. Irish Poodles can sit and stay on command and learn how to retrieve your morning newspaper after some poignant training. Because Irish Doodles love to learn, they require lots of stimulation throughout the day. You will need to put aside some time for daily training and practice in addition to regular walks. The Irish Doodle is excellent with children and can put up with little ones climbing all over them. After plenty of exercise, an Irish Doodle will do well in a family setting between walls. Expect your Irish Doodle to snuggle up with the kids at bedtime but be ready for a long walk first thing in the morning. This breed also gets along well with other dogs, so they do well at dog parks and in multi-dog homes. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Irish Doodles thrive on the active nature of a busy family dynamic. So, if you tend to watch a lot of television or host indoor dinner parties instead of adventure outside or hang out in the yard, an Irish Doodle will yearn for some action and may start to exhibit behaviors that are undesirable to you. Irish Doodles like being spoken to, pet, cuddled, and played with consistently. An Irish Doodle needs at least 90 minutes of exercise daily, which is something kids can be a big part of. Helping to train and care for an Irish Doodle can teach kids some compassion and responsibility too. They also inhibit hunting characteristics as their Irish Setter parents. So, while Irish Doodles are good with other dogs, they should be supervised when interacting with other pets and animals. If an Irish Doodle becomes anxious or bored due to inactivity, they could turn that energy into aggression and revert to their hunting and retrieving instincts. This could mean bad news for pets that might be considered prey such as birds, mice, and cats. Dry and wet food is acceptable, as is a combination of the two. An open feeding plan could lead to obesity and all the healthy problems that come along with it as age progresses and activity levels decline. But this amount should be separated into two or three different meals each day. Otherwise, a growling belly and a penchant for begging may become a daily occurrence. Multiple daily feedings will also help ensure that an Irish Doodle is properly fueled as they release their energy throughout the day. Plenty of toys and stimulating activities should be taking place inside the home. Owners can expect to spend time daily on training tasks, even after their Irish Doodles have learned specific tricks and commands. We recommend working with a professional dog trainer that has experience with Irish Doodles when bringing one home. The trainer will establish basic training measures and then prescribe training techniques that can be used at home to maintain and enhance the obedience and skills the dog learns. This dog breed requires daily brushing or combing to maintain a soft and tangle-free coat. Ear hair tends to get long quickly, so the ear hair should be washed and trimmed regularly to prevent dirt buildup within the ear canal. Minor Conditions. This is a rough introduction guide to cover the basics and help you understand the difference between the Irish Doodle generations. If two F2 Irish Doodles are bred together, the offspring will be F3. This is the simplest explanation, however in reality, it is a little more complicated. Just think of the resemblances between parents and their children as a good example. Irish Doodle breeders often want dogs with particular types of characteristics. Irish Doodles have lots of energy and need plenty of space to run around. Photo: Joca de Jong via Shutterstock For this reason, breeders often opt to breed F1 Irish Doodles with a purebred Poodle to increase the likelihood that the coat type and perhaps other characteristics bear a closer resemblance to a Poodle than to an Irish Setter. The Irish Setter breed sheds and is not hypoallergenic. It is not really possible to predict if a dog from this generation will be a low shedder or be suitable for people with allergies. It is only possible to really determine what the coat will be like when the Irish Doodle is fully mature. Many breeders claim that this is the healthiest generation of Irish Doodles, because they do not suffer from genetic conditions connected with the recessive genes of each parent breed. As they are usually more widespread, they are frequently less expensive than the other Irish Doodle generations. While their coats generally need more care, they shed very little and are more similar to that of a Poodle. This makes this generation of Irish Doodle more appealing for people who have mild allergy symptoms. This short guide just covers the basics of Irish Doodle generations. These are beyond the scope of this article. If you want to delve deeper into the genetics and the principles of inheritance behind Irish Doodle generations, then this article may be worth reading. An Irish Doodle wearing a harness at the beach. Photo: Joca de Jong via Shutterstock Standard Irish Doodles are medium sized dogs roughly cm inches in height when fully grown ca. These dogs are the result of crossing an Irish Setter with a Standard Poodle. How tall is a Mini Irish Doodle? The size of a full grown Irish Doodle depends on its genetics that it inherited from its parents. When a mini Poodle rather than a standard Poodle is crossed with an Irish Setter the resulting Mini Irish Doodles are typically cm inches in height when fully mature at around months. How much does an Irish Doodle weigh? A Standard Irish Doodle adult weighs in at around kg pounds , while a smaller Mini Irish Doodle adult weighs between kg pounds. What does an Irish Doodle look like? An Irish Doodle can have a wavy or curly coat, depending on the traits that the Irish Doodle inherits from its parents. Some dogs can have long hair that will need to be trimmed every so often to keep it in shape. The coat of an Irish Doodle can come in a variety of different colors. Apricot, red and black are the most common Irish Doodle colors. Some dogs also have white patches, these are often slightly more desirable and therefore expensive. While some Irish Doodles have broader faces, similar to Irish Setters, others tend to look more like Poodles with narrower features. Their eyes are usually oval or almond shaped and are a medium to kard brown color. Irish Doodle Maintenance Irish Doodles require the same general maintenance as other similar dog breeds. Nail clipping should be carried out regularly. It is best to file or clip small parts of the nails away at a time to prevent any discomfort of injury to the animal. It is important to regularly check their ears to make sure that they are clean and free of dirt and moisture which could increase the risk of ear infections. Occasionally the hair around the ears may need to be trimmed. Good dental hygiene is also essential and regular teeth brushing with a specially formulated toothpaste for dogs is advised. Do Irish Doodles need much grooming? A relaxed Irish Doodle with long wavy hair. Photo: Joca de Jong via Shutterstock The amount of grooming that an Irish Doodle requires depends a lot on the type of coat that they inherited from their parents. However they still require regular brushing multiple times a week to eliminate tangles and matted hair. Coats that are wavy and sleek like that of an Irish Setter, tend to shed more and also require frequent brushing. Based on the length of the hair, it may also need to be trimmed by a groomer every weeks to keep it in good shape. How often should you bathe an Irish Doodle? Frequent bathing can irritate the skin of an Irish Doodle so try to bathe your Irish Doodle just a few times each year. Roughly once every months is ideal, but occasionally they may need to be bathed more frequently. Are Irish Doodles hypoallergenic? Irish Doodle puppies can be exceptionally cute and almost teaddy bear like! Photo: Joca de Jong via Shutterstock Irish Doodles are typically medium to low shedders and are suitable for some people with mild allergies. However, the type of coat that the individual dog has is inherited from its parents and just how hypoallergenic it is can be difficult to determine until the dog is fully grown. Generally speaking, the F1B Irish Doodles have coats that are more similar to Poodles, which means they shed considerably less and are more suitable for people with allergies. Irish Doodles from first generation mixes F1 Irish Doodles may have coats that resemble that of the hypoallergenic single layer Poodle parent or the non-hypoallergenic double coat of an Irish Setter parent. It is always a good idea to consult medical, as well as veterinary professionals about hypoallergenic dog breeds, before you purchase a four legged friend. These professionals can usually point you in the right direction of a suitable breed for your specific allergies. Do Irish Doodles shed a lot? Irish Doodles typically have medium to low shedding levels. Depending on the generation, the degree of shedding dogs experience can vary. Generally F1 Irish Doodles shed more than F1B Irish Doodles for example, which is why the latter is favored by people with mild allergies. How long do Irish Doodles live for? Irish Doodles come in a variety of different colors. Photo: forever pictures via Shutterstock Irish Doodle life expectancy generally ranges between years, depending on the dog. This is pretty typical life expectancy for medium sized dogs. The Irish Doodle mini form may tend to live longer with a typical life expectancy closer to 15 years. While Irish Doodles are generally a healthy breed, particularly the F1 generation, they do tend to suffer from some health problems. Are Irish Doodles healthy? Irish Doodles sometimes suffer from hip dysplasia and bloat. Other Irish Doodle health concerns induce eye and skin diseases, as well as epilepsy. Regular vet check ups and necessary tests are essential to make sure your Irish Doodle stays healthy. What do Irish Doodles eat? Irish Doodles require good quality dog food to ensure that all of their nutritional needs are being fulfilled. As the size, as well as gender, age and activity level of the dog determines the amount of food a dog should be given, it is important that you discuss food portions with your vet. Irish Doodles will eat more than Mini Irish Doodles so it is important to make sure that your dog is getting the right amounts of food and not being put at risk of becoming overweight. How much exercise do Irish Doodles need? An Irish Doodle running at top speed. Photo: Joca de Jong via Shutterstock As energetic dogs, Irish Doodles need hours a day of exercise to stay balanced and healthy. They enjoy a wide range of sporting activities and will gladly accompany their owners on walks, jogs, hikes, swims and cycling trips. These smart dogs also enjoy exercises and activities that stimulate their mental capacity and therefore perform well in canine sports such as agility, obedience and rally trials. Dogs that do not get sufficient exercise on a daily basis are likely to become depressed and destructive, as well as obese. It is essential that Irish Doodle owners realize the considerable amount of time that needs to be devoted to Irish Doodles in terms of exercise and maintenance on a daily basis before committing to getting one. Do Irish Doodles like to swim? Many Irish Doodles really enjoy swimming, which is not surprising given their ancestry. The Poodle is a type of water dog and is usually an excellent swimmer. Irish Setters were generally bred with Irish physical traits required for varied terrain in Ireland. Some of the upland hunting areas are quite boggy and marsh, so the Irish Setter would also need to get its feet wet from time to time. If you would like to introduce your Irish Doodle to water, it is best to do so gradually to ensure that it is a positive experience for the dog. Always keep an eye out to make sure that the water and weather conditions are safe for swimming. Is an Irish Doodle a smart dog? Irish Doodles are very intelligent dogs that are quick to learn and also quick to get bored if the task does not stimulate or entertain them enough. Like the Irish Setter, the Irish Doodle tends not to forget the things and tricks that it has learned, regardless of whether they are good behaviors or not so desirable ones. Be sure to start early with training to avoid as many training mishaps as possible! Is it easy to train an Irish Doodle? Irish Doodles are very playful, but can be stubborn and difficult to train. They pick up good and bad habits quickly and constantly require new input to avoid getting bored. Irish Setters show many of the same traits, while generally Poodles are easier to train. Starting to train an Irish Doodle at an early age will help set clear boundaries for the dog for life. It is also a good idea to get them socialized with strangers, children and other dogs and pets from an early age to ensure they can be confident in a wide range of different circumstances. Irish Doodles need a calm and consistent trainer that offers them plenty of stimulating ways to learn how to behave and be disciplined. Lots of patience is required and this is not a task for everyone. Positive reinforcement helps to reaffirm desired behaviors and should be preferred to harsh criticism, which tends to have a more detrimental effect on this sensitive dog breed. They thoroughly enjoy being included in activities and family life and thrive on company with people. As highly intelligent dogs, they love to learn new things and are open to trying new things. Is an Irish Doodle a good first dog? It is important to weigh up the Irish Doodle pros and cons, especially if you are not experienced with owning and handling a dog. Irish Doodles are friendly and lovable, but they can be challenging to train. If you are someone with lots of patience and can invest the time and energy to calming and consistently train your Irish Doodle, then it may be a dog for you. Other serious considerations that you should keep in mind before opting for an Irish Doodle is whether you have sufficient time to cover the exercise and maintenance requirements of an Irish Doodle. Are Irish Doodles good family dogs? Active families are the perfect fit for an Irish Doodle. They enjoy lots of exercise, as well as company and in a family they are likely to get both. The friendly character of the Irish Doodle, in addition to its ability to get along with other pets helps to cement the family friendly characteristics of this type of dog even more. Are Irish Doodles good with kids? An Irish Doodle puppy in the shade of a chair. Photo: Joca de Jong via Shutterstock Irish Doodles are generally better suited to families with older kids, rather than young ones. First of all, the size of a standard Irish Doodle may overwhelm younger kids and as they are quite energetic and playful, there is definitely likely to be some level of wild play, the rough and tumble might be too much for little ones. Can an Irish Doodle be left alone? It is not generally advised to leave Irish Doodles alone for long amounts of time. Without company, Irish Doodles tend to get loney and may suffer from separation anxiety. The symptoms of this may show as excessive barking or other destructive tendencies. Do Irish Doodles bark a lot? Are Irish Doodles cuddly? A sleeping Irish Doodle puppy. Photo: Joca de Jong via Shutterstock Yes, Irish Doodles are very cuddly and enjoy social contact so plenty of rubs and tickles are usually very welcome. The coat type of the Irish Doodle will either be wavy, shaggy or curly depending on what the dog inherited. While it is sometimes silky, like an Irish Setter, it is definitely fuller in volume and typically soft. Are Irish Doodles aggressive? No, a well balanced Irish Doodle is not usually aggressive. Irish Doodles are generally good natured and friendly, which is just one of the reasons why they are not good guard dogs. Are Irish Doodles good watch dogs? While Irish Doodles are not ideal dogs if you need a guard dog, their alert and attentive nature is well suited to being watch dogs. You can rely on these dogs to announce the arrival of a stranger to the home. Friend or foe are usually greeted in the same friendly manner, which is typical of the temperament of Irish Doodles. Are Irish Doodles good with other dogs? Exposing Irish Doodles to other dogs and pets at an early age will help the socialization process. Photo: Joca de Jong via Shutterstock In general, Irish Doodles get on well with other dogs, so at least in theory it is possible to have more than one dog in the home. Exposure to other dogs from an early age helps with the socialization process and can help to ensure a higher level of success. Are Irish Doodles good with cats? While many Irish Doodles get on well with cats, it does tend to depend a little on the individual dog. Irish Doodles that grow up with cats from a young age and are well socialized are less likely to cause problems with cats. It is worth remembering that the ancestors of the Irish Doodle, the Irish Setter and the Poodle, were used as hunting dogs especially for wild fowl so there is probably some instinctive prey drive still within the Irish Doodle. It is probably not a good idea to have an Irish Doodle and a pet bird… Irish Doodle Breeders Reputable dog breeders are extremely important. If you are looking for a specific breed of dog, you need to do your homework as there are many breeders out there that do a suboptimal job and unfortunately there are also a lot of scams. There are a few good rules to go by that are the same for Irish Doodles as for all other dog breeds. The Kennel Club has a good list of general questions to prepare to ask the breeder and examples of the types of questions to ask during the visit. Tip: Why not contact some veterinary clinics to see if they are aware of good Irish Doodle Breeders, they can sometimes help put you in contact with the right people. Photo: forever pictures via Shutterstock When it comes to looking into ads for Irish Doodle puppies or Mini Irish Doodle puppies for sale, there are several things that you should keep in mind. You want to be able to visit the dog breeder and see the puppies, their mother and the conditions that they were raised in before purchasing the dog. As well as having the opportunity to ask the breeder a lot of important questions, the breed will also be able to ask you questions and if it is a good breeder, determine your suitability for this dog breed and an individual puppy. An experienced, knowledgeable breeder will be able to find a suitable home to fit the character type of the dog and not just hurry through with a sale. There are many websites available online that offer good deals that sound too good to be true. Please be wary. You want to make sure that the breeder is a reputable one. It is important to make sure to do your research and make sure that the Irish Doodle breeder you opt for is one that has the welfare of their animals as their top priority and wants to ensure that they get the best homes. This same advice can also be applied when purchasing other dog breeds. Photo: forever pictures via Shutterstock The price of an Irish Doodle can vary considerably depending on several factors. The coloring of the dog is likely to determine some of the price. The red Irish Doodles being more expensive ca. Special white markings up the price even more. It is not uncommon for the Irish Doodle for sale price to be considerably higher ca. As Mini Irish Doodles typically come in smaller litter, their cost is typically even higher minimum of ca. It is thought that the Irish Doodle was developed as one of the recent designer dogs in the last two decades or so in the United States. History of the Irish Setter The Irish Setter is a medium-sized, solid red chestnut or mahogany colored dog that was developed in Ireland as a gun dog for hunting wild fowl. They are thought to have first developed around the 17th century, although records are difficult to come by. Originally, the setter dogs in Ireland were a mix of white with red patches. Over time, certain wealthy families of dog breeders in Ireland who kept these dogs in large numbers tended to focus on particular traits in the dogs. An Irish Setter dog has a silky, solid red coat. Around the s and s, the popularity of the solid red setter began to rise rapidly. In the American Kennel Club also recognized the breed. As the breeders for the Irish Setter focused largely on the appearance of the dog, the hunting traits that the dog were bred for for generations, became less relevant. In contrast, the largely forgotten Irish Red and White Setter was threatened with extinction during the rapid rise to fame of its cousin. The breeders who fought hard to preserve this breed, focused their efforts not on the aesthetic, but on the hunting ability of this dog. It was only as recently as that this breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club. Ironically, almost a century after its descendant, the Irish Setter was recognized. The Irish Setter is now the most popular of all native Irish dog breeds world wide. Miniature Irish Setters are a smaller variation and not that common. History of Poodles Poodles are a type of water dog that are thought to have developed in Germany, although some people argue that the dog originated in France. One strong reason to believe that the Poodle has German origins stems from its name. As a water dog, the main task of the Poodle would have been to retrieve wild fowl from that water like other breeds such as the Golden Retriever and Labrador. Poodles are energetic and typically have a coat that does not shed all that much or at all. Photo: slowmotiongli via Depositphotos Intelligent, easy to train and eager to please, Poodles are a very popular dog breed that come in various different sizes. It is thought that the origin of the Miniature Poodle developed through their use in circuses in France during the 19th century. The Toy Poodle is even smaller than the Miniature Poodle. Regardless of the size of the Poodle they are all considered the same breed by the American Kennel Club and have the same breed standard. While extravagant Poodle hairstyles are what commonly comes to mind when one thinks of this dog breed, what few people know is that the original unusual hair styles were functional. Poodles have a single layer coat that is typically a non-shedding coat and is considered to be hypoallergenic. These are genetically more similar to Poodles, less likely to shed and are generally more suitable for people with allergies. Take your pick, whichever you prefer! They enjoy the company of their owners, whether it is being active and out and about or cuddling up with them on the sofa after a busy day. Their need for company makes them more sensitive and affected by separation though so it is important to ensure that they do not get lonely and get the required level of input every day. Each one of these unique breeds has its own characteristics, Irish traits, charm and interesting history. From the legendary tales of the Irish Wolfhound in Irish mythology to the war efforts of the Irish Terrier in World War I, there is lots to discover about these dog breeds. If you would like to find out more about native Irish dog breeds, then you can check out the Guide to Irish Dog Breeds. For more in depth information, please check the individual dog posts. Families and singles, apartment and house settings, multi-animal households Temperament: Friendly, active, intelligent, good with kids This mixed breed does not need tons of exercise and does not mind spending time at home alone, making them a great pet option for households with busy schedules. However, these are dogs that do love spending time with humans, so they expect to get plenty of attention from their household members every day. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. Irish Doodle Puppies Image Credit: Joca de Jong, Shutterstock It is important to learn all that you can about the Irish Doodle before deciding whether to adopt one, as this may not be the right breed for your household when all is said and done. The Irish Doodle is an energetic and loving dog that loves to spend time playing with people, especially with kids. Irish Doodles are generally healthy, but keep in mind that they can be susceptible to a couple of health problems. With good care, a healthy diet, and exercise, your Irish Doodle should be a healthy and happy dog. Bringing an Irish Doodle home will be a fun and playful experience. These dogs have a sensitive side that makes them crave the attention and approval of their human counterparts. Once a new skill, task, trick, or habit is learned, it is tough to get this mixed breed to unlearn it. Therefore, it is important to offer positive reinforcement when they do the right things and redirection when unwanted actions take place. They thrive with obedience training in place, and they have no problem hanging out with other dogs. Are These Dogs Good for Families? With a curious nature and penchant to play, the Irish Doodle typically accepts dog friends of all types, small and large, as time goes on. However, if this breed grows up isolated from other dogs, they may feel threatened when confronted with another dog during adulthood. Therefore, it is pertinent to introduce obedience training and ensure socialization with other dogs during puppyhood. These dogs can also get along with cats and other pets if they are introduced early on and trained not to chase or hunt at a young age. Find out everything from food and water requirements to exercise preferences and training abilities and more here. Most owners find that 2 to 3 meals a day are best for digestion and performance. Commercial dog food should include real protein in the form of chicken, beef, turkey, or fish as the first ingredient. Whole grains such as quinoa, brown rice, and oats should also be included, as should fresh fruits and veggies, including berries, bananas, cranberries, greens, squash, corn, and sprouts. Any wet or homemade food should include all the features laid out here for commercial dry food. However, they do not require hours of work or physical interaction every day to stay healthy as they age. What each Irish Doodle does require is a brisk, 5—minute walk around the neighborhood or apartment community each day. They will never turn down a game of fetch in the yard, and they will not hesitate to play a game of tug-of-war with another dog or a child companion in the house during evening hours. On the other hand, owners can expect their Irish Doodle to spend a great deal of time cuddling, hanging around, and lying near laps whenever possible. These dogs are chill when everyone else is and excited when the social situation calls for it, if they get a quick walk and regular interactive attention. These dogs can easily learn the basics including, come, sit, and stay. They can also learn advanced skills, such as fetching the remote control and properly greeting visitors at the door. These dogs can also learn agility training and excel in competitions, thanks to the smarts of their Poodle side and the agility of their Irish Setter side. Hunting training is possible, but owners should not expect this mixed breed to become a superb hunter for commercial reasons. Combing or brushing three to five times a week is necessary to keep shedding under control. Summer months may require up to 5 days of grooming to minimize shedding throughout the house. These dogs may require nail trimming once a month or so if they do not get out to walk on the ground at least five times a week. Ears should be checked and wiped clean with a damp rag or cotton swabs regularly. Some Irish Setters are semi-hypoallergenic if their coats are inherited from their Poodle parents. However, potential owners should assume that their Irish Doodle is not hypoallergenic and should make ownership decisions accordingly. However, there are certain health conditions they can become susceptible to that are worth knowing about. Minor Conditions. You may be thinking an Irish Doodle is a Doodle dog from Ireland. George, an adorable F1b Irish Doodle, enjoying the backyard image: georgetheirishdood. Both parent breeds originated in Europe a few hundred years ago. They were bred for hunting. Learning about the history of both parents, gives us insight into the traits that the Irish Doodle inherits. Irish hunters were in need of an excellent hunting dog. This dog breed was known for its fantastic sense of smell and excellent ability to spot birds. An interesting fact is that even though the Irish Setter is well recognized today for its rich chestnut color, the first Irish Setters were white with some red or brown spots on their coats [1] www. In the United States, the Irish Setter did not exist until , when the first dog of this breed named Echo was imported into the country. This dog became very popular in the US after showing its unique abilities as a gundog and its natural intelligence. The United Kennel Club recognized this dog breed a little later — in [2] www. Poodle Standard Poodle The Poodle is not only one of the smartest but also one of the most ancient dog breeds in the world. Dogs similar to the Poodle were carved in Roman tombs as far back as 30 A. You can also see Poodles in many European Paintings of the 15th century [4] www. However, it is the French who are responsible for making these dogs so famous worldwide. In the United States, the Poodle first appeared in the 19th century. The breed started gaining popularity after the Second World War. By the s, the Poodle had become one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States [5] www. Irish Doodles inherit the coat types and colors of their parents. They often have dense, curly or wavy coats of red fur. But they can have all sorts of different colors and markings. The parents are the best way to determine the appearance of the litter. Coat Type Irish Doodles can have a medium-to-long coat that will be wavy or curly. The coat of the Irish Setter can be described as fine, straight, and glossy. It is longer on the chest, tail, ears, and back of the leg and is shorter in front of the legs, head, and tips of the ears. Poodles have a long, dense coat that is often curly. It is similar to human hair. Coat Colors The Irish Doodle has the potential to be many different colors. However, their coats often reflect a hue of red from the Irish Setter. Irish Doodles can be solid-colored or multi-colored. They can have unique markings or patterns such as merle, tuxedo, parti, abstract, or phantom. Finley, a darling Irish Doodle that is a certified therapy dog image: thefinleybean. How Big Are Irish Doodles? The size of an Irish Doodle depends on its generation and parents. For example, a first generation Irish Doodle means that the parents were purebred dogs. If a purebred Poodle was used as the dam or sire , then the litter size might be different compared to if the Irish Setter was used as the dam or sire. The oh-so-adorable Mr. Ollie, a certified cutie from New Zealand image: ollie. Irish Setters are medium-to-large sized dogs. The size of Poodles depends on the type: the Standard Poodle is considered a medium-sized breed , while the Miniature or Toy Poodle is a small dog breed. Second generation Irish Doodles will differ in size than their first generation counterpart. The same is true for the Miniature Irish Doodle. Height The average height for standard Irish Doodles is around 25 inches for males and about inches for females. The average height of male Irish Setters is 27 inches, while the average height for females is 25 inches [6] www. The average height of the male Standard Poodle is 15 inches for both males and females , while Toy or Miniature Poodles are usually not taller than 10 inches [7] www. Weight Based on the size of the parent breeds, it is reasonable to assume that the average weight of the male Irish Doodle is around 60 pounds. In contrast, the average female Irish Doodle should weigh about 40 pounds. The male Standard Poodle is usually 60 to 70 pounds, while the average female Standard Poodle is between 40 and 50 pounds. Thus, making the Irish Doodle a unique dog breed. The Irish Doodle can be described as sweet-tempered and intelligent. Doodle dogs inherit their smarts from Poodles, the second-smartest dog in the world. Irish Doodles are fast learners. This makes them relatively easy to train so long as you follow a consistent program. The sooner you start, the better! Irish Setters can be high-energy. Doodles are pretty similar, but since they have some of the Poodle parent traits, they are a little less active and do not need as much exercise and attention as Irish Setters, especially when they are older [9] www. Irish Doodles love to exercise, play, and go on all types of adventures. If you properly socialize your Irish Doodle at a young age, they will have no problem getting along with children. This important characteristic makes them excellent family dogs. They are suitable for young kids due to their cheerful, playful, and energetic personalities. They also get along with other pets, even though they may need a bit more time for socialization with smaller animals and pets [10] www. They can be aggressive with strangers if they are not appropriately socialized or feel threatened. Therefore, it is essential to start training them early enough to learn how to interact appropriately with other people [11] www. Ruby, an Irish Doodle from TN, melting hearts with her pumpkin bandana image: rubyredirishdoodle. Just like Poodles, Irish Doodles are highly adaptable dogs. Even though they like to run and play, they do not necessarily need homes with a lot of space — they can also adapt to apartment life as long as they receive enough attention, mental stimulation, and exercise daily. Taking your Irish Doodle for a long walk, running, or jogging daily is recommended. Without daily and regular physical activities, they can suffer mentally and physically. Almost any climate is fine for Irish Doodles, as they adapt quickly. However, they may be sensitive to extremely cold temperatures and heat. Common Health Issues There are specific potential health conditions that your Irish Doodle may be at risk for. They include the following: Hip dysplasia. This condition usually occurs during the growth stage in canines. The main factor leading to this condition is genetic, which is hereditary. Other factors can magnify this genetic predisposition, including improper weight, excessive growth rate, and unbalanced nutrition. The symptoms of hip dysplasia vary and depend on the inflammation level and the disease stage. But the most common symptoms include decreased range of motion, decreased activity, loss of thigh muscle mass, limping, noticeable enlargement of the shoulder muscle mass, and others [12] www. It is a relatively common neurological disorder that affects about 0. It is characterized by outbursts of electrical activity that scatter through the brain. Cataracts and other eye disorders. One of the most common eye health issues an Irish Doodle may develop, especially when a dog gets older, is cataracts. Cataracts are known as a defect in the lens that can lead to erosion of vision and blindness [14] www. Canine atopic dermatitis. It develops allergic symptoms after exposure to allergens or substances like pollens, molds, weeds, or fungi. How long do Irish Doodles live? The Irish Doodle has an average lifespan of years. Yes, Irish Doodles are very active dogs and like physical activities, including swimming. Also, swimming can be a beneficial low-impact activity for Doodle puppies when they are still growing. Do Irish Doodles shed? Most Irish Doodles have soft and curly coats like their parent Poodles. Poodles do not shed at all and are known for their hypoallergenic coat. This means that Irish Doodles are not heavy shedders either. Since their second parent is the Irish Setter, a moderate shedder, Irish Doodles can shed a little bit. Shedding can occur more frequently if their coat gets too long. Therefore, professional grooming is very important and should be repeated every weeks. How much does an Irish Doodle cost? It is recommended to research and compare different dog breeders to ensure they have a good reputation, use the best breeding practices, and sell healthy puppies. A reputable breeder is worth the extra cost! How often should you bathe an Irish Doodle? However, there are specific bathing requirements you should follow. First, there are certain things you need to take into consideration when deciding how often you should wash your Irish Doodle: The activity level of your dog. Does your Doodle spend a lot of time outdoors? Do they like playing in a park, running around, rolling in the dirt, and swimming in a lake or pond? If yes, more frequent bathing is important — at least once a month. Longer hair also requires frequent washing because it can trap debris, dirt, dust, and other things that can cause human allergies. Skin conditions, including allergies. If your dog has any skin conditions or allergies, they will dictate how often your canine should get a bath. You can always ask your vet for advice regarding the frequency of bathing. How often should an Irish Doodle be groomed? As mentioned above, regular grooming helps keep the coat of your dog clean, shiny, and healthy. Therefore, regular grooming is necessary. On average, professional grooming is needed every weeks. Are Irish Doodles calm? The Irish Doodle is quite a calm dog breed. They are intelligent dogs and rarely bark. However, as mentioned in the article, they may be aggressive with strangers if they are not trained and socialized correctly. Also, they may bark when left alone for a long time because they tend to experience separation anxiety Final Thoughts If you are looking for an intelligent, active, playful family dog that gets along with all your family members, the Irish Doodle is a perfect choice. Irish Doodles are remarkable designer dogs that make excellent family pets. While the combined genes from the parent breeds impart high energy to the Irish Doodle, they also make this beautiful poodle mix breed highly trainable. What is an Irish Doodle? However, it might have originated in the United States around the late s or s. To understand the origins and the history of the Irish Doodle, let us consider the history of its parent breeds. They were bred to hunt birds and were known for their remarkable ability to sniff out the game from far distances. Irish Setters point or stand in a manner that looks like they are pointing to help hunters flush out the game. Setters are also known for their excellent swimming and retrieving skills. Some believe that the breed originated from the French Water Dogs called Barbets. Poodles also might have been trained as duck hunters. Today, the breed is considered one of the smartest in the world. The cross between Poodles and Irish Setters results in this remarkable hybrid dog. The Irish Doodle or the Setterpoo might be relatively rare today but given its excellent qualities, a day will surely come when more and more people start demanding more of these beautiful dogs. Irish Doodles are medium-sized dogs since most breeders use Standard or Miniature Poodles in their breeding programs. You can expect your fully-grown Irish Doodle to measure between inches .Irish Doodles stop growing between months. The coat of Irish Doodles could be curly, wavy, fleece, long, and dense. Common colours seen in the breed are black, red, apricot, golden, tan, mahogany, brown, black-and-tan, and white. Do Irish Doodles Shed? This means that a first-generation F1 Setterdoodle could inherit the shedding gene from the Setter parent. Due to this additional Poodle breeding, an F1-B puppy is more likely to be hypoallergenic. Do Irish Doodles Need Grooming? Are Irish Doodles High Maintenance? Irish Doodles can be high-maintenance in a couple of ways. Firstly, their coats need regular grooming as they tend to trap dirt and debris easily. They also have sensitive skin and their long and wavy coats also mat and tangle easily. Due to this, your pet will need daily brushing. Some pet parents also take their Irish Doodles to professional groomers for special Poodle cuts. You can always groom an Irish Doodle at home — simply keep the body and legs short and the face and tail long. How often you bathe your Irish Poo depends on how dirty it gets. In general, you can bathe your Doodle once a month. As mentioned earlier, they require a lot of playtime and exercise. This is definitely not a dog that you leave in the yard without it experiencing separation anxiety. You must walk your pet at least times a day for minutes. Like all Doodles, they also love being a part of all family activities and dislike being left alone. Are Irish Doodles Calm? This highly energetic dog has a tireless personality and it is sure to keep you active as well! Due to their exuberant natures, Irish Doodles make excellent companions for kids. Despite their stubborn streaks, they are also willing to please their owners. Irish Doodles also do well with strangers and other pets. This is a great dog for almost every household. Most well- socialised and trained Irish Doodles are even-tempered and have a rollicking personality. Are Irish Doodles Good with Kids? As mentioned earlier, Irish Doodles are excellent companion pets for households with children. This is because, the breed is known for its outgoing nature, gentle demeanour, and sweet-loving personality. In fact, according to PetMD , both the Irish Setter and Poodle breeds also rank in the list of top 10 dog breeds for children. Since they are playful and energetic, children are better suited for giving the Irish Doodle the love, attention, and exercise the dog needs on a daily basis. This is crucial since the breed hates being alone and loves to have company and regular playtime. How Smart are Irish Poos? Irish Poos are extremely smart as both parent breeds are very smart. They have a capacity for learning a wide array of tricks and commands. According to Dr. Stanley Coren — an authority on dog intelligence — Irish Setters rank 35th and the Poodle ranks 2nd in the list of highly intelligent dog breeds. Therefore, there is little doubt that the Irish Poo is incredibly smart as well. Irish Doodles possess a remarkable degree of both obedience and working intelligence. This means that they are not only capable of understanding the commands and tasks assigned to them but also have the mental ability to respond appropriately to situations in an effective manner. Thankfully, these smart dogs are highly-trainable. However, you need to be very consistent with the training. Stick to a strict feeding and potty schedule. Do Irish Doodles Like to Swim? Swimming is an excellent exercise for Irish Doodles. The breed certainly has all the traits that make them excellent swimmers. However, if your Setterdoodle is on the smaller side, it could tire easily while swimming. So always use a doggy vest before letting your pet into the water. Do Irish Doodles Like to Cuddle? Yes, these loving and affectionate dogs love to cuddle. And although they are very energetic, they are always up for a snuggle on the sofa or in your bed! How Much is a Mini Irish Doodle? The price is not standardised and can vary from breeder to breeder. Always research the breeder well before you buy your Doodle. If needed, visit several breeders to see their kennels and meet their dogs. Avoid buying from puppy mills or backyard breeders as their puppies are kept under appalling conditions and tend to have health and behavioural issues. What to Feed an Irish Setter Poo? Do Irish Doodles have Sensitive Stomachs? Some Irish Doodles tend to have sensitive tummies and do well on hypoallergenic food, grain-free food, raw dog food , or special prescription diets. Look for dog food with the first ingredient as real meat — chicken, fish, or turkey are a good choice. Avoid foods with fillers, colours, and preservatives. Your breeder or vet nutritionist can guide you in selecting the best food for your Irish Doodle based on its age, life stage, and activity levels. These healthy dogs live for years. If you purchase your Irish Doodle from a reputable breeder, chances are they have tested their breeding stock for common genetic issues. This can reduce joint problems and eye-related conditions in the breed. Common health issues seen in Irish Doodles are arthritis, epilepsy, and thyroid-related problems. Looking to find an Irish Doodle puppy? The Irish Doodle is a rare poodle mix breed in Australia. Subscribe for poodle mix breed information and exclusive offers on the best products for your pup! Leave this field empty if you're human: Share this.

These pups are intelligent, friendly, and eager to please. Black Labs are also known for being loyal, protective, and devoted to their families. In addition to their great personalities, Black Labs are also excellent athletes. They excel at agility and obedience trials, and they make excellent hunting and retrieving dogs. Black Labs are versatile dogs that can fit into almost any lifestyle. They do very well with children. The breed is usually tolerant of climbing and tugging by small children and love to be spoiled. This confident yet tender pup is social and easy-going around new people. Black Lab Puppies Health Considerations Though generally very healthy and long-lived — with an average lifespan of around 10 to 12 years — our Black Labs for sale are not without their unique health concerns. Like every breed of dog, there are a few conditions you should be aware of before you consider purchasing one of our Black Lab puppies for sale. Understanding the risks allows you to know the signs and prevent small health concerns from turning into big ones. Hip and elbow dysplasia are both hereditary conditions that can cause joint pain and mobility issues. Allergies are relatively common in dogs, and Black Labs are no exception. Symptoms can include itchiness, redness, and hair loss. Exercise-induced collapse is a relatively rare condition that can be triggered by strenuous activity. Symptoms include weakness, dizziness, and collapse. While these health concerns can be daunting, many of them can be effectively managed with proper care. Finding a Black Lab puppy for sale from a reputable breeder can dramatically — although, not eliminate — the risk of your dog developing some of these conditions. They are also one of the most popular breeds in the United States, in part due to their beautiful black coat. And while the coat does require some maintenance, it is relatively easy to care for. Weekly brushing will help to remove dead hair and keep the coat looking shiny and healthy. Labs also benefit from occasional baths, which will help to remove any dirt or debris that has become trapped in their fur. Meet Black Lab Puppies for Sale. From puppyhood to old age care The black Lab is up to 24 inches tall and weighs up to 80lbs. Depending on on their ancestors, your black Labrador puppy may be a little smaller than this when they are fully grown. And the hunting or American Lab may have a lighter frame and a strong drive for retrieving. The lifespan of a black Labrador is 12 years, and some purebred black lab puppies can live even longer given the right diet, exercise and a healthy dose of luck. He was my constant companion almost into adulthood. He came on countless runs through the woods, spent hours playing ball in the backyard, but also sat with his head gently rested in my lap whenever I was sad. It has always amazed me that despite the black Labrador being the most common color, it is in some ways the least appreciated. With an amazing history of working alongside human companions, and a fabulous temperament, this pup really is one to watch. This black retriever has been favored by the hunting community for generations. But they were bred from a fishing companion that has been extinct now for nearly fifty years. This breed was also most likely the route of the rather different, and bigger, Newfoundland. Albeit often with white markings. Do you ever feel like you see more black Labs around than any other color? The first chocolate Labradors that we know of were born in the s, but colors other than black were not at all popular until the mid 90s. Horribly, for many generations most puppies born with chocolate or yellow coats were routinely euthanized at birth! If a puppy has inherited the gene for black coat color from either of her parents, this is the color that her coat will be. These both come from a pigment called eumelanin. More eumelanin leads to a black Lab, less leads to a chocolate. Genes come in pairs. Here we are dealing with B genes at the B locus. B is dominant over b. So a pairing of BB or Bb will give a black coat. Only bb will give a brown coat. A puppy gets one gene from each parent. With me so far? This is because these genes are also effected by another set of genes, at the E locus. E is dominant, and does not get in the way of the B genes. But e is recessive, and this does. It has the potential to stop the B genes giving a black or brown dog, and gives us yellow Labrador pups. And these all interact with each other differently to give different coat colors. This diagram explains them nicely: You can see from these combinations alone that the most common result is a black Lab puppy. But also how chocolate and yellow Labs were hidden for a time through careful matings and selective culling. But there is another twist to the black coat color tale. Occasionally a Lab is born with the dilute gene. This genetic twist essentially tones down the shade of the dark coat color. In the same way that the chocolate Lab looks silver when this gene is activated, the black Lab looks charcoal. In genetic terms, this dilute gene lives at the D locus. Popularity of Black Labs Black Labs have always been the most prevalent color, but their popularity has changed over the years. In the sporting dog community owners of hunting dogs still often prefer the black coat, but pet and show owners often show a preference these days for the paler colors. Chocolate and yellow Labs can even fetch higher prices from some breeders, not to mention the less common fox red and silver tones. Black Dogs Are Harder To Rehome There is a sad phenomenon in pet shelters, which impacts the rehoming rate of black dogs. Prospective owners often pass them by, regardless of temperament, in favor of the brighter colored pups on offer. But these adopters are missing a trick, because black dogs have so much to offer beyond their coat. And what they do offer differs slightly between the Labrador types. English Black Labs — bred for show There are two strains of Labrador. One was bred for the show ring, and the other was bred for the field. Although they are both Labs in the true sense, these separate strains can be quite different and are easy to pick apart if you know what you are looking for. English black Labradors are often preferred by pet homes as well as owners interested in the ring. The English black Lab has a reputation for being a little slower to mature, and a lot more playful. American Black Labs — bred to work American black Labs are slimmer, less excitable but more driven. They stand around the same height, but their heads are less broad and their tails often have less of the otter quality that their show companions sport. Although still friendly, they are perhaps less inclined to play than their show bred cousins. And in contrast to this have a stronger drive to retrieve and hunt. The English black Lab was bred for looks over purpose. Their broad head and barrel chest is matched with a straight, thick furred tail and a heavier weight on the scales. Black Labradors bred for show or as pets tend to be slower to mature, with a more playful personality, and are arguably less likely to run off after wildlife! Which Type Suits You? American black Labs may need more exercise and mental stimulation than English black Labs. They will benefit from gun dog style training involving retrieving exercises. Black Lab Characteristics Although there is no denying that the different Labrador strains have separated to a fair dramatic degree, these are still all fundamentally black Labs. And they do have some features in common that makes them who they are. The Lab has a double coat, excellent for keeping them warm in and out of the water. Their thick straight tail is described as having an otter-like appearance. And they are almost all one single color with no other markings. Mismarked Labs rear their heads from time to time, but this is generally just a case of white toes or a splash of white on their chests. Grooming and Coat Care Your black Lab needs no special grooming due to his coat color. In fact, the grooming requirements of your Labrador Retriever are some of the simplest among dog breeds. Their coats are designed to take care of themselves. Though your furniture and floors may benefit if your dog has a twice daily brush when shedding heavily. Other than that Labs have a wonderful coat that requires only occasional washing. The eventual size of your black Lab puppy will depend a little upon their upbringing, and a lot upon whether they are from American or English lines. An adult black Lab will weigh anywhere from 55 to 80 lbs, and be from 21 to .The English black Lab will tend to be closer to the heavier end of the spectrum, and the American nearer to the lower. Black Lab Temperament Labradors are well known for being friendly. Perhaps sometimes a little too friendly! This bouncy breed is more likely to leap up and lick a burglar than to stop him in the act. The downside of this is that they can be easily distracted at the dog park by wanting to greet everyone they come across. Their jolly, lively nature can also lead them into trouble with people who are unsteady on their feet. Although lovably clumsy, this dog also has a brilliant brain. Intelligence Black Labradors have been bred for generations as hunting companions. Deliberately bred from dogs that were attentive to their handlers and relatively easy to teach commands to, they are absolutely an intelligent breed. Because to get that black coat expressed is just a matter of mating two dogs, whereas to get the recessive genes you need to at least partially make your breeding choices based upon the colors of the parents as well as factors to do with temperament and trainability. But the most important factor when bringing together two Lab lines should always be one of health. Training and Exercising Your Black Lab Black Labs are intelligent dogs and training is an absolute essential for them and their owners. RUnning, swimming, cycling, hiking and even dock diving are popular pass times. Although American Labs tend to be more driven to fetch, English Labradors are often still keen too. Both types need a good workout every day to keep them fit and healthy. And to help them relax at home. You can exercise your dog with a traditional walk, by going for a run together or through play. Retrieving games are a great way to give your Lab a lot of exercise without you having to travel quite such a long distance yourself. You can find some great ideas for games you and your Labrador can play together in this article. Black Lab Health The best way to avoid health problems is by purchasing a puppy from health tested parents. The main areas to be aware of are joint problems and eye problems. Hip and elbow dysplasia are common Lab complaints. This condition ranges in severity and an adult dog can have x rays to assess their joint health, and be given a score to let you know how well their joints have developed. To avoid your puppy suffering from this either both parents need to be Clear or one Clear one Carrier. If one is a carrier, your puppy might carry the gene too. A general eye exam once a year will make sure that there are no other vision problems manifesting over time. Most breeders advertise online now, so you will need to be careful to have a good chat with them before committing to buying a puppy. Do not put down a deposit before meeting the mother and the litter at their home. The mum should be relaxed and happy to meet you, and for you to handle her pups. If you are looking for a pet you will need to decide whether you think a show or working temperament is better suited to your lifestyle and family needs. Make sure the breeder willingly shows you copies of health certificates from both parents. As a minimum they should be PRA clear, have a recent clear eye check from a vet, have good hip scores and an elbow score of 0. If one parent has been shown as a carrier for dwarfism or PRA, be sure to check that the other has been tested clear. Good breeders ask lots of questions because they care about what happens to their pups, and will be open and willing to answer all of your questions too. You might find it helpful to check out our article on Labrador breeders before you start searching for a pup. You might also want to read this article: Choosing the Right Dog. The information in these articles will help you avoid some of the common mistakes people make when looking for their new best friend. Rescuing a Black Lab Rescuing a dog is a great thing to do if your circumstances are right. And rescuing a black Lab is even better, as this color can be hard to home. Reputable rescues will work hard to match you to the right dog, and help you to make a choice that fits in well with your family. Rescuing such a dog can be very rewarding. We hope you will find our article Should you adopt a Labrador helpful. You can view a list of rehoming societies on our rescue page. They will also offer plenty of support and help once you bring your dog home. Especially when it comes to behavioral and training problems. White or grey hairs may start forming around their muzzle, giving them a bearded or grizzled look. This pale hair is nothing to worry about and happens to most black Labs sooner or later. As your black Lab reaches old age, you might find that he slows down a bit. His typical energetic black Lab personality may mellow. He will be less boisterous, and more inclined to spend the day in bed than bouncing up and down by your side. The average lifespan of a black Lab is around 12, but if you are lucky your pup might be with you for 14 or more years. A more comfortable bed, ideally with memory foam, can help support those ageing joints. Ramps for accessing the car can really help them out too. Depending upon advice from your vet you might also want to switch them to a senior dog food , which is easier to digest and has additives that some believe can help slow the pace of arthritis. Life Span Did You Know? Black Labrador Retrievers, or just Black Labs, are a common coat color variation of one of the most popular dog breeds. The Black Labrador Retriever is not necessarily a separate dog breed. Black Labs are still Labrador Retrievers; they just have a distinct coat color that is a specifically-bred characteristic. Like other Labrador Retrievers, Black Labs are energetic, playful, and affectionate dogs that make great family companions. Although they are active and energetic dogs, Labs are also known for their gentleness and patience with other family members. Well-socialized Black Labs tend to get along well with just about everyone including children, other dogs, pets, and even strangers. They are considered one of the kid-friendly dog breeds. As one of the most affectionate dog breeds , Black Labs thrive on attention, especially from their favorite humans. They are happiest when they are spending time with their families and receiving affection and attention from them. Despite their high energy, Labs are highly adaptable dogs. They do tend to be better suited to homes with fenced yards where they can run, but they also adapt well to apartments provided they get enough daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation. They do well in just about any climate, but are sensitive to heat and extreme cold like many dog breeds. As such, they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Black Labrador Retriever can include elbow dysplasia , hip dysplasia, heart disease, hereditary myopathy, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy. Another potential health concern is EIC exercise-induced collapse , which can occur in young adult Labs and has a genetic link. Because carriers can be identified by DNA tests, it is recommended that breeders test for them. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you talk to the breeder about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large, deep-chested dog breed, Labrador Retrievers are at a higher risk for bloat. Labrador Retrievers are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. Although their high energy and puppylike exuberance can sometimes be a challenge, they are intelligent dogs that are eager to please. As long as training is kept consistent and focused on positive rewards and praise, novice owners still tend to do well with Black Labs. Puppy training classes are always an option and offer plenty of benefits aside from training too. Black Labs have a short, water-resistant double coat that sheds year-round and sheds heavier as seasons change. Depending on how active your Black Lab is and what they get into, they may need a bath more often, especially if they are swimming a lot. Weekly ear checks and careful cleanings when needed help prevent ear infections. Good dental care for dogs , like daily brushing and cleanings at the vet when needed, can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. As one of the most active dog breeds , a Black Labrador Retriever will need a lot of daily activity to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus some playtime and time to run are a minimum. Your Black Lab will likely be up for more activity if you are. One of the facts about Labrador Retrievers is that they have an extended puppyhood. They tend to maintain a puppylike exuberance until they are years old. Although they do tend to mellow out as they get older, they are still active, energetic, and playful dogs. Once they are fully grown, you can try other things like hiking, running, dock diving, and more to find other activities you and your Black Lab can enjoy together. Fully-grown Black Labrador Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Black Labs generally live for years on average. Black Labrador Retrievers came before the also-popular Chocolate Lab. All modern Chocolate Labs can be traced back to three Black Labs in the s. It was the December issue of .Featured Black Labrador Retriever Article.

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click on a link and purchase the item. This comes at no extra cost to you. The first few days of having your Golden Retriever puppy home are so important. And what you do before you bring them home will either make life a lot easier, or a lot harder for you. Here are seven steps you can take now to prepare for your new Golden Retriever puppy: Puppy-proof your home Puppies are baby animals with small bladders and needle-sharp teeth. And this means that unless you puppy-proof your home, they can cause a lot of damage with potty accidents and destructive chewing. Puppy proofing helps set your puppy up for success by making those unwanted behaviors much less likely. To puppy-proof your home, start by removing things that your puppy might be able to easily access such as shoes, books, medications, house plants, and power cords. Anything that your puppy could get to on the floors, on counters and on furniture is better off out of reach for now. Your pup could have some potty accidents on them, and young puppies often find rug corners and fringe very fun to chew. Consider putting up baby gates to keep your puppy out of spaces you prefer they not be in, as well as to block stairs. Toilet paper can be a puppy magnet, so make sure you keep those bathroom doors closed! Some good options are using play pens or snow fencing to block off landscaping or unmovable items that you want to keep safe from them. Puppy proofing can help keep your home and your puppy safe. Some vets are very experienced with Golden Retrievers, and it may be helpful to work with a vet who is well-versed in issues that can affect this breed. They can also tell you about which human foods you can avoid, but if you want to get a headstart on that, you can watch this video about which human foods are dangerous for Golden Retrievers. Before your puppy comes to you, they spend all day with their mother and littermates, so it would be a massive change for them to suddenly be home alone for long hours. If you work, you might want to take a week or so off from your job to help your puppy transition into their new home and routine. Perhaps you can adjust your schedule so you can visit your puppy at lunch, or maybe a friend is able to stop by to give your pup a break. As your puppy matures, they can usually handle being home alone for longer periods. But ensuring that your puppy has good care throughout the day can help prevent challenging issues like separation anxiety and potty training trouble. The most important thing to have ready is puppy food! Find out what kind of food your puppy is eating so you can have the same brand ready for them. An enzymatic cleaner is best, as it breaks down the odor, rather than masking it. A bed and crate are also very useful to have, so you can start working on crate training right away. You can see our favorite collars and leashes here. Of course your Golden Retriever pup will also need some toys and things to chew. Try to get a variety of shapes, textures, and flavors, so you always have something that will interest your pup. There are literally thousands of puppy products on the market, so feel free to have some fun with your shopping. Again, this will make the first day of having your puppy home so much easier. Want to potty train your puppy fast? Download the Potty Training Cheat Sheet here! Enroll your puppy in puppy school Early training is so important for puppies. It can help you prevent common behavior problems and establish good habits with your new pup. Golden Retrievers that receive early training are much more enjoyable to live with. Both group puppy classes and one-on-one training with a professional trainer are excellent options. A lot of puppy training is actually training you as the owner to understand how to communicate with your puppy, so look for training that involves you, rather than sending your puppy away for someone else to train. There are even some great virtual puppy training options, so no matter where you live or what kind of schedule you have, you can find something that works for you. If you want a week-by-week game plan for raising your puppy, get the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook here. Related articles:. Next up is another thing to do before you bring your puppy home… How To Puppy Proof Your House When puppy-proofing your house, think like a puppy. Crawl around on the floor and take note of what you see. Puppies will chew nearly anything, so make sure that there are no valuables down at puppy-height, or things that could be poisonous to them or be a choking hazard. Make sure there are no open cabinets or pantries where your puppy could get into food. Be careful of small trash cans that could hold some smelly trash that would be enticing to a puppy. And finally, next are a few other random tasks to do before you bring home your new puppy. Getting a golden retriever puppy? Check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook! Not exactly. Find a vet. Find the closest emergency animal hospital. This is not something you want to wait until you need it before looking it up and making a plan. Find a list of local poisonous plants and animals. Talk to your vet and do some research so that you know which plants and animals to avoid. Find a puppy kindergarten class. This will help with training, socialization, and general learning how to be a puppy parent. Check your yard or house for any escape routes. This next section will cover everything from what to expect with a puppy, what to do the first 24 hours of bringing them home, how to train them, and more. A week after bringing Oliver home, it was very obvious to me why she asked me that. Puppies are hard work! Their little bladders can only hold it for a few hours, so this is expected. Chewing Puppies will try to chew any and everything. Like every thirty minutes often. Now, for the most important expectation of them all… You will miss puppyhood! Yes, you will miss the sleepless nights and puppy bites. So make sure to take lots of videos and pictures. How would you like to be treated in this situation? Here are some tips to help your puppy get comfortable in their new home. Let your puppy make decisions When you get to your house, set them at your open front door and let them choose to walk inside. Let them explore their new home on their own terms. Letting them make decisions can give them a sense of confidence, hope, and control, and ease into their new home. Limit visitors Now is the time to build the bond with your puppy and let them get to know you, not overstimulate them with a lot of people. Limit their access to your home Getting used to a new home with two rooms will be a lot easier than getting used to a new home with five rooms. Only let your puppy have access to a few rooms so that they get acclimated to their new area quicker, then as they get more comfortable you can allow them to explore new areas of the house. You can use baby gates to restrict access to sections of the house. Bonus benefit: this will also decrease the chances that they leave you a present in the guest room. In general, just keep things low key when you bring them home and let them get used to their surroundings. Training Your Golden Retriever Puppy Training your golden retriever puppy is one of the best things you can do both for them and with them. They have short attention spans and like to have fun, so short training sessions and training games work best. A lot of people think that training is just obedience training, like sit and stay , but it also includes life skills like crate training , potty training , how to not jump on people or bite them, and how to not pull on the leash. Socialization Socialization is something that is not talked about as much as it should be. It can help mitigate fear and aggression and help them become confident, well-adjusted adult dogs. You can socialize your puppy with other dogs by setting up play dates with gentle dogs that you know are vaccinated and by going to puppy kindergarten. Dog to other living beings includes humans, cats, and other animals. You can socialize them with other people by taking them to a pet-friendly store like home depot, and you can socialize them to other animals by taking a walk by the neighborhood cat with lots of distance between them, so neither animal gets overwhelmed. Dog to stuff is the broadest category, but no less important. When Oliver was very young we were on a walk and a FedEx truck drove by. He had never heard a big truck like that and was terrified. So make sure that your puppy is comfortable with trucks, cars, the garage door, buses, umbrellas, and whatever other objects they may encounter. For instance, if you live in Chicago, get them used to trains, buses and crowded streets. Every day, separate out five special treats for your puppy. For example, you might let your neighbor give your puppy a treat, or maybe you take your puppy to a bus stop and when the bus goes by you give them a treat, or maybe you introduce them to a cow and give them a treat. The treat helps them have a positive experience with these new things and people, plus it helps you easily remember to expose them to lots of these new things. Do this for the first four weeks of their life and before you know it, your puppy will have been exposed to new dogs, people, things, or environments, and will be well on their well to becoming a well-adjusted adult dog. Puppy Raising Mistakes Below are some mistakes that new puppy owners make that could make it harder to train and raise their puppy into a happy, confident adult. Not remembering how young they are Puppies are like little toddlers. Waiting to train your puppy until they have a problem Training your puppy before they have any behavior problems will make life so much easier for you. Forcing things too quickly Things like crate training and potty training take time. Setbacks hurt more than stretching their limits will help, so be patient and take things slowly. Conclusion Golden retriever puppies might just be the best living beings on the planet. However, they are a lot of work and can be quite naughty sometimes. Have any questions about golden retriever puppies? Let me know in the comments below! And if you know someone who is thinking about getting a golden retriever puppy, please share this with them. Related articles:. Golden Retriever puppies can be quite stealthy and adorably mischievous. You need to puppy proof your home to prevent unintentional mishaps and accidents. Puppies love to explore, and just like human toddlers, they will take anything in their mouth. Golden puppies early on are uncoordinated and find navigating stairs difficult — especially coming down. Best to close doors or use gates to prevent accidents. Supervising your puppy is the easiest and cheapest option. You can also keep your puppy confined to a playpen or crate when you cannot supervise him. Cats If you have a cat, you will need to prepare it for the new puppy. The cat should have someplace to escape when needed and its own area to be comfortable and secure. After the puppy and cat learn to get along hopefully , then you may be able to allow for more freedoms. Initially, however, give your cat a means to feel safe and getaway if needed. Many dogs will eat cat feces and cat litter. No dogs allowed! It pays to have a handyman brother. The cat appreciates it too. Some swallowed items have the potential for intestinal and choking issues. Be especially mindful of the laundry room and ensure clothes are in a hamper. Floor Food Puppies are like furry little Dyson vacuum cleaners, and if there is food on the floor, they will pick it up. Many items are toxic to dogs — onions, grapes, chocolate, garlic, macadamia nuts, to name but a few — do some research on the internet for a list of toxic foods and make sure your pup never has access to those. While not a food item, dental floss, if eaten, can also cause intestinal issues and may require surgery if it gets wrapped around or caught somewhere it should not. Kitchen Spilling boiling water or dropping knives while a puppy is underfoot may not only result in an injured puppy, but it may require a visit to the emergency room for you as well. Your puppy should not be allowed in the kitchen when you are preparing food. Put the puppy in a confined space playpen or crate while cooking or until you have trained your puppy to lay and wait in a safe spot. Cords Puppies like to chew. Electrical cords have electricity. Keep them away from each other. In addition to preventing an electric shock to your puppy, it may also save your house from burning down from a frayed electrical cord. Cords hanging from blinds can also be an issue. If your puppy gets entangled, he may not be able to free himself and could choke or become injured. Also, make sure that cords from blinds are well out of jumping reach for your pup. Golden Retrievers are quite resourceful and intelligent. Keep cabinets with chemicals and cleaning supplies latched or up high and out of the way. You can buy plastic baby proof latches that work well or use a very thick elastic band in a pinch to wrap around the handles to secure. Laundry detergent, especially pods, and fabric softener sheets should all be up and out of the way where the puppy cannot reach them. Be mindful of medications and supplements. Pain relievers and even certain supplements e. Toilets Toilet water can have toxic chemicals in them or other gross stuff. Toilet bowls can be a drowning hazard if your puppy falls in them. Keep the toilet lids closed to be safe. And gentlemen, any ladies in your home will be happier too. Backyard If your backyard is fenced, then look for holes or escape routes and plug those. If your backyard is not fenced, then consider enclosing your backyard to not only keep your pup in but other animals out. Secure or put away any chemicals such as fertilizer, insecticides, or pesticides. Many flowers, shrubs, and foliage can be harmful to your dog, so be aware and investigate potential risks again, the internet can be your friend here. Pick up poop to ensure your pup does not eat it yes, that can happen. Bailey investigating the frozen dirt in the garden boxes. Many of these items can be dealt with after you get your puppy. However, I have found that researching these items ahead of time will ensure you are well prepared and not rushing around after the fact. Ask other dog owners for recommendations and check to see if there are reviews online. Drop-in or book a short appointment with the vet candidates for a meet and greet to check out the facilities and ask some questions. Once you find a veterinarian that meets your needs, you can book your first appointment to have your puppy checked out and any remaining shots. Trust your gut. Health Costs Vet bills can be high. When you finally settle on a veterinarian, I suggest talking to your vet and researching different pet insurance coverage options and costs. If insurance is not affordable, ask your vet for an average amount of expenses to expect for your first year and beyond. Then allocate an amount each month to a designated savings account for ongoing and future pet bills. Then set aside that amount in case of emergencies. Microchipping Your dog will need tags, and you should consider microchipping your dog. If your puppy or dog ever gets lost or stolen, it makes identification much more straightforward. Ensure that your contact information is kept up to date, especially if moving or changing phone numbers. If you have concerns regarding microchipping, talk to your vet about any questions regarding safety and effectiveness. Obedience Classes It would be best if you availed yourself of a puppy class and basic training. It allows for socialization with other dogs and people and helps reinforce good basic obedience and manners. Check your area for classes and make sure the trainer only utilizes positive training methods. Science-based trainers avoid dominance-based techniques and rightfully so. However, they still prevail with many trainers, so be mindful of that. If there are no training classes in the area, you may need to look into online self-instruction. Some recommendations can be found on my site at Gold Bar Products and Gear. Due to the pandemic, our area has been in lockdown since getting our Golden puppy, so we had to avail ourselves of the best resources at our disposal. It fell upon us to ensure our Golden puppy learned his manners. If You Work When getting a new Golden puppy, a step that is often not considered is what to do if you have to work and leave your puppy alone. I cannot stress how important it is to think about this in the pre-planning stage. There is nothing worse than realizing that you now have a new 8-week old puppy at home, and you have not made preparations for someone to be available to watch your pup if you work all day. If you have the flexibility in your job, it is good to take some time off work. Leaving an 8-week old puppy alone the next day or so after bringing it home is not ideal. You and your puppy will need time to develop a bond and for the puppy to start trusting you. Your puppy is similar to a toddler, and it needs lots of attention and supervision. Your Golden puppy needs to adjust to its new home and environment. Owners should spend their first week getting the puppy used to being away from them and for potty training. Doing so will make going back to work a bit easier. Plus, this is a crucial time for bonding, and the more time you spend with your Golden puppy early on, the stronger that bond will be. If you cannot be at home, then have a family member or friend come in to take your Golden puppy out and to feed it if necessary. Or find a puppy daycare, sitter, or a dog walker. If you cover those three steps, then you and your Golden Retriever puppy will be off to a smooth, stress-free, and enjoyable start. January 24, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? What does it take to be considered ideal for a family dog? How do you know if the Golden Retriever is the right fit for you and your family? A Brief Background on Golden Retrievers! Bred in the highlands of Scotland by Lord Tweedmouth in the mid to late s, Goldens are a cross between a Yellow Retriever and an extinct dog breed, the Tweed Water Spaniel. Lord Tweedmouth wanted the ideal gundog to accompany him during fowl hunting and be able to withstand the rugged terrain and rainy conditions. Aside from being able to retrieve fowl, Lord Tweedmouth wanted an even-tempered dog to have at home when not hunting. And so, the Golden Retriever was born. Later in the s, they soon became a popular breed amongst American families when President Gerald Ford had a Golden named Liberty as his family dog. Golden Retrievers, like their name states, are golden! Their luxurious coats come in a variety of light to dark shades, ranging from light like the white Golden Retriever or English Cream to dark golden colors, even close to chocolate. Their coats feature feathering down their backs, chest, belly, hindquarters, and tails. Goldens have soft expressions combined with floppy expressive ears that give them a puppy-like appearance even as adults. Another thing to note of the Golden Retriever is that those fluffy coats are actually what are known as double coats. A strong water repellant coat on top coupled with a dense undercoat to regulate their body heat. This all means these pups can be heavy shedders! What are Golden Retrievers Personalities like? There is something to be said about being named a perfect family dog. The Golden Retriever breed is loyal, affectionate, playful, and gentle. If brought into a home with children, your Golden Retriever puppy will be a great addition for help introducing your new Golden Retriever pup to your kids and how to play together, check out our blog! But being a great family dog doesn't mean they are easy! Goldens have lots of energy which can come out in more jumping and being more mouthy, especially as puppies. Check our training tips for raising a well-mannered Golden at the end of this blog! Two to three daily walks are a must, and throw in fun activities like hiking or going for a swim, your pup will stay golden! Golden Retrievers are eager to please type of breed. They generally have happy go lucky demeanors which lends itself to affection and friendliness, including toward strangers. If you wanted a pup that could eventually become a service dog, a Golden Retriever is a great choice and make for excellent working pups! As a high-energy breed, Golden Retrievers do best in a home that will provide them ample access to romp around. Homes with fenced in yards or access to a park or field on a daily basis where they can run and fetch to their hearts content are the best environment for Goldens! These pups, with consistent early socialization, can adapt and thrive to living in a home with other dogs, or pets, and children! They love to play and make great playmates. That being said, their social nature can lead to dependencies on their owners and family. Golden Retrievers may develop separation anxiety if left alone and not properly trained from an early age. Golden Retrievers may also contract heart disease called subvalvular aortic stenosis SAS that with early diagnosis and treatment can allow for a regular life-span. When you are looking to add a Golden Retriever puppy, make sure you are working with a reputable breeder that cares for the health quality of the dogs they breed. Take advantage of that natural drive and eagerness to please by setting foundations at home. Start your puppy a regular daily puppy schedule to create structured routines in the home. Include consistent feeding, nap, play and obedience training times throughout the day to help your Golden pup learn what to expect and build confidence at home. During their puppy training focus on their obedience commands to help your puppy learn to look to you for guidance, build their communication with you, and solidify a trusting relationship! Since Golden Retrievers love to work, positive reinforcement and food rewards will be valuable motivators to get your puppy focused and listening. In-person and online puppy training programs will walk you through how to teach the commands, exercises to help your puppy learn them, and troubleshoot when your puppy needs it! Teach Your Golden Retriever How to Greet New People and Dogs While their open friendly disposition will help your puppy make new friends where ever they go, make sure to teach your puppy the right way to do so! Some overly energetic and friendly pups can get excitable around new people and dogs. That can result in some unwanted whining, lunging, and jumping. When done correctly, socialization helps teach your puppy the proper way to greet people, other dogs and create boundaries. During socialization sessions, you can work with your puppy on those common over-excited behaviors when meeting strangers. And if you're not sure how to do this on your own, hire a local puppy trainer or join an online puppy training school to help set you up for the best success! Do Calming Obedience Exercises With all their high-energy and high-drive, teaching your Golden how to be calm in everyday scenarios will help tame that wild side! Great calming exercises include having your puppy learn to wait for their food bowl and in thresholds each time you enter or leave a space. This also extends to activities like fetch. Goldens are a natal for this! This can be done simply by having your pup drop the toy when they return and pausing for a few moments giving them a chance to settle before throwing it again for them to retrieve. Teach Them to Walk Nicely on Leash Many high-energy pups have a tendency to lunge toward exciting new things! Couple that with a social nature, and you may encounter that your Golden Retriever puppy will start to pull on leash. Focus on teaching them proper leash manners including how to walk in Heel position and how to pass other people and pups without lunging, jumping and excited whining, barking or nipping at them! That can greatly help possible bad encounters with strangers and other dogs while teaching them great habits! Did you recently bring home a Golden Retriever puppy? Are you still planning and not sure what breed fits your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! Check out these blogs related to puppy training and more! Food bowl There are endless options of food and water bowls. In addition, the bowl can prevent gagging, choking, vomiting, indigestion, bloat, GDV, and malabsorption. If you already have a dog bowl, you can simply add a slow feeder insert. Water bowl Ellie has an 8-cup YETI water bow l to keep her water cold for more extended periods and a 4-cup bowl for food. YETI allows you to customize each bowl with a name, initials, or image. Great as a gift! They help prevent your puppy from getting tangled up in the leash and provide better control. Make sure you check out their sizing guide for the appropriate fit. We added a crate pad for noise reduction and comfort. Crate training can be a lifesaver, and most dogs fall in love with having their own space. It is essential that the dog crate is never used as punishment — the crate must always be regarded as a safe and special retreat. Gates Puppies are curious creatures that often need boundaries. Use a gate to limit access to certain areas of your home and reduce unwanted chewing or house soiling. Introduce your dog to small sections of the house at a time. We prefer the walk-through gate for easy mobility through the house. Toys and Chews All dogs have slightly different preferences in toys, so I would start with various items to see what interests your puppy most. However, the last inch of a bully stick can be a choking hazard if swallowed. This safety device allows your pup to enjoy the benefits of long-term chews while reducing the risks of choking. I typically give it to her for 20 minutes, rinse it off, and store it in the refrigerator until the next day, which prevents bacteria growth. Note you probably want to keep it separate from your food. My husband and I are bringing home our first puppy in September a goldendoodle and this was super helpful! Emily June 29, , am Thank you so much for this, Jen! I look forward to the post on favorite dog toys! We just got a puppy and, while its only been a week, we are definitely having some issues getting puppy to embrace his crate. He is doing really well with potty training, and has yet to have an accident in his crate, but soon after he enters his crate the howling begins. This way he associates it with a positive place. Also, leave treats in there. Some dogs do better with their crates covered so like drape a blanket over the sides so it feels more like a cave. You might also try placing a t-shirt or something that smells like you in there. Also, leave the door open all the time and praise him if he goes in on his own. Good luck! OH, what a difference! Long after they no longer needed their crates, we kept them and always left the door opened. They would go into them when they were tired, knowing they were in a safe place; their place. Friends always said to us that they would have a dog if it behaved like our dogs. Be consistent. Fun for all of you. I can definitely see how teaching while a puppy can make a huge difference. Looking forward to your next dog related posts :. Reply Link Megan June 29, , pm Ahh thank you for this post! My husband and I are looking into getting a pug puppy soon and these tips are so helpful. Looking forward to reading more posts on this, especially the crate training. Love the tips, we are still trying to stay the course with the UD group classes! Golden are the best! It has been such an eye-opening month with our new puppy. Our other dog is 8 so everything feels brand new. I actually wrote about it in my post for tomorrow, but a puppy is like a baby. My boyfriend and I are getting a golden pup in the fall and while I grew up with the breed I have never trained a pup on my own. We made the choice to get a puppy mostly to instil good habits and behaviour long term. So long story short, I would never put a puppy or young dog or any age in airplane cargo! Reply Link Megan June 30, , pm Good tips! Socializing him right away and crate training him were so key to having an awesome, well-adjusted dog! Reply Link Josi August 20, , pm Hello! Just wondering where you got your goldens? This really helped me figure out what to do when she gets here. Jen May 3, , pm YAY! Our 3rd Golden in about 33 years and know he has some big paws to fill Taegan was wonderful for 14 years. We are so excited!! I have a new English Cream Golden. I feel like I need to work for his affection. Great otherwise! Not super energetic. Bursts of energy followed up by lots of naps but never really interested in walks. First timer here. Your pup could really benefit from basic positive obedience! I would recommend seeking out an experienced trainer in your area to help you as your pup grows! Having a puppy in the home can be fantastic, but you also need to make sure that you can offer it the best as well. She has been really easy to house break. We are excited to bring her home. Thank you for the helpful tips. That is a good idea to make sure that we are committed to doing the work to train this dog. We do really want him to be well trained. Thanks for the tips! Thank you so much for this super informative post! Reply Link Jen January 22, , pm I always made sure she went before we got to the gym and walked her frequently. Meghan January 29, , am Thank you so much for the reply!! We kept each of our puppies on a leash in the house, never out of our sight except when they were in the crate for 4 months before we gradually gave them independence. We always messed with them and held them. They had accidents as you would expect until fully house trained at about 4 months, but never any destructive or aggressive behavior. We gave them plenty of tough chew toys. Also training classes. They were never nervous or skittish. They love to lay on us and never have had any trouble with grooming, food guarding, loud noises, children or other animals. Goldens are great dogs but like any dog, they can only know what you teach them. Great article!! Kathrinne May 5, , am Hi Jen, how old are your puppies when you let them go out? Jen May 5, , am What do you mean? Reply Link Carly September 8, , pm Thank you so much for your article! What would your input be? Do you think they would focus on each other more than their humans? Would 2 puppies be so much more difficult than 1? Any advice is greatly appreciated!! Love the name Zoey!! Any tips to Prevent that?? Reply Link Christine November 1, , am About to get golden 3. Learning all over about everything. Reply Link Jen November 1, , pm It is like starting over again but you will figure it out! Every pup is different but be patient and consistent! This is my first large dog breed so a little nervous. I read your post and you give wonderful tips that I will follow. Please let me know if it is safe to put a flea collar on the puppy. Thank you. Reply Link Jen January 29, , pm I would consult with your vet to see what they recommend for flea prevention and treatment. Also, about the scratching. It could be due to something else like an allergen outside. I have not had a dog in 3 years because I lost my last one in a painful way for me and I am afraid to get another one. I am now ready to get one and this page has helped me prepare for my new puppy. I am a 74 yr old male in pretty good shape no health issues, and retired so I should be around a while to look after a dog. My wife passed about four months ago so I guess I am looking to fill a void. I live in a single family home and have plenty of time to spare. Thanks Reply Link marion duffield April 14, , am I am picking my pup up in 2 weeks! This is the best AND most realistic article I have read about training…. My pup Tank will be 4 months when we get him. He is absolutely adorable. Have only seen photos. He lives with his breeder in Missouri and we live in Canada…. I am so excited for you!!!! Puppies are intense but so much fun. And wow, that is going to be an adventure! Reply Link Theresa April 30, , am Do you have suggestions about golden retriever puppy biting? We got ours at 7 weeks. She is now .How do we stop her from snapping and biting? She is smart and loving. The biting has been rough though. Can you help? But I love dogs soooo much. This info is everything to me. I love this post Soo much. Thanks a ton. You left puppy in car? Or what? Reply Link Madeline October 31, , pm I am picking up my 7 week old golden in 2 days! I am so excited! How did you go out taking him places before he had his full shots? I want to socialize him, and of course potty train him immediately, but obviously there are risks. Whats your take on this? So the whole crate training thing is not going so well. She hates it. Emily Camalo April 2, , pm Hi! Really appreciate you sharing all of this advice! It was super valuable. Reply Link Julie April 11, , am Loved your comments. I have a 9 week double doodle. I have crate trained since day 1 and she has been really good, day 1 upset for a couple of minutes. Day 2 no problem at all. Now just the occasional cry when I leave her but that is over with in a very short space of time. I also leave a low radio on for her. She uses the garden most of the time for toileting, but occasionally she will come into the house and do another wee. The problem I have at the moment is trying to stop her biting. I have tried the gentle command which she listens to some of the time. And I have tried standing and turning my back on her so she realises I am not playing when she bites, but she will then go for trousers or feet, which I try my best to ignore, or she will just go off and do something else like chew a mat or something which is a no no. Any ideas? Regards Reply Link Stephanie January 25, , am Really great info, thank you for your article. Our puppy arrives in 5 days and we have been preparing for months. Your advice is. Very helpful. Blessings to you. 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! Read the full disclosure here. This comprehensive list covers all the essentials, plus some added extras. Food: Every dog needs food! See our puppy food guide for recommendations. Bowls: Your puppy is going to need something to eat that food from. Something to think about. Bedding: Your pup will need a comfortable bed to call their own. You can decide whether to choose a puppy-sized one or one that they can grown into. To avoid buying more than one crate, you can get one big enough to fit your adult golden and make it puppy-sized using dividers. Brushes: Get your puppy some brushes suitable for a longer-coated dog. The sooner you get pup used to being brushed, the easier it will be in the future. Toothbrush and toothpaste: These are daily essentials in your grooming routine. Be sure to choose a dog-specific toothpaste as the human stuff can be dangerous to canines. Treats: Essential for training. Pick high-value treats for when you really want to motivate your pup. Chew toys are essential to help direct chewing away from your belongings. Tug toys, balls to play fetch and treat-dispensing toys are also nice to have. Travel harness or dog guard: To keep your dog safe in the car. These are the main things you need to think about when puppy proofing your home. Put them up high or away in their proper place. Not only will it leave you out of pocket if your pup chews something expensive, many such items are also choking hazards. Be careful of plants: Make sure you remove any plants that are poisonous to dogs , both in your house and your garden. Common offenders include foxglove, wisteria and yew. Secure medicines and cleaning products: Both medicines and cleaning products can be highly toxic to dogs if ingested. Hide electrical cords: If a puppy sinks their teeth into an electrical cord, it can prove fatal. Try not to have electrical cords running across the room or out in the open where your puppy can get to them. If needs be, you can get cord concealers, cord wraps or even pvc pipes to secure them. Planning Appropriate Puppy Socialization Socialization, with both humans and other dogs plus other animals, if your new puppy is going to be around them , is one of the most important things to think about with your new puppy. A well-socialized puppy should turn into an adult dog who interacts well with all dogs and people, which makes your life so much easier as a dog-owner. It might sound a bit over the top, but it will stop your pup from getting confused or overstimulated and it sets some ground rules for the humans involved, too. Pick out regular meal times for your puppy and try to stick to them as closely as possible. Also take your puppy out into the garden on a schedule, as this will really help with toilet training. You can also schedule in training sessions, play sessions and, when your puppy is old enough, their daily walks. Learning How To Train Your Puppy You might think that training your new dog will be intuitive when you get them home, but dog training is a skill you learn, not one you just pick up as you go along. Once your puppy is old enough, group puppy training classes are an excellent idea. Not only will you learn more about training your pup, your dog will also get to socialize with other young canines. The ideal option is to have the puppy in the back seat in a car harness and have a passenger sit next to them, who can hold, pet and comfort them on the journey home. Some people forgo the harness altogether and have a passenger simply hold the puppy, wrapped in a blanket or towel. However, before you even get your puppy into the car, you should try to get them to relieve themself first , to avoid any toilet-based accidents on the journey home. Once you get your precious pup home, all that effort and preparation will have been worth it to give your new four-legged friend the best start in life. You May Also Like.

Top 5 Labradoodle Haircuts Be sure to check out our 2-part series on types of Doodle haircuts, with tons more pictures that cover overall body styles and variations of styles. Different groomers may have different ideas of what the following types of cuts are. If any of these pictures represent what you want your Labradoodle to look like, be sure to bookmark this page for easy access when dropping them off at the groomer! With the hair slightly rounder and longer around the face and legs, the Labradoodle teddy bear cut gives your pup the most adorable puppy-like look. As the name hints, the goal is to give your Labradoodle a puppy-like look with shorter hair on the body, and longer on the head. This look is not for the faint-hearted, but a dog as cute as a Labradoodle will surely pull this off. Labradoodle Long Clip Almost the same as the Labradoodle short clip, but not quite. The Labradoodle long clip is great for emphasizing those beautiful waves and an effortless, shaggy look. However, longer hair can also trap in more dirt, so make sure to set aside enough time for daily brushing. Here you can check out the best brushes for Labradoodles. A comb is also great for brushing hard-to-reach areas like the paws, face, and ears. Dog Clippers — When it comes to grooming, you are going to need a set of clippers to get the job done. Which ones should you choose? These are our favorite grooming scissors for Doodles. Dog Shears — Are you ready to take your grooming to the next level? Detangler Sprays — One of the best hacks for hassle-free brushing is having a detangler spray at hand. Use it before each brushing or just before bathtime, a good detangler spray cuts the time spent on tangles in half. Shampoo — A proper grooming routine includes an occasional bathtime. Whether your Labradoodle struggles with skin sensitivities or tends to shed a lot, there are tons of different options available on the market. Here are the top 6 dog shampoos that Labradoodle owners swear by. Ear Cleaning Products — With those cute floppy ears, Labradoodles are prone to ear infections due to the restricted airflow. Take a look at some of the highest rated dog ear cleaner products that help prevent and treat minor ear infections. Grooming Tables — Every Labradoodle owner knows how difficult it can be to groom a Doodle with one hand, while trying to keep them still with the other. A grooming table will take care of all that you still need to do the grooming though… and save you from back pain. Check out the best dog grooming tables or create a DIY grooming table. Be sure to check out our guide on dealing with matted hair , and another about the line brushing method. Bathing: Before a haircut or after a muddy playtime, your Labradoodle will need a thorough wash. Typically, once a week should be perfectly enough. However, some pups might need a couple of times a week. Once in a while, you might want to use a special dog ear cleaner to prevent any infections. Here you can check our guide on Doodle ear infection symptoms, treatments, and prevention. Eye gunk: Gently remove any eye gunk you notice, as this will prevent discoloration around the eyes and bad smell. If you can do it daily, great! Here is our step-by-step video tutorial guide that includes the entire Doodle grooming process from head to paw. For example, the best Labradoodle haircuts for summer would be short so your pup has an easier time cooling down. The Labradoodle puppy cut is the most popular Labradoodle haircut. However, we recommend you choose high-quality tools, as they will last you a longer time. As a Labradoodle puppy starts to develop an adult coat, you should start with regular grooming. The sooner you introduce your puppy to the whole process of grooming, the easier it will be for them to get used to it. See Also: Click the image To conclude, we hope that you learned some useful Labradoodle grooming tips, and that we managed to inspire you with the Labradoodle haircuts that you can try on your Doodle for your next grooming session. Let us know in the comments! The information on this page is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional groomer advice. Always seek the advice of your groomer, veterinarian, or other qualified animal health provider with any questions you may have. You Might Also Like. The first grooming appointment can be frightening for your puppy. The following tips can help your puppy have a positive experience at the groomer. Handling and socializing your Labradoodle puppy Before scheduling your first appointment, make sure your puppy is comfortable with being touched and handled. Be sure to praise and reward your puppy for calm behavior. Continue socializing your puppy by introducing him or her to new people and animals. Introducing the grooming tools Once your puppy is comfortable with being touched, you can introduce common grooming tools. Let your puppy inspect and sniff the brush, comb, scissors, hair dryer, and clippers. Turn on the hair dryer and clippers while feeding your puppy treats to create a positive association. Grooming your puppy at home Keep your initial grooming sessions short and reward your puppy for good behavior. You can build up the duration over time, as your puppy gets more comfortable. The first session should be short and positive. In fact, just visiting for a quick introduction and nail clipping is a good start. The most important thing is to give your Labradoodle puppy a positive experience with professional grooming. After drop-off, always wait to be notified that your puppy is ready for pickup. Never come back to the grooming salon early. If your puppy sees you or hears your voice, it will be very difficult for the groomer to finish the job. Maintaining health with regular grooming For best results, your Labradoodle puppy should be professionally groomed every 4 to 6 weeks. You will also need to brush your puppy at home. While many Labradoodles do not shed, their undercoats can mat and become difficult to manage. If you have questions about how we groom our Labradoodles, feel free to contact us any time. Keeping a well-groomed dog is essential to maintaining their health, happiness, quality of life. This guide will instruct you on grooming as young as 8 weeks into adulthood. In order for this to be the best experience for you and your Doodle, the most important thing to remember is: Be patient! If it is frustrating for you at any time throughout the grooming process, take a break and come back later. We always want our Doodles to relate grooming with positivity! Well, short answer, I groom my dogs every 8 — 10 weeks. There are so many variables to the grooming question that I hate to boil it down to one sentence. First, we should ask ourselves a few questions: 1. How much time does he spend outdoors with the potential to get dirty? What sort of coat does your dog have? Different Coat Types Require Different Labradoodle Grooming Schedules I have dogs with different coat types, and they have different grooming schedules. My two older dogs both have a wool type coat. It is very curly, a little wiry, and not the easiest to brush. It is most like a poodle coat. These two get the most regular grooming appointments, and I keep them pretty short. With this type of cut and frequency I do not need to brush them out at all between grooms. I usually wait more time between grooms on this coat. I love the fluffy look when it grows out. Often the ears and collar area need regular brushing to prevent matting. If your doodle does not go out and get dirty, then cleaning is not an issue, and you could keep a longer coat with or without regular visits to the groomer. If a mat develops next to their skin it is painful for the dog, and you will need to have your Labradoodle shaved down to eliminate. Artistic Grooming Techniques And of course, there are all sorts of artistic grooming techniques. I often see the ears and tail left longer than the rest of the body. And the Teddy Bear- is always cute! Clearing the ear hair will help prevent ear infections as well as ear odor. If your groomer does not pluck ear hair, consider this task on your own or stop by your vet a few times a year to have them take care of the problem. Occasionally, a nice bath helps in between grooms too! This does mean however, that your dog requires regular clipping to keep the coat trimmed and free of knots and matting. This is important for the dog also, as their coats can get very heavy and hot and matted coats make them very uncomfortable. It will really depend on the length you want to keep your Labradoodles coat as to how much grooming you will have to do. What do I need? Hold the skin taught to protect from any discomfort, especially where you come across a knot, or matts. Like in human hair, work knots out gently, or cut through them with scissors or a matt breaker. Knots are quite common around the ears, jaw, and collar as well as behind the tops of their legs. If they wear a harness regularly, you may find matting from this too. Trim around their eyes and across the bridge of their nose between their eyes regularly — you can do this with blunt scissors, or use a little tool like the Wahl Pocket Pro, which is a little battery operated trimmer. Over bathing can reduce the oils and damage the coat. I usually bathe my dogs every weeks. It is important to use a good quality pet shampoo — dogs have a different PH in their skin to humans, so regular shampoos is not suitable for use on your pets. Fido products are expensive, but I find them very good and this is what I use on the puppies, and my own dogs. Some vets will advocate regular plucking, others may suggest trimming the hair, but regardless, keeping the hair minimal, and the ears clean, with the use of an ear cleanser or a drying agent will reduce the risk of problems. You pop the solution into each ear and massage it for seconds and then wipe it out with a tissue — never use ear buds! Check with your vet for tips on hair removal and which solution to use. Your dogs nails should be done each time they get their coat trimmed and this is a service most dog groomers usually do as part of their clip. If you choose to do this, be sure to get your groomer, or your vet to show you how to trim the nails correctly. Grooming How frequently you choose to get your dog clipped will depend on lifestyle, how long you want their coat to be and, your regular maintenance regimes. Besides you want to enjoy that adorable puppy shagginess for a little while! The Puppy Trim Trim between their eyes so they can see Fringe should be cut so there is an inverted"V"above the nose. If the fringe is thick, it can be neatened with thinning scissors. Trim the ear length back to about 1 cm following the shape of the ear leather. Neaten the face, especially if the beard is long. The Full Clip Ears Trim the ears, following the edge of the ear leather. To gauge the length — pull forward to the nose. The length of the ear should be just short of the nose. Taper the tip of the ear. Hair on the outside of the ear should be layered on the to about 3cm, and the tip of the ear tapered. Trim back any thickness behind the ear. The underside of the ear should be shaved or cut very short underneath to allow good air flow. Trim hair inside the ear canal. Top of the head The top of the head should be natural, and cut long enough that it parts naturally by itself. To trim, pull the hair forward and up and trim to around cm. You want to be able to see the dogs eyes easily. Leave the eyelashes long — it helps to keep hair out of their eyes. Eyes Below the eye at the muzzle, trim the top of the muzzle short at an angle just under the eyes so they can see easily. This makes it easier to clean around the eyes also. Muzzle The beard and moustache should be layered and trimmed into a circular shape, rather than blunt - aim for around cm in length. Body the body can be trimmed to whatever length suits the lifestyle. Tail should be evened up. If the body is left long, the tummy can be trimmed shorter, or even shaved in summer to keep the dog cool. Trim the hair between the pads, so the pads touch the ground. Trim the nails. Taper the hind quarters to the tail gradually. Brush and trim the tail to a natural length, and trim underneath. Private Parts Shave or trim close the dogs private area to keep clean and free from matting and any dags. While the adult coat is establishing, you will need to brush multiple times a week, and I find this the best time to give your pet his first trim. It will be difficult to keep up with the matting in the longer coat, but with a trim, it is very manageable, and the beauty of the adult coat is better realized. Once your dog gets to 12 to 14 months, the adult coat will be fully established, and this is the coat you can expect to work with for your dog's adult life. I find that the picture to the right will help to clarify the instructions you will need to convey for your dog's face. It is best to print this picture and take it with you to the groomer. A three-fourths inch blade don't go shorter than one-half inch will keep your dog's coat nice and full but give a smooth consistent length all over. If you like your dogs coat longer, your groomer should have a guard they can use to achieve this. The legs are typically just a little longer than the rest of the coat if you trim the coat to three-fourths inch. FEET: The feet will need a "slipper" cut to achieve the floppy, full leg look. The leg will look like a column. TAIL: The tail needs to be de-matted and trimmed. It is also important to have the hair removed, either trimmed or pulled, inside the dog's ears. Click the grooming picture for an enlarged, printable version and take it with you to your groomer! These two breeds have very different coat types, which we will look at in greater detail. The Poodle Coat The Poodle has a single coat of dense, curly hair that is generally coarse in texture. Unlike the fur of other dogs, the hair continues to grow and gives the impression of not shedding. However, Poodles do shed, but the hair sheds tangles in the curls instead of falling out. But although they are less likely to cause allergy problems, you must consider that many people are allergic to the proteins that dogs produce in their saliva, whatever the breed. The Poodle coat is high maintenance requiring regular clipping by a professional groomer. The topcoat is often wiry and abrasive, medium in length, and water repellent, whereas the undercoat is softer, lighter, and insulating. Labs shed all year round, having a complete blowout twice a year in the spring and fall, so they are not a good choice of dog for those allergic to pet dander. However, their coat is easier to maintain than a Poodle as they do not need clipping. If they have more genetics from the Poodle parent, the coat will most likely be a single layer that is dense, thick, curly, and non-shedding, often referred to as either fleece or wool. However, if your puppy takes after the Labrador Retriever parent, you can guarantee all year shedding and a twice-yearly blowout. Labradoodle Coat Types As a Poodle Labrador Retriever mix, a Labradoodle will have one of three types of coats: Hair coat — This coat is straight and typical of the Labrador breed, shedding often. Labradoodles with a hair coat have a more scruffy appearance than the teddy bear look of many Labradoodles. Fleece coat — This shaggy coat is a beautiful combination of both parent pups and varies from slightly wavy to noticeably wavy. It is soft to touch and has the appearance of wool, being a popular choice with owners as it usually sheds very little or not at all. Wool coat — This coat has the least amount of undercoat, so it does not shed, making it the ideal choice for those with allergies. It is thicker and denser than the fleece or hair coats. Some Labradoodles have tight curls similar to the Poodle, whereas others have looser curls. A wool coat does not have the same dog odor as the other two. A Labradoodle with straight hair will shed all year continuously, but their grooming require ments are far more manageable than those with a wavy or curly coat. A long coat is more prone to matting which is painful for your dog, and why regular clipping and trimming is so important. But whatever coat type your Labradoodle has, they will need their teeth brushed at least three times a week, their ears cleaned once a week, and regular trimming of the nails. How Often Should a Labradoodle be Groomed if it has Straight Hair If your Labradoodle has straight hair, you will need to give them a good brushing and combing session twice a week to keep their shedding under control. The frequency needs to increase to daily sessions during seasonal shedding. Regular bathing also helps remove shedding hair. How Often Should a Labradoodle be Groomed with a Wool or Fleece Coat A Labradoodle which has a fleece or wool coat is more challenging to maintain than one with straight hair and will require brushing at least once a week using a slicker brush to remove mats and tangles. Depending on how fast the fur grows, you will need to take your Labradoodle to a professional groomer to clip their coat every four to twelve weeks. Labradoodle Haircuts Here we look at some of the low maintenance haircuts for a Labradoodle. Short Labradoodle Cut A short haircut is simple and straightforward, with the hair being no more than one inch in length over the whole body, keeping it clean and tangle-free. Long Labradoodle Cut A long haircut is the same as a shortcut, but the hair is two inches long, giving your Labradoodle a cuddly look! This cut will require frequent brushing to keep it tangle-free. Teddy Bear Labradoodle Cut The coat is cut to the length of your choice for the cute teddy bear look, leaving the face and ears with longer hair. This cut is more high maintenance as you will need to do frequent touch-ups. A young Labradoodle can have their first haircut when they are around four to six months old and fully vaccinated. As they develop an adult coat, you can start regular grooming. How Often Should a Labradoodle be Groomed? If your Labradoodle has a fleece or wool coat, it will need grooming approximately every four to twelve weeks to keep the fur clean and free of tangles. A hair coat is far easier to maintain as it just requires brushing twice a week to remove loose hairs. More About Labradoodle Coats. However, they need to get accustom to being handled. They should be brushed, have their ears and teeth looked at, and nails handled or trimmed every day. At around nine to sixteen months the adult coat starts to grow in. The puppy coat does not fall out and will start to cause matts. Brushing thoroughly to pull the puppy coat out from the new adult hair is necessary. This could be a good time to consider a good clip to ease the amount of brushing and formation of mats. It is important to start introducing your puppy to the groomer early so when he is older he will be comfortable with the grooming process. Once your Labradoodle puppy has had all of his shots, he can safely be taken to the groomer. Up to this point, handling and brushing your puppy everyday will prepare him for his first trip to the groomer. Let the groomer know you have a puppy and want to have an introductory visit. Even just for your puppy to meet and have a nail clip might be enough to start a good, calm rapport with the groomer. Follow up visits can begin to include a simple session of brushing, washing, drying, nail clip and ear hair pluck. Your puppy and groomer will be thankful for these small visits every weeks so puppy can get used to all of the sights, sounds and sensations till he is ready for a full clip. Grooming Your Adult Labradoodle You can maintain a long fleece coat with thorough brushing weekly. A curly fleece will need more attention than a wavy fleece. Curlier coats will be easier to maintain if it is kept shorter. Many owners have their labradoodles clipped two to four times a year depending on personal preference, lifestyle and curliness of the fleece. They get a full groom with a 1. For your doodle to not look like a poodle, talk to your groomer about what you want. Pictures of a well groomed labradoodle can help. Regular bathing is mostly unnecessary. Even after getting muddy, it will dry and fall off or can be brushed out. If you take your Labradoodle to the groomer regularly, they should take care of the nails adequately. Pay special attention to the ears. The hair in and around the outside of the ear canal clogs the inside and prevents air flow. This can cause ear infections. The hair needs to be pulled out of the ear canal and kept trimmed around the opening and under the ear. This can be done every months. Your groomer should be doing this and will keep it maintained. Also, if you do not use a groomer often, make sure the hair around the anus does not get too long and cause problems with waste build up. Brushing Your Labradoodle When your Labradoodle has short hair, an inch or two, regular brushing with a pin brush or slicker can work just fine. Once the hair gets longer, it is important to make sure you are reaching all the way to the base of the hair. If not, loose hair is not removed below the surface and matts will begin to form. If that hair builds up, it is not going to be possible to clip the hair at a decent length and the only alternative will be to shave the hair close to the skin. In order to keep a coat longer than and inch or so, you will want to use a technique called line brushing. Line Brushing It is simply done by parting the coat with your free hand and brushing the loose hair on the other side of the part, starting at the base of the hair. With every other stroke or so, you can bring down a small bit of the hair being held up by your hand. You will slowly move your hand up that section of coat. Start low on a section of the body and work your way up. Using the edge of the pin brush, start brushing from the part, down the length of the hair. Complete the stroke to the end of the hair. Repeat till smooth and ready to continue. Pick up a small amount of hair from the other side of the part to continue the process, working your way up that section of the body.