german shepherd puppies for sale in staunton va

Saber is a certified therapy dog as well - he loves people and loves to visit. .Saber at Three Below doing therapy and some casual shots Starting to fill out! He has had reds and tans too! Good thing she never looks at my websight or she'd kill me lol: Michelle and saber winning it all st the fair news paper article Saber doing agility walked right on the equipment first time Sabers brother at only 8 months old. .Like this male Saber consistantly produces bigger and better then himself Sabers 2 year old brother and letter from owners Good Morning Robin, I figured since Max just turned 2 I'd update you. He was born on 17 Dec , to Blaze and Ziva. Had him at the vet's on Monday and he weighed in at pounds, so his weight has been pretty steady for the past few months, but he has grown taller. Currently he likes to rest his chin on the dining room table when he watches me on the laptop. Always ready in case there is an opportunity to be pet. Loves riding in the car, and gets along great with other dogs, but still apprehensive with new people, or with someone he hasn't seen in a while. I always bring treats with me to help with the introductions. Loves going with me to different businesses where allowed and has never been a problem. Great on hikes, and he carries his own backpack and supplies. The picture was taken this morning while he was waiting for his breakfast. As you can see, the silver is starting to really show. We get stopped all the time when we're out and about because of his looks, and I'm always asked if it's ok for them to take his picture because they've never seen another German Shepherd like him. I've had too many offers to sell him to count. The vet's office is really surprised at his disposition because he takes the poking and proding without incident considering his size. As always there are people worried about him because of his size, but they soon learn their fears are unfounded. Overall I'd have to say he's been a great dog. Saber sons from his first litter out of a very small female! Both at 10 months old are over lbs and 30 " high at the shoulder. The rare tri color sable male is lbs the black and silver at 10 months old. When we take them for walks they strut like the world is looking at them. I wanted to get another puppy before he passed away, so that our older dog could help raise the puppy. After a while, I found your website, and looked through it, repeatedly. I was impressed by what you detailed. Large GSDs, with calm temperaments, good health, and long lives. I then researched your reputation. I am a trained investigator, being suspicious is a career hazard. I could only find one, single complaint.I wasn't really looking for a "breed standard" GSD.I was looking for more. Another white shepherd, with a straight back and good hips. I called you, and discussed what I was looking for.A large white GSD, with a good protective drive, lower prey drive, and a mellow disposition. Well, it is a year later.And we have gotten far more that what I had hoped for. Physically, he is an amazing example of a German Shepherd. He is a solid pounds, with incredible muscle tone, and a massive head. He has yet to start filling out. I expect him to be at least pounds. In all honesty, I have been a bit startled by how quickly he grew, and how large he has become. My veterinarian, who has been practicing for 35 years, has remarked that she has never seen another dog like him. She is very impressed with his bone structure, his stance, and how proportional he is. His strong, straight back; his massive head, his size, and his strength are all things that she has noted. She has suggested that I breed him, because she believes that it would be a shame not to pass his genetics on.He is, quite simply.When we take him out in public, he creates quite a stir. People routinely approach us to compliment him, and how beautiful he is. He has been described as "gorgeous", "regal", and "majestic". The fact that our eight year old can control him in public only adds to people's fascination with him. He is very obedient, and was easy to train.He is very intelligent. He is affectionate, very loving, and very playful. Despite his size, he is quite gentle with those he loves. His protective drive is very appropriate. He is wary of strangers until properly introduced. He physically places himself between my children and other people. After being taught by our older shepherd, he now regularly patrols the perimeter of our property. I have included a few pictures. Unfortunately, it is hard to get good angles of him, because he thinks my taking pictures is some sort of game. The pictures truly do not do him any justice. We will be picking up another puppy from you. Quite frankly, I think that you have managed to produce amazing examples of what GSDs should be.Large and powerful; extremely intelligent, loyal and gentle; superior health and longevity, with a very appropriate protective drive. You have surpassed all of my expectations, and our family thanks you.Andrew Sadowski. Are they healthy dogs? Strong, rich colors are generally preferred in this working bred dog. This may be why silver grey dogs are less common. Washed out colors, including blues and livers, are considered a serious fault. The white coat color is undesirable within the official description, and even leads to disqualification from the show ring. Where Do They Come From? The black and silver German Shepherd is essentially the same as any other color of German Shepherd Dog. The history of the German Shepherd Dog, of course, can be traced back to Germany. Cavalry Officer Max von Stephanitz decided he wanted to breed the ideal herding dog. Von Stephanitz spent 35 years dedicating his life to improving the breed. Expanding from its pastoral herding roots to showing its utility as a service dog and in police and military canine units worldwide. The Genetics of the Silver German Shepherd Coat color genetics are complex, with the exact genes responsible for silver coloration yet to be fully identified. Within the German Shepherd breed, the gene for sable is dominant over all other colors and patterns. The first registered German Shepherd Dog was sable in color. While you may see a working silver sable Shepherd, that would be a very unusual color combination. Different colors Bear in mind as well that the final color of a puppy will only be clear once the outer coat has fully developed. This means that a relatively dark coated puppy could develop into a mature black and silver German Shepherd Dog. They are large dogs, weighing between 50 — 90 pounds and standing between 22 — 26 inches tall. And have a muscular, strong body, with pointed ears and a dense double coat. You may have seen parent dogs advertised as black saddle silver German Shepherds, but what does that actually mean? Any German Shepherd Dog with silver coloration is less likely to have a silverback German Shepherd pattern. Grooming The double coat of the German Shepherd does require brushing every few days to remove loose hairs. They will also shed twice a year, leaving a significant amount of hair behind! Color vs Temperament There is no link between the gene for silver fur and the typical temperament traits of the dog. German Shepherds have a reputation for being fiercely intelligent, intensely loyal, and enthusiastic about work or exercise. This is a brave and courageous breed, as well as being more aloof than some others. They are good around children they know, and often take on a guardian role for those within their own family. Training and Activity All German Shepherds are intelligent dogs, regardless of their coat patterns. Their high level of intelligence means they are a joy to train, and enjoy positive, reward-based training methods. These are active dogs, and require regular daily exercise. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for German Shepherds. Be sure to challenge yours with activities such as agility, or learning tricks, as a way to keep both their mind and body stimulated. Unfortunately, all German Shepherds can be prone to a range of health conditions. Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia are both common in the breed. Parent dogs should have been given a score for their hips and elbows. By selecting parent dogs with high scores, you can reduce the chances of your puppy developing these conditions. This is the result of abnormal cartilage growth. Other health conditions that can affect this breed include: Degenerative myelopathy.

Absolutely enormous with most individuals weighing more than pounds, the Saint Berdoodle is a fascinating and possibly risky cross of a Saint Bernard and a Standard Poodle. Where Saint Bernards are known for being patient, slower-moving dogs who enjoy independent quiet time, Poodles are known for being full of energy, loving to socialize, and having superior intelligence. So, what do you get when you combine these breeds? Keep reading to find out! Meet 5 St. Berdoodles from Instagram There is a lot of variety amongst St. Berdoodles, with individuals ranging in size, color, body type, coat type, and personality. Cooper Source: Cooper. Congratulations Carmela—wishing you a long, healthy life! A mostly black Saint Berdoodle, Bessie still has the beautiful patterning of her Saint Bernard ancestors. Goofy and super sweet, Rayne loves every dog and human she meets. Front and center in this picture, you can see that Remedy is bigger than the French Bulldog next to her, but not towering over them. Saint Berdoodle Generation Classification. Saint Berdoodle Highlights Saint Berdoodles are mixed breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their Saint Bernard or Poodle parents. Two common color combinations of Saint Berdoodles are white-and-brown and white-and-black. They can also be red with white accents or white with red accents. The coats of Saint Berdoodles can take after either parent—wiry and curly for the Poodle, or longer and smooth or rough for the Saint Bernard. Saint Berdoodles are generally pretty well-equipped for cold weather, especially if their coats are similar to Saint Bernards. Saint Berdoodles are great with people of all ages, including kids. The only concern with these dogs is their size with very young children. Be sure to supervise interactions with very young children in case of accidental stepping or sitting. These dogs do not enjoy being alone, so they would love the company of other pets and family members. Saint Berdoodle History Historical records show Poodles being bred in the s and Saint Bernards being bred in the s, both in Europe. Saint Berdoodle breeding is a little more vague, but it looks like they were bred intentionally in the US beginning in the s. The rationale to combine the protectiveness and rescue nature of the Saint Bernard with the intelligence and trainability of the Poodle for a family dog was strong. Between and alone, Saint Bernards rescued over 2, people. Consider adoption if you decide this is the breed for you. Check your local shelters, look up Saint Berdoodle rescues, or check with breed-specific Saint Bernard or Poodle rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. Saint Berdoodle Size Though there is quite a range of sizes for Saint Berdoodles, you can expect a larger dog, in general. Saint Bernards are always large, and Standard Poodles are medium-to-large. In terms of height, the range is typically between 15 and 30 inches. There have been attempts at creating a Miniature Saint Berdoodle, with a weight between 20 and 50 pounds, and a height between 14 and 18 inches, but miniaturizing a Saint Bernard usually involves breeding with a smaller dog, too—most commonly the Cocker Spaniel. You can expect your Saint Berdoodle to be friendly and affectionate, always wanting to be part of family activities. The only reason you may need to supervise interactions with Saint Berdoodles and very small children is just that these dogs are often quite large, so accidents may happen with sitting or stepping. Saint Berdoodle Health Saint Berdoodles are fairly healthy dogs. While mixing breeds can be a way to minimize genetic disorders, the resulting crossbreed can still inherit health problems from the parent breeds. Regular care and annual veterinary check-ups are a good way to keep your dog in prime health. Some of the more common health problems for Saint Berdoodles include: hip dysplasia. People love the hypoallergenic coats of Saint Berdoodles, which are usually low-shedding or non-shedding. Saint Berdoodles have wonderful temperaments and are usually great with kids. Saint Berdoodles have hybrid vigor, which results from crossing two purebred dogs. Hybrid vigor typically results in a healthier offspring, and Saint Berdoodles have a much longer life expectancy than a purebred Saint Bernard. Purebred St Bernards usually live years; whereas Saint Berdoodles are usually expected to live years. Anyone who has owned and loved a Saint Bernard might wonder why anyone would get a Saint Berdoodle instead. There's a seven-fold answer for why Saint Berdoodles win the battle for many families. St Bernard vs St Berdoodle Hypoallergenic: St Berdoodles usually have low-to-non shedding coats like poodles and are typically far better for people with allergies than a purebred Saint Bernard, which sheds its coat. Health: Hybrid vigor typically improves a dog's health. There's a reason that humans don't marry our relatives. Saint Berdoodles tend to have fewer health issues than a pure Saint Bernard. Intelligence: Poodles consistently rank as one of the top if not THE top breeds for intelligence. Saint Berdoodles are very quick learners. Trainability: Usually the St Berdoodle's increased intelligence makes them an easy dog to train. Saint Berdoodles love pleasing their owner. Walking Partner: Although Saint Berdoodles are one of the lowest energy doodles, they tend to be more active than a somewhat lethargic purebred Saint Bernard who usually prefers to lounge all day. Although a Saint Berdoodle will not be an active runner like a Goldendoodle, Labradoodle, Aussiedoodle, or Springerdoodle, you can usually take a Saint Berdoodle for a long walk--more so than a purebred Saint Bernard. Nathan Crockett was one of the first breeders to raise top quality Saint Berdoodles. We have people from all over the U. Saint Berdoodle Pricing. Between 8 and 12 years What Is the History of the St. The St. Berdoodle is a cross-breed of two dogs: the Saint Bernard and the standard poodle. On the other hand, standard poodles were first bred for their skills as gundogs and used commonly in hunting excursions; this breed has been around in some form since the 14th century. The exact year that St. Berdoodles were created is unknown, as the history surrounding this lesser-recognized cross-breed is vague. However, there are accounts showing that St. Berdoodles date back to the s, with the breed gaining more popularity in the s as cross-breeding in the United States reached increased popularity. The unique combination of the St. Bernard and the standard poodle creates a dog with the general gentleness and friendly nature of a St. Bernard with the more hypoallergenic coat and the easy-to-train intelligence of the poodle. After all, the main goal of creating this cross-breed was to have an intelligent and easy-to-train, family-friendly dog. What Do St. Berdoodles Look Like? Berdoodle is a larger dog and will typically have the stature of the St. Bernard in that they are a bit stockier. Some St. Berdoodles will have longer legs, similar to the standard poodle. The coloration of this breed commonly appears in white and brown or white and black, but mixtures of red with white accents or white with red accents have also been seen before. Their coat is typically hypoallergenic, something that comes from the poodle side of the breed, and is thicker in texture. It could be wiry and curly, longer and silky, or an interesting mix of the two. Their face is generally rounder, but depending on each dog may have distinctive St. Bernard or standard poodle snouts. Again, this is a relatively less common cross-breed, so there is bound to be a bit more variation in how each dog looks and the characteristics they take on from their parents. What Size Is a St. Berdoodles tend to be larger and will stand between 24 and 30 inches tall. The typical weight for this breed is between 70 and pounds. For the most part, male dogs will weigh more and stand taller than female St. What Is a St. Most St. Berdoodles that you encounter will, however, have curly or wiry fur over most of their body. Berdoodles are bred from the gentle and friendly St. Bernard dog and the companion standard poodle. This creates a friendly, affectionate, and generally calm breed. This dog can be taught to be well-mannered easily, and they love to be social, spend time with their families, and show affection or please their owner via good behavior. However, St. Berdoodles need a lot of companionship and affection mirrored back to them to remain calm, happy, and outgoing. Are St. Berdoodles Affectionate? Berdoodles are a very affectionate breed. Both of the parent breeds of this unique cross-breed have a history of being social and friendly towards humans both strangers and people they know alike , and simply enjoy spending time around their owners. They are quite patient and develop deep bonds with their family members, which they will surely show more and more as you get to know your dog. So expect to receive lots of cuddles and affection from your St. Berdoodles Good With Kids? Both St. Bernards and standard poodles are known for being good with kids, though for slightly different reasons. Bernards are recognized for their relatively gentle nature and their protectiveness of the children in their life. On the other hand, standard poodles are fairly active and make a good choice for older or very active children. When combined into a St. Berdoodle, the breed gets a fun mixture of gentle and protectiveness with children that can be very active and social from time to time. It is important to keep in mind that due to their size, the St. Berdoodle can be a great choice for older children. While this breed may also be fine with smaller children, supervision is typically needed to ensure that neither dog nor child gets injured. Berdoodles Good With Other Animals? In general, St. Berdoodles are good with other animals, especially other larger animals. However, the standard poodle does bring a hint of prey drive into the St. This behavior can be trained out of your St. Berdoodle, but you should always use caution and supervise your St. Berdoodle around smaller animals that might activate this chasing prey drive. Berdoodles Aggressive? Berdoodle is not known to be aggressive, as they are bred from two different friendly and social dog breeds. However, if you do not properly socialize your St. Berdoodle and give them lots of life experiences in their puppy days, the natural caution that comes from both the St. Bernard and the poodle may cause them to be fearful and aggressive in new situations later on in life. Proper dog training and puppy care can prevent this and result in a dog that is happy, healthy, well-socialized, and not aggressive in the slightest. Do St. Berdoodles Bark a Lot? Berdoodles are relatively low energy, and though they have spurts of activity and social behavior, they rarely bark. This dog is naturally cautious but also very friendly and willing to meet new people. You are unlikely to encounter a St. Berdoodle that barks a lot or spends its days staring out the window looking for objects to bark at. This breed makes a good choice if you want a quieter yet still friendly and social pup. Berdoodles Intelligent? Bred from two fairly intelligent dogs the St. Bernard historically has been trained for search and rescue missions, while the poodle is trained for hunting and other skills , St. Berdoodles are an intelligent breed. This means that they need lots of mental stimulation throughout the day in order to be happy. Berdoodles Easy to Train? Berdoodles can be pretty easy to train, thanks to the trainability and intelligence of their parent breeds. This dog is typically happy to impress and work with their owner and will benefit from having proper socialization and training skills taught to them while still a puppy. They will pick up skills quickly and be much happier overall if they get to learn new things in addition to building their bond with their owners as training sessions take place. Berdoodles Energetic? The standard poodle is more high energy, and the St. Bernard is low energy, so your St. Berdoodle could pick up traits from either of these breeds and be very active or very lazy. However, it is found that St. A few short to medium-length walks a day should be enough for this breed to stay healthy and happy. Berdoodles Good Apartment Dogs? Due to their size and need for larger spaces, St. Berdoodles are not the best choice for an apartment, especially a small apartment. However, if your apartment is larger or you are able to give your St. Berdoodle plenty of access to the outdoors where they can get their energy out, they may be able to adapt to apartment living. However, you should make sure that wherever you live, they have their own space, access to exercise and outdoor areas regularly, and their own toys to keep them busy. Berdoodles Good Watchdogs? Even though the St. Berdoodle is larger and may be a bit intimidating to new people, they are not great watchdogs. They were bred to be companion dogs and are simply too friendly and too happy to see new people to make an effective watchdog. Berdoodles Good Service Dogs? Berdoodles can make excellent service dogs thanks to their intelligence, ability, willingness to be trained, and overall friendly and affectionate nature. They can act as mobility service dogs or psychiatric service dogs by helping individuals with disabilities move and helping out with daily tasks. Additionally, St. Berdoodles make excellent therapy dogs due to their calmer nature and how affectionate they are; they can help relieve negative moods and provide emotional support to their owners. How to Care for a St. Berdoodle Because the St. Berdoodle is mixed from the higher energy standard poodle and the lower energy St. Bernard, they can have a range of energy and activity desires. Berdoodle will need a few short walks per day, plus some time to play and explore outside in dog parks or other areas where they can be social. Your St. Berdoodle should have its own set of toys and a safe place to cozy up and sleep, as they will need to nap during the day and require frequent brushing to stop their coat from getting tangled up. This breed will also need plenty of affection from you which they will no doubt give back ten-fold! Do You Need to Groom a St. You do need to groom a St. Berdoodle, as their coats are often a mix of curly, wiry hair and long, silky hair. You can also take your St. Berdoodle to the groomers to have their fur trimmed and de-matted as needed. Berdoodles Shed? Berdoodle can be a low to medium shedding dog, depending on the specific traits they inherit from their parents. On the other hand, if they inherit more of the St. What Should a St. Berdoodle Eat? Berdoodles are quite large, and they will need to intake a larger amount of high-quality food in order to grow healthy and happy. The exact amount of food you feed your pup depends on their exact weight and height, but in general, your St. Berdoodle will need between four and ten cups of a quality and nutrient-rich dry food per day spread over two or three meals. What Health Problems Do St. Berdoodles Have? Berdoodles are likely to inherit the health problems of their parent breeds, which means you will need to look out for conditions such as hip dysplasia, frequent ear infections, Wobbler Syndrome, skin problems, and Willebrand disease in your pup. Routine veterinarian visits and taking good care of your dog is the best way to prevent these illnesses or catch them early before your dog is in distress. Berdoodles are highly affectionate and have a great need to be around people. You may find that your dog suffers from separation anxiety when you are not around or when you leave them alone. Try not to leave your dog for more than eight hours a day and speak to a veterinarian if you suspect your St. Berdoodle suffers from this. How Long Do St. Berdoodles Live? The average lifespan of a St. Berdoodle is between eight and twelve years. Taking good care of your pet and ensuring they are always in the best health possible increases their chances of reaching the higher end of this average and being happy throughout their life. Berdoodles Expensive? Berdoodles can be an expensive cross-breed, especially if their parents are from more distinguished or show-quality linages. How to Find a St. Berdoodle Breeder? If you have your heart set on adopting a St. Berdoodle, your next step should be to find a reputable breeder. You can perform internet searches of breeders in your area and may even want to reach out to others in your community to inquire about the best place to adopt this cross-breed. Always ask to tour the facility or home that the breeder works out of and check any available licenses or certifications to ensure you support ethical and respectable breeding practices. Can You Adopt a St. You may be able to adopt a St. Berdoodle from a shelter or other such dog care facility, but finding a St. Berdoodle in such a place is rare. Berdoodles are already a rarer cross-breed, and the chances that one of these expensive puppies ends up in a shelter is low. Berdoodles Purebred? Because the St. Berdoodle is a cross-breed, they do not count as a purebred dog. This is because their lineage is mixed. However, you can find St. Berdoodles that are mixed from two show-quality purebred parents both the standard poodle and St. Bernard are considered purebred dogs ; these puppies are likely to be more expensive. Can You Show St. While St. Berdoodles are not recognized by the American Kennel Club the AKC only recognizes purebred dogs , they may be eligible to be shown or registered through other organizations that cater to hybrid mixed-breed dogs. One such noticeable organization is International Designer Canine Registry. Berdoodles Good for New Dog Owners? Berdoodles are commonly recognized as a good choice for new dog owners due to their friendly nature, the affection that they bestow on their families, and the strong bonds they form. They are intelligent and can be trained easily, and make a great companion dog. However, new dog owners should be prepared for the size that this pup may reach, potential health issues such as separation anxiety, and take into account any small children or animals they have in their home before adopting a St. Berdoodle puppy. Is a St. Berdoodle the Right Dog for Me? Trying to determine if a St. Berdoodle is the right fit for you can be a formidable task. Review the bullet points below about St. Berdoodles to help you make your decision on whether or not you should adopt one of these large, friendly dogs. Berdoodle is right for you if: You can give it a few short walks per day, plus plenty of social activities especially when they are a puppy You have enough space to house and care for a larger dog You are prepared to deal with any separation anxiety your St. Berdoodle may have You want a companion dog that is easy to train and will give as much affection as they receive The St. Make sure to review our article carefully to determine whether or not a St. Berdoodle is the best dog breed for you and learn all of the important facts you need to know before adopting one of these friendly, social dogs. Temperament: Easy-going, Lazy and Affectionate. Saint Berdoodle Appearance This mixed breed is gorgeous and looks more like a stuffed animal than an actual dog. These dogs are one of the fluffiest breeds around and look more like an adorable teddy bear than a dog. Their floppy ears and warm, brown eyes make them undeniably cute. They will melt your heart in an instant. Although St Berdoodles usually keep the face of a Saint Bernard, they do not inherit the hanging jowls or sagging eyes that most Saint Bernards have. This makes them very desirable to dog lovers who want to adopt a Saint Bernard but do not want the excessive drooling and eye infections that are common of this breed. Despite their plush fur, they are quite muscular and can pack a lot of strength into their huge bodies. Height and Weight These giants can weigh anywhere from to pounds and stand inches in height. Pups that inherit more of the Saint Bernard genes will be heavier. Sadly these pups are often returned to their breeders because owners do not realize just how big they get. It is important to know just how big they will get and to make sure your home is large enough to accommodate them. Breed Colors and Coat There is not a lot of variety in color — their coats usually only contain 4 colors white, black, brown and red. Most coats are only two colors with the most common color combinations being: White and brown. White and black. White and red. Saint Bernard Poodle puppies are often darker when they are born — their fur lightens over time. Their coat texture and length will vary depending on which parent breed they take after. These pups may inherit the tight, stringy curls of their Poodle parent or they might have the thick, long fur that most Saint Bernards have. Because of their poodle genes these dogs will not shed much! Because of their parents this breed is often used for service or therapy purposes. Usually these dogs are created by breeding a Standard Poodle with a Saint Bernard. Miniature Toy Poodle are too small to breed with a Saint Bernard. This mix does not know how big they are. These giants will always want to climb into your lap, so be prepared to constantly be buried in lbs of fur! Unlike purebred Saint Bernards, Saint Berdoodles rarely drool because their Poodle genetics prevent that undesirable trait. You can now find mini Saint Berdoodles. Saint Berdoodle Personality and Temperament Although these dogs may be an intimidating size, their teddy bear appearance and sweet nature makes them anything but scary. Saint Berdoodles will eagerly seek out friends both humans and other animals and get along with everyone they meet. They are one of the most loving and affectionate breeds you will ever find. These giant teddies want nothing more than to cuddle up on the couch with their favorite humans. With lots of love and attention your Saint Berdoodle will become loyal to you for life. Because of the strong bonds they form with their family members, these gentle giants can develop separation anxiety if left alone for too long. These pups always want to be right alongside their humans and can get stressed if they are left at home by themselves. Even though these dogs may be big love-bugs, they do have protective instincts. These dogs love their family more than anything and will do whatever it takes to keep them safe. Unlike typical guard dog they simply keep a watchful eye over their surroundings and will calmly protect their loved ones from any potential danger. You will rarely ever hear these pups bark. Because of how calm these dogs are they are not overly playful and energetic. These lazy dogs would rather take a long nap with you during the day than go for a strenuous run. Their energy comes in short bursts throughout the day and can easily be expelled with a short walk or quick play session. Despite having fairly low energy levels throughout the day, these dogs inherit the curious nature of the Saint Bernard and may get into a bit of mischief if they are not exercised. So make sure they receive at least a little bit of exercise each day. A Saint Berdoodle is a perfect family dog. This hybrid inherits the natural nanny instincts of the Saint Bernard so they will loyally watch over your children at all times — as well as provide them with cuddles whenever they are needed! Caring for a Saint Berdoodle Although their size might be a bit intimidating, Saint Berdoodles are an extremely low-maintenance breed and do not need much beyond lots of love and attention. These pups do not need much exercise, are easy to groom and are fairly healthy overall. Throughout the day they will often get bursts of energy and will want to play or run however they will need a nap soon after to recover. The only thing to note is that you will spend a lot of money on food as these dogs need to eat a lot to fill their big stomachs! Exercise Requirements Saint Bernard Poodle mixes prefer to be couch potatoes. Just short walks each day will tire these giants out. Avoid taking them for long, strenuous walks because they may become exhausted. If you are looking for a dog to take hiking or running each day, this is not the breed for you. Because of their strength, it is important that you train your pooch to walk nicely on a leash from a young age. If you wait until they are out of their puppy stage, your giant Saint Berdoodle will drag you along on your walks. Although they may prefer naps over chasing a ball around the yard, Saint Bernard Poodles still have a playful side to them. They will chase you around the backyard, go for a short swim and will play fetch in the yard. Number of Walks Per Day: .Grooming and Shedding Grooming your Saint Bernard Poodle mix will depend on what their coat texture is like. If your pup has the dense fur of a Saint Bernard, you will probably want to brush them times each week. If your Saint Berdoodle inherits the tight curls of the Poodle you will need to make frequent visits to the groomer. These giant protectors are prone to dry skin and irritation so only bathe them once a month at most. If you wash your dog too much their skin will dry out and you will notice redness, itching and even eczema. Because of their long, floppy ears, you will want to pay extra attention to their ear hygiene. Clean out their ears once a week to prevent infections. Feeding and Diet Just by looking at their size it is no real surprise that these dogs have gigantic appetites. They need lots of food to support their big bodies. Typically they need cups of food each day spaced out over two meals. Their weight plays a big factor in determining how much food they need. If they are on the smaller side they may only need 3. Your veterinarian can help you figure out what the optimal amount of food for your dog is based on their weight, age and activity level. Saint Berdoodles should be fed a diet that is formulated for large dog breeds and is high in calories.

While litter box training does not replace a dog's need to run and play outdoors, it can keep your home cleaner with fewer accidents. The type of litter you purchase is extremely important, as a puppy may try to eat it. Choose a natural litter that does not clump to avoid an emergency visit to your veterinarian. With consistency and positive reinforcement, your puppy will be using the litter box on his own every day. Step 1 Choose a location in your home for your puppy's litter box training. If you have been using housebreaking pads or newspaper for your puppy, place the litter pan nearby. Choosing a tile or hardwood floor area is wise to make accidents easy to clean up. Step 2 Fill a disposable cookie sheet or pan with wood pellets or recycled paper litter. A cookie sheet is smaller and therefore easy for a little puppy to climb into and jump out. Wood pellets or litter made specifically for dogs is larger and more absorbent than traditional cat litter. Once it is soiled, it will break down to a sawdust consistency. Step 3 Place your puppy in the litter pan. Continue placing your puppy in the pan hourly. Each time you place him in the pan, give him a vocal cue such as "go on" or "potty. Your puppy may still have a few accidents, or not get his entire body into the box before attempting to use it. Do not punish him for accidents near the box. Instead, continue placing him in the box at regular intervals. Step 4 Replace the cookie pan or sheet with a litter box large enough to accommodate your growing puppy. Place the litter box in the same spot as the disposable pan for consistency, and show the new pan to your puppy. Tips If you notice your puppy begin to relieve himself outside of the pan, make a noise such as a clap or whistle to distract him, and place him in the litter pan. Consider Using Deodorizing Litter Cats have famously used litter boxes for a long time, so pet product manufacturers have developed many unique products that absorb pee effectively and suppress odor. By offering your old dog accessible litter boxes, you can almost eliminate the possibility of accidents, all while empowering your aging dog. By giving your dog a huge amount of praise and an immediate reward, you can override any other thoughts they may have, like a compulsion to mark. Watch for Digging or Coprophagia Dog owners encounter some of the most common issues when litter box training their dogs are digging and coprophagia. Unfortunately, the best way to address these issues is using a different potty training method. Buy a Litter Box With High Sides To avoid accidental spills, you should consider buying a litter box made of sturdy material with high sides. These prevent spills with male dogs since they can block any splashing. A flat litter box tray has drawbacks but is significantly better for large dogs. Generally, you will have an easier time litter box training a smaller dog, as a large dog will have difficulty containing their mess in a cat litter box that is entirely too small for their body. If you are set on litter box training a large dog, you will need to get creative with what you use as the litter box itself — using a large metal tray or a shallow plastic storage bin may be your best bet! A small dog can use a standard large litter box and keep the mess in the potty area. High sided litter box, intened for dog use 4. While litter box training a dog is not for everyone, you can teach your dog how to use one with persistence, treats, and positive reinforcement! How useful was this post? Click on a star to rate it! Submit Rating Please give us feedback on this post: Let us improve this post! Tell us how we can improve this post? Throughout the site, you will find a variety of helpful dog training articles, insightful dog behavior tips, and truthful product reviews from nationally-recognized canine trainers and professionals. Post navigation. We all know cats are typically the fur family members to use a litter box. But what about dogs? Are there any good arguments for litter box training your canine friend? A dog litter box? Or an artificial grass pad? So I rarely advise pet parents to skip this opportunity. That said, there are a few instances when using a dog litter box is preferable. Is it right for your dog? This is especially true if you have a small dog, or tiny tinkler as I call them, since they often have more difficulty holding their urine than bigger dogs. This leads to more accidents in the house and bigger frustrations, which puts a damper on your relationship. I wrote an entirely different article that goes into more detail about why your dog is peeing in the house. But if you live in an area that sees several feet of snow or is primarily paved and gets very hot, an indoor dog litter box might actually be safer for your pet. You or Your Dog Have Mobility Issues If you or your dog have mobility issues, dog litter box training might be a good idea. Some companies, like doggybathroom. All you need to do is change out the pads and keep the inside clean. This can be a good option for medium-sized dogs that raise their leg to pee. The downside is the cost. The pee pads are disposable and will need to be replaced frequently. If you want to use dog litter, the sides of the litter box should be low enough for your dog to easily step over but high enough to contain the litter. Now what about artificial grass pads? The initial investment for a grass pad like this one is minimal. Can Dogs Use Cat Litter? Yes, technically, dogs can use cat litter. However, cat litter can be harmful if ingested, which is a risk since our canine friends are known to eat strange things from time to time. Dog litter typically consists of larger, more absorbent pellets, which are safer if ingested. Some are also made with recycled material, like wood or paper. Pin me! Whether you choose a litter box or a grass pad, will your dog really use it? This is the million doggie bone question. Can pet parents actually get their pups to use a dog litter box? In many cases, the answer is yes, you can. Trying to contain a Bull Mastiff in a box while they do their business would be quite a feat! And large dogs tend to raise their leg to pee, so the sides of the dog litter box would have to be very high to avoid soaking surrounding objects. Step 1: Find the Right Spot When house training dogs, we usually bring them outside. Do this by getting a paper towel or pee pad containing a little of their urine and placing it where you want them to go. Step 3: Praise Them for Using the Right Spot Again, just as you would do if training a dog to go outside, be sure to give them lots of praise and some training treats when they do their business in the right spot. But with time, your dog will understand how to use their new pee spot. And of course, you want your home to be sanitary. It can be a rollercoaster of emotions, with several successes combining with moments of failure to finally reach a desired outcome. Some pups love to go outside to use the bathroom, but some individuals may be resistant to that idea. Some dog breeds are quite adaptive to the idea of litter box training. How do you convince your dog that the litter box is the best place to use the bathroom? It may take several months for some breeds to adapt, but puppies and adult dogs will eventually get to know the process. It is very easy to get the supplies that you need. Certain breeds of dog can excel with litter box training. The process is similar to what you would teach a cat, providing them with a large tray as a place to use the bathroom. If you give your pup a lot of positive reinforcement with this process, then it can be a rewarding experience that controls messes for you. Most breeds can adapt to this training option in a couple of weeks, and some individuals may take to it right away. You can eliminate the threat of urine odors and stains. Dogs that need to go to the bathroom will hold it until they no longer can. Litter box training your pup will help you to manage the problems with liquid waste because they can manage their bathroom needs independently of your presence. Litter box training allows for liquid and solid waste. This option gives your pup an opportunity to relieve themselves of the liquid and solid waste when it is time to go. There are several different varieties of litter from which to choose. Dog litter is similar to the products that you can find for kitties in the store. When you need to replace what is in the tray, then you can find everything from activated charcoal to paper pellets. Simple clay litters are sold almost everywhere to provide pet parents with a suitable entry-level option. If you have concerns about the odors that come from the tray, then try sprinkling some baking soda along the bottom of the box every time you empty it to have more control over this issue. It helps senior dogs who may have bladder control issues. If your dog is over the age of 8, then their senior status can impact how and when they need to relieve themselves. Instead of relying on diapers to manage the mess, you can work with your older pup on transitioning to the litter box. You can reduce the amount of physical pain they experience trying to walk outside, especially if you live in a high-rise apartment. They might not have enough time to let you know they need to go at that age too, so having a usable tray gives you mess containment. You will give confidence to some breeds with this training option. Some breeds, with the Maltese being the most notorious for the issue, can struggle to fully adapt to the idea of going outside. Their small bladder size can make it challenging to get them to a patch of grass on time. Instead of dealing with messes or scolding behaviors, you can create a positive environment that involves the litter tray instead. It works well for small breeds only. A bigger pup also means that more waste products must be managed, which could overwhelm the capabilities of this system. If your dog weighs more than 20 pounds, then you might want to look for an alternative solution for their bathroom needs. Some dogs love to dig in the litter tray. If your dog is a digger, then a litter box is not the best solution for your potty training needs. You will want to watch their behaviors during the training process as well since some individuals like to eat the litter or their waste after leaving it behind. There can be severe odors with a litter box. Cats do well with a litter box because the product absorbs their urine and covers up the odors of their waste — to an extent. Because dogs will leave more waste products behind, this training option can be quite odiferous, changing the entire environment of your home if you live in a small place. You might want to consider litter box training if you have a garage, laundry room, or bathroom that has venting in place that will help you to control air movement if it offers easy access and some privacy. The cost for the initial setup can be high for some pet parents. If you have a larger dog, then you must use a bigger container to hold all of the waste. Liquids will absorb into the litter, which means the container must have some capacity to manage the expansion. Male dogs need to have a tray with high sides. If you decide to pursue litter box training for your dog, then you will need to have a product that offers high sides if you have a male pup at home. There can be enthusiastic leg lifting when it is time to go to the bathroom, so something without the appropriate height will still encourage a mess in your home. Since a pup needs the tray to be low enough for them to step over it as well, this option tends to work better with female dogs unless you have a toy breed as a pet parent. You will need separate boxes for your pets. If you have a dog and a cat at home, then neither one will be satisfied with the idea of sharing a little box. Pet parents who try to force this issue will often encourage their cats to spray urine throughout the room with their little box as a way to mark their territory. Dogs can be the same way. You might even need to have separate trays for each pup at home if you have a pack. Placement away from other items that your dog might think is part of the litter box, like an area rug, scratching post, or another upright item, is essential for success. A dog litter box needs to be cleaned every day. Many pups refuse to use this option if their tray is not clean. The only advantage here for some pet parents is that you get to pick up the waste inside instead of outside. The litter can get into the spaces between the pads and their paw. Unless you use paper products, this waste can cause small injuries that can lead to swelling and infections that could restrict their movement. It will take some time and plenty of patience to teach your dog how to use a litter box. Although some pups never take to this idea very well, most small breeds can eventually learn this skill. Do you really have a house dog if they are spending half of their time outside trying to go to the bathroom?

Fill out the puppy questionnaire located at the top of this page. Complete the puppy contract. Your reserved spot and sex will be reflected in the contract. The puppy contract is emailed to you once your questionnaire is received and approved. Pay your puppy deposit to secure your reserved spot. Deposits are non refundable! Generally, once puppies are 5 weeks old you may come visit and pick your puppy according to your pick order. You will be notified when it is your time to pick your puppy. Puppy pictures are updated online on a weekly basis until they are chosen. After they are chosen their pictures are sent directly to their new family and that puppy is removed from the website. Once puppies are on dry food and have had vet recommended de-worming and first round of puppy shots they can go home usually around weeks. Payment of your balance is due in full at this time. Wait List Once your deposit non-refundable is received you are added to the wait list. Your place on the wait list is based on the date of the deposit receipt. If a client on the wait list passes on the litter they have an available pick on the next litter. Clients on the wait list are offered first right of refusal on the most current litter. We list everything on the "Available Puppies" tab so everyone knows where they stand. This is updated as the picks are made. We try to be as transparent as possible but if you have questions you can call and we will address any concerns. To be added to our wait list you will need to fill out the puppy questionnaire, pay the deposit and have a contract on file. The puppy questionnaire is below and you must be approved before a deposit is sent. AKC Boxer puppies come in a variety of color combinations. Keep in mind you do not have to be married to color - it's the puppy's personality and conformation that is most important. Be open-minded on color because there may have to be adjustments made to the color choices due to what is born in the litter. The most difficult thing to change is your choice of sex, because clients are usually pretty set on what sex they want and we do our best to accommodate sex preference over color preference. Our white puppies are just as healthy as our colored puppies and can see and hear. The deposit does go towards your cost of your puppy. We encourage visits if you are able to. We evaluate our puppies temperaments and will recommend puppies according to your family dynamic and your answers on the questionnaire. We are here for any questions and can help you on your journey with you new puppy whenever you need us! Upon review, the puppies will either be selected for a show home or made available as part of the available pet family puppies. We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data. Refund Policy Refund Policy We have a day return policy, which means you have 30 days after receiving your item to request a return. To be eligible for a return, your item must be in the same condition that you received it, unworn or unused, and in its original packaging. To start a return, you can contact us at support justcalendars. Items returned to us without first requesting a return will not be accepted. If the item you received was damaged or faulty, we will provide a free return label, but for all other returns, you are responsible to pay for your return. You can always contact us for any return questions at support justcalendars. Exchanges The fastest way to ensure you get what you want is to return the item you have, and once the return is accepted, make a separate purchase for the new item. Please remember it can take some time for your bank or credit card company to process and post the refund too. Return to sender policy. Please ensure that the shipping address provided at the time of placing your order is accurate and complete. In the event that an order is returned to us due to an incorrect address provided by the customer, the customer will be responsible for the cost of re-shipping the item. If the customer chooses to cancel the order instead, the original shipping cost will not be refunded. We strongly recommend double-checking your address details to avoid any unnecessary delays and additional costs. Basic obedience commands like come, down, sit, stay, place and more Our Balanced Theory We base our training around the "Classical Conditioning" model a. This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form after proper conditioning , when the owner says "sit," the dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Our unique techniques ensure our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter. Empowering Owners We empower Owners to train so their dog knows who to obey at all times. Personalized We deal with problem behaviors on a personal basis. Environment Specific We train wherever issues tend to arise i. Supportive We support Owners in the off-hours when training is "not in session". Involved We work with all members of the household. Satisfaction Ratings Our high client satisfaction rating sets us apart from competitors. We help your dog become a valued companion and beloved member of the family. Read what our customers have to say and then give us a call! Got the Whole Den package and am very satisfied with the level of professionalism that everyone had. They gave wonderful suggestions and presented things I a way I could understand. Will use them going forward for all trainings on our little one. This place is amazing. I did the two-week training camp for my 8 month old puppy and I couldn't be happier with the results. The entire experience was perfect from start to finish. The training staff is incredible. They answered all my questions and took extra time and care in helping my dog be successful. Special thanks to Jake and McCall, who worked with my dog every day. You can tell they love their jobs! Thanks again DTE!!! Brock has made the most amazing changes in just a week! Jake is incredible and patient with my pup. I am so impressed with everything at DTE! Gosia is amazing and was very thorough about training our baby Leia. We seriously recommended their services. Training goes a long way when it comes to ordinary circumstances and we are glad that we decided to get Leia on board with their Gold program. We are so grateful about having all the support from Dog Elite to get Leia where she is now. Jessica was also very quick to communicate throughout the whole program. Kudos to their excellent customer service. My wife and I were sort of nervous to spend this much money on dog training we spent almost all of the money we have saved but after seeing the results, we are so happy that we did. My daughter's "Service Dog in Training" couldn't ask for a better Trainer. Terrance answers all my questions but also takes the time to show my daughter how to implement at home what the dog has learned. The trainers are excellent as well as friendly and communicative to pet parents. They are available for parents ant time you need them So glad we entered our dog in their training program. Try them. Boxer Guardian Dog Group The goals and purposes of this breed standard include: to furnish guidelines for breeders who wish to maintain the quality of their breed and to improve it; to advance this breed to a state of similarity throughout the world; and to act as a guide for judges. Breeders and judges have the responsibility to avoid any conditions or exaggerations that are detrimental to the health, welfare, essence and soundness of this breed, and must take the responsibility to see that these are not perpetuated. History The Bulldog is an ancestor of the Boxer; various terriers were also part of its make-up, which gives the breed its speed, agility and more graceful body. The breed was virtually ignored until World War II, when it was brought into use as a military or police dog. This helped to insure instant popularity with returning servicemen, and the breed became in demand in the United States. The Boxer was recognized by the United Kennel Club in .General Appearance The Boxer is a medium sized, square built, smooth coated dog, with strong bone and a sturdy but never cumbersome appearance. His muscles are taut, well-developed and molded in appearance. He appears lively and powerful and has a noble bearing. Characteristics A breed of completely trustworthy character, the Boxer is energetic, agreeable, self confident and fearless. He is devoted and loyal to his family and a studied watchdog and defender. Head The head gives the Boxer its characteristic look. It must always be in correct proportion to the body, appearing neither too light nor too heavy. The harmony of the head depends upon the balance between the skull and foreface. The ratio of the length of the nose bridge to the length of the skull should be , measured from the tip of the nose to the inner corner of the eye, and the inner corner of the eye to the occiput. SKULL The skull should be clean and free from wrinkle; however, natural folds occur in the cranial region when the dog is alert. The skull should be lean and angular, slightly arched, never round or flat. The occiput is not too pronounced. There is a slight furrow in the forehead that must not be too deep. The forehead forms a distinct stop. The cheeks are well-developed but not bulging. They join the muzzle in a slight curve. MUZZLE Powerfully developed, and influenced by the shape of the jaw, the position of the canine teeth and the shape of the lips. The canine teeth must be as far apart as possible and of good length, making the front of the muzzle broad and almost square. In front, the edge of the upper lip rests on the edge of the lower lip and the chin must not markedly protrude over the upper lip when viewed from the front. Neither should the chin be hidden by the upper lip. The tongue and the teeth of the lower jaw must not show when the mouth is closed. The upper lip is thick and padded and fills the space created by the undershot lower jaw. The lip is supported by the lower canines. The lower jaw protrudes beyond the upper and curves slightly upward. The canine teeth are widely separated in broad jaws. The teeth are strong and healthy and the incisors are even and set in as straight a line as possible. Fault: Poor bite. EYES The eyes are not too small or deep set, but never protruding. They are dark brown in color, with dark eye rims. Expression is energetic and intelligent. Faults: Deep-set eyes; protruding eyes; light eyes; visible conjunctiva haw. NOSE The nose is broad and black and only slightly upturned. The tip of the nose lies somewhat higher than the root of the muzzle, but the nose must not be forced back into the forehead, as in the Bulldog. EARS The ears are set high and far apart on the skull. If cropped, they come to a point, are fairly long, and the base is not too broad. If natural, the ears fold forward and lie close to the cheeks. Neck The neck is clean, firm, and gracefully arched, blending cleanly into the shoulders. It is fairly long, round, strong and muscular. Forequarters The shoulder blades and upper arms are long and sloping, forming an apparent right angle. They are connected firmly to the body and should be smoothly muscled. The elbows do not press too closely to the chest wall, nor do they stand off too far. The pasterns are short and almost perpendicular to the ground. The length of leg from elbow to ground is one-half the height at the withers. Body The body is square and compact. The withers are pronounced and the back, including the loin, is short, straight, hard, broad and muscular. The chest is deep to the elbow and the forechest is well-developed. The ribs are well-sprung but not barrel shaped and extend well to the rear of the body. The croup is broad and slightly sloping. The underline is elegant due to an upward curve towards short, taut flanks which are slightly tucked up. Hindquarters Well-angulated with strong, hard muscles that are visible under the skin. The hock is well defined but not exaggerated. The rear pastern is short. Viewed from the rear, the legs are straight and parallel from hip to foot. Feet The feet are small, round, tight and well-cushioned. Tail The tail is generally docked, set high and carried upward. If left natural, it is of normal length and in overall balance with the dog. Coat The coat is short, hard and shiny, and lies smooth and tight to the body. Color Acceptable colors are fawn and brindle. The fawn is found in various shades, from light yellow to a deep dark red. The brindle variety has black stripes on a golden yellow or red brown background. The stripes are clearly defined. White markings are permissible if attractively distributed, but not required. A black mask is absolutely required. When white stretches over the muzzle, that portion of the black mask disappears. However, there must not be so much white on the muzzle that all the black is displaced. Disqualifications: Albinism. Any color other than fawn or brindle. White markings that exceed one-third of the entire coat. Proper balance and individual quality are of primary importance. Gait The gait is alive with energy; firm, but elastic. The stride is free, roomy and ground-covering. The carriage is proud and noble. Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid. Petey Donor Spotlight: Doreen Murotsune For many of us who give our hearts, time, or dollars to rescue, we are first inspired by the love of a single special dog. Hana belonged to friends of Doreen, but Doreen and her boxer, Benjamin, fell in love with her. Benjamin and Hana were best friends, and Benjamin was always on the lookout for Hana and ready to protect her from any yappy Chihuahua who tried to intimidate her. In addition to being an active Strut Your Mutt teammate for each of the past 5 years, Doreen browses the boxers in our care and sponsors many dogs whose stories warm her heart. She not only sponsors dogs with single or repeat financial gifts, but also inquires about dogs with prescription diet needs and then purchases those diets on an autoship schedule, having the food mailed directly to foster homes. Planned Giving If you have ever loved a dog, you know that — while their lives are short in comparison to ours — the love you share is timeless. By including NorCal Boxer Rescue in your Will or Trust or naming the organization as a beneficiary on certain accounts, you ensure that for years to come, NCBR is able to continue rescuing boxers, providing them the care they need, and uniting them with families who will love them forever. Dogs are an incredibly important part of our lives. You can make them a part of your heritage. Click here to learn about the different options. Growing Old with You We know that the best place for an old dog is home with loved ones. Click here to find out more about the Growing Old with You program. Grey Muzzle Thank You! We are so honored to be a Grey Muzzle Organization grantee again this year! We know that many of you have a soft spot for frosted faces, but that the cost of caring for a senior boxer has given you pause when it comes to adopting one. We hope that this support will give you the security you need to give your heart away to a beautiful older soul. Thank you, Grey Muzzle, for trusting in us and for supporting our efforts! We are grateful for your partnership! Thank you, Hoven Foundation. Each dog who enters our lives is a gift. They bring us untold joy and share with us their unconditional love. They teach us to be better people. For nearly 10 years, The Hoven Foundation has not only appreciated the gift that each dog represents, but they have given back generously. The continued support of the Hoven Foundation has meant the difference between life and death for countless beautiful souls. Thank you to the Hoven Foundation for what you give to our dogs and, in turn, to all those whose lives those dogs touch. Join Our Mailing List! NCBR is a c 3 nonprofit and donations are tax deductible. We now accept vehicle donations! Donate your car, boat, RV, motorcycle or farm equipment. Plus you get a tax deduction! Call RIDE to donate or learn more. Upcoming Events.

You can use the information on dog.Show more How much grooming does a German Shepherd need? German Shepherds have thick coats so they shed a lot. You'll typically need to brush your short or long-haired German Shepherd a few times a week. German Shepherds may also need professional grooming. To hel.What size crate do you need for a German Shepherd? When inside their crate, your dog should have plenty of space to: sit and stand up at their full height turn around without touching the sides lie down fully stretched out.To find out more about potential health i.Are German Shepherds easy to train? You can teach any breed of dog new tricks! Find out what your dog loves so you can use this to reward them after a success. Just like you, every dog is an individual with their own personality and prior experiences. As dogs grow from puppies, they learn all about the world. They develop their own likes and dislikes and learn to respond to.Show more Are German Shepherds good with children? Every dog has their own unique personality that has been shaped by their own experiences of the world. However, there are som.Show more. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". It does not store any personal data. Functional Functional Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features. Performance Performance Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. Analytics Analytics Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. Others Others Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. History Where are German Shepherd Dogs from? Perhaps never in the history of any breed has such concerted effort been put into improving a dog, mostly due to the formation in of the Verein fur Deutsche Scharferhunde SV, an organization in Germany devoted to overseeing the breeding of the German Shepherd. Breeders sought to develop not only a herding dog but also one that could excel at jobs requiring courage, athleticism, and intelligence. During World War I, they were the obvious choice for a war sentry. The Wolfdog was later dropped as it caused many people to fear the dogs. How big do German Shepherd Dogs get? The double-coat, with a thick undercoat that sheds twice annually, loses hair continuously but can be maintained with regular brushing one or two times weekly. What are the German Shepherd Dog colors? Black, tan, solid black and solid sable. How long do German Shepherd Dogs live? Lifespan: 10—12 years What are some German Shepherd Dogs facts and information? The German Shepherd held the number one spot in American popularity for many years. Although presently it has dropped from the top spot, the German Shepherd remains as one of the most versatile dogs ever created, serving as a police dog, war dog, guide dog, search-and-rescue dog, narcotics- or explosives-detecting dog, show dog, pet—and even shepherd. Related Content.

Officially, there is only a single type of Boxer dog recognized by major kennel clubs. However, fanciers and breeders have set the distinctions between Boxer dogs bred in different countries. The differences between the types of Boxer dogs in each region are heavily dependent on preferences. Breeders from each location have been cultivating specific characteristics or traits that they want the breed to exhibit. International kennel organizations also contributed to their variation as they prioritize the characteristics of a certain region over the other. Among the three types of Boxers, this is the second variant that has been merited as a standard in by The Kennel Club KC , one of the oldest canine organizations in the world. This substantiates why the UK standard leans more to the characteristic of this Boxer type. One of the defining characteristics of UK Boxers is their small feet, high knuckles, and slender legs which give them a more elegant look. It is considered to be the smallest and slimmest among the three. Nonetheless, the masculine physique which is the core trait of Boxers is still evident. Its slender body also provides more room for agility and precision in moving. It is also expected for UK Boxers to be biddable, calm, fearless, and self-assured. Oddly enough, the standard for this type of Boxer was only established after the two other Boxer types were standardized. Among the three, the German Boxer remains to be the more robust and largest type in terms of muscle mass and bone structure. Their physique has a more defined masculine figure with longer and stronger legs. These traditional Boxer features are probably retained through time since most German Boxers are still bred for their natural talents in herding and hunting. Another key characteristic of German Boxers is that they have a shorter snout compared to American Boxers but wider than the UK Boxers. According to most Boxer breeders, German Boxers are calmer and easier to train compared to the other types of Boxers. The traits and characteristics of the American Boxer were officially acknowledged in by the American Kennel Club. The most defining trait of this Boxer type lies in its coat. An American Boxer has a smooth, tight, and shiny coat that has no wrinkles. With this unique trait, it would be easy to distinguish an American Boxer among other variants. Boxer fanciers claim that American Boxers have a more elegant and balanced look. The reason could be because most American Boxers are bred to be show dogs or champions of conformation events. When it comes to temperament and behavior, the American Boxers are said to be playful yet constrained, patient, and stoic towards family members — especially with children. Also, they are said to be the most energetic Boxer among all types. If you have been searching about Boxers, you might have also heard about black Boxers although there are none in reality. Let me explain to you in this section the different coat colors and markings that Boxer dogs have. Fawn Boxer Dog Fawn coat color can exhibit a range of hues, including shades of yellow, tan, red, and mahogany. It is one of the two standard coat colors recognized by kennel clubs and possibly the most iconic. Too much white on the coat is considered a fault. The common markings for fawn Boxers are white flash and a black mask. The black mask refers to a black muzzle that can also be seen on German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois. Brindle Boxer Dog Brindle is not a color but a pattern. This is characterized by the presence of streaks of irregular and darker color against the light color background of the coat. For Boxers, the background is usually a color ranging from fawn to deep red. The appearance of the brindle coat will vary depending on the thickness and thinness of the color strips. Some may look like almost solid fawns while some may have more defined patterns in their body. Depending on the shade of the brindle, a Boxer dog may be called a light brindle, golden brindle, fawn brindle, red brindle, or mahogany brindle. The concentration of brindle patterns in Boxers can also be classified into three: tiger brindle, reverse brindle, and seal brindle. The streaks of irregular darker hair patterns are spread across a light background. On the other hand, reverse brindle dogs have strips of irregular lighter color against a darker color background. They differ from a seal brindle Boxer who sports a heavy concentration of dark streaks on their coat. However, for the record, there is no such thing as black Boxer dogs in reality. Purebred Boxer dogs do not carry the black color gene so it is impossible for them to have a black base. Boxers can only either be fawn to mahogany , brindle, or white. The black Boxer dogs that are advertised are brindle in nature. Remember the seal brindle that I mentioned earlier? When the streaks of the darker color patterns are too tight that they seal or shut the light background off, the coat appears to be solid black. In other words, the black coloration is nothing but an illusion. Worst, due to the hoaxes about white Boxers, they were even culled back then. Contrary to popular belief, white Boxers are not albino. Albinism occurs when a dog lacks pigmentation on its body. However, that is not the case for white Boxers. Similar to seal, the white coat for Boxers is produced due to an unusual patterning in the body. In short, they just have large white patches. White Boxers are either fawn or brindle with a large area covered with white markings. Boxers with this coat color typically do not have other markings in their body including a black mask. Those with patches of other colors in their body patches on the eyes, black mask, ears, back are called Check Boxers and are considered to be particolored. Boxers that have more than a third of white color in their coat or are all white are disqualified on conformation shows. The good news is that the AKC now recognizes the white coat color but is still considered to be non-standard. White Boxers are allowed to have limited AKC registration but are prohibited from being used on breeding. Knowing the type of Boxer you have would be easy if you bought from a reputable breeder. However, if circumstances do not allow the aforementioned ways, you can also try observing the unique characteristics of each type of Boxer. As discussed earlier, English or UK Boxers have long, slender legs which give them an elegant look. One of their defining characteristics is their high knuckles and small feet. If your dog sports this appearance, it is probably a UK Boxer. If your dog is large compared to other Boxers you see, there is a high tendency that it is a German Boxer. This type of Boxer is the biggest among the three. It has a dense bone and a larger and more masculine frame compared to the UK and American Boxer. Spotting if your Boxer is an American type would be easy. The defining trait of an American Boxer is its slick, smooth, shiny, tight coat. In terms of temperament, it would be hard to distinguish the three types of Boxers as they exhibit similar behaviors: confidence, patient, calm, and watchful. However, the German Boxer is said to be the calmest Boxer among the three. The American Boxer on the other hand is the most energetic type. If your Boxer sports extraordinary demeanor and composure unlike other Boxers, there is a great possibility that it is a German Boxer. Subsequently, if it acts like a bomb of energy, it is probably an American Boxer. Although all of the types of Boxers can join dog shows, some are more favored by specific kennel clubs. Conformation shows usually set guidelines following the standards provided by these organizations. Thus, Boxers that perfectly adhere to the standards are more favored than the others. If you want to join Boxer shows, the first thing you need to do is to identify the type of Boxer you own as well as the kennel club that sponsors the event. The prices of the three different types of Boxers have no significant differences. Boxer dogs with champion blood are more expensive than ordinary purebred Boxers. When it comes to coat color, the most expensive Boxer puppy would be the one with a seal brindle. As discussed earlier, a Boxer with this coat creates an illusion of a solid black color. Due to their rarity, Boxer dogs with seal brindle color are highly valued and priced. Places to Find Different Types of Boxer Dogs for Sale and Adoption In buying a Boxer dog, you should only transact with reputable breeders and avoid buying from backyard breeders and puppy mills. A professional Boxer breeder only aims to enhance and further the characteristics of the breed. Here are the places where you can find reputable and professional Boxer breeders. This online marketplace is regulated by the AKC itself so you have the assurance that all of the Boxer puppies sold are bred ethically and professionally. Most of the advertised Boxers in this marketplace came from the bloodlines of American Boxers. They have a acre facility dedicated to breeding German and UK Boxer dogs. This breeder is interested in breeding German Boxers that is why all of the dogs in their facility have German pedigrees. Unfortunately, a great number of Boxer dogs also end up in rescue centers. If you are eyeing to adopt one, here are the places where you can apply: American Boxer Club Rescue Directory — The parent organization of Boxer clubs in America has a complete list of the numerous Boxer rescue organizations across the country. There are dedicated shelters for each state and region of the US. Adopt-a-Pet — This is an online pet database that is dedicated to rehoming Boxer dogs. There are hundreds of Boxers posted on their sites every day that are available for adoption. It is affiliated with over 12, pet shelters across the US and Canada. All types of Boxer dogs English, German, and American are pretty common. In fact, kennel clubs do not consider these types as exactly legit. The terms American, UK, and German Boxer dogs are mostly used by breeders residing in a certain location. The boat only tips in terms of coat color. Contrary to popular belief that white is the rarest color for Boxers, seal brindle Boxers are the real gems. The tight patterns of a dark streak of hairs give an illusion of solid black coat color. Due to their rarity, they are also considered to be more expensive compared to other colors. What Is a European Boxer Dog? A European Boxer dog is another term used to refer to German Boxers. They are more masculine and have larger body frames. To be fair, all Boxer dogs are equally good. However, there are unique traits evident to each type of Boxer dog. The physique of a German Boxer dog is more robust than the other types, giving it an impression of a more reliable guardian. On the other hand, the unique features of American Boxer shiny tight coat and UK Boxer high knuckles and slender feet give them a more elegant look. If you are after a sport or a working dog, German Boxers would be preferable. On the other hand, if you would like to join conformation events, the American or UK Boxer will be your go-to. In addition, you should also consider your region as judges favor a certain type of Boxer depending on their origin. For the behavior and temperament, all three are lively yet calm, easily trained, and self-composed. However, breeders and owners testify that American Boxers are more energetic compared to the other types of Boxers. Your preference and lifestyle will be your criteria in choosing which Boxer matches you. Aside from their slight differences in size and appearance, they are all Boxer dogs that exhibit elegance and vigor. Their temperament and behavior will heavily depend on the environment they are raised in and the training they received. In terms of Boxer types according to coat colors, you should carefully weigh your options and refer to what the standard says. If you aspire to enter show events, you should not choose a Boxer puppy that is white or has white patches that cover more than a third of its body as such traits are considered faults. You should take note that a Boxer is not a dog for beginners. It is a breed that requires proper training and attention. 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. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Boxer Overview Boxers, large, muscular, square-headed dogs, appear imposing until their mischievous and joyful eyes reveal their true nature. Boxers reach full maturity at three years, boasting intelligence, alertness, and fearlessness, while remaining friendly. Their loyalty to the family is remarkable, though they can be headstrong when faced with harsh training. With minimal grooming needs, Boxers make excellent family companions, as long as they receive ample physical exercise and mental stimulation. Their origin traces back to Germany, and their short, shiny coats are usually fawn or brindle with white markings. Docked tails and cropped ears are common, but many owners now prefer leaving them natural. Boxers are renowned for their love and loyalty, often trying to be lapdogs. Their strength and courage make them suitable for military, police, and search-and-rescue work. Proper care includes indoor living due to their sensitivity to extreme temperatures. Boxer Highlights Here are some of the highlights of the Boxer breed: Affectionate: Boxers are very affectionate dogs and love to be around their people. They are known for their wagging tails and slobbery kisses. Playful: Boxers are also very playful dogs and love to have fun. They are always up for a game of fetch or a good belly rub. Intelligent: Boxers are very intelligent dogs and can be easily trained. They are often used as working dogs, such as therapy dogs and search and rescue dogs. Trainable: Boxers are also very trainable dogs and can be taught a variety of tricks. They are eager to please their owners and love to learn new things. Loyal: Boxers are very loyal dogs and will always protect their family. They are known for their bravery and willingness to stand up to danger. The Bullenbeisser was used as a hunting dog for centuries to hunt bear, wild boar, and deer, tasked with catching and holding the prey until hunters arrived. Over time, Bullenbeissers lost their jobs on estates and began to be used by farmers and butchers to guard and drive cattle. The Boxer we know today was developed in the late 19th century when a Munich man named Georg Alt bred a brindle-colored female Bullenbeisser named Flora with a local dog of unknown origin. Schecken was then bred to an English Bulldog named Tom to produce a dog named Flocki, who became the first Boxer to be entered in the German Stud Book after winning at a Munich show that had a special event for Boxers. One of her pups was a white female named Meta von der Passage, considered to be the mother of the Boxer breed, even though photographs of her show that she bore little resemblance to the modern Boxer. Our great line of sires all trace directly back to this female. She was a substantially built, low to the ground, brindle and white parti-color, lacking in underjaw and exceedingly lippy. As a producing bitch few in any breed can match her record. She consistently whelped puppies of marvelous type and rare quality. Those of her offspring sired by Flock St. Salvator and Wotan dominate all present-day. The breed became known in other parts of Europe in the late s. Around , the first Boxers were imported into the U. Lehman of New York. When Word War I broke out, Boxers were enlisted into the military, serving as messenger dogs, carrying packs and acting as attack and guard dogs. Boxers started becoming popular in the U. Through them, the breed was introduced to more people and soon became a favorite companion animal, show dog, and guard dog. In the early days, there was a lot of controversy within the club about the Boxer standard. In , the club finally approved a new standard. The latest revisions of the standard were in .Today, the Boxer ranks 7th among the breeds and varieties registered by the AKC. Boxer Size The height at the shoulder for males usually ranges from .Females typically stand 21 to .Strangers are met with wariness, but they respond politely to friendly people. They display aggression only in defense of their family and home. Temperament is influenced by factors like heredity, training , and socialization. Boxer puppies with good temperaments are curious, playful, and open to approaching and being held by people. Socialization, early exposure to diverse experiences, people, and places, is crucial to ensure they grow up as well-rounded, friendly dogs. Enrolling them in puppy kindergarten classes and regular interactions with visitors, neighbors, and various environments help develop their social skills. Boxer Health Boxers are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they have certain health conditions to be aware of. Here are some conditions to watch out for, along with precautions: Cancer : Boxers are prone to mast cell tumors, lymphoma, and brain tumors. White Boxers with excessive white markings can get sunburned and may develop skin cancer. Apply sunscreen to their ears, nose, and coat when they go outdoors. This condition can lead to fainting and sudden death. A veterinary cardiologist can diagnose it after detecting a heart murmur. Affected dogs should not be bred. Boxer cardiomyopathy BCM : An inherited condition causing an irregular heartbeat due to an electrical conduction disorder. It can result in weakness, collapse, or sudden death. Detection is challenging, leading to unexpected fatalities. Dogs showing signs of this condition should not be bred. While some dogs show signs of pain and lameness, others may not exhibit discomfort. X-ray screening helps detect hip dysplasia, and affected dogs should not be bred. Hypothyroidism : Caused by a deficiency of thyroid hormone, leading to infertility, obesity, mental dullness, and lack of energy. It can be managed with daily thyroid replacement pills. Corneal Dystrophy : Non-inflammatory eye diseases inherited in Boxers, affecting one or more corneal layers, causing opaque areas in the eyes. A weakened immune system can lead to demodectic mange, resulting in localized or generalized skin issues. Gastric dilatation-volvulus GDV , also called Bloat or Torsion : A life-threatening condition more common in deep-chested dogs like Boxers. Feeding habits and exercise patterns can contribute to GDV. Immediate medical attention is crucial. Allergies : Boxers are prone to both environmental and food-related allergies. Itchy, scaly skin should be examined by a vet. Responsible breeding is essential to reduce the risk of deafness. Boxer Care Boxers are indoor dogs due to their short noses and coats, making them unsuitable for outdoor living. However, they enjoy playing in a fenced yard. Engage them in play or walk them twice daily for at least half an hour to keep their muscles toned and their energy satisfied. Activities like fetch, long walks, or dog sports like agility and flyball are great options. Adequate exercise ensures good behavior—a tired Boxer is a well-behaved Boxer. Training is crucial for Boxers, as their size and strength can inadvertently harm people. Their temperament, being happy and excitable, requires early and consistent training using firm, fair methods with positive reinforcement through praise, play, and food rewards. Be consistent to avoid pushing boundaries. Settle them down before training class with a walk or play session for better focus. Housetraining requires patience; some Boxers are trained by four months, while others take longer. Regular potty breaks and praising them outdoors are essential. Crate training is recommended for their successful training. Boxer Feeding For an ideal Boxer diet , choose high-quality food suited for medium-sized breeds with high energy. Optimize their chances for a long, healthy life by providing proper nutrition. To prevent weight gain, adhere to a regular feeding schedule with two meals per day. Limit treats and avoid leaving food out all day. Consult your vet for personalized recommendations based on factors like weight, energy levels, and overall health. Boxer Coat Color And Grooming Boxers boast a sleek, short coat with tight skin, accentuating their athletic bodies. They come in fawn or brindle colors, occasionally with white markings. Fawn ranges from light tan to mahogany, while brindle displays striking black stripes on a fawn background. White markings should not cover more than one-third of the coat, and excessive white is discouraged due to potential health issues like skin cancer and deafness. They lack the gene for a solid black coat, so black Boxers are not seen. Bathing should be done as needed. Maintaining dental hygiene and nail care are essential. Regularly brushing their teeth prevents periodontal disease, and trimming nails every few weeks keeps their feet in good condition. Starting grooming routines early in puppyhood helps them become accustomed to the process, ensuring positive veterinary exams and handling as adults. Regular grooming also provides an opportunity to check for any potential health issues, such as sores, rashes, or signs of infection, promoting early detection and care. Boxer Children And Other Pets Boxers are fond of kids and make excellent playmates for active older children. However, their rambunctious nature may be too much for toddlers, possibly causing accidental knocks during play. Never leave a dog unsupervised with a child. With proper socialization, Boxers can also get along well with other dogs and cats, particularly if raised together. Boxer Rescue Groups Boxers are often purchased without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. There are many Boxers in need of adoption and or fostering. There are a number of rescues that we have not listed. Many can be found with a quick internet search. Prevalence: Common Boxers are stocky, muscular and powerful. Males grow to about 25 inches and weigh from about 65 to 80 pounds 30 to 36 kilograms ; females grow from about 21 to 25 inches and weigh from about 50 to 65 pounds 22 to 30 kilograms. Boxers have regal, distinctly shaped square heads. Their jaw is undershot and the muzzle blunt. They have a broad, deep chest and a relatively short, strong back. Boxer's ears fold over naturally, but traditionally, their ears have been cropped to stand erect. Their tails generally are docked and carried high. Their feet are compact and the toes are arched. The boxer's coat is short and sheds moderately. Some boxers are a rich, fawn color and others are brindle. Their face or mask is usually black, but many have white face markings and white on the chest and paws. Personality: Boxers are intelligent, high-energy, playful dogs that like to stay busy. Their temperament reflects their breeding. They prefer to be in the company of their owners and are loyal pets that will fiercely guard their family and home against strangers. Few boxers bark excessively. If a boxer barks, chances are there is a good reason. Many boxers are vocal, however, and make a growling noise that's really just the dog's way of talking. Living With: The boxer has a high need for companionship and exercise. If these needs are not met, boxers can be destructive if left alone in the house. Boxers are ideal for people who want a canine companion with them most of the time or for larger busy families with homes that are often occupied by someone. They can do well on a country estate or in a city apartment as long as they have the opportunity to romp and expel energy. If you live in an urban area, regular walks are necessary. Boxers are intolerant of hot weather, and care must be taken to prevent them from getting overheated. They also need protection from the cold since they are short-coated. Their coats, however, are very easy to care for and will be shiny and bright as long as they have a good diet, are bathed occasionally, and are given regular rub-downs with a grooming mitt or brushings with a rubber curry. Some boxers drool excessively, and some snort and snore. Like other larger dogs, boxers are not particularly long-lived. Their life expectancy ranges from about seven to 10 years. History: Boxers are descendants of extinct bullenbaiser breeds crossed with mastiff, bulldog and possibly Great Dane and even a terrier. They were developed in Germany in the 19th century, initially as bull baiting dogs and later as butcher's helpers, controlling cattle in slaughterhouses. Some breed historians say boxers are named from the German word boxl, their slaughterhouse designation. Other fanciers contend the name boxer comes from the characteristic way that they use their forepaws to play, sparring much like a human boxer. After the breed rose to become among the most popular in America. Boxers are considered working dogs. They were one of the first breeds employed as a police dog, and they have been used as seeing-eye dogs. But they are also bred to be companion and guard dogs, perhaps best known for being loyal family pets that are especially fond of children. Related Pet Care Articles. There are some Boxers that appear to be black. However, a solid black coat is not indicative of the breed. So, how can this be? Read more about what markings and patterns can cause a black-like coat. Fawn- What exactly is the color fawn in regard to dogs? This sample is a typical fawn. However, as you will see, fawn is a range of hues. To the right below on mobile is a medium fawn is the standard hue when referring to this terminology. With nice white flash markings on the chest and with black on the muzzle, this Boxer meets color breed standard very well. Brindle - What is brindle? Brindle is not technically a color, it is a pattern. The base is fawn and there is striping. The stripes may be light or dark, and density of the striping can range from thin to thick. Some brindles will look almost fawn and some will appear so dark that they look black. This Boxer shows the standard brindle striping. With white on his chest, paws and ankles and black on the muzzle, this Boxer also meets breed standards perfectly. This is a red fawn Boxer. As you can see, this fawn is darker and deeper than that the common tan fawn; producing a slight shading of red. What a gorgeous coat. This Boxer is a dark brindle. As you can see, with dark brindle the black is over powering the fawn color. The black striping in this pattern is heavy; which would be called a reverse or even a seal. Which simply means that the dog is not officially a solid fawn; he is a mix of colors. Seal - The Boxer dog you see here on the left is Vesta; this color is often referred to as seal. This is a super tight brindle. Siennna, right, is a fawn. Photo courtesy of Nancy Dark Brindle Boxer. Turkish, at 7 years old, photo courtesy of Renata Boxer Dog Flash The white markings on this breed are called "flash". If a Boxer has a moderate amount, one often refers to this as semi-flashy. Those with prominent white on a good portion of the coat are called flashy. No Markings? Not all Boxers have white markings. These are known as plain Boxers, but the term is misleading, as it refers to the genes at work. Read more: Boxers without White Markings Brindle Explanation Brindle one of the colors of this breed is actually a pattern. Stripes running through the coat partial or full is brindling. These are often black hairs, but may be any color that is a darker shade than the hairs that run under it. Depending on the exact color of these brindling pattern stripes, one may refer to a Boxer using one of the following terms listed in order from a very light brindle to a heavy dark striping : Light super light. These dogs can be broadly categorized by having a heavy bone set, naturally hanging pendent ears, a rather short and well-muscled neck, and a short broad muzzle. The compact muzzle places the Boxer in the Brachycephalic group, though to a lesser degree than other short-nosed breeds. The tail is naturally long, with only about half of Boxers in the U. The ears are naturally pendant, of moderate size, with very few in the United States being cropped to create shorter, erect ears. He is considered a medium to large breed in the Working Dogs category, with a short, tightly-packed coat. Puppies have a roundish, soft appearance and adults are well-muscled. Expected Appearance Per Breed Standards The breed standard serves two main purposes; it is a guideline for breeders in their efforts to produce dogs that fit close to the ideal to work towards the 'betterment of the breed' and it is used as a guideline for judges when evaluating dogs in the show ring. So, to first understand Boxer dog appearance, let's take a quick look at some excerpts from both the AKC and FCI Boxer dog standards: AKC: The ideal Boxer is a medium -sized, square - built dog of good substance with short back, strong limbs, and short, tight-fitting coat. His well - developed muscles are clean, hard, and appear smooth under taut skin.His expression is alert.The chiseled head imparts to the Boxer a unique individual stamp. It must be in correct proportion to the body. The broad, blunt muzzle is the distinctive feature, and great value is placed upon its being of proper form and balance with the skull.Substance — Sturdy, with balanced musculature. Males larger boned than females. FCI: The Boxer is a medium sized, smooth coated, sturdy dog of compact, square build and strong bone. His muscles are taut, strongly developed and moulded in appearance.The Boxer must be neither cumbersome nor heavy, nor light or lacking in body substance. In addition, the measurement from the top of the withers shoulder blades to the floor is about equal as from the middle of the chest to the rear of the upper thigh. Size Though there are guidelines in regard to how tall a Boxer 'should' be and what his adult weight 'should' be, many Boxers do fall below or above this. In regard to height, per AKC standards, males are to be inches .In regard to weight, the AKC does not list any certain weight. However, most adult male Boxers will fall in the pound range and females will be slightly smaller, often between pounds. You do need to keep an eye out to make sure that a Boxer is at a healthy weight as being overweight brings along quite a few health issues; however, most large Boxer dogs simply have large bone structure. Modifications - Ears The US is one of the few countries in which ear cropping is legal; and in show, ears may be cropped or natural. More often than not, those who believe that a Boxer may do well in the show ring lean towards cropping the ears many judges do prefer this, independent of the standard's non-bias verbiage. Photo courtesy of Terry Faircloth Modifications - Tail Similar to ear cropping, tail docking is illegal in many countries; however, the United States does allow this and it is actually expected in the show ring. Since this is done within just days of a Boxer pup being born, it is the breeder who decides on this. Many will go by what they know puppy buyers prefer and most if they do not oppose docking will ask the intended owners in advance, if someone has a deposit on a pup. What we see more often than not, is that with a docked tail, the ears are rarely cropped. So, it is uncommon, at least in the U. Once a Boxer is close to the 1 year mark and up to the 2 year mark, he can sometimes be growing so fast in height, that he can't keep up in weight. We refer to this as the Boxer dog skinny phase and it typically only lasts a short while. Young Boxer pups are just power-houses waiting to mature. They are rounded and muscles are not yet fully developed. Just look at how big this pup's paws are; he'll be at full adult size by about the 2 year mark. Atticus, at 9 weeks old Photo courtesy of Anthony Klintworth Nearing the 1 year mark, Boxers have grown exponentially in height. They are, of course, gaining weight as well. This is a transitional phase before full adult form takes place. As the Boxer matures, his chest fills out, widening and really becoming a focal point. Flanks are lean and legs are relatively long, which gives him a great profile. Due to the short, packed coat, muscles are often quite visible, which lends to a sleek, strong appearance. Boxers were used extensively in WWII but both American forces and the British army; not only can they look intimidating, they do very well in regard to training for guard, security, surveillance and as messengers. Today's Boxer is a family dog, yet good breeding gives us super confident looking dogs that are great watchdogs, not only just by their appearance, but also loyalty to protect their family. Stella, at 5 years old Photo courtesy of Kendall Foy Coloring There are only 3 basic colors for the Boxer dog: Fawn, brindle and white. Fawn and brindle are standard and white is an alternate color. Though white is not accepted in the show right, white Boxers can, of course, be registered. Of these, the majority are unilaterally deaf one ear , as opposed to bilaterally both ears. In regard to fawn and brindle, this does not mean that all Boxers look alike; far from it! Color is, perhaps, the one feature that causes Boxers to have such varied appearances. Fawn can range from a very light tan to a reddish fawn. And brindle which is a pattern of striping can range from light to super dark. In fact, some very heavy brindled Boxer dogs may appear to be a solid dark color. A few even may appear to be black, though this is genetically impossible. This often appears on the chest. It may also be on the legs anywhere from just the paws - referred to as mittens - to almost the entire leg. And if he is almost all white with just a bit of fawn or brindle, he is 'extra flashy'. All members of the family have great love and care for their dogs. Children love to play with them after coming to home from their school. Likewise, the owner of the house also seems to take interest in the activities of his pet after coming from the office. Dogs especially boxer successfully gain great attention from people and are considered to be their favorite one in merely a wink of an eye. Grey Boxer Dog: Boxers exist in different colors such as fawn, brindle etc. Genetics contributes for the coloring of your boxer dog. Every color has its own beauty and worth. Likewise, Grey boxer dog seems simply adorable. Some of the boxers contain a gene for their grey color hence, they show premature greying while others turn to grey as their age advances. The distinctive marking of the boxer also turns into grey. Grey Boxer Dog Size And Weight: Boxers dogs are eager to please, loyal, patient, quick to learn and always seem ready to play. They are extensively used as police dogs, assistance dogs and rescue dogs due to their high intelligence. Pokes and prods by the children are calmly suffered by the boxers. These wonderful family pets enjoy spending quality time with their family. The size and weight of boxer are dependent upon their health and feeding. Generally, they seem to gain good weight with balanced and nutritious diet. Taking good care of boxer ensures their good health. Likewise, the grey boxer dog size and weight should be taken into special consideration. They should be given extra care and should be fed well. Grey Boxer Puppies: Grey boxer puppies are easily distinguished from others. Stress is considered to be one of the most important factors leading to the greying of boxers. The early greying can also be due to some other factors besides stress. Genetics and health conditions are the risk factors which seem to be involved in greying of boxers. The role of genetics in greying cannot be denied at all. Indeed, it would not be wrong to say that genetics contribute to the maximum in premature greying boxers. Well, other boxers turn grey with the passage of time. No matter, if your boxer has turned grey and become an old dog, they will always exhibit an amazingly pleasant behavior. Their inside remains happy forever and they keep on spreading this to their surrounding. Surely, you have not seen any other species getting older with such grace as a boxer does. Their desire to jump and have chats with you keep on increasing day by day. They have a greyish appearance and people seem to share mixed reviews about them. Get them to have a better experience of them. Boxers have successfully maintained a great reputation in the world of pets. Being greyish does not mean that the boxer losses all his charms. It seems different, but impressively different.

If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Labradoodle Health Issues: Introduction If you know a little bit about Labradoodles , you know that this Doodle breed is pretty much the perfect dog anyone could ever wish for. Playful, affectionate, and intelligent, combined with the low-shedding coat from the Poodle parent — literally, the dream! Even though it may seem like the Labradoodle has it all, there are still certain Labradoodle health issues that this hybrid breed can develop. We truly believe that knowledge is power. Do Labradoodles Have Health Issues? When it comes to Labradoodles, health issues can be inherited from either of the parent pups. For instance, some health issues are more common in Poodles, others are more common in Labrador Retrievers, and some health problems overlap in both breeds. Nevertheless, Labradoodles do benefit from hybrid vigor, which gives them a great advantage in terms of health. Hybrid vigor means that a cross-breed has a smaller chance of inheriting the health problems most common in the parental breeds. To put it simply, cross-breeds often inherit the best qualities from both parents. However, hybrid vigor is most prevalent in first-generation Doodles and it may start to diminish with each consecutive generation. These are typically hip and elbow dysplasia, knee problems like patellar luxation, and cruciate ligament damage. All sizes of Labradoodles are at a risk of developing joint problems, but patellar luxation is one of the most common Toy and Mini Labradoodle health issues. To prevent joint problems, you should look for dog food formulas that contain ingredients like glucosamine or chondroitin. Additionally, for Toy and Miniature Labradoodles, you might want to look into dog foods that are specially formulated for small breeds. Both options take into account the specific needs of smaller and larger breeds, and help avoid improper development and skeletal disorders. Additionally, it can result in arthritis. Hip dysplasia is caused by various factors, such as genetic disorders, obesity, or unethical breeding. Luckily, ethical breeders always conduct extensive health testing on their parent dogs to minimize the risk of puppies developing hip dysplasia. The most common symptoms of hip and elbow dysplasia include: Pain, stiffness, or limping Decreased activity and range of motion Difficulty standing up, climbing stairs, jumping, or running Lameness Loss of muscle mass Labradoodle Cruciate Ligament Damage Cruciate ligament damage a. CCL is a very painful condition, where one or both cruciate ligaments tear or completely rupture. Cruciate ligaments hold the knee together and they typically become damaged over time due to excess bodyweight, injury, or inherited weakness of the ligaments. In severe cases of CCL, surgical intervention might be the only treatment option. Symptoms of cruciate ligament damage are: Limping. Fatigue Behavior changes loss of appetite, reluctance to engage, etc. If you notice any of these signs, make an appointment with your vet so they can perform screenings such as chest x-rays, blood tests, and an echocardiogram an ultrasound of the heart and nearby blood vessels to assess the issue. The condition can be serious if left untreated, but thankfully there are many treatment options available, such as diet therapy and medication. What To Feed a Labradoodle To live a long and happy life, Labradoodles must consume the proper amount of high-quality dog food and have access to fresh water. A balanced diet will help your pup maintain a healthy weight and avoid health conditions such as heart disease and hip dysplasia. If a pet parent is willing and able to cook for their dog, Whittenburg suggests a fresh, homemade diet that has been formulated by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist. Boutique brand and grain-free foods should be avoided. That includes servings of food in the right amount that provides more than 40 nutrients that pets require in their respective life stages, including proteins, fats, carbs, and vitamins, minerals, and independent amino acids, according to the Pet Food Institute. While there is no one-size-fits-all way to feed a Labradoodle and a consultation with your vet is recommended, Whittenburg says Labradoodle puppies under 6 months old should generally be fed a minimum of three times a day and adult dogs should be fed twice a day. Unless recommended by a veterinarian, dogs fed a complete and balanced commercial food diet should not need any nutritional supplements. However, Labradoodles that are fed a homemade diet may require supplements to ensure they are getting all the vitamins and minerals necessary to thrive, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, glucosamine, and a variety of antioxidants. Behavior and Training Tips for Labradoodles Labradoodle Personality and Temperament The high-energy, attention-seeking, intelligent Labradoodle requires frequent exercise, interaction, and play. While every Labradoodle is different, proper socialization is a must for helping your dog become a well-behaved companion. These dogs are not known to be excessive barkers, but the right amount of training and exercise is required to ensure they learn to behave appropriately. Labradoodle Training Because Labradoodles are a hybrid of two highly intelligent breeds, they are eager to please and highly trainable, according to Philippou. They can be taught to excel at everything from basic tricks like sit, stay, and roll over to running agility courses. Always use positive-reinforcement techniques, like using treats to reward good behaviors, during training. Due to their gentle and sharp-witted nature, Labradoodles can even be trained to become service dogs. Fun Activities for Labradoodles. Labradoodle health issues are important for both current owners to be aware of as well as those considering adding a new puppy to their family. It helps to be aware of common Labradoodle health problems for two reasons. Secondly, there are some preventative steps we can take to reduce the risk for some of these concerns! Yes, Labradoodle health issues do exist. Unfortunately, while mixed breeds do tend to be healthier than purebreds, they still run the risk of inheriting health conditions from either parent. In some cases, they may get the worst from both parents, rather than the best. The Labradoodle is no exception. We have no definitive way of knowing if and when Labradoodle health problems will happen to your dog. Responsible dog parents should be prepared to deal with an unexpected accident or injury, which is why I recommend every Labradoodle owner should purchase pet insurance. There are a handful of reputable pet insurance companies out there, but I personally use and recommend Healthy Paws. Not only are they affordable, but they offer top-notch coverage without sneaky loopholes and tons of fine print. You can feel confident knowing that no matter the cost, your Labradoodle will get excellent medical care throughout their lives. This is a condition in which either the upper or lower eyelid rolls inward. Entropion is generally an inherited condition. Unfortunately, when left untreated, this can cause significant pain and swelling of the eyes. Treatment options for entropion can vary depending on severity, but more often than not it will require surgical intervention. Cardiomyopathy in Labradoodles Cardiomyopathy is a broad term that covers any disease that causes a weakened heart muscle. Most cases of cardiomyopathy are asymptomatic and are only diagnosed because the veterinarian notices a heart murmur. Treatment revolves around managing the symptoms of congestive heart failure and cardiac enlargement while increasing the ability of the heart to contract properly. On top of that, your Labradoodle will likely require medications for the rest of their life. While these medications are fairly reasonably priced, they can add up quickly. This causes them to rub together which can result in pain and mobility issues. Treatment depends on two things—the form the disease has taken and the stage of its presentation. When caught early enough, surgical repair is the optimal treatment method. Unfortunately, Laborador Retrievers rank first in the highest percentage of cancer cases at .There is no one treatment for cancer. Treatment depends on the type of cancer, stage of cancer, pre-existing health issues, and much more. Treatment can range from surgery, to immunotherapy, to chemotherapy, to radiation, or to simply providing pain relief. It may just affect one little hormone, but the symptoms can be profound. This disease is common in both the Poodle and the Labrador Retriever, making it among the common Labradoodle health issues. Sebaceous Adenitis in Labradoodles There is a gland on the skin that produces oil to keep the skin hydrated and healthy. Sebaceous adenitis is a condition where those glands become inflamed and eventually are destroyed. Specific shampoos and recurrent antimicrobial administration is needed. Luxating Patella in Labradoodles Luxating patella is another term for a dislocated knee. Toy and Mini Labradoodles are more commonly affected, however this can affect any Labradoodle size. If caught early enough, surgical manipulation may be possible to make a full recovery, but if left too long it may be impossible to correct and cause chronic pain. One of the main causes of luxating patella is genetics, however, nutrition, excess stress on the joints, or other pre-existing medical conditions may play a role as well. Hip Dysplasia in Labradoodles Hip dysplasia is common in a lot of large dog breeds, including the Standard Labradoodle. This can lead to pain, loss of function, or deterioration of the joint. Are Labradoodle Health Issues Common? Labradoodles are generally thought to be a healthy breed. Each Labradoodle has its own DNA which may make it more or less likely to develop certain conditions. Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, some dogs will still go on to develop serious health issues. Luckily, there are some precautions you can take to help reduce the risk of Labradoodle health issues in your dog. Reputable Labradoodle breeders will use their knowledge of the breed and genetic testing to ethically improve the healthline of the breed. In addition to getting a healthy Labradoodle, they truly care about their puppies. These are serious signs of a bad breeder. Invest in Pet Insurance In my opinion, pet insurance should be considered a necessity for new Labradoodle owners. For example, Labradoodles are prone to cancer. Click here to get an instant, online pet insurance quote from Healthy Paws! Excess weight or obesity can contribute to the development of many health issues. A healthy diet and daily exercise are easy ways to prevent Labradoodle health issues later on in life. Check Price on TryFi. Poor oral health can lead to heart infections like endocarditis, systemic inflammation, and jaw issues. All of these are serious issues that can easily be prevented. More About Labradoodles…. We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at anytime. The first fact we have to remember is that any dog breed or hybrid can develop health issues. So, the Labradoodle is also equally capable of developing physical complications just like any other breed. On the contrary, some of these complications are common across various breeds and varieties. The important thing here is to stay informed of these risks and conditions. That way, even if your Labradoodle develops any signs or symptoms, you can quickly take it to the vet. Reliable breeders will usually have a health guarantee on their puppies. Reputable breeders will normally be forthright about any health complications the parents may have too. The best breeders will even offer you certifications from Orthopedic Foundation for Animals , Canine Eye Registry, or other similar authorities. Some may even offer DNA tests for potential conditions. Getting your puppy from the right source is like preventing many of these health conditions before they even appear. Also, we must remember that Labradoodles can develop health issues faced by both Labrador Retrievers and Poodles. Hybrids can sometimes fail to reconcile the physical traits of both parent breeds. But it happens because the different physiology of the parents may not form healthily in the puppy. Finally, remember that most Labradoodle health issues are curable. Also, being prompt with medication and nurturing is essential. So, we now know that Labradoodles can develop health issues of different kinds. Labradoodle Cancer The first item on our list of possible Labradoodle health issues is cancer. Cancer in dogs is more common in old age above ten. On the off chance that your Labradoodle does develop cancer, the approach should be the same as with any other pet — a lot of care and medical help. Cancer in your dog may be one of many types. It commonly occurs in body organs, bones, or skin. Just like in humans, some cancers grow faster and others slower. Sometimes, you may detect them too late. So, that can serve as a small consolation. Possible Treatment The general approach to cancer in dogs is not to cure it. The main aim here is to treat it to remission. But the good news here is that cancer survival in dogs is common too. Make sure you consult with your vet before making any decisions. The treatment may range from chemo, radiation, surgery, or merely supplementing medication. Also, veterinary medicine has developed new treatments such as immunotherapy and antibody therapy. Although these are expensive, they give you more options for treatment. Finally, the mental health of you and your dog is a crucial part of the treatment. Make sure you keep a normal routine in terms of walks, playtime, etc. It would be great if you also learned about the treatments, terminology, symptoms, etc. Labradoodle Joint Problems Unlike cancer, Labradoodles and joint problems can often come together. These joint issues can include knee problems, pain in the joints, hip dysplasia, or elbow dysplasia. But other joint problems can still appear in your Labradoodle puppy. Questionable breeding methods are often to blame for these problems. However, Labradoodles can also develop these conditions because of their hybrid nature. Common symptoms include irritability, excessive lying down, limping, lagging on walks, reluctance to climb stairs , lack of enthusiasm for play or walks, etc. And most of these symptoms can pass right under your nose as you go about your day. If you see some of these behaviors, it may be time to take your doodle to the vet. Potential Treatment The good news here is that canine rehabilitation is one of the fastest-growing methods of veterinary science. Even at the very least, there are ways and means to help your dog live a full life even with the condition. Various anti-inflammatory medicines can help relieve joint pains. Of course, you should only use the meds recommended by your vet. If your vet allows, you can also use joint supplements as alternatives. Obesity in your dog can cause or aggravate any existing joint problems. But if you do need it, work with your vet to design a weight loss plan that involves the right diet and exercise. This way, your Labradoodle gets the best of medical and homely help. Labradoodle Glaucoma Labradoodles can inherit eye conditions from their parents. And Glaucoma can undoubtedly be one of these problems. Glaucoma is generally more present in purebreds. They can certainly inherit cataracts from their genes. Glaucoma in Labradoodles Labradoodles can develop Glaucoma when there is increased pressure on the eyes. Glaucoma has the potential to become severe enough to cause permanent blindness. Either way, there are ways to prevent or partially rectify the issue. But other causes include lens slipping, tissue inflammation, or eye injuries. All the other reasons here are called secondary Glaucoma. Glaucoma symptoms in Labradoodles can vary depending on severity. But common signs include eye pressure, excessive blinking, cloudy appearance, dilated pupil, the recession of eyeballs, etc. Like any other Labradoodle health issue, you may notice a lack of interest in an activity or play. The general approach is to try lowering the pressure to save their vision. But if there is damage in the optical nerve, it may be permanent or require surgery at the least. Methods can include draining of eye fluid or, in severe cases, removal of the eye. In the first case, surgery can restore some vision. However, in the second instance, your dog will have an orb instead of an eye. Although this sounds tragic, dogs can adapt to vision loss without as much trouble as humans. But you can certainly help by making the transition as comfortable as possible. You may have to watch over your dog more when outdoors. But small responsibilities like these are easy for anyone who loves their pets. Labradoodle Vision Problems Although Glaucoma can be a dangerous condition, there are other vision problems that Labradoodles can develop. Symptoms usually look similar. Keeping an eye no pun intended on your dog can help you detect problems early. This way, you can start timely treatments. Labradoodles and Vision Problems Labradoodles can experience vision problems because of eye diseases, injury, or old age. Labs and poodles can sometimes have genetic eye disorders, which they pass on to offspring. So, correct diagnosis is crucial before beginning treatment. The wrong diagnosis can take your dog through a lot of pain and trouble for nothing. Worse yet, it can even cause permanent loss of vision. For an accurate diagnosis, your vet has to detect the symptoms correctly. Common symptoms include redness, excessive fluids, cloudiness, low vision, squinting, eye color changes, etc. There may also be behavioral changes that imply vision problems. These include bumping into things, aversion to light, confusion, pawing the face, etc. Potential Treatment Depending on what the symptoms are, your Labradoodle may have one of many vision problems. Other times, vision problems can also come from Diabetes or high blood pressure. The precise treatment will depend on the source and cause of the eye problem. Corneal ulcers may require medication such as Topical antibiotics or surgery for severe cases. But your vet can suggest supplements that might help your Labradoodle. But these vision issues are not painful problems for your dog. Your Labradoodle can easily adapt to its changing eyesight. As mentioned earlier, our dogs have a keen sense of smell and hearing. Of course, their motor skills may not be as efficient as before. But they can still live full and wholesome lives as long as they get the proper care. On our part, all we have to do is make their day better by continuing to nurture them and care for them. But this does not mean that only Labradoodles develop Hip Dysplasia. Furthermore, the effect on a loving owner can also be disheartening. But the important thing here is to know your Labradoodle well and learn more about the disease. Hip Dysplasia is a common condition that need not be life-threatening if you know what to do. Hyp Dysplasia in Labradoodles Hip Dysplasia is, essentially, a bone and joint problem. So, instead of sliding together well, they start to grind and rub against each other. This means their mobility, movement, or posture may become abnormal. Over time, the condition can also lead to the joint becoming fully dysfunctional. Hip Dysplasia can have a number of causes. In Labradoodles, Hip Dysplasia usually comes from poor breeding processes. The symptoms usually include a decrease in physical activity and a limited range of motion. It can also mean your Labradoodle hesitates to jump , climb, or rise. The thigh can also lose muscle mass because of this condition. You can see the shoulders enlarged as the body tries to compensate for the hind legs in some cases. Potential Treatment for Hip Dysplasia Your vet may perform an examination, mobility inspections, radiographs, x-rays, etc. He will then recommend changes in lifestyle or surgery, or both, depending on the severity and condition. Your vet may also advise limited exercises on harder surfaces. Medication can include joint supplements, pain relief, fluid modifiers, or anti-inflammatory prescriptions. Surgery can consist of osteotomy, osteotomy, or total hip replacement. You may see it in bigger breeds who struggle with physiology or obesity. Also, it can come from genetic or unethical breeding practices. But there are working treatments available. Although no method has guaranteed success, your dogs can still live a wholesome life if you take the right measures. Elbow Dysplasia in Labradoodles is mostly because by some abnormal skeletal growth in the elbow. The condition can become worse with age. And the older it gets, the more painful for your Labradoodle. The main symptom of Elbow Dysplasia is an evident decrease in the range of motion. Also, you may notice that your Labradoodle shows discomfort or pain when you flex its elbow. You may also see episodes of lameness that appear once in a while. Some Elbow Dysplasia cases also have fluid retention in the joints. Potential Treatments for Elbow Dysplasia If your Labradoodle has Elbow Dysplasia, your vet can confirm the diagnosis through radiography or x-ray. Many times, vets can also detect it through inspection and evaluation. If the Elbow Dysplasia is a mild case, the vet may prescribe more moderate medical options. Medication can include joint supplements or anti-inflammatory drugs. Your vet may also suggest fatty-acid supplements to decrease inflammation or lubrication of the joint. However, severe cases may need a combination of surgery, medication, and therapy. Common approaches for surgery include arthroscopy and the open-joint procedure. You can also get rehabilitation treatments carried out by professionals. These can include underwater treadmills, swimming, and other relevant exercises. The great news is that Elbow Dysplasia has a higher recovery rate than other illnesses. On your part, just ensure that your Labradoodle stays in a healthy frame of mind. And with it, give it your best in nurturing and caring for your dog. Labradoodle Infections Labradoodles, like any other breed of dog, can be prone to certain infections. Some examples include: Ear infections: Due to the shape and position of their ears, Labradoodles are prone to developing ear infections. Symptoms include head shaking, scratching at the ears, and a foul odor coming from the ears. Skin infections: Bacterial and fungal skin infections can develop due to a weakened immune system or a break in the skin. Symptoms include redness, itching, and hair loss. Urinary tract infections: These can cause discomfort, frequent urination, and sometimes blood in the urine. Gastrointestinal infections: Gastrointestinal infections can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Early treatment can prevent more serious health problems from developing. In Labradoodles, this can result in symptoms such as: Weakness and fatigue. Over the years, unsurprisingly, this breed has gained immense popularity in the United States for its excellent temperament. Labradoodles are a relatively new breed of dog and are not a recognized breed as they are hybrids. Owning a Labradoodle is not all fun and games. If not trained properly and in time, they can develop quite a few bad habits that can make you miserable. Labradoodles Have Excessive Energy That Must Be Given Room to Express While some dogs are quite content with the occasional walk or a short game of fetch, you need to do a lot more to tire out a Labradoodle. Being an energetic dog is great, but too much of anything can get quite dangerous. Labradoodles need lots of exercises or else they can be extremely boisterous and neurotic, eventually developing some destructive behavior. You will need to ensure your new dog gets lots of opportunities to blow off steam. Even young Labradoodle pups need daily evening walks and regular exercise. As the Labradoodle is a hybrid breed, they tend to grow larger than both of their parents unless it is a toy labradoodle. This simply means you will have to make sure they spend their energy every day. Fully-grown Labradoodles can walk and run for over a mile only as a casual warm-up exercise. While you can leave your dog loose in your yard, you have to make sure it is fenced-in, or else your Labradoodle without a leash will break out and take off to explore on its own. No matter how occupied you may be with work or the kids, you need to take time out from your busy schedule to exercise your dog. They require a good amount of exercise every day, about minutes should be just fine. This helps them to be physically fit and is also incredibly good for their mental health and well-being. You can even count on your Labradoodle as your workout partner. You can get creative with your exercises and take your dog out for a jog, an obstacle course, or even some splash time in the swimming pool to cool off. Labradoodles are very loving and affectionate towards humans. So while they may bark at someone incessantly at the door, they are not much of a threat to a stranger. So treating them with love in return is absolutely the right thing, but if you smother your doodle puppy with love, it will grow increasingly attached to you. Now, nothing wrong with being attached to your pet; after all, they are family to us. But this attachment does often lead to separation anxiety. It can cause dogs to freak out and panic when they are left alone at home. In extreme cases, the idea of being alone will be too overwhelming for your dog and it can aggravate them so much that your dog may bark continuously, pace around constantly, or become destructive and rip at things in sight, be it shoes or the couch. Popular Science Your doodle puppy has an innate fear that you will leave it alone and never come back. Labradoodles often feel helpless when they are left alone , especially when they are young pups. That is why you will have observed dogs tend to jump on you and show affection when you return to them after a few hours. If you have a Labradoodle, you must have experienced your dog waiting patiently to greet you with loads of tail wagging, kisses, and licking, maybe even with a ball in its mouth wanting to play with you. They are overly devoted to the family, which makes them very protective. And if you try to cross them, you will be at the receiving end of some aggressive behavior, so beware. This quality makes them exceptional watchdogs. But, if you think your Labradoodle will also be great at guarding your property, think again. This is a breed that is friendly to humans. There is a high chance your pup will just end up befriending a stranger and try to encourage a game of fetch or chase. The stranger will be greeted with loads of tail wagging and thumping of the tail instead of barking to make you aware of an outsider. This makes them a terrible choice for a guard dog. You will observe your doodle making demands to have a share of your food. Be ready for high-pitched verbal confrontations, resistance to commands, and a lot of barking to get you to give up your spot on the couch or chair, especially during the initial phases of getting your dog home. Older Labradoodles, in particular, can be very demanding and stubborn to suit their needs. They will ensure they get what they want, even if it means taking it from you. This is why it is very important to train them when they are younger, or you will have puppies who grow up to constantly nag you to get their way. Start training your Labradoodle pup at an early age to avoid having a reluctant puppy dictating its terms and conditions that you will have to deal with throughout your life. Comparing a Labradoodle vs Labrador to see which breed is best for your family 5. Jumping up and down in excitement and licking are common in most breeds. But, in the case of Labradoodles, this can become a problem. Your dog may be a jumper either due to over-excitement or pent-up energy. So training them is essential. One way to end the jumping spree is to bend down and come face to face with your pup so that it can discourage this habit. Another reason is that Labradoodles want to grab your attention or to say a friendly hello. Sometimes they do it because they want a pat or a boop. But not everyone is okay with unknown dogs jumping on them. This is why it is crucial to teach your pup to be a polite greeter. You will need a friend or neighbor for this demonstration. Politely ask your pup to stay. Ask your friend to ring the doorbell. When your friend approaches, let your dog know it can now greet him. Repeat this process until your doodle becomes a pro. And when you want them to bark and warn you about strangers, you will find them in their happy element begging to play with them. But they will bark at you for not giving in to their needs. If they want you to get off their spot on the couch, or if they want to be let out, or if you leave them alone all day and go out, they will bark incessantly and loudly at the highest volume. My Labradoodle Max wearing his party hat. But you may want to pause and think about some other factors before purchasing your Labradoodle pup. Labradoodles are exorbitantly priced. And if you plan on buying an AKC-certified doodle, the prices will be much higher. If you happen to be allergic to dog fur or have family members who are allergic, this hybrid breed may not be the right fit for you. Labradoodles Are More Susceptible to Illnesses Labradoodles suffer from a list of ailments such as infections, ear and hip dysplasia, and epilepsy. Labradoodles are also highly prone to developing allergies, including seasonal allergies and food allergies. It affects the pituitary gland and may result in a whole host of issues. Make sure you are aware of all these illnesses before you decide to get home a Labradoodle. Can Labradoodles smile? A Labradoodle has high levels of energy and enthusiasm, as it is a combination of a Labrador Retriever and poodle, both of which also have a great work ethic. So with regular training, you can teach your puppy proper etiquette, especially in front of strangers. The Labradoodle as a breed can be easily overwhelmed, and this may result in them tackling anything that comes in their way. Be careful if you have young kids as their sheer excitement may come across as boisterous and may lead to a kid being knocked over. Cross-check with the breeder if your to-be doodle pup is of the highest quality, or you are bound to have shedding issues that you wanted to avoid in the first place. So, ensure you spend time with this hybrid breed before you bring home one. Since you know that this breed can become aggressive and destructive if not trained properly, make sure you provide your Labradoodle with adequate stimulation, both physically and mentally. Getting a Labradoodle puppy is like winning the lottery. There is a one-in-a-million chance of getting a doodle dog that suits your needs. Will it be more of a Poodle? Will it be more of a Labrador Retriever? You never know. You will have to simply wait and watch and hope for the best. When choosing a doodle puppy, ensure you go to a responsible and ethical breeder who is interested in improving the breed. And if the Labradoodle ticks off all points on your checklist, you can be assured that this delightful breed will be your perfect partner to have at home. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Labradoodles Labradoodles The Labradoodle is a hybrid, also known as a cross-breed, mixed breed or just plain mutt. Opening your heart and home to a hybrid dog is like opening a beautifully wrapped package on your birthday: you never know what's going to be inside. It's often assumed that a hybrid will combine the best of two or more breeds, but genetics doesn't always work that way. The way genes combine and express themselves is not always subject to a breeder's control, even less so when two different breeds are crossed. Here's what you need to know if you're considering adopting a Labradoodle. At their best, they are intelligent, friendly and affectionate. They come in three sizes: miniature, weighing 15 to 30 pounds; medium, 30 to 45 pounds; and standard, 45 to more than pounds. Because they are a cross breed, their traits are not fixed, so there is no guarantee that the Labradoodle puppy you purchase will fall into the desired weight range. Labradoodles have a moderate activity level. Larger Labradoodles may be more active than their smaller kin. They need a good walk or active playtime each day, and if you're interested, they are athletic enough to participate in such dog sports as agility, flyball, obedience and rally. They can also be excellent therapy dogs. Both of the breeds used to create Labradoodles are smart and learn quickly. If you begin socialization and training early and use positive reinforcement techniques such as praise, play and food rewards, you will be rewarded with a wonderful companion. Poodles have a reputation for being hypoallergenic, meaning that they can be tolerated by people who have allergies to dogs. Because they have the Poodle in their heritage, Labradoodles are sometimes promoted as being hypoallergenic. But allergies are caused not by a particular dog coat type but by dander, the dead skin cells that are shed by all dogs and people, for that matter. Some people with mild allergies react less severely to particular dogs, but no reputable breeder will guarantee that her dogs are hypoallergenic. Ear infections can be a problem in Labradoodles. Be sure to keep the ears dry and clean, especially after the dog has had a bath or gone swimming. In addition, trim his nails at least monthly--more frequently if necessary--and brush his teeth as often as possible, especially if he's on the small side. Small dogs are especially prone to periodontal disease. Labradoodles are companion dogs. They love being with people and need to live in the house, never outdoors. Labradoodle puppies are adorable, and it's one of the reasons they are so popular. Cute puppies sell, and that makes the Labradoodle a favorite of puppy mills and greedy, irresponsible breeders. But there's no need to pay big bucks for a Labradoodle. You can often find a wonderful example of this hybrid dog at your local shelter or through adoption organizations. If you do choose to buy one, however, select a breeder who has done the health testing to ensure that her puppies won't carry the genetic diseases common to both Labrador Retrievers and Poodles. And while there are no guarantees in life, it's also a good way to minimize the possibility of big veterinary bills in the future. Variations of the Labradoodle Labradoodles can have different types of fur. Some look like shaggy retrievers, others resemble a Poodle with loose curls and some fall somewhere in between. They are not low-maintenance dogs when it comes to grooming. Plan to brush the Labradoodle at least every other day, using a slicker brush, and have him clipped every eight to 12 weeks. Health Issues Common to Labradoodles All hybrid dogs have the potential to develop genetic health problems, just as purebred dogs can and just as all people have the potential to inherit a particular disease. Run, don't walk, from any breeder who does not offer a health guarantee on puppies, who tells you that the Labradoodle is percent healthy and has no known problems, or who tells you that her puppies are isolated from the main part of the household for health reasons. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the Labradoodle and the incidence with which they occur in her lines. Labradoodles may develop health conditions common to both Labrador Retrievers and Poodles, especially if you aren't cautious about whom you buy from. They include hip and elbow dysplasia, an eye disease called progressive retinal atrophy, and von Willebrand's disease, a bleeding disorder. At a minimum, ask the breeder to show evidence that both of a puppy's parents have hip and elbow certifications from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, a DNA test for progressive retinal atrophy, and certification from the Canine Eye Registry Foundation that the eyes are healthy. A plus would be a DNA test for von Willebrand's disease. If you are purchasing a small or medium-size Labradoodle, the parents should have OFA patella knee clearances. Do not purchase a puppy from a breeder who cannot provide you with written documentation that the parents were cleared of health problems that affect the breed. Having the dogs "vet checked" is not a substitute for genetic health testing. To protect yourself from the expensive vet bills associated with these conditions, you'll want to purchase pet insurance for your Labradoodle before they show symptoms or are diagnosed. Post by: Emily W. Described as spunky, friendly, and smart, Labradoodles can be a great choice for first-time dog parents and families with children. As with any dog, it is important to do your research before adopting and to become familiar with the breed you will be bringing into your home. Labradoodle History Although some people suggest that Labradoodles made an appearance in America in the s, the original creation date for these dogs is marked as .Wally Conron, who led the breeding program for the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia, was tasked with creating a service dog for people with a dog allergy. After several attempts, Conron came across a mix that seemed more than ideal. As with many of the other Doodle types, the Labradoodle was slow to gain attention. But, by the early s, Americans began realizing how wonderful these dogs are, and their popularity skyrocketed in just a few years. What to Know About the Labradoodle Quickly becoming one of the most popular types of dogs in America, you may now be considering adopting your own Doodle. While trying to decide on whether a Labradoodle will be a good fit for your lifestyle, you may discover that you have many questions about the breed. Among other pet parents who are considering adopting a new fuzzy family member, the most common questions include: 1. Do Labradoodles Shed? Most Labradoodles shed very little to none at all. However, not every Labradoodle is created the same, so their coat type will vary—as will the amount that they shed. Labradoodles can have a variety of textures in their hair, including wavy, curly, smooth, and wiry. They can also be found in a wide range of colors, which include gold, apricot, caramel, black, red, brown, cream, and silver. Doodles can even have multi-colored coats in a brindle, phantom, or sable pattern. How Big Do Labradoodles Get? Poodles come in three sizes, which means that Doodles also come in three sizes—Standard, Medium, and Miniature. Standard Doodles are inches in height and pounds in weight. Medium Doodles are inches in height and weigh pounds. Miniature Doodles are inches in height and in weight. How Long Do Labradoodles Live? Labradoodles live on average years. What Are Labradoodles Like? Personality-wise, Labradoodles are outgoing and friendly, so they are always looking at ways to make new pals. Because of this natural instinct to meet new people and animals, it is important to always have your Doodle on a leash when outside, or to have your pup in a fenced-in area. Are Labradoodles Good Family Dogs? Because of their demeanor, Labradoodles are a great choice if you are a multi-pet family or if you have children. It is important to note that if your children are younger, they should be supervised when interacting with your Labradoodle. Younger kids have a tendency to lie or climb on dogs or accidentally pull their ears or tail, which could result in unwanted behavior from your dog. Not to mention, Labradoodles have a tendency to get overly excited when playing, which can lead to them knocking over your young child—Doodles just have a lot of love to give. While this breed is an excellent choice for many families, it is essential to do your research on various dog breeds when looking to adopt. Grooming a Labradoodle The grooming needs of Labradoodles will vary from dog to dog, based on their coat type and length. On average, most Doodles require a weekly or biweekly brushing. If you are familiar with Labrador Retrievers, then you know all too well how their hair tends to shed on every surface and piece of clothing in sight. Because so much hair is then just sitting on the dog, Doodles can quite easily develop mats. Consistent brushings will take out the loose hair and help keep pesky clumps from developing. It is equally as important to dry and clean their ears after they go swimming. All other grooming needs for the Labradoodle follows suit with the majority of other breeds —Labradoodles are relatively low maintenance in the grooming department. Ever wonder which type of pet is an ideal match with your lifestyle? Take our quiz and find out! Care Needs for Your Labradoodle A good rule of thumb when it comes to puppies and dogs of any age is that a bored puppy will be a destructive puppy, and Labradoodles are no exception. Many Doodle owners are not aware ahead of time on just how much energy a Doodle has and how much exercise they require. Typically a minute walk in the morning and at night is a sufficient amount for these pooches. If you have a fenced-in yard, you can just as easily let your Doodle loose to run at their desire. Although they are a medium to high energy dog, Labradoodles can quickly become acclimated to city living as they can to rural living. Training Due to their eagerness to learn, Labradoodles thrive with beginning training and socialization when they are just a puppy. By starting training at a young age, you will be able to nip bad behaviors in the bud, and you and your pup can begin building a trusting relationship. Even if you adopt an older dog, it is never too late to begin training. No matter what some people may say, you can teach an old dog new tricks! Some useful commands to begin with include sit, stay, down, drop it, heel and off. Of course, one of the most important items to work on with your new puppy is house training. Along with house training your puppy, crate training may be the next most beneficial item to work on. Having a pet that is crate trained can be beneficial for both you and your dog. For instance, when you leave the house for an extended amount of time and your pup is left unattended, an unknown number of incidents can occur—anything from shoes being chewed on to potty accidents in the house. By training your dog to be comfortable with being crated, you can have ease of mind when you are away that your dog will be safe and your home will remain in one piece. Not to mention, after becoming crate trained, dogs will oftentimes view their crate as a safe place where they can retreat to when they want a nap, are scared from a storm, or need a break from their fellow canine brother or sister. When it comes to socialization, exposing your dog to various social settings is extremely beneficial. Not only will your dog become better acclimated to being around other dogs, but they will become more relaxed with meeting new people and being around new experiences. Sebaceous Adenitis: A less common, but still worth noting condition that affects the skin and hair follicles. You will save you time, money, and loads of frustration…take my word for it! Get Your Copy Today! Ear Infections One of the most common types of infections we see in any dog, but especially in Labradoodles, is an ear infection. They tend to be prone to these due to their ear conformation. Floppy ears have the tendency to trap in moisture and debris, setting your dog up for an overgrowth of yeast or bacteria. They often have curly hair in their ears as well, which holds in moisture and debris, too. If you look into the ears, you might see dark brown debris or smell a stinky odor. Take your dog to the veterinarian, and they will look into the ears with an otoscope and check it out for you. Many veterinarians will also perform a test called ear cytology, where they take a sample of the debris from the ear canals and smear it on a slide. This slide is stained and viewed under the microscope to determine if yeast or bacteria are causing the infection. Once they have confirmed infection and what is causing it, your veterinarian will make recommendations for treatment. They will usually prescribe medicine and a cleaner which is used within the ear canals. In severe cases, they may also send you home with oral medications for your Labradoodle, such as a steroid to decrease inflammation. Preventing Ear Infections Veterinarians get this question all the time. More commonly, a situation occurred where moisture built up in the ear canal. It works great! Not a single ear infection yet. They can cause itchy, watery eyes or make us prone to issues like skin infections. An allergy is basically an abnormal reaction when our body is exposed to a foreign substance. This can include medication, food, or even dust. For some people and animals, the signs of an allergy are seasonal, while in others, they last year-round. Food allergies are common in younger Labradoodles, often those less than two years of age. They can occur in older pets exposed to new foods though. The two primary places that a dog will react are within the skin layers or within the gut. This can mean that a food allergy to chicken causes your dog to chew his paws and have soft stool. Environmental allergies can occur in any aged dog, but especially in older Labradoodles. Their body produces an immunoglobulin when exposed to the allergen. Like with food allergies, it can cause a range of signs, from ear infections to breaking out in hives. Your veterinarian may make a presumptive diagnosis of allergies based on how your Labradoodle looks during the same, such as if he has his third ear infection within the same summer. They may also perform a food trial, where your pet is put on a hypoallergenic diet and fed nothing else for several weeks. If the issues clear up, they might be related to the food. Veterinarians can also perform allergy testing; this involves either intradermal skin testing or taking a blood sample and submitting it to a laboratory. There are a wide variety of treatments for allergies. Antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine, are often used to combat the histamine release that occurs when an animal is exposed to an allergen. These can include an injection called Cytopoint or oral medications like Apoquel or cyclosporine. Your veterinarian will work with you to find the best medication option for you and your Labradoodle. The only real prevention for allergies is avoidance. Joint Issues Like their originating breeds, Labradoodles can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as knee issues in smaller-sized Labradoodles. Over time, these issues can lead to the development of lameness, pain, and arthritis. In some cases, your veterinarian can diagnose a joint problem just based on palpation of the joints, such as hip dysplasia so severe that the hip luxates out of position. More commonly, X-rays are needed to diagnose the issues. Treatment for joint diseases depends on the severity and the joint involved. If a knee luxates or moves out of position, surgery is often all that is needed to correct it. Surgery is not always an option and medication may be required. Your veterinarian is likely to put your dog on a joint supplement to help protect the joint. These are the most popular joint supplements on Amazon. If your dog is in pain, they may utilize medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. These medications are a staple of arthritis management and are often used with other treatments, including gabapentin. There is very little that can be done to prevent joint issues in our Labradoodles. It largely goes back to the breeder. These are usually images taken of the hips and elbows to ensure that dysplasia is not present. If it is, the adult should not be bred, as she can pass the issue to her offspring. Epilepsy Labradoodles are prone to epilepsy. This is a neurologic condition involving seizures, generally repeated episodes of seizure activity. These seizures may occur as a single event or as clusters of seizures. They are a disruption of normal brain activity and result in loss of consciousness and often convulsions or fits. Your veterinarian will often diagnose seizures based on the history that you provide. This includes a description of the event, what your dog did, and how long it lasted. Your veterinarian will likely perform blood work to rule out metabolic causes of the seizures, such as liver disease. It tends to be an inherited health problem, although in some pets, trauma to the head can cause seizures to occur. Other causes of seizures include exposure to toxins, kidney failure, and tumors. Treatment for epilepsy depends on the severity of the seizures. In cases where they rarely occur, your veterinarian may discuss not putting your pet on anti-seizure, or anti-convulsant, medications. This is usually when the risk outweighs the benefit. In cases where your Labradoodle keeps having seizures or they last for an extended period, your veterinarian will likely put them on medication. There are many different types of anticonvulsant medications, with some of the more common being phenobarbital and levetiracetam. In most cases, there is nothing that can be done to prevent seizures other than not breeding pets that have epilepsy. This is because some cases are genetic. In many cases, your veterinarian will have you keep a log of the seizures. This is to see if some are preventable, such as your puppy having a seizure when he plays too hard outside Source VCA. This is a disease in which the retina, a portion of the eye, degenerates. It generally occurs bilaterally, or in both eyes, and leads to blindness over time. It is often called retinal dysplasia when the disease occurs in puppies, while adult dogs are affected by progressive retinal atrophy. The first sign of a dog developing PRA is often difficulty seeing at night. They might become more skittish or have trouble getting around in the dark or in low light. If she notices an issue such as dilated pupils or a change in the optic nerve, she might suspect PRA. A particular test, called an electroretinogram, is performed at the ophthalmologist to actually diagnose the disease source. If your pup is diagnosed with PRA, there is no known treatment. These supplements tend to be very safe so they might provide some benefit to your dog. They can help minimize the build-up of by-products that are toxic to the lenses of the eyes, which can lead to cataract formation source. PRA tends to be an inherited disease. It can be prevented by testing breeding Labradoodles with a DNA test. For most dogs, including Labradoodles, the disease is inherited as a recessive disorder, meaning they have to inherit a copy of the gene from both of their parents. In addition to not breeding pets that have the disease, their relatives should not be bred as they might also carry the gene. It is a disorder where normal blood clotting does not occur. It is also a protein that signals for the clotting cascade to occur regularly. It can also spontaneously occur from places such as the nasal passages. It can also manifest as blood in the urine or stool. Your veterinarian may want to test for this disease before they perform surgery on your Labradoodle since it can occur in them. Another test simply checks to see if your pet can clot normally by making a nick on their gingiva, called the buccal mucosal bleeding time test. Medications that may increase the risk for bleeding, such as aspirin, should also be avoided. In addition, carriers of the disease should not be bred as they can pass the recessive gene on to offspring, which further propagates the disease. You should always check to see if your breeder has screened for this genetic health issue Source petMD. It is an inflammatory and autoimmune disease. In affected dogs, the sebaceous glands in the skin are targets by the body and attacked. These are glands that are found within the hair follicles. As such, this disease affects the skin. Symptoms of sebaceous adenitis vary in Labradoodles. For many, they have hair loss that is the same on both sides of their body. They often also have brittle hair that mats easily. They might even have white flakes on their skin. Your veterinarian may presumptively diagnose sebaceous adenitis on the physical exam based upon her findings. The only real way to diagnose it is to biopsy the skin and have it evaluated by a pathologist. They are looking for signs such as inflammation of the sebaceous glands. Treatments for sebaceous adenitis are varied. Many pets need antibiotics because this skin disease has caused a secondary bacterial infection. Other procedures are designed to decrease the inflammation that is occurring. Some topical therapies are also beneficial to help soothe the skin, as well as get rid of the dry skin flakes that your pet may have. Unfortunately, treatments have to be continued life-long. Preventing sebaceous adenitis is most effective by not breeding affected dogs, as it may have a genetic predisposition. Standard poodles tend to be one of the most common breeds affected, which is why Labradoodles have also been changed. As such, affected dogs should be removed from the breeding pool Source VCA. Wrapping it up! Labradoodles as a whole tend to be a very healthy breed of dogs! They do get several diseases and disorders that their ancestors, the Labrador, and poodle, have inherited. Screening tests, such as hip X-rays checking for hip dysplasia, help us predict what diseases might happen in our puppies. Getting your puppy tested will also help your veterinarian determine other diseases that they might develop, such as the uncommon degenerative myelopathy. Even if your Labradoodle has one of these diseases — or another one, there are plenty of treatment options to help keep them healthy and comfortable. Keeping your pet supplements to help keep them healthy may also be beneficial. Many veterinarians recommend joint supplements, which help protect the joints, and fish oils, which can help with joint and coat health. Always remember though to discuss any supplements you are giving with your veterinarian so they can make proper recommendations. Related Posts:. Oh Wait, you have met the Labradoodle? This lovable hybrid is one of the best things to come out of Australia since vegemite. The appeal of the breed is obvious — intelligent, friendly, hardy, willing to please and one hell of a looker. However, as with all dogs it pays to do some research into the breed. So, in this article we look beyond the ever wagging tail and that oh, so soft coat into some potential health concerns that can come as part of your Labradoodle. Ear Infections Labrador owners and Poodle owners can attest to their pets ears potential to cause problems. The floppy ears of the breed trap moisture in and will need to be regularly checked. As an owner keep your eyes open for a waxy discoloured, discharge and a bad smell. Regular cleaning is a must, Ear cleaning solutions can be found at your local pet store and should be part of your regular cleaning routine. If the problem persists veterinary intervention will be required. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia Hip Dysplasia is quite a common health concern across a number of breeds and also found in Labradoodles. The dog may exhibit lameness or symptoms of pain with arthritis in the joint often being the long-term prognosis. Often this results in a weakened or malformed joint. The resulting seizures are alarming but the long-term prognosis is usually quite good for dogs suffering epilepsy — if you suspect that your Labradoodle may have epilepsy you will need your vet to diagnose the condition. Signs may include staggering, hiding, falling down, rigid limbs, losing consciousness. Allergies Most dogs have allergies but Labradoodles can be particularly prone. Allergies fall into three categories; Topical, contact, and food. Food allergies can be problematic for the labradoodle and depending on the severity of the allergy may require veterinary intervention and diet restrictions. Contact and topical allergies present different problems and are absorbed through the skin. If your Labradoodle is prone to allergies remember to regularly use Dig-In at meal times to help with recovery and even build some resilience — Shop Here 5. This disease is found in both Poodles and Labs across Australia and has been inherited by the Labradoodle. As a simple explanation, the pituitary gland fails to produce a hormone called ACTH. The resulting cortisol irregularity results in; improper food digestion, increases bouts of weakness, an abnormally high heart rate, excessive thirst and urination and also diarrhea. So, if you notice the above symptoms occurring you should consult your vet. The poodle and the Labrador are both fantastic breeds of dogs that are renown for the intelligence, loyalty, appeal, and capability. The Labradoodle is a surprisingly hardy breed under normal circumstances with the above traits not usually inherent but certainly worth keeping an eye out for. Remember to ask lots of questions when buying your pup and insist on meeting both parents. The Labradoodle is an endearing companion with loads of energy, great for families and suited to new and old dog owners alike. Update: Under new legislation that each state government is either enacting or considering, all breeders will be strictly controlled. However, it is best to talk to the Labradoodle Association of Australia to find out who are the best breeders. For more information, the below are certainly worth checking in with. If you think your pet may be suffering from a medical condition, seek immediate medical attention.

Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Pugaliers are prone to weight gain, and they have moderate energy levels. Make sure your pup gets several potty breaks through the day with active play sessions and short walks mixed in. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. If your pup inherits the folds in their skin from the pug parents, make sure to keep the skin clean and dry, as they are prone to developing skin infections. You should brush their teeth daily, as small breeds are prone to dental issues. Pugalier Feeding An ideal Pugalier diet should be formulated for a small breed with a moderate energy level. They have a tendency to gain weight if they are overfed, so you should stick to a regular feeding schedule and not leave food out during the day. A good brushing per week will probably do, though if their coats are more like their Cavalier parent, they may need two to three brushes per week. Baths should be sparse as they need their natural oils for optimum radiance. Pugalier Children And Other Pets Because the Pugalier is on the small side, they can be easily injured by overly excited children. Pugaliers are great for families of all ages of kids, just supervise and make sure everyone knows how to play gently. When it comes to other pets, Pugaliers get along well with most animals if they are introduced slowly and calmly, and early socialization will help this go smoothly. Always be cautious introducing new dogs to each other. While Pugaliers are very friendly, some dogs are not. Dogs should always be separated during meal times. Pugalier Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Pugaliers because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Pug or Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. What is a Pugalier? This cross can also be referred to as a Cavalier Pug mix. This hybrid dog is a relatively new designer breed combining to types of canines that have been around for many centuries. The average Pugalier can weigh between 6. Penny weighs 7. Pugalier appearance 2Pug West the Pugalier Photo: 2pug. They can have the eyes of the Pug, which are slightly protruding. Their coat can be soft to touch with wavy hair. Pugaliers can be black, brown, grey, white and fawn with medium-length hair and a dense coat. Ruth shed some insight on the appearance of her Pugalier, 2Pug West. Depending on how much Cavalier is mixed with Pug can really changed the appearance of a Pugalier. He does appear to have longer and floppy ears and his nose is not as flat as a purebred. Cavaliers make affectionate, loving, loyal and playful companion dogs. Pugs tend to have sweet personalities but they can have a stubborn streak. Pugaliers will usually be bright, funny and sociable pets, so they can make an excellent choice for families with children. Penny described the personality of her dog to give our readers an insight into Pugalier temperament. They have such a sweet nature! She loves cuddles but also loves her alone time. She loves to greet you when you get home by jumping and silently howling but after a few minutes, she will snooze on the couch. They are very gentle but when excited can be a little rough in a play type of way. She is also very inquisitive and will sniff everything and everyone! I also find with mine, he is extremely playful and enjoys exercise. Finally, Jack finished off our round up of Pugalier personalities. Do Pugaliers suffer from separation anxiety? Separation anxiety can occur when pet parents leave their canine companion at home alone. It usually manifests itself as incessant barking, howling or whining, destructive chewing or digging and even defecating or urinating inside the home. Jack the Pugalier does suffer from separation anxiety. I did find our Pugalier was showing signs of separation anxiety before. But we got a second puppy in the house and it absolutely helps with this. Do Pugaliers like to cuddle? While they like to dish out affection to their owners, Pugaliers are likely to enjoy some attention for themselves. Ruth explains that her Pugalier, 2Pug West, demands a lot of attention. He requires lots of attention and prefers to nap and lay down with us rather then being on his own. Do Pugaliers make great family pets? Channelle believes Pugaliers are a great option for family pets based upon her experience with Penny. They are friendly, loving, loyal and gentle for the most part unless they are super excited and want to play but they never hurt you! Pugaliers would be an ideal pooch for first time dog owners, the elderly or a family with children. I can guarantee, anyone who brings a Pugalier into their life , would have a gorgeous friend for life! Are Pugaliers easy to train? Channelle provided our readers with some insight into how she trained Penny. They can be with persistence and positive reinforcements. We had adopted Penny when she was 6 from a shelter so she was a little harder to train but now she is great! Pugaliers love to dig and a prone to separation anxiety but if you train them at a very young age, they will be the perfect pooch! How much exercise do Pugaliers need? Wag Walking recommend 30 minutes of exercise a day. Penny, for instance, relishes the chance to explore despite having low to moderate exercise needs. A small backyard is perfect for them, even a decent sized apartment. If you have a few toys for them and a decent sized area for zoomies, they will be happy! Are Pugaliers hypoallergenic? Do Pugaliers shed? Dog Time give the Pugalier four out of five stars with regards to shedding. It really depends how frequently you groom them I guess. We brush Penny a few times a week and she is professionally groomed once every weeks and now she hardly sheds at all. Penny also has more of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel coat which is much longer than the more common Pugalier you see which has more of a pug coat. I guess you just have to keep on top of it. Do Pugaliers need regular grooming? Pugaliers will benefit from regular grooming to remove dead hair and debris from their coat. Like we said above, Pugaliers can differ from dog to dog depending on which traits they inherit from each parent. Not necessarily. The only thing that should be done regularly is cleaning between their wrinkles. I also find depending on the bloodline of your pug, they do shed a lot of fur so look into getting some special shampoo and brush them regularly to get rid of excess fur. Do Pugaliers have any health problems? The research I did prior to getting Jack told me that cavaliers and pugs are prone to hip dysplasia. Are Pugaliers fussy eaters? Compared to a lot of the common dog treats, he actually prefers fresh fruit and veggies like avocado, bok choy, sweet corn and tomatoes. Do Pugaliers get along with other dogs? Having said that, we recommend pet parents to socialize their puppies from a young age and expose them to lots of people and vaccinated dogs to help their social skills develop. Pugalier price Pugaliers can range in price if you buy them from a breeder. But this was 6 years ago and I also drove very far to the countryside. In more metro areas, pugs and pug mixes are generally a lot more expensive. Are Pugaliers expensive? Is this a cross breed that is suited to first-time dog owners? Ruth says yes based upon her experience with Penny. Our Pugalier is extremely smart and picked up tricks very easily, so for that it made it super easy as new dog owners. If you have another dog already, Pugaliers would make a great addition to your family. Otherwise if you are home frequently, they would be amazing as a first pet! Pugaliers to follow on Instagram If you want to learn more about Pugaliers, we recommend following some members of the breed on social media to learn more. Here are some Pugalier accounts to check out on Instagram. So, finding high-quality dog food containing only necessary and healthy fats is best. Likewise, treats should be given not in excess but only when deserved. Pugs are more than happy to spend most of the day on the couch, and while Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are similarly relaxed, they are a bit more energetic and willing to participate in activities. Regardless, your dog will need moderate daily exercise. Early socialization and obedience training will be essential to train your Pugalier properly. Pugs are sensitive creatures and do not respond well to harsh training methods. Without positive reinforcement and rewards, your dog can get hurt feelings and lose the desire to train. When training your Pugalier, you should never use punishments or other negative reinforcement. Instead, focus on the positives by providing rewards, praise, and treats for desired behavior. If the coat is more like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, they will require multiple brushings per week as well as a bath every month or so. However, you can minimize the chances of your pet suffering a chronic disease by maintaining regular veterinary appointments. Minor Conditions Pugs and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are susceptible to eye conditions such as corneal ulcers and cataracts, so watch out for any signs of eye discomfort, irritation, or pain. Your Pugalier will also be prone to patellar luxation , which is essentially a displaced kneecap. The severity of this condition varies, and it can predispose your pet to other conditions later in life. Hip dysplasia is another condition to be aware of, which often appears as weakness or pain in the hind limbs. You may notice your dog limping, struggling to stand, or having difficulty climbing furniture or stairs. Serious Conditions A serious condition that your Pugalier is at high risk for is obesity. Mitral valve disease is another concerning condition that your dog may be prone to. The mitral valve is a structure that prevents blood from flowing backward through the heart. When Pugaliers develop mitral valve disease, the valve degenerates and becomes less effective. The cause of this condition is unknown, but genetics is suspected to play a significant role. However, spaying can be more expensive than neutering due to the invasive nature of the surgery, and a female Pugalier may cost a bit extra upfront. It is said that Charles II was so enamored by his dogs that he brought them everywhere he went. An assassination attempt on Prince William was thwarted due to his Pug barking at the sight of the intruders. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, on the other hand, were bred to aid in hunting efforts and still retain these keen instincts. However, they are also more than happy to snuggle up on the couch. They can thrive in nearly any family situation or housing and only require moderate exercise. They get along with other pets, making them an ideal companion for a multi-pet household. Bringing a Pugalier home will require a lot of work, especially if you acquire one from a breeder. You must dedicate a significant amount of time to researching any breeders you approach, as the Pugalier is considered a designer breed and may be irresponsibly bred as a result. If you think the Pugalier is the right fit for you, we recommend beginning your search at your local animal shelter. Wherever you find your Pugalier, they will undoubtedly become a cherished friend for life. See also:.

Features Top of the Pups: the world's most exclusive dog litters Waiting lists, huge sums of money, royals and randy bitches - the world of the most exclusive dog litters is much more exciting than you might imagine. Nothing is too much trouble and he is never one to sulk. He is a real character and a joy to be out with. And it is. Sort of. Because Harley is a cocker spaniel and a stud dog, and this is his profile description on the Duke of Buccleuch's website, beside a dreamy picture of him, ears cocked, staring into the distance. Harley lives in the duke's kennels at Drumlanrig Castle, where Labradors and, later, spaniels have been bred and trained as gundogs since the s, when the 5th duke started importing them from Newfoundland. Their pedigree is thus both terribly old and terribly grand, and puppies can fetch prices well into four figures. Lucky girl. Just like deciding where to send your children to school, or whether to summer on Corfu or Capri, picking a new puppy is a major decision. You can't just get one from any old place. Alas, the breeding operation has been wound down, although if you are invited to shoot there, you could still try the sneaky approach. Bed dogs and gundogs. Swan had been a gift to the Queen from Dr. They were all part of what would come to be called the Royal Kennels. They are well ventilated, with good sanitary arrangements, and are whitewashed once a year. Iron gates enclose each kennel from the central yard. Good grass runs are adjacent to the kennels. Brundson, did a systematic tour of the kennels at least once each week. These days, according to the official website of the Royal Monarchy, Sandringham Kennels house approximately twenty dogs of varying ages, including Labradors and Cocker Spaniels of various ages. The experienced gun dogs are used by members of the Royal Family during the shooting season, while the younger dogs are under training. As a point of fact, the Sandringham line of Labrador Retrievers founded in have earned respect throughout the shooting world and have been quite successful in working tests and field trials. The Queen learned well, and as an adult, her breeding plans always focused on producing dogs that could be handled at yards out. Indeed, the Queen has not only been the patron of the Labrador Retriever Club since , but in younger days was an active member of the Club, taking part regularly in its field trials. HM The Queen was picking-up behind a line of guns on the Sandringham estate, working her beloved cocker spaniels with consummate skill. In the game-shooting calendar the scene is familiar, even unremarkable. And as for the dogs, none of them knows its handler has been head of state for over six decades. British gundogs are the best in the world and Her Majesty has been their keenest supporter from childhood when she commandeered any available dog to find birds at Balmoral, alert to the vagaries of scent and wind. The Royal Family have long been dog fanciers. Our own Queen enjoys a striking affinity with dogs and horses. She understands her animals and this instinct allows her to read their behaviour. Trial champions would be good sires and dams for the development of future lines. Back then, showing and trialling were not in sharp divergence, and Sandringham dogs would find fame for a winning combination of good looks and brains. Sherry was a star. The season was hectic. Commercial breeding also ceased, and the 22 labradors and cocker spaniels currently housed in the cacophonous kennels are now in the sedulous care of Alan Goodship, RVM. The annual trip to Balmoral aside, the peripatetic regime is over. My country stops at Kings Lynn. That was 33 years ago, and the continuity of characters, both human and canine, lends the kennels a powerful atmosphere. He and Mrs Meldrum were both very kind to me. In the Goodships, The Queen has found fellow devotees of the corgi. Wild-eyed and boisterous, Bertie is in the line of Flash, a recently lost royal veteran. Her belly touches it first time. But at each successive attempt, her retrieves growing longer, this generous and talented dog wings it. If she derives as much pleasure from the royal dogs as Meldrum and Goodship suggest, then we owe them a debt of gratitude. Long may Her Majesty enjoy their company. Article by Ms. Elizabeth Walton. April, .Labradors, and is not for use unless by permission only by Donna Stanley.