german shepherd puppies litter
We have been breeding and showing Golden Retrievers for over 20 years. Many of our Goldens have gone on to win numerous awards at competitions throughout the U. Some of our pups even starred in Disney movies! Eagleridge has been recognized multiple times for our outstanding achievements and dedication to breeding outstanding Golden Retrievers. We are proudly registered as a Breeder of Merit by the AKC, as recognition for our dedication and passion of breeding beautiful, healthy Golden Retriever puppies. The AKC has also rewarded us with their Silver Medallion as recognition of our success over the years. Baby Francis 3 arriving January ! Testimonials Gus "Good morning! I wanted to reach out and send some photos of Gus who is now a little over a year old. He has gotten into Dock Diving in the last few months and has earned his Dock Senior title. Thank you for a great dog! When I tell you that he did it with no effort, I'm not exaggerating. He did it all on his own! I think he would have passed the test when I received him in July. I think you and your staff should be very proud of the training you provide your puppies! Please thank everyone who worked with Dwayne. In two weeks, he will become a therapy dog with Easter Seals of Alabama. Jen was so helpful, knowledgeable, and professional throughout the whole adoption process. She communicated regularly with us, providing so many updates and videos along the way. We are so fortunate for her and her staff! Thank you Jen and Eagleridge Golden Retrievers!! Jen was always super responsive, knowledgeable and able to answer our many questions. We have had Kevin for about a month and a half now we got him in September and he is settling in perfectly. The training program was a great addition, he is able to follow commands and is very well tempered and so smart. From the adoption process to the training program, we would absolutely recommend this breeder to anyone looking for a great experience! This FL boy is definitely enjoying the Northeastern Autumn! Furthermore, being a client since , I could honestly compare the experience from four 4 years ago to this present time. It was as stress free working with Jen Francis as it could possibly be! Her knowledge about this variety of a K9 is remarkable. The quality health , temperament and of course breed beauty and more are on full display at EagleRidge! Open your favorite brew on the go with a built-in bottle opener. My dog Waffles is a Boston terrier and literally shredded every single toy that she has owned until we introduced her to your duraplush toys. She has managed to not destroy the butterfly her favorite , bat, squirrel, and springy thing. I am so impressed and so thrilled with the quality of your products. I just purchased a couple more to add to the collection. Thanks again! Drew T. You guys really have a great product. I absolutely love your products! Our girl, Cola, has had her collar for 4 or 5 years now, and it still looks great. We hope she takes to the new one. I love her so much! Jon B. Cycle Dog is by far our favorite collar for Griffin. Your designs and quality are superior. Mary H. I have 5 big dogs. I bought 4 toys, expecting them to be destroyed in minutes. We have the grape, squirrel, beer can, and radish. They are by far the best dog toys I have ever bought! These toys take a lot of punishment from 4 big labradors and a golden retriever. Heidi S. He loves to catch it in midair, chew on it and make it squeak! Just wanted to say thank you for the best toy — and please never stop making them! With snuggles, Murphy and Roger Dara M. Just wanted you to know that you made Obadiah one happy Labradoodle. Obadiah is in dog heaven with the addition of your Nestle Dog bed. Thank you for making such awesome products. Mary S. 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. While both parent breeds are intelligent and have been used as working dogs, hounds are notoriously stubborn. Those that favor their Beagle parentage may put up a fight even when learning basic obedience. Daily training sessions that last five to ten minutes any longer can cause disinterest and backfire as far as creating progress are key to helping this breed retain good manners and stay on track. It may be a wise idea to also enroll this breed in puppy classes or general obedience training with a professional. They can be strong-willed and need stimulation and routine exercise. Without proper stimulation, the American Eagle Dog will grow bored and frustrated — regardless of how much love there is for them. This breed easily develops separation anxiety. Dog parents who are frequently home or able to bring pups to work are a good match for this breed. This breed should receive walks for at least 45 minutes a day. Ideally, they will also have a fenced in backyard to burn off extra energy. These breeds can be prone to behaviors humans find frustrating, like digging and barking, when under-stimulated. They will make it endlessly clear they are bored. Both parent breeds, however, are well known and loved. Extremely small beagles, called Glove Beagles, were popular from the s to s. They reportedly were small enough to be held in a gloved hand. The American Kennel Club and the first Beagle specialty club both were founded in .In that same year, the AKC began registering Beagles. From there, their popularity in hunting grew. While this breed is energetic and driven, they can make wonderful family pets with the right insight into their care. The true origin of the American Eskimo Dog is unknown. What is known is that in the United States, small, white Spitz-type dogs were commonly found in German immigrant communities. These dogs were most likely descendants of white Keeshonden , or large white Pomeranians. In , the American Spitz was renamed the American Eskimo Dog, though today we have little insight into why the change was made. These goofy companions continue to amuse. American Eagle Dog Size The American Eagle Dog is a small-sized mixed breed — although their feisty attitudes may convince you otherwise. They have no breed standard, so their coats may be found in a variation of colors from either parent. They will often have thick coats that make them appear larger than their true size. American Eagle Dog Personality The American Eagle Dog is often good-natured and loving with those they know well, but they also can be overprotective or easily startled. Training them consistently when young will ultimately improve their quality of life and yours as an adult. American Eagle Dog Health While American Eagle Dogs originating from responsible breeders are often healthy, there are some genetic predispositions towards health issues to be aware of with this crossbreed. Hip Dysplasia. Barb had her own dog training business, Ringtime Training Center, for over a decade before founding Monty's Home. She earned CPDT through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers in and maintains required continuing education credits to remain current in training techniques. She has been working with the Pawsitive Partners Prison Program since assisting in conducting classes at Pender County Prison as well as dog handling duties at Meet and Greets. Dale has served as a Monty's Home Board Member since .She began her career as a trainer in dog daycares before progressing to training and socialization of puppies for a breeder of Labrador Retriever Service Dogs. She started a dog training business providing private lessons, often dealing with behavioral issues. Amanda belongs to various dog training organizations and attends dog training conferences and webinars. She has contributed to a curriculum in a new dog training course. Rally Obedience is her sport of choice where she competes with her certified therapy labrador retriever, JJ. Amanda assists in conducting temperament testing at shelter pulls. Pooling more than years' combined experience in training and behavior modification, this team of multi-faceted, experienced trainers in provided the foundation for the overwhelming success of the Pawsitive Partners Prison Program. Barbara Eagles: Barbara started training dogs professionally in .After moving to Wilmington in , she founded the first dog training facility in Wilmington. Barbara specialized in training and behavioral counseling for more than 25 years and agreed to come out of retirement to help create this outstanding program. Kathleen Moyer: Kathleen was a former regional representative for Australian Shepherd Rescu e she committed hundreds of hours to supporting this noble breed. Kathleen coordinated adoptions and developed protocols and procedures for PPPP. With more than 25 years experience in instruction, competition and behavior training, she specializes in behavior management and modification. We were thrilled to learn Barb was moving back to the area — just in time for the inaugural PPPP class — and agreed to come on board. Vicky Wilcox: Vicky was the head trainer for service dogs at Carolina Canines for more than 10 years.
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions from Poodle owners like you. What should I feed a picky Poodle? What should I not feed my Poodle? Human food! You should also avoid toxic foods for dogs like chocolate, garlic, onions, etc. Do Poodle need a special diet? Small-breed dog food is sometimes recommended by vets, but most small breeds can eat regular dog food without an issue. What is the best homemade food for Poodles? Soft dog foods that require little chewing are the best options for Poodles with no teeth. Should I put my Poodle on a diet plan? Unless your Poodle is overweight, suffering from a specific health condition, or has allergies, they should not be put on a diet. Your vet will be able to tell you if your dog requires a new diet, less or more food, or prescription dog food. If your dog needs to lose weight, here are some tips you can try. Sticking with Blue Buffalo, we think that their canned puppy food is a contender for the best dog food for Poodle puppies. What should I look for in a dog food for my Poodle? Look for a dog food that is high in protein, low in carbohydrates, and contains essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals. Avoid dog foods with artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. Should I choose wet or dry food for my Poodle? Both wet and dry food can be suitable for Poodles. However, dry food may be better for dental health as it can help scrape off plaque and tartar. Can I feed my Poodle a homemade diet? Yes, you can feed your Poodle a homemade diet, here are some vet-approved recipes. While dog food specifically formulated for Poodles may be beneficial, it is not necessary. What is the best dog food for a Poodle with sensitive stomachs? Look for a dog food that is made with easily digestible ingredients, such as chicken or lamb. Avoid dog foods that contain artificial ingredients or fillers. Can Poodles eat grain-free dog food? Yes, Poodles can eat grain-free dog food, but it is important to make sure that the food still contains essential nutrients and is not lacking in any areas. How much should I feed my Poodle? The amount of food your Poodle needs depends on their size, age, and activity level. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate amount of food for your Poodle. Should I choose a dog food that is high in fat? No, it is important to choose a dog food that is balanced and does not contain excessive amounts of fat. Too much fat can lead to obesity and other health problems. Is it necessary to feed my Poodle a dog food with added supplements? Can I feed my Poodle a vegetarian diet? Poodles require meat-based protein in their diet and typically cannot thrive on a vegetarian diet unless carefully prepared. Here are some vegetarian and vegan recipes and store-bought foods. Should I avoid dog foods that contain by-products? While by-products are often viewed negatively, they can provide essential nutrients for dogs but not when cooked in with kibble. By-products, such as chicken liver are healthy for dogs. Consistency is important for their digestive health. What is the best dog food for a senior Poodle? Look for a dog food that is lower in calories and fat, higher in protein, and contains joint supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin. Can I feed my Poodle a raw diet? Yes, a raw diet is a great choice. Feeding a Poodle Overview Ensuring that your Poodle is on a well-balanced diet is one of the most important elements to keeping your canine family member healthy, both now and into the future. This section will cover all Poodle feeding guidelines including how often to feed a Poodle, serving sizes, dry vs wet, grain vs grain-free, and top recommended kibble. Don't need all of the details and just want to know which brands are recommended? New Puppies - The Importance of Gradually Switching Foods Before you even bring your Poodle home, it is very important to discuss with the breeder or shelter worker if you are adopting a rescue exactly which brand of food they have been feeding to your Poodle. A fast change in food can cause upset stomach and digestive problems. Breeders and shelters are buying food in bulk and have to feed many dogs which is a factor in which brand they choose; so there is a good chance that you will want to offer your Poodle something different. Have both the current food and the new food on hand and make a gradual switch over the course of 3 weeks. Though you will be leaving food out at all times, it is important that the food is fresh. Do not just top it off throughout the day, rinse and clean the bowl as necessary so that old food is not stuck at the bottom of the dish. Puppy: Starting at just about the 3 month mark, Poodles of all varieties should be eating 3 meals per day, plus snacks. Adult: When a pup matures into an adult, this does not necessarily mean that they should suddenly be given only one meal a day. Smaller dogs such as Toy Poodles and Miniatures often do best with 2 or even 3 meals per day. Standards have a bit more tolerance to a single dinnertime feeding, however many can also benefit from having food split up into two servings. Several snacks can be given in between meals and this is particularly helpful is a Poodle is a fast eater. How Much to Feed a Poodle Exact serving size varies quite a bit depending on the type of food. There is a big difference in calories between wet vs dry and low quality vs high quality. And, the amount of food that a Poodle should be eating depends on the dog's age, activity level, individual metabolism, and health status. Even the weather can play a role since dogs tend to eat a bit more in the winter and a bit less in the summer. In regard to calorie requirements, puppies need more calories per pound than their adult counterparts, approximately 40 to 55 calories per pound, daily, compared to adult dogs that need about 35 to 45 calories per pound, daily. S enior Poodles typically have slower metabolisms and reduced mobility and therefore usually require slightly fewer calories, in the 40 calorie per pound range. If you are feeding your Poodle a commercial food, follow the suggested feeding guidelines. These are usually pretty spot-on. Since these are based on both age and weight, do not estimate how much your Poodle weighs but rather know what this is within a pound or two. If you are feeding your Poodle homemade food, a rough guideline for serving size is 1 ounce of food for each 1 pound of body weight, daily. As you can imagine, this can vary quite a bit depending on the exact ingredients. Using the 1 to 1 rule as a starting point, what your Poodle consumes within 15 minutes is usually a good amount for each meal. Wet vs Dry If a Poodle had their way, most would opt for wet food. However, dry food is recommended since this is much better for the gums and teeth. In addition, dry kibble tends to be easier on the stomach and intestines and a diet of all wet canned food can lead to runny stools. Grain vs Grain-free Until relatively recently, there was not much debate on this subject; if a dog tended to have gastrointestinal or allergy issues when on a diet with grains, they were switched to a grain-free recipe. However, this changed when it was discovered that several dogs that were breeds not prone to dilated cardiomyopathy developed that particular heart disease and also happened to be fed grain-free kibble. Lots of pet parents immediately thought that they needed to change their dogs back to grains; however, many more studies need to be done. In fact, the most recent update from the Veterinary Medical Center at Tufts University suggests that 'grain-free' alone may not be the issue at play. For now, it is theorized that a certain diet dubbed a BEG diet may be to blame. This stands for boutique small local brands with exotic meats non-traditional meats like alligator, bison, ostrich, venison, and kangaroo and grain-free along with peas, legumes, or potatoes as one of the top 5 ingredients. Currently there are no recalls of grain-free dog food brands and the FDA is still investigating any possible links including the BEG theory. If your Poodle does not do well with any grains at all, you may wish to stick to a brand that has traditional meats like chicken, turkey, or beef or a fish-based recipes. And, if you are not sure about which grains your Poodle may do okay with, you may wish to opt for wholesome non-wheat and non-gluten grains like rice brown or white , oatmeal, quinoa which is technically a seed. Exact recommendations for the best foods include both grain and grain-free options. Elements to Keep in Mind When Choosing Food for Your Poodle What to avoid: It's no wonder that pet parents have a difficult time navigating the many choices of dog foods in their quest to find the best brand to give their Poodle, there are a lot of ingredients to avoid: Artificial flavoring like MSG which can cause terrible allergic reactions. Artificial coloring. Some of the worst are Yellow 5, Red 40, Blue 2, and Yellow 6 which are linked to very serious issues including neurological and behavioral issues like insomnia and hyperactivity and serious health issues including some cancers. Chemical preservatives. This can be tricky to avoid since these do not always need to be labeled; if these are added to protect 'protein meals' in low levels, you'll never see it listed as an ingredient. These are meats and animal parts deemed unfit for human consumption. Examples are lungs, spleen, spinal tissue, genitals, hooves, beaks, intestines, and more. Generic meats or oils. This can, by law, be any species of animal whatsoever and are usually 4-D animal parts: Sourced from dead, diseased, dying, or disabled zoo animals, farm animals, or even roadkill. These are very common in cheaper subpar brands and are inexpensive ingredients that are added only to plump up the food but offer little to no nutritional value. Examples of fillers include corn, soy, wheat middlings, peanut hulls, oat husks, and cereal grains. Ingestion of fillers is a contributing factor in coprophagia eating feces and is linked to malnutrition. High grain count. Though some wholesome grains may be desired next section , high levels of wheat or gluten can cause upset stomach issues and allergies. What to look for: Knowing what to avoid can help you identify some of the better brands though exact recommendations are below. This means zero artificial additives. Natural preservatives. Wholesome ingredients. For meats and proteins this includes chicken, turkey, duck, lamb, rabbit, beef, and many types of fish including whitefish, haddock, salmon, and cod. You'll also want your Poodle to have some vegetables and fruits which provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Zero fillers. Every ingredient should serve the purpose of providing nutrients and never added simply to bulk up the recipe. The right balance of healthy grains. Though some Poodles will need to avoid all grains, most do very well with select non-wheat, non-gluten options including oatmeal, quinoa, and rice. Added extras. Next, we'll cover exact recommendations that fit all of the above criteria. Best Food for Poodles: Recommended Brands Please note that if you have not yet read ' Grain vs Grain-free ' section, you may wish to do so before continuing. Top recommend food with grains: 1. Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry. For larger miniatures and standards, you'll want to opt for their regular Complete Health. There are also puppy, adult, and senior formulas. All of these have no wheat, corn or other fillers, artificial coloring or flavoring, soy, meat by-products, or chemical preservatives, so you can feel very confident that your filling your Poodle's bowl with truly wholesome, healthy food. These recipes also have excellent levels of omega-3 fatty acids. And, this is made in the USA. Halo Natural Holisitc Dog Food. This top brand has found its niche by offering a purely holistic, organic recipe with non-GMO veggies and fruits and meats with no antibiotics, no hormones, and no factory farming. The protein base is chicken and liver, the two grains in this are oats and barley, and vegetables and fruits include peas, blueberries, cranberries, carrots, and sweet potato. All other ingredients are to naturally preserve the kibble or are vitamins and minerals. This particular recipe is for small breeds, however there is also an original for larger dogs. Halo is made in the USA. Top recommended food without grains: 1. Merrick is a great brand which offers this recipe for small breeds, like toy Poodles and another option for larger dogs which would include miniatures and standards. Protein bases include Texas beef, lamb, chicken, and salmon. There is no corn or other fillers, wheat, gluten, artificial additives, or chemical preservatives. And, there are excellent levels of omega-3 and both pre and probiotics. Merrick is also made in the USA. The CORE formula from Wellness is, by far, one of the very best grain-free foods on the market today. It hits very single checkbox of what you are ideally looking for in a food for your Poodle and it has some superior extras. There are excellent levels of glucosamine and chondroitin, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants. There is both a small breed formula and an original formula for minis and standards as well as puppy recipes and a reduced fat option. Wellness is made in the USA. What to Feed Your Poodle if Home Cooking You will want to have a mix of protein, healthy grains, vegetables and fruits. Proteins can include beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, veal, and fish cod, flounder, salmon, whitefish. Vegetables can include sugar snap peas, green beans, lima beans, spinach, peas, zucchini, carrots, sweet potato, and regular potato. Fruits can include blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, apple, and pear. Extras can include eggs, salmon oil, extra virgin olive oil, certain cheese with low levels of lactose Colby, Monterey Jack, Swiss cheese, and cottage cheese and plain whole white yogurt. Note that if you home cook, you will want to include a daily vitamin and mineral since it is near impossible for any combination of foods to offer a dog every nutrient that they need. Snacks Snacks and treats are also an important part of a dog's diet. Dry treats often labeled as baked or crunchy are best to tide over the appetite in between meals. Moist or chewy treats are best when used as training rewards and to reinforce good behavior. Rapid ingestion of food can lead to gas, vomiting, or upset stomach and is linked to killer bloat. Types of Nuts that a Poodle Can Eat - If you are snacking away on some nuts and want to share them with your Poodle, see which ones are safe and which are not. Poodle Begging Behavior - Giving into begging for table scraps or extra snacks contributes to this bad habit. See how to react if your Poodle won't stop begging. Overly Picky Poodles - Read how to address finicky eaters to make mealtime less stressful for both of you. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share Us. Updated March 4, This post contains affiliate links and we will be compensated if you buy after clicking on our links. Poodle puppies are lively and rambunctious creatures who are ready for anything. The breed has a long history that dates back several centuries. While many people know them for strutting their stuff at a dog show or performing tricks at a circus, most Poodles end up being a lovable member of the family. Good nutrition is crucial for proper development. In a hurry? The first is their size classification. There are three main Poodle varieties. These include Toy, Mini, and Standard. Toy Poodles are the smallest of the bunch, maxing out at about nine pounds as an adult. Standard Poodles, on the other hand, can get quite large. They can weigh as much as 70 pounds. However, most stay around the neighborhood of 60 pounds. All dogs start out small. They experience a significant growth spurt during the puppy stage. Before you know it, your young dog will be approaching their adult size. You need to have a good idea of how big your dog will get to supply them with the right amount of food. With a protein content of 31 percent, your puppy will receive all the amino acids they need to grow strong muscles. To support their changing digestive system, plenty of probiotics are added as well. Buy on Chewy 2. Most of it comes from deboned chicken and chicken meal. The dry food also has plenty of healthy fat to support their growing coat and brain. Healthy doses of calcium and phosphorous are included. These ingredients support bone growth and may be able to help your puppy avoid joint and skeletal issues in the future. Buy on Chewy 3. Chicken, lamb, and salmon all contribute to the high protein content. Because so many animal meat sources are used, your puppy can get a complex profile of amino acids to support their muscles. The kibble is also chock-full of fruits and vegetables. Ingredients like apples, spinach, and blueberries give your puppy a dose of vitamins. This particular formula is ideal for Standard Poodles. Buy on Chewy 4. It supports ocular health, improves their digestive system, strengthens their immune system, and provides plenty of energy. It does this with high-quality ingredients. Chicken and turkey are the main protein sources. Buy on Chewy 5. Chicken meal, turkey meal, and lamb meal are the most prevalent ingredients in the recipe. They make up the 24 percent protein content. The food also has a number of beneficial nutrients. Buy on Chewy nutritional requirements While the Poodle size classifications are vastly different, their nutritional requirements remain the same. The only thing that will be different is the amount of food you provide. During the first year, your dog is developing muscles, strong bones, and healthy organs. Poodle puppies are quite active. This constant activity eats up a lot of energy. Not only that, but their bodies are changing. On average, Poodle puppies will need about 55 calories per pound of body weight. More active puppies may need upwards of 60 calories. On the other side of the spectrum, lazier pups will need about .You can use this general guideline to figure out how much food your puppy will need at various stages of development. If not, you may have to soften the kibble a bit to get them to eat or start with wet food. Compared to their birth weight, Poodles will be surprisingly large for only being a few months of age. Toy Poodles The average weight of a Toy Poodle at three months is about two and a half pounds. Miniature Poodles Miniature Poodles typically weigh about five pounds at this age and need approximately calories to stay healthy. Standard Poodles Standard Poodles are well on their weight to reaching adulthood at three months. They should already weight about 20 pounds. This equates to over 1, calories every day. You should continue to monitor their growth and adjust their diets as needed. Toy Poodles Toy Poodles almost double their weight by this age. They typically weigh in at just under five pounds, thus requiring about calories. Miniature Poodles By six months old, most Miniature Poodles tip the scales at about 9 pounds. Standard Poodles At around 35 to 39 pounds, Standard Poodles will do well with just over 2, calories of food. One Year of Age Take out the birthday candles and some dog-friendly cake! This is a great time to look back on your previous weigh-ins to see how much your puppy has changed. Your Poodle should be close to their target adult weight. They will continue to grow a bit longer, especially Standard Poodles. However, the changes will be a bit more difficult to see. Toy Poodles While it may not seem like much growth, Toy Poodles have come a long way since birth. Your tiny canine companion should weigh in at about six pounds and require about calories of food each day. Miniature Poodles Miniature Poodles have an average weight of about 13 pounds when they are one year old. As a result, you should be feeding them just under calories. Standard Poodles At a year old, your Standard Poodle is probably too big to be a lapdog anymore. Most puppies weigh about 50 pounds. They will need between 2, and 2, calories each day. Young Poodles need to eat many times throughout the day. When their suckling off their mothers, puppies typically free feed. Your dog will have the urge to eat a lot as a result. From there, you need to slowly decrease their meal frequency. When you hit the six-month mark, go down to three meals. At one year old, you should try to work your way down to two meals. Your puppy may not like this very much. If they seem to have a problem with hunger throughout the day, you can continue to feed them three meals for another few months. The time to switch your puppy to adult food will depend on a couple of factors. Some dogs take a bit longer to reach their adult weight than others. They need continued support as they make that last push to adulthood. Switching too early can do more harm than good. This is because they are considered adults at about one year old. The other two classifications continue to grow, albeit slowly, until about a year and a half. Their digestive system is still quite sensitive to changes. You can ease the transition by introducing small amounts of adult food to their puppy formula. Dry food and wet food both have their advantages. Starting off with canned food gives your puppy the opportunity to develop stronger muscles before they move onto something tough. It should be noted that wet food is usually less dense than kibble. To avoid weight gain, you should move onto dry kibble when your puppy is about six months old. Here are some great recipes for young Poodle pups. The food comes in a mash form. It can also be mixed in with dry food for an additional kick of flavor. It comes in a convenient tray for mess-free eating. The recipe is comprised of great ingredients like beef and liver. There are also visible vegetables. Over to You Creating an effective diet plan for a growing Poodle puppy is a lot different than doing so for an adult. They need all the fuel they can get. With a bit of extra knowledge and planning, you can provide your dog with a great diet that helps them grow up to a healthy adult. Life Stage The first thing you need to consider is what stage of life your Poodle is in. We have quite a few choices on our list that should work well, whichever life stage your Poodle is in at the moment. You want a blend that has essential vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and more to ensure your pooch has everything they need in the nutrition department for a healthy, happy life. For years, it was thought that any dog food that was grain-free should be good for your pooch, now it might not be. The FDA warns that it is possible that grain-free foods can lead to cardiomyopathy in pets , Poodles included. These are a few of the things that you need to consider when choosing the right food for your standard Poodle. Final Thoughts This concludes our reviews of the eight best dog foods for standard Poodles. Human-grade ingredients including USDA turkey delivered straight to your door: what more could you want? Featured Image Credit: everydoghasastory, Shutterstock Written by Patricia Dickson Author Patricia is an experienced pet writer and lifelong animal lover. Mystery and Link have been with her since birth. Binx was found under her house as a kitten and promptly welcomed into the family. Patricia enjoys volunteering at her local rescue shelter and sharing her extensive knowledge of pets. Dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese Grapes and raisins Sweets and desserts Avocados Dogs can have dried cranberries as a treat, as these berries are good for digestive and bladder health. However, raisins and grapes are toxic to dogs and can lead to significant kidney failure. If you fear your dog has eaten raisins or grapes, reach out to your veterinarian as soon as possible. Dry Food Vs. Wet Food Dogs should rely on dry food as opposed to wet food. However, wet food should be a consistent portion of their diet. Although most dogs would eat only wet food if they could, too much wet food can cause digestive problems and make dogs sick. Dry food offers fibrous content that dogs need for a healthy bowel movement. Wet food offers food rife with vitamins and minerals — alongside an appealing taste for most dogs. However, dry food can help with tooth health and fight gum disease. A healthy combination of dry and wet food can lead to a well-balanced meal and a happy dog. The best possible dog food varieties include those that offer your Poodle only the healthiest and high-quality ingredients available. Although some of these dog food choices may be expensive, they also offer lean proteins like duck and sweet potato, so you know your Poodle is getting only the best from their diet. Although the first ingredient is a chicken by-product, this dog food option is rife with protein, vitamins, and minerals that will help your Poodle feel at the top of its game. The kibbles included in this dog food choice are enriched with omega-3 fatty acids and contain vitamins that will assist in healthy coat formation and healthy gums. Not only is this brand recommended by vets around the world, but it also includes a flavor that dogs seem to love and ingredients that pet owners can feel good about. While the cost for this dog food option is a touch high, it offers the security of knowing that your dog will have all the nutrients and vitamins needed to live a long and healthy life. Each variety contains the exclusive Nutrivantage, and no filler or meat bi-product. Chicken meal and rice flavor. No Corn, no wheat, no soy, no meat bi-products. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. Alongside lean protein and quality sources of fat, this dog food option also offers tons of vitamins and minerals. Although this dog food choice is expensive, it is also ideal for dogs who are currently training or need a boost in their performance. Contains one 1 30 lb. Blue Buffalo is notorious for making only the best dog food with real meat as the first ingredient. This is rife with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants that will help your Poodle thrive. Additionally, this dog food is also enhanced with vitamins and minerals specifically for immune system support. ALL NATURAL: Created by nutritionists, veterinarians and animal lovers, our recipes provide an ideal balance of nature's finest ingredients, carefully selected to nourish and sustain your dog's.However, the calorie content of this food is a little high, which can cause weight gain. Additionally, this dog food brand is more expensive than the average, although it does have everything your Poodle will need to keep them healthy and happy. Larger Poodles may not get all the nutrients and vitamins they need from this dog food option, as it is meant for smaller breeds. This choice may be the least expensive choice for dog food while maintaining high-quality ingredients and food rife with minerals and vitamins. There are no artificial ingredients, and there is plenty of protein in this food option. This brand prides itself on not including any animal by-products or fillers. This product is rife with vitamins and minerals necessary for healthy gums and a full coat. Poodles Require Special Nutrients Poodles need more protein than other dogs because of their lean shape, meaning that Poodles may require a unique brand of dog food that can offer enhanced vitamins, minerals, and protein content. Whether you are looking for the best Poodle dog food available on the market or preparing for adoption, these top seven dog food options stand apart from other dog food options because they offer more essential nutrients for your Poodle. Although some options are expensive, these brands can help your Poodle avoid harsh and destructive ingredients like artificial dyes linked with cancer in animals, fillers, and empty calories. Instead, they boast quality and put healthy dog food ahead of profit. Small Poodles may be less than 40 pounds, meaning they may need even more nutrient-dense food to accommodate their small stature — something these dog food brands are passionate about providing. With the best dog food for Poodles on this list, you can be sure that your Poodle is getting everything they need from its diet. Similar Posts. Below are some of the frequently asked questions by Poodle lovers! What is the recommended amount of food for a Poodle? It depends on how active your Poodle is. A very busy poodle will require more food than a sedentary poodle. For example, puppies need more calories than adult dogs, and elderly dogs need fewer calories than adult dogs. The best way to determine how much food your dog needs is to feed them a diet based on their age, weight, and activity level. Consult with your veterinarian if you have any questions about how much food to feed your Poodle. Can my Poodle be fed dry dog food kibble instead of wet food? There is no definitive answer to this question. Some people believe that dry food is better for dogs because it helps keep their teeth clean, while others believe that wet food is better because it contains more nutrients. Ultimately, the best diet for your Poodle will depend on his individual needs and preferences. There are pros and cons to both dry dog food kibble and wet dog food. Ultimately, the best food for your Poodle depends on his specific dietary needs and preferences. It can also be easier to portion control because the kibble can be weighed or measured. Wet dog food is usually more nutritious than dry dog food since it contains more fresh ingredients, and it can be a good choice if your Poodle has difficulty chewing or swallowing. Can poodle puppies eat dry dog food? Yes, dry dog food is safe for poodle puppies. As long as the food is specifically meant for puppies, it will provide them with all the necessary nutrients to grow and develop properly. Make sure to choose a food high in protein and low in carbohydrates, as puppies are naturally carnivores and need more protein than adult dogs. The majority of puppies have little trouble chewing dry dog food. However, you can soften the kibble by adding a little water or wetting it if they do. Until then, continue providing whatever diet is appropriate for his age and weight. If my Poodle has difficulty chewing, what should I do? You can do a few things if your Poodle seems to have trouble chewing. One option is to feed your dog softer foods, like canned food or boiled chicken. You can also purchase a special diet for dogs with dental problems. Finally, you can ask your veterinarian about giving your dog prescription toothpaste or chew toys designed to help clean their teeth. Can my Poodle eat grains? Grains are a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and fiber, but they also contain gluten which can be hard for some dogs to digest. In addition, dogs that are allergic to grains will often have skin problems, digestive issues, and excessive shedding. Can I feed leftovers to my Poodle? Leftovers can make a nutritious meal for your Poodle if they are not too fatty or high in salt. Be sure to avoid giving them any toxic food to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, or onions. You can also give them cooked meat, rice, and vegetables. A balanced diet is essential for keeping your Poodle healthy and happy. Feeding your poodle leftovers can also be unhealthy, as they may not be getting the balanced diet they need. Instead, try to give your Poodle specifically-made dog food tailored to their nutritional needs. This will help keep them healthy and prevent any weight problems from developing. Do I have any options if my Poodle is a fussy eater? You can do a few things to get your Poodle to eat. One is to try different types of food. Sometimes, all it takes is a change in diet to get a dog to start eating again. You can also try mixing wet and dry food or warming up the food slightly before serving it. If your Poodle is particularly fussy, you may have to resort to hand-feeding her small meals several times a day until she starts eating on her own again. What foods are toxic to poodles? Yes, there are a few foods that are toxic to poodles. Chocolate, raisins, garlic, and the artificial sweetener xylitol pose a threat to poodles. Cavities and gum disease are common problems in dogs, and they can cause a lot of pain and discomfort for your pet. The vet will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend treatment. In many cases, cavities can be treated with antibiotics or surgery, and gum disease can be treated with a special diet or surgery. Your Poodle may be having trouble chewing because its teeth are not clean. You might also want to try giving your poodle rawhide bones or chew toys to help keep its teeth healthy and clean. What other foods should poodles never eat? Yes, there are other foods that poodles should never eat. Other dangerous foods for poodles include grapes, raisins, chocolate, and onions. Why not give my Poodle those treats that look like bacon, hot dogs, and pork chops? Poodles are prone to obesity, and these treats are high in fat and calories. Stick to crunchy treats that are low in fat and calories instead. My dog eats the grass in my yard and other plants. How can I prevent this? However, this has yet to be proven. Is fiber necessary for poodles? Yes, poodles need fiber. A high-fiber diet will help keep their bowels regular and help minimize the risk of constipation. Is a low-fat diet for my Poodle appropriate? Dogs have higher fat, and dietary requirements than humans and do not often suffer from the same obesity-related health issues that humans do. A low-fat diet would be dangerous for your Poodle and could lead to deficiencies in essential fatty acids. Feed your dog a balanced diet appropriate for their breed and age, and make sure they get plenty of exercise. Could I feed my Poodle raw foods? There are pros and cons to a raw foods diet for your Poodle. On the one hand, a raw foods diet can be healthier for your dog because it is more natural and closer to what they eat in the wild. However, on the other hand, it can be more expensive and time-consuming to prepare than a traditional kibble diet. If you consider switching your dog to a raw foods diet, it is important to consult with a veterinarian or animal nutritionist to ensure that your pup is getting all of the nutrients they need. A raw foods diet should always include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and high-quality protein sources like meat, poultry, fish, and eggs. Is frozen raw food a good option for poodles? Yes, I do recommend frozen raw foods for poodles. I recommend all dogs eat a diet of at least some frozen raw food. Frozen raw food is the healthiest type of diet you can feed your dog. It contains all the nutrients and enzymes your dog needs to stay healthy and strong. Plus, feeding your dog frozen raw food can help protect them against many common health problems, including allergies, skin problems, weight gain, diabetes, and cancer. Is it okay to feed eggs to my Poodle? How about eggshells? You can feed eggs to your Poodle, but you should take care not to give them too many eggshells. Eggshells are a great source of calcium, but if your dog eats too many, they could end up with an eggshell calcium overdose. A safe dose for a healthy poodle is about 5 grams of eggshells per day. Poodles, do they need supplements? Yes, Poodles do need supplements, and there are a few are particularly beneficial for joint and bone growth. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are two of the most popular supplements for joint health, and they can help reduce inflammation and improve joint function. Omega-3 fatty acids are also important for joint health, as they can help reduce stiffness and pain. Vitamin D is another important supplement for Poodles, as it helps to maintain bone health and prevent osteoporosis. What man-made food can Poodles eat? Raw and cooked carrots are safe for your dog, as are cooked eggs, salmon, and blueberries. However, be sure to avoid grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and anything else that might be harmful to your pup. Conclusion — Final Verdict! Now that you know a little more about the best dog food for Poodles, we hope you feel confident in your ability to choose the right food for your pup. We wish you and your pup all the best in finding the perfect diet! Related Links.
I am so thankful and blessed to have met so many wonderful people and get to share a part of my heart with each and every one of them as they choose to make one of my babies a part of their family. I have been a bulldog enthusiast for many years and have been breeding since .My husband and my daughter are actively involved in caring for and loving all our fur babies. Our dogs are our family. All our dogs are AKC registered and they are raised in a healthy, loving environment. As a breeder I focus on health, structure, temperament, socialization and pedigree in order to achieve my goal of providing to you a top quality baby that will not only capture your heart but will be a perfect fit for you and your family. I am also state licensed. For more information please contact Lori or Alan Celmer at or .Orwigsburg PA .As a family, we raise our babies here in our home as a part of our family so that they can learn the social skills that they need to one day be a part of your family. You are always welcome to come to our home and meet our babies and the rest of our fur family. There is nothing I love more then sharing my dogs with wonderful and caring people that share the same love in their hearts that we do for our sweet bulldogs. Site Content We are so proud of each and every one of our Productions We would like to take a moment and share our past babies that are now in their forever homes but were produced, loved and raised right here in our home. Domino can give you both! Tri-Color 9. Brindle Merle is a color that is generally not accepted as standard due to the controversy surrounding its possible health effects. Breeders with a good reputation put in a lot of effort to produce healthy Exotic Bully puppies that do not inherit two copies of the merle gene. The brindle pattern is yet another fascinating possibility for the Exotic Bully. In most cases, these dogs have darker stripes on top of a lighter base coat, such as fawn. Each dog has its own distinct pattern of tiger stripes, which lends an exotic air to the pups. What Is a Clean Exotic Bully? A clean Exotic Bully is one that has been kept clean, does not make a mess, and does not have any problems. In other words, it still has the Appearance of an Exotic Bully, with all of the classic characteristics that you are familiar with, such as its short and compact frame, its exaggerated features, and the rest of its characteristics. The following are some of the characteristics that are desired in a Clean Exotic Bully: 1. Its height is no more than thirteen inches. The muzzle is no more than two inches in length. It is condensed but muscular despite its small size. Its height and length are virtually identical to one another. Both an underbite and a clean bite are acceptable dental configurations. There is a lot of definition in the cheek muscles. You can visit the website of the US Bully Registry if you would like to see a more comprehensive list of the desirable characteristics of a Clean Exotic Bully. It is possible to create exotic bullies by crossing multiple breeds of dog together. In a similar vein, a dog whose ancestry includes American Bully blood is referred to as an Exotic Pocket American Bully. The exotic micro bully is the smallest version of this breed that is recognized as meeting the criteria for standardization. They should be no taller than 17 inches, and in most cases, they are even shorter than 13 inches. They should not weigh more than 40 pounds if they are to be classified as Micro and stand around 13 inches tall. Because there is no one standard rule for their weight that is acknowledged by everyone, the weight of these dogs can differ slightly from one dog registry or kennel club to another. However, despite the fact that the Exotic Bully is generally regarded as a sociable pup, there are those who, at first glance, may find the breed to be a little bit frightening. Because they are such devoted pets, they adore the attention they receive and relish the opportunity to cuddle with their owners. They also get along well with people, including children, and this is not an exception. But you should keep a close eye on them whenever they are around the children. Do not leave them alone with the younger children because children have a tendency to test the limits of dogs without understanding the repercussions of their actions. Additionally, they get along fantastically with other puppies, and this is especially the case. Deformed Exotic Bully Regardless of how much people love these dogs, the unfortunate reality is that they have been overbred to the point where their physical characteristics cause them a great deal of pain. It would not be an exaggeration to state that these characteristics are more accurately described as malformations than as decorations. A wide variety of animal welfare organizations and individuals who have a soft spot in their hearts for dogs have been vocal in their support for the implementation of more stringent breeding regulations in an effort to relieve some of the suffering endured by this and other dog breeds. So, in what specific ways do they suffer? Continue reading to discover the answer! On the other hand, you can be in for a lot of trouble in terms of their health if they were bred in an unethical way. The longevity of an Exotic Bully cannot be accurately predicted as a result of these factors. On the other hand, there are estimates that their maximum lifespan is barely five years. The following is a list, which you may use as a reference, of their most prevalent health problems. Back Problems: A healthy back is essential for a dog because it is their spine that allows them to move freely throughout their environment. This is especially the case for creatures that walk on all fours. In the event that your Exotic Bully is suffering from back pain, it is possible that they will be unable to walk normally, stand up, lie down, or play. Hip dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a condition that is more common in larger breeds of dogs; some get it as they get older. Joint Problems: The joints are the source of a great deal of discomfort for dogs. This condition manifests itself when your dog advances in age or possibly as a result of their growing weight. The majority of the time, veterinarians are dealing with this issue. Brachycephalic: Brachycephalic is a pathological disease that typically affects flat-faced dogs like Exotic Bullies. Brachycephalic can also affect other types of dogs. Because of their short nose, they have an occluded airway, which can occasionally lead to respiratory difficulties. Because this is a problem that can worsen with time, taking care of dogs who have this health condition can be an extremely tough task. Overheating: Overheating is another issue that is associated with the short-nosed face of the Exotic Bully. They typically have a predisposition toward overheating and do not function well in environments that are warm or overheated. If you are interested in purchasing one of them, you should keep this information in mind because it is important. This results in discomfort and agony, difficulties with eating, and may even require the extraction of teeth. Short Life: Exotic Bullies are noted for having a low life expectancy due to the fact that they are a relatively new breed that still needs some modifications. This results in a shorter life. Ocular problems: There is a higher risk of birth defects and malformations in the eyes of these dogs. They have a greater chance of suffering from a variety of eye illnesses, any one of which can significantly impair their ability to see clearly. Difference Between American and Exotic Bullies After being subjected to five years of selective breeding, the characteristics and Appearance of these dogs finally diverged to such a degree that kennel associations began recognizing them as two distinct breeds of canine. The physical differences between these dogs, which have been influenced by the American, English, French, and Older English Bulldogs, have led to the recognition of this dog as a separate breed in recent years. The American Bully is a breed of dog that is typically about medium size but has a stocky and powerful physique. When compared to their size, they have a stocky build, a deep chest, and incredible strength. Their coats are glossy and smooth, their heads are enormous, and their muzzles are broad. Their ears are held high, either naturally or after being cut. Why Do Exotic Bullies have many layers of wrinkles? The toned and strong bodies of Exotic Bullies exude an air of authority and command respect everywhere they go. The combination of this body type with a broad, flat face can give the impression that these dogs are rough and aggressive, but in reality, they are quite kind and affectionate pets. They would cuddle you and then attempt to attack you or cause you damage. There is a kind and loving heart hiding beneath those layers of wrinkles, and all it wants is to see its owner smile and be happy. These dogs were bred specifically to be kept as pets and companions. They will never, under any circumstances, abandon you and come to your aid, and they will always love you unconditionally and completely. They have an amazing disposition toward others and are able to get along with almost anyone. If you give your Exotic Bully an excessive amount of food, it will likely gain excess weight. When it comes to this breed, obesity can swiftly exacerbate the joint and cardiac problems that they already have. To maintain its health, your Exotic Bully will require a diet consisting of high-quality dry food. A substantial amount of protein and fat have to be included in this diet as well. There are dog foods available that have been developed specifically for Bullies, and these foods help maintain their lean muscle mass and prevent them from losing their round, plump Appearance. Keep in mind that the food you provide your dog should be adjusted based on its age and the amount of activity it gets. Because old dogs do not expend as much energy as younger and more active dogs, the recipe for puppy food is different from that of food for adult dogs. It is important that the amount of food they consume corresponds appropriately with the amount of exercise they engage in during the day. Exotic Bully Care: What are the Essentials? The act of introducing a new pet into the home is, in the eyes of many of us, equivalent to welcoming a new member of the family. Because of this, it is of the utmost need to be aware of how to properly care for them and get along well with them. The following are some suggestions that could be useful in relation to the matter: 1. Food and Diet The diet of an exotic bully must be of the highest quality and include a significant amount of both protein and fat. This is especially important for Exotics that are younger than one year old. There is a good selection of high-quality food available at the market; all you need to do is seek for items that have enough protein at least 30 percent and an adequate amount of fat at least 20 percent. Workouts and Physical Activity Training an Exotic Bully is very important and should be started right immediately, from the moment that your puppy reaches home until it is fully matured, in order to achieve the best results. The sooner you get started on this, the better it will be. Due to the fact that Exotic Bullies have extremely short and silky coats, they do not require a great deal of maintenance. Since they never become tangled, you should only need to brush them once or twice each week at the most. It should be sufficient to just give them a bath once every couple of months. However, in the event that they become exceptionally smelly and dirty, you will need to give them a bath in order to maintain their cleanliness. In addition to this, their nails will need to be trimmed as needed, much like the nails of other dogs. You have the option of doing it yourself or having it done by specialists. Registration of your bully is essential if you want to be able to produce a documented pedigree for your exotic bully as well as title details for him. In addition to this, it will allow them to participate in sponsored events such as dog shows and competitions. Listed below are the registries that acknowledge the Exotic Bully as a distinct breed of Bully: 1. On their website, they have made it quite obvious that they made the decision to comply with public demand and open their facilities to Exotic Bullies in order to provide a home for them. They are also the first registry to have a breed standard for Exotic Bullies and are one of the most extensive registers available anywhere in the world. The International Bully Register IBR : IBR was founded in and initially utilized Facebook as its primary platform; however, over time, they transitioned to using Instagram for advertising their puppies. The American Bully Exaggerator possesses distinguishing characteristics in addition to a one-of-a-kind and enlarged body. They say that their neighborhood is the only place in the country where all bully dog breeds are supported and loved in equal measure and that it also hosts the most competitive dog competitions in the country. In , they started to recognize the Exotic Bully as a breed and described them as a dog that is modest to medium in size and has a muscular build and a bulky head. Puppy Prices and Expenses It does not mean that the price of the Exotic Bully will be lower simply because it is a smaller dog. As a result of the increasing demand for this breed, the cost of an Exotic Bully can run into thousands of dollars. It is also challenging to locate one that has been appropriately bred. This puppy comes with proper documentation, vaccinations, and health assurances if you bought them from a reputable breeder. Places to Find Exotic Bully Puppies for Sale or Adoption: In the event that you are currently on the hunt for a place from which you may buy a dog friend, the following is a list of locations that you should consider visiting:NWG Bullies Since they began, this breeder has been producing dogs of the highest possible quality. They provide a purchase agreement in addition to a health guarantee with every puppy, which is quite important if you want to buy an Exotic Bully that is in good health. Toadline Exotic Bully Their Exotic Bullies are shipped out with all of the necessary paperwork, a health certificate, and seven-day health assurance. In addition to this, they offer a satisfaction guarantee that enables you to get your money back or return your puppy if you are not happy with your purchase. This is only valid if you let them know within the first 12 hours and if you bring the puppy back within the first 4 days. Venom Line You might also want to look into what they have to offer. They are well known for producing Bullies that are in good physical condition throughout their whole breeding program. They will provide you with a contract, the papers necessary to register your vehicle, and, most crucially, a health certificate that was issued by a qualified veterinarian. Fresno Bully Rescue They offer available for adoption a wide variety of Bullies, including those of exotic breeds. They have both puppies and adult dogs, so you can choose which type of dog it is that you feel more comfortable caring for. They can be found in the region surrounding Philadelphia and South Jersey. Every one of their puppies and adult dogs has been microchipped, vaccinated, and examined by a vet. Those who are between the ages of 6 and 8 months old have also already been spayed or neutered. Is the Exotic Bully right for me? Even if you have a thing for unusual and exotic animals as pets, we think the health of the dog should be your number one concern. Given the volume of material shown so far, we will now provide a concise overview of this breed by highlighting 10 major points. Exotic Bully: 10 Key Takeaways 1. The American Bully was the inspiration for the creation of the Exotic Bully dog. The Exotic Bully is a relatively recent game that was released in .Exotic Bullies are available in more than 20 official hues to choose from. The Exotic Bully is available in both standard and small sizes. Do you like it when your dog has wrinkles? The creases on Exotic Bully are stacked up in more than one layer! Due to the genetics of their breed, exotic bully puppies may have health problems. The American Kennel Club may not accept the breed standard for the Exotic Bully, but many other breeding groups do! The American Bully and the Exotic Bully are not the same breeds of dogs. Exotic Bullies are prone to weight and respiratory problems that affect dogs. They constantly need to have the appropriate level of care provided for them. As a result of their short coats, Exotic Bullies are low maintenance and simple to care for. They do not call for a significant amount of upkeep. In addition to this, they are incredibly simple to instruct. As a result of this, they are a fantastic choice for those who have never had a pet before but are looking to have one. A lot of people had the wrong idea about the Exotic Bully because of their Appearance; they thought that they were intimidating and violent. The Exotic Bully, on the other hand, is a naturally friendly breed, not just with humans but also with other canines. How many distinct forms of bullying are there to choose from? They are categorized according to the sizes of their bodies. Conclusion for Exotic Bully The Exotic Bully is a breed of dog that is simple to care for, has a high level of sociability, and requires little attention. However, not everyone would benefit from doing so. You need to be aware of a variety of health issues that are more likely to occur in some breeds than in others. In comparison to the life expectancy of other dog breeds, theirs is significantly lower. They are also quite pricey to purchase. Therefore, if you are searching for a companion for the long term, you might want to consider looking into other breeds of Bullies. Nevertheless, if you want a one-of-a-kind pet that has characteristics that stand out extremely clearly, then you should go ahead and purchase this puppy! Post navigation. Personalized Training We try to teach every puppy the basic education form the very first days of its life Exotic English Bulldog Breeding Farm The Exotic Bulldog House breeding farm was born after getting to know this wonderful breed, the Exotic English Bulldog, and thanks to decades of canine experience of three guys: Lorenzo, Alberto and Nicola, who have an extraordinary passion for the canine world and professional dog training. Our structure is located inside a country homestead submerged by nature. More than 10 hectares of the ground are available for breeding, growing and education of the puppies and their parents. A characteristic that denotes us is the dedication towards post-adoption canine education that guarantees continuous assistance and support to the new custodial. The adoption of a puppy is always supported even after entrusting it; its new owners will receive the correct and necessary information about the diet and the daily exercise every puppy needs to complete in the best way possible its formation, both physical and psychological. Moreover, we will also try to give you the correct instructions on which behavior the owner has to take towards the new arrival at home, how to handle the first days in the new environment and all the following steps. If you want to have information on the puppies available or are willing to adopt one: call us , contect us by email or write us using whatsapp. Our Exotic English Bulldog Exemplars We take care of our exemplars with the maximum attention, to the point that we define ourselves as their companions and not their owners. We dedicate a good amount of our formative activities to make them socialize at best with their akin and with people, thus obtaining very well — balanced individuals with a wonderful temper that can live with other animals and with humans of every age in total harmony and safety, also especially with kids of every age. Our Breeding Farm: What denotes us? Our Exotic Bulldog exemplars are the result of accurate selections, from generation to generation, to obtain wonderful individuals as for their morphology, health and temper. We are talking about dogs that are used to the familiar environment, to people and other dogs, easy to manage both in urban and extra-urban scenarios. We are sure about our results because we give the maximum attention to the subjects we breed and include in our breeding farm. Professional and Authorized Breeding Farm We are the only professional and authorized breeders in Italy who select this wonderful English Bulldog typology. See for Yourself! Through a webcam, you can follow the growth of your puppy step by step. Athletic Dogs All our dogs are selected for their great physical health, they are athletic and in shape. Ample open spaces In our parks, there are structures created for collective exercise, authorized delivery rooms, rooms for socializing and interacting with other animals, people and things. Diet care We only use high-quality fresh food. Selected exemplars We perform genetic tests on all our exemplars for an unmatched selection. Maximum protection Every puppy is given with a cession and guarantee contract. Moreover, we periodically invite to our structures some individuals from other breeds who share the same areas with our Bulldogs, allowing us to socialize all our dogs at best, both puppies and adults. For those who reserve a puppy, we commit from the first days of its life to teach it its future name together with the first basic knowledge offering, among the other activities, the possibility to deliver the puppy you adopted with a first training we attend personally and with the help of an expert canine trainer. Our Structure We are always open to your visits, both pre-adoption, to see how the puppies are bred and where they live, and both post-adoption, to be able to share our reciprocal experiences or simply to give you the possibility to let your Exotic Bulldog run free in a familiar environment. You can count on us ad on our help for sure! Most important is the time the puppy spends with its mother and the minimum age at which you can separate them. Even in the case of the Exotic English Bulldog, this aspect must be respected! After that, always in order of importance for correct growth, there is the chance to socialize and communicate with other puppies and with people. It is always the mother who takes care of it in the beginning when she teaches her puppies to relate to the environment they live in. News and updates on the Exotic Bulldog House World If you want to be updated about events, fair participations, new litters, or other information about the canine world, follow us on our Facebook and Instagram pages and come back to our website for all the future updates. About Us.
So, while this is not a reason not to get a GSD, it is a reason to look for adequate breeders, to ask for health certificates, to take good care of your dog, and to go to routine vet check-ups. German Shepherds can also be costly to take care of not just to purchase The regular vet visits, the high need for exercise, and the extra-space requirements all make the GSD a relatively expensive dog to take care of in terms of money as well. German Shepherds are very smart but that also makes them easily bored — they require lots of mental stimulation As with all smart dog breeds such as retrievers and other shepherds, the high intelligence of the GSD can be a curse as much as a blessing. So, what can be done to avoid boredom? Toys and time. However, an inexperienced dog owner can find a GSD to be more than a handful. Why is that? Simple — because they are so smart! Yes, their intelligence means that you can train them a lot but it also means they can be temperamental, manipulative, and stubborn! This breed is cute and cuddly at home but socially awkward in public German shepherds are incredibly cute, social, and loving animals. They are loyal to their family and would do anything for those close to them. What does this mean for you? Even if you just get a random GSD and not give it any special training or socialization, the dog may still get along just fine with a cat or a newborn baby. However, in general, the social awkwardness and guard-dog nature of GSDs means that they often need to be socialized well if you want to make other additions to the households down the line. Make sure that you teach your growing GSD to get along with other dog breeds in the dog park or at home. If you have a cat or are thinking of getting a cat, make sure your German Shepherd is accustomed to interacting with cats without any aggression. One of the best and easiest ways to avoid most of the problems above is to just get a second German Shepherd! Yes, we did just say that this breed can be a handful. However, a second dog usually brings much more benefits than negatives: The second dog will join the first in the playtime, meaning that both will exercise with each other very often and minimize the need for your involvement. Having a second GSD also means more mental stimulation for both dogs — again, less work for you and more fun for them. As natural guard dogs, German Shepherds may need to be trained not to bark Unfortunately, GSDs are especially bad for apartment owners not just because they are big but also because they tend to bark at strangers. They are guard dogs after all. This can be avoided, of course, there are ways to train any dog not to bark at strangers or at outside noises. There are several reasons for this: The frequent barking we mentioned above. Yes, you can train that behavior away but your landlord may still forbid you from getting a GSD. Getting a carpet or another type of floor insulation will help here. Giving your dog enough playtime outside will also alleviate this problem. But you may still get in trouble with your neighbors. They are just a large breed and many people, including parents of small children, are afraid of large dogs. Not only are GSDs not hypoallergenic, but they also tend to shed a lot! There are two main reasons for this: The aforementioned health concerns that some German Shepherds have and that get more and more likely as the dog gets older. The simple fact that the GSD is a large dog breed and larger breeds just have a shorter lifespan than smaller ones. As you can see, there are lots of factors to consider before getting a GSD. In general, the right GSD owner can be characterized as such: Has a larger-than-average home, a yard, and a nearby dog park. Has enough time to spend with a German Shepherd. Knows how to train and socialize a GSD properly. Has the financial means to support a German Shepherd. Wants a second dog to play with the first one. How to prepare for getting a German Shepherd? Just like soon-to-be-parents before their first baby, there are lots of books and research to comb through if you want to give your future German Shepherd the care, upbringing, socialization, and care it needs. So Make sure your home is ready for a large dog to soon start springing through it. Make sure you have the time and daily schedule to play with a GSD. Consider owning a Cairn Terrier! In this article, we explore who would benefit them as furry friends! Check them here! Read on to discover nine types of people who should consider owning this unique breed. Check this article to learn more about the types of people who are perfect for owning a Poodle dog! Fans of the breed love them for their loyalty, courage, and intelligence. As family pets, they can be taught many things and thrive at being mentally challenged and trained. Since they were bred to work, they have a lot of endurance and energy that needs to be expended each day. Despite being so active, German shepherds also have a softer side. Their level of loyalty to their owners is unsurpassed. They love nothing more than to be near their family and the closer the better, so they can do their job of looking after those they adore. Because they have such a close bond with their owners, they make excellent companions and enjoy going on trips, car rides, walks, hikes, and are always up for an adventure. Anyone wanting to adopt or buy a German shepherd should do their research to see if this magnificent breed fits into their life to avoid problems down the road. Here are 15 things you can expect when you own a German shepherd: 1. Puppy biting When you bring home a German shepherd puppy, you can expect lots of nipping, puppy biting, and mouthing. All puppies explore the world with their mouth and nose, but some new owners are caught by surprise by just how much German shepherd puppies like to nip at their owners. As herding dogs, German shepherds have a high prey drive that results in a desire to herd and gather. Exercise is a must German shepherds are very active and as working dogs have lots of endurance. They are strong, athletic, and agile. They require lots of age appropriate exercise to meet their physical needs. The good news is, exercise can come in many forms. A dog genius German shepherds are very smart and they need to exercise their mind as well as their body. They require training and also need to have fun to be happy and fulfilled. They love to learn but require a strong leader and training to development into the amazing dog they were born to be. A bored German shepherd is a destructive and anxious German shepherd and that includes challenging their mind, training them, and teaching them new things throughout their life. To pay for healthy food German shepherds are notorious for having sensitive skin and stomachs and need high quality dog food to keep them from developing health problems. By investing in and feeding them high quality food, it may help avoid health problems and expensive trips to the vet down the road. A good diet begins in puppyhood and starts with a good quality large breed puppy food. Sweep and vacuum up lots of dog fur German shepherds have a dense coat and shed year-round. To keep up with the dog fur, expect to sweep and vacuum often. If dog fur drives you nuts, they are probably not the breed for you. To groom often Along with sweeping and vacuuming, German shepherds need lots of grooming. A protector German shepherds are very protective of their family and need training and socialization from a young age so they know what you expect of them. As a herding dog, they naturally have a strong guarding instinct and consider it their job to look after their owner. This is great except they must learn how to interact with the world and should not be allowed to guard food, resources, toys, territory, and people. Mess makers Along with their shedding, they are also mess makers! They love to play with their toys and strew them all over the house, drip water all over the floor, roll in the grass, and play in mud and dirt. They will leave their nose art all over your windows and doors and basically leave a trail wherever they go. They have adorable personalities and will do the funniest things to make you smile. Fun playmate German shepherds love to play. Play time is also a great time to provide with their daily exercise. They love nothing more than to chase a ball, catch a Frisbee, carry big sticks, play tug, and more. They have built in alarms clocks and will happily wake you up to take them out, feed them, exercise, and play. They love to follow you everywhere and go wherever you go. They use their body language and vocalizations to communicate their needs. They are masters at telling you when they want to eat, go outside, are frustrated, or want to play. Some will want to pet your dog and some will want you to go away. Owning a German shepherd automatically make you an ambassador of the breed and carries a responsibility to educate the public about how amazing they are. Best friend forever German shepherds are the most loyal breed ever. They will happily spend every day of their life living to be with you, love you, make you happy, and protect you. They are a friend like no other and deserve nothing but the same in return. Join and learn directly from Nadelhaus founder Traci Needles, who has over 25 years of experience breeding and training German Shepherds. Over 50 videos on the following topics covering German Shepherd puppies, housebreaking, crate training, obedience, feeding, grooming, wellness, and much more. New videos to be added every month. The breeder will also inform you of additional vaccinations you will need to schedule with your veterinarian as your puppy grows. Traveling Home With Your New Puppy On the day you pick up your new German Shepherd puppy from our facility, bring a small crate for the puppy to travel home in. We sell Puppy Packs at our facility which include a dog crate and can have one ready for you if you wish to purchase one. Otherwise, if you plan to hold your puppy in your lap on your drive home, bring a few small towels to place on your lap for the puppy. We highly recommend that you DO NOT stop at rest stops, dog parks, or parks to let your puppy go potty. Your puppy will not have received all of its parvovirus shots yet, so exposing your puppy to areas where other dogs have been increases the risk of your puppy contracting parvo. Instead we recommend that you find places that have concrete or hard surfaces like a paved parking lot. In the summertime, be conscious of the surface your puppy is walking on. At Home Care For Your New Puppy The first 24 to 36 hours in your new home is an acclimation period for your puppy to get settled in your home. It is common for your German Shepherd puppy to have diarrhea or loose stool the first week it is in your new home. It is acclimating to a new world and a different schedule. Be very mindful about what kind of dog treats and toys you supply the puppy to chew on. These are all edible things that can cause loose stool and diarrhea. These are also additional calories that puppies will eat before they eat a meal. During their acclimation to your new homes, we recommend you keep treats and cookies to a minimum. These are too rich and too hard on their systems. Wait at least 24 hours before giving your puppy a bath. You are more than welcome to keep in touch with us during this time and ask questions via email or text. The breeder will review the amount of food and schedule with you when you pick up your puppy. If your puppy has a weak appetite during the acclimation period you can add boiled boneless chicken and cooked white rice to its meals. Or you can add canned food to its meal to entice its appetite. Discard any uneaten food after each meal. Ensure your puppy has access to fresh, clean water during the day. If you are house breaking your puppy, remove access to water at least 4 hours prior to bed time. Diarrhea in very young puppies during their first weeks in their new environment is not uncommon. Here's why: Stress and Adaptation: The transition from their birthplace to a new home is a significant change for a young puppy. The stress of leaving their mother and littermates, coupled with adapting to a new diet and environment, can lead to gastrointestinal upset. Dietary Changes: Puppies might experience a sudden switch in their diet when they move to their new home. This shift in nutrition, even if well-intentioned, can disrupt their delicate digestive systems and result in diarrhea. Microbial Adjustment: The puppy's gut is in the process of developing a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria. Stress and changes in diet can temporarily affect this delicate balance, leading to digestive disturbances like diarrhea. This adjustment period is natural as the puppy's gut adapts to new microorganisms in their surroundings. While occasional mild diarrhea can be expected, it's important to monitor your puppy's condition. Why young puppies get diarrhea and how to treat it Introducing Your Puppy To Other Pets Gradual Introduction: Begin with neutral territory, not in the home of the adult dog, where both dogs can meet on leashes. Increase the time and frequency of their interactions slowly and under supervision. Supervised Interaction: After bringing the puppy home, closely supervise their interactions. Start with separate spaces and controlled play sessions, intervening if tensions arise. Ensure each dog has a safe space to retreat to. Patience and Adaptation: Understand that dogs have unique personalities. Be patient as they adjust to each other. Gradually extend their time together while monitoring their behavior and providing guidance as needed. Introducing a puppy to an adult dog watch even more videos on how to care for your german shepherd puppy with a learning center subscription. They are very loyal, intelligent and love to be kept active, so can be easy to train. They suit very active households as they need a lot of exercise every day. They are great dogs for owners with a lot of experience and time as, like most dogs, they can get bored easily. Unfortunately, German Shepherds do have a range of health issues due to the way they have been bred, which can end up being costly to owners and cause serious problems for the dog. Common health problems in German Shepherds German Shepherds are great dogs for the right owners, but they are at risk of certain conditions and illnesses common with the breed. Making sure the parents of your puppy have had the relevant health screening can reduce the chances of your puppy being affected by some of these upsetting conditions. This means that these types of dog have been bred over many years to look a certain way, but that these changes to the way they look have started to cause them health problems. For German Shepherds, this is mostly due to the shape of their back legs and hips. There is a screening test for this. There is a screening test. Inherited eye diseases — including cataracts and multifocal retinal dysplasia. There are screening testing for these. Epilepsy — a brain disorder causing seizures. Pituitary dwarfism — a hormone deficiency which causes severe growth problems and reduces lifespan. Haemophilia A and B — bleeding disorders that stop blood from clotting and cause wounds to bleed more than they should. Screening tests are available. This list is not exhaustive, and there are many other conditions that German Shepherds have been shown to be prone to. German Shepherds and barking As with any dog, German Shepherds are likely to bark. Their main purpose was for herding and guarding so they can be quite vocal when people walk past or enter or exit the house, but how much noise they make will vary from dog to dog. Training and socialisation Regardless of the age of your German Shepherd when you adopt it, you need to have clear boundaries to help keep them safe and happy. As with all training — consistency is key! Everyone in the family needs to follow the same rules. German Shepherds are very loyal to their owners and can be protective of their family. They can have a strong guarding instinct, so careful training and socialisation will be needed to prevent any guarding or aggressive behaviours. As with any dog, your German Shepherd will need to be well socialised with people, other animals and different objects and environments from a young age. Try to keep the time your German Shepherd is alone to an absolute minimum as they thrive on company and will worry about you if you leave them too long. You should never leave any dog alone for longer than four hours. Exercise Be prepared — German Shepherds are very active dogs! They need plenty of exercise to keep them happy and occupied. This will also stop them from barking out of boredom or having a nibble on the furniture. Your German Shepherd will need a minimum of two hours of exercise every day. This should include walks and off-lead exercise in a safe area, with extra playtime and training on top to give them a good variety. You can find out how much exercise your dog needs , or even find exercises you can do together online. Our vets recommend spreading exercise across the day rather than trying to do two hours all in one go. German Shepherds are a great breed if you enjoy long walks and spending loads of time exploring outside. If there are times when you are unable to give them the exercise they need, then arranging for a relative, friend or dog-walker to come and help would be essential. Grooming Be prepared for a lot of shedding because German Shepherds have such thick coats! Ideally, you should give your German Shepherd a brush or comb down a few times a week to keep their coat looking healthy, prevent matting and reduce the build-up of dead hair especially if they have a longer coat. You may want to take them to a professional for bath time because of their size. Will you give now to help people and pets in need? As the cost of living continues to rise, vet care could be out of reach for many. Donate to our emergency appeal now to provide vital vet care to pets in need and keep families together during this crisis. Donate German Shepherds and children Adult German Shepherds can range from being calm and patient to bouncy and boisterous, depending on their personality, training and socialisation. Some can make great family pets in homes with children of all ages, but dogs should always be supervised around young children. Make sure you can recognise the signs of unhappiness or anxiety in your dog to help avoid any conflicts. German Shepherds and other pets To help them be calm and patient, it's best to socialise your German Shepherd with other dogs and pets from a young age. Some can be a bit bossy with other dogs as they get older but with proper care, training and socialisation this is unlikely to become a problem. German Shepherds are usually fine with other family pets they have grown up with. Your vet will be able to tell you how much your dog should be eating. You should feed them a good quality, commercially available, complete dog food. We usually recommend splitting their daily allowance into two meals. If you give your dog the occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily allowance. You should try to feed your dog at the same time every day to get them into a routine. Remember to leave at a gap after eating and before exercising. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. These breeders must do extra health tests and meet high standards. Set up costs Puppy vaccines — if you rescue a dog, reputable centres will often vaccinate them for you. Remember that ongoing booster vaccinations will be needed to continue their immunity. Neutering — you should usually arrange for your dog to be neutered at around six months old, though your vet will be able to advise you exactly when is best. Check prices at your local practice as these will depend on your vet and where you live. Some rescue centres will neuter any dogs they rehome, saving you this cost. Equipment — including a collar and tags, lead, harness, dog beds, dog bowls, pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes, grooming brushes and toys. Keep in mind that all these will need to be replaced with wear or damage or if your dog outgrows or damages them! Ongoing costs Food. Preventive healthcare — budget for routine vet visits to help stop your dog getting ill and catch any problems early. They need annual check-ups, vaccinations and regular flea and worming treatments. Check if your vet offers a health care plan as this can help spread the cost throughout the year. Accessories — including lots of poo bags, replacing worn toys and grooming accessories, buying doggy toothpaste and any other extras they might need. Other costs Training — basic training is very important and dogs can benefit from formal classes. Some dogs may have, or develop, behavioural problems which might need professional management. Boarding — you may also need to budget for boarding or dog sitting costs if you are planning to go away from home on holiday. If you are having difficulty with veterinary costs, you can check if you are eligible for treatment at PDSA here. Fun facts The first guide dogs for visually impaired people were German Shepherds. They were originally bred to be herding dogs, an instinct which still remains strong in the breed. They need lots of exercise and plenty to do to stop getting bored. Make sure you have enough space and time to give them the exercise and attention they need to stay happy and healthy. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a German Shepherd. Breed-specific rescues that specialise in German Shepherds are also out there. Good rescue centres should let you know of any health and behaviour problems. Breeders If you buy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will be well socialised and have all necessary screening tests, health checks and vaccinations. We recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they meet higher standards. November 8, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? The German Shepherd Dog, one of the top ten popular breeds in the United States, is known for their regal appearance, bravery, intelligence, and noble character. They are hard-working dogs that fit into a variety of service jobs, but can also be amazing family dogs, making them an all-around great breed for dog lovers! How do you know if the German Shepherd Dog is the right fit for you and your family? German Shepherd Dogs are a younger breed that started in Germany in by Captain Max Von Stephanitz who sought to create an unmatched herding dog. But as Germany became more and more industrialized, the breed shifted from herding work to police and military training. Hundreds of these dogs made their way to the United States during WWI, one such being a small five-day-old puppy that was rescued from a destroyed kennel in France and brought home to the states to Los Angeles. This puppy later grew up to be one of the most famous four-legged movie stars, Rin Tin Tin, starring in 26 movies, forever making the German Shepherd Dog breed a popular choice in the nation! If you are looking for an attractive dog, look no further! German Shepherd Dogs have beautiful coats, strong muscular builds, a square muzzle, long bushy tail, and a black mask. Some colors like red and black, or tan and black, have distinct markings such as saddle or blanket on their back. However, German Shepherd Dogs come in a variety of colors: sable, silver, liver, panda, solid black, and solid white. What are German Shepherd Dog Personalities like? German Shepherd Dogs can be reserved, often appearing aloof toward new people, but this very loyal breed loves their families and can be very affectionate. While they can be wary of new people and protective of their family, with the right socialization, German Shepherd Dogs can be friendly and easy-going. They are an intelligent and high-energy breed that thrives with a job to do. Due to this, without the proper or consistent amount of stimulating work, they can easily become bored and frustrated. Those feelings could translate into behaviors like barking, howling, or chewing. As they get older, they'll equally enjoy relaxing with you at home and getting up with you to do the next fun activity! If you are a lover of going for long walks or runs, enjoy hiking on the weekends, or trips to the beach depending on where you live, a German Shepherd Dog will gladly trot alongside you! German Shepherd Dogs while they can be independent, do crave to be with their family and offer great companionship. With crate training, your German Shepherd puppy will learn to adapt to being left alone for periods of time without developing separation anxiety, however, this breed thrives with interaction and will do best a puppy parent that can provide them with a balanced amount of alone and accompanied time throughout the day. Like many large breed dogs, German Shepherd Dogs can suffer from some common illnesses including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, degenerative spinal stenosis, and Von Willebrand disease. Thankfully, responsible breeders today have bred out many of these and improved the health of the breed significantly! When you bring home your new German Shepherd puppy, schedule their first veterinarian visit to discuss appropriate health care, proper nutrition and supplements, and exercise. German Shepherd Dogs tend to shed regularly and heavily twice in the year during the Spring and Fall season. With soft undercoats and harsher topcoats, they would do best with regular brushing once a week will help remove their dead fur and maintain healthy skin! Note: When looking for a reputable German Shepherd Dog breeder, go through an accredited website such as AKC for their breeder locator. Additionally, many pure-breed and mixed German Shepherds are available in rescues and shelters for adoption! German Shepherds are smart and hard-working, so puppy training will not only provide them with the stimulation they crave but also solidify your communication, trust, and overall relationship! Early puppy training Lay the foundation for good behavior the day your puppy comes home, introducing them to basic obedience. Keeping your puppy on a leash at home while under supervision will help to build their focus on you as their leader and also help keep them from darting away. Soon, build up to more obedience training commands, work on their focus through distractions, and start to introduce training in different locations such as your yard, or neighborhood to solidify their communication with you in any situation. Also, check out the rest of our Puppy Training and Puppyhood Made Easy for New Owners series to guide you through what to train your puppy next, how to troubleshoot, and other important topics every puppy owner should know! Going back to their wilder instincts, puppies will naturally avoid soiling where they sleep. Crate training your German Shepherd Dog puppy will help boost their confidence and resilience while learning to be alone at home. Socialization is a must German Shepherd Dogs are natural protectors and benefit greatly from being socialized with other dogs, people, new places, textures, and sounds. When done correctly, s ocialization helps teach your puppy the proper way to greet people, other dogs and create boundaries. During socialization sessions, you can work with your puppy on barking or jumping, which are common puppy behaviors when they are excited or over-stimulated when meeting strangers. And if you're not sure how to do this on your own, hire a local puppy trainer to help set you up for the best success! Consider advanced training to keep them engaged German Shepherd Dogs are very intelligent and have high-prey drives which mean they love to work! Along with basic obedience, dog sports like agility are a great way to motivate them and help your puppy work out their energy. Agility helps establish a stronger communication bond through body language while your puppy is participating. Developed as part of K9 and military dog training, this is a perfect activity for your German Shepherd to burn off some mental and physical steam! Did you recently bring home a German Shepherd Dog puppy? Are you still planning and not sure what breed fits your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! Check out these blogs related to puppy training and more! Checklist Dog Crate Getting a crate for your German Shepherd puppy is quite crucial for the following reasons: Allows the puppy to feel secure Speeds up potty training Keeps the puppy safe by controlling his environment Conditions your dog should you need to travel and use a travel crate Some people erroneously feel guilty for crating their pup. However, dogs need structure, especially when bred from work-driven breeds like German Shepherds. A dog crate provides a sense of security by reducing the space around the pet. A room might be small enough for us, but placing the puppy in it will make him feel like he is in a large vacant warehouse. The necessity of getting a dog crate brings up the question of size. What size crate is best for a new GSD puppy? Read my post on the recommended German Shepherd crate size to find out the best size to buy and why. Opt for the size inch variety. You can move the divider to make more room as your puppy grows. I draped a dark-colored blanket over the top to make it more den-like. She was around three years old when I finally got rid of it, but some dogs enjoy them for life. As German Shepherds are prone to hip dysplasia, arthritis, and other joint issues, you should invest in a good crate pad. Dog Bed You might think getting a crate is the same as getting a bed. Some crates come with a matt or pad disguised as a puppy bed. Since German Shepherds are big dogs and do not take much time to grow to their full size, you will need an orthopedic dog bed to support their weight and protect their joints. My post on the best orthopedic dog beds for German Shepherds elaborates on the pros and cons of different dog beds. The gist is that you need a bed to prevent joint pain that bigger dogs experience. German Shepherds are prone to arthritis, and though a genetic element plays a role, bad crating practices can accelerate such problems. I chose the Big Barker because of the scientific evidence that it improves joint pain and stiffness in arthritic dogs, enhancing their quality of life. This means a lot to me as my German Shepherd was diagnosed with spinal osteoarthritis at only six years old, but it helps knowing she sleeps comfortably. I have to admit — I was also attracted to their year no-flatten guarantee. You can check out my full review of the Big Barker here. Novice dog masters also make things difficult through a combination of poor choices. Then they make the situation worse by opting for a collar and using tugging as a means of discipline. This is cruel to the dog and teaches him nothing. It is a front-clip harness, meaning you lead your pup from the front, which gives greater control and steering, making it impossible for your dog to pull. A fellow dog owner designed it, and it has all the love and care one would expect from an owner who is solving a problem he has previously faced — a dog that pulled. You can also learn more about my pick of the best no-pull harnesses for German Shepherds in this article. Toys German Shepherds are full of energy, which means they have to be surrounded by things that can exhaust their excess vitality, such as a range of chew toys, tug toys, and puzzle toys. These will stimulate his teeth, muscles, and mind, respectively. Toys help your new German Shepherd develop and stay entertained. You can also use toys to train a German Shepherd to find things and track, but that comes later. For now, you must make sure you get him a large selection of puppy toys. Your new best friend needs different exercise routines and changes in the environment, both of which can be normalized via travel. A car restraint allows you to secure your German Shepherd puppy in a car seat safely. Using a dog crate as recommended above will make it easy to communicate that car rides are okay. I like the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel because it comes in various sizes, and for the first few months, you might prefer a smaller crate. This model is made from premium plastic, does not require any tools to set it up, and has lots of vents to keep your pup well-ventilated. Poo Bags Your new German Shepherd puppy is going to be the cutest thing on earth up until he has to poop. At that time, how much you like having a GSD will be strongly correlated with how close you are to a poo bag. Regardless of whether you buy a pack of poop bags or accumulate enough disposable bags to cover a month of dog poop, you need to have something to carry dog waste. Remember, a puppy poops two to four times a day. Amazon Basics Unscented Dog Poop Bags are among the most affordable products in the category, with the bags supply being the most economical. These bags are 9 inches x 13 inches, which is a much more efficient size than the standard disposable bag. You might not need this size at first, but trust me; they are the best for an adult German Shepherd. Dog Shampoo You must get dry shampoo for your dog because German Shepherds do not need to bathe more than a few times a year. In other words, your new puppy is half a dozen baths away from adulthood. In the meantime, something is required to keep him clean, right? Tropiclean Waterless Shampoo for Pets is a high-quality, low-priced option made from natural ingredients like plum, oatmeal, and cucumber. It is backed by a market leader in natural wellness and has accumulated over 4, positive reviews and ratings on Amazon. Dog Food Food, water, and shelter are some of the basic needs of all mammals. Dogs are no exception, especially when they are bred under human supervision. Therefore, getting dog food is one of the most important prerequisites for bringing home a new German Shepherd. After that, just ensure you choose a large breed food. Bringing home a new pet is a joyful experience. You might find yourself constantly staring at the beautiful yet timid puppy, and it will take a couple of weeks for the puppy to feel at home. Until then, the dog will be open to cuddles and start interacting with the person who feeds him and plays with him. Make sure he spends time inside the crate as well as outside it. The dog may seem shy and aloof for the bulk of the first week, with the first day being his most seemingly introverted one. The dog will miss his pack and call out for them with whining or whimpering sounds or even barking. You should make sure he feels safe and secure and only comfort him through the night when you take him for a toilet break. Your German Shepherd puppy will need comfort, and you can do a few things to help him feel better. Comfort the pup to make him feel secure. Feed the puppy and make sure he is warm. Turn the lights off and make sure he gets enough sleep. Your new German Shepherd needs to get used to a schedule, work on independence, and see you as the leading figure. One of the differences you will notice when your puppy is freshly released from the breeder is his excessive appetite for sleep. Some might want the puppy to wake up to cuddle. Others will wonder if it is healthy for the puppy to sleep so much. In general, a German Shepherd puppy should sleep 8 hours at night and hours during the day. Though, the dog should not be forced to fit a schedule and must be left to determine how he divides his hours of sleep in the first few weeks of adoption. Final Thoughts The arrival of a new German Shepherd puppy can be an exciting time, but excitement can also inspire nervousness. The puppy will feel less overwhelmed and scared after the first 3 days and will further settle during the first 3 weeks. This is the time to have a good German Shepherd puppy training schedule so you know what to teach and when. Related Posts You May Like:. Baby German Shepherds growing up! German Shepherd Dogs are one of the most popular dog breeds out there at the moment, with many devoted fans. They can be large and imposing as adults. But, like every breed, they have a cute puppy phase that many fall in love with. However, since most puppies are bought at weeks old, most of us miss out on this magical period of their lives. So what happens during those first important weeks? A typical German Shepherd litter consists of around puppies. The mean average, according to a study performed in , is 6. When they are first born, they will still have an umbilical cord attached and may be covered in amniotic fluid. Their mother should chew off the umbilical cord and spend the first few hours cleaning their pups. Then mom will focus on keeping her newborn pups warm while allowing them to nurse. At this stage, German Shepherd puppies will just sleep and avoid expending energy. They will frequently nurse from their mother. Newborn German Shepherds When baby German Shepherd puppies are first born, they are completely dependent on their mother. Their ears and eyes will be closed and they will be unable to regulate their own body temperature efficiently. A coat should be present, and the color will depend on the genes they have inherited from their parents. Black with tan markings is the most common for this breed. Additionally, they will be relatively immobile. They will be unable to properly support their own weight. Therefore, they will commonly crawl on their stomach to move about. They will also be unable to urinate or defecate on their own. Stimulation from their mother will be required to help them go to the toilet. One Week Old Baby German Shepherd In the first week, the puppies should bulk up significantly and double their birth weight. However, there will not be much change in their behavior. They will still primarily be focused on nursing and sleeping. To help themselves stay warm, the puppies will normally cuddle close to each other, except for when they are in a hot environment. At this stage, they will still be blind and deaf. While they are still unable to see very well, this is a big step. Eyes should open for the first time at around days of age. They will appear blue in color, but this will change into brown as they develop. They may become a little more inquisitive about their surroundings with their new-found eyesight, and may begin to crawl around a little more. We can expect to see them make some big steps at this stage. Firstly, at around days old, their ears should begin to open for the first time. They should now be able to both see and hear, though not too clearly. Their senses will continue to develop over the coming weeks. They will begin to be able to stand and support their own weight. Walking may still be tough, though! They will likely be pretty wobbly. You can also expect to see their baby teeth come in at around this time. While they still get the majority of their nutrition from their mother, they will begin to show interest in solid food. They will begin to become more independent at this age, being able to urinate and defecate on their own. Beginning Of Socialization With their sight and hearing, they are likely to show a little bit of adventure and courage for the first time, exploring their surroundings as much as their unsteady gait will allow them. This milestone also marks the beginning of the socialization period, a critical phase of their development. Things learned now can shape their personality and behavior for the rest of their lives. They may engage the other puppies in clumsy play and show body language such as tail wagging for the first time. They will form relationships with their den mates, their mother, and humans. This stage is critical in getting the puppies used to humans. This can be achieved by gently exposing the puppies to human presence and contact so that they can see that they are no threat. While their brains are still very much in development, they are still able to learn some simple concepts at this stage. Crate and potty training can begin at this age. They should now be able to walk pretty well. This mobility will allow them to further play with their family and be even more curious about their surroundings. On top of this, their baby teeth should now be fully formed and the weaning process should be fully underway. They should be offered soft but solid food. They may begin to show signs of more complex social behaviors towards their other den mates, and they should learn important skills like bite inhibition. The socialization process should continue, with the puppies gently being exposed to new people, sights, and sounds. The German Shepherd babies will also be further weaned off the mother at this time, slowly moving onto a fully solid diet. Six Week Old Baby German Shepherd At this age, you will begin to see the puppies become even more independent of their mother. Six week old puppies are gaining social skills rapidly, and love to play with people and each other. Seven Week Old Baby German Shepherd When we move into the seventh week of their life, a new significant phase of development starts to begin: the fear period. While this sounds disconcerting, it merely means that this is the time that many puppies begin to show fear towards new things, rather than curiosity. Things that the puppy may find scary or uncertain during this time can make for big changes in their personality throughout life. For example, if a puppy has a bad experience with a human at this stage, it may lead them to becoming fearful and distrustful towards people for the rest of their life. This is why gently exposing the puppies to humans and common sights and sounds beforehand is important. By preemptively socializing the puppies with humans, we can help this period run smoother. The puppies will have reached weights of around pounds and should be around inches tall. Their ears will lie flat but should begin to become erect and upright over the coming weeks. They will be fully independent of their mother at this age. They should be completely weaned, with some basic training and socialization. From here, new owners are expected to continue to train and socialize them, as they are still within a critical period of development. New owners will also need to continue to ensure the German Shepherd puppy is fed a good, nutritionally balanced diet. For more information, you can check out our full puppy development guide here. And make sure you also take a look at this guide to bathing a puppy!
The American Canine Hybrid Club does however, calling the result a poochon. Both breeds can trace their roots back to the barbet, a French waterdog. They have many similarities, including size, intelligence and personality. An Active Little Fellow It's no surprise that one little dog plus a second little dog will give you another little dog, which is what happens when a toy poodle and bichon frise get together. The poochon, or bich-poo as he's sometimes called, usually weighs between 6 and 15 pounds and stands between 9 and 12 inches at the shoulder. Both breeds are active guys, with the bichon known for his quick spurts of energetic running. A couple of good walks during the day is usually sufficient exercise for a poochon, helping him keep his fine form. Training for Good Manners The poodle and bichon frise are both considered to be intelligent dogs, so chances are your poochon will be pretty smart, which will be helpful when it's time to start a training program. The bichon can be challenging to house-train, so get started on this important piece of business early, using positive rewards, such as treats and praise. It's important to be consistent with your training because the poodle part of him may act out a bit from his inherent stubborn streak. Make sure your pup is well-socialized to enhance his interaction with other people and pets. Your efforts likely will be rewarded with an affectionate and loyal pup. Life In the House Part of the training for your poochon should include "hush," as both breeds have a tendency to be barky. It makes them good dogs for alerting you to company -- welcome or not -- but it may annoy your neighbors, particularly if you live in an apartment. If you have small children, a poochon may not be the best bet as he may be hurt from rough child's play. A poochon, like his bichon and toy poodle parents, is not suited for outdoor living. He is too small and vulnerable to live outside. Grooming Matters Part of the appeal of a poochon is his soft, curly coat. Both breeds are known for their low shedding properties, so you won't have to worry about finding hair all over your house. That's not to say you'll never have to groom your pup; count on brushing your pal every day. A poodle's coat is fine and curly, matting easily, while the bichon has a double coat that requires daily grooming to keep him from developing painful mats. If your poochon is pure white in color, be prepared to wipe away the tear stains that will show on his cute little face. To His Good Health Every dog, regardless of breed, requires routine veterinary care. As a small dog, the poochon is vulnerable to luxating patellas, a condition where the kneecap may pop out of place. Other ailments common to both breeds include Legg-Calve-Perthes disease and hip dysplasia. According to Dr. Mary Fuller of VetStreet. That doesn't mean your poochon will develop a luxating patella, but it does mean he's vulnerable to the condition and should be monitored for it. If you go to a breeder for your poochon, ask for verification that the dog's parents have been health tested. To shake paws, a dog must be sitting. To roll over, a dog must lie down. When you begin teaching your Bichon Frise, start with "sit" and "lie down" as these are foundational commands. Begin with sit. To teach sit, stand up, say sit, and then use a treat and draw an arc over the puppy' s head so that as its head goes up its bottom goes down. The instant your Bichon sits, praise it with treats and other rewards. Put your hand forward and gesture for your dog to sit down. As your dog begins to master the command, you can phase out hand gestures. Try to repeat the command 10 or 15 times a day until your Bichon learns to sit without hand gestures of constant reinforcement in the form of treats or praise. Ideally, you should be able to get your Bichon to sit when it's being disruptive with guests or before you take him for a walk. You can smoothly transition from sit to lie down by commanding your Bichon to sit. Then, while saying "lie down," use a treat to lure it into a lying position. Get your dog to sit then hold the treat at floor level but slowly move it away from him so that your dog stretches and lies down to get it. Praise your dog with treats and attention as soon as it's lying down. Much like you taught sit, practice until you can gradually phase out rewards and hand gestures. Come is an important command every dog should learn quickly. Knowing to come when called can prevent accidents and can allow your dog to have greater freedom in certain situations. Your goal in teaching "come" is to get your dog to go to you upon hearing the command, regardless of what else is going on. This can be difficult, but with dedication and patience it's achievable. Never punish them, even if you were calling them back because it was misbehaving. You don't want your dog to associate coming to you with any negative consequences. Provide treats, praise, or access to a favorite toy or bed. Come should be a positive sound for your dog, something it looks forward to hearing. Practice several sets of "come here," making your dog perform the command 15 to 20 times. Doing 3 to 4 sets a day should eventually solidify the behavior in your dog. Once your dog has followed the command, allow it to return to play. This will teach it that "come" doesn't always mean play time's over. Bichons are a highly trainable breed. Once you've mastered behaviors like sit, lie down, and come, you can move on to other basic commands. It's sometimes easy to watch for behaviors you can observe and reinforce with a command. Watch for the desired behaviors and then praise them. For example, if you want to teach your Bichon to "speak" say "speak" when it barks, and praise it. Make sure that this is not in response to disruptive barking, such as barking at other dogs or people. If you want your Bichon to beg on cue, and you see it on its hind legs, say "beg" and immediately reward it with food or praise. Eventually, your dog should pick up on the fact that it needs to lift its hand when you say "shake. This will solidify the connection and get your dog to perform on cue when needed. While your Bichon should understand you're in charge, never engage in disciplinary behaviors like rolling a dog on its side, pinching his neck, or other physical forms of punishments. Dogs do not actually respond to this and it can foster feelings of fear. A better way to assert authority is by making your dog understand his schedule is on your terms. Make your dog sit before putting on its leash for a walk. Make it lie down before you place food in its bowl. Bichons are highly trainable, and can easily get beyond the basics. If you're interested in dog training, there are a variety of paths to teach your dog more elaborate skills. Consider enrolling in an advanced training class once your dog knows the basics of sit, lie down, and come here. A professional trainer can help you teach your dog more elaborate tricks and, as an added bonus, training is a great way to socialize your Bichon. Your dog will learn how to behave appropriately in the presence of multiple different types of dogs. Bichons skill sets are not limited to party tricks. Many owners enjoy professional agility training with their Bichons. Look into agility courses in your area. You can compete at shows, sometimes for cash prizes, and it's a great hobby that fosters a healthy, happy relationship between you and your dog. If you're interested in getting your Bichon certified for hospital or therapy work, look into programs available in your area. Bichons have a naturally friendly personality and love people. Having your dog interact with sick people, or help those with mental or physical disabilities, can be an extremely rewarding endeavor. Wanderlust potential — Low Is she hard to train? Welcome to Bichon poodle world. They are a great choice for First-time dog owners because they are so loving and ready to please with an added bonus being that they are extremely sociable. With that said, these little guys are rather independent and they need the rules and regulations that should be given in a gentler fashion. Otherwise, they do not respond well to assertion and authority due to their effervescent personality. Below are a few tips that you should consider when you begin your Bichon-poodle mix training: Bich-poos are light-hearted and exceptionally affectionate dogs which makes them easier to train than many other toy breeds and dogs in general. Start socializing and training your dog from puppyhood. If you are a first-time dog owner, consider signing up dog obedience classes. You still need to inculcate a strong training regimen from an early age to get the best out of them. Make sure your pup is well-socialized to reduce her interface with other people and pets. The payoff is you will be rewarded with a loving and loyal pup. Daily walks are a must, but so are plenty of playtimes to vent off her energy because of the intelligence and inquisitiveness of this hybrid. Regular exercise can also limit the episodes of sudden spikes of Bichon poodle buzz. The Bichpoo is intelligent thanks to the poodle gene pool , but can it be taught to roll over? Or give a high-5 or play dead? Yes, Yes and yes. This crossbreed is competent enough of learning a solid amount of tricks. Just make sure to have ample treats close by for positive reinforcement. By nature, they are not aggressive; nevertheless, start the obedience training right from puppyhood to fend off possibilities of your pooch showing sporadic aggression in the future. They inherit the Poodle tendency for low shedding hypoallergenic which makes them a good choice for people who suffer from pet allergies. They are relatively high maintenance dogs when it comes to grooming their coats for looking fine and uncluttered. For the grooming part, you have to first settle on whether you want your pooch to have the Bichon cut or the Poodle cut. They have quite profuse beards and whiskers so their muzzles should be cleaned after they had their food to remove any food that may have got stuck in the long hair around their muzzles. Bladder infections And heart disease And these are just a few of the most common problems your Bichpoo can have. So what can we do to prevent these? Educating yourself on Bichpoo dog breed health and training is a great start. You might be wondering if more expensive food is worth the money. And we can assure you, they are. Dry kibble is better for your Bichpoo because it helps clean teeth while your dog eats. And since the Bichpoo can be prone to food allergies, a limited ingredient food will reduce the chances of a reaction. Plus, higher-quality food will keep your dog healthy and living longer. After you have a great diet, the next thing to consider is how to keep your dog fit. Your Bichpoo will only need a minute walk every day. But they also need a lot of playtime. Your Bichpoo will love to play fetch and rough play throughout the day. So they run around the house in a crazy playful way. Most of them get along just fine with only minutes of exercise a day. In fact, if you try to push them for long walks every day, they might rebel against walks. And these habits will likely pass on to your Bichpoo. Small bursts of exercise will prevent your puppy from overheating or hurting their growing joints. It can also help your puppy sleep better at night if they are getting regular play throughout the day. Keeping your dog in shape is excellent. But it also helps to know how big your puppy is going to get. Most Bichpoos are a cross between a Bichon and Toy Poodle, so the puppies only get pounds. But if a Miniature Poodle is used instead of a toy, your puppy could get as large as 18 pounds. So that gives you a good idea of the ideal weight for the healthiest dogs. Can Poochons Be Left Alone? Poochons are ok to be alone for short amounts of time, but they do get bored quickly. They need lots of puzzles, toys, and interactive activities for when you are away. But remember to take these toys away while you are home. Another option is to hire a dog walker or take your Doodle to daycare if you work long hours. That way, your dog is getting all of the exercise and emotional needs they need throughout the day. And the weekends will be all the more special between you two. Are Poochons Smelly? Poochon dogs typically have no smell at all due to their curly coat types. But there are a few skin conditions and allergies that will make the skin smell. If you ever notice hair loss or flaky skin along with a foul smell, something is probably wrong. Allergies, yeast infections, and autoimmune diseases can all make your dog smell. So if you notice your dog smells even after a bath, it might be time to make a vet appointment. They are sweet and loving dogs that are great for all families. And best of all, they love to cuddle more than anything else. So if you are looking for a friend for your Bichpoo, the Teddy Bear is a perfect match. Do Bich Poos Shed? But these hypoallergenic coats will need a lot of grooming to keep them healthy. We already mentioned that baths take away any smell that Poochons have. But brushing is also an important part of keeping your dog clean and tangle-free. And Doodles need daily brushing to keep painful knots off the skin. The other part of grooming your Bichpoo is to make regular grooming appointments. Every weeks, your dog will need a hair trim to keep the hair manageable. Otherwise, this hypoallergenic coat will continue to grow until you have a rug instead of a dog. And finally, we come to how easy it is to train a Poochon. These dogs are eager to please and loyal to their owners. So if you offer them a delicious treat and a job well done, they will do almost anything. Bichpoos typically potty train and learn basic commands without a hitch. You can even move on to train them in more complicated tasks and tricks. As long as you always use positive reinforcement training techniques, there is no end to what they can do. Dogs bark for multiple reasons. Some bark while protecting their territory, boredom, or lack of training. But in most cases, the Bichon will bark from lack of socialization. When they see something or someone they are unfamiliar with, they respond with barking. Unfortunately, this is a trait that the Bichon has passed to the Bichpoo. Another effective tool to stop barking is redirection and positive reinforcement. In most cases, your dog will only bark more. How Much Do Bichpoos Cost? Did you know that when it comes to buying a puppy, you get what you pay for? The price of your dog will tell you a lot about their intelligence, breeding, and health. So why is there such a significant price difference? But the higher the price you go, the more reputable breeder takes care of their dogs. That means extensive health checks and DNA testing on the parents. Breeders in the higher price ranges also test the parent breeds for proper temperaments and high intelligence. And the puppies are usually backed by a guarantee. With this quick guide and regular vet check-ups, your pup will be around for years to come. How long can you expect? Most Bichpoos live years. But with excellent care, your dog could be around for much longer. Below is a Pinterest friendly photo…. Sharing is caring! We have Poochon house training solutions, so housebreaking Poochon puppies will be fast and easy. Over , dogs have been successfully potty trained with our world-famous indoor dog potty, called the Potty Training Puppy Apartment, including Poochons. The free video below is a short version of our free minute video which is located on our Home Page. The training techniques and tips are being demonstrated by Miniature Pinscher puppies, however, the techniques are exactly the same for a Poochon puppy or a Poochon adult dog. If you are seeking Poochon puppies for sale or adoption, please visit our Breeders page. The Poochon is a cross between a Poodle and a Bichon Frise. Potty training a Poochon can be very time consuming and extremely frustrating. The Puppy Apartment is a one bedroom, one bathroom home that teaches and trains your Poochon to always go potty in their own indoor doggie bathroom. It eliminates the time and frustration out of potty training a Poochon puppy or a Poochon adult dog. It also takes away all the stress of worrying about your Poochon having to potty! The Potty Training Puppy Apartment device and method are so unique, they are patent pending. House training a Poochon has never been cleaner, faster or easier! The Puppy Apartment has taken all the benefits of the most popular potty training methods and combined them into one magical device and potty training system. This device and system has revolutionized how modern puppies are potty trained! Patience is the key. Socialization This is the part where you show your puppy how to be a friendly and confident dog. It involves exposing your puppy to lots of new experiences before they lose that baby puppy friendliness and become shy of strangers. Good socialization lies at the heart of all dog training, it involves getting out and about with your puppy, and starts when you first bring your puppy home. Make sure that your puppy meets lots of different people and some friendly vacinated dogs. Obedience Training This is where you teach your puppy to obey your commands and be a good canine citizen. Those gorgeous curls can quickly get out of control if left to themselves. That involves the dog standing still while a human gets up close and personal with scissors and clippers. You might be tempted to leave grooming practice until your puppy is older, but this is not a good idea. Use short, daily sessions where you lift your puppy onto a table, and show them that standing still while you handle them, earns them some nice treats. Start with just a few seconds, then gradually increase the time you keep the puppy on the table over the next few weeks. Bichon Poodle Temperament The Bichon Poodle is a smart, active dog since both parent breeds are intelligent, especially the Poodle, and have quite a lot of energy. Quick to learn, they should be easy to train but require plenty of mental and physical stimulation, or they could become destructive. Temperament will very even between dogs of the same breed but generally, Bichon Poodle mixes are extremely friendly and affectionate dogs who love to please their owners and get along with everyone, including other pets and children. Traits to Watch Out For These little dogs do suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods and tend to get nervous in stressful situations. They are good watchdogs, but their barking can become excessive if they are not trained properly from the start. Potential owners of mixed breeds should always keep in mind that the temperament of a hybrid is unpredictable. It is therefore difficult to know what type of personality your Poochon puppy may have, as it could inherit more characteristics from the Bichon or more from the Poodle, or a mixture of both. Devote A Few Minutes A Day To Training Your Bichon Poodle Remember that as with any puppy, it is essential that training and socialization start as early as possible to prevent behavioral problems such as excessive barking. Expose your pup to various people, machinery, and animals in different environments so they can enjoy being relaxed and confident in any situation. Just ten to fifteen minutes a day spent on training games will help your curly friend grow up to be a well-mannered and calm dog, who is welcome where ever you go. Training Tips Positive reinforcement methods work best, using treats and praise and keeping sessions short but fun to prevent boredom. Potty training may take time if your pup takes after the Bichon parent, as this breed is notoriously difficult to housebreak but is usually easier with the Poodle. Exercise Both Bichon Poodle mix puppies and adult dogs tend to have moderate to high energy levels. As a small pooch, it is better to have short, frequent walks rather than one long walk, along with some playtime. Swimming is good exercise for dogs. Poodles love the water, and if you introduce your puppy gradually to wet paws and splashing through puddles, they may well progress to enjoying a reguar swimming session.
Today, there are many Labradoodle breeders in Texas and finding the right pup for you is certainly easier than it was in the last decade. On the other hand, any breeder can advertise that they have Labradoodles for sale in Texas. See Also: Click the image So, what are the key factors you should keep in mind when choosing a Labradoodle breeder in Texas? For this purpose, all parent pups have undergone thorough health and genetic testing that helps minimize the risk of puppies inheriting any genetic illnesses that can affect their quality of life or even lifespan. That being said, reputable breeders also provide at least a two-year health guarantee that covers any serious genetic conditions that the parent pups have been tested for. In fact, some breeders even offer a three-year health guarantee. Many reputable Labradoodle breeders in Texas are also recommended by Good Dog. Why is that important? Most notably, breeders have to follow strict health testing protocols and ethical breeding practices to obtain certifications by any of these organizations we mentioned above. Many breeders have posted testimonials on their websites, but we also recommend you search for reviews on Google, Facebook, Yelp, Reddit, here at Doodle Doods , or even on your local online forums. All of their puppies are born and raised in a loving home environment, and all of their breeding dogs are beloved family pets either with the breeder or in carefully chosen guardian homes. Lantana Labradoodles focuses on breeding companion dogs through love, dedication, and enrichment. By the way, the ENS training is an excellent way for the puppies to get used to regular human interactions and body handling from such a young age! Additionally, Lantana Labradoodles gets their Doods started on potty training and crate training, and basic manners and obedience training. They take them for car rides, introduce them to grooming, and even collar and leash training. They also conduct temperament testing on each of their puppies at 7 weeks of age. What Makes This Breeder Unique? Waitlist: Yes. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. We're right outside of Austin. Our goal is to provide you with a healthy, loving and devoted family companion who has a fantastic temperament and a low to non-shedding coat. Producing puppies with calm, sweet temperaments is a focus of our breeding program. We select our parent dogs with care to ensure that each litter born produces wonderful puppies that can be the pride and joy of those lucky enough to raise them. Bobbie is a certified BAB Puppy Evaluator and we temperament test our litters to help families find just the right puppy. We're also proud to have been accepted, with an Excellent rating, into the Good Breeder Program at gooddog. We learned about labradoodles several years ago. We were looking to add a dog to our family that had a great temperament and didn't shed much. We had previously owned a labrador that we loved to death, but we wanted to avoid fur covering every inch of our floor again. Our first labradoodle, Cooper, was so much more than we dared hope for and the reason we decided to go into breeding. He has a lab temperament. He's calm, sweet, devoted, patient, loving and loyal. And he doesn't shed at all. We were so in love with him, that we decided one labradoodle in our home was simply not enough. Why Australian Labradoodles? Because they are, in our view, the perfect dog. They are so sweet, love their humans so much, are so devoted and wonderful with children, and they are so smart. They are known for their beauty and looks, but the Australian Labradoodle's gorgeous coat is just the icing on a very delicious cake! We hope you take a few minutes to look around our site and get to know us and our dogs. We'd love to hear from you if you have any questions! Contact Us. Contact us today for more information about our family-raised, hypo-allergenic, highly trainable Labradoodles. We started our breeding program with the best bloodlines to ensure we would be producing the most beautiful, intelligent, trainable and lovable dogs possible. We are grateful for the guidance we had when we started and we continue to improve the way we do things through training and education for more than 18 years. It is our dedication to excellence in the way we raise our precious dogs and train them that sets Texas Labradoodles apart. Most of the breeders were breeding true Australian Labradoodles. Since that time we have watched our amazing and magical breed of dogs become a world wide phenomenon with Labradoodles taking over everywhere. From being in the movies to being the number one choice for commercials, print ads and funniest video stars, Labradoo dles are everywhere. With this profound movement of the love of all things Labra doodle, the purity and purpose of what Labradoodles were originally bred for has become convoluted with many types of doodles. The Labradoodle breed itself is be coming a confusing mixture of levels of breeds, types of infusions into the blood lines, etc. Australian Labradoodles are produced when multiple generations of the original Australian bloodlines, Rutland Manor and Teagan Park are bred together. These two kennels began breeding these dogs to create a hypo-allergenic, low to non-shedding dog. These dogs are bred to be highly trainable dog for the purpose of being taught to be guide dogs or therapy dogs for people with allergies. It took these two kennels a lot of work, testing and breeding to get the breed to where it is today. It was not as simple as breeding a Lab to a Poodle, both great dogs, of course, but not a true Australian Labradoodle The importance of adopting a multi-generational Australian Labradoodle If you want a hypo-allergenic, highly trainable dog for your new family member or a dog for therapy work, you want to get a multi-generational Australian Labradoodle. Working with a reputable breeder that has many years of experience and a true love of the breed is important. Make sure the genetic testing and puppy care are done to ensure they are breeding the best and most healthy dogs possible. Dogs that are registered with the ALAA as multi-generational Australian Labradoodles are the most consistent breeding of Labradoodles that you can get. These dogs are going to have a consistent temperament and trainability level. This consistency and care to our breeding program helps our families to know exactly what to expect from their new family member. Clearing our dogs for potential diseases not only ensures that our dogs do not have these issues prior to breeding, it also ensures that we will never produce puppies that could have these diseases. The hip and elbow testing does not guarantee that puppies will never have hip dysplasia, but it is the best method that we have to prevent producing puppies with genetic hip issues. Hip problems are often caused be environmental factors, but culling puppies for breeding purposes helps to reduce the risk of breeding bad confirmation. Temperament, coat and trainability for different types of disciplines are key in our breeding program. Creating perfect family members, guide dogs, therapy dogs and best friends begins with breeding the perfect parents. Years of care and experience have made us experts at accomplishing high standards set by the ALAA and our own personal goals for our dogs. We know that a Texas Labradoodles bred dog is the finest of our wonderful breed and we are so proud to have produced such wonderful companions and working dogs. Please see our references page for more stories and letters from our families. November, .I cannot say enough good things about Mardee and Texas Labradoodles! From the beginning Mardee was very caring and knowledgable on all things Australian Labradoodle. It is clear she and her family love their dogs and take excellent care of them from the very start. She takes the time to match each puppy to their forever home and I scored the jackpot with my Maggie! I could not be happier with her sweet demeanor and easy going temperament. She is super smart, easy to train and equally as adorable. Even after bringing our puppy home Mardee has been a great resource and we are still in touch. I am so thankful to have found Mardee and Texas Labradoodles! Mike Tadlock .October, .Texas Labradoodles and Mardee were Amazing. She helped guide us through the selection process and we could not have gotten a better fur baby than Sadie. If you could meet Sadie and see her with us you would understand. We are obnoxiously crazy about this girl! We know others who have used Texas Labradoodles and they all feel the same. She has brought so much joy and happiness to our home. Paul Chapman 4. We recently welcomed the most perfect medium Australian Labradoodle into the family. I could go on and on about how wonderful this dog is and if you email me I will. That said, I have been equally impressed by our experience with this breeder. First and foremost, Mardee loves her dogs and this breed and that loves comes through in every single interaction and detail. They are true to breed standard. Go through all the appropriate genetic and health screens and, most importantly, are bred and raised in a loving home with plenty of outdoor country air. These dogs are not inexpensive but they are well-priced, given all the time and expense put into raising quality animals in the very most humane and caring of environments. If you want to know what to look for in a breeder - TX Labradoodle is the standard. Chris Monroe .August, .Highly knowledgeable, caring and experienced. Mardee and Bruce patiently answered all of my questions about Australian Labradoodle's and she matched us with the perfect addition for our family. Mardee provided a thorough background and documentation of care, and a detailed checklist for us to take home. June is 14 weeks old now and is everything we imagined and more. June, .TX Labradoodles are truly amazing, full of heart, and extremely knowledgeable! Mardee and her family have become our family! We have the 3 most gorgeous fur babies ever who bring immense joy and love to my life! We consider ourselves beyond fortunate to have crossed paths with Mardee, Bruce, and James! We are forever grateful! We love you tremendously!!! Thank you for making the world a better place with the most extraordinary fur babies!!! Brittany Meuth .April, .My husband and I recently adopted our first puppy from Texas Labradoodles and we could not be happier with our experience! Mardee has remained a resource to us even since bringing Murphy home and could not have created a better experience for us. She is amazing at what she does and truly loves providing families with amazing pets! Steven Roberts .We got 2 girls from Mardee two months ago. The experience could not have gone better. Loving environment, plenty of outdoor room, clean as a whistle and the pups are all we could hope for. No puppy mill atmosphere here. Solid solid folks and superior dogs. And another plus: Wimberley Texas is awesome. Karen Hernandez .I have truly been blessed by the forming relationship with Mardee and MOE. I did not realize how much joy at my age she allows me to experience. She is not my only dog that I share my life with, but she is definitely an exception that I must say is out of the ordinary. Mardee is very responsive and knowledgeable and her understanding of the breed. I can tell she only wants to breed the best genetics and protect the breed from becoming a backyard hobby only to make money. It is nice to see and know how much she strives to improve the breed. I think anyone looking to start or expand their canine family would be truly blessed. Google rating score: 4. This family owned business is committed to performing extensive health testing and temperament assessments on each female and male breeding Doodle before selecting them to produce our adorable puppies. We have a select number of litters each year, focusing individual attention to the development of each doodle puppy before it goes to its forever home. Whether you are looking to purchase your first Australian Labradoodle or your third, this will be a very exciting time for you and your family! To achieve this, we carefully select our breeding dogs based on extensive health examinations and temperament assessments. Our breeding moms and studs have been carefully examined and tested by local veterinarians here in Texas to ensure they are free of eye, hip, and elbow problems, cardiac issues, genetic diseases and coat issues. Eye testing is ongoing for the entire time the dog is actively breeding. Photo Right: Our reproductive veterinarian, Dr. Kirk Esmond Each and every breeding dog passes extensive health testing to provide the best opportunity for healthy puppies. I think we are getting ready to go to our forever homes! We specialize in medium size dogs, ranging from pounds. Needless to say, the precious puppies we raise are part of our family. Our breeding Australian Labradoodle dogs live in our home as our family pets or in Guardian Homes as a valued family member. Welcome to the world of a Legendary Labradoodle. People are talking about us. Not only do we have an adorable, healthy, hypoallergenic and non-shedding family companion, but Legendary Labradoodles goes to great lengths to assure the temperament of the puppy will thrive in your home environment. They are truly producing the best pups in temperament, coat, and health not to mention hands down the cutest faces and body shape. We value home socialization and offer a 3-year health guarantee for all Australian Labradoodle puppies. Our Labradoodles are multi-generational and are superior to F1 and F1b because their traits are established and dependable. Early generations of Labradoodles do not offer the consistency that multi-generational do. Our puppies have been proven for non-shedding hypoallergenic coats and temperament. Not all Labradoodles are created equal. Australian Labradoodles are a great choice for those seeking non-shedding and allergy-friendly dogs. Multi-gen Australian Labradoodles have been carefully bred over time and are consistent for coat, temperament, and conformation. Strenuous genetic testing has been done to ensure to give you the best pet possible. Australian Labradoodles are extremely loyal to their families and are known to have a sweet and gentle temperament. They are sensitive dogs with intuitive intelligence making them easy to train. These traits make them superior therapy and service dogs. What are the coats like on Australian Labradoodles? The small size of our program allows our Labradoodles and Sheepadoodles to be a part of our everyday home life and not be kept in kennels. It also provides an opportunity for puppies to socialize, be nurtured, and be loved. Our puppies are socialized with people, children, and other pets. Our diligent work with young puppies contributes to an easy transition into their forever homes. At Texas Australian Labradoodles, we keep the Labradoodle and Sheepadoodle puppy adoption experience as pleasant and comfortable for you as possible. When you adopt our puppy, you become a member of our program and a part of our Labradoodle and Sheepadoodle forever family. We want to share your joy. We love pictures! We place great importance on your satisfaction with your new Labradoodle and Sheepadoodle puppy. Guided by our experience, careful assessment of each puppy, and objective aptitude evaluations we can select the best puppy for your specific needs and lifestyle. At Texas Australian Multigenerational Labradoodles, we produce 4th generation Australian Labradoodles or later generations we do not have any of the early generation Labradoodles as their temperament, coat, and comfortation can be very unpredictable. Our Doodles are selectively bred for many generations to produce allergy-friendly, intelligent, easy to train puppies with gentle temperaments and exceptional beauty. Their coat is non-shedding and odor-free and works well with allergy sufferers. Our labradoodles are loved and well-socialized, which makes them perfect dogs for families with young children and homes that have other pets. Our Doodles are also perfect candidates for service, therapy, and companion dogs due to their intelligence as well as gentle and affectionate disposition. Our Australian Sheepadoodles are carefully bred by pairing our fabulous Old English Sheepdogs and extraordinary Multigenerational Australian Labradoodles. We are the only breeders that have paired these incredible breeds to create astonishing puppies who consistently deliver allergy-friendly silky coats, calm temperaments, and overall great confirmation. Our Doodles are loved and well-socialized which makes them perfect dogs for families with young children, first time pet owners, and families with other pets. However, our small size ensures that we are able to pay close attention to each of our Doodle puppies to ensure that they get the stimulation and the attention to reach their developmental milestones. Simply put, there are no puppies left behind at Texas Australian Labradoodles and Australian Sheepadoodles. The public is slowly recognizing the value of smaller programs that do not mill their puppies and a handful of Australian Labradoodle Breeders in the US are following our footsteps and cutting the number of adult doodles in their program so that they do not have to be housed in kennels. Although all puppies are beautiful and can enrich the life of any family through their unique personality, we love the Australian Labradoodle and Australian Sheepadoodle puppies! We want to help and give your family a lifetime of sweet memories to warm your heart. If you are looking for kid-friendly, loyal, and easy to train pets or therapy dogs, please check out our therapy dogs for sale and our affordable puppies for sale! She is the sweetest, most amazing dog we could have ever wished for and we are completely in LOVE! We are such proud parents! She likes to play but seems to really enjoy her naps. We are so happy how everything worked out and we were blessed with our little sweetie Lola. Will keep in touch with more pics to follow! We may want to even add a sibling to our family! He plays well with other dogs and children, is energetic enough to play fetch and will curl up with us on the couch and take a nap when it is movie time. It was a pleasure working with you guys through the process. From the initial meeting to the weekly picture updates to picking out and taking home our puppy. She is a people magnet. Everyone wants to see her and pet her because she is so gorgeous! And fluffy! We lover her curly coat! She is extremely smart…when she wants something and is definitely still in the hyper puppy stage! Her forbidden love is socks and she will do just about anything for a piece of cheese. The most important thing is that we love her so much. She brings so much joy to our family! We can love all over her…pet her…kiss her…and she wags her tail and licks us. She is a good girl! Still a hyper puppy that tries to get into everything, but a really good girl! My dog Pepper is a wonderful addition to my family! Beautiful dogs! They are beautiful and healthy. Our first one is almost 5 years old and we have a 2 month old. Lindy breeds them in a very clean home. She is extremely loving to these newborns and is open to all of our questions. She even follows up to see how they are doing. I would not buy from anyone else. Our 2 labradoodles get plenty of compliments. We have added 2 beautiful members to our family. I waited almost a year for mine and he has been life changing. They are truly amazing, healthy, loyal, and smart dogs! I have trained him and he is now a service dog and has been the greatest companion to me as well. Lindy always responded and kept me in the loop during the entire process. Before I met her I had a nightmare situation with a breeder that was a scam so was very skeptical but she made me feel at ease about everything. Thank you for everything Lindy! Nathan Kirton I ended up finding a puppy from someone else that fit my timeline better. The communication I had with her Lindy was amazing. She was super helpful, and gave me so much information about what I could expect. Thanks for being super helpful Lindy! We waited over a year and it was so worth it! Lindy was instrumental in our family getting the dog of our dreams. She was extremely helpful in asking and answering questions to ensure we got a right match for our family. She took into consideration all of my preferential factors such as the gender, coat color, personality, etc. The cherry on top was upon pick up at 8 weeks Teddy was healthy, socialized, potty trained, and vaccinated. Lindy pours love onto these dogs and puppies and treats her clients with tremendous respect. The puppies are happy and safely kept in an immaculate environment until sent home and I love that each family is celebrated with a photo to commemorate the occasion. Definitely worth the WAIT! Chuck Hahn Best dog ever!!! Worth the wait. He came home perfect! Testimonials Happy Faces Your happiness is our happiness, your success, our success. We take great pride in each and every home we complete with our dogs. We did tons of research. We wanted a dog that did not shed, was hypoallergenic, and had a good temperament. Those dogs are hard to find! We finally came across a very special Australian Labradoodle. We found our Rosie through my best friend who knew the owner of Australian Labradoodles of Texas. Her temperment is what we were really drawn to. She is so calm, obedient, and really wants to please you. She rings a bell when she needs to go outside and walks right next to you on her leash! We feel so lucky that we get to call her ours! To say that Miles has changed our lives for the better would be an extreme understatement! From the moment we set our eyes on him in your videos, we knew he was special, and he has shown us that a million times over. He is a sweet and affectionate dog who loves his family fiercely, acting protective when he needs to, yet demonstrates such a docile and gentle temperament to other people, especially small children who love to pet and squeeze his fluffiness. I had no intention of adding another dog to the mix! After several weeks, I finally pulled the trigger and we brought him home! Charley Brown was the perfect addition to our family and I would recommend these pups to anyone looking for a good family dog. All of our puppies come with Socialization.
NOTE: All puppies will be up to date on shots and wormed, health record provided. Puppies are available to pick up at 8 weeks or older. We also send home a blanket and toy that has been rubbed down in the Dam's scent to help reduce stress and comfort while adjusting to their new homes. When you receive your puppy, we recommend a Vet visit within 3 to 5 days. We keep all our dogs current on Heartworm and recommend that you have your Vet start your puppy on this preventative medicine by weeks old. Your Vet will know what age is best for your puppy. If you are not going to show or breed your puppy, it is recommended to have them spayed or neutered. Please read our puppy agreement page before you make your final decision, all deposits to hold are nonrefundable and Sales Tax is collected on all puppies sold from our home and or shipped within Texas. Size: Our ChiPoos range in size from 3 to 7 lbs, most average around 5 lbs. Ours have long hair which is wavy or curly. ChiPoos can be a wide variety of colors including white, black, sable, apricot, brown, gray, or cream. Because of the Poodle within the breed, the ChiPoo is usually a non shedder, making it a good match for allergy sufferers. Character: The ChiPoo is intelligent, lively, and highly affectionate. They are very devoted their owner, some tend to bond most closely with one person. ChiPoos tend to follow their owner from room to room, eager to play or cuddle up. They love to amuse their owners with clever antics. Some ChiPoos tend to bark frequently. Temperament: ChiPoos are good natured and highly friendly due to the Miniature Poodle influence within the breed. They are affectionate with strangers, dogs, and other pets. Young children should be supervised around the ChiPoo to ensure they treat the dog with respect. Care: ChiPoo grooming may be required on a daily or weekly basis, depending upon the type of coat. Bathe only as necessary. Cleaning of the area around the eyes may be necessary to remove tear stains; careful brushing with a small fine comb is effective. The ChiPoo has a lifespan of years. Proper nutrition and exercise are critical—consult your veterinarian regarding special foods for small breeds to avoid digestive problems. A sweater is recommended for long exposure to cool weather. Training: The ChiPoo is intelligent and eager to please, making it easily trained. A gentle approach is recommended. Activity: The ChiPoo is very active indoors and can have a lot of its exercise needs met by indoor activity. They need room to run around, either indoor or outdoor. ChiPoos are a great match for apartment life. Life Span Did You Know? Chi-Poos are compact and energetic little dogs that love their families. They tend to be energetic and playful, and love nothing more than being around their favorite humans. Although the Chi-Poo is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other notable canine organizations. A Chi-Poo tends to be sweet, loving, and affectionate with their families. They tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. They can be initially wary of strangers and strange dogs. But, as long as they have been well-socialized, they tend to warm up quickly. Chi-Poos are fantastic watchdogs because they will alert you to things, people, noises, etc. Because of this, they can be prone to barking a lot. If you start to train your dog to stop barking early on, you can keep this from becoming a nuisance behavior. Chi-Poos are highly adaptable dogs. They do well in apartments as well as larger homes with or without yards. These little dogs do well in most climates. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat. Due to their small size, they may also need to bundle up with some winter dog products to stay warm while out on walks when the temperatures drop. Because these little dogs bond closely with their families and crave attention from them, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. This also means they can be prone to developing separation anxiety. So, you will want to make sure you socialize your dog and spend some time making sure they can be comfortable when you are not around. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Chi-Poo include glaucoma , luxating patella , hypoglycemia, and overactive tear glands. As a small dog breed, the Chi-Poo is more prone to developing painful dental diseases later in life. Gum disease in dogs is one of the most common health issues and has serious consequences. Chi-Poos are highly intelligent dogs that are eager to please and pick up on things quickly. Inconsistent training can make them stubborn. But, as long as training is kept consistent and focused on positive reward and praise, they are a good fit for owners of all experience levels. Puppy training classes are still an option. Aside from the training, there are several other benefits of puppy training classes. If they take more after their Chihuahua parent, they will shed a little year-round, require weekly brushing, and need the occasional bath. If they inherit the Poodle coat, they may not shed, but they will need a lot more grooming. Daily brushing is required to remove tangles and prevent mats from forming. In addition, professionally grooming and clipping are needed every weeks. If you are visiting a dog groomer regularly, they may be able to help out with some things, but you will still need to do maintenance at home between visits. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep them from growing too long and causing issues. Weekly ear checks with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Dental diseases can be prevented later in life with consistent dental care. Daily brushing or use of an enzyme toothpaste in addition to cleanings at the vet as needed are ideal. Although a Chi-Poo will be energetic when they play, they are small dogs and will tire themselves out quickly. Usually, daily walks plus some playtime are enough to keep this little dog happy and healthy. Because they thrive being around you, they may be up for more activity if you are. Just make sure you keep an eye on them to make sure they are not overexerting themselves trying to keep up and be prepared to potentially have to rest or carry them. A fully-grown Chi-Poo usually averages inches tall and pounds in weight. Chi-Poos generally live for years on average. This mix is usually called a Chi-Poo. Other nicknames include Choodle, Poochi, Chipoodle, and Poohuahua. Featured Chi-Poo Article.
Each dog has its own personality and traits influenced by factors such as genetics, training, and environment. While some Golden Retrievers may exhibit challenging behavior at times, it is essential to approach it with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement training techniques. Golden Retriever Stubbornness during Walks Walking a Golden Retriever who appears stubborn during walks can be a frustrating experience for some owners. If a Golden Retriever appears stubborn during walks, it may be due to insufficient training or distractions in the environment. Consistent leash training, positive reinforcement, and redirecting their attention can help overcome these challenges. Their innate friendliness can be attributed to their breeding history as hunting and retrieving dogs. Over the years, they have been selectively bred for their temperament, including their ability to get along well with humans and other animals. Their friendly nature makes them great companions for families, individuals, and even as therapy dogs. Golden Retriever Puppy Behavior Stages Golden Retriever puppies go through several stages of development that significantly impact their behavior. This stage is critical for their physical and emotional development. Socialization Stage Between 3 to 12 weeks, Golden Retriever puppies enter the socialization stage. This is a crucial period where they start exploring their environment, interacting with humans and other animals, and learning social cues. Positive experiences and exposure to various stimuli during this stage are vital for their lifelong behavior and temperament. Adolescent Stage From around 3 to 6 months, Golden Retriever puppies enter the adolescent stage. Consistent training, exercise, and positive reinforcement techniques are key to overcoming these challenges and reinforcing desired behaviors. Adult Stage Around 1 to 2 years of age, Golden Retrievers transition into adulthood. They become more settled, and their energy levels stabilize. With proper training and a nurturing environment, their friendly and loyal nature continues to shine. Final Thought After considering the points discussed above, it becomes evident that Golden Retrievers are not stubborn. They are obedient and exceptional companions. Golden Retrievers are intelligent, friendly, eager to please, and highly trainable. When provided with proper socialization, mental stimulation, and regular exercise, they can thrive in any home environment. Although they may occasionally show stubbornness, consistent training and positive reinforcement can effectively address this behavior. If you are considering getting a Golden Retriever, be sure to do your research and find a reputable breeder. With proper care and training, a Golden Retriever can bring you years of love and companionship. But they are also very smart dogs, and everyone with dogs knows that smarter dogs tend to have independent personalities. This also means that smart dogs tend to be stubborn at times. So, is this case for goldens as well since they are so smart? Are Golden Retrievers Stubborn? No, Golden Retrievers are not stubborn. Goldens are generally obedient and easy-going dogs, but they can also be very high-energy and high-maintenance which makes it seem like your golden retriever is stubborn. You can make your golden less stubborn with obedience and agility training classes. This was the really short answer. To understand why they are not stubborn and what they really are which may make them seem like so — and what you can do about it — keep reading… Are Golden Retrievers Stubborn in General? In General, Golden Retrievers are not stubborn dogs. They are actually very obedient dogs and they are always looking to please their owners in any way possible. Why Golden Retrievers are not normally Stubborn Many people claim that goldens are smart and therefore they have a more independent personality than less intelligent dogs, which leads to them being more stubborn. They were intentionally bred to be very easy-going with everyone and to be obedient to their owners. You can learn the whole history and story of golden retrievers in my post on why are golden retrievers gentle here. This quality has been reinforced in them with every generation we breed, because only the best dogs get bred, and those are the ones that please us the most. This eagerness to please humans makes them very easy-going dogs, and they are the perfect dogs for any first-time dog owner. However, this also makes them poor guard dogs. You can learn more about this in my post on will a golden retriever attack an intruder here. They are Empathetic and Compassionate Golden Retrievers are very emotionally intelligent dogs because they have amazing ability to be empathetic and compassionate with humans and other animals as well. In fact, your golden retriever is probably more emotionally intelligent than you think. Not only can they sense your emotional state from your tone of voice and body language, they can also smell the chemical changes that come with your mood swings. With time, your golden retriever will be more capable of watching out for your mood swings and even expecting when they will happen by associating them with certain precursors like the phone ringtone or the notification ping on your laptop. This also leads people to think that their goldens are refusing to obey commands out of stubbornness, while the truth is that the dog is simply not trained enough because of the rushed training. You should not train your dog on a command and just expect the dog to obey the command with the same accuracy every time for the rest of their lives. Instead, you should repeat their training at least every couple of years to reinforce it. If you have stopped training your golden retriever for more than a year, this is probably the reason they are acting stubbornly; they are just forgetting their training. Not Getting Enough Activity Golden Retrievers are incredibly active dogs and they need a lot of exercise consistently on a daily basis and at different times of the day to stay calm and relaxed. If your dog has too much pent-up energy, they are going to be much harder to control and they may act stubbornly because they are looking for a way to release all this energy. Dogs are still dogs, not matter how smart they are, and you need to train them on every action you need them to do. They may need a job Some field-bred golden retrievers have way too much energy for some people to handle and they need literally hours of exercise to keep calm and happy. If your golden retriever is left alone all day without getting as much exercise as they need, is it really this surprising that they are being hyper and stubborn? Think not. Some golden retrievers are just so energetic that the only way to calm them down is to give them a job — yes, jobs like the ones they had a century ago. If you can go hunting, hiking, or do any other outdoor activities that require a lot of energy, it could be enough for those goldens, but otherwise, you may need to find some way to keep them moving and occupied a few hours every day. Look into agility training or field training. By the way, you can learn about hiking with golden retrievers here. You need to teach them that there is a second command that goes with that. There is a second part to most commands, and most people ignore to teach their dogs that, but smart dogs quickly get bored. How to Handle a Stubborn Golden Retriever If your golden retriever is indeed acting stubbornly, there are simply ways in which you can handle the issue. Here is how to handle a stubborn golden retriever: Reassess your own expectations. Their long flowing coat is actually a double-coat, that consists of a fluffy undercoat and a protective outer coat. If you have allergies, this breed is definitely not for you. A Golden Retriever will shed all year long. Heavy shedding occurs in the Spring and Fall, to make room for their new coats of the season. During the rest of the year, you will notice moderate shedding. Feeding a golden a high-quality diet is crucial in maintaining a healthy coat, and to help reduce shedding. There are other things that you can do to help reduce and get control of all that shedding, check out my other article, Stop Golden Retriever Shedding to find out how. They Are Stubborn Many owners of this breed can attest to the fact that their dog is stubborn. I know firsthand just how stubborn this breed can be. Golden Retrievers are extremely intelligent, which makes them easy to train, but they also have a mind of their own. By that I mean he will just sit there and not move. Perhaps you want to turn right at the street instead of left, but your dog wants to go left, you can expect your dog to sit there and not move until you go his way, or you coax him into going your way with a treat. They enthusiastically want to meet everyone, strangers, other dogs, other animals, anyone who they think will give them the time of day. A golden wants to be friends with everyone, even strangers that come to your door. I mean sure they will bark at strangers, but when a stranger approaches they will wag their tail and greet them with a smile and probably expect to get petted. They Take Over Your Furniture Be prepared for a golden to get comfortable on your couch, or even your bed. I tried putting tinfoil on the couch to prevent her from jumping up. Now I share the couch with her. I think the reality is that you can train your dog to stay off the furniture, but sometimes it is easier to just give in. They Are Food Obsessed This breed is motivated by food, this can be both good and bad. Being motivated by food makes them easier to train. A golden will pretty much do anything for a treat. There have been plenty of times when I have walked my Ellie, and she has picked up and eaten some very questionable stuff. Walking a food-motivated dog can be frustrating at times. They Are Chewers Many dogs are chewers but goldens in particular love to chew. If you plan on owning this breed, you will want to have plenty of appropriate chew toys on hand, or else they will find something of yours to chew on. They Are Messy If you like to keep a neat and orderly house, forget about owning a golden. I have already mentioned they shed, and hair is going to be everywhere, but this breed loves to get dirty. They love water, as well as mud. Most dogs will walk around a mud puddle in order to avoid it, but not a golden. Can you say mud bath? However, when they are puppies they are very bouncy and energetic, and they are large enough to knock over a small child. Puppies need to be supervised around small children. This breed is very energetic, playful, and loves to run and jump around. Even adults need to be careful because a golden can easily knock you over when they get excited and start running into your legs. This breed is high energy, especially when they are young, up to the age of .Golden Retrievers were bred to be hunting dogs, and they are very athletic and smart. They need plenty of exercise as well as mental stimulation every day, in order for them to be the calm and happy relaxed dog everyone wants. Giving a golden plenty of exercise throughout the day will prevent them from getting bored, and developing bad behaviours. Golden Retrievers love to play fetch, and they love water. Providing them with plenty of opportunities to vent their energy and do the things they love is a must. Golden Retrievers are great little thieves. I already mentioned they like carrying things in their mouths, well, they enjoy stealing anything from you and love to parade it around in their mouth. Turn around for even a second, and you can find a golden taking dirty socks out of the laundry basket, or worse your underwear, and make you chase him to get it back. Everything is fair game to a golden. Here is a short video that shows a Police therapy dog stealing toys that were meant for needy children. Golden Retrievers crave and need human attention. Golden Retrievers are very social, and love to be around their family. They need to be included in family activities, in order to be happy. If you work all day, it is a good idea to take your golden to doggie daycare or hire a dog walker to walk your dog. This way your golden will not become bored, or depressed from being alone all day. This is just to name a few, and not all goldens will have all of these problems, or have any of these problems. If you are considering this breed, you need to be aware of the health issues that affect them. Health clearances show that a dog has been tested and cleared for a certain condition. For more questions to ask a breeder, and to find out how to pick a puppy from a litter, click here. Their Lifespan Is Too Short We made it to what I think is the number one bad thing about goldens, their short lifespan. According to Wikipedia , Golden Retrievers live on average years, and if you ask any Golden Retriever owner they will tell you that is too short. Many owners of this breed find themselves wanting more than one. To many, owning a Golden Retriever has become an obsession, and you often see people owning 2, 3, 4 or more! This breed is simply wonderful, and if you have the time, energy, patience and you can afford to have more than one, then why not?!! Not only do you get double the love and laughs, but your golden has a companion as well. I hope you enjoyed reading this post. As a total fan of this wonderful breed, I thought it would be hard to come up with anything bad about Golden Retrievers but easily came up with .What about you? Are you able to look past the 13 bad things about Golden Retrievers? Please share your thoughts in the comments below. Jenny I am the proud owner of a Golden Retriever named Ellie. She keeps me busy, and when she is resting, you can find me working on my blog. She is always close by though. I live in Stirling, ON Canada with my husband, and we both enjoy the never a dull moment life with our Ellie. Spread the love. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Golden retrievers are such great family dogs. And they tend to have some behavior problems because of their great characteristics. Most goldens want to be near their people. And they love to be petted and get attention. They may jump, grab our hand or arm, or engage in some destructive behaviors. Many of these are normal dog behaviors that can be modified through training and exercise. Normal Dog Behaviors Versus Abnormal Behaviors Dogs naturally dig, bark, express fear in certain situations, mark territory, chase small animals, and jump. They may steal food. Or want to be with us all the time. Goldens were bred to be sociable, high-energy dogs. My rescued golden Spencer almost always had to carry something in his mouth. So I made sure there were safe toys for him to happily tote around. Unfortunately, many dogs are given up to shelters because of behaviors that can be modified. To have a great companion takes a lot of work, patience, and time. And to meet those needs. These should be dealt with by behavior specialists who can evaluate the individual dog and determine the best behavior modification plan. These abnormal behaviors include aggression to those around the dog, obsessive-compulsive disorders, shutting down, and severe separation anxiety. Why Behavior Problems Develop There is no one reason why some behavior problems occur. Unfortunately, goldens are so popular—the third-popular breed ranked by the American Kennel Club—they are often poorly bred. There are too many back-yard and puppy mill dogs who are more likely to not be the examples of what the breed should be. Jumping on People Golden retrievers usually love everyone and never met a stranger. Goldens are the greeting committee of the dog world. Many dogs want to jump on people when greeting them. The golden can, of course, unintentionally injure someone, knocking them over in his exuberant greeting. Engaging in Destructive Behavior In addition to friendliness, goldens were bred to hunt. They have energy to spare. And they were bred to retrieve and have something in their mouths. They may dig up the garden. Or chew up our furniture. Or they may steal the food on the counter. And the food they eat may be toxic, such as chocolate or raisins. Or they may get a blockage from ingesting a towel or sock. A bored, under-exercised golden can get very creative in meeting his needs. They often need to have something in their mouths. That is, he may constantly try to hold our clothes, arm, or hand in his mouth. Biting is a natural canine behavior. But puppies should be taught bite-inhibition. And it can be dangerous. Someone can be badly bruised or even pulled down. Pulling on the Leash Goldens love to go places and greet all their new admirers. But they want to get there sooner rather than later. Many dogs pull on a leash, but not all are as friendly as goldens are known to be. And they can be lazer-focused on getting where they want to go. Being a rather large dog, a golden pulling on a leash can injure someone. An owner can be pulled down and get injured. Or the dog himself can get free and get lost or injured—or worse. Demanding Attention Because of their natural friendliness, goldens may want to be the center of attention. They are so family-oriented, they love to be with us. Some goldens may bark at you for attention. They may nudge you and grab your arm to be recognized. Some may even engage in unwanted behaviors like taking something off the table. Even negative attention is attention. Hyperactivity Some goldens seemingly bounce off the walls. They are like a hurricane passing through the living room. Tables are cleared of bric a brac. Pillows are shredded and on the floor. But your happy golden is furiously wagging his tail, looking for the next item he can use to help expel his excess energy. Separation Anxiety Because of their innate friendly, family-oriented behavior, goldens may suffer from separation anxiety at a higher rate than some other breeds. Their need to be with us can lead to some unwanted behaviors. Dogs with mild separation anxiety may drool, pace, whine, and generally behave in a distressed manner. Dogs with severe separation anxiety may become very destructive. They may try to get out of doors and windows, feverishly digging at door and window frames. They may even severely harm themselves in their attempts to get free. Dogs with separation anxiety may need professional behavioral help. We owe it to our goldens to do all that we can do to meet their natural needs. A bored, untrained, under-exercised, unsupervised golden is going to develop some problem behaviors. Some of the tips below will even help your golden from developing any of the potential problems cited above. I wrote the ways to help fix a problem separately from the problems because it will probably take more than one item to successfully change an unwanted behavior. All of the favorable interactions we have with our goldens also help further our bond with them. Physical Exercise Goldens were bred to hunt. They are highly-energetic dogs. Walks, fetching, jogging, agility, and swimming can all be great ways to physically exercise your golden. A vet check-up is advisable prior to starting any exercise program. Physical exercise can help decrease or eliminate the above-named problems. Of course, you want to exercise your dog enough but not over-tire them. Dogs who have been sufficiently exercised are less likely to jump or engage in destructive activities such as digging or chewing. Also, dogs who are exercised and calm before we leave are less likely to develop separation anxiety. Obedience Training Obedience training helps us communicate with our dogs and informs them what behaviors are desired. So we can teach them to sit before they receive attention. Or to lie down next to us and settle. And we can show him what toys he can put in his mouth rather than destroying items or turning us into his chew toy. Redirection works. And we can teach them to not pull on a leash and to walk on a loose leash. Part of the training should include how to leave your dog alone. This will help prevent separation anxiety from developing. Start with short sessions. Make leaving a happy opportunity—when great things appear. Leave a frozen, stuffed Extreme Kong with him as you leave. If your dog has already shown signs of separation distress, get the help of a qualified behavior specialists. As far as your golden inappropriately seeking attention is concerned, you can ignore your dog. Turn away or get up and leave. But do give him the attention he needs on your terms by calling him over to you occasionally. Pet him. Have him do a command or trick. Praise, pet, and treat. You should also play games with him. Teach him to tug a toy like a rope or long fleece to and give. You can have him play fetch. You can play hide-and-seek where you go and hide and call him to you. Make a big deal when he reaches you YES! Good boy! And not at all with a dog who has separation anxiety. But, to goldens, this is what they often enjoy most. Everyone is a potential friend. Goldens will thrive if they are fed the same times each day, are exercised as needed routinely, and receive attention from their people every day. No dog should be just put aside like a statue. Goldens especially need attention through positive daily interactions—play, training, exercise. If ignored, their sweet, golden personality will wilt. Final Thoughts Golden retrievers are such happy, affable, family dogs. But they are prone more than some breeds to certain problem behaviors because of their genetic purpose to retrieve and their desire to be with people. By doing so, their lives—as well as ours—will be full and happy. Does your golden engage in any unwanted behaviors? How have you handled them? Please tell us about it in the comment section below. Related Article:. Behavioral Problems Breeds Golden Retrievers are lovable, fun and friendly family dogs. They have a bunch of traits that most people love and unfortunately a few that are not so attractive. For a dog that is supposed to be willing to please all of the time, they sure can be stubborn. Fortunately they are thing that can be done to discourage this behavior. This is why extensive training is necessary. This will result in a very stubborn golden retriever. Lack of exercise can cause your golden retriever to act mean. A mean golden retriever is not to be confused as an aggressive golden retriever. Golden retrievers needs a minimum of 1 hour exercise each day, anything less than that is not going to adequate in most instances. Interactive features help with training while playing fetch with your dog. Its throwable distance can be set to 10, 25, or 40 feet. Excellent training tool that may be used to tire out excitable puppies as well as older dogs. With the all for paws automatic fetch ball launcher, the best option for automatic fetch activities, you can amuse and exercise your pet both indoors and outside. Three standard 2. Rechargeable Li-ion batteries are compatible AC adapter included. Your Golden Retriever is Sick or Injured It might also be due to a sickness or injury that has led it to refuse to follow your instructions. This is especially probable if he used to listen and abruptly stopped. If your dog is vomiting, tired when awake, limping or has been exhibiting other symptoms of illness or injury you should carry him to the vet immediately. This is more likely if it became stubborn after changing the food you feed your golden retriever. Why is My Golden Retriever so Stubborn? You golden retriever can be stubborn from one or many of the same reason mentioned above. Besides from that, the individual dog may just have a stubborn personality. Some dogs take a little more time to come around than others do. Most times when you have a stubborn golden retriever there are a few things you can do to fix it. Proper Exercise and Diet First of all, make sure your dog is getting proper daily exercise and has a proper diet, one preferably that he enjoys as well. Do Not Encourage The Bad Behavior When your dog is being stubborn, do not give him treat or toys to try and get him to listen. This will only encourage the stubborn behavior and make it worst. Instead firmly say no or bad dog and disengage from any activity for a few minutes. Avoid Negative Reinforcement or Punishment It would be beneficial to refrain from punishing your golden retriever when his is stubborn or misbehaves. This is because he may not understand why he is being punished, which might lead to your dog being aggressive and developing animosity. Instead, it would be beneficial to provide it with positive reinforcement training so that it may learn how to act properly. Obedient school works great for most dogs. Golden retrievers are very smart dogs and with the proper training will learn to obey commands in no time. Are Golden Retrievers Naturally Stubborn? Although highly intelligent and willing to please, golden retrievers are known to be stubborn at times. Although he may understand your commands, sometimes he will choose to do otherwise. However with proper training golden retriever can be some of the most obedient dogs of all the dog breeds. The book begins by covering the fundamentals, such as understanding how personality, age, and breed influence training. Renowned dog trainer Brandon McMillan then introduces his positive and gentle approach, emphasizing playfulness in the process. Additionally, McMillan addresses common behavior problems that dog owners often encounter. He offers practical solutions for housetraining difficulties, door dashing tendencies, chewing habits, excessive barking, and mealtime misbehaviors. Lucky Dog Lessons serves as a comprehensive guide for training your dog effectively while addressing and resolving common canine behavioral challenges. Golden Retrievers are one of the easiest dogs to train and this book will do the trick. Clickers are easy to use, cheap and they make training your dogs so much easy. Definitely get yourself one from the start. Related Posts.
german shepherd puppies litter - Like many large breeds, a German Shepherd dog is not considered fully grown until they are about 18 months old. Female German Shepherds continue to fill out until they are around two years old, while the male German Shepherd growth rate continues until they reach two and a half years of age. Males are larger and require more time to fill out their chest and abdomen. As you can see by the German Shepherd weight chart, these dogs can continue to grow until they are three years old, but the majority of growth occurs within 24 months. If your GSD is older than 36 months and continues to put on weight, contact your veterinarian to ensure weight gain does not lead to obesity. How big should a 6-month-old German Shepherd be? A six-month-old German Shepherd puppy will be quite large, as many German Shepherds undergo massive growth spurts between two and five months old. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. How much bigger will my German Shepherd get? There are a few ways to gauge how much bigger a German Shepherd will get. First, check your puppy's age. If your GSD is younger than two years old, they definitely have room to keep growing! Another way to tell if your pup still has a lot of growing to do is their paw size. Do their paws look large compared to their legs and body? This is a classic adolescent feature of a dog and means your pup is likely still growing! Most of the time, a dog will not grow bigger than its larger parents. What is the size of a full-grown German shepherd? An adult male German Shepherd is typically 24 to 26 inches tall, while adult female German Shepherds are 22 to 24 inches tall, according to the American Kennel Club German Shepherd Standard. The estimated full-size varies significantly between sexes. In terms of weight, an adult male German Shepherd weighs anywhere from 75 to 90 pounds. A female German Shepherd weighs notably less at 55 to 70 pounds. Please keep in mind that these numbers are only estimates to give you an idea of how much bigger a German Shepherd puppy may get. Some dogs will be both smaller and larger than these weight ranges when fully grown due to a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Learn all about your puppy's physical characteristics, breed history, personality traits, and more in our comprehensive guide. Preventive care is key in helping your German Shepherd live a healthy and long life. Helping your dog maintain an optimal weight is one of the best things you can do for their health. Taking your German Shepherd to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do to ensure that they are healthy and feeling their best. Compare German Shepherd health insurance plans before they get sick or injured. They are also more susceptible to gastrointestinal tract and hip issues. A veterinarian should regularly assess your pet for these health problems and run tests for anything they may be more prone to due to their breed. Treatment for many conditions, including bloat and GI issues, can cost thousands of dollars. Dog insurance is a wise investment that can give you peace of mind by covering pet emergency expenses. Wellness plans are also available to help cover the cost of vaccinations, vet exams, microchips, and more. Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance. Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top providers so you can find a great deal with great coverage. Get Peace of Mind Today Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Final Thoughts It is important to know that a 4 month old German Shepherd differs from a puppy of an earlier age. Here, we want to tell you about these differences, about the changes in diet, exercise, and interaction with people and other animals. These doggies are very cute but they do not look like young puppies anymore. They are pretty massive animals that overgrow one foot of height. It is about pounds kg for males and pounds .It means that a puppy gained another 10 pounds during the last month. The puppy grows rapidly. Your boy can be inches cm and the girl inches cm at the shoulder. The coat has changed. They start shedding a lot like an adult dog, too. So, it is very important to brush them regularly — everyday brushing is necessary during this period. The skin is rather sensitive, so loose hair can cause allergies when it contacts the skin and the air. Teething continues. Adult teeth are replacing the milk ones. That is the process lasting for more months. The ears start perking up. Though, they are not stably erect at this age. The ears also can perk up and then fall and lay flat. It is a norm. Puppies at this age do not have strong cartilage. It will strengthen at the age of 5- 6 months. However, if your puppy lives in an environment with very loud sounds, its ears can flatten out because the noise does not allow them to perk up. You should do obedience training, a lot of walking and jogging, playing in the backyard, and other activities. Your puppy already knows that it should be protective of the members of your family. However, it can bark a lot because it is time to develop its vocal cords. Teach it not to do this so much. It is very easy to train a 16 week old German Shepherd puppy because it has a strong desire to please you. Remember that you need strict discipline because your pet can display signs of disobedience at this age as any teenager does. Your 4 month old GSD sleeps about 18 hours per day. Though, the number of hours can depend on the environment because it does not sleep so much if it has many things around to explore. Nevertheless, some puppies prefer short naps in the daytime too. In any case, let your pet have a good rest. Discuss these changes with your veterinarian to pick out the most appropriate daily schedule for better rest. Your puppy can walk effortlessly for about a mile 1. It is always ready to go outside and accompany you wherever you may go. Though, do not overload it with walking. Several walks during the day are a better option. It should get about 2 hours of active playing every day. The puppy learns a lot during its first four months. Everything seems an adventure to it. It is an exciting experience for both your doggy and you. Though, its behavior can be a bit unpredictable at times. So, you need to control it. In general, your 4 month old GSD puppy is entirely healthy, and it continues growing quickly. You need to weigh and measure your pet every time you come to the vet, or you can do it yourself at home. You may also need to get a DNA test to know what health issues to expect from your doggy when it is over 5 years old. This age is the proper time for having the third set of vaccines because they have had the first two already. The third set includes DHPP and rabies. Even if your puppy is healthy and active, you need to continuously watch out for possible disorders. You need to show your puppy to the vet, if you notice such things as changes in behavioral and sleeping patterns, sneezing and coughing, runny eyes or nose, losing weight, decrease in appetite, and other digestion issues, such as diarrhea or vomiting, red and swollen gums, heavy breathing, and excessive urination. Keep your doggy clean and protected. You do not need to bathe it very often — it can be harmful to the production of the natural oils that protect the skin. Brush your puppy every day now because of its excessive shedding. This is connected with the change of the coat from the puppy to an adult one. Grooming and brushing are very important parts of the care. You may also need the help of special grooming salons. Feeding Your 4 month old GSD is a good eater because it grows a lot. It should be fed not fewer than 3 times a day. It should take cups of kibble of natural food per meal. At the end of the fourth month, you can start the transition to two feedings per day. Do not rush to switch your pet to adult food. You can do it only when it is 6-month-old when its growth slows down a bit. You can also offer your GS puppy some treats. Never give your puppy human food or human treats — the latter is rather dangerous and can cause severe health issues. Avoid overfeeding, too. Your dog should not suffer from obesity when it is an adult because there are bad health conditions caused by it. If you decide to feed your puppy a natural raw diet, be careful about its nutritious value and high quality. It can consist of meats, vegetables, and fruits, but nothing fatty and toxic like junk food. Training There are several behavioral problems that you need to handle. The first of them is, of course, potty accidents in the home. Unfortunately, such accidents are pretty common at this age. You need to train your pet to do all its business outdoors. Since German Shepherds are very clever, it will understand very soon what you want from it. You need to be patient and persistent, though. Never show irritation or anger when an accident happens. You need to be encouraging if your puppy does everything correctly during its potty walks, but never punish it if something has gone wrong. One more unpleasant thing at this age is biting and nipping your hands or feet. You need to control it while playing to prevent the formation of a biting habit. Never scream or shout at your pet when it bites you. Your little one can be frightened, and the problem may become worse over months. It will let your puppy know that it is doing something wrong. Chewing furniture or things around can also be frustrating. Your puppy is teething, so it is a common thing now. Chewing helps it remove the milk teeth easily. Keep most things in your house out of its reach. Buy some chew toys, for example, a rubber bone or ball to discourage chewing things. A 4 month old German Shepherd puppy can bark excessively at all unknown or suspicious objects. Barking all the time can become a serious issue for you and your pet over time. Teach your doggy not to bark at something unfamiliar. It only means that your pet needs more training and socialization. Your Shepherd dog at this age does not look like that cute fluffy toy-like cub you once saw and liked. It begins to shape as an adult dog. Now, it continues to grow rapidly. So, the males can be inches cm and the females grow as tall as inches cm at the shoulder. How much should a 4 month old German Shepherd weight? Follow the weight of your pet by measuring it regularly. The puppies at this age grow very fast, so they tend to overeat. You should give your pet so much food to let it grow healthily and free from obesity. You can see that your doggy has gained about 10 pounds since the previous month. How much should a 4 month old German Shepherd eat? Your puppy should eat cups of kibble per one meal three times per day. It grows very fast, so it needs a lot of nutrients and minerals for its ears, teeth, and coat. If you feed it natural food, you can add some supplements for puppies to its meals. How far can a 4 month old German Shepherd walk? However, it does not mean that you need to walk it for such a distance every time. Consider two walks of half an hour per day if you want your puppy to grow healthy and strong, and develop all its perfect physical characteristics. Final Thoughts You can see that raising a 4 month old German Shepherd puppy and taking care of it is a responsible and complicated task. You need to know all the peculiarities of this age, so we hope that this article will help you. You should be very patient and persistent to train your dog, do a lot of exercises with your pet, socialize it, and make friends with it. In a while, you will obtain the most loyal, intelligent, and protective friend for your family and yourself. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. Frequently Asked Questions German Shepherds German Shepherd Dogs are one of the most popular breeds and are my absolute favorite breed. That's why I've had five in total, three boys and two girls. From their loyal and obedient personalities to their beautiful coats and markings, they bring joy to many homes, including mine. With impressive intelligence, these puppies are easy to train and make excellent companion animals. The German shepherd is a large breed, usually weighing between pounds for males and up to 75 pounds for females. Their coats require minimal grooming but will benefit from occasional brushing. German shepherds are very active dogs who love to run around; they need plenty of exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy. They also enjoy activities such as agility training or nose work games where they can use their smarts! Factors Influencing Weight But what about their size? German shepherds can vary in size based on gender, age, nutrition, and because of their breeding. For example, a German working line shepherd is much more energetic than the more laid-back American show line dog. A puppy from working lines may weigh less than the average on the charts. Be sure to consider factors such as gender and environment when monitoring your pup's development. A good rule of thumb is that by eight weeks of age, a German Shepherd puppy should weigh between pounds, depending on the genetic factors mentioned above. By six months, most male puppies will weigh between 49lbs — 57lbs with an average weight of 53lbs, and a female will weigh between 44lbs — 49lbs with an average weight of 46lbs. For this reason, when consulting a weight chart for a German shepherd puppy, it's essential to understand the breed, lineage, and pedigree of the dog, as well as the sex of the dog. Our puppy weight charts are specific to German Shepherd Dogs and consider all these factors. It's an excellent tool for monitoring your pup's growth and health. These charts show the average expected weight range for male and female German shepherds at different ages, from puppies to adults. Knowing the expected range can help ensure your pup grows normally and stays within healthy boundaries. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. Our chart differs from others in that you can track your puppy's weight based on his actual weight at a point in time. Many other weight charts are either for non-specific breeds, or if they are specific to a German Shepherd, they only give you the averages and a range. While this is all useful and included in our charts, what is missing from many others is what weight your puppy will likely be based on his actual weight now. Most people bring their new puppy home at 8 weeks old 2 months. The range for a female German Shepherd puppy at that age is between lbs. As you already know your puppy's weight, you can estimate how much they are likely to weigh when older using our chart. For example, if your puppy weighs 14 lbs at 8 weeks old. To estimate how much they are likely to weigh at 6 months old, you would find that weight on the chart and follow it down to the 6-month-old row and see that she would most likely weigh 46lbs by the time she is 6 months old and 68lbs when fully grown. Of course, these are just estimates, and all puppies grow at different speeds, as will yours. Another way this chart is helpful is if, using the same example, your puppy weighs 14 lbs at 8 weeks old and then jumps to 49 lbs at 6 months old, instead of the predicted 46 lbs. In that situation, you would follow that new column down and see that she is now closer to weighing 70 lbs when fully grown. They are heavier-boned, more muscular, and have deeper chests. If you know what you're looking for, you can distinguish a male from a female German shepherd by looking at their heads, as a male is larger and have a more masculine look. Using the German Shepherd Puppy Weight Charts To use this chart, find your pup's current weight along the top and go down the left side of the chart to find his age. If he is in range, you can follow that column down to see what he will likely weigh at each age milestone. For example, if your male German Shepherd puppy weighs 18 lbs at 8 weeks old, then you would find the nearest weight at that age on the chart. In this case, it's .In this instance, he would weigh approximately .Under no circumstances should you try to adjust your dog's diet or exercise to fit in with the chart; it is merely a guide. German Shepherd Weight Chart for Female Puppies Female German shepherds, on the whole, have a much narrower head and nose and have an overall feminine look, especially around the eyes. If you know what you're looking for, you can guess whether they are male or female by looking at their face. Having said that, my girl, Ava, was very tall for a female and was often mistaken for a boy, even when she was wearing her pink collar and leash! But I still think her face was much more feminine than her brother Hudson's. This breed of dog has unique growth development. During the first three months of their life, a German Shepherd's body goes through a significant growth spurt. Typically, they can double their birth weight in the first week! At 12 weeks, you can expect your pup to weigh about pounds for a male and pounds for a female. This growth spurt will continue through five months old; by the time they're six months, you'll likely have a large, goofy puppy on your hands. After that initial growth period is over, you'll find that your German shepherd will gain weight slowly from then on out until it reaches its full adult size at around two or three years old. On average, female German Shepherds reach an adult weight of pounds, while males reach pounds. German Shepherd Puppy Height Chart German shepherds come in a range of sizes, some taller than others. It can be helpful to know the different heights of German shepherds to ensure that the one you choose fits your lifestyle and needs. When looking at a German shepherd height chart, it's essential to remember that males tend to be larger than females. Depending on where they were bred, most standard-sized male adults will stand between inches, while female adult German shepherds typically reach inches in height from paw to shoulder. Below is our height chart for German shepherd puppies you can use to estimate your puppy's height at each age milestone based on his starting or current height. It also includes the average percentage of adult height reached each age milestone. If your puppy's weight is outside the guidelines, it may be less of an issue than you think. Puppy weights can vary greatly depending on breed, genetics, and other factors included on this page. While ensuring your puppy receives proper nutrition and exercise is essential, several factors can influence their weight. One way to determine your puppy's adult weight is to check with your breeder. They can make an educated guess as to what your furry friend will weigh once they reach adulthood. A reputable breeder should have a good understanding of their dog's genetics and be able to provide insight into the typical size range of their litter. This information can give you a rough estimate of what weight you can expect for your German shepherd as they grow older. Another factor to consider when determining the adult weight of your pup is their parents' size, and again the breeder can give you much more information on this. You can also speak with your veterinarian about your puppy's overall health and development, and they may be able to provide some insight into their expected adult size. It's important to avoid becoming too fixated on your puppy's weight if they fall outside the standard guidelines. Don't worry if your puppy is a little bigger or smaller than listed here, and if you still want to determine their adult weight, you can also use the puppy weight chart for a large or giant breed dog here. Conclusion In conclusion,German Shepherds are a fantastic breed of dogs, and understanding their growth and development is essential for pet owners. Knowing the average weight and height of male and female German Shepherds can help you be better prepared for your new pup's growth. With the proper diet, exercise, and vet care, your German shepherd will be healthy and happy throughout their life. Keep in mind that these charts are only a general guide — every pup is different! A 3-month-old German Shepherd should weigh between 17 lbs - 26 lbs for a female, with an average weight of .For males, it'll be between 22 lbs and 30 lbs, with an average of 26 lbs. How much does a 5 month old German Shepherd puppy weigh? A 5-month-old puppy will weigh between 40 lbs - 49 lbs for a male with an average weight of .A female GSD puppy will weigh between 35 lbs - 44 lbs with an average of .When will my German shepherd puppy stop growing? Most German shepherd puppies continue growing until they are two or three years old. You might like these. Final Thoughts So, your 5 month old German Shepherd puppy does not look like a cute round and fluffy cub. It is the time when it has entered its juvenile growth stage, and it will become an adolescent in a month. Its behavior has also changed a bit. The pup is not that unruly delinquent it used to be a month ago. It becomes more obedient and shows its intelligence in training and exercising. However, it can still get into trouble, if left uncontrolled, with its immense energy making it bite, chew everything it sees, and jump at everybody it encounters. So, it may be a severe test for your patience before your pet enters the next stage of its life. Here is what you need to know about the main characteristics of your five month old German Shepherd, its temper, behavior, energy, and training needs. Size and Appearance If you are worried about whether your puppy is healthy enough and has reached the normal size and height for this age , check the appropriate measurements. Measuring and weighing your doggy regularly is a good option to ensure everything is OK with it. Your GS dog continues to gain weight quickly. The male puppy weighs about pounds kg , while females are a bit of lighter — pounds kg. If we speak about height, boys are taller at the shoulder — inches cm , while girls reach inches cm. Check how big its parents are. If they are smaller than average, your pet may take after them. They will recommend a specific diet to improve the situation and check whether this difference is not connected with a developmental disorder. Remember that if your puppy grows too fast, but its parents are not too big, it may also be a problem. Quick growth can cause damage to its bones. Your 5 month old German Shepherd experiences some other developmental stages in its teeth, ears, and fur. The teething period continues. You will see that for the next two or three months. The adult teeth replace the milk ones, so the doggy needs more calcium and other nutrients in its diet. The incisors have already grown in most puppies at this time. Now, you can expect premolars and canines. So, your puppy continues to bite and chew everything it can reach. You need chewing toys at this period badly. As for the ears, they usually stand straight up at this age. Anyway, you need to consult your veterinarian at this point. Droopy ears can be normal, too, so you should not interfere with the natural way in most cases. You may also need to add some supplements to the diet or change it completely to more raw meat and other natural ingredients. Using chewing toys is helpful not only for teething. You may damage the auracles, so be careful not to play too hard with your pet, and never pat it on the head during this period. Its adult double coat has already almost formed. So, your puppy can shed a lot and need more brushing and grooming. At this age, most GS puppies start their sexual maturing. Some boys can reach it up to 6 months of age. It means they will start looking for mates. It is full of energy and always ready to play a lot. Its playful nature can often get it into some trouble, so you need to watch out when your doggy is playing and running outside. Your pet will also try to test its boundaries right now, so you need to be very consistent with your pup at this juvenile stage — it should see an indisputable leader of the pack in you and all your actions towards it. Remain pretty firm with your commands, but never forget about treats. The young dog will chew and bite all the things around, destroying your shoes, socks, dresses, trousers, pieces of furniture, and other, even the most unexpected, household items. Tug-o-war and other energetic puppy games can help a lot. Work at teaching your pet not to bite. Bite inhibition should be provided regularly, strictly, and consistently. As for walking, your doggy needs a lot of it outside. It can walk up to 10 kilometers about 6 miles. However, never make your pet walk or run as far as that. Two walking sessions of minutes each per day is enough. Moreover, at this age, puppies can experience a strange adolescence problem — panosteitis. This health disorder is bone inflammation, so your pet starts limping when it gets up after a nap. If you do too much exercise with it, the results may be lameness, pain, or anorexia. This condition relieves by itself in most puppies in several days, while in others it may last for a few weeks. Health and Care Your 5 month old German Shepherd puppy is a healthy young adolescent, growing fast and feeling full of energy. By this age, it should have undergone 3 vaccination rounds, with the last vaccination session at weeks of age for DHPP and rabies. The next rounds will be needed at the age of 12 and 16 months. However, you should check with your veterinarian if all the due vaccines have been taken and administer them if something was skipped. If your puppy gets good nutrition and a lot of exercises, it will grow fast and healthy. Though, you may need to know if there may be certain health issues in the future. Do thorough research on the hereditary history if you want to be preventative. Running a DNA test can also help a lot, especially if you are worried about the possible appearance of degenerative myelopathy. So, look carefully for such things as: dry and itchy skin;.
Similar services:
german shepherd puppies litter - Breeds The link has been copied! Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. As an admirer of one of these lovely furry companions, you may question how much it costs to buy and own a Labrador Retriever. We'll explore the upfront price of purchasing a puppy and the routine costs associated with pet ownership. We'll also cover various factors that can impact the cost of a Lab and provide tips on how to reduce the cost of owning one. The cost of a Lab can vary depending on several factors such as its age, color, purpose show or field , whether it's a purebred, and more. Routine Care Expenses Owning a Labrador Retriever requires some routine care expenses, which should be taken into account when considering the overall cost of having a pet. One of the essential expenses is veterinary care, which includes routine check-ups, vaccinations, and emergency medical care. Labs are prone to specific health issues, such as hip dysplasia , eye problems, and skin allergies, which may require additional medical attention and expenses. Another routine care expense for Labs is feeding. As they are a somewhat larger breed, they require a substantial amount of food to maintain their weight and energy levels. Additionally, treats, chews, and supplements can also be added to their diet, increasing the overall cost of nutrition. Proper grooming and hygiene are essential to keep a Lab healthy and comfortable. Remember that training and behavioral classes may be necessary to ensure your Lab is well-behaved and socialized, which can also be costly. These expenses should be considered when determining if a Lab is the right breed for you and your budget. How much a Labrador Retriever puppy costs depends on multiple factors, such as the breeder's reputation, the location of the pup, the bloodline, and more. Additionally, the cost may increase if the puppy comes with additional services such as health certificates, microchipping , or first vaccinations. Your pup will also need feeding, grooming, and bathing factored into their expenses, as well as beds, toys, chews, leashes, collars, harnesses, and much more. Consider the following: Buying From a Breeder vs. While adopting a Lab may be less expensive, it is essential to note that some shelters may have restrictions and requirements that need to be met before adoption. Keep in mind that the price of a Labrador based on color may vary by region and how popular that specific color is in that location. However, buyers should be cautious and avoid buying from dishonest breeders who may be selling mixed-breed dogs as purebreds. Breeders Reputation Reputable breeders who prioritize health, temperament, and breed standards usually charge more for their puppies. It's crucial to research the breeder thoroughly and ensure that they follow ethical breeding practices before making a purchase. This includes checking their breeding practices, requesting health certificates and pedigrees, and visiting their facilities in person if possible. Buyers should also be cautious of breeders who offer extremely low prices, as that might be a sign of unethical practices. Estimated Size The estimated size of an adult Labrador retriever is around about .Average Price To Buy A Lab Puppy From A Breeder The average price to buy a Lab puppy from a breeder is different from one person to the next, according to the reputation the breeder has in the community, the dog's bloodline, and their location. Again, the color of the Lab plays a significant factor as well. In addition to the cost of the puppy, there are also other expenses associated with owning a Lab. This includes routine care costs such as food, toys, grooming supplies, and veterinary visits for vaccinations and check-ups. Owners should also budget for unexpected expenses such as emergency veterinary care or unexpected illnesses. Remember that a reputable breeder may charge more for their puppies, but they are more likely to provide you with a healthy, well-socialized puppy from a good bloodline. Average Cost To Adopt A Lab Puppy Adopting a Lab puppy is generally less expensive than buying one from a breeder, but the costs can still vary widely. However, it's crucial to research adoption agencies thoroughly to ensure that they are reputable and the dogs are healthy and well-cared for before making a decision. You don't want to bring a sickly pup into your home, just to end up spending more on medical bills than you had anticipated. However, the costs don't stop there. Once you have your furry friend, ongoing expenses include food, vet bills, grooming, and more. In addition, Labs are known for their love of exploration and adventure, which means they have a penchant for getting lost. You don't want to get a new puppy with the understanding that the breed may be high maintenance, and then you lose track of your dog. The collar uses GPS and cellular technology to track your dog's location in real-time, so you can quickly locate your pet if they ever wander off. The collar also includes additional features such as activity monitoring and geofencing to alert you if your dog leaves a designated area. While the initial cost of the collar may seem high, it can save you money in the long run by preventing the loss or theft of your beloved Lab. Labrador Retriever Breed Guide Labrador Retrievers are outgoing and generally have a friendly disposition toward others. They are loyal, affectionate and make excellent family pets. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which makes them great for first-time dog owners. Due to their friendly nature, they also make excellent therapy dogs and are often used in service roles. Labrador Retrievers generally come in three colors: black, chocolate, and yellow. The coat is short, dense, and water-resistant, which makes them excellent swimmers. Labs can be medium to large dogs that weigh about 55 to 80 pounds on average, with the males usually outweighing the females by ten pounds. Typically, they're around two feet tall inches , and the males will have about a one-inch height advantage over the females. The average lifespan for a Labrador Retriever is around 12 years, although some can live up to 14 years. They are all around healthy, but like all dogs, there are specific ailments that you're more likely to encounter with a Lab, like obesity, ear infections, and hip dysplasia. As for lifetime care costs, they can vary depending on factors such as food, vet bills, and grooming expenses. There are several ways to reduce the cost of owning a Labrador Retriever. One option is to adopt a dog from a local shelter or rescue organization. Adopting a dog from a shelter is usually less expensive than buying a puppy from a breeder. Typically, dog shelters will include initial vaccinations, any spaying or neutering services needed, along with essential veterinary care up front. That helps cut down on some of the initial costs that owners usually spend when they first bring a puppy home. However, it's not uncommon that breeders will also at least include the first vaccinations for the pup upon its release to your family. Another option to reduce the cost of owning a Lab is to consider adopting an older dog instead of a puppy. Older dogs may already be trained and require less attention and socialization than a puppy, which can save on training costs and time. Moreover, older dogs may have lower veterinary bills since they may not require as many check-ups or preventative care as a puppy. Finally, another way to save money on the lifetime costs of owning a Labrador Retriever is to invest in preventative care. This includes regular exercise, a healthy diet, and regular veterinary check-ups to catch potential health issues early on. While preventive care may require an upfront investment, it can ultimately save money by avoiding expensive medical bills down the line. Final Thoughts: The Cost of Owning a Labrador Retriever Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds to own, but they can be somewhat high maintenance after you bring them into your home. However, there are ways to reduce costs, such as adopting from a shelter or rescue organization, buying an older dog instead of a puppy, and being mindful of routine care costs. Regardless of the price, it's important to protect your Labrador Retriever with a GPS-tracking dog collar like the one offered by Fi, which can provide peace of mind and ensure the safety of your Lab. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. The link has been copied! You might also like. Since the Labrador could grow to a hefty size, its yearly upkeep still falls within the expected price range of other big dogs. Always take your puppy to regular vet checkups, even if it looks like the very picture of health. Though these things are not high on the priority list, consider them nice-to-haves once the budget allows. Besides, we all want the best for our four-legged friends, and that alone is reason enough for most of us! Boarding Kennels: This service is a lifesaver for owners who have to travel for days or weeks at a time and cannot bring their dog along with them. Professional Grooming: As we said earlier, Labrador Retrievers shed a lot, so an afternoon at the groomer will help keep your pooch looking clean and tidy. You can put off spending on these things until the budget allows. However, give some serious thought to investing in an emergency fund, as this would take a big worry off your mind in case of any unexpected trips to the vet. Though it is tempting to buy a dog from pet stores or backyard breeders because of their low puppy prices, getting Lab puppies from a reputable source is still a more responsible and ethical choice. Here is a list of responsible breeders where you can find Labrador puppies for sale: Rhumbline Retrievers — This New York-based kennel has been breeding quality Labrador Retriever puppies since , and a good number of their dogs have participated in agility, obedience, and hunting tests at the national level. Due to their commitment to only breed dogs of the highest quality, they have limited puppies for sale at a time; thus, expect a long waitlist. All their puppies are tested for genetic disorders such as elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. They raise show-quality Labs and have championship bloodline puppies as well. For a more comprehensive list of reputable Labrador Retriever breeders, take a peek at our 10 best Labrador breeders article. All their dogs are fostered and given medical care before being turned over to their new family. Based in Colorado and licensed by the Pet Animal Care Facilities, they foster and provide medical care to Labs until they can get adopted. American Lab Rescue — This organization makes use of foster homes to rehabilitate and care for their rescued dogs. For your adoption application to be approved, they will require a fenced-in yard and will also do a home visit to your place before releasing a dog. Alternatively, you can also check out our top 10 picks of Labrador Retriever Rescues and our dog adoption guide. The Labrador Retriever is popular for its great temperament and personality. Unfortunately, most people fail to expect its high energy level as well, which is why some Labs find themselves in animal shelters. That said, doing your research about the Labrador Retriever before buying or adopting a puppy is necessary to make sure that the Lab is the best dog for you. Money-Saving Tips for Labrador Retriever Owners We all want to give our dog the best life possible, and if we can do that without breaking the bank, then even better! The trick is finding the right balance on which expenses to let go of and which ones to keep. To help you achieve this, here are some money-saving tips for Labrador Retriever owners: DIY dog food and treats. Not only is this a more practical option, but this is also healthier for your dog. Practice your grooming skills. Watch a good tutorial and practice your skills on your pooch. Invest in high-quality supplies. You may want to scrimp on supplies such as food and water bowls, but investing in high-quality and durable essentials will save you more money in the long run. Training Labrador Retrievers is a fairly easy task, even for novice dog owners. A lot of great tutorials can be found on the internet, and being the intelligent dogs that they are, they will learn all their tricks in no time! Like pet insurance, regular vet visits will save you from procedures and medications that could cost thousands of dollars later. Pet quality pups are affordable and budget-friendly to most people who are looking for an intelligent and well-tempered canine companion. However, like most dogs, their lifetime cost would still require you to spend considerable money. As such, think long and hard about the commitment and financial implications of taking in a dog. These canines make great family pets, even for those looking for their first dog. So, if your budget is enough to shoulder the price and long-term costs of the Labrador Retriever, then it might just be the pooch for you! Tell us in the comment box below! My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. The costs will be a bit higher at first while you get your dog the shots it requires and pay for the frequent visits to the vet. We also recommend getting your dog spayed or neutered unless you are a professional breeder, and it might even be required as part of your contract if you purchase from a breeder. Once your dog is an adult, it will not require as many vet visits and will only need booster shots every few years, so the average monthly costs will be much lower. Experts recommend getting all of the shots, but your dog is only legally required to get the rabies shot. We recommend purchasing a high-quality brand with real meat like chicken, turkey, or salmon listed as the first ingredient. The protein in meat will help build muscle and provide the energy your dog needs to stay healthy. High protein diets will also help your dog stay full longer, and it will be less likely to come looking for food. Foods with corn as the top ingredient are mostly empty calories that will leave your pet feeling hungry and looking for more food, potentially causing it to become obese. During the shedding seasons of spring and fall, you will likely need to increase the brushing to several times a week to help keep the fur off your furniture and floor. Professional grooming can also help with teeth brushing and nail clipping. This medication can also help prevent heartworm. Spot Pet Insurance offers customizable plans that you can adapt to your breed's specific needs. Many people forgo pet insurance, but it can be a great way to protect yourself from a huge expense while making sure your Labrador Retriever has the best healthcare possible. Accidents and serious illnesses can occur at any time, and many procedures can cost thousands of dollars which makes the price of insurance more than worth it, especially if you get it while your dog is still a puppy. It can chew up stuffed animals quickly, so they can get expensive, but there are plenty of options for a chewing dog, like the Lab. Another option is to purchase a subscription to a monthly service like the Bark Box that sends your dog new toys and activities for as long as you keep up your subscription. A full-grown dog only requires food and flea and tick medication to stay healthy, a few toys to play with, and treats here and there. Additional Costs to Factor In If you like to go on long vacations, you might need to factor in the additional costs of traveling with a dog. Many rental cars do not allow pets or will charge you extra, and the same is true for hotels. Owning a Labrador Retriever on a Budget Your Labrador Retriever will be relatively inexpensive once you get the medical things out of the way. A high-quality food may seem more expensive, but it will help keep your dog full so that it will eat less. Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock Saving Money on Labrador Retriever Care The best way to save money on healthcare when raising your Labrador Retriever is to keep it a healthy weight by following portion recommendations on the food you serve and by helping them get enough exercise. Obesity can lead to heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues that can shorten the lifespan of your pet. After the initial cost of the puppy , you will need to pay a few hundred dollars to get it spayed or neutered and get the shots it needs. After that, you will only need to provide food and shelter with the occasional booster shot. We hope you have enjoyed reading over this guide, and that it has helped answer your questions. If we have helped you create a budget that allows you to get one of these amazing pets, please share this guide on how much it costs to own a Labrador Retriever on social media. Featured Image Credit: scott, Pixabay Contents. Over the years, this breed of dog has consistently ranked in the top five for most popular dog breeds. In fact, for nearly 31 years, the Labrador Retriever was ranked as the number one most popular dog before getting knocked out of the number one spot this year by the French Bulldog. And with this breed, often referred to as simple the Lab, remaining high on the list for most searched for and most loved dog, we want to know how much it costs to own one. What are the costs associated with these dogs, from actually getting the puppy to feeding them and beyond. How much does it cost to own a Labrador Retriever? Crufts returns this year after it was cancelled last year due to the Coronavirus pandemic. And we should also point out that a Chocolate Lab is going to cost more than a Black Lab or a Yellow Lab since this color of fur is rarer. Next, we have to talk about feeding your Lab. Considering the Labrador Retriever is medium to large breed dog and often on the larger side of things , you are looking at a diet that may cost a bit more. Now we have to talk about those vet visits. That being said, there are some health concerns that all Labrador Retrievers may face over the course of their lives our pup was lucky enough to not have to deal with these issues, although he did have to have his eyelids fixed as a puppy and that can significantly increase their vet bills. Finally, you will absolutely want to consider grooming when it comes to your Lab as they are another breed that has a double coat. Of course, dog toys, beds and other supplies are also a must for your pup, so these are added expenses that should also be considered. However, if you have ever owned a Lab, you know they are absolutely worth the cost. How Much Does a Labrador Cost? And, this is just the upfront cost of the puppy. This includes the cost of food, veterinary bills, grooming, bedding, and so on. Labrador puppy costs depend on a few factors. Quality of the breeder Quality of the parent dogs Type of Labrador eg. For instance, puppy prices tend to be higher before Christmas, so buy a puppy in the spring, instead. Originally, black Labs were favored above other colors. Brown and yellow Labs were extremely uncommon, and were not at all desirable. Over time, this opinion changed and brown and yellow Labs became more accepted. Shooting communities still tend to prefer the black Lab, but yellow Labs are very common in other working roles, like as therapy dogs and guide dogs. On the whole, each official Labrador color will cost a similar amount. But, yellow and brown Labs may cost slightly more than black Labs, since the genes that cause their coloring are recessive and therefore are less common. Non-Standard Colors Labrador costs can be hugely increased or reduced by non standard colors or patterns. For instance, dilute shades or mismarks. Dilute coloring is recessive and highly controversial in the Labrador community. The genes that cause these shades will dilute pigmentation, turning black Labs into charcoal Labs, chocolate Labs into silver Labs, and yellow Labs into champagne Labs. Some believe this color results from cross-breeding. But, others believe the recessive genes simply remained hidden over generations, like original yellow and chocolate coloring. Dilute colors are not accepted in the official breed standard. So, many breeders will not adjust their price, and may even lower it for unexpected dilute puppies. The same is the case with mismarks. Mismarks can include white patches and spots, brindling, and even tan markings. Extensive mismarks will disqualify a Lab from show. Show type Labs are bred to fit the Labrador breed standard. They are usually slightly stockier and less active than field types. Field types are more often bred for their working ability than for any specific appearance. Labradors cost more when they are bred to show standards. Field Labs tend to be cheaper than Labradors bred for show. But, you should consider which type is best for you, rather than just going for the cheapest Labrador you can find. Field type Labs can be much more energetic and active than show types. First time owners may find the English Lab slightly easier to raise and train! Conversely, Labrador costs can be highest with field trial champion bred dogs that are likely to win awards. Labrador Costs From Breeders vs Shelters Labrador puppies from reputable breeders will cost more than dogs from a rescue center. Whilst Labs from breeders can cost thousands of dollars, Labradors from rescue centers can only be a few hundred dollars. A major difference between Labs from a breeder and Labs from a rescue center is the history of the dogs. Puppies from a breeder will stay with their mom and siblings until 8 weeks old. At 8 weeks, puppies can go to their new home. Rescue center dogs can have unknown histories, or even histories that involve abuse. Labs from rescue centers are usually older, and have often lived with other families. However, many Labs are given up for non-behavioral reasons. They can be just as wonderful pets as puppies from a breeder. And, many dogs from rescue centers will have basic training, including house training, obedience, and potentially recall. Why Are Breeders So Expensive? Reputable breeders tend to cost more than any other puppy source. Breeders have to spend a lot when breeding a litter, and all of this will lower their profit margins. Labrador breeding costs include: Health testing and certificates. Are they good family dogs? Labrador Dog Price — The Costs Involved Buying a Labrador is not just a question of the purchase price of a Lab puppy, though of course that is important. There are other costs involved, both financial, emotional and in terms of time and effort. So we need to look at those too. You may be wondering whether you will have the time for a dog, and if you have the space and energy for a large and lively breed? But this page will take you back to the fundamental considerations, to help you to make the right choice for you and your family. Do you have time for a dog? Can you afford a dog? What about your lifestyle? Will a dog fit in with your family? Is a Labrador the right dog for you? These questions all apply regardless of the type of Labrador you are looking for. The needs of a black Lab, yellow Lab or chocolate Lab are all the same in these respects. The same goes for an English or American Labrador too. Dogs need space, both indoors and outside. Even small breeds need room to stretch their legs and run about. And Labradors as fairly large and lively dogs need quite a lot of space. This means you need a decent sized backyard if you plan on buying a Labrador puppy. Somewhere that your Lab dog can run around, play and enjoy training sessions with you. Labradors can be quite silly during adolescence, bouncing and cavorting in the home. Their tails are long and thick, easily knocking any fragile decorations you might have from shelves. If you have lots of ornaments then you will need to move them to higher shelves to avoid them getting damaged. You will also need to move anything that could be easily damaged by chewing. With small puppies this will be very often indeed. Perhaps every 15 to 20 minutes during their first few days with you. If you live in a flat, or do not have a garden, this will be difficult for you. These are helpful but do take up a lot of space. Although this will take up a lot of space indoors, it can work very well for larger apartments with no easy outside access. Ideally however you do need to have a garden, and a part of the garden which your dog can use as a bathroom, along with a good system for clearing up after him hygienically. Space is key for a Lab dog! The right space for a Labrador includes large clear rooms in the house, with no breakable or fragile objects within his grasp. And ideally access to a garden where they can easily be let out to the bathroom and have room to play. Keeping a single Labrador permanently outside however is not usually a good idea, even with adequate shelter and security. Labs are very sociable dogs and prone to separation anxiety if they lack company. This means your dog may be both sad and noisy. It is always sad to hear from new puppy owners that are struggling to juggle the needs of a puppy with their need to work. These articles will help you to deal with this common issue. Even with a visit at lunch time. An older dog may cope with being left for up to four hours in row on a regular basis, but puppies need more attention than this. Contented Labradors are fairly quiet dogs and unlikely to disturb your neighbors. Nor are they very good guard dogs. However, lonely dogs bark and wreck things. If you work all day, can you afford to pay someone to come in and let him out to stretch his legs and empty himself? Or do you have a relative or friend that would be prepared to do this on a regular basis. Bear in mind that this is quite a lot to ask of anyone in the long term. The biggest long term time commitment in owning a dog is in the form of training and exercise. Training Takes Time All dogs need training in order that they can rub along in human society without being a complete nuisance. This means a regular daily commitment of ten to twenty minutes from you, in addition to your regular interaction with the dog. Training cannot be saved up for the weekend, your dog will have forgotten most of what he learnt the weekend before, and he does not have the attention span to concentrate on you for an hour and a half. You can find out more about training your Labrador puppy here. Staying Fit Exercise is required on a regular basis, for some breeds of dog this means at least an hour a day of walking or jogging to keep your dog fit and healthy. You can find out more about the exercise requirements of a Labrador puppy here. Whilst your dog will not come to any harm if you miss a day occasionally, a daily routine is often the best way to ensure that you build this important habit. Can You Afford A Dog? Dogs can be quite expensive to run. You need to consider not only how much a Labrador will cost you to buy, but also how much it will cost you to keep. How much do Labradors cost from breeders? The price of a Labrador puppy will vary from breeder to breeder, and from place to place. Perhaps you know a friend that has a litter of puppies and they are going to let you have one for free. However, the purchase price of a dog is almost irrelevant. It is such a small part of the final cost. The cost of keeping a Labrador The reality is, you are also going to need to fork out a chunk of your wages each week on keeping your pooch happy and healthy. Obviously you will have taken the cost of a good brand of Labrador puppy food into consideration. It is a good idea to budget for veterinary insurance too. Not because it is unreasonably priced, but simply because it is now so advanced. You can fix a lot of problems these days. We can do open heart surgery, mend complex fractures, treat cancer with radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Pretty much anything you can treat in a human, you can now treat in a dog. And the catch? It costs. The more comprehensive your insurance package the more it will cost. Watch out for very cheap deals, as they may not provide continuing cover for long term ailments. You will also need to vaccinate your dog against common canine illness , and this will probably need to be done each year too. Especially if you are wanting to occasionally leave them in boarding kennels when you go away, as they require up to date vaccination certificates. Labrador Puppy Costs There will be a few other one-off costs such as a puppy crate and puppy play pen for your home for when your dog is young, another for your car if you have one. Then there are bowls, bedding, collar, leash etc. But you may be able to borrow a crate or get one second hand. Here are some of the items you will need for your new Labrador puppy, and reviews on the best options for Labradors:. Less - The Labrador Retriever is a medium to large-sized , short-coupled, powerfully-built dog with a short, dense, water-resistant coat; small, drop ears; and a short, thick otter-like tail carried level with the back or with a slight upward curve. The length of body is equal to or only slightly longer than the height at the withers, and the distance from the elbows to the ground is equal to one-half the height at the withers. Balance, outline, intelligence, temperament and movement are of overriding importance. The Labrador Retriever is a breed of moderation, thoroughly sound, and willing and able to do its work. The Labrador Retriever is a dog without exaggeration, so light, weedy dogs; long, low-stationed dogs; and cloddy, lumbering dogs are to be equally penalized. The Labrador Retriever is an enthusiastic hunter with a good nose and a soft mouth. They excel in all performance activities. Another essential characteristic of the Labrador Retriever is the short, dense, double coat that protects the dog when retrieving from water. Labrador Retrievers are noted for their excellent temperaments. This breed is friendly, outgoing and eager to please. They are extremely intelligent and easily trained to perform a variety of complex tasks. These dogs were brought to England, probably on fishing boats. Originally black in color, the first recorded yellow Labrador appeared in a litter born in .Chocolates were also recorded at about the same time, but never achieved the same level of popularity as the blacks and yellows. Originally bred to retrieve from water, the modern Labrador Retriever has proven to be one of the most versatile breeds, excelling in hunt tests and field trials, in obedience and agility events, and also as service dogs.