golden retriever puppies connecticut
They are almost square in appearance, with a strong body and sturdy legs. The maximum height for a male is 24 inches, which puts them in the medium-size dog category, but their sturdy build can make them seem much larger. Weights range from 85 pounds for a large male to 55 pounds for a smaller female. Field line bred dogs are often taller and somewhat thinner in build. Labrador retrievers are easily recognized by their broad head, drop ears and large, expressive eyes. Two trademarks of the Lab are the thick but fairly short double coat, which is very water repellent, and the well known "otter tail. The feet are described as "webbed," with longer skin between the toes to aid in swimming. The Labrador retriever is a moderately fast maturing breed, reaching adult height from six to 12 months, but possibly still filling out up to 2 years of age. Many Labs reach 12 to 14 years of age. Personality: In general, Labrador retrievers are excellent family dogs, as long as you keep in mind their need for exercise and training. These are dogs bred to work and work hard and they love to have jobs to do, particularly retrieving. Labs are usually good with other dogs, other pets, and children as long as training has toned down their natural exuberance. They are strong dogs and need some obedience training at an early age or they can be seen dragging their owners down the street at will. Owing to their energetic nature, Labradors who are left alone or not well exercised can become destructive — chewing, digging and barking to excess. The field line dogs are especially high-energy dogs, while some of the show line dogs become perfect couch potatoes at an early age. Chewing can be a problem because the strong retrieve urge gives them an oral fixation. Sturdy chew toys, exercise and training all help with this. Living With: Obviously, Labradors have a number of endearing traits or they would not be so popular. They are intelligent and fairly easy to train, partly from their desire to work with people. They are "easy keepers" and can become overweight if they are not exercised and food portions adjusted as needed. Labs are excellent family dogs because they do want to be with people and many do not do well as kennel dogs. Labradors do tend to be protective of their families and homes but are usually happy to greet company, too. With the strong retrieving instinct, they can develop into destructive chewers if not given appropriate toys and guidance. Labs may tend to "mouth" people and the solution is often simply to give them a toy to carry around, so their mouths are already full! These are very strong dogs and early training is necessary to have a dog that walks nicely on lead. The wonderful double coat that keeps the Labrador warm while retrieving in icy water also gives this breed top billing as shedders. Normally, their coats do fine with a quick weekly grooming, but at shedding time daily grooming is needed. The amount of exercise they need varies with the different lines: field line dogs can run all day, whereas show line dogs only need moderate exercise. History: Early in the s, some of the multipurpose dogs used in North America mostly Canada by hunters were shipped back to England. Many of these "water dogs" were of the Newfoundland type, but the smaller ones were often designated "St John's" dogs. In England, the breed was developed and refined probably with some flat-coated retriever input into the breed we recognize today. As is evidenced by their name, Labrador retrievers were bred and selected for their outstanding retrieving abilities, particularly in water. They have worked as partners with duck hunters in all kinds of weather and conditions. Their intelligence and desire to work as a partner with man has led to many other jobs, and to their current status as popular pets. Today, Labradors excel as service and guide dogs, family pets, scenting dogs for the military, customs and arson task force dogs, search and rescue dogs as well as hunting companions and performance dogs. The breed's good nature has propelled it to the number one ranking in popularity in America, a position it intends to keep. Despite their fame as indoor pets, they are even more at home outdoors. It should always be remembered that Labradors are water retrievers at heart and from early on, puppies show a strong desire to carry things around with them and a strong attraction to water, even puddles! Related Pet Care Articles. 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. Built for sport, the Lab is muscular and athletic. They have a short, easy-care coat, friendly demeanor, keen intelligence, and plenty of energy. Devotion to this breed runs deep; Labs are loving, people-oriented dogs who live to serve their families, and owners and fans sometimes liken their Labs to angels. The breed originated on the island of Newfoundland, off the northeastern Atlantic coast of Canada. Originally called the St. Today, most Labs skip the hard labor and spend their days being pampered and loved by their people. However, some Labs still serve as indispensable working dogs. They also excel as a search and rescue dog or as a retriever for hunters, thanks to their athletic build, strong nose, and courageous nature. And Labs have also become the breed to beat at dog sports such as agility and obedience competitions, especially obedience. In fact, owners say their sweet, helpful Lab is likely to greet an intruder and happily show them where the goods are stashed. One role has remained constant: wonderful companion and friend. Labrador Retriever Highlights Friendly and outgoing. Labrador Retrievers are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. They are good with people of all ages and other animals. Intelligent and trainable. Labrador Retrievers are intelligent dogs that are easy to train. They are often used as working dogs, such as guide dogs, search and rescue dogs, and therapy dogs. Active and playful. Labrador Retrievers are active dogs that need plenty of exercise. They enjoy playing fetch, swimming, and other activities. Loyal and devoted. Labrador Retrievers are loyal and devoted dogs that make great family pets. They are known for their gentle nature and love of children. Grooming needs are minimal. Labrador Retrievers have a short, thick coat that is easy to groom. They only need to be brushed a few times a week and bathed as needed. Overall, the Labrador Retriever is a versatile and popular dog breed that makes a great family pet. They are friendly, intelligent, and trainable, and they have a low grooming requirement. If you are considering getting a Labrador Retriever, be sure to do your research to find a reputable breeder. Labrador Retrievers are wonderful dogs, but they require a lot of time and attention. They are not a good choice for people who are not active or who do not have a lot of time to spend with their pets. Originally called St. Although their heritage is unknown, many believe the St. The second Earl of Malmesbury was one of the first, and had St. The third Earl of Malmesbury was the first person to refer to the dogs as Labradors. In Newfoundland, the breed disappeared because of government restrictions and tax laws. Families were allowed to keep no more than one dog, and owning a female was highly taxed, so girl puppies were culled from litters. In England, however, the breed survived, and the Kennel Club recognized the Labrador Retriever as a distinct breed in .They also top the list in Canada and England. Today, Labs work in drug and explosive detection, search and rescue, therapy, assistance to those with disabilities, and as retrievers for hunters. They also excel in all forms of dog competitions: show, field, agility, and obedience. Labrador Retriever Size Males stand .Females stand .Aside from a winning personality, they have the intelligence and eagerness to please that make them easy to train. Training is definitely necessary because this breed has a lot of energy and exuberance. The working heritage of the Lab means they are active. This breed needs activity, both physical and mental, to keep them happy. There is some variation in the activity level of Labs: some are rowdy, others are more laid back. All thrive on activity. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Elbow Dysplasia : This is a heritable condition common to large-breed dogs. This can lead to painful lameness. Your vet may recommend surgery to correct the problem or medication to control the pain. Osteochondrosis Dissecans OCD : This orthopedic condition, caused by improper growth of cartilage in the joints, usually occurs in the elbows, but it has been seen in the shoulders, as well. It causes a painful stiffening of the joint, to the point that the dog is unable to bend his elbow. It can be detected in dogs as early as four to nine months of age. Cataracts : As in humans, canine cataracts are characterized by cloudy spots on the eye lens that can grow over time. Cataracts can usually be surgically removed with good results. Early in the disease, dogs become night-blind. As the disease progresses, they lose their daytime vision, as well. Many dogs adapt to limited or complete vision loss very well, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Epilepsy : Labs can suffer from epilepsy, which causes mild or severe seizures. Seizures may be exhibited by unusual behavior, such as running frantically as if being chased, staggering, or hiding. Seizures are frightening to watch, but the long-term prognosis for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy is generally very good. Puppies are born with TVD, which is a malformation of the tricuspid valve on the right side of the heart. It can be mild or severe; some dogs live with no symptoms, others die. TVD is detected by ultrasound. Research is ongoing to learn how widespread it is in the breed, as well as treatment. Myopathy : Myopathy affects the muscles and nervous system. The first signs are seen early, as young as six weeks and often by seven months of age. A puppy with myopathy is tired, stiff when he walks and trots. He may collapse after exercise. In time, the muscles atrophy and the dog can barely stand or walk. There is no treatment, but rest and keeping the dog warm seems to reduce symptoms. Dogs with myopathy should not be bred because it is considered a heritable disease. Bloat occurs when the stomach is distended with gas or air and then twists. The dog is unable to belch or vomit to rid themselves of the excess air in their stomach, and blood flow to the heart is impeded. Blood pressure drops and the dog goes into shock. Without immediate medical attention, the dog can die. Suspect bloat if your dog has a distended abdomen, is drooling excessively, and retching without throwing up. Theyalso may be restless, depressed, lethargic, and weak with a rapid heart rate. If you notice these symptoms, get your dog to the vet as soon as possible. Acute Moist Dermatitis: Acute moist dermatitis is a skin condition in which the skin red and inflamed. It is caused by a bacterial infection. The more common name of this health concern is hot spots. Treatment includes clipping the hair, bathing in medicated shampoo, and antibiotics. Cold Tail : Cold tail is a benign, though painful condition common to Labs and other retrievers. The dog may bite at the tail. It is thought to be a problem with the muscles between the vertebrae in the tail. Weekly checking and cleaning if necessary helps prevent infection. Labrador Retriever Care The lovable Lab needs to be around their family, and is definitely not a backyard dog. Labs show some variation in their activity levels, but all of them need activity, both physical and mental. Daily minute walks, a romp at the dog park, or a game of fetch, are a few ways to help your Lab burn off energy. However, a puppy should not be taken for too long walks and should play for a few minutes at a time. It is up to you to end play and training sessions. Without training, a rambunctious Lab puppy will soon grow to be a very large, rowdy dog. Luckily, Labs take to training well; in fact, they often excel in obedience competitions. Start with puppy kindergarten , which not only teaches your pup good canine manners, but helps them learn how to be comfortable around other dogs and people. Look for a class that uses positive training methods that reward the dog for getting it right, rather than punishing them for getting it wrong. Normal play on grass is fine, as is puppy agility, with its one-inch jumps. Labrador Retriever Feeding Recommended daily amount: 2. Conclusion About the Breed You must have seen at least one Labrador Retriever for real because they are the most commonly owned dogs in America. They are affectionate, intelligent, athletic, muscular, easy-going, and love to stay around people, which makes them the favorite choice of almost every American family. Their intelligence and loyalty make these high-energy dogs perfect for adventurous, outgoing people who are looking for a medium-large-sized four-legged companion. On the other hand, if you need a fun-loving, super-friendly, and completely harmless dog, this one is also your go-to choice. Labrador Retrievers come with huge hearts, which may contain an immense amount of love for all the family members. Due to the very same reason, this dog is being used as a therapy dog in old age homes and hospitals. Since they are easy to train and understand commands really very quickly, this breed has won various agility and obedience competitions. Besides, they have served the military and police forces for a long time as rescue dogs and for drug and explosive detection. And have we mentioned their extraordinary performance as assistance dogs for disabled people? All in all, this single dog offers a one-in-all sort of package to its owner as with their versatile and colorful personality, they can transform, from a companion dog to a show dog to a rescue dog to a field retriever, in a wink. The Labrador Retriever club has confirmed that this dog breed originated in St. John, the capital city of Newfoundland, Canada. By , these St. These dogs help their owners retrieve the lost fish and ducks, haul fishing nets, and fetch ropes. Although the lineage of St. In around , the second Earl of Malmesbury brought these dogs to England to be used as retrievers whereas, in the reign of the Third Earl of Malmesbury, these dogs began to get referred to as Labradors. When this dog breed was thriving in England, it nearly got extinct in Newfoundland around the year .The reason behind this near-extinction situation was the strict tax laws and government restrictions. The government of those times even constituted a law that one family could keep only one pet dog, and if they chose that pet to be female, the family had to pay a heavy dog tax. Still, somehow, the breed managed to survive and in , the kennel club officially recognized it as a separate breed. On the other hand, the American kennel club AKC recognized this popular breed in .Since the count of Labrador Retrievers was still alarmingly low in America and Canada, the breeders over there began to import British Labs to their countries. After these untiring efforts, Labrador Retriever dogs finally got categorized as the most popular dog breed by the national breed club of America, by the end of world war ii, in .However, Adjutant, the oldest living Labrador, managed to live for about 27 years. Therefore, a Lab puppy should never be allowed to go outside when the temperature is above ninety degrees Fahrenheit. A Labrador can hold its pee for about hours so you better schedule their bathroom breaks accordingly. Labrador is one of those few dog breeds that communicate through their body language rather than barks and growls. If a Labrador loves you, it will express it with its wagging tail, licking, and following you everywhere around. Unlike other dogs, this Lab breed can sense your sadness by reading your facial expressions and change in your pointing gestures. The best age to bring Lab puppies to your home is when it gets eight weeks old. Research has shown that the Labradors have tendencies and enough emotions to hold grudges. They remember past events quite clearly and can throw tantrums for some time. Even though it happens once in a blue moon, a Labrador Retriever can bite with a strength of about PSI. Labrador Retriever Appearance When it comes to appearance, Labradors are divided into two major categories; one containing thicker, blocker, and heavier bodies called the English Labradors and the second containing lankier and taller dogs called the American Labradors. Generally, all these deep-chested dogs feature sturdy and squared body frames, supported by athletic legs. Size The height of a fully grown Labrador Retriever depends upon its gender as males are mostly taller than females. Generally, a male Lab may grow up to cm tall, whereas the size of a female Lab could be cm. Considering the maximum size to which a male Labrador Retriever could grow, these strong dogs are classified in the category of medium-sized dogs. Weight Again, based on sex, the healthy weight range of a Labrador may vary. Generally, a 6-month-old, male Lab may weigh around kgs, whereas the weight of a female Lab could be between kgs. However, some Labs may even put on an extra weight of about 45 kg due to their uncontrolled greediness and appetites. Coat Labrador Retrievers are also special when it comes to their coat type. They feature a hard, dense, and thick double coat that consists of both hair and fur. The outer coat comprises wiry, short, and dense hair, whereas the undercoat consists of soft and smooth fur which is weather-resistant and insulating. Besides, some Labradors also look big and fluffy as they have long hair on their bodies. This condition is quite rare and caused by a non-dominant, recessive gene. Likewise, some Labradors come with a sparse undercoat which makes them look like single-coated canines. Color Labrador Retrievers are divided into three major types as per the coat color; chocolate brown, black, and yellow. The most dominant and common breed type is the one comprising black Labrador. Besides these common colors, some Labs also feature silver, fox red, and polar white, but these options are super rare. In addition to this, many Labs come with some white markings or small patches on their chests that are acceptable. However, any Lab that possesses coat color other than what is mentioned above, is considered mixed bred canine. Labrador Retriever Temperament and Personality Speaking of their temperament, they are fun to be around since they are light-hearted, playful, emotional, and smart. Since their bodies contain a huge amount of pent-up energy, these dogs are the happiest when busy. You can leave a Labrador Retriever alone at home for hours. Just make sure they have easy access to the bathroom and someone who could feed them after some hours. Even though Labs can do well on their own for some hours, but make sure to compensate for those absenting hours by playing with them. Remember that an ignored and bored Lab may develop separation anxiety really quickly. And as we stated before, they are more emotional than other dogs, their damaged emotional health can also have adverse effects on their mental and physical health. After developing separation anxiety, a Labrador Retriever may exhibit anxious behavior like chewing doors and furniture, digging, winning, pacing, growling, and barking. Similarly, as this dog ages, it grows even calmer. Even though Labs are known for their super friendly and social natures, these dogs can be the best watchdogs, if trained properly. On the other hand, when not trained, the same dog might help the intruder to come inside your property. Likewise, these dogs can be reliable guard dogs since they can sense the danger and do whatever it takes to protect their owners. But again, it all depends upon their training. Labrador Retrievers make excellent family dogs due to their sweet nature, gentleness, and protectiveness. Generally, Labs love the whole family, but they tend to make one member their favorite. Resultantly, the dog will be more protective and compassionate towards that one person. Speaking of their behavior towards other pets, Labradors can chase small animals around, due to their strong retrieving and ducking instincts. Labrador Retriever Health and Care Generally, a Labrador Retriever is considered a healthy breed but still, some Labs may develop the following health problems; Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is the most common hereditary disorder, which usually attacks very strong dogs with a tremendous amount of energy, packed in their bodies. In this condition, the hip joint and thigh muscles get partially detached from the pelvic socket. Resultantly, your dog feels restlessness and discomfort while walking or moving rear limbs. As the condition worsens, his rear limbs may get completely immobilized. The only treatment to cure this condition is surgery. And to prevent it from transmitting to the next generation, make sure to have a proper DNA test of your cured Lab, before taking him for breeding. Some other forms of this disease are elbow dysplasia and knee dysplasia which affects the elbow and knee of your labs. Tricuspid Valve Dysplasia Tricuspid valve dysplasia is a heart disorder that is found in Labrador Retrievers more commonly these days. Some puppies, somehow, may manage to survive, but most of them die in a couple of weeks. Resultantly, when the pain worsens, they bites at tail, causing the limber tail. Besides Labrador Retrievers, other Retrievers including Golden Retrievers, are also prone to catch this disorder. Progressive Retinal Atrophy This condition attacks the eyes of your Lab, destroying his photoreceptor retina cell and turning him first into night blind and then completely blind. Acute Moist Dermatitis As the name suggests, this disease is about skin that develops an acute bacterial infection due to insufficient hygiene. Ear Infections Since Labrador Retrievers have floppy ears, they are highly prone to catching ear infections if not cleaned properly. Use specially formulated dog shampoo and cleaner and clip your dog hair to prevent them from matting. Even though the overall grooming requirements of the Labrador Retriever are low, they shed a lot which means they need regular brushing. Trim their nails, brush their teeth, and feed them good-quality dog food. Lastly, this sporting dog breed needs vigorous exercise to stay mentally and physically fit. Thus, take them for daily walks and play with them for about one hour daily. However, avoid overdoing it since exercise-induced collapse is quite common among Labrador Retrievers. Labrador Retriever Training Labrador Retrievers are one of the easiest dogs to train, but only if you employ the right technique and stay consistent. Since Retrievers are quite protective of their families, they might feel threatened and jealous around unfamiliar people. Therefore, to tone up their positive, friendly, and social nature, socialize your Labs with new people and new pets. Instead, they might begin to feel scared of you, which in turn might fuel their escape-artist nature. On the other hand, you can get a Labrador pup from an animal shelter for free. Some of those Labs offered by the rescue groups are even neutered and vaccinated, which saves you from additional costs too. Related Guide:. They've won the dog personality popularity contest for so many years, as Labs are devoted to their owners—always willing to show you their affection and receive your adoration in return—are highly intelligent, and are happiest doing any and all family activities. Their enthusiasm not only makes them fun to be around, but also makes them a hard-working breed. Labs are companionable, bonding with all family members, and famously friendly to every person and pup they meet. While they have high energy and require lots of activity , they are eager to please and highly trainable. Appearance Thanks to their role as a hunter's companion, the Labrador retriever is a sturdy dog, weighing in at anywhere from 55—80 pounds. Labs come in three colors: chocolate, black, and yellow. While black Labs were an early favorite with breeders, all three types of Labs are common today. Some breeders do offer "rare" Labs, including polar white, fox red, and even silver, but these are simply variations of the three original Lab coloring combinations. Their top coat is short and thick. Their undercoat is softer and helps provide protection from the weather, especially cold temperatures and water, a nod to their original role as retrievers. A Lab's tail serves a purpose in their heritage as well. They are thick and tapered, an "otter tail" that acts as a rudder when Labs swim. But watch out on land—this happy breed gets to wagging their tail often and eagerly, and won't stop if you happen to be in the way. Yellow Labs might be easy to confuse with golden retrievers. Though both are friendly pups and popular with families, they distinctly different breeds. Temperament "The ideal disposition is one of a kindly, outgoing, tractable nature; eager to please and non aggressive towards man or animal," the breed standard says. They are friendly with new people and animals they meet. Tops in the personality department, Labs are also highly intelligent, making them very trainable. They do have lots of energy, so you'll need to stay active with them, but they are also happy to relax at home for family movie night. What many veterinarians do find, however, is that each Lab is an individual with his own personality. Some Labs are more mellow, while others can be higher energy. Some tend to be more anxious dogs. And you can even have a Lab that is a bit of a goofball. But no matter what personality your Lab puppy grows to develop, one thing is always the same. Living Needs Labs adore their owners. They will want to live indoors and sleep as close as possible to you—or even on you. They like to get outside to play, but don't leave them unattended for too long as they may prove they have a naughty side. Labs have been known to dig and chew, so invest in plenty of sturdy chew toys to keep yours entertained. If properly introduced and trained, Labs can also get along well with other pets in the home including cats , other dogs, and small animals. They are competitors, doing well in agility, field tests, and at dog shows. And they absolutely love to swim. Care When you welcome a Lab to your home, be prepared for lots of shedding. Grooming isn't substantial, but brushing your dog daily will help reduce the tumbleweeds of fur scattered about your house from their thick double coat. They should be bathed every other month to keep them smelling fresh. Brushing their teeth a couple of times a week, keeping their nails trimmed —likely once or twice a month—and checking their ears for redness or odor should also be on your Lab care checklist. A daily minute walk or a lively game of fetch will help your pup burn off some of his energy. Lack of activity could lead to undesirable behavior, but don't overdo it—this "workaholic" breed is apt to exhaust itself. Don't let Lab puppies run and play on hard surfaces for their first two years so they don't damage their joints. Of course their reputation for good behavior precedes them, but that doesn't mean you can skip training sessions with your Lab. Training is important to ensure they don't grow to become too rowdy. Introduce Labrador puppies to other humans and animals early to help socialize them properly. This, coupled with ample positive reinforcement , will allow your pup to grow into the friendly Lab many know and love. Health Labs are a pretty hearty and healthy breed , living 10—12 years. But, as with all breeds, there are some common conditions to be aware of. Elbow and hip dysplasia , heart disorders such as tricuspid valve dysplasia TVD , epilepsy , and hereditary myopathy or muscle weakness can all affect Labs. They can also face eye conditions, including progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts. Owners should also be aware of a condition called exercise induced collapse EIC. Labs may also develop hot spots —or acute moist dermatitis—cold tail, and ear infections. History A bit misnamed, Labs actually come from Newfoundland—off the northeastern coast of Canada—not Labrador, according to the Labrador Retriever Club. Descended from St. John's water dogs, Labradors are a traditional waterdog used to retrieve ducks and keep fishermen company. At the end of the work day, Labs were then happy to head home to spend the night with the fishermen's families. They became increasingly popular starting in the early s, when they were brought to England by nobles who appreciated their work ethic and disposition. Public Domain It may be hard to believe, but by the s, Labs were almost extinct because of government restrictions and tax laws—the same laws that led to the St. John's water dogs' extinction, according to the Canadian Broadcast Corporation. Thankfully saved by English breeders, they were introduced to the U. After World War II, the Lab's popularity took over and grew for decades until they ultimately achieved the status of America's—and England and Canada's—most popular pooch. Fun Facts In , for the 29th year in a row, the Lab was voted the number one most popular breed. King Buck was the model Labrador retriever featured on a U. Another famous Lab is Ben of Hyde , born in .Considered the first documented yellow Lab, today most lines of yellow Labs can be traced to his bloodline. The star of the show, Marley, is actually several different Labs who played the role to reflect the various age stages of Marley during the film. His family adopted another chocolate Lab, Seamus , after Clinton's presidency ended. Was this page helpful? One can easily recognize their breed since they are primarily selected and trained to be human companions. They are always featured in magazines and news articles due to the geniality and popularity among dog owners. Labs can be seen as a part of law enforcement for detection and screening, or a therapy dog that helps people with disabilities such as blindness and autism. Their loyalty, kindness, and obedience makes them the best candidate for these roles and also being the best buddy at home. Labs are considered the most versatile breed among dogs. Labrador Retriever Characteristics Labs are identified with having a medium well-built body that is perfect for their easygoing and sporty lifestyle. Females are normally smaller and their height ranges from .Their counterparts, the male Labrador Retrievers stand .Labrador Retriever Life Span — Male and Female Labrador Retrievers are very fun to be with, and anyone will want to spend their whole life with the best companion like them. Their average lifespan is between years. They wag their tails to strangers, fellow dogs and are the most loving with kids. Labs make a great partner because of their affection and loyalty to their owners. They have become a popular and favorite breed. That is why they are always featured in photos, commercials, and news where they stick with their owners no matter what. They have saved someone from an accident, or are just plainly eating dog food in a commercial, being a good boy — or girl. This dog breed is remarkably obedient and intelligent, making training easy. They are playful and hyperactive. Labrador Retriever Exercise With their high level of energy, Labrador Retrievers need their exercise. The recommended activities for Labrador Retrievers are daily walking, running in the park, training, chewing on some pet toys, and fetching games — anything that helps them release their stored energy. Be careful though, they are known to be very enthusiastic about being active that they exhaust themselves if you do not intervene and stop the playtime. Labrador Retrievers who lack activity may resort to undesirable behaviors like chewing some items in your house or digging a hole in your backyard just to release some of their pent up zest. So always remember to keep them busy and train them properly. Labrador Retriever Training Training is crucial and yet natural for this breed. They produce an exemplary outcome for Labrador Retrievers themselves and their owners. They are easy to train due to their unparalleled enthusiasm and intelligence. There are different types of training for a Labrador Retriever depending on the career they are going to take. Labrador Retriever History This dog breed, despite its name, Labrador, actually came from Newfoundland, which is an eastern province in Canada. They were initially called St. The Labradors were brought to Britain through ship trading because they were known to be great companions of fishermen. Englishmen took notice because they recognized the skills of the breed as great retrievers, and used them for sports like hunting or water fowling. Labrador Retrievers have always been considered as an awesome helper or partner throughout history with their personality and traits. Their short weather-proof undercoat is perfect for outdoor activities and water sports. Their dedication to their owners and trainability are highly praised even then. The Labs were almost extinct by the s because of the new tax and government restrictions made in Canada for dog owners. They disappeared from their homeland, but thanks to the English fans of this breed and the Malmesbury family, they were protected and saved. In , the Kennel Club acknowledged the Labrador Retriever as an independent and specific breed. Years passed and the Labs from Britain were imported to the US and are now among the most favorite breeds in America. Labrador Retriever Health Problems The energetic and easy-going lifestyle of a Labrador Retriever makes them healthy in general, but like other breeds, they can still have some health issues that most pet owners should look out for. Most of their common health problems involve musculoskeletal and eye-related issues. Here are the common diseases and illnesses with Labs: OCD Osteochondritis Dissecans — OCD is a condition that causes painful rigidity to the elbows and sometimes in the shoulders. Excess feeding of high protein foods or treats that encourage faster growth is considered to be one of the causes of this disease. It can be dislocated partially or completely. Some Labs may show symptoms like an irregular way of walking and also signs of pain. Others may not show any symptoms at all. Labs with this condition are best not to breed to avoid passing on the DNA. Elbow Dysplasia — Similar to Hip Dysplasia, this disease is hereditary and it usually occurs to larger dogs. This causes supple limbs that are painful and uncomfortable for your canine. Vets would suggest getting surgery or prescribe a pain reliever medicine. Early cases result in an inability to see with dim lights, and then progress to a full loss of vision even in the day time. It whitens the lens of the eyes, and blocks the light from coming into the retina. It grows gradually and can affect dogs of any age. Treatment available for dogs that have Cataracts involves removal surgery, which normally has a high success rate. Myopathy — This disease is due to the muscle tissues or fibers not functioning properly. This makes your canine friends really weak, causing rigid movements and muscle tremors. This may be acquired from birth or due to injury or a developmental issue. There is no cure for this and keeping your Labs warm and well-rested helps with lessening the symptoms. Since it gets worse over time, some owners are given the option to euthanize their pets and are advised not to breed. Ear Infections — Labrador Retrievers are prone to ear infection due to the way their ears are made and their lifestyle of loving the water. If your dog shows frequent head shaking or you notice a change in their ear odor, have them checked. Weekly cleaning is necessary to maintain good health for your pet. Cold Tail — When you see your dog trying to catch or bite their tail, they are either playing or they have a cold tail. This condition causes tail pain and becomes flaccid. It is common for Labrador Retrievers and is not alarming since it goes away on its own. This results in inflamed red spots on the skin surface. Treatment includes proper hygiene, hair trim, and antibiotics. This requires a surgical emergency because the gas in the stomach creates pressure in the blood flow, which makes it fatal for the dog. There is still no accurate information about what causes this illness but the chances of getting it gets higher as your dog ages. Pups get them as soon as they are born and some may survive it and others just perish. TVD is caused by having an abnormal shape of the tricuspid valve. There is no current treatment yet for this disease. Phenobarbital and Potassium Bromide are common medications for pets. It is highly advisable to have your labs undergo a full-scale evaluation and EIC DNA test to detect diseases as early as possible. This will also help breeders to determine which dogs are okay to prepare for breeding. It is important for them to be around their human companions, and to have their playtime and exercise like running outside and playing fetch in the park. They love affection and attention from their owners. Leaving them alone for too long at home or in your backyard may result in an unhappy Lab. Given their enthusiasm for activities and burning energy, they enjoy chewing anything for hours. Giving them a toy to chew for hours will keep them happy and content. Another thing to consider is to settle them in a kennel or a place of their own so they will not create a mess or destroy things in your house accidentally. Since they are overly joyful creatures. Nutrition and Feeding for Labrador Retriever When caring for a Labrador Retriever or any pet in general, you must think about how, what, and how much to feed them. Over time, dogs grow and have their preferred food. It is best to feed your Labrador Retriever with foods that are high in protein and fat. Feeding them high-quality food is the best option. It also depends on if you want them to eat commercial food or homemade meals. Knowing your dog is fundamental in learning how to feed them properly. Not all dogs are the same. The amount of food you need to feed your Labs depends on their age and size. But in general, they should be fed cups of dry food spread out to 2 meals a day. Treats are helpful in training and keeping your Labs happy, but anything excessive is always not a good idea. These 2 layers help them become more resilient to cold and water. Their coat is one of their best assets since they can easily go in and out of the water without ice crusting in their fur. Black coats of Labrador Retrievers were a favorite by breeders before but the demand for golden yellow and chocolate brown increased, which made them a staple color for Labs too. There are some fans that breed Labs with white and fox red coats, which can be considered rare. Regular nail trimming should be done. Long nails cause Labs to be uncomfortable with their feet. This also helps to avoid scratches and being hurt when your Labrador Retriever excitedly jumps on you. Brushing their teeth often to keep your canine friends clean and healthy is a must. It helps prevent any mouth issues like gum disease, the buildup of plaque and tartar, and tooth decay, which causes bad breath. One thing to consider that is common with Labs is the excessive shedding of their coat. Having a vacuum for the area where your Lab mostly hangs out is a thing to consider to manage all the furs that fall out. Brushing their coats frequently helps with their loose hairs. Remember, grooming is not just about making sure they are polished but it can also be a time for you to spend more time with your dog and check for potential health issues. They are easy-going, lovable, and have low aggression, which makes them okay with being touched, petted, and cuddled. Labs enjoy being with kids since they can match their energy and glee. They will happily play together for hours and are very affectionate towards children. It is important to supervise them, no matter how kind and friendly your dog is. This is to avoid any biting or tail and ear pulling on either side. Training your dog on how to act towards children will help them have a better and safe interaction. Reiterate to your kids not to bother any dog when they are sleeping or eating. This is why there are specific breed rescue groups that take in and look after these neglected Labs. Dogs that are rescued are put up for adoption and these groups ensure that they are given to families that will provide a new home where they will be loved and taken care of. Breed organizations are founded to be the keeper and provider of information about Labrador Retrievers. They organize social gatherings for fans and set up activities or conventions for them. Breed clubs can also raise funds for research and development for Labrador Retrievers. They can also set the rules and regulations about the breeding of their particular breed. If you want to check out any Labrador Retriever rescue list or participate in a Labrador Retriever breed organization, you can contact your local community in charge of Labs or the National breed club, the National Labrador Retriever Club Inc. More About This Breed Bench shows in England require Labrador Retrievers to have a working certificate to become a champion in their contest. There is an anti-interbreeding law requested and set by the fans of the breed due to the excessive inbreeding done with Labs. Labrador Retrievers are great swimmers, thanks to their water-resistant coats that keep them insulated and their webbed toes for swiffer swimming. It is said that the nobility in Britain normally refers to territories as a whole. Since Labrador is near Newfoundland, British people referred to it as one place. Another theory is that since they are seen swimming in the Labrador Sea, it often makes others think that they got their name from it. Labrador Retrievers are fast. With them being athletic and full of stamina, Labs can hit mph at full speed. But this veterinary medicine treats everyday pain in.December 16, For aches and pains, we humans have a lot of options when it comes to relief, both natural and pharmaceutical. After a nice evening run, warm water and heating pads.December 14, We know how important your dog is to your family. Pet owners hate to see their pets in pain or discomfort, and at times, administering any kind of.November 30, .Thrives on exercise and athletic activities Steady-tempered and dependable with everyone Peaceful with other animals Very responsive to training The Bad Needs a goodly amount of exercise, not just a couple of short walks around the block High energy and exuberant jumping, especially when young Sheds a lot Risk of serious health problems Keep in mind that the inheritance of temperament is less predictable than the inheritance of physical traits such as size or shedding. Temperament and behavior are also shaped by raising and training. Books by Michele Welton "Respect Training for Puppies" or "Respect Training for Adult Dogs" is a step by step guide to help you bring out the best in your pup so you can enjoy a calm and well-behaved dog, no matter what his age. Get your book today. A healthy dog is a happy dog, so buy your copy today. Chocolate Labrador. Developed as hunting dogs to fetch and carry birds back to the hunter, Labs love to carry toys around. How big are Labrador Retrievers? Usually they're inches at the shoulder, with males typically in the higher half of that range, and females in the lower half. Weight can be as low as 55 pounds, but is usually pounds. Unfortunately, the trend seems to be for heavier and heavier Labs, with a lot of individuals topping 90 pounds. I say unfortunately because heavier weight isn't good for their joints. This breed was supposed to be a medium-sized hunting retriever who could fit comfortably in a bird blind or a small boat. Show type Labrador Retriever. Much stockier than field type Labs. Are there different "types" of Labrador Retrievers? Not officially. There's only the one breed. They come in several colors, yet they're all Labrador Retrievers. For hunting and field trials, though, black Labs are by far the most common color. In my obedience classes, yellow Labs are often the calmest and most mild-mannered. In contrast, the chocolate Labs I've worked with have all been very energetic. Of course, it might just be coincidence! But apart from color, you'll definitely see Labs who look quite different from other Labs. Different builds, different body shapes. In particular, Labrador Retrievers used primarily for hunting and field trials look very different from Labs you see at dog shows that emphasize conformation. They have a narrower head, longer muzzle, lankier body, and a sleeker coat. Labs from show lines are heavier-boned and stockier, with a large blocky head and dense coat. To me, those dogs don't really look like the classic Labrador Retriever. But they do tend to be very sweet dogs with mellow temperaments that fit well into many families. How much exercise do Labrador Retrievers need? Many owners don't give this breed the exercise it deserves. These athletic, bouncy dogs need regular opportunities to vent their energy and do interesting things. Otherwise they will become bored, which they may express by becoming rambunctious and destructive. Labs also need mental stimulation, which means interesting activities that keep the mind stimulated: For example, a challenging dog sport agility, rally obedience, musical freestyle, tracking, flyball, frisbee, field trials ; interactive dog toys; a homemade obstacle course; fetch games and tricks. Black Labrador Retriever. Black is the most common color. Are Labrador Retrievers easy to train? Yes, training most Labrador Retrievers is easy. They housebreak quickly and are usually willing to please. But this breed is strong and energetic, especially adolescents. Many Labradors between one and three years old are dropped off at animal shelters or rescue groups because of dog behavior problems such as pulling vigorously on the leash and jumping on people. Focus on teaching loose-leash walking, indoor calmness, and no jumping. All of these are taught in my puppy training book, Respect Training For Puppies. Are they friendly with strangers? Yes, most Labs are happy to see everyone. They'll bark when someone comes to the door, but they're not protective. This is a friendly, trusting breed. Are Labrador Retrievers good with children? Most Labs are among the best possible dogs for children. However, remember my cautions about exuberance and jumping. Young Labs up to two or three years old romp and jump with vigor. That means things can go flying — including people. If your Lab has been allowed to jump on people, you should stop this behavior immediately. Jumping can injure people, and even when it doesn't, it puts a dog in a heightened state of arousal that isn't good for him. If you don't yet have your dog and your home includes toddlers or infirm adults, you might consider skipping the challenging puppy and adolescent stages. Look into adopting an adult Labrador Retriever from a rescue group. Adults have a more settled temperament and you can specifically look for a calm one. Are Labrador Retrievers good with other pets? Most Labs are fine with other dogs and cats, fine with livestock, and even fine with very small pets such as rabbits and ferrets. Of course introductions should be made properly. Don't just plunk a baby bunny onto the floor and let your full-grown Lab loose in the room. Even a friendly dog can make mincemeat of a small fragile creature simply by jumping on it. Labrador Retriever puppies hardly shed at all.Grooming: Do Labrador Retrievers shed a lot? Are they easy to groom? For such a shorthaired dog, Labrador Retrievers shed more than you might think — on the high side of average at least. The bulk of their shedding occurs twice a year, for three weeks in the spring as their thicker winter coat switches to a cooler summer coat, and three weeks in the fall as their summer coat switches over to a winter coat. But they also shed some all through the year. Labs need more brushing than some other shorthaired breeds because of the high shedding. If you don't diligently pull out the dead undercoat during regular grooming sessions, it will all fall out on your floors and furniture. On the plus side, obviously Labs need no trimming! Yellow Labrador. How long do Labrador Retrievers live? Are they a healthy breed? Labrador Retrievers typically live years. Many Labs do live to 12 or 13, but usually with chronic health issues such as arthritis. Unfortunately, an increasing number of beloved Labs are lost in middle age to inherited forms of cancer or heart disease. Common orthopedic diseases in Labradors include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and luxating patella loose knee joints , each of which causes chronic pain and lameness and can require expensive surgery. Labs are very prone to rupturing the ligaments in their hind legs — expensive surgery again. And if one hind leg ruptures, the other is likely to follow at a later time. Another surgery. It's a good idea to have pet insurance when you own a Lab. A number of eye diseases cause blindness in Labrador Retrievers. The breed is at higher-than-average risk for an emergency gastrointestinal syndrome called bloat, which can kill a healthy dog within hours. One example of an odd neuromuscular disease is called exercise-induced collapse. As the name suggests, affected Labradors who have been vigorously exercising suddenly begin swaying, collapse, and require a rest before they can move again. Here is a complete list of health problems in Labrador Retrievers. The three major colors of Labs are black, yellow, and chocolate. What colors do Labrador Retrievers come in? Officially, Labrador Retrievers come in black, yellow, and chocolate. They also come in silver gray , but this color is frowned on by breed purists. These are just made-up names for yellow Labs whose shade of yellow happens to be golden or reddish or whitish. Whatever the shade, it's still just a yellow Lab. Chocolate also comes in shades: from light coffee to deep chocolate brown. Now, what about silver Labrador Retrievers? The official breed clubs, and breeders who show their dog in the conformation ring, state that silver is a disqualified color for showing purposes. In fact, most Labrador breeders insist that silver dogs aren't even purebred. Their position is that the silver gene infiltrated the Labrador's gene pool by crossbreeding Labs with Weimaraners. I think they're probably right. I think that one or more Weimaraner crosses probably did introduce the silver gene at some point. However, since genetic diversity is a good thing in living creatures, I don't view cross-breeding as an evil thing. So if there are some Weimaraner genes floating around in a silver Labrador, that wouldn't bother me. On the other hand, if I wanted a dog who could be counted on to look and act like a Lab, you're more likely to get that in a Lab who isn't silver, especially if the silver breeder is still using Weimaraners in his breeding program. And based on the appearance of some silver "Labs", there are breeders who are still crossing in Weimaraners. But almost certainly silver Labrador Retrievers are here to stay. Even though they can't be shown, the AKC still accepts them for registration. However, in a funny twist, those registration papers don't say silver. Remember, the AKC says that Labs can only be black, chocolate, or yellow. So they register silver Labs as Chocolate, because they consider silver to be a dilution of the chocolate gene. In other words, according to the AKC, your silver Lab is actually a chocolate Lab also has inherited dilution gene that washes the chocolate into a silvery gray. It doesn't end there. Some silver Labs aren't silvery gray, but dark charcoal gray. Yellow, black, and chocolate Labrador Retriever puppies. I'll be happy to show you how to raise and train your new family member. Or check out my training tips to teach your Labrador Retriever puppy to be well-behaved. Also see my advice on Labrador Retriever health care , including feeding and vaccinations If you don't have a Labrador Retriever puppy, but you want one.I can help you with that, too. Labrador Retrievers are the most common breed in the United States, so they're very easy to find. The problem is finding one with the best chances of staying healthy through the years. First, you need to think about the different types of Labrador Retriever we talked about earlier. You can buy a Labrador Retriever puppy from a show breeder who breeds Labradors to match a detailed standard of appearance for the dog show ring. Or you can buy one from a performance breeder who emphasizes an energetic temperament and strong working drives for hunting. But how they prioritize those two goals can vary greatly. Or you can just hop onto Craigslist and buy a Labrador Retriever puppy from someone who "just breeds pets" or "just had one litter. Not unless the seller has done the proper health certifications on the puppy's parents. One huge difference between a responsible breeder and an irresponsible "puppy producer" is — health certifications. You might choose to accept that risk. But then you need to be willing and able to pay a couple thousand bucks for future surgeries and lifelong meds if your Labrador Retriever ends up with cataracts and crippled joints. Labrador Retrievers are often available from dog rescue groups. Labrador Retrievers may be turned over to Rescue because they shed too much or need more exercise than the owner was prepared to give. Or perhaps they pull on the leash or jump on people. You would need to provide these dogs with the exercise and training that they are lacking. Labrador Retrievers more often, Lab crosses and mixes are frequently found in animal shelters. However, shelter personnel can be overzealous in labeling every medium- to large shorthaired black dog as a "Lab cross. Did you know there's a quick and simple DNA test that can tell you definitively which breeds make up any given dog? What breeds are similar to Labrador Retrievers? The Golden Retriever is similar to a Labrador in being a great all-around family dog and a great choice for first-time owners. Compared to Labs, Goldens tend to be even more outgoing toward everyone and more eager to please. Goldens do shed more than Labs and have a greater risk of health issues. Compared to Labs and Goldens, the Flat-Coated Retriever needs more exercise and interesting activities to keep them busy. This is not a good breed for a casual or couch potato owner. Flat-Coats also suffer from serious health issues. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a great dog for experienced owners. Compared to the Lab, a Chessie has a stronger temperament, needs more exercise, is more reserved with strangers, and can be bossy toward strange dogs. An expert researcher and author of 15 books about dogs, she loves helping people choose, train, and care for their dogs. To help you train and care for your dog Dog training videos. Sometimes it's easier to train your puppy or adult dog when you can see the correct training techniques in action. The problem is that most dog training videos on the internet are worthless, because they use the wrong training method. I recommend these dog training videos that are based on respect and leadership. Respect Training For Puppies: 30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved puppy. For puppies 2 to 18 months old. Your puppy will learn the 21 skills that all family dogs need to know. If your dog is over 18 months, you'll want Respect Training For Adult Dogs: 30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved dog. Again your dog will learn the 21 skills that all family dogs need to know. Teach Your Dog English Words is a unique Vocabulary and Respect Training Program that will teach your adult dog to listen to you and do what you say. Related posts you might enjoy. Labrador temperament varies between the types. Occasionally, especially in American Labrador temperament there can be nervousness and anxiousness that results in aggression. But choosing your puppy from friendly parents and socializing it well can avoid these minor risks. Most Labradors have minimal guarding instincts and make terrible protection dogs. Accept your lovable, greedy, friendly, bouncy lab for what he is. Let him be a Labrador. There really is nothing nicer. Measuring Labrador temperament Improvements in the accuracy and relevance of tests for evaluating temperament in adult or nearly adult dogs are important. This is especially the case in Labradors and other working dogs. Some studies have been carried out on guide dogs. Their findings are often relevant to Labradors because most guide dogs are either Labradors or Labrador mixes. Studies on guide dogs have come up with useful results. And temperament evaluations are often used by dog rescue organizations in order to provide a good match when re-homing dogs in their care Differences in temperament between dog breeds Studies show that there are measurable differences in personality traits between different groups of dogs. One aspect of canine temperament or personality that has the most serious impact on people, is aggression. Unfortunately, this article was confusing readers by taking information from a report about personal injury claims and the dogs causing them. Popularity Contest Essentially, the dogs blamed for biting, were dogs that happened to be popular. The fact of course, is that a proportion of all dogs will bite. The more popular a dog breed is, the more dog bites will be reported for that breed. That does not mean that individuals of that breed have an increased chance of biting someone. Like so many issues however, this one is not straightforward. Studies have shown that distinctive differences in dog temperament do exist between different breeds. A study showed that Dachshunds, Chihuahuas and Jack Russell Terriers were more likely to show aggression towards both strangers and their owners. Australian Cattle Dogs were more likely to show aggression to strangers. American Cocker Spaniels and Beagles were the most likely to show aggression towards their own owners. The effects of aggression will depend on the size and biting style of the dog. This is why dog bite studies show that some breeds of dog are more likely to kill or cause serious injury than others. In a 12 year period between and for example, Americans were killed by dogs. And by choosing your dog carefully and socializing him thoroughly as a puppy, you can reduce this risk further. What is Labrador temperament like? Labradors are generally well known for their equable and friendly nature. This is not a myth. This includes aggression toward both humans and other dogs. So you can rest easy on that score. Now here are some of the other frequent assumptions made about Labrador temperament. Labrador retriever temperament is outgoing On the whole this statement is true. Most Labradors are confident, outgoing friendly dogs. Happy to talk to strangers, and to welcome guests into your home. You should be aware that this welcome may be extended equally to burglars! There are ways to minimize the risk of your Labrador turning out this way. Labrador retriever temperament is kind Kindness is another of those traits that is difficult to quantify. All we have to go on is anecdotal evidence. Labs tend to be very affectionate. There are many reports of Labradors showing great kindness and empathy when their humans are sad. The breed is even tempered It is pretty hard to provoke or annoy most Labs. Being hugged and climbed on by small children for example. You really need to check carefully on the parents before you buy a puppy. And, because tolerance levels vary from dog to dog, you need to supervise interactions between dogs and children Labrador retriever temperament is intelligent Some experts like to look at intelligence separately from temperament. But Labrador intelligence is legendary. Intelligence may vary from one dog to another within a breed, and can be difficult to define. The Labrador breed as a whole is generally considered to be highly intelligent. The ability to learn and willingness to learn are hard to tease apart. A study looked at trainability differences between different groups of dogs. The Labrador belongs to the sporting group. The study found that the dogs in this group were more trainable than non-sporting dogs. The Labrador is this willing and able to learn. The breed is usually gentle Hmm. This assumption is subject to some provisos. It is certainly true of many mature Labradors. On the contrary, Labradors under a year old can be extremely boisterous and clumsy. They can actually pose a small risk to anyone unsteady on their feet. Different types of Labrador temperament People often make assumptions about Labrador temperament based on their color. Black Lab temperament In the same way, Black Labs tend to be favored by the hunting or shooting communities. They may be considered by some to be smarter because of this. The fact is, that Labrador coat color does not directly affect the personality traits of individual dogs. However, the genetic information a dog inherits from his parents most certainly does. English Lab temperament vs American Lab A study published in showed that dogs bred from working lines were more trainable than dogs bred from show lines. This is not particularly surprising bearing in mind that working line or American type Labradors have been selectively bred for this characteristic. Labrador temperament problems The Labrador breed is not immune from temperament problems. Aggressive or reactive Labradors can and do exist. This can be a bigger problem than aggression in other breeds. This is mainly because people tend to approach strange Labradors in the expectation that a Labrador will be friendly and pleased to meet them. Owning a grumpy Labrador is not fun. So how do you make sure your Labrador puppy will have a good temperament? Choosing the right parents Your first step to success though is dependent on your choice of breeder and on the parents of your puppy. A puppy that has been bred with care will have two parents with excellent temperament. This gives you the best chance of raising a good natured dog. Do your utmost to see both parents when you are choosing a puppy. And be absolutely determined to walk away if the parents are not friendly and welcoming. I cannot stress how important this is. Mum should come happily out to greet you, tail wagging furiously. If you cannot see Dad, make sure you get a reference from someone that has met him. The temperament of the parents may give you some idea as to the potential temperament of the puppy. However, a part of his final temperament is dependent on correct socialization. Socialize your puppy Effective puppy socialization is the other essential ingredient to good temperament. The more thoroughly and effectively you socialize your dog, the more confident and fearless he will be. Fearless dogs are normally friendly dogs. Fearful dogs are more likely to become aggressive. Your puppy might seem to growl and bark more than you thought he might. This may just indicate that your pup is excited. You can read our article on Labrador puppy aggression here. The better a dog is socialized, the less things he will find threatening. A very well socialized dog will feel threatened by very little and is more likely to invite a burglar in and offer him the key to the safe, than to chase him away. Many people want a dog that is both friendly and good natured, especially around children. But they also want a dog that will guard their home. Or at the very least, bark at intruders. Strange as it may sound, I actually receive a lot of correspondence from people overseas, asking me to tell them how to teach their Labrador to bark! People want to know how they can stop their dog being so friendly! Asking for a dog to be both great around kids and to keep intruders at bay is actually quite a tall order. But not all. And there are serious risks in increasing guarding instincts deliberately. This is especially true when bringing a large dog into a family where there are small children. And a dog with guarding instincts can be a real worry and a problem when you have frequent child visitors.
Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Bernedoodle Overview The Bernedoodle is a companion dog, through and through. The breed inherits the intelligence of its Poodle parents and the charming, goofy, happy-go-lucky temperament of the Bernese Mountain Dog. Sometimes they get more Poodle traits, and other times they more closely resemble the Bernese. That said, fans of Bernedoodles adore their friendliness, playfulness, intelligence, and affection. They also tend to be more hypoallergenic, which is a blessing for allergy sufferers. In addition to their personalities, Bernedoodles can differ in appearance. Their coats can be curly and wavy or straight and come in a variety of colors. They come in three sizes; tiny, miniature, and standard. These sizes are determined by the size of the Poodle parent, which can be toy, mini, or standard. Bernedoodles are fairly adaptable and go with the flow. Smaller sized Bernedoodles make better apartment pets than Standard Bernedoodles, who do best with a yard to burn off energy. This breed has moderate exercise needs that are usually met with at least one long daily walk. Bernedoodle Highlights Gentle and loving: Bernedoodles are known for their gentle and loving personalities. They are good with children and other pets. Intelligent and trainable: Bernedoodles are intelligent dogs that are easy to train. They can learn basic commands quickly and can be trained to perform more complex tasks. Hypoallergenic: Bernedoodles are considered to be hypoallergenic, which means they are less likely to shed and cause allergies in people. Active but adaptable: Bernedoodles are active dogs that need a moderate amount of exercise. However, they are also adaptable and can do well in apartments or homes with small yards. Loyal and devoted: Bernedoodles are loyal and devoted dogs that make great companions. They are always happy to see their owners and love to cuddle. If you are looking for a loving, intelligent, and hypoallergenic dog, the Bernedoodle may be the right breed for you. Here are some additional details about the Bernedoodle breed: Size: Bernedoodles are medium-sized dogs, typically weighing between 45 and 90 pounds. Lifespan: Bernedoodles have a lifespan of 10 to 12 years. Coat: Bernedoodles have a wavy or curly coat that can be either single- or double-coated. Colors: Bernedoodles can be a variety of colors, including black, brown, white, and cream. Bernedoodles are a relatively new breed, so there is still some debate about their exact origins. However, it is believed that they were first bred in the United States in the early s. The goal was to create a dog that was hypoallergenic and had the best qualities of both the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle. Bernedoodles are becoming increasingly popular dogs. They are a good choice for families with children and other pets. They are also a good choice for people with allergies. If you are thinking about getting a Bernedoodle, be sure to do your research and find a reputable breeder. Bernedoodle History The Bernedoodle is a relatively new breed. While this is considered a designer breed, they do appear in shelters, and rescue groups that focus on Poodles and Bernese Mountain Dogs will sometimes work with mixes of those breeds. There is no reason that you have to rely on a breeder for a Bernedoodle, and you should always adopt before shopping. Bernedoodle Size There are three sizes of Bernedoodle: tiny, miniature, and standard. These result from the size of the Poodle parent, which can be toy, mini, or standard size. The Tiny Bernedoodle stands at 12 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder, and weighs about 10 to 24 pounds. The Miniature Bernedoodle stands at 18 to 22 inches tall and weighs 25 to 49 pounds. The Standard Bernedoodle stands at 23 to 29 inches and weigh 70 to 90 pounds. Males are generally larger than females. Bernedoodle Personality Bernedoodles seem to get many of the best personality traits from the Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle breeds. Exactly which traits they inherit from their parents can differ a bit, though, and individual personalities of dogs within the breed vary. Bernedoodles tend to be highly intelligent, hardworking when necessary, loyal, and just a bit goofy. They are good with children and other dogs, provided they have been well socialized. Once they begin training, their intelligence helps them pick up commands more easily than other dogs. Bernedoodles can have high energy levels and crave attention and at least moderate exercise. They do best in homes where they are not left alone for long periods of time. Tiny and Miniature Bernedoodles do better with apartment and city life than Standard Bernedoodles. Generally, they want nothing more than to be with their humans and are just as ready to go outside and play with them as they are to join them on the couch for cuddles. Bernedoodle Health Bernedoodles are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to some health problems, including: Hip dysplasia : This is a condition in which the hip joint does not fit together properly, causing pain and lameness. Elbow dysplasia : This is a similar condition that affects the elbow joint. Bloat: This is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the stomach twists, cutting off blood flow. Progressive retinal atrophy PRA : This is a degenerative eye disease that can lead to blindness. Hereditary cataracts : These are cloudy areas in the lens of the eye that can cause vision problems. Demodex mange : This is a skin condition caused by mites. Inflammatory bowel disease IBD : This is a chronic condition that causes inflammation of the digestive tract. Hypothyroidism : This is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. It is important to take your Bernedoodle to the vet for regular checkups to monitor their health and catch any potential problems early. You should also be aware of the signs and symptoms of these health problems so that you can seek treatment promptly if necessary. Here are some tips for keeping your Bernedoodle healthy: Feed them a healthy diet that is appropriate for their age and activity level. Make sure they get plenty of exercise. Keep them at a healthy weight. Brush their teeth regularly. Take them to the vet for regular checkups. By following these tips, you can help your Bernedoodle live a long and healthy life. Bernedoodle Care Tiny and Miniature Bernedoodles are more suited to apartment life, while Standard Bernedoodles do better with a nice yard to run around. They love being around their humans, so the less time they spend alone, the better. Like Poodles, Bernedoodles are quite intelligent, which means they can learn bad habits just as easily as good ones. It is important to keep up with training. Early socialization and exposure to other dogs and humans is always a good idea and will help keep them well-behaved when meeting new people or pets. Bernedoodle Feeding The appropriate amount to feed a Bernedoodle depends on their size, age, and activity level, which means it is highly individualized. You should ask your veterinarian for dietary recommendations that suit your particular dog. Sometimes Bernedoodles can have straighter coats, which shed more and are less hypoallergenic. The thickness of their coat helps this breed thrive in cool temperatures while providing them a fair amount of protection from the heat of summer months, as well. The color of Bernedoodle coats have quite a range. Some are pure black, others are black and white, and others are black and brown. Sometimes Bernedoodles are tri-colored with patches of black, white, and brown. They may even have other colors, as well. The most popular coat colors and markings for people seeking a Bernedoodle tend to resemble the tri-colored Bernese Mountain Dog. Because they shed less, they need to be brushed more often to prevent their coat from getting matted. Their coat must also be trimmed every few months, depending on how quickly it grows. Bernedoodle Children And Other Pets Bernedoodles are excellent for families with children, though it is always important to make sure children are instructed on how to properly treat animals, especially with Tiny and Miniature Bernedoodles that may be injured more easily. This breed is affectionate and loves to play, and they absolutely adore spending time with their families. Bernedoodles usually do well with other dogs, but it is important to begin socialization at an early age and keep up with it to make sure they are comfortable around new animals. Bernedoodle Rescue Groups Please search your local area for Bernedoodle up for adoption. Bernedoodle Breed Organizations Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have health problems and behavioral issues More Info For You. They were bred solely for companionship, so they love attention and lots of cuddles from their families. Bernedoodles are just as happy curling up on the couch as they are hiking a trail alongside their humans. They're playful and active dogs who can be willful as puppies but are highly trainable thanks to their big brains. Appearance Though Bernese mountain dogs have a black, tan, and white uniform, poodles can have a much wider range of coat colors. Because of this, Bernedoodles can vary in color. While they're typically tricolor like their mountain dog mom or dad, they can also be pure black, black and white, or a random mix. Their fur can also be curly like their poodle parent or straighter like a Bernese mountain dog. As a general rule, the straighter the coat, the more your Bernedoodle will shed. In both cases, the thickness of a Bernedoodle mane makes this breed suitable for colder temperatures. A curly Bernedoodle coat is typically sought-after because it's considered hypoallergenic. While no dog is percent allergen-friendly, this breed's coat can be a good option for those who tend to sneeze, sniffle, or itch around dogs. Bernedoodle breeders typically offer a tiny, miniature, and standard size, which allows for flexibility with the care and living needs of each pup. A smaller mix could easily live in an apartment as long as she gets plenty of walks and exercise. The standard Bernedoodle can reach up to 29 inches in height and weigh up to 90 pounds. A mini is between 18—22 inches tall and weighs 20—45 pounds. A "tiny," bred from a toy poodle, is only 12—17 inches and weighs 10—24 pounds, according to the United Bernedoodle Registry. Temperament Affectionate and playful, Bernedoodles are a perfect family pet. They are especially fond of younger kids and provide a wonderful lifelong companion as children grow into adults. Though they're intelligent pups , they tend to be goofy and love attention from their humans. Though they can't get enough of their family, Bernedoodles might first be apprehensive, sensitive, and skittish around strangers. As with all breeds, it's important to socialize your Bernedoodle puppy so she'll be comfortable and affectionate around new people, too. She can be very charming and charismatic with positive reinforcement training. Personal space is not a part of their vocabulary, and they should not be left alone much. Loneliness can result in separation anxiety, which could cause nervous habits like whining or chewing. They will end feeling more fulfilled and have less anxious, OCD behaviors. And no matter the size, this hybrid is especially gentle-natured and loves children. They're so gentle, in fact, they don't make good guard dogs: They bark infrequently and are more likely to befriend an intruder than scare them away. Care Most often, a Bernedoodle will have a wavy or curly coat that's ideal for those with allergies. In some cases, a Bernedoodle can have a straighter coat similar to that of a Bernese mountain dog. This means they'll shed more and might not agree with an owner who's allergic to pet dander. Once the litter is a few weeks old, a Bernedoodle breeder will be able to tell what kind of coat each puppy will have in order to match the right dog to the right owner. But with that curly coat comes a greater need for grooming. Bernedoodles don't shed much , so they'll need frequent brushing to prevent painful matting. Most doodles love being brushed, and the routine allows the owner to bond with their dog. Keep in mind a very curly, "hypoallergenic" dog will need a haircut every few months. Just because they're low-shedding doesn't mean they're low maintenance! They'll need daily walkies to burn off their energy, but so long as their physical needs are met, they likely won't turn to undesirable behaviors like digging to keep themselves entertained. They'll also need consistent social stimulation to reinforce positive behaviors. The more exposure they have to new pets and humans, the more likely they are to be well-behaved when introduced to a foreign person or situation. A Bernedoodle's smarts makes her typically easy to train. It also means she can learn behaviors good or bad quickly—that's why it's important to keep up with training, even past her puppy days. Training a Bernedoodle requires positive reinforcement and, in some cases, a high level of patience. Should the puppy inherit the Bernese's willfullness or the poodle's high energy, they'll need more of your time and attention. Health The Bernedoodle lifespan is 12—18 years. Luckily, the hybrid breed does not inherit the same health risks as the Bernese mountain dog. The Bernese side of their lineage has a life expectancy of only seven years and a high rate of cancer , hip and elbow dysplasia , heart disease , and epilepsy. And while Bernedoodles are far healthier than a purebred Bernese, they can still be "predisposed to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, ocular diseases, and some allergies ," Christman says. Just be on the lookout for [warning signs like] excessive drooling and ability to gain some weight quickly. Hot spots are primarily caused by excessive licking or chewing of an area. This is why it's so important to keep up with grooming—a Bernedoodle is more likely to pick at their skin when her coat is dirty and matted. History Being a relatively new breed, the history book on Bernedoodles is a short one. After years of breeding Bernese mountain dogs, Sherry Rupke of SwissRidge Bernedoodles wanted a way to make the purebreds more allergen-friendly and free from the health issues that plague the breed. Thus, the Bernedoodle or at least the first intentional pairing of a Bernese mountain dog and a poodle was born in .Now, dog owners everywhere have fallen in love with the loyal, loving breed that looks like a huggable teddy bear. She has more than 26, followers! Actress and filmmaker Greta Gerwig reportedly takes her mini Bernedoodle, Wizard, everywhere with her. Was this page helpful? The first litter of Bernedoodles was bred in Ontario by Sherry Rupke, and she still works on developing this hybrid breed today. Poodle To understand the Bernese mountain dog mixed with Poodle breed best, it helps to understand its parent breeds first. The beloved Poodle originated in Germany and France around the s. These hounds were primarily used as retriever dogs , particularly retrievers of waterfowl for hunters. They spend a lot of time in the water, and their fur was designed to prevent getting caught in underwater debris while they were hunting. Read more about the Toy Poodle temperament and how to groom a Goldendoodle. These excellent dogs were bred as working-type canines. They did everything from cattle herding to pulling carts and acting as watchdogs and loving companions. These hounds are sizable and sturdy, with a plethora of love and loyalty to offer. Their friendly and calm natures made them well-suited for daily tasks as well as for tracking activities and obedience training. The Bernedoodle is a hybrid of two pure breeds rather than a new breed and is, therefore, not recognized by the American Kennel Club AKC. Bernese Poodle Mix Personality and Temperament The goofy Bernedoodle is one hefty combination of cuteness and loyalty. Although their individual personalities within the Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle mix breed can often vary. These playful pups also make for stellar family dogs who thrive when surrounded by people. They are particularly kid-friendly doggos — they love the little ones, so it should be no problem integrating these pups into your young family. They will take their family role very seriously and love every bit of being part of your household. These hybrid pups gain the best features of both their parent breeds, and the result is an easily trainable, smart, loving family dog. They are super easygoing and eager to please. They are equally happy playing outside or cuddling up with their favorite humans on the couch for a Netflix marathon. Read more about the smartest small dogs. These dogs are no small breed , so in order to keep them in line when they are older, their socialization with people and other animals should start young. If not, they may develop habits like jumping up on people or unintentionally hurting small children. For the most part, this breed gets along just fine with other dogs. And similarly, your Bernedoodle and your cat have a better chance of a happy relationship if they meet at a young age. These intelligent pooches were initially bred to chase and catch birds. So best not to leave your Bernedoodle with small animals just in case the Poodle in them follows an urge. These are family dogs through and through. While they are on the bigger side, they are well-behaved around children. So if your little one goes for an ear or yanks a handful of hair, your Bernedoodle will likely remain calm. They have a gentle nature but still require training to avoid injuries caused by jumping up or other impulsive actions. Read more about big fluffy white dog breeds. Dog fur usually sheds as it grows, but Poodles have hair rather than fur. The hair continues to grow without really shedding, which means it will need regular trimming. A poodle has a single-layer coat which means less fur ends up all over your clothing and furniture. Another cause of allergic reactions from dogs is saliva, urine, and dander microscopic skin flakes that shed. However, they are a little higher maintenance in the grooming department. Their daily grooming will mostly just consist of gently brushing their coat. Luckily this is a great time to bond with your beloved fur baby, and many people use it as a time to grow intimacy with their pooch. A slicker brush is good to use for overall grooming, and a curry brush is best if you have a short-haired pooch. And readying some doggy treats might be helpful for distraction purposes. Your groomer may even teach you a trick or two for at-home grooming. Bear in mind only after your pup reaches three or four months old should professional grooming become an option. Read more about the best nail cli p pers for dogs. Bernedoodle Health Problems For the most part, these canines are healthy pups that live a long and happy life. Bernese Mountain Poodle Mix Dogs have a minor tendency to gain weight which in turn can lead to some health issues. To avoid these, be sure to monitor their energy output, like their exercise, as well as keep an eye on their food intake. It might be a good idea to invest in a slow feeder to ensure mealtimes are slowed down. If you are raising a Bernedoodle pup, then the most common health issues to look out for are the following Serious Health Issues Elbow Dysplasia: This condition involves multiple abnormalities in the development of the elbow joint. Hip dysplasia : Hip Dysplasia causes the hip joint to loosen leading to mobility issues and pain. It occurs in the growing stage in dogs. The hip and cartilage wear down causing issues like arthritis. Hot Spots : They are prone to skin problems like hot spots which are skin lesions that are red and inflamed. It is also known as moist dermatitis. Sebaceous Adenitis: This immune-mediated disorder causes inflammation in the sebaceous glands in the skin which are responsible for keeping a supple and soft coat. Less Serious Health Issues Cataracts: Eye problems like Cataracts occur in this breed where dogs develop cloudiness in the eye which disturbs their vision. It results in patches of hair loss or thinning as well as flaky and itchy skin. The disease is generally caused by tumors of the pituitary or adrenal glands. In order to best care for your Bernedoodle baby, genetic testing is a good idea as well as regular vet checkups. Your awareness of possible conditions will allow you to keep an eye out for any warning signs that may manifest early on. What Size is a Bernedoodle? These adorable pups come in various sizes depending on their parent breeds. This means you can get a Bernedoodle in any size that suits your fancy, your living space, or your lifestyle best. The main size varieties that these pooches come in are toy, miniature, and standard. Toy varieties weigh around 10 lbs to 24 lbs and are around 12 inches to 17 inches in size. The Miniature pups are between 25 lbs and 49 lbs with a height range of 18 inches to 22 inches. And lastly, the Standard variety weighs around 50 lbs to 90 lbs reaching heights between 23 inches and 29 inches. Bernedoodle Coats These loveable canines don a variety of coat colors and types which creates a lovely diversity among the breed. The most common coat type amongst Bernedoodles is long and wavy, whereas a less common variety is the straight-coat type. The pups with curly or wavy coats are less prone to shedding, and the hair remains trapped in the curl coil. There is quite a range in colors when it comes to Bernedoodle coats. Some of their coats are pure black, while others are black and white or black and brown. Bernedoodles coats can also be tri-colored, which have patches of black, white, and brown. The most popular coat colors and markings of a Bernedoodle usually resemble the tri-colored Bernese Mountain Dog. When it comes to their coat thickness, they hit quite the happy medium. Their coats help them thrive in cooler temperatures while also providing a fair amount of protection from the sun in the summer months. Read more about black-coated dog breeds. How Much Are Bernedoodle Puppies? While this designer breed is not purebred, they have gained popularity and thus become rather sought after. When most buyers hear intelligent, playful, and good with children, they are willing to pay top dollar. Bear in mind that this price will go up significantly if they have the highly desirable tricolor coat. Be sure to ask them plenty of questions about the puppy itself and the parent dogs, as this improves the odds that you will get a healthy puppy. These designer breeds can definitely be pricey, but it is still worth searching your local shelters to go the adoption route. Whether you are adopting or buying from a breeder, be sure to meet your puppy beforehand to watch how they interact with other dogs. This will give you a good indication of their nature. Read more about why puppies whine so much and why puppies sleep on your head. Standard Bernedoodle pups will eat more than their Toy or Mini varieties, for example. Older Bernedoodles, on the other hand, should be monitored when it comes to portions so as to avoid weight gain. Bernedoodles are known for their soft, curly, poodle-like coats that have a lovely shine when they get the nutrients they need. Food for your fluffy friend should have all the right vitamins and minerals that support healthy bones, fur, teeth, eyes, and everything in between. Exercise Requirements This Poodle mix Bernese Mountain Dog pups are rather high energy which means they require a lot of physical and mental stimulation. When these dogs are puppies, they require a lot of attention and playing time, so be sure to invest in some interactive dog toys or doggy puzzles. Some of the best activities you could do with your Bernedoodle include jogging, walking, swimming, hiking, and playing fetch. Since Bernedoodles have a risk of developing elbow and hip dysplasia, low-intensity exercise is best for adult to senior Bernedoodles. Like most mixed breeds, Bernedoodles can vary in personality depending on their parent dogs. Some Bernedoodle puppies may require a whole lot less attention and be a lot less energetic. And 30 minutes to an hour of walking a day should suffice in this case. For the most part, Bernedoodles are easy-going and easily adaptable to different environments and routines. Can Bernedoodles Live in an Apartment? Bernese Poodle Dog pups are pretty easy-going and adaptable. However, their size is a factor when it comes to housing a dog. If you want to make a predominantly indoor dog out of your Bernedoodle baby, then it may be best to go for the smaller-sized Bernedoodles such as the Mini or Toy varieties. Whereas standard Bernedoodles might thrive best in a yard where they can burn off excess energy. Be sure to still get your Toy or Mini Bernedoodle active and outdoors to ensure they are their happiest and healthiest. As long as they can be around their favorite humans most of the time, they are happy. Pros of Owning a Bernedoodle These wonderful-natured dogs have a long lifespan compared to their Bernese parent, thanks to the Poodle influence. They also suffer from very few health issues. In addition, the Poodle and Bernese Mountain Dog mix is ideal as an indoor dog because their shedding is minimal, and they are happy living inside with their humans as long as they get sufficient walks. Not to mention they are hypoallergenic, which is perfect for owners who suffer from the dreaded allergies. They are very needy for your attention and love — this is hardly a negative for some. But for the working person who spends little time at home, it can become an issue if your doggo is unhappy or feels neglected. Bernedoodles are also very intelligent dogs that require quite a bit of stimulation. They need to be able to roam about and sniff around. This can be challenging for busy dog parents. They also have rather high-maintenance grooming needs when it comes to their coat care specifically. This means as an owner, you should learn the ropes of grooming or be prepared to pay grooming fees. Male and Female Bernedoodles There are more myths than facts when it comes to the differences between male and female puppies in general, and this is no different when it comes to Bernedoodles. For the most part, there is very little difference between the two genders, especially regarding important matters like health issues and lifespan. The main difference between male and female dogs of any breed is that females tend to be slightly smaller than male dogs. However, this even varies within the same breed, especially because they are mixed breeds. They are also referred to as Bernese Poodle or Bernese Doodle. Are Bernedoodles hypoallergenic? Poodles have low-shedding and minimal dander-producing coats, making them more suitable for individuals with allergies. Do Bernedoodles require a lot of grooming? Bernedoodles have medium to long coats that require regular grooming. Brushing their fur a few times a week helps prevent matting and tangles. Regular bathing, ear cleaning, teeth brushing, and nail trimming are also necessary to keep them clean and healthy. Final Thoughts on the Bernese Mountain Dog Poodle Mix Now that you know more about this happy-go-lucky, charming, and intelligent hound, you may be convinced of all things Bernedoodle. So whether you get a little more Poodle or a little more Bernese Mountain Dog in your Bernedoodle, you are guaranteed a loving, intelligent pooch. The Poodle Bernese Mountain Dog mix is easy to please, and their quirkiness will have you thoroughly entertained. I covered all of the costs associated with this dog breeds with low separation anxiety post. However, it does contain affiliate links. That means if you click through on some of the links in this article and end up making a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Just wanted to let you know. She is dog mad and dog aunt to Clover in London and Poppy in Sydney. Life Span Did You Know? These large, fluffy dogs are known for their non-shedding coats and lovable personalities. Bernedoodles tend to be a great addition to any family! Although the Bernedoodle is not currently recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other dog registries. As long as they are properly socialized, they tend to be open and friendly dogs that get along well with just about anyone. These dogs tend to do well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Although they can be initially wary and watchful at first, they even tend to warm up quickly to strangers once introduced. Bernedoodles are highly adaptable dogs. They thrive in homes with yards where they can run. Despite their size and energy, they can also adapt to apartment living as long as they get enough daily exercise and attention. These dogs tend to handle the cold better than the heat; you may even have some trouble getting them to come back inside after some playtime in the snow. Because Bernedoodles bond so closely with their families and enjoy nothing more than being around them, they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. They can also be prone to skin issues like sensitive skin, allergies, and hot spots. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large dog breed, the Standard Bernedoodle is also at risk for bloat like both parent breeds. The Bernedoodle is a highly intelligent and easily trained dog breed. Some facts about Bernedoodles are that they are a good fit for owners of any experience level and tend to pick up commands easily. Although they tend to grow out of this initial stubbornness with age, puppy training classes will certainly help with training and socialization early on. Bernedoodles tend to have a longer coat that ranges from curly to wavy. Although they tend to be non-shedding, they still need a lot of maintenance to keep their coat looking great. Daily brushing to remove tangles and prevent mats along with grooming every weeks are recommended. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Brushing daily along and cleanings at the vet as needed are an ideal start to a good dental care routine for your Bernedoodle. Standard Bernedoodles can range from moderate to high energy. They tend to sit in a more moderate activity range and have bursts of higher energy when they play. These dogs are known to play hard and energetically until they are tired, but are not usually considered high-energy dogs. Daily walks plus playtime and some time to run should be enough for a Bernedoodle. But, these dogs will likely be up for more activity if you are. They will love the opportunity to spend more time being active with you. A fully-grown Standard Bernedoodle usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. Standard Bernedoodles generally live for years on average. A Bernedoodle is also sometimes called a Bernese Mountain Poo. Featured Bernedoodle Article. Picking a new puppy is exciting and emotional for many people. Considering that this dog may be part of your life for up to 18 years, it is important to find the right match. However, how do you tell what you are getting when you look at a litter of puppies? The obvious things You should know going into the selection of your choice of certain characteristics. The most important of these is size and sex. However, sex is not an issue for many people because they intend to spay or neuter their new pet. Coloring and markings Bernedoodles come in a fantastic array of colors and markings. You may have seen a dog that strikes your fancy and want to find a dog with similar colors or markings. Spend time with the litter getting to know each of the puppies. Background and pedigree Ask lots of questions about the parents of the litter. Ask to meet them if possible. Know the breeder You should spend as much time getting to know the breeder as you do picking out your puppy. Finding and working with a good breeder helps ensure that you are getting a healthy puppy and from a good environment. A good breeder can also provide a wealth of information down the road if you do have problems. Frequently Asked Buyer Questions Outdoordogfun. What factors affect the price of a Bernedoodle? The price is determined by the breeder. Every breeder seems to have different prices. What price on average should a buyer expect to pay for the standard, mini, and tiny Bernedoodles? What are the most common questions breeders receive from Bernedoodle puppy buyers? Do you have a puppy available now?!! What size will my puppy be? Can I get my puppy NOW? What is a Health Clearance? A good question to ask a breeder is what kind of testing have they done on the parents and puppies around health. You want puppies that are preferably full health tested. In terms of maintenance, what is the average annual cost for a Bernedoodle once you factor in food, grooming, vet bills, etc? What are the exercise needs of the Bernedoodle breed? This will depend on the temperament of the puppy you get. Some of them need daily exercise, twice daily, and a few times a week. This is why it is very important to work with a breeder that will help you pick a puppy based off of temperament! Back at Home — Now What? If you have made your choice on your new companion and are back home, you must make good choices about caring for and raising your puppy. Starting your puppy off right will make things later much easier. Proper training starts early The best method for training dogs are systems based on positive reinforcement. Using positive reinforcement is true for Bernedoodles, who have a predisposition to stubbornness. Getting an early start with a consistent training method will usually mean a wonderfully trained and obedient adult dog. If your Bernedoodle is not listening to you, read this article on our blog for some helpful tips. What to feed your puppy — nutrition is the key to long life What and how much to feed your Bernedoodle depends on several factors. The size of your Bernedoodle Quality is more important than quantity Vary the diet. Dogs get bored too. In general, you should feed your Bernedoodle puppy four times a day. When your Bernedoodle reaches adulthood, cut back to 2 meals per day. Since it is a crossbreed, a Bernedoodle puppy could inherit the characteristics of both parent breeds. Depending on how the breeds are crossed, you could have three coat types: wavy — which is the most common, long and silky, and short and curly. The curly-coated Bernedoodle is the least likely to shed. Allergy sufferers will do best with the F1B first-generation back cross curly-coated Bernedoodle. Hence, they are more likely to have a non-shedding coat than first or second-generation Bernedoodles. Bernedoodles are known to have coat colours like white, black, merle or brown and they could be single-coloured or tri-coloured. What is the Temperament of a Bernedoodle? Sure, their bodies might grow but their minds and brains take longer to mature. This is important for Bernedoodle parents to understand since it can impact their training. Are Bernedoodles hard to potty train? Training a Bernedoodle puppy at a young age is the right decision but one needs to understand that these dogs tend to be stubborn. Therefore, housetraining can take time and considerably more effort. While intelligent dogs like Bernedoodles are often easy to train, this intelligence also comes with a downside. These dogs are prone to boredom so they need plenty of games, attention, toys and treats. Bernedoodles are extremely sensitive dogs. This is very important for pet parents to understand since it can impact the way you handle your pet. While negative training methods are a strict no-no, you need to be consistent with your dog and always reward good behaviour. Do not use harsh methods to deal with accidents. This will only cause setbacks and avoidance behaviour. What is the Personality of a Bernedoodle? Bernedoodles are intelligent dogs that love learning new things. They benefit from obedience training which is very important; puppy training helps your dog understand what you want them to do. Remember: this dog is an offspring of two breeds that love having a job to do. So, they need constant mental and physical stimulation. This can be in the form of teaching them tricks to playing a game of fetch. Your Bernedoodle will need plenty of exercise as well as puzzles and mental games for a healthy body and mind. They cannot stay cooped up in a small space all day, so the ideal home for a Bernedoodle is a house with a fenced yard. Even the medium and tiny Bernedoodles are energetic and need exercise and brain games. Bernedoodles are generally shy in the beginning but warm up after socialisation. They have a slightly wary nature which makes them excellent guard dogs. They get along well with kids and other dogs. Being playful, energetic, and gentle, they make excellent companions for children as long as they are socialised. Exercise some caution with infants and toddlers: they are excitable dogs and may not be aware of their size. Little kids could be easily knocked down by their exuberance. Bernedoodles make great pets for the elderly provided they get their daily exercise needs met. Do Bernedoodles Bark? Bernedoodles like their parent breeds the Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle like to have a job to do. Without mental stimulation, they can be prone to barking It is fairly common for Bernedoodles to bark at people at the door. Their wary nature makes them so. They are also loyal and protective dogs who take their guard duty seriously. You could train your pet to bark on cue. After all; not all barking is bad — your dog may be warning you about something in your surroundings. Are Bernedoodles Chewers? Bernedoodles are heavy chewers and it will help if you can give them something to chew such as juicy bones or safe chew toys. Stuffed Kongs and licky mats are ideal mental enrichment tools. Are Bernedoodles Low-Maintenance? The easy-going personality of Bernese Mountain Dogs and the intelligence and low-shedding coat of Poodles make the Bernedoodle fairly low-maintenance. However, as mentioned earlier, they need mental and physical stimuli. They also need a job to do. You must also brush your dog every days to keep its coat tangle and dirt-free. You can bathe it once a month or as needed. One of the major cons of owning a Bernedoodle is that it cannot be left alone for long periods of time. Without proper training from an early age, they can develop separation anxiety. So, you might want to consider hiring a pet sitter or a dog walker to check on your dog if you have to work for long periods away from home. How Much Does a Bernedoodle Cost? This popular breed is quite expensive compared to most poodle mix designer dogs. Since more and more people prefer smaller dogs, miniature and medium-sized Berndoodles tend to cost more than standard Bernedoodles. Best Food for Bernedoodles Your Bernedoodle needs very high-quality food and it should provide your pet with balanced nutrition. Compared to many other dogs, Bernedoodles have higher standards of nutritional needs. They are high-energy dogs and you must provide them with proteins, healthy fats, and vitamins and minerals to keep your pet thriving. Look for foods with meat as their first ingredient — it could be lamb, chicken, kangaroo, beef, fish, turkey, or even novel proteins like emu, crocodile, wild boar and duck. Avoid foods containing by-products, fillers, preservatives, and colours which do not provide any real nutrition. Check with your vet regarding the right nutrition for your Bernedoodle. Being hybrid dogs, Bernedoodles are generally healthy and hardy. However, from time to time, the following health issues have been noted in these dogs: Hip and elbow dysplasia — this is a genetic disorder. As such, it can be prevented through good breeding practices. The best breeders will hip and elbow score their breeding dogs. This is why it is important to buy your pet from a reputed breeder. Smaller Bernedoodles have structures similar to Poodles. Bernedoodles have a lifespan ranging from years. Yes, irrespective of their size, all Bernedoodles are cuddly and affectionate dogs. They love attention from their humans — whether it is in the form of playtime, walks, hugs, or cuddles. Should I get a male or female Bernedoodle? Both genders are amazing pets. Male Doodles tend to be more affectionate whereas females are docile and tend to be easier to train. Do Bernedoodles like to swim? Most Bernedoodles love swimming and other water activities. As with any dog breed, no two Bernedoodles are the same and some dislike being near the water. Does a Bernedoodle shed? Do they need haircuts? Yes, some Bernedoodles tend to shed. It entirely depends on the type of coat. Similarly, the curly-coated Bernedoodles will require more time spent with them on grooming to prevent coat matting. Most Bernedoodles will need professional grooming and haircuts once every weeks or so. Subscribe for free oodle information and exclusive offers on the best products for your pup! Leave this field empty if you're human: Share this.
Life Span Did You Know? The Boxer is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. It has been recognized by the AKC since .Although the Boxer dog breed originated in Germany, their ancient ancestry can be traced back to the Assyrian empire war dogs of BC. The modern Boxer breed we know and love today was originally developed in Germany in the late s. English-bred Bulldogs and the Bullenbesiier were crossed to create an energetic and agile hunting dog to chase wild game. The Boxer is a popular family companion and a versatile working dog. As a member of the Working Group, Boxers can be found competing in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding. They also make great service and assistance dogs, as well as therapy dogs, and can be found working as search and rescue dogs, drug detection dogs, police dogs, and military dogs. The Boxer is a muscular and energetic dog that tends to have a happy, friendly disposition. They bond closely with their families and tend to get along well with children and other dogs. They can even do well with other pets despite their high prey drive if they are socialized and trained with them. As long as they are well-socialized, Boxers are generally upbeat, playful, and friendly. Although they have a natural instinct to protect their family from unwanted visitors, they do tend to warm up once introduced and are happy to make a new friend. They can be prone to barking a lot if you do not work on socialization and training your dog to stop barking early on. Boxers can be highly adaptable dogs. Although they have a lot of energy and are better suited to homes with yards where they can run, they can adapt to apartment living as long as they get the daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need. As with any non-arctic dog breed, they are sensitive to very cold temperatures. Boxers are also a brachycephalic breed, which means they are even more sensitive to heat than other dogs. A Boxer is also one of the most affectionate dog breeds. Because they bond so closely with their families and get bored easily, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health conditions to be aware of in a Boxer include hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, thyroid issues , and heart conditions like aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy. Good breeding practices make a big difference and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents and about any health tests that have been done. Boxers are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. Despite their energetic personality, they are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and are highly trainable dogs. They tend to excel at almost any task put before them! Because of their open, friendly nature and high energy, they have a tendency to jump up at people in excitement and playfulness. Since they grow into powerful dogs, you will want to make sure you train your dog not to jump up. Boxers have smooth and short coats that will shed a little year-round and require minimal grooming. A brush-down once or twice a week and the occasional bath as needed will keep their short coat healthy and looking great. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Checking ears weekly and carefully cleaning as needed can help prevent ear infections. Checking and wiping their facial wrinkles weekly or a few times a week if your dog is prone to getting into things can help keep their wrinkles clean and free of irritation. Dental diseases, like gum disease, are the most common health issues in older dogs because dental care is often overlooked; and, it can lead to other serious health issues. Brushing daily, plus cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. The Boxer is a high-energy dog breed that needs plenty of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Due to their high prey drive and urge to chase, they should only be let off-leash in secure areas. Boxers tend to get bored with repetition, are excellent problem solvers, and are naturally exuberant. A fully-grown Boxer usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. Boxers generally live years on average. In Germany, the Boxer was one of the first dog breeds chosen for police training. Featured Boxer Article. For the complete list please see our Listings of Boxer Breeders page. Boxer breeders can be found throughout Pennsylvania but prices fluctuate based on location within the state. The bigger brand-name dog kennels tend to charge more than small hobby breeder kennels. However, the latter is more likely to have less experience and may not yet know proper breeding practices. Prices vary depending on location within the state because there are pockets with lower demand and pockets with a higher demand for boxers. Bigger cities tend to have more financial competition from other breeders so sometimes prices can be lower in nearby rural areas. Please note that the average price does not include breeding rights included with the purchase of the boxer puppy which varies based on location within Pennsylvania. The best way to find one is through our list of breeders on this page. Another way is to ask for recommendations from friends or family members that have purchased a Boxer puppy in Pennsylvania before. If you are having trouble finding a responsible breeder please reach out to us. Visit Your Pennsylvania Boxer Breeder in Person It is always best to visit your boxer breeder in person before deciding on purchasing a puppy. This way you can see the conditions that the puppies are living in. If possible, try to check out more than one litter before committing to buying a puppy. Do they look happy and healthy? Are their cages clean? Do they have any health issues? By visiting the breeder in person you can also see the temperament of the adult dogs. Visiting your potential breeder in person is one of the most important steps of selecting your puppy. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your Boxer Breeder in Pennsylvania Be sure to ask for references from the breeder as well as talking to other owners that have purchased a Boxer puppy from them. This can be anyone from past or current customers as long as they are satisfied with their purchase. References will be able to give you a better idea of the level of service and care that your breeder provides. They can also tell you if they were happy with their boxer and if a boxer might be the right breed for you. Meet some of their past Boxer customers in person so you can ask questions. It will give you insight into their customer support after the sale should something unforeseen come up with your pup. You should be able to find out if your breeder uses a Veterinarian for their dogs and also where you can take your puppy for his check-ups. Reputable breeders will always have their own vet they use and recommend. A reputable breeder will also provide ongoing care, recommendations and support long-term on an ongoing basis to their customers for the life of the dog. Be sure to visit the veterinarian within 48 hours of bringing your new boxer home. Make sure all necessary paperwork is provided along with the puppy, including AKC registration papers. Also, be sure your Boxer Puppy is at least 8 weeks old before taking him home so he can have all his vaccinations and get settled in. How to Prepare Your Home for Your Boxer Puppy Finally, you want to make sure your home is ready for the addition of a new Boxer Puppy in Pennsylvania after they are old enough to be taken from their mother. Be sure that they have a secure area where they can get away from children if needed, and they can still see everything going on around them. Introduce him slowly to everyone in your family, not all at once or he will become overwhelmed. How to Cope with Boxer Bites And Scratched up Furniture Boxers are very smart and loving dogs but can be aggressive at times because of their strong personalities. You should also invest in chew toys like Kongs that they can chew on without destroying your shoes, couches and other things around the house. A great alternative to having them always on a leash is getting a dog crate, putting it in the living room and letting them sleep there at night. Lastly, sit down with your children and teach them how they need to behave around their new family member. As long as you ask the right questions and remember those above points it should be easy enough to find yourself a well-bred boxer puppy. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. For this reason, we included these online Boxer breeders for you to check as well. Thus, you can also check a Boxer breeder here. The great thing is that it has an online marketplace to search for a Boxer puppy from any of the states. Since they cover all kinds of breeds, you may find an available puppy through this website. Another thing to note is that you also need to prepare for other costs. In short, aside from the actual cost of the puppy from a breeder, you still need to spend money on other items. Like a new baby in the family, your pup needs some items and some changes. A new puppy at home is a concern for all the family members. Thus, they need to prepare for it as well. As you have your meeting, try to make a schedule of tasks and distribution of responsibilities. Prepare your home. Preparing a home for your Boxer puppy means making it a safe place to play and live. Thus, you need to secure every item that can potentially harm your pet. Moreover, you need to secure your items that your pet can damage, such as shoes, carpets, floor mats, and so on. Shop for supplies. Like all other puppies and babies, Boxer pups needs items for its daily life. The essential things it needs would be beddings, food, and food bowls. You also need to buy a leash and collar for identification. Create a schedule. Besides your pet, you also have your responsibilities. Try to schedule how your pup should do for the day and when you need to pay attention. The great thing about creating a schedule is that it will benefit both you and your pet. Choosing a Good Boxer Seller and Breeder The best Boxer puppies only come from those who take an extra mile in caring for them. Below are certain qualities that you should look for in a Boxer puppy breeder. The Boxer breeder should only breed Boxer puppies. A single breed should be the first thing to remember when searching for a reputable Boxer breeder. Every breed has a mating season to which they breed. If the Boxer breeder sells quite a lot of pups but only has a pair of parents, you can think that it forces the parents to mate so they can have puppies to sell. The Boxer breeder should train pups in their first weeks. Every reputable Boxer breeder gives all the pups around eight weeks at least to stay with their parents. In such a time, the breeder should train the pups before it moves to its new home. The Boxer breeder would continuously be in touch. Other states.
Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Kelly Hepworth, his wife, Sarah, and their daughter Emily. They breed and train male and female labrador dogs and puppies that are AKC registered and have a month genetic health guarantee. Raising, training, and hunting with Labradors are significant parts of our lives and have always been lifelong endeavors. In addition to our labs, Kelly owns and operates a Veterinary practice located next to the kennel. Each fall, Kelly hunts waterfowl and upland birds in several states. Our labs are derived from the finest pedigree lines available. They are carefully selected for temperament, conformation, and intelligence. We keep our breeding stock free from hereditary problems. Each lab at Bear Creek has certified hips, elbows, and eyes. Our puppies are sold with a month hip and eye guarantee. Puppy dog pile! Black, yellow and chocolate lab puppies Puppy dog pile! All puppies have their dewclaws removed, are wormed, and receive their first shot. Our puppies have become superb family companions, bird and hunt test competitors, gun dogs, obedience winners, and K9 narcotic dogs. You can purchase your Bear Creek puppy with confidence. Labradors are favorite pets as they are versatile and always eager to please. Get in touch with us at Nevada Labradors when looking for the best Los Angeles Labrador puppies for sale. We are an established company and have been providing our clients Labradors for sale for a while now. Call us for the finest quality Los Angeles Labrador puppies for sale, which includes: Chocolate lab puppies Labrador retriever puppies White Labrador puppies Trust us to be the best place for Los Angeles Labrador puppies for sale as we raise our dogs with care and love. We have the best breed of Labradors, and you can choose from the available puppies or wait for the upcoming litter. You can even reserve your lab puppy from the new litter. Rely on us for offering healthy and well-bred Los Angeles Labradors for sale. Our Labrador puppies are now family members of so many families. Give us a call when you need to get more information about our Los Angeles Labradors for sale, which include: Cute Labrador puppies Professionally trained Labrador for sale Cheap Labrador puppies All our Los Angeles Labradors for sale are strong, healthy, versatile, and trainable. Drop in to have a look at our available Labradors or reserve one. However, the shops are not the first owners of the Labradors, and they just resell the dogs. Count on us as the shop for Los Angeles Labradors near me as we have been in the business for many years now. We take good care of our dogs so that when they live with their new families, they exude only love. We are your shop for Los Angeles Labradors near me and offer: American labs for sale Trained companion labs for sale Purebred labs for sale Adult Labradors Get in touch with us to know more about us for Los Angeles Labradors near me. Teaching Puppie to Sit Excellent Companion Perfect Hunting Dog The Labrador Retriever is a strongly built, medium-sized, short-couple dog that possesses a sound, athletic, well-balanced conformation that enables it to function as a retrieving gun dog. It has both the substance and soundness to hunt waterfowl or upland game for long hours under difficult conditions. We believe the 10 lab puppies inherited these traits also. Obviously, Labrador Retrievers are the most popular breed in America. Because of their even temperament and trainability, millions of Americans own Labrador Retrievers as pets. In addition, Labradors are well-suited as disability-assistants in many countries; for example, Labradors are frequently trained to aid the blind and those who have autism. They also work as therapy dogs, as well as perform screening and detection work for law enforcement and other official agencies. Additionally, they are prized as sporting and hunting dogs. The Lab is such a versatile and family-friendly breed. From hunters to sportsmen, pet owners, and event competitors, Labradors are the dog of choice for the best of reasons. Labradors are a loving breed that make excellent furry family members, are wonderful with children, adults, and animals alike, and offer years of unconditional love and support to the right owner and caretaker. I purchased my lab puppy from them in .Grover is a wonderful pet. We are very pleased, and would purchase another lab pup from them again. Larry called me to ask for a recommendation, and I said I would gladly give him one. Zeva my yellow female lab is 12 years old now, and she is getting up there in age. If the time came, and I wanted another dog, I would call Larry for certain. We have been very pleased with Zeva through the years. She is a wonderful companion!! Laura Bein Larry, and Tracey are my next door neighbors. We purchased Lacy combo of Larry, and Tracey in .We know what kind of dogs they had, and how they cared for their dogs. It was an easy decision to purchase Lacy from them. She passed away this year, and we dearly miss her. My sister is getting a black female from Larry when the puppies are available. I will also purchase my next lab from Peoples Choice Labs when I am ready for another lab. I am just not quite ready to pull the trigger yet. Contact info. Life Span Did You Know? Black Labrador Retrievers, or just Black Labs, are a common coat color variation of one of the most popular dog breeds. The Black Labrador Retriever is not necessarily a separate dog breed. Black Labs are still Labrador Retrievers; they just have a distinct coat color that is a specifically-bred characteristic. Like other Labrador Retrievers, Black Labs are energetic, playful, and affectionate dogs that make great family companions. Although they are active and energetic dogs, Labs are also known for their gentleness and patience with other family members. Well-socialized Black Labs tend to get along well with just about everyone including children, other dogs, pets, and even strangers. They are considered one of the kid-friendly dog breeds. As one of the most affectionate dog breeds , Black Labs thrive on attention, especially from their favorite humans. They are happiest when they are spending time with their families and receiving affection and attention from them. Despite their high energy, Labs are highly adaptable dogs. They do tend to be better suited to homes with fenced yards where they can run, but they also adapt well to apartments provided they get enough daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation. They do well in just about any climate, but are sensitive to heat and extreme cold like many dog breeds. As such, they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Black Labrador Retriever can include elbow dysplasia , hip dysplasia, heart disease, hereditary myopathy, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy. Another potential health concern is EIC exercise-induced collapse , which can occur in young adult Labs and has a genetic link. Because carriers can be identified by DNA tests, it is recommended that breeders test for them. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you talk to the breeder about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large, deep-chested dog breed, Labrador Retrievers are at a higher risk for bloat. Labrador Retrievers are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. Although their high energy and puppylike exuberance can sometimes be a challenge, they are intelligent dogs that are eager to please. As long as training is kept consistent and focused on positive rewards and praise, novice owners still tend to do well with Black Labs. Puppy training classes are always an option and offer plenty of benefits aside from training too. Black Labs have a short, water-resistant double coat that sheds year-round and sheds heavier as seasons change. Depending on how active your Black Lab is and what they get into, they may need a bath more often, especially if they are swimming a lot. Weekly ear checks and careful cleanings when needed help prevent ear infections. Good dental care for dogs , like daily brushing and cleanings at the vet when needed, can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. As one of the most active dog breeds , a Black Labrador Retriever will need a lot of daily activity to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus some playtime and time to run are a minimum. Your Black Lab will likely be up for more activity if you are. One of the facts about Labrador Retrievers is that they have an extended puppyhood. They tend to maintain a puppylike exuberance until they are years old. Although they do tend to mellow out as they get older, they are still active, energetic, and playful dogs. Once they are fully grown, you can try other things like hiking, running, dock diving, and more to find other activities you and your Black Lab can enjoy together. Fully-grown Black Labrador Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Black Labs generally live for years on average. Black Labrador Retrievers came before the also-popular Chocolate Lab. All modern Chocolate Labs can be traced back to three Black Labs in the s. It was the December issue of .Featured Black Labrador Retriever Article. His pedigree is here Pedigree. Contessa's pedigree is here. We put a lot of energy into raising puppies. We are involved with them from birth. They are loved all day long. They are exposed to children, adults, older dogs, loud noises, household items, scented to wings, duck calls, a early start with obedience and potty training. Our lab puppies are well on their way to being potty trained before they're placed in their forever homes, as we've incorporated the misty method. Labrador retriever puppies will have a complete puppy packet including information on shots, worming schedule and medication that has been given, that you will need to share with your vet. A written guarantee, and the basic schedule of sleeping and feeding that the puppy has been raised on will also be some of the information in your puppy packet. AKC Northern California labrador puppy Breeder All of our labrador puppies are registered with the American Kennel Club with limited registration , micro-chipped and ready to be enrolled in the AKC ReUnite program before they go into a new family home. This service is included in the purchase price of your puppy. Our labrador puppies are also sent home with a supply of their current food and feeding schedule. We feed large breed puppy food to insure they grow up healthy and avoid any problems with dysplasia as recommended by the AKC. We also send them home with a receiving blanket that has been with them for some time. It has the scent of their litter-mates and their mother to ease the transition to their new home. Contessa Rose Da Serra. Our Prices: Our base prices are listed below, according to current demand for colors and genders. Note: Sales tax is due on any pups or merchandise sold in California. By request, and for an additional fee, we often transport puppies to Davis. We used to be able to ship puppies via airplane all over the continental United States, but more restrictions apply at this time, due to Covid, extreme heat, or extreme cold. Unfortunately, we no longer ship puppies to Hawaii, due to their quarantine restrictions. Can I pick out my Labrador Retriever puppy before the designated adoption date? Sorry, but no. Most people will not know which puppy they are choosing until puppy adoption day. What supplies do we need for our new puppy? So many people ask us this question, we wrote a blog giving our advice. You can read our blog here. Do you raise American or English Labs? Both, actually, but mainly American. Only a few of our dogs are pure English; some are a blend of American and English. Litters are usually pure American or a blend of American and English. None, so far, are pure English. If you scroll down to the bottom of the videos page you can also view links to past litters of Labrador puppies for your viewing pleasure. We may, however, be able to refer you to hunting dog trainers, so feel free to shoot us an email asking us about that. Marble Mountain Kennels.
These traits make Goldmation a perfect mix between a friendly companion dog and the ever-alert watchdog dog. Physical Appearance Size Goldmation is a mid-sized breed. The average height of a Goldmation is between 19 and 23 inches. A Goldmation will typically weigh between 55 and 70 pounds. Coat Generally, the Goldmation coat is straight, medium to long, and dense with some iconic spots inherited from the Dalmatian lineage. Therefore, expect your Goldmation to shed a lot, especially during the spring and autumn. You will need to brush your dog at least three times a week to prevent tangling and matting. Nose The nose is black as in the parent breeds. Photo credit: Pinterest Personality Goldmation is a very intelligent, loyal, and friendly dog. These dogs are perfect for active families with kids of all ages due to their energy, kindness, and willingness to play. Goldmation is also capable of protecting his owner. This is where his Dalmatian watchdog side comes into play. You will often see a Goldmation barking at strangers. Goldmations are intelligent dogs, that are willing to please their owners. Therefore, they are quick learners and easy to train. However, high intelligence and social nature also mean they need plenty of mental stimulants, interactions, and challenges to prevent boredom. A bored Goldmation will indulge in a wide variety of unwanted behaviors. The most notable and problematic are barking, howling, and destructive chewing. Health Problems Designer breeds will often be free of the health issues that often plague their purebred parents. However, there is always a possibility that a dog will inherit certain health issues from its parents. Generally, Goldmations are healthy dogs. However, they can inherit a susceptibility to cancers and heart issues from the Golden Retriever side. On the other hand, Dalmatians are prone to deafness, kidney stones , and thyroid issues. Both Goldens and Dalmatians are prone to joint issues such as elbow and hip dysplasia. Therefore, there is a high probability that their offspring will suffer from the same issues. Life Expectancy Researchers have shown that larger dog breeds have a shorter life span than smaller ones. Since Goldmations are large dogs, their life expectancy is on average between 10 and 12 years. Your dog can live above or below this line based on genetics, the way you care about him, and his lifestyle. Therefore, your Goldmation will need plenty of walks, exercise, and agility training to spend that energy and stay healthy. Conclusion Dalmatian Golden Retriever mix or Goldmation is a designer breed perfect for the role of a companion dog. Goldmations excel in active families with children, where they will get enough attention and playtime. So, if you are an outgoing, active person the Goldmation is a perfect dog for you. On the other hand, if you are a couch potato, Goldmation may not be the best choice. People Also Ask How much does a Goldmation puppy cost? Are Goldmations good watchdogs? Goldmations are capable watchdogs and will alert their owners if a stranger is approaching their home. My faithful companion, Toby, is a Corgi who means the world to me. I'm passionate about building strong bonds with dogs and providing them with all the love and care they deserve. Goldmation, or the Goldmatian is a hybrid of two smart and sweet dogs. It is possible to see the parent breeds of these puppies are The Golden Retriever and the Dalmatian. Learn more about them by reading this article. Golden Retriever Dalmatian Mix. The Golden Dalmatian has the best of two worlds. Because of his Golden Retriever parent, this puppy is exceptionally welcoming and willing to hang with people. The Dalmatian parent is an active dog, and, as such, they gave all their energy to this puppy. They can be taught to be excellent watchdogs. The friendly and family-oriented Goldmation blends the lively playfulness characteristic of the Dalmatian and the gentle, sweet personality that is the Golden Retriever. From a long line of outstanding guard dog breeds, watchdogs, and protectors, The Goldmatian is the type of dog that barks its head to chase out criminals. You may like: Great dane golden retriever mix. The Goldmation and his breed parents include those of the Golden Retriever and the Dalmatian. Different spots on the dog are his defining feature, and his speed is what earned him fame. Breeded as a coach dog, he raced along with horses or carriages for miles, deterring unwanted dogs from causing trouble for the horses and alerting the coachman to the presence of motorists on the road guarding the carriages at rest stops. A purebred Dalmatian is a dog with a sharp mind with a wicked ability to make jokes. You may like: Shar pei golden retriever mix. Golden Retriever. A kind, loving pet for the family, The purebred Golden Retriever is the most loved pet of all ages. You might think that you are familiar with Golden Retrievers quite well. Hunting birds were popular in the s as a sport and a way to get food. The breed is three different colors — golden, lightly golden, and dark golden and three distinct varieties that include English, Canadian, and American. The breed was not recognized until , before the breed could be awarded the official American Kennel Club AKC recognition. The Golden Retriever breed is still being used in hunts and field trials. In addition, they also participate in obedience and guide dog tasks. Temperament and intelligence. The Goldmation is a lively, affectionate dog breed that is extremely affectionate to its human family and is a wonderful family dog for families with children of all ages, as in other pet households. This hybrid dog considers himself an integral member of the household unit and thrives in human company and any activity that involves his pack of people. He can create destructive behavior that includes chewing and barking constantly. These dogs are amazing with their intelligence, which is inherited from both parents of the family. Their intelligence could make them difficult to train should they be stubborn. You may like: Bernese mountain dog golden retriever mix. Life expectancy. Ensuring that your pet maintains a regular exercise routine with a portion of premium food, you can count on your Goldmation to last between 10 and 12 years old. What are the common health issues? Hybrid dogs are generally healthy and do not have as many problems as their purebred counterparts. The puppies are inherited with the risk of developing certain types of cancer, joint issues such as hip dysplasia and elbows, hearing loss, and kidney stones. You may like: Bullmastiff golden retriever mix. Grooming and coat. There is a good chance that even though your Goldmation could or might not inherit the long coat typical of that breed. The Golden Retriever will inherit the famous spots the Dalmatian parents are renowned for and his propensity to be a prolific shedder. To keep this distinctive, long coat look as good as possible, brush your dog 2 to 3 times a week to keep tangles and matting from occurring, especially during shed season. Size and weight. The size of a Golden Retriever Dalmatian mix could vary from 19 to 23 inches. They can also have an average weight of pounds. You may like: Boston terrier golden retriever mix. Is Goldmatians good for families? They are an excellent option for families of all sizes and ages. Dalmatian Golden Retriever Mixes are calm and quick to learn when it is acceptable to get a bit frenzied and when it is better to stay peaceful. If they have been socialized from the beginning, they can be found with both adults and children. Are the Goldmatian an aggressive species? In contrast to other breeds often categorized as aggressive and aggressive, they are not. Golden Retriever Dalmatian mix is not an aggressive dog in the sense that it is. You may like: Bulldog golden retriever mix. The training of these dogs is successful when you integrate activities and actions into the. They are very well-suited for training in obedience and agility. They generally are more interested in pleasing you than anything else. You can try the fun of a puzzle to keep your children amused. Do Goldmatians like being with Other Pets? The Goldmatian can get along with most animals if they are properly trained. They should be socialized in the beginning to learn how to behave with other animals. You may like: St bernard golden retriever mix. It is believed that the Goldmation is a breed with high energy that requires lots of exercises to avoid mischief. They should have around 75 minutes of exercise every day, and at minimum, half of it must be focused and intensive training. The Goldmatian mixed breed is the ideal pet for families. The appearance of their faces can fool you. While they appear adorable, Goldmatians are great guardians and watchdogs. Their ferocious bark and howling can keep out any invaders. We recommend you do not allow them to bark excessively, particularly in a peaceful neighborhood. I grew up on a farm where we had all sorts of animals, from cows and horses to pigs and chickens. My love for animals led me to pursue a career in writing about them. I have been a pet care writer for over 5 years and have extensive knowledge of animal care, health, and behavior. The breed is a beloved pet in some areas, while others rarely have any around. It is essential to try and find a high-quality breeder who treats their dogs well. It is best to ask for a tour around their facility to ensure that they are the kind of breeder whom you want to support the adoption. They should be willing to show you around any area in which they allow their dogs. Ask to see the veterinary records for the dogs too. It will help you be more prepared as your pup grows older and you can keep an eye out for potential inherited diseases. The Dalmatian is thought to be a mysterious breed because their history is relatively unknown. The Dalmatian is a unique-looking breed that has gone through a large range of popularity in North America. They originally hail from the country of Dalmatia, which was in the Mediterranean. It is part of Croatia and is a region along the sea and some islands in the Adriatic Sea. Most people do not know much about the Dalmatian beyond what they seem to be in the movies. They are most noteworthy for their athleticism. They are an agile breed that can build up quite a bit of speed and endurance. Dalmatians have always been hard workers and have been used in a wide variety of roles. They have been hunters, war dogs, herding pups, protectors, and draft dogs. They are primarily known as being a companion to firefighters nowadays because they are extremely loyal and fearless. Their popularity has ranged. When they were first introduced to America, they quickly grew in popularity because they looked so unique. However, in the s, more and more breeds started making their way to American shores, and the Dalmatian became less popular. Dalmatians need plenty of time with their family or caretakers. They bond strongly and cannot be left alone for long at all. They are also active and need quite plenty of daily activity to stay well behaved. Golden Retrievers originally come from Scotland. Golden Retrievers have remained one of the most popular breeds in North America for many years. Most of this is because of their charming personality and laidback characteristics. These beautiful dogs originate from Scotland, having been bred by Lord Tweddmouth in the s. He was a viscount who ended up adopting a dog named Nous. This puppy was young and yellow and had wavy hair all over. Interestingly, Nous came from a litter of black puppies. Lord Tweedmouth began to breed Nous by crossing the dog with a Tweed Water Spaniel, a breed that has since become extinct. The AKC recognized the Golden Retriever in , and they currently rank number three in overall popularity compared to the other breeds recognized by the AKC now. Goldmatians, like any hybrid, is a mix of both of their parents. Both the Golden Retriever and the Dalmatian are devoted dogs who need plenty of time with their family. The Goldmatian inherits all of this and requires plenty of time spent with their humans. They are not incredibly hyper dogs, but they do need plenty of activity to stay satisfied from day to day. They can be quite rambunctious, especially as puppies. These dogs are brilliant, inheriting smarts from both sides of the family. This intelligence can make them somewhat difficult to train if they decide to be stubborn. It can also get them into trouble if they are left to their own devices for too long. Are Goldmatians Good for Families? Dalmatian Golden Retriever Mixes are gentle-natured and quickly learn where it is appropriate to be rambunctious and where it is best to remain calm. If they are socialized early on, they will do well around both kids and adults. Around strangers, they will bark loudly but typically behave in a non-aggressive manner. They need to receive socialization early on to understand how to behave well around other animals. They like to play around and have fun, so they often do better in a home with more than one dog. Around other animals, such as cats or rodents, observe them because they have a higher prey drive. Designer dogs, however, became quite popular in the United States in the s. The golden retriever dalmatian is thought to be one of the first hybrids developed. These designer dogs come from a long lineage of popular established breeds — the Dalmatian and the Golden Retrieve. Golden Retrievers were bred in Scotland in the mids. Their main task was to retrieve downed game from water or land for their hunter-owners. They came to the United States via Canada in .Dalmatians got their name from Dalmatia, a region in Croatia. These dogs have existed in Asia, Africa, and other areas of Europe since ancient times. Throughout history, dalmatians have been guarding sheep, trained to hunt, and were retrievers, performers, and guard dogs running alongside coaches protecting the horses and passengers. Their appearance depends on genetics! However, we do know that this is one adorable breed. The Golden Retriever Dalmatian is a medium to large-sized dog with a well-proportioned body. They usually have a long snout, a somewhat curved tail, and droopy ears. The adult Goldmatian is generally between 19 to 23 inches tall and weighs between 55 to 70 pounds. Their eyes are usually brown or blue, and they have black noses. As mentioned above, it is hard to say precisely what the golden retriever dalmatian will look like. Some are a perfect blend of both parental breeds. This pattern may be clearly visible and distinct, or it can be faint and subtle with just a tinge of the spots on their lighter coat. You never know — up to genetics! But in any case, the Goldmatian is just one of the cutest, most adorable designer dogs you could ever want! This breed will do well with single pet parents or with families. The important thing is that their family is active. This breed is best suited for people with a home with a fenced-in yard for them to run around safely. This is a very active breed with tons of energy; they need lots of exercise to use up all that energy. Also note this designer dog has a high prey drive, and they have a tendency to chase small critters. Therefore, it is crucial to keep this dog on a leash when taking them out for a walk. They LOVE to be with their human family and even get along famously with other dogs in the household. They are fantastic family dogs and get along wonderfully with children of all ages. Goldmatians do not like to be alone. Since this dog is a part golden retriever, they love to be around people. Therefore, they might not be an excellent fit for a family if they will be left alone for long periods of time. Left alone for long periods can lead to destructive behavior, including chewing on things and excessive barking. I know first-hand about separation anxiety with Golden Retrieves. We have a golden mix, and we left him home for less than an hour to run an errand. We lived at the time in a two-bedroom apartment, and we crate-train our dog as a puppy. He was three years old at the time and no longer confined to a crate when we left our home. Who knew that while we were gone, a kid would pull the fire alarm, and the fire department would pull up just as we were returning to our apartment? The alarm was a constant high shriek sound right outside our apartment. Our golden mix was terrified. He chewed a HUGE hole in an oriental carpet my husband had brought back from India while on a business trip! Needless to say, my husband was furious. But who could be upset with our pet? Separation anxiety is real among goldens, and when they become scared, they become destructive. Lesson learned. However, you must put the time into crate training your Goldmatian puppy. And notice I said puppy — it would be next to impossible to retrain an older dog. This will be discussed further along in this article. Another option if you have your heart set on this breed and must leave the house for long periods of time is doggie daycare. Doggie daycare is also an excellent option for your pet to learn socialization skills and how to interact with other people and dogs. Both of the parental breeds of the golden retriever dalmatian are very intelligent, which could make training your Goldmatian challenging since they tend to be a tad bit stubborn. Be consistent with your training and reinforce that YOU are the alpha dog, and your Goldmatian should obey. Remember always to praise and reward when they follow your instructions. There is nothing more satisfying to these dogs than to please their owner. Both of their parental breeds are shedders, so there is no way around this. To keep their coats shiny and looking good, they should be brushed twice a week at a minimum. This will also help prevent tangles and matting from occurring, especially during the two main shedding seasons in spring and fall. In fact, you might feel as though your pet is shedding so much that they will go bald during these times. But have no fear; this is normal. What about bathing? This breed is known to be droolers, and they are very active. Because of their drooling, they can develop a doggy odor, and when this happens, you know it is time for a bath. Usually, baths are needed once amount. Only do this occasionally, as they can dry out their skin. To reduce the doggy odor caused by their excessive drooling, you might find it beneficial to put some towels or lightweight blankets on top of their bedding. Before these start to become smelly, you can toss them in the washer, and this will help keep your Goldmatian smelling fresher longer. Also, make sure you check their ears, nails, and teeth several times a month, preferably weekly. Their ears should be gently cleaned with a soft cloth once a week, which helps prevent the smelly yeast infection that droopy-eared dogs are prone to. You can time this cleaning to coincide with their regular brushing routine, and your pet will think they spent some time at the spa! This also makes a great bonding experience between you and your pet. Their teeth should be cleaned at least once a week. The Golden Retriever Dalmatian mix comes from two very bright parental dogs. Patience is definitely needed here, and you must understand you will never stop their barking; it is only natural to them. Your goal is to control their barking. As mentioned before, Goldmatians are extremely intelligent. One would guess that would mean they are easy to train, and usually, they are, especially since they love to please their owner. However, sometimes they can and do have a strong, stubborn manner. As with both of their parental breeds, the golden retriever dalmatian loves praise and is rewarded for listening and following commands. Therefore, it is essential with training to take a positive approach and give them tons of verbal encouragement, plus a few tasty yummy treats when they have learned and responded appropriately to your instructions. The key to practical training is to be consistent, firm, and fair. Remember, as stated before, socialization is also an essential part of training. Because these dogs are so agile and physically active, they love a physical challenge. They will do well with agility training and other dog sports. In addition, these activities will help tire your dog out. Because these dogs are so intelligent, they will also benefit from mental stimulation training. Here are some examples of mental training to do with your Goldmatian: Interactive Games: such as doggie board games where your dog must complete some obstacles to get a treat or puzzle games where your pet is encouraged to figure out how to get a treat out Hide and seek: tell your dog to sit and stay this is assuming they know these two commands already , and you go and hide and then count to ten and call your dog. Once they find you give them tons of praise and a treat. Playing fetch: this simple activity provides both physical and mental stimulation, and most dogs LOVE playing this game with their owners. Puzzle games: a simple one is a Kong. With a Kong, you fill it with a treat, and your pet must lick, sniff, and shake to dislodge the treat to eat it. And lastly, do not forget crate training. This is very important on so many levels for your dog, no matter their breed. Their crate should be their happy place, a place to sleep, a place to be safe. If you must leave your Goldmatian for extended periods of time, and they have been appropriately crate-trained, their crate becomes a safe place to be while you are away and will keep them safe and out of trouble. If you need to be away for an extended period of time, and your Goldmatian needs to be in their crate, throw in a safe toy like a Kong filled with all-natural peanut butter make sure it does not contain artificial sweeteners as these are deadly to your dog and play some calming pet music. Also remember to provide water. A dispenser that hangs on the side of the crate is an excellent way to keep them hydrated. Once you return, make sure to immediately let your pet out of the crate, praise them, and then take them for a nice long walk to use up their pent-up energy. When you are home, leave their crate door open, and let them wander in and out of their crate at will. The Goldmatian is a high-energy and intelligent breed that needs physical and mental stimulation daily. At a minimum, Goldmatians should get approximately 75 minutes a day of exercise, and at least half of that should be focused and intense. This breed is highly athletic, so you can do various things to meet this daily requirement. You can take them on multiple daily walks, take them running with you, hiking, or swimming. Take them to a dog park to interact with other dogs. Do agility training. If walking is your main go-to activity with them, change your routes and walk at least two miles daily with them. Provide a safe, enclosed backyard space for them to play and explore safely. Please do not leave them alone outside for long, though, or their inquisitive nature might get them into too much trouble! It would be best if you still look for genetic disorders that are more common for Golden Retrievers and Dalmatians. Some minor conditions to be aware of include: Eye Entropion. Golden with black spots, or white with black spots Temperament: Loving, caring, loyal, active, energetic, playful Most Suitable For: Active families with or without children, active single individuals. Not suitable for the elderly or those with mobility issues due to exercise requirements What Does a Golden Retriever Dalmatian Look Like? They may or may not inherit the long coat of the Golden, along with their propensity to shed. They will likely inherit the colour pattern of the Dalmatian, with the traditional spotting. Are you looking for a way to treat your furry friend? Sign up for our newsletter for a chance to win a free month of Barkbox! Subscribe By subscribing, you agree to get emails from myk9life. We'll respect your privacy and you can unsubscribe any time. The History of the Golden Retriever Dalmatian Mix The Goldmatian is a relatively new mixed-breed dog, therefore, little is known about the exact history of the breed. Though we do know that the Goldmatian has been around for about 30 years, and was created as part of the crossbreeding craze that began in the United States in the s. The goal being to create a smaller-sized pup to the Dalmatian, with less shedding capacity. Major Marjoribanks was searching for a dog as a companion and a guardian of his luxury mansion. Thus, the first Golden Retriever litter was born. The beautiful and beloved Golden Retriever maintains fantastic popularity in the United States and was named the third most popular dog in the country. Golden Retrievers are incredible dogs for just about every type of owner. They fit very well into almost any family unit and are also quite suitable for the elderly and single individuals. In short, the Golden is a golden choice for almost anyone looking for a dog. Marjoribanks purchased a retriever from a street cobbler and bred the dog with a Tweed Water Spaniel to produce the first Golden Retriever litter in .Some say that the Golden Retriever has been crossbred throughout most of its life, including many of the pups of the first-ever litter that were crossbred with various other dogs to obtain the Golden Retriever that we all know and love today. However, there is little available precise history concerning this initial crossbreeding. However, Golden Retrievers are crossbred routinely today because of their beautiful golden coats and wonderful even temperament! The History of the Dalmatian The history of the Dalmatian stretches back to the Dalmatia region of Croatia, and are thought to be the result of crossbreeding between various types of Pointers, and a spotted Great Dane — hence the rather large height of the Dalmatian, and the thin, spindly legs. Historically, the Dalmatian has been a guard dog of British aristocrats and has been used as a working dog on aristocratic estates, along with use in the battlefields of World War One and has only in the last century become a family pet worldwide. Dalmatians are a relatively popular pet in the United States, though perhaps less so than in Europe — for reasons that are likely to do with the importation of dogs, rather than the desirability of the Dalmatians. Dalmatians make terrific family pets, though they have a history of being guard dogs and are very protective. They make great pets for single individuals as well, though given their energetic nature, perhaps are not best-suited for the elderly or those with mobility issues. How Did Dalmatians Come About? The Dalmatian is first mentioned in the writings of the Bishop of Dakovo in , when the dog is mentioned as a hunting dog from the Dalmatia region of Croatia, sporting long legs and a spotted coat. Crossbreeding of the Dalmatian has been something of a mystery, and quite competitive at the same time. Making sure that you find the dog with the right temperament for your family is critical! Doing your research on this front is vital to ensure a good initial phase of dog ownership, for both yourself and the dog. Goldens are known for being very friendly, loving and even-tempered. Dalmatians will bring a bit of feistiness and more playful energy to the mix. Traditionally, yes. Both the Golden Retriever and Dalmatian mixes are quite friendly dogs, though the Dalmatian may initially be standoffish because of their guardian nature. Yes, both dogs are quite easy to train — the Dalmatian brings a regulating obedience gene to the usual playfulness of the Golden Retriever. The average weight of a Golden Retriever Dalmatian mix will be around 55 — 70 pounds. The average height of a Golden Retriever Dalmatian mix will be around 19 — 23 inches. Similar Sized Breeds Though this is a curious mix in terms of size matchups, as Dalmatians tend to be taller, there are a few similar-sized breeds. Generally, you should expect a fair amount of shedding from the Goldmatian, as both parent breeds are known to be shedders. Ideally, you should brush your Goldmatian once per week to cut down on the shedding! This is one of the areas that can sometimes turn off older owners, or owners without the necessary time or energy to devote to the Goldmatian. This is a dog that requires plenty of exercise. An hour a day is the general benchmark for mixed breeds such as this. The average lifespan of a Golden Retriever Dalmatian mix is typically 10 — 12 years. If they take after their Dalmatian parent, a Dalmatian Mix is likely to be a loyal, athletic, and energetic dog that loves their families. Dalmatians tend to be loving and loyal dogs that get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. They tend to be loving and affectionate with their families and more reserved around strangers. Should a Dalmatian Mix take after their Dalmatian parent, you should be able to expect a similar temperament from them. You will still want to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed so you know what other traits could be in the mix. You can also meet the mother in-person to see the temperament she has and the manners she is modeling for her puppies. They do much better in homes with yards where they can run. They are sensitive to heat and may get cold easier in the winter than breeds with a thick coat. This makes them a moderately adaptable dog breed. If the other parent breed is similar, then you should be able to expect the same level of adaptability from a Dalmatian Mix. But, you still want to talk to the breeder about them as the other parent breed could introduce other quirks that could affect adaptability. Mixed-breed dogs can sometimes inherit none of the conditions common to their parent breeds. However, they could inherit any combination of them or all of them from one or both parents. From the Dalmatian side, potential health concerns to be aware of in a Dalmatian Mix include kidney stones, deafness, elbow dysplasia, and hip dysplasia. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing issues on to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. Dalmatians are highly intelligent dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. Generally, they are a good fit for dog owners of all experience levels. But, their high energy and tendency to get bored can be difficult for first-time dog owners to handle alone. Because of this, puppy training classes are recommended. They could have traits that could make a Dalmatian Mix easier or more difficult to train. You will want to be prepared for the possibility of needing training classes either way. A mixed-breed dog can inherit a coat that is similar to one of their parents or a coat that is a mix of both of them. Should they inherit the Dalmation coat, it will shed a little year-round, require weekly brushing, and need only a bath occasionally. It all depends on how quickly their nails grow. Because gum disease often leads to other health issues and is such a common problem for dogs, practicing good dental care for dogs throughout their lives is essential. A Dalmatian is a high-energy dog breed. They require daily walks plus time to run and other activities to stay happy and healthy. If the other parent is also a high-energy dog breed, then you can expect a Dalmatian Mix to be the same. Even if the other parent breed has a lower energy level, you will need to be prepared for the potential of a high-energy dog with a Dalmatian Mix. Dalmatians are usually inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent breed could affect this, so you need to ask the breeder about them and pay close attention to which breed is the mother. A Dalmatian generally lives for years. Although the other parent breed may affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar life span in a Dalmatian Mix. Featured Dalmatian Mix Article.
Born July 15, No shots. .Sept 15th, Please Contact 8 Month old puppy Oshawa Through no fault of his own Kaitoe is looking for his new, forever home. He is an unaltered male, 8 months old born December 28th and his dad, the white dog in the photos and on-site, is a Bull.To a good home healthy ,friendly , energetic puppies. Catharines 6 puppies born July 11th .Need to find good homes. Really friendly. And there gorgeous. We're looking for a home for each and every one. Come and take a look obo. Chase is a year old, up to date with vaccinations and is intact. He is playful, energetic and compassionate. Chase is house, leash and.Catharines Calling all pet lovers! We are absolutely thrilled to share that we have a delightful litter of American Pocket Bulls mixed with Shepherd Husky puppies. These precious pups were born on August 21 and.Dewormed, first vaccinations and clear health check. These babies are desensitized to.I would have never let him go as he is very unique and had plans to build on his genetics. Has amazing temperament walks without leash and follows.Receipts sent by email for date, and time stamps. Delivery is not an option. All pick ups.Puppies are.Reason for rehoming is she is just not good with other pets or small children! He is a quick.Puppies have their first vaccinations dewormed and microchipped. Showing 1 - 33 of 33 resultsPage 1 - 33 results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. Dewormed, first vaccinations and clear health check. These babies are desensitized to.See all Female Puppy Brockville Looking to re-home a 13 week old puppy, part shepherd, husky and retriever. She is very active. Born on June 29th, just a little over 2 months old. Straight backs. We are a small family-owned dog.I would like to find a good and loving home that has space for them. They still need a little bit of leash training but they know all of the basic.He was born on June 22nd and is 9 weeks old. He eats solid food and use puppy pads already. The parents Jax and Ember are the best of friends, both have kind and loving temperaments and have been raised in our family.They were born on June 22nd and are 11 weeks old. They eat solid food and use puppy.Golden, Husky and Shepherd Mixed Puppies!!! Puppies will come with vet papers that include their first shots and.Looking for a furry bundle of joy? Look no further! These 4 adorable puppies are ready to find their forever homes. They're cute, cuddly, and full of love. Don't miss out.Currently rehoming him due the fact I am overworked and after a recent tragedy in the family I no longer have the time nor emotional capacity to care for.Contact for further information. Serious enquires only please. There are 3 girls available. They will come fully vet checked with first and second shots, de worming and a clear bill of health.Mom is our family pet, quiet and calm and loves children. Ready to go home with you! Females and males available.
We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Medium to large in size and full of life, the boxer Lab mix is an increasingly popular designer dog with active people and families with children. Developed by crossing a purebred Labrador retriever and a purebred boxer, this mix has a lot to offer to the right home. If you are looking for a devoted, outgoing, and smart canine companion, the boxerlab is a great choice! Energetic and playful, these dogs prefer an active lifestyle and need regular exercise to stay happy and thrive. A spacious home with a fenced backyard is ideal for this mix, but not a requirement. If you are an outdoorsy person and can keep your pooch exercised, the boxerlab will make a great apartment dweller. When left alone a lot, this mix is prone to separation anxiety and might become bored and destructive. Whether you are looking for a canine playmate for your kids or an exercise partner, the laboxer might just be the perfect dog for you! Keep on reading to learn everything you need to know about this adorable crossbreed. Boxer Lab Mix Dog Overview Size — 23 to 25 inches tall at the shoulder, weighs between 50 and pounds Coat — Short shiny coat, color varies Shedding — Moderate shedding Lifespan — 12 to 15 years Temperament — Energetic, eager to please, friendly, devoted Trainable — Very trainable, but might be stubborn at times Activity — Very active needs at least 30 minutes of exercise every day Best For — Active people, families with children, homes with outdoor space What Is A Boxador? The boxador dog is a crossbreed developed by mixing a purebred boxer and a purebred Labrador retriever. Although both parent breeds are officially recognized by the AKC, the boxer Lab mix has the status of a designer breed. Boxadors have several different names and are also known as laboxers, boxerlabs, and boxerdors. While some boxerlabs take more after one parent than the other, others are a perfect blend of both parent breeds. Generally speaking, most inherit a boxer-like frame but are sizably built like their Labrador retriever parents. Although their appearance is unpredictable, there are a few traits you can expect to see when it comes to size, coat, and color. Size Being a cross between a Labrador retriever and a boxer, boxerlabs tend to be medium to large size dogs. Most are between 23 and 25 inches high at the shoulder and can weigh anywhere from 50 to pounds when fully grown. And males tend to be larger than females. Color The Labrador retriever comes in three colors — yellow, chocolate , and black. On the other hand, the boxer also comes in three different colors — white, fawn, and brindle. Keeping this in mind, it comes as no surprise that the Lab boxer mix can come in many different coat colors. The most commonly seen colors in this mix are brown, black, brindle, and white. Coat While a Lab has a short, double water-resistant coat, the boxer is a short-haired breed with a smooth and silky single coat. Most laboxers inherit the short, silky, and smooth coat of their boxer parents; however, some can have a denser coat of a Labrador. Since your boxerlab will inherit character traits from both its parent breeds, you should meet both the Lab and the boxer parents. Since both boxers and Labrador retrievers are friendly, playful, loving, and devoted companions, chances are that their mix will be too. Although boxer Labs can act as either of their parent breeds, they are generally extremely playful and energetic. Depending on how much your mix takes after its boxer parent, they might act goofy and cheerful most of the time. Boxerlabs form strong bonds with their people and do best in large families that have the time and energy to interact and play with them several times during the day. People-oriented and loving, this mix craves companionship and tends to develop separation anxiety when left alone a lot. If they are forced to stay home alone while you are at work, boxerlabs can easily become bored and destructive. Activity Level As an offspring of two very energetic working breeds, the laboxer is a very active dog with high exercise needs. Being such an active and athletic dog, your mix will need at least 30 minutes of exercise every day in addition to two walks. Activities such as running, hiking, swimming, or agility are all great ways to keep your pooch exercised and in excellent shape. Since boxerlabs love to play, games such as fetch, flyball, Frisbee, hide and seek, and tug-of-war are ideal ways to interact with your pooch and keep them entertained and exercised at the same time. Having a securely fenced backyard can be a big bonus when owning this mix. This way, you can keep your laboxer exercised and in great shape without leaving the comforts of your home. This mix craves companionship and is happiest when involved in all family activities. But, besides love and affection, you should also pay attention to: Exercise As mentioned previously, the lab boxer mix needs at least 30 minutes of vigorous activity every day. In addition to two regular daily walks, you should take your dog for a run, hike, or swim to burn excess energy and stay in good shape. Fun-loving, playful, and goofy, this mix loves games and will enjoy having a variety of interactive dog toys that will stimulate their curious mind. Games such as fetch or hide and seek are also a form of exercise that will also keep your pooch entertained and mentally stimulated. Intellectual Stimulation In addition to being highly energetic, laboxers are also intelligent dogs that can easily become bored without mental stimulation. If left to their own devices without interactive toys, your mix will chew and rifle through your belongings just to have some fun. And when you are at home, interact and play with your pooch as much as you can to stave off boredom and encourage good behavior. Companionship True to their parent breeds, boxadors are outgoing, people-loving, and easy-going dogs that form strong bonds with their owners and families. Bred to be loving companions, laboxers are delighted when they are involved in all family activities and are best suited for large families. This mix craves affection and company and can easily develop separation anxiety and other behavioral problems if left at home alone a lot. Ideally, a boxador dog should live in a large family where they will have company at all times. Grooming Most boxerlabs have short glossy coats that are easy to keep clean and are a fairly low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. Brushing your pooch once or twice a week is enough to remove loose hair and dander and keep their coat clean. In addition to regular brushing, you will also need to bathe your dog once every two months or as needed. Diet An ideal diet for a Lab boxer mix should be formulated for medium to large-sized breeds with high energy. Make sure the food you are feeding to your pooch is rich in protein and reinforced with all essential vitamins and minerals. Like their Labrador retriever parents, this mix has a tendency to gain weight easily and can become obese in no time. To prevent weight gain and all health problems associated with it, feed your dog two times a day and stick to a regular feeding schedule. Known Health Problems The boxerlab is considered a healthy breed, but they are predisposed to some of the same health problems that boxers and Labrador retrievers face. The most common health issues seen in this designer breed are: Hip and elbow dysplasia: Both boxers and Labrador retrievers are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, so boxerlabs can develop it too. Allergies: Like people, dogs can develop food or environmental allergies. Itching is the most common symptom associated with allergies. However, some dogs also exhibit respiratory problems and might cough, sneeze, wheeze, or have a runny discharge from their eyes or nose. Hypothyroidism: This is a relatively common endocrine problem in dogs caused by an underactive thyroid gland. Dogs suffering from hypothyroidism usually experience symptoms of lethargy, weight gain, and changes to the skin and coat. Life Expectancy The Labrador boxer mix has an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years. But, when cared for properly and taken to regular veterinary check ups, this mix can live longer. Highly intelligent and eager to please, most laboxers are fairly easy to house train, and learn basic obedience. Boxerlabs, like all other dogs, react the best to positive reinforcement training techniques and reward-based training. The idea behind this approach is to reward good behavior using treats or praise and to ignore bad behavior. This type of training has been proven to give the best results and is highly effective even if you are dealing with an extremely willful dog. Besides training, laboxers can also benefit from early socialization and should be exposed to many different people, situations, sounds, and sights from a young age. Early socialization can help your laboxer puppy get used to other people and pets and grow into a friendly and well-rounded dog. Who Should Own A Boxador? Bred to be a loyal and devoted companion, the Lab boxer mix is best suited for active people and families with children. This friendly mix craves companionship and is best suited for large homes and families who can spend time and play with their dog every day. Buying A Boxer Lab Mix Puppy Spend some time researching reputable Lab boxer mix breeders before you decide to welcome a laboxer puppy into your home. Since this is a fairly new designer breed, be prepared to spend more time researching and tracking down a reputable breeder. Once you locate a breeder you like, schedule an appointment to meet the puppies and the mother and to inspect the facilities they are kept in. If by any chance the breeder refuses to show you the conditions the puppies are kept in, walk away and look for another breeder. A reputable breeder will be more than happy to answer all of your questions and will also be able to provide health certificates for both parents and all puppies. However, you may end up paying more, depending on the breeder, your location, lineage, and gender. History Of The Breeds Boxer Originating in Germany, the boxer is a medium to a large-size working dog breed that was used as a guard dog. Although they might seem intimidating, boxers are goofy and mischievous canines that make great family companions. Highly energetic, easy to groom, and loving, the boxer is a great choice if you are looking for a loyal family pet that can also double as a guard dog. Easy to train, friendly, gentle, and affectionate, Labs make great family pets and companions to people of all ages including children. Due to their amazing temperament and high trainability, Labrador retrievers are often used as service dogs for people with disabilities and make great guide dogs. Boxerlabs make amazing pets for active people or large families with children. This loyal, energetic, playful, and friendly mix forms strong bonds with its people and likes to be involved in all family activities. If you are active and have enough time to interact and play with your dog every day, the Lab boxer mix will be a great pet. Are Boxer Labs aggressive? However, they form strong bonds with their owners and are naturally suspicious of strangers. Therefore, early socialization is a must if you want your mix to grow into a friendly and well-behaved dog. Conclusion Medium to large in size and highly energetic, the boxer Lab mix is a fairly new designer breed on the block. Amiable and devoted to their people, this pooch forms strong bonds with its owners and prefers to be involved in all family activities. If so, tell us more about your pooch in the comment section below! Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Chopped carrots or celery make great little healthy treats. Your vet can help you develop a care routine. Boxadors love to eat and will rapidly gain weight if they are allowed to free feed. Pick a high quality dog food and stick to a feeding schedule; two feedings per day could be ideal to keep this pooch happy. They also need an exercise schedule. A 30 minute hike, walk, or game of fetch, plus an hour of active running around a yard will help burn off pent up energy. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. Keeping them clean and dry is the best way to avoid doctor visits. If your dog develops a pungent aroma or is scratching their ears excessively, they may have an ear infection and will require a vet exam. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. You should brush their teeth a minimum of three times a week. Clean your dogs eyes as you would your own. You can use a cloth or your fingers to wipe away discharge or debris that collects in the corners. Boxador Feeding An ideal Boxador diet should be formulated for an active, medium- to large-sized breed. Limit their amount of treats, as well. The main colors of Boxadors are; black, brown, brindle, and white. Rarely solid, their coats typically have a blend of two or more colors. Luckily, their coats are very easy to groom. A good brushing per week will probably do. They may self groom and are considered a pretty clean dog. Always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any tail pulling or biting on the part of either party. No dog should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Learn more about this pup by reading about their parent breeds, the Boxer and Labrador Retriever. Boxador Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed specific rescue for Boxadors because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Boxer or Labrador Retriever breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. The boxador is an active dog who's affectionate and loyal to her entire family. As a mix of two highly intelligent breeds , she has earned a reputation for being easy to train and eager to join any family adventure. But she also comes from two high-energy breeds and needs to be kept busy. As a hybrid dog , the boxador can vary in size depending on which parent breed she takes after the most. She will likely stand about 2 feet tall and weigh between 50—80 pounds. At her best, every inch of the boxador is filled with exuberance and love. She will need an active owner who can match her endless stamina, and she will be happiest when kept close to her people. Appearance The boxador is perpetually ready to play. Her toned, muscular body is frequently in motion, often chasing a ball or trying to start a friendly game of tug-of-war. Even if she has the longer snout of the Labrador retriever, she will likely still have droopy jowls. Because of this, she might be prone to drooling —especially when she gets excited. Both of her parent breeds are large dogs , so your boxador will grow up into a big bundle of energy. The boxador is expressive with her eyes and ears, often looking at you with a longing glance and perked up ears to tell you she's ready to go for a long walk. If she takes after her boxer side, her coat will be short and won't shed much. However, because a Labrador's coat can range from short to medium in length, a boxador will likely experience seasonal shedding. The boxador can come in a mix of colors, with the dominant shades being fawn, brown, black, or brindle. And while it's not guaranteed, the boxador often has a white patch on her chest and a muzzle of black fur. This means the mixed breed is ideal for many on-the-go families, as long as you make sure you have time to play with your boxador every day. Bored dogs are not good dogs because they're going to chew on belongings. They need families that are going to be active and keep them busy. She gets along incredibly well with children and other dogs, especially if she is well-socialized as a puppy. Boxadors are motivated by praise and affection, so owners should train her using positive reinforcement training and give her plenty of attention when she does something correctly. She will be highly motivated to learn different games alongside you. Both parent dogs are known for their intelligence and ability to communicate exactly what they need with their owners. So pay attention when your boxador is whining or nudging you—that probably means she needs to go outside or just wants some more playtime. You need to get them all kinds of games and activities. Take them on a jog or play fetch, all of that good stuff. She's not going to want to entertain herself in a fenced-in yard ; she wants you to play with her. While she is a well-tempered dog, the boxador should not be left at home for hours alone. If left by herself, the boxador can be prone to make her own entertainment think: chewing decorative pillows or pulling over houseplants to keep herself entertained. Loretta Moraco, a director at Chelsea's Hope Boxer Rescue that works with boxers and boxer mixes in the Northeast, says many people don't understand the energy level these dogs bring to a household. By training your boxador that her crate is a safe, comfortable space, she will feel more secure there whenever her owners do need to leave her alone for a short period of time. Crate training can also limit undesirable behavior that can happen when boxadors get bored. The boxer side is mischievous and curious, and you don't want them eating something they shouldn't when left alone. As a general rule, boxador owners should be prepared for a dog that wants to run and play 99 percent of the time. While there are some exceptions, boxador owners need to be ready to take their new pet on long, daily walks. She is exceptionally friendly thanks to her Labrador side, and she will thrive when socializing with other humans and dogs. They need doggy daycare and activities and games outside. They're literally like a toddler for a really long time, that's the best I can describe it. Keep them busy, and don't let them get bored. It's a good idea to get her used to regular teeth brushing as a puppy because her boxer side can be prone to dental issues. If she has face folds particularly around her mouth , you'll want to keep them clean with regular bathing in order to avoid any bacteria buildup. Health A healthy boxador can live between 10—12 years, but they are likely to experience health issues in their lifetime. Owners should consider investing in pet insurance if they bring home a boxador because both breeds are prone to certain health conditions that can become expensive in their older years. A boxador's health largely depends on what genetics she inherits from her parents and grandparents. The Labrador side often experiences elbow and hip dysplasia , according to the Labrador Retriever Club. These issues can be addressed with joint supplements recommended by your veterinarian. They can also experience certain heart disorders, as well as a condition called exercise-induced collapse. The boxer parent's genes can make boxadors predisposed to cancers that often impact the brain, thyroid, or spleen, according to the American Boxer Club. They can also be at risk for hereditary heart diseases , including arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy or Aortic Stenosis. They could experience discomfort with her hindquarters later in life if they inherit the boxer's predisposition to degenerative myelopathy. The popularity of boxer hybrids including the boxer-Lab mix in recent years has actually been, in part, an effort to mitigate some of the more heartbreaking health conditions that impact the purebred dogs. They are great with kids, smart, and goofy. And a lot of people who love the boxer breed are now looking for a hybrid dog because they are hoping it eliminates some of the health issues. While many boxadors live long and healthy lives, being aware of the potential health issues is the best way to ensure she is kept comfortable and happy. History As a hybrid dog, the boxador's origin is murky. Mixed breeds are not registered by the American Kennel Club, so their history is undocumented unlike purebred dogs whose history goes back for centuries. The most likely explanation for the boxador is that breeders sought to combine the best traits of the two beloved, active breeds. Especially for owners who worry about the health issues surrounding the boxer breed, the Labrador retriever—as the nation's most popular dog—makes an optimal pairing to offset some of the boxer's health risks. While the boxador's history is largely speculation, she comes from very famous parents. The Labrador retriever originated in Canada as a loyal waterfowl dog before gaining a reputation as a loving family dog. The boxer is the product of breeders in Germany and Belgium who wanted a strong hunting dog. Eventually, the boxer became a farming dog who enjoyed spending time with her family. Because the boxador can be prone to certain health issues, it's especially important that potential owners get health records for the dog they are adopting. If you are bringing home a puppy from a boxador breeder, take steps to avoid a puppy mill scam by working with individuals who are transparent about health screenings and allow you to meet the puppy on-site so you can ensure she was raised in a good home. Fun Facts While the boxer-Labrador retriever mix is most commonly referred to as a boxador, the dogs can also be called a boxerlab or Laboxer. In , the Labrador retriever was named the most popular dog breed for the 30th year in a row. The same year, the boxer was named the 14th most popular dog breed in the United States. A rescued boxador named Wesson is the frequent star on the popular TikTok account willandwesson. Was this page helpful? Your Boxer mixed with a Lab will have very short hair that is very easy to groom and maintain. But if your dog has dominant Lab genes then expect a lot of shedding. Lab Boxer suffers from seasonal shedding, and its coat may be kept in check using regular grooming and the right kind of dog shampoo and grooming products. Since a Lab has black, chocolate or yellow coats and Boxers are either fawn or brindle with white markings; the mixed breed pup will be any of the two. A Brindle Boxer Lab dog is very common and these come with white patches. It contains lavender, sage, and mint plus many botanicals. It can treat hot spots; consequently, it is perfect for dogs that tend to over-groom. Earthbath Oatmeal and Aloe Dog Shampoo This dog shampoo comes with a soap-free formula using oatmeal, aloe and other natural ingredients. It is perfect for itchy and irritated skin. This dog needs regular bathing at least once every other week. Invest in a high-quality nail clipper. You may also take your dog to a groomer at least once a month. Therefore, you must have your puppy checked by a vet to rule out any health condition as soon as you take it home from a breeder or the shelter. The following are common health conditions of a Lab Boxer mix breed dog. We also warmly recommend these best dry dog food brands; but try to steer clear from the worst dry dog food that has high additive content. If you adopt a puppy, give them the healthiest possible start at life with the best puppy food brands and as they grow bigger and stronger, slowly switch them on adult food. Your pooch may even enjoy the taste of best dry dog food for small dogs, so keep an open mind, and offer them a serving of it to check. Old doggos should be fed with slightly different food, though. If you have a grandpa-dog at home, see how they like the best senior dry dog food. If your dog has allergies, then there are dog food varieties that are right for his needs. Food treats should be avoided especially when training your dog. Use positive reinforcement instead of giving food treats. The following dog food brands will work well with Boxer Lab mix breeds: Canine Formula Taste of the Wild This is considered one of the best dog foods in the market today. Wellness Complete Health Large Breed This is made with rich protein sources such as salmon meal, whitefish, and chicken. It comes with flaxseeds that contain high omega-3 fatty acids and probiotics to promote a healthy gut. It has a delicious flavor and smells that your Boxer Lab will love. Your dog will love this flavor and will be the best choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs. The Natural Grain-Free dog dry food is gluten-free and will never cause stomach upset. Never give the following human food. Do not feed the following Onion and chives. Breed Profiles By Kate Brunotts 10 min read January 4, 4 Comments K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. Looking for an exuberant best buddy? The Boxador — a cross between a boxer and Labrador retriever — is a marvelous mutt that has plenty to offer to his family members. What Is A Boxador? These canine companions are sure to love accompanying you on any adventure with a wagging tail following behind them. Most people love life with these enthusiastic and intelligent pups. The Beautiful, Bouncing Boxer These loyal, loving dogs are known for their playful personality and adorable looks. Boxers and most boxer mixes are athletic yet patient pups, who do well with all members of the family, big and small. In fact, boxers are some of the best dogs for babies in the world. Boxers want nothing more than to be around their family members and do well in active households where there is always something to keep them busy. Reaching about 65 to 80 pounds, these muscular pups need plenty of exercise on a daily basis. Boxers are also known for holding onto a puppy-like spirit well into adulthood. While this is undoubtedly charming, boxer owners must be ready to put in the work with training. These pups tend to drool and snore quite a bit, though they do not shed heavily. Despite their few shortcomings, these canine clowns are sure to make you laugh and leave a pawprint on your heart. These friendly, outgoing dogs are well-loved due to their people-pleasing attitudes and playful spirits. Labrador retrievers and Lab-mixes usually make amazing companions so long as they get the exercise and mental stimulation they need to keep their tails wagging. These sweet dogs love spending time with their family members and — like boxers — do well with kids and other pets. Labs are medium sized dogs weighing between 55 to 80 pounds. Luckily, these adaptable dogs are fairly intelligent and an easy-to-train dog breed , so long as they earn a treat or two for their efforts. Labrador retrievers were originally developed to help fishermen, and they were also used as bird-hunting dogs tasked with retrieving waterfowl. With that in mind, here are some general guidelines of what you can expect from a Boxador. This outline can help you determine whether or not these designer dogs are the right fit for your family and lifestyle. Size and Shape: Boxadors are medium to large dogs usually weighing between 60 and 90 pounds. These dogs often have a boxer-like frame, but with more bulk like their Labrador retriever parents. Temperament: The energetic Boxador is always ready to play and enjoys spending as much time as he can with his family. These pooches are likely to act like permanent puppies and do well around kids as long as they are taught to understand hoe yo interact gently with little ones. The Boxador is a loyal, happy-go-lucky dog that is always ready for his next adventure. That being said, these dogs may need access to a coat throughout the colder months to keep themselves cozy while out on walks. The main coat colors of the Boxador are black, white, brindle, and brown. Occasionally, these pups have white markings along the snout and chest like their boxer parents. Intelligence: The Boxador is wickedly smart though you may not have guessed it based on his sometimes clown-like personality. With the right incentive, these dogs are sure to learn a whole range of tricks as they are eager to please their families. Training Challenges: Luckily, these pups should be fairly easy to train. That being said, these pups will shed and need a brush at least once a week. Your Boxador will love going on regular runs, hikes, or playing an engaging game of fetch or frisbee whenever he can. Ideally, Boxador homes have a large, fenced-in yard where these sweet pooches can get out some of their endless energy. Health: These pups are pretty healthy, especially for larger dogs, and they have an average canine lifespan of 12 to 15 years. However, they are susceptible to health conditions shared by both parent breeds including hip dysplasia, cataracts, and diabetes. Here is a quick checklist to ensure these are the perfect pups for your family. You have a lively household. These sporty sweethearts want nothing more than to spend as much time as they can with their family members. These smart pups love staying mentally and physically engaged, so regular training sessions are a must. These pups are happy to curl up on the couch and offer lots of hugs and kisses, so long as they meet their exercise needs. You have enough time to entertain these active pups. Boxadors are not highly independent pups. These dogs thrive on action and will need owners who can fulfill that need with ample attention, exercise, and engaging activities like training sessions or using puzzle toys. These patient yet playful pups love spending time with children and adults. As long as their needs are met, these sweet pups are sure to make amazing canine companions. These dogs crave excitement and are happiest when they are with the people they love. The life-of-the-party Boxador needs an owner who understands that these intelligent, active, and social dogs need plenty of mental and physical stimulation on an everyday basis to feel their best. Tracking down a Boxador buddy can be difficult as it would be with any designer dog. That being said, you can always scour the internet for these furry friends. If you know any Boxador owners, you could ask them for their breeder or if they know of any upcoming litters. You could even message Boxador owners via social media for insight. Image from GreatDogSite. If you choose to adopt a Boxador from a rescue or shelter a great idea , make sure you spend adequate time getting to know your new furry buddy to get a sense of their personality. Similar Breeds and Breed Mixes to the Boxador Are you still deciding whether or not the Boxador is the best buddy of your dreams? Here are some other similar breeds and mutts to take into consideration. Dalmador: This Labrador retriever and Dalmation mix is known for his friendly, rambunctious personality. These spotted sweeties love spending time with other dogs, kids, and other family members though they can be protective around strangers. Briard: This ancient herding dog is loyal, hardworking, and fiercely intelligent. These confident canines are great with kids and staying active. Beagador: The comical beagador is a cross between a beagle and Labrador retriever. These playful pups are super sweet and intelligent, though they may have a stubborn streak that will require some patience. Golden Boxer: This boxer and golden retriever mix is sure to steal your heart with his adorable looks and eternal devotion to his family. These smart pups make excellent watch dogs and love spending time outdoors. These athletic dogs love to stay busy and need an owner who can provide firm and consistent training. The Catahoula leopard dog is fiercely loyal to his loved ones. Bullador: This Labrador and English bulldog mix creates an active, loving canine companion. The bullador loves meeting new people and playing whenever possible. Boweimar: The boweimar is a cross between a boxer and Weimaraner. These energetic, loving family dogs need plenty of exercise and attention to keep their tails wagging. These playful pups make amazing furry friends so long as their needs are properly met. Do you have one of these silly sweethearts at home? Does he show more of his boxer or Labrador retriever side? Like it? Share it! The Boxer Lab mix is playful, energetic, loyal and loving. Boxador puppies are known for being intelligent and enthusiastic dogs. But their spirited temperament is not right for every family setup. Watch these cute Boxer Lab mix puppies playing! The boxer lab mix, also known as the Boxador, is a hybrid of the Boxer and the Labrador Retriever breeds. Compared to its parent breeds, the Boxador mix itself is very new. But, its parents have long histories living and working alongside humans. Labs originated as working dogs, retrieving game for fishermen in Newfoundland, Canada. When they were first bred in 19th century Germany, Boxers were used as fighting dogs. Boxer Lab Mix Characteristics With cross breeds it is often hard to predict which parent a puppy will resemble. Boxers can weigh up to 80lbs and reach 25 inches tall. Labradors are similarly large. Boxador full grown tend to be between 23 and 25 inches tall and weigh up to 80lbs. Although females are smaller than males. Regardless of the mix of your genes your pup ends up with, your Boxer Lab Mix dog is likely to be a medium to large dog, active, loyal, easy to train and very fond of challenges — of both the physical and mental kind! Boxers are fawn or brindle. Often with white patches. Their offspring can be any mixture of these! The Boxador is usually brindle, and these dogs often have white markings. If you want a black Lab Boxer mix, your puppy will likely still have some white on them. Your best bet is to mix a black Lab with a dark Boxer. But, even a black Lab Boxer mix can have unpredictable coloring, despite the dominant genes for black fur. Do Boxer Lab Mixes Shed? When it comes to coat, the Boxer Lab mix usually takes after its Boxer parent. These pups typically have short, smooth hair that sheds very little and is easy to care for. However if your Boxador dog has more Labrador in its genes you might have to deal with some shedding. Thankfully this is usually seasonal and can be kept in check with regular grooming. Are Boxadors Hypoallergenic? The Boxer Lab mix might have a short coat, but it is likely to be a high shedder at least part of the time. They produce allergens in their dander and saliva, and are not suitable for dog allergy suffering owners. Boxador Temperament The Boxer Lab mix will fall somewhere between its parents. But, luckily, the Labrador and Boxer breeds have quite similar temperaments. Both Boxers and Labradors are very loving and loyal. They think nothing of climbing on their people for a cuddle, despite their large size! Both Boxers and Labradors are usually great with older children. They are considered gentle giants and will eagerly run after little ones. Although they have been known to accidentally bowl over smaller family members in their excitement. Labradors also love playing with canine companions, but Boxers are less reliable in this area. Poorly socialized Boxers can be prone to aggression towards strangers and other dogs. Boxers are instinctive guardians and proud to play the role of family protector. But you can reduce this through thorough socialization during the puppy stages and by meeting the Boxer parent and ensuring that they seem happy and confident around strangers. Even the most friendly breed, like the Labrador, will benefit. Finding them puppy friends to play with will encourage them to be calm and docile with other dogs when fully grown. Attending puppy classes is a great way to do this. But, make sure you also socialize them to unfamiliar people, children, cats, other animals, and more. This will ensure your Boxador dog is as friendly outside the home as he is inside. They require a lot of exercise and enjoy running around with the family or playing a game of fetch. This can result in unwanted behaviors like barking, digging, or chewing. But, be wary of a shorter snout in the Boxador. Boxers suffer from a conformity issue called brachycephaly, which can cause trouble breathing and overheating when exercising. Use positive reward techniques for best results. You could even take your mix to a puppy training class, or attend an online dog training class. Boxador Health and Care Genetic diversity is improved in a cross breed compared with the parent breeds and the coefficient of inbreeding COI is much lower. Put simply, the COI of any mating describes how closely related the parent dogs are. Higher COIs are associated with an increase in health problems. The risk of this happening is lower if the puppies parents are not closely related. There are however, some health issues that are not recessive and can be passed on from just one parent. And there are common ancestors in some of our dog breeds that mean some diseases are present in both breeds. For that reason it is still possible that a cross bred dog could inherit genetic health problems. Labrador Health Labradors are not without their issues. This breed can suffer from hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. It can cause lameness and severe arthritic pain. Another issue to be aware of in Labs is eye disease. Retinal dysplasia was first noted in the breed in .Progressive Retinal Atrophy is a degenerative eye disease that is common in Labs. Only buy your puppy from a breeder who health tests the parents for all the potential problems their respective breeds could suffer from. Boxer Health A study found that Boxers are one of the most likely breeds to get cancer. According to Petplan, mast cell tumors are the 5th most common illness in Boxers. This breed is unfortunately also associated with heart disease. Aortic Stenosis is the most common major problem in the breed. The causes are not known but it is genetic and passed along certain bloodlines. ARVC affects males more than females and is most common in dogs older than .Symptoms include coughing, difficulty breathing and weight loss. Boxers can also suffer from Canine Degenerative Myelopathy. This is a neurodegenerative disease that can cause paralysis. Unfortunately more is not necessarily better and brachycephaly causes breathing difficulties and overheating It may be that being the Boxador rather than a purebred Boxer offers some protection against these diseases. It certainly reduces the skull shortening we see in brachycephalic breeds. This is a bit of a two edged coin because while the Boxer physique may benefit from a longer muzzle, the Labrador physique is unlikely to be improved with a shorter one. Reputable breeders will only breed from dogs that have been tested and cleared of these serious hereditary health problems. To give your pup a long and healthy life, make sure he gets plenty of exercise, a balanced diet and regular vet check-ups. Boxador Life Expectancy Labrador Retrievers have a lifespan of years. And, on average, Boxers live around years So in theory you can expect Boxer Labrador mix puppies to reach anywhere between 9 and 12 years old. In practice studies tend to find that crossbred dogs in general, live longer on average than most purebred dogs. But we currently have no evidence that this is the case for the Boxador in particular. Only you can decide if the Boxer Lab mix is the right fit for your home. These are large dogs with big hearts that will give as much as they take. Boxadors love being part of a family. They are great with children and enthusiastic playmates for families with school age children and up. But this cross breed needs lots of exercise. They are fiercely attached to their people and dislike being left for long periods of time. This is a dog that suits a family with an active lifestyle and lots of love to give. Boxer Lab Mix Rescue Adopting a shelter dog always comes with risk. But Boxadors in shelters need homes and rescuing puppies or older dogs can be very rewarding. Labrador and Boxer breed rescues also sometimes have crossbreeds available. Dogs from adoption centers are usually much cheaper than puppies. But, remember you may need to spend lots of time helping them work through behavioral issues from past experiences. Finding Your Boxador Puppy Never buy a dog from a puppy mill or pet store. Or from the back of a vehicle. Always visit the puppy in his own home in the presence of his mother, who should be relaxed, healthy and friendly. Sadly with any very fashionable breed, or breed mix, there are many out there who are just looking to make a quick buck. Socialize your Boxador very thoroughly, exposing him to all kinds of fun experiences and making sure that he meets many different types of people, places, machinery etc. Given Boxadors intelligent nature and working history, get started on training your dog right away. Boxador Breeders It can be challenging to find a responsible breeder of cross breeds as there is currently quite a stigma against mixed breeding in the dog world. You must ask to see those certificates — they are very important. The parent dogs must have been screened for any genetic diseases and the breeder should be very forthcoming with any questions.
Breeds The link has been copied! The Black Poodle is a widely sought after type of Poodle due to its elegant coat and charming personality. It is a coloration that can be present in various sizes of Poodles, including Standard, Miniature, Moyen , and Toy Poodles. Like all other colors of Poodle, black poodles are descended from water-retriever dogs. They have a long history of being both working dogs and companion dogs. There is a dispute about whether the Poodle originated in Germany or France. Either way, Poodles were originally working dogs bred to retrieve shot game and lost arrows. Poodles are a popular dog breed for several reasons. They are intelligent and friendly. They have a beautiful and striking appearance. Also, they have certain hypoallergenic qualities. Black Poodle Appearance and Genetics A black poodle can either have solid black fur over its entire body, or black along with another color. Black Poodles have black eyes, lips, noses, and toes. Entirely black Poodles are one of the most popular Poodle colorations due to their striking appearance. A genuine black Poodle does not have any white or silver tint in its fur. Poodles have both an outer and inner coat. The outer coat is the one that is easily visible. The inner coat is beneath the outer coat and is not so easy to see. All black Poodles have a black outer coat, but some have an inner coat that appears blue or gray. Having a blue or gray inner coat can make the black outer coat appear lighter. Standard Poodles are over 15 inches tall and weigh somewhere between 40 and 70 pounds. Miniature Poodles are classified as being between 10 and 15 inches tall and weighing between 10 and 15 pounds. The smallest size category is the Toy Poodle, which is under 10 inches tall and weighs only 4 to 6 pounds. Moyen Poodles fall between Miniature and Standard Poodles in their size and weight. Usually, Moyen Poodles are 15 to 19 inches and weigh 15 to 25 pounds. The Moyen Poodle is not yet recognized by the American Kennel Club, but with its growing popularity, it may be recognized soon. Fans of the Moyen Poodle praise their medium size. Their size makes them well suited to being lapdogs but also large enough to keep up with their owners during physical activities and outdoor adventures. You can learn more about the Moyen Poodle here. Regardless of what size category they fall into, all Poodles naturally have a muscular but slim form. Poodles also have long muzzles. Their fur is either corded or curled. Poodle fur is known to require high maintenance. What Causes Black Fur? The black fur color seen in black Poodles is caused by the same process that determines the coat colors of all dogs. These pigments are eumelanin and pheomelanin. To make it simple, if genes connected to eumelanin are dominant within a dog, that dog will have a black coat. The gene that leads to black fur is stronger than the gene for other coat colors. This means that it is easier to breed black Poodles even if they only have a small amount of eumelanin in their genetics. Black Poodle puppies can be born even if neither of the parents have black fur. This can happen if one of their ancestors further back had black fur. The genes that lead to black fur on Poodles do not have an effect on the Poodles' personality or health. Are Silver Poodles Born Black? Some silver or gray Poodles are born silver or gray. But some black Poodles do eventually turn silver or gray. There are two ways a black Poodle can end up turning silver or gray. The fur of true black Poodles does eventually start to turn gray, but this happens gradually when they transition from an adult to a senior dog. In this type of graying, the gray fur will not always spread to the entire body. Often, the graying will start around the muzzle and spread from there. In some cases, a Poodle can be born black and gray prematurely over the first two years of its life. It can be hard or even impossible to tell if a black Poodle puppy will remain truly black. Are Black Poodles Friendly? Black Poodles, when raised with proper training and socialization, are just as friendly as any other coloration of Poodle. Poodles are energetic dogs, so they need exercise every day. They are also intelligent, and thus need mental stimulation as well as physical stimulation. Though well-trained black Poodles are no different from other Poodles in their temperament, they unfortunately face a stigma due to their coat color. Several causes for black dog syndrome have been suggested. Often, large black dogs are portrayed as violent and intimidating in movies and television shows. Black dogs are also known to not photograph as well as lighter colored dogs. The only notable difference is that dirt and tangling can be harder to see on dark coats. Short haircuts are a popular choice for Poodles, since this makes their coils or curly fur easier to manage. Poodles need to be groomed daily. They also need to visit the groomer regularly, unless you feel comfortable trimming their coat at home. Poodles are naturally slim dogs. It is easy for them to become overweight if their diet is not properly monitored. It is important to talk to a vet about the best diet for your black Poodle. One thing that dog owners often forget is that treats used in training can add up in calories over time. Black Poodle Health The genes that cause a black coat in Poodles are not known to be connected to any health issues. As such, monitoring the health of a black Poodle is similar to monitoring the health of any other shade of Poodle. It is important to note that the likelihood of certain health conditions occurring can be affected by the size of the Poodle. Poodles can be affected by a wide variety of health ailments, but there are several that are especially common within the breed. These include: Dental problems All dogs are susceptible to dental problems, including tartar buildup and gingivitis. Heart problems The category of "heart problems" covers a wide array of issues that can affect all dogs. This includes heart murmurs and arrhythmias. Hip and elbow dysplasia Hip and elbow dysplasia refers to painful abnormalities in the hip and elbow bones. Patellar Luxation Patellar Luxation is an abnormality in the kneecap that can cause issues with mobility. Progressive Retinal Atrophy Progressive Retinal Atrophy refers to a group of diseases that cause photoreceptor cells in the eyes to degenerate, resulting in reduced vision. Sebaceous Adenitis Sebaceous Adenitis is a condition that affects the sebaceous glands. These are the glands in the skin that keep skin and fur healthy. When these stop working properly, damage to the skin and fur will result. This is by no means a complete list of health issues that can affect Poodles. Regular checkups at the vet are a must for any dog. Other Poodle Colors Poodles are known for having a wide variety of coat colors. These various coat colors do not lead to any differences in temperament. Possibly the most popular shade of Poodle next to the black Poodle is the white Poodle. Many people feel that white fur makes Poodles appear more soft and cuddly. Brown Poodles come in a variety of shades, from dark brown to a more tan color. Red and apricot are rarer than most other colors of Poodle. Their fur has hues of copper or auburn within it. Apricot is usually considered to be the color most recently introduced to Poodle breeding, so it is more difficult to breed. Not all gray Poodles are senior dogs. Poodles can be born gray. Or, as discussed earlier, they can gray prematurely. Conclusion Even once you have decided to bring a Poodle into your life, you still have many options when it comes to the size and coloration of your new pup. No matter your living situation or personal preferences, between the Toy, Miniature, Moyen, and Standard Poodle, there is sure to be a size that will work for you. And with their multitude of coat colors, you can be certain to find a pup that fits your aesthetic tastes. Many regard the black Poodle as the most beautiful and elegant of all Poodle colorations, and it is easy to see why. Still, with their friendly and energetic personalities, any type of Poodle is sure to bring light into your life. For more helpful articles about pet-parenting tips, check out the Off Leash blog at TryFi. Want to know more about TryFi. This is the fastest way to find your dog after an escape. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. Black Poodles Overview With so many Poodle colors, many cannot choose a favorite. However, the stunning solid black and the snowy pure white are the 2 most common Poodle colors. When it comes to a black Poodle, let's take a look at how one may be confused when the puppy is a newborn and begin to look at the genes that are involved with this color dog. Poodles have 2 coats of hair, an outer coat the one that you will see and the inner coat the one which you will usually only see when grooming. A true black Poodle is a deep ink black. The dog's outer coat will have zero blue or silver tinting and not have any white or silver guard hairs Although a black can have graying due to aging .The face skin when shaved will be deep black, as well. A true black will not "clear" or "fade" as the dog turns from puppy to adult. Blacks will have black points and very dark brown eyes. Therefore, if you have or see a black Poodle newborn puppy, one must look at the points of the dog and the pup's pedigree to determine if a change will take place. This means a change of color in the coat of the dog. All blue Poodles are born black and then "clear" within 1 to 2 years. For this reason, many blue Poodles are registered as black. The outer coat of a blue is usually as dark as that of a black, but hairs at the root is a mix of colors. The amount of each color depends on the age of the dog. In middle-aged dogs, medium brown predominates. True blue Poodles will have blue skin pigmentation and most have dark brown eyes. A true black Poodle will have 3 certain enzymes that must all be present to produce black. The first is referred to as the dark eumelanin enzyme.Scarlett, 18 months old Photo courtesy of owner: Dorothy Poodles that do not have this, will have the Pheomelanin enzyme instead, which would create a light colored coat. So, to begin a Poodle may have the eumelanin enzyme and then in order to be a true black, there has to be two accessory enzymes that must be there as well, known as TRP1 and TRP2. Since dogs carry genes from both parents, a Poodle with 2 black color genes has the genotype of BB. If a Poodle has one black and one brown gene factor, the genotype is Bb; however black is dominant over brown and the coat would be black. That Poodle, however - if bred- will pass down the Bb gene, which could produce black or brown puppies, depending one which gene the other parent passes down. Do Black Poodles have Different Behavior? Have you heard of black dog syndrome? It applies to all sized dogs, however tends to be used more with medium to large sized dogs, therefore it would apply to the standard Poodle more than the toy. This is a theory that has not yet been fully proven - though informal studies have been done - that black colored dogs are passed over for adoption in favor of their lighter colored counterparts. Some say that this is most due to media TV shows and movies depicting black dogs to be more aggressive or non-friendly. While it appears that some shelters have reported that dark coated or black dogs take a bit longer to adopt out, this seems to only apply to mixed breeds. There are absolutely no temperament or behavioral differences between black Poodles and those of any other color. The coat color does not dictate a Poodle's personality, ability or socialize any other factors at all that would influence how the dog behaves. Caring for a Black Poodle Care elements are just about the same, there are only two minor differences: 1 Black coats will show light colored debris, just as lighter coats will show darker dirt and debris. For this reason, depending on what activities a black Poodle engages in and such things as the color fabric of carpeting in the house, etc. If a black Poodle is attracting light colored lint, a quick spritz of a finishing spray will help the hairs repel fine particles. Elements such as long term sun exposure may cause a gradual reddening or a fading. To keep the coat as deep and deliciously black as possible, you may want to use color enhancing shampoos that do not dye the hairs but do bring out natural color. 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. They can be found under Available Puppies. Just like all the other toy and miniature poodles we specialize in breeding, our black poodle puppies are of a quality unlike any others you will find. Please keep in mind that just as we have high standards for our poodles, we have in many ways even higher standards for the homes and owners we send them to. We want each of our black poodles to go to an owner who we know will appreciate and care for the dog as much as we do. In order to help us make a decision on why you may be the right person for one of our black poodles, we ask that you kindly fill out our Puppy Application form to provide us with some initial information. We look forward to learning more about you and why you hope to bring one of our lovely toy poodles into your home. Before applying, however, we invite you to browse our selection of black poodle puppies for sale to learn more about them. You will be able to view pictures and learn about their temperament, birth date, size, and more! Explore our website today to learn more about our black poodle puppies and our history of toy poodle breeding in general, and please contact us if you have any questions!
Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Goldador Overview The idea was to create a working dog with the sensitivity of the Golden Retriever and the tolerance of the Labrador Retriever. It worked. Cross them, and the result is the unequivocally genial Goldador. Thanks to their easygoing nature and keen intelligence, Goldadors have proven outstanding guide dogs, service dogs, search and rescue dogs, therapy dogs, and bomb detection dogs. But like their parent breeds, Goldadors are happiest simply working alongside a person they love. Goldadors are active and require at least half an hour of daily exercise — most enjoy retrieving games as well as hiking and swimming. Training the eager-to-please Goldador is relatively easy — they come from a long line of dogs who work closely and willingly with people. This makes them an excellent choice for first-time owners, provided they get the exercise, structure, and positive reinforcement they crave. Goldadors are also a good option for families with children though they can be a bit rambunctious for toddlers , as they want nothing more than to be part of family activities. The ideal residence for a Goldador is a home with a fenced yard, but with regular exercise and companionship they can live and thrive in apartments and condos. Whatever his home, a Goldador should live indoors with his people. Goldadors are good family dogs and generally do well with children of all ages. The Goldador sheds moderately and requires weekly brushing. Goldadors require about 30 minutes of exercise per day. They enjoy being outdoors and can make excellent jogging companions. Although a house with a fenced yard is the ideal home for a Goldador, he can do well in an apartment or condo with proper exercise. Goldadors can be a good choice for first-time dog owners. Goldador History The Goldador was first developed more than a decade ago: the Labrador Retriever and the Golden Retriever were crossed with the hopes of creating a sensitive, tolerant working dog. The effort proved successful. At this time, there are no breed clubs or any efforts to create a breed standard for the Goldador. Goldador Size The Goldador is one of the few designer breeds with a fairly predictable size, as both parent breeds are large and similar in size and shape. The Goldador is usually 22 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs 60 to 80 pounds. Goldador Personality The Goldador is affectionate and loyal, alert enough to make an excellent watchdog, but too friendly to be an effective guard dog. His intelligence and desire to please render him highly trainable, and he responds best to positive reinforcement techniques. Socialization helps ensure that your Goldador puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Goldador Health Goldadors are prone to certain health conditions. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Hip dysplasia is hereditary, but it can be worsened by environmental factors, such as rapid growth from a high-calorie diet or injuries incurred from jumping or falling on slick floors. Elbow Dysplasia is a heritable condition common to large-breed dogs. This can lead to painful lameness. Your vet may recommend surgery to correct the problem, or medication and weight loss to control the pain. Cataracts are an opacity on the lens of the eye that causes difficulty in seeing. The eye s of the dog will have a cloudy appearance. Diabetes mellitus is a disorder in which the body cannot regulate blood sugar levels. Blood sugar levels are regulated in part by insulin, which is produced in the pancreas. Glucose sugar is needed by the cells of the body to burn for energy; insulin is the key that lets the glucose into the cell. Without insulin, the glucose cannot enter the cell, so the cells are hungry even though there are high levels of glucose circulating in the blood. A diabetic dog will eat more food to try to compensate, but he will lose weight because food is not being used efficiently. Signs of diabetes are excessive urination and thirst, increased appetite, and weight loss. Diabetes can be controlled by diet and daily insulin injections. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA : This is a degenerative eye disorder that eventually causes blindness from the loss of photoreceptors at the back of the eye. PRA is detectable years before the dog shows any signs of blindness. Fortunately, dogs can use their other senses to compensate for blindness, and a blind dog can live a full and happy life. Both parents should have health clearances from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals for hips, elbows, heart, and thyroid and from the Canine Eye Registry Foundation CERF certifying that the eyes are normal. Goldador Care The ideal home for a Goldador is a house with a fenced yard where he can play safely; however, he can do well in an apartment or condo if he gets daily walks or runs. Interested in dog sports? Goldadors make formidable competitors in agility and flyball. Mental stimulation is crucial as well. Teach your Goldador to fetch the paper or your slippers, practice obedience training regularly with him, and put his mind to work from time to time with an interactive dog toy. As with all dogs, positive reinforcement techniques praise, play, and food rewards work best with the Goldador. Goldador Feeding Recommended daily amount: 3. Note: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. For more on feeding your Goldador, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Goldador Coat Color And Grooming A Goldador should have the same double coat as a Labrador Retriever, with a short, thick, straight topcoat and a soft, dense undercoat some have a slight wave down the back. Weekly brushing with a rubber curry brush will remove dead hair, helping to keep it off your clothes and furniture. During seasonal shedding periods, however, daily brushing is recommended. Bathe your Goldador as needed, and be sure to give him a thorough freshwater rinse any time he goes swimming. The Goldador can be prone to ear infections, so check and clean the ears weekly. Other grooming needs include dental hygiene and nail care. Trim his nails once or twice a month, as needed. Handle his paws frequently — dogs are touchy about their feet — and look inside his mouth and ears. Goldador Children And Other Pets Goldadors are an ideal family companion and are generally gentle and loving toward children of all ages. As puppies, they can be a bit rambunctious and may knock over smaller children unintentionally, so close supervision is important. Social and easy-going, Goldadors do well with other dogs and pets, especially when raised together. Always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how good-natured, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Goldador Rescue Groups There are no official rescue groups for the Goldador, but this cross is frequently available at private and municipal animal shelters. More Info For You. Breed Title Goldador Puppies Temperament Goldadors are an amazing combination of the intelligence and trainability of the Labrador and the friendly, gentle personality of the Golden Retriever. With their outgoing, friendly character and sweet disposition, Goldadors make excellent family pets around children and other animals as they have a great aptitude for understanding people. In terms of temperament, these beloved pups are highly sociable but not overly boisterous or hyper; they enjoy playing fetch but rest just as happily on your lap or at your feet while you work. Golden Labrador Retriever Puppy Health Considerations Though generally very happy and long-lived — with an average lifespan of around years — our Goldadors for sale are not without their unique health concerns. Like every breed of dog, there are a few conditions you should be aware of before you consider purchasing one of our Golden Labrador Retriever puppies for sale. Understanding the risks allows you to know the signs and prevent small health concerns from turning into big ones. Finding a Golden Labrador puppy for sale from a reputable breeder can also dramatically — although, not eliminate — the risk of your dog developing some of these conditions. Depending on the climate they live in, Goldadors may need regular baths — however omitting shampoo once or twice a year will ensure their coat retains its natural oils. Finally it is recommended to check the ears regularly and trim nails as needed. Adopted Golden Labrador Retriever Puppies. Tomato leaves stem or unripe fruit Alcohol, beer, wine or liquor Grapes or raisins Golden Retriever Crossed with Labrador Exercise Requirements The Lab Golden Retriever Mix has an active temperament so they might get destructive if they get bored. It is recommended to exercise them at least 2 hours daily. Getting them to do physical activities every day will help keep him happy and healthy. Here are some outdoor activities that you can try with your Golden Retriever Lab Mix: Hiking: It is a great way to turn your daily walk more challenging and exciting for your dog. Swimming: Utilize your private pool and do a swimming exercise with your dog companion. Swimming does not only serve as an exercise activity to yourself and to your companion dog, but it is also a great bonding experience. It also provides relief from the heat during the summer months. Make sure you supervise your dog all the time while doing this activity. Dock Diving: This is a fun sports activity to enjoy with your dog. All you have to do is throw a floating toy and encourage your dog to jump and swim out to retrieve it. If you and your Golden Retriever Lab Mix want to upgrade the challenge, you can try joining a Dock Diving Club and compete with other dogs. Play Fetch: This is a classic outdoor game that is great to do in summer. Challenge your dog by putting a twist to the activity, you can either use a Frisbee or a tennis racquet to make the object travel farther for your Golden Labrador to retrieve and return back to you. However, you should not be working them too much because when it comes to recovering objects, both parent breeds of Golden Retriever Lab Mix can be overly enthusiastic. However, even though they are intelligent dogs and has a friendly nature, you still need to put time and effort to train them better. Both parent breeds were bred to carry things. The best way to teach your Goldador not to bark is to socialize them frequently with strangers. Use Positive Reinforcement The Labrador crossed with Golden Retriever is a sensitive type of dog, so training them using positive reinforcement will be very helpful. Make sure to avoid negative punishment-based training since this hybrid dog may end up fearing you rather than respecting you as their leader. Make it a regular routine to reward your puppy whenever they do something right. Training your Goldador consistently in a positive method will give you pet companions that are obedient and good-natured. Do Mental Exercise The Golden Retriever mixed with Lab is an intelligent dog, and they need stimulating mental activities to avoid developing any aggressive behaviors, such as nuisance barking and chewing. Without proper mental exercise, Goldador puppies will grow into a passive, timid and uninspired dog. Labrador Golden Retriever Mix and Families Despite its large size, the Labrador mixed with Golden Retriever is a great family dog because of its easy-going personality. It is extremely friendly and affectionate. The Goldador is the type of dog that goes well in a loving and active family — one that considers him as a family member. The Golden Labradors cherish the company with children. They are naturally gentle, but they can play tirelessly as long as your kids can keep up. However, due to their sheer size, supervision is still needed around toddlers and infants. The Goldadors makes an excellent therapy and companion dog. Because of their affectionate nature, they generally do well when given lots of attention and affection. These hybrid dogs love to be with people, and hence it is tough for them to cope with solitude. So give love lots of love and affection to your Goldador Lab Retriever Mix and expect that it will shower you back with love. The double coat has a soft undercoat below a rough top coat that is water resistant. Either way, their coat will be fairly high maintenance. Shedding and Grooming Your new friend is going to shed, sometimes a lot. Both parent breeds heavily shed their coats with the change of seasons twice a year. For the rest of the year, expect a moderate level of shedding. Increased brushing during transitional times can help catch the loose hairs and stop them from spreading everywhere. Golden Retriever Labrador mixes will need weekly brushing, likely more during shedding season. Their nails should be trimmed regularly as well. Are They Hypoallergenic? The Goldador dog will not be hypoallergenic. They are high shedders, spreading dander from skin and saliva liberally around your home! With designer breeds like the Golden Retriever Lab, you can only make an educated guess about their temperament based on the general demeanor of their parents as well as the temperament of the parent breeds as a whole. If they are left alone a lot, they may become very destructive to your home. They will chew out of boredom or anxiety. As many Lab lovers know, these dogs do not know a stranger. Generally, the Goldador will get on well with children and other pets. Socialization Socialization from an early age is important for any breed, including the Golden Retriever Lab. Even though it hails from overly friendly and sociable breeds, there are still no guarantees to the temperament of your dog. Since training and socialization are both best started early on, puppy training classes can be a great way to both train and socialize your puppy at the same time. Training Tips The Goldador has an easygoing and eager to please temperament that helps make them highly trainable. Owners should start training early, from the time their puppy comes home. The parent breeds have a long history as service dogs, bomb detection dogs, hunting dogs, and now therapy dogs. Obedience classes will help create a well-mannered dog but also strengthens the bond between the dog and owner. Since Goldadors grow to be large dogs, obedience is also important to prevent them from jumping up at your guests! Energy Levels Golden Retriever Labrador puppies will grow into high-energy adults with a love for playing and a passion for retrieving! A Labrador Golden Retriever Mix makes a great companion for jogging, hiking, or cycling. This is a breed that also loves to swim. Canine sports, like agility, obedience trials, and tracking, are also a great way to keep your dog physically active, mentally stimulated, and out of trouble. As a very social breed, they do best as indoor dogs, but with a large, fenced in yard to run around. In addition to self-exercise, they need walks or other forms of daily activity with their owners. Exercise is especially important for the health of your Goldador since both Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers have a tendency to develop elbow and hip dysplasia. Weight management is one way of combating these joint problems. Health and Care All pedigree dog breeds are inbred to some extent. The measure of this is called the coefficient of inbreeding COI. The higher the COI, the greater the risks of health issues arising specifically from inbreeding. In a crossbreed such as the Goldador, the COI is usually much lower than it is in a purebred dog, and this is a good thing. To begin to look at the health and care of a Goldador we first need to consider the inherited health risks from both parent breeds Labrador and Golden Retriever. Labrador Health Labrador Retrievers are prone to a few hereditary health conditions and joint problems, as well as some health issues common to most dogs. To help minimize the likelihood of hereditary health issues in your new Goldador pup, check that your breeder has followed the recommended testing for the Labrador Retriever breed: Hereditary Nasal Parakeratosis HNKP. Life Span Did You Know? The Golden Labrador is a designer dog breed that originated in the United States. They are a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Labrador Retriever. The goal was to combine these two highly popular breeds to create a dog that exhibits the best traits from both of them. A mixed dog breed can take after one parent breed more than the other or any combination of traits from the parent breeds. This can result in some variation among individual puppies. But, overall, a Golden Labrador is friendly, intelligent, energetic, and affectionate. Although this mixed breed is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other notable organizations like the American Canine Hybrid Club and more. This large designer breed is characterized by their energetic personality and friendly disposition. Both of the parent breeds in this cross are open, friendly, and affectionate, so you can expect the same in your Golden Labrador puppy. They are very playful and get along fabulously with children, other dogs, and other pets. They may be alert enough to be a good watchdog, but they do not make good guard dogs. They are instinctually more interested in making new friends and getting attention than they are with anything else. They can have a slight prey drive, but most of the time, they are just curious and interested in playing and making friends. The Golden Labrador is a moderately adaptable dog breed. Their large size and energy tend to make them a better fit for larger homes with room to run. They can adapt well to apartment living as long as they are given enough exercise and mental stimulation. But, small spaces can be a challenge because they are large dogs that are so playful and energetic. Golden Labradors do well in just about any climate. As with most dog breeds, they are sensitive to heat and extreme cold. Because they love their families, thrive on attention, and get bored easily, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. As a mixed breed, a Golden Labrador can inherit the potential health conditions of one or both of the parent breeds. Although the Golden Labrador is a relatively healthy dog breed, there are some potential health conditions to be aware of. These include eye problems like progressive retinal atrophy and joint issues common to large dogs like patellar luxation and hip dysplasia. Like their parent breeds, the Golden Labrador can be prone to weight gain, which does put them at risk of diabetes later in life. Reputable breeders will screen their stock to ensure genetic conditions are not being passed on to puppies. Regular vet visits, proper nutrition, and sufficient exercise can help keep your dog healthy and reduce preventable diseases. Both of the parent breeds in this cross are highly intelligent and highly trainable, so the Golden Labrador should be no different. Eager to please their owners, these dogs pick up on things quickly and respond best to positive training methods focused on praise and reward. This dog breed, like both of the parent breeds, is a great fit for owners of all experience levels, including first-time dog owners. Their high energy can sometimes be a challenge, so you may want to consider puppy training and obedience classes. This designer dog breed may be called a Golden Labrador, but they can show up in many colors. A cream, yellow, or golden coat may be the most common, but a Golden Labrador can also have a black, red, or brown coat. It tends to be a dense double coat that is short or medium in length. This dog breed will shed moderately year-round with heavier shedding sessions twice a year as the seasons change. During seasonal changes, you may want to increase to daily brushing. Not only will this make your dog more comfortable, but it will also decrease the amount of loose fur that ends up around your house. In addition to coat care, you will also need to handle nail, ear, and dental care for your Golden Labrador. Floppy ears tend to trap more dirt, moisture, and debris, which makes them more prone to developing ear infections than ears that stick straight up. Unfortunately, this is often overlooked, which is why gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Beyond that, you can use vet-approved dental hygiene chews and treats and even a specially-formulated dental care diet to supplement your efforts. Getting them used to it early and keeping it a positive experience can make grooming a lot easier as your puppy grows into a big dog! Plus, it can become a bonding experience that your dog looks forward to. Golden Labradors are high-energy dogs. Daily walks, playtime, and some extra activity are generally enough for this dog to stay happy and healthy. But, they will probably tire out before you do! Their friendly nature makes the Golden Labrador a great fit for trips to the dog park. Try teaching your dog how to play frisbee. With their retriever background, it could become one of their favorite activities. You can also train your Golden Labrador for several dog sports like agility, dock diving, obedience, and more. A fully-grown Golden Labrador usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. A Golden Labrador generally lives years. Although Golden Labrador is the most popular name for this designer dog breed, they are also sometimes referred to as a Goldador or a Goldador Retriever. Featured Golden Labrador Article. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. The Labrador retriever and the golden retriever are two of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. Both are attractive and energetic dogs that are highly intelligent, easy to please, and incredibly friendly. It was only ever a matter of time before someone tried to cross these two breeds. The resulting crossbreed is known as the Goldador! This crossbreed mixes the best of both parent breeds to create a friendly pup ideal for active families with children or for taking on sociable working roles. With the right amount of love, affection, exercise, and mental stimulation, these crossbreeds make the perfect addition to any household. Goldadors are even suitable for first-time owners, as long as their owner has enough time and energy to keep up with these energetic, loyal pups. Read on to find out everything you need to know about Goldador dogs. Goldador Main Characteristics Height: 22 to 24 inches Weight: 60 to 80 pounds Lifespan: 10 to 15 years Key Characteristics: Intelligent, highly trainable, friendly, good with children, high energy, moderate shedding Goldador: History Of The Breed Labrador Retrievers Labrador retrievers were originally Canadian fishing dogs that were later imported to the UK and developed to be a retriever-gun dog. The Labrador is a sporty medium-sized dog with a stocky physique and a broad, square face. They usually weigh between 55 and 80 pounds. They tend to have a short, dense coat that is water-resistant, and these dogs love to swim! The most common coat colors are black , yellow, and chocolate. Labradors are very friendly and tend to make friends with strangers and other animals with ease. They are highly intelligent and easy to please, which makes them easy to train. These characteristics combined make them excellent working dogs, especially when it comes to disability support. They are often used as guide dogs. Labs are energetic dogs that need lots of exercise and attention. Golden Retrievers Golden retrievers were also bred in the UK to retrieve shot waterfowl such as ducks. They have a soft mouth that allows them to delicately retrieve and bring back game undamaged. Like Labradors, golden retrievers also love water and are strong swimmers. This is another medium-to-large breed that typically measures somewhere between 20 and 22 inches in height. They have a double coat with a top layer that is high shedding. They are both friendly and confident, which makes them excellent family pets. They are also particularly good with children, who they will adopt as their own. While they will be protective of their people, golden retrievers are very friendly and more likely to go in for a pat and a play rather than bark or attack a stranger. They are intelligent, biddable, and have a strong eagerness to please, which makes them highly trainable. This is why golden retrievers are also often used as working dogs in activities such as search and rescue as well as disability assistance. Goldador Goldadors have been around for about 20 years and are an attempt to bring together the best of the Labrador and golden retriever breeds. Normally, crossbred dogs can be highly unpredictable, because there is no reliable way of predicting how the genes of the two parent dogs will mix. However, with Labs and Goldens, while we may not be able to predict their exact appearance, the temperaments of the two dogs are consistent enough that the resulting mix always has the friendly, intelligent, and easy to please temperament that most people are looking for. Goldador Appearance Goldadors are medium-to-large-sized dogs that typically measure between 20 and 24 inches tall and weigh somewhere between 55 and 80 pounds. Females tend to be noticeably smaller than the males. You can expect them to reach their full size somewhere between 18 and 24 months of age. Goldadors typically have a double coat that mixes a short, thick, straight topcoat and a soft, dense undercoat. This allows them to enjoy a swim even in the coldest water, but it also means they tend to shed quite a lot. They need to be brushed at least once a week to remove dead hair and more often during seasonal shedding periods. Their coat is likely to range in color from a yellowish gold to a reddish gold, though on rare occasions, they may inherit the black or chocolate coat of their Labrador parent. It is difficult to predict whether the square face of the Labrador or the more pointed face of the golden retriever will be prevalent in their puppies. While they might jump up to protect children they consider to be part of their family, aggression among these dogs is almost unheard of and will almost always relate to some kind of traumatic experience. They are more curious about other creatures than worried about them. Intelligence Goldadors are extremely intelligent, and both of their parents are ranked among the most intelligent breeds. This means not only that they can learn new commands quickly, but that they are also independent thinkers. They can figure out what is wanted from them in new situations based on their past experiences. Of course, when not probably utilized, this intelligence can become problematic. A Goldador left at home for hours on end is likely to turn their keen mind into finding a way to escape. Trainability There are many intelligent dogs out there that are difficult to train primarily because they are incredibly stubborn. Thankfully, Goldadors are eager to please and highly motivated by reward, which makes them extremely loyal and easy to train. These dogs also have a great work ethic, and they enjoy having something to do. This means they make great working dogs, and they have the attention span to take on challenges such as disability support. They find this mentally stimulating and emotionally rewarding. Energy Level Goldadors have lots of energy that needs to be burned off on a daily basis. They need a minimum of at least 30 minutes of solid exercise a day, but they will really thrive if given at least an hour or more of exercise per day. They are better adapted to spaces with at least a small garden to apartment living. They will particularly love joining their families on hikes and other adventures. They also love to swim, so swimming should make up a regular part of their activity. Independence Goldadors love being around their people. These are not the types of dogs you can leave at home for extended periods of time. While they might be able to settle down and do nothing for a few hours when you are around, if they are left alone, they can become anxious. This prolonged anxiety can result in lots of nervous, and often destructive, energy. Goldador Health Risks If you adopt a Goldador, you can expect them to live for roughly 10 to 15 years, which is a respectable amount of time for a large-sized dog. They can be prone to inherited health conditions, but whether or not your Goldador will suffer from any of these ailments as they grow is pretty much the luck of the draw. You can get some indication of their likelihood of developing these conditions if you look at the medical records of their parents. One of the most common health problems affecting Goldadors is hip and elbow dysplasia. This is a malformation of the bones that occurs as they grow, as their bones grow at different rates and end up being the wrong size for one another. The best way to prevent this is with a healthy diet and lots of exercise when they are young to prevent the problem from developing. Check out our advice on choosing the right dog food for your Goldador. These dogs can also develop joint issues in later life, which can make moving painful. If this happens, an orthopedic bed that helps take excess pressure off their joints can make a big difference. Goldadors may also develop problems with their eyes, including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. These dogs often lose at least some of their sight as they pass through their senior years. They also have a tendency to develop diabetes. If this happens, they will require a special diet. I started raising guide and service dog puppies over 15 years ago. The Goldador has been gaining in popularity among many of the service dog schools. When I spoke to the puppy program manager at Canine Companions for Independence, he told me that the majority of their service dogs were Labrador Retriever Golden Retriever mixes. Many other schools have introduced Golden-Lab mixes into their service dog programs. The mixed traits of both a Golden and a Lab is very popular among guide and service dog schools. Should I Get A Goldador? Having read all of this, you might still be wondering whether a Goldador is the right dog for you. You should start by asking yourself whether you are in a position to make the commitment to adopting any dog. Remember, by adopting a dog, you are committing to care for, love, and support your pup for the next 10 to 15 years. Do you have plans to move in the coming years? If so, will you be able to take your dog with you? Do you have someone who can look after your dog when you travel? This could be a friend, a family member, or a reputable kennel that is able to care for your dog for a certain period of time. Once you have answered those questions, it is time to think about adopting a Goldador specifically. Be sure to ask yourself the following questions moving forward. Do You Have Space? Goldadors thrive when they have at least some outdoor space to call their own. They will struggle with apartment living. Be sure your outdoor space is properly fenced to prevent your Goldador from escaping if they get bored and start digging. Goldadors need to be around people often. They can develop anxiety issues if left alone for extended periods of time. Are there people around the house most of the time to keep your dog company? Also, will you be able to commit at least 30 to 60 minutes each day to providing your Goldador with exercise? Be sure you have plenty of time to spend with your Goldador, as they can be fairly emotionally needy dogs. Goldadors not only need quite a bit of physical exercise, at least 30 minutes a day, but also quite a bit of mental stimulation. Their intelligence and work ethic mean they need someone to take the time to train them and keep them occupied. Thankfully, Goldadors are actually excellent dogs for first-time owners. They are highly trainable, so even a novice should be able to teach them the essentials. Their friendly nature means you are also very unlikely to end up with an aggressive dog that you struggle to control. Additionally, if anyone in the home has asthma, you will want to groom your Goldador regularly to avoid leaving excess hair around the home. Yes, Goldadors are excellent dogs that mix friendliness, intelligence, and energy in one adorable package. The characteristics of their parents tend to complement each other nicely to create a medium-to-large-sized dog that makes a great family pet or working pup. How much does a Goldador cost? The exact cost of a Goldador depends primarily on your location and whether you adopt from a shelter, a breeder, or elsewhere. How do you train a Goldador puppy? The best way to train most dogs is by using positive reinforcement. This means showing your pup the behavior that you would like and then rewarding them when they complete the behavior. Positive reinforcement training teaches dogs how to perform desired behaviors and that they can expect good things to happen if they do it. Soon, it will become instinctive, and you will no longer need to reward them every time. This is a particularly good form of training for Goldadors because they are highly motivated by both treats and pleasing. It is never a good idea to punish dogs when they misbehave. Finally, punishment often teaches dogs different lessons than the ones you actually want them to learn. For example, instead of learning not to pee in the house, they might just learn not to pee while you are around. They are great with children and have a temperament that first-time owners should be able to manage well. They are energetic dogs that do best when they have some outdoor space to call their own and at least 30 minutes of exercise each day. Overall, Goldadors are: Extremely loyal, but will develop separation anxiety if left alone for too long Large dogs that tend to shed heavily Does this sound like the perfect canine companion for you? If so, then why not think about adopting a Goldador today? If you are thinking about adopting from a shelter, consider reading our guide on what to expect when you bring your pup home. Do you have any experience with Goldadors? Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist.
golden retriever puppies connecticut - They are intelligent, patient and well-mannered companions who often have funny personalities and a love of children. Despite their aggressive looks, they are calm and friendly so they do not pose a threat as long as they are properly trained and socialised from a young age. Their unique look has led to some common health issues, so be sure to educate yourself before committing to owning one. Neonatal During the first 4 weeks of your Bulldog's life, they should spend most of their time with their mother and litter-mates. It is highly unusual for the puppy's owner to care for them during this time and is best left to a responsible, reputable breeder. Your puppy's body will double in weight as their muscles, organs and bones develop. Nutrition During the neonatal stage, your Bulldog puppy will get most of their nutrition from their mother's milk. At around 4 weeks introduce a few dry kibbles mixed with warm water to your puppy. Health During this time it is important to monitor your Bulldog for any infections, diseases or birth defects. Puppies are unable to urinate or defecate by themselves initially, so their mother helps them but may additionally require your assistance. Keep your vet's contact details close by and educate yourself thoroughly on this stage of puppy development. By the end of this period, your puppy will be mobile and will explore the world mouth first — be sure to keep choking hazards and toxic foods out of their reach. Behaviour During most of this time your Bulldog will be asleep or inactive, but they will soon be playing with their brothers and sisters. After weeks they will go through as much sensory development as a human baby does in a few months. It is important to avoid disturbing the puppies' mother as she will be likely be protective, but some interaction with the young pups is normal so they become used to human touch. Weaning When you take your English Bulldog home usually at around weeks you should provide them with lots of stimulation and attention. This is a formative time for your puppy and will be when they learn to walk, play, bite, hold their bladder, and interact with others. English Bulldogs are intelligent and crave affection but are stressed by loud voices, so do not scold them excessively or they will likely run away from you. Establish boundaries early as your puppy will only become more stubborn as they get older. Nutrition During the weaning stage, you should slowly introduce into their diet a nutritionally complete dog food which is appropriate to your Bulldog's moderate size and young age. This breed tend to be greedy eaters so care should be taken to avoid overfeeding them to prevent bloat. Monitor their bowel movements for oddities as they may require a special diet. You should also familiarise yourself with lists of toxic foods and plants to avoid. Colostrum, rich in natural antibodies, proven to enhance immune response 2. DHA from omega-rich fish oil helps nourish brain and vision development 3. Colostrum proven to balance intestinal micro flora, helps protect your puppy from common intestinal upsets 4. Highly digestible quality ingredients for superior nutrient absorption 5. Easy rehydration of kibble for weaning 6. Scientifically proven antioxidants to boost immune defence 7. No added artificial colours, flavours and Know more Health During this time you should provide your puppy with a small, shallow bowl of clean water and refresh the contents frequently. Regularly touch your Bulldog puppy between their wrinkles as this will become a necessity later in life — many Bulldogs get skin infections if they do not have special lotion applied to their skin. Monitor your puppy's breathing during play and allow regular breaks to avoid exhaustion. Behaviour Due to the changes in their environment, your Bulldog will be under a significant amount of stress. It's important that you provide lots of attention and affection, however, due to their stubborn nature you should establish your dominance early. It is recommended that for Bulldog puppies you should normalise taking things from their mouth and removing food from their bowl to avoid possessiveness later in life. You should also start toilet training and leash training early to avoid bad habits forming. Puppy By the time your English Bulldog reaches puppyhood their personality will be well developed and you will have an easy-going and fun friend. Your bulldog will be relatively energetic and enjoy playing tug-of-war, but care should be taken not to overly exert them on hot days or they will have difficulty breathing. Nutrition Your Bulldog puppy's diet should be based around a high quality, nutritionally complete puppy food. It is particularly important that you make sure you do not overfeed your pup as Bulldogs can become incredibly lazy. No added artificial colours, flavours and preservatives Know more Health English Bulldogs are moderately energetic but are quickly exhausted, so only take short and relatively brisk walks with them when the weather is not hot or humid. Many develop breathing problems due to their short snout, and they don't do well in humid climates as they may develop skin conditions. You can keep them cool on a hot day by bringing them into an air conditioned room. After around 8 weeks your puppy will be due for some vaccinations, so they will need a checkup at the vet and to arrange for boosters after that. Behaviour English Bulldogs are friendly, but even as puppies they can be intimidating or act aggressively around strangers who invade their personal space. You can combat this by taking them to obedience classes and getting them into good habits early. Training your Bulldog early to release things from their mouth is essential as they have incredible jaw strength from their heritage as bull fighting dogs. Discourage jumping from ledges and stairs as these can result in long-term shoulder and back problems. Recommended Articles. Given that they are experts in the field of animal health and welfare, they will know the best meal schedule for your dog. This is one of the simplest methods to keep your Bulldog happy and healthy. Therefore, by choosing the best food for your beloved buddy to eat, you could extend its life span! Some examples of dry dog food are dog biscuits, kibble, and flaked cereals. Before serving dry dog foods to Bulldogs, warm water or broth is frequently added to this to improve the texture and enhance the flavor. Canned Wet Food: Canned wet food is sometimes preferable to dry food because it has a lot more moisture and thus will keep your dog hydrated. Moreover, wet dog food is also more likely to be appreciated by your English Bulldog puppy because it is usually more flavorful. However, wet food may increase the likelihood of dental issues. Homemade Diet: Homemade diets can help you save money. This diet also allows you to have more control over the macronutrients your dog consumes. As a result, with a homemade diet, you can rest assured that your dog is only consuming the best ingredients. Raw Diet: Raw dog food can be purchased as a frozen log, or it can simply be prepared at home. However, keep in mind that it should be prepared using quality meat and healthy fats. When it comes to choosing the right food for a Bulldog puppy, you need to be sure that it has high-quality protein to allow its body to function properly. If you accidentally drop something on the floor, these canines will gobble it up. However, some foods are incredibly toxic and dangerous for English Bulldogs to consume, even in small amounts. Here are some foods that you should avoid feeding your Bulldogs: Chocolate: This delectable human food includes theobromine , a poison that impairs the kidney, heart, and other important organ functions of a Bulldog puppy. If consumed in large amounts, xylitol can cause severe liver damage to your Bulldog. Raw Bread Dough: This is extremely poisonous. Milk and Other Dairy Products: Providing milk and other dairy products could lead to puppy diarrhea and other digestive system problems. These human foods may also set off food allergies, which may result in crusty scabs around the mouth of your dog. Grapes and Raisins: These may be enticing to dogs as treats or snacks, but they could also contain mold and fungus, which can result in gastrointestinal discomfort, seizures , lethargy, or kidney failure. Tomatoes: These contain tomatine , a poisonous alkaloid that can cause muscle weakness, diarrhea, vomiting, loss of coordination, and seizures. Avocado: This tasty human food contains persin, which takes dogs some time to digest. It may cause severe stomach pain, breathing problems, and a buildup of fluid in the chest. Mushrooms: If your English Bulldog puppy consumes wild mushrooms, you should treat it as an emergency because it can result in neurological symptoms, kidney and liver failure, and even death. Macadamia Nuts and Walnuts: These delicious Hawaiian treats rank among the most hazardous human foods for dogs. These nuts can cause hind legs to become paralyzed for anywhere between 12 and 24 hours after consumption. Aside from the listed foods, there are other foods that your Bulldog puppy should stay away from. Therefore, when your dog transitions from a puppy to an adult dog and also when they get closer to seniority, it makes sense to switch to a different diet. It could take some trial and error to find the best food for them. You can use the following transition chart as a guide for your English Bulldog puppy: Day. Nutritional requirements of a Bulldog What exactly should the diet of a Bulldog consist of for optimal health? Protein from quality meat sources 2. Essential Fatty acids and omegas 3. Natural vitamins and minerals from bone and plant sources 5. Hydration — high moisture foods and drinking water 1. Protein When selecting what to feed your Bulldog, choose a diet with high-quality animal-based protein sources, such as beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, duck, eggs, and fish. As such, protein impacts canine health in many ways, including: Providing consistent energy Forms new skin, hair, nails, and other tissue. Keeps the immune system healthy. Makes hormones, enzymes, and antibodies. Properly balanced fats are essential for optimal health, and also provide energy. Dietary fat we generally refer to as a triglyceride. There are two types of triglyceride, saturated and unsaturated fat. In balance, they promote a healthy coat, skin, eyes, nervous system, control hormones, fuel brain and learning, and reduce inflammation. Carbohydrates, such as vegetables and some fruits, provide fibre, prebiotics food for beneficial bacteria , and antioxidants that are lacking in meat alone. Dogs are carnivores, but they can benefit from some vegetation in their diets for optimal health. Natural vitamins and minerals A raw food diet aims to replicate what dogs evolved to eat in the wild. As such, meat, bone, offal and a small amount of plant ingredients are all important ingredients in the diet of a Bulldog, each adding highly beneficial vitamins and minerals to meal times. Incorporating ground bone in meals or providing recreational bones for enrichment add nutrients that will support digestion, skin and bone health, and mobility. As such, water is a vital nutrient for all cells, systems and functions, including: The regulation of body temperature Maintaining healthy organ function. The digestion and absorption of nutrients. Detoxification; water helps to flush out toxins and waste products from the body. Preventing dehydration which can lead to serious health problems, including kidney damage and heat stroke. Lubrication and cushioning of joints, thereby supporting ease of movement. Discover more about a raw food diet for dogs in our complete. Bulldog raw feeding guide Whilst you could create homemade raw food meals for your Bulldog, dog owners new to raw feeding can often find making their own raw dog food meals complicated. Formulating meals with the appropriate ratios of key ingredients is essential to ensure your dog receives optimal nutrients, so going it alone can seem daunting. The good news is there is a much simpler approach. By choosing a reputable supplier of pre-prepared raw dog food supplier, you can stock your freezer with quality raw food meals at the click of a button. Bulldog Feeding Chart. So, unless you want an overweight, unhealthy, stinky, bulldog, let's establish a few rules. While not always practical, this is very manageable. If your bulldog does not know what you are eating, then they not interested in what you are eating. This will also keep them from loitering around your kitchen and dining areas. It can cause hot spots on their skin. And, they will eventually prefer your food over theirs, keeping them from getting proper nutrition. Do not give in the temptation of their adoring big eyes and little pink tongue hanging out. Trust us, all of you will be much happier in the long run. These sheets project the kind of food, the number of feedings per day based on an expected rate of growth and maturity. This makes it much easier, but still may not be entirely right for your dog. Please, consider the BIG picture here. Choosing the right food for your bulldog will bring a lifetime of benefits. While the right food may cost more per feeding, it usually will save you lots of money in the long run. If your French, American, or English Bulldog is healthy due to a proper bulldog diet, you will avoid many unnecessary trips to the vet, additional supplements, and unnecessary medications. Supplements and medications cost much more than a good bag of bulldog food. We have found that bulldogs seem to do best with lamb, fish, or beef based foods. Many bulldogs have allergies to chicken, so we tend to avoid these. Choose a balanced food, with the right amounts of protein, carbohydrates, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals. This article will not focus on dry vs. A future blog will tackle all of these in detail. Your bully's food should feature all of the following: Antioxidants Animal protein sources, for the best amino acid ratio and superior digestibility A blend of omega fatty acids for healthy skin and a shiny coat Natural fiber ingredients to help maintain optimal digestion and intestinal health Glucosamine and chondroitin to help support healthy joints DHA Docosahexaenoic acid No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy For adult bulldogs, we recommend that you use the Large Breed formula, if offeredeven if you have a smaller bulldog. This formula will help with your dog's weight management and overall nutritional needs. Bulldog Grade does not, however, always recommend feeding your bulldog as much as the manufacturer may suggest. This simply may be too much food. For instance, our 2. According to the back of the bag, we should feed her between cups per day. No way, she would be HUGE! She eats one cup in the morning and one cup in the evening. This is plenty of food for her and easily satisfies her. In other words, she is content and does not beg for food or wait by her bowl between feedings. She is at her proper weight, according to her vet. She is very healthy. All signs that she is getting the right amount of food at each meal. RULE 3: Choose Supplements Wisely Good food should provide just about everything your bulldog will need, so there is little need for additional supplements. Many supplements are full of junk, go rancid, add extra calories and fat to the diet, cost a LOT of money, and do not have many positive benefits. However, if you live in certain climates, maybe where it is warm year round, your bulldog will shed more than usual. Or, you may find you need something extra for tear stains, hot spots, etc. Please do your homework, and remember: less is more! The only supplement we add to their diet is organic coconut oil. Just a tablespoon per day keeps our bulldogs shedding under control, keeps their coats puppy-soft, and adds a few nutrients that are beneficial to them. Ever since we introduced this many years ago, with previous bulldogs , we have not had any tear stain issues: zero hot spots, no other skin issues. Is coconut oil a miracle? No, not really. But, when paired with very high-quality dog food, it seems to help our bulldogs. It should be out the kitchen, easily accessible and climate controlled i. There is a sink to fill her water bowl quickly, and the floor is not carpeted, making it easy to clean up and keep sanitary. Bulldogs do tend to drip a lot of water after drinking. Some drool while eating. These mats can absorb up to 1. They do help keep the area around her bowls clean. This will assist their breathing, chew rate, and ability to swallow while feeding. It will also promote proper digestion and minimize burping. This can easily be achieved with a set of elevated, stainless steel bowls. Don't skimp here. Your bulldog loves to eat, so make it as healthy and enjoyable of an experience as possible! Dirty dishes lead usually have harmful bacteria, which can lead to chin bumps, gastrointestinal issues, and other health issues. It only takes a minute to rinse the bowls out with hot soapy water after a meal. We also clean and sterilize them in the dishwasher at least 2X time per week. Treat them with love, respect, and as you would your children. They deserve the best, as you now have the best dog on the planet. Spend an extra 30 minutes a day with them, giving them your undivided attention. Love them, hug them, and most of all take fantastic care of them! We hope this is helpful. If it is, and you'd like to hear more from us please join our bulldog community at BulldogGrade. The potential benefits of raw Swapping Puppy Food Brands When you first bring your Bulldog puppy home you should feed him the same food that he was getting from the breeder or shelter for about three to four weeks. This will give him time to acclimate to his new surroundings and get used to being separated from his mom and siblings. Mix about three-quarters of the puppy food he eats now with one-quarter of the new food for the first two to three days. For the next two or three days give him equal portions of the old and new food. Finally, give him three-quarters of the new food and one-quarter of the old food for two to three days. Bulldog Puppy Diets The sheer number of different puppy foods to choose from can be overwhelming. Your breeder may be able to give you some guidance. Puppies need plenty of protein to promote strong bone, muscle, and joint growth. Guidelines on labels will give you an idea of the amount to feed your puppy, but ultimately each dog is an individual. Their body size, not what the label says, is a better indicator of a proper portion. A serving size can also vary depending on the type of food or brand as well. Special Requirements Bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed. Chewing and swallowing can also be a problem. This is because the palate, teeth, tongue, and tissue are the same size as that of a dog with a much longer muzzle. Many Bulldogs also suffer from brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome which causes serious breathing issues that can also make eating difficult. You might also find combining dry food with a good quality wet food is easier for them to consume. From three to six months, you can reduce it to three times a day. At six to 12 months old, you can feed him twice a day. Bulldogs are highly at risk for hip dysplasia. In fact, this study of 20 English Bulldogs found that none of the hips showed normal development and .Feeding a Bulldog Puppy Kibble Dry kibble is probably the most popular all-round puppy food choice. Make sure you choose a dry formula designed specifically for puppies. However, not all brands are created equal. Stay away from ingredients like corn. Puppies with allergies Physical Traits That Will Impact Your Choice Having a very short muzzle can present some challenges with lifting up and munching on food. English Bulldogs can also struggle sometimes with swallowing their meals, and with taking in sufficient oxygen while they are busy eating. Bulldog puppies often also have teeth that are overly crowded together in their smaller mouths. Rounded, triangular or other unique-shaped kibble are ideal, avoid the traditional large square bits. And if your English Bulldog puppy is still having a tough time with chewing, mix dry kibble with some wet puppy food. Portion sizes Begin by following the amounts listed on the packaging. How often to feed English Bulldog puppies Little and often is always the best approach when feeding a puppy. I start my puppies off with four meals a day, spread evenly over the daylight hours. Best dried food for English Bulldog puppies These three brands make some of the best food for English Bulldog puppies. You will notice each food is enriched with special nutrients, minerals and vitamins. Those that your English Bulldog puppy needs to develop healthily in every way. Royal Canin Bulldog Puppy dry dog food Royal Canin creates tailored recipes for the unique needs of different puppy and dog breeds. This has the same unique S-shaped kibble. Best canned food for English Bulldog puppies The best food for English Bulldog puppy can end up being a combination of dry puppy food mixed with a bit of wet puppy food. It also makes learning how to grab and chew the dry kibble just a bit easier! For both puppies and adult dogs, wet food can be more palatable than dry kibble. It is designed in a complete and balanced nutrition puppy formula. A great choice to mix with the Purina Pro Plan dry kibble, to help your English Bulldog puppy learn how to grasp and chew solid food! There are no artificial ingredients or by-products in this wet food either. Packed with vitamins, lutein, taurine and fish oils, your English Bulldog puppy will have the nutritional support to make the extra work of eating worth it. This is a great choice to mix with Royal Canin Bulldog puppy dry food for a little extra mealtime incentive! Best food for English Bulldog puppies with food allergies Treating food allergies in puppies often requires two phases: allergy testing and a limited ingredient diet. One of the known triggers for food allergies in dogs is grain. So the best puppy food for Bulldogs who have food allergies is often a grain-free diet. Plus DHA and plenty of vitamins and minerals to help with digestive support and immune system health. The kibble is a unique triangle shape which can be easier for your puppy to grab hold of and pick up. Best food for English Bulldog puppies with sensitive stomachs Finding the best dog food for English Bulldog puppies can sometimes be a challenge because of their unique anatomy. This can sometimes lead to digestive disruption. A limited ingredient diet may ease tummy upset, gas, diarrhea and other symptoms of a sensitive stomach. There is very minimal processing and no artificial additives of any kind. The kibble is both round and rectangular, offering a nice mix of shapes to help your English Bulldog puppy grasp it more easily. There is no corn or beef, both of which can be a source of digestive upset in puppies. This limited ingredient puppy food comes in two recipes: chicken and oats or lamb and rice. Both recipes include plenty of glucosamine and chondroitin, calcium and phosphorus. As well as vitamins and minerals to support healthy joints, bones and immune system. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. It is very important to keep in mind that English bulldogs are somewhat different to most breeds. And correct feeding technics are of utmost importance during and after their full development. Your English bulldog puppy does not know anything about nutrition. He only knows what tastes good. It is up to you to know what and how to feed your buddy, so he will get everything he needs to stay healthy and happy. Best Diet for English Bulldogs Best Nutrients for English Bulldog Puppies Your English bulldog puppy needs proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals for uptime growth and health Your puppy uses proteins for growth and repair of muscles, bones and other bodily tissues. They are also used for production of antibodies, enzymes and hormones. Vitamins and minerals participate in muscle and nerve function, bone growth, healing, metabolism and fluid balance. English bulldogs also need plenty of fresh, clean water. Adequate water intake also helps prevent formation of urinary stones, which is a potential problem for this breed. Food Brands for English Bulldogs We recommend to new English bulldog families to avoid drastic changes in the food of the puppies. We recommend the puppy keeps using the same food the breeder used before delivery. In our case, we like to use Royal Canin Bulldog Puppy. We have used several other brands over the years. And, so far, Royal Canin has worked great for our puppies and adults. When feeding our English bulldog puppy, we take into consideration several factors. Such as the amount of protein and fat they should receive in the first few weeks of age. There are other brands in the market that may provide the same or similar amount of protein and fat. However, you should consider important things such as ingredients of the food, allergies it might cause. As professional breeders of English bulldogs, we always let our clients know about the food we give to our puppies. In addition to other supplements that we use. That way, the new owners of the English bulldog puppies can continue with the same process. But, we do understand that a lot of times people may decide to go a different route. Both for the type of food and feeding technics. Sometimes, based on what they may consider, it is correct or better for their English bulldogs. Or perhaps after receiving veterinarian advice. Our recommendation is to continue to use the one we use. Feeding Frequency for English bulldogs The number of times you feed an English bulldog puppy is also very important. The younger the puppy is, the more often one has to feed the puppy. For breeders, it is a lot of work due. Mainly due to the fact that we have to care for the puppies since day one. We have to rigorously continue feeding them at least every two 2 hours. Usually, when we release our puppies; they will be at least eight 8 weeks old. And they will be eating solid food. At this stage, it is recommended to feed the puppies three 3 times a day. Once in the morning, afternoon, and early evening. Sometimes due to a matter of schedule or advice from friends, breeders or veterinarians; families will feed the puppy two 2 times a day. This will make things a little easy for the family training the English bulldog. If this is the case, the correct amount of food should be provided to the puppy. Always based on their body weight as well as the age of the puppy. A feeding guide or table should be available to you on the bag of food you use. In most cases it is recommended for an English bulldog to be on the puppy formula for the first year of life and then a gradual change to an adult formula containing the same nutrients should be given. It is important to keep in mind that if you as an English bulldog puppy owner encounter any issues with your dog such as allergies or other common illnesses among bulldogs, then veterinarian advice should be taken. Should I give supplements to English Bulldog Puppies? This food will provide the puppy with the nutrients needed to have a long, healthy life. But as breeders, we use other things to supplement the diet of our English bulldogs so that we can keep them away as much as possible from common illnesses among them. The use of the right type of supplements from an early stage in the development of the dog is key when raising English bulldogs than with a lot of other breeds. This is due to the fact that English bulldogs have a weaker skeletal system and a lower immune system than other breeds. Having the presence of supplements will help the puppy to develop into a healthier adult. Eggs, cod liver oil, chicken breast, some vegetables are also great for them. Along with the food we use, we also recommend the multi vitamin NuVet. It helps with a lot of the common issues the English bulldog breed encounters during their life. For detail information on NuVet and how to order instructions, please visit our website and click on the link on top that says NuVet. If you think you still have questions about the right food to feed your English bulldog puppy or the correct supplement or multi vitamins you can use; please feel free to contact us. Remember that English bulldogs are the best breed in the world; therefor quality food, treats and supplements are ideal when having them as pets. Share this post.
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golden retriever puppies connecticut - The link has been copied! Golden Retrievers are beloved for their friendly and sociable nature, but do they bark a lot? Understanding the barking habits of Golden Retrievers is essential for owners looking to manage and minimize excessive barking. Factors that influence Golden Retrievers' barking include breed characteristics, training and socialization, and environmental stimuli. While Golden Retrievers are not known to be excessive barkers by nature, individual differences can exist among dogs. To manage and minimize excessive barking, consistent training, providing adequate exercise, addressing anxiety and boredom, and utilizing distractions and redirecting behavior are key strategies. However, excessive barking may indicate a problem such as separation anxiety, fear or aggression, or pain or discomfort. Recognizing these signs is important for addressing underlying issues. Tips for bark control and training include using positive reinforcement techniques, seeking professional training assistance, and utilizing anti-barking devices if necessary. By understanding the factors influencing Golden Retrievers' barking and implementing effective strategies, owners can create a harmonious environment for both their furry friends and themselves. Do Golden Retrievers Bark Frequently? Golden Retrievers are beloved for their friendly nature, but what about their barking habits? In this section, we dive into the question: "Do Golden Retrievers bark frequently? Get ready to uncover the truth about Golden Retrievers' vocal nature and how it may vary depending on factors such as training , socialization, and breed traits. Understanding the Nature of Golden Retrievers Golden Retrievers are well-known for their friendly and outgoing nature, making them highly sociable and eager to be around both people and other animals. It is crucial to comprehend their nature when it comes to training and managing their behavior effectively. One crucial aspect of the nature of Golden Retrievers is their inherent need for companionship. They flourish in a family environment where they can receive ample attention and affection. These loyal canines possess a strong desire to please their owners, which contributes to their high trainability. Another significant aspect of their nature is their abundant energy levels. Golden Retrievers are an active breed, necessitating regular exercise to ensure their happiness and overall well-being. Engaging in daily walks, playtime, and providing mental stimulation are vital for these dogs to channel their energy appropriately. Golden Retrievers also exhibit a natural instinct to retrieve due to their historical role as hunting dogs. Their love for fetching is deeply ingrained in their nature, making them ideal candidates for activities such as agility training and obedience trials. Furthermore, Golden Retrievers are renowned for their gentle and patient temperament, particularly when it comes to interacting with children. They generally display non-aggressive behavior and tend to get along well with other animals too. Understanding the nature of Golden Retrievers is essential for their overall welfare and for creating a harmonious living environment. By ensuring they receive the right amount of exercise, training, and socialization, the natural characteristics of these dogs can be nurtured and enhanced. This, in turn, leads to the development of a joyful and well-adjusted Golden Retriever that brings immense joy and companionship to their owners. Factors That Influence Golden Retrievers' Barking Golden Retrievers are known for their friendly and sociable nature, but what factors contribute to their barking habits? In this section, we'll uncover the key influencers behind a Golden Retriever's barking tendencies. From breed characteristics to training and socialization methods, we'll explore how these elements shape their vocal behaviors. We'll delve into the impact of environmental stimuli on a Golden Retriever's barking patterns. Get ready to unravel the secrets behind our lovable, tail-wagging friends and their barks! Breed Characteristics Golden Retrievers are renowned for their distinct breed characteristics, which play a significant role in their behavior and propensity to bark. Possessing an understanding of these characteristics is essential for effectively managing and training these dogs. To give an organized overview of the breed characteristics of Golden Retrievers, here is a table that highlights some key attributes: Breed Characteristics 2. Intelligent and Eager to Please 3. Active and Energetic 4. Social and Good with People and Other Animals 5. Strong Retrieving Instincts 6. Affectionate and Loyal 7. Adaptable and Versatile Golden Retrievers' friendly and gentle nature not only makes them excellent family dogs but also contributes to their reputation for being great with children. Their intelligence and eagerness to please render them highly trainable, thus making them ideal for various tasks and activities, such as obedience training and therapy work. Due to their active and energetic nature, Golden Retrievers require regular exercise to keep them both physically and mentally stimulated. Their social disposition enables them to establish strong bonds with their owners and other animals, thereby making them exceptional companions. The strong retrieving instincts of Golden Retrievers stem from their historical role as hunting dogs. This characteristic is apparent in their inclination to carry objects in their mouth or retrieve items for their owners. It is important to note that individual dogs may exhibit varying levels of specific breed characteristics, while their environment and upbringing can also influence their behavior. Understanding these breed characteristics is instrumental in cultivating a positive and fulfilling relationship with Golden Retrievers, all while effectively managing their barking tendencies. Training and Socialization When it comes to training and socialization of Golden Retrievers, there are several important factors to consider: Start early: It is crucial to begin training and socialization your Golden Retriever puppy as early as possible. This helps establish good behaviors and prevents any potential issues from developing. Positive reinforcement: Use positive reinforcement techniques such as treats, praise, and rewards to train your Golden Retriever. This type of training and socialization encourages good behavior and helps build a strong bond with your pet. Consistency: Be consistent in your training and socialization approach and expectations. Golden Retrievers respond well to routines and consistency, so establish clear rules and boundaries from the beginning. Socialization: Expose your Golden Retriever to different people, animals, and environments to help them become well-rounded and friendly. This can include visits to parks, encounters with other friendly dogs, and positive experiences with new people. Obedience training and socialization: Teach your Golden Retriever basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, and come. This type of training and socialization is essential for keeping your dog safe and well-behaved in various situations. Patience and persistence: Training and socialization take time and patience. Be patient with your Golden Retriever and continue to reinforce positive behaviors consistently. Seek professional help if needed: If you are struggling with training and socialization, don't hesitate to consult a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. They can provide guidance and tailor training and socialization techniques to your specific needs. Remember that training and socialization are ongoing processes throughout your Golden Retriever's life. By investing time and effort into these areas, you can ensure a well-behaved and socially confident dog. Environmental Stimuli Environmental stimuli can have a significant impact on the barking behavior of Golden Retrievers. It is important to understand and address these environmental stimuli to effectively manage and minimize excessive barking. To provide a clear and organized presentation of the information, a table can be created: Stimulus Influence on Barking Loud Noises Golden Retrievers are highly reactive to sudden loud noises like fireworks or thunderstorms, which can lead to increased barking. Other Animals Golden Retrievers may bark in response to the presence of other animals, especially if they feel threatened or excited. Visual Stimuli Golden Retrievers have a strong sense of sight and may bark at moving objects or unfamiliar people passing by. Separation Being left alone for extended periods can cause anxiety in Golden Retrievers, leading to excessive barking as a form of communication. Boredom A lack of mental and physical stimulation can result in Golden Retrievers getting bored, which may lead to increased barking as a way to alleviate it. When addressing environmental stimuli, it is essential to provide consistent training to help Golden Retrievers better understand when it is appropriate to bark and when it is not. Ensuring they receive adequate exercise and mental stimulation can help reduce their reaction to these stimuli. If excessive barking persists despite management efforts, it may be a sign of underlying issues such as separation anxiety, fear, or discomfort. In such cases, it is important to seek further attention and potentially professional assistance. To promote a peaceful environment and minimize excessive barking, it is crucial to identify and address the environmental stimuli that trigger barking in Golden Retrievers. By understanding their reactions and implementing appropriate training and management techniques, owners can help their pets develop better barking behavior. Managing and Minimizing Excessive Barking Excessive barking can be a challenge when it comes to our beloved golden retrievers. In this section, we'll uncover effective strategies to manage and minimize this behavior. From consistent training techniques to addressing anxiety and boredom, we'll explore various approaches to help curb excessive barking. We'll dive into the importance of providing adequate exercise and utilizing distractions to redirect their behavior. So let's get started on finding practical solutions to promote a peaceful and harmonious living environment with our furry friends. Consistent Training Consistent training: Consistent training is crucial for managing and minimizing excessive barking in Golden Retrievers. It's important to establish clear commands, use positive reinforcement, and avoid yelling or punishment. By consistently addressing triggers and considering professional training if needed, you can help your Golden Retriever develop better behavior and minimize excessive barking. Providing Adequate Exercise To ensure that your Golden Retriever remains healthy and well-behaved, providing adequate exercise is crucial. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to providing exercise for your Golden Retriever : Daily physical activity: Golden Retrievers are an active breed and require daily exercise to maintain their physical and mental well-being. Aim for at least minutes of moderate to high-intensity exercise per day. This can include activities such as brisk walks, jogging, or playing fetch. Mental stimulation: In addition to physical exercise, Golden Retrievers also need mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Incorporating brain games, puzzle toys, and training sessions into their daily routine can help keep their minds sharp and engaged. Variety of exercises: Golden Retrievers thrive on variety, so try to mix up their exercise routine. Take them to different environments such as the park, beach, or hiking trails. Introduce them to new activities like swimming or agility training to keep them mentally and physically challenged. Age and health considerations: Consider your Golden Retriever's age and health when providing exercise. Puppies require shorter bursts of exercise and should avoid high-impact activities to protect their growing joints. Older dogs may need a more gentle exercise routine that accommodates any age-related limitations. Consult with a veterinarian: It's always a good idea to consult with a veterinarian to determine the specific exercise needs of your Golden Retriever. They can provide guidance based on your dog's age, health condition, and individual needs. Remember, providing adequate exercise is not only important for your Golden Retriever's physical health but also their mental well-being. A tired and fulfilled dog is generally happier and less likely to engage in excessive barking or unwanted behaviors. Addressing Anxiety and Boredom When it comes to addressing anxiety and boredom in Golden Retrievers, there are a few strategies you can implement to help keep them calm and content: Provide mental stimulation: Engage your Golden Retriever's mind with interactive toys, treat puzzles, or training sessions. This can help occupy their thoughts and prevent boredom-induced anxiety. Regular exercise: Golden Retrievers are an active breed that require daily exercise to release pent-up energy. Aim for at least minutes of physical activity, such as walks, hikes, or playtime in a fenced yard. Create a safe space: Addressing anxiety and boredom in your Golden Retriever is crucial. Set up a designated area in your home where your Golden Retriever can retreat to when they feel anxious or overwhelmed. This could be a cozy corner with their bed or a crate with a comfortable blanket. Establish a routine: Dogs thrive on routine, as it provides them with a sense of security and predictability. Addressing anxiety and boredom includes sticking to a consistent daily schedule for meals, walks, playtime, and rest periods. Provide companionship: Addressing anxiety and boredom involves recognizing that Golden Retrievers are social animals and can experience anxiety when left alone for long periods. If possible, try to have someone stay with them or consider options like doggy daycare or dog walkers. Addressing anxiety and boredom in your Golden Retriever is crucial for their overall well-being and can help reduce excessive barking. Remember, every dog is unique, so observe your furry friend's behavior and adjust your approach accordingly to ensure they feel safe, happy, and loved. Fun Fact: Golden Retrievers are known for their friendly demeanor and are often used as therapy dogs due to their calming and comforting nature. Utilizing Distractions and Redirecting Behavior Utilizing Distractions and Redirecting Behavior: When your Golden Retriever starts to bark excessively, redirect their attention to a different activity or object. This can be done by offering them a toy, playing a game, or giving them a puzzle toy to keep them mentally stimulated. Use positive reinforcement: Reward your dog when they are calm and quiet, and ignore their barking behavior. This will teach them that being quiet is more rewarding than barking. Distract them with noise: Use a noise distraction to shift their focus away from barking. You can clap your hands, use a spray bottle with water, or make a loud noise to interrupt their barking and redirect their behavior. Train them with alternative commands: Teach your Golden Retriever alternative commands such as "sit", "down", or "stay" to redirect their energy and focus. This will help them learn to follow commands and provide them with mental stimulation. Provide mental and physical exercise: Make sure your dog gets enough exercise and mental stimulation throughout the day. A tired dog is less likely to bark excessively. Engage them in activities like long walks, interactive play, or training sessions to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. By implementing these strategies, you can effectively utilize distractions and redirect your Golden Retriever's behavior when they start to bark excessively. Remember to be consistent in your training and provide them with plenty of mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and reduce excessive barking. When Excessive Barking May Indicate a Problem Excessive barking can be a concern for Golden Retriever owners, but when does it become a signal for a bigger issue? In this section, we'll explore three possible factors that may underlie excessive barking in Golden Retrievers. From separation anxiety to fear or aggression, and even pain or discomfort, we'll unravel the potential reasons behind their vocal outbursts. Let's dig deeper into the complex world of Golden Retriever communication to better understand our furry friends. Separation Anxiety Separation anxiety is a common issue among Golden Retrievers when they are separated from their owners or left alone for a period of time. It can be distressing for both the dog and the owner. One important factor to consider when dealing with separation anxiety in Golden Retrievers is the breed's tendency to form strong bonds with their owners. Golden Retrievers are known for their friendly and loyal nature, and they thrive on human companionship. When they are separated from their owners, they can become anxious and exhibit behaviors such as excessive barking, destructive chewing, and even self-harm. To address separation anxiety in Golden Retrievers, it is important to gradually acclimate them to being alone. Start by leaving them alone for short periods of time and gradually increase the duration. Provide them with a safe and comfortable space, such as a crate or a designated area in the house, where they can rest and feel secure. It is also helpful to leave them with interactive toys or puzzles to keep their minds engaged and distract them from their anxiety. Providing plenty of exercise before leaving can help tire them out and reduce their anxiety levels. Seeking guidance from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist can be beneficial in addressing separation anxiety. They can provide personalized advice and strategies to help manage and alleviate the anxiety. Separation anxiety is a common issue in Golden Retrievers. With patience, consistency, and appropriate training, it is possible to help them overcome their anxiety and become more comfortable when left alone. Fear or Aggression When it comes to Golden Retrievers, fear and aggression can both be factors that contribute to excessive barking. It is important to have a thorough understanding of the reasons behind this behavior in order to effectively address it. Golden Retrievers may bark excessively out of fear. They may feel threatened or anxious in certain situations, such as encountering unfamiliar people or animals. To minimize their fear and reduce barking, it is crucial to provide them with a safe and secure environment. Some Golden Retrievers may exhibit aggressive behavior , which can manifest as excessive barking. This aggression could be due to territorial instincts or the need to protect their family. To prevent aggression and reduce excessive barking, it is essential to provide proper training and socialization. To effectively manage and minimize excessive barking caused by fear or aggression: 1. Consistent training: Establish clear boundaries and reinforce positive behaviors through obedience training. This will help Golden Retrievers understand what is expected of them and reduce anxiety. Providing adequate exercise: Regular exercise allows Golden Retrievers to release pent-up energy and reduces stress levels, ultimately leading to less barking. Addressing anxiety and boredom: Engage your Golden Retriever in mentally stimulating activities and provide them with interactive toys to alleviate anxiety and prevent boredom. Utilizing distractions and redirecting behavior: Use distractions such as toys or treats to redirect their focus when they start barking unnecessarily. Reward them for maintaining calm behavior. Excessive barking may indicate a problem such as: 1. Separation anxiety: Golden Retrievers may bark excessively when left alone. Gradually increasing their tolerance to being alone and providing them with comforting items such as blankets or toys can help alleviate this issue. Fear or aggression: Excessive barking can be a sign of fear or aggression problems. It is advisable to consult a professional dog trainer or behaviorist who can effectively address these issues. Pain or discomfort: If your Golden Retriever suddenly starts barking excessively, it could be an indication of pain or discomfort. Taking them to a veterinarian for a thorough examination is recommended. Remember, in order to reduce excessive barking in Golden Retrievers, it is crucial to understand the underlying causes of fear or aggression and address them through proper training and socialization. Pain or Discomfort Golden Retrievers may bark excessively when they are experiencing pain or discomfort. It is important to identify and address the underlying cause to alleviate their distress. If a Golden Retriever is in pain due to an injury, they may bark as a means of expressing their discomfort. It is crucial to carefully examine the dog for any signs of injury and seek veterinary attention if necessary. Certain health conditions, such as arthritis or urinary tract infections, can cause pain or discomfort in Golden Retrievers. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can help detect and manage these issues. Oral pain, tooth decay , or gum issues can make a Golden Retriever bark excessively. Regular dental care, including teeth brushing and professional cleanings, can prevent and address these problems. Digestive issues, such as gastric ulcers or food sensitivities, can lead to discomfort and barking in Golden Retrievers. A balanced diet and consultation with a veterinarian can help alleviate these problems. Infections, such as ear infections or skin infections, can cause pain or discomfort in Golden Retrievers, leading to excessive barking. Prompt medical treatment is essential to treat these infections and provide relief. Tips for Bark Control and Training Consistency is the key. When training your golden retriever to control their barking, make sure to be consistent with your commands and expectations. Use the same words and gestures consistently to reinforce the desired behavior. Positive reinforcement is crucial. Whenever your golden retriever exhibits calm behavior instead of excessive barking, reward them with treats, praise, or affection. This positive reinforcement will encourage them to associate good behavior with rewards. Identify triggers. Pay attention to what triggers your golden retriever's barking. Is it the doorbell or other dogs? Once you identify the triggers, you can desensitize your dog through gradual exposure and positive reinforcement. Provide mental and physical stimulation. Golden retrievers are intelligent and active dogs, and excessive barking can be a result of boredom or excess energy. Ensure regular exercise, playtime, and mental stimulation using interactive toys or training sessions to keep them engaged. Seek professional help if needed. If your golden retriever's barking persists despite your best efforts, consider consulting a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. They can assess the situation and provide tailored advice and techniques to help control your dog's barking. Remember, training takes time and patience. Consistent practice, positive reinforcement, and understanding your golden retriever's needs are essential for successful bark control and training. Golden Retrievers do not bark excessively, but when they do bark, it can have different meanings. They have a deep bark that can be intimidating to strangers, even though their personality is welcoming and gentle. What is the primary means of communication for Golden Retrievers? Barking is the primary means of communication for Golden Retrievers. It is often combined with body language to convey their needs or emotions. How can excessive barking in Golden Retrievers be reduced? Training, socializing, and stress management can help reduce excessive barking in Golden Retrievers. Responsive pet parents who have a strong emotional bond with their Golden Retrievers can anticipate situations before barking occurs and address the underlying cause. Why do Golden Retrievers bark? Golden Retrievers may bark for a variety of reasons. They may bark to seek attention, communicate with their owners, respond to stimuli, or alert their owners to potential threats. Is punishing Golden Retrievers for barking recommended? Punishing Golden Retrievers for barking is not recommended as it can confuse and scare them. It is better to train them to control their barking positively with the help of a certified dog trainer or behaviorist. Are Golden Retrievers good guard dogs? Yes, Golden Retrievers make excellent guard dogs. They may bark to alert their owners to potential threats, even if they may not seem threatening to humans. They have the best intentions of protecting their loved ones. You might also like. Request Barking One reason your Golden Retriever may bark is to communicate a need or desire to you. Meals, potty time , fetch, ear rubs, access to the yard, walks , car rides, bully sticks , etc. A dog who is request barking may stare at you intently between barks, and their feet may be a bit dancey. They may also run between you and the thing they want while barking, such as trotting to the door and then back to you to bark. Your dog might bark in the direction of the thing they want, rather than at you. Sometimes a request bark is accompanied by some whining and tail wagging as well. An owner might unintentionally reward a dog for barking, which then can result in more barking. For example, your Golden starts getting antsy because they know dinner time is soon, and they let out a few barks in your direction. This prompts you to get up and feed them. You can bet your bottomless pit took note of that and will be barking more to try to get you to feed them. If a bark works to get what they want, they will keep barking because it has been proven effective. One way to approach request barking is to stay a few steps ahead of your dog. If you know your dog will need to go potty a certain amount of time after a meal, for example, take them out before they can start barking at you. This prevents your dog from practicing the barking behavior and avoids you unintentionally rewarding the barking by giving them what they want. Another way to address request barking is to give them an alternative consequence. If your Golden Retriever starts asking for dinner through barking, you can put a leash on them and bring them over with you while you finish up your emails, or put them in a covered crate. Wait until your pup is chilling on their bed, then pick up their favorite toy for some playtime. This will teach your dog that if they act in calm, quiet ways, good things happen. Alarm Barking Some Golden Retrievers will bark to announce the presence of something, usually a person or animal, near their house or property. Alarm barks can vary by dog, but are usually a sequence of one or two barks, a pause, and then more barks. Some dogs may bark incessantly while the object in question is within sight outside the house, and others may mix in some growls too. Many dogs will run to the door or window where the potential threat is located, and some pace around a bit too. Alarm barking is a natural behavior for dogs, but if you prefer your dog respond in a calmer way to the daily occurrences outside your home or yard, there are some things you can do. An easy fix is to put up some frosted window film on windows where your Golden Retriever plays neighborhood watch. Another solution is to train a positive interrupter. This can work well for dogs who alarm bark at things they see, and also for dogs that alert to noises. Repeat a few times in a row. Step 3: Practice this in different rooms at different times of day for a couple of days. Step 7: Now that the cue is well-established, it can be used to interrupt alarm barking! As they show success, you can call out from further away in the house. With time, you may notice your Golden Retriever skipping the barking and simply coming to find you when they see or hear something. If they do, be sure to reward them with some treats! Follow all the steps and be generous with the rewards before using it in a real-life situation. Excitement Barking You may notice that your Golden Retriever starts barking when they get excited. A Golden Retriever who is barking out of excitement shows wiggly, loose body language. A pup who is carrying their favorite ball or stuffed toy is unlikely to bark. Keep a stash of toys near locations where your dog tends to bark out of excitement so you can help calm them down. You can also train your dog to go find a toy, which creates a positive new routine in exciting scenarios. Rather than barking like a happy fool, they know to grab a puppy pacifier. If your dog is overexcited, a short time-out can also help them learn to be quiet. Calmly guide them to their crate, your car, a mat, or just further away until they can show some self-control. This helps them understand that calm and quiet behavior is what gets them back to having fun. Another solution for excitement barking is to teach your dog to focus on you. Step 2: Toss a treat a couple of feet away, let your dog eat it. Toss another treat to repeat the pattern. Step 3: Take the game to new locations, starting with low distraction spaces and building up to more challenging places. Step 4: Add in other distractions. Instead of tossing a treat, use an easy distraction to play the game, perhaps a family member walking by, or a toy set on the ground at a distance. Step 5: Build up to more challenging distractions. Practice this focus game in increasingly hard situations, working up to the situation that causes them to bark out of excitement. You can reward at a high rate for their focus. Getting a golden retriever puppy? Check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook! Fear Barking Sometimes Golden Retrievers will bark out of fear. There may be something in their environment, such as a person, dog or object, that causes them concern or stress. Golden Retrievers are known for being very friendly dogs, but some may be more sensitive than others and will exhibit fearful barking. Barking that comes from fear can look differently depending on the dog. Some dogs may lunge forward while barking at whatever is causing them discomfort. Others may retreat from the scary or weird thing while looking back and barking. Fearful barking may also be accompanied by growling, bared teeth, and raised hackles. Is it men with beards? Kids on bikes? Large dogs? There are two games you can play to help your fearful dog feel more calm and confident: Look at That and Treat and Retreat. Simply give them a treat. Repeat this ten times. Repeat this another 10 times. Play steps one and two a few times at home. You can use different people or dogs that your dog is comfortable with to start. Keep your dog at a distance where they can be successful as they learn how the game works. Step 3: Take the game on the road. Perhaps you can chill in a quiet corner of the park where your dog can spot a trigger without reacting. Find a way to create more distance and try again. As your dog shows success, you can gradually get closer to the trigger. As you progress with this game, your dog will begin to point out triggers they see in their environment and then check back in with you, rather than reacting. Step 1: The person throws treats away from your dog. Give the person a supply of treats. Ask them not to make direct eye contact with your dog. When they enter your house, or your general vicinity if doing this outside, have them toss a treat behind the dog. The dog will have to move away from the person to get the treat. Not only do they get a yummy snack, but they also get more distance from the person. And that distance is what they want. So they are getting double rewards! Step 2: The person alternates tossing the treat behind the dog, and between them and the dog. Start with a treat toss behind the dog. Then have the person toss a treat in front of the dog. The dog will have to move toward the person to get it. Then another toss behind the dog. Go back and forth between these two treat placements. Again, repeat this with different people and environments. You want to see your dog looking happy and confident with this. Loose body language and easy movement are good signs. As they show success, the person can toss the treats closer and closer to their feet. Aggression Barking Some Golden Retrievers may bark out of aggression in certain situations. Aggression is a broad term to describe a wide variety of dog behavior, but in general can be defined as threatening or intentionally harmful behavior directed toward another dog or human. Goldens are notorious for their friendly demeanors, but aggression can show up even within this typically social breed. Aggression is complex, and sometimes a dog may bark aggressively in an attempt to avoid a potential conflict, rather than trying to start one. A dog may bark aggressively if someone infringes upon what they perceive as their territory, such as a home, yard or vehicle. Your Golden may also bark aggressively at other dogs due to a social conflict. Pain can also result in aggressive barking, as a dog may not want to be touched or approached out of fear of making the pain worse. Typically an aggressive bark is loud and deep, though it can vary from dog to dog. You can usually hear a difference in an aggressive bark compared to other kinds of barks — it sounds more intense and serious. A Golden Retriever who is barking aggressively may also growl, show their teeth, lunge, snap or bite. Their body may be stiff and they may give a hard stare in the direction of the person or other dog. Your Golden may also pin their ears back and quickly flick her tongue or lick her lips. The first thing to do in order to stop barking due to aggression is to prevent the behavior from happening. If you know your dog acts aggressively in a certain scenario, do everything you can to avoid putting them in that situation. Then, get help from a certified professional, such as your vet or a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant. Aggression needs to be taken seriously, so that you, your dog and the public remain safe. You can find a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant here ; many work virtually, so even if there is not a professional in your city, you can get the help you and your dog need. If you, another person, or another dog approaches the valuable thing or reaches for it, your dog may bark and show other signs of aggression. Resource guarding is a normal, natural behavior for dogs, but it can become dangerous. Your Golden can escalate from a bark to a bite if the behavior is not properly handled. A resource guarding bark will look like an aggressive bark described above in the Aggressive Barking section. You may see body stiffness, growling, snapping, and other aggressive behaviors accompany the barking. You might also see your Golden Retriever bark and then pick up the item if they are guarding a bone or toy, for example and take it further away. Your pup may put themselves in between the valuable thing and whoever they think may be trying to take it away while they bark. Resource guarding is a serious issue and can put your safety, as well as the safety of family members and other pets, at risk. First, do what you can to prevent the guarding behavior from happening. Perhaps that means not giving your dog a bully stick, or putting toys in a cabinet. Then, get help from a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, which you can find here. A very common solution that is recommended for dogs who guard their food bowl is to feed the food from your hand, or to stick your hand in the food bowl so they learn to tolerate your hand around their food. Not only is this not an effective solution, but it can actually make resource guarding worse! Always let your Golden Retriever eat in peace, without touching them or their food. Your Golden is the same way. You might think that punishing your dog will get them to stop barking. Resorting to physically punishing a dog is not recommended by dog behavior experts. It can really damage the relationship between you and your dog, and can create other behavior issues. Some dogs will actually bark more if you start making noise too. And if your dog is barking out of aggression or resource guarding, trying to punish your dog may very well make the behavior worse and put you at greater risk of a bite. You got your Golden Retriever because you want a loving, loyal companion, not because you want to intimidate or scare them. Getting help from a certified, professional trainer or a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant is also a great resource to help you work through the barking. How much and what kind of exercise are they getting? Are they getting quality sleep? Are they receiving appropriate mental stimulation? Are they eating a healthy, balanced diet? Are they experiencing pain or chronic health issues? Is your home a stressful living environment? A Golden Retriever whose needs are not met is more likely to resort to barking. If your Golden is in pain or sick , they may bark more. If your pup is living with a lot of stress or anxiety , barking may become their go-to behavior. Have any questions about golden retriever barking? Let us know down in the comments! Related articles:. By Tom Massey Jan 25, Known as a friendly and devoted family dog, the Golden Retriever has been one of the most popular breeds for 30 years. These energetic animals come in various golden shades and make excellent pets, working dogs, service dogs, therapy dogs, and more. The Golden Retriever is a remarkably intelligent dog and learns quickly when properly trained as a puppy. They are active animals who love to play, seeking attention from their owners to expend physical and mental energy. Most Labrador and Golden Retrievers are not known to engage in excessive barking and any dog owner of a Golden Retriever will tell you that this is not an aggressive animal. This is a genuinely happy-go-lucky dog breed, and if it starts barking without stopping, something is clearly amiss. Some speculate that the lack of excessive barking is because they were bred to help hunters, so barking would scare the prey away. Golden Retrievers are also friendly dogs and are not known to behave aggressively. They will let out several usual dog sounds , including howling, growling, chortling, whimpering, yelping, and fear or alarm dog barks. Sometimes, you will encounter dogs who simply like the sound of their voice and will bark for fun or attention. Then, you can take the appropriate training measures to reduce barking. Why Do Golden Retrievers Bark? A Golden Retriever bark can signify multiple things, but there are a few general feelings your dog may be trying to communicate. And they will start barking when they feel ignored. Repeated barking, which could get louder as time passes, is a sign that your Golden insists you pay attention to it, whether to play, feed, or pet it. They might start barking when you mention dog parks or pick up a toy and start playing with your dog. A Golden Retriever might also indicate that they want to play or visit the dog park by using body language and barking. These fears can range from being scared of thunderstorms and fireworks to acting terrified around the vacuum cleaner. Whether the fear is legitimate or not, your Golden Retriever is bound to release some extra barking when stressed or scared. And, as your puppy grows, you can reduce these stressors in its life. You can also train it to let go of irrational fears—for example, showing your dog that it has nothing to worry about when you run the vacuum. Their frustration can result from several things: their squeaker toy is too loud, they want more water in their bowl, or they want you to play. When they are frustrated, Goldens might repeatedly bark at the object of their frustration. They might also become a bit aggressive or destructive. They love their owners and are eager to please them. So when the time comes for its owners to leave for work, the dog might start experiencing separation anxiety and express it through barking. Addressing separation anxiety is crucial to having a healthy Golden Retriever. Your dog will not only be loud because of its anxiety, but it can also engage in destructive behavior, like chewing your belongings in the house. Training to help it overcome such anxiety from an early age is key to good behavior in the future. This type of barking is also accompanied by different body postures that make your Golden seem more threatening. According to the American Kennel Club, you can use a variety of training methods and strategies to reduce barking and promote good behavior. It should all start with determining why your Golden Retriever barks a lot, identifying any other stressors in its life, and then spending time to correct this behavior through training or working through stressors. There are different ways to train your Golden pup to reduce the different types of barking. Reducing Boredom and Attention Barking Most of your barking problems will be solved by mental and physical stimulation. Spend more time playing with your dog and stimulating it physically or mentally. A tired dog is less likely to have the energy to bark, so whenever you feel like your Golden Retriever is barking a lot, try playing with it. A better way to address playfulness barking is to create a fulfilling play schedule. If you follow a routine of playing with your Golden a few times per day, it will learn that schedule and know when it can expect to have fun. If even after setting a play schedule, your Golden is still barking, you need to increase the frequency of play. Reducing Alarm and Fear Barking If you hear your Golden barking out of fear or alarm, you should go to them and acknowledge the object of their fear. Then, wait until the dog has stopped barking to give it a treat. They need to know you are confident in the situation so they do not feel like they have to handle it. Once the dog understands that these sounds are not a threat, it will have no cause for alarm or fear. If you find it challenging to train your dog, you should look to get your Golden from a reputable breeder who has invested time into socializing and training it. They are trying to get something from you by barking, so if we acknowledge their barking, it shows them they are getting what they want. Reducing Aggressiveness Barking When your Golden is becoming aggressive or territorial, you need to train it to understand that you are the one who takes care of threats. When you hear loud barking with growling and see your dog in a protective stance, immediately step in to reassure it that you will deal with it. Golden Retrievers are particularly smart, and they can learn how to behave the way you want them to without punishment. While you should avoid rewarding them for bad behavior, punishment is not a solution. Spending time with your dog and giving it the attention and stimulation it needs is key to addressing unwanted behavior. Ask yourself the following questions: Is there anything scaring or alarming your Golden Retriever? Have you played enough with your Golden Retriever? Has your Golden Retriever received enough attention and pets? Are you establishing a regular training schedule for your dog? Does your Golden Retriever feel threatened? Conclusion Golden Retrievers are loyal companions, and they are an ideal dog breed for families. And to avoid buying a puppy that could have barking problems, you can get your Golden Retriever from an experienced breeder who has spent time training the dog and teaching them healthy behaviors. We train our purebred puppies so they form healthy habits at a young age. We also feed them the best diet to maximize their well-being. Get one of the most popular dog breeds in the country with the passionate and loving team of breeders at Snowy Pines today. Share on. Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. Golden retrievers make great watchdogs, and they are eager to please their family, but they can do so quietly. This dog breed is more likely to bark in a friendly tone, rather than an aggressive way. Some Golden Retrievers will bark at anything that piques their curiosity, such as a passing car or mailman. However, they will rarely bark for long periods. The most common reason for this dog breed to bark is because they want attention, or they are trying to communicate with you. In this article, we will look at some of the reasons Golden Retrievers bark, and how often. This will help you determine if a Golden Retriever is a right dog for you. Understanding This Behavior Barking is natural for all breeds of dogs, including the Golden Retriever. You should never punish your dog for barking, as they do not know any better. By punishing your dog for barking, you are confusing and scaring them for a natural behavior that they cannot help. Instead of reprimanding your Golden Retriever, train them to control their barking positively. Your dog should never feel scared to express themselves, and barking is an essential part of their communication skills. Although excessive barking can be annoying, there is a reason behind it that needs to be treated, whether professionally or at home. A certified dog trainer or behaviorist can help you professionally diagnose and treat your Golden Retrievers barking positively. Keep in mind that Golden Retrievers are excellent guard dogs. They will do anything to protect their family and they may not understand what a threat is, and what is not. Although you may not think a passing car is a threat, your Golden Retriever may bark to alert you and bring attention to the situation. Overall, your retriever may only have the best intentions in mind; to protect the people they care about most. Attention Dogs love to receive attention from their human companions, even if it means that they must display a behavior that is not generally appreciated. In modern times, most dog owners are out of work or doing daily activities that cause them to be out of the house for a long time. When you come home, your Golden Retriever may bark at you and bags its tails, merely a friendly greeting. This will trigger a response from you, such as patting their heads or allowing them to jump up on you. Your Golden Retriever will associate this behavior with something positive which may cause them to repeat this behavior. If you are perhaps playing with your dog, they may bark from excitement to get your attention and express their feelings. A Natural Response to Stimuli If your dog hears or smells that interest or sparks a reaction out of them, they will bark as a response. If your dog is hurt, they may bark as a response to pain, or if your dog cannot get something they want such as food or toys, they may let out a loud bark to express their frustration. Passing cars, neighbors walking their dogs past your house, or external noises that may be inaudible to your ears may cause your Golden Retriever to bark. If a neighboring dog is howling or barking, your Golden Retriever may begin to copy this behavior or even respond to the distressed neighboring dog. Image Credit: Katrin B. Golden retrievers will communicate through barking for several reasons, such as excitement, pain, stress, curiosity, and even encouragement. When dogs are playing together, they will use verbal and non-verbal cues to communicate with each other. A good example of verbal communication between two dogs is barking, whereas a non-verbal cue will be tail wagging and playful chasing. Boredom If your dog has been left alone while you are out of the house, or they are not getting enough mental stimulation and enrichment in their life, they may result to barking to get rid of their frustration. Golden retrievers that bark out of boredom may begin to howl throughout the day, which can become a nuisance for you and the neighbors. A bored dog can become stressed or depressed quickly, so it is essential to get to the root of the problem and fix it before it can cause any damage. A bored Golden Retriever will also start displaying other unwanted behaviors to alleviate their feelings of boredom and possible distress. Image Credit: Muk Photo, Shutterstock 5. Energy Release Many people get a Golden Retriever not knowing about their high energy demands. Golden retrievers are naturally athletic and active dogs. They require daily exercise in the form of running, playing, and chewing. Keeping a golden cooped up indoors or outside on a chain can cause a build-up of energy that needs to be released. A mixture of barking and howling is a good indication that your Golden Retriever may need a way to alleviate their energy, especially if they have been laying around all day. By depriving your Golden Retriever of proper exercise, your retriever can become obese, distressed, and bored. We understand that a Golden Retriever who barks constantly can be annoying, so we have some tips to help you manage this behavior. Firstly, determine the root cause for this behavior. Is your Golden Retriever left alone for hours at a time with no enrichment and interaction? Then they are most likely suffering from boredom. You will need to find ways to keep them busy while you are away, such as providing them with stimulating toys and activities and access to a large space so that they can release some energy. When you get home , take a nice stroll through the neighborhood with your Golden Retriever so that they can look forward to a nice walk at the end of the day. If your neighbors complain about noise disturbances, it might be best to keep your Golden Retrievers indoors with a doggy door so that they can use the bathroom when needed. Keep in mind that weather that is too cold or hot will cause your dog to bark excessively as they are uncomfortable. A cool shady spot with a kennel and freshwater can help combat heat-related discomfort. Take a few hours out of your day to interact with your dog and play with them. You can use various toys and strength-enhancing activities to help them release energy. If your dog barks at random times and it sounds like it may be in pain, a veterinarian check-up may be necessary. If your retriever is barking at passing cars , neighbors, or other dogs through a fence or gate, consider covering that specific area with a dark mesh to prevent your Golden Retriever from seeing the culprits. By providing your Golden Retriever with a comfortable sleeping spot that fits the weather conditions a thick blanket and pillow for winter, and a shady soft space during summer , along with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and plenty of mental stimulation, you should be able to control your Golden Retrievers barking. However, this is not always the best option, especially if it is not being removed for a good medical reason. By putting your dog through this surgery, you are removing their primary form of communication. It involves a lot of postoperative pain and can be inherently cruel to the dog. Many veterinarians will refuse to do the surgery on a dog if they deem it medically unnecessary. If you are concerned and deeply frustrated with your Golden Retriever barking, we urge you to contact a professional behaviorist to help find a solution to the problem. Final Thoughts Fortunately, Golden Retrievers are not excessive barkers. They will rarely bark out of control in minor situations or for no reason. By choosing this dog breed, you should be aware that there may be some unwanted barking especially when it is required for the situation, but it will not last long. Eventually, your Golden Retriever will learn when it is necessary to bark. Golden retrievers are excellent dogs and quite easy to train. Ensure that your Golden Retriever has all its needs met and that all their enrichment requirements are fulfilled, and you should be left with a goofy, loyal dog that will only bark when necessary. A Canadian expat, Nicole now lives on a lush forest property with her Kiwi husband and new baby daughter in New Zealand. She has a strong love for all animals of all shapes and sizes and particularly loves a good interspecies friendship and wants to share her animal knowledge and other experts' knowledge with pet lovers across the globe.Read more Advertisement.