golden retriever puppies for sale joplin mo

Carly's breed is unkown. She currently weighs about .She is crate trained and doggie door trained. She would need to be trained to alert. Carly is an excellent traveler and enjoys car rides. She is also well behaved on boats and enjoys the water. Carly is super intelligent and eager to please. She's so spectacular on leash that a 6-year-old can walk her. She would make an excellent trail dog or hiking buddy. She also likes to snuggle in bed and watch TV. She's definitely a love bug. Carly has been raised with two 50 dogs and two 10 dogs. She does well with all four. She's still very much a puppy and takes being corrected by the older dogs very well. A growl or hiss backs her right down. She's respectful of them, but will try pushing the envelope. Carly was malnourished when found. She gets very excited at meal time. She bounds to her crate to be fed, leaping over whomever might be in her way and may knock over a small child. If you want to make Carly a furever member of your family please fill out our adoption application at adoption. Area de Edinburg. Here are some from nearby sorted by distance — change search area. Craigslist Killeen Pets may benefit people who live in long-term care facilities, such as hospices or nursing homes. View more property details, sales history and Zestimate data on Zillow. Emergency: .Dec 8. Nov .Zero local results found. I cannot have these roosters. Pet Sitting. Will be up to date on shots and wormings, tails and dewclaws docked. Hope we can help anyone needing assistance! Dec 5. We have collected the best sources for Killeen deals, Killeen classifieds, garage sales, pet adoptions and more. Because they are wild animals, they do not make good pets. Hummingbirds are beautiful creatures with bright colors and distinctivkilleen-temple pets - craigslist. Dog Walking and pet sitting services by Tina. Dec 9. The 1, sq. Affordable dog grooming!! The website is free to use and has a user-friendly interface. Killeen, TX .Many popular pets have attractive appearances, intelligence, and relatable personalities, but some pets are taken in altruistically such as a stray animal and accepted by their owners regardless of their characteristics. Purebred miniature schnauzer puppy. Killeen, TX Today. Feel free to text or call for more information, they will be ready for Christmas. Tell Us Your Storyhigh rockies pets - craigslist. They can cope with emotional issues as a result of Craigslist killeen pets. Perfect obedience Nothing Less! All Breeds. How about a chinchilla? These furry rodents are great pals, and well-socialized ones can be calm enough to ride around in your pocket or hang out in your apartment. Although it is possible, keeping a hummingbird as a pet is illegal in many areas, including the United States. Will come with registered papers, medical records, health guarantee, and veterinarian health exam report. Pics of mom and dad upon request. Email Animal Services. It allows users to post classified ads in a variety of categories, including jobs, housing, pets, and services. WFH FT! The ad valorem tax rate is .We've detected that JavaScript is not enabled in your browser. Please allow 48 hours for e-mail responses. Craigslist has a section for Killeen, and it is filled with all sorts of items. High 54F. This is the third year in a row the tax rate has been lowered. Phone: .Animal Services. Nine one two five three six six three zero two. Tell Us Your Story I cannot have these roosters. Find it via the AmericanTowns Killeen classifieds search or use one of the other free services we have collected to make your search easier, such as Craigslist Killeen, eBay for Killeen, Petfinder. Physical Address. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. We have collected the best sources for Killeen deals, Killeen classifieds, garage sales, pet adoptions and more. Please read the instructions in the pinned. Asdr registered, Parents are health tested Female Dallas has 2 brown eyes Female Otter has 1 brown 1 blue, atypical merle. Pets near Waco, TX - craigslist. Microchiped, utd on shots, wormed, 9 weeks old! Male lilac tri Olde English Bulldogge looking for a permanent family. Rehoming Mini Australian Shepherd. These puppies need a good home. Adoption Policy We do a meet and greet and one home visit with a approved application. Male mini Australian Shepherd looking for a forever home. Please text three five five five one two three for more info. Free German shepherd puppy. Find it via the AmericanTowns Killeen classifieds search or use one of the other free services we have collected to make your search easier, such as Craigslist Killeen, eBay for Killeen, Petfinder. Classified Ads Alternatives Whether you've experienced Doublelist personals or not, DoULike personals in Killeen will offer a familiar and comfortable atmosphere. Will to consider your best offer. Please text three five five five one two three for more. Craigslist Killeen Personals, TX. Free to loving home do NOT contact me with unsolicited services or offers post id: .Delivery to dallas, fort worth or as far as Killeen. List of all international craigslist. Chocolate goldendoodle female for 'rehoming'. Rehoming fee, up to date on all vaccinations, microchipped. We are a small foster based all breed dog rescue. Small rehoming fee. If you have missed a connection in Killeen, look no further! This personal alternative was created behind one of the top dating websites. Adoption Policy We do a meet and greet and one home visit with a approved. Craigslist Killeen. Craigslist has a section for Killeen, and it is filled with all sorts of items. This is Max he is a very good dog We Just don't have the time that he deserves he is 8 months old he does not have his shots small rehome fee of 50 to make sure he goes to a. Pets "rottweiler" in Austin, TX. As a result we are in search of a new caring home for her. Craigslist Killeen is one of the most popular classified websites on the internet. I have three very sweet girls that I am looking to find new homes for. Open to any questions do NOT contact me with unsolicited services or offers post id: posted: 3 days ago. She will come with all of her things and a year of flea and heartworm meds. This is Max he is a very good dog We Just don't have the time that he deserves he is 8 months old he does not have his shots small rehome fee of 50 to make sure he goes to a good home you text or call at three 94 7six six 6 for more info do NOT contact me with unsolicited services or offers post id: posted: .Keyword killeen craigslist killeen craigslist org. Craigslist of adoption of animals Dog, Kitten, Tropical fish, Parrot, etc. Beautiful 4 month old female kitten is ready for her forever home! No shots have been given, litter trained, no fleas, perfectly healthy! Will come with her litter box, litter, food, and her. They are purebred but no papers. Will come with her litter box, litter, food, and her toys! Has always been indoors! Killeen Born April 29th. Find it via the AmericanTowns Killeen classifieds search or use one of the other free services we have collected to make your search easier, such as Craigslist Killeen, eBay for Killeen, Petfinder. Here you will find a piece of a list of things about the city of Killeen. Also you can search our Texas Classifieds page for all state deals. The website is free to use and has a user-friendly interface. View more property details, sales history and Zestimate data on Zillow. Killeen Craigslist is a resource for the community that helps connect people in the area with potential jobs, housing, and other activities. Adoption Policy We do a meet and greet and one home visit with a approved application. Please message me with any other questions. Female Doberman 10 weeks black. Pet Services in Austin, TX. Rehoming German Shepherd puppies. We have collected the best sources for Killeen deals, Killeen classifieds, garage sales, pet adoptions and more. He is over 1 years old and is European bloodline. I resucued 2 female German shepherds from a negligent neighbor but unfortunately can not have them with due to that my son is allergic to them i am asking for a rehoming for more information please text me please serious inquiries only. Adoption Policy We do a meet and greet and one home visit with a approved. And remember Craigslistt is a portal where you can find totally free or find the ads you want, from jobs, cars, homes, etc. Pets near Waco, TX - craigslist. Fun, playful and loveable! One red male and 2 females. She is 4 years old, is fixed, potty trained and has all her shots. Male and female available there is a. Contact me at show contact info. I am looking to see if there is any female Doberman owners looking to breed as well. Temple This is Wednesday and regrettably, we do not have the time to provide her with the love and attention she deserves do to our schedules. They were rescues, and are so so sweet now. It allows users to post classified ads in a variety of categories, including jobs, housing, pets, and services. Contact ads friendship, love, etc. Dachshund puppies Full Blood. The first 2 pictures are "Cooper" short haired male. Search all Killeen Craigslist. Preferably under a year old and fixed. Training and employment ads job offers, online, book, online seminars, etc. I resucued 2 female German shepherds from a negligent neighbor but unfortunately can not have them with due to that my son is allergic to them i am asking for a rehoming for more. Male and female available there is a rehoming fee. The site has a variety of user-generated content, such as classified ads, that can be helpful to those in the area looking for work or housing. She is timmed when meeting new people. See us in yoyr city, Killeen! We are a small foster based all breed dog rescue. The Blue Bay Shepherd was carefully produced by crossing fifth-generation wolf dogs with blue European German Shepherds. After the addition of several other breeds including Alaskan Malamutes, the newly emerging breed sports a rich, thick blue coat and a definite lupine appearance. How much do Blue Bay Shepherds cost? The price is mainly based on the decades of work that have gone into creating this new breed and the costs associated with the care and housing of the foundation stock, which included wolf dogs. Southern Breeze Kennels is the birthplace of the breed and home of the continuing development of Blue Bays. All legitimate Blue Bay Shepherds are registered with a number and a certificate hand signed by the founder. Why Are They So Expensive? Creating a new breed incurs a lot of expenses. Multiple breeds must be properly cared for and expenses like vet and feed bills quickly add up. Additionally, building and maintaining expansive outdoor enclosures for the wolf dogs used initially is not an inexpensive endeavor. Will the Price Decrease Soon? Once a true standard has been established, a breed club has been formed, other dedicated breeders are involved in furthering the breed, and the Blue Bay is well on the way to full AKC recognition, prices may start to decrease. The kennel through which all Blue Bay Shepherds are sold purposely does not list prices online. While this may be a little frustrating, the reasons for this are valid. Just keep in mind that the following prices are approximations and only apply to a pet-quality dog.

All dogs are unique and grow at their own rate. Pro Tip: Check out our complete guide to puppy care to ensure your Lab gets off to a great start. As a medium to large breed, Labrador Retrievers need at least one year to reach their full size. A general rule of thumb suggests your Lab should be at or close to its full size by their first birthday. However, bigger-boned Lab puppies can keep growing and filling out their chest up to 18 months old. How big should a 6-month-old Labrador Retriever be? The average Lab weight at six months old is about 40 to 55 pounds for males or 30 to 35 pounds for females. Please keep in mind that these numbers are averages, and every puppy will grow at a slightly different rate. How much bigger will my Labrador Retriever get? There are three ways to predict the size of a Labrador Retriever at maturity: Age. Labrador Retrievers typically reach their full height and weight around their first birthday. Larger Labs may need up to 18 months to fill out their chest, but any weight gain after 12 months should be minimal overall. If your Lab is less than a year old, they are likely still growing and putting on muscle to reach their adult size. Paw Size. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, then they are probably still growing, as this is a classic puppy feature. Lastly, if you purchased your Lab through a breeder, you can contact them for a more exact height and weight estimate. What is the size of a full-grown Labrador Retriever? A full-grown Labrador Retriever weighs between 65 and 80 pounds and stands about .The average weight of a full-grown female Labrador Retriever should be about 55 to 70 pounds, standing at .Make sure to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your Lab is maintaining a healthy weight for its body size. The Labrador Retriever growth rate should be indicative of its athletic body and muscular build. Did you know. ? Their webbed paws made them strong swimmers, along with their otter tail, which acts like a powerful rudder when retrieving ducks. English nobles spotted the dogs and brought them home across the Atlantic, where breeders continued to refine the breed into its own variation. Between their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and outgoing disposition, they make ideal family members. As cherished members of our families, Labs deserve the best care. Unfortunately, like many other purebred dogs, Labrador Retrievers are more susceptible to various health issues. Some of the most common examples include:. However, a healthy six-month-old labrador will grow significantly in size. Some of them can weigh up to 50 pounds. For a more balanced diet at six months, you can shift from feeding your puppy three smaller meals per day to two meals a day. To counteract this, you can drop the amount of food and gradually increase it. Setting Your Lab Puppy Up for Successful Potty Training Training an animal to control their bladders until you get outside is no different than potty-training for toddlers. In other words, crate training speeds up the potty-training process for your pet. Effective crate training depends on two things: Praising and rewarding your puppy for relieving itself outside. They come to understand this as a desirable behavior. Preventing your puppy from going to the toilet within the home. So, why is using a crate to train your puppy to go outside so effective? Initially, this should be every hour or so. As labs grow older, you can reduce the frequency as they learn to hold and release independently. Step 2: House Training a Lab Puppy Housetraining or potty-training small labs can be, well, frustrating. As a pet owner, there are simple ways to train your puppy to understand ideal behavior quickly. Instead, they simply forget that they should control it. This helps avoid any issues early on. Keep small labrador puppies off the carpet. How to Feed Your Dog for Optimal Growth Feeding your labrador puppy a balanced diet could be an entire guide all on its own. It can feel overwhelming because you do have many options when it comes to feeding your dog. For example, if you work from home, it would be easy to feed your dog homemade dog food. Similarly, you might work a and yet want to reap the health-related benefits of a raw diet. Make sure to speak to your vet first. You do have choices for what to feed your puppy and you can mix and match these. Popular feeding options for any animal include kibble, wet food, raw food, and home-cooked food. Remember, a puppy is still growing, and they need a complete profile of nutrients and minerals to support their development. There are many commercial brands of dry food or kibble to choose from and you can adjust what you buy based on the ingredients. Do your research and find a brand you trust, with as much bioavailable nutritional content as is helpful. These can harm your puppy. In order to maintain good health and prevent simple ailments, your puppy can also benefit from taking a supplement. Some families choose to mix scraps or raw food with kibble to provide moisture and decrease the amount of food versus the calories consumed. Any veterinarian will tell you that a hard and fast rule is not necessarily the type of food but the amount. Obesity is a condition that can lead to many health issues for this breed. Over-exertion, especially for a puppy, is possible. This includes activities like playing fetch or tug and release. However, breeds that worked as a hunting companion for humans love to be active. Again, this goes back to the strengths of the breed. Keeping up with your puppy could be a task-and-a-half, so in the first months of life, you should be keeping them in your backyard or playing with them at home. As they become house trained and get all their vaccinations, you can turn walks into light jogs or runs if you want. In the long-term, exercise will help keep dogs healthy and disease-free. However, early dog training can eliminate common problems with puppy temperament and help make sure that your fur friend is always as friendly and happy as possible through the years. Puppy socialization simply means making your puppy open to and familiar with new experiences. You want to provide stimulation and encounters with experiences that they will probably face as adults. The window of opportunity to make sure your puppy is always a happy and friendly pooch closes around 14 weeks. Pre-Vaccination Lab Puppy Socialization Any veterinarian will tell you that a puppy is all done with their vaccinations after 12 weeks of age. The main point is to keep your puppy away from other dogs who may not yet be vaccinated or the excrement and markings of other animals that could carry data diseases. You can head to an off-leash dog park to allow them to explore and meet other fur friends. You can also take them beyond your backyard to the countryside to enable them to swim or set up obstacle courses and play with them. Another thing that people forget about is spaying or neutering their dogs. Spaying or neutering your dog could help with behavioral issues and can also reduce the onset of certain health conditions. At the same time, spaying or neutering a puppy too early may also lead to health issues. For many people, this is a worthwhile and even enjoyable trade-off. A happy, sociable dog is always the result of consistent training. Training your dog is a significant aspect of their early years. The different stages include: Get it — Using positive reinforcement, trainers will help your dog carry out actions without commands. Teach it — This stage harnesses the progress you made in the previous stages. Your dog now knows the word and the action that goes with it. Proof it — Proofing is where many people get stuck. Your dog will learn to listen and obey commands at this stage even when they are engaged in other things. Maintain it — Consistently using the techniques you learned to keep your dog following the same desirable behavior. All breeds of dogs respond best when you train them. Every labrador retriever relies on their human taking control and showing them how to respond in any situation. You can be sure that if you follow these tips that you will be taking proper care of your new puppy and will be able to make sure that your puppy will live a long and healthy life. Share on. But those first weeks of puppy development are very similar whatever the breed, and these landmarks are good general rules for any dog. Puppy development week by week, changes quickly. Newborn Puppies Newborn puppies are born at the end of nine weeks of pregnancy, with their eyes and ears tightly closed. They already have a fur coat but they cannot yet control their own body temperature. They are dependent on their mother or another heat source to keep them warm. Newborn puppies may cry if cold. But they do not have the strength to cry for long. Newborn Labrador puppies snuggle together to keep warm when their mother is away How Helpless are Newborn Pups? Although they rely on mom for a lot at this stage, newborn puppies are not completely helpless. They can use their front feet to drag themselves towards a heat source or their milk supply. This means their mom, not milk alternatives like cow or goat milk. Newborn pups have no teeth yet. But they can move their heads about to search for a nipple, and they can latch on and suck strongly. Their mother leaves them only to eat, drink and for bathroom purposes. While she is away, the puppies will crawl together to preserve their body heat, as you can see in the photo above. They may also crawl under a heat lamp source to keep warm. In every other respect newborn puppies are completely dependent on the care of their mother. Newborn pups have little control over the rear end of their bodies. The mother dog washes them and licks their bottoms to encourage elimination, licking up and swallowing anything they produce to keep her babies and their nest scrupulously clean. In fact, he may even double his birth weight! One week later and the puppies have doubled their birth weight. Changes are taking place under his eyelids to prepare them for opening. And usually begins during the second week of life. Ears open at this point too, so your puppy will begin to hear. The Labrador puppies in this picture are two weeks olds. Two weeks old and the puppies eyes are now open! You can see that their eyes are now open and the puppies are beginning to look a little more dog-like. The breeder will be handling the puppies more now. And most puppies are wormed for the first time at two weeks old. Most 3 week old puppies can stand and sit, and are beginning to totter about. They are also starting to develop their individuality. No longer are they just a row of identical little fat furry sausages! This little three week old puppy :- Can easily be distinguished from his brother: Teething and Further Development At 3 weeks old, this is also the point at which puppies start teething — cutting their first deciduous baby teeth. Obviously the teeth are appearing for a reason! Some breeders will start to offer the first tastes of solid food at this point. Especially if the litter is a large one and putting a strain on the mother dog. It is lovely to watch a litter of 3 week old puppies beginning to interact with their brothers and sisters. They are running, playing enthusiastically, and have started to wag their little tails. The puppies will start to show bowel control as they move away from the other puppies to defecate. And solid food is becoming a major part of their diet. These little pups are tucking into some puppy food. Four week old puppies having their dinner in the fresh air If the weather is warm enough, puppies will be spending some time outdoors now. Mealtimes are a messy process, so feeding puppies out in the yard can be a good idea. Breeder Involvement Some mother dogs will lose interest in cleaning up after their pups at this point or soon afterwards. And many puppies will be wormed again this week. Vocalizations are becoming stronger at this puppy development stage. The litter will greet their mother noisily when she returns to them, and try hard to follow her out of the whelping box whenever she leaves. The puppies themselves are now eating solid food several times a day and gradually being weaned of their dependency on her milk. Puppies will still suckle ravenously when their mother returns and she will now often feed them standing up and only for a short time. She will also be teaching the puppies not to bite too hard. So, they should be increasingly spending time with humans and learning to be familiar with the sounds and sights of a human family environment. Puppies being raised in kennels must be brought into a home environment regularly from now on to ensure they develop into confident, friendly dogs. Six weeks old and full of mischief Puppies Still Have a Lot to Learn at 6 Weeks In some countries, puppies are taken to their new homes at this age. But this is not a good idea, and can result in a puppy that has poor bite inhibition and is challenging to manage. The puppies are learning not to bite too hard from the reactions of their mother and siblings. Growth is not quite so fast now. But the puppies will still grow strongly for the next few months. Many puppies will be wormed again this week. All that remains is for plenty of great socialization experiences to be packed into this week, with final checks on health. Many breeders will arrange for each seven week old puppy to have a vet check this week. And though some vets advise against it, some puppies are also given their first vaccinations before they leave for their new homes. Some breeders will now have the puppies trained to pee and poop on puppy pads or newspaper. And some will have been whistling to the puppies at meal times to get them used to coming to a human signal. Potty training is now underway and puppy socialization plans are being made. At this point, many of you will be thinking about training your puppy too. The next four weeks are vital in puppy development stages. Your main job is socializing your puppy. This means taking him to lots of new places and exposing him to lots of new experiences. So, life will be starting to get back to normal. Most puppies in the U. In the U. So, not all puppies will get their vaccinations at the exact same age. Socializing your puppy is still the most important job for you at this age. But, you cannot put your puppy on the ground outside until they have received their final vaccination. So, make sure you know exactly when their final jab is. And carry on introducing them to as many new people, things, and experiences as possible throughout this puppy development stage. Some people can suffer from the puppy blues at this stage too, as your life has completely changed! But, that does not mean socialization can stop. Puppies who are isolated at this point will soon lose that friendly fearlessness. You have an important job now, building on what has been achieved so far, and introducing your puppy to the world at ground level. This part of his education can begin once his vaccination cover is complete. He should be fully immunised at around this point. But check with your vet for confirmation of the actual date. Three months also marks the point at which many puppies will drop down from four daily meals, to three. This can cause problems for some puppies because the portions are larger If your puppy gets an upset tummy when you make this change, just go back up to four meals again for a few days, and give smaller portions for a few days when you try again. But, many will need another month before they can cope without frequent bathroom breaks and the occasional accident. Your puppy will begin to lose his baby teeth. This can also be a time at which biting can be most challenging. And try not to worry, this stage will soon be over! A few will need another month or two to complete the process. Remember, no two puppies are the same. That puppy fluffiness will have gone. For many puppies, five months is an awkward, gangly time. A five month old puppy may have shed the last of his soft puppy lines and be looking quite skinny. By the end of this month most puppies will have finished teething but an urge to chew may continue for another few months in some breeds, Labradors included. Some female dogs will have their first season during this month. But, for many, it will be another three or four months before this happens. This is a major milestone for your puppy. He is now looking very much like an adult Labrador. Still a Puppy Because he looks quite grown up, people expect a lot of their 6 month old puppy. But inside, he is still very much a puppy. The beginnings of adolescence and with it an increasing independence of spirit can bring its challenges, but also a whole lot of fun.

Boston Boxer Highlights Boston Boxers are mixed breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their Boston Terrier or Boxer parents. The main colors of Boston Boxers are black, brown, fawn, blue, and white. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors, like in a pied or brindle pattern. Boston Boxers are known to be a good choice for families with children. Always supervise playtime. The Boston Boxer is a highly energetic mixed breed. If left alone for too long or without any sort of stimulation, this energy can manifest in unwanted destructive behaviors. Make sure your dog gets at least one good half-hour- to hour-long walk per day with a few good, active play sessions and shorter walks mixed in. When it comes to other pets, Boston Boxers can get along with other animals if they are introduced slowly and calmly, and early socialization will help this go smoothly. Boston Boxer History The Boston Boxer mixed dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Boston Terriers and Boxers in the late s, likely in North America. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to keep the friendly and energetic spirit of the Boxer but in a smaller, Boston Terrier size. They continued to create Boston Boxers as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed. Even though the Boston Boxer got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide the Boston Boxer is the dog for you. Be sure to check your local shelters, look up Boston Boxer or Miniature Boxer rescues, or check with breed-specific Boxer or Boston Terrier rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. Boston Boxer Size Since the Boston Boxer is a relatively new mixed breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between Boston Terrier and Boxer parents, you can expect your Boston Boxer to be on the small-to-medium size. Most weigh in at 22 to 55 pounds and range in height from 15 to 23 inches from the shoulder. However, many can be larger or smaller than average. The Mini Boxer can be somewhat hesitant around strangers, which is why it is very important to socialize your Boston Boxer as early as possible to make sure they are people-friendly. These dogs are prone to attaching to one particular family member, and they can become somewhat protective of them. Even with their protective tendencies, most Boston Boxer enthusiasts say their dogs are complete goofballs. The Boston Boxer is also a highly energetic mixed breed, so they are best-suited with people who can keep up with the pace. Some of the more common health problems Boston Boxer suffer from include: heart murmurs. Intelligent Pug Characteristics Pugs are extremely playful and love to interact with their owners. They also get along well with other animals, especially cats and other dogs. They're most known for: Friendly Easy going Health Issues Because these dogs have only been bred for a few years, there has been no study on whether there are any specific health issues being produced from these crosses. In order to get a better idea of which health problems a puppy might face, you must research the parent breeds involved, and take a look at health issues that are common to them. The average reported lifespan of these dogs is between 12 to 15 years. Boxers can be prone to cardiomyopathy , bloat, hip dysplasia , and hypothyroidism , among other possible health threats. Pugs can be prone to obesity, breathing problems , eye problems, and skin problems. Boston Terriers are prone to eye problems , heart problems, epilepsy, and skin problems. Fox Terriers can be prone to Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, patellar luxation, congenital hypothyroidism with goiter, and primary lens luxation, among other health issues. Rat Terriers can be prone to allergies, dental problems, and patellar luxation. Corgis are prone to eye problems, glaucoma , and progressive retinal atrophy. Beagles are prone to epilepsy , intervertebral disk disease, and tumbling puppy syndrome. English Bulldogs are prone to a long list of health concerns, including obesity, heat stroke, elongated soft palate , heart disease, and more. Keep in mind that a particular pup might never face one of these health issues, but the possibility could be there in the gene pool, so it's good to be aware. Are you InTheKnow? Sign up for our newsletter featuring all the latest stories and products we love. Invalid email I agree to receive email communications from LoveToKnow. The breeding procedures used to create this mix are extremely controversial. Many " miniature " dogs have been heavily inbred, so it's not uncommon for them to develop genetic disorders or become ill at a young age, even from a reputable breeder. The miniature Boxer is also a high-energy breed that requires a hands-on owner. They aren't meant for owners with sedentary lifestyles or those who reside in apartments. Because the miniature Boxer sheds, it may not be suitable for those looking for a hypoallergenic dog breed. If you understand the cons, there are many pros to this breed. Since they are smaller than Boxers, they are less expensive to feed and easier to care for. They require slightly less exercise than the original breed and can do well in smaller spaces, even if they aren't ideal apartment dogs. This mix is family-friendly, intelligent, eager to please, and easy to train. Also, they're relatively affordable to purchase as puppies. Finding Miniature Boxer Puppies for Sale When looking for a breeder of miniature Boxers, make sure you do your due diligence. Before you decide to do business, take the time to investigate the breeder fully to make sure you'll receive exactly what you're paying for. There are many unscrupulous breeders producing designer dogs, and you want to make sure the breeder can provide a health guarantee. The breeder should demonstrate that they are breeding to create dogs with excellent health and temperament. Because these dogs are not recognized by the top registry organizations and are not bred in large numbers, you may have to search for them online as well as locally through sites such as Craigslist to see if you can locate a breeder. Cost of a Miniature Boxer Puppy Because these dogs are not popular yet, they can be relatively expensive. Dog Clubs The miniature Boxer is not a recognized breed, but it may become one as some point in the future. If you'd like to register your pet with a dog club, both the American Canine Hybrid Club and the Certified Pet Registry take registrations for various crosses that produce this type of dog. Spend Time With These Dogs Before you bring one of these pups home, spend some time at several breeders' kennels so you can get to know the dogs in person. This is the surest way to find out if a Miniature Boxer will fit your lifestyle, as well as which particular cross you prefer. Getting a puppy is a commitment for the life of the dog, so be sure about your choice. Lifespan Sociability Boston Boxer dogs are very popular, resulting in many breeders. We recommend searching for as many as possible to find the perfect puppy before you make your decision. Always ask a breeder to show you the facilities before making any payment. In many cases, you can find a breeder that is willing to sell you a puppy at a reduced cost, but we must caution against prices that are too good to be true, as unscrupulous breeders often create these puppies in unsafe environments known as puppy mills. The best way to fight puppy mills is not to buy their puppies. You can always ask your local shelter if they have a Boxer mix that resembles the Boston Boxer. They are athletic and can run fast and jump quite high and will maintain a fast pace for extended play sessions before tiring. They quickly become attached and protective of their owners and are wary of strangers who might cause them to become aggressive and bark. However, they generally get along with other household pets and small yard animals like bunnies and squirrels. Boston Boxers are sensitive to their environment and prefer a set, predictable schedule, and they can be stubborn if you change things up too quickly. They are very intelligent and easy to train, as long as they think they are in charge. They love the company and will remain at your side most of the day. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They are very friendly, energetic, and playful. They get along well with pets including, cats and other dogs. They like to play with children and will provide each other with unlimited amounts of entertainment. Boston Boxers are intelligent enough to follow orders and behave and will even learn tricks and guard the house while you are away. They will require at least one family member to take them out for long walks, though, and these are high maintenance in the exercise department, requiring at least one hour of running and jumping each day. If you live in the city, it can be challenging to find enough room, and you will likely require access to a park or trail. They are even more friendly if you socialize them early and get them used to other animals, but even so, this breed rarely gets aggressive toward another animal. This food should be high-quality without any harmful chemicals or preservatives. High-quality dog food will contain meat, vegetables, grains, and fruits, according to the American Kennel Club. You can expect to take your Boston Boxer for a long walk every day, and on some days, you may need a second walk. You can expect to walk at least eight miles a week spread out over about an hour a day, every day, for the next several years when purchasing a Boston Boxer. In most cases, you will only require patience and a bunch of treats to have your Boston Boxer impressing your friends. To train your pet, simply stand in front of them with a treat ready. Boston Boxers are smart and will know you have it. When they figure it out and sit, give them a treat. Stand them back up and repeat. After several tries, your Boston Boxer will catch on and quickly sit on command. Using the above system, you can teach your dog plenty of tricks, like shaking hands, fetch, rollover, and plenty of others. You can even teach them more complex tricks like retrieving the newspaper with a little practice. They only require occasional brushing and trimming of their nails. But there are a few problems associated with them that you should know about before you make a purchase. Minor Conditions. 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.

We strive to match every family to the perfect puppy. With 18 years of experience with Goldendoodles we hope to provide you with a healthy and fun-loving puppy. Our puppies are perfect for anything from family pets to therapy dogs. If you already are a part of the doodle family, or are looking to join it, we will do our best to provide you with the perfect companion! To see the puppies, go to our Puppies for Sale Page! If you are interested in reserving a puppy, please fill out an application on our Apply Here page. Feel free to reach out with any questions. We are always happy to answer any puppy related questions that you might have. Our main cell is and we also check our email regularly. Our email is f1bgoldendoodle. Why Get a F1b Irish Goldendoodle? F1b Irish Goldendoodles stand out from the world of dogs with their great personalities and their love for people. Most likely you have already seen a neighbor or stranger on the street with one. They make poor guard dogs and great family dogs due to their trademark friendliness. If you see one on the street, you always feel safe scratching their ears. The Golden retriever in them makes them focus on you. The poodle part is extremely intelligent and trainable which makes the learning process easier. Combine the two breeds and they are super easy to train and are very lovable. Every single puppy also has some Irish Setter in them which helps make some of their coats a beautiful dark red. Another positive benefit about our f1bs is they are more healthy due to being crossbred. With our f1bs you can get the highly popular Goldendoodle with a more curly coat which makes them more hypoallergenic which helps families with allergies to finally be able to have a puppy. Feel free to look at our Doodle Family Wallpaper to see what our past puppies look like! Larry Lives in Wisconsin We bought your Liam puppy just over a year ago. He was easily trained, super friendly to people and other pets and is absolutely adorable. Everyone who meets him loves him- he definitely steals the show wherever he goes- with his good looks and fun demeanor. He loves to play fetch and run but is also very much a snuggler! Thank you so very much for breeding such amazing dogs. We are so grateful we found you and our very loved Larry. I have attached a picture for you when he was just under a year. He is now currently 48 pounds. Human socialization and interaction are crucial for the well-rounded development of our puppies. At our facility, we prioritize creating a loving and interactive environment for our furry friends. Our family, including adults and children, actively participates in puppy playtime and early behavior training sessions. This hands-on approach fosters strong bonds with our puppies and helps them become well-adjusted, affectionate, and sociable companions. We believe in nurturing their emotional and mental growth from the start, ensuring they are ready to bring joy and love to their forever homes. Our commitment to providing a loving and interactive atmosphere is at the core of our puppy-raising philosophy. What's a "Microchip"? We implant a small chip under their skin that will stay there for their whole life. Most lost dogs go to shelters and veterinarian offices. Where they are immediately scanned. This has helped more than one of our F1B Goldendoodle puppies from being permanently lost to being reunited with their family in short order! What does "Fully Vaccinated and Dewormed mean"? Fully vaccinated and dewormed mean that your puppy has received all the necessary vaccinations to protect against common diseases and has undergone deworming treatment to eliminate intestinal parasites. What does "Vet Checked" mean? Vet Checked means that our puppies undergo a thorough examination by a licensed veterinarian to ensure they are in good health. Our veterinary professionals assess their overall well-being, look for any signs of illness or congenital issues, and verify that they meet the necessary health standards. This process provides peace of mind to our customers, knowing that their chosen puppy has received professional care and attention before joining their new forever home. We prioritize the health and happiness of our puppies, and the Vet Checked certification is a testament to our commitment to providing the best possible start in life for each furry friend we raise! If my puppy flies to me, how do I know he is healthy? It assures you that your furry friend has received a thorough health evaluation, ensuring they are in excellent condition before travel. You can trust that your new companion is in good hands, making the journey to your home a smoother and more reassuring experience for both of you. I get cash back??? This helps your puppy become a better pet! It covers the main points in obedience training that will help nurture a well-behaved and happy canine companion. What am I guaranteed from my puppy's Health Warranty? Genetic Health Assurance: We guarantee that your puppy is free from any genetic health issues for a period of three years from the date of purchase. Quality Breeding: Our puppies come from carefully selected parents with no known genetic health concerns, ensuring the best possible start in life for your furry friend. Health Certificate: Each puppy flown is accompanied by a comprehensive health certificate, certifying their good health at the time of sale. Vet Checked: Our puppies undergo a thorough veterinary examination before leaving for their new homes, providing an added layer of assurance. Our puppy health warranty is a testament to our dedication to providing you with a healthy and happy companion. About half of our puppies fly to their new homes. If you live too far away, we take care of setting up flights and get your new best friend to the nearest airport to you we can. Because we are able to do this for our customers, we have puppies anywhere from California over to Maine, down to Florida and many states in between! To go more into what this process looks like, we work with Runway Pets who is a Pet Taxi service. We have been working with them for many years on getting puppies all over the USA and even Internationally. We work through what flights and times work for you and let Runway Pets our preferences. Then they do all of the bookwork with the airlines to have your puppy fly through the PPS system with an Airline. The puppy is on the plane in less than 2 hours and is on the way to the Airport you selected. As soon as the flight lands, your puppy is one of the first to be off of the plane. In less than an hour after the plane lands, your puppy is at the PPS desk ready to meet you! We want to make sure every puppy is healthy before we would fly them home so, we make sure they are in tip-top shape by having them get a Certified Health Certificate from a licensed veterinarian. This helps us to sleep better at night and it also should help alleviate any concerns a family may have when they are getting a puppy they have only seen via facetime or zoom. Our phone number is .Our Email is f1bgoldendoodle. We sell on a first-come first-served basis. The first family to make a deposit will receive first pick and so on. Wolcott is about half-way between Chicago, Illinois and Indianapolis, Indiana. We are five miles off of I in the middle of a sprawling corn fields. About half of our puppies are picked up at our home. The families get to meet the parents of their puppy which people always enjoy! Take Your first step to meeting with your Future puppy here. All our mother dogs give birth and raise their puppies inside the house. We believe to properly develop, each litter must live in the main part of the house and receive constant attention. To do this, we enlist Guardian Home raisers who keep the mother dog at their house until the puppies are weaned. Once weaned, the puppies come to the Safari Doodles ranch to get ready for their new homes. We know that how your puppy is raised makes all the difference. How do I know if Safari Doodles is a reputable breeder? Here at Safari Doodles we fully health test our parent dogs. In addition, the whole line of genetics prior to the parents are health tested as well. Safari Doodles carefully breeds our dogs to ensure each litter has the proper pairing of genetics. Safari Doodles began breeding doodles in .We have imported show dogs from Europe. We purchased dogs from well known service dog lines. Our Golden Retrievers and Poodles have outstanding pedigrees. To see more about our Golden Retriever line, see our Golden Retrievers page. Safari Doodles has a wide spread reputation for producing great dogs and our reviews on FaceBook reflect this. Our referrals are endless. Safari Doodles main focus is to produce Service Dogs for people with disabilities. Our list of puppies who were placed to become Service dogs are in the hundreds. We have many vets who refer their clients to consider us for their next Goldendoodle. Dog trainers, groomers, whole neighborhoods refer to us. It is important to us to do whatever it takes to keep the integrity of the Safari Doodles name alive. How much is a Safari Doodles puppy? As of summer the wait time to receive a puppy is months. How do I reserve a Safari Doodles puppy? Please fill out a Puppy Application. Tell us what size, color, coat type, generation, temperament type and any other particulars you desire in a Goldendoodle. Our specialty is helping you with the perfect placement by learning what you desire and knowing our genetics. We Volhard Temperament Test our puppies to guide the match making. Do you need a dog for a child with special needs? That is our specialty. Our focus at Safari Doodles is breeding the best genetics, paired with quality raising to match families with the exact dog for their needs. Watch our Goldendoodle puppies playing in our house Adult Goldendoodles, made by Safari Doodles no, these dogs are not available, these dogs all have homes Sage, 35lb F1 Goldendoodle. Millie is pounds an inches at the withers, Jax is pounds and inches at the withers. The offspring are expected to be 20 to mini pounds. The puppies will go home October 7th. Females Males 1 Francis, GH purple 1 Open 2 reserved for GH 2 Open We take a processing fee of now by PayPal, zelle, venmo, cash, credit card or personal checks to secure your pick position, which comes off the total when you pay your balance at puppy pick up. Puppy selection and go home is hosted on the same day. The processing fee is refundable until puppy births or you are not provided a puppy from your designated litter due to our part. Otherwise the processing fee becomes transferable to a future litter of your choosing. Paymet for balance at time of pick up is accepted by cash, venmo, PayPal, zelle and all major credit cards only, no personal checks accepted at final payment. Puppies go home at 8 weeks on utd on age appropriate shots, dewormer, veterinarian checked, micro chipped, potty training to a doggy door beginning at 4 weeks of age, puppy food Purina Pro Plan lamb and rice formula small bites , blanket with litter scent, snuggle puppy, benebone puppy chew toy, tick flea and heartworm preventative for the first month and intestinal parasites preventative for the first three months, completely loved and pre spoiled with a 1 year health guarentee. We offer a discount for puppy training through Baxter and Bella and 1st month free for puppy insurance through Trupanion. Our puppies are raised by the puppy culture protocols. We do a weekly updates with photos, weights and progress reports. Each puppy is cleared by our veterinarian prior to leaving Texas Doodles. Puppy selection process is hosted at our home in Kountze Texas in person or via FaceTime if distance is an issue. Puppies are picked up in person at our residence unless prior arrangements have been made. We offer puppy ground transport through reliable carriers, meet at Houston area airports, fly in cabin with Southwest Airlines or American Airlines via cargo. We can quote rates for all options. We use Embark and OFA when health testing our parents. This is a pet price only with no breeding rights. Breeding rights are considered after an approval process. Our F1B Goldendoodles are great for families, especially those who have allergies. The F1B breed of Goldendoodle puppies have beautiful coats with curly or wavy hair. Best of all they shed less and are more hypoallergenic. We don't currently have any puppies available, check back soon! Goldendoodle puppies are ideal for many types of homes because they are easy to train, great with kids, and easily adaptable. They are also very loyal and bond quickly to their family. Golden Retrievers and Poodles are both very intelligent breeds making Goldendoodle puppies easy to train with consistency and patience. They love structure and once trained correctly, will be a life long best friend to the entire family. Goldendoodles vary greatly in size and color. We raise Standard Goldendoodles that can weigh as much as 80 pounds as well as Mini Goldendoodles that can be as small as 15 pounds. Funny enough, the first examples of Goldendoodles were breed by Monica Dickens — the great granddaughter of Charles Dickens — in .The Goldendoodle breed was originally pioneered to combine the intelligence and non-shedding coat of the Poodle with the family-friendly temperament of the Golden Retriever. This makes for a dog that is on average healthier than either a Poodle or a Golden Retriever alone. This also makes the Goldendoodle breed hypoallergenic , with many different coat types and colors. With proper genetic testing , we can accurately determine if a Goldendoodle puppy will have a wavy or curly coat. A curly coat is more hypoallergenic than a wavy coat, but requires more regular grooming. However they do need to be brushed regularly to keep their coat soft and clean. How big do Goldendoodles get? Due to the huge range of sizes in Poodles, Goldendoodles can weigh anywhere from less than 20 pounds all the way up to pounds! What is the price of your Goldendoodles? View the full pricing breakdown on our Goldendoodle puppy pricing page. All our puppies come with a 2 year health guarantee since we have complete confidence in our health testing regime we require for all our parent dogs before they have their first litter. My wonderful team and I do our absolute best to raise our Goldendoodle puppies to have amazing temperament, conformation, and most importantly, health. We believe a healthy Goldendoodle is important but we also know families are searching for a Goldendoodle puppy that is hypoallergenic, cute, fluffy, and affectionate. We go a step above to ensure this by DNA testing all our adults for the shedding gene to ensure our best chances at a very low to non-shedding Goldendoodle puppies. You want to choose one carefully as their breeding practices will have an impact on the temperament and health of your F1b Goldendoodle puppy. Start by looking at online sources such as Google reviews, online forums, discussion groups and social media platforms to see what other people are saying about the breeder. Did they have a good experience buying from them? To take your research a bit further, you can ask Goldendoodle organizations and clubs based in your area about their opinion of the breeder you are considering to purchase from. Many Goldendoodle clubs also have their own lists of responsible breeders so they can give you additional recommendations for good F1b Goldendoodle breeders. You may also consider visiting some dog shows and events as they are a good opportunity to meet breeders in person and see their F1b Goldendoodles. You can also ask other dog owners that are showing their F1b Goldendoodles for breeder recommendations. Finally, ask potential breeders for references and consider contacting these people to ask about their experience with the breeder. Reputable breeders always prioritize the well-being of their dogs and strive for positive reviews. You should inquire about temperament and health of the F1b Goldendoodles these people purchased. Use this information to make an informed decision. All reputable F1b Goldendoodle breeders conduct them on their breeding dogs. A stipulates the health testing requirements for Goldendoodles and if the breeder is registered with G. A, you know that the breeding dogs have undergone full health testing. A heart clearance O. Ask to see documentation of these clearances before purchasing from a F1b Goldendoodle breeder. All responsible breeders should be willing to provide any health documentation. They should also be happy to answer any questions you have about their breeding program. However, if you have the opportunity to check out the facilities you should do it. Check that the kennels are clean, that they dogs and puppies have access to fresh water and also that there is not a build up of feces or urine. Comfortable living conditions: The breeder should keep their Goldendoodles, Golden Retrievers and Poodles in comfortable living conditions. They should have large, comfortable kennels or dog beds and also have a decent amount of space to exercise and socialize with other dogs. Healthy breeding dogs and puppies: If you get the opportunity to meet the parents of the F1b Goldendoodle litter you are interested in, make sure they are well-tempered and also healthy. Sometimes the mother will be quite protective of her puppies so she may show signs of aggression. If you are purchasing a puppy online and getting it delivered, ask if the breeder would be happy to video call you or send videos of their F1b Goldendoodle puppies and breeding dogs to you. Ask About Socialization F1b Goldendoodle breeders should begin the socialization process before their puppies are sold. The puppies should be exposed to a wide variety of sounds, experiences, people and places so they can adjust to their new homes and adult life. Nevertheless, they should start exposing them to sounds like household appliances, provide mental stimulation with toys and games and also encourage playtime and interactions with their littermates and family. The most common ones are: Lack of registration: If a F1b Goldendoodle breeder cannot provide registration papers or other relevant documentation, it may be a sign that they are not operating a reputable breeding program. Overbreeding: Think twice about purchasing from an F1b Goldendoodle breeder who always has puppies available or offers an excessive amount of dog breeds. This may suggest that the breeder is overly focused on profit instead of the health and wellbeing of their puppies. Lack of health checks: A reputable F1b Goldendoodle breeder will conduct health clearances on their breeding dogs to ensure they are free of genetic health issues that could be passed on. If a breeder cannot provide documentation of these health checks, it may be a sign that they are not prioritizing health. Top Breeders In Other States. F1b Goldendoodle via goldendoodle. You want to choose one carefully as their breeding practices will have an impact on the temperament and health of your F1b Goldendoodle puppy. Start by looking at online sources such as Google reviews, online forums, discussion groups and social media platforms to see what other people are saying about the breeder. Did they have a good experience buying from them? To take your research a bit further, you can ask Goldendoodle organizations and clubs based in your area about their opinion of the breeder you are considering to purchase from. Many Goldendoodle clubs also have their own lists of responsible breeders so they can give you additional recommendations for good F1b Goldendoodle breeders. You may also consider visiting some dog shows and events as they are a good opportunity to meet breeders in person and see their F1b Goldendoodles. You can also ask other dog owners that are showing their F1b Goldendoodles for breeder recommendations. Finally, ask potential breeders for references and consider contacting these people to ask about their experience with the breeder. Reputable breeders always prioritize the well-being of their dogs and strive for positive reviews. You should inquire about temperament and health of the F1b Goldendoodles these people purchased. Use this information to make an informed decision. All reputable F1b Goldendoodle breeders conduct them on their breeding dogs. A stipulates the health testing requirements for Goldendoodles and if the breeder is registered with G. A, you know that the breeding dogs have undergone full health testing. A heart clearance O. Ask to see documentation of these clearances before purchasing from a F1b Goldendoodle breeder. All responsible breeders should be willing to provide any health documentation. They should also be happy to answer any questions you have about their breeding program. However, if you have the opportunity to check out the facilities you should do it. Check that the kennels are clean, that they dogs and puppies have access to fresh water and also that there is not a build up of feces or urine. Comfortable living conditions: The breeder should keep their Goldendoodles, Golden Retrievers and Poodles in comfortable living conditions. They should have large, comfortable kennels or dog beds and also have a decent amount of space to exercise and socialize with other dogs. Healthy breeding dogs and puppies: If you get the opportunity to meet the parents of the F1b Goldendoodle litter you are interested in, make sure they are well-tempered and also healthy. Sometimes the mother will be quite protective of her puppies so she may show signs of aggression. If you are purchasing a puppy online and getting it delivered, ask if the breeder would be happy to video call you or send videos of their F1b Goldendoodle puppies and breeding dogs to you. Ask About Socialization F1b Goldendoodle breeders should begin the socialization process before their puppies are sold. The puppies should be exposed to a wide variety of sounds, experiences, people and places so they can adjust to their new homes and adult life. Nevertheless, they should start exposing them to sounds like household appliances, provide mental stimulation with toys and games and also encourage playtime and interactions with their littermates and family. The most common ones are: Lack of registration: If a F1b Goldendoodle breeder cannot provide registration papers or other relevant documentation, it may be a sign that they are not operating a reputable breeding program. Overbreeding: Think twice about purchasing from an F1b Goldendoodle breeder who always has puppies available or offers an excessive amount of dog breeds. This may suggest that the breeder is overly focused on profit instead of the health and wellbeing of their puppies. Lack of health checks: A reputable F1b Goldendoodle breeder will conduct health clearances on their breeding dogs to ensure they are free of genetic health issues that could be passed on. If a breeder cannot provide documentation of these health checks, it may be a sign that they are not prioritizing health. Top Breeders In Other States.

Nov 19, German shepherds are very beautiful dogs that are also very expressive. One behavior that is adorable to watch them do is a head tilt. Many German shepherds start tilting their head as a young puppy. Even before their fuzzy ears are up, they will rock their little heads back and forth in the most amusing way. As their ears grow, their head tilts just keep getting more adorable. As they tilt their head, they will often sport many different facial expressions that makes them look as though they are thinking hard or asking a question. As a German shepherd owner, you may have learned some of the things that will trigger your shepherd to tilt their head and be able to anticipate when the tilt is coming. You might even be able to trigger them to do it for you. Often a certain sound, such as a particular voice you speak in, a noise, or even when they are concentrating on something will cause them to tilt their head. Have you ever wondered why German shepherds tilt their head more than some other breeds? It is believed that German shepherds tilt their head to capture and decipher more sound. They Tilt Their Head to Pin Point Sound German shepherds were built for hearing and their ears are in the perfect upright position to maximize the reception of sound. IG ragnar. IG penny. Dogs can also detect softer sounds than people can. The loudness or intensity of a sound is measured in decibels and some sounds too quiet for people to hear. Those sounds are given a negative decibel rating. IG lex. But they will also tilt their head at sounds people can hear, too. At times, German shepherds may also tilt their head for reasons other than capturing sound. Often, they will tilt if they have a medical problem, such as a stroke, ear infection, or dirt or debris in their ear. So, if you see them tiling their head at odd times or walking with their head tilted, you should check with your vet. Some owners believe that German shepherds will also tilt their head for other reasons other than capturing sound. These may include: Paying attention to their owner Looking past their muzzle When they are trying to decipher meaning Trying to communicate IG hello. We hope you enjoy this article, please feel free to pass it along to your friends. And we all know that German shepherd head tilt is one of the cutest gestures they can do. But have you ever wondered why dogs tilt their heads? For all we know, there might be disturbing facts about German shepherd head tilt. After all, German shepherds tilt their heads more often than with other breeds. There are actually many people that made theories behind this behavior. Some involve hearing, while others are concerned with vision. So read this blog post and learn about the possible reasons behind German shepherd head tilts so you can be sure of what to do when you encounter the behavior again. Because German shepherds have a particularly better sense of hearing than most breeds. Not only that, but they can also pinpoint the source of a certain sound. When German shepherds concentrate on locating the source of the sound, they tend to tilt their heads. Just like with radios of sorts, they need to adjust the position of their ears so they can perfectly hear the sound. Contrary to common belief, German shepherds try to understand what you say despite having different languages. A prime example of these gestures is hand signals. As previously said, German shepherds are intelligent. One of the ways to communicate with their owners is head tilting. Take note, however, that German shepherd head tilts can mean different things depending on the situation. A recent study discovered that those with flat faces and big mouths are the ones that often do head tilts. Presence of Ear Problems This might be the most serious case of German shepherd head tilts. It is known that head tilting is one of the signs of ear problems or infections. This complicates things since you may find it difficult to separate German shepherd head tilts involved with ear problems and those that are not. You can distinguish between the two with these following signs: Tilting their head repeatedly in an abnormal rate have a high likelihood of having ear problems. Head tilts without communicating with you or without any strange sounds can also mean your German shepherd has ear problems. You were shown six possible reasons behind head tilts. You even learned about the issue with ear problems. But look at the bright side, it may also be just a simple habit of your dog. The bottom line is, you are now aware of the reasons why dogs tilt their heads. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. There can be a number of reasons why dogs do the head tilt, but the most likely reason is that you are reinforcing the behavior in your dog. But their regal heads and tall, cocked ears definitely make the head tilt look more pronounced and deliberate. We will talk much more about this and other reasons in this article. Watch a German Shepherd Do the Head Tilt Just in case you are brand new to German Shepherds and you are not quite sure what all the fuss is about, you can watch this YouTube video of two adorable German Shepherds tilting their heads. These reasons are not mutually exclusive. Your dog may actually tilt their head for all kinds of different reasons depending on what is going on at that time. Reason 1: You think it is cute and respond positively How do you react when you see your German Shepherd doing the head tilt? Do you run to get your camera to take a picture or video? Do you drop whatever you were just doing and devote your full attention to your dog? If you were your German Shepherd, all of these behaviors would likely be good enough reasons to do the head tilt again and again. They could be having trouble because of a medical issue as we will talk about in the next few sections here. Or they could simply be evaluating your body language , tone, facial expression, or other cues from every different angle. While this period of evaluation might look to you like your cute dog is just tilting their adorable head, your dog may be using their senses to pick up extra cues to take their direction on what to do next from you. Reason 3: Your dog has an ear infection One commonly overlooked possible reason for why a dog might tilt their head is because they have an ear infection or ear mites. While you are more likely to see your dog tilt their head to rub their ears on something because they itch, you may also see the head tilt happen if there is fluid build-up or infection in the ear causing swelling in the ear canal and trouble hearing. Reason 4: Your dog is having trouble hearing well Speaking of trouble hearing, sometimes a German Shepherd may cock their head to one side to pick up frequencies or to gather more information about what they may be hearing. Dogs can hear very well and use their hearing not just to detect the source of a sound but also its location, distance, and threat potential. When your German Shepherd cocks their head, this may help the ears communicate a lot more information about what they are hearing from you or around you. Reason 5: Your dog is having trouble seeing clearly Still, another frequently overlooked reason why some German Shepherds may cock or tilt their head is due to vision needs. One canine biologist hypothesized in Psychology Today that dogs with longer muzzles, like the German Shepherd for instance, may do more head tilt behaviors because they are trying to see without having their own muzzle blocking what they see. In this study, the biologist noted that more owners with long muzzle-type dog breeds said their dogs frequently tilted their heads. This is another possible reason why it might be important for your German Shepherd to tilt their head to try to get the best and clearest view of what they are looking at. So when your German Shepherd tilts their head and makes those mournful puppy dog eyes at you, it is likely not a coincidence. But it all gets a lot more interesting when you start to look at why your particular dog tilts their head at you. Now that you have a deeper understanding of the current theories about why dogs tilt their heads at their people, you can start to take a closer look at when your German Shepherd does this and what it might be linked to. Does your dog want treats? Is it almost time for dinner or their evening walk? Is your dog trying to work out a particular tone in your voice or a look on your face? Do you have something yummy that smells delicious and your dog wants to try it? Could it be your dog is frustrated because you are patting the family cat? These are all interesting questions to ponder as you and your dog continue to get to know each other better. You may even want to jot down what happened just before you looked up to see your dog tilting their head at you to start to connect the dots. When to Have Your Dog Checked By Your Veterinarian Earlier here we mentioned that sometimes the head tilt behavior may actually be due to medical issues with vision, hearing, or discomforts such as infection. This can be particularly important to know about if your German Shepherd is in their senior years of life, a time when eye cataracts, skin and ear infection or hearing loss can be more common for many dog breeds. Dogs may not have human language abilities — although it sure would be wonderful if they did! The more you can learn about all the different reasons your dog may do the head tilt, the better you and your dog can talk to each other about what you each want and need. His gait exhibits diagonal movement, i. The limbs, therefore, must be so similarly proportioned to one another, i. Every tendency toward over-angulation of the rear quarters diminishes soundness and endurance. The correct proportions of height to length and corresponding length of the leg bones results in a ground-eating gait that is low to the ground and imparts an impression of effortless progression. With his head thrust forward and a slightly raised tail, a balanced and even trotter will have a topline that falls in moderate curves from the tip of the ears over the neck and level back through the tip of the tail. Temperament, Character and Abilities Sound nerves, alertness, self-confidence, trainability, watchfulness, loyalty and incorruptibility, as well as courage, fighting drive and hardness, are the outstanding characteristics of a purebred German Shepherd Dog. They make his suitable to be a superior working dog in general, and in particular to be a guard, companion, protection and herding dog. His ample scenting abilities, added to his conformation as a trotter, make it possible for him to quietly and surely work out a track without bodily strain and with his nose close to the ground. This makes him highly useful as a multipurpose track and search dog. In general appearance, it should be dry with moderate breadth between the ears. The forehead when viewed from the front or side is only slightly arched. It should be without a center furrow or with only a slightly defined furrow. The cheeks form a gentle curve laterally without protrusion toward the front. The width of the skull should correspond approximately to the length of the skull. Also, a slight oversize in the case of males or undersize in the case of females is not objectionable. The muzzle is strong; the lips are firm and dry and close tightly. The bridge of the nose is straight and runs nearly parallel with the plane of the forehead. Dentition Dentition must be healthy, strong and complete 42 teeth, 20 in the upper jaw and 22 in the lower jaw. The German Shepherd Dog has a scissors bite, e. An undershot or overshot bite if faulty, as are large gaps between the teeth. A level bite is faulty, as the incisors close on a straight line. The jaws must be strongly developed so that the teeth may be deeply rooted. Ears The ears are of medium size, wide at the base and set high. They taper to a point and are carried facing forward and vertically the tips not inclined toward each other. Tipped, cropped and hanging ears are rejected. Ears drawn toward each other greatly impair the general appearance. The ears of puppies and young dogs sometiems drop or pull toward each other during the teething period, which can last until six months of age and sometimes longer. Many dogs draw their ears back during motion or at rest. This is not faulty. Eyes The eyes are of medium size, almond shaped, somewhat slanting and not protruding. The color of the eyes should blend with the color of the coat. They should be as dark as possible. They should have a lively, intelligent and self-confident expression. Neck The neck should be strong with well-developed muscles and without looseness of the throat skin dewlaps. The neck is carried at an angle of about 45 degrees to the horizontal. It is carried higher when excited and lower when trotting. Body The body length of the german shepherd should exceed the height at the withers. Dogs with a short, square or tall build are undesirable. The underchest should be as long as possible and pronounced. The ribs should be well formed and long, neither barrel shaped nor too flat. They should reach the sternum, which is at the same level as the elbows. A correctly formed rib cage allows the elbows freedom of movement when the dogs trots. A too round rib cage disrupts the motion of the elbows and causes them to turn out. A too flat rib cage draws the elbows in toward one another. The rib cage extends far back so that the loins are relatively short. The abdomen is moderately tucked up. The back, including the loins, is straight and strongly developed yet not too long between the withers and the croup. The withers must be long and high, sloping slightly from front to rear, defined against the back into which it gently blends without breaking the topline. The loins must be wide, strong and well muscled. The croup is long and slightly angled approximately 23 degrees. The ileum and the sacrum are the foundation bones of the croup. Short, steep or flat croups are undesirable. Tail The tail is bushy and should reach at least to the hock joint but not beyond the middle of the hocks. Sometimes the tail forms a hook to one side at its end, though this is undesirable. At rest the tail is carried in a gentle downward curve, but when the dog is excited or in motion, it is curved more and carried higher. The tail should never be raised past the vertical. The tail, therefore, should not be carried straight or curled over the back. Docked tails are inadmissible. Forequarters The shoulder blade should be long with an oblique placement the angle at 45 degrees and lying flat against the body. The upper arm joins the shoulder blade in an approximate right angle. The upper arm as well as the shoulder must be strong and well muscled. The forearm must be straight when viewed from all sides. The bones of the uppper arm and forearm are more oval than round. The pasterns should be firm but neither too steep nor too down in pastern Approximately 20 degrees. The elbows must be neither turned in nor turned out. Hindquarters The thigh is broad and well muscled. The upper thigh bone when viewed from the side joins the only slightly longer lower thigh bone at an angle of approximately degrees. The angulation corresponds roughly to the forequarter angulation without being overangulated. The hock joint is strong and firm. The hock is strong and forms a firm joint with the lower thigh. The entire hindquarters must be strong and well muscled to be capable of carrying the body effortlessly forward during motion. Feet The feet are relatively round, short, tightly formed and arched. The pads are very hard, but not chapped. The nails are short, strong and of a dark color. Dewclaws sometime appear on the hind legs and should be removed within the first few days of birth. Color The color of a german shepherd should be black with regular markings in brown, tan to light gray, also with a black saddle, dark sable black cover on a gray or light brown case with corresponding lighter marks , black, uniform gray or with light or brown markings. Small white markings on the forechest or a very light color on the insides of the legs are permissible though not desired. The nose must be black with all coat colors. Dogs with little or no masks, yellow or strikingly light eyes, light markings on the chest and insides of the legs, white nails and a red tip of the tail or washed out weak colors are considered lacking in pigment. The undercoat or base hair is always light gray, with the exception of that on black dogs. The individual hairs are straight, coarse and lying flat against the body. The coat is short on the head inclusive of the ears, the front of the legs, the feet and the toes but longer and thicker on the neck. The hair grows longer on the back of the fore- and hind legs as far down as the pastern and the hock joint, forming moderate breeching on the thighs. A too short or molelike coat is faulty. The long smooth coated German Shepherd Dog The individual hairs are longer, not always straight and above all not lying close to the body. The coat is considerably longer inside and behind the ears, on the back of the forearm and usually in the loin area. The breeching along the thigh is long and thick. The tail is bushy with slight feathering underneath. With the long smooth coated German Shepherd Dog, a narrow chest and narrow overstretched muzzle are frequently found. The long coated German Shepherd Dog The coat is considerably longer than that of the long-smooth-coat. It is generally very soft and forms a parting along the back. The undercoat will be found in the region of the loins or will not be present at all. A long coat is greatly diminished in weatherproofing and utility and therefore is undesirable. Faults Faults include anything that impairs working versatility, endurance and working competency, especially lack of sex characteristics and temperament traits contrary to the German Shepherd Dog such as apathy, weak nerves or overexcitability, shyness; lack of vitality or willingness to work; monorchids and cryptorchids and testicles too small; a soft or flabby constitution and a lack of substance; fading pigment; blues, albinos with complete lack of pigmentation, e.

So, what has gotten into your golden retriever puppy? Although it may seem like your puppy is hallucinating imaginary playmates, they just have the zoomies. What Are The Zoomies? Your retriever pup will show random and intense activity for a short burst of time. Your puppy may run in circles or continue to start and stop on a dime. Another common sign of the zoomies is play bows. This behavior which is completely normal is a way for your pup to get rid of any excess energy. So, when you think your pup starts to get rowled up, it may be time to get that tennis ball out for a game of fetch and your pup might start zooming all over the backyard. Some pups will also do this after being groomed or after a swim. Your dog could get the zoomies, making them hyper during play. But giving puppies a bath seems to be the most frequent trigger for puppies and older dogs who are prone to zoomies. No one is certain as to why zoomies happens to dogs after a bath or what they mean, but here are a few educated guesses: Stress relief: Baths are often stressful for young pups. The frenetic movements involved in zoomies could be a natural way for them to relieve stress by releasing pent up energy from their negative feelings about getting a bath. While they could be an act to try and get back to their pre-bath smell, this could also be their natural method of drying themselves. Zoomies also happen quite often at night. Why is this behavior so common for pups? Although your golden retriever puppy will nap a lot , they also have huge bursts of activity between nap times. In general, younger puppies are a lot more energetic than older dogs. As your dog ages, like humans, their energy level drops, and the frequency of zoomies typically drops as well. You could be wondering if the zoomies are safe for your retriever puppy. There are only two concerns you need to consider, which is how often they get the zoomies and any potential obstacles that could cause injury. For example, a fenced yard is a great place for them to get all of that excess energy out rather than doing it in a small, cluttered room. For example, it would be possible for them to bump into the leg of a table leg, making your heirlooms go flying. Although the zoomies are generally harmless, you should keep an eye on how often your golden retriever puppy is displaying this behaviour. Your golden retriever puppy could be dealing with a compulsive need to zoom or may be experiencing a higher than normal amount of stress. Planning daily walks, playtime, and training sessions can give your puppy a chance for them to release their energy. Make sure to get their much-needed nap time in the routine too. As the clip progressed, Sally darted around the room and jumped on the bed and owner - all seemingly at lightning speed. File photo of golden retriever on bed. Sally the dog displayed a lot of energy while trying to wake up her owner. The caption on the video read: "POV [point of view]: Your wife sends a 30kg dog with zoomies to wake you up. But the zoomies are something else. Also called the Frenetic Random Activity Periods, they refer to explosions of energy demonstrated by dogs at times that "often feature frantic, repetitive behavior, such as running in circles or spinning around," according to the American Kennel Club AKC. They can happen at any time of the day, generally when the dog has stocked-up energy to spare. There is generally no cause for alarm though constant zoomies could be a sign of a larger behavioral problem, the AKC warns. The kennel club described goldens as family dogs that are outgoing, trustworthy, and eager to please and relatively easy to train. They take a joyous and playful approach to life and maintain this puppyish behavior into adulthood. For a breed built to retrieve waterfowl for hours on end, swimming and fetching are natural pastimes. Does he run as fast as he can throughout our living room and the hallways, flying up onto the couch and jumping over his bed? Golden Retrievers can get the zoomies; the Zoomies may be due to excess energy, a lack of exercise, a problem with its nutrition, enthusiasm, or that you have unwittingly encouraged the behavior. It is not uncommon, so unless your dog does it regularly, it is unlikely to be a cause for concern. Continue reading to learn more about zoomies, the various factors to consider when determining the root cause, and the various remedies available. Do Golden Retrievers get the zoomies? In general, Golden Retrievers and all dog breeds are prime to getting the zoomies for various reasons, either pent-up energy, excitement, frustration, extreme feeling of happiness, or even attracting your attention and urging you to hand out treats. What are zoomies? A frequent cause of zoomies is an excess buildup of energy that is released in one big burst. An overabundance of energy that is released in a single large burst is a common cause of zoomies. Certain times of day, such as first thing in the morning or after spending much of the day in a crate, may be more likely to cause zoomies in dogs than others. Some dogs have zoomies after a bath, while others are caused by stressful events such as going to the clinic. Zoomies are most common in puppies and younger dogs, but they can occur in dogs of all ages and breeds at times. Are zoomies common in Golden Retrievers? Golden Retrievers are energetic by nature, which makes zoomies common in this breed. They constantly need to let out their energy, and without regular activity, your dog will probably be sprinting around the house and jumping over anything and everything. You can learn how to hike with your golden retriever here. When do dogs get the zoomies? Not getting enough exercise. Golden retrievers should receive a lot of exercise every day. When they do not receive enough exercise, it might lead them to behave more energetically than average. When Golden Retrievers are healthy adults, it is recommended that they get an hour of activity every day. If you have just had guests over, then this is a sign. They could also be stressed by recent changes; for example, if you have moved houses recently. If you offer your dog treats, additional attention, or toys when it starts running in circles, they will most likely do it more to receive more rewards. Are zoomies the sign of a happy dog? Causes of zoomies may vary, but they are a natural habit that is usually not a reason for concern as long as your pup has enough space to run around without harming themselves. What age do puppy zoomies stop? Related Questions Why do dogs get the zoomies after a bath? Other causes might include drying off and completely expressing their delight. Why do dogs get zoomies after a walk? Dogs get zoomies after a walk because they react to a particular sensation; this might be exhilaration, extra energy, relief, or dissatisfaction towards the end of their walk. Zoomies after a walk will most likely take the shape of running in circles, up and down or leaping repeatedly. Why do dogs get the zoomies at night? Why do dogs get the zoomies when wet? Dogs get the zoomies when wet, simply because not all dogs are fans of the feeling of being wet; zoomies might be their method to dry themselves off. In contrast, other dogs get the zoomies as an expression of their delight. Why do dogs get the zoomies before pooping? Dogs get the zoomies before pooping because they are either preparing for, relieving from, or perhaps bragging about their bowel movements. The zoomies can also aid with training as a cue that your dog needs to go. Your dog is most likely experiencing the poop zoomies to assist them in defecating. Why do dogs get the zoomies after pooping? Dogs getting the zoomies after pooping may happen due to various reasons, either because they are proud of their achievement, marking their territories, or even forming a cue that will help them in making a statement that they need to go. Check out the best and healthiest foods for golden retrievers at every age here — Dry, Wet, Homemade Recipes, and Treats! Taking a walk? These are the best leashes, collars, and harnesses for the buck that you can find.

It is a highly popular dog breed across the world, known to be a great companion and a capable working dog. Labrador Retrievers sport a dense and hard coat that is usually black, chocolate or yellow in colour. Labrador Retrievers are typically 21 to 24 inches tall and weigh around 55 to 80 pounds, with an average life expectancy of 10 to 12 years. Labradors are extremely friendly dogs. They get along well with humans as well as other pets. They are famous for their energy and athletic nature. They are always enthusiastic and are just as good working dogs as they are pets. At Doggywala, we do our best to help you strike an ideal deal and obtain the best of Labrador puppies for sale in Pune. Labrador Retrievers come with their own set of benefits and perks for their owners. If you are looking forward to bring an adorable Labrador puppy in your family, you are looking forward for an array benefits coming your way! Labradors are patient dogs Labrador Retrievers are not naturally irritable. They are highly patient and can put up with an array of actions they consider to be fun. This is what makes them an ideal choice for families with children. We all know how reckless and playful children are. They would certainly want to play with their new furry friend as soon as it is a part of the family. Labradors are patient and calmly receptive of actions such as pulling of tail, yanking of fur, grabbing of ears and other tactics of children. You need not worry about your dog getting angry and fidgety with children around. However, there is always a limit to their patience an aggressive actions should be avoided. They are fun-loving dogs who are happy most of the time. They are very friendly and quickly develop a bond with their owners. Labradors love a good company. They have a high motivation for learning and are always receptive to new skills. This makes it very easy and fun to train them. Whether you are training your Labrador yourself or hiring a professional trainer, they are highly receptive to obedience training. They can also learn complicated skills with precision, provided the trainer is reliable. A lot of their actions and behaviour is also learned. Labradors are pretty observational and learn a great deal of actions by looking at their owners. So, if you happen to see your little Lab opening the door of your refrigerator one fine day, do not be surprised! They make great swimming partners! Labrador Retrievers are known for their love for water. Take them anywhere with water around and they will have a time of their lives! Labradors love spending time in pools and swimming for hours at a stretch. They are also great companions for a trip to the beach! Watch them wag their tails frantically as you approach water, dying to take a plunge. Swimming also helps them have their daily quota of exercise, much needed for their healthy daily routine. Labradors are playful pets It is very unlikely to have dull and boring moments when you are around a Labrador. They have a naturally playful nature, always making them ready for one game or another. Talking about games, Labradors love playing fetch. It is almost a prerequisite for owning a Labrador Retriever. They are beautiful creatures! If you are the owner of an adorable Labrador Retriever, looks do matter! With a strong athletic build, bright colours and wide chest, Labradors are simply beautiful to look at! Although they can grow up to being as heavy as 80 pounds, they do not give off an intimidating vibe. They have gentle demeanour and a cute look on their face that makes people want to interact with them. On being the pet-parent of a Lab dog, you will certainly have to get used to all the attention it will garner when you take it out for a walk! Labradors are full of energy Labradors are not the kind of dogs that love lying around in the house doing nothing all day. They are always hyperactive and full of energy, with an infectious enthusiasm. Once they start playing, there is no end to the activity from their side. Labradors will want to keep playing till the point of absolute exhaustion. This is what makes them excellent exercising buddies. They would provide you with the much-needed motivation to get up and exercise along with them. Important Considerations Before - Buying A Labrador Retrievers Now that you are thorough with the perks in store for you on availing our services and buying Labrador puppies for sale in Pune from our sellers, there are certain factors you need to consider before bringing them home. Although we will provide you with all relevant details once we make all the negotiations with the seller on your behalf, here are a few major considerations that would help you prepare for becoming a Labrador parent. Labradors leave their youthful traits late One of the major aspects you need to consider before bringing a Labrador home is that they take time in maturing with age. They are likely to have their childish tendencies intact until they reach the age of four. Even after your puppy has grown, you might have to deal with juvenile issues such as chewing problems and separation anxiety for a little longer. You will encounter frequent shedding Labradors may not be the best option if you, or anyone in your family, are allergic to dog hair. They tend to get a thick coat in winter which comes off around late spring. Apart from the high seasonal shedding, you will always find hair around in the house if you have a Lab at home. You will have to take additional care in cleaning the house and maintaining a healthy environment due to the shedding tendency of Labradors. Their eating habits require special attention As mentioned earlier, Labradors are highly energetic dogs. They tend to spend a lot of their energy throughout the day. This implies that they also require a sufficient amount of food intake to feed their energy. This often results in the dogs not knowing the limits when to stop eating. Their energy requirements are so high that they may keep on eating beyond the suitable limit. It is therefore important to monitor their daily eating habits and ensure they are not consuming more food than required. Along with monitoring their eating habits, it is equally important to check whether they are burning off these calories daily. If you would keep them from their daily exercise routine a couple of walks at least , Labradors tend to get obese and encounter an array of health issues. We love Labradors as much as you do and would ensure that you get the best of Labrador Retriever puppies from our sellers. All you need to do is brief us about the kind of puppies you want and we will get in touch with the most ideal sellers, negotiating the deal at the best Lab puppies price. Once you have approached us, you can rest assured that you would take the most beautiful and healthy Labrador puppies home! They have a strong, athletic build with a broad chest and strong hindquarters. Labrador dogs have short, thick, and water-resistant coat that comes in three colors: black, chocolate, and yellow. They have a strong head with a broad skull, strong jaws, and a well-defined stop. Their ears are medium in size and hang close to their head, while their eyes are medium in size and shaped like almonds. Labrador dogs have long, thick tail that is often docked. History of Labrador Dogs Labrador dogs were developed in the 19th century in Newfoundland, Canada as a working breed. They were used to haul fishing nets, pull carts, and assist fishermen in rescuing people from the water. In the early 20th century, Labrador dogs were imported to England, where they were used as gun dogs and family pets. Today, Labrador dogs are one of the most popular breeds in the world due to their friendly, loyal, and intelligent nature. Labrador Dog Temperament Labrador dogs are known for their friendly and outgoing personality, making them an excellent choice for families. They are intelligent and easy to train, and they are highly loyal to their owners. Labrador dogs are energetic and need plenty of exercises, so they do well with active families who can provide them with daily walks or runs. They are also good with children and make great playmates. Labrador dogs are generally good with other dogs and animals, although early socialization is important to prevent any potential aggression. They may be a little reserved around strangers at first, but they warm up quickly once they have had a chance to get to know them. Factors that Affect the Price of a Labrador Dog Breeder reputation: One of the biggest factors that affect the price of a Labrador dog is the reputation of the breeder. Reputable breeders invest time, money, and effort into breeding healthy and genetically sound Labrador dogs, which often results in a higher price. Pedigree: Another factor that affects the labrador retriever price is its pedigree. Labrador dogs with a long line of champion ancestors may be more expensive due to their potential for show and breeding purposes. Location: The location of the breeder can also affect the lab dog price. For example, Labrador dogs from urban areas may be more expensive due to the higher cost of living in these areas. Demand: The demand for Labrador dogs can also affect their price. If there is a high demand for Labrador dogs in a particular area, breeders may charge a higher price for their puppies. Age: The age of a Labrador retriever can also affect its price. Puppies are generally more expensive than adult Labrador dogs, as they have the potential for breeding and showing. Size: The size of a Labrador dog can also affect its price. Labrador dogs that are larger or smaller than the breed standard may be more expensive due to their rarity. Labrador Dog Training Training a Labrador dog can be a rewarding experience for both the owner and the dog. These intelligent and eager-to-please dogs are often very easy to train and excel in obedience and agility classes. Here are some tips for training a Labrador dog: Start training early: Labrador puppies are highly intelligent and are ready to learn from an early age. It is important to start training as soon as possible to establish good behavior and to prevent bad habits from forming. Use positive reinforcement: Labrador dogs respond well to positive reinforcement such as treats and praise. Avoid using punishment or negative reinforcement as it can lead to fear and aggression in your dog. Be consistent: It is important to be consistent with your training methods and commands. This will help your dog understand what is expected of them Video credit — Furry Friend Labrador Dog Health Issues Labrador dogs are generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health issues. Some common health issues that Labrador dogs may experience include: Hip Dysplasia: This is a genetic condition that affects the hip joint, causing it to become dislocated or malformed. This can lead to pain and difficulty walking or moving. Obesity: Labrador dogs are prone to obesity due to their love of food and tendency to eat more than they need. Obesity can lead to other health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems. Eye Problems: Labrador dogs can suffer from various eye problems, including cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal dysplasia. These conditions can cause vision loss or blindness if left untreated. Ear Infections: Labrador dogs have long, floppy ears that can trap moisture and bacteria, leading to ear infections. These infections can be painful and may cause hearing loss if left untreated. Bloat: This is a serious condition that occurs when the stomach becomes distended and twists, cutting off blood flow to the rest of the body. Bloat can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Labrador dog Care Tips To keep your Labrador dog healthy and happy, it is important to provide proper care and attention. Some care tips for Labrador dogs include: Provide proper nutrition: Labrador dogs require a balanced diet of high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs. Avoid feeding them table scraps or too many treats, as this can lead to obesity. Exercise regularly: Labrador dogs are energetic and require daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. This can include walks, runs, or playtime in the backyard. Grooming: Labrador dogs have thick, short coat that requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and shiny. This includes regular brushing and baths, as well as checking and cleaning their ears and trimming their nails. Protect against parasites: Labrador dogs are prone to parasites such as fleas, ticks, and worms. To protect your dog, use preventative measures such as monthly flea and tick medication and regular deworming. Keep up with vaccinations: Labrador dogs require regular vaccinations to protect against diseases such as rabies, distemper, and parvovirus. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate vaccination schedule for your dog. Here are some common expenses you can expect when owning a Labrador Retriever: Food: The cost of dog food can vary depending on the brand and quality you choose. On average, you can expect to spend around Rs 1, to Rs 4, per month on high-quality dog food. Grooming: Labradors have a thick, double coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles. Grooming expenses can include bathing, brushing, and nail trimming. On average, you can expect to spend around Rs 1, to Rs 2, per month on grooming. Veterinary care: Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and preventative care such as flea and tick prevention are essential to keeping your Labrador healthy. The cost of veterinary care can vary depending on the services required, but on average, you can expect to spend around Rs. Training and socialization: Proper training and socialization are important for ensuring a well-behaved and well-adjusted Labrador. The cost of obedience classes or private training sessions can vary depending on the trainer, but on average, you can expect to spend around Rs. Toys and accessories: Providing your Labrador with toys and accessories such as a leash, collar, and dog bed can also add to the cost of owning a Labrador Retriever. On average, you can expect to spend around Rs. Boarding and pet sitting: If you plan to travel without your Labrador, you may need to consider the cost of boarding or pet sitting. The cost of boarding or pet sitting can vary depending on the facility or pet sitter, but on average, you can expect to spend around Rs. Medical emergencies: In case of a medical emergency, you may need to pay for unexpected medical expenses such as emergency vet care, surgery, or medications. Check online reviews, ask for referrals from other dog owners, and look for any red flags such as poor living conditions for dogs or a high number of litters. Check registration and certification: Reputable breeders will be registered with the Kennel Club of India or another reputable kennel club. They may also have certifications for health screenings and show or working titles. Look for clean and spacious living conditions, socialization with other dogs and people, and access to food and water. This can give you an idea of what to expect from the puppy as it grows up. Ask about health screenings: Reputable breeders will have their breeding dogs screened for genetic health problems such as hip dysplasia and eye conditions. Ask about socialization and training: Reputable breeders will socialize their puppies with other dogs and people and may begin basic training. Ask about what kind of socialization and training the puppies have received. Ask for a written contract: A reputable breeder will provide a written contract that outlines the responsibilities of both the breeder and the buyer. However, factors such as genetics, diet, and overall health can affect their lifespan. Fun Facts about Labrador dog 1. Labrador dogs were originally bred for hunting and retrieving games. They were used by fishermen to retrieve fish that had escaped from their nets and were also used as duck-hunting dogs. Labrador dogs are intelligent and easy to train. They are ranked as one of the top ten intelligent dog breeds and are often used as service dogs and police dogs. Labrador dogs have a keen sense of smell and are often used as search and rescue dogs. They are also used in drug and bomb detection by law enforcement. Labrador dogs are known for their love of water and are excellent swimmers. They have a thick, waterproof coat and webbed paws, which make them well-suited for swimming and retrieving objects in the water. Labrador dogs are loyal and protective of their families. They are known to be great with children and make excellent family pets. Labrador dogs have a friendly disposition and are known to be social animals. They are often used as therapy dogs due to their calm and friendly nature. Labrador dogs have a high energy level and require regular exercise. They love to play and are often used in activities such as obedience training, agility, and flyball. FAQ — Do Labrador dogs bark a lot? Labrador dogs are not known for being excessively barky. However, like any breed, they may bark in certain situations such as when they are alarmed, want attention, or are left alone for long periods of time. Proper training and socialization can help prevent excessive barking in Labrador dogs. Are Labrador dogs easy to train? Labrador dogs are generally considered to be easy to train due to their intelligence and willingness to please. They are ranked as one of the top ten most intelligent dog breeds and are often used as service dogs and police dogs due to their trainability. Proper training and positive reinforcement can help make the process of training a Labrador dog smooth and enjoyable. Are Labrador Retrievers good with children? Yes, Labrador Retrievers are known for their gentle and friendly nature, which makes them great family pets. Do Labrador Retrievers shed a lot? Yes, Labrador Retrievers have a thick, double coat that sheds moderately throughout the year and heavily during shedding season. Regular brushing can help minimize shedding. Are Labrador Retrievers good apartment dogs? While Labrador Retrievers are adaptable and can adjust to different living situations, they are an active breed that requires plenty of exercise. Therefore, they may not be the best choice for apartment living unless they are provided with ample opportunities for exercise and play. Do Labrador Retrievers make good service dogs? Yes, Labrador Retrievers are commonly used as service dogs due to their intelligence, trainability, and friendly nature. They are often used as guide dogs, hearing dogs, and mobility assistance dogs. Are there different types of Labrador Retrievers? There are two main types of Labrador Retrievers: English and American. English Labradors tend to have a stockier build and a calmer temperament, while American Labradors are more active and have a leaner build. However, individual temperament and personality can vary regardless of type. Do Labrador dog make good hunting dogs? Yes, Labrador Retrievers are commonly used as hunting dogs due to their intelligence and retrieving abilities. They are often used to retrieve waterfowl and other game birds. Recommended —. Conclusion Dog Price Below Rs. Indian Spitz As their names imply, they are indigenous to India and are among the most popular dog breeds kept as pets there. Dogs of the Indian Spitz type are known for their fidelity and intelligence, making them a great option for first-time dog owners. As befits a watchdog, Indian Spitzes make a lot of noise when they spot an intruder. This dog breed is also suited for city life. Indian Spitz is so smart that toilet training them is a breeze. The Indian Spitz has no major health problems and does well in both warm and cold climes. Prices for Indian Spitzs often begin around Rs 4, to Rs 5, Labrador retriever As of , the Labrador retriever was the most widely owned dog in the world. In the opinion of the general public, what type of dog is best for a person getting a dog for the first time? Labradors are high-energy, playful canines since they are members of the sporting dog breed. Labrador is not only highly active, but also exceptionally intelligent. Children find them endearing in part because of their kind, jovial demeanour. Puppies of the Labrador breed can be purchased in India for as little as .Indian Pariah The Indian Pariah is indeed a type of stray or abandoned dog commonly found on the streets of India. Dedicated to their master, Indian Pariah pups are fiercely protective of their territory. They will even resort to violence to defend their master if they feel threatened. This is a dog that learns quickly and requires no professional trainer. They might become hostile if not socialized with children and other people from a young age on. The typical cost of this Indian Pariah ranges between 4, and 5, The Pug is a friendly and easygoing breed of dog that is great around children. If you want a dog for under INR 5, and you have a young child at home, a pug may be the best choice. Pugs are a great choice for those who are limited by living space, as they can adapt to small spaces. Dachshund dogs The Dachshund breed of dog is well-known for its cuteness. In India, you may expect to pay between Rs. Dachshund dogs have a high incidence of disc herniation due to their unusually long bodies. Everyone hopes their dog will live a long time, and while the average lifespan of a dog is 12—14 years, the average lifespan of a Chihuahua is 17 years, which itself is significantly longer than the lifespan of other dog breeds. Due to its diminutive stature, the Chihuahua is an ideal pet for a sizable household. Chihuahuas are great for folks with small homes because of their compact size. You can get it for between 3, and 5, Kombai Throughout southern India, the Kombai dog breed is extremely popular. The Kombai dog breed is renowned for its steadfast devotion to its owners and its high level of intelligence. Because of their aggressive nature, they are the top picks for guard dogs. If you have limited space, such as in an apartment, you should also avoid this breed. Conclusion So if you are the one who is thinking of having dog as your pet animal, then consider the above-mentioned options and get unconditional love from them. Related Topics. India is one of the fastest-growing pet markets in the world and the demand for dogs is rising. It is quite easy to buy native and non-native dog breeds in India. Finding the right dog is crucial as it must perfectly fit your budget and suits your lifestyle. Breeders When buying a fur companion for yourself and your family, it is very important to choose the right breeder. To avoid further problems and inconveniences, having proper knowledge about the breed is essential. For that, you must approach the correct set of hands. Location Every place has its pros and cons when it comes to buying a dog. Some breeds are expensive at some places as compared to other locations. Availability of the desired breed in a particular location also affects the cost of the same. It also helps pet parents to pick the right breed for them, as per the weather conditions of the place they reside. Bloodline Bloodline also has a major impact on the price of the breed. It represents the ancestral genes passed down to the dog through the breeding process. Also, the behavior and temperament of the breed depend on this factor. Therefore, breeds with varied behavior are costlier compared to the standard ones. Labrador Retriever The Labrador Retriever or Labrador is a medium-sized breed with a broad head, strong jaws, and a powerful and muscular built body. It was initially bred for the purpose of sporting and hunting but is now widely kept as a companion dog. Labradors are highly loyal, obedient, and playful. They have a very good reputation as an even-tempered breed and prove to be excellent family dogs. They get along well with children and other animals. Furthermore, they are readily available in the market and are mostly preferred even by first-time pet owners. By the way, here are some other dog breeds best for first time owners. The price of a Labrador Retriever, both puppies, and grown-ups, depends on various factors. These include the place where you reside, the location you desire to purchase the puppy from, and also the quality and pedigree combination of the parents. It belongs to the utility group and has a very interesting history. It is a crossbreed of German Spitz and Indian Pariah. Not only that but it is often mistaken as a Pomeranian, even though both the breeds are completely different from each other. It was shown to be a highly intelligent, loyal, and alert family dog, which in fact is true in real life too. They are usually good with children and get along well with other dogs and household pets. The cost and maintenance of an Indian Spitz are quite less compared to any other popular breed. It is considered to be one of the best breeds for families with small children and apartment living. It can prove to be a great companion if provided with proper training and early socialization. Indian Pariah Portrait hunting dog Basenji breed. The Indian Pariah is a medium-sized dog of a square to slightly rectangular build and short coat. It has erect ears, a wedge-shaped head, and a curved tail. Pariah dogs are very alert and social. Being territorial and defensive, they are often used as guard dogs and police dogs. They love to stay in packs and are excellent with children and other pets. However, they need to be properly trained as a puppy to help them get along with families and neighbors. You can easily find this dog breed in the market. Also, it is highly adaptable to apartment living culture and can survive in extreme climatic conditions too. Pomeranian The Pomeranian is a breed of the Spitz type that is named after the Pomerania region in northwest Poland and northeast Germany in Central Europe. The breed has been made popular by several royal owners since the 18th Century. Queen Victoria owned a particularly small Pomeranian and thus, the smaller variety became universally popular. Pomeranians are typically friendly, lively, and playful and enjoy being the center of attention. They tend to be defensive of their territory and may even develop the habit of excessive barking if not trained properly. They are very intelligent and can be very successful in getting what they want from their owners. A lot of factors come into the picture while determining the cost of the breed. Being a toy breed, this dog can adapt well to the Indian living conditions and is suitable for all types of pet parents. Gaddi Kutta Also known as the Himalayan mastiff, this breed is an enormous livestock guardian dog from the Himalayas, covering India and Nepal. Some people mistake it for the Tibetan mastiff but the Gaddi Kutta is less bulky and has a mane like a big black lion. It is covered with a double coat which is usually black and tan or solid black with some white markings on its toes, chest, and neck. It has small drooped ears and a heavily plumed tail that is curled over its back. Likewise, it is primarily used as a guard dog to protect yak and sheep, and also as a property guard by their owners. Gaddi Kuttas are considered to be fairly friendly and go well around family and neighbors if provided with proper training and early socialization. Conclusion When planning to buy a fur companion for yourself, a lot of things need to be taken into consideration. I hope you found this article useful enough to help you find the desired pooch for yourself and your family. Isha Bagwe Isha has been a Dog Lover her entire life and has owned many dogs over the years. Her immense experience of raising and training dogs has helped thousands of dog owners take better care of their dogs. Leave a Comment.

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. We have been established since .We are experienced, proven and conscious breeders! We are Selective in our breeding pairs as we have searched worldwide! We will not compromise the rich heritage, pure quality of our Traditional and International breeding lines. We are Dilute Clear!! Official AKC Standard for the Labrador Retriever, General Appearance: The Labrador Retriever is a strongly built, medium-sized, short-coupled, dog possessing a sound, athletic, well-balanced conformation that enables it to function as a retrieving gun dog; the substance and soundness to hunt waterfowl or upland game for long hours under difficult conditions; the character and quality to win in the show ring; and the temperament to be a family companion…… The most distinguishing characteristics of the Labrador Retriever are its short, dense, weather resistant coat; an "otter" tail; a clean-cut head with broad back skull and moderate stop; powerful jaws; and its "kind," friendly eyes, expressing character, intelligence and good temperament……The Labrador is bred primarily as a working gun dog; structure and soundness are of great importance. Some of our breeders come with hunting titles as well!! Over the years, our dogs have made great companions, hunters, and service dogs. Our pups and dogs have been featured in commercials and magazines! Please send in your Pictures!! Janice M. We could not ask for a better puppy than Robin for a family. She is everything we were looking for. She has the sweetest temperament and I cannot believe how smart she is. She has been such a joy to train. She is already great with off leash recall and as soon as we tell her to stop doing something which is not often she listens immediately. Potty training and crate training were a breeze with her. What we love most about Robin is she is completely devoted to our children. She is with them before they go to school and then is at the door a few minutes before they walk in. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. He was smart, well tempered, and just an amazing friend. He was an ultimate protector of Jenine. We have been so happy with everything about him! From Maggie X Manny Litter of 12 pups, ! Our Puppies are Veterinarian Examined! We send stool samples in to eliminate all parasites! Your Health Certificate will share the details! This is is a very strong breeding presenting 14 National Field Champions in their combined pedigrees. She is a muscular rock solid 52 pound female of pure energy. She can outrun anyone and her love of retrieving is pure and always front and center. She is definitely her mother's Jet daughter. She taught her well, she is a strong hunting partner and a loyal family companion who loves with her whole heart. She trains the young ones around Bailiwick, she is so very smart. Spend one minute with her and it is obvious, she is "Over the Top", she truly has it all. Retrieve, yes she loves retrieving, ask her and you shall receive. She is a devoted companion who loves with her whole heart, will work all day, not a problem with her. At the end of a long day she is not hard to find, she will be right at your side. This beautiful gal was born dreaming if ducks and duck ponds. Radley is Mr. Personality, he will put a smile on your face. We can retrieve all day or we can just visit and be cool, either way not a problem for Radley. He is truly a pleasure to train, so smart just tell him once and he has it down pat!!!!! This is a very strong breeding.Her love is retrieving, if you have the time she has the energy. She is dedicated, loving and very smart. Training her is a pleasure. What a loving personality, she will put a smile on your face. This is a very strong breeding. Stella presents three National Champions in her pedigree.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. This very strong breeding offers these puppies strong health and genetics as well as desirable attributes — keen intelligence, strong desire to please, trainable attitude, wonderful loving personality and a true hunting or family companion. Bailiwick Retrievers is one of the best Labrador breeders because we focus on the health and comfort of our parents and puppies. We raise working and field lab puppies for sale. These puppies make great duck hunting and shed hunting dogs. Our litters are socialized and handled from the day they arrive. This is the best age for adapting to their new environment. The first behavioral fear period occurs during this time. Separating helps to build resiliency to new experiences. We take great attention to order of pick and travel time to assist in making this as easy as possible for everyone. All beautiful pups have wonderful homes waiting for them at this time. We are currently taking names for breedings Current puppy pictures and litters as well as videos are kept current on our Bailiwick facebook page. You can see additional information, as well as, the pedigree on all the females under Our Labs or Meet The Parents. Bailiwick 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. This includes: Black, Chocolate from light to dark and Yellows from light cream to fox red. This will be another exceptional cross that will produce the total package! Freya had a beautiful litter on July 28th. They will be ready to go to their new homes on September 22nd when they turn 8 weeks old. Only 1 male spot open! We have had such wonderful feedback on the first litter that we did it again. This will be a fantastic all chocolate litter that can go any direction! Ditto gave birth to a gorgeous litter of 10 on August 11th. They be ready to go home on October 6th when the puppies turn 8 weeks. Accepting deposits to hold spots! Males and Female available! Remi is in absolute perfect health and she absolutely loves being a mom. So we decided to give her one final opportunity. We are expecting 4 to 6 puppies! These puppies are going to be incredible! We are now accepting a limited number of deposits. All will depend on the timing and the availability of the special stud. We will begin accepting deposits later into , once the breeding has taken place. When Molly comes back in heat anticipated in December are planning to bring Molly all the way down to Baton Rouge Louisianna to make this extremely special breeding happen! This will be a black and yellow litter. Once the pregnancy is confirmed we will begin accepting deposits. This cross is a proven producer of the total package! The puppies can go any direction and make absolutely wonderful companions too! Tentative plan is for a spring litter. Each boy would bring something special to the table with Bailey. So we are taking our time making this decision. One thing we know is that this will be a gorgeous total package chocolate litter! We anticipate this to be a spring litter. Our studs are all proven in the field and live as part of the family. They all have strong proven pedigrees and are some of the most extensively health tested studs available anywhere. This is one of the best chocolate pedigrees we have ever seen! Master titled as a 2 year old! Mojo is the result of over 4 years of planning and research. He is the first chocolate dog in over 10 generations. Mojo has a loaded pedigree and is an excellent out cross option for females with more traditional chocolate pedigrees. He is currently in Texas training with Justin Drake. Houdini will be coming home for a couple of months this winter, before heading back south to finish his Master Hunter title. After he completes his MH title, Houdini will be available for stud services. We focus on producing the best all around Lab puppies from champion Field Bred and Hunt Test bloodlines that are healthy and free of hereditary disorders. Our dogs are selected for their natural hunting instincts, desire to please, intelligence, versatility, gentle temperaments, ability to compete in hunt tests and field trials, train-ability, pedigree, health clearances, and attractive physical features. We take pride in our dogs and with our careful research and selection processes, our puppies should satisfy the most challenging buyer. Our labs are bred to be working dogs and have the potential to excel in any direction. They are also bred to have wonderful dispositions and make great family companions. All of our dogs live in our home and are part of our family. We actively use them for upland and waterfowl hunting, and have started running them in AKC Hunt Tests. We do everything we can to try and ensure we produce healthy puppies. We go above and beyond when it comes to health testing and it shows. We have also started the process of testing for OFA Thyroid. The results of all of this health testing is readily available online on the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals website as well as on the Paw Print Genetics Pedigree Database. We only offer a limited number of litters of puppies per year. We focus on quality and not quantity and believe in having a personal touch. All of our puppies are born and raised in our home and are thoroughly socialized. Our puppies are actually born in our bedroom and stay there until they are between 3 and 4 weeks of age. This way we can ensure that they are safe, clean and comfortable at all times. Not to mention the countless hours of attention they get during the day and late into each night. Once they are 3 to 4 weeks old, we will move them into one of our two puppy nursery rooms where we can expand their box and begin the introduction to potty training. We LOVE our puppies and it shows in their care. We will only breed litters when we can guarantee that each puppy will receive daily individual love and attention. When we have multiple litters on the ground we hire in special daily helpers to ensure that our strict standards of care are always met. Our puppy program is extensive and comprehensive, yet we are continually fine-tuning and looking at ways to incorporate more. At a bare minimum this program includes: early neurological stimulation called ENS or Biosensor , early scent introduction ESI , introduction to crates, car rides, birds or bird wings, gunfire from a distance, water weather permitting , outdoor adventures in different types of environments, daily loud noises, introduction to potty training and lots of socialization with adults, kids and other dogs. We strive to give every puppy the best start possible. By the time they are ready to go to their new homes at 8 weeks of age, each puppy should be well prepared for whatever direction their new family takes them. Our very first litter was in and then we took a short hiatus from breeding until .Since resuming, we have had tremendous success with our very limited number of litters. The majority of our puppies have gone to homes where they live as part of the family and have proven themselves as exceptional hunting-working-competition dogs.

Imagine you could come home to a lovable, dedicated, companion for life! If you knew what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy, you could find your next best friend. Before you buy your new best friend, read this information so you know what to look for in buying a healthy, quality German Shepherd puppy. I group them into major categories. Will you show him in conformation? Do you want to work with him in Schutzhund or herding? Or do you want a confident and alert companion? Know exactly what you want from your puppy. These dogs are the least costly since they have a trait that prevents them from winning in conformation competitions. These flaws rarely matter to most pet owners. And many minor faults like flat withers or slightly smaller offset ears will probably go unnoticed by most owners. The vast majority of GSDs are family pets. These dogs make great pets as long as they have sound temperaments! They breed some dogs for certain traits that are highly desirable but considered a fault. For example, long-coat or plush-coat GSDs. Show-quality dogs have good temperament and health. You usually buy them for their breed standard qualities that make them able to compete in confirmation or show events. A show-quality dog may cost significantly more if they have the traits desirable to win at a show. This group comes from Championship show lines with a long history of winning. If you plan on showing your Shepherd this is the quality you want. Beware of any breeder who claims they only raise competition-quality dogs. Even the best breeders produce many pet-quality dogs and if a breeder says they only breed perfect dogs, this is a red flag to not buy from them. The GSD is a herding breed, and the working-quality dogs excel at working trials such as scent competitions and Schutzhund. Other work includes climbing and jumping competitions or searching and tracking. They need mental stimulation to keep them occupied and take a lot of time to handle properly. These dogs are better with experienced handlers since you use them for high drive working and competition. They require hours and years of training and preparation for you to have total control during competition. We base this decision on preference. With the correct upbringing and training, both sexes are loyal companions and good with children. They may grow into more dominant dogs, so a confident handler is more desirable. Males may hike their back legs to mark their territory. This can occur on any object — chairs, walls, couches or even your leg. I suggest an extra bout of socialization during this stage, especially with other well-behaved dogs. So they may be better for the first-time owner. Unspayed females come into season every 6 months, so they must receive monitoring and watch to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Their season time can vary from as little as every 4 months to every 9 months. They can attract males to your property and on walks that will harass them if not spayed. Certain breeders and organizations will deal only in a certain coat length and color. The standard coat length is a short coat with double layers. Guard hairs on the top cover a softer underlayer of hair that provides warmth and protection. But there are many coat lengths available depending on your liking. Look online at the different GSD coat lengths to get an idea of what type of fur you want your dog to have. The longer the fur the more grooming involved. The color you choose is a matter of individual taste. Keep in mind the color of many Shepherds alters from their puppyhood to around 2 years of age. Your dog may become lighter or darker. Perhaps they will lose some of their markings as the color fades into the adult pattern. The best way to know what color and patterns your dog grows into is to see the parents of the litter. If the father is unavailable, then ask for photos. Why should you care where your dog comes from if you only want him as a pet companion? You want to get a dog that will live a long and healthy life from a source that has quality puppies. These tips will help you make the best decision on what type of pup fits in your life. Newspaper and Internet Classified Ads Newspaper and internet ads are in abundance. Many backyard breeders hide behind ads online or in local papers. But some breeders who use newspapers and classified ads are reputable and knowledgeable. The problem is you need to visit them to find out, and this can take time to sift through them all. Try the following more reputable suggestions to save yourself time. Dog Care Professionals Ask dog professionals for recommendations. Check with your local veterinarian, groomer, and boarding kennel personnel if they know reputable breeders in town. These professionals are good sources of quality leads. Use the same caution that you will for a classified ad. Verify their suggestions. Many of these organizations regularly receive puppies they need to re-home. While you might not know the full pedigree of the dog, purebred GSDs find themselves in shelters and rescues from no fault of their own. These organizations are a good resource for your first pup. Before adopting, find out as much information as you can. Was the puppy exposed to children? Did he live with other dogs or cats? A well-organized shelter or rescue helps you choose a German Shepherd match for your lifestyle. Start with looking online for GSD rescues and local shelters. Dog Clubs Dog clubs are local and national. These groups put you into contact with registered breeders through their own programs. They can give you the name of the GSD club contact closest to you for breed contacts. Dog clubs also have dog shows open to the public. This is a good time to watch the breed in action and to ask around for quality breeders. While using a dog club to connect you with a reputable breeder is not the only choice, it is one of the more reliable. If you are using a breeder to choose your German Shepherd puppy, this section will help you know the good from the bad. Use these tips to stay safe. Are selling overpriced or under-priced dogs. Lie to you and say you can make money off your new puppy by breeding them, despite them having flaws. Tells you that the GSD is a dog for everyone, with no disadvantages. Breeds multiple types of dogs and claims to be an expert on them all. If a breeder lets their mothers get pregnant more than once a year, this affects the quality of the puppies, so ask how many litters the mother has. These breeders selling unhealthy puppies also will refuse to take bag their dogs if you need to return them for any reason and have no contracts. They have healthy puppies and will answer your questions and have you make multiple visits. Openly show you where the mother and pups spend their time, including their garden or yard. Tells you the up and downs of owning the breed. Have all pedigree and vet paperwork on hand for your review. Specializes in breeding only GSDs source. They openly share this information with you. They have screened their dogs for health issues and can confirm this with documentation which they proudly give you a copy. Healthy mothers are given rest from breeding, and a reputable breeder gives their mothers time off from reproduction. Ask if your breeder if they are willing to take back their dogs if you cannot keep them, as this is standard for a quality breeder with a good reputation. Make sure your breeder has a written contract with detailed information and health guarantees. These are expected for safe breeding practices. How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy Following this guide gives you the best chance of buying a German Shepherd puppy that suits your lifestyle. Know what you want from your GSD and where to find quality dogs. Learn what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy to stay safe from a sick pup and a bad breeder. German Shepherds have their own unique set of challenges. They are a large, active, and intelligent breed that requires an understanding owner who is willing to train their GSD using positive techniques. Devote yourself to their overall health to see the best results and help give you and your dog a lifetime of happiness. Remember, your pup will need mental stimulation to keep their brain active , a gentle exercise program , and need daily love and affection. Buying a German Shepherd puppy is a choice for your whole life that will bring you many years of joy and excitement! Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Do further research into these local German Shepherd breed clubs in your area. Whether you get information from their websites or contact them directly for help, local breed clubs are a great way to get the names of reputable breeders in your area. Veterinarians come into contact with a lot of different types of animal care-givers, from breeders to shelters to individual owners. Because they know so much about animal issues in the community, it's a good idea to talk to a few vets in your area for ethical breeder recommendations. Also consider speaking to other German Shepherd owners, dog groomers, or dog trainers. If you visit a breed show, talk to owners and trainers about who they've had good or bad experiences with. A good breeder won't have a variety of breeds available for adoption. Look for a breeder who specializes only in German Shepherds. Your best option is to find a breeder who has years of experience with the German Shepherd breed. They should be able to answer your questions about development, temperament, and training easily and without hesitation. A key marker of a good breeder is the amount of effort they put into early socialization. Puppies need to be taught from an early age to live harmoniously with humans. If a breeder keeps litters isolated away from the home, the puppies will not be used to the sights and sounds of a normal household, and won't be used to human interaction. This can become a problem by the time they are old enough to be adopted. Make sure the puppies spend at least some time in the breeders' home with them. The more time they spend with humans, the more you can trust the breeder. An ethical breeder will never try to breed a female who hasn't reached sexual maturity — about 2 years of age. Mothers should also be given enough time to recover from pregnancies and being separated from their litters as they get adopted. Females should be healthy and alert. Never adopt a puppy from a breeder who breeds a young or unhealthy female, or who doesn't give mothers time to recover before breeding them again. Puppies should never be sold or separated from their mothers before 8 weeks of age. The breeder should have begun the puppies' vaccination and deworming processes before adopting them out. Make sure that's happened, and ask about any health problems the vet may have reported in these early checkups. Ask if the breeders have their dogs tested for the Degenerative Myelopathy DM gene. This can determine whether a common inherited disease in German Shepherds is present in the litter's bloodline. Dogs with DM suffer from progressive paralysis, particularly in the hind legs. Note that being AKC-registered does not mean that you are getting a healthy animal. It means that the owner paid money to the AKC to register the dog. While experts recommend against breeding animals with known genetic problems, an OFA certification will give you proof. Be aware, though, that there's no guarantee of health in any animal. There's always a chance that two dogs free of known genetic diseases can still produce a puppy with genetic problems. The breeder should be evaluating you as a potential owner, just as you're evaluating him or her as a breeder. No good breeder will just hand over a puppy without being sure that the new owners will be able to provide it with a good, healthy life. Ask the breeder what they look for in a good owner, and whether they've ever turned potential owners away. The breeder should be able to answer these questions without even having to think about it. You might also ask the breeder for references so you can contact other families who have dogs from previous litters. A reputable breeder should ask questions about your dog background and experience, your lifestyle, and your family to guide you in making the best decision. As difficult as it may be, a good breeder will be willing to turn you away if they think you're a bad fit for their particular puppies. For example, if the litter has particularly inactive parents, the puppies may not be a good fit for your highly active lifestyle. If you get turned away, ask if the breeder can point you to other options and litters so you can expand your search. Also ask if they have any unborn litters coming up that may be a better fit for you. Be patient and don't get discouraged. With enough patience and legwork, you'll find the right puppy. Don't lie to a breeder just to get a puppy, though. Trust the breeder's decision-making process. You don't want to end up with a dog who doesn't fit your needs. Avoid any breeder who offers to cut you a "deal," who has unclean or smelly kennels, or who acts suspiciously in any way. Trust your instincts. A breeder who's in it just for the money has the wrong motivation, and likely isn't interested in the welfare of their dogs. Make sure the dogs are not crowded into cages. They should have plenty of room to stumble around and explore their surroundings. Part of the time, puppies should be kept in the home to expose them to household environments. There should be adequate food and water for all animals on the premises. Kennels should be cleaned daily. Although it may be that a dog had an accident just before you arrived, be suspicious of a kennel that looks like it hasn't been cleaned recently. If a breeder doesn't have a return policy, it suggests they don't really care what happens to their dogs once they leave their property. That's not a good sign! Also find out what kind of documentation you would get with your puppy. Would you get registration papers and pedigree papers? Negotiate for what you want if it's not included in the contract. Be very wary of a breeder who will not discuss the chance that a puppy may need to be returned. Does the contract require you to take the puppy for a vet visit within a set time? Does it cover hereditary issues for life? For only a certain period of time? What does the breeder agree to offer? Trade for another puppy when one is available? Are there restrictions on the activities you can do with your dog that will invalidate the contract or guarantee? Are you purchasing a show prospect puppy or a pet quality animal? Does the breeder have strong feelings or even bans about the vaccinations, foods or supplements for your puppy? Are these opinions based on solid science? Are you at home to devote time and training to their growth? What open space environment is your home? German Shepherds are on the no dog list in apartment buildings. Do you have a family with other pets? Also, a good breeder will ask you why do you want this particular breed? The breeder should be concerned that a German Shepherd puppy is being placed within the best living environment. Here are some insights to help you bring home the perfect German Shepherd puppy: Types of German Shepherd Puppies Pure-bred German Shepherd puppies are available in a variety of colors and built. The typical description is light brown and black. Black: Rare and beautiful. Their coloring is either all black or a deep dark bluish hair tint. Panda: their coloring consists of black, white, and tan. This is their natural coloring, not contributed to being a mixed breed. Sable: A unique coloring of this breed consists of light black, grey, tan, or gold. As puppies, the Sable German Shepherd puppies are fully tan. As they age, fur begins to develop stronger natural colors. White: No, this German Shepherd breed is not due to albino coloring. Though rate, white is their natural coloring. This German Shepherd puppy will be smaller in size, whether male or female. The reason for this question is that German Shepherds are intelligent and engaging breeds. They can be trained to thrive in any situation and climate. Their ability to cope in any situation is amazing. German Shepherds make great companions, protective family pets, and they are hard workers. Knowing how to choose a German Shepherd puppy, you are wondering what things you should look for. In other words, you are looking to see if it has a good temperament. German Shephard puppies demand and exhibit affection rather aggressively. Parental Traits If you are choosing a puppy from a kennel or a breeder, inquire about its parental background. You want to know if both parents were healthy and friendly. Carefully Examine the Puppy You want to look again for a puppy that is active and healthy. To choose the best German Shepherd puppy, you must become an amateur canine detective and examine the puppy closely. Here are things to look for: A German Shepherd puppy should not look thin. Instead, they should look full-bodied. Their eyes should appear bright and clear. Also, you must invade their personal space by examining their butt area to make sure it is clean. Their nose should be clean and not runny. Their teeth and gums look healthy. Their hair coat should not have bald spots and should not be matted. Your German Shepherd puppy should be free from odors. Pick a puppy that has a good gait, and their tail is up and actively wagging. All puppies need their mothers when they are very young. A German Shepherd puppy can be purchased when they are between the ages of eight and twelve weeks old. If you decide on an older puppy, just make sure that it has retained its socialization skills with both people and other animals. Make sure that the puppy has gotten all its vaccinations and deworming medication. However, within 48 hours of purchase, take your German Shepherd puppy to your vet for a complete exam. The Kennel or Breeder Environment Whether you are purchasing your German Shepherd puppy from a kennel or a private seller, look at the conditions of both. How does the kennel look to you? Both kennels and private breeder yards should be clean, and all puppies should have clean water. Please do not buy a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder where the conditions are unclean. How Instinctive Are You? Many potential dog-owners state that they knew that this was the one when they first saw their puppy. We all have instincts; therefore, you will know what the right buying environment is when you look at the puppies. If you get a feeling that something is not right, leave and find a different breeder. When you purchase your German Shepherd puppy and bring that bundle of joy home, you want to feel confident that you have made the best decision. After all, the relationship with your German Shepherd puppy can last easily for up to thirteen years. Male vs. Female German Shepherd There are many people who only choose a German Shepherd puppy because of their gender or appearance. What is most important in purchasing any puppy is their physical and mental stability. Gender and looks should never be a deciding factor when choosing a dog that will live in your family for the next 12 years or more. Please perform thorough breeder research so that you can choose the right German Shepherd puppy that will fit into your living lifestyle for years to come. Do you want to select a female puppy for future breeding? If not, both your male and female German Shepherd puppy should be spayed and neutered. Female German Shepherds are found to have a sweeter temperament than their male counterparts. Male German Shepherds are more territorial. They also are a little more stubborn and proud. Male German Shepherds are generally larger than their female counterparts. The male can grow to a height range of up to 26 inches. Meanwhile, the female can grow to a height of up to 24 inches tall. Their weight will range from a full-bodied 75 to 95 pounds. When you are trying to decide whether to purchase a male vs. They make excellent watchdogs. Socialize Therefore, if you are going to be around other individuals each day, your German Shepherd puppy must be trained to accept people outside their family unit. Introduce your German Shepherd puppy to strangers so that they will feel comfortable in front of people. By introducing them to strangers, will help them stay calm. They do not like to be left alone for too long. Because they were originally bred for herding, German Shepherds have high energy and thus require physical and mental stimulation. Make sure you have the time and patience to own a German Shepherd puppy. In patiently taking time with their active habits, it will work out to your benefit. They become loyal and loving breeds, especially when raised in a family setting. Remember the TV show Dog Whisperer? The host always referred to a dog requiring a pack leader. German Shepherds must learn that you are the pack leader. If not, they will take the dominant lead, and this is not good. They must be trained and actively exercised to be happy. German Shepherds love to explore and investigate everything. If you live in an area where there are porcupines, lookout. Young German Shepherd puppies will probably come home with quills all over their body. Well, you would be wrong. A German Shepherd puppy will want to correct this wrong and approach another porcupine! Grooming a German Shepherd puppy is simple and easy. Yes, they do shed year-round, so brush them occasionally. But mostly keep their nails trimmed, their teeth and ears cleaned. Dog breeders believe that to help your new German Shepherd puppy adjust from a litter to your new home, they should be crate trained. They need to feel safe and comfortable. Crate training is a learning experience for a German Shepherd puppy, but it eventually helps them get used to a family who perhaps must go off to work every day. Further Reading. Of course, you have already read a lot of books with advice on how to choose the right puppy of a German Shepherd, east European, as well as a Newfoundland, Rottweiler, Spaniel, or Spitz puppy. You understand what is the fundamental difference between these breeds and why a Retriever puppy will never become a VIP bodyguard, and a black terrier will hardly ever pass for a draft husky. Why Opting For a German Shepherd Puppy Is a Good Choice The German Shepherd is prone to learning from a very young to deep old age, while many other breeds cannot boast of this, even if their appearance is more perfect than that of a German Shepherd. The most well-known characteristics that a German Shepherd owns are: pronounced protective and guarding instinct; the ability to make independent decisions, and active actions, and at the same time be completely submissive to the owner; sociability, playfulness, and curiosity; lack of aggression signs towards others and deep affection for the owner; a willingness to happily take on tasks, learn, and remain completely fearless when faced with unfamiliar surroundings or unforeseen difficulties; In addition, the Shepherd dog is calmly confident and features strong nerves, combativeness, and assertiveness which are the main qualities of a good service dog. Perhaps, due to this set of breed characteristics, few larger and more ferocious breeds can compete with a GS, both for guarding the house and as a personal protector. It is not recommended to take puppies under 4 weeks old from their mother. This applies not only to GSs but other breeds. At the age of one month, the baby has already been given all the necessary vaccinations. However, only a person who can devote a lot of time to raising a puppy can afford to take a Shepherd at such a young age. In addition to 6 meals a day, and socialization, the new owner will need to complete 1, different tasks, which require, above all, a lot of time. If there is no time, it is worth finding a puppy aged 4 to 6 months. And it is advisable to take such a teenager from a nursery that focuses on breeding German Shepherds and not all the breeds at once. It happens that a puppy stays in the nursery because the money deposit was given for it but, for some reason, people could not pick up the reserved puppy. If the grown-up German Shepherd puppy constantly lived in an aviary and was deprived of close contact with people and the outside world, owners who have not previously dealt with this breed should not choose such a youngster. These young dogs are for experienced cinologysts. Lack of socialization can be corrected but it cannot be fully eliminated. Testing for the Puppy and Its Future Owner You may already know how to choose a purebred German Shepherd by external signs under the age of 3 months. Simple tests will help you choose a puppy with the desired character. Visit the breeder at a predetermined time when the puppies do not sleep or, conversely, are not hungry. You are taking a future friend for life, and enthusiastic emotions with such a choice are inappropriate. When buying a new friend, inspect the litter meticulously. Pay attention to the following: eyes do not water; traces of diarrhea under the tails are not observed; wet noses are without purulent crusts; legs are straight and strong; fur is clean, reminding of the plush; on the skin under the coat, there are no signs of peeling and scabs; all puppies are active and well-fed; the body is elastic and strong to the touch; the puppy has a pleasant dog smell; the mother is not exhausted; bowls and bedding are clean; there is enough heat and light. Of course, the owner of the dog mother has already taken her to the next room. Those who paid attention to the unusual sound are yours. Throw carefully, of course a tennis ball at the puppies. Those who were not afraid and did not try to escape are yours. Those who, having scouted the situation, did not begin to whine , pressing themselves onto the floor, but hurried towards the bedding are yours. Pay attention to those who have shown interest in a new object. The best are those who took and dragged it. Keys and money are the dirtiest household items. This testing method was used 20 years ago. Today, it is dangerous for the health of puppies! Invite those who dragged the rubber duck to pull a piece of fabric. If the baby dog willingly starts the fight, not letting the cloth go when you pull it towards you, they are good boys or girls. Turn the puppy you like on its back and hold it with an open palm for a few seconds. A clear alpha leader is easy to identify by its non-calming behavior for seconds, and even trying to bite you in this position. It may not be your choice! You will get too many problems associated with the puppy, or it will never be possible to completely subdue it. The puppy that squealed, pulled back its paw, and did not lose its interest in you is yours. The one who barks trying to drive brothers and sisters away from the bowl is not for you. The one who gives up its place at the feeder is also not yours. Yours is the one who, regardless of the obstacles, has taken its place and calmly devours food, without moving from its point, snapping, and running around the bowl. Now, you have at best 2 or 3 puppies left in front of you. You need to select the fat-footed one who will try to get out through the opening without panic and squealing. The tests are simple, but they will allow you to select a good puppy and raise a real working German Shepherd from it without unnecessary costs and nerves. Talk to the breeder. Such puppies are sold at a more reasonable price, but the puppy card for them is mandatory to be filled out as well. If you are given puppies for free, in the absence of their mother, there is a reason to seriously consider whether it is a Shepherd dog at all, even if their mother has pedigree documents. This is not a dog of one owner! The versatility and flexibility of this breed are proven by the fact that GSs accept a new family and a new environment without any problems. The main thing for it is to have its own business — to serve a human! Of course, parting with the former owner seriously affects the condition of the dog, but it will not have a destructive effect on its psyche. And the sooner you engage the German Shepherd in work, the more chances you will have to become a new God for it. If the German Shepherd was properly brought up and grew up surrounded by people, it has working characteristics in good conditions, and the reputation of its previous owner is beyond all questions, such a dog will be quite useful to your family. Finding out the previous story and background of an adult GS why it is refused, what the complaints about its behavior are, and other prompting questions is a must! The reason may be the saddest and most trivial — the previous owner died, and relatives are not able to either support or care for the dog. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. This guide will help you learn how to select the best German Shepherd puppy to add to your family. Is a German Shepherd right for me? This is the first question you should ask yourself before you even consider bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy. You need to evaluate your personal and family lifestyle by asking yourself the following questions: Where do you live? German Shepherds are often on the restricted breed list for apartments. Do you spend much of your time at home, or do you have an active work and social life? Are you willing to spend more time at home on the weekends and evenings during puppyhood, even if it means missing social events? Do you love traveling a lot? If so, will you take your puppy with you? If not, do you have someone or someplace you trust to watch your dog when you travel? Is your whole family excited about the idea of a new German Shepherd puppy? Are you already active or willing to become more active? Do you have time in your schedule to devote to training? Knowing the answers to those questions will help get you a couple of steps closer to deciding whether or not a German Shepherd is the right choice for you. Important things to know about German Shepherds: German Shepherd dogs are sometimes affectionately known as German shedders. German Shepherds shed all year long , however, they blow their coats twice a year during which time they will shed exponentially more. When considering getting this breed, you should be comfortable having a dog that sheds. Trimming their nails , cleaning their ears, brushing their teeth, and brushing their coat regularly is sufficient. Of course, during the shedding seasons more frequent brushing will be needed. German Shepherds were originally developed for herding sheep. Accordingly, they have the desire to work and respond best to proper training from a young age, and an active lifestyle. German Shepherds are known to be clingy, so be prepared to have a shadow following you around the house and maybe even in the restroom. German Shepherds are good with kids and are great family dogs. However, they need proper socialization and training at a young age so they can learn how to behave around both kids and adults. German Shepherds require a lot of mental stimulation and have high energy levels, especially as a puppy. As much as I love Allie, she was more than a handful as a puppy. I have seen instances where people underestimate the time, energy, and training a German Shepherd puppy requires and get overwhelmed after bringing their puppy home. These people end up giving up their puppies. It breaks my heart to know these awesome dogs are given up because of a lack of knowledge when selecting a breed of dog. Although they are a handful if you are willing to put in the effort they are in my opinion one of the best breeds of dog to own. German Shepherds are too smart for their own good. They learn things scary fast and sometimes get themselves into trouble because of how smart they are. They learn your routine and habits, and they also learn when and how they can get away with mischief. German Shepherds are incredibly loyal and become very connected to their owners and family. German Shepherds are typically loving and affectionate. From the second I met Allie she greeted me with a wet tongue to the face. That is still her favorite greeting she will kiss anyone that will allow her to get close enough. German Shepherds need training. They need to know that you are the leader and in charge. If not, they will quickly take over the role of being in charge and that is where problems arise. A bored, untrained, not active German Shepherd can become one of the stories you sometimes hear on the news about a GSD being aggressive. In most of those cases, the problem was with the owners and not the dog breed as a whole. Adoption or Breeder? First, you need to decide if you are going to adopt a German Shepherd puppy or buy one from a breeder. Here are some of the benefits of adopting: Rescue puppies are often already sociable, at least partially trained, and loving dogs. Therefore, you will save a lot of time on house training your new puppy. Older puppies or dogs are likely to be calmer than a younger puppy. You are saving the life of a dog that might not have otherwise found a home. The cost of adopting is typically much cheaper than buying a puppy from a breeder. If you decide to get a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder, here are a few things that can help you identify a good, ethical German Shepherd breeder: Ethical breeders care about the health and wellbeing of the puppy and are not just in the business for money. Ethical breeders always make sure that only healthy dogs breed together and follow a strict breeding program where they ensure that breeding and puppy spaces are clean. They should also have papers showing the age of the parent and the family tree of the puppy. Ethical breeders will happily show you around their entire setup; they should have nothing to hide. Ethical breeders will happily answer as many questions as you have to ask. You want to select one that will be compatible with you and your family. Consider the following when picking a puppy from the litter: Choose a puppy that is sociable around you and other puppies. Pick a puppy that walks confidently with its head high and tail up and wagging. Choose a puppy that has clear eyes, ears , and teeth, walks evenly, and appears clean. Basically, choose a puppy that looks healthy. Look at the personalities of the puppies. Choose a welcoming puppy that wants to greet you as opposed to one that retreats or appears shy. Ask to interact with each puppy one by one after seeing them with their littermates. That way you can get a better sense of how the puppy responds to you without distractions. If possible, visit the litter at least three times before making a final decision, this will allow you to determine the personalities of each of those little fluff balls, and see which would best fit into your family. How old should a German Shepherd puppy be when you take it home? Any puppy should be at least 8 weeks old before being separated from their mother. By this timeline, their sensory organs will have also developed fully which will help you to spot any deformities or medical issues. Be wary of any breeder that will allow you to take your puppy home before 8 weeks old. How do you puppy proof for German Shepherds? German Shepherds are naturally active and tend to explore the world with their mouths, especially during their adolescent period. So, before you can bring your new puppy home, there are a few things you can do to puppy-proof your house: Get rid of any poisonous plants or put them out of reach of your new puppy. Cover electrical cords with cable wraps or PVC pipes. Buy a new laundry basket that has a lid, no holes, and is tall. Make sure both your kitchen and bathroom trash cans have lids. Your new puppy will dig around for anything to bite, like chicken bones, diapers, used hygienic products, or even a disposable razor. If possible, you should buy new trash cans that only open when a button is pressed. Store all the chemicals in secured cabinets or even better on high shelves. German Shepherd puppies have strong teeth and can open plastic containers by biting through even the toughest of plastic! Put away any small items or toys that are small enough for your puppy to swallow. Think of small kid toys like Legos or dollhouse furniture that could be dangerous for a curious puppy. Find a safe spot for your shoes. Whether in a closed closet or in the laundry room behind a closed door. I remember losing a pair of brand-new shoes because I forgot to put them away and Allie thought chewing them was a fun idea. Bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy The period of bringing a new German Shepherd puppy home and introducing them to your home and family takes time and above all, patience. If possible, plan to take off work for at least a few days after bringing your puppy home. I picked up Allie on a Saturday, and then took most of the following week off to spend time getting her adjusted to her new home. Remember, your new puppy has been taken from the only family it knew, and you are now their new family. That first week home was a good week of bonding with Allie. It helped her feel comfortable with her new life and allowed me to really get to know my new beautiful energy filled puppy. The best tip for a smooth transition when bringing your German Shepherd puppy home is to begin crate training and potty training as soon as possible. As a breed prone to separation anxiety , you want to give your GSD a zone to feel safe, comfortable, and content to be on their own. While the initial steps of crate training can be time-consuming, it can make the difference between a dog that is a joy to own, and one that can never be left on their own — so, be the dog parent your pooch deserves and put the time in! New German Shepherd puppy checklist and things to buy It is important that your new puppy feels welcomed into their new home. Some items are ok to be left with your puppy, and other items are more dangerous or will be destroyed. This checklist will help you to know what to buy when getting a puppy. New German Shepherd Puppy Checklist. One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a German Shepherd puppy is what their personality and temperament are like. German Shepherds are just like people. They each have their own personalities, and some are able to get along with other dogs better than others. In fact, how your German Shepherd puppy interacts with other dogs and people will mostly come down to their individual personality. This will mean that your German Shepherd puppy will need less training, and a lot of your interactions with one another will come more naturally. The best puppy for your home may not be the biggest, prettiest dog in the litter! How to get started Before you can worry about choosing the best German Shepherd puppy for your home, you will need to find a breeder. You will need to opt for a German Shepherd breeder who has a good reputation. So you will need to do your research to find the right breeder for your needs. You may even need to travel a fair way to find the perfect breeder. Even if your German Shepherd breeder is located several states away, it will be worth the trip. If you put in the right amount of time and effort now, it should pay dividends throughout the next few years. Here are a few handy tips to help you find the right breeder to buy a German Shepherd puppy from. Talk to your German Shepherd breeder One of the first things you should do is to give the German Shepherd breeder a call. You may be surprised to learn that quality breeders will actually require this to ensure that the puppy is going to a good home. They may not be as interested in the health of the puppy and their new home as they should be, and are more concerned about making a profit from their dogs. The breeder will want to ensure that you have the right space to accommodate your German Shepherd puppy. Have you got any kids? Training your new puppy and giving them the right amount of socialization will be essential for keeping your family safe. Do you have a fenced outdoor space? Your puppy will need to have a good amount of room so they can run around and play. They will need regular exercise to stay fit and healthy. Why do you want a German Shepherd? The breeder will want to know what purpose you want a German Shepherd puppy for. It could be as a pet, for added protection, or to show competitively. Do you have any other pets? This will be an important factor as you will need to know how to introduce your new puppy to other animals. It will also be crucial to know if you have any other pets which could pose a danger to the puppy. What do you do for a living? If you have to work away for long periods of time so that your puppy is left alone for large portions of the day, the breeder will want to know this. Can you afford the financial responsibility of this puppy? Dogs are a financial commitment. This may seem like too much of a personal question, however, it will be important to establish that you can properly care for your new dog. Questions you can ask your breeder There are far too many unethical breeders around. Some irresponsible breeders will take shortcuts when it comes to breeding, which will leave you with dogs who have behavioral and health issues. Do you raise other breeds of dog? This can show you whether they have been bred from healthy dogs. Have you got any references? A good quality breeder should be able to give you these easily enough. Have you got a pedigree for the puppies? This is essentially a family tree of the puppies. A good quality breeder should be able to produce the proper lineage of your new puppy when asked. If the breeder attempts to charge you for this, or says they will give it to you another time, be very wary. Every breeder worth their salt will give you this guarantee as a written contract. How often do you breed your females in a single year? This will allow them to properly recover from giving birth, and help to maintain great health. Have you got a detailed medical history for the puppies? A reputable breeder should be able to give you proof of any health screenings that their puppies have had. This is essential for healthy dogs. Could you explain to me if German Shepherds have any health issues they may suffer from as adults? Puppies should never be taken home if they are less than 8 weeks old. In fact, more than half of the states in America have laws to prevent this from happening. There are several laws which dictate how old a puppy needs to be before it can be adopted or sold. There are only 3 which actually allow puppies to be sold under 8 weeks old: D. These laws are in place for a reason. This is to ensure that all puppies have been properly weaned from their mothers and that they are able to eat without help. Puppies will also need to have been properly socialized before they can leave their mothers. Their mothers and siblings can help to socialize the puppy properly. Most of the behavioral problems in adult dogs can be traced back to this lack of discipline and not having been socialized properly. To make sure that you have a healthy puppy, you will need to choose a puppy that is being sold in accordance with the laws of their state. This will mean buying a puppy that is at least 8 weeks old, if not older. Even if you happen to find a puppy in D. Male or female puppy Perhaps you already have a preference for the gender of your puppy. You will need to understand that the two genders actually have distinct differences. Here are a few things for you to consider to help you make a fully informed choice. Female German Shepherds 1. Physical appearance Typically, female German Shepherds will be much smaller than males. They will also have a less muscular stature. Dominance A female dog will display less behavioral dominance than a male dog will. Family bonding Female German Shepherds are more likely to bond with the whole family rather than a single individual. Territorial A female German Shepherd will be much less territorial than a male dog will be. Male German Shepherds Male dogs will tend to be much larger than females. They are also more muscular. Dominance Males will display a lot more dominance than females. Single person bonding A male German Shepherd is more likely to bond very closely with a single person instead of a whole family. Territorial A male German Shepherd is more likely to be territorial. This means they could be more likely to wander off in an attempt to expand their home turf. Possessive These males tend to be on the more possessive side than their female counterparts. This could be over their food, their favorite toys, or even you. It will be important to give them correct training to teach them not to be aggressive towards you. They should be able to socialize better with others, too. But the best way to find out if your prospective puppy will be the right fit for your home is to do some proactive investigating. This can also be a great indicator of their future behavior, too. You should never force the interaction. If the puppy is reluctant to come near you and interact with you, then you will be better off choosing a different pup. Tests for your German shepherd puppy 1. Eye contact When you look directly at your puppy, does it look back at you? If your puppy stares back at you, this is showing confidence. If your puppy avoids eye contact then it may be anxious, scared, or have a vision issue. Clapping your hands This can indicate how social your puppy is. If it comes towards you and tries to interact with you, this is a great sign. This shows that the dog is eager to socialize with people. Call out to the puppy Do they come towards you at the sound of your voice? This is a fantastic sign. Pet the dog It will be important to note how the puppy interacts with your physical touch. If the puppy is affectionate and loving, this will be another great sign. If they bite or growl at you, this will likely be an indication of a bad temperament. The dog will have to be trained out of this. Play ball Bring a ball with you when you meet your puppy. Roll this towards the dog and see how the puppy interacts with it. Does the puppy follow the ball? Bring it back to you? Or does the dog keep the ball for itself? Puppies that are more dominant will keep the ball for themselves. They will also be reluctant to give the toy back to you. A more submissive puppy is likely to be frightened of the ball coming towards them. A more independent dog will likely show very little interest, if they show any at all. Puppies with an even temperament will show some interest in the ball, will play with it, but will also be willing for you to play a part of the game without showing any aggression. Searching for a more sociable dog? Keep an eye out for the puppy that brings the ball right back to you and asks you to play more. This puppy will be a fantastic candidate for training as well as other exercises. Roll the puppy When the puppy has come over to you, you can try to gently roll them onto their back, then hold them in place. Watch how the puppy reacts to you. Do they relax under your touch, or do they resist you? A dominant puppy will be more likely to resist you. It could even try to bite you or growl at you. An even-tempered puppy will resist at first, but will submit to you after a short time. Pick up your puppy You can physically pick up the puppy by gently holding it under its chest with an open hand. Lift the puppy up, and see what it does. Does the puppy stay relaxed or does it struggle? A struggling dog is likely to be dominant or scared. A puppy that stays perfectly relaxed is showing that it trusts you and that it is confident. This is a similar test to holding the puppy on its back. Chances are the puppy will react immediately. Any resistance or trying to pull their paw away from you could be a sign of an aggressive temperament or dominance. A puppy that accepts your actions will show a more submissive temperament. They could even lick you! Create an unexpected noise This could just be a sudden shout or banging some pots and pans. The important factor will be watching how the puppy reacts to a sudden noise. Do they show interest? Are they scared? Aggressive puppies could try and bite you and growl at you. Visit the puppy parents Most breeders will have both puppy parents in the same place. Some of them may only have the mother with the puppies because the father was on loan from a stud or a different breeder. Either way, the mother of your puppy should be with them when you pay the dogs a visit. If one of the parents appears aggressive, this could show you that you need to do some more training with your new puppy. A dog that displays more dominant tendencies will need proper training to take the edge off these behaviors. Choosing a female German Shepherd will also be a good choice. Puppies will have their off days, just like humans do. It will be important to visit your new puppy a few times and spend at least 30 minutes with them so that you can see what they will be like. They will likely prefer it to someone who only pays their puppy one visit before collecting them! This is a good indicator that the breeder wants their dogs to be matched with the right owners. If there are other people in your household who will be living with the German shepherd puppy, such as kids or a partner, you will need to bring them along, too. Your new puppy will need to get accustomed to the people it will be spending time with. It will be much easier to transition your puppy to living in your home. You should also bring some treats along for your new puppy each time you visit. These are all positive reinforcements that can allow your new puppy to get used to you and encourage them to bond with you. It will also be a good idea to bring something with you that you can leave behind for the puppy. This could be a new toy or a blanket that smells like you. This will allow the puppy to get used to your smell, which can also make the transition easier. They will also be very well acquainted with the mother of the puppies and have knowledge of the father. So your breeder should be able to help you choose the right puppy for your needs, and match the right personality to you. In summary So there you have it! Choosing the right German Shepherd puppy for your needs is certainly more challenging than it first appears. The most important goal is to choose the right dog that will fit in well with you and your family. As long as you do the proper research beforehand, you should be able to find the right dog for your home. Remember to ask the right questions when you find your breeder to make sure that they are a good person to buy a dog from. Be sure to visit your new puppy several times before you bring them home. As long as you take this responsibility seriously, you will have laid the perfect foundation for a fruitful relationship with your new puppy. Final thoughts Where do I start? The first thing that you have to do before you can pick out the best puppy, is to pick out the best breeder. This may come easily, as you may already have a breeder in mind that you trust and who has a good reputation. But chances are that you will have to do your research. And there is also a good chance that you may need to travel some distance to the right breeder. Even if the breeder is several states away, consider making the trip. Getting a new GSD puppy is a significant life commitment. The effort and time that you invest now in going about this properly will pay off for years to come. Here are some important things to look for in a breeder once you locate one that you are interested in pursuing. Call the breeder and have a conversation The first thing to do is call the breeder and have a conversation. A quality German Shepherd breeder will actually require this. They will not permit someone to just show up and purchase one of their dogs and take it home. They will ask you questions such as: Why do you want a GSD puppy? This will aid them in helping you choose. Where do you live, in an apartment or in a home? They will want to ensure that the puppy will not be in a cramped space. Do you have a yard, and is it fenced-in? They will want to make sure that the puppy will have adequate room to exercise as it grows. Do you have children in your home? They will want to make sure that you understand the importance of socialization and training to keep your family safe. Do you have other pets in your home? They will want to make sure that you know how to properly introduce the puppy to other animals, and whether any other pets you have may actually be a danger to the puppy. What type of work do you do, does it require you to be away from home for long periods of time? Because GSDs do not do well alone, they will want to make sure that you have adequate time to devote to your dog. Are you financially prepared to take on a GSD? While this may be a bit of a personal question, it is important to know that you are financially able to care for a GSD. They are expensive to care for, and it is fair for a breeder to ask this question. If a breeder does not ask you some form of these questions, then perhaps think twice. It may be an indication that they are more interested in profit than raising a quality puppy that they care will go to a quality home. Questions for you to ask the breeder: How many different types of dogs do you raise? Can you provide me with a pedigree of all of your puppies? A pedigree is essentially a family tree for your puppy. A good breeder should have a detailed pedigree for any dog they sell. Beware of any breeder that wants to charge for this or says that they will provide it at a later date. Do you have references? They should provide you with several without thinking twice. All reputable breeders will offer this guarantee in the form of a written contract. Do you breed your females more than once a year? Female GSDs should not be bred more than one time per year. This allows for adequate recovery time and maintains good health. Can you provide me with a detailed medical history for your puppies? Health screenings are essential for puppies, and a reputable breeder should be able to provide proof of these. Can you explain any potential health issues for GSD which may come up later in life? A knowledgable breeder should be able to clearly explain conditions like hip dysplasia and other health issues more common in GSDs than other dogs. If the answer to any of these questions comes up as unsatisfactory, move on. It is simply not worth the risk of pursuing the breeder any further. Unfortunately, there are far too many unethical breeders who take a lot of shortcuts which results in dogs prone to both health and behavioral issues. Why is this? You should never take home a puppy that is less than 8 weeks old. More than half of the states in the U. And out of those states, only 3 permit a puppy to be offered for sale under the age of 8 weeks. The reason for these laws is primarily so that puppies are properly weaned from their mothers and able to eat on their own. In addition to weaning, puppies need to be initially socialized by their mothers as well as their siblings. So a puppy will be taught that these things are bad during these 8 weeks. If you remove a puppy from the litter too early, they may not learn these lessons and develop behavioral problems as they get older. Much like a spoiled child that never learns, often times the source of an ill-behaved puppy can be traced to a lack of discipline at a young age. So to ensure that you have a healthy puppy, that is also sold in accordance with state laws and regulations, understand that it must be 8 weeks old see link above for exceptions — regardless of state law exceptions, waiting 8 weeks is good practice. Decide whether you want to male or female You may have a personal preference for either a female or a male German Shepherd puppy. It is important however to not necessarily just go with your gut on this one. Take a moment and understand some general differences between the two genders. I will explore this issue more in-depth in another post, but here are some important general points to consider. Territorial: Males are naturally more territorial than females. This may give them more of a tendency to wander off in an effort to broaden their territory. Very possessive: Male GSDs are generally more possessive than females. They may be possessive over food and bones, toys, and you! Dominance: Male German Shepherds tend to be more dominant than females. This may result in more of a proclivity towards aggressive bullying behaviors to make sure that it is understood that they are the boss. Dominance requires training to keep it in check. Singular bonding: Male GSDs tend to bond more closely with one person rather than a group of people like a family. Territorial: Females are therefore more welcoming and less territorial than males. They are also less likely to wander off as they have no desire to expand their territory. Dominance: Females display less dominant behaviors than males. Non-singular bonding: Females are more likely to bond with a number of people in a family rather than an individual person. So, how do I choose between the two? This question comes down to the purpose for which you want a German Shepherd. If you are looking for a dog to have trained in protection and are looking primarily for a four-legged security system for your home, then a male is a good choice. However, if your primary interest is to just have a family pet that socializes well with others, then a female is probably right for you. Testing the puppy There is no better way to determine whether or not a specific puppy is the right one for you than to actually get hands-on and doing some investigating. However, even before you begin any interactions with a puppy, make sure that you are testing the correct one. Never try and force any interaction, begin with puppies that are naturally drawn to you. Just like with people, you cannot force a match and expect fruitful results. So be patient and make sure at very least that the puppy is not aversive toward you before you being. The tests: Clap your hands: Does it run away or does it come? A more timid dog may, however, be apprehensive to approach. Make eye contact: When the puppy is looked at, does it stare back at you? If the puppy looks directly at you, it is showing confidence. Vocally call the puppy over to you: Does it come to you right away? If it does how not, however, this could show a behavioral issue or hearing problem, or it could be an indication of another illness as well. Pet the puppy: How does it respond to your touch? However, if it meets your touches with biting or growling, then this is likely an indication of an uneven or bad temperament. It will not just grow out of this, it will have to be trained out of it. Bring a ball with you to test with the puppy: Roll the ball and see what the puppy does. Does it follow it and then bring it to you? Or does it take it away for itself. A more dominant puppy will just take the ball and keep it for itself, reluctant to give it back to you. On the other hand, a more independent puppy may show no interest at all. And one that is submissive may actually be frightened. If you are looking for a very sociable puppy, look for the one that brings the ball right back to you to play some more. The puppy that brings it right back is also an ideal candidate for training in retrieving and other exercises. An even-tempered puppy will show interest in and play with the toy, but it will also allow you to participate and take the toy back without showing you any aggression. Roll the puppy over: Once the puppy comes over to you, gently roll it onto its back and hold it in place. Do not be forceful but be firm. See how the puppy reacts. Is it resisting, or is it just relaxing? A puppy with a more dominant personality will take the path of most resistance, and it may growl or attempt to bite at you. And the even-tempered puppy is the one that may resist for a short time but then submit to what you are doing. Pick up the puppy: Physically pick up the puppy by gently holding it underneath its chest with an open hand. Lift it up high, even above the height of your head and hold it there. What does the puppy do? Does it struggle, or does it stay relaxed? A puppy that struggles may be fearful or dominant. On the other hand, a puppy that stays absolutely relaxed is displaying confidence in itself and trust in you. Hold on to a paw and press it gently: This is somewhat similar to holding it on its back. If there is a response to be had, it will happen immediately. Resistance or pulling the paw away may show dominance and temperament towards aggression. The even-tempered puppy will be you curious as to what you are doing. It may investigate a little and might even lick you. Make an unexpected noise: Whether it is banging a pot and pan together or just yelling, create an unexpected noise. See what the puppy does, does it show fear, interest, or aggression? A fearful puppy may run away or even whimper. While an aggressive-tempered puppy may actually growl and try to bite you. An even-tempered puppy will simply look surprised, and may even want to investigate a little bit further. Meet the parents A lot of breeders will have both the father sire and the mother bitch of the puppies on site. However, some of them will only have the mother because sometimes the father is on loan as a stud from a different breeder. But the mother for sure should be on site, and you should get an idea of what she is like. In the case of my last German Shepherd, I was able to meet both parents. His mother was very kind and sociable and eager to be petted. While on the other hand, his father was clearly dominant, and not a dog to be messed with. Because of my prior experience and knowledge, my GSD turned out exactly as I thought he would — fairly sociable yet wildly protective of me. This was all right because I knew what to expect and I was able to train my dog properly to take the edge off of some of his more dominance behaviors. However, my choice was an informed decision based on years of experience. If you are new to owning a German Shepherd, this may not be an ideal combination. I would recommend for a new German Shepherd owner to consider making sure that both parents are more docile, and possibly even lean towards acquiring a female for your first German Shepherd. Visit the puppy on more than one occasion Just like people, puppies have their on days and their off days. You will not be able to get a very accurate picture of how your puppy will be on one short visit. In fact, with my last dog, I visited him at least 4 times and stayed for at least 30 minutes with him each time prior to taking him home. A good breeder will have no issue with you doing this, and in fact, will prefer it. They want their dogs to be well-matched with their new owners, so this is common practice. The puppy should become accustomed to the people it will soon be spending its entire life with. So the more familiarity that you build now in this phase, the easier that puppy will transition to home life with you and your family. All of these steps are positive reinforcement for your new puppy and will build familiarity and a bond even before you arrive home. Also, bring a small blanket or clothing item and ask the breeder to leave it with the puppy. This will allow your puppy to become familiar with the scent of you and your home. Making for a better transition. So by default, this knowledge enables the breeder to be very good at placing the proper puppies with the proper personalities. Remember to stay focused and not lose sight of your primary objective, which is to select the right puppy for you and your family. If you take the time and care to do your research and ask the right questions, you will come together with the right puppy for you. But remember, this is just the beginning of a major life commitment. So take this step of choosing the right GSD puppy seriously, and you will have laid the foundation for a loving and rewarding relationship for years to come. May not even be aware of the breed standard. Breeds to any convenient dog. Strives towards the ideal. Often helps to define it. Does not need to promote establishment; sells to brokers, pet shops, etc. Often rescues only to attain more stock. Rarely attends shows or trials. Shows and trials to objectively test breeding stock. Often judges, provides seminars, writes articles, and willingly mentors serious Hobby Breeders. Knowledge Often pretends to know some. May share false or incomplete information. Studies continuously. Impacts the breed for many decades with knowledge of dogs over many generations. All pups sold have full breeding rights. Yes, and diligently follows up on progeny. Keeps up with health and temperament issues affecting the breeding and provides in-depth guarantees No need to; mostly supplies brokers and pet shops. Meets minimum standards as required by state law. May refuse to acknowledge most problems. Maintains a solid support system — accepts full responsibility for every puppy produced. Performs health testing for all breeding stock for genetic diseases affecting the particular breed. No interest, may offer papers as proof of quality. Papers alone are not proof of quality. No interest. May provide undocumented paperwork for appearances sake. Is unfamiliar with health testing usually statements of good health are stated to impress consumers. Intensive testing always a priority. Often initiates club sponsored seminars and clinics. Maintains records on all dogs in gene pool including progeny. Often supplies brokers and pet shops, records unavailable. Dogs and puppies are often auctioned off in lots, records unavailable. Focuses mostly on current dogs, no records or knowledge of genes. Attempts to continuously track every puppy produced. Bases entire breeding program on extensive gene pool data. Clean environment always maintained Minimum standards vary greatly in cleanliness. Minimum standards maintained for state inspections. Conditions may vary greatly depending on available income, usually makeshift accommodations. Clean, healthy and mentally stimulating environment. Expected longevity with any particular breed Will continue as long as the sales are coming. Depends on popularity of specific breeds. Unrealistic expectations — easily disillusioned. On a mission-plans to stay for the long haul. Health guarantee provided No, it cuts into profits. No health guarantee beyond proof of first set of vaccines, if that. Not qualified to give advice if a problem arises. Offers written guarantee and is available to answer questions to new owners. Good knowledge of history in dogs. Extensive knowledge of health history, offers replacements to owners of genetically affected dogs. Ability to meet the parents of the litter If available, may be in poor physical condition. If available, dogs are not used to contact with people. May or may not be well loved and cared for companions, often unwilling to show entire litter or parents to buyer. Shows friendly mother and entire litter in clean environment; stud dog too, if in residence. Helps buyer choose appropriate puppy. Can explain how breeding was planned to emphasize specific qualities and can speak at length about how puppies compare. What you can expect after purchase Nothing, may not be able to contact at all. No concern for dog after sale is final. Available for questions, and wants to keep in touch. Will take back dog or puppy at any time. After purchase will help with training and grooming, available for all questions and knows the answers. Price Priced according to market, but is marked up from original source for profit. Mid-range to move puppies quickly. High end of mid-range. Price will not reflect all that is invested. Use only physically sound, mature dogs of stable temperament for breeding. These characteristics are rarely, if ever, determined before the age of two for females. Continue to educate themselves regarding genetic diseases pertinent to the breed including, hip and elbow dysplasia. Documentation of hip and elbow screenings should be available to prospective puppy buyers. Apply the same high standards to outside bitches sent to their stud dogs as they apply to their own breeding stock. Temperament testing of a litter before puppies are offered for sale is encouraged. Take appropriate steps to have each puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian for general health prior to placement. Each puppy should be vaccinated and de-wormed by a veterinarian. Endeavor to gain personal knowledge of the temperament and health of every dog they breed, or to which they breed, in order to gather information on which to base future breeding decisions. They share this information fully and honestly with other breeders and with prospective buyers. Sell breeding prospects to knowledgeable, ethical and experienced persons or are willing to help educate and guide novices. Do not engage in misleading or untrue advertising and do not use GSDCA membership as a marketing tool. Do not sell, supply, donate or surrender any dog for which they are responsible to a pet shop, catalogue house, wholesale dealer in dogs, Humane Society or to a laboratory. They should have reasonable assurance that each individual receiving a dog will provide a home with appropriate shelter, restraint, control and responsible care. Encourage puppy buyers to go to puppy obedience classes to help their puppies to become better canine good citizens. The achievement of a Canine Good Citizen certificate should be encouraged. Since homeowners insurance and local laws vary greatly, a refusal to let you visit the kennels may not, in and of itself, be a bad sign. You should ask for and receive a satisfactory explanation. The puppies are not social or look sickly. How to read those ads. A few more things to look out for. Anyone can buy a puppy from a champion, but it does not mean that they have any other interest in the breed but to bank on the name and make money. Having a Champion in a pedigree is like having a billionaire relative. AKC registration does not guarantee quality. AKC papers are much like the title of a car; papers are issued to the junked Chevy on blocks in your yard just as easily as they are on a brand new, shiny Jaguar. AKC does not control breeding, approve litters, or guarantee temperaments. AKC Registration is automatic if you buy from a reputable breeder — they will provide all necessary paperwork when you buy a puppy. There are several groups that are registering dogs, even mixed breeds, for a fee. This registration means nothing, and is of no value to you. Are there too many defects for the animal to be bred? Shop with care. Rarely will a good breeder have the luck to own both dogs for the perfect litter. There are some good and very reasonable reasons to have both parents on site. However, you need to ask the right questions and understand why this is true. They might be, they might not. Are they too big to be cute anymore? Need more money? Is there a problem? Usually because there are more on the way. Be very wary of this one. Will a Breeder Ask Me Questions? Conscientious breeders want the best available home for their puppies. This determines the amount of time you will have available for your new addition. There are very important items that should be supplied by the breeder. Breeders will typically give you the following items: A signed pedigree A current Health Record; including de-wormings and vaccinations. American Kennel Club registration papers or application Sales contract. The type of contract varies and must be mutually agreeable to the breeder and buyer. Much depends on what you expect from the puppy show, pet, or performance. Feeding schedule including the type and amount of food. Copy of OFA certification of sire and dam, if available.