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Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Take back control of their behavior using these quick and easy solutions to stop German Shepherd biting that actually works. Even better, have a set of toys that are only used when you want to engage in play with your puppy. Hide these toys in a basket or box after your game of play. This makes them extra special. They are under your control and your dog must give them back to you. Special toys are more fun for your pup to bite than you. When in doubt of what special toy your dog likes, choose from this specially-curated list of what toys German Shepherds love for interactive toy ideas to keep your dog entertained. Say OUCH! When your pup bites you, say OUCH firmly. This simple technique catches the attention of many puppies when done correctly and can train a German Shepherd puppy to not bite you. You could also make a YIP sound instead, just like their little brother and sisters would make a yipping noise when playing too rough. If they continue to bite and nip, say OUCH again and then get up immediately and leave the room for a few moments. You may return to play but keep repeating this simple process until they learn to keep their teeth on their toys. This will only encourage them to continue their unwanted behavior. Use Puppy-Safe Partition Gates Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent your German Shepherd from jumping over. If your pup bites you aggressively when you and your family walk past you, then use an exercise pen or this German Shepherd-sized pet safe partition gate to contain them. Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent and discourage your German Shepherd from jumping over to continue to try and bite you. Use the items during busy times in your home to keep your dog calm and out of areas that might increase their excitement and biting and nipping you. Puppies tend to bite and chew when their teeth are coming in. They do this to relieve the pain and help soothe themselves. Freeze a durable large Kong with their favorite treats and kibble and have them on hand for times when your dog is acting out and biting you. Give them a Kong to gnaw on and bring icy relief to their gums. Plus, chewing has been shown to help relax and calm dogs. Redirections are actions that keep your pup from engaging in unwanted behavior by showing them appropriate behavior. For example: When your dog nips you, find their teething toy to bite instead. When your dog jumps on you to bite your hands or ankles, look around for a Kong to give to them to bite on. Squeaky toys like this toy that continues to squeak , even after a puncture, are ideal to distract your dog from your hand to another object. These toys differ from their special toys mentioned above because these redirection toys are ones you leave out for your pup to chew most of the time. So, be sure to have them nearby! Use Daily Leadership Skills How many times a day do you teach your German Shepherd to listen to you and offer them leadership? Use daily interactions as an effective way of teaching your dog about leadership. Have them sit before you take them for a walk or exiting a door. Ignore them altogether. Only offer them interaction and come back to them when they show you calming behaviors. Our dogs love our attention. And German Shepherds crave it! An overfed dog that is under-exercised may display destructive behaviors because of boredom and lack of energy needs being met. Get up off the couch and go outside for a walk and sniff party. Low impact activities and free-running off-leash running are best. Choose from a list of fun and gentle, age-appropriate German Shepherd puppy exercises to keep your pup healthy and better behaved. Stop roughhousing with your dog before it frustrates them. Use appropriate, puppy-safe toys instead of play sessions. This way, your pup can bite the toy instead of your fingers, hands, or arms. You may also stress out your GSD by engaging them rough of play. For your pup to either keep up with the play or stop you from too rough play, they may bite you! From day one, avoid play that involves mouthing or teeth on the skin. Use toys to provide your dog a way they can bite to release their energy… Without nipping you! And this game is great because it teaches your dog a necessary life skill. Practice the game: multiple times a day for 2 to 3 minutes at a time Your pup learns impulse control during the game and this transfers over to their ability to stop themselves from biting you. Read below for the easy-to-follow directions. If your dog gets too worked up and then bites, then teach them this Rev Up and Cool Down game. After a few running steps and before your pup gets too excited, stop running and walk slowly. Keep moving slowly until your dog also slows down. When you see them slow down, take a few more steps calmly and peacefully. Continue with steps one through three. Each time your dog should slow down sooner and quicker. If your puppy knows any of these basic German Shepherd commands , incorporate those commands to make the training more interesting and fun. The link above will also easily explain how to teach over ten commands! The point of the Rev Up and Cool Down game is to teach them to settle and stay calm without nipping and biting you. You need to keep your pup exercised, mentally stimulated, and show them what calming behavior is. Be fair and understanding. A Shepherd is a joy to own when given the direction they desire and the commitment they need. 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. This is especially true with dogs like German Shepherds because they have a strong prey drive, but this nipping and biting can also quickly get out of hand. This often comes out as biting and nipping, but puppies will also bite when they are teething and to taste the world around them. This can, of course, quickly get out of hand if not taken care of swiftly. In this article, we look at the reasons behind German Shepherd puppies biting and seven steps to help stop the behavior. Training The first and most important step in stopping your puppy from biting is early and focused training. Beginning training at an early age is vital for powerful dogs like GSDs, as without it, they can easily develop problematic behaviors and even become aggressive. An important part of training is socialization, and getting your GSD to interact with other dogs will help teach them boundaries, as any biting too hard will have instant consequences for them. Image Credit: AnjaGh, Pixabay 2. Toys Toys are ideal for your GSD puppy to exercise their teething. There is a massive variety of suitable chew toys available, and whenever you notice your pooch getting the urge to chew, you can gently offer them a chew toy instead. Commands Basic and simple commands should be taught to your GSD from a young age. Whenever they get overexcited and bite down too hard, you can then simply issue a verbal command that catches their attention. After you issue the commands, leave your puppy alone for a few minutes so they learn that this behavior is unacceptable. Image Credit: Jim Sluder, Pixabay 4. Redirection Redirection is a useful tool in training and can work well with biting too. This method is simple and works by keeping your pup from unwanted behavior and offering them appropriate behavior instead. Whenever your pooch bites or nips, try to offer them a chew toy of some kind instead, and this will gradually lead them to chew toys as opposed to your hands. Squeak toys are great for this type of redirection, as the noise is enticing to most puppies and dogs. Reward good behavior Positive reinforcement training methods are best for leading your puppy toward desired behaviors and away from unwanted ones. These methods involve no scolding or harsh treatment, so they are ideal for cementing the bond between you and your pup. When you offer your dog a chew toy instead of biting and they take it or you issue a command that they instantly follow, you simply reward that behavior with either a treat or praise. You ignore any bad behavior. They will swiftly associate treats with good behavior and stop the bad behavior that gets them no attention. Image Credit: Happy monkey, Shutterstock 6. Games Since GSDs are such powerful and athletic animals, they need to be mentally and physically stimulated through games and interactive play. Games are also the best time to engage and enforce training techniques and get your GSD accustomed to them before biting gets out of hand. Stick to simple games like fetch or frisbee, where you can train your pooch to give the ball back when you tell them to. Harsh treatments like hitting or shouting are highly unlikely to solve the problem and will probably just make it worse, as your dog will simply become nervous and wary of you. With a powerful dog like German Shepherds, trust is vital. They are highly intelligent and aware animals, and the smallest of sounds or movements are enough to set them off. There are several reasons for this, including: GSD puppies will begin teething as early as 2 weeks old, and this can be uncomfortable and even painful for them. This behavior can go on until your puppy is 6 months old, and they will chew on almost anything that they can find — including your hand — in an attempt to try and soothe their discomfort. Separated too young. The first 2 months of your GSDs life is vital to their socialization and learning, and if they are taken away from their mother and litter too young, this may cause a lack of understanding of boundaries. Puppies will play and learn with the rest of their littermates, where they learn to control the force of their bite. GSDs should be at least 8 weeks old before they are re-homed. Fear or overstimulation. Fear, anxiety, and overstimulation are common reasons for puppies to lose control of their bite because this can cause them to become irritable or defensive and lead them into the habit of biting. Conclusion Since German Shepherds are such powerful dogs, proper training is vital, and bite inhibition is an essential part of that training. Proper training is the vital first step and will set the tone for all other methods. With time, consistency, patience, and gentle leadership, your German Shepherd puppy should kick the biting habit in no time. Puppies Have you ever reached down to play with a German Shepherd puppy, only to have that adorable little fur-ball pierce your skin with its razor-sharp puppy teeth? When I brought Allie into the family, she was fully in the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — so that first month was tough! Unfortunately, biting is an inevitable phase of puppyhood — it comes with the territory when you decide to be a puppy parent. My goal with this guide is to get you through the biting stage with as few battle scars as possible. Why do German Shepherd Puppies Bite? Up until this time, your puppy was with its littermates, and playtime meant lots of mouthy, nipping fun. Accordingly, this is the only way your GSD knows how to play! A German Shepherd puppy also uses their mouths to explore different things like toys — or hands, ankles, furniture… pretty much anything they can get their mouth around. Your puppy could also be teething, which can increase their mouthy behavior. Just be patient as you work through the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — give your pup time to learn to be gentle when playing or seeking your attention. Nothing is worse than an ankle-biter! I was very lucky not to have this problem with Allie. Why does your German Shepherd puppy target the ankles? Because your GSD is a working dog trying to do its job — herd you around the house like livestock. German Shepherds were originally bred for herding flocks of sheep. Your furry pal may also think heel nipping is just a really fun game. Using a toy as a distraction and keeping your pup active will help nip ankle nipping in the bud! Because she was too busy biting hands! There are lots of reasons why a pup may decide to start biting your hands. For one, good things treats, toys, love, attention come from hands. Also, hands are almost like swinging toys from the perspective of a playful pup — too enticing to pass up! How to Discourage Biting Behavior While the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is a rite of passage, there are some ways you can discourage bad biting behavior without harsh discipline. This is one of the most effective ways to teach your German Shepherd bite inhibition — or how to be gentle with her teeth. Think about when your pup was rolling and playing with their brothers and sisters — if your GSD was too rough, their sibling would let out a yelp. This trick worked great with Allie! Just make sure to be consistent until your pup gets the idea and learns to master the power of her jaws. Puppies will be puppies! Redirect the biting to an appropriate toy. For example, when your fuzzy friend latches onto your ankles, give a little puppy-like yelp, and then whip out a toy and encourage your dog to chew on that instead. Tug-of-war is the perfect game for the puppy biting phase. Socialize your puppy as much as possible. Other dogs are great at teaching your puppy that they playing too rough and biting too hard. Try a deterrent to prevent your dog from chewing or biting. If all else fails, there are lots of products designed to deter your dog from bad biting behavior. How do they work? Well, they taste awful. But if used correctly, they can definitely work. This is still attention — your puppy bites, your puppy gets attention. Otherwise, your pup may see this as a fun new game, kind of like tug-of-war but with your hands or feet as the toy. You want your furball to love playing with you! The goal here is to encourage your German Shepherd to play as much as ever but to play gently. As a pup, Allie thought she should greet everyone by jumping in their face and nipping — kind of like a kiss hello, but with teeth. And as she got bigger, it was harder to control. But trust me, it got old quickly. Be proactive. If I knew someone was coming over, I would put Allie in another room or in her crate. Once our visitor was in the house and the initial excitement had passed, I would let her out. By keeping her from greeting people right when they walked through the door, I could minimize her overzealous behavior. This is a simple command that teaches your dog to stay in her place until you give a release command. This is another way to allow the initial excitement to pass and your German Shepherd to calm down a bit before greeting anyone. Redirect attention to a toy like I talked about earlier. Fold your arms and turn away. Keep turning until your GSD stops jumping, then praise them and use a treat as a reward. What to Do If Biting Becomes Aggressive Although puppy mouthing is normal, there can be cases where biting can signal problems and possibly even aggression. Look for physical differences in your pup. If your puppy is having a moment of aggression, their body may stiffen when snarling, and bites will typically be more painful than during regular play. Also, if your GSD puppy is biting out of fear or frustration, you may need to take action. These types of behavior are not something your pup will just grow out of. While the biting phase will inevitably end, you may find yourself asking the infamous question — when do German Shepherds calm down!? I asked myself and our vet this question more than once! It honestly just depends. Sure, she had her calm moments thanks in part to her training , but she was still very hyper especially in more excitable moments. The type of German Shepherd dog is yet another variable that plays a role in its energy levels. So when do German Shepherds calm down? It really depends on your individual German Shepherd. Final Thoughts Unfortunately, the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is something all GSD puppy owners will go through, but it will pass. Try the tips above to help keep your sanity during this phase. Or any tips to help the rest of us? Please share! An aggressive pound dog pouncing on you can get quite ugly fast. Think broken bones, damaged muscles, deep lacerations, bruises, scars, and expensive medical bills. German Shepherds have a bite force of PSI pound-force per square inch, or the measure of strength that a bite inflicts on the victim , compared to humans with a bite force of PSI. In fact, the American Animal Hospital Association lists the German Shepherd as one of the six breeds with the most dangerous bites, based on a US study. Therefore, training your GSD to inhibit her bite is mandatory as it not only rewards you with a well-behaved dog, but also ensures your safety as well as the safety of the people around you. A crucial step towards correcting this nasty behavior is to first understand why German Shepherd puppies bite. Nipping or biting stems from various reasons. Understanding the root of the behavior will equip you with the proper corresponding countermeasures to correct it. German Shepherds Have a High Prey Drive One of the primary and distinct characteristics thatmake a German Shepherd a popular choice for police and military work is their high prey drive, coupled with their intelligence and high trainability. Take a look at the video below showing what GSDs were originally bred for. GSDs also have a natural inclination to chase almost everything that moves in their surroundings. They Are Teething As early as two weeks old, the baby teeth of pups start to come out. Puppies use their mouth to explore their environment, so nipping is to be expected. This behavior, called teething, can last until the puppy is six months old when all her adult teeth have started showing. Teething is very uncomfortable for puppies and can lead to sore gums, so puppies turn to anything to chew to soothe the discomfort. Unfortunately, this can include biting you! They May Be Taken From the Litter Too Early Young puppies learn to naturally inhibit their biting through socialization with their mother and their siblings. A puppy does not quite understand yet the force of her own bite unless she bites too hard and the recipient reacts by yelping out of pain. Taking a puppy away from her mother prematurely will therefore deprive her the chance to learn important socialization skills. As a rule of thumb, the American Kennel Club AKC recommends that you take home a puppy that is no less than eight weeks old. By this time, the puppy should have had ample time to interact with her playmates and learn bite inhibition. We concur that you should never take home a puppy that is less than 8 weeks old. In fact, more than half of the states in the U. This does not mean, however, that your puppy will completely stop nipping. As the new parent, it is your job to continue training the dog so that any subsequent bites should be gentler. For more on selecting the right German Shepherd puppy from a litter, including additional information on the proper age, what to look for in a puppy, and what to expect from ethical breeders, be sure to check out the 2 articles linked below: How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy: A Step-by-Step Guide The Puppy Might Be Overstimulated, Fearful, or Anxious Sometimes puppies lose control of their bite because of overstimulation. Overstimulation can happen during playtime, or when your puppy has become cranky due to teasing. Your GSD puppy may also bite out of fear. Your puppy has but 2 defenses — to run away or to bite. If your puppy feels cornered, then biting is the defense that she will most often resort to. Because biting is normal canine behavior and GSDs are a breed that is more prone to it, the goal here is to inhibit the bite, not completely stop it. Do Start Training Early We keep mentioning throughout this site that training and socializing your GSD as soon as you get her home is crucial. Although training older dogs is not impossible, it is true that it is easier to train younger puppies, when habits are still new and can be easily corrected. If left untrained, adult German Shepherds can be prone to aggression towards other animals and humans, which can result in tragic situations. To get a better understanding of what is involved with these necessary steps, be sure to read these 2 excellent articles: German Shepherd Training Guide: All You Need to Know Do Use Toys as Alternative Items to Chew Puppies will nib on your hands or your feet especially during the teething stage. Train this behavior away by offering the puppy a toy whenever she starts biting your hand or your ankles. This teaches her what is acceptable to bite and which is not. It is good practice to always keep a chew toy nearby in anticipation of the biting behavior. She needs to understand that biting ends playtime and that it does not give her anything in return. In the Alpha Roll , the human pins down the dog on the floor on his side or back and holds that position to exert dominance. Besides, it has also been proven in many studies that dogs have very different behavior from wolves. Pinning your dog will cause him to freeze out of fear, which can also turn into aggression. It also teaches your dog that physical touch is something to be feared. Nobody wants to be punished by hand, not humans and certainly not dogs either. Do Reward Good Behavior Dog trainers and experts agree that positive reinforcement using rewards are highly effective in forming and keeping desirable behaviors as a puppy matures into an adult dog. If her nose touches your fingers without biting them, give her a treat and praise generously. Hold off the treat if she bites. Do this repeatedly until she associates the treat the reward with not biting your hand the good behavior. In fact, most dog bite cases in children occurred because of teasing! Instead, teach your child to be gentle with your pet , as even unintentional rough play can result in unwanted events. Dogs get cranky too, especially when they get hurt or feel that their privacy is being invaded. Never leave your child alone with your puppy unattended. Supervise their interactions at all times. Studies show that parents trust their dog around their kids too much that they overlook the signs that the dog is in distress. For tug games, keep in mind, however, that your dog must be calm and not overstimulated before playing. Otherwise, your puppy may get too serious and hold on to the rope too much. The AKC recommends that for breeds that are prone to aggression such as German Shepherds, tug-of-war can be safely carried out if the puppy knows you are in control and follows your commands. Once this has been established, a game of tugging can be used both as an exercise and as a reward for your dog. When playing, always remember to be gentle with tugging as your puppy still has baby teeth! By doing this, you are also socializing your puppy with other animals — an essential skill to learn for a well-rounded behavior. That being said, do not completely write off playing with your puppy! Playtime is still an excellent opportunity to bond with your dog, but make sure to keep it safe and fun by establishing boundaries. This method, however, is a matter of trial and error. Some puppies respond to this positively. On the other hand, many puppies get aroused by this and become even more aggressive. If you yelp and she stops biting without expressing any signs of aggression, the method has perhaps worked. You are then free to continue doing so until the puppy learns to stop biting hard. On the other hand, temper tantrums, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals , are characterized by a stiff body, lips pulled back to show teeth, and growling. Biting will be more forceful and painful, since the behavior is typically caused by fear or anger. A German Shepherd puppy may be more prone to displaying this behavior, especially around unruly children. Bite inhibition is crucial especially among German Shepherds, a breed that is widely reported to be the culprit of many dog bites in America. Bite inhibition is simply one of the many important skills that your GSD must learn during her training. It can spell the difference between gentle playing and aggressive biting that leads to serious injuries. Always remember that dogs have feelings, too. They are not perfect little angels that never get angry. Even the most well-mannered dog in the world will snap out of irritation.

The Blue Heeler , also known as the Australian Cattle Dog, is a medium-sized dog initially bred for herding. It is resilient, high-energy, and intelligent, making it a perfect working dog. It has an intense drive to work and is out to impress by serving its owners. The Poodle comes in different sizes, toy, miniature, and standard. It is a fun, energetic, intelligent, and playful dog, making it a perfect match for a family with kids. The Poodle is known for its hypoallergenic coat, a quality that attracts breeders to cross it with other dogs. The mix, therefore, is an energetic, playful, and loyal dog that will bring cheer to any home. The dog loves and enjoys company with its owners, always up for fun playtime and ready for games. The History of The Blue Heeler Poodle Mix There is not much to write home about the history of this mix, but the parents have a long line of how they came to be. The history of this dog can be traced back to the 19th century when it was bred as a working dog. Australian settlers kept it as a guard dog for cattle during their long-distance travels. As time went by, Australian ranchers wanted a dog to herd large numbers of cattle kept for the beef industry. Other dogs like the British Smithfield were overwhelmed at herding cattle, even though they were seasoned in herding sheep. The idea was to create a hardy herding dog that would withstand the working conditions on the ranches. This new creation became a favorite of ranchers, and its popularity grew with breeding. Eventually, Jack and Harry Bagust crossed this dog with dalmatians. This new dog became the Blue Heeler. In , the Blue Heeler was approved for registration by the American Kennel Club and placed as the working dog group. Poodle History The Poodle is believed to have originated in Germany, where it was among popular dogs such as the Rottweiler. Initially, it was bred as a working dog to retrieve waterfowl for hunters. Unfortunately, its dense coat made it difficult for the dog to swim, so they had to trim the fur and make the Poodle more buoyant in water. Its popularity grew, becoming a luxurious breed common among French nobles. This followed its growth all around Europe, becoming one of the most popular dogs among royals. It is the national dog of France, but its popularity has grown across the west. Poodles came in a standard size, but others were created as breeding evolved. The standard Poodle was recognized as a breed by the AKC in .The appearance of the Blue Heeler Poodle mix can be challenging to highlight, considering the two parents have entirely different physical characteristics. Even so, there are some distinct features that you can expect from the mix. How Big do They Get? The size of the Blue Heeler Poodle mix varies depending on the variety of the Poodle used for breeding. If the blend is from a Toy Poodle, then it is bound to be much smaller than if it is from a Standard Poodle. The standard Poodle grows as tall as 18 to 24 inches at the shoulder and can weigh between 45 to 70 pounds. On the other hand, the Blue Heeler grows as tall as 17 to 20 inches at the shoulder and weighs between 31 to 35 pounds. Remember, puppies in the same litter can be different in size depending on the dominant gene from the parents. Some may weigh as heavy as their Poodle parent, others as their Blue Heeler parents, and others might be an average of both. The Blue Heeler has a double-layer coat which helps to protect the dog from extreme weather conditions as a working dog. On the other hand, the Poodle has a dense, curly, and coarse coat that grows rapidly. Thankfully, the Poodle coat does not shed. The mix, therefore, has a less dense coat than the Poodle, but it is curly, coarse, and long. Even though the coat does not shed, it is prone to tangles and mats and requires consistent grooming to keep it in shape. When it comes to colors, The mix can come in one solid color or a mix of two or more colors from the parents. The mix can lean more towards the Poodle color, take the Blue Heelers distinct color, or have a combination of both. It can have one solid color and marking of another all over the body. It enjoys the company of its human friends and is open to interacting with other dogs and pets. The mix has an even temper and bounces back the emotions you share. It is the type of dog you will want to come home to and enjoy cuddles in the evening with. But, it is highly energetic; you will need to devote time to play and run around with it. The playful personality is great, but it comes with the curiosity of a cat. With this, you will need to keep an eye on the dog as it can get naughty and messy if left to explore independently. The good thing is with early training; the dog can learn to respect the boundaries you put for it. This charming dog is pretty independent and will play with toys. However, it gets anxious if left alone for long periods. The dog would rather see and follow you around than sit and interact with toys all day. So make sure it has company for the most part. How to Take Care of the Blue Heeler Poodle Mix Your furry friend will appreciate the attention you give it, but constant care and maintenance will ensure the dog stays happy and healthy. Therefore, it needs a nutritious, healthy diet, regular exercise, grooming, and training. Feeding The best diet for your dog is one that meets its specific needs. On this note, no standard diet is designed for Blue Heeler Poodle Mixes, as all dogs have different health needs. It would be best to consult a vet on the right food for your furry friend. As a high-energy dog, the Blue Heeler Poodle mix needs a diet that meets its energy requirements while supporting its overall health. Since the dog is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, ensuring the diet includes fish oil, glucosamine, and chondroitin is essential. Ask your vet for the best amount and frequency of food to avoid overfeeding your dog. Most dogs do not have control over how much they eat, hence the importance of scheduling meals and giving them adequate quantities. Exercise Your Blue Heeler Poodle mix will do well with regular exercise to expend its built-up energy. Like other energetic dogs, the mix will need at least an hour of exercise daily to stay healthy and happy. It is also vital to stimulate the dog mentally. The Blue Heeler Poodle mix is an intelligent dog and will be happy to solve puzzles, take on challenges and solve problems. Include interactive toys during playtime for both physical and mental exercise. But, the coat is prone to tangling and matting, requiring consistent brushing. You can bathe your dog as needed, but once a month is adequate. If you need to bathe your dog regularly, use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. Training The intelligent Blue Heeler Poodle mix may be a little challenging to train. It can be stubborn and demanding and might need patience to get through training. That said, it will require a firm and consistent trainer that will not bow down to its manipulative and cheeky needs. Like other dogs, the Blue Heeler Poodle mix will do well with positive reinforcement. When training, ensure you bring treats and offer them along with praises each time the dog progresses. On the same note, ensure the dog gets adequate exercise to burn built-up energy before training. Socialize the dog early by taking it to doggy daycare or planning play dates with other dogs at the park. But with the proper care, frequent vet visits, regular exercise, and a healthy diet, your dog may escape the wrath of the health issues it is susceptible to. Here are some of the common health issues among Blue Heeler Poodle mixes: Hip dysplasia. They remain active at all times, and their physical appearance is uncanny. This merle canine is one of the best dogs to have if you live an active and healthy life. This mixed breed can accompany you in walks, running, or other high-intensity activities. It simply adores being engaged in various activities, and with a little effort, you can have the perfect family pet. Another great reason why you should have a blue heeler poodle mix by your side is the fact that this is an intelligent dog. These are fun-loving canines that enjoy playtime, and they will do anything to make it last as long as possible. Just like huskies, this can also be a working dog, considering its exquisite strength, stamina, and obedience. They just need a lot of positive reinforcement and early socialization. Dog owners who properly train this mix dog breed will have a lifetime of happiness. The blue heeler poodle mix comes from two dog parents — the standard poodle and the Australian cattle dog. It is mostly because of its merle, blue coat. Each of these two breeds have unique traits, and happen to be among the healthiest dog breeds in the world. This is due to their perfect physical condition and high stamina, especially if we talk about the Australian cattle dog. Both pure breeds are recognized by the American Kennel Club, which makes them favorable for crossbreeding. In fact, there are a plethora of crossbreeds that involve both the blue heeler and the poodle. The best poodle mixes happen to be lap dogs, and their high level of socialization makes them perfect for homes. The Poodle Even though the poodle breed has its own sub-categories, like toy poodles, or miniature poodles, here, we are mostly talking about the standard poodle. All three are favored by breeders, among which the miniature poodle breeders are some of the most popular in the U. This purebred canine originally comes from France. It is a French national dog, and it has a long history as a working dog despite its unique, fashionable look. Some breeders say that its history also has deep roots in Germany, where they served as water retrievers. The poodle dog has an affectionate and calm nature, which makes it the perfect family dog. Its physical appearance is unique, considering its long, curly, double coat. It comes in various shapes and colors, and it is perfect for new grooming ideas. It does not face many health problems, and it is one of the healthiest dogs in the world. Hip dysplasia can sometimes occur in poodle puppies, which is a condition that is common for large breeds. The poodle is favorable for crossbreeding, and we have many poodle mixes today, among which goldendoodles, bernedoodles, and labradoodles are the most familiar. Australian Cattle Dog Australian cattle dogs, as the name says, originate from Australia. This is a dog that somehow resembles two other Australian canines — the dingo and the Australian shepherd. The dingo is a wild dog that has a very long history. It was originally a watchdog of the Australian native people, but over time, it became wild. Until today, dingos live in herds, and it is a hunting dog. On the other hand, we have the Australian shepherd — a dog that was originally used for protecting herds. This is a trait that the blue heeler shares, too. These single-layer canines appear in merle, white, blue, and red combinations. The blue heeler is an intelligent herding dog with high energy levels and almost zero health issues. It requires early socialization and obedience training because this is naturally a dangerous dog breed. Also, without timely training, they can show disobedience. However, if properly trained with lots of positive reinforcement, Australian cattle dogs will become perfect human companions — loyal and ready to follow you everywhere you go. The Cattle Doodle History It is believed that the blue heeler poodle mix appeared in the s. The goal was to create a hybrid that collects the best traits from the poodle and the Australian cattle dog. With this combination, the cattle doodle retains the traits of a watchdog and a guardian, but shows more affection to strangers, and it is easier for it to adapt to family life. Also, its coat remains as the poodle-like shape, so you can apply poodle haircuts to this designer dog! The poodle crossing contributes a lot to socialization training and obedience, considering their naturally affectionate character. It has a unique coat color with long, curly hair, and grooming is needed more frequently. The dog is, by nature, friendly, which is not the natural character of both of its parent breeds. Blue heelers can be extremely aggressive towards unfamiliar humans, which is basically the watchdog character they are born with. However, owners need to make sure that this hybrid puppy is properly trained and taught socialization manners. Size The size of the blue heeler poodle mix can go over 15 inches, and they weigh around 35 to 50 pounds. This is a medium-sized dog, which goes along with the parent breeds. The blue heeler growth chart varies from 40 to 50 pounds in the adult age, and this parent breed is considered as a medium to large breed. Its height ranges between 17 and 19 inches, which is a little bit more than the cattle doodle mix. On the other hand, the standard poodle size is a bit taller than the aforementioned dog parent. They can grow up to 24 inches in height. This is a medium to large dog breed, too. Make sure your cattle doodle puppy always has proper dog food, which is important for its development. This is an active dog that requires a large protein intake. Usually, herding dogs need more frequent meals than other, less active puppies. Proper amount of protein makes them preserve their musculature, and it also gives them enough strength needed for their high-leveled activities. Also, take care of the overall feeding chart of your blue heeler poodle mix. You can check out our Blue Heeler feeding chart for more information! Do not leave out other macronutrients, and always take care of timely feeding. Inadequate feeding can cause weight loss in your cattle doodle canine, which is not good for its overall health. Color This canine, as the name itself says, mostly comes in blue color. This is a trait inherited from the Australian cattle dog, considering the fact that their main coat color is indeed blue. However, as puppies, they are born white, but over time, their hair becomes bluish, or sometimes red. These hybrid puppies come in white, gray, blue, cream, and red variants. Typically, both dog parents are represented in these physical characteristics. Typically, this long-haired designer dog will appear in a blue variant, but other colors can occur. The overall price of this puppy sometimes depends on the special color requested, and it can vary by several hundred dollars. Do Cattle Doodles shed? Truth be told — all dog breeds shed. Naturally, blue heeler poodle mixes have a low-shedding characteristic, and this is only because of the poodle parent. If you ask whether poodles shed , we can say yes, but a little. The Poodle breed is known for its low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat, and this is one of the greatest traits it gave to its successor, the cattle doodle. On the other hand, the Australian cattle dog, just like the Australian shepherd dog, sheds a bit more. This is why it is important to seek cattle doodle puppies with a high percentage of poodle genes, especially if you or members of your family suffer from dog hair allergies. The blue heeler poodle mix with over 50 percent of poodle genes tends to be hypoallergenic, too, which is great! You can freely let your canine enjoy your lap, couch, or bed. Still, the blue heeler doodle needs daily grooming, considering its long, curly hair. Blue Heeler Poodle Mix Temperament Photo from: turnerbluecadoodlelv When it comes to the blue heeler poodle mix behavior, we can say that this puppy is a family dog. The trait almost exclusively goes along the poodle breed. Australian cattle dogs are intelligent and protective by default, but their instinct does not revolve around big families or a home environment. They are more of a working dog, and their crossbreeding in that regard is favorable with huskies. For instance, the blue heeler husky mix makes the perfect working and sled dog that helps in the household and protects families from other wild animals. However, if properly bred and socialized from an early age, these canines can be pretty affectionate, too! In fact, sportsmen adore this parent breed! This curly doggie will forever steal your heart once you get to know its charming character. Even though protective, and at times, overwhelmingly a guardian, this puppy easily attaches itself to family members, especially kids. This is all really the result of exhaustive and hard training that breeders do in order to socialize this breed. The breed itself does not demand much time to learn new things, considering the exquisite intelligence of both dog parents, but consistency is needed. However, this breed is not recommended for inexperienced owners. Blue Cadoodle — The perfect Watchdog Blue cadoodles are, by nature, watchdogs, which means that it will try to protect you and all of its family members at all times. This is a medium-sized family dog, but at the same time, it shows courage and strength. The credit goes to both dog parents, which are both considered as two of the coolest dog breeds ever. These combined traits — intelligence, good space orientation, affection, and deep commitment to humans — make this puppy favorable to have in both indoor and outdoor settings. This is an alert dog, and it will keep you notified about unknown people. Its barking is high-leveled, but not unusual. Usually, poodle puppies remain calm and do not bark a lot, but the Australian cattle dog does, and this is strictly related to its history of being a herding dog and a working dog, too. Are Cattle Doodles aggressive? At times, the blue heeler poodle mix can show aggression. This is mainly in situations when the dog is bored and not stimulated by training. In those kinds of situations, the cattle doodle can become destructive to both you and the environment. The blue heeler doodle needs lots of activities and mental stimulation. This is an extremely intelligent breed, and it is known for outsmarting its owner. Both of the cattle doodle parents can be aggressive dog breeds at times. Australian cattle dogs are, by nature, aggressive towards the unknown, while poodles show aggression when suffering from separation anxiety. This characteristic is inherited by blue heeler doodles, too! The recommendation is not to leave your cattle doodle alone for more than six hours. If, however, you must do so due to your daily schedule, you should train your puppy to be on its own. Stimulative dog music and dog shows will help in that regard. Among the most important ones is its feeding habits. You should always follow the feeding and growth charts, and ask yourself, how heavy should my dog be? Even the healthiest breeds can face obesity, which destimulates their activity level and playfulness. Make sure that training programs are made according to their physical abilities. Despite the fact that this is a highly active dog, do not overwhelm it with exhaustive training. Keep your training hours within the proper training program. Lifespan Considering the overall well-being and good health of the blue heeler poodle mix, its lifespan consequently goes up to 15 years. This is common for both parent breeds of the Australian cattle doodle. Poodles also live a long life, as do Australian cattle dogs. Their average lifespan is between 13 and 15 years. With proper feeding habits and a well-organized lifestyle, the blue heeler doodle can live a long and happy life. Always make sure your puppy gets quality food, which can even be self-made. You want to stay away from the worst dog food available on shady websites or in markets. Its overall physical dominance is increased by muscular stimulation and cardio training. Dogs, just like humans, need activities in order to prevent potential heart diseases. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia in dogs is a common issue for large breeds, and it is detected at an early age. Dogs with hip dysplasia are usually born with this issue, so you should consider your potential breeders carefully. Dogs with hip dysplasia have a hard time running and jumping. As the disease progresses, some dogs will even have difficulty walking. No reputable breeder will sell you a dog with hip dysplasia. Early medical checks and regular vet examinations are what any respected breeder should follow. However, if you have a puppy with this health issue, you should know that they can live a long and happy life. You just want to make sure their lifestyle is adjusted. Deafness Some blue heeler poodle mixes can experience deafness. Deafness in dogs can be an issue that your puppy is born with, but it also can be acquired. Dogs usually become deaf in the latter stages of life due to some sort of trauma or infection. This issue is not hard to detect if the dog experiences total deafness. The recommendation for blue heeler doodle puppies with deafness is to supervise them at all times. Due to their hearing inability, they can become disoriented, and this is dangerous, especially when they are on the street. Also, deaf dogs can show aggression when surprised, so make sure you always approach them from the front. Blue heelers are more aggressive, considering their natural habitat. This Australian national dog prefers being outdoors as it craves action and space. This breed is favorable for crossbreeding with other powerful dogs — for instance, the blue heeler pitbull mix is quite popular. On the other hand, blue heeler doodle puppies are a lot more affectionate, and are family dogs. They prefer both indoor and outdoor life, and they make excellent companion dogs. Both of these dogs can be trained into being good family dogs with excellent watchdog traits. They need patience because sometimes, they can come across as stubborn puppies. There are many cattle dog breeds , but the cattle dog doodle is the real deal. This designer dog has more than a year-long history since it was originally created in the s. The breed collects all the best traits from both parents — the poodle and the Australian cattle dog. It makes a good family dog, perfect for people who live an active, dynamic life. Its intelligence and easy learning ability make them great for early-age socialization and obedience training. Conclusion The blue heeler poodle mix is a dog that you should definitely consider if you have experience with dog ownership. Cattle doodle puppies are intelligent, affectionate, and loving. They easily bond with their owner, and they make excellent watchdogs. Their hypoallergenic coat is a bonus if you suffer from dog allergies. This medium-sized blue canine is definitely a unique breed that you need to consider! There is some debate among dog lovers about the ethics of designer or mixed-breed dogs. Some people believe that all crossbreeds are unethical, while others believe that it depends on the individual case. When it comes to the Blue Heeler Poodle mix, we believe that this is an ethical cross. Both of the parent breeds are relatively common, and there is no need to create a new breed when these dogs can easily be adopted from shelters or rescue organizations. In addition, crossbreeding can often help to reduce the risk of health problems in dogs. This is because mixed-breed dogs usually have a more diverse gene pool than purebred dogs. As a result, they are less likely to inherit genetic diseases. This will help you to find the best possible match for your family and lifestyle. Grooming Requirements for a Blue Heeler Poodle Mix These dogs have high grooming needs due to their thick, double coat. They will need to be brushed several times per week to avoid matting and to keep their coat healthy. They will also need to be trimmed regularly by a professional groomer. It is important to start grooming your Blue Heeler Poodle mix puppy at an early age so they can get used to the process. This will make it easier for both you and your dog in the long run. Blue Heeler Poodle mixes are also heavy shedders, so they are not a good choice for people with allergies. The good news is that these dogs only need to be bathed once every few months. This helps to prevent their skin from becoming dry and irritated. Use a slicker brush to remove tangles and mats from their coat. Use a metal comb to reach the undercoat. Trim their nails regularly with a nail clipper or grinder. Temperament of a Blue Heeler Poodle These dogs are intelligent, active, and loyal. They make great family pets and are good with children. They are also known for being protective of their home and family. Blue Heeler Poodle mixes need to be well-trained and socialized from a young age. Without proper training, they may become aggressive or bark excessively. These dogs also need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy. A daily walk or run is a good way to keep them active. They also enjoy playing fetch and other interactive games. However, it is important to start training them at an early age. Here are a few tips to help you train your Blue Heeler Poodle mix: 1. Be consistent with your commands and rewards. Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as praise and treats. Avoid using punishment, as it can make training more difficult. Be patient and keep training sessions short and fun. Start with basic commands, such as sit, stay, come, and down. With proper training, your Blue Heeler Poodle mix will be a well-behaved and obedient dog. However, there are a few health issues that they are more prone to, such as hip dysplasia , elbow dysplasia , and von Willebrand disease. Hip dysplasia is a condition that causes the hip joint to develop abnormally. This can lead to pain, lameness, and arthritis. Elbow dysplasia is a similar condition that affects the elbow joint. It can also cause pain, lameness, and arthritis. Von Willebrand disease is a blood disorder that can cause problems with clotting. This can lead to excessive bleeding during surgery or after an injury. If you are considering getting a Blue Heeler Poodle mix, be sure to talk to your veterinarian about these health conditions. They can help you decide if this is the right breed for you. Feeding Requirements for a Blue Heeler Poodle Mix These dogs have high energy levels and need a diet that is rich in protein and fat. They should also have access to fresh water at all times. Blue Heeler Poodle mixes should be fed two to three times per day. Puppies will need more frequent meals, while adults can typically get by with two meals per day. It is important to avoid overfeeding these dogs, as they are prone to obesity. This can lead to health problems, such as joint pain, diabetes, and respiratory problems. You should also avoid giving them table scraps, as this can cause digestive issues. The best way to ensure your Blue Heeler Poodle mix stays healthy is to feed them high-quality dog food. You can talk to your veterinarian about the best diet for your dog. It should also be free of fillers, such as corn, wheat, and soy. You should also avoid foods that contain artificial additives, such as preservatives and flavorings. The best way to find high-quality dog food is to read reviews from other pet owners. You can also talk to your veterinarian for recommendations. With the right diet, your Blue Heeler Poodle mix will be a healthy and happy dog. There are a few foods that can be harmful to Blue Heeler Poodle mixes, such as chocolate, onions, and grapes. Chocolate contains a substance called theobromine, which can be toxic to dogs. Symptoms of chocolate poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, and tremors. Symptoms of onion poisoning include weakness, vomiting, and diarrhea. Grapes contain a substance called resveratrol, which can be toxic to dogs. Symptoms of grape poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, and kidney damage. If you suspect your dog has eaten any of these foods, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately. This price includes the cost of the puppy, as well as any vaccinations and deworming treatments that are required. If you are looking for a specific color or markings, you may have to pay more. You may also have to pay more if you want a dog from a breeder with a good reputation. Reputable breeders will often charge more for their puppies. If you are on a budget, you can check with your local animal shelter or rescue group. They may have Blue Heeler Poodle mixes that need a home. Tips to Find a Reputable Breeder If you are looking for a reputable breeder, there are a few things you can do to find one. First, you can ask your veterinarian for recommendations. They may know of breeders in your area that have a good reputation. You can also search online for Blue Heeler Poodle mix breeders. Be sure to read reviews from other pet owners before you choose a breeder. Another option is to attend dog shows and meet breeders in person. This can give you a chance to ask them questions and get to know them better. When you visit a breeder, be sure to take note of the conditions of the puppies and their parents. The puppies should be clean and well-cared for. The parents should also be healthy and friendly. Once you find a reputable breeder, be sure to ask about the health history of the puppies. A good breeder will be happy to answer your questions and provide you with all the information you need. Now that you have your Blue Heeler Poodle mix puppy, it is important to start them on the right path. This includes choosing the right diet, getting them vaccinations and deworming treatments, and socializing them with other dogs. Vaccinations are an important part of keeping your dog healthy. All dogs need to be vaccinated against rabies, parvovirus, and distemper. Rabies is a deadly virus that can be spread to people and other animals. It is required by law in most states to vaccinate dogs against rabies. Parvovirus is a highly contagious virus that can cause death in puppies. It is important to vaccinate your dog against parvovirus, especially if they are going to be around other dogs. Distemper is a viral disease that can affect the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and neurological systems. It is important to vaccinate your dog against distemper, especially if they are going to be around other dogs. With the right care, your Blue Heeler Poodle mix will grow into a healthy and happy dog. A Blue Heeler is an energetic working dog that loves their family. You should be able to expect something similar from a Blue Heeler Mix. A Blue Heeler is an affectionate dog that is loyal and devoted to their families. They tend to get along with children and even other pets in the family despite their high prey drive. They also tend to be protective of anyone they consider family and are naturally wary of strangers. The other parent breed could introduce some other characteristics that affect potential temperament in a Blue Heeler Mix. So, you do want to make sure you ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix. You can also meet the mother dog to see what sort of temperament she has and the behavior she is modeling for her puppies. Because a Blue Heeler Mix is likely to have a protective instinct like their Blue Heeler parent, it is especially important to socialize them early and often and train them well. The breeder should be socializing the puppies in their care, but socialization is an ongoing process so it is up to you to continue socializing a puppy once you get them home. The Blue Heeler is a moderately adaptable dog. They do tend to be hardy dogs that thrive in most climates and can handle some alone time. As long as the other parent breed has similar traits, you should be able to expect similar adaptability from a Blue Heeler Mix. Are mixed-breed dogs healthier than purebred dogs? From the Blue Heeler side, potential health concerns can include deafness, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and progressive retinal atrophy. Being born deaf is more common in the Blue Heeler than other dog breeds, but it is not known to negatively affect their quality of life. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing issues on to puppies. So, make sure you ask the breeder about the health and genetic history of both of the parent breeds. This can help allay any potential health concerns you may have with a Blue Heeler Mix puppy. Blue Heelers are high-energy and hardworking dogs. Although they are intelligent and pick up on things quickly, which makes them easy to train, they do get bored easily and require a job to do to be happy. This can be a challenge for first-time dog owners. The other parent breed may introduce traits that could make a Blue Heeler Mix more or less difficult to train. You want to ask the breeder about them so you know what potential range of trainability to expect and you also want to be prepared to enroll in puppy training classes. Regardless of your experience with dogs, puppy training classes still tend to be a great idea because they often offer a lot of opportunities for socialization in addition to strengthening the bond you have with your puppy. Because a mixed-breed dog could inherit a coat similar to either of their parents or a combination from them, you want to make sure you ask the breeder about the other parent breed. Should a Blue Heeler Mix inherit the Blue Heeler coat, it will be short, shed moderately year-round, and shed more heavily as the seasons change. Weekly brushing, daily brushing during seasonal shedding, and an occasional bath as needed are enough for this coat. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is ideal dental care for dogs and can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. The Blue Heeler is a high-energy working dog that requires a lot of daily exercise and a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus time playtime and time to run is usually enough for this dog, but they will likely always be up for more activity if you are. If the other parent breed is also high-energy, then you can expect the same from a Blue Heeler Mix. If the other parent breed is a lower energy dog, a Blue Heeler Mix could also be lower energy. But, you still want to be prepared for the potential of a high-energy dog breed. A fully-grown Blue Heeler usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. The other parent breed could affect this, so you want to make sure you ask the breeder about them and pay attention to which breed is the mother. Although it is not a guarantee, you can also meet the mother dog in-person to get an idea of what size to expect in a Blue Heeler Mix. Blue Heelers generally live for years. Although the other parent breed could affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar life span in a Blue Heeler Mix. Featured Blue Heeler Mix Article. A genetic health and coat color test from a professional service could provide a more accurate potential color range. Size The Texas Heeler-Poodle mix is a medium-sized dog breed. They are athletic and will have a sturdy build. Height The Texas Heeler-Poodle mix typically stands between inches tall at the shoulder. Of course, there can be some variation within this range depending on the individual dog and its parents. However, you can generally expect this breed to be a medium-sized dog that is not too tall or too short. Weight When it comes to weight, the Texas Heeler-Poodle mix usually weighs between pounds. Again, there can be some variation within this range depending on the individual dog and its parents. Overall, the Texas Heeler-Poodle mix is a great size for families who want a dog that is not too big or too small. Temperament As someone who has researched and written about both parent breeds, I can confidently say that the Texas Heeler-Poodle mix has a beautiful temperament. These dogs are known for being intelligent, loyal, and energetic. They are also very affectionate and love spending time with their owners. One thing that stands out about the Texas Heeler-Poodle mix is their high energy level. They are always up for a game of fetch or a long walk and love to run around and play. This makes them an excellent choice for active families who enjoy spending time outdoors. Another great thing about these dogs is their loyalty. They are very devoted to their owners and will do anything to protect them. This makes them excellent watchdogs, as they will sound the alarm if they sense any danger. Despite their high energy level, Texapoos are also very intelligent and trainable. They are quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. This makes them an excellent choice for first-time dog owners who may not have much training experience. Health Issues Doodle breeds are often at a lower risk of inheriting breed-specific diseases. Texas Heeler-Poodle crosses may still be susceptible to common diseases. Here are some you should be aware of: Hip dysplasia: This genetic condition affects the hip joint, causing pain and discomfort. Depending on the severity, it can be managed with medication, therapy, or surgery. Eye problems: Texas Heeler-Poodle mixes may be prone to eye problems such as cataracts, glaucoma, and progressive retinal atrophy. Regular eye exams can help detect these issues early on. Allergies: Some Texas Heeler-Poodle mixes may be prone to allergies, manifesting as skin irritation, itching, and hair loss. Allergies can be managed with medication and changes in diet. It is important to note that not all Texas Heeler-Poodle mixes will develop these health issues. Providing your dog with proper care and attention can help minimize their risk of developing any health problems. Lifespan The lifespan of a Texas Heeler-Poodle mix is typically between 12 to 15 years. To ensure that your dog lives long and healthy, providing them with proper nutrition, regular exercise, and routine veterinary care is vital. Regular check-ups can help detect potential health issues early on, leading to better treatment outcomes. Kevin is a proud Bernedoodle owner and Doodle dog fanatic. Read how a chance encounter with two Bernedoodles spurred a lifelong passion here. If you want to get in contact with Kevin, you can send him a message. When was the first Blue Heeler Poodle Mix dog born? Because Poodles are available in several sizes, Standard, Miniature, and Toy, the offspring of each version will end up with a similar size or weight. For example, Standard Poodles that breed with Blue Heelers usually give birth to pups that can weigh at least 40 pounds once they reach adulthood. Their height will be proportionate with that of their Poodle parent, too, which can be taller than 15 inches. On the other hand, Miniature and Toy Poodles mate with Blue Heelers to make a crossbreed that typically weighs from 15 to 35 pounds. As for the height, you can expect it to be significantly less than 15 inches. However, you should keep in mind that breeders rarely match a Toy Poodle with a Blue Heeler. Due to its tiny size, it can be extra hard for the dog to bear the offspring of the bigger Heeler. Coloring Cattle Doodles are as adorable as they come! Blue Heeler Poodle mix dogs also have the tough bones and strong physique of the Australian Cattle Dog. Thankfully, the same goes for Poodles! As a result, their offspring will also have this advantage, so your Blue Heeler Poodle mix should be excited about learning new tricks at any moment of the day. Because Cattle Doodles are considered easy to train, they can be a great option to adopt for first-time pet owners. This is why training and socialization should be your priority once you take your puppy home. This dog has so much energy to spend playing with your children. This makes their offspring a suitable fit for a person with an active lifestyle. If you like to go for long walks, hikes, or beach runs, your Blue Heeler Poodle mix dog will definitely enjoy joining you on your adventures. These activities will allow him to use up his energy where it will benefit you both. Destroying furniture Eating inedible objects Blue Heeler Poodle Mix Lifespan and Health Concerns Blue Heeler Poodle mix puppies are generally healthy, but they might be prone to some health concerns, just like their parents. But before I dive into those, let me give you an idea about their lifespans. Thankfully, these dogs can live for as long as 12 to 15 years. Tips on Taking Care of a Blue Heeler Poodle Mix After getting to know his temperament, physical characteristics, and health concerns, allow me to give you some general guidelines on how to care for the Cattle Doodle. As a general rule, the bigger the dog is, the more food he should be getting. Keep in mind that this dog breed is susceptible to bloats, which will affect the type of food you give him. In addition to that, the Blue Heeler Poodle mix should steer clear of obesity to prevent the development of future problems in his joints. When things get warm and he starts to leave a few hairs here and there, you should brush him every day. Exercise As I mentioned earlier, your Blue Heeler Poodle mix will need so much exercise to match his energy levels. For example, you can: Walk your dog on a daily basis Go for hikes or beach runs Play with your dog for at least 30 minutes every day in a fenced backyard fetch, tug of war, hide and seek, etc. Socialization Look, Blue Heeler Poodle mixes are generally social dogs, but only if you adequately socialize yours as a puppy. So, how to properly socialize your Cattle Doodle pup? This adorable dog breed is loving, loyal, protective, and a breeze to train, all thanks to his intelligence and affectionate nature. With all of this in mind, your next obvious step is to head over to a reputable breeder and take a cute Cattle Doodle pup home! However, both of his parents have AKC profiles. Blue Heeler Poodle mixes are a fairly new breed, the first one of this kind being born in the s. Around that time, there was a rise in designer dog breed production in response to demands for dogs that were hypoallergenic, mild-tempered, and healthier than their parents. Having noticed the inherent passion and zeal in me to care for pets, I took a step further to create a team of I and like-minded individuals to provide an informative resource in order to broaden the knowledge base of a regular pet owners. The author of this website is a passionate pet lover, and researcher. After gaining experience in raising and training various pets, I realized the need to provide answers to frequently asked questions from pet owners as well as insightful advice I've learned over the years to assist pet parents raise healthy and well-behaved pets.

It has a lovely dual section potty place—one grass, one pea gravel, to give a textured, functional outcome. We think your dog will adore it—whether you use it in the home or outdoors. You just need to buy the right items and assemble them correctly. Using real grass, much liquid is absorbed, making cleaning a breeze. Next, pour topsoil on the plastic-lined tray, then add your patch of grass. Get whatever size washer tray will work best for you, then ceiling grate to match you might need more than one piece of ceiling grate if the washer tray is huge, which is where the zip ties come in. There are several photos included with this plan, so putting it together should be a breeze! Then this plan by the Annoyed Thyroid is the one for you! Once you have your crate, you want to cut the plastic liner to fit it. Then, top with soil, followed by turf! Besides that, you just need to remember to water your grass regularly! Then, line the tray with newspaper, puppy pads, kitty litter, or whatever you fancy. Put the styrene on top, and you have a nice little tray for your indoor dog to use when it needs the bathroom! It screams convenience for you both. Many people live in heavily populated areas with limited to no grass. These potty boxes are fantastic alternatives rather than resorting to messy and expensive puppy pads. Benefits Easy Access Your dog and you will have quick, easy access to the potty without expansive walks, breaks, or preparation. You can essentially treat it like a litter box, scooping it and cleaning it as needed. You can put this box in the house for immediate use or on a patio or balcony. Image Credit: cottonbro, Pexels Your dog can use this potty again and again, permitting you to clean It regularly. Great for Training If you have a pup still learning the ropes, this little box can be a terrific alternative for puppy pads, training your dogs to go on grass instead. They can relieve themselves as needed, especially when their humans are gone or too busy to take them out. Downfalls Requires Maintenance Despite it being reusable, you need to clean it regularly. It can easily get stinky and cause bacteria to build up if you let it go too long. That might not be such a big deal for certain setups, but for others, it could be dripping on the carpet or porch—no one wants that. Image Credit: Mariakray, Pixabay Wrapping Up Ultimately, we think an indoor or on-the-porch potty box is outstanding for specific situations. If you and your dog could benefit from having a small potty spot, we believe the effort is worth the reward. We hope you found a DIY you can start today. We tried to scoop up some for every need and experience level. Which was your pick? See also:. Be prepared to have patience and persistence to make a smooth introduction to a litter box. Pick a location. If you have a large male dog, a corner location works well because you can put splash guards on the adjoining walls to protect against damage from urine spray. Prepare the floors and walls. An indoor litter box for a big dog is going to be messy, at least during the training stages, so protect your home by putting down a tarp or plastic sheeting. Attach additional sheeting to the walls adjacent to the litter box as well. Heavy duty thumbtacks or staples should do the trick. Purchase or repurpose a large, shallow plastic storage bin from a home improvement store, or use a large metal tray from the bottom of a large dog kennel. Line the box with disposable puppy pee pads to make cleanup easier. Fill the box with traditional cat litter or buy dog litter from your local pet supply company. Train your dog to the litter box. Some dogs may be hesitant at first, especially if they're used to going outside. You may even want to transition by placing the litter box outside where your dog normally makes his bathroom and get him used to the idea. Repetition and consistency is key. Offer treats and praise every time your dog uses the litter box. Tips Clean the box every time your dog uses it, and wipe down the walls as necessary to avoid odors. If your dog doesn't like the feel of litter, consider placing artificial turf in the litter box to see if he takes to that. Items You Will Need.

Nutritional requirements of a Bernedoodle What exactly should the diet of a Bernedoodle consist of for optimal health? Protein from quality meat sources 2. Essential Fatty acids and omegas 3. Natural vitamins and minerals from bone and plant sources 5. Hydration — high moisture foods and drinking water 1. Protein When selecting what to feed your Bernedoodle, choose a diet with high-quality animal-based protein sources, such as beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, duck, eggs, and fish. As such, protein impacts canine health in many ways, including: Providing consistent energy Forms new skin, hair, nails, and other tissue. Keeps the immune system healthy. Makes hormones, enzymes, and antibodies. Properly balanced fats are essential for optimal health, and also provide energy. Dietary fat we generally refer to as a triglyceride. There are two types of triglyceride, saturated and unsaturated fat. In balance, they promote a healthy coat, skin, eyes, nervous system, control hormones, fuel brain and learning, and reduce inflammation. Carbohydrates, such as vegetables and some fruits, provide fibre, prebiotics food for beneficial bacteria , and antioxidants that are lacking in meat alone. Dogs are carnivores, but they can benefit from some vegetation in their diets for optimal health. Natural vitamins and minerals A raw food diet aims to replicate what dogs evolved to eat in the wild. As such, meat, bone, offal and a small amount of plant ingredients are all important ingredients in the diet of a Bernedoodle, each adding highly beneficial vitamins and minerals to meal times. Incorporating ground bone in meals or providing recreational bones for enrichment add nutrients that will support digestion, skin and bone health, and mobility. As such, water is a vital nutrient for all cells, systems and functions, including: The regulation of body temperature Maintaining healthy organ function. The digestion and absorption of nutrients. Detoxification; water helps to flush out toxins and waste products from the body. Preventing dehydration which can lead to serious health problems, including kidney damage and heat stroke. Lubrication and cushioning of joints, thereby supporting ease of movement. Discover more about a raw food diet for dogs in our complete. Bernedoodle raw feeding guide Whilst you could create homemade raw food meals for your Bernedoodle, dog owners new to raw feeding can often find making their own raw dog food meals complicated. Formulating meals with the appropriate ratios of key ingredients is essential to ensure your dog receives optimal nutrients, so going it alone can seem daunting. The good news is there is a much simpler approach. By choosing a reputable supplier of pre-prepared raw dog food supplier, you can stock your freezer with quality raw food meals at the click of a button. Bernedoodle Feeding Chart. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. How Much to Feed a Bernedoodle One of the most common questions we get is how much to feed their puppy, teenager and adult bernedoodle. Great question and unfortunately many do not understand the needs and requirements of an F1 standard bernedoodle bernese mountain dog x standard poodle that has Bernese mountain dogs in them. So to expect a bernedoodle to have a waist line like a Great Dane will put your bernedoodle into hunger mode and if young will lead to potential behavioral challenges and this is a time when they need calories due to them being a fast growing mixed breed. We shoot for always having a little bit of food left over and we let them have access to food for about minutes but this can be adjusted based on your schedule. We only do this for the breakfast. We will begin adding about tablespoons of different types of lightly cooked meats can go raw as well and sardines to the above topper along with a little bit of cut up or shredded carrots, blueberries and can add other dog friendly fruits and veggies but make sure you check before using. We would also add dog-based salmon oil according to the instructions about a tsp. Often in the morning we would do sweet potato, yogurt, and a meat and dinner some of the other ingredients. Lunch we keep plain. Be sure you are washing your food and water bowls once per day with hot soapy water. Lastly we recommend starting with TLC adult all life stages dog food for large growing breeds like bernedoodles and even for the puppies. The adult food exceeds AAFCO requirements for puppies and has glucosamine and chondroitin which is important for joint development. Many vets compare bernedoodles to what they consider a typical healthy dog build high thin waist line, etc but that is not the case for F1 standard bernedoodles as they will have a thicker build. Recent Posts. You have done your research, and are ready to take the leap. It is no surprise that many people are adding Bernedoodles to their families. This large breed puppy has a friendly temperament and a fierce loyalty. We personally got a Bernedoodle last year, and she just turned one. I remember the day we brought her home trying to figure out how much to feed a Bernedoodle puppy. As a new puppy parent, the last thing you want to do is over or under feed your new pet, so hopefully this post serves as helpful for you with your new Bernedoodle puppy. This post may contain affiliate links All about Bernedoodles Bernedoodles are adaptable, making them a wonderful choice for novice or veteran owners. They are smart and protective dogs. This makes them great for young ages. If you are just doing your beginning research, the Bernedoodle breed is a combination of a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle. They inherit their intelligence from the Poodle parent. It is obvious that the goofy traits are those of the Bernese Mountain Dog parent. These parent breeds create a perfect family dog. Their size is determined by the Poodle parent. They are broken down into size categories. Bernedoodles can be toy, mini or standard. One thing that is pretty surprising is that the different sizes do not typically affect their food choices during puppyhood. Bernedoodle puppies are known to love younger children. They are playful and gentle as a lifelong companion. Bernedoodles are smart but are also silly. This trait makes them a good choice for all ages. As a mom of four kids, this was very important to me. If you want to learn more about owning Bernedoodle — I have a whole blog post here with all the details on what is like to truly own a Bernedoodle puppy. How much to Feed a Bernedoodle Puppy As you prepare to become a bernedoodle parent, their growth and development are important to you. You are undoubtedly concerned about health issues or health problems that may arise. Did you know that there is a big difference between puppy food and adult dog food? It may be hard to know where to start, but I will break it down for you! In their full size, they are big dogs. At their full height, they are also very tall. Their looks can be deceiving. Even though they are larger dogs, they may not need more food than a typical dog. You want to be prepared with this knowledge before you decide if this dog is right for you. How do you ensure a healthy lifestyle for your pup? It is important to learn how much food is necessary in their different life stages. The Reasoning Behind the Puppy Food New dog owners have several choices to make when it comes to food. It can be overwhelming, but there are a few simple things to keep in mind for a balanced diet. Your main goal is a healthy, happy dog! Adult dogs and puppies have different nutritional needs. Puppy food is specifically designed for growing pups. As they grow, they are burning more calories. This means that they need more calories per pound of body weight to sustain their developing bodies. Bernedoodle puppies need more fatty acids and high protein diets. These puppies complete a majority of their growth within two or three years. In these first few years, they will need higher amounts of protein calories. Veterinarians will say that it is, however, not toxic for your puppy to eat adult dog food. They may suggest that you do your best to stick to these separate kinds of dog food for optimal health. This type of food is typically referred to as adult maintenance for day-to-day living. It should be clearly labeled on the packages. Once they have reached their adult weight, they can maintain the health benefits from their simpler diet. The transition from puppy food to adult dog food should be seamless. Bernedoodle dogs are laid back and not picky! Most of the time, they will eat what is put in front of them. Now that we have covered the difference between the types of dog food, we will get right to specific amounts for Bernedoodle puppies. Our Penny had a very sensitive stomach as a puppy, and we have stuck with this puppy food and been very happy with the choice. She seems to be happy and thriving on it. Specific amounts of Food for Bernedoodle Puppies Young puppies that are two to six months of age typically eat three different times a day. The daily amount of puppy food depends on weeks of age and how much they weigh. It will also depend on how much exercise they receive. I will break that down specifically. But, it is important to keep in mind that their food intake will increase as they grow. At around six months of age, Bernedoodle puppies can eat twice a day. This schedule may continue for adult Bernedoodles. They are growing very quickly. Setting your puppy up with proper nutrients will benefit growth, brain health and a long lifespan. It is helpful to stick to designated eating times for your puppy. Do not forget that It is a good choice to check the directions of the healthy dog food you purchase. On the back of each package, there should be a suggested serving size. As always, contact your veterinarian if you are concerned about how your Bernedoodle is developing. Interestingly enough, adult Bernedoodle dogs tend to only eat one serving a day. They can finish their larger amount of food in one sitting. When they reach an even older age it may be difficult for them to finish this serving in one feeding. It is helpful to spread these servings out for older dogs while it gets harder to finish a meal. At this point you will be in tune to what your Bernedoodle dog needs. Bernedoodles are known for their love of food! It is easy to over-feed your puppy. A general rule is to check their ribs. You should be able to feel the ribs easily but not be able to see them at a glance. This is a great way to check on your Bernedoodle dogs and their weight gain. It can be tempting to feed your pup food from the table. This seems innocent but can create poor eating habits down the road. It can also disrupt their digestive systems. You have worked hard to create a healthy diet and want to keep it that way. If a Bernedoodle puppy is hungry, they will eat from their designated spot and will not need anything extra. Do not forget that although the feeding schedule is important, we cannot forget about giving our dogs plenty of exercise! Long walks will encourage a healthy life for your Bernedoodle and for you. Overall health includes diet and exercise. This is another reason why Bernedoodle puppies are a wonderful family dog. They have plenty of energy to keep up with toddlers. It is also a helpful way to encourage your teens to get outside and away from their technology. Bernedoodle Puppy Food — Dog Food Options With a growing amount of dog food brands, it can be hard to pick the best food. As you browse the isles, it is obvious to note that wet food is more expensive than dry food. However, they are both great options! The standard Bernedoodle loves to eat and they are such large breeds that they can eat a lot. Fortunately for dog owners, many dogs love dry food. Wet or raw dog food has less carbohydrates than dry food and can be more hydrating. Many veterinarians suggest that either kind is a great choice! I would find a brand and type that fits into your grocery budget. Bernedoodles tend to eat what they are given. If only this trait would rub off on the human puppies we have. There is nothing wrong with the dry kibble choice! Each type of dog food has the nutrients it needs to help your dog grow. The biggest difference between dry and wet dog food may be the way it is digested. Keep in mind — that as with kids and yourself there may be adjusting to find what is best for your puppy. Start with a small bag the first time you purchase puppy food, and if you are changing them from what they were on at a breeder or in a shelter mix the new food with the previous food for a slower change on their gut. Now that you have been prepared with nutrition knowledge, you are ready to welcome that pup in to the family. Giving them proper puppy and adult dog food will help create a healthy dog. More than food, your Bernedoodle needs love and affection. This will not be difficult at all. Bernedoodles are easy to create a bond with. I know that you will love your Bernedoodle puppy as much as my family does! If you have any questions feel free to leave them in the comments below, and be sure to pin the photo below to find this post later. Related Posts:. Frequency Of Feeding Bernedoodle puppies have different nutritional requirements compared to adult dogs. Puppies need more frequent meals as their stomachs are smaller, and they require regular energy to fuel their growth. Generally, Bernedoodle puppies that are two to six months of age typically eat three times a day. It is essential to maintain a consistent feeding schedule when raising a Bernedoodle puppy. Choosing The Right Type Of Food When it comes to choosing the right type of food for your Bernedoodle puppy, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, you will want to make sure that the food you select is appropriate for their size and nutritional needs. Soaking Kibble For Easier Digestion One of the recommended feeding guidelines for Bernedoodle puppies is soaking their kibble in raw milk. Soaking kibble can make it easier for them to digest and absorb nutrients from their food. When puppies eat dry kibble, they tend to swallow large pieces whole, which can lead to digestive issues such as bloating and constipation. For example, by the time Bernedoodles are weeks old, they will be eating one raw meal per day and two kibble meals per day soaked in raw milk. Raw milk contains probiotics that can help promote healthy gut flora and improve overall digestion. It is also high in protein, calcium, vitamin D and other essential vitamins and minerals that support growth development at this stage of life. Factors To Consider When Feeding A Bernedoodle Puppy When feeding a Bernedoodle puppy, age, weight, activity level, and nutritional requirements should all be taken into account to ensure that they are getting the proper amount of food for their growth and development. Age As your Bernedoodle puppy grows and develops, their age plays a crucial role in determining the appropriate feeding regimen. Each stage of growth has specific nutritional requirements to ensure healthy development and weight maintenance. For example, at eight weeks to 12 weeks old, these fluffy pups need about one cup of food three times a day to fuel their rapid growth. Around four months of age, it is important for owners to establish a regular feeding schedule with meals served at consistent times each day. This helps develop good eating habits and prevents potential gastrointestinal issues caused by erratic meal timings. Weight One of the most important factors to consider when determining how much to feed your Bernedoodle puppy is their weight. Activity Level The activity level of a Bernedoodle puppy plays a significant role in determining the appropriate amount and type of food they require. Puppies with higher energy levels will burn more calories throughout the day, thus needing increased caloric intake to support their growth and development. A common rule for puppies is providing 5 minutes of exercise per month of age, times per day; this can help you estimate how much food your pooch needs. Additionally, consulting with your veterinarian about tailoring meal portions can further aid in promoting healthy weight gain and avoiding overfeeding issues. These adorable pups require high-quality, animal-based protein in their diets for optimal growth and development. Additionally, Bernedoodle puppies need higher amounts of calories than adult dogs due to their growth stage. As they grow older, the caloric requirement will decrease gradually before reaching adulthood at around two or three years old. It is recommended to weigh your Bernedoodle at least once a month, preferably more frequently during their growth stage. Moreover, regular weigh-ins can also prevent obesity, which is a common problem among dogs. Overfeeding or underfeeding can lead to various health issues such as joint problems, heart disease, and diabetes. Here are some signs of overfeeding or underfeeding your Bernedoodle puppy: Weight gain or loss: Sudden and drastic weight changes can indicate an imbalance in their diet. Ensure that you keep track of their weight regularly. Low energy levels: Overfeeding can lead to lethargy and low energy levels, while underfeeding can make them restless. Digestive issues: Overfeeding may cause digestive problems such as diarrhea, vomiting, or constipation. Behavioural changes: Overfed puppies may show lack of interest in activities, become irritable or overly aggressive, while underfed puppies tend to become anxious and overly active. Dull coat: Both overfed and underfed puppies may have a dull-looking coat due to poor nutrition. Increased thirst and urination: Overfeeding can lead to excessive water intake resulting in frequent peeing while underfeeding can cause the opposite effect where they drink less water than required. Reduced appetite: Underfed puppies often lose interest in food altogether leading them with a reduced appetite. As a general rule of thumb, the amount of exercise should be limited to 5 minutes per month of age until they reach maturity. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, which can adversely affect their health and cause other problems down the line. Also, be sure to measure out the exact portion sizes recommended for each meal as free-feeding or guessing can lead to overconsumption. Importance Of High-Quality Ingredients Choosing the right type of food for your Bernedoodle puppy is crucial, and one of the most important factors in ensuring their health and wellbeing is selecting high-quality ingredients. High-quality dog food should provide your pup with a balanced diet that includes all the necessary nutritional requirements, such as protein, vitamins, minerals, healthy fats and carbohydrates. When choosing a dog food brand for Bernedoodles puppies or dogs, look out for products that use real meat such as chicken or lamb rather than by-products. Additionally, avoid foods that contain artificial preservatives and fillers like corn gluten meal or wheat flour. This dog food brand also has wholesome grains like brown rice and barley which are easy to digest sources of complex carbohydrates; it maintains energy levels throughout long playtime sessions spent outdoor exercising while supporting digestive health thanks to fiber content from fruits and vegetables plus probiotic strains supplements found within each kibble bite-sized piece they consume. Consider the benefits and drawbacks of dry, wet, and raw food options to make an informed decision. Type of Food. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Mini Bernedoodles planned for, loved on, and prepared for forever families. If you want to give your dog a treat, then get a treat that is meant for your dog and not for you. The best kinds of treats for your dog are freeze dried meat or fish. This is strictly meat, no additives, no coloring. Chews are good for your dog but do not give your dog rawhide because it comes off in big chunks and can choke your dog. Other chews you should avoid are any sort of treats or chews made in China, buy local as much as possible. Go to your local butcher and ask for raw meaty bones, specifically for dogs. Bully sticks, pig ears, chicken feet, and cow hooves are all very good options. If you would like to get your puppy on a good potty schedule you need to offer your puppy food at least three times a day until it is at least 4 months old or over 3 pounds. After it is 4 months old and eating well and weighs over 3 pounds you can offer it food twice a day, in the morning and evening. Put the food in the pen and leave it for approximately 15 to 20 minutes and then take it up again. Pay attention to see if your puppy does it and just take note that they are eating regularly twice a day. Once you dog is potty trained and if it is not a glutton, you may leave food out for longer periods of time if you prefer. Nutrition The idea that canine diets should be grain free may have come about due to some allergy concerns as well as the realization that dogs are carnivores and should be eating a diet with a substantial amount of meat. Of course, many manufacturers were quick to promote this new fad diet and eager to capitalize on sincerely concerned pet owners. The problem is that there have been no significant studies conducted on these grain free diet feeding plans for dogs. In fact, many veterinarians and even the FDA are now realizing that grain free dog food is actually causing more harm than good. The concern is that when grains are taken out of the food, another filler must be added to take the place of these grains. These fillers are usually high in carbohydrates like peas and lentils, which have been linked to Dilated cardiomyopathy DCM , diabetes, and other serious health issues in dogs. When you are looking for dog food be sure that you do your due diligence and check ingredients, do your research. Look for a reputable brand, which is generally one you can't get at the grocery store. Your local feed store is an excellent source of high quality dog food that often comes with some great advice. Keep mixing and giving more and more of the new food, little by little. In this way you can avoid tummy upsets for your dog. My Bernedoodle is 18 months old and around 60 lbs. She currently eats 1 cup three times per day and has maintained a healthy weight. Bernedoodles perfectly pair the loyal and laid-back Bernese Mountain dog with the intelligent, low-shedding Poodle. Their gentle but playful nature makes them a popular choice for families with children, but even active seniors and singles can enjoy the company of a Bernedoodle. Also referred to as the Bernese Mountain Poo, Bernedoodles love to eat! Because of this, many new owners have concerns about whether their Bernedoodle is getting enough food. Variations in breed types toy, mini, and full-size , as well as the specific activity levels, age, and health of each dog, can further complicate the feeding time and schedule required for optimal health. Gain more insight on feeding your Bernedoodle in this guide , including the amount, type, and frequency of food. Dogs need a well-balanced diet to support a healthy immune system and proper growth like all living things. As omnivorous animals, dogs need a diet of animal and plant proteins. Malnutrition, or failing to supply any nutrients, can result in serious health complications for a Bernedoodle. Protect your pup with a varied, high-quality diet rich in protein, grains, vitamins, and minerals. Each has its own set of pros and cons. Wet dog food can ease the transition for a weaning puppy, but the prolonged feeding of wet foods particularly canned versions can lead to digestive problems. Dogs who consume a diet primarily of wet foods also tend to have more dental problems, such as plaque buildup and tooth decay. While you can counteract this effect by offering whole bones to your dog, it may not be sufficient in helping them avoid dental issues. Kibble dry dog food is generally the preferred feeding method for dogs, particularly among large dog breed owners. It is often because kibble tends to be less expensive per pound than other dog foods. Kibble also typically lasts longer than raw or cooked food, so there is less potential for waste. The hardness of kibble can also protect a dog from dental issues, as it helps to wear away plaque, the leading cause of tooth decay. If you choose this feeding method for your Bernedoodle, take some time to research and compare the various brands. Pay special attention to major recalls. Opt for a trusted and reputable brand. Consider using dog brand comparison sites for an in-depth look at the ingredients. Avoid by-products and focus, instead, on kibbles that contain mostly whole-food ingredients. Cooked and raw dog food diets have emerged as a trend over the past few years. These diets typically involve the preparation of human foods like liver, eggs, cottage cheese, sweet potatoes, chicken, and beef cuts. However, there are commercial selections available for purchase. The potentially large size of a Bernedoodle can make raw and cooked food diets cost-prohibitive for some owners. Even those that can afford it should talk to their vet. Should it be administered incorrectly, a raw or cooked diet can lead to serious nutrient deficiencies. This can lead to long-term and even life-threatening health problems for your Bernedoodle. Regardless of the age or size of your Bernedoodle, a feeding schedule should be used to prevent overeating and obesity. The only exception is when the pup is weaning during its first three months. Grazing can be permitted during this stage to help them adjust to regular dog food. When Bernedoodle puppies reach four months of age, owners should move to a regular feeding schedule. The pup should be fed at the same time each day, three times daily. At around six months of age, the growth of a Bernedoodle begins to slow, and obesity becomes more of a risk. To minimize it, Bernedoodle puppies should be transitioned to twice-daily feedings once they reach six months of age. Older senior dogs may sometimes need to return to grazing, as they may struggle to eat their entire serving in one sitting. Just be sure to watch your dog for excessive weight gain. Bernedoodles tend to be voracious eaters, so they can quickly become overweight when allowed to graze. Puppies can be especially prone to bone problems if permitted to gain weight too quickly, so watch them closely for any signs of excessive eating. Also, be sure to feed your Bernedoodle the right amount of food. Larger Bernedoodle dogs will need more. However, the amount of dog food should not be determined through charts alone. They are only guidelines. Health, age, exercise and activity levels, and sub-breed can alter the amount of food a Bernedoodle needs — sometimes significantly. Healthy Bernedoodle pups can eat as much as three times the food as an adult dog of the same weight. As such, Bernedoodle owners should start at the minimum amount of food and then monitor the dog for weight loss and weight gain. An observation journal can help you note small changes over time while also allowing you to keep track of how much your Bernedoodle is eating. Dogs getting the appropriate amount of food usually have visible ribs and a tucked tummy. This is when viewed from the side. When viewed from above, they should have a visible waist. If your dog continues to appear underweight, despite increases in food intake. You may need to schedule a trip to the vet to rule out parasites or underlying health conditions. Should you start noticing a rounded stomach, a waist disappears when viewing your dog from the side. Reduce their food amount slightly until their shape returns. You can also take your Bernedoodle out for more exercise to reduce their weight. Bernedoodle Treats — Yes, No, or Sometimes? Treats are often used to train young Bernedoodles. Of course, senior dogs love treats, too! Yet, because Bernedoodles can be prone to overeating, avoiding excessive treat giving with this breed is important. Bernedoodles rarely mind. Give only limited amounts of commercial dog and protein-dense treats to minimize the risk of obesity in your Bernedoodle. Bones with marrow should only be given on occasion. Keeping Your Bernedoodle Healthy Diet is not the only health consideration that Bernedoodles owners need to make, as it is not the only pillar to good health. Depending on their age or specific health needs, your dog may also need additional vitamins or supplements; your vet can advise you further. Such as malnutrition, tooth decay, excessive weight gain, sluggishness, unusual shedding, or other alarming symptoms. Regular check-ups and vaccinations are also important for ensuring good health in your pet. From puppy to senior, you can keep your Bernedoodle happy and healthy. Whereas by feeding them a well-rounded, high-quality diet rich in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. Good health allows them to be a loved member of your family for years to come. Below is a Pinterest friendly photo…. Sharing is caring! One thing is certain — your life will never be the same again once you bring this little bundle of happiness home. Dogs change your life in ways nothing else can — a Mini Bernedoodle is an affectionate and loving companion. Bringing home a puppy also means you are responsible for their well-being. Here are some handy tips on how to take care of and train your Mini Bernedoodle puppy. Diet and Nutrition There is no universal food when it comes to dog foods. What is suitable for one dog might lead to allergies or digestive problems in another. Just make sure you only provide high-quality dog food for your Mini Bernedoodle puppy for them to stay healthy. Your veterinarian might also have some specific suggestions. The feeding quantity will depend on the age and size of your MiniBernedoodle pup. Here is a rough feeding guide: puppy food meals till 6 months 2 puppy food meals a day post that Change to adult food once they are a year old The general rule of thumb is to feed 20 calories per pound of body weight. For example, a pound Bernedoodle puppy needs calories per day. Activity and Exercise Mini Bernedoodle puppies are very active and need a lot of exercise. You can take your Mini Bernedoodle puppy for regular walks, hiking, running, and even swimming. These pups love water. The critical point is to have regular playtimes with your Mini Bernedoodle pups, or they can become restless. If you cannot take them for walks, do have playtimes at home. Play fetch in the yard or make them run around the house. Just make sure they have enough activity throughout the day. MiniBernedoodles enjoy playing in the snow as well! Grooming Mini Bernedoodles will need to be brushed a couple times a week to prevent tangles and matting. This also distributes oils in their coat to keep in looking shiny and healthy. You Mini Berndoodle will also need the occasional bath — rugged outdoor play may find them a bit dirty. When you bath your minibernedoodle use a gentle shampoo that is meant for dogs. Be careful to keep soap out of their eyes and give them treats to make bath time more fun. Every couple months your mini will need to visit the pet salon for a day for relaxation. A skilled groomer will give your mini bernedoodle a bath, trim her hair, trim their nails and express their anal glands. Your veterinarian will give your pup a thorough examination, help keep you on track with immunizations and may suggest heart worm and flea tick preventatives. Being an active participant in your pets health is crucial — so be ready with any questions or concerns you have when you visit your veterinarian. Mental Health Mini Bernedoodle puppies are like Velcro; they like staying close to their humans. If you work long hours away from home, a Mini Bernedoodle puppy may not be a good choice. They tend to suffer from separation anxiety and become depressed if they are left alone for prolonged periods. You need to keep them close, they will enjoy coming along on trips to the park and pet shop. Mini Bernedoodle pups are also very intelligent, given they are bred from poodles. Poodles are the second most intelligent dog breed in the world. Make sure you give them a wide variety of toys and play mentally stimulating games with them. They will be happy, healthy, and will thrive if you can provide them with such an environment. Laura: .They are smart dogs, family-friendly, and very loyal. They can vary in size from 10 pounds to 50 pounds because poodles come in different sizes toy, miniature and standard. Their personalities can vary quite a bit as well, making each Bernedoodle unique! It really depends on which parent breed they take after. They can differ even more the original litter is bred with other Poodles or Bernese Mountain Dogs. Additionally, the Bernedoodle is a newer breed so people are still learning about them with each generation. They usually have curly or at least wavy coats that tend to shed less and cause fewer problems for allergy sufferers. They do not like to be left alone and can develop separation anxiety. Good training can help to prevent this, however, and this quality makes them wonderful canine friends anyway. Feeding Your Bernedoodle Puppy Thorough knowledge of puppy feeding can help deter bad behavior and potential health issues down the road as your puppy blossoms into an adult. Your puppy needs a well-balanced diet just like a human baby. It should contain a combination of proteins from both plant and meat sources, as well as some grains. Also, puppy food and adult dog food are not the same. Puppies require more nutrients and more calories than adult dogs because they are growing so quickly. You can choose between dry food, canned food, cooked food, or raw food. Dry and canned foods are designed to provide all of the nutrients that your puppy needs to grow and be healthy. There are also size-specific food types you can choose from that contain different nutrient amounts or smaller kibble. As puppies transition from nursing to puppy food, it may be easier to feed them a mixture of wet and dry food. This will help them adjust to eating just kibble as they get older. Bernedoodle puppies tend to overeat, so they must be kept on a feeding schedule. Puppies younger than four months can be allowed to graze as needed as they transition from nursing to puppy food. At four months old, Bernedoodle puppies should be fed three times per day, at the same times each day. At six months old, you should transition your Bernedoodle puppy to feedings twice per day instead of three times. Be sure to feed your Bernedoodle puppy early enough in the evening that he has time to digest and go potty or he may have accidents overnight. The amount of food you feed your Bernedoodle puppy can vary greatly based on the size of poodle the Bernese was bred with toy, mini, or standard. Smaller Bernedoodle puppies, those that were bred from toy or miniature poodles, will require much less food than the larger Bernedoodle puppies. Keep an eye on the shape of your puppy. You should be able to see his ribs slightly and his tummy should tuck upward. You should not be able to see his hips, however. Begin feeding your Bernedoodle puppy the smallest amount for their weight, but if he looks underweight, increase that amount gradually. If he looks overweight, decrease his food intake. The first step to determine how much to feed your puppy is to figure out approximately what your puppy will weigh once he is an adult. The following chart show approximately how much to feed your puppy based on weight and age range: Bernedoodle Puppy Feeding Chart 6 weeks to 3 months 4 — 5 months. This is important for all dogs but especially for a growing puppy. Protein is what essentially determines the quality of dog food. When you read the label, you will see one or more of the following protein types: Meat protein. As the name implies, this type of protein comes from other animals. It is usually made up of muscle or organ meat and is the closest protein to human quality. It is superior to other types of protein for dogs. Animal by-products. This protein type is made up of the parts of the animal that are not included in meat protein. It can be made of hair, hoofs, lips, and even eyelashes. Vegetable and grain proteins. These are mostly soy- or corn-based. The goal is to provide a diet with more animal protein than veggie protein, which you can do by choosing a food with at least two animal sources of protein listed within the first five ingredients on the bag. Carbohydrates Just like humans, Bernedoodle puppies get energy and dietary fiber from carbs. Many different types of carbs can be found within puppy food. High-quality carbs include rice, barley, and oats, while lower-quality carbs include corn or wheat. Fats and Preservatives Of all the ingredients in puppy food, fats are the most expensive. Because they are harder to extract and more challenging to preserve. The best usable fats for puppies are those from chicken, sunflower, or canola oil. Other fats you might see include fish oil and lactose-free dairy fats. Remember that vitamins are nothing more than organic additives that help give the puppy anything it needs that it is not getting from its food. If the food is of high quality, then there should not be a need for a significant amount of calories coming from vitamins. That said, some vitamins should be included within the food to allow your Bernedoodle puppy to digest it properly. There are two main types of vitamins: Fat-Soluble. Examples include A, D, E, and K, and these types of vitamins are stored in the liver and fatty tissue. Water Soluble. Examples include B and C. You will find plenty of foods with long lists of added vitamins. This might look impressive, but, again, if the food is of high quality, then less is more when it comes to vitamin additives. Consider the Ease of Obtaining Puppy Food Another factor to consider is how easily you can get a food. When it comes to ease of access, you will find three main options: Brands you can find anywhere. These are the most popular brands you have likely heard of, and they can be found at just about any grocery store, big-box store, and even some drug stores. These are also generally the least expensive options. However, they often choose meat from 4-D categories, which means the animals that make up the protein are dead, dying, or diseased. It is also common for the fats used in these brands to be of lower quality and not as easily digestible, which might require your Bernedoodle puppy to eat more to get the nutrients they need. Premium brands. Historically, they were found in specialty pet stores and animal hospitals. They generally use a higher grade of meat and higher quality fats, which means that puppies generally need less of these foods than those that are more commercially available. Holistic foods. These are only found in specialty pet stores or online. These are the cream of the crop and generally have human-grade meats and highly digestible fats. Even the grain carb mix will be made from high-quality foods. You will find many of these to be free from hormones and steroids. Of course, this quality comes with a high price, and they can be harder to find. Once again, the high quality means less food is needed compared to lower-priced options. Balancing Cost and Quality Not everyone can effort to pay for holistic food. The key is to find the best quality you can for the price you can afford. You do not need to spend that much money to keep your puppy in good health. Adult Bernedoodle Nutrition As your Bernedoodle ages, it no longer needs the extra calories for growth. Most dogs will become less active once they leave the puppy stage between 18 months and two years, which further reduces their need for calories. The type of Bernedoodle affects its total expected weight: Standard Bernedoodles get to pounds Miniature Bernedoodles get to pounds Tiny Bernedoodles get to 10 — 24 pounds If you are not sure how much your particular dog is likely to end up weighing, you can talk to your vet. Smaller Bernedoodles might be at their adult weight by six or seven months old, while standard Bernedoodles often grow well beyond 12 months of age. Once again, look at the package for its breakdown of nutrients. The two main options for adult dogs are adult maintenance all-stages. Adult maintenance is generally the better choice for dogs that are overweight or not as active, while all-stage food contains extra nutrients for more active dogs. Senior Bernedoodle Nutrition As your Bernedoodle becomes a senior dog, its nutritional requirements will change. Many senior dogs deal with a wealth of health issues , including obesity, arthritis, and cognitive issues. Meanwhile, they can also suffer from appetite loss. The opposite is actually true. A healthy senior Bernedoodle will need more protein to fuel their muscle. As dogs age, they begin to lose muscle mass — sometimes so much that they cannot move around with assistance. Find the Right Calorie Balance Younger senior Bernedoodles are often overweight, but as they get older, they tend to become underweight. You will need to know the calorie content of the food you are feeding and adjust it accordingly if your dog gains or loses weight when you do not want them to. Because many of the elements that you want a lot of — or none of — vary widely or are not listed at all on regular senior dog food. For example, a dog with heart or kidney disease should have low sodium food, but the amount of sodium on the most popular senior dog food brands ranges from 33 to mg per kcal. Likewise, a dog with kidney disease would need a diet that is low in phosphorous, but no dog food label notes how much phosphorous is in a diet. If your senior Bernedoodle develops a health condition that requires strict control over specific elements of their diet, a prescription diet might be the only place to achieve that goal. You Will Need to Find a Food That Your Dog Likes When it comes to feeding younger Bernedoodles, unless your dog is particularly picky, you can likely feed them whatever is healthiest, and they will be happy to eat it. The same cannot be said for senior dogs, who often do not have a healthy appetite. In addition to loss of appetite, senior Bernedoodles might have dental issues that make it hard to chew their food, or digestive issues that make them uncomfortable after eating certain food types. At this stage, you might choose canned or soft food that they enjoy eating more. You can also help your dog eat more easily by feeding them on a raised platform or while they are lying down so that they do not have to bend down. Bernedoodle Treats When your Bernedoodle is still a puppy, you will need treats for training. You will need to experiment to determine what this is for your puppy. One of the most popular options is freeze-dried liver. Your dog might prefer small pieces of chicken or other proteins. For training, treats should be very small so that your dog can quickly eat them and move on to the next part of the training. If you are training for an extended period and offering a significant number of treats, then you should reduce the amount of kibble you give your puppy to balance the calories they received via treats. As your dog grows, you might still want to treat them from time to time, but you will not be offering them as many treats as you did when they were training. Feeding Schedules for Bernedoodles The amount of food you feed your Bernedoodle will depend on the food you choose for them. Look at the bag to see the recommended number of cups. If you have a puppy, there will be a chart with weeks or months of age along with weight. Find where your puppy fits and feed based on that amount. Note that these are just starting places. Your food might suggest 3 cups of food, but if you find that your puppy is constantly hungry and not gaining weight as quickly as they should, then they might need more. Feeding Frequency Until six months of age, puppies should eat three times per day. After they reach this mark, feeding them twice per day is recommended for the rest of their life. However, if you cannot feed your puppy three times per day, trust that your puppy will adapt. The number of times you feed them is not nearly as important as feeding them the correct amount. If your lifestyle allows for it, feed your puppy or dog at the same time every day. This helps comfort the pup because it will learn that food is coming. It also helps keep their digestion regular and makes it easier for you to notice if your dog is eating more or less than they usually do. If their appetite varies slightly from day to day, there is likely nothing wrong. However, if your Bernedoodle suddenly loses its appetite or changes its diet preferences for several weeks, it is time to call the vet. Post navigation.

Anyone on the internet could throw prices around, and knowing what you should pay can be challenging. Read on to learn all about German Shepherd puppy sales. Where to find a German Shepherd puppy? There are a ton of options when looking for a German Shepherd puppy. Your second choice is to find a rescue that might have a German Shepherd puppy. Depending on your area, there are various reputable rescues with guarantees and warranties on the puppy that will be joining your family. A third option is to go through Mission K9 , which has retired military German Shepherds available for adoption. Your last option is to ask for a referral from a few different sources. Your vet, dog clubs, boarding kennels, or groomers can all have advice on great options for a puppy. They will know reputable breeders around town and send you to a trustworthy source. What is a reasonable German Shepherd puppy prize? Different factors like age, color, location, and breeder cost will apply. These fees also differ depending on the rescue and organization you find your puppy through. Now, if your friend or neighbor has a German Shepherd puppy for sale, you will probably still have to pay for the puppy. What affects the price of a German Shepherd puppy? As puppies get older, the price begins to decrease. Other factors that can contribute to the price of your German Shepherd puppy are the following: Coat color: a rare white German Shepherd will cost more than your standard black and tan. Lineage and bloodlines: puppies that come for a line of show dogs and pedigrees will cost more money. Location: Populated cities will have a higher price for puppies than smaller communities. Certificates and warranty: Reputable breeders will have a lifetime warranty on their dogs and provide adequate documentation. Why should you buy a German Shepherd from a reputable breeder? When buying a German Shepherd puppy, a reputable breeder is one of the most important things to look for. There are several reasons why it is important to buy a German Shepherd from a reputable breeder: Health: Reputable breeders screen their breeding dogs for genetic health problems and only breed the healthiest animals. This can help reduce the likelihood of your puppy developing certain health issues later on. Temperament: Reputable breeders strive to breed for good temperament and work to socialize and expose their puppies to a variety of people, sights, and sounds. This can help ensure that your puppy grows up to be well-adjusted and confident. Ethical breeding practices: Reputable breeders follow ethical breeding practices and have the best interests of the breed at heart. They do not overbreed their dogs or breed animals that are too closely related. Matching a dog with the owner: Good breeders know their breed and know their puppies. They will help match you with the best puppy for your lifestyle. Lifetime support: Reputable breeders are a good resource for information and support throughout the life of your dog. They can answer questions about training, nutrition, and general care and are often willing to help with any problems or concerns you may have. How do I choose a reputable German Shepherd breeder? A reputable breeder will make it known they care about the puppy. They will want multiple visits from you and your family to see how you interact with the breed. You want to choose a breeder that offers information on genetic testing of the parents and certificates for their hips, elbows, eyes, and knees. Unless otherwise discussed, responsible breeders will have you sign a contract for spaying or neutering your dog. Here are a couple of places to stay away from: Online classified websites Websites such as Craigslist and eBay Classifieds often have listings for German Shepherd puppies. However, be aware that these websites can also be used by scammers and unethical breeders, so you will need to be careful when considering a puppy from one of these sources. Pet stores Some pet stores may have German Shepherd puppies for sale. However, be aware that pet store puppies may come from puppy mills and may not have been raised in the best conditions. Backyard breeders are popular online and try to sell their dogs for a steal of a price. Things to avoid when buying a puppy Another thing to be aware of is puppy mills. This includes veterinary care, vaccination, spaying or neutering, food, and other expenses. This does not include emergency vet visits. Before buying a German Shepherd: Consider this There is no denying that the German Shepherd Dog is one of the most wonderful dog in the world. Hands down. German Shepherd puppies are the cuttiest and one of the most mouthiest thing you can expect. Mind you there is a lot of work in owning a big and energetic dog like the German Shepherd. Here are some of the questions you may want to ask yourself just to make sure you are well-prepared: Are you willing to spend most of your time with your GSD for the next 10 years or so? Will you give your love and care to a child that never grows? Do you have an active lifestyle? Are you willing to train your dogs from an early age? This can give gives you the opportunity to experience firsthand what it is like to have a GSD in your home and to see if you are ready for the commitment of dog ownership. This can help you determine if the breed or size of the dog is a good fit for your lifestyle. The good news is, we already have a list where you can find a German Shepherd rescue and adoption list in your area. Papers will also show your puppy comes from a reputable breeder. Can I adopt a German Shepherd puppy for free? Even through a shelter or rescue, getting the dog comes with a fee. What is the cost of a rescue German Shepherd? More posts on German Shepherd Puppies Recommended post. Degenerative Myelopathy Von Willebrand Disease Perhaps the most well-known is hip dysplasia, a condition that causes the hip joint to develop abnormally. This can lead to pain and lameness, and eventually requiring surgery. German Shepherds are also at risk for elbow dysplasia, a similar condition that affects the elbow joint. Other common health problems include allergies, intestinal issues, and eye problems. With proper care and diet, however, German Shepherds can live long and healthy lives. Finding a German Shepherd puppy for sale from a reputable breeder can dramatically — although, not eliminate — the risk of your dog developing some of these conditions. While German Shepherds are often considered to be low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, their coats do require some care and attention. The most important thing to know about German Shepherd coat care is that the breed does not shed uniformly throughout the year. After the shedding period has ended, you can reduce the frequency of brushing to once or twice a week. In addition to regular brushing, German Shepherds also need to be bathed on occasion. How often you need to bathe your German Shepherd will depend on factors such as how often they play outside and whether they have any allergies or skin sensitivities. Generally speaking, however, a once-monthly bath is sufficient for most dogs. German Shepherd Puppies For Sale. Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking 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 barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article.

What makes a breed a "rare breed"? Typically in the US, a rare breed is classified as a breed which does not have AKC recognition; a breed which is newly developed or is still in the process of being refined; a breed which is in development; a breed which has very small numbers; a breed which may be AKC recognized, but does not conform to the AKC standard of said breed or a breed that is developed by breeding certain deviant characteristics of an otherwise known AKC breed. The King Shepherd breed can fit several of the definitions above as a "rare breed". The King Shepherd breed of dog was developed with the vision of a large sized or "king-sized" German Shepherd, with differences in temperament, conformation and of course size, as compared to the German Shepherd. It is no surprise that German Shepherd is the main ingredient in the King Shepherd. In fact one of the first rare breed organizations that recognized the breed included among its acceptable definitions on how an F1 Generation King Shepherd could be produced was by "breeding a King to a German Shepherd; breeding a King to a Shiloh Shepherd another "rare breed" which is highly influenced by the German Shepherd ; and breeding a German Shepherd to a Shiloh Shepherd". The AKSC registers the King Shepherd breed and issues individual and unique registration names and numbers for those dogs and their ancestors who are used in the King Shepherd breeding program as well as for puppies that are produced. The King is accepted by several rare breed organizations which allows the breed to be shown in breed competitions as well as obedience competitions. Interested individuals typically wish to add a King to their family because of their love for the German Shepherd breed; but are disillusioned of what some German Shepherds have become. Individuals add a King to their family because of the general looks and temperament of the King; not because it is considered as a "rare breed" in many peoples eyes. Over the years the AKSC has encountered individuals who are not in agreement with our goals in producing the King Shepherd. There have been a handful of King owners who are quick to sling negative epithets in our direction because of our beliefs and efforts of our breeding program. The AKSC finds it a bit ironic that many of these same individuals who question the background of the King , absolutely adore their Kings and continue to exhibit these very same Kings in rare breed King Shepherd shows, specialties and events. The AKSC also finds it very interesting that these same individuals fail to realize that if it were not for the AKSC or individuals who purchased their breeding or foundation stock through an AKSC member, they would not own their cherished King Shepherds. Furthermore, there is a smattering of individuals who believe that the King is "just a King-sized German Shepherd". While the AKSC will not argue with these individuals and based on the original vision and genetics of the King, to a German Shepherd Purist, there is an element of truth. In the final analysis, we should ask ourselves these questions: Do you enjoy your dog? Is it social with you and others? Is it easy to train and control? Is it healthy? Is it a loving and loyal, priceless companion that enhances your life? If so, owning a King Shepherd has fulfilled its main purpose in your life. That is what it's really all about. All Rights Reserved. In fact, adding one of these gorgeous dogs to your family may take some time, as you will more than likely have to place a deposit and be put on a waiting list. On the other hand, you can always check with local breed rescues to see if they have any up for adoption. Either way, the following information will help make your quest for a King Shepherd easier. When a dog breed is considered rare, then that means the price will go up! If you have a pregnant King Shepherd or if you are waiting on a litter from a breeder than there are typically puppies per litter. There are actually several very reputable breeders of King Shepherds. This kennel has been in operation for over twenty years, and the owners are officers for the American King Shepherd Club. This site is an excellent resource because it not only connects you to their puppies that they offer but also other reputable breeders. You will help to email some people when you are looking for a King Shepherd puppy. They are helping further this newly found breed of dog with the best genes and care they can possibly give. Their dogs are part of the American Rare Breed Association. All of their dogs go through gene testing as well as get hip scores done. Their goal is to further the amazing breed and to provide people with happy, healthy, amazing dogs! The dogs are raising inside a home and not caged. They get experiences with children, other pets, and all the things that happen in a busy household. Each puppy is shown a lot of love until they go on to their new owner. Prices vary for each puppy. They do require that you submit a questionnaire and a deposit before purchasing a puppy. If you are looking to adopt an adult, King Shepherd, there are a couple of places you can check. The first place you can visit is the breeders listed above. Not only do these breeders sell puppies, but they also have adults to re-home from time to time. Another place you may find a King Shepherd for sale is at a local rescue. In fact, if you do enough research, you may even be able to find a breed-specific King Shepherd Rescue. In the end, when you are looking to buy a King Shepherd, make sure you do your research and know what to expect; doing so will get the most for your money, after all, this breed is expensive! Happy hunting!

Since the Labrador could grow to a hefty size, its yearly upkeep still falls within the expected price range of other big dogs. Always take your puppy to regular vet checkups, even if it looks like the very picture of health. Though these things are not high on the priority list, consider them nice-to-haves once the budget allows. Besides, we all want the best for our four-legged friends, and that alone is reason enough for most of us! Boarding Kennels: This service is a lifesaver for owners who have to travel for days or weeks at a time and cannot bring their dog along with them. Professional Grooming: As we said earlier, Labrador Retrievers shed a lot, so an afternoon at the groomer will help keep your pooch looking clean and tidy. You can put off spending on these things until the budget allows. However, give some serious thought to investing in an emergency fund, as this would take a big worry off your mind in case of any unexpected trips to the vet. Though it is tempting to buy a dog from pet stores or backyard breeders because of their low puppy prices, getting Lab puppies from a reputable source is still a more responsible and ethical choice. Here is a list of responsible breeders where you can find Labrador puppies for sale: Rhumbline Retrievers — This New York-based kennel has been breeding quality Labrador Retriever puppies since , and a good number of their dogs have participated in agility, obedience, and hunting tests at the national level. Due to their commitment to only breed dogs of the highest quality, they have limited puppies for sale at a time; thus, expect a long waitlist. All their puppies are tested for genetic disorders such as elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. They raise show-quality Labs and have championship bloodline puppies as well. For a more comprehensive list of reputable Labrador Retriever breeders, take a peek at our 10 best Labrador breeders article. All their dogs are fostered and given medical care before being turned over to their new family. Based in Colorado and licensed by the Pet Animal Care Facilities, they foster and provide medical care to Labs until they can get adopted. American Lab Rescue — This organization makes use of foster homes to rehabilitate and care for their rescued dogs. For your adoption application to be approved, they will require a fenced-in yard and will also do a home visit to your place before releasing a dog. Alternatively, you can also check out our top 10 picks of Labrador Retriever Rescues and our dog adoption guide. The Labrador Retriever is popular for its great temperament and personality. Unfortunately, most people fail to expect its high energy level as well, which is why some Labs find themselves in animal shelters. That said, doing your research about the Labrador Retriever before buying or adopting a puppy is necessary to make sure that the Lab is the best dog for you. Money-Saving Tips for Labrador Retriever Owners We all want to give our dog the best life possible, and if we can do that without breaking the bank, then even better! The trick is finding the right balance on which expenses to let go of and which ones to keep. To help you achieve this, here are some money-saving tips for Labrador Retriever owners: DIY dog food and treats. Not only is this a more practical option, but this is also healthier for your dog. Practice your grooming skills. Watch a good tutorial and practice your skills on your pooch. Invest in high-quality supplies. You may want to scrimp on supplies such as food and water bowls, but investing in high-quality and durable essentials will save you more money in the long run. Training Labrador Retrievers is a fairly easy task, even for novice dog owners. A lot of great tutorials can be found on the internet, and being the intelligent dogs that they are, they will learn all their tricks in no time! Like pet insurance, regular vet visits will save you from procedures and medications that could cost thousands of dollars later. Pet quality pups are affordable and budget-friendly to most people who are looking for an intelligent and well-tempered canine companion. However, like most dogs, their lifetime cost would still require you to spend considerable money. As such, think long and hard about the commitment and financial implications of taking in a dog. These canines make great family pets, even for those looking for their first dog. So, if your budget is enough to shoulder the price and long-term costs of the Labrador Retriever, then it might just be the pooch for you! Tell us in the comment box below! My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. The costs will be a bit higher at first while you get your dog the shots it requires and pay for the frequent visits to the vet. We also recommend getting your dog spayed or neutered unless you are a professional breeder, and it might even be required as part of your contract if you purchase from a breeder. Once your dog is an adult, it will not require as many vet visits and will only need booster shots every few years, so the average monthly costs will be much lower. Experts recommend getting all of the shots, but your dog is only legally required to get the rabies shot. We recommend purchasing a high-quality brand with real meat like chicken, turkey, or salmon listed as the first ingredient. The protein in meat will help build muscle and provide the energy your dog needs to stay healthy. High protein diets will also help your dog stay full longer, and it will be less likely to come looking for food. Foods with corn as the top ingredient are mostly empty calories that will leave your pet feeling hungry and looking for more food, potentially causing it to become obese. During the shedding seasons of spring and fall, you will likely need to increase the brushing to several times a week to help keep the fur off your furniture and floor. Professional grooming can also help with teeth brushing and nail clipping. This medication can also help prevent heartworm. Spot Pet Insurance offers customizable plans that you can adapt to your breed's specific needs. Many people forgo pet insurance, but it can be a great way to protect yourself from a huge expense while making sure your Labrador Retriever has the best healthcare possible. Accidents and serious illnesses can occur at any time, and many procedures can cost thousands of dollars which makes the price of insurance more than worth it, especially if you get it while your dog is still a puppy. It can chew up stuffed animals quickly, so they can get expensive, but there are plenty of options for a chewing dog, like the Lab. Another option is to purchase a subscription to a monthly service like the Bark Box that sends your dog new toys and activities for as long as you keep up your subscription. A full-grown dog only requires food and flea and tick medication to stay healthy, a few toys to play with, and treats here and there. Additional Costs to Factor In If you like to go on long vacations, you might need to factor in the additional costs of traveling with a dog. Many rental cars do not allow pets or will charge you extra, and the same is true for hotels. Owning a Labrador Retriever on a Budget Your Labrador Retriever will be relatively inexpensive once you get the medical things out of the way. A high-quality food may seem more expensive, but it will help keep your dog full so that it will eat less. Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock Saving Money on Labrador Retriever Care The best way to save money on healthcare when raising your Labrador Retriever is to keep it a healthy weight by following portion recommendations on the food you serve and by helping them get enough exercise. Obesity can lead to heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues that can shorten the lifespan of your pet. After the initial cost of the puppy , you will need to pay a few hundred dollars to get it spayed or neutered and get the shots it needs. After that, you will only need to provide food and shelter with the occasional booster shot. We hope you have enjoyed reading over this guide, and that it has helped answer your questions. If we have helped you create a budget that allows you to get one of these amazing pets, please share this guide on how much it costs to own a Labrador Retriever on social media. Featured Image Credit: scott, Pixabay Contents. Breeds The link has been copied! Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. As an admirer of one of these lovely furry companions, you may question how much it costs to buy and own a Labrador Retriever. We'll explore the upfront price of purchasing a puppy and the routine costs associated with pet ownership. We'll also cover various factors that can impact the cost of a Lab and provide tips on how to reduce the cost of owning one. The cost of a Lab can vary depending on several factors such as its age, color, purpose show or field , whether it's a purebred, and more. Routine Care Expenses Owning a Labrador Retriever requires some routine care expenses, which should be taken into account when considering the overall cost of having a pet. One of the essential expenses is veterinary care, which includes routine check-ups, vaccinations, and emergency medical care. Labs are prone to specific health issues, such as hip dysplasia , eye problems, and skin allergies, which may require additional medical attention and expenses. Another routine care expense for Labs is feeding. As they are a somewhat larger breed, they require a substantial amount of food to maintain their weight and energy levels. Additionally, treats, chews, and supplements can also be added to their diet, increasing the overall cost of nutrition. Proper grooming and hygiene are essential to keep a Lab healthy and comfortable. Remember that training and behavioral classes may be necessary to ensure your Lab is well-behaved and socialized, which can also be costly. These expenses should be considered when determining if a Lab is the right breed for you and your budget. How much a Labrador Retriever puppy costs depends on multiple factors, such as the breeder's reputation, the location of the pup, the bloodline, and more. Additionally, the cost may increase if the puppy comes with additional services such as health certificates, microchipping , or first vaccinations. Your pup will also need feeding, grooming, and bathing factored into their expenses, as well as beds, toys, chews, leashes, collars, harnesses, and much more. Consider the following: Buying From a Breeder vs. While adopting a Lab may be less expensive, it is essential to note that some shelters may have restrictions and requirements that need to be met before adoption. Keep in mind that the price of a Labrador based on color may vary by region and how popular that specific color is in that location. However, buyers should be cautious and avoid buying from dishonest breeders who may be selling mixed-breed dogs as purebreds. Breeders Reputation Reputable breeders who prioritize health, temperament, and breed standards usually charge more for their puppies. It's crucial to research the breeder thoroughly and ensure that they follow ethical breeding practices before making a purchase. This includes checking their breeding practices, requesting health certificates and pedigrees, and visiting their facilities in person if possible. Buyers should also be cautious of breeders who offer extremely low prices, as that might be a sign of unethical practices. Estimated Size The estimated size of an adult Labrador retriever is around about .Average Price To Buy A Lab Puppy From A Breeder The average price to buy a Lab puppy from a breeder is different from one person to the next, according to the reputation the breeder has in the community, the dog's bloodline, and their location. Again, the color of the Lab plays a significant factor as well. In addition to the cost of the puppy, there are also other expenses associated with owning a Lab. This includes routine care costs such as food, toys, grooming supplies, and veterinary visits for vaccinations and check-ups. Owners should also budget for unexpected expenses such as emergency veterinary care or unexpected illnesses. Remember that a reputable breeder may charge more for their puppies, but they are more likely to provide you with a healthy, well-socialized puppy from a good bloodline. Average Cost To Adopt A Lab Puppy Adopting a Lab puppy is generally less expensive than buying one from a breeder, but the costs can still vary widely. However, it's crucial to research adoption agencies thoroughly to ensure that they are reputable and the dogs are healthy and well-cared for before making a decision. You don't want to bring a sickly pup into your home, just to end up spending more on medical bills than you had anticipated. However, the costs don't stop there. Once you have your furry friend, ongoing expenses include food, vet bills, grooming, and more. In addition, Labs are known for their love of exploration and adventure, which means they have a penchant for getting lost. You don't want to get a new puppy with the understanding that the breed may be high maintenance, and then you lose track of your dog. The collar uses GPS and cellular technology to track your dog's location in real-time, so you can quickly locate your pet if they ever wander off. The collar also includes additional features such as activity monitoring and geofencing to alert you if your dog leaves a designated area. While the initial cost of the collar may seem high, it can save you money in the long run by preventing the loss or theft of your beloved Lab. Labrador Retriever Breed Guide Labrador Retrievers are outgoing and generally have a friendly disposition toward others. They are loyal, affectionate and make excellent family pets. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which makes them great for first-time dog owners. Due to their friendly nature, they also make excellent therapy dogs and are often used in service roles. Labrador Retrievers generally come in three colors: black, chocolate, and yellow. The coat is short, dense, and water-resistant, which makes them excellent swimmers. Labs can be medium to large dogs that weigh about 55 to 80 pounds on average, with the males usually outweighing the females by ten pounds. Typically, they're around two feet tall inches , and the males will have about a one-inch height advantage over the females. The average lifespan for a Labrador Retriever is around 12 years, although some can live up to 14 years. They are all around healthy, but like all dogs, there are specific ailments that you're more likely to encounter with a Lab, like obesity, ear infections, and hip dysplasia. As for lifetime care costs, they can vary depending on factors such as food, vet bills, and grooming expenses. There are several ways to reduce the cost of owning a Labrador Retriever. One option is to adopt a dog from a local shelter or rescue organization. Adopting a dog from a shelter is usually less expensive than buying a puppy from a breeder. Typically, dog shelters will include initial vaccinations, any spaying or neutering services needed, along with essential veterinary care up front. That helps cut down on some of the initial costs that owners usually spend when they first bring a puppy home. However, it's not uncommon that breeders will also at least include the first vaccinations for the pup upon its release to your family. Another option to reduce the cost of owning a Lab is to consider adopting an older dog instead of a puppy. Older dogs may already be trained and require less attention and socialization than a puppy, which can save on training costs and time. Moreover, older dogs may have lower veterinary bills since they may not require as many check-ups or preventative care as a puppy. Finally, another way to save money on the lifetime costs of owning a Labrador Retriever is to invest in preventative care. This includes regular exercise, a healthy diet, and regular veterinary check-ups to catch potential health issues early on. While preventive care may require an upfront investment, it can ultimately save money by avoiding expensive medical bills down the line. Final Thoughts: The Cost of Owning a Labrador Retriever Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds to own, but they can be somewhat high maintenance after you bring them into your home. However, there are ways to reduce costs, such as adopting from a shelter or rescue organization, buying an older dog instead of a puppy, and being mindful of routine care costs. Regardless of the price, it's important to protect your Labrador Retriever with a GPS-tracking dog collar like the one offered by Fi, which can provide peace of mind and ensure the safety of your Lab. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. The link has been copied! You might also like. How Much Does a Labrador Cost? And, this is just the upfront cost of the puppy. This includes the cost of food, veterinary bills, grooming, bedding, and so on. Labrador puppy costs depend on a few factors. Quality of the breeder Quality of the parent dogs Type of Labrador eg. For instance, puppy prices tend to be higher before Christmas, so buy a puppy in the spring, instead. Originally, black Labs were favored above other colors. Brown and yellow Labs were extremely uncommon, and were not at all desirable. Over time, this opinion changed and brown and yellow Labs became more accepted. Shooting communities still tend to prefer the black Lab, but yellow Labs are very common in other working roles, like as therapy dogs and guide dogs. On the whole, each official Labrador color will cost a similar amount. But, yellow and brown Labs may cost slightly more than black Labs, since the genes that cause their coloring are recessive and therefore are less common. Non-Standard Colors Labrador costs can be hugely increased or reduced by non standard colors or patterns. For instance, dilute shades or mismarks. Dilute coloring is recessive and highly controversial in the Labrador community. The genes that cause these shades will dilute pigmentation, turning black Labs into charcoal Labs, chocolate Labs into silver Labs, and yellow Labs into champagne Labs. Some believe this color results from cross-breeding. But, others believe the recessive genes simply remained hidden over generations, like original yellow and chocolate coloring. Dilute colors are not accepted in the official breed standard. So, many breeders will not adjust their price, and may even lower it for unexpected dilute puppies. The same is the case with mismarks. Mismarks can include white patches and spots, brindling, and even tan markings. Extensive mismarks will disqualify a Lab from show. Show type Labs are bred to fit the Labrador breed standard. They are usually slightly stockier and less active than field types. Field types are more often bred for their working ability than for any specific appearance. Labradors cost more when they are bred to show standards. Field Labs tend to be cheaper than Labradors bred for show. But, you should consider which type is best for you, rather than just going for the cheapest Labrador you can find. Field type Labs can be much more energetic and active than show types. First time owners may find the English Lab slightly easier to raise and train! Conversely, Labrador costs can be highest with field trial champion bred dogs that are likely to win awards. Labrador Costs From Breeders vs Shelters Labrador puppies from reputable breeders will cost more than dogs from a rescue center. Whilst Labs from breeders can cost thousands of dollars, Labradors from rescue centers can only be a few hundred dollars. A major difference between Labs from a breeder and Labs from a rescue center is the history of the dogs. Puppies from a breeder will stay with their mom and siblings until 8 weeks old. At 8 weeks, puppies can go to their new home. Rescue center dogs can have unknown histories, or even histories that involve abuse. Labs from rescue centers are usually older, and have often lived with other families. However, many Labs are given up for non-behavioral reasons. They can be just as wonderful pets as puppies from a breeder. And, many dogs from rescue centers will have basic training, including house training, obedience, and potentially recall. Why Are Breeders So Expensive? Reputable breeders tend to cost more than any other puppy source. Breeders have to spend a lot when breeding a litter, and all of this will lower their profit margins. Labrador breeding costs include: Health testing and certificates. Less - The Labrador Retriever is a medium to large-sized , short-coupled, powerfully-built dog with a short, dense, water-resistant coat; small, drop ears; and a short, thick otter-like tail carried level with the back or with a slight upward curve. The length of body is equal to or only slightly longer than the height at the withers, and the distance from the elbows to the ground is equal to one-half the height at the withers. Balance, outline, intelligence, temperament and movement are of overriding importance. The Labrador Retriever is a breed of moderation, thoroughly sound, and willing and able to do its work. The Labrador Retriever is a dog without exaggeration, so light, weedy dogs; long, low-stationed dogs; and cloddy, lumbering dogs are to be equally penalized. The Labrador Retriever is an enthusiastic hunter with a good nose and a soft mouth. They excel in all performance activities. Another essential characteristic of the Labrador Retriever is the short, dense, double coat that protects the dog when retrieving from water. Labrador Retrievers are noted for their excellent temperaments. This breed is friendly, outgoing and eager to please. They are extremely intelligent and easily trained to perform a variety of complex tasks. These dogs were brought to England, probably on fishing boats. Originally black in color, the first recorded yellow Labrador appeared in a litter born in .Chocolates were also recorded at about the same time, but never achieved the same level of popularity as the blacks and yellows. Originally bred to retrieve from water, the modern Labrador Retriever has proven to be one of the most versatile breeds, excelling in hunt tests and field trials, in obedience and agility events, and also as service dogs. Your Labrador puppy will need a bed, collar, leash, poop bags, food bowls, food, treats, toys, grooming supplies, and a dog crate. It is important to get any dog licensed to avoid legal issues. Training Labrador Retrievers are easy to train and do not require professional training. But, some keepers choose to take their Lab to puppy school. Because they are highly motivated, Labradors also do great in agility training. This is also a great way for them to use up their energy. Owners can either build their own agility course or pay to put their dog in agility classes. Vet Fees and Insurance One of the most expensive parts of owning a dog is all the vet visits. This includes all of their shots and monthly checkups. A way to help reduce the cost of veterinary bills is through buying pet insurance. It is best to start paying for a pet insurance policy when your Labrador is a puppy. Senior dogs are more expensive to cover since they are more likely to develop health problems. Food When it comes to feeding a Labrador, they are not cheap. Labradors eat a lot of food. They are medium to large-sized dogs and weigh around 70 pounds. These prices are based on feeding a high quality kibble. Wet food can easily cost several hundred dollars more. Backyard Breeders One important thing every potential owner should remember is to avoid backyard breeders and pet shops. It is true that these places sell dogs for a much lower price. But, that does not mean they will be cheaper over their lifespan. Backyard breeders do not screen their dogs to determine if they have inheritable health problems. This results in Lab puppies being born that are more likely to develop health issues such as hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy. These breeders also do not provide proper veterinary care for their puppies. Many are sold while having worms or fleas and having received no socialization. Ethical Labrador breeders ensure their breeding stock is screened and their puppies are healthy and socialized before placing them into their new homes. Labrador Retrievers can develop diseases of the eye. The form of this disease that is very common is Progressive Rod-Cone Degeneration. Caused by an inheritable genetic mutation, it ultimately leads to blindness. Screening will help to prevent you from buying a puppy that may become blind later on in life. Dogs with this disease will lose their sight between one and eight years of age. Hip and Elbow Scores Another health problem that Labradors are prone to is hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is a genetic skeletal disease that causes the hip joint to not form properly. This results in the femur grinding against the hip causing deterioration and loss of function. Many Labradors with this condition end up having to undergo surgery to reduce pain and regain function in their hips. The average hip score for a Labrador retriever is 12, so any score below that is considered good. Ideally, good breeders will only breed dogs with hip scores under .This will prevent you from purchasing a Labrador puppy that will require expensive surgery later on in its life. Purpose American Labradors are best suited for active families. Families that enjoy activities such as swimming, running, and hiking. They are great for families with older children who can engage and play with them more. American Labs would also do best with owners who can dedicate more time to them because they require a lot of exercise every day. People who work from home or part time would be ideal. English Labradors would make great pets for quieter families because they have a calmer personality. They are also gentler and would do well with a family that has young children. Since they are less active, they are suitable for a busier family who has less time to exercise them. Their docile, patient attitude also makes them excellent candidates to be service dogs so they would be a great dog for people who need one in their life. Summary The price of a Labrador can vary depending on if you get one from a breeder or rescue. Its color, pedigree and health will also influence the price. All Labradors are prone to health conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy and hip or elbow dysplasia. Make sure the breeder screens for these health conditions before breeding. This will help to ensure your puppy is healthy. The cost to keep a Labrador healthy, exercised and happy can get pricey. But, if an owner has done their research and prepared themselves, then Labradors make an excellent addition. What Lab do you prefer? American, English, or mixed? Let us know! He has spent decades training working dogs and spends most of his spare time studying, reading and learning about their behavior and welfare. Outside of Marvelous Dogs, he enjoys trail running and agility work with his working Labrador Retriever. You May Also Like.

Also called Miniature Labrapoos, Labradoodles, and Labradorpoos, the Miniature Labradoodle is a well-known hybrid breed in a smaller package. They are sweet-natured and smart, and they love to spend time with their people. They are affectionate with their family. They are also tolerant and compassionate, and they tend to be well-behaved around people of all ages and other pets. Labradoodles are generally healthy and should live to be 10 to 14 years old. These qualities make Miniature Labradoodles an ideal family dog that does well with other pets and children. Even the most inexperienced dog parents find this breed to be easy to train and eager to please. They are too gentle and sweet to make a good guard dog, but they can be useful watchdogs. They are small and fluffy, square and athletic. Long, furry ears are set on the top and back of their heads. Their muzzles can be medium to long. The Miniature Labradoodle coat varies a great deal, ranging from straight to loose curls, and usually kept about 4 to 6 inches in length. The coat may be one of three textures. They could have hair similar to fur in shedding dogs, they could have a more dense and non-shedding wool, or they could have more of a silky fleece. They come in a variety of colors: Gold. We are happy to refund deposits any time for any reason. We will clearly announce the pricing for each mini Labradoodle litter in a litter announcement. Apply Now If you are interested in a miniature Labradoodle puppy please consider filling out the application. Years ago, we'd announce litters to nearly people on an email waiting list. Within the first minute or two, the entire litter would be spoken for, and families who received a doodle puppy felt like they'd won the lottery. Since then, we've developed a thorough application process, seeking the very best mini Labradoodle forever homes. Please do not place a mini Labradoodle deposit unless your doodle application is accepted. We seek to fairly and thoroughly evaluate each miniature Labradoodle application within business days at which point we let you know the answer for your mini Labradoodle application: "yes," "no," or "wait. Your mini Labradoodle application does NOT obligate you to give a deposit or adopt a mini Labradoodle puppy. The mini Labradoodle application is simply your first step to express a level of interest in getting a mini Labradoodle puppy. After giving a deposit, your family would receive mini Labradoodle litter announcements in an effort to match you with the perfect miniature Labradoodle. Each adopting family has the option to pass on as many Labradoodle litters as they want until finding the perfect doodle puppy. Seeking to be the best mini Labradoodle breeders, we refund doodle deposits any time for any reason. It doesn't make sense to us why nearly every other mini Labradoodle breeder requires non-refundable deposits. We have FAR more demand than supply for our mini Labradoodles. Your application helps us determine if your family would make an excellent forever home to one of our precious mini Labradoodle puppies. We have no desire to keep a family's mini Labradoodle deposit if they've located a mini doodle with another breeder or if they've chosen not to get a mini Labradoodle at all. View fullsize Both our chocolate Labradoodle and our Poodle are beautiful dogs with excellent temperaments. They are our family pets. Because we begin with a Labradoodle and a Poodle, rather than a Lab and a Poodle, our puppies are much more likely to have the non-shedding Poodle coat. A F1b Labradoodle has been back-crossed to a poodle in an effort to insure a non-shedding coat. Even though most f1b Labradoodles shed very little or not all, it is impossible to guarantee that any dog even doodles or purebred poodles will not shed at all. Hypo- means less hypothermia is having a lower than normal body temperature. No dog can be said to be completely non-allergenic. Studies have shown that doodles are less likely to cause allergies, particularly f1b doodles. The ideal is to keep as much of the Lab head shape and super-friendly personality as possible while getting the non-shedding Poodle coat as well as the dignified, less vocal characteristics of the Poodle. Our Labradoodle methodology is quite simple. First, we get quality dogs. This is why we wanted to have pick of the litter for our Labradoodle and our Poodle and why we only obtained puppies from reputable breeders that we knew we could trust. Second, we try to treat our dogs Labradoodle and Poodle well. We feed our Labradoodle and Poodle high quality food with plenty of protein, and give them wonderful socialization and opportunities for exercise. We have 12 acres along the Enoree River with trails, additional property next to a Greenville state park, and property on Lake Hartwell giving us the opportunity to take the dogs kayaking. We recognize the importance of socializing young Labradoodle puppies so they will not be fearful as they mature. Our Labradoodle puppies have lots of opportunities to play with our children, and water games are definitely on top of the list. Labradoodles love the water and so do my kids, as you can see below. Third, we try to find appropriate families for our Chocolate Labradoodle puppies. To learn more about our process, check out this resource that gives a step-by-step guide between the application to receiving your puppy! A Chocolate Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle is not for everyone, and a puppy is not for everyone. If your family is not prepared for a Labradoodle puppy financially, time investment, etc. When can you get your puppy? Because we have only one Labradoodle mother and a couple guardian homes , puppies are available only occasionally. Contact us nathan crockettdoodles. We have a flexible waiting list and offer your deposit back if we do not have the ideal Labradoodle puppy for you within a certain window of time. Sometimes with mini Labradoodles we prefer to wait until they are a little older than 8 weeks because accidents tend to happen more easily with really small puppies. We will take several pictures of you with your Labradoodle puppy. We will send you the pictures for free place them on a USB thumb drive for you , and you will have full copyright privileges to all of the pictures to use at your discretion. You have the option of whether or not the photos appear here on the ChocolateLabradoodlePuppies. Although we never ship puppies, we will sometimes personally deliver puppies for a reasonable fee. Why should you consider getting a Chocolate Labradoodle from us? If a Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy is right for your family, and if you are within driving distance of Greenville, SC, you may want to consider getting a chocolate Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle from us. If you read our Labradoodle puppy methodology and like what you read, you should consider adopting one of our puppies. We have a three-year health guarantee on each of our puppies if the forever home continues to feed TLC one year health guarantee on all others. How can you get a Chocolate Labradoodle or Labradoodle mini from us? If you think your family would be a good match for one of our Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppies, then start the conversation by emailing us at nathan crockettdoodles. You will have full access to all pictures and hold the copyright to make as many pictures as you desire. You keep all the pictures. We give your Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy a quality collar. We give your Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy a quality leash. We give you a bag of high quality dog food. We believe that you should give your new Labradoodle puppy or mini Labradoodle puppy the best food. Instructional materials about crate training and house training. Our goal is to do everything we can to assist in the house training and crate training process. A Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy or any puppy cannot be completely reliable in the house until the puppy is about 6 months old. The simple point is that no matter what some breeders tell you you will be partially involved in the house training process unless you buy an older Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle , but we want to help you with that process. A one-year health guarantee; extended to three years for all who continue to feed TLC. We are concerned with finding really good homes for our Labradoodle and mini Labradoodle puppies. Labradoodle Color To see a list of available colors, check out this page. At ChocolateLabradoodlePuppies. Ultimately we cannot completely control the color of puppies. Even though chocolate is the most desirable color, we sometimes have puppies of other colors even occasional merles. These puppies, will of course, also make excellent pets. These non-chocolate Labradoodle puppies are also available to great families, but we know that Chocolate Labradoodles are the most desirable. The Labrador Retriever has a short coat that sheds. By breeding the F1 Labradoodle back to an unrelated Poodle, the chances of getting the highly desirable non-shedding Poodle coat increase exponentially. Some F1B Labradoodles are bred back another time to a Poodle in an effort to guarantee a Poodle coat. If high quality dogs are chosen to breed that have the head shape of a Labrador Retriever it is possible to get a puppy that is very similar in many ways to a Labrador, but has the beautiful non-shedding Poodle coat. Both Labrador Retrievers and Poodles are highly intelligent dogs, helping Labradoodles excel in smarts, train-ability, and a general desire to always please their owner. If you desire a family-friendly, kid loving, medium energy dog that is comfortable inside or outside, that loves the water and the land, you should definitely consider a Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle. For more info about Labradoodle puppies or mini Labradoodle puppies, please email nathan crockettdoodles. Check out our sister site miniLabradoodlePuppies. We specialize in Chocolate Labradoodles and mini Labradoodles, but often we have other colors as well. Occasionally someone travels from Atlanta, Columbia, Raleigh-Durham or Knoxville, but our proximity to North Carolina and the popularity of Labradoodles in North Carolina make Charlotte and Asheville our most serviced locations. We also have some who are interested from distant states, but we primarily serve the Southeast U. With high energy, this breed is not for the faint of heart. While your Mini Labradoodle will be perfectly content to snuggle up on the couch with you, he needs rigorous exercise to ensure optimal health. Thanks to their Poodle ancestry, our Mini Labradoodles are whip smart — making them a breeze to train with positive reinforcement — but this is tempered by the easygoing nature of the standard Labrador. Sociable and friendly, our Mini Labradoodles for sale get along well with other dogs — but their high energy may make them a bit too exuberant when it comes to play! Mini Labradoodle Puppies Health Considerations Every breed of dog comes with its own unique health considerations. Though generally healthy and long lived — with an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years — our Mini Labradoodle puppies for sale are no exception. This will help you quickly identify symptoms and seek immediate treatment should an issue arise. They can also be short, dense, and sometimes harsh in texture, more similar to the Labrador. Like all doodles, Mini Labradoodles come with a range of coat varieties. Some take more after their Labrador parent—with straighter coats—and others have the tight ringlets of their Poodle parent. Most will fall somewhere in between, and nearly all Mini Labradoodle puppies have coats with minimal shedding. Initially, you will need to brush your Mini Labradoodle puppy around four times a week until his coat is established — at around eight to 12 months, you can reduce this to three times a week. You can take your Mini Labradoodle pup to the groomer for a trim between two and four times a year — with many owners opting for seasonal cuts — but should wait until your pup sheds his baby fur before taking him for his first cut! Meet Mini Labradoodle Puppies for Sale. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Carlsbad California and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. Life Span Did You Know? Second-generation crosses could include a Labradoodle and a Mini Poodle or two Mini Labradoodles as parents. This hybrid dog breed was originally developed to create smaller potential service dogs that might be a good fit for people with allergies to dog fur. With a mixed breed, you can end up with any combination of traits from the parent breeds. Often, Mini Labradoodles are smart, friendly, and sociable dogs that are highly trainable. They are often found working as service dogs and therapy dogs and living as beloved family companions. Although they are not recognized by the AKC, the Mini Labradoodle is recognized by other canine registries. A Mini Labradoodle is a combination of two friendly dog breeds that crave human affection and are always happy to have company. These dogs also tend to have playful, energetic personalities and low prey drives. Well-socialized Mini Labradoodles tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Due to their smaller size, these dogs can be injured by accidental rough play or accidental falls, so any interactions between young kids and puppies should be closely supervised. Miniature Labradoodles will usually bark to alert you when someone is at the door, but generally are not prone to nuisance barking unless they have been trained into it. It may not be a bad idea to train your dog to stop barking early on. Well-socialized Mini Labradoodles may be initially wary of strangers, but tend to warm up quickly and will often be happy to make a new friend. Miniature Labradoodles are highly adaptable. Provided they get enough exercise, attention, and mental stimulation, they can adapt well to apartments as well as larger homes. They tend to do best in moderate climates, but can tolerate warmer or colder climates. As with any dog, they are sensitive to heat. Although they tend to have a fluffier coat, they are also smaller and may need to bundle up in some winter dog products to stay warm while out on walks in the cold. Mini Labradoodles are also very much companion breeds. They bond closely with their families and thrive on being near them, so they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. The health of the parents and good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of Mini Labradoodle puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you are asking 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 to help allay any concerns you may have. Miniature Labradoodles tend to be highly intelligent and eager to please. This generally makes them easy to train and a good fit for owners of all experience levels. In fact, their parent breeds are considered some of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. These dogs respond best to consistent training and positive reinforcement. Puppy training classes can ensure that owners of any experience level learn the latest training techniques and start building a strong bond with their puppy. Grooming requirements with a Mini Labradoodle can vary. On the Poodle side, you have a low-shedding, but high-maintenance, coat that needs daily brushing along with trimming and grooming every weeks. On the Lab side, you have a higher shedding coat that is more low-maintenance, requiring some weekly brushing or brushing a few times a week and intermittent bathing. Overall, Mini Labradoodles range from having a non- to low-shedding coat. They can have one coat type or the other, or a combination of both of them. So, you will want to be prepared for brushing a coat a few times a week and the possibility of more grooming needs. Regardless of coat type, there are some other general grooming tasks you can count on. Regular dental care for your dog will help prevent serious dental issues like gum disease and tooth decay later in life. This is especially important for dog breeds with floppy ears as they are more prone to developing ear infections. Miniature Labradoodles can be high-energy dogs. In general, they require daily walks plus some playtime and extra activity to be happy and healthy. Since they love to be around their family and can have an exuberant and outgoing personality, they will likely be up for more playtime if you are. This little dog may get tired more easily at times and could push themselves too far in their excitement. On the other hand, they may just keep going and going with no signs of slowing down. What is most important is making sure your Miniature Labradoodle gets enough exercise and mental stimulation. Fully-grown Mini Labradoodles usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Miniature Labradoodles generally live for years on average. Featured Mini Labradoodle Article. Their incredible versatility of an easily trainable and adoring temperament as well as their social nature make them a perfect family pet. These beautiful, miniature versions are also commonly referred to as Australian Labradoodles, Mini Labradoos, and Mini Labrapoodles. The Mini Labradoodle is the smaller version of the equally amazing Standard Labradoodle that is a cross between a Standard Poodle and a Labrador, both purebred dogs. The standard-sized versions were bred to be guide dogs, and this trait is dominant in Mini Labradoodles as well. This designer breed is a dog of many talents. Mini Labradoodles are highly intelligent, affectionate, and as loving as can be. They can be trained for a myriad of dog jobs, and are quite the athletes when it comes to dog sports. Appearance and Grooming With two very different parent breeds, it can be difficult to know what each puppy will look like. Some litter pups take on more characteristics of the Poodle parent and others take after the Labrador more. Their low-shedding coat may resemble that of a Poodle : long, curly, and thick, or they may have fur that resembles that of a Labrador: short, straight, and dense with color variations of black, brown, chocolate, cream, golden, silver and white. This breed has a double coat which may require daily brushing depending on the thickness. They will also need regularly scheduled professional grooming appointments every 4 to 6 weeks. The size of Mini Labradoodles can vary quite a bit as well since they are a crossbreed of different-sized dogs. They may be smaller or larger depending on who they take after more. The typical size for these cuties is 14 to 16 inches tall with a weight of 16 to 25 pounds for a full-grown Mini Labradoodle. With both parent breeds being family-friendly, happy-go-lucky breeds, it is no surprise that this puppy will have the same fun-loving nature. Family and Companionship Perfect for families with children of all ages, the Mini Labradoodle is certain to fit in anywhere. This sweet dog will need plenty of love and attention, so staying away for long periods of time is not ideal for the overall emotional health of this breed. Because of their smaller size, they can thrive in all environments, be it a city apartment or in a rural setting with lots of lands. Keep in mind that your puppy will need lots of exercise and play so make sure you have plenty of places to let them run and sniff. Exercise Taking on the energetic tendencies of both parents, the mini Labradoodles are extremely active dogs who enjoy going for walks, running, and even swimming much like the Poodle. Like the Retriever, they love to play and retrieve things. Be prepared to keep them busy and spend at least an hour of active playtime with them each day. They can be pretty active chewers and seekers of mischief, so giving them something to play with is imperative. Training and Socialization Inheriting the intelligence of the Poodle parent will not only make this dog super trainable but also a wonderful option for a service or therapy dog. Its natural intuition makes it easily adaptable to people and places. However, it is very important to begin training the moment you bring your mini Labradoodle puppy home. You should start exposing it to new places, people, and other dogs as early as possible. Early socialization is paramount in the overall wellness of this unique breed. They are happy and healthy dogs that have amazing personalities. Our Mini Labradoodle breeders as well as our Puppy Agents interact with these pups daily to ensure they are socialized early and ready for their transition to your home. How big will my Miniature Labradoodle get? They will grow to a height between 21 to 23 inches and weigh between 55 to 80 lbs. What is the life expectancy of a Miniature Labradoodle? The average life expectancy is 10 to 12 years. What is the appearance of a Miniature Labradoodle? What is the temperament of a Miniature Labradoodle? They are spirited animals with a zest for adventure. They are full of love and affection and devoted to their humans. They have a playful and sometimes rambunctious side so creating boundaries and providing proper exercise will be important to keep these little ones in shape and out of mischief. Is the Miniature Labradoodle a good choice for first time dog owners? In fact, they are a perfect match for first time dog owners as they are super intelligent and easily trainable. They start learning at a very young age. Should I socialize my Miniature Labradoodle puppy? Though it is always important to socialize your puppy, please do so in safe places until the puppy has received all of its vaccinations. These little ones love people, but can exhibit a protective nature. Proper socialization will bring out the best of their sociable, easy-going temperament. How much exercise will my Miniature Labradoodle require? These are lively little pups with energy to spare they will need to have 30 to 60 minutes of vigorous activity per day, including walks and active play. Playtime and mental stimulation such as training exercises and interactive toys are recommended as well. How much food will my Miniature Labradoodle require? This breed is prone to obesity and bloating so proper nutrition must be shown from puppy and throughout adulthood. Because the sizes of these dogs vary so widely so will the amount of food they should get. Talk with your veterinary care provider about getting your little one on the right track. What type of coat does the Miniature Labradoodle have? Miniature Labradoodle coats come in many different colors and textures. They could have a shorter, double Labrador coat or a long, curly Poodle coat. Most of the time they fall somewhere in between while still showcasing those distinctive Poodle curls. What colors are the Miniature Labradoodles? They come in several solid colors including yellow, golden, chocolate, black, blue, brown, gray, and white. How often will my Miniature Labradoodle need to be groomed? This is a fairly high maintenance breed that requires frequent, brushing and regular trimming. They are excellent family pets, especially for active families. They are full of love and devotion and are always up for a new adventure. They do great with children. Is the Miniature Labradoodle hypoallergenic? Though not a fully hypoallergenic, they are a great choice for anyone that suffers from allergens. The AKC does not recognize mixed breeds. Mini Labradoodle Reviews.

It is suitable for the teeth It is good for the liver. It provides adequate nutrition. It is rich in PUFAs. It is enriched with colostrum. It has a high fibre content. It contains glucosamine for maintaining bone health. It has omega fatty acids. It is easy on the gut. It is uniquely formulated for puppies. It is suitable for weight-watching. It is enriched with DHA. It is suitable for digestion. It helps muscle growth Best overall product: There are many dog food options for German Shepherds available in the market, and each of them has a unique formula and offers exciting benefits. It gives your dog a complete and balanced meal with the right amounts of protein, fats and fibre. It takes care of adequate muscle and bone growth, is easy to digest, and is good for their teeth. Best value for money: For just Rs. It is also great for their coat and keeps it shiny and soft. It promotes muscle development and is easily digestible. It has the perfect balance of vitamins and minerals. How To find the right fog food? We must give our pets proper nutrition with their food. A good diet is the best way to ensure a healthy dog. Dog foods for german shepherds must include the right quantity of proteins, fats and fibres. They should be a balanced meal to ensure good muscle growth, good gut health and a shiny coat. You must also ensure that the dog food provides adequate amounts of vitamins and minerals to make up a sound immune system. Since most dog foods come with flavour options, you can choose the ones your dog likes best and make their meals enjoyable. You may be interested in Product. It also tends to be high in protein. Food that is high in protein and calories will provide your puppy with the energy that they need and help them gain the right amount of weight as they grow up. Most puppy food also includes vitamin and mineral supplements, such as calcium and phosphorus, for healthy and strong bones and teeth. You should speak to your vet to ensure that you have the right food and are feeding your puppy the proper amount. We hope that these reviews have helped you decide on the right food for your German Shepherd puppy. Remember to stick with large-breed food because it usually has the correct ratio of vitamins and minerals to give your GSD puppy all the suitable nutrition that they need so they can grow up strong, healthy, and happy. Featured Image Credit: Victoria Antonova, Shutterstock Written by Kathryn Copeland Author Kathryn was a librarian in a previous lifetime and is currently a writer about all things pets. When she was a child, she hoped to work in zoos or with wildlife in some way, thanks to her all-consuming love for animals. Unfortunately, she's not strong in the sciences, so she fills her days with researching and writing about all kinds of animals and spends time playing with her adorable but terribly naughty tabby cat, Bella. Kathryn is hoping to add to her family in the near future — maybe another cat and a dog.Read more Advertisement. It is also a vital element for brain and eye development. Fresh chicken meat in the diet provides protein with high biological value. Natural Prebiotics to boost the overall digestive process. The benefits of Orijen Puppy Large: A calorie limited diet to promote a healthy weight and to put less pressure on joints. Rich in protein for making German Shepherd pups healthy and strong. Highly delicious chicken and turkey liver tempt the pickiest of eaters. The crusty and crunchy kibble texture of this food promotes good periodontal health and helps in curbing problems like Tartar and Plaque buildup. An essential fatty acid like Omega 3 has been added in the diet for boosting the overall skin health of the dogs. A natural antioxidant like Vitamin E fortifies the natural immunity of the pups, keeping them strong and healthy. You can feed your adult German Shepherd 2 times a day. You should avoid feeding them synthetic preservatives. High in Fibres: Natural fibres maintain superior digestive health and also an ideal body weight. Vitamin C: Vitamin C keeps the joints healthy, preventing problems like hip dysplasia and arthritis. Natural fibres promote excellent digestion and maximum nutrient absorption. The benefits of Fidele Adult Large Breed: Contains a substantial amount of protein for enhancing strength and endurance in grown up German Shepherds. Omega fatty acids boost skin health and also maintain good eyesight. It consists of Real Chicken meat as the main constituent which is favourite for German Shepherds. It has a good combination of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids that significantly improves the skin health of the dogs. They do not contain any fillers or preservatives which makes this diet completely safe for German Shepherds to savour. Breed Specified Recipe specially made for German Shepherds Real Chicken meat offers good protein content for supporting strong muscle mass Excellent blend of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids endow the dogs with good skin health. This dog food has a rich protein content that fortifies the muscle mass in the dogs. Moreover, the crusty texture of this food helps in removing Tartar and Plaque build-up. Ideal dog food for a large breed like German Shepherd Consists of Calcium and Phosphorus that boosts bone density Glucosamine and Chondroitin provides anti-inflammatory effect to the dogs Beet Pulp and FOS prebiotics boosts overall digestive health of the dogs Crusty kibble texture of the food eliminates Tartar and Plaque build-up 5 Hills Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dog A highly nourishing meal that has Chicken and Barley as its primary constituents, the Hills Science Diet Adult Large Breed is an easy-to-digest meal offering a nutritional profile that suits an adult German Shepherd. Omega 6 and Vitamin E promote beautiful skin and coat in German Shepherds. Ample amounts of protein maintain lean muscle mass and endurance. They need foods that are low in protein and fat content while richer in fibres. However, an overall moderate diet with all the components is also considered healthy, provided your dog trains and exercises regularly. A senior German Shepherd consumes around calories daily. They can be fed 2 times a day. Fish Oil Omega 3 : Fish oil is an excellent source of Omega fatty acids that provides a good anti-inflammatory effect to senior dogs. Fewer Carbs: As elderly German Shepherds are quite vulnerable to obesity and diabetes, a diet that has a low glycemic index is most preferred to them. A combination of Vitamin E and C, builds a stronger immune system. Devoid of artificial flavors and preservatives. Fresh meat and freeze-dried liver make the meal highly delectable. A biologically appropriate diet that nurtures your older German Shepherds according to their biological and evolutionary needs. Thus, when you adopt a German shepherd pup, make sure that you provide it with a fully nutrition loaded diet and maintain a lifestyle with lots of physical activities. A comprehensive diet including all the above parameters will lead to a healthy and long life span of your little beasts. An avid nature and animal lover, Akhil likes to read and watch anything related to wildlife. He also has a great interest in athletics, mainly track and field events and is a big Masala Dosa fan. More like this.