labradoodle chocolate puppy

German Shepherd Bloodhound Mixes require a diet that will meet the needs of large dogs. This also means they will likely eat a large amount at each meal. A high-quality, protein-packed kibble is a sufficient food for your dog. They also need fats, vitamins, minerals, fruits, and vegetables to stay in the best shape. Their perfect food will depend on their weight, age, and any health conditions that they may have. Overall, a well-balanced food that does not contain fillers or additives is a healthy choice for them. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times. Given the slobbery nature of this dog, their bowl may have to be changed several times a day. Digging, excessive barking, and destruction in the house can be avoided with proper exercise. At a minimum, this mix needs at least an hour a day of good physical activity. Not only will it keep them healthy, but it will also keep them out of trouble. While this makes the dog easy to train , the stubbornness of the Bloodhound can sneak out sometimes. Luckily, the desire that this dog has to perform a task and do it well outweighs most of the stubbornness. They are eager to do their jobs. As a product of two working dogs, this mix is happiest when they have a job to do. With their high energy levels, they may also benefit from agility training. Then, they shed some more. The coat can take on the texture of either parent and daily brushing can help keep the shedding under control. You can invite them into the tub when they get dirty or start to smell. A moisturizing oatmeal shampoo will keep their skin healthy and soft. Regular nail trims to avoid paw injuries are required. The most important part of grooming this dog is ear care. If your mix inherited Bloodhound ears, they will be long, heavy, and droopy. Moisture, dirt, and bacteria can get trapped in the ear. After baths or any time your dog gets wet, be sure to thoroughly dry the ear canals with a soft towel. Check regularly for any signs of infection, like redness, swelling, discharge, incessant ear scratching, or a foul odor coming from the canal. These dogs should be seen by a vet regularly to detect and possibly avoid any health problems. Ear infections — The buildup of bacteria leads to soreness, swelling, pain, and itchiness. Osteoarthritis — This is the depletion of cartilage in the joints, increasing inflammation and causing pain. Bloat — The stomach fills with gas and twists, trapping the air and requiring surgery to repair. Male vs Female Choosing whether to get a male or female German Shepherd Bloodhound Mix will come down to a matter of personal preference. The personality of each dog is unique to that individual, but generalizations have been made about the different sexes. Females are thought to be gentler and more passive, while males want to dominate situations and take control. Males are also reported to be more possessive and protective than females. The only documented difference between the two is size. Females are typically smaller than males, though both can grow to be quite large. This dog is a combination of desired characteristics that make them great family companions. You can find a mix online through breeders or people looking to unload accidental litters, but checking with your local animal shelters and rescues first is a great way to find a beautiful dog and save a life. See also:. Shepherds and bloodhounds are two different kinds of dogs, but they both have a very important job: they track down people who might be lost. The shepherds are used to herd sheep across fields and mountains, keeping the flock together. Bloodhounds have been trained for years by humans to use their sense of smell instead of their eyesight to hunt down bad guys. They can track people down from great distances without being distracted by other smells or sounds. Characteristics of a german shepherd bloodhound mix There are many characteristics of the German Shepherd Bloodhound mix. Among them are their size and weight. The German Shepherd Bloodhound mix is a medium-sized dog, about 50 pounds, with a lean build. They have medium-length coats and large feet. Their size makes them fairly agile and quick on their feet, but it also makes them more prone to injury from falling or running into things. They have expressive faces, with brown eyes and black nose that points upwards in the air as if sniffing for prey. They have a long muzzle that can be used for digging, pulling sleds or digging holes for hunting rabbits or other small animals. Their ears are floppy and floppy in appearance, lying flat against their head when they are not alert or listening for sounds around them. They will generally drool when they are excited or eating something they enjoy, such as food or water; this is another way they communicate with each other during socialization training classes or while playing outside during supervised playtimes at home with children who live nearby where they live in apartments instead of houses where parents might be working during the day while kids stay at home with babysitters or nannies. Does the german shepherd bloodhound mix Get along with other pets? German Shepherd Bloodhound Mixes are a hit with most dogs. They are very gentle and affectionate, and they are often quite playful. They may be great with other pets if they have been raised with them from puppyhood. If you have experience with your dog getting along with a German Shepherd Bloodhound Mix, we recommend introducing them slowly. Make sure that the other animal has had time to adjust to your pet, and then slowly increase the amount of time that you spend with each other. Are Bloodhound and german shepherd mixes rare? To start with, the two breeds have been around for a long time. They were bred for specific purposes: the hound for hunting and herding and the shepherd for herding sheep. But over time, these two breeds became more and more similar in their characteristics, which led to some crossbreeding between the two. In fact, the first documented bloodhound-German shepherd mix dates back to ! That was when a British dog named Captain was born at the Harmsworth estate in England; he was later sold to Royalty as a gift from Queen Victoria herself! How intelligent are These Breeds? German shepherd bloodhound mix dogs are smart, loyal, and friendly. They make a great companion for the family or for someone who works from home. This means that they can learn commands and tricks very quickly, which makes them very easy to train. Not only do these dogs have a high IQ, but they also have a strong sense of smell. This means that they will pick up on any changes in your environment or surroundings easily and quickly learn what those changes mean. Advice for New Owners of a german shepherd and bloodhound mix 1. Feeding If you want your bloodhound german shepherd mix to be healthy, happy, and obedient, you need to feed them a diet rich in nutrients. You should make sure that any mealtime treats are low in fat and sugar. If your dog is too fat or overweight, they might develop health issues such as joint pain or arthritis later on in life. If you have any questions about what kinds of food to give your German Shepherd Bloodhound Mix, contact your local veterinarian! These dogs are known for their intelligence and drive, so they need to be challenged in order to keep them happy and healthy. The best way to prevent this from happening is by making sure your dog gets enough exercise every single day. Make sure your dog is on a leash at all times. Never scold or punish. In fact, what you should focus on first is making sure your dog gets enough exercise—and not just any kind of exercise. You need to make sure that your dog has access to something they love doing. If they love running around with other dogs, then run with them! If they love swimming laps in the pool, then go swimming! Just make sure that they get plenty of time out in their environment where they can do whatever it is that makes them happy. Grooming One of the most important things you can do for your dog is to take them to the groomer. Health If you are a new owner of this breed, I would suggest taking your dog in for a check-up. This will help to ensure that the dog is healthy and well-adjusted to its new home. The best thing you can do is start by asking your vet about how much exercise your puppy should get each day, what food he should be eating, and how often he should be bathed. These dogs are also very good with children and other animals. Although they are very smart, they can be stubborn at times. They will require regular exercise to avoid being bored, so make sure to give them plenty of opportunities to run around. The Bloodhound German Shepherd mix is often used as a therapy dog or companion animal because of its gentle nature and calm demeanor. A male or female German Shepherd Bloodhound mix will have different characteristics. This breed is known for being very calm and submissive. He may play with children and other pets more than his female counterpart. What is the rarest German Shepherd mix? The rarest German Shepherd mix is probably a German Shorthaired Pointer, but there are other dogs that are extremely rare. The German Shorthaired Pointer is a dog breed with a long, slender body and medium-length hair. It has a short, straight muzzle and large eyes. Its ears are long and erect. Its tail is curled over at the end and hangs down to the hock. The coat color can be any shade of brown or black, but most people choose solid colors like red or fawn with white markings on their feet. Some people think that this is the rarest German Shepherd mix because there are so few of them around. This mix will be friendly, smart, loyal, and athletic. It will also be intelligent, powerful, and diligent. The perfect dog for urban living! Hound Shepherd mixes are great dogs. Other Mixes:. Coat The German Shepherd is a double-coated breed with medium to long hair and a dense undercoat. The coat of the GSD-Bloodhound cross will depend on which parent it takes after, but this mix will shed. In some cases, they may take after a solid-colored Bloodhound parent. Grooming The grooming requirement of a German Shepherd Bloodhound mix would also depend on which parent it takes after. The short coat of the Bloodhound makes them much easier to groom as compared to the thicker and longer coat of the GSD. The frequency of nail trimmin g and teeth cleaning is the same as any other dog. The ears , however, are something you might need to pay more attention to if your cross takes after the Bloodhound parent. Bloodhounds have large, floppy ears that make them prone to ear infections. Make a habit of cleaning the ears and keeping them dry. Strength The size and build of the Bloodhound-German Shepherd mix make them very strong dogs. This proves useful in working scenarios, but much care has to be taken in households since a little nudge from their strong bodies will be enough to topple a child or fragile senior over. In reality, they will need long daily walks and will ideally have a yard for independent play. German Shepherds require even more opportunities to expend their energy. Given that both parents are active and energetic, the Bloodhound-German Shepherd Mix will need at least 30 minutes of intensive exercise or 1 hour of walking per day. Otherwise, they will expend their energy in other, likely destructive ways. Trainability The ease at which a German Shepherd Bloodhound Mix can be trained will depend greatly on which parent it takes after. The German Shepherd is one of the most trainable breeds and, in fact, ranks the 3rd most intelligent working dog. In contrast, the Bloodhound takes the 74th spot in the dog intelligence ranking. They share this tier with other hounds like the Beagle, Basset Hound, and Basenji. With scent work, however, their focus is stellar. Temperament With proper training and socialization, a German Shepherd Bloodhound cross is expected to be good-natured, friendly , and have an even temperament. This would make them excellent companion dogs, even in households with children and other pets. As such, they are prone to bone and joint issues like hip and elbow dysplasia. Both parents would ideally be evaluated for these conditions to minimize the likelihood of their puppies developing these later on. Other health issues this crossbreed might have include ear or skin infections. If your pup has low-hanging ears and skin folds like the Bloodhound parent, make sure you keep them dry at all times and check frequently for signs of irritation. Additionally, these mutts might be prone to bloat and other digestive issues like their GSD parent. Lifespan German Shepherds typically live between 12 to 14 years while Bloodhounds live between 10 to 12 years. Although their cross would likely have average lifespans of 10 to 14 years, a lot depends on their general health and lifestyle. To give them a better chance of living long and healthy lives, feed them a high-quality diet and take them to regular vet visits for monitoring. Additionally, give them plenty of opportunities for physical exercise and keep them from becoming overweight. However, it does have a Canine Partners Program where hybrids and mixed breeds of all kinds can register and participate in various AKC events, including canine sports. How popular is the German Shepherd Bloodhound Mix? The German Shepherd Bloodhound Mix is often the result of an accidental mating. When these dogs are crossed deliberately, it is usually done to produce working dogs with superior work ethics and tracking abilities. Not only do they have excellent working abilities but they are also delightful companions. The Parent Breeds Bloodhound Known as one of the earliest police dogs and for its role in the capture of Jack the Ripper, the Bloodhound has European roots. Its ancestry goes as far back as the 1st century A. The Bloodhound came into America in colonial times. Despite that, the American Kennel Club recognized the breed in .The Bloodhound is a medium to large size breed that weighs 80 to pounds and grows between 23 and 27 inches tall at the shoulder. It has a thin and loose coat that sheds occasionally. Its main colors are red, black and tan , with liver and tan. Common physical features include facial wrinkles, drooping ears, and sad eyes. Far from being the vicious dog breed movies and books paint it out to be, the Bloodhound is a lover of people and shows affection, though it can be shy and also stubborn during training. Originating in , it is considered relatively new. It owes its existence to a German captain named Max Von Stephanitz. The German Shepherd was already in the United States before the 1st World War, but it was after that warfare that it caught the attention of Americans. In , the AKC reverted to the former name. It weighs between 75 and 95 pounds with a height range of 22 to 26 inches. Aloof with strangers but loyal and friendly with the family, the GSD can play the role of a companion and guard dog. Bloodhound Shepherd mixes are not hypoallergenic Both the German Shepherd and the Bloodhound are not advisable for allergy sufferers. The German Shepherd sheds a lot and dog hair is an allergen. The Bloodhound sheds less, but it drools and smells. Related: 2. It has a strong sense of smell The mix, like its parents, can pick up scents from a long distance and follow it up. It is an excellent trailer and would usually be seen sniffing around when it has nothing else to do. They are not advisable for new pet parents The German Shepherd can be a good first-time dog, but the Bloodhound is known for its stubbornness. One can decide to call it the Bloodhound Shepherd, however. It is active and intelligent Both the German Shepherd and the Bloodhound are working dogs and require a high level of exercise. They are also very intelligent and need mental challenges. These apply to the offspring too. Appearance of the Bloodhound Shepherd Mix General Appearance The Bloodhound and German Shepherd have their distinctive looks, and this should be kept in mind when considering this mix. Only with calculated guesses can we attempt to predict its looks. The mix might get the wrinkles and folds of the Bloodhound or the hairier skin of the German Shepherd. Its ears could either be erect or drooping, the eyes sharp or lazy, the frame lean like the German Shepherd or broader like the Bloodhound. Genetics is the major determinant of what the Bloodhound German Shepherd mix would look like. Size It is easier to predict the size as both parents are in the medium to large category. It weighs up to pounds and grows up to 27 inches. The dominant gene often determines the coat type. There is a variety of colors it can pick from, including black, red, brown, black and tan, and black and white. For a mix this rare, you can only ascertain its behavior through that of its parent breeds. From what we know about the German Shepherd and the Bloodhound, we can accurately state that the resultant crossbreed will be loyal to its family. Its devotion will stay strong to those it loves, and it will protect them when need be. With strangers, it might be reserved, especially as a puppy. Socialization can enable it to be more accepting of strangers. Regular exercise and activities are necessary to satisfy it. A behavior you would have to get used to is its continuous sniffing, especially if it tilts towards the Bloodhound. Even while on the leash, it would try to steer you towards a different direction if it picked up something interesting. This behavior hints at its stubbornness and independent spirit which it might pick from the Bloodhound. It may not always do what you want from it, so patience is required. Like their parents, Bloodhound Shepherds can be good companions and family dogs to families that can accommodate them. Not every family can cope with this dog mix, however. For some people, taking care of this mix can become a source of frustration. Only with the ideal owner can it get to its full potential. Both Bloodhounds and German Shepherd get along with other dogs when you introduce them early. The same applies to the mix. Do not try to get an adult to flow with canines if it was not used to it. It could also get along with pets like cats and some other rodents when well socialized. The Bloodhound Shepherd came from accidental breeding, which makes it difficult to find. There are only a few breeders who specialize in designer breeds, and those prefer the popular ones. Your only options are breeders that sell Bloodhounds or German Shepherd Dogs. It could be either higher or lower than this price range, and it often depends on the breeder, pedigree of the puppy, the health of the parent breeds, etc. Make it your aim to shop only from a responsible breeder, regardless of price. While a cheaper offer might seem more economical, keep an eye on the future. The responsible breeder will be more willing to answer questions, show documents and give more proof that the puppy is healthy and well-bred. The accidental breeding that brought forth this mix might also make some unwilling breeders and owners leave it at shelters. You might have better chances of adopting this mix than buying it, and it is cheaper at well. Rescue shelters are sometimes more trustworthy than breeders and will answer your questions. Figure out how the pup ended up there and if it is healthy in every way. It eats in big quantities, so you should measure its meal to avoid obesity. This mix can also suffer from bloating if it rushes its food. Teach it to eat slower. It will benefit from a rich diet that contains all the necessary nutrients for its growth and nourishment. Dry kibble is preferred, but you can supplement its diet with wet food to break the monotony. Let the diet be free of fillers or additives. It must be of high quality and contain a good amount of protein. Besides that, the diet also needs a sufficient amount of fat, vitamins, minerals, vegetables, and some fruits. Some fruits and vegetables are harmful to dogs, and you should steer clear of that. The Bloodhound parent needs about 8 cups daily, divided into 2 meals. The mix could fall somewhere in between or follow a particular parent. When in doubt, seek help from a veterinarian. Bloodhound German Shepherd Mix Exercise The lazy looks notwithstanding, exercise your Bloodhound mixed with German Shepherd as much as you would a worker dog breed. You have to live an active lifestyle before getting a Bloodhound Shepherd mix as a companion. Give it time to play with the kids till it uses up its energy and you should be good to go. It can also be your companion as you go jogging. Overall, it needs at least an hour of exercise as an adult. The puppy can do with 10 minutes of minimal activities and should not be allowed to run, especially as this Mix is prone to hip dysplasia. Seniors should be given low-intensive activities too. Besides physical activities, mental stimulation is needed. Most of them are forms of training which we shall soon see. With the Bloodhound gene, however, the game goes to a harder level. The general rule of thumb for many dog breeds applies to this mix too. Start training it from a young age to override the stubborn tendencies it might have. Early training is also a preventive measure against bad habits. The mix might also inherit the sensitivity of the Bloodhound, which makes harsh treatment and yelling affect it more than many other breeds. Conversely, it responds to kind methods better. If you want to succeed at training this hybrid, positive reinforcement is the key. When badly treated, it might retreat and refuse to co-operate further. The mix will do well in obedience training because of its intelligence and the pleasing nature of the German Shepherd. Teach it to respond to simple commands. Socialization and house training are some other important forms of training as well. The former shed a lot too, so get a vacuum cleaner on standby. Brushing can be done daily or weekly as the case may be. The Bloodhound drools and emits a particular odor that calls for extra attention once you discover these traits on the mix. Bathing should be more regular than some other dog breeds, but not daily like humans. You should also be comfortable wiping off the slobber to keep it clean. When the mix gets the floppy ears, know it will be more susceptible to an ear infection. You should also wipe excess wax and dirt. As you clean, observe for symptoms like red spots, odor, or sores. Get it to the vet as ear infections can make the dog deaf. Keep its teeth clean and its nails trimmed too. Also Read:. These hound dogs are known to be stubborn but they also have this amazing ability to sense trails. If trained correctly they can show immense loyalty in their masters which will last forever if given lots of love from people who understand what it takes to take care of them as well as themselves. They can be vocal or quiet depending on how you want them to act! A Bloodhound German Shepherd Mix dog holds nice temperaments and is curious to explore the environment while being playful towards people which means they will approach others for interaction rather than running away when scared or surprised. Socializing and Exposure: One of the most important things you can do for your Bloodhound German Shepherd Mix is socialization. Socializing initially helps us avoid any awkward moments when meeting new people or places, which may be difficult if not impossible at times as they get older and more experienced. Bloodhounds should receive ample doses throughout life time to ensure mental health development through different experiences. Not only does it provide mental stimulation but also exercise opportunities! This means you can enjoy time with them without guilt as they hunt down the ball and bring it back to share their joy in playtime together. The best part? They have massive bones, heavy muscles that make them appear much bigger than most other breeds of dogs in looks alone! Size: The Bloodhound is a large, athletic dog with short hair. It has dark brown or black fur and wide-set eyes that give it an intense look. Bloodhounds are well-known for their black and tan, liver-colored fur with darker tones of brown or gray. The white markings on their chests can be seen in some cases too! The loose, pendulous coat helps funnel scent from ground up to their nose and holds it there for them too! This makes this breed perfect at tracking other animals that may escape by hiding in bushes or wooded areas because its keen sense will always lead you right back where they were found thanks largely due to these features which are why so many people love owning a bloodhound as pets. Grooming: Wash your Bloodhound German Shepherd Mix every week with a plastic dog coat, or more if you like. This breed loses her hair during the season and during this time you can use a razor to take off the hairs. Remember that its skin is lean and delicate. Bloodhound earplugs appear to be intended to catch stains and produce fungus and germs, making it more susceptible to allergies. Wash them once a week with a solution endorsed by a vet. Take extra care regarding the dental health of your dog as they require to get their teeth cleaned twice or thrice in a week. Their breath could get better by brushing teeth on a daily routine. Be careful before getting their nail trims as it can cause them little pain. Lifespan: Their life expectancy is from years normally. Care: The Bloodhound German Shepherd Mix is a strong and independent breed who loves to sniff out new things. To keep your dog safe while still letting him have some freedom outside make sure they wear matching collars so there are no distractions when going through neighborhoods together as well as keeping their leash readily available. Good for Walk: If you live in the country or enjoy hiking, this is your perfect breed. Bloodhound German Shepherd Mix are the perfect breed for people who enjoy long walks and hiking. They can go on hikes or take their owners out into nature to explore, which makes them great jogging buddies too! Doing this will help keep their coat. The situation is better by double checking the food daily instead of leaving it everytime! If you have a Bloodhound German Shepherd Mix, be careful about what kind of water dish they use. While it might not seem like much at first — just keep an eye on how often their ears get wet and if there is any build up in those areas where drool usually goes when eating kibbled food or having accidents after drinking from the cupboard by your fridge! This breed shows discomfort and weakness on one or one and the other behind the feet. As they age it can lead to arthritis which will make them more uncomfortable as well as painful for years until finally becoming locked up full time. Epilepsy: Bloodhound German Shepherd Mix with this disorder can live a full and healthy life as long as they receive the proper management of their disease. The best way for these dogs in need is to take their medication and live a healthy life as much as they possibly could! Bloat: One of the most life-threatening conditions a dog can develop is bloat. This occurs when gas builds up in their stomachs, which may lead to regurgitation and death if not treated soon enough. The best way for you as pet owner or veterinarian intervention immediately after diagnosis has been made so that this never happens! Fold Dermatitis: Folds are an important part of the Bloodhound German Shepherd Mix body, but when they become infected it can be very painful. Final Thoughts: Along with being loyal companions, German shepherds are also very affectionate and energetic. Post navigation. Both breeds are descendants of the ancient herding dogs of Europe. They were bred for their herding and working ability. Known as a versatile breed, the GSD can be used for many different purposes, such as police work, guarding, and search and rescue. On the contrary, the Bloodhound was bred for its tracking and hunting ability. It is an older breed with a long history dating back to the Middle Ages, back in England. The Bloodhound was used by English royalty to track deer and other game. They were also used to track humans, such as fugitives and criminals. Today, they are still used for tracking, but they are also popular pets. The Bloodhound has an excellent sense of smell and can track a human scent for miles. This breed is still used today for law enforcement and search and rescue. While the German Shepherd and Bloodhound share a common ancestry, they have been bred for different purposes and have different physical and personality traits. The main reason to mix a German Shepherd breed with a Bloodhound is to create a dog that has the best of both worlds. A GSD- Bloodhound cross will inherit the tracking ability of the Bloodhound and the excellent working abilities of the German Shepherd. This makes them an excellent choice for people who want a dog that can do it all. They can be used for hunting, tracking, law enforcement, and even as a family pet. They will typically be large dogs with a strong, muscular build. They will have the long snout of the Bloodhound and the erect ears of the German Shepherd. Size The typical size of a German Shepherd Bloodhound mix is inches tall at the shoulder and they weigh anywhere from 80 to pounds. Males are typically larger than females, in both height and weight. Males typically weigh between 80 and pounds, while females usually weigh between 60 and 80 pounds. Their height will depend on which parent breed they take after more. If they take after the German Shepherd parent, they will likely be inches tall. If they take after the Bloodhound parent, they will grow up to inches tall. Coat Type This breed has a short, dense coat that is easy to groom. The coat is usually black and tan, but it can also be liver or red. They have a double coat, which means they will shed seasonally. Colors There are a variety of colors that your German Shepherd Bloodhound mix could inherit from their parents. Some of the most common colors are black, brown, and tan. They can also be a mixture of these colors. Socialization at an early age is important to help them become used to meeting new people. To ensure this friendly breed maintains a stable temperament, they require a lot of exercise and stimulation. They make excellent family dogs, however, socialization and exercise will play an important role from an early age. Protectiveness This mix is an excellent choice for a family guard dog. They will protect their family from strangers and other animals. While they are considered a friendly breed, they are also very alert and will make good watchdogs. An example of their protectiveness is their barking. They will bark to warn their family of anything suspicious. They are notorious for their strength and stamina. This can be a good thing or a bad thing, depending on how you intend to use your dog. If you want a dog for hunting or tracking, their strength will come in handy. An example of their strength is their ability to pull hard on a leash. If you are not used to walking a strong dog, this breed may not be the best choice for you. However, if you are not an experienced dog owner, their strength can be a bit much to handle. They will also need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. They can reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. While not as fast as a greyhound or other racing dog, they are still very quick for their size. This makes them excellent at running and playing. If you are looking for a dog to take on hikes or runs with you, this breed would be a good choice. They need at least an hour of exercise every day. Exercise sessions can be in the form of walks, runs, playing fetch, or even agility training. If their daily exercise requirements are not met, they can become bored and destructive. Ideally, this breed of dog is best suited for active families due to its high energy level. They would do best in a home with a large yard where they can run and play. They do not do well in apartments or small homes without a yard. They have incredible learning ability and respond well to training. However, their independent nature can sometimes make training a challenge. They need a firm hand and patience when being trained. This breed is best suited for experienced dog owners who are willing to put in the time and effort to train their dog properly. Loyalty The German Shepherd Bloodhound mix is a very loyal breed. They will form a strong bond with their family and will be protective of them. Intelligence Levels The German Shepherd Bloodhound mix is a very intelligent breed that is easy to train. This is due to the fact that both parent breeds are highly intelligent. The German Shepherd is ranked as the 3rd most intelligent breed of dog and the Bloodhound is ranked as the 6th most intelligent breed. This mix will inherit these high intelligence levels, making them easy to train for a variety of tasks. Scent tracking levels The German Shepherd Bloodhound mix will inherit the strong sense of smell from their Bloodhound parent. This keen sense of smell makes them excellent at scent tracking. They are often used in search and rescue operations due to their ability to follow a scent for long distances. If you are looking for a dog that has a keen sense for track down missing people or animals, this breed would be a good choice. This is due to the fact that they are very alert and protective of their family. If you are looking for a dog that will make a good watchdog, this breed would be a good choice. This is due to the fact that they are very vocal dogs. They will howl to communicate with their family and to warn them of any danger. If you are looking for a dog that is very vocal, this breed would be a good choice. Are They Good with Other Dogs? The GSD-Bloodhound cross can get along with other dogs if they are properly socialized. This means exposing them to as many different types of dogs as possible at an early age. This will help them to become used to being around other dogs and not be afraid of them. It should be noted that this breed is typically more comfortable around certain breeds of dogs than others. For example, they may get along better with another GSD-Bloodhound cross than they would with a Chihuahua. This is due to the fact that they share similar size, build, and energy levels. Their occasional dominant traits could also make them incompatible with some dogs. For example, they may not get along well with a dog that is submissive or shy. This is because the GSD-Bloodhound cross may try to assert its dominance over these types of dogs. It is therefore important to properly socialize this breed early so that they can learn to get along with other dogs. Are They Good with Children? The GSD-Bloodhound cross is a great choice for a family with children. This is because they are very loyal and protective of their family. They will bond with the children in the family and will do their best to protect them from harm. This is one of their most positive traits. It should be noted, however, that this breed can be aloof with strangers. This means that they may not be as accepting of children that they do not know. This is why socialization is so important for this breed. It will help them to become used to meeting new people, including children. Nutrition needs The German Shepherd Bloodhound mix is a medium-to-large sized dog that will need a high-quality diet to maintain their health. This diet should be packed with protein and fat to help them maintain their energy levels. It should also contain a variety of vitamins and minerals to help them stay healthy. Some of the best dog food brands for this mix are Acana, Orijen, and Taste of the Wild. Grooming needs This breed will require weekly brushing to maintain its loose coat. They shed moderately and may need more frequent brushing during shedding season. They should also be bathed as needed, typically every few weeks. Their nails should be trimmed on a regular basis and their ears should be checked for dirt and debris. Overall, the German Shepherd Bloodhound mix is a relatively low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. Shedding levels The German Shepherd Bloodhound mix is a moderate shedder. This means that they will lose a moderate amount of hair throughout the year. They may shed more during shedding season, which typically occurs twice a year. Brushing them on a weekly basis will help to reduce the amount of hair that they shed around the house. Drooling levels The German Shepherd Bloodhound mix is known for its tendency to drool and slobber. This is due to the fact that they have loose skin around their jaws and mouth, which allows saliva to build up and drip out. This can be a bit of a nuisance, especially if you do not like dogs that drool. However, it is something that you will have to get used to if you decide to own this breed. Adaptability to Weather The German Shepherd Bloodhound mix is a relatively adaptable breed when it comes to weather. They can handle both hot and cold weather, as long as they have access to shelter and water. They should not be left outside in extreme weather conditions, as they are not built for it. Overall, this breed can adapt to most types of weather. However, there are some health problems that they are more prone to than others. It is important to have your dog checked by a veterinarian on a regular basis to help catch any of these health conditions early. This is a relatively long life expectancy for a dog, especially considering the size of this breed. The key to prolonging their life is to give them a high-quality diet and to take them for regular check-ups at the vet. While they are not yet recognized by the AKC, this could change in the future. Size Large Elbow Dysplasia: A painful hereditary disorder generally affects large breed dogs. This disorder is caused by deviations in the maturing rates of the three elbow bones. Because of this, the joints will be loose, resulting in distress and lameness. Hip dysplasia may occur at birth or an early age as it is congenital. When the affected canine ages, this disorder can further expand into arthritis. Patellar Luxation: This painful condition is slipping the knee cap from its spot in the legs. Signs are that the affected dog might feel uncomfortable while hiking or running and kick its leg to set the knee cap on its position. When the canine cannot get rid of this extreme air, it will fall in blood pressure and go into shock. Signs include retching without vomiting, restlessness, lethargy, depression, swollen abdomen, excessive drooling, and weakness with a rapid heart rate. Glaucoma: Glaucoma is prevalent in both canines and humans. This eye infection can even result in blindness. In affected dogs, signs such as squinting, watery eyes, pain, and redness can be evident. Epilepsy: This disorder causes seizures and can happen in extreme and moderate episodes. Unique actions like desperately running as if hunted, struggling, or hiding may indicate a seizure. In addition, different elements such as cancers, toxic poisoning, extreme head trauma, metabolic conditions can cause seizures. Heart Disease: This causes irregular heart murmurs and heartbeat. It can be identified through an X-ray, ECG, and in addition, dental care, medications, and weight control can aid in controlling this disease. Obesity: Obesity is a common health disease in the German Shepherd Bloodhound mix. Excess weight can result in back pain, digestive disorders, joint problems, and heart diseases. The ideal way to control this disorder is by maintaining a healthy diet and routine exercise. Cataracts: An affected eye will look unclear due to the appearance of a white film-like coating over the eye lens. This situation should not be left untreated as it can lead to blindness. Allergies and Skin infections: Few German Shepherd Bloodhound mixes undergo different allergies, ranging from contact allergies to food allergies. Routine checking and grooming your canine after outdoor visits can prevent this condition. Kidney Disorder: Bladder stones or kidney stones are the most familiar problems with the German Shepherd Bloodhound mixes are caused by hormonal changes, dehydration, kidney infections, and diet changes. Signs include fever , abdominal pain, blood, and pus in the urine. As they are predisposed to bloating, you can serve them small quantities of food multiple times daily. You can also include fish and meat in their regular diet. Make sure that your pet is eating the food gradually, because fast intake of food can lead to bloat. These breeds can quickly gain weight, so they must compensate for their treats and food quantity. In addition, their size and temperament make them unsuitable for apartment living. The ideal living situation would add a vast backyard to efficiently run around with a fence to handle their protective disposition. Hence, it is advised to get from reputable breeders as they ensure the health and happiness of both the pups and parents.

Temperament and Behavioral Characteristics Having a cheerful and loving disposition, they are amicable and get along well with people of all ages beginning from children to the elderly folk as well as other dogs and pets. They enjoy being in the company of their family members, also showing eagerness to please and satisfy their owners. In fact, leaving them alone for prolonged period may affect their personality in a negative way. They are great attention seekers loving to be noticed by their masters always—a quality that might compel them to be jealous of the little ones in the family. The barking trait of the American Eskimo dog and Poodle is highly inherent in this breed making them let out a howl the moment they spot an unfamiliar face, hear any strange noise or are suffering from pangs of loneliness. Though they have a good compatibility with children, it is essential to teach the kids to handle them with care, thus requiring an adult supervision during their interaction with these dogs. Just like its American Eskimo parent, this breed too enjoys cold weather, while some of them might also have fun playing in the snow. Care Exercise They do well in homes and apartments provided they are exercised on a regular basis. Taking them for a brisk walk or engaging them in exciting games would be helpful in ensuring a healthy physical and mental development. However, do not over exercise them as they tend to get exhausted after thirty minutes of running. Grooming Though the American Eskimo-Poodle mix sheds less, its coat should regularly be brushed to prevent the curls from getting tangled. A slicker brush would be appropriate for this purpose. Bathe your pet only when required, also keep its teeth, eyes and ears clean to check infection of any kind. Trimming and clipping of the coat should be occasional depending on the hair type. In fact, those with a wavy, long and curly hair would require a haircut quite frequently mainly during the winters in comparison to the rest. Health Problems Though it is not known to suffer from any serious health concerns, it might have some of the ailments of its parents such as hip dysplasia, luxating patella and Progressive Retinal Atrophy American Eskimo or epilepsy, thyroid problems and gastric dilatation-volvulus Poodle. It also has chances of contracting eye infections at frequent intervals. The Eskipoo puppies should be imparted with socialization and obedience training to help them develop a pleasing personality. The trainer should be firm and patient enough to handle this active breed well. You can also teach your pet to housebreak and help him get rid of separation anxiety if it is too high in him. Feeding It is essential to provide the Eskipoo with dry dog food divided into equal meals. Apart from this make sure you give him a well-balanced diet having sufficient amount of carbohydrates, protein, vitamins and other minerals. Lifespan Sociability You should know all there is to know about this mixed dog breed before deciding to buy one and introduce it to your household. There is no set price for these cute mixed breed dogs, but you can expect to spend quite a bit when it comes time to adopt one. The most important thing to keep in mind when shopping for an Eskapoo pup is health. This will make the price of your Eskapoo pup even higher. Veterinarian costs, pet essentials like food and water bowls, and accessories like toys and treats are also expenses that need to be considered. This is one of the things that makes them such great family dogs! They Handle Season Changes Well Due to the hypoallergenic and water-resistant characteristics of the Poodle and the thick double-coat of the American Eskimo, Eskapoos can handle cold and damp weather well. They are also built to deal with warmer weather, which makes them great four-season dogs. They Are Food Motivated This mixed breed is food motivated, making it easy to train them with the use of treats. Food will get them to do just about anything you want them to do, whether that means fetching your newspaper in the morning or sitting quietly by the door when a visitor enters your home. Their curiosity can get the best of them, at times but keeping them busy will minimize destruction within the house. A house with a fenced yard is ideal for these frisky dogs, but they can live in an apartment setting if they can walk and play outside regularly. This mixed breed can be easily trained, and they are always yearning to learn something new. Families that are regularly away from the house all day may not be the best fit for this dog. Their playful attitude makes them fun to be around, and their social personality makes it easy to introduce them to strangers. These dogs are alert and vocal, making them excellent watchdogs at home. They are loyal to their family members and will stay by your side at every opportunity. Are Eskapoos Good for Families? If they take more after their Poodle parent, they could have hypoallergenic qualities that family members with allergies can appreciate. They can also learn how to get along with cats, but they need to be trained not to chase them. A post shared by Andrey Bityukov a. Here is what you should know before adopting a new Eskapoo puppy of your own. They do tend to have sensitive digestive systems, so choosing a grain-free food will minimize the risk of constipation and nausea. After a year of age, you can switch to a quality food made for adults or all life stages. Your dog will expect a long walk every day, in addition to time playing fetch or doing another physical activity outdoors. After outdoor exercise, your Eskapoo should have no problem relaxing inside with the rest of the family. Interactive toys should be provided on rainy days and during times when your pooch needs to stay indoors more than usual. Obedience training can begin as early as about 2 months old , so you should start as soon as you bring your new pooch home. They need to practice obedience training throughout their lifetime to reinforce the behaviors that you expect of them. When older, Eskapoos can do well on the agility course, which offers exercise, mental stimulation, and a great opportunity to socialize with other dogs. If they take after their Poodle parent, they will likely need haircuts regularly to keep tangles and mats at bay. If your Eskapoo takes more after their American Eskimo parent, you can expect them to shed frequently and you will likely have to brush or comb them daily. But unfortunately, there are several serious conditions they are prone to that you should be aware of. Minor Conditions. Is the Eskipoo right for you? The Eskipoo dog breed is a cross between the American Eskimo and Poodle. These dogs are small in size, with round eyes that are mostly blue, with a short black muzzle, floppy ears, and a dense coat. Due to its happy temperament and good nature, it has been a popular pet choice for all ages. The Eskipoo is believed to have come into existence in the late 20th century. However, little is known as who first bred the Eskipoo and when. Some believed it could first be traced back to Egyptian and Roman times, while some researchers believe they originally came from Germany. What does an Eskipoo look like? An Eskipoo is a small-sized dog with a round head. It has a floppy and large triangular poodle-style ears and a black nose. Its eyes can either be brown or blue. First, you can get an Eskipoo with a short and smooth curly coat like a Poodle. Second, you can have an Eskipoo with a long and thick coat like an American Eskimo. Most of the time, their coat is medium-length and could either be quite dense or way with a double layer. Since they often have a dense coat, this breed is more suitable for colder environments. The Eskipoo is also available in many coat colors. Below is the rundown of their available colors. White: This is the most common color available for an Eskipoo. Black: You can also see Eskipoos with black-colored coats. Some have pure black color, while some can have tints of blue or red. Brown: They also come in a variety of shades of brown that range from light to dark brown. Cream: They also come in light-off white or deep tan color of cream. Grey: Some Eskipoos have grey coats, or sometimes their coat changes to grey color before they turn five years of age. What is the Eskipoo temperament? When you make an Eskipoo your pet, you can expect it to be affectionate, playful, energetic, and gentle. Because of their friendly and cheerful personality, they can be a great addition to your family. Their size makes them ideal for apartment, house, or condo living as long as they have adequate time to get sunshine and fresh air and go for an exercise outside. Additionally, their jolly and loving disposition makes them suitable for all ages, including elders and children. But always remember to supervise them if you let them play with children, especially the toddlers. Moreover, if you have other dogs in the household, the Eskipoo can easily get along with them, as long as you keep them socialized with each other. There is a downside, though, in their clingy nature. As a result, they can get bored and start chewing on your house furniture or bark excessively. This breed also tends to bark or howl at unfamiliar sights, faces, or sounds. But this can be resolved with proper training. Senior citizens or retirees who love a gentle yet fun-loving pooch and challenge themselves with moderate activity during the day can greatly benefit from the Eskipoo dog. Is an Eskipoo a good family dog? The Eskipoo is an incredible companion dog who will give you love, loyalty, and affection, making them a good family dog. Their playful nature makes them a joy to be around. They also do well with children. They like to lick your child in their little fingers and head and cuddle them. How big does Eskipoo get? Eskipoos can grow up to 9 and 16 inches .How much does Eskipoo weigh? They can weigh between 10 and 20 pounds 4. Does Eskipoo shed? Depending on their inherited traits from their parents, they can be curly and single-layered like the Poodle or fluffy and thick-layered like the American Eskimo. Sometimes, their coat is in between. Even so, to avoid tangling or matting their coats, you need to brush them frequently using a slicker brush. Moreover, Eskipoos rarely drools. But if they do excessive drooling, it may be a sign of a problem that needs medical attention from a veterinarian. How often should you bathe an Eskipoo? Once every 2 to 3 months is adequate; however, they often need brushing to keep their coats in good shape. The recommended brushing is between 4 to 5 times per week. What are the grooming requirements of an Eskipoo? As mentioned earlier, this breed is low maintenance. To take care of its coat, you need to brush it at least 4 to 5 times per week. The recommended brush to use is a soft brush and a wide-tooth comb. Again, bathing is only required once every 2 to 3 months. Only bathe them if dirt is visible in their coat. The reason for not bathing them all the time is to preserve any natural oil from being washed out, which keeps its coat naturally shiny. If it takes after its Poodle parent, you also need to bring it to a professional groomer every 2 to 3 months for a haircut. In terms of brushing their teeth, you should do it daily. Their nails, however, should be trimmed every two weeks. You should also regularly check their ears and eyes and remove any dirt around them to reduce any risks of infection. Does an Eskipoo bark a lot? Eskipoos are social dogs who love to be in the company of humans. They hate to be left alone and can become destructive to your belongings or bark excessively when this happens. They also bark a lot when they see unfamiliar faces, hear unusual sounds, or experience a different environment. But with proper training over time, this behavior can be changed or minimized. Are Eskipoo hypoallergenic? But, this is only true if they inherited the genes of their Poodle parent. If this is the case, prepare for some shedding. The shedding is most especially experienced in-between seasons. Having an American Eskimo dominant gene will give them a thicker coat and more hair to shed. If you have allergies, make sure you get the one whose genes are more dominant to its Poodle parent. Similarly, you can try to adopt it for a few days and see if your allergies respond to it. Since Eskipoo is a high-energy dog, they will require a healthy diet of excellent quality kibble. This breed is prone to having dental issues, so giving them dry kibble is strongly recommended to keep their teeth strong and healthy. You can also give them wet food if their dental issues make it impossible for them to chew dry kibble. Eskipoo behavior problems Generally, Eskipoos are great and lovely dogs to have when trained well. However, there are potential issues in their behavior when their training goes awry. Below are some of the most common behavioral problems in Eskipoos. Too much barking There is a potential behavioral problem with an Eskipoo barking a lot. This means their potential as apartment dogs can be limited. They have an innate ability to bark at the signs of trouble. Suffer from separation anxiety Eskipoos need attention most of the time. If left alone for a long period, they have the tendency to be depressed and have separation anxiety. This leads to them being destructive to your belongings. Stubborn Another thing you need to know about Eskipoos is their stubbornness. This breed wants to get things their way. Too Energetic This breed has so much energy, which means they need a lot of daily exercise and playtime. This means that you need to be ready to invest lots of time, affection, and energy to make them feel loved and maintain their well-being. Is Eskipoo easy to train? The potential issues stated above of the Eskipoos mean that owners may need to seek professional help, especially when these behavioral problems start to manifest. Training is important at an early age, especially in the areas of separation training and socialization. Eskipoos are people pleasers, which makes them easy to train. But they need a trainer who can teach them with patience and consistency. They respond very well to positive reinforcements. Hence, in training them, you should provide them with treats such as food and even vocal praises to reward them if they do a great job. These dogs are also pretty intelligent, adding to the ease it takes to train them. Their parents are both working dogs, which means they thrive when given a job to do. And often, they do a good job to please their owners. What is the average lifespan of Eskipoos? Eskipoos, on average, can live up to 10 to 13 years. What are the common health problems of Eskipoos? The average lifespan of an Eskipoo can be reduced, however, if they suffer from health problems. The following are the most common health problems of Eskipoos. This condition is a common occurrence among dogs, but smaller breeds are more affected. This condition can be treated with medication and physical therapy. But, in severe cases where your dog feels significant pain, surgery may be necessary. Cataracts As your Eskipoo age, it may develop cataracts as humans do. Unfortunately, no pill or eye drop can reverse the damage in the lens. Squamous cell carcinoma Squamous cell carcinoma is developed due to the lesions of the nail bed or toe of the dog. When the lesions get irritated, it may lead to some serious condition known as Squamous cell carcinoma. Only surgery can heal this condition. Epilepsy Epilepsy is a neurological disorder in dogs. Seizures often happen when the brain changes its activity, such as when the dog gets too excited for feeding or as they wake up or fall asleep. Exercise after eating increases its risk. And since Eskipoos are known to be hyperactive, they tend to develop this medical condition. How much does an Eskipoo cost? The cost of Eskipoos will always vary on several factors such as their breeder, the location, and of course, the supply and demand. If you live in a place where Eskipoos are popular but with only a few breeders, the price for each pup may increase, especially if you want a healthy and quality dog. Some breeders also charge more if an Eskipoo has rare characteristics such as having blue eyes or colors of apricots and browns. Where to buy or adopt an Eskipoo dog? If you want to be an Eskipoo owner, you can buy from reputable and trustworthy breeders. However, if you opt to find Eskipoos in rescue centers, your chances of getting them are high. Hence, they tend to abandon them and leave them in a rescue shelter. If you want to find an Eskipoo pup in a rescue shelter, you need to understand their personality and needs and think long if you have the commitment and ability to meet their needs. If you want to be an Eskipoo owner, the best places are the following websites. Active families of all sorts; adaptable to apartments Temperament: Intelligent, Playful, Affectionate The Eskapoo inherits traits from both of their parents. You could have a dog that is very similar to a Poodle or nothing like one. They are usually medium-sized dogs, but their weight can vary widely. Most are the descendants of a Toy Poodle, but other types of Poodles can also be used. These dogs are pretty intelligent, which often makes them easy to train. They are active and require a bit of mental stimulation, though, so they can require more time from their owners. Because both of their parents are working dogs, they thrive when given a job to do. Many of them love water, taking after their Poodle ancestry. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. Few breeders specialize in this breed. The large majority of breeders produce purebred dogs or one of the more popular mixed breeds. Most of the time, these puppies will be most common at shelters and rescues. Of course, the odds of a specific mixed breed showing up at an animal shelter near you are low. You may have to expand your search range and do a bit of travelling to get the dog you want. You may be able to locate a breeder or two that produce these puppies. However, this does mean that you have to tell them what to do. They need to work their brains and flex their intelligence. They are not dogs that you can leave alone for long periods. Great ways to keep them entertained include things like obedience training, puzzle toys, and canine sports. Setting up a miniature agility course in your backyard is a great way to keep them busy and entertained. On top of mental stimulation, these dogs need quite a bit of physical exercise as well. They work best for active families who have enough time to exercise these dogs properly. Barking and chewing are a common problem if they are not well taken care of. These dogs often keep their playfulness into adulthood. They often enjoy playtime over cuddling on the couch. They work best for families that would instead take a hike than a cuddle on the couch, as well. Generally, the Eskapoo is pretty calm and not extremely hyperactive — like some toy breeds. They do behave well inside and adapt to apartment living as long as their other needs are met. Without proper training, they can be a bit noisy. They will bark at people as they walk by and then love them the second they walk in the door. Active families with many people coming and going are often best, as this decreases the amount of time the dog is alone overall. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Their smaller size does lead to some difficulty with more minor children. This can lead to fear-based barking. One bad situation can lead to the dog not trusting small people for the foreseeable future. With the proper socialization, these dogs can get along with small children as long as they are supervised. They are great dogs for families with older children, especially if they are active and spend time romping around in a fenced-in backyard. They will happily follow children around and play, even well into their adult years. They are an excellent choice for elementary-aged children due to their smaller, manageable size. However, active families are best. They are good with dogs of all sorts as long as they are socialized at an early age. Like all dogs, they need to be introduced to other puppies starting at a young age to ensure that they know how to communicate with other canines appropriately. Otherwise, they will often be fearful of other dogs, which can cause aggression. However, when introduced to a wide variety of different breeds, they will often do just fine with smaller and larger dogs. Many of them are pretty pack-oriented and do best when they are with other dogs. They often have a pretty high prey drive, making them unsuitable for homes with cats and similar pets. They will chase these animals, especially since they have a high activity need. Of course, they will also chase other small pets, like rabbits. They can often stay healthy on a high-quality, commercially available dog food. Look for foods with high amounts of meat. The ingredient list of each food starts with the highest ingredient by weight and moves down from there. Check each ingredient list to ensure that the first few ingredients are meat. Of course, keep in mind the water content of the ingredients as well, which may artificially push them higher on the ingredient list. For instance, whole chicken contains a lot of water, which is removed while creating dry dog food. There may not be very much chicken in the food after considering the water content. The FDA has linked some heart problems to grain-free foods. However, anything is technically possible. They are very active dogs and work best in an active family. It is recommended that you plan on strenuous exercise at least an hour a day. This can be a long walk, job, or playtime. Many of these dogs love games like fetch, which can help wear them out without wearing you out. Training for some canine sports can also fulfill this need. Ample exercise is recommended. Otherwise, these dogs can exhibit destructive behaviors like digging and chewing. These dogs enjoy a fenced-in backyard, especially if you play games like fetch. However, they can adapt well to an apartment as long as their needs are met. A dog walker is almost required unless someone in the family is at home for much of the day and can take them on multiple walks. While these dogs do need lots of exercise, they cannot be put in a yard by themselves for an extended period. They need to be with their people. As people-oriented dogs, they can get a bit stir-crazy if they are isolated for long periods. They will learn commands quickly and obey them most of the time. They love obedience training and thrive in classes of all sorts. It is recommended that you enroll them in classes at a young age to challenge their mind and keep them mentally stimulated. Many train their dogs for canine sports like agility simply because they run out of ways to stimulate them otherwise mentally. These dogs make excellent therapy animals and can compete with success in just about any dog sport. The type of grooming they need primarily depends on what type of coat they have. However, most of them will have a high grooming need. Dogs with Poodle-like coats will need to be trimmed regularly by a groomer. Daily brushing is often required to prevent matting, even if your dog gets trimmer. A pin brush is often the best option for this, but it will depend mainly on the type of coat your dog has. Your dog may or may not shed. Some may shed a whole lot, while others will only shed a little bit. If your dog sheds, you will need to use a brush to remove much of the dead hair. They may shed more on some occasions than others, so you may need to increase your brushing sessions during these heavy-shedding periods. Too many baths can strip the oils from their skin and cause skin problems. For this reason, we recommend bathing them only when they are visibly dirty. For instance, dogs that roll in mud will need a bath. Dirty pond water and similar excursions will also call for a bath. Keep bathing to a minimum and use a sensitive shampoo that is formulated for dogs. This is especially true if trimming is required. Like all dogs, they will need their teeth brushed a few times a week and their nails cut when required. However, their nails can be done by a groomer if you are uncomfortable. Many purebred bloodlines have tiny gene pools, which is why breeds are pretty predictable. A Labrador Retriever will always act like a Labrador Retriever. However, this also means that rare genetic conditions become common. Mixed breeds can inherit genes from two different breeds, which effectively doubles their gene pool. This makes them a bit less predictable. However, it also has a direct effect on the genetic conditions they can inherit. They are much less likely to end up with a genetic condition that affects either dog breed. However, there are a few problems that may be prone to. For instance, patellar luxation is common in most small breeds. Since this dog is a bit smaller, they are more prone to it as well. This condition involves the kneecap being slightly misaligned. Usually, the kneecap sits in a unique groove. This can lead to pain walking, limping, and similar issues. It can be fixed with surgery, but this is often very expensive. There is a genetic component to this disease. However, it is present in both parent breeds so that a Eskapoo can inherit it from their parents in some cases. Ask any breeder about the parents of the dog and whether they have been health tested appropriately. Minor Conditions. Life Span Did You Know? These fluffy little dogs are affectionate and gentle. People tend to fall in love with their playful, energetic personalities. Although the Eskipoo is not currently recognized by the AKC, they are recognized by other notable dog organizations. These little dogs love to play, love to cuddle, and love nothing more than getting attention from their favorite humans. Their affectionate, gentle nature and playful, friendly personality make them a great fit for families. They tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Although they do tend to be open and friendly with strangers once introduced, they also tend to bark to alert you of people, animals, etc. Although they are high-energy dogs, Eskipoos are highly adaptable dogs. They do well in larger homes with fenced yards where they can run. Also, they can adapt to apartment living as long as they get enough daily exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. Because these small dogs bond closely with their families and thrive on attention from them, they do not do well with long periods of time alone. This can also make them prone to separation anxiety if you do not work on this with them when they are young. Potential health concerns to be aware of in an Eskipoo include luxating patella , diabetes, cataracts, Legg-Calve-Perthes, hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, glaucoma, and eyelash abnormalities. 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 of the parents, and about any health tests that have been done. Eskipoos are highly intelligent dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. Although they can get bored easily, they tend to be a good fit for owners of all experience levels. They thrive on positive praise and reward, and tend to work hard to gain attention from you. The Eskipoo coat still ranges from the curly Poodle coat to the longer, thicker American Eskimo coat. An American Eskimo coat will shed moderately year-round and heavier as the seasons change. Brushing a few times a week and the occasional bath is all this coat needs. Nail trims once or twice a month keep them from growing too long. Weekly ear checks with careful cleanings as needed help prevent ear infections. Daily dental care , like brushing with dog-friendly toothpaste, helps prevent dental diseases later in life. Although these dogs tend to be little, they are not couch potatoes at all. In fact, they are high-energy dogs that require walks, playtime, and some time to run every day to be happy and healthy. Thankfully, they also tend to be versatile and athletic dogs that are up for almost anything if it means spending more time with you. Just make sure puppies finish growing and developing, and you get vet approval, before you tackle more intense, higher-impact activities. A fully-grown Eskipoo usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. Eskipoos generally live for years. An Eskipoo is also referred to as a Pookimo and an Eskapoo. Featured Eskipoo Article.

For the complete list please see our Listings of Breeders page. The price of a Boxer puppy varies depending on the breeder and where you are located. Boxer puppies usually go fast because this is such a popular breed of dog, so make sure you act quickly once you find one that interests you. The price of Boxer puppies in Virginia might vary because of where you live and the reputation of the breeder. There are certain things you should consider when looking for a breeder like their location, reputation, and costs. The best way to research your breeder is by asking around for recommendations from other pet owners in the area. Word of mouth is often the most effective way to find a good breeder. Make sure you ask about costs and any guarantees or warranties that they offer. Visit Your Virginia Boxer Breeder in Person Whether you physically searched for a Boxer puppy in Virginia or found a breeder online, once you find one that interests you, the most important thing to do is visit them in person. It will also let you see their facilities first hand which can give you a better idea of what your puppy will be like. If possible, ask if they can let your future pup run around with other young boxers while you wait. This dog-to-dog interaction will help socialize him and make sure he grows up healthy and happy. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your Boxer Breeder in Virginia If you feel comfortable with your boxer breeder in Virginia, ask to see references from other people who have purchased their puppies. If they are reluctant to give you any names or contact details of other customers, this might be a sign that there is something fishy going on. If previous customers had any issues with the company or their puppies, you should probably find another breeder. These people could also give you lots of helpful advice about your specific dog and what kind of personality he might have based on his parents and genetics. Meeting past customers will also give you the chance to ask them questions about their experience with your breeder. If they had any problems, this is your chance to find out all about it. Remember, even one bad review should be enough for you to walk away from a breeder. Even if your Virginia Boxer Breeder has nothing to hide, they should still have a good veterinarian that they use regularly. The best way for you to find out is to ask them what type of veterinary care their dogs receive and who your puppy will be seeing. The general rule of thumb is that the longer the warranty period, the better the policy will be for you and your pet. The minimum amount of time usually given by breeders is 1 year but reputable breeders like those listed here at PuppySpot offer 2 to 3 years. Some lifetime warranties against certain genetic diseases. First of all, if the prices seem too good to be true…they probably are. Often times they just want your cash without caring about whether or not their breeding practices result in healthy, happy pets which could lead to expensive health problems down the road. Unethical breeders will also try to make you feel like they are doing you a favor by selling you their puppies, but this is just another tactic used to put pressure on the consumer. Finally, if the breeder says that only cash is accepted as payment…move on. Any refusal of credit cards should be an immediate red flag. Most reputable breeders will be honest with you and tell you if there are any issues or history of disease in either the parents or other relatives. The truth is that no one is perfect and every dog has some sort of health concern or another. Reputable breeders will know about these issues before they sell their puppies to you which means they will provide documentation for proof. How to Prepare Your Home for Your Boxer Puppy Before you actually bring your new boxer home, the first thing that you should do is make sure to set up a safe and comfortable area for them. First of all, you will need to find a way to confine your boxer while you are away at work or school. The good news is that there are many different options available for everyone whether they live in an apartment or have acres of land. You also want to make sure that the bathroom has been properly puppy-proofed before your boxer comes home. This will typically involve covering up anything sharp, electrical or poisonous items that could pose a problem for your new pet. Finally, if you have any valuable items on hand such as a TV or laptop, make sure to put them out of reach. In addition, whenever you bring them back inside from playing around in the backyard make sure to immediately put them on a leash so that you can quickly grab them if they need to go to the bathroom. Once again, this will be a lot easier if you have a fenced-in area for outdoor playtime but it can still be accomplished using an electronic fence if necessary. Boxers are incredibly intelligent dogs which means that most of them pick up on things very quickly. In fact, many boxer puppies learn how to properly eliminate outside all on their own within just a few days of being home with you. If they have any accidents inside, never scold them because this will only lead to confusion and mistrust. Instead, always use positive reinforcement by either praising them when they do something good or by giving them a treat whenever they go potty out in the yard. Continue doing this until they understand that going outside is the only acceptable place to have a bowel movement. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. Contact Boxer The well-conditioned middleweight athlete of dogdom, the Boxer is a powerful dog with an intelligent and alert expression. While they are instinctive guardians, the Boxer loves to be with his people. This personality has allowed them to succeed as couriers during wartime and as seeing-eye dogs for the blind. Appearing in both fawn and brindle colors, the Boxer currently ranks as one of the most popular dogs in the United States according to AKC Registration Statistics. History Developed in Germany in the 19th century, Boxers were originally used for dog fighting and to run down and hold large game such as wild boar and bison until the hunter could arrive. The breed is known for standing up on its hind legs and batting at its opponent, appearing to box with its front paws. Imported to America after World War I, they began to grow in popularity in the late s. Temperament One of the breed's most notable characteristics is its desire for human affection, especially from children. The Boxer requires little grooming, but needs daily exercise. The Boxer gets along great with children, often protecting them from outside threats. They are also very intelligent, therefore easy to train and housebreak. Working Group; AKC recognized in .Ranging in size from 21 inches to 25 inches tall at the shoulder. Large game hunter, guard and companion dog.

Learn More About Willow Willow is a quiet, gentle girl. Her cream coat and jet black eyes are very striking. Not only is Willow an English beauty, but she is a very loving companion. Willow is a wonderful doodle momma, and has given us gorgeous English Mini TeddyBears with the sweetest temperaments. He loves to be cradled like a baby, gazing into your eyes like you hung the moon…such a little sweetheart! Please wait for pictures to load. First outdoor adventure! They looked so tiny in the big, green world around them. Playing with toys now, and barking at each other.Eyes are open, and they're up on their wobbly feet. Love these precious girls! Look at these roly-poly babies! Their eyes are just beginning to see the beautiful world around them. One week young.Pictures below are from Sky's previous litter. Sky's English TeddyBears are loving life with their new families! Title Ohhh baby, look at all these darling faces. The families who have reserved pups from Sky's litter, will get to choose their very own puppy this weekend in the order we received their reservation deposits. SO FUN!! The weeks are flying by. Next week they will meet their new families during Puppy Selection weekend! Afternoons in the sunshiny living room is their favorite time of the day! Sky's precious pups are halfway HOME! Getting fluffier as the days go by, and so responsive! Wishing everyone wonderful new beginnings. Sky's little ones are up on their feet, and their eyes are open. Sky's little blessings at 2 weeks. Whether in the great outdoors or in the kitchen, Vali's puppies are always looking for FUN. Vali's beautiful 7 week old minigoldendoodles. Tis the season for Spring fever, so as soon as the temps reached 70 we headed outdoors. Sure do love this February weather! Just another happy day in the Doodle Nursery Will you be my Valentine? Forever and always. Vali's Valentines at 5 wks. Scroll over each picture for captions. Their first Puppy Chow experience was a huge success. They jumped in with both feet. Snuggle babies. At four weeks, these girls are ready to expand their horizons. They love to explore the Living Room, but always end up coming back and crawling up into my lap for reassurance and snuggles. Vali's Minis are interacting more and more with each other in between all the snoozing they do. So cute! Contact Us. So many families were trying to avoid shedding coats and the Goldendoodle was proving to fill that need. We started this venture with a mini Poodle instead of a toy Poodle as we felt that was the best step in downsizing to achieve the mini Goldendoodle dog breed. Our goal was to create adult Goldendoodles with the average weight of about 35 lb. Our first litter arrived on January 11, providing us with 5 males and 5 females, all with wavy coats. This litter was an F1 litter , but was the beginning of the many future generations of Goldendoodles and the foundation for the multigen Goldendoodle. Fox Creek Farm retained two of the females in this litter for future development of the mini Goldendoodle breed. Pebbles whelped the first litter of F1B mini Goldendoodles in .We still have dogs in our breeding program that trace all the way back to Pebbles as documented in the GANA database. You can view photos of the entire litter below and some feedback provided by each family who raised one of these little teddy bears. Fox Creek Farm followed each and every puppy throughout its life to learn about temperaments, health, trainability, coat care, and longevity. We made some lifelong friends with these families who had trusted us to provide them with a puppy unlike any other breed they had met before. Not only were the reports always positive, just about every family has since come back for one or more mini Goldendoodles from Fox Creek Farm. The first of this litter to pass of old age lived to be .The last of the litter to pass was just a month shy of 17 years. On average, the mini Goldendoodles in this litter lived to be 15 years of age. We found this to be in part due to the hybrid vigor and in part due to the health testing certifications performed on the parents. This proves the importance of health testing dogs before they are bred. Listen to me, do I sound like a proud Mama or not? Amy, Triscuit has been a total joy in our lives. Then along came Triscuit. Triscuit, John and I look forward to a reunion with his siblings one day soon. I was so fortunate to have Triscuit come visit with me this past summer. He is an old soul, a great companion, full of life and loves everyone. Harry is the first of this litter that has passed away at the age of .Rest in peace my friend. Nelson Nelson is such a great dog. Her collar has smiley faces on it because it so fits her personality. To her everyday is a good day! She loves everyone. She thinks they all love her as much as we do!! She loves to swim, play in the snow, take walks, and sleep on laps. We love her so much! Hard to believe they are 9 yrs old. I am so glad to hear that her siblings are healthy and doing well. She was the runt of the litter, so proof that runts are healthy dogs! Buddy Buddy is a treasured member of our family. He still plays like a puppy, he loves the snow, playing fetch, and a good romp in the surf at the beach. Everyone who meets Buddy falls in love with him and he is known town wide as he spends hours siting in our driveway, butt to butt with our other dog, Scout, watching the cars go by. Golden fur aside, we swear that he is part human. Patricia Roscow Bonsignore Buddy passed away in August, at .His family misses him dearly. Libby Libby is a happy and healthy 9 year old, snoozing right next to me as I type. Roxi My Doodles are awesome!!! They are healthy, happy, and full of energy. Rusty Rusty is still a great dog, mellow and friendly to all! He is very tolerant of his crazy family, who still like to dress him up! He still loves to eat anything he can and likes to play in the snow. I am sad that he is already 9 years old! He still acts young, in his usual lazy manner! Thanks so much for keeping in touch. Casey A few words about Casey: He is very lovable and compassionate. He enjoys hiking though all seasons and is a great trailblazer leading the pack with his nose to the ground, stopping at any fork in the trail to be told which direction to continue in. Many times he will fall asleep with it under his paw. Casey has some funny and entertaining quirks that make me laugh out loud. He loves digging in the sand at beaches and on every July 4th he hides in the bathtub during the fireworks as loud noises scare him. Pebbles I have lots of dogs being a breeder. She produced 3 litters before retiring from breeding. She is my constant companion and seems to read my mind. All the other dogs have learned that when Pebbles says it is time for a bath, they have to drop whatever they are doing and let her clean their eyes and ears. Lucy Lucy produced many wonderful litters for Fox Creek Farm. She is the mother of Chester, one of Fox Creek Farms fabulous studs. She is living out her retirement with Debra Wachter. Lucy outlived all her brothers and sisters. She joined them all for a romp in the skies in early December, just a month shy of 17 years. Sign Up for our Newsletter First Name. The Miniature Goldendoodle A miniature goldendoodle is quite an amazing creature that has been bred for its unique yet impressive qualities. Starting with the standard goldendoodle breeding of a standard poodle and golden retriever cross, the intelligence, common sense, friendliness, and trainability of a goldendoodle has made this breed a favorite of many dog owners and dog lovers. On top of this the cross retains a good portion of the non-shedding quality of the poodle, while also keeping part of the attractive look of a golden retriever. Combining all these traits into one dog seems quite appealing, but we have one more trait to add to this list. A standard goldendoodle will range anywhere from pounds, which is quite large for a house pet. To achieve the goldendoodle attributes in a more compact package, a miniature poodle is crossed with a golden retriever. Our Miniature Goldendoodles Sandy Ridge miniature goldendoodles are being raised to be the best pets for a dog owner. We have had consistent breeding of the mini golden doodle having a low to non-shedding coat and wonderful temperament suitable for just about any type of family. We have also found our minis to range on average from 30 to 45 pounds at maturity. There is a little variety in Sandy Ridge minis. We get coat types from slightly wavy to moderately curly and coloring from completely blonde to golden red. We cannot guarantee a puppy will be in the expected size range due to the differing genetic sizes to the parents, but our average generally holds true. With all health concerns addressed and responsible breeding practices performed, there still is the possibility a health problem could arise. We offer a two year genetic guarantee against any genetic defect or health issue that hopefully will not, but possibly could arise. If you have any questions, please contact us. A happy customer is our priority. This is our first generation miniature goldendoodle page. Our F1 mini goldendoodle puppies are a cross between a golden retriever and miniature poodle. We expect most of our F1 miniature golden doodle puppies to reach an average range of lbs, but we cannot guarantee the size of any mini golden doodle puppy. Our F1 miniature goldendoodles vary in amount of curl. F1 miniature goldendoodles are generally lower shedding than the golden retriever breed, but cannot be guaranteed to be non-shedding. F1 Miniature Goldendoodle Puppies I am planning on a litter of F1 miniature goldendoodle puppies this fall with puppies available early next year. Please email, text, or call to reserve your puppy. Please email or call to reserve your puppy. Below are pictures of past F1 miniature goldendoodles as puppies. The Mini Goldendoodle is a boutique or designer mixed breed dog that is a mix between a Golden Retriever and a Miniature or Toy Poodle. This breed displays the best traits of both breeds. They are very intelligent, loyal, and make great pets. They are great with kids and play well with other pets like cats or other dogs. Mini Goldendoodles make great therapy dogs or a pet for special needs children. Through breeding, they can range from low shedding and semi-hypoallergenic to no shedding and Guaranteed Hypoallergenic. Mini Goldendoodles can be traced back to the mids when breeders learned of the benefits of mixing the Golden Retriever and Miniature or Toy Poodles. The low to no shedding and hypoallergenic benefits quickly made this new designer breed very popular. They are one of a handful of large breeds that do not shed. But they have become so popular that associations have been developed just for the Goldendoodle breed. One such organization is the Goldendoodle Association of North America. It is also known as GANA. Another organization that recognizes mini Goldendoodles is the Dog Registry of America. Also known as DRA. How are Mini Goldendoodles and Standard Goldendoodles different? The main difference between Standard Goldendoodles and Mini Goldendoodles is size. That is the result of the size and breed of the Dad of the puppy. When it comes to standard size Goldendoodles the father is a larger standard size Poodle. This usually results in a Standard Sized Goldendoodle weighing between pounds. The father of mini Goldendoodle puppies is either a Miniature or Toy poodle. Mini Goldendoodle weights range from pounds. Both the standard and mini Goldendoodles are cute and cuddly but just a little bigger ball of love than the other. What are Mini Goldendoodles Personality and Temperament like? They have loving and affectionate personalities like the Golden Retriever but also have the Superintelligence and hypoallergenic traits of the poodle. They are loyal, very eager to please, and make great companions for families or individuals. With their smaller size, they make great apartment dogs. They get very attached to people that spend time with them and love to be close to them. Blue Diamond mini Goldendoodles vary in size based on which variant of Mini Goldendoodle your puppy is. F1 Variant — Height: inches high Weight: pounds. F1b Variant — Height: inches high Weight: pounds. F1bb Variant -Height: inches high Weight: pounds. What Colors are Mini Goldendoodles and what are their Coats like? Some can be solid colored and some are multi-colored with patterns. Are all Mini Goldendoodles Hypoallergenic? The answer is no! Not all mini Goldendoodles are hypoallergenic. Other variants like F1 and F1b are not fully hypoallergenic. The F1 variants do shed and are more hypoallergenic than a Golden retriever. Both make great pets and additions to any family. Like people, each puppy has its unique personality and temperament. For the most part, both male and female puppies are outgoing and energetic and love to cuddle and play. Some puppy owners claim females seem to be a little more energetic and males a little more chill and relaxed. But we have seen it both ways, lol. Are Miniature Goldendoodles good pets for families with kids? Mini Goldendoodles are very loving and have great temperaments. Doodles have lots of energy and will play for hours with children. They also love to cuddle with the family when they get tired. Mini Doodles are also good with other pets in the household. Are Mini Goldendoodles a good fit for Therapy or Service dogs? Yes, Mini Goldendoodles are super smart and have great personalities. This breed is known for making amazing service and therapy dogs because of its calm demeanor. Some people like the look of longer hair and wait weeks between groomings. Most Mini Goldendoodles have longer ears that need to be inspected regularly to make sure they are not dirty or have any signs of an infection. We highly recommend Purina Pro Plan brand dog food. It is super high quality and has everything your puppy needs to thrive. This food can be purchased at Chewy. They have a strong sense to please their owners. Most doodle owners find it easy to train their puppy with positive reinforcement training styles using treats, and praise during the process. Short and fun training sessions usually work best. Mini Goldendoodles are smaller in size and are less energetic than some other breeds. Daily exercise like walks or playtime will help keep your puppy in shape and not get overweight. Mini Goldendoodles love to be near their families. Some display separation anxiety when you leave them alone for long periods of time. To help overcome this, start by leaving for just a few minutes at a time and then come back to reinforce to them that you will always return. And gradually lengthen the amount of time you are gone or out of sight. This will gradually teach them to be less stressed while you are gone. Mini Goldendoodle pups start their last stage of development and can be weaned safely from their mothers when they are 7 weeks old. This is the perfect time to start potty training and instill positive behavior in your new puppy. It also needs mentioning that you should invest in lots of chew and play toys for your pup to play with to keep them from getting bored. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. The F1 Goldendoodle has more of a shaggy coat with looser curls. These dogs will have a higher success rate for non-shedding, and are recommended for families with severe allergies. If you have allergies, most families are compatible with this cross. Goldendoodles are gentle and affectionate dogs with an easy-going temperament. They are extremely intelligent, coming in at 4 on the list of smartest breeds. They have an extremely social and loving personality. Goldendoodles love to be with people, their family, and other pets. They are a designer breed - relatively new dog breed, first appearing in America in the s. Their adorable name was coined in .Got Allergies? Goldendoodles are natural athletes - Energetic and playful, Goldendoodles love go for walks or will join you for a run.Goldendoodles make great play buddies! If you imagine playing fetch and frisbee with your dog, then the Goldendoodle is an ideal choice. This breed loves to socialize and be near their owners; marry that with a penchant for playfulness, and you will have a buddy to enjoy plenty of time together in the park. Goldendoodles are extremely friendly - most goldendoodles are known to become fast friends with children, cats, and other dog breeds, making them an ideal dog for a family pet. Goldendoodles have 3 types of fur - they could have a straight, wavy, or curly coat type. Check with their veterinarian, who can help identify a particular fur type, on the best way to groom their furry friends. Goldendoodles love the water - Goldendoodles have an instinctive love-love relationship with swimming, whether in a lake, at the beach, or in your backyard swimming pool. Goldendoodles can be quite colorful - Goldendoodles' coats are a cute mix of their parent breeds. They can be orange, cream, dark brown, gray, or black in color. Some are even multiple colors. These mini Doodles may possibly be the cutest thing you'll ever see. For anyone needing a little cheering up, their happy demeanor will bring an instant smile to anyone's face. Groodles is one, while Doodles is another. This breed of dog is also sometimes referred to as the Goldenpoo. Training is generally a breeze, especially if your Goldendoodle is a people-pleaser. Good behavior should be rewarded with positive reinforcements. It is a riot to watch. Their light shedding makes them perfect for those with allergies, and their playful, gentle personality makes them a great pet.

Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Goldador Overview The idea was to create a working dog with the sensitivity of the Golden Retriever and the tolerance of the Labrador Retriever. It worked. Cross them, and the result is the unequivocally genial Goldador. Thanks to their easygoing nature and keen intelligence, Goldadors have proven outstanding guide dogs, service dogs, search and rescue dogs, therapy dogs, and bomb detection dogs. But like their parent breeds, Goldadors are happiest simply working alongside a person they love. Goldadors are active and require at least half an hour of daily exercise — most enjoy retrieving games as well as hiking and swimming. Training the eager-to-please Goldador is relatively easy — they come from a long line of dogs who work closely and willingly with people. This makes them an excellent choice for first-time owners, provided they get the exercise, structure, and positive reinforcement they crave. Goldadors are also a good option for families with children though they can be a bit rambunctious for toddlers , as they want nothing more than to be part of family activities. The ideal residence for a Goldador is a home with a fenced yard, but with regular exercise and companionship they can live and thrive in apartments and condos. Whatever his home, a Goldador should live indoors with his people. Goldadors are good family dogs and generally do well with children of all ages. The Goldador sheds moderately and requires weekly brushing. Goldadors require about 30 minutes of exercise per day. They enjoy being outdoors and can make excellent jogging companions. Although a house with a fenced yard is the ideal home for a Goldador, he can do well in an apartment or condo with proper exercise. Goldadors can be a good choice for first-time dog owners. Goldador History The Goldador was first developed more than a decade ago: the Labrador Retriever and the Golden Retriever were crossed with the hopes of creating a sensitive, tolerant working dog. The effort proved successful. At this time, there are no breed clubs or any efforts to create a breed standard for the Goldador. Goldador Size The Goldador is one of the few designer breeds with a fairly predictable size, as both parent breeds are large and similar in size and shape. The Goldador is usually 22 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs 60 to 80 pounds. Goldador Personality The Goldador is affectionate and loyal, alert enough to make an excellent watchdog, but too friendly to be an effective guard dog. His intelligence and desire to please render him highly trainable, and he responds best to positive reinforcement techniques. Socialization helps ensure that your Goldador puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Goldador Health Goldadors are prone to certain health conditions. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Hip dysplasia is hereditary, but it can be worsened by environmental factors, such as rapid growth from a high-calorie diet or injuries incurred from jumping or falling on slick floors. Elbow Dysplasia is a heritable condition common to large-breed dogs. This can lead to painful lameness. Your vet may recommend surgery to correct the problem, or medication and weight loss to control the pain. Cataracts are an opacity on the lens of the eye that causes difficulty in seeing. The eye s of the dog will have a cloudy appearance. Diabetes mellitus is a disorder in which the body cannot regulate blood sugar levels. Blood sugar levels are regulated in part by insulin, which is produced in the pancreas. Glucose sugar is needed by the cells of the body to burn for energy; insulin is the key that lets the glucose into the cell. Without insulin, the glucose cannot enter the cell, so the cells are hungry even though there are high levels of glucose circulating in the blood. A diabetic dog will eat more food to try to compensate, but he will lose weight because food is not being used efficiently. Signs of diabetes are excessive urination and thirst, increased appetite, and weight loss. Diabetes can be controlled by diet and daily insulin injections. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA : This is a degenerative eye disorder that eventually causes blindness from the loss of photoreceptors at the back of the eye. PRA is detectable years before the dog shows any signs of blindness. Fortunately, dogs can use their other senses to compensate for blindness, and a blind dog can live a full and happy life. Both parents should have health clearances from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals for hips, elbows, heart, and thyroid and from the Canine Eye Registry Foundation CERF certifying that the eyes are normal. Goldador Care The ideal home for a Goldador is a house with a fenced yard where he can play safely; however, he can do well in an apartment or condo if he gets daily walks or runs. Interested in dog sports? Goldadors make formidable competitors in agility and flyball. Mental stimulation is crucial as well. Teach your Goldador to fetch the paper or your slippers, practice obedience training regularly with him, and put his mind to work from time to time with an interactive dog toy. As with all dogs, positive reinforcement techniques praise, play, and food rewards work best with the Goldador. Goldador Feeding Recommended daily amount: 3. Note: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. For more on feeding your Goldador, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Goldador Coat Color And Grooming A Goldador should have the same double coat as a Labrador Retriever, with a short, thick, straight topcoat and a soft, dense undercoat some have a slight wave down the back. Weekly brushing with a rubber curry brush will remove dead hair, helping to keep it off your clothes and furniture. During seasonal shedding periods, however, daily brushing is recommended. Bathe your Goldador as needed, and be sure to give him a thorough freshwater rinse any time he goes swimming. The Goldador can be prone to ear infections, so check and clean the ears weekly. Other grooming needs include dental hygiene and nail care. Trim his nails once or twice a month, as needed. Handle his paws frequently — dogs are touchy about their feet — and look inside his mouth and ears. Goldador Children And Other Pets Goldadors are an ideal family companion and are generally gentle and loving toward children of all ages. As puppies, they can be a bit rambunctious and may knock over smaller children unintentionally, so close supervision is important. Social and easy-going, Goldadors do well with other dogs and pets, especially when raised together. Always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how good-natured, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Goldador Rescue Groups There are no official rescue groups for the Goldador, but this cross is frequently available at private and municipal animal shelters. More Info For You. Tomato leaves stem or unripe fruit Alcohol, beer, wine or liquor Grapes or raisins Golden Retriever Crossed with Labrador Exercise Requirements The Lab Golden Retriever Mix has an active temperament so they might get destructive if they get bored. It is recommended to exercise them at least 2 hours daily. Getting them to do physical activities every day will help keep him happy and healthy. Here are some outdoor activities that you can try with your Golden Retriever Lab Mix: Hiking: It is a great way to turn your daily walk more challenging and exciting for your dog. Swimming: Utilize your private pool and do a swimming exercise with your dog companion. Swimming does not only serve as an exercise activity to yourself and to your companion dog, but it is also a great bonding experience. It also provides relief from the heat during the summer months. Make sure you supervise your dog all the time while doing this activity. Dock Diving: This is a fun sports activity to enjoy with your dog. All you have to do is throw a floating toy and encourage your dog to jump and swim out to retrieve it. If you and your Golden Retriever Lab Mix want to upgrade the challenge, you can try joining a Dock Diving Club and compete with other dogs. Play Fetch: This is a classic outdoor game that is great to do in summer. Challenge your dog by putting a twist to the activity, you can either use a Frisbee or a tennis racquet to make the object travel farther for your Golden Labrador to retrieve and return back to you. However, you should not be working them too much because when it comes to recovering objects, both parent breeds of Golden Retriever Lab Mix can be overly enthusiastic. However, even though they are intelligent dogs and has a friendly nature, you still need to put time and effort to train them better. Both parent breeds were bred to carry things. The best way to teach your Goldador not to bark is to socialize them frequently with strangers. Use Positive Reinforcement The Labrador crossed with Golden Retriever is a sensitive type of dog, so training them using positive reinforcement will be very helpful. Make sure to avoid negative punishment-based training since this hybrid dog may end up fearing you rather than respecting you as their leader. Make it a regular routine to reward your puppy whenever they do something right. Training your Goldador consistently in a positive method will give you pet companions that are obedient and good-natured. Do Mental Exercise The Golden Retriever mixed with Lab is an intelligent dog, and they need stimulating mental activities to avoid developing any aggressive behaviors, such as nuisance barking and chewing. Without proper mental exercise, Goldador puppies will grow into a passive, timid and uninspired dog. Labrador Golden Retriever Mix and Families Despite its large size, the Labrador mixed with Golden Retriever is a great family dog because of its easy-going personality. It is extremely friendly and affectionate. The Goldador is the type of dog that goes well in a loving and active family — one that considers him as a family member. The Golden Labradors cherish the company with children. They are naturally gentle, but they can play tirelessly as long as your kids can keep up. However, due to their sheer size, supervision is still needed around toddlers and infants. The Goldadors makes an excellent therapy and companion dog. Because of their affectionate nature, they generally do well when given lots of attention and affection. These hybrid dogs love to be with people, and hence it is tough for them to cope with solitude. So give love lots of love and affection to your Goldador Lab Retriever Mix and expect that it will shower you back with love. Golden retrievers are known for being extra-friendly and trustworthy. Labs, the most popular breed in the United States , are notably kind and outgoing. When these two breeds are mixed, the result is a sweet-natured goldador, a large dog devoted to his people. While Labs and golden retrievers are very popular breeds, the goldador dog is still somewhat of a rare mixed breed. And while he's a hybrid, Simon says, the goldador's appearance and temperament is relatively predictable, as both parent breeds are similar. Size-wise, full-grown goldadors weigh between 60—80 pounds and are about 22—24 inches tall, like their parents. Often, these dogs have golden or yellow coats inherited from the golden retriever side of the family. But you could also see a black goldador, a brown or chocolate goldador, or even a reddish goldador. These dogs tend to wear wavy double coats, with a short-to-long topcoat and dense undercoat. The goldador's grooming needs are fairly straightforward: They should be brushed every few days , but more frequently during the spring and fall when they're shedding more. As with all mixed breeds, goldadors may inherit some signature traits from either parent. Golden retrievers, for instance, have dense, water-resistant coats and a feathery tail. Labradors have a soft and short weather-resistant coat, with thick tails that taper at the tip and are known as "otter tails" that act as rudders when they're swimming. Temperament Goldadors get the best of both worlds when it comes to temperament. She says on top of providing them with ample structured exercise at least 60 minutes a day , goldadors will enjoy other activities like swimming and agility training. The goldador's parents are both known for being highly intelligent , eager-to-please, and appreciative of having tasks to perform. Because of this, the goldador is highly trainable—he just might fetch the newspaper for you each morning! Living Needs Goldador fans appreciate just how social they are, and these outgoing dogs love to make friends with people and animals alike, Simon says. Because of this, they can fit well into homes that have cats or other dogs, but socializing your goldador puppy with other animals early on will ensure peace among your pets. This is a breed that is extremely loyal. Goldadors see themselves as a member of the family and should be treated as such. They don't like to be left home alone for long periods of time without their humans; goldador adults will gladly be your adventure buddies, splashing around at the local lake these dogs love the water! While goldadors prefer large, fenced yards to run around in during the day, they are adaptable enough to handle apartment living so long as they're getting enough regular exercise, says Brian Evans, DVM, clinical director of Dutch. Their bones are still growing until they're around 18—20 months old, so high-intensity exercise, like long jogs , can hurt their developing bodies and should be avoided, says Corinne Wigfall, DVM, BVS, BVM, consulting veterinarian with SpiritDog Training. Care The goldador dog has a coat that's easy to care for, but their fur sheds a great deal. Owners should brush them every few days, with daily brushing during the heavier shedding seasons, Simon says. As their ears are pendulous aka, they hang down loosely , Simon says they must be cleaned a few times a month to prevent ear infections. As part of their health and beauty routine, it's also important that their teeth are brushed daily in order to prevent periodontal disease. Luckily, goldador training should be a breeze. These dogs are eager to please and highly intelligent, which makes them respond well to positive reinforcement. Keep the training treats on hand and be generous with praise and head pats as you lead short, productive sessions with your goldador. Health The goldador is a generally healthy breed with a lifespan of 10—12 years. However, potential pet owners should be aware of some of the health conditions the dogs are susceptible to. This includes hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia as well as potential eye conditions, including progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts. Goldadors are also more prone to cancers than other dogs, Simon says, and this includes bone cancers osteosarcoma , cancer of the spleen haemangiosarcoma , and mast cell tumors. However, the Institute of Canine Biology says mixed breed dogs are typically less likely than their purebred parents to inherit genetic disorders. The goldador is a relatively new "designer" hybrid breed, and since these dogs are in high demand, some goldador breeders may not be operating with the dogs' health as a top priority. To make sure you're working with an ethical goldador breeder and that you're bringing home a healthy dog, be aware of these common puppy mill red flags : A breeder offers to ship a puppy. A kennel produces multiple breeds of dogs. It's difficult to find contact information on a breeder's website. The breeder will not let you meet the puppy's parents or siblings. History While goldadors are an emerging mixed breed and becoming more popular, both golden retrievers and Labrador retrievers date back to the s and have lengthy resumes as working dogs. These Scottish gun dogs took their hunting and field work seriously, and today they make for great guide dogs and search-and-rescue team members. The breed arrived in the U. Labrador retrievers can be traced back to Newfoundland, off the northeastern coast of Canada. Descendants of the now-extinct St. John's water dog, Labradors worked in frigid temperatures, keeping fisherman company and retrieving ducks, according to the LRC. At the end of the work day, the dogs would come home and spend the night with the fishermen's families. They became recognized by the AKC in .Fun Facts The goldador's parents are mighty popular. Labrador retrievers became the AKC's most popular breed in the U. Golden retrievers are currently ranked as the fourth most popular breed. Both parent breeds are movie and television stars. Pip, a short animated film by Southeastern Guide Dogs, stars a goldador named Pip who goes to guide school to learn how to help people with vision loss and veterans with disabilities. The tug-at-your-heartstrings YouTube video has racked up more than million views since it debuted in .Was this page helpful? Labrador Retriever Mix, or a Goldador Dog. The Goldador dog is a playful and good-natured, large dog. When you cross a purebred Labrador Retriever with a purebred Golden Retriever , even though both parents are recognized purebred dog breeds, the result — the Goldador — is a hybrid dog; recently known as a designer dog. Designer breeds come in a variety of coat colors and types, depending on the genes and appearance of the parent breeds. This cross-breed dog has parents with hunting and retrieving skills. They are often used as therapy dogs, guide dogs, search and rescue dogs, and other types of service dogs, even bomb detection: but not as a guard dog or watchdog! This hybrid dog breed has the classic appearance of the Labrador Retriever and Golden Retriever dogs; inheriting their friendly, smiley face and their big brown eyes. The Labrador Golden Retriever mix is soft, loving, and intelligent. This is a large, bouncy, and easy-going dog that loves to be active. It will want to be wherever you are; in your bed, on your sofa or in the bathroom with you! A Goldador puppy is simply adorable. But remember, nowhere is private with a Goldador around! Fact: When two different dog breeds are intentionally mixed it called a designer dog; any hybrid dog will inherit its characteristics and health problems from both parent breeds but the result will not be seen until the puppy is born and observed as it grows up. A Goldador is friendly and will always want to be close to you. In , Lord Tweedmouth, a British Aristocrat, wanted a loyal and hard-working gundog to retrieve waterfowl while hunting on his estate in Scotland. So he crossed a wavy-coated yellow retriever sire with a Tweed Water Spaniel dam and produced 3 Golden-colored Retriever puppies. Fact: the Tweed Water Spaniel is now an extinct dog breed. Lord Tweedmouth mixed this new breed Retriever with an Irish Setter dog to breed the recognized Golden Retriever dog breed. In , the Golden Retriever dog breed was registered by the UK Kennel Club, and they quickly became popular as family pets and show dogs. Parent 2: A brief history of the Labrador Retriever parent — a purebred dog The Labrador Retriever is the best-loved and most popular dog breed in the world! It has a solid- color double coat in one of 3 colors; pure black, chocolate brown, or yellow. Whatever the coat color this is just a good looking dog breed for any level of dog owner or family member. The Labrador Retriever dog is from Newfoundland, Canada, and was used by fishermen to retrieve fish from nets and catch those that escaped back into the sea. They are good swimmers and have a gentle mouth grip that will not further destroy any prey they are ordered to retrieve. The Newfoundland and Labrador Province, in Canada, provided this hunting and retrieving dog with its name — the Labrador Retriever or Lab to its friends! The Newfoundland Labrador Retriever dog breed came to Great Britain around , to be used as gun dogs for retrieving waterfowl from land and water, during the shooting season, in Scotland and England. Ongoing breeding is believed to have continued the pure Newfoundland lab bloodline in our Labrador Retriever breed today. Meet the offspring: The hybrid offspring of these two purebred dogs is the Golden Retriever Lab mix — the Goldador puppy. This mixed breed puppy will be happy, affectionate, and will easily become a family member for sure. Fact: Designer dogs are increasing in popularity and so is the trend to give them a cute combo name that reflects a bit of both parent names. The Goldador puppy will inherit characteristics from both parents. What are the main characteristics of a Golden Retriever Lab Mix? Like any other crossbreed, a Labrador Golden Retriever Labrador mix can inherit the characteristics of either parent or both. Crossbreed dogs, like The Goldador, are no more likely to inherit health issues than purebred dogs; in fact, it is believed they may actually be stronger. Any mixed puppy can inherit all, some, or none of the health issues its parent breeds have. It can be heavily weighted towards the characteristics of one parent more than the other. The characteristics of The Goldador are a combination of nature and nurture: genetics of the parents, the environment, and the quality, type and amount of training and socialization. The Goldador — possible coat colors Both Golden Retriever and Labrador Retriever parents have a thick, double coat: a water-resistant topcoat and a warm undercoat. Therefore the Goldador will inherit the same double coat but is likely to be short-haired like the Labrador. With its impressive and popular parent breed mix it will be loyal with a loving temperament and good around children and other dogs. It will be caring and become and active companion, that just wants to be by your side all the time. Reputation: This large Golden Labrador mix breed dog comes from two of the best-loved and most popular dog breeds. This is why they can make such good service and guide dogs, therapy dogs or even search and rescue dogs. They will still need to be trained and socialized early to teach them how to use that energy positively and learn how to behave in public. They are people-friendly and need exercise. They would not make a good guard dog, or watchdogs as they are approachable with strangers and make friends easily. So watch your slippers! Trainability: The trainability of this intelligent Golden Labrador mixed breed should be easy. The Goldador needs to be trained and socialized early as it will inherit a herding instinct and be highly active. They may attempt to take over and herd small children and smaller pets so they need to be controlled. Positive reinforcement and small treats will work well but not harsh discipline, or any form of negative punishment or physical restraint. Power and intelligence: This mixed breed dog is very intelligent, strong, and active with a herding and working drive. It will enjoy and need working challenges incorporating mental and physical stimulation, but it will be curious and want to investigate the other side of the fence. Socialization: Early socialization and discipline are strongly recommended for any crossbred dog especially those with herding and service dog parents. The Labrador Golden Retriever Mix wants to be active and occupied; if bored it may become destructive and bark. When trained and socialized this mixed breed dog will be approachable and friendly around all types of people, children, and other animals. Purpose: Any herding or working dog will want to be useful and please its owner. It will need to be trained and socialized early as it will help with control its excitement in public and develop obedience norms. It will form an early bond and lasting companionship with its owner. Either parent will still give it an athletic, well-balanced build and a strong working ethic. The double coat has a soft undercoat below a rough top coat that is water resistant. Either way, their coat will be fairly high maintenance. Shedding and Grooming Your new friend is going to shed, sometimes a lot. Both parent breeds heavily shed their coats with the change of seasons twice a year. For the rest of the year, expect a moderate level of shedding. Increased brushing during transitional times can help catch the loose hairs and stop them from spreading everywhere. Golden Retriever Labrador mixes will need weekly brushing, likely more during shedding season. Their nails should be trimmed regularly as well. Are They Hypoallergenic? The Goldador dog will not be hypoallergenic. They are high shedders, spreading dander from skin and saliva liberally around your home! With designer breeds like the Golden Retriever Lab, you can only make an educated guess about their temperament based on the general demeanor of their parents as well as the temperament of the parent breeds as a whole. If they are left alone a lot, they may become very destructive to your home. They will chew out of boredom or anxiety. As many Lab lovers know, these dogs do not know a stranger. Generally, the Goldador will get on well with children and other pets. Socialization Socialization from an early age is important for any breed, including the Golden Retriever Lab. Even though it hails from overly friendly and sociable breeds, there are still no guarantees to the temperament of your dog. Since training and socialization are both best started early on, puppy training classes can be a great way to both train and socialize your puppy at the same time. Training Tips The Goldador has an easygoing and eager to please temperament that helps make them highly trainable. Owners should start training early, from the time their puppy comes home. The parent breeds have a long history as service dogs, bomb detection dogs, hunting dogs, and now therapy dogs. Obedience classes will help create a well-mannered dog but also strengthens the bond between the dog and owner. Since Goldadors grow to be large dogs, obedience is also important to prevent them from jumping up at your guests! Energy Levels Golden Retriever Labrador puppies will grow into high-energy adults with a love for playing and a passion for retrieving! A Labrador Golden Retriever Mix makes a great companion for jogging, hiking, or cycling. This is a breed that also loves to swim. Canine sports, like agility, obedience trials, and tracking, are also a great way to keep your dog physically active, mentally stimulated, and out of trouble. As a very social breed, they do best as indoor dogs, but with a large, fenced in yard to run around. In addition to self-exercise, they need walks or other forms of daily activity with their owners. Exercise is especially important for the health of your Goldador since both Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers have a tendency to develop elbow and hip dysplasia. Weight management is one way of combating these joint problems. Health and Care All pedigree dog breeds are inbred to some extent. The measure of this is called the coefficient of inbreeding COI. The higher the COI, the greater the risks of health issues arising specifically from inbreeding. In a crossbreed such as the Goldador, the COI is usually much lower than it is in a purebred dog, and this is a good thing. To begin to look at the health and care of a Goldador we first need to consider the inherited health risks from both parent breeds Labrador and Golden Retriever. Labrador Health Labrador Retrievers are prone to a few hereditary health conditions and joint problems, as well as some health issues common to most dogs. To help minimize the likelihood of hereditary health issues in your new Goldador pup, check that your breeder has followed the recommended testing for the Labrador Retriever breed: Hereditary Nasal Parakeratosis HNKP. Life Span Did You Know? The Golden Labrador is a designer dog breed that originated in the United States. They are a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Labrador Retriever. The goal was to combine these two highly popular breeds to create a dog that exhibits the best traits from both of them. A mixed dog breed can take after one parent breed more than the other or any combination of traits from the parent breeds. This can result in some variation among individual puppies. But, overall, a Golden Labrador is friendly, intelligent, energetic, and affectionate. Although this mixed breed is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other notable organizations like the American Canine Hybrid Club and more. This large designer breed is characterized by their energetic personality and friendly disposition. Both of the parent breeds in this cross are open, friendly, and affectionate, so you can expect the same in your Golden Labrador puppy. They are very playful and get along fabulously with children, other dogs, and other pets. They may be alert enough to be a good watchdog, but they do not make good guard dogs. They are instinctually more interested in making new friends and getting attention than they are with anything else. They can have a slight prey drive, but most of the time, they are just curious and interested in playing and making friends. The Golden Labrador is a moderately adaptable dog breed. Their large size and energy tend to make them a better fit for larger homes with room to run. They can adapt well to apartment living as long as they are given enough exercise and mental stimulation. But, small spaces can be a challenge because they are large dogs that are so playful and energetic. Golden Labradors do well in just about any climate. As with most dog breeds, they are sensitive to heat and extreme cold. Because they love their families, thrive on attention, and get bored easily, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. As a mixed breed, a Golden Labrador can inherit the potential health conditions of one or both of the parent breeds. Although the Golden Labrador is a relatively healthy dog breed, there are some potential health conditions to be aware of. These include eye problems like progressive retinal atrophy and joint issues common to large dogs like patellar luxation and hip dysplasia. Like their parent breeds, the Golden Labrador can be prone to weight gain, which does put them at risk of diabetes later in life. Reputable breeders will screen their stock to ensure genetic conditions are not being passed on to puppies. Regular vet visits, proper nutrition, and sufficient exercise can help keep your dog healthy and reduce preventable diseases. Both of the parent breeds in this cross are highly intelligent and highly trainable, so the Golden Labrador should be no different. Eager to please their owners, these dogs pick up on things quickly and respond best to positive training methods focused on praise and reward. This dog breed, like both of the parent breeds, is a great fit for owners of all experience levels, including first-time dog owners. Their high energy can sometimes be a challenge, so you may want to consider puppy training and obedience classes. This designer dog breed may be called a Golden Labrador, but they can show up in many colors. A cream, yellow, or golden coat may be the most common, but a Golden Labrador can also have a black, red, or brown coat. It tends to be a dense double coat that is short or medium in length. This dog breed will shed moderately year-round with heavier shedding sessions twice a year as the seasons change. During seasonal changes, you may want to increase to daily brushing. Not only will this make your dog more comfortable, but it will also decrease the amount of loose fur that ends up around your house. In addition to coat care, you will also need to handle nail, ear, and dental care for your Golden Labrador. Floppy ears tend to trap more dirt, moisture, and debris, which makes them more prone to developing ear infections than ears that stick straight up. Unfortunately, this is often overlooked, which is why gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Beyond that, you can use vet-approved dental hygiene chews and treats and even a specially-formulated dental care diet to supplement your efforts. Getting them used to it early and keeping it a positive experience can make grooming a lot easier as your puppy grows into a big dog! Plus, it can become a bonding experience that your dog looks forward to. Golden Labradors are high-energy dogs. Daily walks, playtime, and some extra activity are generally enough for this dog to stay happy and healthy. But, they will probably tire out before you do! Their friendly nature makes the Golden Labrador a great fit for trips to the dog park. Try teaching your dog how to play frisbee. With their retriever background, it could become one of their favorite activities. You can also train your Golden Labrador for several dog sports like agility, dock diving, obedience, and more. A fully-grown Golden Labrador usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. A Golden Labrador generally lives years. Although Golden Labrador is the most popular name for this designer dog breed, they are also sometimes referred to as a Goldador or a Goldador Retriever. Featured Golden Labrador Article. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. The Labrador retriever and the golden retriever are two of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. Both are attractive and energetic dogs that are highly intelligent, easy to please, and incredibly friendly. It was only ever a matter of time before someone tried to cross these two breeds. The resulting crossbreed is known as the Goldador! This crossbreed mixes the best of both parent breeds to create a friendly pup ideal for active families with children or for taking on sociable working roles. With the right amount of love, affection, exercise, and mental stimulation, these crossbreeds make the perfect addition to any household. Goldadors are even suitable for first-time owners, as long as their owner has enough time and energy to keep up with these energetic, loyal pups. Read on to find out everything you need to know about Goldador dogs. Goldador Main Characteristics Height: 22 to 24 inches Weight: 60 to 80 pounds Lifespan: 10 to 15 years Key Characteristics: Intelligent, highly trainable, friendly, good with children, high energy, moderate shedding Goldador: History Of The Breed Labrador Retrievers Labrador retrievers were originally Canadian fishing dogs that were later imported to the UK and developed to be a retriever-gun dog. The Labrador is a sporty medium-sized dog with a stocky physique and a broad, square face. They usually weigh between 55 and 80 pounds. They tend to have a short, dense coat that is water-resistant, and these dogs love to swim! The most common coat colors are black , yellow, and chocolate. Labradors are very friendly and tend to make friends with strangers and other animals with ease. They are highly intelligent and easy to please, which makes them easy to train. These characteristics combined make them excellent working dogs, especially when it comes to disability support. They are often used as guide dogs. Labs are energetic dogs that need lots of exercise and attention. Golden Retrievers Golden retrievers were also bred in the UK to retrieve shot waterfowl such as ducks. They have a soft mouth that allows them to delicately retrieve and bring back game undamaged. Like Labradors, golden retrievers also love water and are strong swimmers. This is another medium-to-large breed that typically measures somewhere between 20 and 22 inches in height. They have a double coat with a top layer that is high shedding. They are both friendly and confident, which makes them excellent family pets. They are also particularly good with children, who they will adopt as their own. While they will be protective of their people, golden retrievers are very friendly and more likely to go in for a pat and a play rather than bark or attack a stranger. They are intelligent, biddable, and have a strong eagerness to please, which makes them highly trainable. This is why golden retrievers are also often used as working dogs in activities such as search and rescue as well as disability assistance. Goldador Goldadors have been around for about 20 years and are an attempt to bring together the best of the Labrador and golden retriever breeds. Normally, crossbred dogs can be highly unpredictable, because there is no reliable way of predicting how the genes of the two parent dogs will mix. However, with Labs and Goldens, while we may not be able to predict their exact appearance, the temperaments of the two dogs are consistent enough that the resulting mix always has the friendly, intelligent, and easy to please temperament that most people are looking for. Goldador Appearance Goldadors are medium-to-large-sized dogs that typically measure between 20 and 24 inches tall and weigh somewhere between 55 and 80 pounds. Females tend to be noticeably smaller than the males. You can expect them to reach their full size somewhere between 18 and 24 months of age. Goldadors typically have a double coat that mixes a short, thick, straight topcoat and a soft, dense undercoat. This allows them to enjoy a swim even in the coldest water, but it also means they tend to shed quite a lot. They need to be brushed at least once a week to remove dead hair and more often during seasonal shedding periods. Their coat is likely to range in color from a yellowish gold to a reddish gold, though on rare occasions, they may inherit the black or chocolate coat of their Labrador parent. It is difficult to predict whether the square face of the Labrador or the more pointed face of the golden retriever will be prevalent in their puppies. While they might jump up to protect children they consider to be part of their family, aggression among these dogs is almost unheard of and will almost always relate to some kind of traumatic experience. They are more curious about other creatures than worried about them. Intelligence Goldadors are extremely intelligent, and both of their parents are ranked among the most intelligent breeds. This means not only that they can learn new commands quickly, but that they are also independent thinkers. They can figure out what is wanted from them in new situations based on their past experiences. Of course, when not probably utilized, this intelligence can become problematic. A Goldador left at home for hours on end is likely to turn their keen mind into finding a way to escape. Trainability There are many intelligent dogs out there that are difficult to train primarily because they are incredibly stubborn. Thankfully, Goldadors are eager to please and highly motivated by reward, which makes them extremely loyal and easy to train. These dogs also have a great work ethic, and they enjoy having something to do. This means they make great working dogs, and they have the attention span to take on challenges such as disability support. They find this mentally stimulating and emotionally rewarding. Energy Level Goldadors have lots of energy that needs to be burned off on a daily basis. They need a minimum of at least 30 minutes of solid exercise a day, but they will really thrive if given at least an hour or more of exercise per day. They are better adapted to spaces with at least a small garden to apartment living. They will particularly love joining their families on hikes and other adventures. They also love to swim, so swimming should make up a regular part of their activity. Independence Goldadors love being around their people. These are not the types of dogs you can leave at home for extended periods of time. While they might be able to settle down and do nothing for a few hours when you are around, if they are left alone, they can become anxious. This prolonged anxiety can result in lots of nervous, and often destructive, energy. Goldador Health Risks If you adopt a Goldador, you can expect them to live for roughly 10 to 15 years, which is a respectable amount of time for a large-sized dog. They can be prone to inherited health conditions, but whether or not your Goldador will suffer from any of these ailments as they grow is pretty much the luck of the draw. You can get some indication of their likelihood of developing these conditions if you look at the medical records of their parents. One of the most common health problems affecting Goldadors is hip and elbow dysplasia. This is a malformation of the bones that occurs as they grow, as their bones grow at different rates and end up being the wrong size for one another. The best way to prevent this is with a healthy diet and lots of exercise when they are young to prevent the problem from developing. Check out our advice on choosing the right dog food for your Goldador. These dogs can also develop joint issues in later life, which can make moving painful. If this happens, an orthopedic bed that helps take excess pressure off their joints can make a big difference. Goldadors may also develop problems with their eyes, including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. These dogs often lose at least some of their sight as they pass through their senior years. They also have a tendency to develop diabetes. If this happens, they will require a special diet. I started raising guide and service dog puppies over 15 years ago. The Goldador has been gaining in popularity among many of the service dog schools. When I spoke to the puppy program manager at Canine Companions for Independence, he told me that the majority of their service dogs were Labrador Retriever Golden Retriever mixes. Many other schools have introduced Golden-Lab mixes into their service dog programs. The mixed traits of both a Golden and a Lab is very popular among guide and service dog schools. Should I Get A Goldador? Having read all of this, you might still be wondering whether a Goldador is the right dog for you. You should start by asking yourself whether you are in a position to make the commitment to adopting any dog. Remember, by adopting a dog, you are committing to care for, love, and support your pup for the next 10 to 15 years. Do you have plans to move in the coming years? If so, will you be able to take your dog with you? Do you have someone who can look after your dog when you travel? This could be a friend, a family member, or a reputable kennel that is able to care for your dog for a certain period of time. Once you have answered those questions, it is time to think about adopting a Goldador specifically. Be sure to ask yourself the following questions moving forward. Do You Have Space? Goldadors thrive when they have at least some outdoor space to call their own. They will struggle with apartment living. Be sure your outdoor space is properly fenced to prevent your Goldador from escaping if they get bored and start digging. Goldadors need to be around people often. They can develop anxiety issues if left alone for extended periods of time. Are there people around the house most of the time to keep your dog company? Also, will you be able to commit at least 30 to 60 minutes each day to providing your Goldador with exercise? Be sure you have plenty of time to spend with your Goldador, as they can be fairly emotionally needy dogs. Goldadors not only need quite a bit of physical exercise, at least 30 minutes a day, but also quite a bit of mental stimulation. Their intelligence and work ethic mean they need someone to take the time to train them and keep them occupied. Thankfully, Goldadors are actually excellent dogs for first-time owners. They are highly trainable, so even a novice should be able to teach them the essentials. Their friendly nature means you are also very unlikely to end up with an aggressive dog that you struggle to control. Additionally, if anyone in the home has asthma, you will want to groom your Goldador regularly to avoid leaving excess hair around the home. Yes, Goldadors are excellent dogs that mix friendliness, intelligence, and energy in one adorable package. The characteristics of their parents tend to complement each other nicely to create a medium-to-large-sized dog that makes a great family pet or working pup. How much does a Goldador cost? The exact cost of a Goldador depends primarily on your location and whether you adopt from a shelter, a breeder, or elsewhere. How do you train a Goldador puppy? The best way to train most dogs is by using positive reinforcement. This means showing your pup the behavior that you would like and then rewarding them when they complete the behavior. Positive reinforcement training teaches dogs how to perform desired behaviors and that they can expect good things to happen if they do it. Soon, it will become instinctive, and you will no longer need to reward them every time. This is a particularly good form of training for Goldadors because they are highly motivated by both treats and pleasing. It is never a good idea to punish dogs when they misbehave. Finally, punishment often teaches dogs different lessons than the ones you actually want them to learn. For example, instead of learning not to pee in the house, they might just learn not to pee while you are around. They are great with children and have a temperament that first-time owners should be able to manage well. They are energetic dogs that do best when they have some outdoor space to call their own and at least 30 minutes of exercise each day. Overall, Goldadors are: Extremely loyal, but will develop separation anxiety if left alone for too long Large dogs that tend to shed heavily Does this sound like the perfect canine companion for you? If so, then why not think about adopting a Goldador today? If you are thinking about adopting from a shelter, consider reading our guide on what to expect when you bring your pup home. Do you have any experience with Goldadors? Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist.

Quickly place your dog in their designated potty area. Praise them when they urinate or mess in the correct area. You must always watch them when they are loose in the house, or else they will have an accident. Follow this guide on potty training your German Shepherd , step-by-step, for a stress-free experience. Enjoy Gentle Daily Exercise German Shepherd puppies have lots of energy but still need gentle exercise. Your breed is highly active and loves the challenge of new activities! But these activities must consider their age. Start with a shorter walking session and work on building up the time and distance as your dog matures. Increase distance very slowly to avoid injuries to your dog. Begin with only 5 minutes of slow walking for every month your pup is old. An 8-week-old pup can walk 10 minutes at a time. A week-old pup can handle 15 minutes of walking at a leisurely pace. Your large-breed pup needs time to let its bone fully fuse and to gain an increase in strength. Here are a few more safe, healthy German Shepherd puppy exercise for steady growth. This is the same program I used for my GSD and she now jogs a 10k routinely. Mental Exercise and Training are Essentials Without proper mental exercise, your dog becomes bored. Boredom leads to destructive and annoying behaviors such as: excessive barking biting and nipping you and your guests mouthing your hands or digging up your yard Brain games mentally stimulate your dog. These games require your dog to figure out a small task to receive a reward. Mental activity is shown to help keep dogs more engaged in their environments and prevent boredom. They help control unwanted behaviors from boredom. I started my German Shepherd with this activity flip board dog brain puzzle. As your dog becomes proficient in a game, you make the game more challenging. There is no end to how easy or hard you can make these games! Learn the Joys of Grooming Start puppies out with grooming gloves, which are gentle and easier on their skin. GSDs need a brushing routine that keeps them and your house free from excessive loose hair and helps their skin stay healthy. Use these grooming gloves on your puppy while in a quiet area. They are soft and gentle and create a positive association with future grooming. Offer tasty treats to keep the grooming upbeat. Use a soothing voice and tell them how good they are. Above all, help make grooming and brushing positive experiences from the very start to save yourself and your dog stress later. A baby German Shepherd that tolerates and even enjoys a daily brushing is a dog that is easier to keep in better health and experiences less frustration when you bring out the grooming tools. While a puppy gets immunity through nursing in the first weeks of life, the immunity wears off shortly. Therefore puppies get a series of shots during their initial vaccination schedule. Vaccines prevent illness and keep your pet safe from disease. Your breeder should give your pup their first vaccination series before you bring them home. Bring this vaccination history with you to your vet on your first visit. Your Priority of Care What to Do 1. Make your house puppy ready for your new dog Prepare their sleep area, have the right supplies on hand, and make sure any hazards are put away out of reach. Communicate the essentials Have a list of words printed out so that you and your family know what to say to help your puppy learn what you want and what he needs to know. Meet their daily needs Your puppy has a lot to do each day for their basic care, so understand what routine you must develop for them to thrive. Set sleep routines Having a sleep routine in place keeps your puppy from becoming too unruly. Teach potty training Start from day 1 to teach potty and house training by using a structured schedule. Daily gentle exercise German Shepherd puppies need gentle exercise so avoid running, jumping, or jogging with them until around 18 months or so to prevent joint issues later. Brain training and mental stimulation Your smart breed needs to keep their mind occupied by using a training program to brain train their obedience skills and include mental stimulation with fun games and puzzles. Early introduction to grooming A grooming glove is your best friend for a safe, easy introduction to later brushing and coat maintenance. German Shepherd Puppy Care for Life While there are many aspects to puppies, this guide is a great start on learning how to take care of a German Shepherd puppy so you feel confident with your new puppy. These early encounters set the pattern of his future relationship with you. Use these ideas to make your German Shepherd love you and give them plenty of love and affection throughout the day. With proper care and attention, you and your GSD will enjoy a long, happy life together. Want more help with your German Shepherd puppy care for even smoother sailing? Are you prepared for any unusual and surprising behavior changes? Do you know what training your dog needs and when? She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Since German shepherds are large, active dogs and are known to have hips that give out, it's important to make sure they have good nutrition throughout their lives. Make sure to buy healthy food that is not full of filler ingredients. For example, make sure you are feeding a quality food that contains animal protein and doesn't use corn for protein. You can feed your German shepherd dry or wet food, or a combination of both. If you choose to feed your German shepherd homemade meals, it's important to talk to your veterinarian about what they need to include. This will help ensure that the dog will get a balanced diet. Try to resist giving your dog table scraps, especially if it is begging for them. People food can be unhealthy for the dog and can impact its interest in its healthy food. As your dog ages, it will have different nutritional needs. Feed your dog a food that is designed for its specific age, such as a puppy food when it very young, an adult food when it is in middle age, and senior food when it is in old age. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source There are also specific formulas you may need to consider at some point, for example, special foods for large breeds or weight control food for overweight dogs. Talk to your vet about what food will work best for your dog. Because your vet will understand your specific dog's health issues, they may want it to get specific nutritional needs met. Instead, mix the foods together, gradually increasing the new food and decreasing the old food over the course of several weeks. Look at the packaging of the food to determine the suggested serving size. This should be based on the size and age of your dog. You can also talk to your veterinarian about how much they think your dog should be eating. It is best to divide your German shepherd's daily food into 2 or more smaller meals. Giving smaller meals helps to minimize the risk of bloat, which is a life-threatening swelling of the abdomen. Go to source When you feed your dog several times a day, your dog will need to relieve themselves shortly after each meal. Never exercise a German shepherd right after they eat since this could increase the risk of bloating. In addition to feeding it healthy food, the snacks you feed your German shepherd can have an impact on its health. Pick low calorie treats that are satisfying for dogs, including crunchy vegetables and kibble in a feeding toy that slows the dog's consumption down. Dogs can drink a lot of water every day and it's important that they do to prevent dehydration. Fill up its bowl with clean water every day and leave it where your dog has access to it. Also, check up on the bowl throughout the day, if possible, to make sure there is plenty of water available. However, German shepherds should drink small amounts of water throughout the day, instead of drinking a large amount at one time. Gradually hydrating throughout the day will ensure that the dog doesn't get bloat. Dehydration can be a threat to your dog's health. Signs that it might be dehydrated and needs more water include excessive panting, loss of appetite, and dry nose or gums. If you see these symptoms, give your dog water immediately. Go to source Advertisement. German Shepherd dogs are known for their athletic capabilities, intelligence, and loyalty, making them one of India's most sought after breeds. Dog lovers are enamoured by the German shepherd's majestic appearance, intellect and guarding abilities. If you have decided or have recently become a German Shepherd's parent, you should be grateful to have such a loving and loyal companion who will stand by you no matter what in the years to come. However, parenting a German Shepherd is not an easy feat. Multiple factors need to be taken into consideration before you are confident that you will be able to provide for the needs of this dog. Parenting a German Shepherd is a highly gratifying affair, but the first step is choosing your puppy and caring for it. It needs to be planned out carefully to ensure that you and your dog spend all your days enjoying maximum satisfaction. This article will run you down through all the crucial decisions and actions that must be taken, starting from whether you should parent a German Shepherd, all the way to how you can care for your puppy. Is a German Shepherd is right for you? Before answering this question, it is imperative to check if parenting any German Shepherd is right for you to begin with. This breed is a very demanding one. It requires plentiful exercise to remain physically and mentally healthy. Without adequate playtime and activity, dogs of this breed can become destructive. So the question here is, do you have the facilities required to give your German shepherd this level of exercise? Do you have a yard, a park or a lawn near you where you can exercise your dog? Do you have the time to take them out on frequent walks? German Shepherds are usually suitable for people who engage in high-intensity sports such as running and bicycling. Will you be able to engage in such activities for the benefit of your dog as well as you? Similarly, German Shepherds are highly sociable animals and thrive in interactive environments. They need other dogs or people around them most of the time. Does your daily routine allow you to be near your dog for long periods of time? If you plan to leave your German shepherd at home for hours a day while you are working, this breed may not be suitable for you. Dogs of this breed are also prone to excessive shedding, and you need to be ready to find a lot of dog fur all around you. Being a large breed, feeding and taking care of these dogs are time and money intensive. They live long lives and can suffer from health problems too, and thus, caring for them can be an expensive affair. Thus, these are some of the questions that need to be answered to gauge whether a German Shepherd is indeed right for you to begin with. With these conditions in place, this breed may not be ideal for first-time dog parents. Coming to the type of German Shepherd that is right for you, this breed can be classified into two categories - work line type and show line type dogs. The differentiation is based on the heritage of the dogs of this breed and the purpose for which they were bred. Show lines were mainly bred for their look, colour and body type. Work Lines were primarily bred for their health and personality rather than to look a certain way. The line you choose depends on what you really want to be doing with your German shepherd. Work lines should be chosen if you seek a family pet or want some type of function to be performed because this type is known for its trainability, knowledge and skill. However, if you are more concerned with your dog's appearance, then going after show lines might be more appropriate. It must be mentioned, though, that it is possible to find show line dogs with the same characteristics as work line dogs and vice versa if they have been bred by individuals who are concerned with their appearance as well as health. Beyond work and show lines, age is another essential factor to consider. A good breeder would not offer puppies that are lesser than 8 weeks old as they still require their mother's milk as well as other social skills. Puppies who have received this from their mothers will be less likely to engage in destructive and unruly behaviour. First and foremost, verify that the puppy's parents have good health and desirable temperaments. Then examine the puppy in terms of health and hygiene by checking the eyes, ears, teeth, skin, coat, paws, etc. Study the gait of your puppy; it should be even. With German Shepherds, in particular, it is vital that you choose a pup that does not have undesirable traits. Visit the breeder at least four to five times before making a decision. Choosing a pup from the litter that is neither the timidest nor the most dominant would be wise if you want a bit of both traits. A German Shepherd puppy that is well built, energetic and sociable would be ideal. Next, to gauge the temperament of a puppy you want to select, you could perform a few simple tests, such as making eye contact with them. If they hold contact, it reflects confidence. It might be a sign of nervousness and anxiety if it looks away. Clapping your hands is another simple test. If the puppy runs away, it can be judged as timid, but it can signify that the pup wants to be friends if it approaches you. Similarly, other tests include calling the puppy to pet it, introducing it to a new toy, making a sudden noise, lifting the puppy and holding it above your head, or grabbing its paw. The reaction of puppies to such actions can provide much-needed insight into a puppy's temperament and help prospective dog parents make the right choice. On the one hand, if you prefer a dog that isn't prone to undermining your authority, it would be sensible to choose a moderately submissive puppy. On the other hand, if you want a dog for protection, it would be wise to choose a tough, trainable, and courageous puppy. After four to five visits, it would be possible for you to judge correctly - the personality and various character traits of the puppy you're interested in. As German Shepherds have highly individual personalities, you might bond more with one German Shepherd than the other. Lastly, before making a final decision, it is always good to ask the breeder for their opinion, as good breeders often have vital information about their puppies and can provide valuable insight into their characteristics and temperaments, thereby ensuring that you exactly find what you are looking for. Bringing Your German Shepherd Puppy Home Once you have established a rapport with a puppy and have made up your mind about becoming a dog parent, or a dog parent to another puppy, take a friend or companion with you who can help you clean up if your puppy is carsick. If you intend on making your puppy comfortable in a crate, give the crate to the breeder a few days before you bring the puppy home so that the breeder can help it acclimatize itself to the crate. The first day at home will be a traumatic experience for your puppy as it is away from its family. Thus, ensure that your puppy has a place to be comfortable and relaxed, with an adequate amount of food and water. It would be wise to spend some time exclusively with your puppy initially, such as an extended weekend plan so that your bond can grow. Be sure to collect your puppy's adoption contract and veterinary records. Furthermore, find out the exact kind of food that the breeder was giving the puppy you just adopted. Giving your pup entirely different food during the first few days can be traumatic for them. With their unfamiliar sights, smells, and sounds, your home and car can frighten your puppy, leading it to stress out and get anxious. Anticipate this and give your pup some time to adjust to the new environment. The first few days can be demanding as a dog parent because you need to adapt to changes in your schedule with the arrival of your puppy. Similarly, the puppy, too, can cry, whine or get overly affectionate, which can be regarded as coping mechanisms to deal with the sudden change in environment. During this time, make sure you don't scold your puppy or be overly affectionate either. Before bringing your newly adopted puppy home, it is essential for you to puppy-proof your home! Go down on all fours and check for sharp objects, hazardous materials, or any other dangerous substance that your puppy might end up chewing or swallowing. Cover your electrical outlets as well. Stock your home with food that your puppy has been eating while under the breeder's care. Keep an adequate amount of food and water, water bowls, treats, and grooming tools such as brushes, shampoos for puppies and nail clippers. Cleaning detergent for stains and smells will also come in handy in case of any accidents. Decide on that area of the house that will be where your puppy spends most of its time. This step is crucial as constantly changing your puppy's place can lead to disruptive sleep patterns and cause stress. German Shepherds, being extremely active, will tend to run across your halls, and in such cases, an accident or two are bound to happen. In such cases, it would be a good idea to restrict your dog's movements to areas that can be cleaned easily. Furthermore, German Shepherds have sharp claws and can ruin expensive hardwood floors, so it would be wise to keep them away from such flooring. As mentioned previously, your puppy will be nervous during the first few days. Frequent bathroom breaks will be a necessity for your pup, and thus, keep an area designated just for this purpose. Also, let your dog run around the house and acquaint itself with its surroundings. If your dog is chewing or biting furniture in a puppy-proofed home, you could offer a toy as a distraction. If you have children, teach them how to properly handle your puppy without being too rough. If you have other pets, give your pup a chance to meet and acknowledge them. Be careful while introducing your puppy to other puppies and grown dogs. However, most dogs are not aggressive with puppies, so it is doubtful that you will face problems on this front. Between eight and sixteen weeks of age, Puppies require plenty of clean water to drink and many meals a day. They also have small bladders and hence, will urinate often. Since they expend a lot of energy during the day, they will take several naps. It would be recommended to begin a daily routine for your pup and stick to it. Since German Shepherds require a lot of physical activity, taking them out in the mornings and evenings for an adequate amount of time religiously would be necessary. The faster you get your pup accustomed to a routine, the more beneficial it is to better sleeping schedules and better mental and physical health. When you begin house training your dog, be sure to praise them when they relieve themselves in designated areas but refrain from punishing them if they fail to do so. Remember that your home is a new environment for them, and thus, it will take a while to house train them. Training Your German Shepherd Puppy. Training your dog from the day they come home is very important. Clear rules should be set that should not be broken. For example, if you do not want your dog to get on the bed, do not let them come on the bed ever. Allowing them sometimes and then not other times gets confusing for your dog, and they may not be able to learn the desired behaviour effectively. Training your puppy can be divided into two stages, each with different objectives. The first stage of training needs to take place when your pup is between eight to sixteen weeks of age. In this period, socialization, house training and crate training goals must be accomplished. The second stage of training needs to occur when your puppy is three months of age until about 9 months. The main objectives of this training phase are obedience training, impulse control, and recall. From 8 - 16 weeks Goal: Socialization German shepherds are very protective of their owners. This makes it essential to make them see that other individuals are not necessarily threats. This period is critical to expose your puppy to different people in non-threatening situations. This can help them grow more confident around strangers instead of becoming hostile. Socialization creates a strong foundation for the rest of your puppy's training. One example of socialization comes from the grooming requirements of this breed. German Shepherds need to be groomed regularly so that they don't shed a lot. Thus, introducing them to groomers at a young age and to tools like blow dryers and nail clippers can help achieve this goal of adapting to social environments. Furthermore, to improve their mental development, expose your puppy to new sights, sounds and smells to help their confidence improve. Goal: Crate Training Training your puppy to sleep or stay in a crate can be difficult at first as they might face separation anxiety. Crate training is necessary if you prefer sleeping alone or washing the utensils in the kitchen and need your puppy to stay in one place for a couple of minutes. Patience is key to achieving this goal. Help them get over their separation anxiety with the help of treats and toys. You can also use your crate for feeding purposes to help your pup get more acclimated to it. Goal: House Training A strict schedule can help get your dog house trained. When your pup is around 8 weeks old, it should be taken outside for a bathroom break every two hours or so. At 12 weeks, it should be taken every 3 hours and around 16 weeks, every 4 hours or so. Begin teaching your puppy how to eliminate on cue by looking for signs such as sniffing the floor or circling a particular spot, or going to an area where it has made a mess before. Using a command to push your puppy to go outside to relieve itself can be helpful. Remember to praise your pup when it obeys such actions. From 3 - 9 Months Goal: Obedience Training German Speherds are acutely intellectual and have a commendable work ethic. Training that has begun early and consistently can help your puppy's best traits and features emerge with time. Dogs of this breed are excellent at obeying commands, and you can begin this type of training by teaching basic commands such as stay, down, and up. They can even be trained to walk on a leash easily during this period. Goal: Recall When obedience training is done right, the goal of recalling or successfully calling your puppy to come to you becomes relatively easier. Achieving recall takes patience and practice. It should be done diligently and on a daily basis, using treats and toys as incentives. Achieving this goal can come in handy during emergency situations as well. Goal: Impulse Control German Shepherds are highly susceptible to boredom, often resulting in excessive and inappropriate chewing, barking, chasing, etc. They also have a tendency to chase down cars and even cats. Such impulses need to be controlled as they can otherwise lead to destructive and problematic behaviour. Training for impulse control simply means getting your puppy to pay attention to you when required. You can begin such type of training by getting your puppy to sit before eating or using commands during playtime, which makes them focus on your voice only. Treats and toys could be attractive incentives to encourage your pup to respond positively to commands. Feeding Your German Shepherd Puppy. Remember to follow the breeder's diet in the initial days and gradually change this diet to incorporate different foods. Milk should not be given to puppies at this age as it can cause diarrhoea. Puppies need to be given food rich in protein, calcium and fats as they are still growing. Their food needs to be higher in calories when compared to the food given to a grown dog. When you give your puppy a food bowl, give it a specific window of time to finish eating, such as 10 or 15 minutes. After this period, remove the bowl. This will help your pup understand that it has to eat during a specific period of time only, which is a valuable component of obedience training. Between 4 to 6 months of age, you can start feeding your puppy increased portions of food four times a day. Foods such as meat and vegetables would be ideal. Treats should only be resorted to during training and not as actual food for mealtimes. Make sure to never give leftover human food to puppies as they contain spices, salt, sugar and so on, which are very unhealthy for dogs. FAQs: Are german shepherd puppies hard to take care of? Not just german shepherds, all puppies are hard to take care of initially. This is because it is exactly like getting a newborn baby home. There will be sleepless nights, vet visits, training, creating and sticking to routines and so on. However, these efforts will eventually pay off, because once your pup is trained, they will be socialized and can adapt to your lifestyle easily. How many times should a german shepherd puppy eat a day? For up to four months, puppies should be fed three to four times a day. Post this period, gradually reduce the number of times your pup is fed. After eight to nine months, two meals a day will suffice. Where should my german shepherd sleep? German shepherds are highly sociable animals and should not be left alone for too long. Puppies should be trained to sleep in a crate or share the bed with you if you so desire. As they grow older, they can be allowed to sleep in a crate, or in an area specially designed for them. What are the best foods for german shepherd puppies? Like other puppies, they too require meals that are high in protein, grain-free, rich in good quality fats without any chemicals, artificial additives etc. Is it okay to feed a german Shephard 3 times a day? Up to eight to nine months of age, it is okay to feed your German Shepherd three times a day. However, feeding them twice a day is more than enough beyond this age. The amount of food ultimately depends on your dog's age, size, weight, and levels of physical activity. When do german shepherd puppies stop biting and jumping? It is perfectly normal for your puppy to constantly bite, chew, or jump for the first four to six months. However, while teething is normal, you must redirect your puppy to chew on toys and other things that are appropriate instead of household furniture. Do not wait to think issues will be resolved after months. Get professional help from day 1 to teach your pup the right behaviours. By Barri J. Morrison, DVM on Jun. Today, the German Shepherd is one of the most popular dog breed in the United States. They are in the herding breed group, which means they are high-energy and love having a job or an outlet for regular exercise. They are known for their confidence, loyalty, and bravery, as well as their ability to thrive with expert levels of dog training and obedience. German Shepherds are commonly used as working dogs in the military and police for patrolling, bomb sniffing, and search and rescue. This large dog breed has an average weight ranging from 65—90 pounds. They are typically 22—26 inches tall with a life expectancy of 10—12 years. Caring for a German Shepherd German Shepherds are incredibly active dogs that require intense training and regular exercise to keep them out of trouble physically and mentally. They are best for active families and experienced pet parents. Socialization and consistent training will be essential when a German Shepherd is a puppy. This will help them to grow out of unruly behaviors such as nipping and jumping. German Shepherds have a double coat that sheds a lot. They will also typically go through a molting, which is a period of excessive shedding, one to two times a year. German Shepherd Health Issues While German Shepherds have a long life expectancy for a large breed dog, they are prone to several health problems. A trustworthy breeder will screen both male and female dogs being bred for health conditions such as degenerative myelopathy and hip and elbow dysplasia. German Shepherds commonly also get gastric dilation and volvulus GDV , commonly known as bloat, as well as cancer, allergies, heart disease, and a few other conditions. Pet parents of German Shepherds should be highly educated on the symptoms to look for, as early detection is the key to a good prognosis for any serious condition. Degenerative Myelopathy Degenerative myelopathy is a neurologic disorder that affects the spinal cord, slowly causing paralysis of the back legs. Early signs of degenerative myelopathy include weakness in the hind end and difficulty standing up. Watch your dog carefully for signs of pain and discomfort that come on gradually rather than suddenly. Check their claws at least once a month to watch for signs of uneven wear which would indicate a subtle lameness. There is no treatment for this condition, but physical therapy can help strengthen muscles and protect their ability to use their legs. While there is no cure, you can test for this condition using a DNA-based blood test submitted to the University of Florida or the University of Missouri. Elbow and Hip Dysplasia Elbow dysplasia is a degenerative joint disease that can cause lifelong pain in the front limbs. Hip dysplasia is another degenerative joint disease that affects the hind end. Clinical signs include limping, decreased range of motion, and other signs of pain—especially later in life, as arthritis sets in because of this disease process. The treatment for all degenerative joint diseases includes weight loss, reduced activity, joint protection supplements, anti-inflammatory and pain medications, or surgery. Cancer Cancer can develop in German Shepherds at any age, but usually occurs later in life. Common cancers include hemangiosarcoma and bone, lung, and intestinal cancers. Hemangiosarcoma is a malignant tumor that is most often detected in blood-rich organs such as the spleen and the heart. The signs of hemangiosarcoma are usually related to internal bleeding, with symptoms such as weakness, white or pale gums, trouble breathing, a distended abdomen, and collapse. Other signs are usually nonspecific and indicate overall malaise, including lethargy, panting, anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss. Depending on the extent of the cancer, treatment plans can include chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. Bloat Gastric Dilation and Volvulus Bloat, or gastric dilation and volvulus GDV is a sudden life-threatening condition when the stomach enlarges with gas bloat and then twists upon itself GDV. This happens commonly in deep-chested, large-breed dogs such as German Shepherds. To limit the risk of GDV, German Shepherds should wait at least 30 minutes to one hour after eating to resume exercising. Another way to help prevent your German Shepherd from developing a life-threatening GDV would be via gastropexy. A gastropexy permanently attaches the stomach to the inside body wall. This fixation of the stomach prevents the stomach from being able to twist upon itself. Allergies Allergies in German Shepherds can be first seen with symptoms such as itchy skin, skin infections , ear infections , or digestive upset such as vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss. A thorough medical history and physical examination, diagnostic testing of skin and ears, blood work, and fecal tests are warranted if you suspect that your dog has allergies. Allergies in dogs can be treated by avoiding the cause and the allergen and managing the symptoms that exist with diet therapy and medications. Heart Disease Heart disease, specifically DCM dilated cardiomyopathy , valvular disease, and heart murmurs, can be common in German Shepherds. A special diet should also be considered to restrict sodium intake and to increase the amount of certain amino acids to promote heart health. Dogs with significant heart disease should not be pushed to exercise beyond their limits. Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency EPI Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency EPI is a digestive health issue that occurs when the cells of the pancreas do not produce enzymes and hormones normally. The most common symptom is weight loss, despite your pet having a ravenous appetite. Other symptoms of EPI include soft stool or diarrhea; excessive gas; desire to eat feces and other unusual objects; flaky skin; or rough coat. Once the pancreas is damaged to the point that symptoms of EPI develop, you must give your dog pancreatic enzyme supplements and other treatments for the rest of their life. Nevertheless, with proper management, your dog can still live a happy life with this condition. Pannus Pannus, or superficial keratitis, is an immune-mediated painful eye condition that can cause blindness if not managed properly. It occurs more often in dogs that live at high altitudes, those with increased exposure to UV light, and in areas with severe air pollution. Keeping dogs indoors during the sunniest part of the day, providing a doghouse shelter, or trying a specialty pair of doggie sunglasses like Rex Specs may prove very helpful in preventing this issue. Most of these conditions have a genetic component and can be avoid by good breeding and preventive screening practices. They require a high-quality, age-appropriate diet to meet their nutritional needs. These diets are usually labeled puppy, adult, or senior. Offering table food and animal bones should be avoided, as they can cause stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhea, and anorexia, and they also have a much higher fat content than dog food. High-fat foods can also cause pancreatitis. How Much to Feed a German Shepherd In general, puppies should be fed 3—4 times per day and adult dogs should be fed twice a day. How much you feed is determined by the specific food your German Shepherd eats. You can ask your veterinarian, follow the package instructions, or contact the dog food manufacturer, as AAFCO-approved diets have veterinary nutritionists who help determine these requirements. There are some theories that German Shepherds that are fed smaller, more frequent meals have a lower incidence of bloat and stomach problems. How to Feed a German Shepherd Although there is a genetic component, science shows that rapid long bone growth in puppies such as German Shepherds and other large- and giant-breed dogs contributes to development of joint and bone conditions. Rapid bone growth is suspected to be caused by overfeeding and calcium supplementation. German Shepherds that are fed free-choice or overfed are at higher risk of rapid bone growth. Maintaining lean body weight will also help to decrease the rate of bone growth. Calcium supplements and adult dog foods rich in calcium should never be given to German Shepherd puppies under 6 months of age, as they cannot absorb calcium appropriately when they are that young. Conditions caused by rapid long bone growth and excess calcium supplementation can include: Hip and elbow dysplasia Osteochondrosis dissecans of the shoulder, knee, wrists, and ankles. This is improper growth and blood supply in a joint, which requires surgery to prevent osteoarthritis from developing. Hypertrophic osteodystrophy HOD. This is inflammation of the bone under the growth plate; it can cause severe joint swelling, pain, fever, anorexia, lameness, and not wanting to move. This is an inflammation of the long bones and associated blood vessels. Joint swelling is uncommon, but the symptoms are similar to HOD. MSM has all-natural anti-inflammatory properties. Omega-3 fatty acids high-quality fish oil are thought to have anti-inflammatory properties as well when given at appropriate doses. Research shows that reducing inflammation helps to control pain associated with osteoarthritis , which is a common problem in dogs with joint issues. Probiotics Probiotics such as Purina Calming Care can be helpful not just for digestive issues, but with minor behavioral issues as well. Digestive enzymes come in powdered form to assist dogs who have pancreatic issues, such as German Shepherds with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Other vitamin and mineral supplements are generally not needed for healthy puppies and adults, as they get all they need from their AAFCO-approved diet daily. The breed is considered to be smart and easy to train. They are known to be gentle family dogs and loyal protectors of those they trust. This loyalty can make German Shepherds seem more standoffish around strangers. It does take them some time to gain the trust of other people and other pets. German Shepherds are a very active and athletic breed that require a ton of exercise for both their physical and mental health. Without exercise they will develop unfavorable behaviors, due to irritation and pent-up energy. Controlled leash walks and supervised free play in safe, fenced-in areas should be started when they are puppies. Keeping a German Shepherd on a leash at all times when in public places is a good rule of thumb, as even the most well-trained dog can be distracted and not follow regular commands, leading to a possible confrontation. These results should be provided to a pet parent by the breeder of the German Shepherd before the dog is purchased. Not all temperament and behavioral issues are evident in a growing puppy, and it is impossible to predict whether a dog will be free of these problems. Find a trustworthy breeder who is committed to breeding the healthiest animals possible. German Shepherd Behavior German Shepherds, like other herding dogs, tend to be on the nippy side. They have very powerful jaws, and unfortunately, they frequently bite. Most aggressive German Shepherds are aggressive because of their owners. The German Shepherd dog is a pack animal. They need you to be the leader of the pack, providing structure and guidance. The key to success is consistency and practice; you will get the behavior you reward. German Shepherds from working lines have an extremely strong drive to work and may be more dog than most people can or want to handle. German Shepherds are very smart companions and exceptional workers. This helps you build the right foundation for your puppy to evolve into a well-adapted and well-mannered adult dog. Conversely, when your dog barks at you to pet them, do not start petting them until they sit down and quietly wait for you to do so. Soon they will learn that they get what they desire without the excessive, unnecessary behavior. German Shepherds thrive on consistency, positive reinforcement, and a reward system, such as a treats or toys to help strengthen the human-animal bond. They become very bonded to all members of the family and will be willing to participate in many family activities. Fun Activities for German Shepherd Herding. The transition period can be a little intimidating once you get over the cuteness overload and realize that your new puppy has no training whatsoever and it's up to you how things will progress from there. We'll try to make it easier for you with this short list of things to do the first 2 weeks after bringing your new puppy home. Your puppy is in a brand new place and it's their first time being away from their mom and siblings. I know you want to bring the puppy with you everywhere, play all day and show him or her off to all of your friends and family. But take it slow at first so that your new puppy can get settled and relax. Hang out at home. Become a professional treat dispenser. And begin the foundation of building your bond with your pup. Crate training is the best way to house train. Introduce your puppy to the crate early on by making it a positive experience. Toss a high value treat inside and let them explore and go inside on their own volition. Place a chew toy that can hold treats into the crate and close the door. Make sure the puppy sees you do this. When the puppy tries to paw and get inside the crate, open the door and let them in. When they start chewing on the toy, close the door for a few seconds before opening. And remember to reward your puppy when it's playing quietly inside the crate and to ignore any whining. Also remember the rules of potty training using the crate. If the pup just ate or drank, let them outside. If the pup is coming out of the crate for any extended time, let them outside. If your pup is so much as sniffing the ground a little too much, you guessed it, let them outside. The fewer accidents inside the house, the less likely it is for the puppy to get into the habit of going inside the house. Start immediately with potty training and socialization. Puppies aren't fully protected until their final vaccination at weeks, so openly socializing in public isn't the best idea. But you can have friends and family come over to meet your puppy, as well as their fully vaccinated, well behaved dogs and puppies. You can also begin the foundation of basic obedience commands. All that's necessary later on is getting consistency and working around distractions. Unless of course you want to compete in obedience or a sport that requires obedience. Competition makes things a little more complicated than that. This step is often overlooked and it's arguably the most important step for a new puppy. Puppies love a routine. It's comforting knowing what's going to happen. Wake up in the morning, outside to potty. A little training with treats, breakfast, outside to potty again. A little play time etc. If you have to go to work, make sure you have a friend, relative, dog walker or dog sitter to let the puppy outside if you can't make it home during your break to let the puppy use the potty. They have a tiny bladder and can't hold it for a full workday. When you have a routine that works, things will go smoothly. If you stray from that routine or never establish one, you'll have more accidents, a confused puppy, and quite possibly a headache. Consistency is key, and make sure you throw in several short training sessions. Most places require these. It may sound silly that you're probably legally required to get a license for your dog, but.But rules are rules. Better safe than fined! A vet who has fair prices for your area, yet is also professional and competent is a must. You will see your vet often enough that they will eventually know your name without having to check the paperwork. So your best bet is to find a good one! Routine checkups, vaccinations, and minor or even major health issues will happen. So build a relationship with a local vet as soon as possible. Also, if you have a German Shepherd or any other large breed and ever intend to breed, you should try to find either an orthopedic vet or a vet who is experienced in taking and sending in hip and elbow x-rays to the OFA to be graded. This may not be your primary veterinarian, but it's good to plan ahead. Even if you don't intend to breed, most breeders state in their contract that they will cover hips and elbows, but only if you get preliminary x-rays or have x-rays graded within a certain amount of time usually 2 years. As a bonus, taking hip and elbow x-rays at 2 years old can help extend the quality of life for your dog if they do end up having dysplasia. You'll know to dial down exercise that is hard on the joints, and that can mean the difference between a dog with pain at 5, and a dog who lives its whole life without pain. It'll also give you a head start on a medication and treatment plan. There are dogs with moderate hip dysplasia that live a very comfortable, long life without the need for surgery thanks to their owner taking that extra step of getting x-rays done. The advanced notice gives their owner a head start on supplements and getting into therapy programs, like swimming, to strengthen the muscle around the joint before they're ever in pain. So this may not be a necessary step if you don't care about your breeder's guarantee, but it can help ease your mind or give you a heads up before a problem even surfaces. But it'll be much less stressful if you have a plan in advance and stick with these 6 tips. If you have any other tips or tricks, leave them down in the comments below and be sure to leave a like and share! They still have their cute side of course, but they are often a whole lot more work than most people expect. And when it comes to German Shepherd puppies, while not anymore difficult than any other breed, there are a few specific things that may help both you and your furry pup through the struggle of puppy-hood. German Shepherds, in general, tend to be very loyal, loving, and protective. But they do have other characteristics that are good to be aware of before getting a puppy, in order to ensure that they are the right match for you. German Shepherd puppies can be a little shy and anxious sometimes, which, if not treated properly could develop into fear-based aggression. Socialization becomes very important for these puppies in order to keep the shyness and aggression in check. German Shepherd puppies are very energetic and intelligent. So keep in mind that you may need to get creative with the doggie activities! If you like your privacy, you may want to reconsider getting a German Shepherd because these puppies will follow you everywhere. Training in this area becomes extremely critical if you want to prevent their biting from transitioning into a much more dangerous game. German Shepherd puppies are incredibly intense when it comes to playtime, so get ready for some heavy-duty wrestling. You will need to supervise any interactions with other dogs to ensure that nobody gets hurt. A German Shepherd puppy just might be the right one for you. Finding Your Puppy The first step in caring for your puppy is finding your puppy, and the best place to go for that is a reputable breeder. While you can find plenty of breeders on the internet, your best bet would be to ask for referrals from other German Shepherd owners that you know. This way you can ensure that you find a German Shepherd puppy that has been well cared for from birth, giving you a great head start. And while there will be many times for playing and cuddling during the first few days and onward, even the very first moments you spend with your puppy are extremely critical for training. Potty Training Little puppies have little bladders, which means they will have to relieve themselves every two hours or so until they are about six months old. Take your puppy to your designated potty area frequently and praise your pup if he goes in the right place. Using a specific spot, rather than just the entire backyard, will help immensely during potty training. Sticking to a schedule can help minimize accidents. A good starting point is to take your puppy outside 20 minutes after eating, as this is generally when he will need to relieve himself. You will also need to wake up two or three times in the night to check on your pup. And keep an eye on him throughout the day. If he is whimpering uneasily, he probably needs to potty. Crate Training Crate training your German Shepherd puppy will become a huge help while you are teaching him the house rules. It also helps give them a safe place they can call their own. Keep your crate somewhere in the home where there are people around to supervise, but not too public or chaotic of a place that he will feel scared or threatened. Also, make sure the crate is not so small that they feel trapped and uncomfortable. Your pup should be able to comfortably stretch and lie down if they want to. Even when your dog is in the crate, make sure he is on his best behavior. If your pup exhibits bad behavior in the crate and you respond by taking him out, he may develop bad habits. Once your puppy calms down or shows good behavior, reward him by letting him out and giving him praise. Socialization Especially as German Shepherd puppies can lean more towards the aggressive side, socialization is critical if you want to keep this aggression in check. Letting your puppy meet new people and new dogs during the first couple months of life can really make a difference in his social skills and overall behavior. Let your puppy spend quality time with the family and everyone who may frequent your home such as neighbors, relatives, and babysitters. General Training The first thing your puppy should learn during training is that you are in charge. Otherwise, your puppy will take on that role himself and you could lose control completely. German Shepherd puppies respond well to positive training techniques, so keep those treats handy! Feeding Although your German Shepherd puppy may be small, his diet should not be. Growing from a puppy to an adult dog is hard work, and he will need a strong, healthy diet in order to do it. Until 6 months of age your puppy will need to eat 3 to 4 times a day. The best way to ensure that he is getting the right amount of grub is to check his ribs. You should be able to feel them through his skin, but not see them. The most common type of puppy food is your everyday kibble, but actually, raw dog foods are the best way to go, even for the littlest of pups. About Emilyn Gil Hello! My name is Emilyn and I am currently studying English at Utah Valley University and working as a copywriter, researcher and mother. Although I have had just one dog throughout my life, my sweet Golden Retriever and Cocker Spaniel mix, Pup, has given me many fond memories that I hold dear. In addition, have also owned and cared for cats, fish, hamsters, rats, parakeets, chickens, goats, rabbits, frogs, and lizards. Every one of these adorable pets has given me a love for all kinds of animal friends, which is something that I hope to share here at TruDog.

What is a Labradoodle? If you haven't already, you will fall in love with this breed! The Multi-Generational American or Australian Labradoodle embodies the courage, Loyalty and Intelligence of a working dog with a magnificent fleece, non-shedding coat that is hypo-allergenic. They were originally bred as service dogs and have evolved to become our most desired family companion. They are athletic, smart, easy to train, and have a life span of over 15 years. Whether you want a sporting dog or a loving and loyal companion, the fun-loving, adventure-seeking, yet mellow Labradoodle will make your family complete. American and Australian Labradoodles can be very different depending on their breeding, and it is important to understand the differences. Just breeding a poodle to a lab or a labradoodle to a labradoodle does not make a quality pet. They are non-shedding with the wonderful Labradoodle temperament, intelligence and laid-back nature. They have been bred to standard over the last couple decades and contain not only Lab and Poodle DNA, but also a controlled mix of American and English Spaniel, which contributed toward the incredible silky fleece coat. F1 1st generation. This usually produces a dog with mild to light shedding. Hair can be long or short, wavy or straighter, and wirey or harsher fleece in texture. First generation Labradoodles are typically high-energy dogs with the great Labradoodle intelligence and are a good choice for a family that does not mind some shedding and high energy. F1B 2nd generation. F1 Labradoodle bred to a Poodle. The F1B Labradoodle is more standard in physical appearance, and more consistently non-shedding. The coat ranges from fleece to wool in texture and can be wavy or straighter. These dogs have the great Labradoodle laid-back temperament and intelligence, and can be a good choice for families that prefer a non-shedding dog. Multi Generational 3rd generation or higher. F1B or higher bred to F1B or higher. Most true to the Labradoodle standard in physical appearance and consistently non-shedding. The texture ranges from fleece to wool and the wave ranges from wavy to curly. It is important to maintain the wider body type and shorter muzzle length. The fleece coat can be very nice, but not as silky as the coat of an Australian Labradoodle. Guardian Homes allow us Diversity in our Breeding Program, and offer our breeder-quality puppies the opportunity to live a pampered life as a family pet and companion. If you are interested in providing a Guardian Home for one of our puppies, please check out our Guardian Program page. Some of our qualifications include: Must reside within a one-hour driving distance from Humble, Texas. Must reside in a home with a fully secure fenced yard. Must be open to communication, visits to our home and yours, and provide medical records. To learn more about our Guardian Program and to see our full list of requirements, please visit our Guardian Program Page. Everyone loves him. He continues to fill our lives with so much love and joy. Thank you for Bear. She brings so much joy to our family! Kimberly White Owner of Harley Loving Personality Brandy continues to amaze us and those who come in contact with her. In our lifetime we have had many pets and Brandy surpasses them all in intelligence, obedience and a loving personality. Her color is absolutely beautiful and we love her to pieces. Our thanks to you for the opportunity to own and enjoy such a wonderful puppy. I will be taking her to nursing homes and hospitals to visit people. She has the most loving and calm personality and I can't wait to share that with others. Kristen Loves to Kiss and Snuggle Tucker is doing so well! We just love him to pieces.He is SUCH a great dog! Here he is tonight getting ready for bed. He's almost 20lbs and will be getting neutered next month. Tucker loves to kiss and snuggle. He also loves to play tug of war and fetch.Has learned to sit, lay down, stay, and is starting to learn so much more!!! When we arrive home Rosie brings us a stuffed toy as if she is providing dinner. She wants to take care of us. Thank you for spreading the joy. She's very smart and learns so quick! She's also very loving, loves to cuddle, and play with everyone. My sister is in love with Luna too. Every day, she comes to me and says, "I still can't believe I got a puppy for Christmas! Thank you for everything. He's settling in around pounds but perfect. We just had a baby and he's great with him too! The kids have named her Nikki. She is a really wonderful dog, we couldn't be happier with her! Thank you so much! She's been the best already potty trained bell , never barks and is just a snuggle, love bug. Miss Daisy her name is a huge and loving part of our family. Thank You! Many Blessings! I thought you would like to see how cute she is. She is so well behaved and I really enjoy her. She loves her walks and chasing balls in the backyard. She is maturing into an amazing young lady!!! We love her more and more everyday!!! We will be getting back to you shortly! Can't wait for a message to hug one of these adorable puppies? That's Okay, give us a Call at .Contact us today for more information about our family-raised, hypo-allergenic, highly trainable Labradoodles. We started our breeding program with the best bloodlines to ensure we would be producing the most beautiful, intelligent, trainable and lovable dogs possible. We are grateful for the guidance we had when we started and we continue to improve the way we do things through training and education for more than 18 years. It is our dedication to excellence in the way we raise our precious dogs and train them that sets Texas Labradoodles apart. Most of the breeders were breeding true Australian Labradoodles. Since that time we have watched our amazing and magical breed of dogs become a world wide phenomenon with Labradoodles taking over everywhere. From being in the movies to being the number one choice for commercials, print ads and funniest video stars, Labradoo dles are everywhere. With this profound movement of the love of all things Labra doodle, the purity and purpose of what Labradoodles were originally bred for has become convoluted with many types of doodles. The Labradoodle breed itself is be coming a confusing mixture of levels of breeds, types of infusions into the blood lines, etc. Australian Labradoodles are produced when multiple generations of the original Australian bloodlines, Rutland Manor and Teagan Park are bred together. These two kennels began breeding these dogs to create a hypo-allergenic, low to non-shedding dog. These dogs are bred to be highly trainable dog for the purpose of being taught to be guide dogs or therapy dogs for people with allergies. It took these two kennels a lot of work, testing and breeding to get the breed to where it is today. It was not as simple as breeding a Lab to a Poodle, both great dogs, of course, but not a true Australian Labradoodle The importance of adopting a multi-generational Australian Labradoodle If you want a hypo-allergenic, highly trainable dog for your new family member or a dog for therapy work, you want to get a multi-generational Australian Labradoodle. Working with a reputable breeder that has many years of experience and a true love of the breed is important. Make sure the genetic testing and puppy care are done to ensure they are breeding the best and most healthy dogs possible. Dogs that are registered with the ALAA as multi-generational Australian Labradoodles are the most consistent breeding of Labradoodles that you can get. These dogs are going to have a consistent temperament and trainability level. This consistency and care to our breeding program helps our families to know exactly what to expect from their new family member. Clearing our dogs for potential diseases not only ensures that our dogs do not have these issues prior to breeding, it also ensures that we will never produce puppies that could have these diseases. The hip and elbow testing does not guarantee that puppies will never have hip dysplasia, but it is the best method that we have to prevent producing puppies with genetic hip issues. Hip problems are often caused be environmental factors, but culling puppies for breeding purposes helps to reduce the risk of breeding bad confirmation. Temperament, coat and trainability for different types of disciplines are key in our breeding program. Creating perfect family members, guide dogs, therapy dogs and best friends begins with breeding the perfect parents. Years of care and experience have made us experts at accomplishing high standards set by the ALAA and our own personal goals for our dogs. We know that a Texas Labradoodles bred dog is the finest of our wonderful breed and we are so proud to have produced such wonderful companions and working dogs. Please see our references page for more stories and letters from our families. November, .I cannot say enough good things about Mardee and Texas Labradoodles! From the beginning Mardee was very caring and knowledgable on all things Australian Labradoodle. It is clear she and her family love their dogs and take excellent care of them from the very start. She takes the time to match each puppy to their forever home and I scored the jackpot with my Maggie! I could not be happier with her sweet demeanor and easy going temperament. She is super smart, easy to train and equally as adorable. Even after bringing our puppy home Mardee has been a great resource and we are still in touch. I am so thankful to have found Mardee and Texas Labradoodles! Mike Tadlock .October, .Texas Labradoodles and Mardee were Amazing. She helped guide us through the selection process and we could not have gotten a better fur baby than Sadie. If you could meet Sadie and see her with us you would understand. We are obnoxiously crazy about this girl! We know others who have used Texas Labradoodles and they all feel the same. She has brought so much joy and happiness to our home. Paul Chapman 4. We recently welcomed the most perfect medium Australian Labradoodle into the family. I could go on and on about how wonderful this dog is and if you email me I will. That said, I have been equally impressed by our experience with this breeder. First and foremost, Mardee loves her dogs and this breed and that loves comes through in every single interaction and detail. They are true to breed standard. Go through all the appropriate genetic and health screens and, most importantly, are bred and raised in a loving home with plenty of outdoor country air. These dogs are not inexpensive but they are well-priced, given all the time and expense put into raising quality animals in the very most humane and caring of environments. If you want to know what to look for in a breeder - TX Labradoodle is the standard. Chris Monroe .August, .Highly knowledgeable, caring and experienced. Mardee and Bruce patiently answered all of my questions about Australian Labradoodle's and she matched us with the perfect addition for our family. Mardee provided a thorough background and documentation of care, and a detailed checklist for us to take home. June is 14 weeks old now and is everything we imagined and more. June, .TX Labradoodles are truly amazing, full of heart, and extremely knowledgeable! Mardee and her family have become our family! We have the 3 most gorgeous fur babies ever who bring immense joy and love to my life! We consider ourselves beyond fortunate to have crossed paths with Mardee, Bruce, and James! We are forever grateful! We love you tremendously!!! Thank you for making the world a better place with the most extraordinary fur babies!!! Brittany Meuth .April, .My husband and I recently adopted our first puppy from Texas Labradoodles and we could not be happier with our experience! Mardee has remained a resource to us even since bringing Murphy home and could not have created a better experience for us. She is amazing at what she does and truly loves providing families with amazing pets! Steven Roberts .We got 2 girls from Mardee two months ago. The experience could not have gone better. Loving environment, plenty of outdoor room, clean as a whistle and the pups are all we could hope for. No puppy mill atmosphere here. Solid solid folks and superior dogs. And another plus: Wimberley Texas is awesome. Karen Hernandez .I have truly been blessed by the forming relationship with Mardee and MOE. I did not realize how much joy at my age she allows me to experience. She is not my only dog that I share my life with, but she is definitely an exception that I must say is out of the ordinary. Mardee is very responsive and knowledgeable and her understanding of the breed. I can tell she only wants to breed the best genetics and protect the breed from becoming a backyard hobby only to make money. It is nice to see and know how much she strives to improve the breed. I think anyone looking to start or expand their canine family would be truly blessed. Google rating score: 4. 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 Houston Texas 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. Questions about Labradoodle puppies for sale in Houston TX? We have answers. Give me an overview of Labradoodle puppies for sale in Houston TX. Australian Labradoodles are mainly a mix of Poodles and Labradors, but with a couple of bloodlines thrown in to ensure the resulting pups have the traits families love. How much are Labradoodles for sale Houston? Do a quick search and you might find a whole range of prices for Labradoodles. Gender, size, coat type, and breeder experience all factor in how much it will cost. We know budget is an important consideration, so we made sure it will be easy for you to filter those that match your range. Will you only connect me with local Labradoodle breeders Houston? We are proud to say we work with breeders and businesses from all over the continental US. How do you screen Labradoodle breeders in Houston? Because we only want to work with businesses who share our love dogs. Our criteria include adherence to animal welfare laws and ethical breeding practices, completion of legal documents, and more. Head over to our Breeder Pledge page for more details. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other places with Labradoodles Houston? With Uptown Puppies, you have your work cut out for you. What is a puppy mill for Labradoodle puppies Houston? Puppy mills are businesses run by those who care more about profit than the dogs in their care. Poor conditions, irresponsible breeding, and maltreatment result in puppies that present with medical and behavioral problems later on. Buyin a pup from pet shops or suspicious online ads might mean patronizing a puppy mill and helping perpetuate this cruel business. Are there any Labradoodle puppies in Houston available now? You bet! What is the MatchMaker process like for Labradoodle Houston? At that point, all you have to do is choose which one you will bring home to your family! My dog Pepper is a wonderful addition to my family! Beautiful dogs! They are beautiful and healthy. Our first one is almost 5 years old and we have a 2 month old. Lindy breeds them in a very clean home. She is extremely loving to these newborns and is open to all of our questions. She even follows up to see how they are doing. I would not buy from anyone else. Our 2 labradoodles get plenty of compliments. We have added 2 beautiful members to our family. I waited almost a year for mine and he has been life changing. They are truly amazing, healthy, loyal, and smart dogs! I have trained him and he is now a service dog and has been the greatest companion to me as well. Lindy always responded and kept me in the loop during the entire process. Before I met her I had a nightmare situation with a breeder that was a scam so was very skeptical but she made me feel at ease about everything. Thank you for everything Lindy! Nathan Kirton I ended up finding a puppy from someone else that fit my timeline better. The communication I had with her Lindy was amazing. She was super helpful, and gave me so much information about what I could expect. Thanks for being super helpful Lindy! We waited over a year and it was so worth it! Lindy was instrumental in our family getting the dog of our dreams. She was extremely helpful in asking and answering questions to ensure we got a right match for our family. She took into consideration all of my preferential factors such as the gender, coat color, personality, etc. The cherry on top was upon pick up at 8 weeks Teddy was healthy, socialized, potty trained, and vaccinated. Lindy pours love onto these dogs and puppies and treats her clients with tremendous respect. The puppies are happy and safely kept in an immaculate environment until sent home and I love that each family is celebrated with a photo to commemorate the occasion. Definitely worth the WAIT! Chuck Hahn Best dog ever!!! Worth the wait. He came home perfect! Testimonials Happy Faces Your happiness is our happiness, your success, our success. We take great pride in each and every home we complete with our dogs. We did tons of research. We wanted a dog that did not shed, was hypoallergenic, and had a good temperament. Those dogs are hard to find! We finally came across a very special Australian Labradoodle. We found our Rosie through my best friend who knew the owner of Australian Labradoodles of Texas. Her temperment is what we were really drawn to. She is so calm, obedient, and really wants to please you. She rings a bell when she needs to go outside and walks right next to you on her leash! We feel so lucky that we get to call her ours! To say that Miles has changed our lives for the better would be an extreme understatement! From the moment we set our eyes on him in your videos, we knew he was special, and he has shown us that a million times over. He is a sweet and affectionate dog who loves his family fiercely, acting protective when he needs to, yet demonstrates such a docile and gentle temperament to other people, especially small children who love to pet and squeeze his fluffiness. I had no intention of adding another dog to the mix! After several weeks, I finally pulled the trigger and we brought him home! Charley Brown was the perfect addition to our family and I would recommend these pups to anyone looking for a good family dog. All of our puppies come with Socialization.

This intelligent, loyal and friendly breed can fill diverse roles with ease as a family dog, therapy dog, hunting companion and guide for the blind. Good natured and beautiful, the Golden Retriever is a real crowd pleaser. Temperament Golden Retrievers are known as world-class family dogs whose sweet, puppy-like temperament makes them a joyful playmate to people of all ages. Loyal, trustworthy and eager-to-please, these dogs are typically easy to train. Goldens are part of the Sporting Group, so they are hardworking and need and love! Characteristics Behind the friendly eyes of the Golden Retriever lives an intelligent mind and sweet temperament. Eager to please, Goldens are easy to train and love hearing praise when they master a new skill. Goldens are also high-energy and can perform tasks like waterfowl retrieval for hours on end. Because they were bred to assist on the hunt, keep them well exercised and busy to avoid undesirable behavior. Overall, this smart, outgoing and good-natured breed makes him a trustworthy leader in a number of fields. Golden Retrievers serve important roles such as search-and-rescue dogs, guides for the blind, hunting partners and beloved family dogs. Lifespan 10 to 12 years Colors The Golden Retriever gets his name for his beautiful and lustrous golden-colored coat. Its golden hue can range from dark to light golden, but is always a shade of gold. Shedding Goldens sport a thick, water-repellant double coat. They shed heavily one or two times a year, and moderately on a continuous basis. Brush your Golden Retriever a few times a week to keep shedding under control. Health Golden Retrievers are a generally healthy breed. Screening for elbow and hip dysplasia, eye conditions and certain heart diseases is recommended, however. Without adequate exercise, Goldens are at risk of becoming overweight. You want to select a food that will help him maintain his ideal body condition long-term. Here are a few foods that we recommend for Golden Retrievers. The protein will come from readily available sources such as chicken or beef, and not exotic or boutique sources like kangaroo or venison as you saw in second study mentioned above. According to the AKC , quality, regulated animal byproducts can be good for your dog. These byproducts can include organ meats or entrails, which often contain more nutrients than, say, plain chicken breast. Another misconception is that dogs should eat grain-free diets. As you saw in the second study mentioned above, that can actually be very harmful for your dog and cause DCM. But food labels can be a little vague and confusing, so below is an explanation of what some of these terms mean, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual and the AKC. There is one caveat though. For instance, flaked corn, ground corn, and kibbled corn could be sprinkled in an ingredient list and not be listed as the first few ingredients, but in reality, if you were to add them all up they are all corn, after all , you might find that this food is made mostly of corn. The same goes for chicken, chicken meal, and chicken byproduct. Meat vs. Meat Meal vs. The quality of these ingredients can vary widely, so be sure to talk to your vet about this and choose a reputable brand of food. Below are a few examples: Obesity. Golden Retrievers love food and they do have a tendency to become overweight if you let them. This problem can often affect these next two problems… Joint issues. Golden Retrievers are prone to joint issues and growing too fast because they eat too much can often make this problem worse more on this in the next section. Heart issues. Skin issues. Golden Retrievers are prone to hot spots and excess protein in their diets can be a factor that causes them. Many goldens suffer from food allergies. One cup of Brand X food may have calories per cup, while Brand Y has calories per cup. During a vet visit our veterinarian said he looked too small and lethargic for a puppy his age about 8 weeks at the time , and he recommended we feed him a little more. As far as how often to feed your puppy, this same rule applies. For us, we fed Oliver three times per day until he was a little over a year old. Getting a Golden Retriever Puppy? Get the gameplan for raising them right with the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook. Those two statements may sound random, but they are related. According to the Banfield Pet Hospital , overfeeding your Golden Retriever can cause them to grow too fast and increase their risk of hip dysplasia. You probably noticed that a raw diet was the fourth-most popular diet Golden Retriever owners feed their dog. Since puppies are growing and adults are just maintaining their weight, they have different dietary needs. And for fats, puppy food should have at least 8. As far as when to switch from puppy food to adult food, talk to your veterinarian. To see a list of other milestones your puppy will hit like when they lose their first teeth, or when their coat is fully grown check out this timeline of Golden Retriever puppy milestones. Like most of the other questions in this post, this is something to talk to your veterinarian about. Many foods will have the same vitamins that pills have already in them, but on the other hand, some breeders require that you give your puppy vitamins for their health guarantee to be valid. First, we unknowingly started him off on one of the brands listed in the graph above that is correlated with DCM. Then we switched to another brand that he just sort of liked. If we were to have another puppy, we would definitely start with the Royal Canin Golden Retriever Puppy food. How To Switch Food Brands The other day I was talking to someone who was complaining that her puppy was having lots of stomach issues. Dogs have sensitive stomachs so if you want to switch foods, you need to do it slowly. You should take about a week to transition from the old food to the new brand. Also consider how long the brand of food has been around, whether or not there have been any recalls of that brand, and if there is any research behind it. What do you feed your Golden Retriever puppy? Have any questions about what to feed them? Let me know in the comments below! Related articles:. Royal Canin makes dry food tailored explicitly to particular breeds. Its Golden food variation uses chicken and brown rice ingredients to support digestive health, strong bones, and a healthy coat. Gorgeous coats, healthy body conditions, great activity levels- perfect puppies! With a combination of healthy proteins, fruits, vegetables, and more, this dry dog food will encourage healthy muscle development in your Golden Retriever as well as strong teeth, a healthy heart, and improved skin and coat texture. Looking at the ingredients makes me feel that I have purchased a quality product for my guy. With ingredients like real protein, fruits, and vegetables, this dry food increases energy, strengthens bones, improves immune strength, and neutralizes free radicals. Her coat is healthier and shiny. She even trimmed down a little as her old dog food was making her fat. They produce high-quality dog food for your Golden Retriever at an affordable price. Veterinarians recommend IAMS Proactive Health because it uses ingredients like animal protein and antioxidant-rich veggies to nourish your dog and meet their complete health needs. Highly recommend it. Good for maintaining a decent weight too. Gobbles it down! With fish as the main protein, this kibble promotes a gorgeous coat and healthy skin and improves digestive issues. He eats it enthusiastically, and it has really helped him thrive! He is energetic, has a gorgeous coat, and devours his meals! She is a much happier dog. The Save Shredded Puppy Blend includes probiotics to help ease the digestion in growing Golden Retriever puppies with sensitive stomachs. I mix it with wet food, and he loves it. He loves the chunks of shredded chicken! I highly recommend it. This large-breed dry food can help your Golden Retriever maintain a healthy coat and great skin as well as smooth digestion. All of them love this food! Their coats are shiny and soft, and their poops are small! The exclusive formula also increases energy levels! We tried another brand, and it caused all kinds of allergic reactions. We went back to Eagle Pack, and all is right again. Great product! That may be because they have a senior Golden Retriever who is struggling with dental issues or feel that dehydrated food options are healthier. This particular food contains real protein and essential nutrients that can benefit dogs of all ages. Once we got this, she became a food-crazed puppy! This food includes a combination of freeze-dried raw-coated kibble with real pieces of freeze-dried raw meat! This variety has lots of meat sources plus several strains of probiotics. In general, your dog will benefit from puppy food from about 8 weeks of age until they are six months to a year old. Check with your vet to determine the right time to switch from a puppy food to one for adult dogs, as recommendations vary based on the size of your dog. A few days later, you can begin making it a half-and-half blend. Make sure to watch for loose stool from your pup as you transition — if you notice that your Golden is struggling with the new diet, wait for a few days before increasing the blend. When in doubt, check with your vet! Most dog foods come with specific volumes listed on the side. Overfeeding your pet can lead to a variety of health concerns. To determine what food will suit your dog the best, check out 17 of the top dog foods on the market for Golden Retrievers, no matter their age. Check with your vet to determine whether your Golden will need any special dietary considerations. Foods considered toxic to Golden Retrievers are macadamia nuts, chocolate, onions, garlic cloves, grapes, raisins, walnuts, alcohol, and any foods sweetened with xylitol. Try to avoid feeding your Golden food containing any of these ingredients. Grain is an essential component to the diet of Golden Retrievers. The absence of grain has been known to lead to a deficiency in taurine, which can potentially cause heart problems for your golden. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. They are growing quickly, so while they eat smaller quantities of food than adult dogs, they need to extract far more nutrients like protein, minerals, and vitamins, to sustain their growth and development. Different Dogs, Different Diets Nutritional needs vary from breed to breed. One only needs to look at golden retrievers to know they require a different diet than a Chihuahua! For example, joint and bone problems are much more common in big dogs than in little ones, but choosing the right puppy food can reduce the risk. Large-breed puppy food has reduced amounts of calcium and phosphorus, which helps control the rate of skeletal growth. Also, you may find puppy foods that contain glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and mobility. By consuming too much food, your puppy will have elevated levels of the very nutrients that should be limited. Additionally, overweight puppies may develop other health issues such as diabetes and heart disease. Good eating habits developed during puppyhood will lead to a healthy mature dog in the years to come. Nutrition For The Outside One of the most visible components of your dog is its fur. Nutrition plays a vital role in this area. A large percentage of the protein your puppy takes in goes towards maintaining its coat. Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids are also essential for healthy skin and fur. Which Food Do I Choose? There will always be those who buy the cheapest brand on the market. Some will opt for the most expensive, while others will simply go with a brand name they recognize. The key is to find the right food for your particular puppy. One thing you cannot afford to ignore is the nutritional content. Because they are still growing, puppies need more protein than adults. Proteins foster muscle growth and development in puppies and lean muscle maintenance in adults, so the more of it there is in a diet, the better it is for your growing retriever. Fats, too, are important for golden puppies because they provide the energy required for everyday activities. You should be careful, however, not to feed your golden excess calories because this will result in excess weight or obesity. Eventually, your dog will end up battling joint problems. For instance, less expensive dog foods typically have lower-quality ingredients. The contents are often inexpensive, low-grade animal protein sources, like by-products and fillers. Fillers are frequently things like cornmeal, rice flour, or seed hulls. In general, thoroughly review the nutritional content of your chosen diet. Are the ingredients wholesome and natural? Does the diet have controlled calcium and phosphorous levels? Is the calorie and fat content limited to manage growth? Does the label state that the diet is complete and balanced? This can lead to obesity and will certainly cause increased defecation. The latter of these two issues will make house training more difficult than it already is. By contrast, costlier dog foods usually have higher-quality ingredients. The scales will be tipped heavily in favor of high-grade animal protein sources and fillers will be few and far between. Price is not, however, a guarantee of quality. The best dog foods for a golden retriever puppy are made with high-quality natural ingredients and have high levels of protein. Make sure the food is complete and balanced for daily feeding and formulated to meet the nutritional needs of large breed puppies. At this point, golden retriever puppies have likely already been switched to dry puppy food and you should continue feeding your pup the same type of food the breeder used. From the day you bring them home until they are six months old, you should feed your golden retriever puppy three times a day. Ideally, your pup should have breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day. A grain-free diet is the default meal for golden retrievers that are sensitive to grains, but if your dog is healthy, feeding her such a meal boils down to choice. A lot has been said about grain-free diets. Reports and studies have been carried out in recent years trying to establish any connection between it and Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy DCM. That all starts with choosing the best puppy food for golden retrievers. Avoid low-cost foods that are more filler than substance, and look for better foods that are packed with nutrients to help your puppy grow. In particular, consider trying a large breed formula to meet the specific needs of your golden retriever puppy. Good nutrition is an essential part of any health regimen, and providing high-quality puppy food will lay the foundation for a long, and enjoyable life. You May Also Like.

The French Bulldog, or "Frenchie" as fans often call them, is short, sporty, and unmistakably sweet. It is no surprise for new owners to learn these dogs are the fourth most popular American Kennel Club AKC registered purebred dog breed in the United States! But out of all the adorably cute things French Bulldogs are known for around the world, poop eating isn't one of them. In fact, this is one of the behaviors that most stress out Frenchie owners. Why do French Bulldogs eat poop? Is this a normal behavior or is something medically wrong? Is there anything you can do to keep your Frenchie from eating poop — their own or the poop of other animals? Let's discover the answers to these questions now. If you ask your dog's veterinarian about this behavior, they will tell you it is common enough to have earned its own medical term — coprophagia "caw-pruh-fay-gee-uh". Coprophagia describes "feeding on dung. So if your French bulldog eats their own poop and if your Frenchie eats your pet cat's poop or the dog next door's poop, it is still the same behavior. But why on earth would your beloved French Bulldog do this when you lavish them with the best food and tastiest treats? It is just so gross! Just in case you need more proof that you are not alone in dealing with this issue although by now we highly doubt you do you can always check out this super-gross YouTube video made by a French Bulldog owner. But remember — we warned you! So why in the world does your French Bulldog eat poop — their own or the poop of other animals? Let's ask a veterinarian for more information. According to noted veterinarian Dr. Becker , there isn't actually just one reason why your French Bulldog may start eating poop. There can be a number of different reasons. In the world of canine biology, there are only two reasons when poop eating in companion animals may be considered "normal. A mother French bulldog eats the feces of her young as part of cleaning them If you have never bred your Frenchie, you may not realize that the mama dog has to help her newborn puppies learn to poop. She even has to remind them to poop! She does this by licking their private areas with her tongue. This teaches the young puppies to poop after they have nursed. Sometimes the mama dog will end up eating the poop as well, either to protect the puppies by eliminating odor that predators might pick up or simply because it comes out while she licks them. A French Bulldog is trying to glean extra nutrition missing from their diet The only other biological reason why a Frenchie may start eating poop here again, their own or that of other animals is due to a nutritional deficiency. For example, let's say the food you are feeding your French bulldog isn't delivering the right amount of certain key nutrients. Your dog may start eating poop to try to supplement their diet and add back important digestive enzymes, digestive fiber prebiotics , gut bacteria probiotics , vitamins, minerals, and other trace elements. This is quite common in many species of wild animals, and particularly those that are considered foraging species who may struggle to simply find enough food to survive. For some species like guinea pigs for example , poop eating is so vital they will die if they are not able to have access to their own feces. But it is not either necessary or common in companion canines unless the captive diet is deficient. Other Less Normal Reasons Why Your French Bulldog May Eat Poop In addition to these "normal" biological reasons why your French Bulldog might suddenly start to eat poop, there are other less-normal reasons that can trigger coprophagia. As your French Bulldog's doting owner, you may not be able to think of a single reason why you would ever eat poop — like, EVER — your dog can find lots of good reasons for coprophagia. Dogs Naturally Magazine outlines the most common reasons dogs eat poop that fall outside the two biological reasons we talked about here earlier. These reasons for poop eating range from the medical to the behavioral and are each common enough to have plenty of evidence behind them. Your Frenchie has a parasite or medical condition Frenchies are petite pups and active enough to use up the nutrients they get at mealtimes. But when you add a worm or a parasite that is now living off your dog's food, your pup may need to eat more to sustain them both. When this happens, your dog may still be hungry even if you are giving them ample portions at mealtimes. Eating poop maybe your dog's way to tell you there is something wrong. Your French Bulldog is bored Frenchies that get bored may start biting or eating inappropriate things, including the couch cushions, their toys, your clothes, and poop. Your dog isn't getting enough food at mealtimes If your French Bulldog is hungry, you can bet they will pop poop in their mouth as a way to fill up. Your Frenchie is still a puppy and will mouth anything and we mean anything French bulldog puppies that are going through teething are likely to mouth, bite and swallow just about anything, including poop. Your French Bulldog thinks poop smells amazing and must taste even better! It's hard to argue with such a super-sensitive sniffer! Your Frenchie has gotten stressed out for some reason French Bulldogs are very smart, and often smart dogs are more emotionally sensitive to change and disruption to their normal routine. A move, the addition of a new pet or person, even a change of food may trigger poop eating. Your French bulldog is from a puppy mill and this is a learned behavior Dogs that have been rescued from puppy mills are more likely to exhibit coprophagia because they were not given enough food heartbreakingly sad but oh-so-true. Your Frenchie has learned this behavior from their mom or another dog South Boston Animal Hospital explains some dogs learn this by watching their mom. Your Frenchie has learned that eating poop gets your attention Let's be honest. French Bulldogs are incredibly smart! If your Frenchie has noticed that eating poop always grabs your attention, you can absolutely expect this behavior to be added to their list of tricks to keep your eyes on them…and only them. How to Stop Your French Bulldog from Eating Poop From the moment you first noticed your French Bulldog chowing down on poop, you probably wanted just one thing: to make it stop. This is totally normal! But first, you have to find out exactly why it is happening. You may need to enlist the help of your dog's veterinarian to discover which of the reasons you just read about may be contributing to your dog's poop habit. Once you know the reason, it becomes a lot easier to take steps to make eating poop seem a lot less appealing. Here are some tips to try right away even while you may be waiting for veterinary test results to come back : Give your dog more activity, exercise, and playtime. Consider switching to a new food. Keep your lawn well-maintained and poop-free. Use a short leash to discourage free-range poop eating while out on walks. Don't let your dog out in the back yard unsupervised. Add calming aids for when you have to be away and your Frenchie gets anxious. Be sure you are keeping your French bulldog's daily routine very predictable. Try a poop additive sprinkling something unpleasant tasting on top of poop. Refresh your Frenchie's training lessons on "drop it" and "leave it. Do you have any great tips to share about what you did to solve the problem? We are all about finding new creative ways to keep dogs and poop apart. Drop us a comment to share your tips. Shannon Cutts As a freelance pet writer and blogger, Shannon is passionate about crafting knowledge-based, science-supported articles that foster healthy bonds of love and respect between people and animals. But her first and very most important job is as a dog auntie and cockatiel, tortoise, and box turtle mama. We are compensated for referring traffic and business to Amazon and other companies linked to this site. Especially if they give you licks with that mouth. This is a very common habit that most Frenchies pick up. This is because young Frenchies are known to copy the things they see their mother do. This likely has you wondering why the mother French Bulldog was eating the poop. You see, the mother is removing the poop from the habitat. As an act to keep her puppies safe, she will eat the poo to remove the smell. Digestion Problems If your Frenchie has a digestion problem, the food it eats could pass through its system too quickly. When the dog has a bowel movement, the food in it will smell almost identical to how it did when the dog consumed it. This can make it tempting for the Frenchie to eat the poo. Additionally, this can also happen if you are feeding the dog low-quality food. When a dog has a parasite, it will feast on everything the dog eats. Even though you may be providing all the right nutrients to your Frenchie, the parasite is absorbing them all. This leaves the Frenchie feeling very hungry and on the lookout for something to eat. Medical Issue One of the downfalls of Frenchies is that they are prone to diabetes and thyroid problems. Some French Bulldogs will have difficulties eating, whereas others will eat everything in sight. This habit has been noticed by dog owners who leave their Frenchie alone for long periods. Since Frenchies are companion dogs, they get bored if they are left alone for too long. This can lead to some bad habits, with poop eating being one of them. Medication With Steroids Many Frenchies are prone to allergies. For dogs with severe allergies, steroid treatment may be recommended by the vet. One of the side effects of steroids is an increased appetite. This will have your Frenchie eating everything edible insight, including poop. While there are many reasons why your Frenchie is eating poop, the good news is that there are also several ways you can get them to stop. Below are some of our top tips for stopping this dirty habit. Nutrition is key to good health. In many cases, a Frenchie will eat the poop because it smells of food in it. For this reason, you may need to reconsider what you are feeding the dog. When you buy good quality food, it will keep the dog full for longer. Be positive with your training methods so the dog responds well and you will have more success. Make a Poo Spray When all else fails, you need to make that poop unappetizing. Common choices include: Spices. Close share Copy link Everybody loves puppies and their cute antics. French bulldogs are no exception. However, they often get a bad reputation for eating their poop. This is not fair on the dog as they are not doing it to deliberately be disgusting, they are just trying to survive. This blog will look at why they eat their poop and how you can stop it. There are many reasons why your French bulldog would do this but some of the common reasons are Coprophagia Most dog owners will tell you that their pet dogs eat poop because they are not aware of what they're ingesting. That may be true for some French bulldogs, but all dog breeds have their unique tastes, preferences, and dietary needs. For example, French Bulldogs will oftentimes enjoy eating fecal matter or other types of foods that you probably don't even know they have a taste for. And this is referred to as coprophagia. Following Mother Instinct Frenchie puppies start eating their poop they are with their littermates. They learn this behavior from their mother, who will naturally tidy up the "nest. Puppies will emulate their mother's behavior and may begin to ingest feces. Parasites Dogs with parasite infections tend to obsessively eat certain foods. This is because the parasites consume all of the dog's food, so there's nothing left to eat. In the end, they will start eating their own feces. The best way to deal with a dog in this condition is to examine their poop regularly and take them to the vet for treatment as soon as possible. Over Use Of Steroids Allergies in French bulldogs can result in a variety of issues, from skin sensitivity to behavioral problems. In some cases, it might lead to serious itching which can be treated with steroids, but these medications tend to affect chronically ill French bulldogs. They also increase hunger, so your dog may not eat for hours and then gorge on its poop. Again, this is another common occurrence reported by many Frenchie owners. Medical Issues French bulldogs are not immune to diabetes and unfortunately, this incurable condition brings bad things. Some dogs refuse to eat while others get an increased appetite. This can be rather unappetizing to a puppy, but they will take it as an attractive option and start eating their poop. Anxiety When your French bulldog suffers from anxiety, they may have a few undesirable habits that stem outward. For example, your dog may begin to start eating his poop in stress. And can you stop from them eating it? Why does my French Bulldog eat poop? French Bulldogs eating poop is very common, particularly with puppies. It can be due to a number of reasons in adult dogs including boredom and health issues. Frenchie puppies will eat poop due to digestion issues, hunger, and evolutionary behaviour. Why a French Bulldog puppy keeps eating poop? Firstly, you should not be concerned to see a Frenchie puppy eating poop. They will often start doing this whilst in the litter. She will do this as an evolutionary trait, as animals will clean poop away from youngsters to stop predators being attracted by the smell. Puppies will naturally mimic their mother and can start to eat faeces. However, some French Bulldog puppies will continue to keep eating poop until they grow older. They will be naturally attracted to the smell and are curious to taste and test things out. Even at this age, the sight of a freshly laid poop can be very enticing to a young Frenchie puppy. Just like a human baby naturally puts things in their mouth to try them out, puppies are no different — even if that is the stools and faeces of another dog! Aside from the evolutionary behaviour already spoken about which they should grow out of here are more reasons why your French Bulldog could still be eating his poop as a puppy. Because he has poor digestion and low nutrient food If your Frenchie puppy is having difficulty in digesting his food, he may continue to eat poop for a few months as a youngster. It will smell and taste almost exactly the same — this is very tempting for a puppy! Because he is hungry Frenchie puppies are very prone to picking up intestinal parasites and worms, particularly if they have continued to eat poop outside of the litter. Have a read of that and stick to it — your Frenchie puppy needs to be fed well three times a day, and if you skip this, the hunger can lead to poop eating. Because he wants attention All French Bulldog puppies want attention, and plenty of it! Any attention is good attention to a Frenchie puppy. Because he is bored This is weird but true. Some French Bulldog puppies will eat poop if they are bored. This is really common with Frenchie owners who have left their puppies alone for long periods of time. Frenchies are a very sociable breed, so leave them alone at your own peril. If you find your French Bulldog puppy eating his own poop, perhaps you need to spend a bit more time with him. Because he is stressed French Bulldogs eating poop, particularly adult ones, will often be a sign that they are depressed and stressed. It does affect puppies too though. Stress can manifest itself in many different ways, with destructive and anti-social behaviour being high on the list. Your puppy could be feeling this way due to a sudden change in his environment such as a home move, a new animal being introduced, or a big scare. If you are unsure about whether your dog is happy or not, and how to tell, read this blog post I wrote about the signs of Frenchie happiness to look out for. An unhappy Frenchie can eat their own poop — how happy is yours? He fell into the trap of telling his puppy off every time he defecated on the kitchen floor. He should not have done this for a number of reasons, but one major consequence was the puppy would eat his poop each time he did it. The reason why? Should you be concerned about poop eating? Most will grow out of it in time. By reacting badly, you could make the situation worse. Below I will take you through some methods on how to stop a French Bulldog eating his own poop, so please read that. But, should you be worried about health risks from your Frenchie eating faeces? However, if your Frenchie is eating the poop of another dog or animal regularly, then this could lead to a health issue. They can also end up digesting medication or other foreign bodies that are designed for their digestive system. Signs that your French Bulldog might have a health problem from eating poop include: Gastroenteritis: is your Frenchie sick, hot, dry heaving, or depressed? Vomiting and diarrhoea: this is easy to spot here are more reasons for vomiting Decreased appetite: has your Frenchie gone off his food? Tiredness: is your French Bulldog less active than usual and lethargic? Intestinal parasites: can you see worms in their faeces? If your French Bulldog puppy keeps eating poop or adult dog and you see any of the warning signs above, please consult a professional vet immediately for proper advice. How to stop your French Bulldog from eating its poop So, how do you prevent your French Bulldog from eating poop? Here are the best tips for preventing poop eating. Feed your Frenchie a well-balanced and nutritional diet French Bulldogs who have a well-balanced diet with plenty of nutrient-rich food should not really be eating poop. Make sure you have your puppy on good quality food, so he gets all the goodness he needs including protein, minerals, vitamins and other essential nutrients. Look out for signs of bad digestion As already discussed, poor digestion can lead your Frenchie to this unsettling habit. If your dog is eating faeces more than what might be considered normal, then look out for signs of a digestive problem including: Slowed growth and development. Increased vomiting and throwing up. Watery and liquid type stools. Large lumps of undigested food in the stools. Give your Frenchie lots of attention and exercise A bored Frenchie leads to a multitude of problems, including the dreading poop eating. Always clean up immediately after your puppy has done his business. You are taking his opportunity away to examine the stool and taste it. Some owners say that this works wonders as it can make their poop taste foul and will help to quickly break the habit. As well as pineapple, some online vets have said that you can add other elements to their diet such as meat tenderizer, digestive enzymes, or natural additives. They share the same yard and garden space. Here you can see Claude sniffing out some interesting cow dung in our local forest. The first time Claude had a bite on a spicy cat poop, he soon stopped. If you have a poop-eater, keep them leashed at all times until they grow out of the disgusting habit. We live near a large forest where there are roaming animals such as cows and horses and Claude loved their dung. We kept him on his lead for a few months to stop from eating it all. Discourage your Frenchie from doing it with a distraction. This could be a ball or a treat, but anything to get them away from the faeces. Positive reinforcement works wonders with French Bulldog puppies… After time, they should break the habit and you will be able to give them more freedom to explore as they get older. What if none of this works? If your French Bulldog continues to eat poop despite all your best efforts using the tips listed above, you will need to consult a professional. Your vet will be able to give advice, or possibly an animal behaviourist which I am not. What other Frenchie owners say? Give your Frenchie some pineapple as when it comes out the other end it stinks worse than normal. I saw this on TV when they said it makes the poop very acidic and they typically stay away. Maybe it works for some Frenchies but not my two girls. My last resort is using a hot a spicy chili sauce on the poop and this has worked well so far. But I do have to go out into the yard first. So on advice from the vet , we left her poop we try and collect it as soon as possible and then added some Tobasco sauce to it. This helped to break the habit with our Frenchie and he no longer sees it as a valuable prize. Do it for a couple of weeks and see how you get on. It worked very well for us, and it stopped the eating. Try to give them a supplement to counteract any vitamin or mineral deficiencies they may have. Also, this poop eating is unfortunately a way for pups to contract coccidia which is an intestinal parasite. Treatment will be something called Albon oral medicine. So yes, crushed pineapple is the best way to stop your Frenchie eating poop, at least for us. I am glad it worked, as whilst I was researching this guide, I found some worrying information about toxoplasmosis. If your French Bulldog eats cat poop, he could get infected with toxoplasmosis. It can be very dangerous, and I recommend reading this guide on the PetMd. Conclusion Poop eating known as coprophagy is very common in Frenchies, particularly puppies, so should not really be worried about unless it continues regularly into adulthood. We walk him in the local forest frequently where there is an abundance of horse, rabbit, fox, and cow dung. Not only does he occasionally try to eat it but will also roll in it… disgusting! Faeces can be very enticing to dogs. You might also like…. What should I do if my French Bulldog eats poop? Home » What should I do if my French Bulldog eats poop? It is common enough to have its own name called coprophagy. Not all Frenchies will do this but some will. Medical Reasons Your French Bulldog eats poop. Enzyme Deficiency: Wild dogs were depending on eating whole prey for food which would provide them with additional digestive enzymes that just the ones they produce. Think pancreas. Digestive enzymes help break down nutrients in a way that they can be digested. If they are not getting enough nutrients they could turn around and eat their poo. Parasites Your Frenchie could have parasites. Parasites need food too to stay alive and may cause your French Bulldog to not be able to absorb nutrients. Increased appetite from conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, or taking steroids may make your little one feel hungry 3. He may then turn to finding those nutrients in his feces. If your French Bulldog is losing weight he may not be getting enough nutrients from his food. A hungry dog will look for other sources of food. Learned behavior from mother. One of the reasons they might is they learn it from their mother. Some of their little ones just might catch on and make it a habit. Exploration Most puppies put everything in their mouths to learn more about their environment…including poop. Fortunately, I have noticed most Frenchies who do tend to grow out of it in a few weeks, months, and at the latest around one year old. Dogs are natural scavengers and unlike us it smells great to them. Some dogs eat their own poo to relieve stress. Attention seeking It may seem weird but some may think bad attention is better than no attention. They may do it for attention. Some dogs are concerned with being punished so they eat it to hide the evidence. How to stop your French Bulldog from eating poop. Keep it clean. Go outside with your Frenchie and pick up the poop as soon as he goes. Develop Play. Make sure they are safe and always supervise when playing with toys. See Frenchie toys! Add a good quality multivitamin with minerals. For a hydrochloric acid deficiency consider adding apple cider vinegar in their water or mixed with food at 1 tsp per 25lbs body weight. Check for parasites. Call your vet and ask for him to do a fecal sample. Deworm your Frenchie regularly as well. Keep your French Bulldogs digestive tract in consideration when eating poo. He may be deficient in something. I will tell you that each of mine has outgrown it. French Bulldog Puppies 3. You can also try probiotics or one of the several products which are designed to stop or restrict poop eating and help them digest food easier. Train Your Frenchie Training is key to addressing unwanted behaviors, and poop eating is no exception. In each and every case, it is vital to communicate with your Frenchie that this behavior is unacceptable. These will come in handy when you catch them eyeing that pile of poop. It would catch her off guard and she would move away. I did that every time so she would associate the sound with the eating of the poop. She no longer eats her poop outside, but if she occasionally poops in her crate, she may, but she does not do it all the time. Positive reinforcement is also very effective in reinforcing a desired behavior, so if your Frenchie stays away from their poop, give a reward such as treats and praise. With poop eating this is especially true, as the health of your furry friend is at stake: regular poop eating can lead to diarrhea and other issues. In addition to poop, your Frenchie might also find all sorts of dangerous things outside which could even be fatal when ingested. Wait for the moment they want to eat it and step in! If they leave the food right away, praise them and show how happy you are. So, keeping your Frenchie mentally and physically stimulated can help redirect their energy and prevent them from resorting to poop-eating. Provide your puppy with interactive toys, play with them regularly, and take them for daily walks to keep their minds engaged and their bodies active. Read our article on how much exercise French Bulldogs need to learn everything about the topic! Your vet or a certified dog behaviorist can provide further guidance and develop a tailored plan to address the issue. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key to success. With your love, care, and a proactive approach, you can help your French Bulldog kick the poop-eating habit and lead a healthier, happier life. Frenchie puppies may eat their poop because of natural instincts, nutritional deficiencies, boredom or some kind of underlying health issue. How to get my French Bulldog to stop eating poop? The article is based on the expert knowledge of the TomKings Puppies team who have been breeding French Bulldogs for 10 years on their farm. All the pictures in the post belong to them and their customers, and show puppies from their breed. Check their available French Bulldog puppies , or if you have any questions or comments let us know below the article.