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German Shepherd puppy development stages and ages — week by week guide Welcome to our German Shepherd puppy development stages and ages — week by week guide Different breeds like all different babies develop at different rates. There are going to be many exciting events for you to look forward to. Whether you are bringing your 8 week German Shepherd puppy home or about to be blessed with a litter of puppies. This is going to be an exciting, demanding but hugely rewarding journey. Newborn puppies are born at around days after fertilization. Newborn puppies are born with their ears and eyes tightly sealed. The reason eyelids are sealed shut is to form a protective barrier for the fragile developing eye. This helps to protect them from any foreign object, bright lights, bacteria or any other microorganism that can cause disease or damage. In the same way puppies ear canals are closed at birth to make them effectively deaf. This is a protective barrier to protect the fragile underdeveloped machinery needed to hear. In a mature ear the pressure caused by sound will mechanically move structures in the ear. German Shepherd puppies are highly dependent upon their noses. Puppies navigate by smell from the moment they are born. This helps them to identify their mom, the very important milk supply, siblings and surroundings. Newborn puppies are born with a fur coat however they cannot control their own body temperature yet. To keep them warm they are dependant on their mothers or another heat source. If you live in a cooler climate installing a heat lamp would be ideal to help keep the puppies nice and warm. Germans Shepherds make amazing mothers and will be relied on a lot at this stage. Mother dogs will only leave their newborn puppies to go to the toilet, eat and drink. However, when mom has gone the newborn puppies are not completely useless. They are able to use their front paws to drag themselves towards a heat source. When mom is away the puppies will crawl together to preserve their body heat. Along with being able to drag themselves to a heat source newborn puppies are also able to drag themselves to their mothers to locate the milk supply. They will move their heads around to search for a nipple, latch on and suck strongly. Newborn puppies are not born with teeth these will also develop in the next several weeks. Other than the above puppies are completely dependent upon the care of their dedicated mom. Newborn puppies have little control over the rear end of their bodies. To encourage their pups to pass urine and bowel movements the mom will lick their bottoms. Anything produced mom will then lick up and swallow to keep her puppies and nest clean. Some pups will even double their birth weight! Your German Shepherd puppy will still be highly dependent upon their mom at this stage. Beneath all their fur the vital organs will be working hard to mature. This includes the eyes. Your puppy will not be ready to open their eyes yet but lots of changes are taking place to prepare them for grand opening. The ear canals will begin to open around the same time as the eyes. When the ear canals do open, the ears are much more formed than the eyes are at this point in time. Their eyesight usually takes around 8 weeks to reach its full potential. When their eyes become wider, they will reveal blueish-gray eyes which are hazy in appearance. Their eyesight will continue to develop until around 8 weeks old. The ear canals will also open around 2 weeks. The puppies hearing has been developing much quicker than their eyesight and they will be able to hear most things by the time their ear canals fully open. However, their amazing hearing ability will continue to enhance over the next several weeks. At the moment your German Shepherd puppy will have cute floppy ears. Their adorable tall ears can come up anywhere between 8 weeks and 6 months of age. Floppy ears are common until your German Shepherd finishes teething. By then the ear cartilage will become strong and hard enough for the ears to stand up permanently. Now is a good time to start handling the puppies and get them used to your voice. Most puppies are wormed for the first time when they are 2 weeks old. All this development has happened so quickly, but things are about to get even more exciting. Between 2 and 4 weeks your German Shepherd puppy will begin to stand up this is when the real fun begins. Puppies milky teeth will also start to develop between 2 to 4 weeks. These sharp little teeth will remain until about weeks of age. These little daggers play an important role during the weaning process. Even the most patient moms will struggle to nurse with these sharp painful teeth. This reluctance to nurse will prompt the German Shepherds to seek alternative food sources. These sharp teeth will then help to make up for the lack of jaw strength when eating solid foods. Finally, these sharp puppy teeth play an important role in teaching the pups to gauge their bite pressure when playing with their mom and siblings. This is an essential life lesson that enables our powerful German Shepherds to become safer companions as they mature into strong adult dogs. During the last few weeks mom has done an amazing job of getting her babies strong and their mobility will have come on leaps and bounds well not quite yet but by 3 weeks of age your German Shepherd puppy will begin to trotter around. Most 3 week old German Shepherd puppies can stand and sit. With their baby teeth starting to cut through a lot of breeders. Especially those with large litters will start introducing some solid foods. This helps relieve some of the pressure for the devoted German Shepherd mom. When weaning puppies, you need to start off by soaking their food in either water or puppy milk replacement formula to make it mushy and more comfortable for them to eat. As they start to interact and play with their siblings their personalities will really start to show. You may also notice them starting to playfully growl at each other. At 3 weeks old it will become easier to start identifying different members of the pack. Breeders and moms will be kept on their toes and paws over the next few weeks. As the pups start getting more confident on their feet they will be running around and playing enthusiastically. At 4 weeks old they will begin to wag their adorable little tails. With solid food becoming a major part of their diet the pups will be passing bigger bowel movements. They will be able to show more control of their bowel movements as they take themselves away from their brothers and sisters to perform their business. At this stage mom will be taking a much more relaxed approach to parenting and there will be a lot more for the breeder to clear up. By this point mealtimes are a messy process. If it is warm and safe enough to do so we would recommend taking the pups out in the yard for feeding. German Shepherd puppies are becoming a lot stronger at vocalisations by 4 weeks old. When mom returns to her babies the litter will noisily greet her. Around 4 weeks of age your puppies will need to be wormed again. From this week onwards human interaction is very important in order to form relationships with people. Including different noises and smells. This exposure will ensure your German Shepherd puppy turns into a confident, friendly individual. Mom will also be doing an important job of teaching her puppies to not bite too hard. Even an 8 week old German Shepherd puppy would have the power in their jaws to break the smaller bones in humans fingers. This is why mom teaching her puppies bite inhibition is so important. For more information on bite inhibition please see our guide on German Shepherd bite inhibition. By 5 weeks old German Shepherd puppies will be eating a lot of solid foods, several times throughout the day. Those sharp little teeth would have done their job and mom will be gradually weaning her pups of the dependency on her milk. When mom does feed her puppies, she will only do so for a short period whilst standing up. They will be eating between five and six small meals a day. Although the pups no longer rely on mom for milk, they still need her help and guidance for the next few weeks. Mom will be teaching her babies important life skills to live alongside humans. In some countries 6 week old puppies are taken away from their mothers and moved into their new home. We would not recommend this as the puppies will miss out on continued bite inhibition training from their siblings and mother. This can result in a puppy who bites too hard which can be challenging to manage as they get older. In the USA your puppy will be due their first combined 5-in-1 vaccine at 6 weeks old. This vaccine helps to immunizes your puppy against hepatitis, parvo, distemper, parainfluenza and coronavirus. Most puppies will also need to be wormed again at 6 weeks old. Their last week together will consist of plenty of socialization and playing. Most breeders will arrange a 7 week health check up with the vet to make sure your bundle of fluff is fit and healthy to go to their new home. In the UK some breeders will arrange for the pups first 8 week vaccination to take place during this check. Although some vets advise against it. By the end of this week German Shepherd puppies are ready to leave their mothers and move into their new homes for good. The week you get to take your new puppy home. This will be a very exciting time, but you may also be feeling a bit nervous. There will be some challenged along the way for new puppy owners and your puppy will take some time to adjust to life without its mother and siblings. In the UK the first combined vaccination will help to immunizes your puppy against distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis and hepatitis. The first puppy injection in the UK typically will happen between 8 and 10 weeks. Some breeders would have trained the puppies to poop and pee on newspapers or puppy pads. From the moment you get them home it is important to show your German Shepherd puppy where to pee and poop. Puppies naturally like to pee where they have done so before so to avoid building history of peeing in your home is best if you can to avoid it. The more you can avoid accidents from happening as much as possible from the start the faster the puppy training process should be. All puppies are different, and some will get this quicker than others. The main thing to remember is not to discipline your puppy for accidents. The most successful way to potty train is to reward success and ignore accidents. Just clean them up quickly and thoroughly. Your puppy will love nothing more than being praised. For more information please see our guide on How to potty train your German Shepherd puppy. Already your German Shepherd puppy will feel like part of the family. German Shepherds puppies are always adorable but at 9 weeks they are at the age where they are still puppy-like but very clumsy,curious and keen to play with her new family, which is very cute. Your German Shepherds unique personality will make you feel very proud. At 9 weeks your cheeky German Shepherd pup will be feeling more confident, with this the need to explore everything and anything may end up getting them into trouble. Your puppy will develop new sleeping patterns and feeding routines which you will need to adapt to. Most puppies will sleep between eighteen and twenty hours a day at 9 weeks old. During the day when you are with your puppy generally you will not need to shut them away in a crate to nap. German Shepherd puppies are often more than happy to sleep whilst family life goes on around them. However, there will be times when sleeping in a crate is better and safer for your puppy. You must not leave a 9 week old puppy to sleep outside the crate if you are not home to watch them if they wake. Puppies are into everything and many innocent items found in the house could be a potential hazard to your inquisitive pup. For more information please see our guide on how to puppy proof your home. Even if your puppy can barely keep their eyes open other pups and children will still want to play and your German Shepherd puppy may find it hard to refuse. After a hard day of play the peace and quiet of a crate will enable your pup to have a well-deserved nap. If your German Shepherd puppy does need to go to the toilet in the night make sure you keep it short and to a minimum. Establishing a daily routine is the best way to get your German Shepherd puppy to sleep through the night. Part of this schedule will involve mealtimes. Your 9 week old puppy will need four meals a day. Split these up throughout the day and try to stick to similar times. This is to stop encouraging your puppy to wake up earlier and earlier because they associate waking with food. You should always reward your puppy either vocally, with a favourite toy or treats for good behaviour and ignore bad behaviour. Puppies and dogs want to be praised so they respond very well to positive encouragement. Punishing puppies and dogs may have a short term positive effect on their behaviour but long term you could be setting them up to fail. It is very important to socialise and expose your puppy to other humans, dogs and different scenarios whilst they are young. This maybe hard before your puppy has had all its vaccines however getting many different people to come and visit you at your home will enable them to get used to visitors. Before their full vaccinations you can also, you can take you German Shepherd puppy out and about with you to expose them to the outside world as long as you can carry them. If you live in the USA, your puppy will be due their second combined 5-in-1 vaccine at 9 weeks old. In the USA a minimum of three sets of the combined vaccine are required for your puppy. Although you cannot put your puppy down outside until after their final vaccination. Puppies 10 week injection In the UK is a booster vaccination to help immunizes your puppy against distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis and hepatitis. Check with your vet what date after their jabs your German Shepherd puppy will be able to go down outside. Your puppy will then need a booster between 6 and 12 months old. If you live in the USA at 12 weeks old your German Shepherd puppy will be due their booster for the combined 5in1 vaccine against hepatitis, distemper, parainfluenza, parvo and coronavirus and a vaccine against rabies and leptospirosis. If you live in a high risk area, they may also need to be given the vaccination to help immunize them against Lyme. If applicable at 16 weeks your German Shepherd puppy may need to have a fourth combined 5in1 vaccine. A minimum of three combined injections are required in the USA. Check with your vet what date they will be able to be out down outside. By 10 weeks old your German Shepherd puppy will be able to control their bladder a lot more. Potentially up to several hours. This is great time for you to introduce them to the big wide world and develop their social skills which you have already been building the foundations. When taking your German Shepherd puppy out try to introduce them to as many other friendly dogs, humans and noises you can. This will help your German Shepherd puppy to grown into a confident well-rounded dog. At 3 months old your German Shepherd will go down from four daily meals to three. These three portions will be larger than what they are used to which may cause stomach upset. If your German Shepherd puppy does get an upset stomach, try going back to four smaller meals for a couple of days and they try the three larger portions again. This can be a challenging time as your adorable German Shepherd puppy turns into a furry crocodile. Luckily the teething stage is only a phase as with human babies and short lived. In most cases your puppy biting should stop around when they are around 7 months old and have their adult teeth. You maybe noticing your German Shepherds gorgeous ears fluctuating between floppy and pointy. By the time your puppy has finished teething their ears should tick up all the way. This usually happens around months. As they grow their cartilage becomes stronger. Some puppies need another month or so to help them cope without going out for frequent toilet breaks. Even when your German Shepherd puppy is toilet trained occasional accidents are normal. German Shepherds do have large ears but they tend to grow into them as they get older. German Shepherd puppies will begin to grow their new adult coat between 4 and 6 months old. To make way for their adult coat all the puppy hair has to go. For several weeks you will notice an increase in shedding. This is a completely normal part of growing up for your German Shepherd. Being a double coat breed German Shepherds dogs have a topcoat and an undercoat. Twice a year your pup will shed their undercoat. Usually in spring and again in fall. They also shed in general days a year so be prepared for a lot of fur! They will very much look like a smaller version of their adult selves. Although your German Shepherd may look older on the inside, they are still very much a puppy. If you are looking to get your puppy neutered or spayed the recommended age is 6 to 9 months. However, it is common for some female puppies to get spayed at 4 months old. Summary: Your German Shepherd is bound to give you so much joy and happiness throughout its life. There will be challenges along the way but remember this is completely normal. German Shepherds are such an amazing breed and you will have a loyal friend for life. Related Posts. Baby German Shepherds growing up! German Shepherd Dogs are one of the most popular dog breeds out there at the moment, with many devoted fans. They can be large and imposing as adults. But, like every breed, they have a cute puppy phase that many fall in love with. However, since most puppies are bought at weeks old, most of us miss out on this magical period of their lives. So what happens during those first important weeks? A typical German Shepherd litter consists of around puppies. The mean average, according to a study performed in , is 6. When they are first born, they will still have an umbilical cord attached and may be covered in amniotic fluid. Their mother should chew off the umbilical cord and spend the first few hours cleaning their pups. Then mom will focus on keeping her newborn pups warm while allowing them to nurse. At this stage, German Shepherd puppies will just sleep and avoid expending energy. They will frequently nurse from their mother. Newborn German Shepherds When baby German Shepherd puppies are first born, they are completely dependent on their mother. Their ears and eyes will be closed and they will be unable to regulate their own body temperature efficiently. A coat should be present, and the color will depend on the genes they have inherited from their parents. Black with tan markings is the most common for this breed. Additionally, they will be relatively immobile. They will be unable to properly support their own weight. Therefore, they will commonly crawl on their stomach to move about. They will also be unable to urinate or defecate on their own. Stimulation from their mother will be required to help them go to the toilet. One Week Old Baby German Shepherd In the first week, the puppies should bulk up significantly and double their birth weight. However, there will not be much change in their behavior. They will still primarily be focused on nursing and sleeping. To help themselves stay warm, the puppies will normally cuddle close to each other, except for when they are in a hot environment. At this stage, they will still be blind and deaf. While they are still unable to see very well, this is a big step. Eyes should open for the first time at around days of age. They will appear blue in color, but this will change into brown as they develop. They may become a little more inquisitive about their surroundings with their new-found eyesight, and may begin to crawl around a little more. We can expect to see them make some big steps at this stage. Firstly, at around days old, their ears should begin to open for the first time. They should now be able to both see and hear, though not too clearly. Their senses will continue to develop over the coming weeks. They will begin to be able to stand and support their own weight. Walking may still be tough, though! They will likely be pretty wobbly. You can also expect to see their baby teeth come in at around this time. While they still get the majority of their nutrition from their mother, they will begin to show interest in solid food. They will begin to become more independent at this age, being able to urinate and defecate on their own. Beginning Of Socialization With their sight and hearing, they are likely to show a little bit of adventure and courage for the first time, exploring their surroundings as much as their unsteady gait will allow them. This milestone also marks the beginning of the socialization period, a critical phase of their development. Things learned now can shape their personality and behavior for the rest of their lives. They may engage the other puppies in clumsy play and show body language such as tail wagging for the first time. They will form relationships with their den mates, their mother, and humans. This stage is critical in getting the puppies used to humans. This can be achieved by gently exposing the puppies to human presence and contact so that they can see that they are no threat. While their brains are still very much in development, they are still able to learn some simple concepts at this stage. Crate and potty training can begin at this age. They should now be able to walk pretty well. This mobility will allow them to further play with their family and be even more curious about their surroundings. On top of this, their baby teeth should now be fully formed and the weaning process should be fully underway. They should be offered soft but solid food. They may begin to show signs of more complex social behaviors towards their other den mates, and they should learn important skills like bite inhibition. The socialization process should continue, with the puppies gently being exposed to new people, sights, and sounds. The German Shepherd babies will also be further weaned off the mother at this time, slowly moving onto a fully solid diet. Six Week Old Baby German Shepherd At this age, you will begin to see the puppies become even more independent of their mother. Six week old puppies are gaining social skills rapidly, and love to play with people and each other. Seven Week Old Baby German Shepherd When we move into the seventh week of their life, a new significant phase of development starts to begin: the fear period. While this sounds disconcerting, it merely means that this is the time that many puppies begin to show fear towards new things, rather than curiosity. Things that the puppy may find scary or uncertain during this time can make for big changes in their personality throughout life. For example, if a puppy has a bad experience with a human at this stage, it may lead them to becoming fearful and distrustful towards people for the rest of their life. This is why gently exposing the puppies to humans and common sights and sounds beforehand is important. By preemptively socializing the puppies with humans, we can help this period run smoother. The puppies will have reached weights of around pounds and should be around inches tall. Their ears will lie flat but should begin to become erect and upright over the coming weeks. They will be fully independent of their mother at this age. They should be completely weaned, with some basic training and socialization. From here, new owners are expected to continue to train and socialize them, as they are still within a critical period of development. New owners will also need to continue to ensure the German Shepherd puppy is fed a good, nutritionally balanced diet. For more information, you can check out our full puppy development guide here. And make sure you also take a look at this guide to bathing a puppy!

Health and breeding information What diseases can occur in a Box-a-Shar? These mixed breeds are brave, stubborn, intelligent and loyal, which makes them excellent family dogs. Unfortunately, they can also suffer from various diseases, so it is important to be aware of any potential risks. One of the most common health problems with this hybrid breed is respiratory distress syndrome. This is a condition in which breathing becomes obstructed, which can have serious consequences. Symptoms include severe emaciation, shortness of breath, coughing, seizures and a general malaise. Treatment can be difficult, but usually there is a good prognosis with proper care. Other possible conditions in this breed include skin allergies, atopy and heart disease. Atopy is an allergic reaction to certain allergens in the environment and usually requires lifelong treatment. Allergic skin conditions such as dermatitis and eczema can be recurrent and cause severe itching. Heart disease can lead to serious complications that can go untreated and even be fatal. It is important that owners of Boxer Shar-Pei mixes have their puppy examined regularly for findings. Finding potential problems early can help manage them effectively. Additionally, it is important that dog owners follow their veterinarian's vaccination recommendations to prevent potential diseases. With proper care and vaccinations, owners can provide their dog with a happy and healthy life. What does this mongrel look like? The coat texture and color of a Boxer and Shar-Pei mongrel are very different. In general, they have short, dense and shiny fur. The color varies from light brown to black, sometimes with white markings. However, there are also cases where the dog has a combination of both colors, with the light brown color dominating. Sometimes they also have brown spots that resemble tiger stripes. The coat is tough and it is resistant to different weather conditions. They have a prominent lion's mane around their face and a shaggy coat on their tail. What are breed characteristics of this mix dog? This mix dog grows to be about cm tall and kg when it reaches adulthood. It has a flat, narrow face with a thin mouth and a very short muzzle. The head is slightly domed at the forehead and medium sized ears will protrude from the fur at the back of the head. His body is square and muscular, with short smooth coat, short tail and a few loose folds of skin around the shoulders and middle of the back. His color ranges from deep red to light brown with white markings in various places. Fur length. To make this calculation easier, all dog foods produced and sold in the United States have a feeding guide on the packaging that will allow you to see just how much food your dog needs. You will also find that most premium brands offer a variety of age-specific products that will ensure that your pet gets the right balance of vitamins and minerals that they need to live a happy and healthy life. Typically, a nice long walk around the neighborhood or a run in the park is enough for them. If you are extremely active, your Box-a-Shar will quite happily exercise with you. Of course, you should remember that just as exercise is important for good human health, it is also an important part of keeping your dog fit and healthy, which means that a dog that exercises more frequently is likely to stay healthy longer than one who gets less regular exercise. Also, these dogs can occasionally become a little stubborn, and as frustrating as that is, the best way to move past this may be to change up what it is you are doing and try to turn the activity into a game for your dog. Ideally, you should brush them at least once or twice a week to remove any loose hair from their coat. When it comes to bathing, it is best to limit their baths to when they need it. Box-a-Shars should also have their teeth brushed once or twice a week with a canine toothpaste, their ears checked for obstructions regularly, and their nails clipped every other month to prevent them from growing too long and breaking. With hybrid breeds, it is difficult to say with any certainty whether conditions that typically affect one of their parent breeds will be passed on to your puppy, but unless you have veterinary advice to the contrary, it is always best to assume that they can. Careful and selective breeding practices can reduce the impact of many hereditary health problems. For this reason, you should always purchase a puppy from a reputable breeder. The conditions to which the Box-a-Shar is susceptible include: Minor Conditions. Height: 18 - 20 inches at the shoulder Weight: 40 - 65 lb. Lifespan: 9 - 11 years Boxer Shar Pei Mix - Boxpei Personality Like all hybrids, you have to look to the parents to get a good read on how they will likely behave. This could obviously make for a very powerful and strong breed. Both of these parent breeds can be strong and powerful and have very strong prey and drive instincts. They should get along well with other animals if exposed and socialized properly as well. They are somewhat capable of independence, or alone time when the house is noisy or full. She responds well to positive reinforcement, like all dogs. She should be rather affectionate and enjoy spending lots of time with you. However, the one positive thing about getting a puppy is that you can avoid this as much as possible. A breeder should absolutely offer a health guarantee on puppies. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. The Dalmatian mixed with the Shar Pei might be prone to Eye problems, Hypothyroidism, Cancer, skin problems, bloat, patellar luxation, OCD, Joint dysplasia, Swollen hock syndrome, Note that these are just common problems in both breeds. This will be a more challenging dog to groom due to the wrinkles with the Shar Pei. Be prepared to brush them a few times a week. Either way, get ready to invest in a good vacuum if you want to keep your floors clean! Give them baths as needed, but not so much that you dry out their skin. Never tie your dog up outside - that is inhumane and not fair to him. What are the exercise requirements? Plan on taking them for extremely long walks and hikes to keep their energy level down. This exercise will keep them from being destructive. A tired dog is a good dog. A tired dog is a good dog though. What are the training requirements? This is an intelligent dog that will be a little bit challenging to train. They are going to want to take the alpha position and need someone with a firm, strong, hand that can let them know their place. The best thing you can do is break the sessions into shorter daily sessions to keep their attention span higher. It might have a prey drive and be disposed to running for and chasing small prey, but if handled properly this can be managed. All dogs respond best to positive reinforcement. So make sure to praise her when she does well. She is an intelligent dog who loves to please, and loves a physical challenge. The more exercise she gets the easier she will be to train. Proper socialization is imperative to all dogs and puppies. Make sure to take her to the park and doggy day care to get her around as many people and dogs as possible. Each one is unique and has different dietary requirements. Most dogs in the U. A mix like this one that is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia should really be on fish oil and glucosamine and chondroitin supplements as soon as possible. Overfeeding any dog is not a good idea as that can really exacerbate health problems such as elbow and hip dysplasia. A good diet to look into is Raw Food Diet. A raw food diet will be especially good for the Wolf background. Links to other breeds you might be interested in. Black, golden, light brown, merle Suitable for: Families with children and pets who want an affectionate breed Temperament: Loyal, affectionate, great with other pets and children This breed is ideal for families that already have other pets or children and are looking for a large, affectionate dog. Although this breed is large and strong, it is really affectionate, loyal, and gets along with almost any member of the family. If you are considering reading a Boxpei, read this article first. This complete guide tells you everything you need to know about Boxpei ownership so that you can decide whether or not this adorable breed is right for your home. 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. Even though Shar Peis and Boxers alone are really popular dogs, this mix is not. Because of the rarity of this breed, finding a Boxpei puppy can be a bit challenging. There is almost no chance that you will be able to find this attractive breed in a local shelter, especially if it is a puppy. Occasionally, you can find an adult Boxpei at the local shelter, but even that is not a given. In addition to paying for the puppy, you will have to pay other puppy prices, such as getting the dog vaccinated, licensed, and comfy in your new home. They are incredibly loving and loyal, even to other animals and children. At the same time, they are moderately intelligent and want to please. Together, these factors make Boxpeis one of the more loving and easier to train dogs. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They are patient, gentle with children, and like rough playing with older members of the family. These facts make Boxpeis a great addition to any family, whether the family includes adults, children, or teenagers. With that being said, socialization is really important for any dog. If you socialize the Boxpei early, it will be more likely to get along with every member of the family. Even though Boxpeis tend to be a very gentle breed, that does not mean that an individual dog will not act aggressively to a child that is pestering it. At the same time, make sure that you teach your child how to play with dogs respectfully and appropriately. In addition to being great family dogs, Boxpeis tend to be really great with other animals as well. When it comes to other dogs, they are much more friendly than other breeds of its size. For best results, get puppies at the same time so that the two dogs grow up together. For cats and other small animals, the Boxpei is likely to get along with them too. Many Boxpei owners claim that their cats love to curl up and snooze with their dog. Once again, socialization with cats and other animals is an important step to ensuring your Boxpei gets along with them. This is true in terms of exercise, training, and grooming, though they do eat a lot. These facts make it a great dog for people who want a low maintenance breed or who have never trained a big dog before. Because of their large size, you need to fuel them with the right amount and type of food. Make sure to always provide your Boxpei a lot of water. Taking your Boxpei on a walk once a day will be enough to keep it happy and healthy. At the same time, your Boxpei will be more than happy to be active with you if you are an active person. With working roots, these dogs can keep up, even though they tend to be a bit lazy by choice. This makes them a great breed for both active and moderately active families alike. These dogs are very eager to please their owners and are moderately intelligent, resulting in an easy training experience. Focusing on encouragement and praise goes a long way with these dogs. On the other hand, negative reinforcement does not work very well with Boxpeis. Because they want to please their owners so much, negative reinforcement often causes them to withdrawal from the task. Remember to be patient with your Boxpei and use as little negative reinforcement as possible. Brush their coat once or twice a week to keep it healthy and minimize shedding around your home. Only give your Boxpei a bath when they need it and use a dog approved shampoo. One thing you have to be careful about when it comes to Boxpeis is their dental help. This breed is known to have poor dental checkups. Brush their teeth once or twice a week using toothpaste formulated for canines. Also, clean out their ears as necessary, and clip nails every other month. However, to unhealthy parents will often result in an unhealthy puppy. Talking to your vet for screenings can help you rule out severe illnesses from an early age. Reputable breeders make sure to use parent dogs that are healthy and never abuses them. Still, there are a couple of illnesses that are most prevalent in Boxpeis. These conditions can range from minor to serious. Minor Conditions.

View All Articles in Labradoodle Breeders Location Depending on your geographical location, you can expect to pay more money in certain areas. Naturally, the Labradoodle price is usually tied to the overall cost of living in that area. Of course, you might be tempted to adopt a puppy from a different state. Any of those can add a few hundred dollars to your total Labradoodle price. Breeder Stock Another factor that influences the Labradoodle cost is breeding stock. Breeding different generations of Labradoodles requires a certain set of parent dogs. For example, F1 or first-generation Labradoodles are often less expensive than F1b or F1bb Labradoodles. See Also: Click the image Demand Needless to say, the high demand can also hike up the price of Labradoodles, especially in more populated areas like major cities. The best reputable breeders have waiting lists that filled 6 months in advance, sometimes even up to a year or two. This in turn means that breeders will charge higher rates to keep up with the demand while not overbreeding the mama dogs. Size, Color, and Coat Type Another thing you should keep in mind is that certain sizes, colors, and coat types can cost you some extra money. For instance, some breeders charge more for Mini Labradoodles compared to Standard Labradoodles. Usually, the most hypoallergenic Labradoodles are found in F1b, F1bb, F2b, and F2bb generations, which also require more genetic testing to achieve. See Also: Click the image Breeder Reputation Lastly, reputable breeders also charge premium rates for their Labradoodle puppies. Ethical, reputable breeders put a lot of time, money, and effort into breeding and raising healthy and well-rounded pups. All of this reflects in the Labradoodle price. Professional breeders have learned all about health and genetic testing. See Also: Click the image In addition to that, reputable breeders know the importance of early socialization , training, and other enrichment methods. Ethical breeders also follow breeding guidelines set by established organizations we mentioned above. Many of them are also affiliated with the organizations and continuously keep educating themselves on the best breeding practices. How much does a Labradoodle cost when adopting a puppy from a professional, ethical breeder? Of course, there are many backyard breeders who have the best intentions in mind and only want to share the joy of this adorable crossbreed. However, oftentimes, these breeders might not conduct all the necessary health and genetic testing on their breeding dogs. Nor can they provide proper health guarantees for their puppies. Additionally, many backyard breeders do not choose new homes for the puppies as carefully as professional breeders. When a litter is born, they just sell all the puppies on a first come first serve basis. How much are Labradoodles when adopting from a backyard breeder? Puppy Mills Finally, we have the worst of the bunch — puppy mills. Unfortunately, these breeders only work for their own financial gain. More often than not, they neglect the wellbeing of their breeding dogs and puppies. Beware of pet stores, as well, as they often source their puppies from puppy mills. Puppy mills usually overbreed their mama dogs and keep them on tight schedules to produce more and more puppies. Meanwhile, the dogs and puppies are kept in unsafe and unclean environments, often in small cages and kennels. Moreover, these pups often come with serious health conditions. How much does a Labradoodle cost when adopting from a puppy mill? Above all, we urge you to avoid these breeders at all costs. As a general rule of thumb, larger, Standard Labradoodles require more calories per day compared to smaller, Mini and Medium Labradoodles. All of them are tried, tested, and recommended by Doodle owners. Training Training and early socialization both play a key role in raising well-rounded Labradoodles. Vet Visits One of the most expensive parts of owning a dog is taking your pup to regular vet visits and wellness checks. And to be prepared for those unexpected vet visits, we recommend you choose a trustworthy pet insurance company. During the first year, you should make sure that your puppy is up to date with all of its vaccinations and preventative care for worms, fleas, ticks , and heartworm. Grooming You might already know that Labradoodles are high-maintenance when it comes to grooming and coat care. Time Investment Like any other pet, Labradoodles require a lot of time and effort from your part. Other Costs In addition to all the Labradoodle costs we mentioned above, there are other everyday items that your dog will need. These include food and water bowls, dog beds, dog crate, a collar and a leash, toys and chew toys, and poop bags. So, you know with absolute certainty that the Labradoodle is the right pup for you. But how can you find quality Labradoodle breeders? As fellow Doodle owners, we know how difficult it can be to find ethical, reputable breeders in your area. Why Are Labradoodles Expensive? Ethical Labradoodle breeders charge higher prices for their pups, as they carefully screen the breeding dogs through extensive health and genetic testing. In addition to that, they provide their clients with genetic health guarantees and implement various forms of enrichment methods when rearing the puppies. How Much Does A Labradoodle Cost: Final Thoughts Adopting a dog is not just a huge emotional commitment, but also requires you to think whether or not your finances allow you to take care of another living being. Hopefully, this article has managed to answer all of your questions about the Labradoodle cost of adoption and the ongoing costs throughout their lifetime. Avoid making the mistake of choosing the wrong Doodle temperament for your family, lifestyle, or current living situation. While this is not actually required, it is highly suggested since it covers vet bills and emergency treatments for injuries. Most of these are optional except for emergency treatments. Owners who need service dogs should be prepared to spend more on special training classes. Dog Walking: Getting a Labradoodle means you get an active dog. For times when you cannot take your dog for a walk or play with them, you can hire a dog walker instead. Medical Emergencies: Expenses for medical emergencies are preferably avoided but are to be prepared for anyway. Accessories and Clothes: If you enjoy dressing up your Labradoodle, you would also want to buy different clothes and accessories for them. There are a lot of places that sell these, so you can either save or splurge. Again, these expenses can arise at specific points in time and can be optional. They also depend on you and how you want to spend on your Labradoodle. You can actually look for this popular breed from breeders or rescue shelters. Given that Labradoodles are well-loved and highly coveted, the chances of you finding this breed are pretty high. Here are some reputable breeders where you can find Labradoodle puppies for sale: Blueberry Cottage Labradoodles — This reputable breeder was from Connecticut and is now based on a acre family farm in West Wisconsin. They specialize in standard-sized Labradoodles that are guaranteed to be in good health. They offer a two-year health guarantee against hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and other genetic conditions. You can visit their website to check for available pups. Interested buyers are assured that their puppies undergo proper health testing and screenings, as well as microchipping and vaccinations. Their pups are also socialized early and are subject to a weekly training program. They specialize in breeding mini and medium-sized Labradoodles. You can find more breeders in our article on the 10 best Labradoodle breeders that are based in different states. While browsing, be sure to read our puppy buying guide so you can safely buy your Labradoodle online. An alternative to shopping for a Labradoodle is to adopt one from shelters, rescues, or adoption sites. They have been trusted and have been working hard for Labradoodles since .You can visit their website to learn more about their adoption process and see the available Labradoodles looking for their forever homes. Doodle Rescue Collective, Inc. They are dedicated to protecting Labradoodles and educating owners and dog enthusiasts. Labs and More — This rescue organization based in San Diego, California, has rescued more than 12, dogs since .They rescue large dogs and mixed breeds, including Labradoodles. You can visit their website, where they have a guide before adopting for those interested. Head over to our 10 best Labradoodle rescues article to find even more options and increase your chances of finding a Labradoodle. You can also visit your local shelter to look for Labradoodles up for adoption. Money-Saving Tips for Labradoodle Owners Knowing that taking care of Labradoodles costs a significant amount, any Labradoodle owner would want to save a few bucks in any way they can. To help, we came up with some cost-effective ways to care for your pooch. Here are some ways to cut down on expenses for your Labradoodle: Groom your Labradoodle at home. While professional groomers can save you time and provide proper grooming thanks to their training and skills, there is no doubt that they can charge quite a bit. Learning how to do basic grooming yourself, especially since this hybrid has a low shedding coat, can surely save you some money. Grooming sessions at home can also serve as quality time with your canine companion. Make dog food yourself. Store-bought dog food and treats are convenient, but the cost adds up. You can try making dog food at home, instead. Not only does this allow you to control what exactly you are feeding your pet, but it can also be cheaper. Buy good-quality items. Getting items that are of good quality and durable can be more expensive at the time of purchase but will actually save you money in the long run. Take your Labradoodle for regular vet visits. Emergency treatments and procedures often cost more than regular vet visits and can help you avoid an unhealthy puppy. Knowing what items to invest in and what to avoid can significantly reduce the cost of owning a Labradoodle. A little creativity and strategizing will go a long way. The expenses for this designer breed are far from cheap. However, you should know that this is nothing out of the ordinary since many popular crossbreed dogs also have similar costs. If you are one of the many people interested in Labradoodles, I hope this guide has helped you decide whether owning one is worth all the investment. We would love to hear your thoughts and insights in the comments below! Owners of Labradoodles are also welcome to share their tips and experiences on the different Labradoodle costs. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. A close up face image of Labradoodle puppy Max The price depends on many factors and can vary from breeder to breeder. While this might seem like a hefty price to pay for a puppy, the low prices that you find on social media or other ads are usually from puppy mills that try to over-breed these beloved animals in inappropriate and unethical ways. Low-quality living conditions notwithstanding, puppies from such places have a high probability of suffering from ailments and issues caused by genetic mutations occurring from rapid breeding. Labradoodle costs around the world In Australia the average prices for non-shedding Labradoodles ranged from AUD. There were some niche breeders that charged much more. Depending on how unique the coat color is, the price will vary. Parti-colored Labradoodles like Tuxedo Labradoodle or Phantom Labradoodle cost significantly more than a solid-colored cream, black, or gold Labradoodle. Sometimes, depending on your location, you may have to shell out extra dollars if you specifically want a multi-colored Labradoodle. Coat texture is another influencing factor. Shiny, sleek coats are more attractive and an indication of a superior bloodline. Hence, they are going to cost more. Curly and wavy-haired Labradoodles will be more expensive than straight-haired ones as they are almost non-shedding and hypoallergenic. Blue-eyed Labradoodles can be even more expensive, owing to their rarity and beauty. Labradoodle Size As they are crossbred, there are no specific breeding standards for Labradoodles. Most breeders classify Labradoodle puppy sizes as standard, medium, and miniature. Toy, teacup, miniature, and maxi are some other terms used to describe the size of Labradoodle dogs. The smaller the puppy size, the higher its price. This is because of the increased demand for smaller-sized dogs. Some breeders have their own standards and classifications when it comes to dog size and weight. While some breeders consider pound dogs as petite, others see them as miniature. Micro and petit are other terms that are used, both interchangeably and independently by different breeders. Usually, petit dogs fall in the pounds range, and micro dogs under 10 pounds. Age Typically, most people prefer buying a young puppy rather than a full-grown dog. Hence, prices are higher for puppies than dogs. For instance, a 6-month-old puppy is going to cost less than a 6-week-old one. A rich Apricot coat Labradoodle at the groomer. Generation Type Another determining factor is the percentage of each parent breed in the Labradoodle puppy. F1B generations have a purebred Poodle and an F1 generation Labradoodle as their parents. While this is a rarer generation, they are cheaper as their chances of being hypoallergenic is lesser than that of others. Generally, F1B Labradoodles are the most expensive generation as they have the highest chance of being hypoallergenic. Location and Demand The Labradoodle breed is one of the most popular crossbreed dogs, a close second to the Goldendoodles. This has significantly increased their value and demand. Dog breeders of bigger cities will have a large client pool and higher earnings. They usually have a hard time keeping up with the demands and hence have to increase their price. Breeders from rural areas have comparatively lower demand and charge less for their puppies. Nevertheless, the demand for low-shedding, hypoallergenic dogs is high everywhere, regardless of the size and popularity of a place. While it might be cheaper to buy your Labradoodle puppy from a rural breeder, you might still have to beat your budget to travel the extra distance or to have the puppy transferred to you. Although the low prices advertised at puppy mills might be tempting, getting a Labradoodle puppy from a reputed breeder is always a better option. Besides being spayed, neutered, and vaccinated, puppies from reputed breeders will also be appropriately socialized. This will make it easier for them to adapt to their new home. Most reputable breeders establish their prices based on their experience, investment, knowledge, credentials, and reputation with previous customers. Some breeders even incorporate training from a young age, and some puppies are potty trained at just eight weeks old. Reputed breeders also have health certificates and genetic records of both parent dogs in place. These certificates are proof that your Labradoodle is in the best of health and hygiene. Other Costs Associated With Labradoodles The preliminary cost of a Labradoodle will be substantially less than the total expenses involved throughout its life. Additionally, you might have to spend more on training foods and treats. Grooming The grooming needs of Labradoodles may vary depending on the type and length of their coat. Although Labradoodles are almost hypoallergenic, they need regular brushing and bathing. Medical Costs Most crossbreed dogs are usually less prone to ailments and diseases. Their larger gene pool also reduces their risk of inheriting diseases. One of the most common health issues with Labradoodle is hip dysplasia. And the surgical procedure to fix this is expensive, which is especially necessary for older Labradoodles. Besides this, there are other health care costs like vaccinations and regular veterinarian check-ups Ohio State Veterinary School source. It safeguards you against any unforeseen situations that may arise in the future with regard to its health. Training and Boarding Costs Although Labradoodles are very intelligent and highly trainable, it is advisable to enroll them in a professional training program to ensure their all-round development. It also helps address their excessive barking and jumping, which is common in Labradoodles. Labradoodles are high-energy dogs that can turn destructive when left alone for a long time. So whenever you go on trips, you will have to leave them at a doggie care center. Can Labradoodles smile? Ideally, you should purchase an adjustable crate whose length you can adjust as and when your puppy grows. Labradoodles are highly energetic dogs who need toys to maintain their mental stimulation and to keep them from getting destructive due to boredom. You might also have to make a one-time investment on a good quality bed as they often tend to chew and scratch at it. Labradoodle Adoption Price While you may want to get your Labradoodle puppy from a shelter, the chances are slim as Labradoodles are highly sought-after breeds that are usually kept in tight breeding groups. This is usually done to cover the cost of medical and maintenance care. Adopting a puppy from a rescue shelter is a noble idea, but you must also prepare to deal with any possible future problems with their health and temperament, as rescue dogs usually have health and behavior problems. My Miniature Labradoodle Max wearing a stylish rain coat Avoiding Disreputable Breeders The pet business has now emerged as one of the biggest industries worldwide. Unfortunately, this has also birthed unethical puppy mills, backyard breeders, and online pet stores, who have little to no knowledge about raising and nurturing puppies. Often, unsuspecting pet lovers trying to save some money fall prey to these tricks and end up with an unhealthy puppy with health and temperamental issues. This leads to them spending a lot of money on the treatment and maintenance of these puppies down the road. So, is there a way to distinguish between good and bad breeders and avoid paying exorbitant prices by accidentally supporting these puppy mills? Start by doing plenty of research on the breeder and consciously avoid backyard breeders, pet stores, and online stores. Additionally, look out for these red flags: Unusually low-priced puppies. The breeder refuses to show the living conditions of their dogs and puppies. Adult dogs are kept in harsh conditions and small cages. Puppies seem reserved, edgy, and nervous around people. The breeder has no health certificates of puppies and its parent dogs. Breeder refuses to provide any paperwork. Here are some standards and conventions practiced by trustworthy breeders: They breed puppies indoors and will take equal care of the parent dogs. They offer ample space and freedom to their puppies and dogs to run, play, sleep, and do everything they desire. They periodically clean and groom the dogs. They promote a healthy bonding of puppies with their mother and littermates. They try to gauge if you are capable of raising a particular dog breed. They offer tips and tricks on puppy care and maintenance. They have health and vaccination certificates from a licensed veterinarian. They offer proper legal protection like providing a guarantee for puppy replacement after around 1. Going through previous testimonials and customer reviews is another way of determining the credibility of a breeder. Find out how long the breeder has been in the business. Have a proper conversation with them and get all your puppy-related questions answered before you decide to get your puppy from them. With their love and affection, these bundles of joy can not only turn your bad days into wonderful ones, their high intelligence and alert minds also make them great guard dogs. Before purchasing a Labradoodle puppy, make sure to research the breeder and never get puppies from breeders who cannot provide health certificates for the puppies and their parents. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Other costs include healthcare, toys, insurance, and the cost of any training, socialization, and canine sports classes you join. You can get wellness or preventive care plans to help spread the cost of some of these monthly fees. You can feed commercial or opt for homemade food, but if you do make the meals yourself, you will have to calculate protein, carbs, and vitamins and minerals to make sure your dog is getting everything it needs. If your dog has allergies, sensitivities, or general health problems, you may need special food that caters to these requirements. Labradoodles can have similarly high requirements. Some owners choose to undertake grooming and maintenance themselves while others book and attend regular grooming sessions with a professional. Which route you choose will ultimately determine the cost of grooming. A good compromise is to pay for professional grooming every 6 months and to brush, trim, and clip between professional sessions. If treatment and medication are not covered by pet insurance, you will have to meet these costs yourself. While this is true, insurance does offer peace of mind , as well as financial protection. If your dog is involved in an accident or does come down with an expensive illness, you may be hit with a vet bill of thousands of dollars. With pet insurance, the majority of this should be paid by your insurer, which means that you can decide on the best course of treatment according to how beneficial it is and not how expensive it is. If you have the kind of dog that gets through toys in no time, consider subscribing to a dog toy box. If yours gets bored of their toys, rotate new toys in and out of circulation, keeping old toys in a cupboard before giving them back after a few months. Your dog will treat it like a new toy. Image Credit: Mariusz S. It can be trained, enjoys working or taking part in canine sports, and does benefit from regular walks. Otherwise, the primary costs for owning one of these dogs will be food, insurance, and the cost of any professional grooming. The Labradoodle also benefits from being given plenty of exercise, but also mental stimulation. Canine sports, including agility, are a good way to provide the stimulation your Doodle needs, and these do cost money. If your dog develops behavioral issues that you are unable to fix yourself, there is a cost associated with training or canine behavioral work. First, consider adopting rather than buying, and if you do buy, do you really need a dog with an exceptional pedigree? You can save money on food by buying in bulk when the food is on offer, and ensure that you are getting the best value for money from the food you do buy. Insurance is another area where you can reduce regular costs. It is a good idea to have insurance but look at the level of coverage you get, as well as the excess and the copayment levels. For a slightly higher excess, you may be able to save some money on your monthly bills. Preventive care, or wellness, plans can also save you some money in the long run, but you do need to do the math and ensure that they really do represent good value for money or whether it would be cheaper to pay for each treatment individually. Grooming costs can add up , especially if you visit the groomer every month. Conclusion The Australian Labradoodle is considered a Breed in Development by the American Kennel Club and one should be fifth generation from the parent breeds, at least, to be considered a true Aussie Labradoodle. The breed is smart and intelligent, level-headed, and it gets along with family and friends while also tending to be friendly with strangers. Our New Puppy Checklist gives you an easy way to keep track of items you already have and ones you still need to pick up. You will save you time, money, and loads of frustration…take my word for it! Get Your Copy Today! Everything that goes into making a good breeder adds value and factors into the price you pay. We recommend working with a quality breeder when getting a Labradoodle. We explain ways to identify reputable breeders and questions to ask in this article. Caring for the Puppies This goes beyond simply making sure the puppy has food and water. What kind of food are the puppies being fed? A good breeder will be able and willing to tell you this it also helps you prepare for bringing your puppy home. Puppies are like human babies — they are prone to getting sick early on. Smell the puppies! The puppies smelled clean and freshly bathed. Are the puppies receiving the proper vaccinations when they should be? Puppies have a schedule of preventive vaccination and immunizations they should be getting in the first year of their life. What about once you take the puppy home? Socialization and Stimulation Dr. This is so true! And it starts early on. From birth, the puppy should handled and all of their body parts touched paws, mouth, tail, stomach, ears, arms, and legs. This includes laying them on their back. Once a few weeks old, they should be getting exposed to people in a controlled environment our breeder has three kids, which are great puppy socializers. They should be exposed to different surfaces, noises, and encouraged to explore their surroundings, while not startling them too much or endangering them. Giving them this foundation makes training your puppy easier down the road and also makes them a much more adaptable pup. Be sure to head over to this article for valuable tips on continuing socialization after you bring your puppy home. Responsible Breeding Practices A quality breeder puts the overall well-being of their puppies far beyond the money they make from breeding. Get ready to fill out some paperwork! This goes back to their commitment to the overall well-being of the dogs they home. Visit this page to find a Labradoodle breeder near you. Quality Of The Breeding Stock Determining the quality of the breeder is pretty easy, while understanding the quality and genetics of the breeding stock takes a bit more research. Breeding Stock Genetics This part is expensive but is critical to the breeding process for Labradoodles, because certain health conditions often appear within the breed. If a breeder starts with a sire father and dam mother with poor genetics or disease and health problems, what effect will this have on their litter? This part is usually overlooked or neglected by non-reputable breeders because it involves costly genetic testing and screening done by organizations like the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals source. Our breeder offered an month replacement guarantee, which was really great see below. We checked the social media accounts of different breeders we were considering to see what others were saying. Talk to the breeder in advance. See how knowledgeable they are about the breed. Come with some good questions that you know the answers to, and compare their responses. Ask the breeder what all goes into the cost of their Labradoodles. Ask them what they do with the puppies regarding socialization. Related Questions: Should I visit breeders before making my decision to purchase a Labradoodle? We highly recommend that you schedule a visit to see any and all breeders you are considering getting a Labradoodle from. Will the breeder require a deposit for the puppy? They may also ask you to pay another portion of the total cost once the puppy is born, to help with costs of caring for them. Why are Labradoodles such a popular breed? Labradoodles are popular and highly regarded for many reasons, including their great personalities , family and allergy-friendly nature, and their low-to-no shed coats. After all, they do become part of the family, right? Grab your copy today! Related Posts:. However, some pups exchange hands for even more, if they have something which makes them especially desirable examples of what that might be coming up! You may also see Labradoodle puppies advertised for far less. This should be a red flag. A good breeder spends a great deal of money to produce a healthy litter. The costs of breeding a healthy litter include: Health screening for the parents. Travel and accommodation to meet a suitable stud dog. Veterinary costs for mom and her litter. Extra food. Whelping supplies, such as a whelping box, heat mats, and bedding. Time off work to look after mom, and start socializing her puppies. Backyard breeders, puppy mills, and online sellers may offer puppies at bargain prices, but only by cutting their own costs first. So their puppies are more likely to leave home with inherited health problems that require expensive treatment later. Or with behavioral problems like separation anxiety or stranger-directed aggression, which are difficult or impossible to overcome. Lots of people are overwhelmed by the upfront cost of a well bred puppy. Adopting a dog from a shelter is one way to find a dog for less, but without supporting unethical breeding practices. And some regions even have dedicated rescue organizations which specialize in rehoming Labradoodles and other Poodle crosses. This is a much less expensive route and adoption fees often cover things like initial vaccinations and microchipping. Such as whether they carry any late-onset inherited diseases, or are reactive to certain triggers. What Factors Determine Labradoodle Cost? There are a number of factors which may make people willing to pay more for a Labradoodle. Breeder Good breeders are rarely in it for the money. Even if they sell their puppies for a more money than they spent on them, the profit divided by the number of hours they spent caring the dam and her litter works out in cents! All breeders have their own personal philosophy on pricing pups. They might have a reputation and a waiting list which means they can charge more than the competition. They might also charge highly to deter people from buying their puppies on impulse. Provided you ask politely, a reputable breeder will be happy to explain how they arrived at the cost of their puppies. But a breeder who refuses to discuss how they set their price at all may be attempting to cover up the fact that their puppies have been very poorly raised and are not worth the asking price. Breeding Stock Breeders who invest in meticulous health screening of their sire and dam may pass the cost of that onto their buyers, and they have every right to do so. Puppies from thoroughly health tested parents cost more upfront, but they are likely to cost less in lifetime veterinary fees. Labradoodle puppies from parents with show or field titles may also be advertised at higher prices. The puppies of Labradoodles that have been backcrossed with a purebred Poodle will have a greater chance of inheriting the Poodle coat. Other factors There are other things which might affect Labradoodle costs too. For example, in cities and urban areas, miniature Labradoodles might command higher prices than standard Labradoodles. Some factors have nothing to do with the dog at all. For example, many reputable breeders avoid producing litters around Christmas time to avoid buyers passing them on as gifts to other people, or buying them on impulse without really thinking it through. Low quality breeders on the other hand, tend to push their prices up at this time of year. The Cost of Owning a Labradoodle in the First Year Whether you go a shelter or a breeder, adoption fees and purchase price are only the beginning of what it costs to own a Labradoodle. The first year will typically be the most expensive because this is when most major expenses occur. Such as Having the dog spay or neutered. Training classes. Accessories like a crate, bedding, toys, collar and leash. Labradoodles have a high frequency of joint disorders such as hip and elbow dysplasia, which may require expensive monthly prescriptions to manage. Bringing a puppy into your life comes with the responsibility to keep him healthy and happy. From food to medical costs, from toys to grooming, there a number of regular expenses that come with owning a dog. Food is such an essential part of ensuring your dog is healthy and there is a wide range of commercial dog foods available. You can spend tens, or hundred of dollars per month! Always choose a good quality food that lists animal protein as the first ingredient and avoid brands that include meat by-products, fillers, and artificial ingredients that can cause gastrointestinal problems and allergic reactions. This article on feeding a Labradoodle puppy can guide you. Feeding your dog a healthy diet and ensuring an active dog like the Labradoodle gets enough exercise will go a long way to reducing medical costs. However, any dog can develop health issues that require treatment that can run into thousands of dollars. Health problems that the Labradoodle can be susceptible to include: Hip and elbow dysplasia.

Things to do with your English Bulldog Kansas is a great place to live with an English bulldog. The state has a diverse landscape, plenty of outdoor activities, and dog-friendly businesses. Hike the Trails Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. There are many hiking trails in Kansas that are perfect for English bulldogs. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for your dog, and take breaks often. Visit a Campground Camping is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many campgrounds in Kansas that allow dogs. Be sure to bring a tent, sleeping bags, food, water, and other supplies. There are many places to fish in Kansas, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to get a fishing license and follow all the rules and regulations. Go Boating Boating is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many places to boat in Kansas, both on rivers and lakes. Be sure to bring a life jacket for your dog and follow all the safety rules. There are many places to swim in Kansas, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to supervise your dog at all times and follow all the safety rules. Visit a Dog Park Dog parks are a great place for English bulldogs to run and play off-leash. There are many dog parks in Kansas, both in urban and rural areas. Visit Pet-Friendly Businesses Kansas has a number of pet-friendly businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and stores. These are just a few of the many things you can do with your English bulldog in Kansas. With its stunning scenery, endless activities, and friendly people, Kansas is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your furry friend. How do you breed for a healthier English Bulldog? Like all things in life, breeding for health is simply a matter of priority. We are blind to many of the breed priorities that distract other breeders from improving the health of the English Bulldog. We focus on health and personality and very little else. We are not interested in winning a blue ribbon in the show ring. Rather, we test for things like elongated soft palates, narrow tracheas, stenotic nares, luxation in the patellar tendons, heart defects, cherry eye, optic cilia, entropion, ect. We focus and prioritize creating healthy bloodlines, therefore our bulldogs are typically much healthier than the breed as a whole. After breeding for health, what other priorities are you focused on? Our true desire is to create the perfect family bulldog. We also believe a bulldog bred for the correct personality is essential to the family unit as well. A Bruiser Bulldog is bred for intelligence and playfulness. We want our bulldogs to be full of personality and some quirk. We believe a full personality along with a little stubbornness is the true North star of the bulldog breed and is what makes the unique among other breeds. We look for these personality traits in our adult bulldogs and continue to create bloodlines that reflect these qualities. What are the steps of your adoption process if I am located in Kansas? Check out our available English Bulldog Puppies page. At times, we have available puppies but almost always have a waiting list as well. A quick look at our available puppies is the starting point to begin the process. Send us an email or give us call .If approved to adopt one of our puppies you are welcome to place a deposit to hold until your puppy is ready to go home. Greetings from the Wysongs! Northern Indiana based, Bruiser Bulldogs offers purebred English Bulldog Puppies for sale to loving adopters seeking to find a higher quality English Bulldog. As English Bulldog breeders , Mitch and Erica Wysong have dedicated themselves to a lifelong journey of changing the culture and societal pressures of poor breeding practices within the English Bulldog Community. Mitch and Erica believe in producing a healthy English Bulldog puppy first and foremost. Through years of research and development, Bruiser Bulldogs is leading a new movement away from the overdone, wrinkled bulldog that has been long plagued by health problems. By embracing a healthier, more athletic look they are able to ensure that each and every English Bulldog Puppy for sale by Bruiser Bulldogs is supported by a platform of health tested, clean genetics. Upon adoption, each family that takes on the responsibility of a Bruiser Bulldog enters into an active and vibrant communal family of bulldog owners. Mitch and Erica believe it is their responsibility to provide emotional and mental support for the lifetime of each and every English Bulldog puppy they produce. To ensure the success of every adoption, Bruiser Bulldogs will always be committed to helping Bruiser Bulldog adopters care for their English Bulldogs to the best of their ability. I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. Doing so will not only ensure you receive a puppy that is strong and healthy, but comes from an excellent bloodline, as well. Cedar Lane Bulldogs has long been one of the most trusted providers of bulldog puppies for sale in Oklahoma, and I am happy to extend my services to those living in Kansas, as well. English Bulldog Puppies for Sale Cedar Lane Bulldogs has produced a number of award-winning puppies over the years, and I encourage you consistently check the website for news on new expecting litters of English bulldog puppies for sale. Whether you are thinking about purchasing an English bulldog puppy as a family companion or want to find a puppy that could one day compete for an AKC Champion title, trust Cedar Lane Bulldogs as your go-to English bulldog breeder in Kansas. Cedar Lane Bulldogs — My Story The story behind my venture into the world of English bulldog breeding dates back to when I received my first bulldog puppy from my father-in-law. I eventually bred her, and she became the mother of nine beautiful bulldog puppies. I was obliged to take a break from breeding in the late s and early s due to my work schedule and commitment to raising a family, but began again in once my children had finished college. I purchased several bitch puppies from excellent bloodlines and built a nice kennel, which allowed me to pick up right where I left off. Since , I have skillfully and lovingly raised 10 homebred champions, earning me a Hall of Fame Breeder title. I also went on to earn my AKC judging license in , which has also given me a newfound respect for the breed. Check out our Kennel! Welcome to the Kansas state page on TrustedPuppies. Situated in the heart of America, Kansas boasts a unique blend of breathtaking prairies, rolling hills, and thriving cities, making it an excellent destination for English Bulldog aficionados. Our mission is to connect you with the best Kansas English Bulldog breeders and puppies for sale throughout Kansas. Our site features a wide variety of reputable breeders who specialize in raising healthy and happy puppies. Our breeders are committed to raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations and veterinary checkups to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide ongoing support and advice to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new furry friend. Ranking 28th in dog ownership among the states, Kansas is home to an estimated thousand dogs. Kansas offers an array of dog-friendly amenities, including numerous dog-friendly restaurants, parks, and events that cater to the canine community. Immerse yourself in the lively dog show scene by attending events like the Sunflower Cluster Dog Show, where dog enthusiasts gather to celebrate their love for their cherished companions. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our reputable English Bulldog breeders offer secure and affordable flight delivery, with a dedicated flight nanny accompanying your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring they have a safe and comfortable trip as they travel to their new home in the Sunflower State. In addition to flight delivery, most breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option ensures your English Bulldog puppy is brought to your doorstep by a professional who understands the unique requirements of pet travel. Begin your search for the perfect English Bulldog puppy today on TrustedPuppies.

Training is a constant process for our dogs and when they are not training, they are chasing a variety of wild game from Upland to Waterfowl. Our retrievers are no different with passion, loyalty and intelligence. This means less shedding, a bit more shine yet still soft to the touch. Typically weighing lbs, these Goldens are not the behemoth Goldens you may have seen in the past. Meet Your Perfect Match Family pet. Hunting partner. Loyal companion. Platte River Retrievers has been offering quality field bred Golden Retrievers for over 25 years in Nebraska, just outside of Omaha. We specialize in Golden Retrievers bred to excel in the field. All clearances are done on our dogs before breeding and puppies are guaranteed for 26 months. Litters are raised in a family atmosphere ensuring the best possible upbringing and personality for your future companion. Eyes, Heart, Hips, Elbows as well as DNA recessive gene disorder clearances are done to ensure the health and standard for each litter bred. Microchip Registration Have peace of mind that your pet has permanent identification in the event of being lost or stolen. Socialization Socialization is a crucial component of raising a well mannered dog that is a good citizen. Each puppy is given age appropriate stimulation individually and in group play. Age Appropriate Vaccinations All puppies are given age appropriate vaccinations and deworming to ensure you are bringing home a happy and healthy puppy. Health Guarantee We stand behind our breedings and offer a written health guarantee for each puppy. Range of Personalities Just as every litter produced is different, each puppy is a unique individual in that litter. View the temperament and size of the parents to ensure that this is what you are looking for in your future puppy. He is healthy, highly athletic, wonderful with people and extremely intuitive in all aspects. We live in California and are active individuals; therefore, he goes hiking, running and swimming in the lake on a regular basis. In July of , after weeks of playing with each of the puppies in that years litter, I picked out Maple. I knew that was the breeder I wanted to get a pup from. Theresa and Nick know their dogs in and out.I am blown away with my pup Gretta! She has excellent drive, and loves to train. You truly can't beat the temperament and ability that is stamped on these pups! She gladly answered all of our questions and was quick to respond. It was very obvious she loves her dogs and the puppies, taking such good care of them their first 8 weeks. Our boy Sawyer has just the best personality and disposition. He took to his big brother, our 5 year old Golden Auggie, day one and they've been inseparable since. Couldn't ask for a better pup! I'm very pleased with our experience and purchase from Lori. She was honest and very caring and concerned for our purchase of one of her puppies. Hank the retriever has become a very vital part of our lives as we have four children and two other dogs in our home. The quality of Hank's demeanor and attitude is unlike anything we have experienced with our other dogs. Hank is very smart and healthy 8 month old now. Potty training was relatively easy and fast with minimal accidents. We currently work with obedience training and off leash training for Hank. It is very rewarding to start with a quality and healthy puppy that has endless possibilities for our family. The only regret I have is not buying Hank's brother when I had the opportunity. Like most golden owners we knew that when it comes to a companion dog, there is simply not a better breed. After communicating with a variety of people that had puppies for sale, we linked up with Lori McCoy. From the start we felt that she was the type of breeder we were comfortable working with for such an important life changing decision. We have had our newest family member, Fin, now for about 6 months and couldn't be happier. He is a beautiful mix of the red American and white English variety of golden. He is very confident, very trainable and highly intelligent. Our sincerest appreciation to Lori for helping connect us with Fin. We are dedicated to providing the healthiest and happiest Golden Retrievers possible and are determined to give back to the breed that we love so much!

Keep calm! German Shepherd puppy training is fun and a great time to bond with your new dog! Instead… Follow these puppy training tips to break down your training into manageable steps that are easy to teach and train. German Shepherd puppies are brilliant! And as they grow, they become the most loyal canine friends. Teach Them Handling Skills While your dog may enjoy gentle caresses and hugs from you they will also need to learn other important handling skills. Think about the grooming your dog will need and how the vet might handle your pup in the future. These are all areas where they will be touched in the future. Handling skills involve intentional, purposeful touch that acclimates your dog to uneasy situations in the near future. Ignoring fear and stress signals such as cowering, lip their lips multiple times, turning their head away, even shaking will only teach your dog to fear that object. Fear can cause your dog to become aggressive or suffer from anxiety. Never, ever try to become the alpha! Instead, learn to become their favorite teacher and speak their language. It also prevents undesired behaviors. Think of positive training in terms of showing, teaching, influencing, and trusting. These terms build trust. Focus on the Good Things Some puppy owners all too often think about punishment and discipline as their first steps in training. What you want is to focus on catching your dog behaving well — and reward that! If you see your puppy chewing on the right chew toy, then praise them. When you see them look at you, offer them a treat for paying attention. When you find your dog lying down being quiet and calm, pet them gently and offer them verbal praise. The more you focus on the good things, the less your dog concerns itself with doing bad things. Call them to you or offer them a better option that is what you prefer, then praise them for choosing the right thing. Pick one skill at a time to practice, and build upon their success. Think of the easiest way for your dog to understand the command and stick to the same word. You can begin basic German Shepherd obedience commands from your own home, even! Small bits of training, spread out in multiple sessions throughout the day, is better than an hour-long session. Aim for the 5-minutes worth of training using 4 to 5 sessions daily. This is where brain games and brain training come into play. You can make up your own brain games for their mental exercise or, even better… Signup for an online course that teaches fun Brain Training for Dogs using that positive, reward-based training you read about earlier. Using the unique intelligence of your German Shepherd puppy this brain training program helps your dog to learn not only their basic commands but also to play fun games that work on good behavior. Training games help your dog to learn impulse control, basic commands, and to watch and listen to you. What games do you play with a young dog? Try these great German Shepherd puppy training games to give your 8-week-old puppy a head start! Include different games throughout the day in between your training sessions to give your dog a break and have fun with them! There are 5 critical focus areas in which you must train your 8-week old German Shepherd appropriately. Here is the most important training that you need to teach your new puppy so they enjoy a successful life with you. Keep in mind, your young dog is unable to hold its bladder for more than a couple of hours at 8-weeks-old. They simply lack the muscle control to hold their bladders any longer. Instead, opt to train your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy using positive methods and watching for the natural times that your dog chooses to eliminate. Adjust the times as necessary to avoid any accidents in your house and help keep your puppy to their unique schedule. Early morning: Let your pup outside first thing every morning to let them relieve themselves. After breakfast: After its morning breakfast meal let your dog back outside. Let them walk around and sniff to help encourage them to explore and let them stretch their legs. Before and after lunch: Let your puppy outside before and after their lunchtime meal. Eating stimulates the bowels and your puppy needs to got outside at least every 2 hours. Before and after dinner: Remember that eating stimulates the response for your puppy to eliminate. So, before and after every mealtime your puppy should be let outside for a walk and sniff. Before bedtime: Your puppy needs to relieve themself before they settle down for the nighttime. This is a good time to let them have a long sniffing exploration and to really explore a safe area. During the night: Yes, your puppy will probably need to go potty during the night. You might hear them whine and cry to get your attention. Remember, they cannot hold their bladders for more than 2 hours! After naptime: Take your puppy out for a potty break after naptime, as soon as they wake up. Keep repeating the same routine. Your puppy will soon catch on, but this generally takes weeks or even months. The more diligent you are about preventing accidents the quicker your puppy will learn housetraining. Never, ever punish your puppy or rub their nose in it for punishment. This may stress them out and cause even more accidents. Socializing your 8-week-old German Shepherd means that you must provide your dog with interesting and positive interactions where they feel safe. This helps give your young dog confidence in its environment. German Shepherd Dogs are extremely loyal and have a tendency of apprehensiveness with strangers. Socialization helps ensure that your puppy not only grows a strong bond with you without developing over-protectiveness but also learns to trust that you have their best interest in mind and will keep their experiences as positive as possible. German Shepherd puppy socialization training tips: Without their full set of vaccinations, your puppy is vulnerable to infectious diseases. However, consider taking your young dog to early socialization classes where all other dogs have also been immunized. This reduces the risk of becoming sick and helps your German Shepherd become a confident, well-adjusted, and friendly dog. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior promotes early socialization source , even before your dog receives its full set of vaccines, as lack of socialization is detrimental long-term. Every new interaction or must be followed with a reward — a tasty treat! This ensures your puppy has positive associations with new experiences, people, and other dogs. With the proper socialization training, your puppy should become eager to explore new places and meet new people and animals. Taking your German Shepherd puppy to new places exposes them to different people, dogs, sights, and sounds. As a puppy, you can help teach your German Shepherd important social skills through intentional training moments that are positive and allow your puppy to develop their confidence in social situations. This is where bite inhibition comes in useful. Bite inhibition helps your puppy to not only control what they bite but also how hard or soft they close their jaws. It teaches your dog how to properly apply force with its mouth without hurting you or anyone else. How to Teach Your Puppy to Bite Without Hurting You To teach your puppy not to hurt you with their nipping and biting do your best to not let them get to this energy level. If you know your puppy tends to bite you when you play with them too long, then cut your playtime short. If they tend to bite and nip you when they are tired, then have them go to their nap area sooner to rest. Puppies also tend to bite you when they are cranky from not eating soon enough or when they want attention. You can get up and leave the play area for a few moments. Return once they are calm. Never use only your hands for play. You should have a few puppy-safe chew toys around to grab quickly to offer your puppy during play. If your puppy nips or bites any of these areas, the game is immediately over. Get up slowly and calmly and leave. Only return when they are calm again. Offer your puppy their chew toy when they are too excited to play softly with you. Encourage them to find their toys and bite them instead of you. Never yell or punish your puppy for play-biting and nipping. Doing so can lead to anxiety, aggression, or your puppy fearing you. Even though German Shepherds are one of the smartest dogs, learning and teaching bite inhibition requires a lot of repetition and consistency. You might even walk to walk around with one of their toys in your pocket to help reinforce the right behavior offering them the chew toy when they decide to nip your ankles or bite your legs. Continue with your bite-inhibition training as long as it takes for your dog to learn to use its soft mouth. This could take months, but soon they will master the art of a soft bite. But, crate training your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy can improve the speed of their house training and accustom them to times they may need to be in their crate such as during travel or at the vets and groomers. Crates are also a useful area for your dog to have their own private space when they want alone time or are stressed and need some quiet. Choose a crate that gives your dog enough room to turn completely around, stand comfortably, sit upright, and lie down easily on their side with their legs stretched for rest. The best crates grow with your German Shepherd and allow you to partition the space off to suit their size. Offer them a treat or even their meal in their crate to help them develop positive associations with it. Start closing the door when they are inside for just a few seconds at first. Then, open the door and let them out calmly. Continue to increase the time your puppy stays inside the crate, working up to longer and longer times. This may only encourage them to cry and whine harder and louder when they want out. Instead, wait just a couple of seconds for them to be quiet, and let them out only when they are not crying and whining. If they appear too stressed or panicked, let them out immediately! This also encourages your dog to seek out the crate when they want their private space and time alone, as they will know where to find their crate. Avoid placing a blanket over the crate since puppies chew and are extremely active. Your pup could accidentally pull the blanket inside and hurt themselves by either wrapping it around their neck or choking on it. Place the crate in an area away from drafts and out of the direct sun so they get too cold or too warm. The best way to do this is to practice leash skills at home first. After they are comfortable wearing their leash around the house, you can work on the skill in the backyard, front yard, or on the sidewalk outside. A good time is during their favorite meal. Only leave them on your dog for a short time to gauge their reaction. If they seem fine, place your puppy into the harness and attach the leash. Offer them praise and a reward for letting you leash them. Now, let your puppy drag the leash around the house so they know how it feels to wear it. You can play with them a bit, or even better have them follow you around which simulates an outdoor walk but indoors. Remove the harness and leash if your GSD puppy becomes too upset and agitated! Keep it upbeat and positive! Now, introduce your puppy to a short walk outdoors in the safety of your backyard. Let your puppy wander around while you hold the leash. They may begin to pull. Get their attention by calling their name and showing them a treat to lure them back to you gently. Reward them every time they come to you while on the leash. Should they ignore you then offer them the treat to lure them to you after giving the command. Try kneeling or squatting down to get on their level when you give them the command. It seems to get their attention better. You can even slap your leg or clap your hands to entice them back to you. Always ensure that your puppy is not stressed by their new harness and leash. Some owners prefer to use a collar for leash training. If this is your choice then only choose life-saving break-away collars since your puppy could get hung up and seriously injure themselves if their collar catches on something during their outside walk. Your dog can learn the basic commands with a bit of training. If you have time to train basic commands and are still focusing on the core areas of raising your German Shepherd puppy, then follow these helpful articles that will put your puppy on the right track to obedience training. It is not recommended to take it from its mother and littermates because it starts its socialization and gets the first experience of biting inhibition from them. When you take your doggy home, follow the advice of your breeder and veterinarian. In addition, you need to measure and weigh your pup to be able to follow its growth. You should also think about crate training your dog from the first days of staying at your home. Start potty training as soon as possible. However, be very careful about the first walks. The immune system of a little German Shepherd is too unstable and vulnerable to many infections. It has already received all the nutrients it needed during its first month. You can opt for high-quality puppy kibble or homemade food. However, you should avoid poor-quality products and cheap kibble that is full of chemicals. If you are planning to feed your pet with kibble, it is recommended to moisten it with goat milk or fresh water if this milk is unavailable. Giving it cow milk is not recommended. Give your puppy 1. Try to formulate a consistent feeding schedule with the same hours for feeding. You should have two bowls for your German Shepherd. One is for food and the other for water. Your puppy needs a lot of water, so you can leave the water in the bowl to let it drink whenever it wants. As for food, do not leave the leftovers in the bowl. Your puppy cannot control how much it wants to eat, and it can lead to overfeeding if it eats something every time it sees its bowl. You need to make the feeding schedule work. However, do not feed the puppy two times per day. It is too young for that, so it can overeat too and have severe digestion problems. You should teach it to recognize the connections between commands and responses or responses and consequences. Foremost, you need to set primary anchors. It means that you should develop certain reactions to your actions to teach the puppy to follow you, eat food or receive treats, and sit. Your clapping hands, whistling, or a specific word can be such anchors. Avoid setting anchors that your puppy will feel as similar. The next training step is establishing authority. Your puppy should understand that you are its guide, and it will help you when you start training more complex commands. Your little pet should understand that you are its pack leader. So, the first thing to teach is to follow you. Praise the puppy if it does everything correctly, and never punish it if it does not understand you. Early socialization training is also very important. However, early exposure of your pet to many people and unfamiliar things may lead to psychological problems. That is why start socializing your puppy gradually. You can take it on short visits to your family or friends. Keep socializing your doggy every day but in small portions of positive experiences. Start potty training as soon as you bring your GS puppy home. Show it where you want it to do its business, in the backyard or garden. Ensure that this area is quiet and fenced. It has to be something soft like grass or mat. Establish an exact schedule for going potty. Taking the puppy outside is the first thing you need to do after it wakes up in the morning. Then, follow the schedule after each meal, playing, and before going to bed. Keep the puppy out of biting and nipping. You should not beat or punish it anyway. Though, teach the puppy to avoid severe bites on the hands and legs. You can arrange timeouts for it if it bites too harshly. For example, if it bites your hand while taking a treat, withhold the next treat until it understands how to take it gently. Reward it with a treat when you see that the little one understands what you want of it and denies biting at all. German Shepherds are very clever, so they understand the explanations very quickly. Be patient while training your little dog. It will be trained enough to understand how to control itself by the 10th week. Therefore, your boy will grow as tall as inches cm , while the little girl will be inches cm tall. How much does a 2 month old German Shepherd weight? GS puppies gain weight at this age very quickly. They tend to double it in comparison to the first month. Your male doggy will approximately weigh pounds kg. If you have a female puppy, its weight will be smaller — pounds .How much to feed a 2 month old German Shepherd puppy? You can give your puppy .How often should I feed my 2 month old German Shepherd? You should feed your pup times per day. Never make a feeding schedule of 2 times per day because your doggy can overeat and have digestive problems. How much exercise does a 2 month old German Shepherd puppy need? Little GS puppies are very energetic, so they need a lot of exercises. However, they are too young for hard exercise and training. The sessions can be very short about minutes or less and not too intensive. Can I walk my 2 month old German Shepherd? Yes, you can walk your puppy in the backyard or any other fenced space after it is vaccinated. Though remember that your little doggy cannot go on long walks yet, so never make its walks too long. Another thing to consider is that it cannot follow you yet, so try to avoid going for walks in the open spaces and streets, or your pup can get lost. Learn a lot about the breed before you decide to adopt this dog. You also need to know that your pup will have enough space for its activity and energetic behavior. You also need to consider your budget. Get prepared that your doggy will bark, whale, bite and chew everything around. However, you will also get a lot of joy, playing, laughing, and loyalty. German Shepherds are very intelligent, and you will get the best friend for many years if you are patient and consistent enough during its first days at your home. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. An 8 week old German Shepherd puppy is a bundle of antics and endless energy! Your 8 Week Old German Shepherd Puppy An 8 week old your puppy requires a daily routine and training to help them become the dog of your dreams. This article will not only help you understand your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy but will also explain to you why your little puppy has certain behaviors. Raising a German Shepherd puppy can feel like an overwhelming task at first! Just remember, your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy is also adjusting to its new life with you. You should expect your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy to feel stressed and uncertain. They may seem timid and unsure of their surroundings. They might cry, whine, and not want your attention. Having structure and consistency will help create a bond and help you both in getting along more peacefully and calmly. Introducing A Puppy Crate Many dog owners choose to use a crate when it comes to caring for their 8-week-old puppy. While some people consider crates unnecessary, or even cruel, crate training is a useful skill to offer your dog. With the right training your pup will see its crate as their private safe space and will even go there to relax. Leaving your puppy at home unsupervised can get them and you into a heap of trouble. Crate training helps prevent your home from being a destruction zone. This useful guide to crate training a German Shepherd puppy gets you on the right track to success! Crate training your puppy can: help speed up housetraining teach your dog to settle calm down offer your dog privacy But you must introduce the crate slowly and positively so your puppy builds a strong connection to the benefits of the crate. Never just shove or push your young German Shepherd into the crate without using positive training. Your new dog also needs a routine and schedule to help them through the early days with you and set the expectations you have for them. Having a schedule helps your puppy to know what to expect in their daily routines. It keeps you from losing your mind and helps ease a worried puppy. While you might work from home or have other obligations, try to follow a schedule that looks similar to this: Early morning: Take your puppy out for the first potty break of the day! So, they may need to go outside even before the sun rises. Breakfast time: Your puppy may want to go back to sleep after going outside and this is perfectly normal. On the other hand, some puppies are wide awake and ready for their breakfast. Either way, always take your puppy back outside shortly after their breakfast so they can sniff and have another potty break. Mid-morning: Puppies should eat 3 — 4 small meals a day. Mid-morning is a good time for another small meal. Afternoon: This is a good time for their lunch followed by a potty break and plenty of sniffing time to work off some of their energy. Late afternoon: Puppies need another potty break in the afternoon, and some puppies need more breaks outside. Evening: Their dinner meal and their evening potty time. Remember to let them explore outdoors in a safe area to help build their confidence. Scheduling exercise, potty breaks, and play at the same times every day helps ensure that your puppy learns their daily routine more quickly and settles in nicely. And, even young puppies can learn basic training in their first weeks with you. Try training your German Shepherd puppy at home to start with. In the beginning, you may find a few accidents in the house. But, stick with your potty training and remember to always watch your puppy to keep them from having messes in the house. When you stick to a regular potty schedule, the likelihood of potty training mishaps decreases, and you and your puppy are less stressed. Always, always, always… Supervise your puppy indoors when you are potty training. Your toughest time together with your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy might be the first few nights. Your puppy has only known the comfort of his mother and siblings before. Having your puppy sleep away from you will only scare them more. And, although they are little, their cry is loud! Having a place for them near your bed is the best way to avoid a night full of tearful cries and howling. Can I let my German Shepherd puppy sleep in bed with me? Plus, when your puppy is an adult and tries to sleep in bed with you there will be no room for you! A full-grown German Shepherd can weigh up to pounds and will push you right out of your own sheets. Your puppy sleeps most of the day. A new puppy sleeps more often than they are awake. An 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy may sleep as many as 18 hours a day! Sleeping this much allows your puppy to have the energy they need to grow and keeps them ready to explore their new world. Feeding An 8 Week Old German Shepherd Your puppy should stay on the same food they were eating before you brought them home to keep them less stressed. This helps keeps your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy from having an upset stomach and becoming ill. Sometimes, you might want to switch them over to a different food. If you choose this route, do it slowly and in stages over a few weeks. At 8 weeks old, German Shepherd puppies should eat 3 to 4 small meals per day. Although their stomachs are small if you overfeed them they could get sick and have stomach problems. Spreading their meals out throughout the day in regular intervals is best to avoid any upsets. Look for a balanced, complete puppy food for large breed dogs. As a large breed dog, your German Shepherd you should only feed your puppy food that is specially formulated for large breed puppies. Large breed puppies have different nutritional needs that are not found in ordinary puppy food. Feeding a commercially available food that is formulated for large breed puppies helps them to grow at a sustained rate. Steady growth in a large breed puppy helps to avoid stress on their bones and gives them a strong skeletal foundation for their athletic muscles. Limiting food intake in growing German Shepherd puppies has also been associated with fewer signs of hip dysplasia. This is of extreme importance in this breed due to the high incidence of hip problems and the pain associated with this joint disorder. A growing puppy is best fed a proprietary pet food that has been specifically formulated to meet its nutritional needs. Foods that are available as dry kibble are especially suitable to rear even the youngest of puppies. Opt for this specially formulated food for large breed puppies to keep your dog growing at a healthy rate that helps them stay strong. It is a complete balanced diet so nothing is missing. Within the first few days of arriving to their new home with you is a stressful time. Your puppy has just made a drastic life change and left everything they knew to be with you. Diarrhea and other stomach issues are sometimes stress induced. You can help your puppy by keeping to a regular feeding schedule and feeding them the same food they were on before coming to you. Sometimes diarrhea is also a sign of an underlying health issue and, if left untreated, can become life-threatening. If your puppy vomits blood, has bloody stools and diarrhea, becomes lethargic, or refuses to drink, call your vet immediately! To an 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy biting and nipping are all part of playing with their siblings. And, your puppy will most likely bite and nip you at some point too. They may even growl at you and tug at your hands or nip your ankles. This is all part of puppy play. But… It can really hurt you or make you bleed! Understanding bite inhibition means they know how to control the power of their play bites and how hard or soft they nip you. Preventing Nips and Bites If you know the right way to prevent and stop German Shepherd puppy biting, you can train your puppy to understand how to keep their razor-sharp tiny teeth from sinking into you. Instead… Offer them plenty of puppy-safe chew toys appropriate for their size. When they bite or nip you, calmly show them the toy to chew instead. Get their attention by moving the toy in a playful way around them so they begin to chase and bite the toy, instead of you or your furniture. Use these links to help you stay on the right track throughout their life. Calm older dogs are good for this one. Most importantly for German Shepherd puppies, it will give you a chance to work with them around other people, and different dogs from a young age. Settle on a mat German Shepherds are incredibly curious, which can make it difficult for them to relax while out and about. Leash walking — no one wants a large breed of dog pulling them down the street, so be sure you teach loose lead walking and how about some heelwork too? Recall games — Play a game of tennis with your pooch! Calling them from person to person with treats on either side. Get started with grooming and brushing sensitive areas — In long-haired German Shepherds, this is typically the case with the face, legs, and ears, which become tangled the most and may hurt when brushed. Remember to brush carefully, do a little bit of brushing on a sensitive area while feeding them treats or letting them have a lickimat, and then brush an easier to brush area. For socialization, start working on items that are vital to your lifestyle this week, such as if you have a horse and want your puppy to be comfortable with horses, or if you enjoy sailing, having them near water will be important to you. Getting your puppy exposed to new experiences early on can help them accept them much more easily. Socialization exercises to do this week Training to do this week Husbandry Tasks to do this week — Go to the bar — you deserve it! Remember that settle training you did before, take your mat and get your German Shepherd puppy to settle on it with a nice stuffed kong. Alone training: increasing time alone is important for your puppy. It gives them essential coping skills. Recall — Practise this outside, using a leash, and lots of rewards. Leash walking — Take this outside. Make sure you keep a strong pace going, since German Shepherds enjoy walking quickly, and praise often to keep your puppy interested. Pretend Nail Clips — simply holding a claw, pretending to clip , and rewarding your puppy with a treat is enough. Following on walks — Bring special toys, like the Tug-E-Nuff Pocket tugger, with you on walks to ensure your German Shepherd puppy enjoys hanging out with you. Playing with them will make you irresistible! Week 7 — Training your German Shepherd puppy The 7-week itch! Nah not really. I bet your German Shepherd puppy is doing wonderfully and growing rapidly! Tick 3 things off your personal socialization checklist — How about taking your German Shepherd to a city farm, letting them watch from afar and rewarding them for being such a calm puppy? Teach your German Shepherd puppy to stay — this will be a great one to show off at the park, trust us. So, first, take a walk with a dog that your German Shepherd puppy has already met. At first, it may be difficult for your puppy not to get distracted, so keep the rewards coming and try to keep them interested in you, rather than the other dog! Recall — off the lead Make sure you do this in a secure and confined area and bring plenty of smelly treats, a fun toy to play with, and your silly high-pitched voice so you can call your German Shepherd puppy back regularly. Remember, German Shepherds enjoy learning! Tick 3 things off your personal socialization checklist — maybe take your German Shepherd for a swimming lesson? Practice exercises in different locations — how about a train station, or in a shopping center or mall? Teach a hand target — This is a favorite among pups and their owners. Hand Targeting or touching is the foundation for additional trick behaviors like leg weaving and closing doors. Introducing nose work to your puppy — We mean it when we say your German Shepherd puppy has a better nose than you! Play a game of hide and seek with their favorite toy to bring out those excellent search skills. Looking for more great puppy training tips? Check out our overview of when to start teaching your puppy anything , next. It will be fun they said. We go the extra mile for you. If you want a stress free puppy experience, get this downloaded! Worth every single penny! This app is very helpful. It helps you to understand and gives you a path to follow. The coaching support is excellent and super speedy. Download the app now. Check Price on Amazon 7. Make Commands Only Once When it comes to training, what you give is what you get. Teach your pup to heed a command at its first mention. If a command is not executed the first time, show your puppy what you want them to do and make the command again. Repeat that until they can learn to obey the first time the command is made. Unless he is born with a hearing defect that is detected by a vet, your German Shepherd puppy has a perfect hearing ability. If you do, you will train him to be anxious or eventually create the idea that shouting is the norm. Otherwise, your poor puppy will be confused about what you expect and will not know how you want them to behave. Eventually Wean Your German Shepherd Puppy off Training Treats At some point, your puppy needs to learn that skills and commands are not learned or obeyed for the sole motive of a treat. For this reason, it is important to wean your puppy off treats when the time is right. The AKC Pet Insurance advises that this should be done when your dog has repeatedly performed the behavior or trick that you are training him in and mastered it completely. Nonetheless, your German Shepherd puppy is still a dog in training, and you need to replace the treat with some emotional reward. With these ten principles, you can now apply them to the key areas that your German Shepherd puppy needs to be trained in. It might be training for a sport in their early adult years or training to cope with an age-related life change. But, as a puppy, there are five key areas in which you must appropriately train your 8-week old German Shepherd. In the next section, I tell you what training entails for each of these areas. If you are looking for a step-by-step guide on how to train a German Shepherd , I have just the article for you. Humans become social through socialization. Canines become social with training. Humans who are well trained in the first years of life will be well behaved as adults. If you want some scientific proof to the rule that training your German Shepherd young is important for their adult life, here are two key findings from this study: Dogs that are well socialized as puppies will behave more positively with humans and are less likely to display behavioral problems such as fear and aggression. These dogs learn better how to play games with humans than those without proper socialization as puppies. Your dog will learn social skills throughout his life, depending on the situations that he gets exposed to. As a puppy, however, you can teach your German Shepherd socialization through intentional training moments in the family, in public places, or by sending the pup to socialization classes. Taking your German Shepherd out often to social places like parks exposes him to other people and dogs. This helps the canine to be less wary or aggressive around strangers. Being among other puppies also helps your little furry friend build confidence. The earlier mentioned study indicates that puppies can learn social skills better when put in socialization classes with other puppies. So, what does that mean? Usually, dogs will need to relieve themselves early in the morning and once they have had their meal. Use that natural rhythm as a reference for his daily pee or poop walks. Dogs hate messing up their sleeping space and will usually hold it. Nonetheless, young puppies might be unable to do so. If they learn that a relief walk happens first thing in the morning, though, they will eventually make an effort to hold it. Walk your dog after his morning meal and hang around for 15 minutes or so to give him time to do his thing. Repeat the same in the evening. In addition to this for dogs that have had their shots , a short walk every hours is an ideal routine to prevent your dog from peeing around the house. If you crate your puppy because you are out, find someone to help you stick to the routine. The best dog crates will give your pet enough room to stand, sit, turn, and lie down comfortably on his side with paws outstretched. When purchasing a crate for your puppy, you might go for the standard metal model with either a single or double door. I like the double door one as it gives you more options where you can place it in your home, and this one has a carrying handle which makes it easy to move around. Travel kennels like this Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel check Amazon for the latest price are also hardy when you are on the move with your dog, and this one even meets the cargo specifications for airlines. Here are five key things you should practice when crate-training your German Shepherd puppy: Keep your puppy in the crate at night always. Letting him into your bed should be a complete no. Initiate crate training from the very first day you bring your puppy home. It will be harder to succeed in crate training if your puppy gets the idea that there are other options. You will likely hear your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy cry during the first night, but after that, he will be just fine. Keep your dog in the crate when you are out of the house and for his own safety, such as cooking in the kitchen or in exceptional situations like when you have visitors. Instead, reward good behavior in the crate. A blanket and some toys will offer some comfort for your dog. Older dogs may refrain from biting because they have been trained to. Learn Bite Inhibition Training! Contrary to the widespread idea that we should yelp like a puppy and quickly withdraw our hand or clothing when a puppy bites, the best way to teach your German Shepherd puppy that his bite hurts is to cry like the human that you are. If you watch the video, you will see what I mean. Do the same when they bite your clothing and other parts of the body like ears or hair. While doing this training, let your dog differentiate between a bite that hurts and one that is soft and part of playing. Also, training your puppy to soft bite is best initiated early in the first six weeks and continued until 4 to 5 months, or when they have mastered the art of soft biting. The best way to do this is to practice at home first before going out for walks with your pup. Consider the following steps: Introduce your German Shepherd puppy to a harness or collar and leash by first allowing him to get used to it gradually. You can play with your puppy for a while and give a treat before or soon after removing the leash. I find the best no-pull harness to be those that are not rear-attached. Give a treat when the command is obeyed. Introduce your puppy to short walks outside on a leash. Your puppy will get distracted during the walk and may try to pull. Do not pull back; instead, stand firm until he gives up and walks back toward you. Timing is crucial here. Reward every time commands are obeyed and gradually reduce the rewards as the art of walking on a leash is perfected. You can learn how to stop a GSD from pulling on the leash in this article. Final Thoughts 8-weeks-old is a good time to train a German Shepherd puppy in key areas such as socialization, crate training, potty training, leash training, and not biting. To successfully train your puppy in these areas, you must train them young and follow other good training principles like not shouting at your puppy, being consistent in your commands, and rewarding obedience to commands, among others. Always bear in mind that a puppy is just starting. So, be patient and begin with basic commands before introducing the more complex trick commands. Good luck with your new friend! Related Posts You May Like:. Can a German Shepherd puppy start training at 8 months? How to Potty Train Your 8-week-old German Shepherd Puppy Potty training your 8-week-old German Shepherd can be stressful at first, but with a bit of persistence and patience, your puppy will learn correct behavior in no time. The potty area can be outdoors or indoors. Having a designated potty place will help your dog understand that this is the only place they should go to poop or pee. Watch Out for Signs One of the first signs is usually an increased awareness of their surroundings. You may notice that your puppy starts sniffing around more often or seems particularly interested in certain places of the house. Watch out also for changes in behavior. If your pup suddenly starts having accidents inside or seems antsy and restless, they may be trying to tell you that they need to go outside. Use Cue Words One way to help your new puppy understand what you want him to do is to use cue words. Cue words will help your German Shepherd puppy learn the connection between the words and the action. You can also use cue words when rewarding him for going in the right spot. Give Training Treats When potty training your puppy, use treats as a form of positive reinforcement. Doing this teaches your puppy that good things happen when they go outside to do their business. When choosing treats for potty training, select something small and easy to eat. This way, the puppy can eat the treat quickly and then get back to playing. It would be best if you also chose training treats that your puppy finds irresistible. Otherwise, they may not be motivated to keep trying. Puppy Crate It is an enclosure to confine your new puppy for short periods. It is also helpful in transporting puppies from one place to another. German Shepherd owners use it for crate training as they can also help with separation anxiety and boredom. Puppy crates usually have a removable tray on the bottom for easy cleaning. They also have wire, plastic, or fabric as the primary materials, and they typically come in different sizes to accommodate puppies of different ages and breeds. When buying a crate, it must be big enough for the puppy to stand up, turn around, and lie down but small enough so that the puppy does not have too much space to eliminate in one corner and sleep in the other. When used correctly, it can provide a safe, comfortable space for your new furry friend. Early Morning: Bring your Puppy Outside When your German Shepherd is a still puppy, he may have trouble holding his bladder throughout the night. If you do not let your puppy out early enough, it might create potty accidents because he cannot control their bladder. Morning: Time for a Nutritious Breakfast Puppies need a lot of nutrients to grow up healthy and strong. A nutritious breakfast helps them get the energy they need to start the day. Even though puppies spend most of their time sleeping and cuddling, puppies require several daily feedings. Place your puppy on your lap and snuggle while sleeping. It would be best if you also let them rest throughout the day. Afternoon: Lunchtime Take your puppy outside after lunch to relieve themselves. Allow your puppy time to exercise and release any built-up energy. Feeding your puppy .Between naps, you can do playtime and training activities to help release energy, encourage physical activity, and develop a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd. Evening: Last meal of the Day During the evening, feed your puppy their fourth and last meal. Afterward, take your puppy for a short stroll. Before returning, have your puppy go potty outside, then snuggle up on the sofa for some quality time. Night: Potty Break Before Bedtime Take your puppy out for one more potty time before putting him to bed. Remember that you should establish a reasonable bedtime for your puppy early on. Moreover, an 8-week-old German Shepherd may develop a better appetite for other solid meals. These include constipation, bloating, and diarrhea. Diarrhea Diarrhea is a common problem that many German Shepherd puppies face. This condition has several possible causes, including dietary indiscretion, viral infections, and intestinal parasites. In most cases, diarrhea is not a serious concern and will resolve itself within a few days. However, seek veterinary care if your puppy displays other symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, or lack of appetite. Constipation A young German Shepherd is particularly susceptible to constipation due to their large, muscular build and fast metabolism. If your puppy is constipated, you may notice that he has difficulty passing stool and seems uncomfortable or restless. If your puppy is constipated, take him to the vet for treatment. The vet may give him a laxative or enema to help relieve constipation. Bloating Bloating occurs when the stomach fills with gas, causing it to swell. German Shepherds are especially prone to bloating because of their deep chests. There are several possible causes of bloating, including eating too fast, drinking too much water, and exercising immediately after eating. Stress can also be a factor. To prevent bloating, feed your German Shepherd several small meals daily instead of one large meal. It is also important to avoid exercising immediately after eating and ensure that your dog has access to fresh water. Yes, a German Shepherd puppy can start training at eight months. But remember that every puppy is different and will learn at its own pace. Consistency is key, and with patience, your puppy will get the hang of obedience training in no time. Training should be a bonding experience for you and your pup! Remember to have fun and keep it light. At eight weeks old, a German Shepherd puppy sleeps for around 18 hours daily. It may seem like a lot, but puppies need a lot of sleep to grow and develop properly. As they get older, German Shepherds will sleep for less time each day. German Shepherd puppies use their mouths to explore their surroundings and socialize with other dogs and people. In addition, puppies typically start teething around eight weeks old, which can cause them to bite more as they try to relieve the discomfort caused by their emerging teeth. Puppies also explore the world with their mouths, and biting is a way for them to learn about their environment. In addition, puppies may bite out of excitement or frustration, especially if they are not getting enough exercise. If your puppy is biting excessively, provide him with plenty of chew toys and opportunities to run and play. Also read:. Leash training Avoiding undesirable behaviors So. There are no taking chances with a puppy: leave the room for even a moment and you might come back to a mess, however accidental. Concentrate on the basics: teaching your pup where it is okay to do their business and establishing a routine for the appropriate times to do so. Puppies are a big commitment! Use treats as a positive reinforcement when they do so in an appropriate place. Below is a basic schedule for puppy potty training. Push on with the same routine, providing them a safe spot in an area where they can be away from other dogs if they need to. Puppies, especially young ones, may be frightened to go to the bathroom around older pooches, especially bigger ones. You will also notice that eventually, your dog gives certain cues or behaviors to indicate they need the bathroom, like standing by or barking at the nearest door that leads there. This is the best way to ensure they will pay attention to what it is you want them to do. Every day your puppy is exposed to new sights, smells, sights, sounds and sometimes even tastes if you turn your back for long enough. You need to keep them reassured that everything is okay and remove them from anything that appears to be overstimulating. The primary concern here is to make sure your dog feels safe and secure, and that the experience will be positive as much as you can anticipate. Therefore, they might be a little aloof and resistant the first few times you interact with somebody. This means checking that those you are introducing to the puppy know how to properly handle and treat one, especially any children who happen to be around. Likewise, you should also ask in advance whether any animals you might come into contact with have proven they are able to stay relatively calm and behave appropriately when spending time with other dogs. When it comes to spontaneous street interactions, you should try and work out if the other dog and human are friendly, bearing in mind anything you know about your pup and any time they have spent with animals and people before. Other owners are not your concern, the safety and welfare of your dog is. Adventure: Go to new places and check out new things! Likewise, as long as they have enough room to fully stand, sit completely upright and lie down comfortably with their legs outstretched, most dogs quite like being in a crate. It offers them a safe, comfortable, private space to relax if stressed or have some alone time. Like us humans, your pup might just want to hang out by themselves for a bit! Worried about accidentally doing something neglectful, or just stressed about crate training in general? Here are some tips to follow that should help you succeed and keep your German Shepherd happy at all times. Gradually begin closing it, just for a few seconds and then longer, increasing the amount of time they spend in the crate little by little. However, whilst they still seem calm, offering up a little snack — potentially even a meal — inside the crate will create positive associations with spending time in there. You can start teaching them some basic commands like sit, stay, lie down, and shake as soon as they come home! Use your voice: it is, after all, your primary method of communication. You might be surprised to learn that tone is more important than what you say until those certain words and their meanings have been learned and understood. When giving commands, use a neutral, authoritative tone; save the high pitched cooing for tummy rubs. Keep it short and sweet: a couple of minutes at a time, every once in a while or at least once a day, will be far more effective and rewarding than an hour straight of saying the same word over and over to no reaction. Finish positively: always try to finish with a command that your dog knows and has successfully completed a few times, as this will ensure they end on a treat and remain positive about the possibility of more training in the future. Focus Five: Leash Training When your dog is all vaccinated and ready for walks, they should be prepared! Initially you should show your puppy the harness and leash — allow them to smell both items, place them in the area or on their backs and give them a treat, so they learn to associate their presence as a good thing. Then consider popping the harness on for a minute or two to see how they react — if they get upset, remove it and try again another time. Otherwise, offer them a treat and some praise for the successful time spent leashed and harnessed. This will allow them to get used to the sensation of being controlled whilst still inside and feeling safe. Every time they return to you, they get a treat! How to discourage your German Shepherd puppy from biting, scratching and jumping up If they bite, jump up or scratch you and it hurts, even if it only hurts a little — but it probably stings quite a bit! Stick to the most basic of commands and only do a couple at a time, though never all at once. The simpler the request, the quicker and easier it will be for your dog to understand it. At first, go somewhere with few or no distractions to train, then gradually introduce new stimuli over time, though nothing too loud. Stress signals like shaking, constantly licking or smacking their lips, cowering away or turning their back to you suggests something is the matter. Crates can be very useful in this situation! Making your dog anxious will throw a spanner in the works and prevent successful training. Get an appropriate toy and play tug of war! You should also use the same words for commands, and ask others to do so as well. Too many variants of the same command will only be confusing, so keep it simple and advise everyone of what to say. A couple of short daily sessions will serve you much better than an hour a week, as well as give your pup plenty of time for snoozing, eating, playing and, of course, getting lots of fuss, attention and cuddles. Consider mental training — not just physical Yes, getting enough exercise, learning commands and being taught how to walk appropriately is important, but your clever and capable German Shepherd needs to do some brain training as well. There are plenty of toys that encourage your dog to work out a variety of puzzles to be rewarded with a treat, stimulating their mind and allowing for a cognitive workout. Make it fun Much like with little kids, there are plenty of games you can play with your dogs that are both highly enjoyable for all involved, but also teach your dog skills and encourage good behavior…covertly. Check out these suggestions from the American Kennel Club for inspiration — you could even make up your own! This is especially important for German Shepherds, as remember, they are especially wary of strangers. Have patience and stick it out It can be disheartening work at first, but training a puppy is one of the most rewarding, satisfying experiences you can have when you get it right. It secures your bond, enables you to have a whole lot of fun and avoids them developing negative characteristics like aggression, fear of strangers or other animals, or running off in public. The more you follow the advice laid out in this guide and continue the same hard work, the better your German Shepherd will respond to you. Check out this video for more great advice! Need more support? There are steps you can take to make things a little easier or give you and your German Shepherd a helping hand. First of all, take a breath and think about it — has it really been a considerable amount of time since you started working with your pup? For instance, toilet training requires at least four to six months of training on average for a puppy to completely stop having accidents altogether. Overexcited dogs can be calmed down in time, but a serious issue with anger needs to be addressed by a professional. A general rule is to allow for five minutes of exercise for each month they are old, so a six month old puppy can do around half an hour of continuous walking in total. This should help avoid any destructive behavior, acting out, accidents or other puppy shenanigans — you may even want to give them a puzzle-based treat like a Kong filled with peanut butter or something more intelligent, to serve as a distraction when you make your exit. Remember, attempts to reprimand or redirect by punishing or shouting will either serve as giving your dog the attention they want, or make them anxious and eventually scared of you. This could even cause them to develop aggressive tendencies. There is no shame in seeking the assistance of a puppy training school or dog expert if you find yourself at a loss for what to do — we all need a little help sometimes and certain dogs can have their misbehavior explained.

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Remind children to be calm and gentle. One of the healthiest things you can do for your puppy is give pup lots of love and attention lots and lots of attention. Dogs are extremely loyal by nature and are happy when they please you. Studies show that emotionally, dogs benefit from being petted by humans as mush as humans do from petting dogs. So spend time with your little companion. Melanies Gorgeousdoodles Puppies, my loving passion The first few months are very important for establishing good habits. It is always best to be prepared and read up on the best early training skills. Remember you have to train yourself and your family to be consistent! Here are some things you can do to help your Labradoodle pup feel as comfortable as possible. Teach children to always when hand feeding puppy dog a treat to do so with food in palm -of -their -hand. Many commercial foods are acceptable but be sure to choose a well-balanced one without any grians and no corn meal. Exercising doodle puppy Exercise is an important part of labradoodles overall health Puppy develops good motor skills and balance and life skills from being out and about. Playing games such as fetch challenge a puppy mentally. Remember, exercising helps puppy go poop so take a poop scoop. Rinse thoroughly and stand back — doodle will shake and shake! Grooming Brushing or combing with a wide tooth comb your Labradoodle regularly keeps his coat looking nice and it feels good to your doodle. And just as important, this is time for you puppy to bond. Important that you keep or have a groomer your doodle hair trimmed a little around their eyes, month and privates. There are lots of good book on dog training! Her website has a lot of excellent resources. Click to find link to order Virbac products for the best price. Fatigue Behavior changes loss of appetite, reluctance to engage, etc. If you notice any of these signs, make an appointment with your vet so they can perform screenings such as chest x-rays, blood tests, and an echocardiogram an ultrasound of the heart and nearby blood vessels to assess the issue. The condition can be serious if left untreated, but thankfully there are many treatment options available, such as diet therapy and medication. What To Feed a Labradoodle To live a long and happy life, Labradoodles must consume the proper amount of high-quality dog food and have access to fresh water. A balanced diet will help your pup maintain a healthy weight and avoid health conditions such as heart disease and hip dysplasia. If a pet parent is willing and able to cook for their dog, Whittenburg suggests a fresh, homemade diet that has been formulated by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist. Boutique brand and grain-free foods should be avoided. That includes servings of food in the right amount that provides more than 40 nutrients that pets require in their respective life stages, including proteins, fats, carbs, and vitamins, minerals, and independent amino acids, according to the Pet Food Institute. While there is no one-size-fits-all way to feed a Labradoodle and a consultation with your vet is recommended, Whittenburg says Labradoodle puppies under 6 months old should generally be fed a minimum of three times a day and adult dogs should be fed twice a day. Unless recommended by a veterinarian, dogs fed a complete and balanced commercial food diet should not need any nutritional supplements. However, Labradoodles that are fed a homemade diet may require supplements to ensure they are getting all the vitamins and minerals necessary to thrive, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, glucosamine, and a variety of antioxidants. Behavior and Training Tips for Labradoodles Labradoodle Personality and Temperament The high-energy, attention-seeking, intelligent Labradoodle requires frequent exercise, interaction, and play. While every Labradoodle is different, proper socialization is a must for helping your dog become a well-behaved companion. These dogs are not known to be excessive barkers, but the right amount of training and exercise is required to ensure they learn to behave appropriately. Labradoodle Training Because Labradoodles are a hybrid of two highly intelligent breeds, they are eager to please and highly trainable, according to Philippou. They can be taught to excel at everything from basic tricks like sit, stay, and roll over to running agility courses. Always use positive-reinforcement techniques, like using treats to reward good behaviors, during training. Due to their gentle and sharp-witted nature, Labradoodles can even be trained to become service dogs. Fun Activities for Labradoodles. 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 Labradoodle Highlights Friendly and intelligent: Labradoodles are known for being friendly and intelligent dogs. They are good with children and other animals, and they are easy to train. Hypoallergenic: Labradoodles are often considered to be hypoallergenic, which means that they do not shed as much as other dogs. This makes them a good choice for people with allergies. Active and playful: Labradoodles are active dogs that need regular exercise. They enjoy playing fetch, going for walks, and swimming. Loyal and devoted: Labradoodles are loyal and devoted dogs that make great companions. They are always happy to see their owners and they love to cuddle. Versatile: Labradoodles are versatile dogs that can be trained for a variety of tasks, including therapy work, obedience, and agility. They can be expensive to purchase and maintain. They require regular grooming, especially if they have a curly coat. They are prone to some health problems, such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Overall, Labradoodles are wonderful dogs that make great companions for people of all ages. If you are looking for a friendly, intelligent, and hypoallergenic dog, a Labradoodle may be a good choice for you. Labradoodle History Wally Conron, who was in charge of the breeding program for the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia, purposefully crossbred a Standard Poodle and Labrador Retriever in to develop the Labradoodle as a hypoallergenic guide dog. The first cross produced Sultan, a dog with a hypoallergenic coat, aptitude, intelligence, and personality suitable for being an effective guide dog. Sultan worked successfully with a woman in Hawaii. Other breeders saw the merit of crossing these two breeds, and the Labradoodle quickly rose in popularity like its Labrador Retriever parent. These dogs are often produced by crossing a Labrador Retriever with a Poodle, but multigenerational breeding has begun in an attempt to produce a viable and recognizable breed. The Australian Labradoodle Association and the International Australian Labradoodle Association are taking steps to move this designer breed into registered breed status in the next few years. These groups have made great efforts to bring breeders together so that they are working to achieve the same standards through multigenerational breeding. Labradoodle Size The Labradoodle comes in three size variations, depending on the size of the Poodle used for the first-generation breeding. The three sizes are Standard, Medium, and Miniature. The Standard Labradoodle should be 22 to 24 inches in height for a male and 21 to 23 inches in height for a female, while both can range in weight from 50 to 65 pounds. The Medium Labradoodle should be 18 to 20 inches high for a male and 17 to 19 inches high for a female, with both weighing from 30 to 45 pounds. The average size for a Miniature Labradoodle is between 14 to 16 inches and 15 to 25 pounds. All of that said, there is a lot of variation in Labradoodle sizes. Some can be smaller or larger than expected. Labradoodle Personality The Labradoodle is an intelligent dog who can make the ideal family pet if properly trained. They are friendly and accept and treat everyone like their best friend. They can be gentle, but they can also be joyful, showing their happiness through exuberant jumping and playing. They also tend to be easygoing, since the Labradoodle was bred not to be aggressive. Temperament is affected by a number of factors, including heredity, training, and socialization. Puppies with nice temperaments are curious and playful, willing to approach people and be held by them. Meeting siblings, parents, or other relatives of the dog is also helpful for evaluating what a puppy will be like when they grow up. Socialization helps ensure that your Labradoodle puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Enrolling them in a puppy kindergarten class is a great start. Inviting visitors over regularly, and taking them to busy parks, stores that allow dogs, and on leisurely strolls to meet neighbors will also help them polish their social skills. Here are a few conditions to watch out for: Ear Infections: These can plague Labradoodles because of their floppy ears. The ears trap moisture and should be regularly checked. X-ray screening is the most certain way to diagnose the problem. Either way, arthritis can develop as the dog ages. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Elbow Dysplasia : Similar to hip dysplasia, this is also a degenerative disease. The disease varies in severity: the dog could simply develop arthritis, or they could become lame. Treatment includes surgery, weight management, medical management, and anti-inflammatory medication. It can cause mild or severe seizures that may show themselves as unusual behavior—such as running frantically as if being chased, staggering, or hiding—or even by falling down, limbs rigid, and losing consciousness. Seizures are frightening to watch, but the long-term prognosis for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy is generally very good. Allergies: Allergies are a common ailment in dogs, and the Labradoodle is no exception. Treatment varies according to the cause and may include dietary restrictions, medications, and environmental changes. Diabetes Mellitus: This is a disorder in which the body cannot regulate blood sugar levels. The dog will lose weight because food is not being used efficiently. Symptoms of diabetes are excessive urination and thirst, increased appetite, and weight loss. Diabetes can be controlled by diet and the administration of insulin. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA : This is a family of eye diseases that involves the gradual deterioration of the retina. Early in the disease, affected dogs become night-blind; they lose sight during the day as the disease progresses. Many affected dogs adapt well to their limited or lost vision, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Hypothyroidism : This is a disorder of the thyroid gland. It is treated with medication and diet. They require about 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day and would do better with a fenced yard in which to expel some energy. Some Labradoodles, especially in the first generation, can require even more exercise. The Labradoodle makes an excellent jogging companion but also needs some time off-leash to burn off steam. The Labradoodle is an intelligent and eager-to-please dog. Training should be easy as long as consistency and positive reinforcement are the methods. Socialize them from puppyhood, since they tend to hurl themselves headlong into canine situations without regard to the feelings of other dogs. This can lead to some problems if the unknown dog is aggressive. Despite their activity levels, a Labradoodle can adjust to living in suburban or city environments and can do well in rural settings. A crate is also a place where they can retreat for a nap. Crate training at a young age will help your Labradoodle accept confinement if they ever needs to be boarded or hospitalized. Never stick your Labradoodle in a crate all day long, however. Labradoodle Feeding Recommended daily amount: 1 to 2. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on their 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. Keep your Labradoodle in good shape by measuring their food and feeding them twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at them. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on their back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see their ribs without having to press hard. For more on feeding your Labradoodle, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Labradoodle Coat Color And Grooming Although a Labradoodle can have one of a range of coat types, the desired length is four to six inches. They have a single coat with hair ranging from straight to loose curls. There are three types of texture: The Hair coat, which is similar to fur in shedding breeds, is the least popular. Hair coats shed and usually have a normal doggy odor. This coat is seen in first generations, although breeders try to avoid it. The Fleece coat has a silky texture often described as an Angora goat texture. This coat ranges from straight to wavy. Labradoodles are considered to be non- to low shedders, especially those with a Fleece or Wool coat. Hair coats tend to shed just as they do in other breeds, ranging from very low to average shedding. The Labradoodle comes in a wide variety of colors. They can also have parti-colored coats, which consist of brindles, phantom, patched, or sable colors. Grooming requirements vary depending on the length and type of coat the dog has. Generally speaking, you can expect to brush a Labradoodle about once or twice per week. Some can be clipped or trimmed every six to eight weeks to keep the coat easy to maintain. Like Labs, Labradoodles can be prone to ear infections, so take a little extra time caring for their ears. Dry and clean them after a swim, and check them once a week for dirt, redness, or a bad odor that can indicate an infection. Then wipe them out weekly with a cotton ball dampened with gentle, pH-balanced ear cleaner to prevent problems. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Dog toenails have blood vessels in them, and if you cut too far you can cause bleeding—and your dog may not cooperate the next time they see the nail clippers come out. Handle their paws frequently—dogs are touchy about their feet—and look inside their mouth. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. Labradoodle Children And Other Pets The Labradoodle does well with children and can be an affectionate and gentle companion for any child. They can also be exuberant and might knock down smaller children, but they will love them with all their heart. As with every breed, you should 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 friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Labradoodles usually get along well with other dogs and pets. Like most dogs, they need training and socialization for optimum success at living with and visiting other animals. Labradoodle Rescue Groups Labradoodles are often brought home without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. Many end up in the care of shelters or rescues because of this. It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Labradoodles because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Labrador Retriever or Poodle breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have both health and behavioral issues. More Info For You. Training We Recommend: A Great Beginning: We start to train and work with our puppies from the first day, socializing as well as following the suggested guidelines of the best trainers in the US. We have a well researched program of using sounds, small tasks, toys and other materials to influence and help your puppy be an easy going, fun loving, social and well trained adult. Trainers tell us that the most important time for your puppy is between 8 and 11 weeks so we work with you to understand what you can do to continue to prepare your puppy for the world. Training: We recommend training your puppy as much as possible. The best puppies know their boundaries and are taught what is expected with love and devotion. The sooner your puppy is trained the sooner it is given more freedom. Therefore, strict training results in big rewards for puppy and owner. Labradoodles are easily trained. They should be completely potty trained within 4 to 6 weeks after pick up. Most are sitting, staying, shaking paws, and retrieving by 3 months of age, many can get the newspaper and more by then with proper attention. Puppies will jump up and it takes time and consistency to break this habit early. Crate training or room training is recommended: First I will cover crate training then room training. Crate Training: First get over the fact that to you it is a cage, to them it is a safe place when they are alone, safe from outside things and noises puppies have yet to become fearless of. They view it as their cave, a place they can sleep with the peace of mind. The crate should be just big enough for them to stand up, walk in a circle, and lay down. This is a different size at 8 weeks as it is at 4 months. Therefore I like something like the Life Stages Ultima Triple Door Folding Dog Crates from Petsmart where there is an additional wall that can be adjusted to increase the crate size as the puppy grows. It should contain toys. Bedding is typically used to pee on so do not use bedding until later once the dog can easily go all night without "going". I think the crate should be in a room, a selected safe room that later when the crate is no longer used becomes the place that when visitors come over who are not "dog people", the dog would stay in while these visitors are there. The first night the crate can be in a bedroom close to people and then later moved into the safe room if you desire. Some puppies pee in their crate at first and some don't, have patience. The point of the crate is to discourage peeing for a period of time. First crate the puppy for an hour or two and at night, then gradually longer. The point is to take the dog out before it has to go to the bathroom and as time goes by it can hold it longer and longer. Never more than 4 hours except at night when at first I recommend you get up twice during the night and let the puppy out, after two days wait and let the puppy out once in the middle of the night, gradually extend the wait time an hour until finally they have gone all night. After a few months I recommend graduating to room training. Remember to remove food and water an hour or more before leaving the dog in the crate, the puppy should be let outside and empty when left in the crate. Room Training: Select a safe room that when visitors come over who are not "dog people", the dog would stay while the visitors are there. For example, an extra bathroom or utility room. It should contain a wee pad if needed and toys. Bedding is typically used to pee on so do not use bedding until later. Some puppies pee in their space at first and some don't, have patience. This is the reason for the wee pad, see "wee pad" for how this is used and gradually removed. The point of the room is to discourage peeing for a period of time and keep them out of trouble. First confine the puppy for an hour or two and at night, then gradually longer. The room should be used up to a year when you are gone and at night. The sooner the puppy is trained and you can trust them the sooner they have free roam of the house. Remember to remove food and water an hour or more before leaving the dog, the puppy should be let outside and empty when left in the room. Wee pads: We put wee pads in the utility room when the puppies move into there, the wee pad is placed to one side. They have some chemical that draws the puppies.Take them out as much as possible; the point of the wee pad is an emergency situation only. Eventually they only use the wee pads at night. I suggest the wee pad be placed close to bed, in their "room" or at the back door in case someone doesn't notice them at the door. It works like this, and please don't punish them for using the wee pad but don't congratulate them either, congratulate them when they go outside. Eventually they select to please you versus the wee pad and then they just stop using the wee pad. When it is dry for a few days take it away.Food: We recommend free food and water all day if you are home. We use the best puppy food available. We do not feed people food to our dogs ever, some things you would never imagine are actually toxic listed below. When you pick up your puppy we give you a bag of food so you can continue it or mix it with whatever you desire slowly decreasing the amount of our food over time. But understand what you are feeding your dog. To find a good food read the first 5 ingredients on the bag. Now ask the following questions: What are the protein sources? We believe the primary source should come from quality animal protein, not vegetable protein or grain. Foods that list 2 or more grains in the first 5 ingredients may have more vegetable protein than animal protein. We prefer Chicken as the main ingredient. What about grains? Two or more grains listed in the first 5 ingredients means your food may have more vegetable protein than animal protein. Grains such as soy, corn, corn gluten and wheat gluten can be difficult to digest, which means less nutrition, possible allergic reactions and more clean up. Wheat, barley, rice, corn and oats are all man-raised crops that a dog would never eat in the wild. These ingredients are not properly digested and in many situations cause a dog to show allergy symptoms. Are there by-products? Some manufacturers consider by-products inferior sources of protein and, depending on the source, they can be difficult to digest. These ingredients contain meat sources that are typically unsuitable for human consumption. What are the fat sources? Some fats are better than others. We believe the primary fat source in dog food should be animal based because animal fats contain a profile of fatty acids that are easily metabolized and thus are generally more available to the body. The coat and nails of an Australian Labradoodle require consistent maintenance and monthly grooming for them to look and feel their best. The ALAA is proud to share this essential grooming information with your pup! Grooming Your Australian Labradoodle This is a basic grooming video for an Australian Labradoodle and an accompanying manual, provided by the Australian Labradoodle Association of America. They are easily forgotten but must be trimmed like every other nail. If you do not trim them, your dog much more likely to snag them on something and tear them. A torn dewclaw is a very painful thing for your dog and often results in a trip to the vet. If you are not comfortable trimming or feel unprepared to do so, have a groomer or vet show you how. Regular cleaning and care is a must. Hair that rubs against the eye can introduce bacteria, leading to infection. Teeth Care Your dog absolutely requires good dental care. Each dog has different exercise needs, but Labradoodles generally need an hour of physical activity every day. Good options include running, playing a good game of fetch, taking a long walk, or jogging or biking with your dog. Some exercises can actually harm developing joints. When exercising your dog, remember: If your dog is still growing, do not take him or her for long jogs, and definitely do not take him or her with you for a run. Developing joints can be harmed by repetitive motion on hard surfaces. Avoid exercising in extreme heat. If you plan to take water along for you, remember that your dog will need water, too. If your dog seems tired, discontinue what you are doing and allow him or her to rest. Canine health depends on the appropriate balance of nutrients and calories sufficient for prime growth, activity level and cellular repair. Whether you decide on a dry kibble diet, a raw food diet or a combination of the two, be sure that the diet is complete and balanced. We suggest choosing food with high-quality animal proteins, whole grains and vegetables from organic sources. Avoid foods with unidentified fat or protein sources, byproducts, artificial colors, flavors or preservatives, and added sweeteners. Buy healthy, and again, avoid preservatives, fillers or byproducts. Read more about dog diets and health: Whole Dog Journal provides an annual review of the best of the best dry kibble foods. For information about the different types of dog food. Fleas and Ticks Fleas and ticks are a nuisance, and if not taken care of right away, can infest and possibly kill your dog. They spread disease, cause allergic reactions and transmit blood and intestinal parasites. There are many ways to tackle fleas and ticks, and most chemical products are safe if used properly. Specialized products treat individual issues, and some products prevent and kill both fleas and ticks. One product treats for both and also prevents heartworm. A few of the most studied and well-known products: Advantage treats fleas only. Monthly topical. Frontline Plus treats fleas and ticks. Revolution treats fleas, ticks and heartworm. Sentinel treats fleas only. Monthly oral. For those who prefer holistic care, frequent bathing and manual removal of fleas and ticks can help prevent infestation of your home and yard. Use a flea comb and tick remover after each bath. Follow this labradoodle puppy care guide to help with the transition. A few things you might want to have with you when you pick up your puppy are a bottle of water, some baby wipes, and a towel or a blanket. If you are meeting your puppy at the airport, your puppy may be thirsty from the trip. We put a frozen dish of water in the crate, but it is usually long gone by the time your puppy arrives. The wipes are needed in case the puppy may have soiled the crate. The towel or blanket also, in case the puppy has soiled the crate, is for you to hold your puppy or to put in the crate. Using a Leash to Bond with Your Puppy When your puppy first arrives to your home, we suggest you keep the puppy on a leash for the first couple of days. Do your best to have the primary caregiver be the main person handling the leash. We also suggest you not have outside visitors to the home for the first couple of days. Give your puppy some time to adjust to her new family first before she meets your world. Your puppy is going to be a little confused at her new surroundings. From the beginning your puppy needs to learn that she is at the bottom, below even the youngest child. She needs to learn who her main leaders are and what the boundaries are in her new home. Labradoodles are people loving dogs! Your puppy will want to bond. Your puppy is smart and will quickly learn that the person attached at the other end of the leash is important to her. Your Labradoodle will look to you for example and comfort. She will learn that you are her source of not only example and comfort, but also food! Using the leash these first few days will help your new puppy learn who to trust and who to please. Other Advantages of Leash Training Your New Puppy Even if you are not holding onto the leash, you can control where she goes easily by stepping on the dragging leash. This is much more comfortable to a dog than having you lunge over her to get her. Keeping her on a leash also allows you to monitor where your puppy is in the house, and help her learn which rooms you would like her to be in and where she is not allowed. Lastly, having her on a leash helps her adjust to the idea of a leash so that she is ready to be trained to heel on a leash. A crate can be a useful and comforting tool or it can be an overused source of misery for your puppy. We suggest using a crate for very short periods of time during the day and for your puppy to sleep in at night. During the day there will come short periods of time where you have a task to do that requires your full attention. While your puppy is still in the house training stage, the crate can be very valuable to you. By putting your puppy in the crate for short amounts of time during the day, say an hour, maybe two, you can accomplish what you must do and also help puppy control her bladder. As soon as you let her out, immediately take her outdoors to relieve herself. Using the crate this way will encourage her to only go to the bathroom where it is appropriate to go. If your puppy is not crate trained already, you will have to work up to the hour or two hour mark. By the time your puppy arrives, she should be able to sleep around 7 hours through the night in a crate. Of course all puppies are individuals and so the time can vary. Your Golden Xpress Labradoodle puppy is used to being in a crate, but she is also used to smelling and hearing her siblings nearby. She may have adjustments to make in her new home because of this. Another factor in labradoodle puppy care is that their little tummies often get upset over the first couple of weeks in their new homes. To help her adjust to your home atmosphere and sleeping during the night, keep her crate in your bedroom at night. Keeping your hand down by the wire door is comforting to her. Responding to her cries with talking or tapping encourages your puppy to cry and whine more. Tapping on the crate lightly is ok, but not in response to her noise making. Another thing to think about with regard to labradoodle puppy care is if your puppy starts to wet her crate, you need to first check and see if her crate is too big. Generally, dogs do not relieve themselves in their sleeping places. If so, either use a smaller crate or block part off with a box. If her crate seems the right size, you may need to take out anything like blankets or soft materials. When your puppy has successfully kept her crate dry for a couple of weeks, try putting the bedding back in. Feeding Your Puppy At first, your puppy will need to be fed 3 times a day. Once they have adjusted, offer food to them all day so they learn not to gorge at meal time, and always make sure your puppy has clean, fresh water available to her. Feed your puppy in a quiet place, free from distractions. Put a good amount of food in her bowl and let her eat as much as she would like. After about 20 minutes or so, remove the food. Repeat this morning, mid-day and evening. It helps keep teeth and gums in better shape than wet food does. DO NOT feed your puppy people food. Your food does not provide the nutrition that your puppy needs. She will choose to have the people food and not eat her own. Feed your dog people food and you will have one unhealthy puppy. Just make sure you choose high quality dog treats with some nutrition. At Golden Xpress Labradoodles we give our dogs and puppies different kinds of treats: dog biscuits, dog turkey or chicken jerky. The jerky is good for a training aid around the house — to teach the puppy to come or to sit, or down. They are very intelligent and very willing to learn, and this makes them easier to train. Just remember that they are puppies so be patient. Lots of Loves Above all labradoodle puppy care requires lots of love. Make sure you pet her and hold her so she knows she belongs to your family. Labradoodles are loyal, loving dogs — give your puppy your love and she will return it tenfold.

We recommend that you keep your pet in ideal body condition and not allow them to become overweight. The amount of food your pet needs can vary based on age, activity level or other food and treats given, so be sure to work with your veterinarian to determine an appropriate weight for your pet, and to make any necessary adjustments to their feeding. Information Ingredients Guaranteed Analysis Royal Canin knows what makes your Bulldog puppy magnificent is in the details. With their funny, squishy faces, wrinkled skin, and short, stocky bodies, Bulldog puppies bring a lot of love—and smells—to your home. They can benefit from the right growth formula to provide immune system support, bone and joint health, and digestive care as they take on puppyhood. Royal Canin Bulldog dry puppy food is tailor-made nutrition created just for your pure breed Bulldog puppy. Whether you call yours an English Bulldog or British Bulldog, this exclusive breed-specific diet is uniquely formulated for your Bulldog puppy with specific nutrients to help them thrive. An exclusive mix of antioxidants and vitamin E supports their developing immune systems and keeps their body growing strong. High-quality proteins and prebiotics help promote optimal stool quality. And for healthy growth, this calcium- and phosphorus-fortified diet helps your Bulldog pup develop strong bones and healthy joints. Once your Bulldog puppy is over 15 months old, transition them to Royal Canin Bulldog Adult dog food for precise nutrition into the adult years. Not satisfied? Then neither are we. Just contact us for more details. Chicken by-product meal, brewers rice, brown rice, chicken fat, wheat gluten, oat groats, pork meal, natural flavors, dried plain beet pulp, pea fiber, fish oil, vegetable oil, sodium silico aluminate, potassium chloride, monocalcium phosphate, calcium carbonate, fructooligosaccharides, sodium tripolyphosphate, vitamins [DL-alpha tocopherol acetate source of vitamin E , niacin supplement, L-ascorbylpolyphosphate source of vitamin C , D-calcium pantothenate, biotin, pyridoxine hydrochloride vitamin B6 , riboflavin supplement, thiamine mononitrate vitamin B1 , vitamin A acetate, folic acid, vitamin B12 supplement, vitamin D3 supplement], hydrolyzed yeast source of betaglucans , salt, DL-methionine, choline chloride, glucosamine hydrochloride, marigold extract Tagetes erecta L. Ingredients Tailor-made food for Bulldog puppies from 2 to 12 months. Encourages a good balance of intestinal flora and ensures optimal digestive tolerance thanks to an exclusive combination of prebiotics and L. P proteins of very high digestibility. Natural Defences This formula helps support the Bulldog puppy? Bone and Joint Health Contributes to supporting the Bulldog puppy? This exclusive formula also helps maintain ideal weight. Exclusive Kibble: Special Brachycephalic Jaw A kibble exclusively designed to make it easier for the Bulldog puppy to pick up and to encourage him to chew. Most orders take working days to deliver and are dependent on where we are delivering to. Outlying areas can take longer than city centres. Please allow up to 10 working days for delivery. For more information about how delivery works please read our delivery terms and fees page. If you need to return a purchase you can do so by completing our Return Request Form. Got a question about this product? Just fill out the form below and we'll get back to you as soon as possible. Alternatively you can call us on .Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your pet's temperament, activity level and environment. If you have any questions regarding your pet's health, please contact your veterinarian. Transition Instructions We recommend at least a 7 day transition before you begin feeding the new food exclusively. On the 7th day, you can feed the new food exclusively. All of our dry diets are preserved naturally with mixed tocopherols, citric acid, and rosemary extract. Our canned diets are naturally preserved and sterilized during the cooking and canning process. Where do the ingredients in Royal Canin diets come from? Royal Canin is making strides towards sustainability by attempting to obtain sources of raw materials as close to each manufacturing facility as possible. In some cases, we use international suppliers, because only those suppliers can offer raw materials that comply with our quality and food safety standards. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain by-products? Royal Canin chooses ingredients because they deliver high-quality nutrients that support our customized pet food formulas. Using chicken by-product meal instead of chicken meal for example will allow Royal Canin to maintain its highly customized nutrient standards while achieving a more secure and sustainable supply. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain grains? As always, we focus on the nutrients each ingredient provides and grains can provide many important nutrients. How do you ensure Royal Canin diets are safe for my pet? Our Quality and Food Safety systems are state-of-the-art and we continue to invest heavily in new technology to make sure they remain that way. We monitor every load delivered to our plants to verify the safety and quality of the ingredients we use to make pet food. We perform tests on finished pet foods before they are shipped to our customers. How do I know which Royal Canin diet is right for my pet? Based on size, age, lifestyle, and breed, each cat or dog has unique nutritional needs. For healthy pets, use our Product Selector to find the right diet for your cat or dog. If your pet is experiencing health issues, please refer to your veterinarian for more information. Your veterinarian will consider multiple factors when recommending an appropriate diet.