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Conclusions for when Goldendoodles calm down At what age do Goldendoodles calm down? There is light at the end of the tunnel for a worried Goldendoodle owner. There are three stages of Goldendoodle energy level to pass through. Although you should always expect an energetic and upbeat dog — the overall excitement level will lessen as they age and progress. Expect a Goldendoodle to calm down around months of age. They will be past the puppy stage and into adulthood. Expect energetic and sometimes crazy behavior until they transition into the adult phase. This can be delayed an entire year or more for some dogs also. The craziest level of energy and frantic personality will occur in the first puppy stage of development. A Hyperactive Goldendoodle puppy Most Goldendoodles are going to be more than a little energetic. Expect exciting behavior, zoomies, plenty of licking , and boundless curiosity. It is this curiosity that can lead even the gentlest and kindest Goldendoodle into becoming a bit naughty. Even if your Goldendoodle is a standard or larger size — they will still mentally be a puppy for a long time. Even if they are so tall that they can stretch upright and be taller than you! Larger sized Goldendoodles sometimes give their owners slightly more hassle with the frenetic energy. This is not because larger sized Goldendoodle is more likely to be crazy — it is because their antics and power are more destructive because of their size. We just need to expect Goldendoodle puppies to be frantic, overexcited, and sometimes to get so wound up they forget their manners. Positive reinforcement and food as a motivating treat ned to be used form early on to start the glacially slow training process for a crazy Goldendoodle. So when should you expect change? The transition from Puppy into Adult Goldendoodle in terms of behavior will occur anywhere from months. It should be noted that transitioning into the adult phase is not a magic bean solution to a hyperactive Goldendoodle expect some of the behavior to continue! But now you are through the woods if you are consistent and the training is positive — you can expect less NEW destructive or hyper behaviors to occur. Can Goldendoodles swim? Do they like pools and beaches? Tips for dealing with a hyper Goldendoodle puppy Usually, during the puppy phase, most CRAZY Goldendoodle behavior can be attributed to a single cause. The primary issue is one of over excitement. Goldendoodles have a zeal for life and an outgoing personality to match. This is one of the reasons they are so popular as a dog for families with children. Reprimanding will often not achieve the desired result. At this early stage up to the 18 months , diversion AND prevention are typically a better approach to minimize over excitement. Use Nose work to Calm Down a Crazy Goldendoodle The inability to focus and lack of concentration are primary aspects of crazy Goldendoodle behavior. There are easy things you can do with your dog at home to engage their attention and promote calmness. Got an over excited puppy? Try out nose work! It is simple and fun to get started. You can DIY it at home! For more dog videos check out our Oodle Life YouTube channel Nose work scent training is a simple and easy pastime for Goldendoodles that wears them out mentally and physically — and can easily be performed indoors. A great way to distract your crazy Goldendoodle AND get them to concentrate is to start with some nose work or sniff training. As you can see in this video of a Labradoodle puppy beginning scent training, it can initially be a straightforward scenario. Primarily you play hide and seek with the desired food treat. Dried liver snacks, boiled chicken, even capsicum or grated cheese can be used as hides Reward each find with an extra set of treats Progressively make the hides more difficult as the days and weeks progress Examples include getting the dog to reach its nose into a box Place the hides in a plastic container or something that has noise Reduce the total number of hides but put our more places to search Although Goldendoodle rarely lack confidence, the gradual increase in difficulty will help boost self-assuredness The act of sniffing is both mentally and physically tiring for a Goldendoodle. So cute! When an older Goldendoodle Acts Crazy or Hyper Once a Goldendoodle transitions into the adult phase of its life, it often sees a reduction in the total intensity of the crazy or manic behavior. Do not expect it to completely disappear, though! Goldendoodles are brimming with energy and have a zeal for life that lasts for… life. If there are learned behaviors not redirected as a puppy — you can expect these to continue later. This is why problem chewing needs to be deal with early. Another common issue is that of excessive barking. Goldendoodles can have a booming bark. Loud even for the dog of their size! All size Goldendoodles from teacup right through the bigger standard Goldendoodles or sturdily built English Goldendoodles can have a loud and alarming bark. Barking is a natural behavior, and it is not reasonable to expect a Goldendoodle to never bark. Problem barking, however, is a behavioral issue that can be addressed. If left unchecked, it will annoy neighbors and just be a general nuisance! Our Goldendoodles may be smart — but sometimes we have to baby them and play tricks like warning the postman OR blocking out windows to stop excessive barking. These are soft non harming nips that do not hurt the owner or pierce the skin. If this transitions into biting OR continues after 12 months of age — you need to quickly implement at-home training or seek advice from a professional. Play biting should drop off significantly once the puppy teeth have been replaced. This occurs by around 8 months of age. Do not tolerate biting that causes harm at any age. If the biting habit persists and it not addressed — you will have a lifetime of troubles with the dog. The ramifications to yourself, your family, — and the issues taking the dog in public will further compound into making your crazy Goldendoodle act our even more. A beautiful black Goldendoodle puppy! The conventional wisdom for a Goldendoodle is that any hyper or crazy behavior should have plateaued by three years of age. Consider 2. If you are still experiencing crazy or boisterous behavior by 2. If it is upsetting the family dynamic, you may need to consider more intense obedience training or the help of an in-home dog trainer to overcome the issues. I asked two Goldendoodle owners with older dogs. They have commented in the past their thoughts on when Goldendoodles become entirely calm. She also barked at everything and would pine whenever we left her alone. We were so worried she was a bit of a handful in those times. Thank goodness the biting and chewing stopped after she lost her baby teeth at 6 months. The rest of the crazy only really reduced at around age 2. Marlie is still very active and cheerful, but we love her, and it is very manageable. We keep him extremely active and tire him out daily to reduce the craziness. He never has been hyper too much — but was naughty till around age 3. He tested us! We had to wait so long for him to mature. Luckily there are ingenious dog toys that will distract our Goldendoodles and reduce the amount of hyper crazy moments we have. Our Oodle Life recipe for a delicious Kong treat Kong-tail You can tire your dog out with a bunch of different toys, but nothing really beats the good old fashioned Kong. A puzzle toy that then gives treats later turns into a sweet-smelling for your Goldendoodle chew toy once the frozen goodies are gone. Learn how to best stuff a Kong and make a Kong-tail in our detailed guide. The smaller ones often live for over fifteen years. Find out how long you should expect your particular type of Goldendoodle to live here. In their old age — expect a degree of calmness from your dog that might be a touch of surprise. After all — this calm comes only once the Goldendoodle turns ten years of age. After a decade of exuberant excitement — it would be nice to have a serene and calm final run with your beloved dog. Pamper them! Conclusions for when Goldendoodles calm down A hyper or crazy acting Goldendoodle can be a severe problem to address. The solution is going to be a combination of time, training, and patience. Redirecting problem behaviors and positive reinforcement are key. Working through each problem e. Solve each issue, and one by one, you will improve the calmness of your Goldendoodle. 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. But fret not! We assure you that calm days are on the horizon. However, many Goldendoodle owners often find themselves wondering why their furry companions are so hyper. In this blog post, we will delve into the reasons behind their high energy levels and provide assurance that they will eventually calm down. Why is my Goldendoodle so hyper? Their hyperactivity can be attributed to a combination of factors: Breed Traits: Golden Retrievers and Poodles are known for their playful and energetic nature. Goldendoodles inherit these traits, which contribute to their overall hyper behavior. Energy Level: Goldendoodles are an active breed that requires regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them engaged. If they don't receive enough physical and mental outlets, they may exhibit hyperactive behavior. Youthful Exuberance: Like most young dogs, Goldendoodles have a surplus of energy. They may display hyperactivity as a result of their youthful enthusiasm, which tends to mellow out as they mature. At what age do Goldendoodles mellow out? Goldendoodles generally start to mellow out as they grow older. However, the exact age at which they calm down can vary from dog to dog. Here are some general guidelines: Puppy Stage months During this stage, Goldendoodle puppies are filled with boundless energy and curiosity. They require frequent playtime, training, and socialization to channel their energy positively. Adolescence months This is a transitional phase where Goldendoodles experience hormonal changes. They may exhibit bursts of energy, occasional disobedience, and increased curiosity. Consistent training, exercise, and mental stimulation are crucial during this period. Young Adult years By the time Goldendoodles reach their first or second year, they typically start to mellow out. Their energy levels gradually decrease, and they become more focused and attentive. However, they may still have bouts of playfulness and require regular exercise. Do Goldendoodles calm down after being spayed? Spaying for females or neutering for males Goldendoodles can have a positive impact on their behavior. These procedures often lead to a reduction in hormone-driven behaviors, such as hyperactivity and roaming tendencies. How to Calm Down Your Goldendoodle Goldendoodles, known for their exuberant energy, may occasionally require assistance in calming down. Here are a few tips to help you achieve a more relaxed state for your furry friend. Engage in daily walks, play fetch, or provide interactive toys that encourage movement. Adequate exercise helps burn off excess energy and promotes relaxation. Mental Stimulation: Alongside physical exercise, mental stimulation is crucial to calm a hyper Goldendoodle. Puzzle toys , treat-dispensing toys , and training sessions can keep their minds occupied, preventing boredom and restlessness. Establish a Routine: Dogs thrive on routine. Create a consistent daily schedule for feeding, exercise, playtime, and rest. A predictable routine helps your Goldendoodle anticipate and adapt, reducing anxiety and hyperactivity. Enforce Boundaries: Establishing clear boundaries and rules is essential for any dog. Train your Goldendoodle using positive reinforcement techniques, rewarding calm and obedient behavior. Consistency and patience are key to shaping their behavior. Provide a Calm Environment: Create a calm and peaceful atmosphere in your home. Use soothing music, provide a cozy bed or den, and limit exposure to excessive noise or excitement. A tranquil environment can help your Goldendoodle relax and unwind. Consider Professional Training: If your Goldendoodle's hyperactivity persists or becomes challenging to manage, seeking guidance from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist can be beneficial. They can provide specialized training techniques and personalized advice to address specific behavioral issues. By combining exercise, mental stimulation, consistent training, and a peaceful environment, you can help your Goldendoodle achieve a state of relaxation and contentment. If you find your Goldendoodle to be hyperactive, it's important to remember that it's a natural characteristic of the breed, particularly in their younger years. Through consistent training , ample exercise, and mental stimulation, you can help your Goldendoodle channel its energy positively and promote a calmer demeanor as they mature. Related articles:. When Do Goldendoodles Calm Down? These cute pups are known for their energy and excitable nature, this is a perfect addition to your family, but you need to know how to manage the excitable moods. Like most breeds of puppies, as they age, they will become calmer. Most Goldendoodles will start to calm around months of age. People can sometimes feel confused as puppy teeth are lost at months, but you can still expect excitable behavior for months after this. When doodles are less than a year old, they generally have surplus energy, leading to intense periods of play and longer naps. So, if your doodle is larger, their puppy behavior can be harder to deal with as they have more strength; this can be difficult for an owner. Three Stages Of Aging There is a general three-stage experience that most Goldendoodles progress through. This will occur in most Goldendoodles but can vary. Do note that if your Goldendoodle is quiet and tired, this could signal something is wrong; always consult a professional opinion if this is the case. Puppy stage expect constantly high energy Adult stage still high energy, but gradually lessening Senior stage more restful These dogs tend to spend most of their lives in the second adult phase, but the most energetic stage is the first one. If you are looking for what size crate to get for your goldendoodle, click HERE Tips And Tricks Even though crazy energy is expected from your pup, you may want to find some resources or games that can help manage this behavior. Over excitement is expected from Goldendoodles, so these tips will not get rid of it. These are great ways to stop the energy from becoming undesirable behavior, though. In the early stage puppyhood , diversion and prevention are the best ways to minimize overexcitement. Most dog breeds need a healthy walk or play daily to tire themselves out; in this case, Goldendoodles have so much energy that this is one of the most important aspects of caring for one. If your doodle is overactive, it can help to take an hour of walk time daily to burn some of that energy. However, you may see an energy spike from just one missed session. A bonus tip for a good walk is to go somewhere where they can run around off-leash; this is great for an energy-filled doodle. Getting your dog active is the first step to take if you want to manage their behavior. Toys Can Be Helpful Playing fetch with sticks is a classic game and can help with overactive doodles, but consider investing in some specialized toys. If doodles are bored, they can become excited when something unusual happens, resulting in a crazy episode. Mental stimulation through toys can result in fewer overreactions and seemingly calmer behavior. Even a simple chew toy can help relieve stress, helping to reduce barking and overstressed out behaviors. Indoor dog games and toys are great, allowing doodles to play without the hassle of scheduling outside time. Good toys are rubber chew toys, tennis balls, stuffed animals, flavored toys, ropes, treat dispensers, puzzles, and squeaky toys. Note that squeaky toys are a favorite — so if you buy one, you will be putting up with additional noise! Scent Training Scent training or nose work is a simple pastime for Goldendoodles and can wear them out mentally and physically. This is also a great indoor activity. Inability to focus and lack of concentration are standard crazy doodle behavior. Scent training can be done at home to engage their attention and promote calmness. Good hides for Goldendoodles are boiled chicken, dried liver snacks, or even grated cheese; see what your dog reacts best with. Once your dog has found the hide, reward them with an extra set of treats. As you play, progressively make each hide more challenging to engage them. This could be done by placing hides in a plastic container that makes an interesting noise, getting your dog to reach into boxes with their nose, or reducing the number of hides but putting out extra boxes to search through. The increase in difficulty will help boost self-assuredness; while doodles often have self-confidence, this is still an excellent exercise for them. Sniffing is mentally and physically tiring for a Goldendoodle, which can help use up their crazy energy. However, it can help assess how you and your family react to their bouts of energy. This can reinforce the behavior, and the cycle repeats. Some even suggest practicing bringing the energy level down during playtimes. Try playing for a couple of minutes and then being calm for one. This shows your doodle the difference between play and calm and can help them get used to both. We can all be so busy with work and our lives, so scheduling in walkies can be difficult. Dog walkers are easy to find these days; thanks to the internet, try some helpful dog-walking apps, such as Rover, to connect with trusted walkers. This can take some of the pressure off of you and can keep your doodle active. A bonus to getting some help with walking is that if your doodle is extra active, you also have extra energy to play with them if someone has helped you walk them! Remember To Be Calm Sometimes if we are stressed, dogs can sense this and become anxious too. This can then lead to over-excitement, and undesirable behavior, which in turn stresses us again, and the cycle keeps escalating. Calm yourself and then calm your dog; practice just relaxing sitting around your dog. This is a great way to teach them patience and to help you not react to their energy. When your doodle sits calmly, remember to praise them for being good. Practicing a sit command is always a good way to train your dog; it helps create patience and be easy going about things that excite them. Overactive Behavior When A Goldendoodle Is Older Once the puppy stage is over, a reduction in energy levels and manic behavior is expected. Goldendoodles are fun and excitable for life! Excessive Barking Sometimes learned behaviors from puppyhood will continue later on in their lives, for example, problem chewing or excessive barking. This needs to be dealt with earlier to nip them in the bud. There are strategies and training to curb this problem, and it can be linked to learned puppy behaviors. Strategies include playing tricks and babying the doodle; you may also have to block out windows to stop excessive barking. If this action becomes painful, biting, or continues after 12 months of age, it can be time to seek advice from a professional or start at-home training. Play biting should stop significantly when the puppy teeth have been replaced; this should be at approx 8 months of age. However, the general rule of thumb is that by 3 years of age, they should not be hyper or crazy anymore. The key to addressing crazy doodles is to redirect the problem behaviors and to use positive reinforcement. Tackle each problem e. Key activities to help Goldendoodles are: Exercise daily; make sure to tire them out. You lead your dog and help him know what to do and what not to do. If you want your Goldendoodle to calm down, you need to be their role model. When trying to train your dog to calm down if they are not listening to you, you need to keep yourself calm. Wait for them to adjust to your behavior and keep your voice even and your mannerisms simple. Do not reward them until they do what you want. A good first command to practice this way of calming your Goldendoodle would be the simple sit command. This is always a good start and only requires you to say one word evenly and wait for them to sit, which they are likely to do eventually anyway. Reward them after they sit and only bring your energy up as you give them positive reinforcement. Are All Goldendoodles High Energy? Goldendoodles generally tend to be bred in a way that makes them high-energy dogs. If you know anything about golden retrievers, you know that they are very playful. Goldendoodles tend to be more hyper during their puppy stage, which is to be expected. The two breeds of dogs that they are bred from are both hard-working dogs. Golden retrievers are used to guide the disabled, and poodles are classic show dogs who are used to intensive training and running around. Goldendoodles are known to zoom around your house, acting spastic and excited. They love to play and spend a lot of time trying to get you to play with them or entertaining themselves. They can do things to let you know they have too much energy in them and need to let it out. Some Goldendoodles seem to have more hyperactive behavior because of health concerns or behavioral concerns like separation anxiety. Excesive licking, problem barking, and problem chewing can all result from this issue. You can help to boose self assuredness in your dog and make a habit of activities to promote calmness. Destroying Things Chewing on things and destroying their toys or your furniture is a good hint that your Goldendoodle has a high energy level. Most of the time, with these types of things, the best solution is more exercise in their daily routine or more playtime. Getting Tired Quickly When your Goldendoodle is zooming around only to pass out suddenly directly after, they need more exercise to let out sudden bursts of energy. Barking and Whining Excessively Your dog will literally tell you that they are feeling high energy. They will bark and whine at you, begging you to help them let it all out. It can sometimes seem like the hyper Goldendoodle years will never end. However, there is a certain point in time where a Goldendoodle will start to settle into your home and lose a bit of that hyperactivity. A Goldendoodle, around the age of eight to fifteen months, will start to slowly find a sense of calmness. They will continue to lose energy as they get older; however, Goldendoodles are naturally friendly and happy dogs. Generally, at this age, the zoomies of the puppy years should decrease overall. They certainly are hyper for longer than some of the other dog breeds and can still get a little crazy even when grown up. In Conclusion Yes, Goldendoodles are hyper dogs, but they will calm down with age. Helping your hyperactive Goldendoodle requires patience and calmness on your part, as well. The upside of spending extra time with your pup is that you will form an amazing bond as he grows! Are Mini Goldendoodles Hyper? Why is My Goldendoodle So Crazy? Goldendoodles are high-energy dogs, especially during their puppy stage. Giving more exercise or playtime, training, and supplying toys are effective ways to calm hyper Goldendoodles. Exercise outlets can include long walks, dog parks, fetch, and playtime with other dogs. Toys can relieve stress and provide mental stimulation. Goldendoodles are bred from two hard-working breeds, making them energetic. Signs of a hyper Goldendoodle include pulling on the leash, destructive behavior, and excessive barking. About Goldendoodles Few things in life are more enjoyable than watching a Goldendoodle puppy bounce, romp, and play. From their fluffy and cuddly coats to their sweet and affectionate personalities, Goldendoodle puppies are easy to love. Boundless energy is cute when a puppy is young, but a hyperactive dog gets less endearing as they get older. Goldendoodles find the sweet spot Playful dogs are more fun than dogs that sleep all day long. Goldendoodles and Goldendoodle puppies are playful and energetic without being hyper. Goldendoodles are easygoing dogs with average exercise needs. They adapt easily to different living environments and lifestyles. Maybe you live in a city apartment, and you love to run; your Goldendoodle will love this arrangement. Maybe you have several acres in the country, and you consider yourself a movie buff; this lifestyle also suits Goldendoodles. Goldendoodles are one of the best family dog breeds. They are intelligent, loving, easy to train, easy going, and they get along well with everyone. Here are a few things that you can do to help keep your dog from getting bored and acting out! Take your dog for a walk every day. This is good for you and your Goldendoodle! A walk in the morning will help your dog rest during the day, and a walk in the evening will burn off any unspent energy. Keep a good variety of chew toys. Look for different textures and materials. Set aside play time for your pup; aim for 30 minutes every day. This can be one minute play session, two minute sessions, three minute sessions, etc. Find your dog a playmate! We have Goldendoodle puppies for sale in Arkansas! Take a look at our available Goldendoodle puppies for sale in Arkansas. Call , or contact Platinum Goldies online , for more information about our Goldendoodles! Goldendoodles are one of the dog breeds with the most excess energy. As smart, active dogs, goldendoodles require lots of exercise, mental stimulation and positive reinforcement. Continue reading to learn more about how to identify and calm down a hyper goldendoodle. They love nothing more than snuggling up with you after a long day and will always be over the moon to see you. However, doodles are naturally energetic dogs with boundless enthusiasm and zest for life. Your pet might whine and bark as a way of letting you know it needs attention and exercise. Add more exercise and playtime to its routine to prevent this from happening. As you can tell, the main reason for a hyper doodle is a mixture of natural temperament and lack of exercise. That said, all goldendoodle owners should expect the first three years to be jam-packed with playtime and high-energy behavior. Even after your doodle loses its puppy teeth at around six to eight months old, puppy-like behavior is likely to continue. Generally speaking, doodles are most hyper during the early stage of life, then become a little more docile at three years old and calm down a lot by the time they reach .Want a Calm Dog? Dogs are very sensitive animals and naturally match your energy levels to please you and fit into your environment. Stress, anxiety and anger are very distressing for dogs and might cause them to act out. Regularly getting into a frenzy of love and fuss can also be detrimental. If you get super-excited every time you come home and see your pet, you teach it that overexcitement is acceptable. Likewise, if you speak loudly and get very animated, you teach it that this behavior is normal. The answer is a resounding yes! However, proper training and a health-promoting daily routine are essential for bringing out the best in your pet. Below are the key components for evening out the energy levels of a hyper doodle. Early Training Methods Prevent Too Much Energy in a Goldendoodle Puppy Issues such as play biting, excessive licking, chewing, mouthing, tugging and wrestling are common among goldendoodle puppies. Regular Exercise For a goldendoodle, exercise is paramount. What constitutes enough exercise? For most doodles, daily exercise split into two walks around your local area or a dog park is ideal. Dog parks are great because they provide opportunities for socialization and training, which can help your dog learn how to maintain a calm demeanor. Keep in mind that the above timeframes are for outdoor walks — time in the backyard or indoors playing should be separate. Scent Training Scent training is one of the most effective ways to occupy a goldendoodle and keep it happy. Playing fetch offers physical stimulation, and providing toys offers mental stimulation, but nose work combines both. Reward your dog every time it finds a hidden treat. Increase the difficulty of the hiding places gradually over time. They help your dog relax, unwind and de-stress. Some ideas for toys include: Squeaky toys. They have tons of energy that make them capable of almost anything they want to do. But do they have too much energy? Are Goldendoodles hyper? They can definitely be a hyper energy-filled ball of fun, especially in their puppy through adolescent years. Both the Poodle and the Golden Retriever are high-energy dogs bred for hard work and sport. In fact, their activity and energy level is often a trait that attracts people to the Goldendoodle breed in the first place. What Effects Their Energy Level? Goldendoodle dogs are much like humans in that each one is different. Each Goldendoodle dog has qualities that affect their energy level. One of the biggest factors affecting the energy level is their age. Goldendoodle puppies are filled with energy and love playing, but they also spend a great deal of time napping. They wake up, eat, play and take a nap. As they get older, their need for naps decreases, but their energy level increases. This is another area where puppies are similar to children. This canine adolescent period is usually when the dog is between 6 months and a year old, but it can go as old as 18 months in some dogs. This article explains in greater detail how long it typically takes a Goldendoodle to fully mature both mentally and physically. Goldendoodle Exercise Needs Like humans and every other breed of dog, Goldendoodles need regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy. Unlike humans, who often balk at the idea of regular exercise, Goldendoodles not only require exercise but also crave and love exercise. Providing your Goldendoodle with regular exercise should begin as soon as you bring him home, which is usually at about 8 to 10 weeks of age. A six-month-old should receive about 30 minutes of exercise each day. This exercise can be broken down into two sessions per day. See our Complete Goldendoodle Exercise Guide for tips and creative ideas for providing your Doodle with enough physical activity. As the Goldendoodle ages, his exercise needs will vary from one dog to the next. One Goldendoodle may need two to three minute sessions per day while another may do well with only 20 minutes per day and be happy as a couch potato the rest of the day. In addition to regular physical exercise, your Goldendoodle also requires mental stimulation. They are very intelligent dogs and may become bored very quickly without adequate mental stimulation. Provide them with brain games and puzzles, like this disc-shaped treat puzzle on Amazon , that will not just occupy their mind but also help them wear off excess energy. Kong toys especially and similar interactive toys and puzzles are very popular with Goldendoodle dogs. Your Goldendoodle will love any kind of treat-dispensing toys that require he uses his brain. We share even more ideas in our mental stimulation guide. Most Goldendoodle owners provide the dog with exercise by taking them for daily walks or playing fetch. For Goldendoodles that think fetch is the greatest sport ever and most of them do , consider using a ball launcher, like this one , that allows you to throw for greater distances without wearing out your arm. Because both of the breeds used to create the Goldendoodle were originally bred to be water retrievers, swimming is usually a favorite among Goldendoodles too. Just be sure to follow these safety tips whenever your Doodle is enjoying some water-time fun. These tried-and-true exercise routines are beneficial and enjoyed by most dogs because they involve interaction and one-on-one time with their owners. Get Your Copy Today! Training and Tricks However, sometimes a Goldendoodle may have so much excess energy that routine exercise sessions may not be adequate for the dog. There are many tricks or commands you can teach the dog beyond the basic sit, down, stay, come, and heel commands. Goldendoodles love challenges and learning new things. Instead of giving him 20 minutes of training each session, gradually increase it by 5 minutes until you can see a difference in the dog. They love the outdoors and love running and jumping. Agility exercises will not only provide the dog with adequate exercise but can also prepare the dog for actual agility competitions. Goldendoodles are smart enough to learn all kinds of tricks and new skills. Here are some signs that your Goldendoodle is not getting enough exercise. Excessive leash pulling — If your dog is pulling on the leash when you go for walks, he may have too much energy and may not be getting enough exercise. For a more pleasant walk, consider letting him run a little or play fetch before you take him out for a walk. Gaining weight — If your Goldendoodle has been gaining weight without increasing his food intake, he may not be getting sufficient exercise. More hyper than usual — If your dog appears to be loaded with more energy than normal, he might be in need of more exercise. Lack of Endurance — If your dog seems to be getting tired quicker than usual, he might be out of shape and need to have the length of his exercise sessions increased. Your Goldendoodle should be able to walk 30 to 45 minutes without showing signs of being exhausted. Whining or barking — Dogs that are bored and in need of more exercise will often whine and bark for attention. Goldendoodles may have been around for a couple of decades, but they are still a relatively new breed of dog. Although this hybrid breed may be unfamiliar to many people, those who do own Goldendoodles will positively tell you that Goldendoodles are very good dogs , whether their purpose is a family pet, companion dog, service animal, hunting dog or therapy dog. Their intelligence and temperament make them ideal for most situations. Their allergy-friendly coat is an added bonus. Are Goldendoodles Cuddly? Despite their high energy levels, few things make them happier than lounging and cuddling with their owners on the couch after a long full day. In Summary… Unfortunately, too many dogs are mistakenly labeled as hyper dogs when all they needed was more exercise. Goldendoodle dogs are the result of an excellent idea by breeders looking for a good family or companion dog. Although Goldendoodles can be ideal family companions in practically every way, some effort on your part will be needed to guide them as they grow. Grab your copy today! Although your new canine companion will always be energetic and full of fun, he will gradually calm down as he matures and gets older. As a general rule of thumb, you can expect your dog to begin settling down between 12 and 18 months of age. At that age, your furry fireball will be moving out of puppyhood and becoming more mature. Three Stages Of Goldendoodle Energy Levels There are three accepted stages of Goldendoodle energy levels: Puppy stage: Goldendoodle puppies are absolutely chock full of boundless energy and often show manic behavior! Adult stage: Your adult Doodle will still have a high level of energy, but that will gradually diminish. Senior stage: Just like people, senior Goldendoodles are generally less crazy than younger dogs and have a lower activity level. Every dog is different, and some are more lively than others. As a puppy, your Goldendoodle will be bouncing with energy! Your pup will want to play, run, jump in short bursts. Between those frantic bouts of energy and playtime sessions, your Doodle puppy will take a nap, eat, and have another nap. As your puppy gets older, the need for napping decreases, but their levels of energy increase! So, a Goldendoodle puppy is very much like a child in that respect. Once your Goldendoodle gets to the adolescent stage of his life, he will have endless energy to burn. During those years, typically from the age of six months to 18 months of age, your dog will need plenty of physical exercise every day. Both the Poodle and Golden retriever parent breeds are working dogs that are bred to have plenty of stamina so that they can work all day as bird dogs in the hunting field. So, it follows that the Goldendoodle will inherit all that energy. When you take on a Goldendoodle puppy, you can expect a bit of naughtiness, the zoomies , and plenty of overexcited barking! The best way to control your puppy is to make sure that he is well-socialized and properly trained from a very young age. Many vet clinics run puppy training and socialization classes. Goldendoodles love life and are generally happy-go-lucky characters. Goldendoodle puppies are extremely excitable by nature. Never hit your puppy, even if he chews your favorite shoes or trashes something in your home! Using physical punishment to chastise your puppy is never acceptable. Use Positive Reinforcement, Diversion, And Prevention The best approach to take when training your puppy is to use positive reinforcement. For example, if your puppy leaps up at you in his excitement at your return home from work, ignore him. Suppose you acknowledge the excitement by making a huge deal out of it. Your dog will need at least 60 minutes of exercise in the form of a walk or a trip to the dog park every day, as well as a play session or some training. In comparison, puppies tire easily, and a short walk and playtime with some toys will do the job. Mental Stimulation Goldendoodles are one of the most intelligent dog breeds you can find and they need plenty of mental stimulation to keep them happy and calm. A bored Goldendoodle can easily become destructive and might begin to exhibit bad behaviors, especially if left alone for long periods. Also, a bored Goldendoodle will become super-excited when anything interesting does finally happen. As well as plenty of exercise, you need to keep your dog entertained by giving him a selection of interactive toys and spending time training your pet. Useful Exercises To Help Calm Your Goldendoodle As well as taking your Goldendoodle for a walk or to the dog park at least once every day, there are a few helpful activities that you can enjoy at home with your dog. All these fun games can help to strengthen the bond between you and keep your lively pup calm. A lack of concentration and loss of focus are triggers for overexcitement in Goldendoodles of all ages. Scent Training Scent training or nose work is a very easy indoor activity that you can do with your Goldendoodle, which will tire him out both physically and mentally. Take a couple of empty cardboard boxes and put a treat inside one of them. Give your dog a treat and praise him. Now, allow your dog to sniff the boxes. Your Doodle should very quickly sniff out the treat! Reward your pet with lots of praise and extra treats. Make the game more difficult. Begin by hiding treats in different locations around your house, starting in just one room and gradually making the game more challenging by using multiple locations. Once the treats are safely hidden, you can send your dog on a snack hunt. The act of searching for the treats is both mentally and physically exhausting for your dog. So, a session of scent training every day or two is an excellent way of keeping your hyperactive pet calm. That generally happens when a dog is not sufficiently exercised or is stressed by a lack of company or mental stimulation. Sometimes, your dog might bark to let you know that he wants to go outside for a bathroom break, or you might have missed his dinner time! For example: Separation anxiety: If your dog is left home alone, he might become distressed and begin barking, simply to see if you will come back to him. Fear: Sometimes, a loud noise or a stranger approaching their owner can trigger a Goldendoodle to begin barking. Attention seeking: Doodles are very sociable animals that love to be the center of attention. Health Issues: If your dog is in pain, he might start barking or yapping in response to sharp pain, for example, if your pet has arthritic joints that hurt him when he gets up, he might bark. For example, it could be that your dog hates being left alone. Biting And Mouthing All puppies use their mouths to explore new things and express themselves. That can be a real pain, literally! Puppy teeth are needle-sharp and can inflict a very painful bite, especially on a small child. So, you need to nip the habit in the bud see what we did there! Also, biting and chewing can result in damage to your furnishings, clothing, and even to the very fabric of your home. As well as taking your Goldendoodle for a walk and doing some basic obedience training can help to calm your furry friend, you might also want to invest in a few dog toys to keep your pet entertained. One of the most popular toys that work extremely effectively with hyperactive Goldendoodles is the traditional Kong rubber dog toy. Basically, the Kong is a hollow, rubber chew toy that you can fill with treats and then freeze. Once the contents are frozen, you can give the Kong to your puppy or adult Doodle. Other plus points of a Kong toy include: Chewing on a Kong toy can prevent teething puppies from chewing and damaging items around your home. When a puppy is teething, its gums are often sore and inflamed. A frozen Kong can be very soothing for your puppy, cooling his mouth. Freezing treats inside the toy can save you quite a lot of cash, as the treats last much longer than they would if you simply gave them to your pet right out of the packet. Other fun toys for Goldendoodles can be made at home. For example, try upcycling some of your old T-shirts and turning them into tug-of-war toys. Keep Calm And Carry On! Try keeping calm. Praise your dog for remaining calm and chilled out and reward him with a treat or two. Image Source : kentfamilyfarms. In a situation that could become difficult, simply ask your dog to sit down and take a breath. Similarly, when visitors come to your home, make sure that your dog sits calmly to greet them rather than jumping up or charging around the room. Remember to use positive reinforcement when teaching your dog anything. Reward your pet with praise and treats when he does what you ask. Goldendoodles are relatively long-lived when compared with other dog breeds. Although it will most likely never be the case that your Goldendoodle will be completely calm, senior dogs are generally less likely to charge around uncontrollably than their younger counterparts. However, as a general rule, most Goldendoodle owners find that their dogs are quieter and less boisterous once they get to around two to three years old. That said, some owners report that their Doodles were simply completely crazy and never slowed down until their very senior years. In Conclusion Did you enjoy our guide to Goldendoodle energy levels? If you did, please remember to share. Is your Doodle a crazy Dude? Meet our writer Alison Page Alison Page was brought up with dogs and various other pets! For a few years, Alison worked as a Practice Manager in a small animal veterinary clinic. Alison is now a full-time writer, specializing in creating articles on the care and training of dogs, cats, and fish. My mini who is now 40 lbs. I was so worried that I made a mistake when I purchased him because he has so much energy. His name is Rascal and he is truly a Rascal. On my 3rd harness per recommendation from trainers. Hopefully, the gentle leader will work. But I really appreciate your article. Greatest companion ever. Love him so much. With all his craziness he has brought me so much joy. The thing that makes Goldendoodles so incredibly popular as pets — especially with families that have children — is their outgoing personalities and the fact that they have a real zest for life. Vibrant, social dogs, Goldies do tend to be high-energy and boisterous pups right through their lives, which many owners love about them. You need to be prepared for this before deciding to take one of these darling dogs on. Sure, when Goldendoodles are puppies, they may run you ragged with their cheeky, mischievous behavior. After all, all dogs struggle to control their excitement when they are young. Yet, also like other dogs, Goldendoodles, too, do mellow as they age into adults. As they move from the neonatal period to the transition period to the socialization period, they will not only learn vital motor skills and start to play, but they will also begin to develop relationships with the other dogs and people around them. See Also: Click the image This stage is crucial to how your pup continues to relate to other animals and people as they grow. A top-quality breeding facility will ensure their puppies get plenty of handling and exposure to new stimulation. They will also make sure that all time spent around people is very positive for your pup. These early experiences shape how your dog will continue interacting with people throughout their lives. When you finally bring your Goldie home, they will be slap bang in the middle of the first fear stage. This often lasts from 8 weeks up until 10 weeks. Although dogs are very sensitive to new experiences, especially negative ones, during this brief period, a lot of love, delicious treats, and avoiding activities that seem to spook your pet can help them successfully navigate it. The remaining 2 weeks of these vital first 3 months are the best time to get going with their early training. This is when you are going to lock in toilet training and teach your puppy how to behave around the house. Still, they will be well on their way with the basic and most important aspects of training — the actions that will set them up for life. Depending on their Doodle type Standard, Mini, Medium… , they could be anywhere from half to most of the way to their adult size. Yet you will need to remember that they are still very much a puppy in their thinking and how they respond to things. At this time, it will still be all too common for them to become so frantic and over-excited that their good manners and their training go right out the window. See Also: Click the image You may also start to see an increase in undesirable behaviors such as chewing as their teething really ramps up. Keep this in check by providing appropriate chew toys for them to chow down on. This can help save both your belongings and your poor fingers — ouch! Make sure also that during play, you are very consistent in what you are letting your hound get away with. Mouthing behaviors are only natural, but let your dog know when they go too far with loud pain noises. Withdraw from the play altogether when they push things too far. Remember that it is far easy to train proper behavior from the beginning than correct it later in life. Your dog may try to assert their dominance over you at this time. Like teens, adolescent dogs are all about finding their place in the world. This is when that early training is really going to come into play, as you will be able to redirect their negative behavior and reconfirm the boundaries that they are already more than well aware of. Remain vigilant, though, as part of the testing of what they can get away with involves beginning to think about escape. Make thorough use of toys and games throughout this period. See Also: Click the image Adulthood Just when it feels like you have hit the end of your tether for one bouncy pup all about the place, your Goldendoodle will enter adulthood somewhere around months and start to calm down. While some days it may still feel like your cute canine has ingested an entire pot of coffee or turned into a Mexican jumping bean, especially in the first few years of their adult lives, in actuality, they will have much more control of their own behavior now. They should hit their golden years somewhere between 8 and 12 years of age, depending on their size. With that infamous Goldendoodle vivacity, this is especially vital for these pups. A garden is great for bigger dogs as they can happily chase a Kong Toy or something similar about the place, effectively keeping themselves out of trouble. Alternately you could send the kids out with them, and they could all wear each other out, resulting in a lovely peaceful evening for you. If this is not an option, games of fetch in a well-secured dog park can do the trick just as well. A dog-walker can also help take some of the strain of exercising a particularly lively Dood. Mental Stimulation Boredom can be the absolute enemy of calm, especially when something noteworthy does happen, such as the arrival of a visitor or a trip around the block. If your pup is frequently left alone for long hours, you will find that they are extra-especially lively when they finally get their family back home with them and have something to do again and someone to do it with. Again, this is where canine toys can save you a lot of hassle. These days there is an excellent variety of them with some seriously cool features. The thing about Doodles is those Poodle smarts of theirs make them particularly susceptible to boredom. Puzzle toys offer intellectual challenges whereby your pup has to figure out how to get to a tasty treat, for example. This can easily keep them entertained for hours at a time. The result is a much calmer, happier dog who may not even notice when someone does ring the doorbell. See Also: Click the image Training Training and socialization are also both so, SO necessary for helping your Dood manage their own behavior. Socialization gets your pooch accustomed to meeting new people, being in unfamiliar places, and dealing with different dogs and other animals. Training puts specific commands at your fingertips which can be employed when your pup is getting a little too over the top. Positive reinforcement is a good strategy, but be sure you are only reinforcing the behaviors you want to see continued. If you make a fuss of your fur baby when they are running around or jumping up, if you act as delighted to see them as they are to see you, then you are telling them with your actions that this is the right thing to do. Make a real effort to only pay attention to your pooch only once they have calmed themselves down. New Activities If you have the time, then helping your dog learn new tricks and skills can go a long way to keeping them both physically and mentally happy. Canine sports were practically invented for these offspring of working dogs. They excel at so many of them and will thoroughly enjoy participating. These kinds of activities also serve to reinforce and extend their basic training giving you even more commands you can use for behavior control. Goldendoodles are also big fans of the great outdoors in all its forms. Goldies, being the descendants of two water-loving breeds, will also likely love the chance to swim and hang about in streams, lakes, rivers, and the ocean. Too much of certain kinds of foods could heighten energy to unmanageable levels. Also, take care with the amount that you are feeding your dog each day. Likewise, snacks can cause issues here. A surprising number of calories can be found in even the tiniest treats. If you are using these for training, you may consider switching them out for a clicker or praise-based methods. If your food-focused friend is clearly never going to go for that, a surprising alternative is frozen vegetable treats. These seem to go down very well with most Doodles, according to their owners. A commonly held belief with canines is that getting them fixed can help them to be calmer, and there is some truth in this. Your puppy will likely be every bit as rowdy, but your older dog will be less of a puppet to their hormones. Goldendoodle puppies, like all other puppies, are feisty, fast, playful little things. This lasts a lot longer than you might think, given how quickly they grow to their adult size. Somewhere between 12 and 18 months of age, your dog will mature, and this will be when you will see them having a little more control. Although, they will likely be every bit as energetic as they ever were. This can be tempered somewhat through exercise and play. Is it normal for a Goldendoodle to be energetic? High-energy levels are a feature of the Goldendoodle breed and a trait that they inherit from their intelligent, working-dog parents. In this respect, it is perfectly normal for your Goldie to enjoy plenty of walks and fun. How often should I walk my Goldendoodle puppy? Daily walks are a necessity for every dog, although some breeds require a longer time outdoors than others. Goldendoodles have quite high exercise needs compared to some of the smaller, more sedate Doods. Although this will need to be tailored to their age, a good rule of thumb is to exercise them for five minutes per month of their age — twice a day. So, with a 4-month puppy, two minute walks a day would be sufficient to keep them happy and healthy. Although energy levels of these fine canines vary depending on age, life stage, and individual differences, they do tend to be at the higher end of the spectrum. For this reason, they do best in high-energy family homes or with people willing to take them on plenty of long hikes and with both a garden and the time to play with them. If you think that you can offer a Goldie that kind of life, then you will, no doubt, end up adoring your newest family member almost but not quite as much as they will adore you. Which puppy breed is easiest to train? Do they need more or less exercise? Dogs with higher energy will need more exercise. You could be thinking that the smaller the dog, the less space for all that energy. Lots of small dogs have a ton of vigor and vitality while most are not clinically hyperactive. But will this specific breed require more time outdoors? But, minis can still have tons of energy. Doing so will help your survive the puppy stage and avoid "new puppy owner regret. Everything you teach them will help these minis be a better companion for you and your family. Most bad behavior can be curbed simply by making sure that your dog gets enough of the right workouts. Check out our training page to see the many programs we can offer your brand new Doodle. The same goes for your mini Goldendoodle. They want to get out and run and frolic but they also want to play with their friends and even make new ones. And what might be considered antithetical thinking, your dog could use some alone time. This allows them to understand who they are as an individual without you or other dogs around. All of these elements above and below will prevent your dog from becoming anxious or aggressive. Spaying and Neutering While spaying and neutering will prevent future offspring that you never budgeted for or expected, it will also keep your female dogs from going into heat and your male pals from roaming the neighborhood. While this is NOT a short-term fix for Mini Goldendoodles or any other dog's extra attitude, it will definitely be a step in the right direction long term. Not to mention it could prevent health issues that could occur in dogs not receiving these most important treatments. Hyper has such a negative connotation. It paints the picture of an untethered dog bouncing off the walls uncontrollably. Even though Mini Goldendoodles demonstrate a healthy, playful exuberance, to advise that they're hyper would be a mischaracterization. Utilizing the proper tools and patience, your Mini Goldendoodle could funnel their energy into a most successful and productive adulthood.

However, they dislike being cuddled or fussed over excessively. While they make a great companion to their owner, their devotion extends to the other members of the family. Although they enjoy the presence of kids, they will not accept harsh treatments and abuse. Make sure that you teach your kids to be kind and mindful of your pet dog. Being territorial and protective by nature, they are mistrustful of strangers and will warn or challenge anyone who is identified as a threat to their family. However, if the stranger is introduced by the owner, the Boxer Chows do not mind being touched by them. Care Exercise Since it is a high-energy dog, a Boxer Chow needs some daily exercises. You can play a game of fetch in a fenced yard, take it outside for a long walk, or involve it in dog agility or flyball. When it is too hot outside, you should keep your pet dog indoors because it does not tolerate heat well. Grooming Being an average shedder, your Boxer Chow requires weekly brushing using a rubber-grooming mitt or a firm bristle brush. You can occasionally rub its coat down using a chamois leather cloth to enhance its natural sheen. Maintain good oral hygiene by regularly brushing its teeth, and trim its nails once a month to keep them from growing too long. Health Problems A Boxer Chow is likely to be affected by any of these health conditions — hip dysplasia, entropion, hypothyroidism, corneal dystrophy, allergies, bloating, and deafness. Training While these dogs need a firm, consistent, and disciplined approach, confrontational training methods including yelling, hitting, and using shock collars can lead to aggressive behavior. Socialization: Early exposure to a variety of people, pets, and places is recommended since dogs are easily socialized from weeks of age. Make the interactions positive by providing treats while your pet dog meets new people. Ask your neighbors and friends to touch, hold, and pet your Boxer Chow. This will make it feel as if the person is a member of the pack. Feeding The recommended diet for a Boxer Chow should comprise two-and-a-half to three cups of dry food a day. Lifespan Sociability Silky-furred, perky, and curly-tailed, the Boxer Chow puppy is sure to melt your heart as soon as you meet one. You can expect your soft friend to start out a little rowdy and goofy but grow in composure as they age. Few are as perfect for the position of a companion guard dog as the Boxer Chow. They do require a dog experienced owner that can provide structure and training. So, these noble canines probably got their name from a busy and inattentive sailor, almost by mistake. And most Boxers retain a certain puppy-like goofiness for all of their lives. Like one of the famed Lost Boys, Boxers mature significantly more slowly than most breeds. A Boxer is not considered fully mature until they are at least 3 years of age. But lucky Boxer Chow owners know that this hybridization matches and improves upon each of the parents. Chow Chows are well known as aloof, reserved dogs that do not often get along with other animals. Quiet, but incredibly loving and good with children. And as for Boxers, they can sometimes be overly friendly! The added wariness of the Chow Chow makes the Boxer Chow not just friendly, but attentive and smart. Given enough exercise, they make great city, town, or country canines. And their generally cool natures make them unlikely to keep you and your neighbors awake. These mellow dogs are aloof, and sometimes even suspicious of strangers. But that detached appraisal melts away when they are with their family. Boxer Chows need firm training and ample socialization. And with some perseverance, their natural attentiveness and intelligence make them excellent guard dogs and companions. Are Boxer Chows Good for Families? These dogs are protective and affectionate, and incredibly loyal to their family. And they have a calm intelligence that makes training patience with children a snap. However, prospective owners should note that it may require actual training for a Boxer Chow to be good with children. Boxer Chows can be loving, but they are not the type to allow rude or rough handling. It is highly advisable to socialize your dog and children with each other and teach both parties how to respect and care for one another. They are more likely to wait and see how things turn out rather than rush over to greet a new dog or cat. There are, of course, plenty of exceptions in either direction. Especially when you factor in the notoriously detached nature of the Chow Chow. For this reason, we deem it highly appropriate to socialize your Boxer Chow with other animals as early as possible. A post shared by Tucker, Murphy and Molly twopoodlesandaboxer Things to Know When Owning a Boxer Chow You may already know that welcoming a canine into your life carries no small responsibility. But luckily there are many commercially made dog foods that make a healthy doggy diet simple and affordable. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when perusing the pet food aisle: A variety of whole foods is a mark of quality — nutrient-dense, nourishing, and closer to natural! Lean proteins like fowl and fish — all the goodness and healthy fats, none of the weight concerns. Though the activity level varies from dog to dog, the medium size of the Boxer Chow necessitates that your home has an outdoor area surrounded by a fence nearby. Some of this breed will enjoy playtime with their family to no end, but many are self-sufficient sorts that prefer less interactive exercise. Take your Boxer Chow out on hikes and long walks, go for a run together, or explore a beach for some quality quiet time with your pooch. If your Boxer Chow has fluffier, longer fur you should avoid taking them out for exercise during the hotter parts of the day. Be sure to give them shade and lots of clean water as well. All that fur protects them in cold weather, but it can become quite dangerous in the direct summer sun. Training should be approached with firm authority and positive reinforcement. Their tendency towards either detachment or foolish antics requires patience. Plus, the long puppyhood of the Boxer will likely mean that your Boxer Chow will take longer to reach mental and physical maturity than most breeds. However, once you establish communication and respect with your Boxer Chow, you will find them to be especially devoted dogs. Shorter furred Boxer Chows are moderate shedders. Their coats do well with a couple of weekly brushings, though more are appropriate during their heavy spring shed. If your Boxer Chow has a double coat, this dense fur needs almost daily attention. These pups will likely be heavy shedders, and you should brush them every day to keep the majority of it out of your nose and morning cereal! Your Boxer Chow will need their nails, teeth, and ears groomed regularly as well. A weekly ear swabbing and teeth cleaning will help prevent infections and gum disease. And toenails should get an occasional trim so that there are no unintended scratches during playtime or cracked and painful nails. They fare better in cooler weather rather than warm and often have fewer health issues arise than their purebred parents. Here is a comprehensive list of all the health conditions that you and your veterinarian should be aware of that effect both Boxers and Chow Chows. Minor Conditions. She was a tiny, fuzzy stray found wandering in our neighborhood. She still had her baby teeth and under her fuzz was skin and bones, so how could we turn her away? Later, we used a DNA kit and discovered what she really is, which, as she matured, became more apparent. As you can see from the photo of her on the stairs, with some love and good nutrition, she got fat and healthy within a week or two. She is now a lb. It is a cross between the Boxer and the Chow Chow. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. His name is Bux and he is very high energy. He never stops moving when he is out of his crate, and he loves all things chewable toys, sticks. He needs a lot of exercise to wear him out. He is very friendly toward everyone and loves playing with other dogs. He enjoys being petted and also likes to cuddle when he is worn out. He looks and acts largely like a Boxer. He does have the slightly longer snout, curved tail, straight back legs of a Chow Chow, though. Overall he is a very smart, curious, energetic, handsome dog! It is thought to have been bred in the s. Its parents are the Boxer and the Chow Chow. The Boxer is not a breed to be taken lightly. It is thought to have been originally from either the breed of the Tibetan fighting dogs or the German Bullenbeisser. In either case, it has a rich history filled with the most loyal and strongest breeds being its ancestors. It became famous in the s for its amazing fighting capabilities. It became tamer overtime. It was officially qualified as a suitable breed by the AKC in .The Chow Chow is a Chinese dog with its own fair share of history. It is a breed from one of the few ancient surviving ones. The Chow Chow was bred for various resourceful purposes. At some point, it was bred for its meat too. The ancestors or parents of the Chow Chow are thought to be the Samoyed and the Mastiff. This gives it an even stronger base in the land of the fighting dogs. The Boxer Chow is a medium-sized dog with a short coat. It usually has a black muzzle and a thick muscular body. This breed can take about almost anything, thanks to its amazingly built body. They have a broad face and skull like the Boxer. It has drooping triangular ears like the Boxer. This breed can look absolutely intimidating if it wants to, but usually, it will have a smile on its face. The Boxer Chow will have a size mainly depending on the dominant blood. The male Boxer Chow will have a height ranging between 20 to 25 inches and a weight range of 50 to 60 lbs. The females will have a weight range of 45 to 55 lbs and a height range of 18 to 24 inches. Again these values may change depending on the diet and exercise. It can live up to 15 years of age. This value is thought to be thanks to its Chow Chow blood. It must get the right food and healthcare to reach that ripe old age. A Boxer pup could cost you anything in between dollars and dollars. The healthier and pure-bred ones will have a price tag on the more expensive end. It has the right amount of kindness and joyfulness to play well with all of your other pets. You can further enable this friendliness by giving it the proper amount of socialization and training skills. It may be a bit too energetic and slightly rebellious when it is young, but it becomes obedient as it grows up. They are superb as guard dogs too. The Boxer Chow has a very keen sense of smell and remains on guard no matter what. It inherits loyalty from both of its parents. It will fight anyone or anything that poses a threat to you or your family. Now you should learn how to repay its friendship through proper care and fulfilling its needs. It needs at least three cups of highly nutritious dog food to keep it running and jumping. As long as it has the proper walking space, this breed will burn off any extra calories. A quick brush at least twice a week should keep its coat shiny and safe. It needs consistent brushing to keep cavities and tooth decay away. Its nails should be trimmed accordingly. Check its ears for the buildup of dirt or any other type of waste, and clean it with soft wool. Finally, give them baths when it is necessary. Otherwise, you may irritate its skin. Boxer Chow Activity Levels The Boxer Chow is a highly energetic breed and requires at least 45 minutes of activity per day to remain healthy and happy. You may play games like fetch with it to improve the effectiveness of its outing. Caring for Boxer Chow The Boxer is a relatively low maintenance breed. You only need to take proper care of its grooming. Its loyalty means that once it gets attached to you, it may develop separation anxiety. Though these are dangerous and may prove to be fatal. These can be prevented with frequent checkups and medication. Breeds Similar to Boxer Chow. It is a cross between the Boxer and the Chow Chow. The best way to determine the temperment of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross. It is possible you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generational crosses. Please review individual breeds for potential health issues. Boxer Breed Description - Cross 1 The Boxer is a medium to large, short-haired dog breed of mastiff-type, developed in Germany. The coat is smooth and tight-fitting; colors are fawn, brindled, or white, with or without white markings. Boxers are brachycephalic they have broad, short skulls , have a square muzzle, mandibular prognathism an underbite , very strong jaws, and a powerful bite ideal for hanging on to large prey. The Boxer was bred from the Old English Bulldog and the now extinct Bullenbeisser, which became extinct by crossbreeding rather than by a decadence of the breed. The first Boxer club was founded in , with Boxers being first exhibited in a dog show for St. Bernards in Munich the next year. Based on AKC statistics, Boxers held steady as the seventh-most popular breed of dog in the United States for the fourth consecutive year. According to the AKC's website, though, the boxer is now the 11th-most popular dog breed in the United States. Behavior Boxers are a bright, energetic, and playful breed and tend to be very good with children. They are patient and spirited with children, but also protective, making them a popular choice for families. They are active, strong dogs that require adequate exercise to prevent boredom-associated behaviors such as chewing, digging, or licking. Boxers have earned a slight reputation of being "headstrong", which can be related to inappropriate obedience training. Owing to their intelligence and working-breed characteristics, training based on corrections often has limited usefulness. Boxers, like other animals, typically respond better to positive reinforcement techniques such as clicker training, an approach based on operant conditioning and behaviorism, which offers the dog an opportunity to think independently and to problem-solve. The Boxer by nature is not an aggressive or vicious breed. It is an instinctive guardian and can become very attached to its family. Like all dogs, it requires proper socialization. Boxers are generally patient with smaller dogs and puppies, but difficulties with larger adult dogs, especially those of the same sex, may occur. Boxers are generally more comfortable with companionship, in either human or canine form. They are very patient and are great to adopt as family dogs because they are good with children and people of all kinds. The Boxer can make a good house dog, but he must be given a considerable amount of exercise. His short coat requires little care. Health Leading health issues to which Boxers are prone include cancers, heart conditions such as aortic stenosis and arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy the so-called "Boxer cardiomyopathy" , hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia, and degenerative myelopathy and epilepsy; other conditions that may be seen are gastric dilatation volvulus also known as bloat , intestinal problems, and allergies although these may be more related to diet than breed. Entropion, a malformation of the eyelid requiring surgical correction, is occasionally seen, and some lines have a tendency toward spondylosis deformans, a fusing of the spine, or dystocia. Other conditions that are less common but occur more often in Boxers than other breeds are hystiocytic ulcerative colitis sometimes called Boxer colitis , an invasive E. Stillbirth is the most frequent cause of death, followed by infection. Mortality due to infection increases significantly with increases in inbreeding. According to a UK Kennel Club health survey, cancer accounts for .The breed is particularly predisposed to mast cell tumours, a cancer of the immune system. Median lifespan was .Responsible breeders use available tests to screen their breeding stock before breeding, and in some cases throughout the life of the dog, in an attempt to minimize the occurrence of these diseases in future generations. As an athletic breed, proper exercise and conditioning is important for the continued health and longevity of the Boxer. Care must be taken not to overexercise young dogs, as this may damage growing bones, but once mature, Boxers can be excellent jogging or running companions. Because of their brachycephalic heads, they do not do well with high heat or humidity, and common sense should prevail when exercising a Boxer in these conditions. The two most distinctive features of the Chow Chow are its blue-black tongue and its almost straight hind legs, which makes it walk rather stilted. The head is large and broad with a flat skull. The muzzle is broad and deep. There is a huge ruff behind the head, which gives it a lion-like appearance. The black nose is large with well open nostrils. The teeth meet in a scissors bite. The small, erect ears are triangular in shape and round at the tip. The almond-shaped eyes are deep-set and dark in color. The chest is broad and deep. The tail is set high, carried very close to the back. Dewclaws are sometimes removed. The profuse, dense, furry coat comes in two varieties, smooth and rough. The most common colors are solid red, black, blue, cinnamon and cream, but it can also come in tan, gray, or a rare white. The breed is known for a very dense double coat that is either smooth or rough. The fur is particularly thick in the neck area, giving it a distinctive ruff or mane appearance. Behavior Most commonly kept as pets, Chow Chows tend to display discernment of strangers and can become fiercely protective of their owners and property. The American Kennel Club standards, however, consider an all-too aggressive or all-too timid Chow Chow to be unacceptable. For that reason, some owners have attributed a cat-like personality to the Chow Chow. Owning a Chow Chow can raise the cost of homeowners insurance because some companies consider them high-risk dogs. Chow Chow are not excessively active, meaning that they can be housed in an apartment. However, Chow Chow living in apartments will need daily exercise to prevent restlessness and boredom. Upon realizing that exercise is a daily occurrence, Chow Chow will tend to be more assertive with owners in anticipation of such activities. This breed of dog has many strong loyal bonds with friends and family, however the Chow Chow dog is usually overly protective of one or two main family member s. However, it is also resistant to training. Chow Chows become very stubborn and attach to certain individuals, as they age. This is why training them when they are puppies is so crucial; they gain respect for those who care for them. In order to avoid aggressive and over-protectiveness as an adult, continuous socialization as early as possible could allow the dog to adjust. When Chow Chows have reached adolescence they reject authority from any other owner who failed to earn its admiration. Aggression can be one distinctive behavioural characteristic in this breed, though while some are of an aggressive nature, many are known to be easy-going in nature - sometimes adopting an aloof disposition to individuals other than their owners. Aggression when it does appear is often towards other dogs of the same sex, especially Chows. Due to their strong hunting instincts, it is recommended that these dogs stay fenced, leashed, and away from cats and small dogs. This is why it is crucial that they are socialized early and consistently in order to act appropriately with strangers. At first, chow chows are very hesitant in interacting with strangers. However, this problem can be avoided if the owners train the chow chow at a young age. The Chow Chow can adapt to life in the city provided he gets out for long, daily walks. Daily brushing and combing is required for this very clean dog. A curry brush is needed during seasonal shedding. The Chow Chow despises being tied up and does not tolerate heat well. Health The Chow Chow can suffer from entropion, glaucoma, juvenile cataracts, lymphoma, hip dysplasia, diabetes mellitus, canine pemphigus, and gastric cancer. Chow Chows are a high risk breed for autoimmune disease and are at a predisposition for skin melanoma. Due to the Chow Chow's thick coat, fleas can be a problem.

At their core, a German shepherd chihuahua mix will be a generally spunky companion. With a wide range of sizes, from 8—60 pounds, this mix is obviously not at all standardized. Before you look into one of these pooches, be sure to do your homework! While you may find responsibly bred German shepherd chihuahua mixes, these dogs are extremely uncommon! They can come about in one of two ways A male Chihuahua mates with a female German Shepherd. A female Chihuahua goes through artificial insemination, since letting it happen the natural way is, well, complicated. The female may even need a cesarean since the pups may be too big for her to deliver naturally. As with most mixes, a German shepherd mixed chihuahua is going to inherit traits from both parents. In particular, most of these pooches gain the athleticism and intelligence of a German shepherd as well as the tenacity and size of a chihuahua. Both of its parents, the German shepherd, and chihuahua, have some negative traits, which can translate to behavioral problems for your prospective pooch. A little dude with a big life, known as Chip. Chipthegermanchihuahua Always do your homework before you purchase or adopt a new pooch. Here are some hashtags you can use to identify other people with this mix. If you find a German Shepherd Chihuahua mix at a shelter, fantastic, you lucked out. But if you want one bred just for you there ARE easier ways to get a dog then to make it go through artificial insemination and possibly a c-section surgery with all of the associated risks. There are miniature German Shepherds, although this is another hybrid dog, usually mixing a Shepherd with a collie or a poodle. Or what about a Aussie German Shepherd mix? What is the best food to feed a German Shepherd? We have an entire article about that, that details several brands that are biologically the best choices for a German Shepherd. Read it here. What is the best food to feed a Chihuahua? You can find the six best foods for picky chihuahuas in this article I wrote here. What is the best food for your dog? The three foods that are super healthy and that almost every dog loves, even the pickiest dogs, are: 1. There are a number of fresh frozen dog foods available on the market and I tested them all. You can see the fresh frozen food test here. Shep-Chi Origins The Chihuahua Chihuahuas are the smallest dogs in the world, and they are known for their large ears and big personalities. Despite their small size, Chihuahuas are fiercely loyal and protective of their owners. They are also intelligent and quick to learn tricks. While they can be independent, they also enjoy spending time with their people and being a part of the family. Chihuahuas are active dogs, and they need daily exercise to stay healthy. They are also good watchdogs, as they will bark to alert their owners to any strangers who come near. If you are looking for a small but mighty companion, a Chihuahua might be the perfect dog for you. German Shepherd The German Shepherd is a popular breed that is known for its loyalty and intelligence. The breed originated in Germany, where it was used as a working dog on farms and in law enforcement. German Shepherds are large dogs, with males averaging about 30 inches tall and females averaging about 28 inches tall. They have a muscular build and a thick coat of fur that can be either black, brown, or tan in color. German Shepherds are intelligent and easy to train, making them excellent pets for families with children. They are also loyal and protective, making them good guard dogs. However, German Shepherds can be aggressive if not properly trained, so it is important to socialize them from an early age. This is due to the fact that these two breeds are very different in size and therefore can't mate naturally. The process of breeding them would involve artificial insemination, which is complicated and expensive. When making a hybrid between two different dog breeds, it is important to consider the size difference. In general, the female should be of the larger breed, as she needs to have the capacity to carry the litter. This is particularly important when there is a noticeable size difference between the two breeds, as is the case with a Chihuahua and a German Shepherd. The German Shepherd is typically nearly twice the size of a Chihuahua, meaning that the Chihuahua simply doesn't have the ability to carry a litter of German Shepherd hybrids. As a result, breeders need to be sure to use a German Shepherd female when creating this particular mix. The German Shepherd Chihuahua mix is not recognized by the A. Shep-Chi Appearance The resulting offspring will inherit a random selection of characteristics from both parents. This means that it is impossible to predict exactly how a Chihuahua German Shepherd mix will look. However, there are some general trends that can be observed in most cases. For instance, a German shepherd Chihuahua mix will typically be larger than a pure Chihuahua but way bigger than a German shepherd. German Shepherd Chihuahua mixes are a mix of two very different-looking breeds, so they can take on the physical characteristics of either parent. They can have short or long coats that are either straight or wavy. They can be any color, but the most common colors are black and tan, black and white, chocolate and white, or blue and tan. Shepchi dogs are usually between 8 and 60 pounds, and they stand 8 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. They have long faces with triangular ears, and their tails can be long or short. They are very loyal and protective of their family and make great guard dogs. They are also intelligent and easily trained. However, they can be very stubborn and willful at times. They need firm, consistent training and socialization from an early age to prevent behavioral problems from developing. The Chihuahua German Shepherd mix is a versatile dog that can do well in a variety of homes, as long as adequate exercise and training are provided. A post shared by Dogs Humans Luv dogshumansluv Shep-Chi and other pets When it comes to getting along with other pets, it really depends on the individual dog's personality. Some Chihuahua German Shepherd mixes are very social and enjoy being around other animals, while others may be more aloof or even aggressive. Generally speaking, however, Chihuahua German Shepherd mixes tend to get along well with other animals if they are introduced and socialized from a young age. It's important to remember that all dogs, regardless of breed, should be supervised around other animals until you are confident that they can play nice. And that can be very difficult to do. German Shepherd Chihuahua mixed breeds run the gamut on the entire personality spectrum. In essence, your training will be the key to molding your pup into a desirable dog. However, there are still inherited traits that will have a major effect on how your mixed pup will behave. Also, this breed is a very strange occurrence even in nature. So, the probability of this breed being conceived is very low. However, due to their size and temperament, the German Shepherd was quickly trained by the military and law enforcement to be a working dog. Every single one of these dogs is completely unique. Each pup will inherit traits from both parent lineages, and some exhibit more traits from one parent than the other. For example, a hybrid leaning more towards the German Shepherd side may be more apt to follow commands and remain calm under pressure. Are These Dogs Good for Families? This mixed breed may not get along too well with others. Both parent breeds are fiercely loyal to their masters. Putting another pet into the mix may complicate things, especially if your German Shepherd Chihuahua has the feistiness of the Chihuahua parent. A post shared by Chip chipthegermanchihuahua Things to Know When Owning a Chihuahua German Shepherd Mix: While there are many unknown variables when it comes to raising a German Shepherd Chihuahua mix, there are plenty of things we do know. This will provide them with the nutrition they need in a bite-sized package they can easily handle. Larger dogs will need between cups of food each day. In this case, opt for something with higher protein content and larger kibble such as American Journey Beef and Sweet Potato. But how much is enough? Typically, a smaller German Shepherd Chihuahua pup will require less exercise. Thirty minutes of daily exercise should be more than enough to suffice. However, if your pup is on the larger size of the cross, they may require up to 90 minutes every day. Your dog will be very easily trained. However, if they inherit the lovable yet wildly independent attitude of the Chihuahua, you might have a bit of a chore on your hands. They just like doing things their way. Even though Chihuahuas can come in short-hair varieties, their long-hair gene when combined with the genes of the German Shepherd will produce a longer coat. Your Chihuahua German Shepherd Mix will need a solid brushing at least once a week to help keep their coat shiny and healthy. Plus, a weekly brushing will cut down dramatically on the amount of shedding that will happen. German Shepherds are notorious shedders due to their extremely dense double coats. However, due to genetic wizardry, the probability of actually developing these goes way down. Therefore, the German Shepherd Chihuahua is a relatively healthy dog. The main conditions that can affect this breed are patella luxation—or floating kneecap—and hip dysplasia. These two conditions can be very painful and difficult to manage, but they are treatable. More serious conditions that affect the German Shepherd Chihuahua are congenital heart defects. These are heart conditions inherited at birth including aortic and pulmonic stenosis, mitral valve dysplasia, and endocardial fibroelastosis. However, these conditions are exceedingly rare. The most common ailments your mixed breed will experience are easily treated and preventable such as heartworms, fleas, or other parasites. Also, your German Shepherd Chihuahua may be prone to obesity. Minor Conditions. Posted on Last updated: Categories Chihuahua , German Shepherds If you want your household to be a combination of a miniature dog and a large breed, then two obvious picks are a Chihuahua and a German Shepherd. These are popular dogs on their own, so it makes sense to want to have them both in your family. But is this really the best combination? Do these two dog breeds get along? German Shepherds and Chihuahuas can get along, and although they have strong, dominant personalities, bringing them together can be difficult. Ideally, you want them to get both as puppies. If you cannot, then introduce them gradually and stay alert so you can correct behaviors before they become a habit. Check out this cute video clip of a German Shepherd playing with his Chihuahua buddy and being ever so gentle: German Shepherd vs. Chihuahua The German Shepherd, for the most part, has a somewhat laid-back personality and can make a good first dog. However, this does not mean that he is not a dominant dog that wants to be in charge of the home. Combined with their extreme loyalty to their owners, this aloof dog makes an excellent watchdog. The loyalty means he will not be too keen on another dog joining the family. The Chihuahua, on the other hand, is a stubborn dog that is lively, confident, and fun. He has a courageous attitude, which is evident from his behavior. Some owners describe Chihuahuas as having an almost terrier-like temperament. We know how affectionate, fun-loving, and loyal both breeds are, and understand why you want to have both by your side. But getting these two to get along needs to be done the right way. How to Have a Happy Home with a Chihuahua and a German Shepherd If you tossed these two breeds into a room and crossed your fingers, you would be setting your furry friends up for disaster. These two breeds are not likely to get along with each other right off the bat. This is due to their dominant personalities. Well, you will be glad to know that there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to owning a Chihuahua and a German Shepherd in the same home: Socialize at a Young Age Perhaps the best thing you can do for either breed is to thoroughly socialize them when they are younger. Socialization as well as training will help to get your dog used to being around other dogs, which will help to cease a bit of that dominant trait and allow a friendlier, more submissive side to form. Let Them Grow Up Together One easy way to know if your Chihuahua and German Shepherd will be able to live happily together is to get them both as puppies and let them grow up together. Of course, this is not always ideal or even possible. But if you can, you should. This is because males are far more dominant and controlling in nature. They will not want to share their area with another male in fear that the other male could dominate the space. Therefore, never have the same gender. If you have a male German Shepherd, opt for a female Chihuahua. If you have a female German Shepherd, then you should consider getting a male Chihuahua. This will make the entire process easier. Introducing the Two Together If you are not able to start the dogs off together at birth, do not think you are entirely out of luck. While it will take a lot more effort and time on your part, you can bring the German Shepherd and Chihuahua into one home successfully. Here are a few ways to make sure you have a happy ending: Go slow. You should not expect instant happiness from either dog. Start with small visits here and there. Always keep an eye on them. You will need to do this in the long haul, but especially in the first few visits. You do not want any fights breaking out or any dog getting hurt, so always keep an eye on the two. Reward good behavior. If you see the two soon-to-be pals getting along, then you should absolutely reward their good behavior. This will show the dogs that they are doing something good and should continue this behavior. Use commands. If something starts to go a bit haywire, then you can use commands with your dog to get them to listen. Give them their own space. Since these dogs are dominant, they enjoy having their own space. Ensure that there is plenty of room for each dog to claim as his own, and he will be more willing to live with the other. Consider harnessing at first. While this is not always necessary, some dogs are more aggressive than others. While socializing and training at a young age help, some dogs simply have a bold temperament. If this is the case, then harnessing for the first few visits can be safe. Introduce them in a neutral area. From there, you can give them their own spaces. With patience and practice, everyone can live cohesively. The best thing to do is to make sure both dogs are socialized and, if you can, get both breeds as puppies. Related Posts You May Like:. But what happens when you combine small and sassy with big and tough? And what kind of pet does this mix really make? Because this animal is a mixed breed, the results are highly variable. The puppy could look more like a German Shepherd , a Chihuahua or anywhere in between. And the same can be said for their personality! This is a relatively new mixed breed. But the German Shepherd and Chihuahua have distant origins that may bring insight into what traits these dogs could have after being bred together. The modern German Shepherd breed dates all the way back to a single German dog by the name of Horand von Grafrath. After numerous failed attempts to standardize Shepherd breeds in Germany. Horand was then selectively bred with three other dogs, whose offspring were inbred to preserve desirable and necessary traits within the breed. It is clear that Chihuahuas have origins in Mexico. Genetic testing has revealed that much of the pre-European genes are no longer present due to European colonization. But there is still a great deal of speculation on the true origins of the Chihuahua. Controversy On Crossbred Dogs Crossbreeding dogs can become a touchy topic because there is some controversy around the quality of their offspring. Some believe that a quality dog comes from a pedigree, while others think that crossbreeding is better for the offspring. Purebred dogs typically have limited genes due to a genetic bottleneck created by extensive inbreeding. After all, if you want a dog to have a particular set of traits, you are going to breed very similar dogs together. This can lead to severe health problems typical for the specific breed. Genetic disorders and vulnerabilities become more common. Crossbred dogs are typically much healthier due to hybrid vigor , or heterosis, a much more diverse and less bottlenecked gene pool. Larger than a Chihuahua but smaller than a German Shepherd, this mix can be a small to medium dog. But, of course, other patterns and fur colors are possible too. These dogs will likely have short hair, which sheds lightly. But they could also have slightly longer fur, depending on the coat of their Chihuahua parent. They might have two layers to their coat or one, depending mostly on the Chihuahua parent. Chihuahuas have a soft spot on their heads, like a human baby, that may or may not go away over time. This dog will weigh between eight to 60 pounds. The height of this mixed breed will likely be between seven to 45 inches at the shoulder. However, due to unpredictable genetics from mixed breeds, a German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix temperament can vary widely. At best, a German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix can be loyal, attentive, intelligent and a wonderful family pet. At worst, this dog might guard its territory, barking at and attacking anyone and anything nearby. It can be extremely mistrusting with strangers and not very suitable for children. What level of aggression a particular dog has depends on the traits it inherits. Some breeds score higher than average for aggression directed toward humans and dogs e. Personality The local animal control received more than 6, calls. The Chihuahua can also be stubborn, which this mixed breed can inherit. It is essential to interact with both parents if possible to ensure that they are friendly before adopting a puppy. Early socialization can also help curb this aggressive tendency. This breed can be either independent or very cooperative. While they can be very cooperative, both breeds can also be stubborn. Patience is vital to ensuring that training goes well. Luckily though, a German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix is also intelligent. They can pick up on many commands and train easily—when they want to. For the smaller dogs of this hybrid breed, potty training can be a problem. They have tiny bladders, which means they have to go a lot. This can make training difficult. We recommend studying our potty training guide closely, specifically the one devoted to Chihuahuas. You should also begin crate training early. A German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix can be very attached to his owners. Teaching them how to be alone at a young age is important. Socialization is crucial for this breed. They can be very unsure of strangers. Getting them around many types of people early on is important. You should plan on at least a couple of medium-length walks a day and outdoor playtime if possible. A fenced-in yard can be very helpful to help this breed get the exercise it needs. These dogs can dislocate both their kneecaps and hips easier than others. For this reason, it is always important to keep an eye on them, especially when they are exercising. However, they are still prone to a few health problems, including obesity. The Chihuahua is prone to a disorder known as floating kneecap or patellar luxation. This disorder takes place when the kneecap becomes dislocated. Patellar luxation mainly affects older, smaller dogs. Hip dysplasia is also a concern. German Shepherds are very prone to the latter disease. Ethical breeders should test all German Shepherds before breeding them to ensure that they do not pass on hip problems to their offspring. These dogs are also prone to a few heart problems, including congenital heart defect. This is a severe, genetic disease that puppies are born with. These dogs can live anywhere from nine to 20 years. It just depends on the traits they inherit and if they are prone to any severe diseases. German Shepherd Chihuahua Mixes should not have any extreme grooming requirements. Brushing a few times a week and clipping their nails regularly is all that is required. As a small- to medium-sized dog, a German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix is ideal for families living in smaller homes. But it is also vital that they have enough room outside to meet their exercise requirements. German Shepherds make decent family dogs due to their loyalty and territorial tendencies. But they have been known to become hostile to young children. Children have been known to accidentally injuring Chihuahuas due to their size. As a result, this mixed breed can obtain any or all of these qualities. These dogs are not recommended for families with small children. Rescuing a German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix Rescuing a dog of this particular breed is mostly a game of luck. Because a German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix is generally unsure of strangers, it will take them awhile to warm up to you and your home. Patience is key. Finding a German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix Puppy As stated before, finding this particular breed is going to involve a bit of luck. Locating a breeder dedicated to these dogs will be very difficult. It is vital to avoid puppy mills because of unethical breeding standards. Additionally, avoid getting puppies from a pet store because they will most likely have sourced the puppies from a puppy mill. For a complete guide on finding the right puppy for you, see our complete puppy search guide. They can be aggressive toward strangers and can have guarding tendencies. But, with proper socialization and training, they can be taught to accept strangers into their areas. On top of this, you should keep basic puppy care advice in mind. German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix Products and Accessories Because these dogs can vary so widely in size, buying products can be complicated. We recommend looking at our guide on Chihuahua toys to get some ideas for your puppy. You should also invest in an excellent leash to make walking less of a chore. Pros and Cons of Getting a German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix As stated earlier, mixed breed dogs can inherit any genes from their parents in a random array. This means that they could inherit the best qualities of both parents or the worst. German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix dogs can be very aggressive. They are known to guard territory with ferocity, and can generally be hostile animals if not trained or socialized correctly. However, at their best, they can be intelligent, loyal, independent animals that have the sense to serve. If you have small children, we would recommend looking at Labradors or Golden Retrievers. German Shepherd Chihuahua Mix Rescues There are no nationally listed rescues dedicated specifically to this mixed breed. However, there are plenty of German Shepherd and Chihuahua rescues all over the U.

August 19, Did you know that your French Bulldog has million receptors for smell? Although it is known as a breed with many mostly small quirks, there is one serious quirk that every Frenchie owner will encounter at some point during their lifetime. The infamous Frenchie runny nose. My French Bulldog has a knack for wiping his nose right on my pant leg, shirt, or our blue couch leaving a snail trail behind. Is this normal for a Frenchie or is this abnormal and something to be concerned about? Find out below everything you might want to know about French bulldog runny nose issues and why your French Bulldog may have a runny nose? Yes, it is perfectly normal for your Frenchie to have a runny nose. Almost every Frenchie I have ever met has a wet nose and it is perfectly normal. However, keep in mind that Frenchie runny nose can be a symptom of a problem as serious as cancer. For example, if the discharge is cloudy, yellow, green, or smelly, this can be a cause for concern. Flat-faced dogs scientifically called brachycephalic breeds have runny noses more often than other breeds. This makes perfect sense right? Find out the most common causes and symptoms below. Allergies Frenchies are known to have all kinds of allergies and proper testing by your Vet can show you what kind of allergies your dog may have. French Bulldogs can be allergic to all kinds of things such as their food, fleas, or environmental allergens. Most of them are fairly harmless and very treatable. Here are some signs you may notice if your Frenchie has allergies: Itching. Cowering bulldog puppy sounds congested Typically, puppies will have various symptoms, ranging from stuffy noses resulting from allergies to respiratory congestion due to congestive heart failure. The most important thing is to learn how to spot congestion; to do that, you must understand what congestion is. It can be caused by infections, kennel cough, allergies, and heart failure. In addition to a runny nose, coughing, difficulty breathing, and a fever, dogs can get the flu as well. It is a respiratory illness in dogs triggered by a wide variety of pathogens and viruses. Kennel cough causes inflammation of the respiratory tract of your French Bulldog, along with its windpipe and voice box. Thus, it makes noises when breathing, breathes through the mouth, and sometimes experiences nasal discharge. To treat this, nasal openings are to be enlarged. We recommend seeing your veterinarian as soon as possible since cartilage may harden before six months of age, which makes surgery more difficult. French Bulldogs are Brachycephalic There are many breeds of brachycephalic dogs, such as the French Bulldog, which has a wide skull and a short nose. They commonly exhibit oral breathing and snoring, which are symptoms of airway obstruction. When French Bulldogs exercise, their breathing problems worsen. As they age, their breathing issues become more pronounced. Soft palate elongation To swallow, the mucous membrane that lines the nasal and nasopharyngeal closes. Snoring and nausea are the main symptoms. Exercise can worsen the obstruction. Treatment consists of surgically reducing the length of the palate. Generally, the results are good if the operation is performed before the larynx has been affected. Visit your veterinarian as soon as you can. Something Stuck In Their Nose Your French Bulldog may find many foreign bodies on its nose, such as leaves, seeds, grasses, and bone shards. Initially, continuous and intermittent sneezing is the primary symptom of a foreign body in the nose. Your Frenchie may experience a thick, usually bloody discharge if a foreign body remains in its nose for hours or days. This condition should be treated with veterinary assistance. You can easily remove foreign bodies with tweezers from the opening of the nostril if they are visible there. Little French Dog participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. However, having a cloudy, yellow, green, or smelly discharge is always problematic. Consult your veterinarian if in doubt. Other symptoms include sneezing, pawing at the nose, and bleeding from the nose. Pollens, foods, drugs, mites, spores, and chemicals can cause inflammation of French Bulldogs. Allergies in dogs can cause more than just a runny nose; they can also cause sneezing, coughing, itching, nosebleeds, eye discharge, and breathing problems. In addition to a bad odour and a nosebleed, a post-nasal drip might cause coughing or choking. Distemper: Distemper is known to cause sticky, yellow nasal discharge in French Bulldogs, and twitching and convulsions are also possible symptoms, as well as fever and pneumonia. Some Frenchies, such as those with cartilage problems or those with small nostrils, may require surgery. Snoring can also be a sign of nose problems of this sort. Dogs suffer from colds for the same reasons as humans. There is no one specific virus that causes cold symptoms. In dogs, cold symptoms are caused by several different viruses. Symptoms of the common cold include: Watery Eyes. You can tell your dog has a cold by looking out for the following signs: Sneezing Nasal congestion and discharge runny nose Difficulty breathing through the nose Runny eyes Lethargic Loss of appetite We have come up with a few at home remedies to keep your dog comfortable while they ride out their sickness. It is important to limit their time outdoors and keep them inside bundled up. Try and encourage them to take it easy, sleeping is the key to recovery! As for the runny nose…make sure to have tissues on you and wipe away the snot if possible. My dogs tend to lick it off before I can get to them first! The sodium in broth is too high for dogs so be sure you are careful with the quantity. The broth will entice your dog to drink fluids, so if they are ignoring their water bowl, throw in a bit of broth! Sneak a hot water bottle into their bed to warm it up for them. Be careful not to burn your dog, and wrap the hot water bottle up with an additional blanket. Our steam vaporizer is our go to when anyone is sick in our household. The vaporizer will help if your dog is stuffed up and congested. The machine will add moisture into the air and you can even add essential oils to help open up the sinuses! Showing your dog LOVE is the best way to make them feel better! My dogs tend to want to cuddle more when they are feeling under the weather and I am more than happy to love on them, snot nosed and all! A typical cold can last up to a week, so make sure your dog has the best chance of fully recovering by following our cold remedies! Thanks Amy! French Bulldogs are full of energy , fun-loving and are generally a joy to be around. French Bulldogs are predisposed to increased nasal discharge as a direct result of their flat face and compressed nasal passages. This dog breed, unfortunately, has genetics that contributes to this common problem. Remember, if you observe any strange nasal discharge, particularly if it carries blood or pus, you need to get your dog down to your local veterinarian sooner rather then later. Why do French Bulldogs have runny noses? There are seven common reasons that French Bulldogs have runny noses and blocked nasal passages. They get very excited All dogs get excited and French Bulldogs are no different. You should be unconcerned with the nasal discharge if it is transparent, shallow, and has no odor. It may be time to give your veterinarian a call, just to be on the safe side. If you see heavy nasal discharge that smells strong and is yellow, green or white in color, then this can be a sign that your dog has contracted an infection. Here are some common signs of nasal infections: Canine Distemper : Looks like dense, gluey, and yellow nasal discharge. Aspergillosis : A fungal virus that attacks dogs with vulnerable immune systems. Dog flu: Symptoms involve trouble breathing , reduction in strength, fever, cough and general feelings of discomfort. They are particularly susceptible during summer months when there is more pollen in the air or if you have recently moved to a new area. Obstructed nasal passage One reason Frenchies can have runny noses is if they have a blocked or obstructed nasal passage. Further evidence to support your examination is a nosebleed. This is good evidence to show that your dog has a blocked nasal passage and you may even notice your dog constantly sneezing or itching that side of the nose to get rid of the problem. Nasal tumors If you suddenly see that your Frenchie is finding it difficult to breath and they have mucus, fluid, or blood in their nose this could be a sign that they have nasal tumors or polyps. If they have a sudden loss of appetite and you can see small swelling against the side of their nose then you may need to get your dog down to your vet as soon as possible. Cleft palate A Cleft palate is a very common health problem associated with French Bulldogs, particularly those that are purebred. This is a defect that originates from birth and leads to a split-mouth. Besides making your dog more miserable it also divides the nasal passages. This makes it very easy for food, water and bacteria to penetrate the nasal cavity which allows infections to cultivate. Look out for water discharge with tiny bits of food in it especially after your dogs drinks or eats food. Breeding issues French Bulldogs are a very unique looking breed. One disadvantage of this is that they are born with noses extremely small. This small nasal passage results in more trouble breathing and thickened nasal discharge. Some rare Frenchie mixes , however, are lucky enough to avoid these common breeding issues with the nose. Either way, we also recommend your Frenchie wears a harness when exercising to limit the breathing restrictions on their throat and nasal passage. Wrapping up There are a wide variety of reasons why your French Bulldog will have a runny nose. I have a diverse variety, including 2 cats, 1 dog, 3 rabbits, 2 guinea pigs, a rat, and a beautiful macaw. I love writing about everything pet-related and spend as much time as I can sharing my personal experiences on my blog. Pin2 2 Shares Anyone who owns a French Bulldog will be very familiar with their little quirks. If your French Bulldog has a runny nose or sounds congested sometimes accompanied with runny eyes, a cough, reverse sneezing and nosebleeds please take the time to read what this could mean, when you should be concerned, and what you need to do. Whilst a French Bulldog with a running nose could be something as simple as a bit of hay fever , there are other types of nasal discharge that can be early warning signs of more serious medical conditions. This is what a healthy French Bulldog puppy nose should look like. With this in mind, what are some of the reasons why your Frenchie has a runny nose, and when should it be a cause for concern? Why does my French Bulldog have a runny nose? French Bulldogs are prone to an assortment of breathing problems which can lead to frequent infections and environmental allergies. In short, brachycephalic breeds flat-faced dogs such as French Bulldogs will have runny noses more often than other breeds. It is common for Frenchies to have runny noses, but that comes with a caveat. If you notice any abnormal nasal discharge, especially if this includes any blood or pus, or if your Frenchie is struggling to breathe and sounds congested, you will need to get your pup booked in to see a veterinarian as quickly as possible. Handy Hint: If your French Bulldog has a clear runny nose that is just watery it could be due to just be some form of mild irritation or allergy. Reasons why Frenchies have runny noses There are plenty of reasons why your Frenchie might be suffering from the sniffles. They can range from a blocked nose to more serious medical condition. Here are some of the main causes, plus ways you can help your Frenchie. Normal nasal discharge should be clear, thin, and have no odor. Nasal infections Thick nasal discharge that has a strong odor or is yellow, white or green can be an indication that your Frenchie has developed an infection. If you notice these symptoms, you will need to get your Frenchie booked in to have them examined by a veterinarian as quickly as possible. If your Frenchie is struggling with a nasal infection you can help to ease their discomfort by using a warm, damp flannel to clean their face; paying special attention to any gunk that might be trapped in the folds and clearing away any discharge from around their nose. Some common types of nasal infections include: Canine Distemper: this is typically characterized by a thick, sticky yellow nasal discharge. Other symptoms can include fever, twitching, convulsions, and pneumonia. Parainfluenza: a hacking, persistent cough is one of the tell-tale signs your Frenchie might have this type of infection. Other symptoms include thick nasal discharge, gagging, sneezing, and fever. Aspergillosis: a fungal infection that typically affects dogs with a weakened immune system; common symptoms include sneezing; thick nasal discharge which can include blood; a swollen nose; and a loss of appetite. Dog flu canine influenza : symptoms include an increased difficulty in breathing, lack of energy, fever, coughing, sneezing, and watery eyes. Nasal discharge will be thick, and can be a milky white, yellow, green, or brown. Kennel cough: characterized by a strong, persistent cough; this respiratory illness can also be identified by a runny nose, sneezing, a low fever, lack of energy, and a loss of interest in food. If your French Bulldog has runny eyes and a cough it could be one of the ailments listed above — many of these will often be mistaken for your Frenchie having a cold. Allergies Just as humans can be prone to hay fever and a multitude of other environmental allergies, so can your French Bulldog puppy. Runny noses and eyes can indicate your little buddy is suffering from seasonal allergies. In most cases, antihistamines should be enough to clear up any symptoms, so if you suspect that your Frenchie is struggling with environmental allergies, it might be worth having a discussion with your veterinarian to discuss possible medications. Blocked nasal passage If you notice that your Frenchie only has nasal discharge coming from one nostril and that it has been going on for more than a few hours, there is a distinct possibility that your Frenchie has inhaled something that has become lodged in their nose. This could be grass, grass awns which is likely if they have recently played in foxtail grass , or some other type of foreign object. If this is the case, you may also notice your Frenchie pawing at their nose or sneezing. Nosebleeds are also a possibility. Although this is typically not serious in the early stages, it is still important to get your Frenchie checked out by a veterinarian as soon as possible. This can include things such as fungal infections, viral infections such as rhinitis or sinusitis , and even tumors. Nasal polyps or tumors If you notice that your Frenchie is struggling to breathe, and they have mucus, pus, or blood in their nasal discharge, this could be an indication that your dog has nasal tumors or nasal polyps. You may also notice a swelling on one side of the nose and a loss of appetite. If your Frenchie is exhibiting any of these symptoms, it is absolutely vital that you get them checked out by a veterinarian as quickly as possible. Treatment for both polyps and benign tumors typically involves surgery. However, if the tumors are cancerous, your veterinarian will typically prescribe radiation therapy. Oral-nasal fistula or a cleft palate Cleft palates are unfortunately one of the most common health issues found in French Bulldogs, especially if they are purebred. This birth defect results in a split in the roof of the mouth where the tissues have not fully developed. Not only is this uncomfortable for the dog, but also leaves the nasal passages separated. A nasal fistula is an unusual opening between the oral and nasal passages. This can be the result of a birth defect, tooth decay, infection, or some type of injury or trauma in the mouth. Both of these conditions allow water, food, saliva, and bacteria to enter the nasal cavity and results in frequent infections and runny noses. If you notice that your Frenchie has a runny nose or nasal discharge after they eat or drink, especially if the discharge is very watery or has small bits of food in it, your dog may be suffering with one of these conditions. Other symptoms of a fistula or cleft palate include difficulty eating; coughing while drinking water; persistent sneezing and snorting; and struggling to breath after a bit of exercise. Fistulas in particular are not always that easy to spot. If your veterinarian determines that your Frenchie has one of these conditions, they may recommend surgery in certain cases. This can result in more difficulty with breathing and increased nasal discharge. If the symptoms are frequent and your pup shows a lot of difficulty breathing and a constant runny nose, then get to the vets. There are times when surgery might be necessary, although this is typically a last resort. Frequent nasal infections are another indication that surgery might be necessary, especially if you notice them having more and more infections as time goes by. French Bulldogs and nosebleeds There are plenty of reasons why your Frenchie might have a nosebleed, ranging from a foreign object becoming lodged in their nose, to frequent reverse sneezing and coughing. Whatever the case, it is absolutely vital that you get them booked in with your veterinarian to find out what the cause of the nosebleed is. However, while you wait for the appointment, you will need to try and stop the nose bleeding. To do this, it will be important to keep your Frenchie calm. Try to soothe them, as they are likely to be in a fair bit of discomfort. Then take an absorbent cloth or sponge and cover whichever nostril is bleeding to absorb as much of the blood as possible. To help ease the discomfort, you can also get an ice pack and wrap it in a towel. This will likely result in some nausea, only adding to their discomfort. Caring for your sick Frenchie It can be incredibly distressing to see your beloved Frenchie in discomfort, especially if they are struggling with more than just a runny nose and cough. If you find you have a sick Frenchie on your hands, here are some of the things you can do to help them while they are feeling unwell: Keep calm and pamper them: Frenchies are notorious lovebugs, so take the time to really pamper your pup while they are feeling under the weather. Try to keep them calm and give them plenty of love. Keep them hydrated: Make sure your pup is staying well hydrated by encouraging them to drink plenty of water. If your Frenchie is refusing to drink anything, you can add chicken broth to their water to help make it more appetizing or offer them ice cubes. Use a damp, warm cloth and take care to clean around the face, between the facial folds, around the eyes, and to wipe away any discharge that might be blocking the nose. Make sure you also dry between the folds to prevent any bacteria growth. Keep them comfortable: If your Frenchie is experiencing any facial swelling, you can use an ice pack wrapped in a towel to help ease the discomfort. What other owners say I will often look to social media to see what other Frenchie owners say about a particular problem. Here are some highlights. My French Bulldog puppy has a runny nose Many Frenchie puppies will have a wet nose more than usual in their younger months. I would make a call to the vet though just to make sure they can rule things out. When she was a baby and her teeth were coming through, she was very snotty and reverse sneezing. Just a possibility, but I think snot and teething are related. Brachycephalic dogs are very prone to respiratory and aspiration issues. Nose running can be temperature changes like going from warm inside to cold outside or vice versa. You might also like…. A lot of French bulldog owners deal with this issue. But why does it happen, and what can you do about it? French bulldogs can have a runny nose for many reasons. Here are some common reasons why your dog has a runny nose. Excitement And Nervousness French Bulldogs are always on the go and will do anything for an adventure. They get excited like any other dog breed. If your dog has a congested or runny nose while running around with you but then clears up when he stops playing this is a good sign there is no need to worry. Suppose you notice a clear, shallow, and odorless discharge coming from their nose then there is no need for concern. The excessive watery discharge could come from any number of things including allergies or even infection. However, if they are showing signs after intense physical activity such as sniffing out scent then chances are good that something else might be disturbing them. Nasal Infection Your dog might have an infection if the nasal discharge is thick, has a strong odor or color like white yellow-green. Make sure not only does it come out easily from around the nose but also clear up whatever is causing discomfort for them too. So common signs of nasal infection in different issues are Para influenza : Thick nasal discharge along with persistent cough, sneezing, gagging, and fever. Canine Distemper : Sticky thick yellowish discharge from nose, twitching, fever, and pneumonia. Kennel cough : Runny nose, persistent cough, and sneezing Nasal infections are very common in winter seasons because your French bulldog can easily caught cold. This sweater is not only stylish but also protects your pup from chilly winds because of its high quality material. Allergies French Bulldogs are not exempt from allergies, just like humans. They often suffer an overactive immune system that causes them to have a runny nose. If your Frenchie has itchy eyes and a runny nose then it is a sign that he is suffering from environmental allergy. The best way to tell if your French bulldog has allergies is by the symptoms. If you notice any discharge coming out of their nose and eyes, it should be thin with clear coloration without an odor. Other symptoms that will appear along with this are reverse sneezing and itching. The eyes, ears, and nose of your Frenchie will be the most important areas to keep clean during an allergy attack. Be sure you pay special attention to any gunk that might become trapped between their folds; this could cause infection if left untreated! You should discuss with your vet if your Frenchie is suffering from allergies. Vets mostly prescribe antihistamines in case of allergies. You will also observe some swelling around their nose and they will suffer from anorexia. Mostly surgery is recommended in case of tumors. Blocked Nasal Passage Sometimes there are cases in French bulldogs in which one nostril drain more than usual and if this problem goes on for hours then you should consult your vet. Chances are there that your Frenchie has inhaled something that has been clogged up in his nostrils. This could be anything like grass awns, grass, or any other foreign object. You will see that your Frenchie will be pawing up his nostrils that are a clear indication that something is disturbing him. This problem is not severe but it can cause a lot of irritation and disturbance for your pup. You should consult your vet because the prolonged issue can cause difficulty breathing and the development of viral or bacterial infection. Cleft Palate French bulldogs are prone to a number of different health problems, including cleft palate. This condition left nasal passages separated and can be very uncomfortable for the dog. The Cleft palate is a congenital problem. Another common problem is the unusual opening between the mouth and nose that is called a nasal fistula. This can be caused by tooth decay, birth defect, or infection in their mouth as well as some sort of injury. Both of these issues are very dangerous for your French and allow saliva, water, bacteria, and food to enter the cavity that can result in the development of infection. If you notice that your precious pup is suffering from a runny nose, after they eat or drink and in that nasal discharge, there are small particles of food then it is a clear indication that your dog is suffering from any of these issues. Other symptoms that are common in this condition are sneezing, snorting, coughing, and difficulty in breathing. It is very difficult to diagnose this problem on your own so you have to consult your vet for this. If any of these issues are diagnosed surgery will be recommended. Conclusion The most common reasons of why French bulldog have a runny nose are allergies, infection, or tumors. If you have ruled out these causes then it is important to take them in to see the vet so that they can rule out any other possible reason why this may be happening. Several different things could cause their noses to start running but if there was something more serious going on than just allergies, an infection, or trauma then it would need treatment right away before it got worse! In this winter season you can protect your French bulldog from runny nose by providing him with Best French Bulldog Winter Coats and sweaters.

Being responsible breeders of these fabulous dogs, we strive to keep the breed healthy with select breeding. Much research and planning goes into play before each litter of puppies. Our puppies are raised with our family and get socialized on a daily basis. We offer limited registration and all our puppies come with a puppy pack. Happy, Healthy Bloodline When choosing a good dog, you want to find breeders who breed for good health and temperament and have great lines, not breeders breeding mainly for money and looks, or those making false claims just to attract buyers. Their temperament, gentle nature and intelligent personality makes them the perfect companion for families with small kids or those that just need a good friend to snuggle with. A Furever Friend Since every puppy has its own character, we like to see how each puppy mingles with its new owners when choosing their forever friend. We make it our priority that the puppy you choose will be the best fit for your family. After years of selective breeding, these lighter specimens were given the name "English light golden retrievers. The color of the coat has nothing to do with a dog's health. But ancestry could possibly have an effect on health. There is at least a little evidence that, on average, English bloodlines are healthier. Research also found that goldens from English bloodlines had an average lifespan of 12 - 14 years whereas American goldens lived for an average of 10 - 12 years. Putting statistics to the side, it's our priority to ensure our puppies will live a happy and healthy life. Do English Retrievers Shed Less? Because English retrievers have less hair, you will notice less hair around the house, but this does not mean that they shed less compared to their American counterparts. All retrievers shed at the same rate and usually shed the most during spring and fall. Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. We even have all types of golden retrievers for sale! At My Golden Retriever Puppies, we pride ourselves on our golden retriever price being fair and affordable for high quality puppies. Location Information for Seattle Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Seattle? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Seattle? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Our Program Personality We understand that each English Cream Golden Retriever puppy has their own unique personality and temperament traits, including assertiveness, motivation, energy level, tenderheartedness, intensity, and focus. Our observation of their socialization and interaction with humans and other animals such as cats, provides important indicators for your puppy's needs and lifestyle. Family Looking for a lifelong companion for your children? Our English Cream Golden Retriever puppies are loving, happy, and easygoing playmates, who not only create great memories but also promote emotional and physical development. From building self-esteem to developing empathy and responsibility, our companion puppies have many positive impacts on children. Socialization At Golden Beaches, we believe in providing our puppies with the essential socialization necessary to become lifelong companions. Our multi-pet household allows our puppies to have early exposure to cats, which promotes respect and understanding for other animals and children. This socialization also benefits cats by overcoming fears and promoting positive behavior. Many of our clients with multi-pet households have found this approach beneficial, and some have even added a kitten to their family after starting out with one of our puppies. Nutrition At Golden Beaches, we prioritize the health and well-being of our Golden Retrievers by providing them with premium, holistically formulated dog food from puppyhood to adulthood. Our food has never been recalled and is packed with nutrients and protein, ensuring that our dogs have shiny coats, bright eyes, and long-term benefits. We believe that good nutrition is key to keeping our dogs healthy and happy, so we take the time to ensure that they receive the best possible care, socialization, and early training. Adventure Experience the great outdoors with your athletic, water-loving Golden Retriever. Our playful companions are the perfect adventure buddies for hiking, swimming, and exploring nature. With our Goldens, you'll make unforgettable memories while staying active and healthy. Join us on our journey and let us help you embrace the beauty of nature with your beloved furry friend. Confidence At Golden Beaches, we prioritize the early development of our puppies by exposing them to different sights, smells, and sounds. We even play various genres of music and sounds to help them adapt to new environments. Our approach includes using evaluation methods like the Volhard Puppy Aptitude Test, as well as introducing them to different activities and tests. Through these efforts, we gain a better understanding of your pup's unique level of confidence, ensuring they will be comfortable in any situation. We have answers. It all depends on the unique attributes of each particular puppy. This can include things like coloring, sex, temperament, and breeder experience. A Seattle Golden Retriever is more likely to be priced on attributes aside from location. We take your price range into account as one of the many inputs when searching for your perfect companion. Are there Golden Retriever puppies for sale Washington near me? We have Golden Retriever puppies Seattle and surrounding areas within our expansive network of breeders and companies. We pride ourselves on having a well curated network of breeders who are eager and waiting to help you find your match. All the time! Our experienced and careful partners are able to transport puppies within 48 of the U. Golden Retriever puppies Washington area and beyond are just waiting to meet you! If you match with a breeder or business within driving distance, you can meet or pick up your new pup. If you want your Golden Retriever for sale Seattle or Golden Retriever for sale Washington specifically, you can call that out in the MatchMaker process. Do you have purebred Golden Retriever puppies for sale Seattle? Our breeder and company partners have the highest degree of experience and always strive to provide purebred puppies who have impeccable pedigree and are well cared for. If you want a Golden Retriever Washington State that you know is the real deal, you can trust that Upwork Puppies has you covered. Can I trust you?

When your puppy responds appropriately to your commands, always praise and offer treats to encourage the behavior. These command-specific trainings may take more time and consistency, so while they are useful, you may find a quicker, more in-the-moment technique to work best in the early stages of puppy biting. Use the Replacement Technique The replacement technique is precisely what it sounds like: replace what your puppy is biting. Biting toys is okay, but biting fingers and toes is not. If your puppy is chewing on your fingers and you want them to stop, replace your hand with a toy in their mouth. Your puppy is teething, much like a human baby does. Gnawing on things can help relieve the discomfort as their teeth grow, fall out, and are eventually replaced with their adult set. Replacing your hand with an appropriate chew toy will allow the puppy to continue their necessary soothing behavior on a better target. Withdraw from the Situation Puppies are avid learners; they grow fast, and they also learn quickly. If your puppy is playing with you and lands a bite, you should yelp. Your yelps should be: High-pitched Loud Immediately during the bite Yelp, and then remove yourself from the situation. Stand, or turn away from the puppy. If they continue to try to bite, leave the room for 30 seconds to a minute. Repeat this as often as necessary- which can feel almost constant in the early stages- but they will get it! If you yelp and your puppy immediately stops biting, offer praise to them. The immediate break in the environment will give them time to calm down and come out of an over-excited play mode. Your puppy will quickly correlate their actions with a negative response from you. This is how they learn in nature and is how they will learn best as a pet. We have more tips to stop your bulldog from biting. Puppies begin biting as soon as they are able, and this often lasts months, though some breeds can take over a year to grow out of this biting phase. Your American Bulldog puppy will naturally decrease their puppy biting around months of age when their teething subsides. Puppies are still learning their environments, and they often use their mouth to do so. If not addressed early, your puppy will not learn appropriate play limits and boundaries, and that pound puppy can quickly become a 90—pound American Bulldog with the same lack of manners and much larger teeth. If you are wondering how hard a full-on American bulldog bite is, check out this article here. There are, however, situations where the puppy bites become aggressive; this is of immediate concern and should be handled right away to avoid any further confusion or biting. When puppy bites become more serious, they often have one or more of the following traits: Consistent bites in non-play settings food, water, etc. Often breaking the skin and causing bleeding Refusal to stop biting; unable to be distracted by using commands or treats Any of these situations require some more targeted training. Your puppy may be trying to assert dominance, or even ingraining bad habits such as food aggression that can be dangerous when fully grown. There may be a health condition that is causing irritability and discomfort to your puppy. If you are worried if American bulldogs are dangerous , we cover all of your concerns here. When teaching your American Bulldog puppy not to bite, remember to stay consistent, firm, and positive. They will adapt in no time, and you will be able to fully enjoy your experiences with your puppy without worrying about injuries to yourself or others. Post Views: 1, Comments Advertisements What every fur-baby parent ought to know about puppy finger biting, and how to correct it before it becomes an issue. You are excited to have your furry bundle of joy at home, they have completely stolen your heart with their cute antics, funny temperament, and little bulldog noises. Playing with your fur-baby is always a delight, and the occasional play bite on your finger goes unanswered. As your fur-baby gets older, you find them biting a little more often but now they are stronger, their jaw muscles have developed, and you get nervous when they are around strangers and guests. The best time to deal with biting is when they are puppies. There are a number of simple things that can be done during play time and during training to help them understand that finger biting is not allowed. Taking this extra precaution early on will help your baby know not to bite people later on in life, even if they are just playing around. If for any reason you were not able to address this early on, there is still hope. Here are several simple things you should do when working with your bulldog to help correct them of unwanted biting behavior. Dogs love praise, give it generously when the behavior is good. By nature your furbaby wants to please you, they know when you are not pleased. Make Your Intentions Clear. If you are not getting the behavior you want, stand up and walk away. If they are being dominate, i. If you are looking for additional training ideas, check out one of our favorite celebrity dog trainers Dove Cresswell. She offers a free training video on her site that you can access directly from the image here: When you click the image, you will be taken to her site that looks like this:. Contact Do American Bulldogs Bite? American bulldogs are typically known for their tough exterior and strong physique. They have been a staple of American culture for years. They are a family dog, and an active breed, who needs a wealth of attention from their owner. Do American bulldogs bite? In general, an American bulldog will bite when threatened or provoked. They are gentler than other breeds of dogs but do bite harder. Bulldogs assert their dominance through biting, which can be prevented with adequate training. So do bulldogs get a bad rap for no reason? What actually triggers them into biting a human? Many have different opinions on the breed. Let us look at the issue deeper and see what bulldogs really are capable of. The estimated bite force of an American Bulldog is pounds per square inch. Many power washers are rated around PSI to give a comparison. If you are going to get bit by any dog, this is not the one you want it to be. Although playful in nature at times, an American Bulldog can exert quite the bite. It is something you do not want to be on the receiving end of. The American Bulldog ranks in the top 10 on the list of strongest dog bites in the world. Do American Bulldogs Have Lockjaw? American Bulldogs, amongst many other breeds, have been rumored to have what they call lockjaw. Let us first go over what lockjaw even is. Lockjaw is when the muscles of the jaw spasm and get frozen into place, preventing the release of the jaw, which in turn holds the grip into place. Although some dogs do bite and do not let go for an extended period of time, no breed of dog has the ability to have a lockjaw. It is simply a myth that any dog is able to do such a thing. Check out our article on lockjaw for more. American bulldogs are just like any other breed of dog. They are not inherently violent. A majority of the way the dog will act depends upon their breeding and the way they were raised. We have important training tips in our article on how to train an American bulldog. American bulldogs can be a bit more playful for a longer period of time in their younger years, which can result in an extended amount of their youth being a nibbler, but nothing too hard. They are very loyal to their owners. American bulldogs are skilled at sensing danger and can sense a threat to their environment. When an American bulldog is placed in a dangerous situation and feels threatened, it will not hesitate to act out in violence if necessary. There are some main reasons why the breed acts out in aggression and may bite: They are provoked: There is a difference between playing around and toying with an animal. Their owner is threatened: American Bulldogs are one of the most loyal breeds, so they will protect their owner at any cost. They will protect their food and treats if needed. However, people did not always treat their pets so kindly. American bulldogs developed their notorious bite after being raised for years as a dog-fighting breed. This still continues overseas to this day. It either hung on, or the bull killed the dog. You can see the violent upbringing that many American bulldogs have had. Quite simply, a dog is going to act the way you train it to act unless it goes against its natural instinct. American bulldogs all go through different phases during their lifetime. One of the more unfortunate ones for owners is the teething phase. They will put anything in their mouth during this phase, especially the thing owners seem to hate the most. Their feet. Feet are an easy target. The best thing to do when a bulldog goes after you and starts nibbling: Stop: Immediately stop what you are doing and let the bulldog know that the moving parts are not there to be a toy. Distract: Chew toys are good for this purpose and help them through the teething process. Anything is better for them to chew on than you, right? Reprimand: Through guided training and commands, teaching your bulldog to obey vocal signals is instrumental in their ability to cooperate with you. Understanding the American Bulldog The American bulldog is an instinctually dominant dog. It exerts its dominance not only towards other dogs but people as well as even other animals as well. Read This First! The dog historically has been a livestock herder and has gotten its dominating persona from years of working on farms. Bulldogs need a ton of exercise. From personal experience, when a dog does not have enough exercise, it only leads to the dog acting out. And when a dog acts out, it is usually not in the most pleasurable manner. This is when the pent-up energy gets misplaced and leads to bad behavior such as biting and getting into places they should not be. American bulldogs are just like any other dog. With training comes the rewards of a good dog. But if your dog is being good, and not biting, then it needs some form of reward. This breed of dog is one of the most loyal and loving dog breeds that there are. Owners tout them as being one of the best in this category. Conclusion American bulldogs are one of the most popular breeds around. The same rules apply to bulldogs as to any other breed if you want to stay away from getting bitten. Understanding how dangerous an American bulldog bite can be should make you a little more cautious next time you come across one. When we treat animals the right way, they in turn treat us respectfully the same. Post Views:

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. He has a shaggy or curly coat that requires maintenance. At their best, Labradoodles are intelligent, friendly, and affectionate. They come in three sizes: miniature weighing 15 to 30 pounds , medium 30 to 45 pounds , and standard 45 to more than pounds. Because they are a crossbreed their traits are not fixed, so there is no guarantee that the Labradoodle puppy you purchase will fall into the desired weight range. Labradoodles have a moderate activity level. Larger Labradoodles may be more active than their smaller kin. They can also be excellent therapy dogs. Both of the breeds used to create Labradoodles tend to be smart and learn quickly. If you begin socialization and training early and use positive reinforcement techniques such as praise, play, and food rewards, you will be rewarded with a wonderful companion. Poodles have a reputation for being hypoallergenic, meaning that they can supposedly be tolerated by people who have allergies to dogs. Because they have the Poodle in their heritage, Labradoodles are sometimes promoted as being hypoallergenic. But allergies are not caused by a particular dog coat type but by dander, the dead skin cells that are shed by all dogs and people. Some people with mild allergies react less severely to particular dogs, but no reputable breeder will guarantee that her dogs are hypoallergenic. If you are interested in a Labradoodle, start your search at your local shelter or on Petfinder. This type of cross-breed is often available for adoption. Buying from a breeder who is smart and caring enough to do health certifications — even for a cross-breed — is the best way to do that. Other Quick Facts Labradoodles were originally bred in an attempt to create a hypoallergenic guide dog. They have since become popular pets. Labradoodles are companion dogs. They love their people and need to live in the house, never outdoors. A well-bred Labradoodle should be sociable, friendly, nonaggressive, and extremely intuitive. The History of the Labradoodle People have been crossing dogs for millennia in the attempt to achieve a certain look, temperament, or working ability. But crossing two breeds over and over does not a breed make. A breed is a group of animals related by descent from common ancestors and visibly similar in most characteristics. To achieve consistency in appearance, size, and temperament, breeders must select the puppies with the traits they want and breed them over several generations for the traits to become set. Crossbreeds such as the Labradoodle have become popular over the past ten or twenty years as people seek out dogs that are different from the everyday Yorkie or Poodle or that they think will have certain appealing characteristics. And no matter what his breed or mix, an individual dog may be more or less allergenic or intelligent or healthy. Whatever his breed, cross or mix, love your dog for what he is: a unique, special and loving companion. In general, though, Labradoodles are friendly dogs who are devoted to their families. Start training your puppy the day you bring him home. Even at eight weeks old, he is capable of soaking up everything you can teach him. If possible, get him into puppy kindergarten class by the time he is 10 to 12 weeks old, and socialize, socialize, socialize. However, be aware that many puppy training classes require certain vaccines like kennel cough to be up to date, and many veterinarians recommend limited exposure to other dogs and public places until puppy vaccines including rabies, distemper and parvovirus have been completed. In lieu of formal training, you can begin training your puppy at home and socializing him among family and friends until puppy vaccines are completed. Breeders see the puppies daily and can make uncannily accurate recommendations once they know about your lifestyle and personality. Whatever you want from a Labradoodle, look for one whose parents have nice personalities and who has been well socialized from early puppyhood. What You Need To Know About Labradoodle Health All dogs, whether purebreds, crossbreeds, or mixes, have the potential to develop genetic health problems, just as all people have the potential to inherit a particular disease. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the mixed breed and the incidence with which they occur in her lines. The very nature of genetic variation makes this difficult to predict for a mixed breed dog. Please refer to the breed guides on Labrador Retrievers, Standard Poodles, and Miniature Poodles for an overview of some of the inherited diseases reported in these breeds. Not all inherited conditions are detectable in a growing puppy, and it can be hard to predict whether an animal will be free of these maladies, which is why you must find a reputable breeder who is committed to breeding the healthiest animals possible. They should be able to produce independent certification that the parents of the dog and grandparents, etc. Careful breeders screen their breeding dogs for genetic disease and breed only the healthiest and best-looking specimens, but sometimes Mother Nature has other ideas. A puppy may develop one of these diseases despite good breeding practices. Advances in veterinary medicine mean that in most cases the dogs can still live a good life. Keeping a Labradoodle at an appropriate weight is one of the easiest ways to extend his life. Make the most of diet and exercise to help ensure a healthier dog for life. The Basics of Labradoodle Grooming Labradoodles can have different types of fur. Some look like shaggy retrievers, others resemble a Poodle with loose curls. Many fall somewhere in between. They are not low-maintenance dogs when it comes to grooming. Plan to brush the Labradoodle at least every other day using a slicker brush, and have him clipped every 8 to 12 weeks. Ear infections can be a problem in Labradoodles. Be sure to keep the ears dry and clean, especially after the dog has had a bath or gone swimming. The rest is basic care. Trim his nails every week or two, and brush his teeth regularly — daily if possible — with a vet-approved pet toothpaste for overall good health and fresh breath. Finding a Labradoodle Whether you want to go with a breeder or get your dog from a shelter or rescue, here are some things to keep in mind. Choosing a Labradoodle Breeder Finding a quality breeder is a great way to find the right puppy. A good breeder will match you with the right puppy, and will have done all the health certifications necessary to screen out as many problems as possible. He or she is more interested in placing pups in the right homes than making big bucks. Reputable breeders will welcome your questions about temperament, health clearances, and what the dogs are like to live with. A good breeder can tell you about the history of the cross-breed, and discuss what health problems affect them and the steps that were taken to avoid them. Avoid breeders who only seem interested in how quickly they can unload a puppy on you and whether your credit card will clear. Put at least as much effort into researching your puppy as you would into choosing a new car or expensive appliance. It will save you money in the long run. Red flags include over availability, multiple litters on the premises, a choice of any puppy, and the ability to pay online with a credit card. Those things are convenient, but they are almost never associated with reputable breeders. Disreputable breeders and facilities that deal with puppy mills can be hard to distinguish from reliable operations. And before you decide to buy a puppy, consider whether an adult Labradoodle might better suit your needs and lifestyle. Puppies are loads of fun, but they require a lot of time and effort. An adult Labradoodle may already have some training and will probably be less active, destructive, and demanding than a puppy. If you are interested in acquiring an older dog through breeders, ask them about purchasing a retired show dog or if they know of an adult dog who needs a new home. If you want to adopt a dog, read the advice below on how to do that. There are many great options available if you want to adopt a dog from an animal shelter or rescue organization. Here is how to get started. Use the Web Sites like Petfinder. The site allows you to be very specific in your requests housetraining status, for example or very general all the Labradoodles available across the country. AnimalShelter can help you find animal rescue groups in your area. Social media is another great way to find a dog. Post on your Facebook page that you are looking for a specific breed so that your entire community can be your eyes and ears. Reach Out to Local Experts Start talking with all the pet pros in your area about your desire for a Labradoodle. That includes vets, dog walkers, and groomers. When someone has to make the tough decision to give up a dog, that person will often ask her own trusted network for recommendations. Search online for Labradoodle rescues in your area. Poodle rescues and Labrador rescues are also good resources for this crossbreed. The great thing about breed rescue groups is that they tend to be very upfront about any health conditions the dogs may have and are a valuable resource for advice. They also often offer fostering opportunities so, with training, you could bring a Labradoodle home for a trial to see what the experience is like. Key Questions to Ask You now know the things to discuss with a breeder, but there are also questions you should discuss with shelter or rescue group staff or volunteers before you bring home a pup. These include: What is his energy level? How is he around other animals? How does he respond to shelter workers, visitors, and children? What is his personality like? What is his age? Has he ever bitten or hurt anyone that they know of? Are there any known health issues? Wherever you acquire your Labradoodle, make sure you have a good contract with the seller, shelter, or rescue group that spells out responsibilities on both sides. Petfinder offers an Adopters Bill of Rights that helps you understand what you can consider normal and appropriate when you get a dog from a shelter. Puppy or adult, a breeder purchase or a rescue, take your Labradoodle to your veterinarian soon after adoption. Your veterinarian will be able to spot problems and will work with you to set up a preventive regimen that will help you avoid many health issues. It's time to talk about Labradoodles. This combination Labrador retriever and poodle is an excellent family dog who's often sought out by allergy sufferers because of their minimal shedding. The ever-popular Labradoodle is immensely trainable and, unlike some dogs, a good fit for first-time dog owners. On the larger side, these pups can take up some space-but are great with kids and will adapt to their family's lifestyle. The standard version, which is a Lab bred with a standard-sized poodle, can grow to be about 24 inches tall and weigh up to 75 pounds. If you're searching for a dog on the smaller size, it's possible to also find mini Labradoodles, a hybrid of a Labrador retriever and a miniature poodle. The loving, loyal doodles are a fun addition to any family. They're prone to zoomies and more than happy to play with the baby. Labradoodles are healthy dogs and need exercise, though the amount of running, playing, or swimming might depend on their makeup of Labrador and poodle genes. But regardless of the genetic breakdown, you'll need to get used to trips to the groomer. These pups are hairy. A quick note: Labradoodles and Australian Labradoodles aren't the same. Australian Labradoodles are crosses between a poodle, Labrador retriever, and cocker spaniel. Appearance Like many Labradoodle characteristics, your dog's appearance will depend on the generation you're looking for. To illustrate: Martinez breeds F1 half Labrador, half poodle , F1b 75 percent poodle, 25 percent Lab , and F2 87 percent poodle, 13 percent Lab Labradoodles. The half-Lab F1s will have longer, wavier hair and will still shed, Martinez says. The F1bs and F2s will have more poodle-esque hair that's tighter, curlier, and generally won't shed. They'll often look like little teddy bears as puppies. Labradoodles are often thought of as hypoallergenic -even though no dog is truly an allergen-free animal-but generally the F1b and F2 generations are considered better options for some allergy sufferers. Martinez recommends people with allergies spend time with their puppy before they adopt. His customers are required to. They'll come in around inches tall, Martinez says. As for colors, Labradoodles run the gamut. You'll find them in black, white, cream, red, chocolate, or a mix of those colors. Taking after their poodle brethren, these fluffy boys and girls need to be brushed frequently , too. Temperament Martinez loves the dogs he breeds-he owns 10 himself-and was especially effusive about how Labradoodles act around people, families , and children , even kids who might not know exactly how to pet or interact with dogs "They love people," he says. But not only can these pups live with cats -Martinez says several of his puppies have gone on to become therapy dogs , meaning they're calm and affectionate enough to visit schools, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers to offer psychological and physiological support to patients and people in need. Some Labradoodles go on to become service dogs , as the breed creator originally intended. But don't confuse them for docile dogs. They still have big personalities-Martinez describes a typical day with his dogs as "entertaining"-but mischievous behavior can be counteracted with training , which Labradoodles quickly pick up on. Genesis Service Dogs , which breeds Labradoodles to help children and adults with special needs, says the dogs will mature slower than their Labrador retriever brethren, so they'll be puppyish for about a year and a half. Then they'll become even more affectionate toward their humans. They're mostly quiet, keeping barking to a minimum, but Labradoodles' energy level can vary based on their generation, Martinez says. The dogs with more Labrador genes F1s will be more energetic than the ones with more poodle in their blood. Labradoodles will often reflect the energy levels of their owner, Martinez says, but they're still descendants of sporting dogs who like having something to do. Whether that means long walks together or playing games in the yard, a Labradoodle will be happiest with any activity he can do with you. Living Needs Labradoodles are flexible when it comes to where they live. While the standard Labradoodles are bigger, they can still reside in an apartment, though generally Martinez admits smaller dogs, potentially miniature Labradoodles, are better suited for living in smaller homes. If you do live in an apartment or smaller home where yard space is limited, make sure you can regularly fit in enough exercise and play for your active pup to blow off some steam, like a visit to the local dog park every so often. Labradoodles certainly won't turn down a house with a big, fenced-in yard , though. Martinez lets his group of pups spend plenty of time outside, where they'll be just as likely to lay down for a spell than run around on the doggie playground equipment. They do need exercise, though. If Martinez sends a puppy home with someone who works all day, he advises them to invest in a dog walker so their doodle is able to stretch his legs during the hours he's left alone. But if you have the time and like to explore, a Labradoodle could be the perfect hiking partner. And since poodles are considered water dogs, some Labradoodles like to swim , too. This breed is good for all ages, Martinez says, but Labradoodle owners will still need to put the work in with positive reinforcement training and to meet their activity needs. He subscribes to the oft-used mantra: There aren't any bad dogs, just bad owners. Care It's important to start training your Labradoodle puppy as soon as you bring him home. Labradoodles are considered smart dogs and will pick up what you're teaching very quickly. Martinez says they may even understand some commands within the first day. Labradoodles are smart enough that daily training doesn't take too long. Martinez recommends three or four sessions of 10 minutes each day to accommodate the dogs' short attention spans, which is like that of "a young child," he says. They're so easy to train and quick to learn that even first-time dog owners can fare well, Martinez says. But if you don't have the time or know-how to train, obedience school is the answer. Once he's learned to recognize the basics, your doodle will start making those classic head tilts when you mention their favorite words walk, car, treat. According to Martinez, early socialization -both with other dogs and people-is important for Labradoodle puppies. Martinez says he lets the puppies he breeds spend their early days with his adult dogs to get them used to other dogs at a young age. If your vet says it's safe, you may want to have your new Labradoodle puppy meet other humans and dogs in their first few weeks in their new home. When it comes to exercise, three to four walks a day will suffice which is why you might need a dog walker. Otherwise, swimming, hiking, or some playtime in the yard or at the park will help your dog immensely. Labradoodles do enjoy their activity, but Martinez says they'll spend just as much time lounging around to relax. Grooming is another integral part of caring for your Labradoodle, but it's probably best to outsource it. These fluffy boys and girls need regular trims. Martinez sends his dogs to the goomer for a haircut every six weeks, regardless of whether they're F1s, F1bs, or F2s. Regular brushing is a good idea, too, because you don't want your Labradoodle's hair to get matted or uncomfortable. You'll also want to keep those ears dry and clean , and don't forget to keep up with the nail trimming and tooth brushing , either. Health Here's another reason Labradoodles are good for first-time dog owners: They're a relatively healthy breed over their years of life. But being the ideal combination of Labs and poodles also means Labradoodles can be susceptible to the health problems of both their parent breeds. Labs, for instance, will commonly suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia , so the risk is there for Labradoodles as well. Doodles can also run into problems with myopathies, diseases that damage muscles , and exercise-induced collapse. For anyone looking to adopt a Labradoodle, Martinez couldn't emphasize enough: Make sure your breeder conducts DNA tests on your puppy's parents to find any genetic abnormalities. The same goes for having their hips and elbows tested and certified by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. If the breeder you're considering doesn't do that testing or says it isn't needed, find someone else. Martinez notes that Labrador retrievers are happy to eat just about anything and everything. While your Labradoodle will likely be a bit pickier, be sure to keep any weight gain in check since they may have a tendency to overeat if they're allowed to. History Australian Wally Conron is credited as the modern-day creator of the Labradoodle, breeding the first one in the late s. He was trying to create a guide dog that would also be hypoallergenic, by breeding a Labrador retriever and a standard poodle. Clearly, his efforts were successful. The breed exploded in popularity, and since it is the combination of the U. People seek out the Labradoodle for its trifecta of cute looks, friendly demeanor, and minimal shedding. While the Labradoodle is the seemingly ideal dog for people with allergies, Conron has said he regrets his creation. Because of the intense demand for these "designer dogs," Conron has expressed concern over the bad actors who breed Labradoodles in puppy mills-and the inexperienced and sometimes misinformed breeders who fail to prevent genetic problems from being passed on to new generations. Labradoodles have belonged to several famous owners, including golfer Tiger Woods, actress Jennifer Aniston, and actor Henry Winkler. Doodles certainly earn their keep on Instagram, so if you need some extra fluff in your life, the Dood Squad is a good place to start. Was this page helpful? It is a cross between the Labrador Retriever and the Poodle. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. Note: there are two totally different types of Labradoodles, the Australian Labradoodle and the American Labradoodle. The Australian Labradoodle is a purebred dog, while the American Labradoodle is a hybrid dog. There are a few different ways breeders are producing American Labradoodles. This is not the best cross for people with severe allergies. Health Problems Prone to hip dysplasia and genetic eye problems. She's happy to get it thinned, but it doesn't last long it grows back fast. We caught them in the flower pots and started to shoo them away, but had to take a picture first.Labradoodles make amazing pets. We have been socializing them and exercising them faithfully every day and can see their excellent temperaments developing. His coat is less curly, more shaggy and scruffy looking. He is cool, laid back and more mellow than most other Labradoodles. It could be his age. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. The first Labradoodle was a dog named Sultan—who first came to existence in the late 20th century. With astounding success, Sultan had both a hypoallergenic coat and the intelligence to be trained as a service dog. Wally then teamed up with a partner in Hawaii, and the two worked to establish the Labradoodle as its own breed. Currently, multigenerational breeding is being conducted in hopes to iron out and stabilize the Labradoodle breed. This, of course, means the Labradoodle breed is not registered with the AKC. Unfortunately—as time passed and more Labradoodles were bred—Conron realized that the crossbreed is inconsistent. Streamlining the breed is currently a work in progress, stagnated by the array of incompetent puppy mill breeders trying to create their own Labradoodles. Known for their intelligence, calm temperament, affection, extroversion, and elegant gait, the Labradoodle is a fantastic home dog. In fact, the Labradoodle personality is so affectionate and sociable, that they often need to be trained to mitigate their abrasive excitement for life. Due to their intelligence, they process information rapidly, and are often quick-witted canines. They enjoy playing with a passion, but are often not pushy and their keenness and intuition allows them to judge when it is play time and when it is not. Early-socialization , heredity, and the amount of training administered affect the extent of extroverted Labradoodle behavior. It is important that with these dogs they are introduced to the world, other people, and canines early on. Rather, it is to create boundaries within their own tenacious affection and prevent Labradoodle temperament problems. They are by in large a great choice for a first-time dog owner, a family, and a guide dog. Their excellent temperament, personality and intelligence make them a good candidate as a therapy dog. Training a Labradoodle Training a Labradoodle puppy is an easier task than most dogs and they pick up basic commands easily. Their eager-to-please personalities and intelligence make them both attentive and dexterous in learning. Their overt friendliness, intuition, and slight sensitivity mean they respond best to positive reinforcement. Praise for good Labradoodle behavior in the form of treats, words, and playfulness work best when training a Labradoodle. Despite being home dogs, the Labradoodle will need excessive exercise—particularly in the puppy ages—to meet their high threshold of energy. One of the most important parts of training a Labradoodle is exposing them to other dogs early on. This inability to discern between appropriate and inappropriate canine interaction will become a problem if not treated early on. Their intelligence needs to be stimulated and manifested. This means teaching tricks, games, and a slew of commands to keep them engaged. A lack of mental and physical situation will result in a tireless Labradoodle. A tireless Labradoodle tears the home apart and develops high levels of nervousness and anxiety. A Labradoodle should be potty trained and housed indoors. These are people dogs. They long for the comfort of their owners and a home. Also, crate training is exceptionally successful with this breed. Exercise Requirements for Labradoodles A Labradoodle requires minutes of exercise per day. These dogs have a surplus of energy. Their need for activity and large size make them a perfect fit for a house with a yard, but not an apartment. As with most breeds, their need for exercise will dwindle over time. A puppy Labradoodle, dependent on its heredity, will either be a bit more stagnant, or a bit more jumpy. Put them in water and watch them shine with glee. Labradoodle Lifespan A Labradoodle lifespan typically ranges anywhere from years. Popularity of the Labradoodle While Labradoodles have had a rapid rise in popularity in the last decade, they remain unregistered in the AKC. Breeders are currently trying to streamline the Labradoodle and create a common multigenerational breed. The issue is that—due to their rapid rise of international popularity—lots of incompetent breeders try to produce them by crossbreeding poodles and Labradors or Labrador Retrievers. This unfortunate rush to meet demand has started a chain of puppy mills, where the Labradoodles in question are often poorly bred dogs, with bad temperaments, personalities, and prone to health issues. Once the success of multigenerational breeding becomes apparent, and the breed begins to show credible consistency, they will become more popular in America. Feeding Recommendations for Labradoodles The amount in which you feed your Labradoodle depends on its size, metabolism, and activeness. Similar to the human anatomy, no two Labradoodles will be the same. Generally, a standard Labradoodle should eat two cups of dry food per day, broken into two different meals. However, the Labrador Retriever commonly experiences gastric torsion—in simpler words: bloating —a condition which can be passed along to Labradoodles. To avoid this problem, be sure to break the meals precisely in half and space them out with ample time between each course. For Labradoodles, never leave food out perpetually. Make sure each meal is administered and eaten before proceeding to the next. A good way to ensure your Labradoodle is receiving the proper amount of food is by pressing against their ribcage. With minimal force, you should be able to feel their ribs. If you have to press hard, lower the food intake and up the exercise. Labradoodle Grooming The hybrid Labradoodle and its peculiar ancestry cause an inconsistency in their coat type. Point being, they tend to range. Typically, the coat is around inches with either curly or straight hair. The proper coat is neither coarse, thick, or prone to fluffiness. Their coats are wool, hair, or fleece, with the latter being most coveted for the breed. These coats can be gold, caramel, apricot, cream, black, red, chocolate, and blue colored. A few have parti-colored coats. These dogs need grooming. Depending on the coat, others will need more, but generally speaking, they should be brushed twice a week with a bristle brush to keep their coats clean and mitigate shedding. There should not be a routine bath , and rather bathe the Labradoodle as needed; they tend to be less prone to odor than other dog breeds. For optimal Labradoodle health, brush their teeth three times per week for hygiene upkeep. This will avoid bacteria and tartar buildups. Trim their nails twice a month, as this breed is fond of scratching. Be careful not to cause bleeding. Conduct checkups; check the ears, mouth, nose, and coat for inflammation, redness, and infection. Are Labradoodles Good with Children? Kids love them and Labradoodles are exceptional with children. A mutual respect and understanding needs to be developed. Labradoodle Health Issues A Labradoodle can be more prone to disease and illness due to their unstable breeding methods. Make sure these clearances come from credible establishments. It can cause lameness in the leg s and can worsen to the point of immobility. At the very least, the Labradoodle is affected but does not show symptoms. A screening can be done to ensure the parents do not have Hip Dysplasia , as dogs with this condition should not be bred. Check with your breeder to see if the parents have been screened. It can cause lameness in the leg s and at the very worst immobility. The list of treatments ranges from simple weight monitoring to surgery. Epilepsy: this neurological condition is most commonly inherited. In short, it causes seizures. A Labradoodle with this condition will be glutinous about their food in hopes to compensate for their lack of energy. Meaning they will not receive the proper energy from their food intake, and will decide that more food is the solution. Even then, they will lose weight, remain lethargic, continue with their unappeasable appetite, and urinate constantly. This condition can be mitigated by managing diet and administering insulin if needed. For more pet resources about your favorite dog breeds, visit our blog to learn about Bloodhounds , Yorkie Poo , Miniature Poodle , and Rat Terrier! Other Resources:. Nutrition and Feeding Large breed dogs, as well as having large appetites, benefit from a different balance of nutrients including minerals and vitamins compared to smaller-breed dogs. Labradoodles like most large breed dogs can be prone to bloating and stomach problems, but smaller, more frequent meals can help minimise this risk. The Labradoodle diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape, and remember to feed him at least twice daily and in accordance with the dog feeding guidelines of his particular food. Grooming Labradoodles It is difficult to predict what kind of coat the Labradoodle is going to have, as they may inherit a coat like a Labrador or they may inherit the Poodle coat or any mixtures of the two. This means they may not shed or shed minimally the Poodle coat but in that case will require regular trimming. Or else they may shed the Labrador coat and may or may not have an unruly coat that is prone to matting. They can be anything from low maintenance to high maintenance so be prepared for either! Dog ear care is extremely important as Poodles can have problems with excessive hair inside the ears, which can cause infections or sore ears. Training Labradoodles Dog training is important for this very active, smart and busy dog. They are a joy to train as both breeds are intelligent and love working with their owner — but they will learn bad habits as quickly as good ones, so reward-based training should start early and be ongoing. This is a great breed for dog sports such as agility or even pet gundog work, and they will love having an active job to do. It is important to train a Labradoodle to enjoy handling and grooming as they will need a lot of it and to happily give up any prizes they may rather hold onto — always using positive, reward-based methods. Are Labradoodles Good Family Dogs? The Labradoodle is close to being the perfect family dog. If the Labradoodle is sourced from a reliable breeder, and well-trained from puppyhood, they will make fabulous family dogs , be a total joy to own and will get on with everyone. An untrained or bored Labradoodle can however easily become unruly and overly boisterous. Their warm personality is often a match for people with autism or physical disabilities. The Labradoodle lifespan can reach 14 years as both their parent breeds have long lifespans. FAQs Do Labradoodles shed a lot? Depending on the type of coat Labradoodles inherit, shedding can be either minimal or non-existing. Do Labradoodles bark a lot? Do Labradoodles like to cuddle? Labradoodles are very loving and adore to cuddle when they feel tired and need attention. Is a male or female Labradoodle better? However, female Labradoodles can be more responsive to training while males are said to be more affectionate than females. Similar Breeds.

UKC Classification: Companion Dog Prevalence: Common Poodles come in three sizes or varieties: the standard over 15 inches and 45 to 70 pounds [20 to 32 kilograms] , the miniature 10 or 11 inches to 15 inches and 12 to 20 pounds [5 to 9 kilograms] and the toy less than 10 inches and about five to seven pounds [2 to 3 kilograms]. All the Poodles share a square outline, with a long, elegant neck and a straight back. The tail is docked, but not short, so it can wave gaily. Poodles tend to have a leggy appearance and a long muzzle combined with dropped ears. They move with a springy, lively gait. The coat of the poodle is its crowning glory. Dogs competing in the breed ring must have a specific clip, with areas of extravagant hair coupled with skin tight clipping. These clips actually developed for a reason: they provided thick coat over the joints and chest to keep the dog warm while working in cold water. Many guardians elect to keep their dogs in a kennel or working clip, with the coat clipped fairly short and pompoms left on the head and tail. A few poodles are seen with a corded coat, in which the tight curls form long bands like dreadlocks. The poodle coat should be tight and curly unless brushed out vigorously. Poodles are known as good dogs for people with allergies because the hair does not routinely shed out; instead, it mat to itself. This is why poodles need clipping or frequent grooming because the mats can be painful. The commonly seen colors of poodles are silver, black, white, apricot and chocolate. Reds do appear as well as creams and blues. Parti-colors such black and white are not considered acceptable in the show ring. Personality: Poodles are notorious for their intelligence and ease of training. They are lively, active, fun-loving dogs with a sense of the ridiculous. Poodles thrive on attention and can develop bad habits such as nuisance barking if ignored or left alone. The smaller poodles can be aggressive to people outside their families or to other dogs. They should have early socialization to other people and pets and a firm hand in training. Poodles can be protective of their families and homes. It should be remembered that poodles are basically hunting dogs in elegant attire and do require exercise and training to be at their best as companion dogs. Living With: Poodles are "easy keepers," and guardians should not indulge them with treats too much. They can easily become overweight. Many poodles live a comparatively long life, with the smaller poodles reaching as much as 17 years of age, while the standards tend to live for 12 to 14 years. Grooming is a fact of life with a poodle. With the tendency of the coat to mat, poodles should have a close clip or be groomed almost daily. Show coats require frequent baths, the tying up of topknots and ear fringes and oiling of the coat to keep it from getting brittle. A steady hand on the scissors is also important. Poodles are good family dogs — fun, energetic, smart and easy to train. They do best with plenty of exercise for both mind and body and prefer to be with people most of the time. They are not good kennel dogs. Socialization should begin early and include other people, other pets and the grooming routine. These dogs are exceptional jumpers, so be careful with your yard fencing! History: While commonly associated with France, the poodle actually is of German origin, possibly descending from the barbet. The breed became "set" in type in the s, although earlier examples of poodle-like dogs are known. The word poodle comes from the German "pudel" meaning puddle or splash. Poodles started out as hunting dogs, especially good at water retrieving. With their quick intelligence and desire to please, they branched out into performing dogs with traveling troupes and circuses. Aristocracy, particularly in France, discovered the breed and delighted in both the personality and the incredible hair coat, which could be shaped in myriad ways. Despite the new image of the poodle as an elegant, somewhat spoilt aristocrat, we should remember that they are still called "caniches" in France, meaning duck dog. The three varieties constitute one of the most popular breeds in the world. Poodles shine in the glamour of the show ring, but they also work as guide dogs for the blind and police dogs. They compete in all dog sports, from running the Iditarod and herding sheep to obedience and agility. Related Pet Care Articles. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Although it hardly seems possible when you look at a primped-up Poodle in the show ring, the breed was originally a water retriever, a job that requires jumping in the water to fetch waterfowl for hunters. In fact, the English name poodle is derived from the German word pudel, or pudelin, which means to splash in the water. And in France, Poodles are called Caniche, a name derived from chien canard, meaning duck dog. There are three sizes of Poodle, all considered part of the same breed: going from smallest to largest, these are the Toy, the Miniature, and the Standard. The Standard is probably the oldest of the three varieties, and some still carry on the Poodle tradition of working as a water retriever. No matter the size, Poodles are renowned for a playful but dignified personality and keen intelligence. Despite his regal air, the Poodle is no snob. These are people-friendly dogs who want to stay close to their families — they get lonely when left by themselves for long periods — and are always up for a good game. This is especially common among the smaller varieties — Miniature and Toy Poodles — who are more likely to be coddled and untrained. The Poodle coat needs a lot of upkeep to stay beautiful and healthy. Most Poodle owners take their dogs to a professional groomer every three to six weeks. If you want to save money on grooming expenses, you can learn to do it yourself, but it takes time and effort. Poodles have weepy eyes that can stain the surrounding hair. To cut down on stains, gently wipe down the face daily with an alcohol-free pet wipe or washcloth dipped in warm water. To get a healthy dog, never buy a puppy from an irresponsible breeder, puppy mill, or pet store. Poodle History The Poodle is one of the oldest breeds developed especially for hunting waterfowl. Most historians agree that the Poodle originated in Germany, but developed into his own distinct breed in France. Many believe that the breed is the result of crosses between several European water dogs, including Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, Hungarian, and Russian water dogs. After that, the breed arrived in Gaul where it was used for his hunting abilities. Yet another theory is that the Poodle descended from dogs that were brought out of the Asian steppes by the conquering North African Berbers and eventually found his way into Portugal in the 8th Century with the Moors. Whatever its ancestry, this is a very old breed. Illustrations of Poodle-like dogs adorn Egyptian and Roman artifacts and tombs dating from the first centuries B. The drawings and statues show dogs that look very much like modern-day Poodles, bringing in game nets, herding animals, and retrieving game from marshes. The Toy and Miniature varieties were created by breeding small Poodles to each other, not by breeding Poodles to smaller breeds. The French used the larger Standard Poodle for duck hunting, and the mid-sized Miniature Poodle to sniff out truffles in the woods. They trained Poodles to perform tricks, dressing them in costumes and sculpting their coats into fanciful shapes to add to their stage appeal. Wealthy patrons took note and started clipping, decorating, and even dying their own Poodle companions. The Kennel Club in England registered their first Poodle in , with the first British club for Poodle fanciers arriving on the scene two years later. The Poodle Club of America was founded in , but disbanded shortly thereafter. Poodle enthusiasts reestablished the club in .Poodles were fairly rare in the U. By the mids, however, the Poodle had become the most popular breed in the country, a position he held for more than 20 years. Poodle Size There are three sizes of Poodle: toy, miniature, and standard. The Toy Poodle stands up to 10 inches tall, and weighs about six to nine pounds. The Miniature Poodle stands 11 to 15 inches tall and weighs 15 to 17 pounds. The Standard Poodle stands 15 inches and taller usually 22 inches ; males weigh 45 to 70 pounds and females weigh 45 to 60 pounds. Some owners and breeders think the smaller Toy and Miniature Poodles are a bit more high-strung than the Standard; however, other breeders and owners disagree with this theory. An outstanding trait of the Poodle is his intelligence. He is often said to have human-like intelligence, an amazing cleverness that astounds his owners. Of course, smart dogs can be difficult to live with. They learn fast — good habits and bad — and they remember everything. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site offa. More severe signs occur when a dog is stressed or when potassium levels get high enough to interfere with heart function, causing severe shock and death. Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus: Commonly called bloat, this is a life-threatening condition that affects large, deep-chested dogs like Poodles, especially if they are fed one large meal a day, eat rapidly, drink large volumes of water after eating, and exercise vigorously after eating. Bloat occurs when the stomach is distended with gas or air and then twists. The dog is unable to belch or vomit to rid itself of the excess air in its stomach, and the normal return of blood to the heart is impeded. Blood pressure drops and the dog goes into shock. Without immediate medical attention, the dog can die. Suspect bloat if your dog has a distended abdomen, is salivating excessively and retching without throwing up. He also may be restless, depressed, lethargic, and weak with a rapid heart rate. Cushings Disease Hyperadrenocorticism : This condition occurs when the body produces too much cortisol. It can be due to an imbalance of the pituitary or adrenal gland, or it can occur when a dog has too much cortisol resulting from other conditions. Common signs are excessive drinking and urination. If your Poodle exhibits these two symptoms, take it to the veterinarian. There are treatments to help with this disease, including surgery and medication. Epilepsy: A common cause of seizures in all varieties of Poodles is idiopathic epilepsy. It often is inherited and can cause mild or severe seizures. Seizures may be exhibited by unusual behavior, such as running frantically as if being chased, staggering, or hiding. Seizures are frightening to watch, but the long-term prognosis for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy is generally very good. Canine hip dysplasia is inherited, with environmental factors sometimes playing a large part in its development. Over time, there is degeneration of the joint that can cause arthritis and pain, even lameness. Excess weight, excessive or prolonged exercise before maturity, a fast growth rate, and high-calorie or supplemented diets can contribute to the development of canine hip dysplasia. Veterinary care includes nutritional supplements, medication and, in some cases, surgery. Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism is caused by is an under active thyroid gland. Legg-Perthes Disease: This is another disease involving the hip joint. Many toy breeds are prone to this condition. When your Poodle has Legg-perthes, the blood supply to the head of the femur the large rear leg bone is decreased, and the head of the femur that connects to the pelvis begins to disintegrate. Usually, the first signs of Legg-Perthes, limping and atrophy of the leg muscle, occur when puppies are 4 to 6 months old. The scar tissue that results from the surgery creates a false joint and the puppy is usually pain free. Patellar Luxation: The patella is the kneecap. Luxation means dislocation of an anatomical part as a bone at a joint. Patellar luxation is when the knee joint often of a hind leg slides in and out of place, causing pain. This can be crippling, but many dogs lead relatively normal lives with this condition. Early in the disease, affected dogs become night-blind. As the disease progresses, they lose sight during the day. Many affected dogs adapt to their limited or loss of vision very well, as long as the surroundings remain the same. Optic Nerve Hypoplasia: This condition is a congenital failure if development of the optic nerve. It causes blindness and abnormal pupil response in the affected eye. This genetic condition is difficult to diagnose and often is mistaken for hypothyroidism, allergies, or other conditions. When a dog has SA, the sebaceous glands in the skin become inflamed for unknown reasons, and are eventually destroyed. These glands typically produce sebum, a fatty secretion that aids in preventing drying of the skin. Affected dogs typically have dry, scaly skin with hair loss on top of the head, neck, and back. Severely affected dogs can have thickened skin and an unpleasant odor, along with secondary skin infections. Although the problem is primarily cosmetic, it can be uncomfortable for the dog. Your vet will perform a biopsy of the skin if SA is suspected. Treatment options vary. The main symptom is excessive bleeding after an injury or surgery. Other symptoms include nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or bleeding in the stomach or intestines. There is no cure, and a blood transfusion from the blood of normal dogs is currently the only treatment. Research is underway for new treatments, including medication. A vet can test your dog for the condition. Dogs with this condition should not be bred. Poodle Care Poodles do just fine in any type of home, from apartments to estates, so long as they have regular exercise and plenty of human companionship. They prefer to live indoors with the family, particularly the smaller Toy and Miniature Poodles, since they have no trouble getting their ya-yas out in the house. That goes for Toy and Miniature Poodles as well. Many owners of small dogs skip training, and wind up with a badly behaved dog. Poodle Feeding Recommended daily amount: Standards, 1. Note: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. Limit treats, keep him active, and feed in meals rather than leaving food available at all times. Keep your Poodle in good shape by measuring his food and feeding him twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at him. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on his back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see his ribs without having to press hard. For more on feeding your Poodle, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Many allergic people are able to keep a Poodle with no reaction. The hair is curly, wiry, and dense, and this unique texture can be trimmed, clipped, groomed, shaved, and otherwise manipulated into all kinds of fanciful shapes. Poodles are high-maintenance dogs. He requires regular grooming, every three to six weeks, sometimes more often, to keep the coat in good condition. If you are considering a Poodle, consider the upkeep of the coat and expense of grooming. There are many ways to style the coat for easier care. In fact, many owners simply shave it off. Even when clipped short, your Poodle will need to be brushed , bathed , and trimmed every three to six weeks, sometimes more often, to keep the coat clean, short, and tangle free. Even if you let a professional handle the complicated stuff, your Poodle needs daily brushing. Many Poodles have weepy eyes that stain the hair under their eyes. To cut down on staining, wipe around the eyes and face every day with an alcohol-free pet wipe or washcloth dampened with warm water. Breeds with drop-down ears are prone to ear infections because the ear canal stays dark and moist. Sometimes, this hair needs to be plucked. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Short, neatly trimmed nails keep the feet in good condition and prevent your legs from getting scratched when your Poodle enthusiastically jumps up to greet you. Handle his paws frequently — dogs are touchy about their feet — and look inside his 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. 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. Poodles who grow up with other dogs or pets in the house — or who have plenty of opportunities to interact with them in group training classes, dog parks, and the like — will enjoy their company. If your Poodle is used to being the only pet in the household, however, he may need some time and special training to help him accept a newcomer. Poodle Rescue Groups Poodles are often purchased without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. There are many Poodles in need of adoption and or fostering. There are a number of rescues that we have not listed. Toy poodles double down on the froofroo rep with their tiny size and by sometimes sporting those fancy haircuts. But trust us, poodles are more than happy to get down and dirty. In fact, poodles started life as hunting dogs for the rich and famous in Europe. What made them so popular, however, is their incredible intelligence. Generally regarded as one of the smartest dog breeds , poodles are highly trainable, extremely eager to please people, and love being the center of attention through tricks and activities. None of that has changed over the years: The poodle consistently ranks as one of the 10 most popular breeds in the world. Appearance Toy, miniature , and standard poodles are all the same breed of dog, so they'll look more or less the same—except for their size. Toy poodles are the smallest of the three, standing no more than 10 inches tall and generally weighing right around 5 pounds. All three classifications of poodle have squarish bodies, generally about as long as they are tall. Poodles have a proud bearing, with heads kept high and their large, dark-colored eyes looking alert. Poodle coats come in a stunning array of colors from black, through the browns and yellow colors all the way to white. Bi-colored coats are also seen, though not hugely common. Poodles don't shed much , making them great for owners with allergies. While there aren't technically any hypoallergenic dogs , most people will find toy poodles close enough to not really quibble over it. Additionally, groomers can style a poodle's fur many different ways, and the breed has become famous for its outlandish show cuts. They tend to consider themselves a vital part of the family, have strong personalities, and learn things in a flash. They will get legitimately disgruntled if they think they're being left out of family activities. Of course, this temperament is kind of a double-edged sword. Toy poodles are devoted family pets who love to be the center of attention, learn tricks, and take walks. They're excellent in agility and obedience training and will play with children for hours. Because of their extreme intelligence, poodles are even quick to learn how to engage in more complex games such as hide and seek. On the flip side, poodles can develop common stress behaviors associated with separation anxiety. If you leave them alone for too long or don't give them the attention they deserve, these pups can be passive aggressive and do things they know you don't like—while you're there to watch. The toy poodle's teensy-tiny size makes it tempting to carry him everywhere, and he's so cute that it's no surprise owners are tempted to spoil him rotten. But, again, poodles are brilliant. A toy poodle who is carried everywhere will start to expect to be carried everywhere. As a result, every poodle owner should take full advantage of the breed's brilliance and eagerness to please, and obedience train their pet as quickly as possible. Living Needs Here is where the toy poodle's aptitude as an ideal family pet really shines. While poodles can be active dogs and will require some kind of daily exercise, toy poodles can get all their needs taken care of right there on the living room floor. Nichols says these little dogs will be happy with whatever type and amount of exercise their owner provides. Their tiny size makes them marvelous apartment-dwellers , and their innate desire to be lapdogs makes them great for seniors and people with mobility issues. Poodles of all sizes make great therapy dogs , and toy poodles in particular will love sitting near you for hours at a time. Toy poodles do great in households with other dogs, and the breed's lower prey drive , high intelligence, and friendly attitude make them ideal for houses with cats as well. Poodles love children and are eager to play, but most vets and breeders will steer households with children under the age of 10 toward the miniature or standard varieties, simply because the toy poodles are so small. They can be easily hurt by a falling child or by being handled too roughly. Always supervise children when they play with any dog and teach them how to properly interact with pets. Care No breed is perfect, and for poodles the biggest setback is going to be their grooming needs. That coat that is so shed-free and allergy-friendly? It's going to need brushing. A lot of brushing —ideally, every day. Because his hair curls in on itself, it's extremely prone to matting and, if left unchecked, can cause skin infections and have to be shaved off entirely. Aside from the brushing, poodles will need a bath and haircut every four to six weeks. While show dogs have a variety of complicated cuts to choose from, most non-show owners opt for a more standard sporting cut because of its ease to maintain. Like all dogs, you'll need to trim his nails regularly. Special attention should be paid to the ears , as their hair will grow up inside the ear canal, trapping wax and dirt and leading to infections. Because toy varieties have the same number of teeth as other poodle varieties but their mouths are smaller, it's easy for food to get trapped and decay to occur rapidly. Health Though the three varieties of poodles are the same breed, they do not suffer from the same conditions. While the standard poodle will be more prone to bloat , toy poodles can be slightly more susceptible to blood clotting disorders including Von Willebrand's disease and hemophilia , Beck says. Finally, smaller dogs can have a higher propensity for dental problems. In addition to being at greater risk for tooth decay , they don't lose their puppy teeth as easily as bigger dogs, Beck says. Reputable toy poodle breeders will conduct all health tests recommended by the Canine Health Information Center. History The poodle is the national dog of France, which is why you'll hear many people refer to the standard poodle as the "French poodle. Today in France, the poodle is known as the caniche, which translates to "duck dog. Toy poodles began to see favor by the late 18th century, appearing in artwork and in the courts of French aristocracy. The American Kennel Club recognized the poodle as a registered breed in .Jinkee , a 5-year-old red toy poodle, has more than 70, followers on Instagram. Was this page helpful? Poodles are amazing canines, capable of high intelligence , strong loyalty and having a range of emotions. Just like people, Poodles can feel sad, depressed, excited, happy, bored, overwhelmed.The Poodle is known for being one of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world within the top 5 with a unique temperament. Being so elegant, particularly the show dog, many people do not realize just how friendly and "people orientated" a pet Poodle is. They love human companionship, love to play and are truly a fantastic canine family member. Along with each Poodle having their own unique personality, owners find that their Poodle can also have some odd or particular habits or behaviors. Let's take a look at some of the behaviors of this breed and whether one should be concerned.Sleep Puppies - Poodle puppies up the age of 8 months can sleep anywhere from 15 to 20 hours per day! Their sleeping needs will decrease with age. With puppies, it is very normal to sleep quite a bit and to be extremely active while awake. It is normal for Poodles to take naps. Dogs that are left home alone during the day for more than 3 hours will usually take many more naps than ones that have companionship during the day. Senior Poodles - Senior dogs will sleep more often and naps will increase as the dog grows older. A Toy Poodle is considered to be a senior at the age of 10, a Miniature Poodle at the age of years and a Standard Poodle at 7 years old. It is important to allow an older dog to take naps whenever they wish and not to "push" playing or exercise on them. While daily walks are still very important to health, do allow a senior to rest when needed. Most Common Behaviors Seen There are many stages that a Poodle puppy enters during this fast time of growth and development. Some stages happen so fast, you can see your Poodle changing right before your eyes! Other behaviors can be present for the dog's entire life.Let's take a look at what is normal behavior for a Poodle puppy , adolescent and adult dog.The Hyper Poodle Puppy - This phase will last from 8 weeks to approximately 1 year. It will be normal for your puppy to have an abundance of energy! Poodle puppies will want to play from daybreak to nightfall. It is normal for a pup to run around the home, investigate every object they can get their mouths on and generally wear you out! Do keep in mind that a puppy will want to chew on everything, well before teething even begins. Be sure to puppy proof the house can use firm training if your Poodle is not listening to commands. Read more about how to help a hyper Poodle. The Clingy Poodle - Some Poodles can be rather shy and may wish to stay very close to an owners as opposed to venturing out even a bit to interact with others or to independently play. Over time, this can be wearing on owners and does not allow the dog to have a quality life that is full with exploration and self-confidence. Read more about what to do if a Poodle is clingy. This can be negative or positive. Some Poodles have Separation Anxiety, a term used when a dog has a difficult time coping with being home alone. Dogs who feel this way may become so happy when their owners return home that they loose control of their bladder. Since we can't be with our Poodles every moment although we wish we could , you may wish to read the separation anxiety section. The Chewing Machine - As mentioned above, puppies have an almost uncontrollable instinct to chew on everything that they can find. This is actually a very important stage, as it is a learning stage. An owner must keep the home "puppy proofed", however at the same time one must allow a puppy to explore their world, both inside and outside of the home. When teething begins, this can be an especially trying time. You may wish to read more about this in the teething section. Nipping - Nipping can become a bad habit, if training is not given to show a Poodle that nipping is not acceptable. This can interfere with many aspects, including having your dog behave when company comes over or when your dog is playing with children. Puppies naturally nip because this is the 1st form of play that a puppy learns. It will be the owners job to show their Poodle was is and what is not acceptable so that you do not have a nipping adult dog! You may wish to read more in the temperament section. Jumping on People - This comes from a good place, a Poodle that jumps up to say hello just has a lot of enthusiasm in their greetings. But, this can quickly become frustrating behavior. Read how to allow your Poodle to release pent up energy and learn self control when saying hello: When a Poodle Jumps on People. It's important to deal with this sort of behavior at the onset to correct things quickly. Learn more in the Poodle Growling section. Marking - Marking is different than having housebreaking accidents. With this, a Poodle will spray urine in the house to mark his or her territory. And the reasons behind this can be triggering very strong canine instincts. Fortunately, there are ways to stop a Poodle from marking , by using a combination of establishing proper hierarchy and responding to this in the right way. Coprophagia - Commonly known as eating feces , this is a disturbing behavior that is not uncommon with all varieties of Poodles. A dog may ingest his own poop, that of another dog or even cat feces from the litter box. Learn what can prompt a puppy or dog to do this and steps you can take to stop this. Begging - Dogs that have learned the art of begging can be relentless. If you find yourself giving in, these tips to stop a Poodle from begging can stop this behavior and lead to less stress for both you and your puppy or dog. Disobedience - Poodles can have independent streaks and if care is not taken to teach rules and guidelines, there can be issues with no obeying. Read how to address a Poodle that won't listen to turn things around. See also: Chewing and Licking at Paws - There are several route causes for this. Read how to limit this and at-home remedies to stop itching and possible inflammation. Poodle is humping a lot - This sort of behavior can come from Poodles of any age and even from those that are fixed. Why a dog does this and helpful advice regarding how to stop a Poodle from doing this. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share Us. They have a distinctive thick, curly coat that comes in many colors and patterns, with only solid colors recognized by breed registries. Poodles are active and intelligent, and are particularly able to learn from humans. Poodles tend to live 10—18 years, with smaller varieties tending to live longer than larger ones. Similar dogs date back to at least the 17th century. Larger Poodles were originally used by wildfowl hunters to retrieve game from water, while smaller varieties were once commonly used as circus performers. Since the midth century, Poodles have enjoyed enormous popularity as pets and show dogs — Poodles were the AKC's most registered breed from to , and are now the FCI's third most registered breed. Poodles are also common at dog shows, where they often sport the popularly recognized Continental clip, with face and rear clipped close, and tufts of hair on the hocks and tail tip. History A 17th-century engraving of a Poodle Most cynologists believe the Poodle originated in Germany in the Middle Ages , from a dog similar to today's Standard Poodle. Numerous works by various German artists from as early as the 17th century depict dogs of recognisably Poodle type. As new breeding practices were adopted, the variety became set as a toy-sized replica of the original. Not universally recognised by the world's kennel clubs , the Medium Poodle is recognised by the FCI and most Continental European kennel clubs. A pet owner can anticipate grooming a Poodle every four to eight weeks. Their individual hair follicles have an active growth period that is longer than that of many other breeds; combined with the tightly curled coat, which slows the loss of dander and dead hair by trapping it in the curls, an individual Poodle may release less dander and hair into the environment. However, researchers have generally not found a difference in allergens across breeds. The FCI additionally recognizes the Scandinavian clip. Poodle hair can also be "corded" with rope-like mats similar to those of a Komondor or human dreadlocks. Though once as common as the curly Poodle, corded Poodles are now rare. Corded coats are difficult to keep clean and take a long time to dry after washing. They were common historically, but became less popular in the early s, and are excluded from many registries. Phantom Poodles may also have a full face of the secondary color.

I run my fingers down the center near their belly button feeling for the telltale blob of an umbilical hernia and near the groin checking for inguinal lumps and we find them quite a bit. Hernias are not uncommon in puppies, and occur in a variety of ways. The good news is most are easily treatable and often caught early. A hernia occurs when abdominal organs or fatty tissue protrude through a weak spot in the muscle or connective tissue. The severity of the hernia depends on the size of the defect in the abdominal wall. In its most benign form, a small amount of abdominal fat may intermittently protrude from the hole and be easily placed back through with a little pressure. In its most severe form, intestines or other abdominal organs may pass through the the hole, compressing blood supply and essentially strangling the organ. In these worst-case scenarios hernias can become life threatening in a short period of time. Amazingly, even large hernias can often be successfully treated if the diagnosis is made before the herniated organ is compromised. In some cases the closure is incomplete, leaving a hole in the abdomen through which contents can herniate. Inguinal : the inguinal canal is an opening in the area of the groin through which the testicles descend. Both males and females have an inguinal canal and can suffer from inguinal hernias. Diaphragmatic : the diaphragm is the large sheet of muscle that separates the chest cavity from the abdomen. While trauma and congenital defects can cause defects at any point along the diaphragm, there are two specific subtypes of diaphragmatic hernia which are known to occur as congenital defects in puppies: Hiatal : the hiatus is an opening in the diaphragm where the esophagus, which carries food from the mouth to the stomach, passes from the chest to the abdomen. If the opening is larger than it should be, the stomach can start to bulge through into the chest cavity. Peritoneopericardial : this mouthful of a word refers to an opening between the peritoneum a membrane lining the abdominal cavity and the pericardium the sac that surrounds the heart. This results from an embryologic problem during development, and is the most common form of congenital pericardial defect in the dog. What Causes Hernias in Dogs? Hernias can be congenital meaning the puppy was born with the condition or acquired through trauma, disease or aging. Congenital hernias are the most common cause noted in young dogs. They may be the result of a spontaneous problem during development, or a genetic defect passed on from one of the parents. Trauma is the other common cause of hernias in puppies. Blunt force trauma such as being hit by a car or any sort of blow to the body wall can cause a tear in either the abdominal wall or the diaphragm, allowing abdominal organs to herniate. What are the Signs of a Hernia in Puppies? Signs of a hernia vary depending on the location and severity of the hernia. In many cases, with a small uncomplicated hernia consisting only of a small amount of abdominal fat, the owner may not even notice anything or just feel a small squishy blob in the region of the belly button or groin. As the hernia becomes larger and more vital organs are compromised, signs may be as follows: Pain. When the puppy is born, the umbilical cord breaks usually because the mom chews it off , leaving behind an umbilical stump. Over a few days, the structures within the stump break down, and the stump withers and falls off, leaving behind a flat belly button. A puppy has an umbilical hernia when they still have a hole in their abdominal wall after the umbilical stump has fallen off and all the surrounding tissues have healed. If the hole is large enough, abdominal contents usually just a little fat can push through, creating a lump. What Causes an Umbilical Hernia? Umbilical hernias in dogs are relatively common and tend to occur in certain family lines. Reputable breeders will not breed a dog who has a very large umbilical hernia and will avoid breeding two dogs with umbilical hernias together, even if the hernias are small. Umbilical hernias are usually harmless, but prospective pet parents who are concerned about the condition should only purchase puppies from breeders who perform all the breed-specific health screenings recommended by the Canine Health Information Center and ask about the incidence of umbilical hernias in their dogs. Find out more questions to ask your dog's breeder. Be wary if a breeder claims that the reason behind most of the puppies in a litter having umbilical hernias is their mother chewing off their umbilical cords too aggressively. A lump: With a small umbilical hernia, a little soft fat is all that normally moves through the hole in the body wall. When a dog has a large umbilical hernia, abdominal organs like loops of intestines may be able to pass through. With other hernias, fat or abdominal organs will get stuck in the opening of the body wall. Scar material may also form, which will make it impossible to push everything back into the abdominal cavity. This is a non-reducible hernia. Are Umbilical Hernias Dangerous? Umbilical hernias in dogs are mostly a cosmetic issue. But there are two possible risks: Strangulation: When a dog has a large abdominal hernia, it is possible for the abdominal contents that have passed through to twist or become pinched, which can block off their blood supply. This is a medical emergency called strangulation, and it is very painful. Thankfully, strangulations are extremely rare—most veterinarians never see a case over their entire careers. Trauma to the Skin: Because hernias form a protrusion away from the body wall, it is also possible for the skin over them to become damaged after dragging against rough or irritating surfaces. Make an appointment with your veterinarian if you have any questions about umbilical hernias and your dog. They can usually tell you if your dog has a hernia after performing a physical examination and then can discuss treatment options with you. This is especially true if your dog is very young. Small umbilical hernias may close on their own until a puppy is 3 to 4 months of age. On the other hand, large hernias should be repaired because they are unsightly, probably at least a little annoying to the dog, and because, even though the risk is small, strangulation of abdominal contents is potentially life-threatening. Oftentimes, veterinarians will recommend surgery to repair an umbilical hernia when a dog is going to be anesthetized for other reasons, such as spaying or neutering. For large hernias, mesh may be placed over the hole instead of drawing the umbilical ring together. If they do, they may remove their sutures and need another hernia surgery to repair the damage. E-collars , bandages, surgery recovery suits, or onesies can all be used to keep dogs from damaging their incisions. Make sure you give your dog any post-op medications that your veterinarian has prescribed, follow their directions regarding activity restriction and other lifestyle modifications, and return for any follow-up appointments they recommend. What does this all mean for you? If you already have a dog with a small umbilical hernia, the choice to have it repaired is all yours. Large umbilical hernias do need treatment, but even these surgeries can usually wait until a puppy is a little older and is scheduled to be spayed or neutered. Considering umbilical hernia repair for your pup? Find out how to calm a dog after surgery. Conclusion Does your English Bulldog have a protrusion from their abdomen? If they do, you may have an English Bulldog with an umbilical hernia. The good news is that an umbilical hernia is most likely not to be a threat to your dogs health, and only in very rare cases can an umbilical hernia affect your dogs health. What is an umbilical hernia in dogs? An umbilical hernia occurs when there is a protrusion of the abdominal lining, abdominal fat, or a portion of abdominal organ s through the area around the umbilicus also called the navel or belly button. This area in dogs is located on their underside just below the ribcage. Can an English Bulldog live with a umbilical hernia? An English Bulldog can live with an umbilical hernia. Umbilical hernias can heal themselves whilst your dog is still a puppy, and will typically heal themselves before your bulldog puppy turns 6 months old. If your English Bulldog is older than 6-months, then it may require surgery. Is a umbilical hernia dangerous for dogs? Most umbilical hernias are not dangerous for dogs, however in some rare cases the protruding intestines may become trapped and strangulated. If this does happen, then your dog will need emergency surgery. What are the side effects of umbilical hernias in dogs? There are two different types of umbilical hernias in dogs, and depending on which type of umbilical hernia your English Bulldog has, will depend on the type of side effects that your dog will be suffer from. A complicated hernia is where the protrusion may have become trapped or strangulated, the side effects for this are: Pain and warmth, especially at the site of the umbilical swelling Vomiting Lack of appetite Depression An uncomplicated hernia is where there is a soft swelling in the umbilical area. Other than the swelling, your dog will likely not suffer from any other side effects. What are the common causes of umbilical hernias in English Bulldogs? The most common cause of an umbilical hernia in English Bulldogs is it being inherited. A umbilical hernia can also be caused by trauma. How do you treat an umbilical hernia in dogs? Some umbilical hernias will heal themselves, however if not, they will need surgery to correct them. If an umbilical hernia is going to close up and health itself, this will usually happen before your puppy reaches the age of 6 months old. If your puppy is older than 6-months, its unlikely that it will treat itself. Small umbilical hernias may not need surgical correction but larger hernias should be repaired to remove the risk of complications. Give your pet time and space to rest, and closely monitor him for adverse reactions. Check the incision site daily for drainage and redness, as they are signs of infection and you will need to see the veterinarian as soon as possible. During the first few days after surgery, feed carefully. Withhold food for a day if your dog vomits. Take your dog outside on a leash to relieve itself, and do not let her run, jump or play. Conclusion If you have an English Bulldog with an umbilical hernia, then you don't need to stress. The majority of umbilical hernias that English Bulldogs suffer from are completely harmless and won't pose a threat to your bulldogs health. For your English Bulldog with an umbilical hernia, we always recommend seeking professional advice from your vet. If your dog has an outie, read this. By Deb M. Eldredge, DVM, is an award-winning veterinarian and writer who graduated from Cornell University, where she was the first recipient of the school's Gentle Doctor Award. Most of them are basically "outie" belly buttons. If small, they may seal up on their own and generally don't cause any problems. Larger ones may require surgery to close up the abdominal wall and prevent intestines from slipping out or getting twisted. Some dog breeds such as Weimaraners are predisposed to these hernias. Ideally dogs with anything other than very small umbilical hernias should not be bred. This is especially true if most of the puppies in the litter have one, suggesting genetic predisposition. What Exactly Is an Umbilical Hernia? In an unborn puppy, the umbilicus slips out through an opening in the puppy's stomach wall to connect to the placenta. When a puppy is born, his dam chews or breaks this umbilical cord or the breeder cuts it and ties it off. It dries and shrivels up, leaving behind the "belly button. Sometimes a small bit of fat may get stuck in the opening, which leaves an "outie" belly button. Occasionally the wall of the abdomen simply does not close all the way. That is when we say a puppy or dog has an umbilical hernia. Signs Your Dog Has an Umbilical Hernia If your dog has an umbilical hernia, when your dog lies on his back, you can feel a small opening at the umbilicus site. If it is the size of the end of your pinkie finger at 8 weeks of age, it is usually not a problem. Many of these small hernias will close up on their own by 6 months of age. If the hernia bubbles out or is bigger than a pinkie finger, there is a chance that intestines may be slipping in and out of the opening. At some point, a section of intestines could slide out through the hernia opening and get trapped or twisted. At that point, your dog needs emergency surgery. Signs you see with trapped intestines can include pain, your dog standing stiffly with his back arched, and possibly not eating or vomiting. If you see these symptoms, you need to call your veterinarian right away. Larger hernias will require surgery to close up the opening, leaving the intestines safely inside. If your puppy is not having any problems, your vet may recommend keeping an eye on it and doing the surgery at the same time as spaying or neutering. That means one bout of anesthesia and recovery for your pet and less cost for you. If intestines become trapped at any point, immediate emergency surgery is necessary. Some people have tried to encourage closure of hernias by using a belly wrap on their puppies with hernias. The goal is to keep all tissues fat, intestines, etc. This is generally not successful but does help in some cases. It is best to consult your pet's veterinarian for advice on the best way to handle your individual dog's treatment. Luckily most umbilical hernias are small and don't present a health concern for your dog! Was this page helpful? So, What happens next? What is a hernia and what causes them? Hernias are a common congenital condition meaning that puppies are born with them , affecting around 1 in puppies. A hernia is a hole in the muscle wall of the tummy abdomen which allows the abdominal contents fat, intestines and other organs to squeeze through into a space under the skin or, less commonly, through the diaphragm into the chest. This usually causes a soft, squishy swelling under the skin, which often fluctuates in size. It may occasionally pop in and out of the tummy, disappearing for short periods of time. While some hernias result from trauma causing a tear in the muscle, most puppy hernias are congenital problems. This is where the muscle fails to develop properly. There may be a genetic element to this condition, as some breeds appear more susceptible. So it is advisable not to breed from a dog with a hernia. Hernias typically arise in specific locations. These result from the muscle failing to close over the area where the umbilical cord entered the body. Less frequently, hernias are found in the groin inguinal or next to the bottom perineal. The rarest kind of hernias involve the diaphragm and can be more difficult to diagnose as they are less obvious from outside. How are hernias diagnosed in puppies? Most external hernias are fairly easy to diagnose just by their location and feel. A soft swelling under the skin in one of the characteristic hernia locations is a strong indicator but your vet will check for an underlying hole in the muscle wall to be sure. These checks are quick, pain-free and harmless. In a small number of cases, or when an internal hernia is suspected, additional tests such as an ultrasound or X-ray may be necessary to diagnose the problem and assess its severity. These are straightforward, non-invasive procedures but may require your puppy to be sedated; your vet will be happy to discuss any questions you may have about this. Are there any problems hernias cause? How serious a hernia is depends on its location, its size and its contents. While many hernias cause few problems, some can make a pup very unwell. Most hernias, especially small ones, contain just fat which usually causes little problem apart from, possibly, some mild discomfort. The main concern with small hernias is that they get larger over time. Bigger hernias may allow a loop of the intestines or other organs such as the liver or bladder to pop out of the tummy. But having intestines or organs in this location exposes them to injury. In a small number of cases, it can make a pup seriously unwell. It can cause them to go off their food, be lethargic, vomit repeatedly or suffer breathing problems. These are potentially life-threatening complications. What treatment do hernias require? Some very small hernias may require no treatment at all because the muscle does eventually close as the puppy grows. These hernias leave a small blob of fat under the skin which can look a bit funny but is not usually of concern. Most hernias, however, will need surgery to close the hole in the muscle. The contents of the hernia to their normal location. Surgery is advisable even if your puppy is currently unaffected by their hernia, to prevent more serious problems later in life. If the hernia is small and stable, this may be done once your puppy is big and old enough, or at the same time as neutering. This is usually from six months of age. So your vet may advise regular checks of the hernia to make sure it is not causing problems in the meantime. For large hernias, or those which involve the intestines or other internal organs, surgery may be carried out at an earlier age, or as an emergency, to prevent some of the more serious complications. What happens during hernia surgery? Surgery to repair a hernia requires a general anaesthetic. The area around the hernia will be shaved and scrubbed with an antiseptic to reduce infections. An incision is made through the skin. The contents of the hernia are checked to make sure they are healthy. They are then gently returned to the abdomen and the hernia is closed, usually with stitches that dissolve in a few weeks. The incision is usually slightly longer than the original hernia and there may be slight redness or swelling around the area for a few days. Umbilical hernia surgery is usually quick, straightforward and low risk. In cases where the hernia is very large, contains more than just fat, or involves the diaphragm, surgery may be more complicated. It may also carry additional risks, which your vet will discuss with you. Thankfully, these cases are much rarer. There will usually be very little trace of surgery after a few weeks. Most puppies make an excellent recovery. Hernias are relatively common in puppies. While some do cause problems, most dogs will have normal, healthy lives following treatment. Corrective surgery is usually routine and recommended in most cases to prevent future problems. They will be happy to check your pup is healthy and advise on the best way to deal with this condition. You may also be interested in;.