labrador puppy sleep

The recommendations in this article apply to Australian Labradoodles as well. Both have the same lifespan on average, and the majority of health issues Labradoodles are prone to are not based around their gender. Click here to get an instant, online pet insurance quote from Healthy Paws! A female vs male Labradoodle will have very similar coats and grooming needs, with the only big difference coming from what Labradoodle generation your dog is. It is however, important to keep in mind that both Labs and Poodles have significant grooming needs, so your Labradoodle will need to be regularly brushed and groomed. Doing this will help prevent matting and keep your dog healthy. If you opt for a smaller version of the breed, like a Toy or Mini Labradoodle, it will be harder to see the size difference between the genders because of their already small size. However, the difference in stature will likely be more noticeable in the Standard Labradoodle size. If you are certain you want a larger dog, it might be best to opt for a male Labradoodle, whereas if you prefer a smaller dog, a female Labradoodle might work better for your needs. Female and Male Labradoodle Behavioral Differences Every Labradoodle is going to end up with its own unique personality. These are humping and the marking of territory. While we typically consider humping to be sexual, it is often used by both male and female Labradoodles during play or to assert dominance. Spaying and neutering can help some of the sexually driven instances of humping, but in general it is simply a behavior that can be trained out of dogs of either gender. Labradoodle Territory Marking When you think of territory marking, it is common to associate males with this behavior. Males will usually lift their leg while females prefer to squat. Male vs Female Labradoodle Personality Differences One of the most common misconceptions about a male Labradoodle vs female Labradoodle is that males are more aggressive where as females are gentler and most submissive. You could easily find a female Labradoodle that has a sassier and more independent side than her male littermates, or a male who is friendly and especially gentle. Each puppy, whether a male vs female Labradoodle, is going have their own innate personality, which, with a lot of love and training can complement any family. So, should you get a female or male Labradoodle? More About Labradoodles…. Gender Differences of the Labradoodle In each litter there are various personalities present. We work with the puppies weeks to identify each individual personality, foster development and place the puppy with the right family. We follow a guide dog assessment test to follow the puppies personalities, build confidence where needed and work with them. Families are always asking about an Alpha that they want one or don't want one. If the breeder is working with the puppies daily and mom is involved there is rarely an alpha in this breed. Well, to be honest, each hour there is one puppy that might think it is control of the others, but shortly that one is knocked down by another and control shifts throughout the entire litter constantly through out the day. Some puppies like to be in control more than others, if that is the case, we recommend that puppy does not go to a house with another adult dog or cat that is an alpha in the house. Alpha's typically develop once home as families do not take control as much as they may need. Two dominant personalities just as humans typically "work" it out, but it is a major stress on the people in the family for a week or so. So, is the dominant labradoodle puppy typically a male or female? This is always breed specific and in this breed the more dominant personalities tend to be the girls. Gender Neutral What is the difference between a male and female labradoodle? I find gender to be almost neutral. Of course, this assumes the dogs are spayed or neutered at an early age 8 to 24 weeks. If I had to make a general statement I would say neutered Australian Labradoodles boys are a bit more easy going natured and up for anything then the spayed females who are, although just as wonderful, a bit more specific in their nature. If the male is not neutered early and its testicles drop, it typically becomes a dog that will have more of a mind of its own. This instinct tends to overpower the family member calling the dog to come; it will come but hesitates or plays that come and get me game. We recommend strongly that males be neutered early, as early as 8 to 16 weeks. Neutering removes the possibility of the male ever entering its time of confrontation, asserting its manliness and results it a great, loving, listening dog. The neutered male dog also seems to have less separation anxiety than a female and be more open to new experiences. Two Males? Two neutered males in the same household in this breed will typically get along famously. We highly recommend two males IF you are looking to add a second Labradoodle to your home. However, some females tend to be the opposite of the alpha.We again identify this trait and work on socializing and building confidence as much as possible with positive new experiences. However, this dog can sometimes become the dog that pees when a new experience occurs, excited urination. This requires some work for the family and tends to have the family do the opposite than what is required, they keep the dog away from new experiences than just bite the bullet and taking them everywhere for a safe fun new experience. Two Females? Two spayed females in the same household in this breed will not do as well as two males or a male and female. We highly recommend two males or a male and female IF you are looking to add a second Labradoodle to your home. Now this does NOT mean that two females will be an issue, just that it might be more difficult. You as the leader will have to make sure that during the first few months the girls know that dominant behavior stealing toys, hording food is NOT acceptable in the home. You can do it and help two girls get along exceptionally, just put in the effort. A girl in this breed tends to enjoy being the one on top of the pecking order, let them know, you are the leader. So, my advice, choose a dog gender that suits your family profile, talk to the breeder as to other pets you have in the house, family activities, what training you will do, and what experience you want the dog to participate. I would make a different recommendation to the retired owner that wants a pet to hang out in the house, versus the agility training, outgoing boating dog. If the gender matches the traits available in the litter great, if it does not have an open mind. Make the decision by asking the breeder what puppies in the litter they recommend for your family needs and selecting from those. If three puppies suit the bill then look at gender preference, color and physical traits. To me, personality fit should be the number one priority. Labradoodles and Australian Labradoodle dogs and puppies. Are there major differences you should be aware of before choosing, or can you just choose based on color and personality preferences? Male Vs Female Labradoodle You might have heard that male Labradoodles or male dogs in general are more aggressive and harder to train. You might also have heard that female dogs get moody or territorial. Dog owners say that personality is different between the two genders and that male dogs are more loving, but female dogs run away less. In reality, none of that is true! The differences between male and female Labradoodles are mostly in their physical makeup and ability to bear or sire children. These cycles will continue until they hit menopause. Because females hit sexual maturity faster than males, they tend to be mellower and more obedient early on. During their hormonal cycles, you will have to monitor them closely for bleeding, disobedience, and running away to mate. Temperament The difference in temperament is due to hormones. However, before a dog is neutered or spayed, there are some differences between the genders. Male dogs tend to be more loving and affectionate, but rowdier. However, female dogs can be more aggressive and territorial when left unfixed. This is due to their mothering instincts. Female Labradoodles like being the mother of the pack, and often are more possessive of other dogs, owners, or children in the house. At that point, their hormones will relax. Two Labradoodles sniff eachother out at a dog park. Size There is a negligible difference in size between male and female Labradoodles. The biggest physical difference between male and female Labradoodles is that females tend to have a slightly slimmer build. However, both males and females are in the same weight range pounds for a regular labradoodle , so the difference is small. Obedience and Ease of Training How obedient your dog depends more on the training regimen you put it through than its gender. Your atmosphere and raising of the dog will mold its temperament into whatever dog you want it to be. However, an unfixed dog will pose different problems for training. Because their bodies mature faster, their brains have an easier time training. Females are generally pretty obedient after proper training. However, it still can be done. A different training technique is necessary for unfixed male Labradoodles, but they can become obedient and loyal dogs. This rich black coat is a fairly common Labradoodle shade. Health Issues Male and female Labradoodles have about the same risk of health issues. The main health problems that Labradoodles face are poor breeding, overbreeding, or bad genetics. Preventing issues with proper screening of the breeder dogs is the best choice. Unfixed dogs, however, are both at a higher risk of illness than fixed dogs. Both male and female dogs have a higher risk of cancer testicular or prostate for male dogs and cervical for females. Factors Other Than Gender The differences between male and female fixed Labradoodles are relatively small. Before you pick out a puppy to take home, check into these factors. Breeders also watch out for calm and obedient temperaments in their breeder dogs. It makes a difference for you as you start to train a new dog. The only way to tell how a dog will mesh with your family is to interact with the puppy! A Red Miniature Labradoodle looks happy in the studio. Fixing There are few noticeable differences between the two genders of fixed dogs. In most circumstances, veterinarians recommend fixing your dog. Many breeders spay or neuter pets before adoption. Labradoodles are great dogs for families with or without children. Whether you have a fixed dog or not, a well-trained labradoodle will make an amazing pet for your family. However, a dog is only as healthy as its family and environment. If your family is going through a lot of stress, a big move, or another adjustment, it might be best to wait until things settle down before getting a new puppy. An Apricot Mini Labradoodle my puppy Max! By training the dog properly and raising it in a disciplined home, you will be able to enjoy a well-behaved dog for years to come. Even with the added hormones of not being fixed, training a dog well will make your life easier and more enjoyable. Final Thoughts In reality, the main difference between male and female Labradoodles is their hormone levels. 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. These charming canines have the sweet yet boisterous personality of a Labrador retriever combined with the luxurious curls of a poodle. There are many differences from one labradoodle to the next, depending on factors such as size and gender. Read on to learn more about the differences between genders in labradoodles and make a well-informed decision about your next pet. Size Difference Between Male and Female Labradoodles As in the case in the majority of dog breeds, male labradoodles tend to be larger than females, though the size difference is much less pronounced in mini-labradoodle breeds. The size of your labradoodle puppy will depend on its genetics as well as its age. Labradoodles are the product of breeding a Labrador with a poodle of standard, medium, or teacup size. There are many varieties of both species, from differing colors, fur patterns, tendency to shed, temperament, and size. Smaller labradoodles tend to be around the same size regardless of gender. The males tend to outweigh female labradoodles, with a more dramatic difference in larger breeds. Standard male dogs tend to outweigh their female counterparts by 10 to 15 pounds. Here are the average sizes of different types of labradoodles: Standard labradoodle males weigh around pounds, and females weigh an average of pounds A medium labradoodle can weigh pounds Mini-labradoodles average 15 to 25 pounds, with female dogs being slightly smaller Male vs. Male and female dogs have very similar hair and grooming requirements, with the big differences being based on how old the labradoodles are. Poodles and labradoodles require grooming to keep their coats soft, shiny and free of debris. Because the hair of the male and female labradoodle tends to be coarse and curly, you might notice they easily pick up burrs and small leaves when playing outside. These brushes are perfect if your male or female labradoodle inherited its locks from the Labrador side of the family and has smooth, silky fur, also known as a fleece coat. For example, curlier hair tends to shed far less. This might make life easier for people who have friends or family with dog allergies. However, this fur is much coarser and tangles fast, meaning brushing is more of a chore and needs to be done more often. Wool-coat labradoodles can be combed easier with a metal pick comb or pin brush than with a bristle brush. Male Dogs vs. An unspayed female labradoodle is also at higher risk for diseases like breast cancer. Adequate veterinary care can help you catch potential issues early, ensuring a long, comfortable life for your furry friend. Male vs. Female Dog: Labradoodle Temperament Some breeders say male labradoodles are more affectionate than females tend to be, and others claim the opposite. The truth is that male and female labradoodles are both incredibly sweet and active breeds. Personality differences will become evident as they grow older, but in general there is not much of a difference between female and male dogs. There are, however, certain characteristics that may be more inherently pronounced in male dogs. Some studies show that male dogs tend to score higher in areas such as dominance and aggression. Male vs Female Labradoodle — Aggression Differences Most people assume male labradoodles are more aggressive than females and female labradoodles are gentler and more submissive. Each puppy has its own unique personality that, after much love and learning, complements its family. Trainability is another area where gender plays little role. The labradoodle personality is a hybrid of the Labrador retriever and the poodle, both of which are highly intelligent breeds. Labradors are also very smart — the seventh-smartest breed, in fact, though their qualities of strength and sheer charm are more highlighted. As a hybrid of the two, you can expect your labradoodle puppy to be exceptionally clever and easy and fun! Unspayed female and unneutered male dogs are at risk for health issues such as: Cancer. Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. Female Labradoodle: Differences Explained Male vs. Female Labradoodle: Differences Explained By Last updated: May 26 When choosing a dog, every small trait suddenly seems like a big deal. After choosing to get a Labradoodle , your next step will be to choose the gender. However, male and female Labradoodles do have some specific differences between them. These dogs love people and prefer to be around their families as much as possible. Therefore, they do best in active families that can keep up with them. Temperament is heavily influenced by training and socialization. Some breeders and owners claim that male Labradoodles tend to be more affectionate. However, others say the opposite. There is no clear difference between male and female Labradoodles when it comes to their personality. Training Labradoodles are often very easy to train. Therefore, they pick up on commands quickly and are likely to follow those commands in real-world situations. They can even learn complex tasks when trained properly. Because these dogs are so intelligent, they do need lots of mental stimulation. Otherwise, they can become bored and destructive. Males may be a bit more stubborn than females. Males may be more prone to marking and humping behaviors if not neutered. Image Credit: Chedko, Shutterstock Health and Care Labradoodles are generally healthy dogs that can live up to 15 years with proper care. However, they may inherit some health issues from their parent breeds, such as hip dysplasia, eye problems, ear infections, allergies, and skin conditions. They also need regular grooming to keep their coats clean and healthy. Depending on their coat type, they may need brushing every day or every few days to prevent matting and tangles. They also need trimming every 6—8 weeks to maintain their appearance and hygiene. Male and female Labradoodles have similar health and care needs, but gender may affect some aspects of their well-being. For example, male Labradoodles may be more prone to prostate problems or testicular cancer if not neutered. Neutering your Labradoodle can prevent these issues and also reduce unwanted behaviors such as roaming, aggression, or marking. Males are not particularly less healthy than females, though. However, you can get a Labradoodle by crossing two Labradoodles together. Male Labradoodles do not carry the largest burden of breeding. Before we look at Labradoodles specifically, what do the experts say about sex differences between male and female dogs in general? Animal behavior experts often research the personality traits of male vs. This study appeared to confirm many widely held beliefs about male and female dogs. The researchers found that male dogs tend to be more aggressive and bolder than females, while females are more likely to engage in social interactions with humans, especially if they involve cooperative skills. And this study which looked at both breed and sex differences in dog behavior found similar results. Male dogs across several breeds were more likely to show aggression, territoriality, barking, and snapping. Females were more likely to be trainable and affectionate. Observation has taught us that female dogs have a higher probability of being sociable, cooperative, trainable and affectionate. And other factors, like their breed and how well you socialize them will also play a significant role. Appearance Besides behavior, sex differences also influence size. Male dogs tend to be larger than female dogs from the same breed. This is called sexual dimorphism. Sexual dimorphism is especially noticeable in medium to large breed dogs. Small dog breeds show less sexual dimorphism. Labradoodles are medium to large dogs, but smaller Miniature Labradoodles are also gaining popularity. There are three distinct Poodle breeds that can go into the Labradoodle: Standard, Miniature, and Toy. Which size Poodle was used to create a Labradoodle litter will have a much bigger influence on the size of the puppies than their sex. According to the Poodle breed standard, male and female Standard Poodles stand over 15 inches tall at the shoulder. Males weigh between 60 and 70 pounds and females weigh between 40 and 50 pounds. Miniature Poodles stand between 10 and 15 inches tall and weigh between 10 and 15 pounds. What about the Labrador Retriever? The Labrador Retriever breed standard lists male height at between .Females are .Male Labrador weight ranges from 65 to 80 pounds and females weigh between 55 and 70 pounds. Sexual dimorphism comes into play with the Lab as it is a larger dog. Does this mean female Labradoodles are smaller than males? There are three sizes of Labradoodle: Standard bred from a Standard Poodle Miniature bred from a Miniature Poodle Medium natural outliers from one of the mating choices above, or perhaps the result of an F1b or F2 cross In all these categories, female dogs might be smaller than male dogs. It is very likely in standard Labradoodles. And progressively less likely in medium and miniature Labradoodles. Female Labradoodle Temperament Labradoodles have famously affectionate, playful, and gentle personalities. They are popular family pets and make excellent therapy dogs. Is this true, and are there any significant differences in male vs. Female Labradoodle personality If you are thinking about a female because you are concerned about male aggression, this is rarely an issue with Labradoodles. Anecdotally, some Labradoodle owners report that males are a little more rambunctious and vocal than females, especially when young. But they are just as friendly and loving. And some Labradoodle breeders believe that females tend to be more responsive, focused, and easier to train than males. This could be rooted in very old biological instincts — males of all kinds of species are more driven to roam restlessly over wide areas in search of mates. Both sexes are good with young children. Males may tend to view kids as playmates and females may be more protective, but these and other traits can vary among individual Labradoodles of both sexes. Such as becoming anxious or restless, and needing to pee more often. However, their is some evidence that spaying may increase mounting and humping behavior in female dogs. Female Labradoodle Health and Lifespan Are there are health differences between male and female Labradoodles? Sex specific health problems are more likely to occur in intact dogs. Unspayed females are more likely to develop breast cancer and pyometra, a potentially life-threatening infection of the uterus. But the most common Labradoodle health problems occur in both males and females. They include hip and elbow dysplasia, degenerative eye diseases, and neurological disorders. A reputable Labradoodle breeder will test all their dogs for the genetic health problems found in Labrador Retrievers and Poodles. Female Labradoodle Life Expectancy What about lifespan? Labradoodles tend to have long lifespans , generally 11 to 14 years. Size is a factor in longevity. Smaller Labradoodles tend to live longer than larger ones, like other dog breeds. When it comes to sex and lifespan, studies have shown that intact male dogs live longer than intact females, but spayed females have the longest lifespan of all categories. Some people also think they are more affectionate, and cooperative in training. Female Labradoodles also have specific health needs due to their sex. For example they will go into heat if unspayed, and owners need to be aware of conditions like pyometria. Do you have a female Labradoodle? Tell us why in the comments box down below! References and Further Reading. Testimonials Female Labradoodle Size A female Labradoodle's size tends to be slightly smaller than its male counterpart. Their frame is typically more petite, and not as muscular. Therefore, we consider gender when estimating adult weight. Size measurements are a great indication, but each pup is unique. If size is important to you, remember a male will likely grow to the top end of their size bracket. We will guide you once we understand your preferences and requirements. A small-medium female Labradoodle, for example, is comparable to a large-mini male labradoodle puppy. We can help you, based on our experience, decide which one suits your lifestyle better. Instead, we work to this unisex chart when working out and predicting height and weight. Male dogs tend to be stockier, so will often weigh slightly more than females as fully grown adults. Our Cobberdogs should remain roughly within these ranges. However, if your dog is overweight, gender doesn't matter. They can still develop conditions like diabetes. All dogs require proper portion sizes and exercise. Male vs Female Weight The average weight: Male Labradoodles tend to be on the upper range in terms of weight and height. They also have a bigger build. If you're looking for something more robust, this is perfect. Our biggest dog is Larry. He's over 25 inches to the shoulder, and a stunning red or ginger coat colour. Female Labradoodle Size: Often, females have a smaller frame and are lighter. Their build isn't as solid as males. We can't guarantee that your chosen puppy is going to be larger than its siblings. If sizing is important to you, then ask your breeder about the pedigree breeds used to create your new family member. Remember, our Australian Cobberdogs are not simply Labrador x Poodle hybrids, but a breed in development. As they are an infusion of up to eight pedigree breeds of varying sizes , we can accurately predict and control their height and weight. What about your Australian Labradoodle's height male? As we've stated, boys typically grow to the higher end of the spectrum. If you definitely want a small dog, we recommend choosing a female Labradoodle. Female Labradoodle Size: Often, females have a smaller frame. Are there any health differences between girls and boys? All our Australian Cobberdog parents are fully health tested. There does not appear to be any correlation between screening results based on gender comparisons. Once spayed or neutered, the gender-related potential problems are reduced, if not eliminated. In girls, this would be conditions like womb infections. In boys, prostate problems. Health Screening Are there availability differences between male and female dogs? Typically within a litter, there are even numbers of boys and girls. This is the same for all dog breeds. Do female Labradoodles cost more than males? Our female Labradoodles for sale cost the same as our males. Female dogs have a bigger impact on your grass than males. Because of the way they pee. Since female dogs squat, they target a single spot with a concentrated amount of urine. The compounding effect of which damages the grass. Male puppies do squat initially. However, as they mature, they tend to go toward the garden edges. They eventually lift their leg against a tree or something similar. This method disperses the urine across a broader area, damaging the grass at a much slower rate. The negative side to this, however, is it can damage small plants or scrubs. If they pick the same spot every time, you might have some unhappy flora. If you want your male dog to pick a specific spot and return to it to preserve your flowers, there are products available. A pee post, for example, provides a designated toilet area for your pet. If you want them away from specific plants in your garden, this can be a great tool to help you both. Pee Post In terms of size and urine, larger dogs do produce a larger volume. Since males are generally larger than females, this might make a difference to you. If you are more protective over your prize shrubs than your lawn, females might be a better option. You can combat the effects of urine on your grass with products like Dog Rocks. Simply put the dog rocks in your dog's water bowl. They reduce the amount of nitrate in your dog's urine, which helps preserve the grass for longer. These products are available from us on Adoption Day and we have a subscription service available if you wish to receive replacement rocks automatically without the need to remember to re-order. Dog Rocks.

Wildlife by Taylor Ann! We have over 35 years experience breeding, raising, and training work line, show line, and long coats. Here at Von Weiss kennels we strive to bring you the best in work line, show line, and family German Shepherds. We only breed three females once a year. As a result we are able to ensure solid, well secured, puppies and dams. Our Shepherds are part of our family as we hope our puppies will be a part of yours! Melissa came to my home and spent quite a bit of time with us to see how Coco would do in my home and around with my kids since I had a younger child with two older ones. We tried a in-home trial for a week and was very happy with Coco so we adopted her! Melissa has also answered all of my questions and given me tips since I was a bit rusty with having a pet. Melissa loves her dogs and only wants the best. She has a heart of gold! As for Coco, she has a very calm temperament and has fit so well into our family. I'm of course her favorite and she's basically stuck to me like glue. She also loves my girls and is very protective of all of us. I also feel a lot safer in my home with her being there. She's super alert and knows when someone is near my property. I've also been very happy with how well behaved Coco is. Thank you again, Melissa! I did a lot of research before choosing Von Weiss Kennels and I know we made the right choice. After completing the background questionnaire and a home check our family was invited to visit the kennel and meet her wonderful pack of dogs and pups. We were very impressed with how happy and healthy the dogs and pups were and how they were all part of the family. I would definitely recommend anyone looking for a pup or training to contact them to see for yourself. I was quite impressed with her sincerity, commitment, and dedication to her animals and her clients. Melissa made the the whole process from start to finish amazing and being able to come out and visit my puppy weekly has been the best experience!!! Excellent breeder with a commitment to temperament and intelligence. I found Melissa to be an honest breeder. She actually cares for her animals and where they go. Available after the sale to offer advice, tips, and training on your new Pet. She does everything possible to raise her litters the right way. Trooper has a great personality, extremely stable temperament, super solid environmentals, and as such can be taken literally anywhere with no issue at all. On top of being a joy to live with, he is exquisitely trainable. They have brought smiles and joy. They are rambunctious, playful, cuddliers, and love to splash around in the pool then curl up on someone's lap. Thank you Melissa for allowing us the joy of these girls. Highly recommend her! Roland Susan We brought home Khan today. Melissa is the best. Each weekend for a little over a month, I have visited her kennel and her beautiful dogs getting to know Khan. I have a greater understanding of German Shepherds, she is a fountain of information on how to raise and care for Khan. Thank you so very much. You have given me more than you know. Dogs are Beautiful! Ryan Jack Our young stud Zeus graduated his second obedience class last night .He came in first place!!! What a fine animal with the best temperament I could have ever wanted!!! I can not believe how fortunate we are to have this dog in our lives. We have answers. In order to ensure that none of our customers ever have to deal with fake breeders, fraudulent backyard breeders or puppy mills our company screens and vets each and every German Shepherd breeder that applies. This extensive process helps to ensure that every Las Vegas German Shepherd for sale through our website is ethically bred and sold! Does Uptown Puppies value transparency when it comes to selecting a breeder? What is a backyard breeder? The breeding practices used by backyard breeders and puppy mills usually leads to inbred dogs or other major health issues further down the line. Another issue is the primitive breeding techniques used by backyard breeders and limited space which can lead to separation anxiety later in life or even infections in small puppies. How does Uptown Puppies work? What happens after I choose my new best friend? Finding a puppy through the Uptown Puppies network is a lot different than just trusting your search for a new family member to an online search engine. Will a German Shepherd for sale in Las Vegas enjoy hikes? The answer is yes, any German Shepherd will enjoy as much time outside in the wilderness as possible. If you are an active hiker, camper or runner your German Shepherd will be absolutely content to join along on your adventures! One of the greatest benefits of working with Uptown Puppies is having the freedom to choose from a large selection of breeders across the country. Most of the breeders who are approved to join the Uptown Puppies network are more than happy to work with you to arrange transparent to the most convenient airport for both parties. There are a ton of benefits to working with a reputable shelter but they are not for everyone. If finding a purpose-bred German Shepherd or even a different purebred dog is on your checklist then Uptown is the place to be. As more and more customers move to an online marketplace to conduct their search for the perfect German Shepherd puppy mills grow and thrive behind cheerful websites that hide their true intentions. Based on solely information online without ever having visited a facility it can be extremely difficult to tell a puppy mill from a reputable local breeding business. Exercise Grooming In the 19th century, Shepherds bred all kinds of dogs mainly to herd and guard flocks. Thus, the dogs needed to display a high level of intelligence, extra normal strength, resilience, courage and bravery, a keen sense of smell, and trainability qualities, etc. These mongrel combinations provided dog breeds that could efficiently guard and herd flocks but differed in appearance and ability, from one locality to another. German Shepherd dogs are well known to be highly inquisitive which makes them excellent for rescue mission training. The German Shepherd has a noble character and shows very high levels of loyalty to its owners. The dog is also described as extremely territorial and has displayed characteristics of overprotectiveness in some cases. The German shepherd can survive in all types of environment; their thick furriness makes them better prepared for cold climates. German Shepherds are considered extremely playful and active. These breeds spend half of their daily routine with activities. The German Shepherd is popularly known as an athletic natured dog and requires a good dose of daily exercise to keep up muscle tone, build and development. If improperly exercised the German Shepherd has been known to become frustrated and exhibit undesirable behaviors. The German Shepherd requires an occasional brushing, as this helps with removing loose hair from its fur. The German Shepherd sheds fur once or twice a year and in this time the breed requires a lot of soft brushing. This can be done using a soft to medium bristle brush. The German Shepherd occasionally requires that its nails are trimmed off when they grow too long, however, some breeds instinctually file their nails against any hard surface that can be fine. Excessive nail growth can cause much pain and even lead to structural concerns. In choosing a German Shepherd breed you must ask yourself what it is you want in a dog and what kind of person are you? Our German Shepherd puppies for sale come from either USDA licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell. Healthy German Shepherds live for as long as between nine to thirteen years, however, some german shepherd has lived much longer than Thirteen years. How fast can German Shepherds run? An adult German Shepherd can run approximately 30miles per hour. Originally the German Shepherd was bred for guarding and herding of flocks. The German Shepherd dog is highly intelligent and a fairly quick learner and that is why Police and Military institutions use them in operations. How do I care for a German Shepherd dog? The German Shepherd sheds lightly all through the year so be sure to brush it at least twice weekly. Bathe it after each shedding season. Brush its teeth at least once a month. Feed with healthy meals. Routine exercise of at least 45 minutes each day is crucial to the existence of a German Shepherd. Do they shed a lot? Yes, German Shepherds sheds heavily all year round and blows the thick, dense fur under its harsh topcoat twice a year. Are German Shepherds good with kids? German Shepherds are good with kids, however, they can become very protective because of this adult supervisor is highly recommended. At what age are German Shepherds fully grown? In moderation German Shepherds, reach full maturity between months i. There have been known cases of some Eastern European lines taking up to 3years i. Why do German shepherd ears stand up? During the early puppy age weeks German shepherds have floppy ears but this usually becomes pointed ears, standing up due to the cartilage in the ear becoming hard and strong thereby making the ears stand permanently. Are male or female German shepherd more affectionate? The female may also be less tolerable than the male when it comes to playing with children. Are you interested in purchasing a German Shepherd? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible. Our team cares for the parents and their puppies around the clock. The puppies can go home after the age of 12 weeks. With putting our dogs first, we require you to book a visit with your new puppy 3 times before taking them home. This way, you can pick the puppy that connects with you, you get to meet the parents, and talk with our breeder. We screen each new puppy parent for safety reasons for our dogs. Your dog must be paid in full by the time they are ready to go home. Your Puppy Package Puppies need a lot of attention, patience, love, training, their own spaces and things. The Puppy Package is included with each puppy, This package will give you and your puppy the perfect start. Take a look below to see which one best fits you. Belgian Malinois Height: inches male , inches female Weight: pounds male , pounds female Life Expectancy: years Temperament: Intelligent, Hard Working, Loyal, Confident Energy Level: Energetic excellent running, hiking, and biking companions. They also excel in agility, Schutzhund protection training , and tracking. Trainability: Easy Training they are highly intelligent dogs that must have engagement through training Malinois are highly intelligent and energetic dogs that need exercise. They also need mental stimulation. These dogs are not for those that want a laid back dog. They are for people that are active, have time to train, and space for the dog to run. They take to learning commands quickly. Although an excellent family dog, they do require dedicated training. They are for people that have time to train and space for them to run.

Having troubles? See our alphabetized list of dog breeds here. More Useful Information If you have reviewed the chart above and still have questions about selecting the right dog cages for your pet, this comprehensive guide will help you buy the best products with the right dimensions; and, appropriate dog cage, pet carrier, and kennel sizes, before you spend your money. We do encourage owners to consult their pet professional that specializes in your dog's breed information. Buying the right dog crate sizes for your pets involves a number of important considerations. Pet crates are made of a plastic, aluminum, or collapsible metal material which is just big enough for your dog to stand and turn around in. When you have a dog, you will probably be faced with a challenge when it comes to deciding whether or not to crate your dog. You may feel that it is unfair to crate your dog and deny it its freedom to be out and about. However, both professional trainers and veterinary doctors can attest to the fact that crating your dog has a positive impact on its well-being. So crates as dog training tools are highly recommended by professionals. A crate allows your dog to satisfy its natural instinct to be in a den and this prevents it from experiencing problems that un-crated dogs feel. Before you crate your dog, look into the different sizes available and choose one that will fit your dog perfectly. The use of a crate will also prevent an instance where your dog starts to develop bad habits that could be harmful to it or your property. If you get the right dog crate size for your dog, you can prevent harm from coming to your pet. A crate trained puppy provides more peace of mind for owners and allows for proactive puppy care, which promotes good overall dog health. House Training A crate is a good way to initiate house training by teaching the dog some form of routine. It greatly helps puppy potty training crate efforts and once your dog is properly trained, you can go to bed knowing that your dog can keep itself out of danger at night and when alone in the house. Appropriate crate sizing allows your dog to move around a little without giving them too much space where they can relieve themselves which enhances cleanliness. Confinement At times, your dog may be feeling anxious or over-excited and may be getting in your way. You can put your dog in the crate at such times to help it calm down from all the excitement around it. This is especially useful during mealtimes or when there is a lot of activity in the house that may be disturbing your dog. After the excitement has cooled down, you can let him out to play. Ensure that the size you use is not too small as this will make the dog uncomfortable. Traveling Traveling with pets can be daunting as they may not be ready to adapt to all the changes around them. With a travel kennel, your dog can relax in the crate as you travel and it will feel safe inside its crate because the crate is a familiar environment. Find the right dog carrier to match your traveling needs and don't forget to see whether yours requires a travel kit to make them IATA airline approved. For Your Dog Privacy Do you know that feeling you get where you want some time to yourself to think some things through or just rest? Well, dogs get that too and having a crate to retreat to helps them have some form of privacy and security which they can use to rest when they are having a hard time. It helps dogs have a place of solace to turn to when they are sick or stressed and this is important for the psychological well-being of the dog. The right crate will have been the size of a den, enhancing the privacy of your dog. A good crate cover can further support your pet's needs. This essential crate accessory also helps contain pet hair in and around the crate. Crate covers can be found here. Bowel Control If you choose the appropriate size of crate, your pet will not have extra space to use for relieving itself. Being in a crate will help your dog exercise control over its bowels as it will not wish to dirty its crate and it will thus wait until you let it out of the crate in order to empty its bowels. Associating the outdoors with emptying of bowels will make it very easy for your dog to control its urge to pass urine or defecate whilst in the crate. Involvement When there is a lot of activity going on around the house, people tend to put the dog in another room to avoid disturbance from the dog. This can make a dog feel lonely due to its social nature and can affect its psychology. A crate allows the dog to be with you in the room while activities are going on without feeling left out. A dog crate also enables the dog to tag along during trips due to the convenience it provides. In this way, your pet will not be left at home alone when you go out which will have a positive impact on its well-being. Given the highly social nature of dogs, it is important that they feel like they are part of your family and this can be done by ensuring that they spend a lot of time indoors as opposed to being left in the outdoors. By using a dog crate to confine your dog, you can have the dog stay inside even when nobody is around to supervise it as you can be assured of its safety and it will feel that it is part of the family. Leaving a dog in the outdoors makes it begin to exhibit some problem behaviors such as digging and barking which are caused by its isolation. Now that you have appreciated the importance of a dog crate, it is time to get down to business and choose the best one for your dog. Number If you travel a lot with your dog or if your dog needs a bigger crate due to its size, you can get more than one. You can leave one in your car for use during traveling and have another crate in the house which your dog can use when it is indoors. In this way, you will do away with the need to carry huge crates in and out of the house each time you want to travel with your dog. Purpose The reason behind getting a crate will influence the type of crate that you will buy. If you plan on using the crate mainly indoors, you can opt for a decorative one which does not have to be mobile. If you wish to use the crate as a means of travel for your dog, look for something portable. It is advisable that you seek the help of a professional trainer who will help you make the right decision when it comes to your dog. If you travel with your dog a lot, look for a crate which is easy to break down, light in weight and one that does not take up much space in the car. Soft crates are the best for use during travel and you should look for crates that will protect your dog in the case of a car crash. This is also useful in the case where you plan on taking a flight with your dog. Many soft-sided and plastic kennels are approved for use by airlines but you should check with the airline you wish to use to confirm the specifics of air approved crates for your dog's size. Doors Crates come in a single door, double door and triple door models. They each have their benefits and are suitable for particular needs. For example, a single door folding crate is an affordable option if you have a good spot for the crate that only requires a single entry. If your chosen area for the crate needs a side door configuration, the double door is an excellent choice. Finally, when training puppies or extra small dogs, it is often useful to have multiple door openings to tend to your puppy's every need. Chewing For dogs with a tendency to chew or anxious dogs, do not use a soft crate which they can chew through. Opt for a more durable, heavy duty product such as a plastic crate which can withstand the effects of chewing. However, there are dogs which can be really destructive and you should monitor your dog care within the first few weeks of crating in order to tell whether it can chew through the crate material or not. Having a distraction in the crate such as a toy or some dry dog food or treats can help reduce the amount of chewing. Choosing the right size reduces anxiety in dogs and makes them chew on the crate sides less. Storage Soft-sided and wire dog crates are very easy to set up and break down and are great choices if you do not plan to use the crate a lot. Plastic dog crates are harder to set up and break down and can be used if you have adequate room for storage. The temperature in the area where you live will have an effect on your choice of a crate. For hot places, go for a wire crate as this will allow air circulation, keeping your dog cool. To protect your dog from the sun, you can place a towel on top of the crate and you can have a fan installed in the crate for added cooling. If you live in a cold area, go for a plastic crate which prevents your dog from catching a cold. The size of your crate will also affect the ease of storage and you should take that into consideration. Duration If you plan on crating your dog for a small amount of time as you run a few errands, you can use a soft-sided crate. However, since these types of crates can easily be broken out of, you should opt for a wire crate or a plastic dog crate if you plan to leave the dog unattended for a long period of time. It takes a few minutes for a determined dog to break free from a soft-sided crate so should you choose to get one, be sure to monitor your dog. Types of Dog Crates Your choice of crate will be dependent on factors such as its purpose, the size of your pet, the nature of your dog, and the amount of time that your dog will spend in the crate. Soft-Sided Crates These types of crates are made of soft mesh material or a material with similar features to mesh. They come in different shapes and sizes and are a common option among dog owners as they are affordable, easy to carry due to their light weight and dogs adapt to them with ease. Pros They are easy to use with your dog for airline travel as most approve of these kinds of crates for use in cabins. They are also convenient to carry around because they are not heavy and storage is easy as they are easy to collapse. A huge plus with these crates is that most dogs love them. Cons They are made of soft material which is not durable and it is easy for dogs to chew on them. They are also very hard to clean and should not be used for dogs which are yet to learn how to control their bowel movements. Plastic Dog Crate These are sturdier as compared to soft-sided crates and they offer your dog more privacy when compared to wire dog crates. The downside to using these crates is that they have poor ventilation and you cannot keep your dog in them for long. Pros They are easy to clean because of the material used and they provide your dog with the feeling of being in a den. Approved by most airlines, you can use them when traveling with your dog. They are also very durable and cannot be damaged by dogs. Cons They are bulky and are hard to store because of the long process involved in breaking them down. Metal Wire Dog Crates These are made of heavy duty metal wires and they are ideal for dogs who love to chew on things as they cannot damage the wire crate. They are very strong and they provide your dog with visibility to its surroundings. Pros They allow a lot of air circulation, allowing you to leave your dog in the crate for long periods. Their visibility allows your dog to take part in family activities. Heavy duty wire crates from manufacturers such as Midwest are very durable, as they cannot be chewed through and they do not absorb odors, keeping them free of dog smells. Cons The high visibility is not ideal for reactive dogs that can get anxious easily and their heaviness makes them hard to carry. Please note that the wire crates are made of metal which may rust with time. Wood Crates Of all the crates, these are the most attractive and the various shades of brown will blend in well with your decor. They are great for use in the indoors. They are not easy to clean though and their mobility is limited due to their heaviness. Most dogs also do not respond to these crates well. Pros You have a lot of styles and sizes to choose from, such as a crate that doubles as an end table. Cons They are more expensive when compared to other crates and they can be ruined if your dog loves to chew and scratch things. Wood also absorbs odors, which makes it have a dog odor. Combination Crates These crates combine the features of both metal dog crates with plastic or wooden crates and they come in different sizes. Pros They come equipped with wheels at the bottom to make traveling easy and they have easy access doors. Cons They are very hard to set up and are heavy to carry. Listed below are answers to the most common questions I receive as you are preparing to take your puppy home: 1. What is my puppy eating? We are feeding your puppy PawTree. They have a multitude of other flavors you can try out after your puppy comes home too. You can buy this food by clicking the PawTree picture at the bottom of any page on our website. You can find out more information at www. We also encourage you to set your order to their EZship so you never run out. They also offer personalized food by filling out a pet profile so we encourage all families to head over to fill out their pet profile for personalized food plan as well as personalized bags of dog food when they arrive. How many times per day should my puppy be fed? We feed puppies, weeks old 3 x per day. We try to keep them on a schedule such as: a. Once the puppy reaches 12 weeks, we cut them back to eating 2 x per day, eliminating the noon feeding. Increase the amount you feed based on the recommendations you will find on the dog food bag as suggested by weight of the puppy. We do not recommend free feeding — give your puppy about 20 minutes to eat, then pick it up and put it away. Water should be provided at all times, except during the night. Wet the food for about 30 minutes prior to giving it to the puppy so it softens to aid in digestion. However, if you see loose stools it is almost assuredly overfeeding so back it off until the stool is firm and then slowly add back in. When can I start training my puppy? We like to see training start as soon as you pick up your puppy from my home, or your puppy arrives via car or airplane. We recommend transporting your puppy home in a crate that is lined with a bath towel. Feeding time is a fantastic opportunity to train as you can spend a few minutes several times per day with teaching the basic commands of sit, stay and come. We provide a helpful training booklet with detailed information on training on our Puppy Tips page. What size crate should I buy for my puppy? Most puppies that will mature to a medium size will need a large crate once they have reached maturity. Plastic crates are an option as well. If you have any questions please ask us. What type of collar and leash do I need and what size is best for my puppy? We like to buy the less expensive, adjustable-type of collars and a nylon leash. We do not care for the expandable leashes that allow the puppy to walk way out in front or way off to the side of you. The smallest setting for the collar would be about 8 inches and expanding out from there. We use small carabiners to attach the stretched chain between the collar and the leash. This will prevent your puppy from chewing your new leash. If you are reserving a small size pup then I would suggest an XS collar. Another option while they are very young is a slip leash style. Some families like to train in harnesses. This is also a tool you can use. Sizes will vary from company to company, but most go off of weight. Ask us the estimated weight of your future puppy at the time they will go home so you will have a rough idea of what to purchase. It is never a bad idea to weight to buy until you can size your puppy in person though as each harness will fit differently. You can play the radio softly if your puppy is in a different room from you as this is how they were raised with us. You have to find a system that works for you. However, keeping consistent for the first few nights will build a sleep pattern in your dog you will enjoy for its entire life. How many times per night will my puppy need to go out to go potty? We suggest you feed your puppy dinner no later than p. Make sure that you see puppy go potty and poop before putting him to bed for the night. If your bedtime is p. Then only if puppy is whining, let him out very methodically to potty no playing and put him right back to bed. How many times per day should my puppy need to go potty? Puppies will always go potty right away after they wake up and after they eat. If you take puppy out right after eating, see him go potty, then allow about 30 minutes of some free time in your home before making his world small using a temporary fence or leash. On average they can typically hold their bladders for 2-hours, but every puppy will react differently to stimuli in your home. Should my puppy have contact with other vaccinated dogs? We like to make sure other dogs have not only been vaccinated, but are also free of parasites. Worms of all sorts can live in feces and it just take a quick second for your puppy to ingest enough to get a parasite. This product should be alternated every 6 months. There are countless natural remedies as well as chemical based options you can find at your vet. We always prefer natural options first, but in some cases the chemical based products are needed. Check with your vet or trainer for their recommendations in your area. We strongly suggest topical or collar options only. How often should I give my puppy a bath and what should I use? We do not bathe our puppies unless they are dirty and we use baby shampoo or something gentle. We usually suggest people decide what they like in the look of their Labradoodle. Do you like the longer, shaggy look, or do you like the shorter, more manicured coat? If you leave the coat longer, you will need to keep it combed out and mat free. Do you have recommendations for where to stay when we pick up our puppy? We are located only 20 mins from Lebanon, Oregon. There are numerous hotel options in Albany, Springfield, or Eugene that you can explore. I recommend the following two new mini Australian Labradoodle parents. I use Amazon. Royal Canin dry Mini Puppy dog food Stainless steel or plastic bowls are easiest to keep clean stone can collect a film if not cleaned often. All natural, made in America treats and chew options For your new puppy, an extra-small collar will work at first, but within just a couple of weeks, you will need a small one which may last even until the puppy is an adult. A large crate 36 inches and we prefer double door- This crate can be divided into a smaller size and then expanded as your Australian Labradoodle grows. I like to use Sherpa mats inside my crates. These are easy to wash and dry and fit on the crate bottom without too much bulk. A Vittles Vault seals dog food better than most other dog food storage containers. It is worth the few extra bucks. Remember that as wonderful as this breed is, you are still bringing home a puppy! Your puppy will need love, patience, positive correction, and consistency. Your puppy will want to be with you! However, there will be times you will want to crate her. Be positive when placing your puppy in the crate. You can even place a blanket over the crate at night to signify it is time to sleep. Your puppy will want to chew as he teethes. Supplying your puppy with toys and all-natural chew sticks and items will help. Correct your puppy when you find him chewing off-limit items and then supply him with an appropriate option. Your puppy will need to be taken out often as you potty train. Your puppy will grow quickly between 8 weeks and five months. It will be a fun time as long as you are prepared to be patient and work hard to train your Australian Labradoodle. Your diligence will pay off with a faithful friend to enjoy for many years. This is great advice, as crate training your Labradoodle early will make things easier as they get older. Labradoodles, through simple genetics, will typically only grow so large. Standard Labradoodles will be about 21 to 24 inches tall and weigh 50 to 65 pounds. Medium Labradoodles will be about 17 to 20 inches tall and weigh 30 to 45 pounds. Miniature Labradoodles will be about 14 to 16 inches tall and weight 18 to 28 pounds. Account for extra space Once your dog has stopped growing, they should still have enough space to be comfortable in their crate. A few good ways to determine if they have enough space is to look at their headspace and legspace. When your dog stands up, they should be able to hold their head high, not lower it because their head is hitting the top of the crate. Additionally, while lying down, your dog should be able to stretch out. Now that you know these tips, you can go out and get a crate that will last for years to come. Before that, however, you need to find the right Labradoodle puppy to welcome into your home. At CNR Farms, we have lovable pups that are waiting for their forever home. Contact us today at to learn more. No dividers available 5. This crate comes with a waterproof liner and crate divider. You can either purchase it with one or two doors. In addition, it also comes in large and extra-large sizes. It can also fold into a compact space for travel or storage. Dog crate for Doodles is a great way of giving a new puppy or adopted adult dog a safe place to stay when you are gone for a long time. For adopted dogs, crates can be a way to get them used to a new home before being allowed free range of the house while you are gone. They can also be a safe place for dogs with separation anxiety when you are away at work. There are lots of different ways to crate trains. However, If you are purchasing from a breeder, ask to look at the parents for a rough comparison of what to expect of your dog. But, for a full-grown dog to fit comfortably in a crate, he or she will need to be able to enter and turn around without ducking or being crammed. Give your dog toys, bedding, and toys to chew on while you are not there. Your dog will feel lonely and bored if left in an empty crate. Puzzle toys and chew sticks are great for keeping dogs busy for long stretches. Adding a blanket with your scent will also help comfort your dog. Get them used to their crate slowly. This means starting for short periods with your present and gradually increase the time spent in the crate before leaving them in it while you are out. Outings should also be gradual and increase in time. Collars and tags can snag and get stuck in crate wires. Using a crate as punishment will make it confusing when you create them while you are out, as they will associate you leaving as punishment. As a result, they will start to reject the crate and can become violent while in it. Therefore, Give them potty pads. Consequently, potty pads encourage them to use the bathroom in their crate when left alone. When picking a crate, it is also good to remember that this will be a one-time buy if done correctly, as these crates are rather durable. So though these crates seem higher priced for smaller puppies, you will spend more money buying a new crate for every stage that the puppy grows than if you just bought a crate and divider. Likewise, these dividers can be moved to allow one crate to grow with your puppy. Having a full crate open usually encourages them to pick a side in a far corner to use as a bathroom area. Waterproof liner Most crates will come with a liner already. These liners should fit the crate snugly to prevent any accidents from happening. It comes with a divider, or you can buy one The proper locking system is essential during the potty training If your dog can get out of crates quickly, you might want to invest in a crate with multiple locks. Made of metal Soft crates are great for traveling but pose a risk when used daily. At the same time, an untrained dog could chew through a soft crate or choke on the zippers. Therefore, finding the right crate for your dog can be tricky, but with the proper research and knowledge of what to look for, we hope we have given everyone a great option. These crates are like a private room for your dog. Dog training is a huge part of raising any pet, and the crate is vital to potting training any new pup. Sharing is caring!

Categories Dog Fun , Dog Training French Bulldogs are excellent companions for millions of households around the world. French Bulldogs cannot swim well. This makes it difficult for Frenchies to tilt their heads upward in water, thus making it harder to breathe while swimming. And considering their dense yet muscular bodies and short legs, Frenchies may struggle with swimming for long periods of time. Continue reading to learn why Frenchies have a hard time swimming, and tips to get them started. However, Frenchies are climbing an uphill battle when it comes to swimming. Brachycephaly makes it difficult to breathe while swimming Simply put, Brachycephalic syndrome in dogs refers to a shortened head. This leads to changes in the anatomy of the soft tissue structures. After witnessing my frenchie fall into the pool, and sink straight to the bottom, without so much an attempt at a doggie paddle, we keep him far away from any bodies of water! Thus making it even more difficult to breath and stay afloat simultaneously. This is perhaps the biggest obstacle in getting your French Bulldog to safely swim. Some owners have reported that their Frenchies immediately go vertical and sink like a stone. Frenchies are heavy and compact dogs The French Bulldog is undeniably a muscular dog breed. Comparatively, Frenchies are small dogs. A full adult-sized dog will stand between 11 to 12 inches at the shoulder. However, they weigh anywhere between 16 to 28 lbs, depending on factors like gender and genetics. Frenchies weigh so much because muscle is heavy. Just like Frenchies. French Bulldogs have short legs French Bulldogs are one of the few true dwarf dog breeds. In fact, they actually have the dwarfism gene, as seen in several popular dog breeds. As a result, the dog will develop abnormally short legs. Osteochondrodysplasia, or Osteo for short, is a condition where the dog sees abnormal growth and development of bones and cartilages. The result from Achondroplasia can be abnormally short limbs, which is called Dwarfism. This is what French Bulldogs have, and it can be a huge disadvantage for swimming. But why would it be, you ask? After all, not all dog breeds are instinctual swimmers, such as the Poodles. Remember that swimming can be a scary activity for your Frenchie. It can be overwhelming for most dogs. That being said, you should never force your Frenchie into the water. This process will take some time, so patience is necessary. Get a dog life jacket The first step to teaching your Frenchie how to swim is to buy the right equipment. And by equipment, I only mean a dog life vest. Frenchie or not, this is something I recommend to all owners when beginning the training. This advice is something even the American Kennel Club recommends. There are a few reasons why we love this. The bright color options are great for swimming in natural bodies of water. Plus, rescue handles are perfect in case you need to pull them up quickly. Introduce the French Bulldog to water The next step may be the most crucial: introducing your French Bulldog to water. You want to gradually introduce them to water. Chances are, your Frenchie already understands what water is. You can start with the bath tub or a small kiddie pool. In this early stage, you just want to get their feet wet — literally. But make sure some parts of the body are submerged. After getting the dog adjusted for some time, move on to larger bodies of water, such as the lake or a pool. And if possible, try to go somewhere with warm water. Or at the least, not freezing cold. The best way to do this is to go into the water yourself. Because dogs have trust in their owners, this simple action will give them confidence. Try to throw their favorite toys into the water. If this little trick works, try throwing the toy deeper into the body of water. Similarly, you can move deeper in and bribe them with treats. With a little patience, your French Bulldog will be swimming in no time! Going through obedience with dog and owner means that a trusting relationship has likely been built. Dogs learn best by modeling the behaviors of other dogs. The same can be said if familiar people are swimming. Radar swims without a life jacket but only because he chases other dogs into the ocean at the beach and has no choice when the waves come in. Swimming can be very energy-draining. And while French Bulldogs do have a lot of energy, this activity can be mentally exhausting for first-time canine swimmers. And finally, never force your Frenchie into the water. They may not feel like going into the water on some days. The most important thing is that they feel comfortable and secure. All it takes is one bad experience to ruin swimming for them forever. Swim Health Benefits for Frenchies Swimming is a healthy activity for all dogs, including their owners! As such, there are a ton of great health benefits for your French Bulldog when it comes to swimming. Frenchies are active dogs and need a decent amount of exercise. In fact, they need around 1 hour of exercise each day. This is the bare minimum. But the reason why swimming is so great is because one minute of swimming equates to four minutes of running. Naturally, more time swimming leads to various health benefits, such as better heart and lungs, increasing metabolism and reducing inflammation. In addition, Hip Dysplasia is one of the most common health issues with French Bulldogs. According to the AKC , Frenchies are prone to obesity. Being overweight leads to all kinds of other health issues. But fortunately, swimming is the best exercise for obese dogs. They are able to burn a lot of calories without much risk of injury! Do Frenchies Like Water? Not all individual dogs are the same, even within the same breed. Like humans, they each have their own personalities and quirks. Some Frenchies will love water, but many will not. To better understand whether French Bulldogs will enjoy swimming or not, we surveyed the popular Frenchie Subreddit and other dog forums to ask this question. However, the only way to know is to try for yourself. Real Owner Answers: 1. He loves having a little pool and is obsessed with the sprinklers. His new favorite activity is surprise bursting into the shower with me any chance he gets. It is a mixture of horrifying and terrifying. Carrot hates the water! I got a vest for Bambi and put her in the pool one time. She was terrified and hated it. She despises getting wet. We even have trouble getting him out for potty when it is raining. He hates baths and will escape any chance he gets! My parents have a pool but he heads straight for the stairs and hops out. And if you have any helpful tips, leave a comment for the other Frenchie owners! Posts you may like:. What do you need to know about this issue before you allow your dog to play in or around the pool? So, Can French Bulldogs Swim? Most French Bulldogs are not able to swim. You may have seen some videos of other French Bulldogs swimming with no issues but most cannot. I have seen him try and fail badly. Even with a life jacket on my French Bulldog is not a fan of the water. Most French Bulldogs will sink under the water if you leave them unattended. Definitely do not leave your French Bulldog around water unattended. French Bulldogs are not able to swim to the surface once they get fatigued and they start going under. French Bulldog Drowning Risk This dog breed is one that should never be left unattended around water. Frenchies have a somewhat top-heavy build that makes them sink fairly quickly. Another hazard that awaits is in the form of a short snout that cannot reach above water easily. Should one of these dogs slip underwater, you will need to act quickly to get them to safety. These dogs lack the physical power to get back up to the surface that quickly on their own, which puts them in danger when unsupervised Supervision is Necessary Although some dogs of this breed may swim as far as 10 or 15 feet, the risk of allowing one of these dogs in the water is excellent. French Bulldog pet parents would do well to only allow supervised swimming with a life jacket or safer alternatives. Before deciding how to allow your French Bulldog to enjoy water-related activities, you would benefit from finding out more about why these dogs are ill-suited to the water. French Bulldogs and Their Builds Frenchies are compact dogs, yet have a powerful build for their size. A Build That Does Not Work French bulldog swimming is made difficult because their muscular, yet stout build leaves them without much buoyancy. Other, somewhat larger dogs have the ability to swim more effectively because of better weight distribution. These dogs are heavier in the front part of their bodies, which complicates swimming straight ahead or attempting to turn while in the water. For a dog to be able to swim with minimal difficulties, they need to swim straight ahead and turn without problems. Leg Length Makes a Difference Another thing that works against these dogs in the water is their short leg length. With paddling being an essential part of how dogs make their way through the water, their legs must be powerful enough to keep them moving along. These cuties are very susceptible to a condition known as obstructive airway syndrome. Getting Enough Oxygen is Crucial Oxygen deprivation is a genuine concern for these dogs. Since activities like swimming require a fair amount of physical exertion, exhaustion to the point of a drowning risk is a real threat that could test the limits of your dog CPR skills. Although there are signs you can watch for that predict your dog is having difficulties, oxygen loss can come on quite quickly. Preventing an incident of this kind is always preferable in any case. Facial Shape Makes a Difference Another unfortunate side effect of brachycephaly, the term for the flat face and short snout, is that the dog must keep their head tilted up for more natural breathing. With getting enough air being a possible problem when your dog swims, erring on the side of caution might be your best choice. The good thing to know is that your dog will still enjoy options that minimize their drowning or exhaustion risk. Pain-Related Conditions Some of the more common Frenchie health problems also include arthritis and rheumatism. Both of these conditions can make swimming difficult. When a dog of any size is in the water, having control over their movements, is essential. Since dogs have a high pain tolerance level and can easily hide their pain level, owners might not notice any problems until the dog is having a lot of trouble. For example, a dog might fall into the shallow end of a pool with enough force to cause serious injury. In a rocky beach, river, or lake setting, your dog could get hurt falling up against rocks. You may need to carefully consider what types of settings where you take your dog to swim, if at all. For example, you may want to consider calmer areas, including pools. Avoiding situations where waves bump your dog up against hard surfaces is always good. Some of the safer alternatives for your furry friend include: Swimming With a Life Jacket Either life jacket or life vest will help keep your dog safe around water. One of these jackets or vests provides greater buoyancy for your dog. Making sure the jacket fits properly and fastens easily is essential. Another feature that you will want to look for is a handle. A flotation device with a handle helps you grab your dog quickly, much more easily, if necessary. The size that you would use for a baby or toddler should be sufficient for the needs of a dog that size of a Frenchie. Another option is a small stock tank that is about the size of a small wading pool. If you decide to use this option, consider a small ramp or set of steps to make it easier for the dog to get into the tank. Letting Your Frenchie Play Under a Sprinkler One fun way to play it safe, especially if you have children that you prefer not to let in the water, is to allow sprinkler play. You might need to sensitize your dog to being around the sprinkler first. Once your dog has had the chance to get used to the sprinkler, they are likely to have a great time playing near it. Going on Boating Trips My parents live on a Lake so my Frenchie has been out for boat rides on their party barge on many occasions. If you go boating regularly, taking your French Bulldog along can be a lot of fun for both of you. These little dogs are naturally curious and will take an interest in whatever is going on around them. Regardless of what type of watercraft you use, use a life jacket or vest as a precaution. Regardless of how you choose to allow your dog to get out and enjoy the water, proper supervision is essential. Although it might be disheartening to find that swimming may not be safe for your Frenchie, the good news is that the alternatives allow you to have plenty of fun. With the right precautions, your pooch can have a lot of fun with everyone outside this summer. Looking for other ways to keep your Frenchie cool on hot Summer days? Check out this article on the best dog cooling vests. Share on facebook. After all, they overheat easily, especially in the summer and the water is a great place to cool down. Due to their compact size, short legs, and lack of snout, these dogs were just not made for the water. Most will sink like a rock if left unattended. Unlike other dog breeds such as Labradors, Frenchies are unable to swim to the surface once they start going under. Do French Bulldogs like water? The sad part is, yes, they absolutely LOVE the water. So, despite being unable to swim unattended, if given the opportunity, Frenchies will want to go into a pool. Do French Bulldogs float? The simple answer is NO. Basically, they have more muscle than fat and are typically top-heavy which makes it physically impossible for them to float. Can Frenchies still enjoy the water? With that being said, and while you should never let your French Bulldog swim unattended, here are a few ways they can still enjoy the water and cool off while having fun! There are life jackets that have been specially made to fit your little dog and give them enough extra buoyancy to keep their head above water. In many ways, these life jackets serve as inflatable flotation sleeves do for small children. The ocean with its many waves and unpredictable tides is not a good place for a Frenchie. Also, you should be very strict when ensuring your Frenchie only ever enters the water with their life jacket on. This is critical. Treats are always a great training tool and are especially useful when it comes to the prescribed post-swimming ritual. This is when you should rinse and dry your dog off ensuring they know the proper way to exit the pool on their own. Kiddie Pools A great, safer option to help your Frenchie cool off in the summer is to fill a kiddie pool with chest-deep water. While your dog should still be supervised, this will allow them to stay cool while making it much easier for their heads to stay above water. There are even collapsible kiddie pools for traveling! Final Word French bulldogs absolutely cannot swim, and should never be allowed in the water unaided and unsupervised. Having said that, your little dog can still enjoy pool days with the family through the use of special life jackets and proper training. You can even get them a little pool of their own where they can safely splash around and stay cool. Watch your dog just like you would watch a child. Frenchies are not designed for swimming. Whilst you might see those cute videos of them swimming with vests on, without a life jacket they can sink like a stone. Yes, there are some French Bulldogs I have seen swimming on social media without a life jacket see which life vests I recommend , but this is rare and an exception, particularly as they get older and heavier. It is possible to teach one to swim but I would never take the risk unless they are wearing a flotation device. But my Frenchie loves the water! He will get close to the edge of the paddling pool, bark and go crazy — our son will encourage that with splashing and water play. French Bulldogs like water, they just cannot swim in it without a jacket in most cases. You can see an example of that in the photo below. Do French Bulldogs like water though? Our French Bulldog loves water. On a hot day he will lay down in it, roll in it, and cool himself down. He also loves to be squirted with a water pistol and is used to having baths and showers. Handy Hint: Click here to watch our video and step by step guide on how to give a French Bulldog a bath or shower. For example, with our paddling pool, the water is no more than coming up to his shoulders, and even then, we will keep a constant eye on him. If you love swimming too and have a pool, make sure that you keep watch on your Frenchie at all times. It can only take a few seconds for your Frenchie to sink to the bottom. Our scary French Bulldog swimming moment We found this out the hard way when we went down to the sea one day. My son he was only 5 threw a stick into the water and Claude ran after it. He quickly got out of his depth, and we saw his head disappear under the water. His head popped back up for a couple of seconds and then went under again. He was struggling to keep afloat. I had sheer panic so ran into the waves and dragged him out. The water was only one inch higher than his head. That was enough to make him nearly drown. This was the same day that Claude nearly drowned in the sea. It was a scary time. I also wondered if it was possible to teach a Frenchie to swim or if there are any products available that could help them stay safer in the water? With those short snouts, cute faces that we love so much, wide skulls, little legs, and body proportions, they are just not cut out for swimming. This is a common problem for dogs of a similar breed and size. Because their snouts are so short, they have to tilt their heads up to keep their noses out of the water. There legs are also really short, and they have heavy bodies. All these physical characteristics combined makes it harder for them to keep afloat. All brachycephalic dogs get exhausted very quickly and can drown in no time at all. If you have a swimming pool at your home, keep your Frenchie away from it. We will often take Claude out into the forest near our house. There are large ponds out there which he loves to get into in order to cool off. Claude is fine in ponds, but you never know how deep these pools in the forest could be. French Bulldog swimming videos YouTube is amazing for finding funny Frenchie videos. We even have our own channel now which you can see and subscribe to by clicking the French Bulldog Owner YouTube Channel. French Bulldog loves the swimming pool This guy can actually swim without a life jacket. Juanita the swimming Frenchie This is more common, a Frenchie wearing a dog life jacket and paddling in the water. You can teach a French Bulldog to swim with the help of a tiny life jacket that has been designed specifically for dogs. Most French Bulldogs will sink without a floatation device, and even if yours can swim for a short while, without a life jacket, they will soon begin to sink due to exhaustion and their physical constraints. Help them hold their heads up out of the water and keep encouraging them! Step 3: Start playing tug of war with the stick Grab your stick and start playing with your Frenchie in the shallow water. Step 4: Put the stick a little out of his reach Next, take the stick from him, and place it a couple of feet into deeper water, just out of his reach. The stick is the bait, and you want him to walk out to it. Be with him at all times though. The point here is that if you want to teach your French Bulldog to swim, you need to offer positive reinforcement and treats. When teaching them swim with a life jacket in a swimming pool, see if they can paddle to the edge and climb out. I would never want anyone to experience the loss of a beloved pet due to accidental drowning. Always be vigilant! You can see the full step by step process of a French Bulldog learning how to swim in this video. Cooling off in water is a great way for them to regulate their body temperature, as they are prone to overheating. So, how can you help your best friend enjoy the water in a safe way? Claude loves playing with water on hot summer days, particularly when the water pistols and padding pool is out! You can even buy small pools that are designed for dogs to play in. These little pools are safe for your dog to relax in and cool off. Your pooch can run through the light spray and enjoy the water in a safe way. A few years ago, my brother had the most gorgeous Basset Hound puppy. He went on vacation and left his dog in the caring hands of his friend. His friends forgot to put the pool net on, and the Basset Hound fell in the swimming pool. Thankfully they saw what was happening quick enough and managed to save the dog. They have dense bones like Frenchies, long bodies and short legs. If you own one of the dog breeds listed below to keep them away from swimming pools. Never leave them unattended around water. Basset Hounds: they have heavy bones, short legs and long bodies. These gorgeous animals were not bred for the water but rather as hunting dogs. Pugs: they have the same squashed faces as French Bulldogs. With really short legs they are also prone to exhaustion when swimming. Dachshunds: these sausage dogs are renowned for their comical look, but they were bred to burrow and capture small animals, not swim. They are also a brachycephalic breed and just like a Frenchie, are designed for swimming. Which dogs are good swimmers? So, what dog breed would suit your aquatic lifestyle? Labrador Retrievers: they actually have webbed feet, thick coats and long legs. They love the water and were bred to retrieve critters from out of the water, like ducks. Golden Retrievers: these wonderful dogs really enjoy the water. There are so many pictures on the internet of them running into the water to fetch sticks or toys and swimming very well. Newfoundlands: whilst they might look massive, these fab pooches are incredible swimmers. They have double-thick coats which help protect them against freezing water, plus webbed feet which help them to paddle freely through the water. Irish Setters: they are also great swimmers. Once you get them in the water you might struggle to get them out! They were bred to retrieve things such as ducks and pigeons. But, with a little patience, it is possible to teach a French Bulldog to swim with a jacket, as they do tend to really love water. You might also like…. They appear to have a problem keeping their heads above water, literally. Why do they need extra support when you put them in the water? Do they not love swimming? This breed has bulky torsos, flat snouts, thick muscles, and heavy bones, which means they are not built to float in the water for a long time. Like other bulldog varieties, the French bulldogs have Brachycephaly, which means they possess a short, wide skull, giving them their trademark squashed face. This facial characteristic that many find irresistibly cute, unfortunately, causes many health problems for these canines, including having short nasal passages, snoring, snorting, partial airway obstruction and other respiratory issues. To add to the challenge, their heavy torsos and short legs are regarded as not particularly helpful when trying to swim. Even slim and younger ones can only float for a short period. Exhaustion and humidity can also affect their ability to swim. Of course, these charming doggies also want to cool down, so here are some tips to help them stay safe and enjoy being in the water. Put them in shallow pools or creeks. Get a high-quality canine life vest. To ensure your Frenchie is comfortable using it, let them wear the vest before going in the water. Reward them for being cooperative and exhibiting calm behaviour. Keep an eye on your dog at all times. Consult with a professional dog swimming trainer to get the best advice on how your French furball can be introduced to water play or even be taught full-on swimming skills. To avoid risks of your dog drowning, make sure you always follow safety precautions. Please speak with your vet about any health concerns regarding your French bulldog taking their big plunge.

Ironically, tail is not just an insignificant part for animals. It is a functional part of their body. Some animals use their tails for holding onto tree branches, while some use their tail to shoo away insects. For German Shepherds, they use it not only for balancing but also for expressing their feelings. Introduction A standard German Shepherd tail length should be long enough that the tail end should reach the hock joint. It should be hanging with a slight curve like a cavalry sword when GSD is at rest. The curve should be emphasized, and tail should be raised when the dog is moving. Up and down tail positions show how much energy they have. For example, A German Shepherd wagging tail more towards the left side almost touching their bodies means they are nervous. How high they hold their tails, shows the mood they are in. So, the higher, the more motionless their tail is, the more they are feeling stressed and can be very unpredictable. Here are some tail positions, movements and what they mean. If a GSD wags its tail widely like mad, it means it is very happy. They usually do this to save energy. A GSD wagging its tail slowly is a sign of confusion. Just like a scared child hiding under the table, a scared GSD will hide its tail between its legs. Another meaning would be a plea not to be hurt. A tail positioned stiffly straight out of its body means the dog is ready to fight. A more aggressive GSD will move its tail high up and over its back to initiate a fight with another dog. Whenever A GSD will hang its tail low horizontally away from its body, it can be a sign of a calmness. They can be seen as if observing the surroundings. The higher the tail position of a GSD is, the more it asserts confidence as if telling the world it is the boss. Sometimes the tail can be seen curled. A GSD that holds its tail upright and stiff means they are the pack leader. They can be heard barking all the time, alerting their owners even on little things. It is amusing to see puppies or adult dogs chasing their tails. They try to catch their tails and even growl when they chance upon catching it. There are many factors contributing to this behavior. By simply analyzing the causes, owners can train their GSD to stop this behavior. Training them as a puppy is a good start. In adult GSDs, distraction can help. Lack of exercise and activity will cause them to chase their tails wider in circles and sometimes in eights. Genetics can also cause this behavior. The behavior might have been passed down by their parents to them. Stress and anxiety will make them chase their tail until they injure themselves. So it is very important to check for stress and anxiety triggers. Another inherited genetic fault that GSDs suffer from is the curled tail. A German Shepherd curled tail meaning it has a gay tail. Characterized by a tail that is carried higher than the horizontal level of the back, curling upwards, gay tail is a genetic fault. Since it is a genetic fault, chances of fixing it is next to nothing. Sadly, some owners and breeders will do anything for fame and money, so they will opt for surgery. Fortunately, not all German Shepherd puppy tail curls. For some it is just a mannerism that can be eliminated by training. Clicker training method can be used to train GSD show dogs to hold their tails in a particular position when standing. This method will need time and patience from the owner. It can also be hounded by a number of health-related issues, since they are genetically predisposed. Anal Furunculosis A chronic inflammatory disease of the skin under the tail and around the anus, it is usually caused by the inefficient response of the immune system and genetics. But how GSDs carry their tail and the thick coat around the anus may be partly responsible. To avoid such disease being passed down, breeding should only be between unaffected GSDs. German Shepherd hair loss tail, Itching and chewing are caused by allergies which may eventually become infected if left untreated. Cuts and scrapes or even dog bites on the tail are all possible reasons for infection, too. Topical antibiotics look enticing for GSDs that they will keep on licking their wounds. Oral antibiotics administered in proper dosage will be the best option. It is usually caused by overwork, injuries or spending too much time playing in cold water. Tail muscles become swollen and painful within 24 hours following exposure to freezing cold water. Long term confinement in cramped spaces may also trigger this syndrome. Prognosis for Limber Tail Syndrome is good as it will go away on its own. It serves as a tool of communication to their owners, helps stabilize them in water and balances them when walking. Owners may encounter some German Shepherd tail problems, some may be genetic and some may be acquired. Regular visits to the vet will ensure GSD tail health in check. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. Just look at their tails! So, keep an eye out for tails that are just right! The natural tail is well-muscled and has a thick base croup. It typically hangs down when the dog is relaxed. This type of GSD tail is set high and carried in a slight curve that is pointed upward, but does not go over the back like in Huskies. You see, a natural tail is an important feature of this dog breed and is highly valued by breeders and dog show judges. We can see this type of tail in both German Shepherds and Dutch Shepherds. Your German Shepherd may be long-haired if he inherits this type of tail! A bushy tail is not typically associated with any health issues. Additionally, it is not considered a fault or disqualifying trait in dog shows! It can be passed down from mom and dad or just randomly pop up during puppyhood. This type of tail is commonly seen in many German Shepherd mixes. With all that in mind, puppies with sickle tails are not allowed to participate in dog shows as they are not purebred dogs. Straight Tail A straight tail in German Shepherds is a tail that is not as thick as a natural tail and does not curve at the end — it is completely straight. Well, it is not an unhealthy tail, it just indicates that there may be other breeds in the mix. For example, a Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix is most likely to inherit a straight tail that is on the thinner side. The straight tail is set high, but it does not curve as a natural tail does. When your dog is excited or alert, he holds his tail straight out and you may notice a slight curve at the tail end. Docked Tail Ever heard of a German Shepherd with a docked tail? Neither have I! Even though your GSD was bred to be a working dog, tail docking is a no-no. This procedure deviates from the official breed standards and it is banned in some states. While GSD tail docking is not as common as Doberman tail docking , some breeders actually do this. And trust me, those breeders are not reliable nor reputable. However, a docked tail in adult dogs may indicate that they have been through tail injuries or infections. It is not unusual to see German Shepherds with completely curly tails, which can be caused by a genetic mutation, which can be a sign that the GSD is a hybrid dog. German Shepherd Tail Positions There are plenty of tail positions that can mean a lot and we may not understand them all. Wagging Tail A wagging tail in a German Shepherd can indicate that the dog is happy and friendly. Tail wagging can also be a sign of GSD anxiety or aggression, depending on the speed and direction of the wag. A stiff tail can be tricky as it can show dominance, signs of fear or anxiety, and confidence. Tucked Tail A tucked tail can be a sign that the German Shepherd dog is feeling scared , threatened, or that it is trying to make himself appear smaller and less threatening. It is a common sign of submissive behavior which can lead to German Shepherd aggression. The tucked tail can also mean that your dog is feeling pain or discomfort, especially if it is followed by GSD whining , panting, or limping. Anal Furunculosis Is your dog scooting around the house? He may be suffering from anal furunculosis , a common problem in this dog breed. The tail hangs down naturally and has a slight curve at the end. Short tails — Some German Shepherds may have naturally short tails that do not reach their hocks. This is usually genetically inherited. Curly tails — Though uncommon, some German Shepherds have tails that curl over their backs or are very tightly curled. This is considered a fault. Bushy tails — Long-coated German Shepherds will have a furry, plumed tail. Short-coated dogs have a more sleek, tapered tail. Docked tails — Tail docking is banned in many countries now, but some German Shepherds may have shortened tails due to previous docking traditions. The breed standard specifies that German Shepherds should have long, hanging tails that reach their hocks and have a slight curve at the tip. Short, curled over, or docked tails are faults, though the dog can still make a wonderful pet! The ideal length is approximately equal to the height of the dog at its shoulders. So for a 24 inch tall German Shepherd, the tail should extend around 24 inches. Of course, there is natural variation in tail length. Here are some general guidelines: Male GSD tail length — inches Female GSD tail length — inches Puppies may have shorter or longer tails while they are growing. You cannot accurately judge if their tail is within standard until they mature around months old. Dogs with these traits should not be bred. Injury — In some cases, tail trauma or repeated injuries can stunt tail growth. Docked tail — Your German Shepherd may have an artificially shortened tail from past docking practices. As long as your dog is happy and healthy, a shorter than normal tail is not a major concern. But you should inform your vet of any significant anomalies. Here are some of the most common German Shepherd tail positions and what they mean: High, Upright Tail What it means — Alert, attentive, excited, curious Looks like — Tail raised high over the back, sometimes with a slight curve at the tip A high, upright tail indicates your German Shepherd is stimulated and paying close attention to something. It can signal excitement, caution or assertion. Low, Hanging Tail What it means — Relaxed, calm, unconcerned Looks like — Tail hangs down naturally, not tucked between hind legs A low, loose tail is a sign your dog is relaxed and content. As long as the tail is not tucked between the legs, a low tail is normal for a mellow or resting German Shepherd. Slow, Loose Wag What it means — Happy, friendly Looks like — Wide sweeping motions, loosely held A gently swaying, loose tail accompanied by a relaxed body often signals a happy, friendly dog. Rapid, Tight Wag What it means — Alert, excited, anxious, asserting dominance Looks like — Small, tight movements, usually high over back Fast wagging confined to the tip of the tail indicates heightened emotion, like excitement, anxiety or insistence on being listened to. It can also signify aggression in some contexts. Tucked Between Hind Legs What it means — Fearful, timid, insecure Looks like — Tail curled under and between back legs A tail tucked tightly against their belly is a sure sign your German Shepherd is frightened or acting submissive. These are just a sampling of the various tail positions used by German Shepherds to communicate. The German Shepherd Dog breed standard explicitly states that a curled tail is a fault. German Shepherds are not meant to have curly tails. However, some German Shepherds are born with curled tails or develop a curl later in life. Reasons include: Genetic mutation — Some lines can carry genes for curled tails which may be expressed randomly. Injury — Damage to tail vertebrae or muscles can cause permanent curling. Degenerative myelopathy — This spinal disease can initially cause a tight curl of the tail as muscles stiffen. Mixed breeding — Crossing German Shepherds with certain other breeds can result in curled tails. But dogs with this trait should not be bred. Yes, German Shepherds can injure their tails or develop painful conditions. Some common tail problems include: Happy tail — Excessive wagging can split the tip of the tail open, causing bleeding and pain. Infections — Bacteria can enter wounds or hair follicles on the tail leading to abscesses or cellulitis. Calluses — Thick, pressure-induced calluses may form from lying on hard surfaces. Allergic dermatitis — Food or environmental allergies can cause itchy, scaly skin on the tail. Fractures — Tail fractures can happen from trauma like being shut in doors or hit by objects. Anal furunculosis — This inflammatory disease causes painful sores and scabbing around the tail base. Any signs of injury, swelling, bleeding, discomfort, or altered posture of the tail warrants an immediate veterinary visit. Most tail problems can be managed with rest, medication, or simple treatments. But excessive, obsessive tail chasing in adult dogs can signal potential issues such as: Boredom — Lack of physical and mental stimulation may cause a dog to endlessly chase its tail seeking activity. Stress — Anxiety, fearfulness, or compulsive disorders can manifest as tail chasing. Pain — Discomfort in the tail area from injury or infection can incite tail biting and chasing. Pests — Fleas, mites or intestinal parasites can cause irritation that a dog tries to address by chasing its tail. Attention seeking — Some dogs learn that tail chasing gets a reaction from their owner, reinforcing the behavior. If your German Shepherd starts displaying frequent tail chasing behavior, consult your veterinarian to rule out any medical causes. Then use more exercise, environmental enrichment with toys, and training to try curbing the behavior. Check for injury — Look for any wounds, swelling or signs of pain. Treat any injury immediately. Wag-proof your home — Use soft surfaces and safely position furniture to reduce happy tail injuries from exuberant wagging. Exercise outdoors — Avoid having your dog out in freezing weather for long to reduce risk of limber tail syndrome. Is it normal for a German Shepherd to have a curled tail? No, a curled tail is considered a breed fault according to the German Shepherd standard. However, some dogs inherit genes for curled tails or develop them later in life due to injury or illness. These dogs can still make very loving pets. What does it mean if my German Shepherd tucks his tail? A tucked tail pressed tightly against the belly signals fear, lack of confidence, or submission. Check for any environmental stressors that could be frightening your dog. Why does my German Shepherd chase her tail? Occasional tail chasing is normal, but excessive chasing can indicate boredom, stress, attention-seeking, or a medical issue. Rule out health problems, then use more exercise, enrichment and training to curb the obsessive behavior. Regularly brush and inspect the tail to catch any injuries early. Wag-proof your home with soft surfaces. Maintain flea control. Exercise outdoors in moderate temperatures to avoid limber tail syndrome. While the ideal tail is long and hangs low with a slight curve, variations exist even within breed standards. I hope this complete guide covers everything you want to know about German Shepherd tail types. Let that magnificent plumed rudder guide you towards a great relationship with your German Shepherd! Related posts:. It is big, bushy, long and sometimes curly. But it is there for more than just looks. It helps them balance, move around, and communicate with other animals and people. You can tell a lot about a GSD just from the position of their tail. From the happy wag to the embarrassed tail between the legs, it is a great way to tell how your dog is feeling. So what are the different German Shepherd tail types and what do they all mean? German Shepherd Tail Types: Similar to German Shepherd coat types , there can be three German Shepherd tail types depending on the length of their coat. It can be anywhere from inches depending on the specific dog and their genetics. According to show standards, the length should at least make it to the hock joint or ankle of the dog. It is bushy and has a sable-shape with a slow curve that is similar to the sword. This type of tail should not exceed the top of the back. Yes, a purebred German Shepherd can have a curly tail. Though it is considered a fault according to the breed standards , it is not uncommon for a GSD to have a tailpiece that curls more than the standard sabre-shape. If the German Shepherd is purebred, the curly tail could be the result of domestication over thousands of years. This is known as juvenilization or neoteny. As dogs were domesticated over the years, more resources became available which meant less competition. Because aggression was decreased, certain physical features became neotenized resulting in floppy ears and curly tails. It could have a hint of DNA from another dog breed such as an Akita. A DNA test is the only way to rule out the latter. For example, scientists have found that dogs wagging their tailpiece to the right are happy or excited and dogs wagging their tailpiece to the left are anxious or nervous. Additionally, they have more recently found that other dogs can recognize their tail wag and can tell what type of mood they are in just based on the tail wag alone. Aside from their right and left tail wag, there are several other positions to look for. Here are some common positions and what they mean. Between the legs: This means the GSD is afraid or scared. They could also be ashamed because they did something wrong and got into trouble. For example, if they peed in the house or rummaged through the trash while their owner was out. Down: This means they are feeling sad or unhappy, especially if their head is down as well. They may also submitting to you as the pack leader. Pointing straight up: The GSD is most likely mad or upset and possibly aggressive. The higher up the tail, the more assertive they are. They may be close to reacting to whatever they feel threatened by. Relaxed and out: This means that they are happy and content with their surroundings. This is a good sign that the dog is feeling at home and loves the people he is with. Straight out: This is a sign that the German Shepherd is apprehensive or worried about something close by. Wagging broad and fast: This means the GSD is happy and excited to see you. He may be full of energy and ready to play. This dog shows us the definition of happy tail wagging after finally recognizing his owner who had lost a significant amount of weight. Wagging slowly: This means that the German Shepherd is assessing the situation and is unsure yet whether or not things are safe. If a dog is holding its tailpiece in any of the positions that could signal he is aggressive, anxious or nervous around someone, grab on to his leash until he calms down. One of them is almost solely associated with GSDs. The repeated blows can cause the wound to worsen over time. It can become very painful for your dog should be addressed as soon as possible to avoid further damage to the tail. Usually, a bandage will be wrapped around the tail to allow healing but antibiotics or medication may be necessary. In the worst case scenario, part of the tail may have to be amputated to avoid chronic pain and a continued infection. Hot Spots: Hot spots, also called moist dermatitis, are infected areas on the body or tail that result in bald spots or hair loss. They usually begin from allergies such as insect bites. Once the area becomes inflamed, the dog will attempt to lick and chew the infected area. This causes them to lose the hair surrounding that area. They can start off small and progressively get bigger and bigger the more the dog licks and chews the area. To treat at home, you can carefully clip the fur surrounding the infected area and then clean with a gentle and safe solution. A follow up with the local vet can help determine what allergy is causing the reaction. Often times a short-acting corticosteroid, like prednisone, is given through injection for treatment. Limber Tail Syndrome: Limber tail syndrome is a muscle disorder that causes most of the tailpiece to go limp. It is most common in sporting dogs but can be found in working dogs as well. The majority of the time it is caused from a dog swimming in water that is too cold. However, occasionally it can happen to a dog from water that is too warm. At the moment there is no known cause, but one theory is that the cold water causes the area surrounding the spinal cord to shrink limiting mobility in the tail. A GSD with this syndrome will have a tailpiece that is horizontal for approximately 4 inches and then goes straight down. It is painful around the base of the tail. It can be treated with anti-inflammatory drugs and dogs usually recover within a couple of days of rest. Masses or Tumors: Certain types of masses can grow on the body or tail. They can include several different kinds of growths from harmless cysts to life-threatening tumors. The first of these possibilities is an abscess. It usually forms when a wound becomes infected. The result is a soft, warm lump that is swollen and painful to the touch. Occasionally they will rupture and drain leaving a red bump that is raised above the skin. They can be treated with a warm compress to improve the blood flow but they must be drained by a vet to completely heal. The second possibility is a cyst. A sebaceous cyst is pretty common in dogs. It is a small benign growth that is painless and non life-threatening. This fluid filled sac is filled with sebum which is an oily secretion that keeps dogs skin moist and waterproof. This type of growth normally looks like a small volcano on the surface of the skin. Often times it will resolve on its own but it could also wall off or rupture. If it ruptures above the skin, the area should be cleaned and disinfected several times a day. If it ruptures below the skin, a vet should be seen to assess the situation. Last but not least, the growth could be a tumor. It could be either benign or malignant depending on the cause. Parasites: Certain parasites can cause issues with the tail, specifically heart worms, hook worms, round worms, tape worms, and whip worms. Similar to hot spots, you may notice bald spots or hair loss around the base of the tail. The worms can irritate and inflame the area around the anus causing the dog to lick or chew his rear end area or tailpiece. Aside from vaccinations, there are several things you can do to help avoid those pesky parasites. Perianal Fistula: Perianal fistula, also known as anal furunculosis, is a nasty medical condition that is common in German Shepherds. It is characterized by tunnel-like lesions, sometimes puss filled, surrounding the anal area. It is very discomforting for a GSD and causes a lot of pain around the anal region, especially when they are defecating. Along with the pain of going potty, they may have chronic diarrhea. There are several symptoms including carrying his tail real low, a foul odor, blood in the stools, struggling to defecate, crying out during potty, and excessive biting and licking of the tail. The exact cause is unknown but the theory is that it starts with the oil and sweat glands being inflamed and then progresses from there. This condition is serious and painful and a vet should be seen immediately to diagnose the issue. They will most likely perform a physical and rectal exam to determine the cause. They will most likely do a biopsy of the cells surrounding the anal area. Unfortunately, 8 out of 10 times, this condition recurs so treatment is absolutely necessary. There are several treatments including antibiotics, diet enhancements, and oral medications like cyclosporine and ketoconazole. Treatment usually lasts around 2 months with a major chance for recurrence in most dogs. In Closing: The German Shepherd definitely has one of the coolest tail types of any dog breed. The sabre-like sword shape only adds to the appeal of their already beautiful and majestic look. You can learn a lot from their tail as far as health and communication. Learn how to read their mood using body language and your bond will grow stronger. If you notice any of the aforementioned tail problems, make sure to contact your local vet! Please leave a comment below and let us know what you think! What is your favorite tail type on a dog? Let us know! We would love to hear about your personal experience! Share this:. Most German Shepherds have straighter tails that hang down with a slight curve. As explained above, German shepherds typically have fairly straight tails. If the curl is tightly wound, held high, and raps around over the back over vertical , this suggests that your GSD likely has mixed genetics. The most common genetic mix causing a tightly curled tail would be from a breed in the spitz family, all of which have tails like this. Can we be sure of that? Typical German Shepherd tails follow the line of their croup lower back smoothly down to their hock joint ankle. When resting the tail should hang lower rather than high, predominantly straight but with a slight curve like a saber sword. When excited the tail will likely raise up and be held in somewhat of a higher position. Photo Examples: Source The end of the tail can sometimes be straight or slightly curled. Genetic make-up plays the most significant role in the appearance of your GSD, as do inherited faults and unique body structure differences. The only true way to know if your GSD is purebred is to have a DNA test done or have official documentation of both parents stating that they are purebred. Is it possible? This is very important to keep in mind. Additionally, tail positions change depending on their current mood, feelings, and temperament. Puppies that are excited and playful will almost always have a raised tail, but this might drop down when they are either calm, resting, nervous, fearful, or anxious. On the other hand, if your GSD puppy has an extremely curled tail that sits high over his back, this does point towards mixed genetics. Brush Regularly Most GSD owners already know that having a regular brushing routine is extremely important. The issue, however, is that the tail is often neglected for other pairs of the body such as the back and neck. The tail needs just as much brushing! Be sure to spend an extra couple of minutes focusing solely on the tail. The best brush for the tail would be a quality slicker brush. This is essentially a mini bath , without the hassle, and without risking those essential oils. A quick baby wipe of the tail will help keep muck, dirt, and bacteria from building up. This sensitivity then causes the GSD to curl the tail upwards. Although this makes sense, to a certain degree, there has been no scientific evidence or any substantial research to back up this claim. Redirection training will likely be your best bet, but this will take time and consistency on your part to ensure you redirect your GSD on to something else, every single time he tries biting his tail. Additionally, be sure to have a quick inspection of the bum area. Anal Furunculosis is another potential cause of tail biting. This is a chronic, progressive inflammatory disease and will need veterinary attention. A casual look and feel while your GSD is calm and relaxed in the evening times could get you in front of any potential problems. Last thoughts German Shepherds typically have straight tails that hang down with a slight curve, similar to that of a saber sword. If a German Shepherd has a tightly curled tail that sits high up, curling over the back, this is a strong indication that he has mixed genetics. What kind of tail does your German Shepherd have? Let me know if this article has helped you if you have further questions! Thanks for reading! The Puppy Mag makes an active effort to search for plagiarized content using plagiarism detection software. If plagiarized content is found, action will be taken. As such, they have to tell you what they feel and experience through body language, including positioning and wagging their tail. Here are 13 German Shepherd tail positions and what they mean: Tail raised high — alert and excited. Tail hanging down — troubled and submissive. Tail straight out — exploring and undecided. Tail low and wagging left — concerned or unhappy. Tail semi-raised and wagging right — happy. Tail raised and wagging fast — excited. Tail low and wagging slowly — lack of enthusiasm. Tail wagging with up and down broad strokes — very happy. Tail wagging in half-mast short strokes — anxious. Tail carried in a neutral position — relaxed. Tail loose and wiggly — happy. Tail held high and stiff — aroused and confident. Tail tucked between the legs — afraid. This article will explore these different tail positions in more detail so you can get to know your dog a little better. Hey there! As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also earn commissions if you purchase products from other retailers after clicking on a link from our site. The German Shepherd is quite creative at using its tail to communicate. It may be in a neutral, straight out, high, or half-mast position to convey arousal, relaxation, or anxiousness and can vary in meaning when accompanied by a fast or slow wag. A raised tail often comes with erect ears , which could be a sign that: The dog is ready to run and attack. The dog may make a move to face whatever is calling their attention. The dog may make a display of dominance. This is especially true if the raised tail is accompanied by very fast tail wagging, which appears to be vibrating. Stay alert when your German Shepherd has its tail raised high and vibrating as you may need to leash or crate them. If a slight wiggle or wag is added, your dog communicates appeasement. The dog could be meeting someone new — a person or dog — and is unsure what action to take. Your GSD could also be hearing noises whose meaning and origin they have yet to figure out. So when you see your German Shepherd with its tail straight out, just give it time to figure things out. I wanna chase the deer! She has seen some deer in the field, and her prey drive has kicked in! Research has shown that dogs tend to wag their tails to the right when happy, and the left side of the brain directs this tail movement. In fact, the mentioned research found that dogs wagged their tails to the right at the sight of their owner. It could be the joy of seeing you home again after work or of seeing you present his favorite food or toy, or when you arrive at a new place, and the excitement just takes over. However, your German Shepherd can show a fast wagging tail when anxious and ready for action in tense situations. The German Shepherd is meeting a strange dog and is unsure what role to take with the new conspecific. In either case, you should remove your German Shepherd from the uncomfortable situation. In this case, your German Shepherd will also accompany the tail wagging with other body signs of happiness like: A relaxed shaking of the entire body. A grin on its face. A soft open mouth. Your dog could also be showing a lack of enthusiasm and insecurity. If the half-mast short strokes are swift, your dog could simply be greeting and feeling tentative or hesitant about a move. Check out Willow in the above photo. Her tail is relaxed in its neutral position as she is undoubtedly chilled as she loves being in the woods. If the dog is relaxed and feeling extra happy, they may add a little wag to their loose tail. They may accentuate that with a side-to-side wag or in circular motion wags. Your German Shepherd will also have a loose and wiggly tail when the environment is relaxed, and if a gaze towards you accompanies that, they most likely want to play. Pay particular attention to your German Shepherd if it has a high and stiff tail combined with raised hackles , a wrinkled nose, and an open mouth with visible teeth. Together, these signs could be a warning to other dogs or strangers to back off. Your German Shepherd may be about to get aggressive. For example, your dog could be in pain or encountering someone or something that instills fear. The tail should be set smoothly into the croup or the rear end where the pelvis bone is and where the tail attaches to the rump. The tail is raised when in motion, and the saber-curve is emphasized, but not beyond a vertical line. That makes it easy for you to see the tail when you want to decipher the message that your German Shepherd is communicating with its tail position. Are you looking to buy something for your dog? Make sure to check out my favorite dog gear below. Unlike some breeds, they carry it low naturally, and an agitated, swishing tail is not ideal. If it curls under the dog, instead of being held out naturally straight from the body, the dog may be anxious and nervous. Long-coated Shepherds will have a fluffy plume, whereas short-coated dogs will have a sleeker tail. They will be between 18 and 36 months old before you can truly judge their tail type. While the dog is still developing, it can have a longer or shorter tail. Here are some common ones to look out for. High tails: usually a sign of alertness and excitement Hanging tails: troubled or submissive feelings Straighter than normal: exploring, but a little cautious Semi-raised and slowly wagging: usually happy Low and slow wagging: usually means unhappiness or concern Raised and fast wagging: Excitement Low and slow wagging: lack of enthusiasm, but responsive Very broad wagging: enthusiastic Short, curtailed wagging: can be a sign of anxiety Neutral: the dog is simply relaxed, alert, and happy Wiggly and loose: a happy puppy! It can be a sign of a mixed breed dog or a dog with a gene fault at the tail. Can Tails Get Sore? As an expressive part of the dog, tails can get sore or injured. However, these are some more severe problems to watch out for: Anal Furunculosis: This is a fancy term for an inflammatory skin disease around the tail and bum. Skin Infections: Like the rest of the body, the skin here can get infected. Because the skin is tight over the tailbone, it can be tough to treat too. Noted issues include chewing, allergy scratching, and itching. Dog bites can get infected too. Always treat skin issues at the tail seriously. The tail swells and is painful, it comes on about a day after exposure to freezing surfaces. Why do Dogs Chase Their Tails? Is It Bad? Pups and adult dogs alike may chase their tails simply for fun. But sometimes, it can turn into obsessive behavior. Luckily, training can help, especially with distraction and refocusing on toys or activities. What are the bad reasons for tail chasing? Small Spaces: The German Shepherd is a big dog, so narrow spaces can upset them. Stimulation: If your dog is under-exercised and stimulated, they can obsessively tail chase from boredom. Genetics: They may have the habit in their blood, or have learned it from parents. Stress: Anxiety can cause very dangerous tail chasing that often ends in injury, and you need to get to the root cause of the issue. It can cue you into their moods, and help you to avoid issues before they start. Likewise, knowing more about the breed standard for their expressive tail can help you identify potential issues with your dog and understand more about what makes them tick—or should we say, wag! Why is the bushy tail important for the German Shepherd Dog breed? The German Shepherd Dog has a well-groomed, natural appearance. The correct tail is slightly longer than the height at the withers and it should be thick and tapering. It rests low and is never curled over the back nor excitedly switching side to side. The tail is carried low and straightened, but never tightly curled over the back, more like a plume than a buggy whip. A dog with a correctly functioning tail will hold it straight out or to the side when he is working or moving and will curl it between his legs when he is nervous or unsure of himself. German shepherd tail types GSDs will have mainly 2 types of tails based on the coat type, there is single coat german shepherd which will have a normal tail and whereas double-coated dogs or long-haired german shepherds will have a bushy tail. German shepherd tail length GSDs tail length is not too short, or too long. A standard GSD tail length should be long enough that the tail end should reach the hock joint. It should be hanging with a slight curve like a cavalry sword when GSD is at rest. The curve should be emphasized, and the tail should be raised when the dog is moving. German Shepherd Tail Positions and their Meaning: 13 signs and their inner behavior explanation Tail Position Meaning Raised high and curved over the back This can indicate uncertainty or a cautious approach. The dog may be assessing the situation or feeling uncertain. Horizontal and straight Indicates a neutral or relaxed state. It shows that the dog is calm and content. Slightly raised and wagging A confident and alert posture, is often seen when the dog is excited, confident, or on high alert. Low and tucked between hind legs Indicates fear, anxiety, or submission. The dog may feel threatened or uncomfortable in its current environment. Slow wagging Can indicate uncertainty or a cautious approach. Rapid wagging Shows excitement and happiness. The dog may be thrilled or anticipating something enjoyable. Stiff and straight up A sign of alertness and heightened awareness. The dog may be assessing potential threats in its surroundings. The tail held to one side Can indicate indecision or curiosity. The dog may be observing or evaluating something of interest. Tail held straight down Usually a sign of relaxation or calmness. The dog may be in a neutral state or feeling at ease. Tail held loosely and relaxed Generally indicates a relaxed and comfortable state. The dog is at ease and not currently on high alert. Tail wagging in a circle An extremely happy and enthusiastic expression. The dog may be showing great joy and excitement. Tail vibrating or quivering Typically a sign of high arousal, intense excitement, or anticipation. The dog may be highly stimulated. Tail held high and wagging Indicates a friendly and confident demeanor. The dog is likely happy and open to social interaction. Tail tucked and wagging Can be a conflicting or mixed signal. It may suggest submission or fear, combined with a desire to appease or seek reassurance. German shepherd tail positions The tail is usually carried in a curve when the dog is at rest. When the dog is excited or in an emotional state, the tail will sometimes be carried up in a curve or in an even higher position, like a plume. The tail may be carried between the legs when the dog is nervous or is anticipating trouble. German shepherd tail problems and diseases GSD tails are not the only measure of their current sensibilities. Because it is genetically predisposed, it can also be preyed upon by many health-related problems. Anal Furunculosis Chronic inflammatory disease of the skin under the tail and around the anus, which is usually caused by an inefficient response of the immune system and genetics. But how GSDs carry their tail and thick coat around the anus is somewhat responsible. To prevent such a disease, fertility should only be between non-affected GSDs. Skin infection GSD is very difficult to treat for skin diseases on the tail. The tails usually do not have that much skin, so this area is prone to infection. German Shepherd Hair loss is caused by allergies to the tail, itching, and chewing, which can eventually lead to infection if left untreated. Incisions and scratches or even a dog bite on the tail are all causes of infection. Topical antibiotics look lovely for GSDs as they keep their wounds smiling. Oral antibiotics that provide the right dose are the best choice. This is usually due to overwork, injuries, or spending too much time playing in cold water. The tail muscles become swollen and painful within 24 hours after exposure to freezing cold water. Chronic confinement in narrow spaces can also trigger this syndrome. The prognosis for the limber tail syndrome is good because it goes away on its own. Using a warm compress can reduce swelling and pain, but some veterinarians may prescribe painkillers. Puppies or adult dogs chasing their tails can be fun. They try to catch their tails and scream when they catch it. There are many factors that contribute to this behavior. By simply analyzing the causes, employers can train their GSD to stop this behavior. Training them as a puppy is a good start. In adult GSDs, distraction can help. GSDs are large dogs so keeping them in a narrow space can cause them anxiety, causing the tail to chase. Due to lack of exercise and activity they chase their tails in circles and sometimes eight widths. Genetics may also be responsible for this behavior. This behavior may have been passed down to them by their parents. Stress and anxiety cause them to chase their tail until they injure themselves. So it is important to check for stress and anxiety triggers. Do German shepherds have curly tails? The short answer is yes, it is possible for GSDs to have curly tails. However, the fact that not all GSDs have curly tails leads to the question of whether or not German shepherds are capable of producing curly tails. A German Shepherd may have a tightly wound tail that wraps over the backside. You can check out the official standard here. The normal German shepherd could take somewhere between 18 to 36 months to complete their growth and become fully mature. The tail will continue to develop until the animal is two years old. However, the tail will start to change in appearance at around eight weeks. Dogs communicate through a combination of body postures, facial expressions, vocalizations, and tail movements. The dog may be thrilled or anticipating something enjoyable, such as playtime or seeing a familiar person. The dog may be assessing the situation or feeling unsure about how to respond. Slow tail wagging is often associated with a more reserved or tentative emotional state, where the dog may be evaluating the environment or displaying a milder form of engagement compared to rapid wagging. The tail is so important that the German Shepherd, registered with the American Kennel Club AKC , appears prominently on the official breed standard performance and confirmation guidelines. Here are the main points described in the racial standard: The tail should be bushy. The tail should extend to the hawk joint kept away from the body parallel to the ankle joint. The tail should not be short or docked cut. Dog owners who want to show off their German shepherd at dog shows or confirmation competitions run the risk of being disqualified or points deducted if they do not meet each performance guideline of their dog breed standard.

Exercise, Growth, and Joints Exercise Labradors not only love exercise, they need exercise. We all look forward to taking our puppy for a walk, however it is important not to over-exercise your puppy. In natural play, puppies will romp until they are tired and then stop to lay down for rest. When walking a puppy on a leash, they cannot stop when they normally would for rest. Too much exercise or walking can severely damage their bone and joint structures irreversibly. This should be taken seriously. THE RULE is: No more than 5 minutes of exercise for every month of age So that means, at 2 months old 8 weeks , your puppy only needs to exercise or walk for 10 minutes per day. At 3 months of age 15 minutes of exercise and so on. If you walk your puppy too far too soon, your puppy may develop hip and elbow dysplasia as they get older. Labradors have been known to develop dysplasia younger than other breeds of dogs. In many of these cases, it is often due to environmental factors such as over-exercise, running on hard or strenuous surfaces such as concrete or sand , continual jumping or agility work. Things to avoid with your puppy: No jumping in or out of car, especially larger cars. Lift the dog or use a ramp. No throwing balls or frisbee great distances for your puppy to chase. The sudden stopping and over reaching with the front legs is dangerous. No agility, jumping or flyball before years old Do not let other dogs knock or push the puppy over continually, includes body-slamming Avoid much stair climbing which can increase the risk of dysplasia No fast turns or roll-overs Good exercise: Swimming is great, since there is no weight-bearing impact on their joints. Remember, labradors love water! Walking on leash, for no longer than the recommended length of time for their age Self-directed play is an overriding rule for any puppy under 18 months old. The majority of exercise should be free play, exploring, and noodling around Hide and seek games are fantastic, as the dog can move at its own pace looking for its toy or treat or you. Size is a factor as large dogs, especially ones that like to play with paw whacks, can inadvertently injury a young puppy. Supervised play is critical. You need to teach the puppy a release command. All these games are forms of exercise for puppies and are a great way to help your puppy learn useful lifelong skills and qualities. Growth plates and bones: Development and injury Growth Plates Growth plates are soft areas that sit at the ends of the long bones in puppies and young dogs. They contain rapidly dividing cells that allow bones to grow longer until the end of puberty. Growth plates gradually thin as the hormonal changes approaching puberty signal the growth plates to close. In puppies, this closure normally completes between 18 to 24 months old in labradors. After sexual maturity, the growth plates calcify and the rapid cell division ends. The growth plates become a stable, inactive part of the bone, now known as an epiphyseal line. Dogs bones are held together with muscles, tendons and ligaments soft tissue. In an adult dog, if a joint experiences a stress such as bending the wrong way or rotating too much, the bones will hold firm and soft tissue will be pulled, resulting in a sprain or tear. Why this matters so much, is that unlike a sprain, injuries to the growth plate may not heal properly or not heal in time for the puppy to grow up straight and strong. Injury to a growth plate can result in a misshapen or shortened limb, which creates an incorrect angle to a joint resulting in yet more future injuries when he grows up, including dysplasia. These xray images show open and closed growth plates in a puppy and adult dog. Bone Strength In addition to having soft growth plates at the end of long bones, puppies bones in general are softer. Spiral fractures of the tibia lower leg bone are very common in puppies. A spiral fracture is where the bottom half of the bone twists in the opposite direction of the top half. Any exercise that puts torque twist on a bone puts the puppy at risk of a fracture. For an example, movements such as twisting and turning suddenly can cause these type of fractures. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia This is where we recommend you read our Health and Genetic Testing page, where we talk about hip and elbow dysplasia. It is critical that you, as a puppy owner, understand as much as you can about hip and elbow dysplasia, how you can help prevent it, and what your breeder should be testing for. On the other hand, an underfed or malnourished puppy or dog is also at higher risk of injury. Muscles mass directly influences strength, likewise inadequate calcium and nutrients affect bone density. A body condition score of about is healthy for a young puppy. Once an adult, the ideal body condition score would be about 5 for a healthy, fit labrador. Sterilisation Desexing In larger breeds, sterilising young puppies at a young age has shown to increase the risk of joint disorders and injury. We recommend sterilisation occurs between 24 months old for this reason. This recommendation is outlined in our Health Guarantee. We discuss this more under Desexing or Sterilisation. Post header Skip post header How much exercise does a Labrador need? Labradors are amongst the most popular family pets in the UK thanks to their loyalty, gentle nature, and intelligence. Like most dogs, they thrive with regular exercise, keeping them healthy and happy. How much exercise does an adult Labrador need? A healthy adult Labrador generally needs at least 80 minutes of high-quality exercise per day. Of course, when setting exercise goals for dogs with existing health issues including obesity , you should consult your vet first. What types of exercise are best for Labradors? When we say high quality, we mean just that. Try and incorporate off-lead time into their exercise routine and take a ball or toy to play fetch with — running will help to raise their heart rate and burn off more calories. How much exercise does a Labrador puppy need? For their first three months, your puppy will get enough exercise from tearing around the house, playing and causing chaos. How much exercise does an old Labrador need? At an advanced age, your dog will have less energy in general and be more likely to suffer from health issues that may limit their mobility. Be observant — being the loyal companions they are, Labradors will push through a lot of pain to keep up with you. Watch for excessive panting, changes in their movement, and exhaustion as signals that they have overstretched themselves and adjust their activity accordingly. Can you over-exercise a Labrador? Labradors have the capacity to build up incredible fitness that will see them on the go all day long, but for most, there is a limit on how much they can do. Gradually increase their activity levels, using a PitPat to check in on their progress. How far can a Labrador walk? A working Labrador could be expected to cover many miles every day through the undergrowth and even water. However, your pet Labrador will have slightly different stamina, depending on how much exercise they are used to. Getting out and about with your Labrador keeps them happy and healthy and can be a highly rewarding experience for you both. Download our app for free to see if PitPat is for you. You might also like Single page Single page Top 10 most active dog breeds Got energy to burn? Single page Single page 10 ways to exercise your dog indoors Whether you find yourself stuck indoors because of the weather or for any other reason, your dog still needs plenty of exercise. Here are our top tips for exercising your dog indoors. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Whether young or old, big or small, yellow, black, chocolate, from field lines or show lines, your Labrador needs exercise. It will keep their heart and muscles strong, their mind stimulated and their weight under control. But how much exercise does a Labrador need? Labradors Are a High Energy Breed The Labrador Retriever is a high energy working breed, initially bred for very physically demanding work retrieving game for hunters. This would involve all day hiking, running and swimming in sometimes difficult conditions. So Labrador Retrievers were bred to have lots of energy and be very active. And though their main role in life today is as a family pet, they still have those same genetics that made them suited to their original role. Dog Ball Thrower. Yes, you can throw a tennis ball extra far with the Chuckit, but two reasons why I love it: 1. In this state they will often resort to destructive behaviors such as digging and chewing…and will often be very restless, may bark excessively and try to escape your home and garden at every opportunity. Insufficient exercise can also lead to weight problems with Labradors. Excess weight is a problem because it can lead to all sorts of problems such as damage to their joints hips and elbows , heart disease, increased blood pressure and increases the risk of diabetes. So a lack of exercise leads to behavioral problems, hyperactivity and possibly an assortment of health problems. However, as a general rule of thumb, a normally healthy adult Labrador Retriever will need 1 hour of exercise every day. The more relaxed Labs just 45 minutes per day, the more energetic 1. This can be made up of running, swimming, playing fetch , jogging alongside you…anything that goes beyond a gentle walk. But if the first consideration is your Labradors age, how much do puppies and the elderly need? Nice for long runs with your Lab. If you have older dogs or children, the puppy may well try to keep up with them and over-exert themselves, playing to exhaustion and damage their developing joints. So keep an eye on them and interrupt play if need be, to give them plenty of rest. Once they are fully grown, they can go out for much longer. The 5 minute rule should be sufficient to keep your lab puppy fit, burn off excess energy yet not over-exert them and cause possible developmental issues. Continue the 5 minute rule until your puppy is at least one year of age where you can then begin to exercise them more vigorously. This is highly dependent on your labs overall health and can vary wildly from one Labrador to another. Some labs may need to slow down from the 7th year onwards, while others remain extremely active beyond their 10th year. As Labradors get older, many develop arthritis, dysplasia and other health issues that can prevent a Labrador from enjoying or needing exercise as much as they used to when young and healthy. They will likely still try to chase a tennis ball all day and hike mountains just to please you, even if it may be doing them more harm than good. Try not to put them in this position. As your Labrador ages, you need to be more observant , looking for changes in their movement, excessive panting, slowing down, feeling tired. And during grooming sessions and massage, check for any painful spots indicative of sore joints or other problems. We noticed Linus was stiff getting up in the morning and decided to try adding glucosamine to his diet. We saw a noticeable difference a few days later and an added spring in his step. If your Labrador tears around your home like a tornado. If your Lab displays any of the restless and destructive symptoms described above, try increasing their levels of exercise for a few days and see if their behavior problems improve. However, if you have money burning a hole in your pocket you might want to check out PetSafe Automatic Ball Launcher. Over-exercising very young and elderly Labradors can do more harm than good. For your adolescent and adult Labrador, exercise them well. As a general rule of thumb, aim for 1hr per day and scale this up or down depending on your Labradors individual needs. This could mean 45 mins for the more sedate and elderly, or 1. And at the end of the day, think of it like this: You have the best exercise machine to rival that of any gym to keep you fit and healthy yourself. And hey, what fun!!! What better motivation and need is there to keep yourself in shape? Do you mostly agree with the above? Please let us know in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Just like us, Labradors need plenty of exercise on a daily basis. Whether you have a young or old dog, they all need to get the blood flowing to stay healthy and live long happy doggie lives. Regular exercise with your Labrador is very beneficial for you both. Exercise stimulates neuron growth in the brain, encourages the production of endorphins with a known mood-boosting effect , helps strengthen your bones and muscles, improves blood pressure, and can significantly help with depression. Are you having a hard time figuring out how much exercise your lab needs? Answers vary drastically from one dog to another. The amount of exercise to give your Labrador depends mostly on the age of the dog. The key to taking your Labrador puppy out for exercise is to be patient. Some labs are athletic, and thus need more exercise than others. Also, certain Labradors are genetically programmed to be energetic and have high metabolism rates, whereas others are more laid-back. Here are some exercise guidelines a new lab owner can follow to make sure their dog gets the right workout. With older dogs or children, a lab puppy may well try to keep up with them and exhaust themselves before they reach their adult size and stamina. Hold off on structured games and other forms of heavy physical activity for the first three months. This will set the stage for long-term, healthy exercise habits. This rule states that you should take your Labrador puppy out for at least five minutes of exercise per month of age up to twice a day until he or she is fully grown. This can be anything from a walk around the block to a run in the dog park. How old your dog is will make a difference in their stamina. To determine how much exercise your dog needs, first take their age into consideration. Labs that are four years old and above need between one and two hours of exercise per day. The truth is Labradors can lead a perfectly healthy life with just an hour of daily active playtime. The Labrador Retriever was bred to retrieve game for hunters. That means they naturally love to play fetch. All you need is a toy for playtime and room for running around. Tug-of-War is less cardio-oriented but helps with muscle mass and body structure in growing dogs. Plus, they love it! It requires that you prepare your puppy with a proper agility training course. Agility training is great for completing a total-body, structured workout, while also providing mental stimulation for your labrador. This involves activities such as going through walkways, tunnels, and hurdles to reach the other end. You will need to train your lab to engage in the activity and this involves proper instruction. Find one that fits his size and abilities, as well as your own personal comfort level. Either due to space or having a small yard, it may be difficult to get their puppies out every day. The good news is that, with a little creativity, indoor exercise can be just as viable and fun! Here are a few ideas you can try at home. Try Treadmill Training Sessions With Dogs A dog can be trained to use a treadmill and enjoy it, but the experience will take time. Build an Obstacle Course for Your Labrador Use everyday things found around the home or office to create an obstacle course. It also boosts their energy levels and problem-solving skills. For example, you might use old boxes and trash bags to make a tunnel, chairs or stools to jump across, and other furniture for your puppy to climb. At first your puppy may not catch on, but with effective use of the treat and lots of encouragement, you can help it learn as it goes. Hide-and-Seek With a Treat! Hide a treat around the house, and let your puppy work to find it. As you hide treats around the room, remember to make sure they are not hiding somewhere that is unreachable. Tip 2. Make sure that all the activities are not just what you enjoy but what is enjoyable for the puppy. Otherwise, they may get frustrated and stop cooperating with you. Include treats and praise whenever they accomplish something. All dog breeds respond positively to lots of physical affection and verbal affirmation. This will make the activity more enjoyable for the puppy. Keep fun as the central theme and good health will flow. Tip 3. Make an Exercise Routine and Schedule for Your Dog Lab owners, take note: maintaining the health of an adult Lab is all about consistency. And this starts with walks at a young age. Take regular walks with your dog, no matter the weather conditions. Walk at the same time each day in order to create an exercise pattern that both you and your dog can stick to. Maybe you can get the puppy used to a leash and casually walk through your neighborhood with it. That way, you can vary the activity occasionally. In six months, increase the amount of time your dogs are running to 15 minutes. This keeps their energy high and stops weight gain as they mature. Conclusion As a dog owner, your foremost responsibility is protecting the health and safety of your pet. Insufficient exercise causes health problems in dogs , like hip dysplasia especially those already prone to hip or joint problems. Share on. Tweet on Twitter Puppy exercise requirements vary between different types of dog, and as a puppy grows the exercise they need will increase. It is possible to give a puppy too much exercise so I will give you a puppy exercise chart, as a guide to how far a puppy can walk at different ages. Taking your new puppy for a walk We all look forward to the day we can take our new puppy for a walk. For many people, daily dog walks is a huge part of why they bought a Labrador in the first place. Others already take quite small puppies for quite long walks and are surprised to discover that many experts believe this to be a bad thing. So just how much exercise does a puppy really need? How much exercise does a puppy need? This rule of thumb says that a puppy should have no more than five minutes of walking for every month of his age. So that would be fifteen minutes a day maximum for a three month old puppy, twenty minutes for a four month old and so on. This concern about excessive exercise has arisen because it is widely believed that exercise is a factor in the development of serious joint disorders. Especially in larger breed puppies such as Labradors Breeders are particularly concerned about hip dysplasia, a serious and complex disorder of the hip joints, that is believed to be influenced both by inherited factors passed from dogs to their puppies and by environmental factors In addition to factors influencing growth rates, the stresses and strains placed on the vulnerable growing joint by excessive exercise are believed to be a contributory environmental factor in the development of inadequate hip joints. It seems likely, that a puppy that had inherited a tendency for poor hips, could have its soft and still forming hip joints made a good deal worse through prolonged or hard exercise. It is also possible that a puppy that has inherited excellent hips, will come to no harm whatsoever through hard exercise. On the contrary, a certain amount of free running exercise is a good thing Running off-leash A Norwegian study published and which included labradors, showed that puppies given the opportunity to exercise off leash in a park before the age of three months were less likely to develop hip dysplasia HD , not more. Stair climbing The same study showed that puppies that had to climb stairs on a regular basis during the same period were at increased risk of HD You can read about this study in Science Daily. So what does this study tell us? Well, it is only one study, but it suggests that playing in a natural way, with other pups or simply running about at their own speed is probably going to benefit a small puppy Strenuous exercise Whereas more strenuous activity such as climbing hills and stairs, may not be such a good thing at a very young age. Another study has suggested that running hard for a retrieve, may not be great for joint health either. And some breeders also prevent dogs from jumping for the first twelve months to reduce impact on the shoulder and elbow joints. This may be especially important for some of the heavier breeds of dog, and those that are slow to mature. How far should my puppy walk? But how does that translate to distances walked? If you like to think in distances rather than time, a mile is around steps for an adult human and takes about twenty minutes at a moderate walking speed. So a maximum walk for a four month old Labrador might be about a mile. And of course if you are walking out and back again, that means not taking the dog more than half a mile from your home or car, whichever is your starting point. With young puppies, you need to keep a balance. Think about the overall energy your puppy is expending rather than focusing on walking alone. Walking is only one form of exercise and is no more valuable or important than games or training exercises. If you have been to visit a friend with your five month old pup and their dog has played for half an hour in the garden with yours, your dog does not need a walk as well. It is the total exercise that counts. How much exercise is too much? And you are bound to know of someone whose puppy had far more exercise than this and came to no harm. However taking a puppy for long walks or asking him to negotiate very steep or uneven surfaces when he is little, is probably a bad idea. Beware of letting a puppy play for too long with an older dog that does not want to stop. And keep an eye on children who may inadvertently exhaust a puppy by encouraging him to play when he needs to sleep. Crating your puppy when he is tired or overexcited, will enable you to make sure that your puppy gets some well deserved down time. Summary Young puppies need the time and space to run about freely, and free running exercise is beneficial. You do not need to attempt to prevent puppies playing in the garden, trotting about the house or playing with another young puppy for a while. Provided that the puppy is free to stop and rest whenever he wants. As far as we know at the moment, formal exercise — walking on a lead — for example, is probably best restricted using the five minute rule as an approximate guide. And strenuous exercise such as stair climbing, and chasing balls should be limited or avoided altogether in puppies under three months of age. Remember, an adult dog can become an amazing athlete, but like all athletes, fitness and stamina are best built up in gentle stages if injury is to be avoided. Do talk to your vet about exercise at your first appointment with your puppy. We are still learning about hip dysplasia. Research is ongoing, knowledge increases all the time. Your vet should be up to date with the latest information regarding the optimum amount of exercise for your new puppy. Published in April , the Happy Puppy Handbook covers every aspect of life with a small puppy. It will help you prepare your home for the new arrival, and get your puppy off to a great start with potty training, socialization and early obedience. This article was originally published in and has been extensively revised and updated for References Slater et al. Diet and exercise as potential risk factors for osteochondritis dissecans in dogs. Am J Vet Res. Sallander et al. American Society for Nutrition. Krontveit et al. Risk factors for hip-related clinical signs in a prospective cohort study of four large dog breeds in Norway. Learn more » While Labrador Retrievers are a popular companion dog worldwide, they were initially bred as sporting dogs and have retained a lot of their working prowess even after the shift to companionship. AKC compliant breeder Ruffwood Labs emphasizes that exercise is not a value of time exercised but exertion. Puppies According to Ruffwood Labs, Labrador puppies need to be walked for around 5 minutes for every month of life. So, a minute walk would be appropriate for a four-month-old puppy. However, not all walks are equal. Take into account the terrain that you will be walking on eg. The most important part is not the length of the exercise but the quality of it. Puppies are being walked to help with socialization and lead skills rather than a need for exercise per se. Let them guide the activity- sniffing and investigating or running around madly for a few minutes. They will usually stop and sit or lie down if they need a rest, let them do this. Additionally, Ruffwood Labs warns against overexercising your puppies. Hip dysplasia is multifactorial and genetics, diet and exercise all play a part. Ruffwood Labs recommends that Labrador puppies not be vigorously exercised and kept away from stairs to avoid causing damage to their delicate, growing joints. Once they are mature, by 18 months, they will be able to engage in more vigorous exercise and start to go jogging with you if you wish. Your average labrador would enjoy around 1 to 2 hours of exercise a day but this can be divided into manageable time slots. Exercise also includes brain stimulation such as training and scent work. So your morning and evening walks can be supplemented with training sessions at home too. Labradors love to swim and this can be a great form of exercise for them. Get creative, play games, use puzzle feeders and have fun together building your bond. If you see any of the following signs while exercising your Labrador, stop the activity and let your dog rest. Damage to the Paw Pads Some dogs get so absorbed in their play that they accidentally put excessive strain on the paw pads. Even though paw pad injuries are typically painful, some dogs will ignore the very clear sign that they need to stop to continue playing. Soreness or stiffness will typically become visible once your dog has rested up following their play session. Image By: SeventyFour, Shutterstock Behavioral Changes If your dog is not quite themselves or behaving oddly, especially around the time you would typically exercise, this is a good sign that something is wrong. Your dog may be feeling under the weather, or maybe you went a little too hard the day before. If the problem persists, contact your veterinarian to rule out any medical diagnoses. Injury or Heat Intolerance If your dog is injured during play or starts showing signs of heat sickness , you should halt play immediately and bring them to a veterinarian. Prompt treatment is of the essence with these kinds of situations. Final Thoughts Exercising your dog is a critical component of being a dog owner. So, it makes sense to learn as much as you can about how to properly keep your dog healthy before you get one. So, keep that in mind before bringing your new dog home. May 9, Aug 12, This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. You want to show off your new labrador retriever puppy. Is it safe to walk your puppy outside? How far can you walk a puppy? Or is it time for a puppy stroller? Puppies usually receive a series of vaccinations starting at six to eight weeks old. Some say wait another two weeks until the vaccinations are fully effective before taking him to places where other unknown dogs may have been. As far as getting our puppies out and about we follow the guidelines set forth by the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior. The Primary and Most Important time for puppy socialization is the first three months of life. During this time puppies should be exposed to as many new people, animals, stimuli and environments as can be achieved safely and without causing overstimulation manifested as excessive fear, withdrawal or avoidance behavior. For this reason, the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior believes that it should be the standard of care for puppies to receive such socialization before they are fully vaccinated. They grow more quickly than their smaller counterparts but mature more slowly. Exercising a larger breed puppy too much can lead to orthopedic problems and arthritis. Also, brachycephalic dogs with short muzzles like pugs and shih tzus have a lower tolerance for exercise because they can overheat more easily and have more difficulty breathing. And some breeds, like working, herding, and sporting dogs have a higher exercise need even as a puppy. So your border collie, golden retriever , labrador retriever etc. A rule of thumb is a puppy can walk five minutes for every month of age starting at eight weeks. So a two-month-old puppy can walk about 10 minutes. And a three-month-old can walk for 15 minutes; and a four-month-old for 20 minutes. And so forth. Of course these are general guidelines. Important Considerations When Walking Your Puppy In addition to how far your puppy should walk, there are many things to take into account regarding his excursions. Over weeks, build his endurance. He may have to potty or be thirsty. Avoid the hottest or coldest parts of the day Young puppies can be susceptible to temperature extremes. They may overheat and suffer from heat exhaustion, which can be deadly. In cold weather, puppies may require a coat or sweater to help keep them warm. Breeds with short muzzles such as shihs tzus or Lhasa apsos are especially susceptible to extremes of weather. And salt to melt snow can be dangerous to our dogs too. Places that are slippery can be dangerous for you and your dog to explore. Also, areas with sharp surfaces are hazardous. This can especially occur with blacktop. Also try not to walk him on surfaces that have any chemicals, such as salt to melt snow or weed control, as some are toxic to dogs. Get him used to grass, pavement, and dirt trails. Note From Colby: This is uber important for service dog puppies in training. If a service dog cannot walk across sand, grass, pavement, metal grates, etc without any kind of reaction, then the dog is not suitable as a working service dog. A walk or two a day as well as other play should be enough. Remember not to go so far on other walks, as you have to take into account the portion of the walk returning home. If at any point your puppy seems to be lame, limping or otherwise showing discomfort, end the walk. If your puppy shows any lameness, a vet visit is in order. Give your puppy a few exercise sessions a day You can break up his walk and give him two or three short walks a day. A little fetching his favorite toys can help meet his needs. Some free running in the house or safely enclosed yard can be fun for him. Stuffed Kongs and puzzle toys can help exercise his mind. Remember: He needs physical exercise as well as mental stimulation. Remember to bring the essentials Poop bags and water are important on your walks. You can bring a collapsible bowl or a water bottle with a built-in bowl so your puppy can drink. Be visible! There are reflective and lighted vests , leashes , collars , and harnesses you can purchase. Why Walk Your Puppy on a Leash? He can get exercise other ways such as playing fetch or playing with another friendly pup. But to be able to properly socialize your puppy, he needs to be taken to places on a leash. And socialization involves not only having him meet friendly people and dogs but also exposing him in a positive manner to new sights, sounds, experiences, and footings. There are many benefits to walking your dog, in addition to socialization, including: Physical and mental exercise Your new puppy wants to explore the world with you. In order to grow up to be a healthy adult, your pup requires both. New sights and sounds will stimulate him and help him grow into a well-rounded adult. Weight control Regular short walks will help keep your puppy fit and at the correct weight for his age and breed or mix. Bonding time Regular walks also provide a time for you and your puppy to bond. You puppy will learn that fun, enjoyable things happen when you both interact. And the walks will help provide a basis for a life-long bond with your pup. Reduces unwanted behaviors Exercise helps lessen destructive behaviors. A well-exercised puppy is less likely to engage in destructive chewing, jumping, digging, and other undesirable behaviors. Have him perform a sit. Work with attention. Practicing training exercises he already knows while on his walk will help him learn to do them in everyday life, with distractions. Lessens anxiety and stress The socialization and real-life experiences help a dog cope better with everyday life. There can be too much of a good thing. Even though we want our pups to get a sufficient amount of exercise, we can overdo it. Following the above guidelines should lead to a safe amount of exercise. Too much walking and exercise can also lead to arthritis developing early in life. Too much exercise can lead to severe exhaustion and limping A puppy can get over-tired and even over-heat. Just like when we overdo it, he may have sore muscles and may limp. A vet visit is in order if you see him limp. Over-exercising even can lead your puppy to being more vulnerable to injuries. Too much exercise can cause injuries to heal incorrectly If you exercise a puppy with injuries, he may not heal correctly. Final Thoughts Walking your puppy has many health and socialization benefits. But a walk with your new puppy can be a bonding experience. As a plus, you can show him off to your friends. What about you guys? How much do your walk your puppy? Tell us about your experiences in the comment section below. Related Articles:. But you should be safe walking your 10 week old Lab puppy for 30 minutes at least once a day, for example. A half-hour is a safe distance for most puppies at 8 weeks, 10 weeks, 16 weeks, etc. It comes down to common sense. A Jack Russell terrier puppy might be more energetic than a cocker spaniel puppy, for example. Benefits of walking your puppy, even at 8 weeks old 1. Slow, steady walking helps puppies build strong muscles. See my post: Why is my puppy so wild at night? Many of the young dogs in shelters are there for behavioral problems related to poor socialization and too much energy. Click Here. How much exercise is too much for a 10 week old puppy? That will get you the amount of time, in minutes, that you should walk your puppy per day. For example, an 8-week-old puppy can walk for 10 minutes a day. A week-old puppy can walk for 15 minutes per day. And a 4-month-old puppy can walk for 20 minutes a day. I do not believe in following this equation. It highly underestimates the amount of walking a healthy puppy can safely do. If you were to follow the above equation, then a 6 month old puppy would only be walking 30 minutes per day. Puppy walking schedule I strongly do NOT believe in following the above puppy walking schedule. Instead, use common sense based on the puppy in front of you. They are all so different depending on breed, size and personality. My puppy on a walk I have a Weimaraner puppy, and this dog would be at the humane society by now if I had to follow that silly puppy walking equation. Instead, I believe in using common sense and taking your puppy for short walks 20 to 30 minutes or so, twice per day if he seems comfortable. Read it when you have time. What kind of exercise is safe for a puppy? Walks will naturally be slow with puppies. Visiting the park or going on a slow stroll are both great ideas for exercising a puppy. Using a long leash is also a great idea in an open area because you can let the puppy sniff and explore at his own pace. For more ideas: see our post on exercise ideas for puppies. How far can I walk my puppy at 16 weeks? Each puppy is unique! I was comfortable walking my week-old puppy Remy for about 35 minutes at least once a day. Ideally twice. In addition to that, Remy ideally got the opportunity to run and play at his own pace off leash for 20 minutes or so each day. Weimaraners are fit and lean. They run all day in the field. They are designed for endurance! How far should you walk your puppy? When can your puppy go for a walk? A slow, minute stroll should be safe for most puppies 8 weeks or older. They are the experts and can give you the best advice. No one really knows. There are no studies that say walking a puppy will damage his joints. I will update this post if that ever changes. What it comes down to is you know your puppy better than anyone else. Dog owners mean well and sometimes people feel the need to share their very strong opinions about not to walk a puppy too far. I would say, trust your gut and be reasonable. If you are concerned, then back off a bit. I personally lean on the side of providing as much exercise as possible, within reason. For me, that meant about two min walks a day for my puppy. But as with everything else in the dog world we all have to make our own decisions. Factors to consider when exercising your puppy Walking my 4 month old weimaraner puppy 1. Puppy shots before walking your puppy. If your puppy is not fully vaccinated, he has a greater risk of catching parvo or other diseases on walks. Another post all together. For example, my puppy grew up in a nice neighborhood near San Diego and our vet said there was very little risk of our puppy getting sick as nearly all dogs in our area were vaccinated and leashed. So I was comfortable taking my dog for neighborhood walks but I waited on the dog park and dog beach until he was fully vaccinated. Some breeds are more prone to joint issues than others. For example, we got a Lab puppy in , and our breeder recommended we do not run with our Lab until he is fully matured. Walks, however, would be OK. Sophie the springer spaniel puppy at 8 weeks My plan is to take it a little more cautious with our Lab vs. My Lab is also waaaaay less energetic than my weimaraner. My Lab pup is about 5 months old now and we head out for two 1-mile walks per day. Genetics affect how far a puppy can walk. Other factors include weight, overall health and diet. Overweight dogs and puppies will struggle more. There are many studies now that say puppies that are spayed or neutered that young are much more likely to tear their ACLs down the road and develop all sorts of health problems. For this reason, I did not have my weimaraner puppy neutered until he was 10 months old. I do not plan to neuter our Lab, but if I do I will try to wait until he is at least 18 months old and close to being physically mature. However, if your puppy is already spayed or neutered, do not worry. Rescues and shelters typically spay or neuter puppies as young as 8 weeks old, for example. This is what it is. My puppy Remy Can you walk a puppy too much? Your puppy will most likely be just fine! Just use common sense from here on out. How old should puppies be to hike? If you take your puppy hiking, you should follow the same approach as you would with walking. Carry your puppy if he gets tired! Even 45 minutes to an hour is great for older puppies. Each puppy is different, though! Each area is different depending on dog traffic, wildlife, etc. Most likely, if you start walking, your puppy will follow you. Reward her with treats and praise. If your puppy is already starting to pull you, here are my tips for loose-leash walking. When can I walk my puppy around the neighborhood? I took both my 8-week-old puppies for minute walks through our neighborhood right away. The only reason you might want to wait on walking your puppy in the neighborhood is if your puppy still needs some vaccinations. This is only the case if there is a higher risk of parvo or distemper in your area. When can puppies be around other dogs? This is a good question for your vet. This is a great way to work on training and socialization at the same time. My puppy with my adult dog When can my puppy visit the dog park? As far as dog parks go, I personally prefer to keep my puppies away from dog parks for at least the first 6 months. I do not want to scare my puppy during this important socialization window. However, you might think about taking your puppy to a dog park during the middle of the day during the week or late in the morning when it is quieter. Socializing with one or two friendly dogs might be a positive experience for your puppy. Leave if your puppy is scared or overwhelmed. OK, enough from me! What is your approach on how far to walk a puppy? How do you find the right balance for puppy exercise? Let me know in the comments! Best Products for Walking Puppies 1. Treat Pouch: A treat pouch allows you to easily carry treats so you can help your puppy focus. This is helpful on walks as well as for short training sessions. Other resources:.

Breed Title Mini Bernedoodle Temperament While Mini Bernedoodles are famous for their high energy and willingness to go on adventures with their owners, they make extremely versatile pets. If you adopt one of our Mini Bernedoodle puppies for sale, be prepared for a loyal companion — with moderate exercise needs — who will want to follow you around wherever you may go! Ideal for families, the Mini Bernedoodle develops particularly strong bonds with small children. Known for its loving and protective nature, our Mini Bernedoodle puppies for sale will quickly develop a lifelong bond with your child — filled with hours of play and adventures. Mini Bernedoodle Health Considerations When it comes to health, the Mini Bernedoodle breed is robust and enjoys relatively high longevity — with an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years. However, like all dog breeds, your Mini Bernedoodle puppy has its own unique health considerations to keep in mind prior to adoption. At Keystone Puppies , we take care to breed dogs with the highest standards of ethical integrity—free of common congenital defects. To learn more, read about the Keystone Puppies Health Guarantee! Dogs with straighter coats may trigger allergies. One of the most popular features of our Mini Bernedoodle puppies for sale is the curly coil they inherit from their Poodle parent. Hypoallergenic , these dogs are ideal for owners with allergies who may not be able to tolerate a purebred Bernese Mountain Dog. While you should brush your Mini Bernedoodle puppy at least two to three times a week—to ensure fur its coat stays healthy, shiny and unmatted— it is not recommended that you bathe your pup more than once a month, as the soap strips away vital natural oils that keep skin healthy and moisturized. All our Mini Bernedoodles for sale come in a variety of coat color combinations including black and brown, black and white, white and brown and all black. Meet Mini Bernedoodle Puppies for Sale. You've come to the right place. Here, at Premier Pups, our Mini Bernedoodles are happy, healthy, and ready to embark on a life-long journey with their new families. These puppies are raised with love and cared for by the best in the business. We align ourselves only with the best breeders that meet our high standards. All our Mini Bernedoodles come with a year health guarantee that backs up our Premier Promise. Nationwide delivery is available for all out-of-state customers looking to adopt a Mini Bernedoodle. The beautiful Mini Bernedoodles are a blend of fluffy looks and darling personalities. They can be small or medium depending on their generation, but regardless of their size, they are simply adorable. Mini Bernedoodles are designed to be loyal and loving companions for equally loving owners. They thrive in a setting where attention and fun are plentiful. We partner with the best dog breeders in the nation to offer you healthy, happy Mini Bernedoodle puppies. Find your dream Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle mix puppy today! A few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups. Call Lulu's F1b puppies have arrived, and will be ready to go to their new homes November 5th. Our family has been breeding designer doodles for over 15 years. All of our dogs live in the house as part of our family "pack". Both of these hybrids are an excellent fit for families with kids and other pets. They are intelligent, loving, goofy and loyal -- the perfect fur bestie! As responsible NY breeders, we provide home-raised, well-socialized, healthy puppies one litter at a time. All of our puppies come with a health certificate from our local veterinarian, and are up to date with vaccines and deworming at the time they go to their forever family. They are covered by our genetic health guarantee. Our parent dogs are DNA-tested and certified disease free. When your fur baby comes home to you, it has begun litter pan and crate training, is bathed and knows how to get its nails trimmed. Best of all, your puppy will know how to be part of a family and will be accustomed to other pets. We spend lots of time with our puppies daily, so they leave here knowing how to be a confident and secure member of your family. Call or text Robin at for more information, or fill out the contact form below. I'll get back to you right away. Contact me Interested in becoming a Mini Bernedoodle parent? Drop me a line, I'll get back to you right away! First name. For instance, you can expect the adoption fee for a Mini Bernedoodle rescue dog to be slightly higher than Standard-sized dogs. In addition, younger puppies tend to be more expensive than adult and senior dogs. Most Bernedoodles live between 12 to 18 years without major health complications, so you can expect them to be a significant part of your life for several years. It Can Take Time for Your Bernedoodle to Get Along with Your Other Pets Bernedoodles for adoption might have an unknown background, so it might be difficult to tell if they can get along with other dogs, cats, or other pets in their new homes. Before applying to adopt a dog, be sure to ask the rescue if the dog is good around other animals. If your new dog is good around other pets, consider introducing them to each other in neutral territory. Keep their interactions brief, but gradually increase their time together and reward your pets if they express positive reactions to each other. This process can take longer for some dogs, so you should remain patient and monitor them whenever possible. Yearly and monthly pet budgets can differ from owner to owner, but you can expect to spend thousands of dollars a year to keep your Bernedoodle happy and healthy. View Our Available Puppies! You should not confuse Mini Bernedoodles with Standard Bernedoodles. Our adorable Mini Bernedoodle are of the F1 variety. All the doodle moms are purebred Genetic Tested Bernese Mountain dog females. Our mini Bernedoodle pups usually end up weighing pounds and around inches tall when full grown. Most Mini bernedoodles live to be around years old. Mini Bernedoodles have become really popular because they shed very little after they shed their puppy coat, they are very hypoallergenic. We have specialized in breeding Mini Bernedoodles as well as a few other breeds for many years. They are a big part of our family and farm. We have also partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. We usually have a good selection of very high quality doodle puppies. So if you live near Amherst New York and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Bernedoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are a few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups!

These dogs are known for their lively personality and cute, furry appearance. Toy Poodles are also intelligent and highly trainable. In addition, Toy Poodles are relatively small dogs, which makes them a good choice for people who live in apartments or other small spaces. If you live an active lifestyle and are seeking a fun-loving and intelligent furry friend, look no further than the Toy Poodle. Toy Poodle Puppies Health Considerations Though generally very healthy and long-lived — with an average lifespan of around 14 to 16 years — our Toy Poodles for sale are not without their unique health concerns. Like every breed of dog, there are a few conditions you should be aware of before you consider purchasing one of our Toy Poodle puppies for sale. Understanding the risks allows you to know the signs and prevent small health concerns from turning into big ones. This is caused by the soft palate becoming irritated, and can be triggered by excitement or allergies. While it may seem alarming, reverse sneezing is not harmful and will resolve on its own. Another common health concern in Toy Poodles is luxating patellas. This occurs when the kneecap slips out of place, and can cause pain and lameness. Luckily, luxating patellas can be effectively treated with surgery. Finding a Toy Poodle puppy for sale from a reputable breeder can dramatically — although, not eliminate — the risk of your dog developing some of these conditions. The coat can be either curly or corded, and it comes in a variety of colors, including black, white, brown, and apricot. Toy Poodles require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and free of mats. Daily brushing is necessary to prevent the hair from tangling, and the coat should be clipped every six to eight weeks. In addition to regular brushing and clipping, Toy Poodles also need to have their teeth brushed daily and their nails trimmed on a monthly basis. By taking care of their coats, Toy Poodles can stay healthy and happy for many years to come. Meet Toy Poodle Puppies for Sale. Poodle are lap dogs that do well in homes and apartments alike and require very little space compared to other breeds. Poodle puppies are a non-shedding and hypoallergenic breed, which makes them the perfect pet for people with allergies and issues with pet dander or asthma. Here at Puppy Petite, We specialize in small breeds like Poodle and also the designer breed called Teacup Poodles as well. We generally have a nice selection of Teacup Poodles for people who want a small enough puppy to take everywhere with them, Poodle are very popular and are available at our Brooklyn New York location. Feel free to pass by Puppy Petite in Brooklyn to view our adorable and available Poodle puppies. We are available seven days a week for your convenience. We have been breeding and selling Poodle puppies for over 25 years now and have the experience and knowledge to help find the perfect Poodle puppy for you. We can text or email you photos of current Poodle puppies that are available for new homes at .Our staff is available to answer questions and provide you with specific care instructions in order to make the puppy-buying process as easy as possible for you. We receive new Poodle frequently and post pictures on our website when new ones arrive. Be sure to check our site for the most up-to-date Poodle puppies available. We do not ship Poodle puppies to you. You must pick up your Poodle puppy in person at our Staten Island location. To coordinate a pick-up time or see our Poodle puppies in person, please call us at .Which Poodle puppies do you sell? The price of our Poodle puppies varies on breed and the litter. Please contact us for specific questions on price and Poodle puppy availability at puppypetite aol. A Poodle puppy is best for you if you have Poodle the time available to give them the attention and care they need. After all, they are essentially babies and cannot be left alone. They will also need to be housebroken and trained. While Poodle puppies are very cute and fun, they do require a higher level of care for a few months after bringing them home - it helps to know this ahead of time so that you can be prepared and give yourself and your new Poodle puppy the most enjoyable experience possible. How do I potty train my new Poodle puppy? All Poodle puppies can learn to be house-broken, but it takes time to teach them where to use the restroom whether it's on a pad at first or outside. The key is to be consistent, showing them every single day where they use the bathroom. For example, this might mean taking them outside first thing every morning, at lunchtime, and again in the evening. With enough practice and time, your Poodle puppy will learn. Where do your Poodle puppies come from? We have a group of private breeders who breed dogs within the home. This ensures our Poodle puppies are well-socialized and have a healthy temperament. Are your breeders USDA registered? Yes, each of our breeders is registered with the USDA. Which Poodle puppy breed is best for me? If you have questions about our puppy breeds, we encourage you to contact us. Our knowledgeable staff is more than happy to answer any questions you might have in regards to our Shih-Tzus, Chihuahuas, Maltese, Yorkies and Poodle. This can also include questions regarding but not limited to pet grooming, which dog food to purchase for Poodle puppies, any pet products they might need, and questions about their personality based on breed. What are the subway directions to your Poodle puppy store in New York? Take the D or M train to 79th street in Brooklyn. Walk up 1 block to 80th street. Our address is 17th Avenue. Whether you are coming from Long Island, the West Village, or the Upper West Side, our store is easy to get to for your purebred puppies. Please call or text. Life Span Did You Know? Breeders developed Toy Poodles in 18th century England as smaller versions of their German predecessors. The Toy Poodle began to represent social status, and nobles would decorate their dogs in high fashion of the time. They became so popular, in fact, that they were one of the first toy breeds recognized by the Kennel Club. Toy Poodles are smart cookies. Their intelligence is one of their predominant features, and is often showcased during obedience training. These dogs have tremendous problem-solving capabilities that make them ideal for competitions. On the other hand, this same intelligence makes for an easily bored pup. They need mental stimulation, like challenging games and toys , to keep their busy minds occupied. The Toy Poodle may also be suspicious of strangers and slow to warm up to new people. This dog breed can adapt to a wide range of living situations due to their small size. As a matter of fact, they have trouble dealing with any kind of alone time. As such, the Toy Poodle is an excellent companion animal for people who love a little company. There are a few health conditions that Toy Poodles are more susceptible to than other dog breeds. For example, they may suffer from eye disorders, like cataracts, or blood clotting disorders, like Hemophilia. Because of their size, they may also bear the risk of dental crowding, kneecap migration, or trachea instability. With regular visits to the veterinarian, many of these potential health concerns can be comfortably managed. Owners typically have an easy time during obedience training with Toy Poodles. Their intelligence often hastens the training process. However, they can present destructive tendencies when left to their own devices for too long. Toy Poodles have famously low-shedding coats. They lack undercoats, so their shedding is minimal. Their fur is hypoallergenic and mats rather than sheds. These pups will only need to be groomed to prevent matting and increase shine. Usually, brushing your Toy Poodle once or twice a week and grooming every six weeks is sufficient. As a small dog breed, they are more prone to developing dental disease so good dental care is important. Poodles are an active breed in general, and Toy Poodles in specific are just as active. After a few laps around the kitchen, the Toy Poodle will tire out and happily sit by their owners during daily activities. The Toy Poodle stands at a mighty inches at the shoulder. Their weight ranges from pounds and usually averages around 8 pounds. Toy Poodles usually live 12 — 15 years. The Poodle coat is built for the water and even the Toy Poodle tends to have excellent, practically innate, swimming abilities. Featured Toy Poodle Article. While most people associate Poodles with France, the Toy Poodle was developed in the early s in Germany. They are known for their good looks, but the truth is they are elegant athletes. These tiny pups are proud, active, and smart. They have many talents that are shown off in dog shows around the world. Toy Poodles have a short curly coat that requires regular grooming. Toy Poodles are great as a family dog or a companion. They were bred in Germany from a variety of small dog breeds in order to enjoy the benefits of a Standard Poodle in a smaller package. With intelligence and spunk in a portable size, you can take your little Toy Poodle puppy just about anywhere that allows dogs. In addition to their adorable faces and lively personalities, you have a ton of options in colors and markings when looking for toy poodles for sale. Find out characteristics, activity level, disposition, training, grooming, and costs of raising a Toy Poodle puppy for sale. Characteristics Did you know the AKC recognizes at least 27 colors and color combinations in a Toy Poodle puppy for sale, not to mention several markings? Toy Poodles for sale will stop growing around months and will not grow more than about 10 inches tall. They sport a squarish body, long nose, drooping ears, an elegant appearance, and carry themselves with an air of pride and confidence. Activity Level A Toy Poodle will not sit around and look pretty! Toy Poodle puppies for sale are lively, hardy, agile, and athletic despite their tiny size. They have a lot of energy and will need to burn it off in order to stay engaged. Toy Poodle puppies have lots of fun at small breed dog parks, going on daily walks, and participating in other activities like swimming or agility courses to fill up 45 minutes to 1 hour of daily exercise. Disposition Toy Poodle puppies sometimes are viewed with preconceived notions. You may assume when you look for a "Toy Poodle puppy for sale near me" that Toy Poodles are snobby and fancy. However, quite the opposite is true. Toy Poodle puppies are devoted, fantastic companions who adore their owners and love to make them laugh with their silly antics. A Toy Poodle puppy for sale is a great choice for an individual or a family with older children, as smaller children may not understand how to properly handle a tiny breed. Their loving temperament makes Toy Poodles for sale excellent emotional support animals. Training Because a Toy Poodle puppy is extremely intelligent and eager to please, they are some of the easiest dog breeds to train. A Toy Poodle puppy for sale loves being the center of attention, so proper socialization combined with fun tricks will make your Toy Poodle puppy the star of the show. It's especially important to give your Toy Poodle puppy the basis for good manners if you frequently take them out in public. If you're considering Toy Poodles for sale, keep in mind that it's easy to instill healthy social skills in these clever pups. In fact, Toy Poodle puppies for sale are great candidates for tracking and agility competitions alike. Whatever gives them a chance to follow commands, show off, and win is going to be a fun activity for a Toy Poodle puppy. Their longer, curly, soft hair needs regular care and attention, but the extra time you put into grooming will pay off in spades. Although Toy Poodles are hypoallergenic and aren't prone to shedding, they still need regular appointments at a grooming service to keep their coat looking fabulous. That's because a Toy Poodle puppy has hair and not fur like some other breeds. Daily brushing keeps tangles and mats at bay, removes dirt, and distributes oils. Teeth and nails will also need regular maintenance. If you're searching for "Toy Poodle puppies for sale near me," you may be curious what all the different coat cuts are called. The Continental clip is what you may think of when you hear "Poodle" and features pompoms on the tail, hips, ankles, and top of the head with other areas shaved closely. The Sporting clip features a uniformly cut coat with a pompom at the end of the tail. There are at least 8 other cuts you can choose from! Whatever cut you choose, it's important to stay on top of their grooming needs. Cost You may think because Toy Poodle puppies for sale are so tiny that they may not cost a lot, when in reality, they will need care beyond the base price to maintain their health. Grooming costs can be significant but necessary. You will also need to budget for other regular costs such as high-quality nutrition, vet visits, and more. Because of their petite size, you may find you enjoy dressing up your Toy Poodle puppy for sale in various clothing and accessories. Be sure to watch how much you spend, as your Toy Poodle puppy could easily end up with a fancier wardrobe than you own for yourself! A Toy Poodle puppy for sale can live to be and can live years with a happy, long life thanks to responsible, trustworthy, and knowledgeable breeders. While mostly healthy, Toy Poodles can experience certain health issues such as luxating patellas, hip dysplasia, eye disorders, von Willebrand's disease, and epilepsy. Why Pawrade? Finding a reputable breeder has never been easier If you've been searching "toy poodles for sale near me", then you're in the right place! Finding a toy poodle dog for sale online has never been easier or safer. Pawrade is dedicated to connecting loving families with a dog that needs a home. Using Pawrade to browse for a Toy Poodle for sale is a reliable way to ensure that you get a dog from a reputable breeder. Our focus is on the health of the dog and ethical, sustainable breeding practices. We ensure that the breeders on our platform are genuine, so you have peace of mind in knowing that you are receiving exactly what you expect. If you've always dreamed of owning this type of dog but aren't sure where to buy Toy Poodles, choose Pawrade and begin a new chapter in your life today! Stop searching for "Toy Poodle puppies near me" — you've come to the right place! We understand just how difficult it is to find a legitimate breeder, so we've put our experience and expertise to work for you. Why wait any longer? Browse through our vast selection of puppies for sale from a safe and reputable source. No Puppy Mill Pledge We have zero tolerance toward puppy mills and pride ourselves in connecting you with honest and reputable breeders where puppies are raised with love and compassion. Learn More Health Guarantee As fellow puppy owners, we know the importance of having a happy and healthy puppy. Every puppy is backed by our comprehensive health guarantee.

We also raise a limited number of black and chocolate English Labradors throughout the year. Our dogs and pups are our life and passion; each pup we raise is lovingly cared for- from the time of birth, until the time of adoption into their forever home. We hope you enjoy your visit to our site; please stay awhile and browse through our gorgeous photos. From the time of birth to the time of adoption into their new homes, Redwood pups are spoiled with the best of everything. Along with the superior care that our pups receive, it is of equal importance to us that our adults also are given the best care possible. Each adult is a part of our family, and treated that way. It's important to us that they are properly trained, loved, and are well behaved just as a single family pet would be. We spend numerous hours with our dogs each day, ensuring they receive plenty of play time and proper exercise. This is, and always will be our 1 Goal as breeders. We carefully select each and every dog for our breeding program, so as to remove potential health issues in our pups before they exist. We are the proud parents of the smartest, sweetest, most laid back lab, Gracie. Steve Karp and family are incredible to work with and truly care for their puppies and the families who adopt from them. If I could give stars, I would! If you're searching for a lab, look no further. Kara Bunbury We cannot say enough great things about M. Steve is very hands on throughout the entire process- sending weekly updates until the pups come home and remaining in contact thereafter. Everywhere we go people ask what breeder he came from. We got many very cute updates on our soon to be little puppy. We feel honored to be apart of the Michigan Elite Labrador family! Jill Price We were looking for a pure bred lab but were very skeptical about many breeders until we found Michigan Elite Labs. We knew after our first contact with them we found the breeder we were looking for. Stan is 10 months old and we love him to pieces. If you are looking for a pure bred lab you have found the perfect breeder. We would never think of going anywhere but Michigan Elite to get a Lab. Steve is always just a phone call away if you have any questions. Steve is very knowledgeable about his Labrador Retrievers. If you want an amazing Labrador puppy check out Michigan Elite Labradors you will be glad you did! From the first contact with Steve, you are reassured with their dedication to the breed and the MEL family that you become a part of. It's said that one of the best signs of a "good product" is repeat customers. We're proud to be an example of that, with 2 MEL dogs in our home. Temperament, physical health and the characteristics of MEL dogs are perfection. The added benefit of the MEL owners group is also a great perk. We've made amazing friends through the group, which is reinforced each year at the annual reunion. I would not hesitate to recommend Michigan Elite Labradors to family and friends! We looked at all of the photos and knew we would get a beautiful pup but didnt expect all of the wonderful traits they would have. We ended up getting 2! They are beyond my wildest dreams of what a pet should be.So intuitive! When ive had issues, steve has been a phone call away with the answers. Best babies around.You wont be sorry! I believe we were part his second litter and his biggest litter with Cocco and Chopper 14 pups. Both of the parents were beautiful and on site when we went to pick out our first "Pink Collar" girl. We picked up our second "Pink Collar" girl in late .They have become best friends from the beginning. They have never fought or growled at each other and play very well together. The Karp's are very caring and knowledgeable about the Labrador breed. Any questions I have ever had Steve has always been there to guide me and teach me. His extended MEL family has been very inspiring and amusing as we all watch the pups grow into beautiful pets. Kris Thompson Michigan Elite Labradors are wonderful. We had a great experience working with the Karp family. Our little black lab has brought us so many blessings! They are the most wonderful family and breeders. They are extremely reputable and involved with every pup. Steve is always available to you. I called so many times. He is conscientious and really cares about where his puppies go. He is beyond gorgeous. As a matter of fact, I can honestly say that I have never seen better looking labs. Elite labs are very intelligent and have excellent temperaments. Jax was potty trained right away. When I got a trainer, He learned everything immediately. She was so impressed with him and shocked how well he did. She trains Leader of the Blinds dogs so it was a huge compliment coming from her. We have people stop us everywhere to ask if he is a show dog. One of them was a breeder. Another huge bonus is the all the relationships we have made amongst the Elite family. I love all the stories and pictures. Many of us got together for a Michigan Elite Lab's Reunion. All the dogs were gorgeous fun and well behaved. Even all the parents were a blast. I could go on and on about Michigan Elite Labs, but most important is the fact I would never get a dog from anyone else! Holland, MI This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Click here and you will find information on the litters that are here now or that will be born soon. All puppies are also AKC Registered. Our puppies come from well known multiple generations of champion GMPR bloodlines, with good bone structure, nice heads, and a wonderful temperament. We work hard to keep our dogs in top shape and condition. Our dogs are exercised regularly to help maintain great health. When our puppies are born, they are watched over very carefully to make sure all are maintaining a healthy weight. The pups are wormed at three weeks, and then again at six weeks. Their first shots are given at six weeks of age, and your new puppy will come with a 28 month health guarantee! If you are looking for a loyal family dog, or a wonderful hunting companion, you will definitely find what you are looking for here at Fox Red Pointing Labs. For more information on any of our dogs please call or This email address is being protected from spambots. Special Note: We have 2 6 month old females looking for their forever homes. For more information please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .Holland, MI This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Click here and you will find information on the litters that are here now or that will be born soon. All puppies are also AKC Registered. Our puppies come from well known multiple generations of champion GMPR bloodlines, with good bone structure, nice heads, and a wonderful temperament. We work hard to keep our dogs in top shape and condition. Our dogs are exercised regularly to help maintain great health. When our puppies are born, they are watched over very carefully to make sure all are maintaining a healthy weight. The pups are wormed at three weeks, and then again at six weeks. Their first shots are given at six weeks of age, and your new puppy will come with a 28 month health guarantee! If you are looking for a loyal family dog, or a wonderful hunting companion, you will definitely find what you are looking for here at Fox Red Pointing Labs. For more information on any of our dogs, please call or This email address is being protected from spambots. Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here. Today, they are some of the most popular companions that families have. Not only do they socialize well with others, but they are intelligent and easy to train. We have compiled a list of some of the top Labrador Retriever breeders in Michigan. Scan this list to find potential breeders near you. The 7 Labrador Retriever Breeders in Michigan 1. Over time, they started growing their kennel and are becoming even more dedicated to providing purebred dogs to families all over Michigan. Michigan Elite Labradors provides puppies certified through the Bred with H. T Breeders with AKC. All their dogs go through extensive health screenings before coming home with you. They were established in and focus on temperament and structural soundness that helps put their dogs into shows or simply become your new best friend. They only breed a few litters per year and often keep some dogs to show, train, or further build their breeding program. They have been a quality breeder since , and most of their dogs are successful competitors in derby, field, and hunting. Oldsquaw focuses on personality as much as they do DNA. These dogs have a reputation for being excellent companions. They pride themselves on providing people quality, champion-pedigreed puppies with recognition from the AKC. Rozey K9 Farm is known by customers for its excellent bloodlines that go through health-testing before being sold. Many of their dogs are involved in several activities and compete in dog shows throughout the year. They sell Black, Yellow, and Chocolate labs, though their yellow range from fox-red to cream. This breeder has a thorough selling process. Expect to answer in-depth questions about your experience with dogs and the environment they are going to be living in. Each dog is socialized and goes through many tests before going home. All their dogs have clearances for elbows, hips, eyes, cardiovascular health. They socialize their labs before allowing them to move to a new home and expose them to regular household living. After a few weeks, Endeavor Labradors exposes their dogs to bird wings and start to crate-train them. They are also micro-chipped , dewormed, and given vaccines as six weeks old. As the years passed, she was able to breed more generations of her champion bloodline. The great thing about this breeder is that they care for their dogs as pets should be. All dogs stay inside the home and are trained to become excellent companions and show dogs. Related Read:.