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How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. This is a question that many German Shepherd owners ask, as they want to make sure their beloved furry friend is getting all the nutrients they need. The good news is that there are plenty of healthy dog food options out there for German Shepherds. You should eat foods that include high-quality animal-based protein sources like lamb, beef, pork, chicken, fish, eggs, and legumes. In addition, the meal should be plentiful in fats, vitamins, and minerals. Are eggs good for German Shepherds? Yes, eggs are a great source of protein for German Shepherds. In fact, they are one of the healthiest foods you can feed your dog. Eggs are packed with nutrients that are essential for a German Shepherd's diet, including vitamins A, D, and E. They also contain omega-three fatty acids, which are important for a dog's coat and skin health. What is the best food for German Shepherds with allergies? If your German Shepherd has allergies, it's important to find a hypoallergenic best dog food for German Shepherds that will not trigger their symptoms. There are many brands of hypoallergenic dog food on the market that use alternative protein sources, such as duck or venison. These foods are often grain-free as well, which is ideal for German Shepherds with allergies. What is the best food for German Shepherds with sensitive stomachs? If your German Shepherd has a sensitive stomach, you'll want to find a dog food that is easy on their digestive system. There are many brands of dog food that offer formulas specifically for dogs with sensitive stomachs. These foods often have limited ingredient lists and use easily digestible ingredients, such as chicken or potato. What is the best food for German Shepherds with joint problems? If your German Shepherd has joint problems, you'll want to find a dog food that is rich in omega-three fatty acids. These essential nutrients help to reduce inflammation and pain in the joints. There are many brands of dog food that offer formulas specifically for dogs with joint problems. These foods often contain ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin, which are known to help relieve joint pain. Now let's chat in more detail about the best dog foods for your furry friend. It is made with all natural ingredients and has no fillers or preservatives. The kibble is also enriched with omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for dogs' skin and coat health. The addition of zinc proteinate and other chelated minerals to the formula is a plus, as it leads to better absorption and nutrition. We also note the inclusion of various probiotics for better digestion and salmon oil, which is beneficial to both skin and coat. Highly suggested! All of their recipes are made with whole ingredients and cooked in small batches. The meals are portioned according to your dog's weight and activity level. Wilderness is a grain-free and protein-rich product with over a dozen options and recipes, which makes it ideal for people who want to rotate their diets. It's reasonably priced, and it gets high marks from consumers. Probiotics, high-quality fiber, and digestive enzymes are included in this formula to aid your dog's digestive health. These components create mouth-watering, healthy food that will sustain your canine companion throughout the day. The foods in this recipe include multiple probiotics for improved digestion, chelated minerals for maximized absorption, and nutrient-dense food. It's inexpensive to buy as well as simple to suggest. Eagle Pack Power Adult Dog Food Image courtesy Eagle Pack The majority of the animal protein in Adult takes the form of fresh chicken and pork meal, as confirmed by the nutritional label. The all-time classic, fully grain-inclusive design that is free of legume concentrates. Antioxidant preservatives are used in a safe and natural manner. There's no BHT or ethoxyquin. It has high animal protein levels, as well as vitamins and minerals that have been boosted through the use of freeze-dried raw pieces. It's designed to unleash your dog's potential to thrive and put the advantages of raw nutrition into every bowl, using cage-free duck as the first ingredient for powerful, lean muscles. It also contains a probiotic boost for digestive health, greater amounts of omegas for healthy skin and coat, and more antioxidants for immune health—all from the highest-quality ingredients from all over the world. This high-protein, low-carb diet is designed for sporting dogs and plush animals with rigorous exercise requirements. It's also perfect for growing pups and pregnant or nursing females. This formula has DHA to support cognitive development, as well as calcium for strong bones and teeth. Iams ProActive Health also has 22 essential vitamins and minerals to keep your puppy healthy and strong. It's nice to discover a Southwest Canyon recipe that includes natural preservatives, which implies the food does not contain any BHA, BHT, or other harmful chemicals. A major brand and a healthy all-age option for any German Shepherd. Champion Petfoods, the well-known maker of Orijen, has long promoted a meat-based "biologically appropriate" diet. This is a tried and true design that makes this particular dish an excellent choice for developing Shepherd pups. This natural dry food is developed to give complete-body nutritional support for puppies of all sizes. It's made with high-quality proteins and whole grains, all of which are complemented by omega fatty acids—such as DHA—necessary vitamins, antioxidants, glucosamine, and probiotics. This balanced, nutritious dry dog food is intended to promote teeth and bone strength, healthy brain growth, general health, energy and vitality, optimal nutrient absorption, and healthy muscle development. It's free of GMOs, by-products from processing animals into pet food ingredients meat meal , fillers, or artificial preservatives to ensure that your dog gets the healthiest food possible. This is a tried-and-true approach that has been developed and studied for decades. It includes controlled calcium and phosphorus ratios, making it ideal for German Shepherd puppies. This large-breed dry food is made with high-quality proteins and whole grains. It's free of chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives. This recipe is designed to support the health of large breed puppies with an optimal balance of calcium and phosphorus for bone growth. It also includes DHA from fish oil for healthy brain development. This recipe includes DHA for brain development, calcium and phosphorus for bone growth, and antioxidants to support the immune system. It's also free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. You can feed your dog either dry or wet food, and he may sample two distinct flavor profiles: rice and oatmeal for salmon. Because it contains no allergens like wheat, corn, or soy, there's less of a chance that your dog will suffer an upset stomach. It also includes omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, which help to promote skin, coat, and joint health. Image courtesy Blue Buffalo If you're searching for high-quality, all-natural wet dog food, Blue Buffalo Wilderness is a wonderful alternative. This dog food is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, making it ideal for an entourage diet. It's made with real beef and chicken, can be served as a delicious treat, or blended into your dog's regular dry food. The Blue Buffalo puppy food contains no chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors or preservatives; making it a healthy choice for your dog. All dishes are prepared in collaboration with veterinarians and come in a variety of delicious flavors, including beef, lamb, and turkey. All of the meats are imported from the United States, although only lamb comes from Australia. It's also gluten-free, so if you're allergic to grains, you'll be safe. There is a large selection of carbohydrates, which are mostly in the form of potatoes, and there are numerous healthy vegetables and superfoods including lentils, peas, salmon oil, and flaxseed. It's made with real meat, vegetables, and fruit. This recipe is grain-free and free of artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It's also high in protein and low in carbohydrates. It's made with real beef, vegetables, and fruit. It also contains sweet potatoes, peas, potatoes, canola oil, and flaxseed. This formula provides your German Shepherd puppy with the high protein diet they need for proper development and growth. Taste of the Wild is one of the most popular brands among dog food reviewers. It's included as our last on this list but has ranked high among some of the best dog foods for German Shepherds because it's high in protein and free of grains. What foods are German Shepherds allergic to? German Shepherds are known to be allergic to a variety of things, including wheat, corn, soy, and even some meats. If you're not sure what your German Shepherd is allergic to, it's always best to consult with your veterinarian. They will be able to recommend the best food for your dog based on their specific allergies. If your German Shepherd is having any sort of adverse reaction to their food, such as scratching, biting, or licking themselves excessively, then they may be allergic to something in their food. Consult with your veterinarian if you're not sure what's causing the reaction. What is the best dog food for German Shephard puppies? Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, so it's important to find a food that's specifically designed for puppies. Look for a food that has high levels of protein and fat, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. Puppies also need more calories than adult dogs, so make sure the food you choose has a high calorie content. As your puppy grows, they will need less calories and protein, so you'll need to switch to a food that's designed for adult dogs. Consult with your veterinarian to find the best food for your German Shepherd puppy. What is the best food for an adult German Shepherd? The best food for an adult German Shepherd is a diet that is high in protein and fat. This breed of dog is known for its high energy levels and need for exercise, so a food that can help them maintain their energy levels is important. A diet that is too low in calories can cause your German Shepherd to become overweight or obese, which can lead to health problems. When choosing a food for your German Shepherd, it is important to read the label carefully and choose a food that is right for their age, weight, and activity level. Can a German Shepherd drink milk? Yes, German Shepherds can drink milk. Milk is a good source of calcium and other nutrients that are important for this breed of dog. However, it is important to choose a low-fat or skim milk to avoid adding unnecessary calories to their diet. What is the best way to feed a German Shepherd puppy? The best way to feed a German Shepherd puppy is to start them on a diet that is high in protein and fat. Puppies need more calories than adult dogs, so it is important to choose a food that will give them the nutrition they need without making them overweight. As your German Shepherd puppy grows, you can slowly transition them to an adult dog food. It is important to make sure that they are getting the right amount of calories and nutrients for their age, weight, and activity level. What are some common health problems German Shepherds face? Some common health problems German Shepherds face include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and allergies. This breed of dog is also susceptible to obesity, so it is important to choose a food that will help them maintain a healthy weight. German Shepherds are also prone to joint problems, so a food that is rich in glucosamine and chondroitin is important for this breed of dog. What is the life expectancy of a German Shepherd? The life expectancy of a German Shepherd is between nine and thirteen years. This breed of dog is known for being a healthy and hardy breed, but there are some health problems that can shorten their lifespan. It is important to feed your German Shepherd a diet that will help them maintain their health and keep them at a healthy weight to help ensure a long and happy life. Is it OK to put a raw egg in dog food? The answer is complicated. While some experts believe that raw eggs are perfectly safe for dogs, others believe that they can be dangerous. The truth is probably somewhere in the middle. If you decide to feed your dog raw eggs, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure the eggs are fresh. Second, only feed your dog eggs that have been properly refrigerated. Finally, don't forget to wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw eggs. If you're still not sure whether or not to feed your dog raw eggs, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you make the best decision for your pet. What are the benefits of raw eggs for dogs? There are a few potential benefits of feeding raw eggs to dogs. Some people believe that raw eggs can help increase a dog's energy levels, improve their coat, and even help with joint pain. While there is some anecdotal evidence to support these claims, there is no scientific evidence that raw eggs offer any health benefits for dogs. Our Criteria for Ranking the Best Dog Food Choosing the right dog food is essential for your pet's health and well-being. With the plethora of options available in the market, it can be challenging to determine which dog food is best for your furry friend. To simplify this process and help you make an informed decision, we have established a set of criteria for ranking the best dog food products. These criteria are based on scientific research, expert opinions, and the specific nutritional needs of dogs. Ingredients Quality: High-Quality Protein: The primary ingredient should be a high-quality animal protein source, such as chicken, beef, or fish, to support your dog's muscle development and overall health. Whole Grains and Vegetables: Whole grains and vegetables should be included to provide essential carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Absence of Fillers and Artificial Additives: No Fillers: The best dog food should not contain fillers like corn, soy, or wheat, which offer limited nutritional value and may cause allergies. No Artificial Additives: It should be free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, which can harm your dog's health over time. Meat Meal vs. Whole Meat: Preference for Whole Meat: Whole meat sources are preferred over meat meals or by-products, as they are less processed and retain more nutritional value. Digestibility and Allergen Consideration: Hypoallergenic Options: For dogs with allergies or sensitivities, hypoallergenic options that avoid common allergens like poultry or grains should be available. High Digestibility: The dog food should be highly digestible to ensure your pet absorbs the maximum nutrients from each meal. Life Stage Appropriateness: Age and Size-Specific Formulations: The best dog food should offer formulations tailored to your dog's life stage puppy, adult, senior and size small, medium, large. Transparency and Sourcing: Transparent Labeling: Brands should provide transparent information about ingredient sourcing and processing methods. Sustainable and Ethical Sourcing: A commitment to sustainable and ethical sourcing of ingredients reflects a brand's responsibility toward animal welfare and the environment. Health Benefits and Special Considerations: Support for Special Health Needs: The best dog food may offer formulations to address specific health concerns, such as joint health, dental care, or weight management. Customer Feedback and Reviews: Positive User Experiences: Customer feedback and reviews are valuable indicators of a product's performance, safety, and palatability. Price and Value: Affordability: The cost of the dog food should be reasonable and commensurate with its quality and ingredients, offering good value for pet owners. Recall History and Safety: Safety Record: Brands with a history of recalls or safety issues should be viewed with caution, as the safety of your pet is paramount. But with our list of the 25 best dog foods for German Shepherds in , you can rest assured that you're giving your furry friend the best possible chance at a long and healthy life. When choosing dog food, consider factors such as your dog's age, size, activity level, any allergies or sensitivities, and consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations. What is the difference between dry and wet dog food? Dry dog food kibble is convenient, has a longer shelf life, and can help with dental health. Wet dog food contains more moisture and can be more palatable for picky eaters. Some owners choose to feed a combination for variety. Is homemade dog food a good option? Homemade dog food can be an option but requires careful research and balance to ensure your dog gets all the necessary nutrients. Consulting with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist is recommended. How can I tell if a dog food is of high quality? Look for high-quality protein sources, whole grains and vegetables, minimal fillers and additives, and adherence to AAFCO guidelines for complete and balanced nutrition. Checking customer reviews and consulting experts can also help. Should I choose a dog food based on my dog's breed? While some breed-specific formulas exist, it's more important to consider your dog's individual needs, age, and size when selecting dog food. What should I do if my dog has food allergies or sensitivities? If your dog has allergies or sensitivities, consult your veterinarian for advice. They may recommend hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient dog foods. Is grain-free dog food a better choice? Grain-free dog food isn't necessarily better. While some dogs may benefit from grain-free options, it's essential to ensure the food still provides balanced nutrition, as some grain-free diets have been associated with certain health issues. How often should I feed my dog, and in what portion sizes? Feeding frequency and portion sizes depend on your dog's age, size, and activity level. Puppies typically require more frequent meals. Follow the feeding guidelines provided on the dog food packaging and adjust based on your dog's needs. Can I mix different brands or types of dog food? Mixing different brands or types of dog food can be done, but it should be done gradually to avoid digestive upset. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on the best way to transition your dog to a new diet. Should I be concerned about recalls when choosing dog food? Yes, it's important to stay informed about recalls. Check the FDA and manufacturer websites regularly for recall information. Brands with a history of recalls may be worth avoiding. What is the role of my veterinarian in selecting dog food? Your veterinarian can provide valuable guidance on selecting the right dog food based on your pet's specific needs, health conditions, and dietary requirements. How can I ensure my dog stays hydrated when feeding dry dog food? Always provide access to clean, fresh water. Wetting the dry food or incorporating wet food into the diet can also increase moisture intake. Can I give my dog human food as part of their diet? While some human foods are safe for dogs, it's essential to know which ones are and to avoid potentially toxic foods. Always consult with your veterinarian before adding human food to your dog's diet. Remember that each dog is unique, and their dietary needs may vary. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian and open communication about your dog's diet are key to ensuring their health and well-being. Related Content. It also tends to be high in protein. Food that is high in protein and calories will provide your puppy with the energy that they need and help them gain the right amount of weight as they grow up. Most puppy food also includes vitamin and mineral supplements, such as calcium and phosphorus, for healthy and strong bones and teeth. You should speak to your vet to ensure that you have the right food and are feeding your puppy the proper amount. We hope that these reviews have helped you decide on the right food for your German Shepherd puppy. Remember to stick with large-breed food because it usually has the correct ratio of vitamins and minerals to give your GSD puppy all the suitable nutrition that they need so they can grow up strong, healthy, and happy. Featured Image Credit: Victoria Antonova, Shutterstock Written by Kathryn Copeland Author Kathryn was a librarian in a previous lifetime and is currently a writer about all things pets. When she was a child, she hoped to work in zoos or with wildlife in some way, thanks to her all-consuming love for animals. Unfortunately, she's not strong in the sciences, so she fills her days with researching and writing about all kinds of animals and spends time playing with her adorable but terribly naughty tabby cat, Bella. Kathryn is hoping to add to her family in the near future — maybe another cat and a dog.Read more Advertisement. As the name implies, it has been scientifically formulated to provide all the necessary nutrients, vitamins and minerals for puppies. Features Precisely balanced nutrition to help build immunity and mobility High-quality protein to promote ideal body weight Promotes gentle and healthy digestion with balanced and complete nutrition This delicious formula promotes gentle and healthy digestion and has a savory meaty taste your puppy will love Recommended for puppies up to 1-year-old and pregnant or nursing dogs Check price on Amazon. You want to be able to see visible chunks of meat in the food. It contains a large amount of deboned chicken meat and whole grains, making it a balanced option for your GSD puppy. However, larger companies generally have more resources for stringent quality control protocols. They can employ expert nutritionists and food scientists, and are more eager to enrich our collective nutrition knowledge through research. On the contrary, smaller manufacturers may have less control over ingredient quality, perform less laboratory testing, and are less likely to employ veterinary nutritionists. On top of that, there are still some basic rules you can follow. And we will walk you through things you will need to consider in this article. Every pet is unique and the goal is to find the best diet for the individual pet. Is real food good for German Shepherd puppies? Real food contains whole ingredients that are cooked to aid in digestion. Whole real foods are a great option for adult GSDs, it might be best to keep the puppy food dry or wet. The American College of Veterinary Nutrition does not recommend feeding dogs less than one year old a homemade diet as they can be lacking in calcium and phosphorous, which can have serious implications down the line for GSDs. Best homemade food for German Shepherd puppies If you insist on feeding your GSD puppy a homemade diet, the best way to go about it is to get recipes specifically formulated for them by a veterinary nutritionist. This will ensure all of their needs macro — and micronutrient needs are met, particularly their calcium and phosphorous requirements. This is very important to prevent issues like hip dysplasia and other joint and bone issues as an adult GSD. A typical homemade food recipe: Chicken. It is also a vital element for brain and eye development. Fresh chicken meat in the diet provides protein with high biological value. Natural Prebiotics to boost the overall digestive process. The benefits of Orijen Puppy Large: A calorie limited diet to promote a healthy weight and to put less pressure on joints. Rich in protein for making German Shepherd pups healthy and strong. Highly delicious chicken and turkey liver tempt the pickiest of eaters. The crusty and crunchy kibble texture of this food promotes good periodontal health and helps in curbing problems like Tartar and Plaque buildup. An essential fatty acid like Omega 3 has been added in the diet for boosting the overall skin health of the dogs. A natural antioxidant like Vitamin E fortifies the natural immunity of the pups, keeping them strong and healthy. You can feed your adult German Shepherd 2 times a day. You should avoid feeding them synthetic preservatives. High in Fibres: Natural fibres maintain superior digestive health and also an ideal body weight. Vitamin C: Vitamin C keeps the joints healthy, preventing problems like hip dysplasia and arthritis. Natural fibres promote excellent digestion and maximum nutrient absorption. The benefits of Fidele Adult Large Breed: Contains a substantial amount of protein for enhancing strength and endurance in grown up German Shepherds. Omega fatty acids boost skin health and also maintain good eyesight. It consists of Real Chicken meat as the main constituent which is favourite for German Shepherds. It has a good combination of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids that significantly improves the skin health of the dogs. They do not contain any fillers or preservatives which makes this diet completely safe for German Shepherds to savour. Breed Specified Recipe specially made for German Shepherds Real Chicken meat offers good protein content for supporting strong muscle mass Excellent blend of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids endow the dogs with good skin health. This dog food has a rich protein content that fortifies the muscle mass in the dogs. Moreover, the crusty texture of this food helps in removing Tartar and Plaque build-up. Ideal dog food for a large breed like German Shepherd Consists of Calcium and Phosphorus that boosts bone density Glucosamine and Chondroitin provides anti-inflammatory effect to the dogs Beet Pulp and FOS prebiotics boosts overall digestive health of the dogs Crusty kibble texture of the food eliminates Tartar and Plaque build-up 5 Hills Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dog A highly nourishing meal that has Chicken and Barley as its primary constituents, the Hills Science Diet Adult Large Breed is an easy-to-digest meal offering a nutritional profile that suits an adult German Shepherd. Omega 6 and Vitamin E promote beautiful skin and coat in German Shepherds. Ample amounts of protein maintain lean muscle mass and endurance. They need foods that are low in protein and fat content while richer in fibres. However, an overall moderate diet with all the components is also considered healthy, provided your dog trains and exercises regularly. A senior German Shepherd consumes around calories daily. They can be fed 2 times a day. Fish Oil Omega 3 : Fish oil is an excellent source of Omega fatty acids that provides a good anti-inflammatory effect to senior dogs. Fewer Carbs: As elderly German Shepherds are quite vulnerable to obesity and diabetes, a diet that has a low glycemic index is most preferred to them. A combination of Vitamin E and C, builds a stronger immune system. Devoid of artificial flavors and preservatives. Fresh meat and freeze-dried liver make the meal highly delectable. A biologically appropriate diet that nurtures your older German Shepherds according to their biological and evolutionary needs. Thus, when you adopt a German shepherd pup, make sure that you provide it with a fully nutrition loaded diet and maintain a lifestyle with lots of physical activities. A comprehensive diet including all the above parameters will lead to a healthy and long life span of your little beasts. An avid nature and animal lover, Akhil likes to read and watch anything related to wildlife. He also has a great interest in athletics, mainly track and field events and is a big Masala Dosa fan. More like this.

View All Articles in Surviving Puppyhood Now, this is not to say that gentle mouthing as a form of play is totally out of the question. But any hard biting or overly enthusiastic play should be discouraged. Your goal as the owner is to make it so play biting is never initiated by your puppy, and that you are able to stop the biting on command. They are meant to cause pain to the victim, which provides feedback to the puppy to help him learn to soften his bite. For example, every now and then an infant puppy might bite his littermate too hard. The victim will yelp and usually stop playing after a painful bite. The biter is taken aback by the yelp and also stops playing for a moment. This is how puppies naturally learn to control the intensity of their bites so no one gets hurt and the game can continue. However, this training must continue with you, the owner. This is to say that if a puppy can learn how to be gentle with other puppies, he can learn the same lesson from you. As such, the first and most important goal is to help your puppy understand that people have very sensitive skin, so he must be very gentle when using his mouth. The first step in how to stop a puppy from biting is teaching bite inhibition. As a result, he may unknowingly bite too hard. This is another reason why it is extremely important to teach bite inhibition. Bite Inhibition Procedure Here are some steps to take to properly teach bite inhibition: When your puppy is calm, begin playing with him and let him put your hand in his mouth. Praise him when he bites softly or gently. The yelp should startle your puppy and cause him to stop biting you. Praise your puppy for stopping or for licking you. Resume playing. If your puppy bites you hard again, yelp again. Repeat these steps no more than three times within a minute period. Time-outs are often very effective in helping him understand gentle play, and thus very effective in how to stop a puppy from biting. Time-Out Procedure When your puppy bites too hard, yelp loudly. When he startles and releases the bite, remove your hand. Ignore him for 10 to 20 seconds. Or, if he starts biting you again, get up and walk away for 10 to 20 seconds. After this short time-out, encourage your puppy to play with you again. Play with your puppy until he bites hard again. When he does, repeat the procedure above. Alternatively: No Yelp Procedure Puppies put everything into their mouths the way that young babies do. But many professional dog trainers say that the worst thing you can do is to draw attention to this instinctive behavior by reacting to it in any way whatsoever. The way I teach bite inhibition is to instruct puppy owners to withdraw attention when the puppy bites too hard. Effective punishment, by definition, inhibits the behavior that is punished. Yelping to imitate littermates may actually stimulate some puppies and is not recommended by veterinary behavior experts. You can do this in the following ways: When your puppy tries to bite you, redirect his attention to a toy, bone, or chew toy. If petting your puppy triggers him to bite, distract him from biting by giving him treats from your other hand. This will help your puppy get used to being touched without biting. Encourage play in the form of games such as fetch and tug-of-war, instead of wrestling and rough play with your hands. Once your puppy understands these games, keep a tug rope or similar toy with you. If he starts to bite you, you can immediately substitute your hand with the toy. Over time, your puppy will start seeking toys when he feels like biting. Recommended Puppy Tug Toys and Chews Antlers, bully sticks, and rawhides are not recommended for young puppies as they can cause choking. Antlers in particular are also quite hard and can cause tooth damage, and can split into sharp shards and cause serious issues. Here are some safe highly-rated tug and chew toys we recommend for puppies: Best Chews for Puppies Another great option is to give your puppy a frozen wet rag, frozen carrots, or frozen bananas. The cold helps tremendously with teething pain, which is typically the cause of puppy biting and chewing. If your puppy bites at your feet and ankles, the same Redirect procedure applies. Carry his favorite tug toy with you at all times. Whenever he starts going for your feet, immediately stop walking or moving your feet. Once he stops, immediately praise him and get a toy to reward him. When he grabs the toy, you can start moving again. Repeat these steps until your puppy becomes used to your movements, and until he stops going for your feet or ankles. Lean toward him, make eye contact, and be dramatic. Say it loud enough to make him back away, but try not to frighten him. Repeat these steps, gradually increasing the time your puppy has to wait for his treat. Once he learns to back away from food by voice command, add in a hand gesture so he can begin to associate that with the command. Eventually, you will want to practice using only the hand gesture. You will also want to eventually repeat the exercise when your puppy is in a more excited mood. Work toward the goal of your puppy not taking food or touching your hand. Practice this exercise with your puppy every day to achieve this goal. Here are some methods to get him to that goal. But instead of yelping at just the hard bites, yelp and stop playing in response to moderately hard bites. Eventually, the moderately hard bites will stop, and then you can repeat the procedure for his next-hardest bites, and so on. Keep repeating this procedure until your puppy can play with your hands very gently, and can consciously control his bite force so that you feel little to no pressure. Further Your Time-Out Training Instead of giving your puppy time-outs for hard biting, start giving him time-outs every time his teeth touch you. Immediately walk away and ignore him for 30 to 60 seconds. If he follows you or continues to bite you, leave the room for 30 to 60 seconds. After the time-out, return to the room calmly and resume playing with your puppy. Before interacting with your puppy, spray the anti-chew spray on areas of your body that he likes to bite. You may spray it on clothing, as well. If he starts mouthing or biting you, stop moving and wait for him to react to the bad taste of the spray. Praise him when he releases his mouth from you. Apply the anti-chew spray to your body consistently for at least two weeks. He should quickly learn to stop biting you altogether after suffering the bitter taste every time he mouths you. Play builds a strong bond between a dog and his humans. The goal is to teach your puppy to play gently rather than not at all. Tip 2: Frequently provide your puppy with plenty of new and interesting toys. These will allow him to focus on those instead of focusing on his urge to bite you. Tip 3: Likewise, make sure your puppy has plenty of opportunities to play and socialize with other puppies and dogs. Tip 4: Always reward the desirable behavior. Tip 6: Avoid games like tug-of-war if your puppy becomes too excited, aggressive, or out of control. These types of games should only be allowed when you have initiated them, and when you can quickly stop the game on command. Tip 7: Avoid jerking your hands or feet away from your puppy when he bites. This will entice him to lunge and bite at you even more. Tip 8: If your puppy is constantly using biting as a demand for attention, or if he is becoming overly enthusiastic while he plays, then he is probably not getting enough stimulation. Consider giving him extra time to play, train, and exercise. Also give him more outlets for chewing. These will increase his stimulation and lessen his desire to bite for attention. Biting can be immediately stopped with a quick, gentle tug on the leash, with tension being released as soon as he settles down. Tip Hitting puppies for playful biting can have an opposite affect and can cause them to play and bite more aggressively. Physical punishment can also make your puppy afraid of you, and it can cause real, serious aggression. Tip Be patient and understanding. Playful biting is normal behavior for puppies. By the time puppies are around eight months old, they should have all of their adult teeth. At this time, teething should stop, although some dogs will continue to chew and bite until they are one year old. If you draw attention to it, the puppy becomes aware of it and it becomes a habit and a technique the puppy can use to get your attention — because even negative attention is better than none at all. Please see our article, Finding Professional Behavior Help , to locate one of these professionals in your area. Both adult and puppy Bernedoodles are known to be chewers, and chew up lots of different items. Because Bernedoodles are very smart however, it can be possible to identify the cause of the Bernedoodle chewing and redirect the behaviour. It just takes a little patience! Bernedoodles have a strong set of teeth and are incredibly intelligent. They also have a tendency to be a little strong willed and even stubborn. If a situation arises where a Bernedoodle develops a liking for chewing — it can be difficult to get them to stop. At what age will Bernedoodles chew? Bernedoodles are most likely to chew when they are a puppy. Specially around the time of teething. A Bernedoodle will have 28 puppy teeth that will fall out and be replaced with 42 adult dog teeth. During the teething time we need to be particularly careful about how much our Bernedoodle chews. Puppies that are teething are known to enjoy marathon chew sessions, and engage in fairly destructive chewing behaviours. The typical age for a Bernedoodle to lose its puppy teeth and likely develop a fondness for chewing is around month of age. Most puppy teeth are completely gone by the 7 month mark. If any baby teeth have NOT fallen out by then — it can be what is known as a retained tooth. The baby tooth will stay there and can trap food and risks fracturing. Many Bernedoodle owners who notice a retained puppy tooth have their Veterinarian extract the tooth to prevent problems. Tips for reducing destructive Bernedoodle chewing during teething It can be difficult almost impossible to eliminate chewing during Bernedoodle puppy teething. The puppy is young — and the process is uncomfortable! Giving a dog some appropriately sized frozen carrot , or an IceCube to chew on is a great solution A frozen treat like a Kong treat packed Kong-tail cocktail! A Kong or heavy duty chew is better than a rope toy or cheap chewing stick. Are Adult Bernedoodles Chewers? Yes, adult Bernedoodles are sometimes known for a fair tendency to chew things. All dogs chew, and much the time there are simple things we can do to stop the problem from becoming significant. Dogs use their mouths as a way to explore the world. They sniff, they lick, and they chew. The key to stopping an adult Bernedoodle from chewing everything is to correctly identify which causes are the trigger of the chew. They inherit the love for the cold form the Bernese Mountain Dog — a breed originating in the Swiss mountains. Photo Bernedoodle Dog [ CC BY-SA ] The most common core reasons that a Bernedoodle will chew are They are quite simply bored They are hungry There is separation anxiety They want attention They were not taught as a puppy what is okay to chew and what chewing is bad There are two extra chewing reasons to consider too — chewing as an expression of a medical problem, and chewing just because. Chewing due to a medical condition Sometimes a dog will chew to distract itself from pain or discomfort. The medical condition could manifest with sore teeth like gum disease or some kidney conditions or it could be a whole body illness. Dogs can chew aggressively when they feel unwell. They are trying to distract themselves! This is why any rapid onset of chewing behaviour that is very intense and has no other obvious cause — needs a trip to the Veterinarian. Better to be safe than sorry. Grooming a Bernedoodle? Check out the best brushes for the epic tri-color Bernedoodle coat. A bored Bernedoodle will chew Bernedoodles are both intelligent and also energetic. Sure some Bernedoodles like to lounge around and many sleep a great deal — but there will be bursts of activity from these dogs. It is important to exercise both the body AND mind of a Bernedoodle to help reduce the risk of them engaging in destructive behaviours. Problem barking in Bernedoodles is also commonly caused by the same situation. Too much extra mental or physical energy converting into furniture and clothing torn to shreds. Go up in small increment even as little as 5 minutes until you see a reduction in the destructive chewing behavior. The other tack to consider is that of entailing enriching and tiring the mind of your Bernedoodle. These dogs are whip smart and have plenty of mental energy. Giving them a challenge, puzzle or interaction helps tire them out. Simple brain games like a muffin tin game or scent work can burn a great deal of mental energy. The more tired the dog, the happier the dog and the less likely that destructive chewing will occur. Simple nosework or scent training tired dogs of all sizes out. And the get treats! Here is a list of 35 indoor dog games and activitie s that you could consider to help train the brain and tire your active Bernedoodle. Chewing due to hunger Sometimes a Bernedoodle will get hungry and chew. It will chew things that are not food, it will chew… pretty much anything it can get its hands on! We need to control the total daily intake of calories. Pet obesity carries significant health risks with it. A simple way around is to use a slow feeder, or freeze a stuffed Kong. Our favourite dry kibble slow feeder is below, or you could check out out list of the best stuffed frozen Kong recipes to drive your dog bonkers with excitement. Our Fun Feeder Slo Bowls both challenge and engage your dog during mealtime.These bowls are great for dry, wet, or raw food diets. Less work for you means more pup playtime after! We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. Simple reducing the types of things a dog will chew and destroy in its environment is a no brainer. Bernedoodle chews towels? Bernedoodle chew cords! Very dangerous, cover them with tape or a heavy mat Bernedoodle chews socks? Put the washing away! I know this is very simple and sounds condescending — but we just gotta live simple and clean around a Bernedoodle. No Bernedoodle review is complete without paying homage to the beautiful Bernese Mountain Dog parent breed. When you are home — we use short sharp LOUD noises to reprimand chewing in these areas. UH UH! The problem is… we are not always home. When we are away from home the only options we have are to isolate the Bernedoodle from the item they are destroying — OR coat it in a distasteful solution that makes them want to chew less. Some people use a vinegar or lemon juice solution — but many owners find their Bernedoodle develops almost a fondness for the taste. Not ideal! The majority of dogs will be less enthusiastic or even stop chewing completely when encountering the sour taste of bitter apple spray. Bernedoodles are known to be one of the less aggressive breeds of the entire doodle dog clan. If brought up in a calm and loving environment, the dog will show zero to little signs of aggression without any reason. Bernedoodle puppies: It is very unlikely for a Bernedoodle puppy to show any aggressive behavior. Usually they are very calm and gentle. Even in the case of puppies, there are usually no intentional signs of aggression in their behavior. Mini Bernedoodles: The level of aggression is very low in a mini Bernedoodle as well. It is very rare to find a mini Bernedoodle that will aggressively bite or come at you. If you are not aggressive towards a mini bernedoodle, they will not be aggressive towards you too. Are Bernedoodles calm? Bernedoodles are known and adored for their gentle and relaxed behavior. The Bernedoodles are very relaxed and composed when it comes to their general behavior. They are not known to lash out for no reason. On a good day, a bernedoodle will be the calmest pet you have. Bernedoodles are a mix of the Poodle and the Bernese Mountain breed. Poodles are naturally excited and very hyper. But a Bernese Mountain dog has a very gentle and laid-back personality. This personality trait is more dominant in the Bernedoodle. This is why Bernedoodles are very calm and relaxed naturally. When will my Bernedoodle calm down? A Bernedoodle puppy will show a little aggressive behavior at the time of teething. This only lasts for their growing up period. By the age of 12 months to 18 months you will find your bernedoodle calming down. After the reduction of their puppy teeth, you might find your bernedoodle act a bit calmer than usual. This is during their 6 to 8 months of age. However, this phase does not last for long. The pups will start getting active and a bit hyper after a month or so. In general, bernedoodles are very gentle and calm. Even during their aggressive period, they tend to show the signs not very often. It is very easy to handle them during that time. They calm down pretty easily and pretty fast. Are Bernedoodle puppies hyper? Though being calm and composed and not being hyper, the bernedoodle pup does have a lot of energy stored. They are very affectionate and playful pups. They tend to be relaxed, but they have their fair share of energy and excitement. A bernedoodle puppy is very affectionate and loving. They crave the attention of their owner and loved ones. So, if they feel neglected they might throw a little bit of a fit. And the puppies tend to get fussy if they are left alone for a long period of time. The bernedoodle puppy is not always hyper and fussy. In general, they are very much relaxed. Without something triggering them, they tend to stay in their relaxed state. How do you calm a Bernedoodle puppy? It is not very common for bernedoodle puppies to be so hyper and excited that they become a handful. But if you find your pup getting too hyper more often than usual, try to handle it gently and calmly- Be calm: Try to stay calm yourself. Do not get too hyper or excited yourself. This will only encourage your pup and show him that getting hyper works. Be calm and let your pup imitate you. Do not reciprocate the energy. Subtly and gently let them know that over excitement is not appreciated. Show love when he is calm: Show love and affection to your dog when it is in a relaxed and calm state. Do not excite them though. Gentle pats and small words of endearment will work just fine. Show them you appreciate their gentle behavior. Give enough exercise: Sometimes, pups get hyper if they have a lot of excess energy left in them. The way to deal with this is to give them enough exercise and playtime. Basically, you want to wear out the extra energy. Go for stimulations: If nothing works, go for a calming smell or stimulus for your pup. Smelling is one of the most important senses for any dog, especially pups. Use fragrances like lavender or vanilla or eucalyptus to calm your pup down. Use air fresheners of the mentioned scent. It can be common for pups to have an excited personality. Not all dogs are the same. But if you feel your pup getting hyper all of a sudden, try these things to not encourage the behavior and welcome the hyperactive routine. Do Bernedoodles bite a lot? During the teething period you will see your bernedoodle pup engage in a lot of biting and chewing activities. Other than this particular time, a bernedoodle does not bite a lot. The breed is not aggressive at all. So biting is not a very common behavior for them. The bernedoodle dog needs a lot of affection. If they feel any less attention towards them, they might start to show signs of aggression, thus the biting. But by nature, a bernedoodle is a chewer. They like to chew toys or solid things. If you encourage this behavior too much, they might develop a habit of biting unnecessarily as well. Why does my Bernedoodle bite so much? Teething period is when you will notice your dog biting and chewing aggressively. Your pup may start nipping and mouthing very suddenly. It is because they are growing and getting adjusted to their teeth. During this time there might be a lot of biting. However, if your adult bernedoodle starts biting, there might be some other reason. In most cases the reason is boredom. These affectionate loving breeds get irritated when they do not get enough attention and play time. When do Bernedoodles stop biting? For a pup, biting is a common phase. It usually starts to lessen around the age of 7 months. At around 4 months of age the pups start to lose their teeth and start chewing. This new sensation makes them chew and bite more. By the age of 7 months new teeth will start to grow. You can give them treats to stop them from biting the toys or other things around the house. You can also get chew toys. Do not encourage the biting, however. Otherwise, it will stick to their behavior permanently and cause a lot of trouble in future. What is the temperament of a Bernedoodle? The bernedoodle dog breed is a very calm and intelligent breed with just the right amount of fun and goofiness. They are very relaxed and tend to be great family dogs. They have a very calm nature and tend to be rather laid back. But they are fiercely loyal to their family and owner. The beautiful mix of a poodle and a Bernese Mountain dog have the energy and excitement of a poodle. At the same time, they have the calm temperament of the Bernese Mountain dog. Making them one of the most affectionate, loved and intelligent breeds in general. Are Bernedoodle puppies nippy? A bernedoodle pup is as laid back and chill as an adult. However after a few months it might be very obvious for your pup to be a bit hyper and playful. Not compared to any other breed, a bernedoodle is easier to train and maintain. The poodle breed is very much active and hyper. And as a mix of a poodle, a bernedoodle tends to be playful as well. But they are more on the relaxed side of their personality. Bernedoodles have a medium range of energy and they tend to be less on the nippy side. Are Bernedoodles friendly? Bernedoodles are known for their relaxed yet affectionate behavior. These dogs are very much drawn towards their owner. In most cases, they are friendly and show utmost loyalty. This is why they are a popular choice for family pets. Dogs usually reciprocate the affection they get. But the bernedoodle dogs are very much friendly on their own. They love being with their owners and playing with them. Bernedoodles are very laid back and relaxed dogs. The natural personality of the dog is calm and composed. It is very rare for the dog to show signs of aggression without any reason. This calmness of their behavior makes them very lovable and widely popular. Frequently Asked Questions:. This helps them understand their surroundings and socialize with other dogs. It can be frustrating when a puppy starts biting, but there are ways to help. Why Do Puppies Bite? In nature, puppies grow up with a litter of other dogs and interact with puppy behavior, including play biting. Through this group practice, puppies learn bite inhibition that keeps them from offending other puppies in social situations or the humans they interact with. Provide Adequate Exercise Ensuring your dog has consistency and a daily physical exercise routine is one of the best ways to stop puppy biting. Physical and mental exercise is crucial to healthy development for a few reasons. First, your pup needs constant play and exercise to grow strong muscles and develop its instincts, such as learned puppy bite inhibition, in a safe and supervised way. Secondly, the socialization that occurs when dogs play tug-of-war or wrestle can help your pup learn healthy boundaries with other puppies and people. This is a great time to engage in an impromptu training session to stop your puppy from biting you in the future. You can stop your dog from biting by distracting it with a favorite stuffed toy, then playing tug-of-war with it. Make it a game to see how patient your puppy can be. After doing this a few times, increase the amount of time your puppy needs to wait for the toy. Remember that you also need patience and give your pup lots of love and belly rubs after a job well done. Provide Stimulating Chew Toys Puppies have a natural urge to bite and chew as they grow older and begin to get their adult teeth. It can be painful, and chewing tends to relieve their misery, so ensure you keep plenty of teething toys on hand to comfort your dog and teach it bite inhibition. When your puppy has issues such as separation anxiety, you can take note of its body language, including biting, to figure out how to soothe it. In this instance, it might be a good idea to give it a comforting chew toy when you leave it or put it in its crate. This way, any negative response to being left alone will be immediately calmed. Stopping puppy biting can be tedious, but it grants many opportunities for you to bond and build trust with your new pup. This is a great way to discourage unwanted behavior, as your dog knows that well-behaved pups get those tasty treats. Food motivation is one of the first ways dogs learn appropriate behavior, as their mother might push them off the teat to stop the puppy from biting. Use this food-based reward system to give your dog the incentive it needs. While at home, use an interactive food bowl and treat-filled bully sticks that provide mental stimulation to teach your puppy a safe way to get their biting urges out, which are normal in a new puppy with sore gums and pain from growing out of their baby teeth. Give Small Timeouts When It Does Bite When puppy biting persists, a timeout might mean putting your puppy in their kennel or sending them to the doghouse for a short period. Use positive punishment or natural consequences to get the point across. To teach your puppy or adult dog that biting is inappropriate, stop the behavior by ignoring it. Dogs use their teeth to get attention, whether in a playful way or as aggressive behavior. The goal is to get your dog to sit quietly for 10 to 15 seconds, not whining or begging but waiting for your attention. This way, you help your puppy learn self-control and respect for you. Again, the goal is to get it to sit quietly or lay down and wait for you. If you use a crate, it might be appropriate to put it in a one-minute timeout if its behavior continues to escalate instead of improving. Playing with other puppies is an excellent way for your dog to pick up on appropriate behaviors naturally. Looking for a New Family Member? Check out our available puppies today. His area of expertise is in the responsible breeding of two popular doodle breeds, the Goldendoodle and Bernedoodle. Central Illinois Doodles has garnered significant recognition for their exceptional breeding practices, including being ranked among the Top 10 Bernedoodle breeders in the United States by respected industry authorities such as Bubbly Pet and Pupvine. Additionally, they have been distinguished as one of the best Goldendoodle breeders by Trending Breeds and Devoted to Dog. Related Posts. Inclusive of more than 75 step-by-step lessons, well over how-to video demos, unlimited LIVE! One-on-one professional help, online classes, courses and events, as well as training games and activities, printable charts and checklists, as well as so much more, Lifetime MEMBERS ONLY Access is all about successfully helping you and your puppy achieve better animal ownership and experience the very best in canine companionship! We absolutely recommend giving them a try and when you enter Discount Code GLB25 at checkout, you will save instantly! New puppy parents often worry that nipping is an early sign of aggression. If this concerns you, relax! Although very annoying, nipping is completely normal for puppies. They simply need to be taught that it is inappropriate behavior. We will talk more about nipping by adolescent or adult dogs later in this handout, but the concepts are the same. It hurts! It makes sense that your puppy should nip at you too. Your puppy needs to learn that this is not appropriate play with people. Good play with people is an acquired skill. Puppies primarily bite to get our attention; they want us to interact with them. If attention is the goal, then your attention is the reward. Game on! In fact, even looking at your puppy after he has nipped is allowing the behavior to pay off. Your puppy is seeking attention, and you just looked. When your puppy nips, keep your cool. You have a few other options. You can calmly get a toy, put it in his mouth, and engage in appropriate play. Sometimes just walking away by itself will send a clear message. What happens if my puppy keeps biting? There may be times during the day when your puppy is extremely excited, racing around and biting everything and everyone in sight. Looking away or initiating play with a toy is useless. You might think about this as being equivalent to that overly tired 2-year-old child who will scream, cry, hit, or throw a full-blown temper tantrum when what he really needs is to sleep—the exact opposite of what he is showing you. Puppies can also become overly tired and turn into crazy biting machines without any sense of bite inhibition. Time for a nap! If you are using a crate with your puppy or perhaps a small room blocked off with a baby gate, put your puppy in this space with a very high value treat, preferably something edible that he can lick or chew for an extended period of time. Good options are a bully stick or a delicious stuffed Kong preferably one that has been frozen to make it last even longer. Most puppies will be sound asleep in five minutes. Always be sure to give your puppy that good treat in the crate. Can training help? Training can be very helpful. There are all sorts of ways of redirecting that puppy energy. So taking a class with your puppy will help you better manage his nipping. Reward the good things! You may find yourself worn out by your puppy. As a result, we tend to pay attention to our puppies only when they are doing something bad. But if you want your puppy to cut back on the biting, you need to be sure to reward the things that you like. Good quiet behavior should be rewarded. A puppy playing by himself should be rewarded. A puppy that brings you a toy or approaches without nipping should be given attention. Beyond Puppyhood Nipping and mouthing in adult dogs can be handled in the same manner. Consistently substituting a toy for your hands or simply moving away from your dog when he exhibits this behavior will often work. If you find that the problem persists, it is important to work with a qualified positive trainer to determine the underlying cause of the behavior and come up with an effective training plan. This sort of behavior in adult dogs rarely goes away on its own and can sometimes escalate if it is unknowingly being reinforced. So you will want to address it sooner rather than later. Key Points to Remember Although it can be annoying, nipping is normal puppy behavior. Remember to give your puppy attention for the good things he does — like calmly playing with a toy. Your canine companion needs to understand what is acceptable behavior just as much as he needs to learn what is not acceptable. An overtired puppy can seem to have more energy than he and you can handle. Why is my puppy biting and nipping family members? Although often thought to be a teething behavior, nipping, mouthing and biting in young dogs is generally a form of social play. Teething is more likely to involve gnawing or chewing on household objects. The first thing you must do is provide ample opportunity for play, without biting. Social play with people could involve controlled chase and retrieve games as well as long walks or jogging. Although wrestling and tug-of-war games can be fun, they may lead to play that is too rough or rambunctious. Puppies need to learn to inhibit the force of their bite. This is something they start to learn while with their littermates. It is one reason that puppies should not go to new homes until weeks of age and they have had time to practice social skills with other dogs. It can therefore be extremely beneficial for the puppy to have regular interactive social play periods with other dogs or puppies in the home or in the neighborhood. How can I stop play biting? Provided the dog is receiving adequate play, attention and exercise, you can turn the training to bite inhibition. One of the things that they need to learn is how much pressure from their jaws causes pain. Without this feedback, a puppy does not learn to inhibit the force of its bite. Because all dogs can and will bite at some time, this lesson is vital for human safety. How is this lesson taught? When puppies play with each other, if one puppy bites another too hard, the bitten puppy will yelp, and may also stop playing and leave. This sends the message to the puppy that its bites were too hard and if it wishes to continue to play, it needs to be gentle. However, people often do not send this message to their puppy. In the beginning, they often allow the puppy to chew on them without reprimands and the puppy assumes that the behavior is acceptable. Children appear to be most vulnerable because their attempts at stopping the biting may not be properly timed or sufficiently abrupt to stop the puppy from biting. Adult supervision or a head halter for training should help to insure more immediate success. The message people should send is that mouthing and chewing on hands is painful. To do this, often all that is necessary is for all family members to emit a sharp yip so that the puppy backs off and cease all play and attention immediately. This sends the message to the puppy that the bites are painful and that biting will cause play to be terminated. When administered consistently, this will often stop playful biting. This training often works for those family members that are a little more forceful and assertive and who are immediate and consistent in their training. Should the puppy persist, chase or immediately repeat the behavior; closing a door and walking out of the room can help to teach the puppy that nipping leads to immediate inattention. What if yelping does not help? Other techniques are often suggested for play biting. Some involve harsh discipline, like slapping the puppy under the chin or forcefully holding the mouth closed. Remember, pain can cause aggression and cause the puppy to become anxious, fearful or perhaps more excited. These techniques also require that you grab an excited puppy; not an easy thing to do. Physical methods are therefore not recommended. Owners, who cannot inhibit the puppy with a yelp, could consider a shake can, electronic alarm, air horn or ultrasonic device as soon as the biting becomes excessive. The use of a head halter with a remote leash attached allows the puppy to play and chew, but a quick pull on the leash can immediately and successfully close the mouth and stop biting without any physical force. As soon as the puppy stops and calms down, the owner can allow play to resume, as long as biting does not begin again. This is one of the quickest and most effective approaches to stop the biting and get immediate control of the muzzle and mouth for owners not gaining sufficient verbal control. Remember that play biting is a component of play behavior in puppies. Play is a form of social interaction. Realize that your puppy is trying to play with you even though the behavior is rough. TO ensure that you are in control, be certain that each play session is initiated by you and not the puppy and that you can end each session whenever you choose. One effective strategy when the play gets too rough is to immediately end the play session and leave. Social withdrawal can be a very powerful tool. Leave the puppy alone long enough to calm down. If upon your return the wild playing begins again, leave again. Although it is tempting to pick the puppy up and take it out of the room, this interaction may be interpreted by your puppy as additional play and the biting may continue as you carry the puppy to a confinement location. May 26, Table of Contents So you decided on a Bernedoodle for your family. They are really good dogs and amazing companions that like nothing more than to spend time with their family — whether it is being active or cuddling. As you are preparing for your Bernedoodle moving in, you should make sure to get enough chew articles though, because as you will find out before long: They can be rather destructive! Are Bernedoodles bad chewers? Yes, they are. Like all Doodle breeds, Bernedoodles high an extremely high chewing desire. There is nothing you can do to change this — the best and only! Chewing as a natural need Chewing is a natural, inborn need for all dogs. How badly a dog chews will depend on their breed and age. Some breeds, especially lap dogs, have a less intense chewing desire than others. Any kind of retrievers have a very high chewing urge. This includes Goldendoodles , Sheepadoodles , and — as a Poodle cross — also Bernedoodles. They were bred to work with their mouth. Any kind of chewing, retrieving or grabbing things feels inherently rewarding to them. This is a characteristic of your dog that you will not be able to change — just like his coat color! The only way to handle the chewing desire is to provide plenty of chewing options for your pup. Chewing serves as a way to release tension and pent-up energy, especially for puppies. Many Bernedoodles are heavy chewers for their whole life. Giving your dog enough to chew will be an integral part of your life with him — just like brushing or walking him. He will likely not stop chewing any time soon. Many owners make the mistake to think that once their dog has passed his first birthday, he is not a puppy anymore and chewing is no longer a problem. This is not true! Your Bernedoodle will most likely not reduce his chewing much if at all at this age. When your dog is stressed or upset, chances are he will need to chew even more than usual. Chewing will also help you keep your adult dog calm after surgeries, such as when you neuter or spay your Bernedoodle. Most dogs slow down on their chewing as they enter their senior years — before then, daily chewing is a must for Bernedooodles. Are Bernedoodles destructive? If you are not able to give your Bernedoodle enough chew items then yes — he will be very destructive. Bernedoodles are large dogs with powerful jaws. If they are bored, they will do some damage to your home. From my own dog training clients, here is a list of some of the items I have seen Bernedoodles destroy: an iPhone several pairs of prescription glasses rugs down parka quilt Needless to say, the owners are upset and frustrated when this happens. It is absolutely crucial that you provide your Bernedoodle with plenty of chew items. What should Bernedoodles chew? Sounds a lot? It is! It is extremely important that you do not allow your Bernedoodle to tear up and ingest stuffed animals or rubber toys. This could lead to dangerous bowel obstruction, which can be fatal. I highly recommend to get some kind of rubber chew toys that you can refill for your Bernedoodle. Here are some to try out: Soaked kibble.

Breeds The link has been copied! Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. As an admirer of one of these lovely furry companions, you may question how much it costs to buy and own a Labrador Retriever. We'll explore the upfront price of purchasing a puppy and the routine costs associated with pet ownership. We'll also cover various factors that can impact the cost of a Lab and provide tips on how to reduce the cost of owning one. The cost of a Lab can vary depending on several factors such as its age, color, purpose show or field , whether it's a purebred, and more. Routine Care Expenses Owning a Labrador Retriever requires some routine care expenses, which should be taken into account when considering the overall cost of having a pet. One of the essential expenses is veterinary care, which includes routine check-ups, vaccinations, and emergency medical care. Labs are prone to specific health issues, such as hip dysplasia , eye problems, and skin allergies, which may require additional medical attention and expenses. Another routine care expense for Labs is feeding. As they are a somewhat larger breed, they require a substantial amount of food to maintain their weight and energy levels. Additionally, treats, chews, and supplements can also be added to their diet, increasing the overall cost of nutrition. Proper grooming and hygiene are essential to keep a Lab healthy and comfortable. Remember that training and behavioral classes may be necessary to ensure your Lab is well-behaved and socialized, which can also be costly. These expenses should be considered when determining if a Lab is the right breed for you and your budget. How much a Labrador Retriever puppy costs depends on multiple factors, such as the breeder's reputation, the location of the pup, the bloodline, and more. Additionally, the cost may increase if the puppy comes with additional services such as health certificates, microchipping , or first vaccinations. Your pup will also need feeding, grooming, and bathing factored into their expenses, as well as beds, toys, chews, leashes, collars, harnesses, and much more. Consider the following: Buying From a Breeder vs. While adopting a Lab may be less expensive, it is essential to note that some shelters may have restrictions and requirements that need to be met before adoption. Keep in mind that the price of a Labrador based on color may vary by region and how popular that specific color is in that location. However, buyers should be cautious and avoid buying from dishonest breeders who may be selling mixed-breed dogs as purebreds. Breeders Reputation Reputable breeders who prioritize health, temperament, and breed standards usually charge more for their puppies. It's crucial to research the breeder thoroughly and ensure that they follow ethical breeding practices before making a purchase. This includes checking their breeding practices, requesting health certificates and pedigrees, and visiting their facilities in person if possible. Buyers should also be cautious of breeders who offer extremely low prices, as that might be a sign of unethical practices. Estimated Size The estimated size of an adult Labrador retriever is around about .Average Price To Buy A Lab Puppy From A Breeder The average price to buy a Lab puppy from a breeder is different from one person to the next, according to the reputation the breeder has in the community, the dog's bloodline, and their location. Again, the color of the Lab plays a significant factor as well. In addition to the cost of the puppy, there are also other expenses associated with owning a Lab. This includes routine care costs such as food, toys, grooming supplies, and veterinary visits for vaccinations and check-ups. Owners should also budget for unexpected expenses such as emergency veterinary care or unexpected illnesses. Remember that a reputable breeder may charge more for their puppies, but they are more likely to provide you with a healthy, well-socialized puppy from a good bloodline. Average Cost To Adopt A Lab Puppy Adopting a Lab puppy is generally less expensive than buying one from a breeder, but the costs can still vary widely. However, it's crucial to research adoption agencies thoroughly to ensure that they are reputable and the dogs are healthy and well-cared for before making a decision. You don't want to bring a sickly pup into your home, just to end up spending more on medical bills than you had anticipated. However, the costs don't stop there. Once you have your furry friend, ongoing expenses include food, vet bills, grooming, and more. In addition, Labs are known for their love of exploration and adventure, which means they have a penchant for getting lost. You don't want to get a new puppy with the understanding that the breed may be high maintenance, and then you lose track of your dog. The collar uses GPS and cellular technology to track your dog's location in real-time, so you can quickly locate your pet if they ever wander off. The collar also includes additional features such as activity monitoring and geofencing to alert you if your dog leaves a designated area. While the initial cost of the collar may seem high, it can save you money in the long run by preventing the loss or theft of your beloved Lab. Labrador Retriever Breed Guide Labrador Retrievers are outgoing and generally have a friendly disposition toward others. They are loyal, affectionate and make excellent family pets. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which makes them great for first-time dog owners. Due to their friendly nature, they also make excellent therapy dogs and are often used in service roles. Labrador Retrievers generally come in three colors: black, chocolate, and yellow. The coat is short, dense, and water-resistant, which makes them excellent swimmers. Labs can be medium to large dogs that weigh about 55 to 80 pounds on average, with the males usually outweighing the females by ten pounds. Typically, they're around two feet tall inches , and the males will have about a one-inch height advantage over the females. The average lifespan for a Labrador Retriever is around 12 years, although some can live up to 14 years. They are all around healthy, but like all dogs, there are specific ailments that you're more likely to encounter with a Lab, like obesity, ear infections, and hip dysplasia. As for lifetime care costs, they can vary depending on factors such as food, vet bills, and grooming expenses. There are several ways to reduce the cost of owning a Labrador Retriever. One option is to adopt a dog from a local shelter or rescue organization. Adopting a dog from a shelter is usually less expensive than buying a puppy from a breeder. Typically, dog shelters will include initial vaccinations, any spaying or neutering services needed, along with essential veterinary care up front. That helps cut down on some of the initial costs that owners usually spend when they first bring a puppy home. However, it's not uncommon that breeders will also at least include the first vaccinations for the pup upon its release to your family. Another option to reduce the cost of owning a Lab is to consider adopting an older dog instead of a puppy. Older dogs may already be trained and require less attention and socialization than a puppy, which can save on training costs and time. Moreover, older dogs may have lower veterinary bills since they may not require as many check-ups or preventative care as a puppy. Finally, another way to save money on the lifetime costs of owning a Labrador Retriever is to invest in preventative care. This includes regular exercise, a healthy diet, and regular veterinary check-ups to catch potential health issues early on. While preventive care may require an upfront investment, it can ultimately save money by avoiding expensive medical bills down the line. Final Thoughts: The Cost of Owning a Labrador Retriever Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds to own, but they can be somewhat high maintenance after you bring them into your home. However, there are ways to reduce costs, such as adopting from a shelter or rescue organization, buying an older dog instead of a puppy, and being mindful of routine care costs. Regardless of the price, it's important to protect your Labrador Retriever with a GPS-tracking dog collar like the one offered by Fi, which can provide peace of mind and ensure the safety of your Lab. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. The link has been copied! You might also like. The costs will be a bit higher at first while you get your dog the shots it requires and pay for the frequent visits to the vet. We also recommend getting your dog spayed or neutered unless you are a professional breeder, and it might even be required as part of your contract if you purchase from a breeder. Once your dog is an adult, it will not require as many vet visits and will only need booster shots every few years, so the average monthly costs will be much lower. Experts recommend getting all of the shots, but your dog is only legally required to get the rabies shot. We recommend purchasing a high-quality brand with real meat like chicken, turkey, or salmon listed as the first ingredient. The protein in meat will help build muscle and provide the energy your dog needs to stay healthy. High protein diets will also help your dog stay full longer, and it will be less likely to come looking for food. Foods with corn as the top ingredient are mostly empty calories that will leave your pet feeling hungry and looking for more food, potentially causing it to become obese. During the shedding seasons of spring and fall, you will likely need to increase the brushing to several times a week to help keep the fur off your furniture and floor. Professional grooming can also help with teeth brushing and nail clipping. This medication can also help prevent heartworm. Spot Pet Insurance offers customizable plans that you can adapt to your breed's specific needs. Many people forgo pet insurance, but it can be a great way to protect yourself from a huge expense while making sure your Labrador Retriever has the best healthcare possible. Accidents and serious illnesses can occur at any time, and many procedures can cost thousands of dollars which makes the price of insurance more than worth it, especially if you get it while your dog is still a puppy. It can chew up stuffed animals quickly, so they can get expensive, but there are plenty of options for a chewing dog, like the Lab. Another option is to purchase a subscription to a monthly service like the Bark Box that sends your dog new toys and activities for as long as you keep up your subscription. A full-grown dog only requires food and flea and tick medication to stay healthy, a few toys to play with, and treats here and there. Additional Costs to Factor In If you like to go on long vacations, you might need to factor in the additional costs of traveling with a dog. Many rental cars do not allow pets or will charge you extra, and the same is true for hotels. Owning a Labrador Retriever on a Budget Your Labrador Retriever will be relatively inexpensive once you get the medical things out of the way. A high-quality food may seem more expensive, but it will help keep your dog full so that it will eat less. Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock Saving Money on Labrador Retriever Care The best way to save money on healthcare when raising your Labrador Retriever is to keep it a healthy weight by following portion recommendations on the food you serve and by helping them get enough exercise. Obesity can lead to heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues that can shorten the lifespan of your pet. After the initial cost of the puppy , you will need to pay a few hundred dollars to get it spayed or neutered and get the shots it needs. After that, you will only need to provide food and shelter with the occasional booster shot. We hope you have enjoyed reading over this guide, and that it has helped answer your questions. If we have helped you create a budget that allows you to get one of these amazing pets, please share this guide on how much it costs to own a Labrador Retriever on social media. Featured Image Credit: scott, Pixabay Contents. Are they good family dogs? Labrador Dog Price — The Costs Involved Buying a Labrador is not just a question of the purchase price of a Lab puppy, though of course that is important. There are other costs involved, both financial, emotional and in terms of time and effort. So we need to look at those too. You may be wondering whether you will have the time for a dog, and if you have the space and energy for a large and lively breed? But this page will take you back to the fundamental considerations, to help you to make the right choice for you and your family. Do you have time for a dog? Can you afford a dog? What about your lifestyle? Will a dog fit in with your family? Is a Labrador the right dog for you? These questions all apply regardless of the type of Labrador you are looking for. The needs of a black Lab, yellow Lab or chocolate Lab are all the same in these respects. The same goes for an English or American Labrador too. Dogs need space, both indoors and outside. Even small breeds need room to stretch their legs and run about. And Labradors as fairly large and lively dogs need quite a lot of space. This means you need a decent sized backyard if you plan on buying a Labrador puppy. Somewhere that your Lab dog can run around, play and enjoy training sessions with you. Labradors can be quite silly during adolescence, bouncing and cavorting in the home. Their tails are long and thick, easily knocking any fragile decorations you might have from shelves. If you have lots of ornaments then you will need to move them to higher shelves to avoid them getting damaged. You will also need to move anything that could be easily damaged by chewing. With small puppies this will be very often indeed. Perhaps every 15 to 20 minutes during their first few days with you. If you live in a flat, or do not have a garden, this will be difficult for you. These are helpful but do take up a lot of space. Although this will take up a lot of space indoors, it can work very well for larger apartments with no easy outside access. Ideally however you do need to have a garden, and a part of the garden which your dog can use as a bathroom, along with a good system for clearing up after him hygienically. Space is key for a Lab dog! The right space for a Labrador includes large clear rooms in the house, with no breakable or fragile objects within his grasp. And ideally access to a garden where they can easily be let out to the bathroom and have room to play. Keeping a single Labrador permanently outside however is not usually a good idea, even with adequate shelter and security. Labs are very sociable dogs and prone to separation anxiety if they lack company. This means your dog may be both sad and noisy. It is always sad to hear from new puppy owners that are struggling to juggle the needs of a puppy with their need to work. These articles will help you to deal with this common issue. Even with a visit at lunch time. An older dog may cope with being left for up to four hours in row on a regular basis, but puppies need more attention than this. Contented Labradors are fairly quiet dogs and unlikely to disturb your neighbors. Nor are they very good guard dogs. However, lonely dogs bark and wreck things. If you work all day, can you afford to pay someone to come in and let him out to stretch his legs and empty himself? Or do you have a relative or friend that would be prepared to do this on a regular basis. Bear in mind that this is quite a lot to ask of anyone in the long term. The biggest long term time commitment in owning a dog is in the form of training and exercise. Training Takes Time All dogs need training in order that they can rub along in human society without being a complete nuisance. This means a regular daily commitment of ten to twenty minutes from you, in addition to your regular interaction with the dog. Training cannot be saved up for the weekend, your dog will have forgotten most of what he learnt the weekend before, and he does not have the attention span to concentrate on you for an hour and a half. You can find out more about training your Labrador puppy here. Staying Fit Exercise is required on a regular basis, for some breeds of dog this means at least an hour a day of walking or jogging to keep your dog fit and healthy. You can find out more about the exercise requirements of a Labrador puppy here. Whilst your dog will not come to any harm if you miss a day occasionally, a daily routine is often the best way to ensure that you build this important habit. Can You Afford A Dog? Dogs can be quite expensive to run. You need to consider not only how much a Labrador will cost you to buy, but also how much it will cost you to keep. How much do Labradors cost from breeders? The price of a Labrador puppy will vary from breeder to breeder, and from place to place. Perhaps you know a friend that has a litter of puppies and they are going to let you have one for free. However, the purchase price of a dog is almost irrelevant. It is such a small part of the final cost. The cost of keeping a Labrador The reality is, you are also going to need to fork out a chunk of your wages each week on keeping your pooch happy and healthy. Obviously you will have taken the cost of a good brand of Labrador puppy food into consideration. It is a good idea to budget for veterinary insurance too. Not because it is unreasonably priced, but simply because it is now so advanced. You can fix a lot of problems these days. We can do open heart surgery, mend complex fractures, treat cancer with radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Pretty much anything you can treat in a human, you can now treat in a dog. And the catch? It costs. The more comprehensive your insurance package the more it will cost. Watch out for very cheap deals, as they may not provide continuing cover for long term ailments. You will also need to vaccinate your dog against common canine illness , and this will probably need to be done each year too. Especially if you are wanting to occasionally leave them in boarding kennels when you go away, as they require up to date vaccination certificates. Labrador Puppy Costs There will be a few other one-off costs such as a puppy crate and puppy play pen for your home for when your dog is young, another for your car if you have one. Then there are bowls, bedding, collar, leash etc. But you may be able to borrow a crate or get one second hand. Here are some of the items you will need for your new Labrador puppy, and reviews on the best options for Labradors:. Over the years, this breed of dog has consistently ranked in the top five for most popular dog breeds. In fact, for nearly 31 years, the Labrador Retriever was ranked as the number one most popular dog before getting knocked out of the number one spot this year by the French Bulldog. And with this breed, often referred to as simple the Lab, remaining high on the list for most searched for and most loved dog, we want to know how much it costs to own one. What are the costs associated with these dogs, from actually getting the puppy to feeding them and beyond. How much does it cost to own a Labrador Retriever? Crufts returns this year after it was cancelled last year due to the Coronavirus pandemic. And we should also point out that a Chocolate Lab is going to cost more than a Black Lab or a Yellow Lab since this color of fur is rarer. Next, we have to talk about feeding your Lab. Considering the Labrador Retriever is medium to large breed dog and often on the larger side of things , you are looking at a diet that may cost a bit more. Now we have to talk about those vet visits. That being said, there are some health concerns that all Labrador Retrievers may face over the course of their lives our pup was lucky enough to not have to deal with these issues, although he did have to have his eyelids fixed as a puppy and that can significantly increase their vet bills. Finally, you will absolutely want to consider grooming when it comes to your Lab as they are another breed that has a double coat. Of course, dog toys, beds and other supplies are also a must for your pup, so these are added expenses that should also be considered. However, if you have ever owned a Lab, you know they are absolutely worth the cost. Because our pups are in great demand, we really prefer a phone call for any future clients. Most of our pups are paid for before even being born. The demand for a Smoky Mtn Pup across our nation has blown our mind. Today some of the most prestigious athletes and celebrities our now owners of Smoky Mtn Puppies. Individually Priced Sales tax may apply depending on your state. Once we have received payment, you will be placed on our active Smoky Mtn Family waiting list. Once you are on the waiting list, we do our best to be in consistent in communication as you wait for your pup. Typically after reviewing those pups, we will occasionally sale some of them. We usually keep pups in the program. We are old school and prefer a phone call. After you have reviewed our website, just give us a call. Contract and Details of Ownership 2. Sales Receipt for your records. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia Guarantee. Smoky Mtn Labrador Guarantee: We guarantee all of our puppies to pass all the appropriate health care clearances on their hips and elbows, or we will replace that puppy with another of the same quality for free. We do not refund any money - we only replace the puppy. We will always take one of our puppies back so that it can have a quality life. There is a specific protocol that we follow if this becomes the case. Many times this can add up to to be thousands of dollars in preparation to ensure we are satisfied with the highest level of breeding, and you are receiving the highest quality puppy as a pet owner. This is a very important decision to make for the care and responsibility of a high quality puppy. We ask that our pet families are prepared to make a solid decision before buying their pup. Our typical wait time is months. It is worth the wait. If you are color specific and gender specific could be longer. We are committed to getting each family the highest quality puppy they desire, which requires a daily, intentional process of purposeful breeding. We do all of this so that our families will be satisfied completely with their decision. It is very important to understand that we allow absolutely NO ONE to pick puppies here, we reserve that right as breeders. Visiting your Pup Prior to Pick-Up: Due to health concerns, we do not allow puppy buyers to visit the litter prior to pick-up time. However, we will send you photos of the litter so you can view the progress of your pup only after their weeks veterinarian check! Call with any questions! As always, we are forever grateful for Amy Walker Wall in taking Moose to a level in his show career that was way beyond our wildest imagination. We always like to inform all of our puppy buyers that to obtain this level of title is absolutely no small accomplishment, and that Moose finished his AKC Grand Champion Degree at only 2 years old. That is remarkable, and is because of the scores of people who were directly responsible in breeding and training Moose. To all of the Labrador Breeders that for decades have stayed true to the English Labrador breed, we say thank you! Gene Wolfenbarger. Less - The Labrador Retriever is a medium to large-sized , short-coupled, powerfully-built dog with a short, dense, water-resistant coat; small, drop ears; and a short, thick otter-like tail carried level with the back or with a slight upward curve. The length of body is equal to or only slightly longer than the height at the withers, and the distance from the elbows to the ground is equal to one-half the height at the withers. Balance, outline, intelligence, temperament and movement are of overriding importance. The Labrador Retriever is a breed of moderation, thoroughly sound, and willing and able to do its work. The Labrador Retriever is a dog without exaggeration, so light, weedy dogs; long, low-stationed dogs; and cloddy, lumbering dogs are to be equally penalized. The Labrador Retriever is an enthusiastic hunter with a good nose and a soft mouth. They excel in all performance activities. Another essential characteristic of the Labrador Retriever is the short, dense, double coat that protects the dog when retrieving from water. Labrador Retrievers are noted for their excellent temperaments. This breed is friendly, outgoing and eager to please. They are extremely intelligent and easily trained to perform a variety of complex tasks. These dogs were brought to England, probably on fishing boats. Originally black in color, the first recorded yellow Labrador appeared in a litter born in .Chocolates were also recorded at about the same time, but never achieved the same level of popularity as the blacks and yellows. Originally bred to retrieve from water, the modern Labrador Retriever has proven to be one of the most versatile breeds, excelling in hunt tests and field trials, in obedience and agility events, and also as service dogs. How Much Does a Labrador Cost? And, this is just the upfront cost of the puppy. This includes the cost of food, veterinary bills, grooming, bedding, and so on. Labrador puppy costs depend on a few factors. Quality of the breeder Quality of the parent dogs Type of Labrador eg. For instance, puppy prices tend to be higher before Christmas, so buy a puppy in the spring, instead. Originally, black Labs were favored above other colors. Brown and yellow Labs were extremely uncommon, and were not at all desirable. Over time, this opinion changed and brown and yellow Labs became more accepted. Shooting communities still tend to prefer the black Lab, but yellow Labs are very common in other working roles, like as therapy dogs and guide dogs. On the whole, each official Labrador color will cost a similar amount. But, yellow and brown Labs may cost slightly more than black Labs, since the genes that cause their coloring are recessive and therefore are less common. Non-Standard Colors Labrador costs can be hugely increased or reduced by non standard colors or patterns. For instance, dilute shades or mismarks. Dilute coloring is recessive and highly controversial in the Labrador community. The genes that cause these shades will dilute pigmentation, turning black Labs into charcoal Labs, chocolate Labs into silver Labs, and yellow Labs into champagne Labs. Some believe this color results from cross-breeding. But, others believe the recessive genes simply remained hidden over generations, like original yellow and chocolate coloring. Dilute colors are not accepted in the official breed standard. So, many breeders will not adjust their price, and may even lower it for unexpected dilute puppies. The same is the case with mismarks. Mismarks can include white patches and spots, brindling, and even tan markings. Extensive mismarks will disqualify a Lab from show. Show type Labs are bred to fit the Labrador breed standard. They are usually slightly stockier and less active than field types. Field types are more often bred for their working ability than for any specific appearance. Labradors cost more when they are bred to show standards. Field Labs tend to be cheaper than Labradors bred for show. But, you should consider which type is best for you, rather than just going for the cheapest Labrador you can find. Field type Labs can be much more energetic and active than show types. First time owners may find the English Lab slightly easier to raise and train! Conversely, Labrador costs can be highest with field trial champion bred dogs that are likely to win awards. Labrador Costs From Breeders vs Shelters Labrador puppies from reputable breeders will cost more than dogs from a rescue center. Whilst Labs from breeders can cost thousands of dollars, Labradors from rescue centers can only be a few hundred dollars. A major difference between Labs from a breeder and Labs from a rescue center is the history of the dogs. Puppies from a breeder will stay with their mom and siblings until 8 weeks old. At 8 weeks, puppies can go to their new home. Rescue center dogs can have unknown histories, or even histories that involve abuse. Labs from rescue centers are usually older, and have often lived with other families. However, many Labs are given up for non-behavioral reasons. They can be just as wonderful pets as puppies from a breeder. And, many dogs from rescue centers will have basic training, including house training, obedience, and potentially recall. Why Are Breeders So Expensive? Reputable breeders tend to cost more than any other puppy source. Breeders have to spend a lot when breeding a litter, and all of this will lower their profit margins. Labrador breeding costs include: Health testing and certificates.

German Shepherd puppy development stages and ages — week by week guide Welcome to our German Shepherd puppy development stages and ages — week by week guide Different breeds like all different babies develop at different rates. There are going to be many exciting events for you to look forward to. Whether you are bringing your 8 week German Shepherd puppy home or about to be blessed with a litter of puppies. This is going to be an exciting, demanding but hugely rewarding journey. Newborn puppies are born at around days after fertilization. Newborn puppies are born with their ears and eyes tightly sealed. The reason eyelids are sealed shut is to form a protective barrier for the fragile developing eye. This helps to protect them from any foreign object, bright lights, bacteria or any other microorganism that can cause disease or damage. In the same way puppies ear canals are closed at birth to make them effectively deaf. This is a protective barrier to protect the fragile underdeveloped machinery needed to hear. In a mature ear the pressure caused by sound will mechanically move structures in the ear. German Shepherd puppies are highly dependent upon their noses. Puppies navigate by smell from the moment they are born. This helps them to identify their mom, the very important milk supply, siblings and surroundings. Newborn puppies are born with a fur coat however they cannot control their own body temperature yet. To keep them warm they are dependant on their mothers or another heat source. If you live in a cooler climate installing a heat lamp would be ideal to help keep the puppies nice and warm. Germans Shepherds make amazing mothers and will be relied on a lot at this stage. Mother dogs will only leave their newborn puppies to go to the toilet, eat and drink. However, when mom has gone the newborn puppies are not completely useless. They are able to use their front paws to drag themselves towards a heat source. When mom is away the puppies will crawl together to preserve their body heat. Along with being able to drag themselves to a heat source newborn puppies are also able to drag themselves to their mothers to locate the milk supply. They will move their heads around to search for a nipple, latch on and suck strongly. Newborn puppies are not born with teeth these will also develop in the next several weeks. Other than the above puppies are completely dependent upon the care of their dedicated mom. Newborn puppies have little control over the rear end of their bodies. To encourage their pups to pass urine and bowel movements the mom will lick their bottoms. Anything produced mom will then lick up and swallow to keep her puppies and nest clean. Some pups will even double their birth weight! Your German Shepherd puppy will still be highly dependent upon their mom at this stage. Beneath all their fur the vital organs will be working hard to mature. This includes the eyes. Your puppy will not be ready to open their eyes yet but lots of changes are taking place to prepare them for grand opening. The ear canals will begin to open around the same time as the eyes. When the ear canals do open, the ears are much more formed than the eyes are at this point in time. Their eyesight usually takes around 8 weeks to reach its full potential. When their eyes become wider, they will reveal blueish-gray eyes which are hazy in appearance. Their eyesight will continue to develop until around 8 weeks old. The ear canals will also open around 2 weeks. The puppies hearing has been developing much quicker than their eyesight and they will be able to hear most things by the time their ear canals fully open. However, their amazing hearing ability will continue to enhance over the next several weeks. At the moment your German Shepherd puppy will have cute floppy ears. Their adorable tall ears can come up anywhere between 8 weeks and 6 months of age. Floppy ears are common until your German Shepherd finishes teething. By then the ear cartilage will become strong and hard enough for the ears to stand up permanently. Now is a good time to start handling the puppies and get them used to your voice. Most puppies are wormed for the first time when they are 2 weeks old. All this development has happened so quickly, but things are about to get even more exciting. Between 2 and 4 weeks your German Shepherd puppy will begin to stand up this is when the real fun begins. Puppies milky teeth will also start to develop between 2 to 4 weeks. These sharp little teeth will remain until about weeks of age. These little daggers play an important role during the weaning process. Even the most patient moms will struggle to nurse with these sharp painful teeth. This reluctance to nurse will prompt the German Shepherds to seek alternative food sources. These sharp teeth will then help to make up for the lack of jaw strength when eating solid foods. Finally, these sharp puppy teeth play an important role in teaching the pups to gauge their bite pressure when playing with their mom and siblings. This is an essential life lesson that enables our powerful German Shepherds to become safer companions as they mature into strong adult dogs. During the last few weeks mom has done an amazing job of getting her babies strong and their mobility will have come on leaps and bounds well not quite yet but by 3 weeks of age your German Shepherd puppy will begin to trotter around. Most 3 week old German Shepherd puppies can stand and sit. With their baby teeth starting to cut through a lot of breeders. Especially those with large litters will start introducing some solid foods. This helps relieve some of the pressure for the devoted German Shepherd mom. When weaning puppies, you need to start off by soaking their food in either water or puppy milk replacement formula to make it mushy and more comfortable for them to eat. As they start to interact and play with their siblings their personalities will really start to show. You may also notice them starting to playfully growl at each other. At 3 weeks old it will become easier to start identifying different members of the pack. Breeders and moms will be kept on their toes and paws over the next few weeks. As the pups start getting more confident on their feet they will be running around and playing enthusiastically. At 4 weeks old they will begin to wag their adorable little tails. With solid food becoming a major part of their diet the pups will be passing bigger bowel movements. They will be able to show more control of their bowel movements as they take themselves away from their brothers and sisters to perform their business. At this stage mom will be taking a much more relaxed approach to parenting and there will be a lot more for the breeder to clear up. By this point mealtimes are a messy process. If it is warm and safe enough to do so we would recommend taking the pups out in the yard for feeding. German Shepherd puppies are becoming a lot stronger at vocalisations by 4 weeks old. When mom returns to her babies the litter will noisily greet her. Around 4 weeks of age your puppies will need to be wormed again. From this week onwards human interaction is very important in order to form relationships with people. Including different noises and smells. This exposure will ensure your German Shepherd puppy turns into a confident, friendly individual. Mom will also be doing an important job of teaching her puppies to not bite too hard. Even an 8 week old German Shepherd puppy would have the power in their jaws to break the smaller bones in humans fingers. This is why mom teaching her puppies bite inhibition is so important. For more information on bite inhibition please see our guide on German Shepherd bite inhibition. By 5 weeks old German Shepherd puppies will be eating a lot of solid foods, several times throughout the day. Those sharp little teeth would have done their job and mom will be gradually weaning her pups of the dependency on her milk. When mom does feed her puppies, she will only do so for a short period whilst standing up. They will be eating between five and six small meals a day. Although the pups no longer rely on mom for milk, they still need her help and guidance for the next few weeks. Mom will be teaching her babies important life skills to live alongside humans. In some countries 6 week old puppies are taken away from their mothers and moved into their new home. We would not recommend this as the puppies will miss out on continued bite inhibition training from their siblings and mother. This can result in a puppy who bites too hard which can be challenging to manage as they get older. In the USA your puppy will be due their first combined 5-in-1 vaccine at 6 weeks old. This vaccine helps to immunizes your puppy against hepatitis, parvo, distemper, parainfluenza and coronavirus. Most puppies will also need to be wormed again at 6 weeks old. Their last week together will consist of plenty of socialization and playing. Most breeders will arrange a 7 week health check up with the vet to make sure your bundle of fluff is fit and healthy to go to their new home. In the UK some breeders will arrange for the pups first 8 week vaccination to take place during this check. Although some vets advise against it. By the end of this week German Shepherd puppies are ready to leave their mothers and move into their new homes for good. The week you get to take your new puppy home. This will be a very exciting time, but you may also be feeling a bit nervous. There will be some challenged along the way for new puppy owners and your puppy will take some time to adjust to life without its mother and siblings. In the UK the first combined vaccination will help to immunizes your puppy against distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis and hepatitis. The first puppy injection in the UK typically will happen between 8 and 10 weeks. Some breeders would have trained the puppies to poop and pee on newspapers or puppy pads. From the moment you get them home it is important to show your German Shepherd puppy where to pee and poop. Puppies naturally like to pee where they have done so before so to avoid building history of peeing in your home is best if you can to avoid it. The more you can avoid accidents from happening as much as possible from the start the faster the puppy training process should be. All puppies are different, and some will get this quicker than others. The main thing to remember is not to discipline your puppy for accidents. The most successful way to potty train is to reward success and ignore accidents. Just clean them up quickly and thoroughly. Your puppy will love nothing more than being praised. For more information please see our guide on How to potty train your German Shepherd puppy. Already your German Shepherd puppy will feel like part of the family. German Shepherds puppies are always adorable but at 9 weeks they are at the age where they are still puppy-like but very clumsy,curious and keen to play with her new family, which is very cute. Your German Shepherds unique personality will make you feel very proud. At 9 weeks your cheeky German Shepherd pup will be feeling more confident, with this the need to explore everything and anything may end up getting them into trouble. Your puppy will develop new sleeping patterns and feeding routines which you will need to adapt to. Most puppies will sleep between eighteen and twenty hours a day at 9 weeks old. During the day when you are with your puppy generally you will not need to shut them away in a crate to nap. German Shepherd puppies are often more than happy to sleep whilst family life goes on around them. However, there will be times when sleeping in a crate is better and safer for your puppy. You must not leave a 9 week old puppy to sleep outside the crate if you are not home to watch them if they wake. Puppies are into everything and many innocent items found in the house could be a potential hazard to your inquisitive pup. For more information please see our guide on how to puppy proof your home. Even if your puppy can barely keep their eyes open other pups and children will still want to play and your German Shepherd puppy may find it hard to refuse. After a hard day of play the peace and quiet of a crate will enable your pup to have a well-deserved nap. If your German Shepherd puppy does need to go to the toilet in the night make sure you keep it short and to a minimum. Establishing a daily routine is the best way to get your German Shepherd puppy to sleep through the night. Part of this schedule will involve mealtimes. Your 9 week old puppy will need four meals a day. Split these up throughout the day and try to stick to similar times. This is to stop encouraging your puppy to wake up earlier and earlier because they associate waking with food. You should always reward your puppy either vocally, with a favourite toy or treats for good behaviour and ignore bad behaviour. Puppies and dogs want to be praised so they respond very well to positive encouragement. Punishing puppies and dogs may have a short term positive effect on their behaviour but long term you could be setting them up to fail. It is very important to socialise and expose your puppy to other humans, dogs and different scenarios whilst they are young. This maybe hard before your puppy has had all its vaccines however getting many different people to come and visit you at your home will enable them to get used to visitors. Before their full vaccinations you can also, you can take you German Shepherd puppy out and about with you to expose them to the outside world as long as you can carry them. If you live in the USA, your puppy will be due their second combined 5-in-1 vaccine at 9 weeks old. In the USA a minimum of three sets of the combined vaccine are required for your puppy. Although you cannot put your puppy down outside until after their final vaccination. Puppies 10 week injection In the UK is a booster vaccination to help immunizes your puppy against distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis and hepatitis. Check with your vet what date after their jabs your German Shepherd puppy will be able to go down outside. Your puppy will then need a booster between 6 and 12 months old. If you live in the USA at 12 weeks old your German Shepherd puppy will be due their booster for the combined 5in1 vaccine against hepatitis, distemper, parainfluenza, parvo and coronavirus and a vaccine against rabies and leptospirosis. If you live in a high risk area, they may also need to be given the vaccination to help immunize them against Lyme. If applicable at 16 weeks your German Shepherd puppy may need to have a fourth combined 5in1 vaccine. A minimum of three combined injections are required in the USA. Check with your vet what date they will be able to be out down outside. By 10 weeks old your German Shepherd puppy will be able to control their bladder a lot more. Potentially up to several hours. This is great time for you to introduce them to the big wide world and develop their social skills which you have already been building the foundations. When taking your German Shepherd puppy out try to introduce them to as many other friendly dogs, humans and noises you can. This will help your German Shepherd puppy to grown into a confident well-rounded dog. At 3 months old your German Shepherd will go down from four daily meals to three. These three portions will be larger than what they are used to which may cause stomach upset. If your German Shepherd puppy does get an upset stomach, try going back to four smaller meals for a couple of days and they try the three larger portions again. This can be a challenging time as your adorable German Shepherd puppy turns into a furry crocodile. Luckily the teething stage is only a phase as with human babies and short lived. In most cases your puppy biting should stop around when they are around 7 months old and have their adult teeth. You maybe noticing your German Shepherds gorgeous ears fluctuating between floppy and pointy. By the time your puppy has finished teething their ears should tick up all the way. This usually happens around months. As they grow their cartilage becomes stronger. Some puppies need another month or so to help them cope without going out for frequent toilet breaks. Even when your German Shepherd puppy is toilet trained occasional accidents are normal. German Shepherds do have large ears but they tend to grow into them as they get older. German Shepherd puppies will begin to grow their new adult coat between 4 and 6 months old. To make way for their adult coat all the puppy hair has to go. For several weeks you will notice an increase in shedding. This is a completely normal part of growing up for your German Shepherd. Being a double coat breed German Shepherds dogs have a topcoat and an undercoat. Twice a year your pup will shed their undercoat. Usually in spring and again in fall. They also shed in general days a year so be prepared for a lot of fur! They will very much look like a smaller version of their adult selves. Although your German Shepherd may look older on the inside, they are still very much a puppy. If you are looking to get your puppy neutered or spayed the recommended age is 6 to 9 months. However, it is common for some female puppies to get spayed at 4 months old. Summary: Your German Shepherd is bound to give you so much joy and happiness throughout its life. There will be challenges along the way but remember this is completely normal. German Shepherds are such an amazing breed and you will have a loyal friend for life. Related Posts. It is not recommended to take it from its mother and littermates because it starts its socialization and gets the first experience of biting inhibition from them. When you take your doggy home, follow the advice of your breeder and veterinarian. In addition, you need to measure and weigh your pup to be able to follow its growth. You should also think about crate training your dog from the first days of staying at your home. Start potty training as soon as possible. However, be very careful about the first walks. The immune system of a little German Shepherd is too unstable and vulnerable to many infections. It has already received all the nutrients it needed during its first month. You can opt for high-quality puppy kibble or homemade food. However, you should avoid poor-quality products and cheap kibble that is full of chemicals. If you are planning to feed your pet with kibble, it is recommended to moisten it with goat milk or fresh water if this milk is unavailable. Giving it cow milk is not recommended. Give your puppy 1. Try to formulate a consistent feeding schedule with the same hours for feeding. You should have two bowls for your German Shepherd. One is for food and the other for water. Your puppy needs a lot of water, so you can leave the water in the bowl to let it drink whenever it wants. As for food, do not leave the leftovers in the bowl. Your puppy cannot control how much it wants to eat, and it can lead to overfeeding if it eats something every time it sees its bowl. You need to make the feeding schedule work. However, do not feed the puppy two times per day. It is too young for that, so it can overeat too and have severe digestion problems. You should teach it to recognize the connections between commands and responses or responses and consequences. Foremost, you need to set primary anchors. It means that you should develop certain reactions to your actions to teach the puppy to follow you, eat food or receive treats, and sit. Your clapping hands, whistling, or a specific word can be such anchors. Avoid setting anchors that your puppy will feel as similar. The next training step is establishing authority. Your puppy should understand that you are its guide, and it will help you when you start training more complex commands. Your little pet should understand that you are its pack leader. So, the first thing to teach is to follow you. Praise the puppy if it does everything correctly, and never punish it if it does not understand you. Early socialization training is also very important. However, early exposure of your pet to many people and unfamiliar things may lead to psychological problems. That is why start socializing your puppy gradually. You can take it on short visits to your family or friends. Keep socializing your doggy every day but in small portions of positive experiences. Start potty training as soon as you bring your GS puppy home. Show it where you want it to do its business, in the backyard or garden. Ensure that this area is quiet and fenced. It has to be something soft like grass or mat. Establish an exact schedule for going potty. Taking the puppy outside is the first thing you need to do after it wakes up in the morning. Then, follow the schedule after each meal, playing, and before going to bed. Keep the puppy out of biting and nipping. You should not beat or punish it anyway. Though, teach the puppy to avoid severe bites on the hands and legs. You can arrange timeouts for it if it bites too harshly. For example, if it bites your hand while taking a treat, withhold the next treat until it understands how to take it gently. Reward it with a treat when you see that the little one understands what you want of it and denies biting at all. German Shepherds are very clever, so they understand the explanations very quickly. Be patient while training your little dog. It will be trained enough to understand how to control itself by the 10th week. Therefore, your boy will grow as tall as inches cm , while the little girl will be inches cm tall. How much does a 2 month old German Shepherd weight? GS puppies gain weight at this age very quickly. They tend to double it in comparison to the first month. Your male doggy will approximately weigh pounds kg. If you have a female puppy, its weight will be smaller — pounds .How much to feed a 2 month old German Shepherd puppy? You can give your puppy .How often should I feed my 2 month old German Shepherd? You should feed your pup times per day. Never make a feeding schedule of 2 times per day because your doggy can overeat and have digestive problems. How much exercise does a 2 month old German Shepherd puppy need? Little GS puppies are very energetic, so they need a lot of exercises. However, they are too young for hard exercise and training. The sessions can be very short about minutes or less and not too intensive. Can I walk my 2 month old German Shepherd? Yes, you can walk your puppy in the backyard or any other fenced space after it is vaccinated. Though remember that your little doggy cannot go on long walks yet, so never make its walks too long. Another thing to consider is that it cannot follow you yet, so try to avoid going for walks in the open spaces and streets, or your pup can get lost. Learn a lot about the breed before you decide to adopt this dog. You also need to know that your pup will have enough space for its activity and energetic behavior. You also need to consider your budget. Get prepared that your doggy will bark, whale, bite and chew everything around. However, you will also get a lot of joy, playing, laughing, and loyalty. German Shepherds are very intelligent, and you will get the best friend for many years if you are patient and consistent enough during its first days at your home. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. This also means that you will have to care for the puppy even more than ever. Proper medical attention, regular walks, etc. But how exactly do you care for such a puppy? The weight of a male German Shepherd increases at a very high rate, about 1 kg 2 lbs per week, and thus at the age of 9 weeks, it would weigh 9 to 10 kg 18 — 20 lbs. As for the female counterpart, the weight is slightly smaller by 2 kg, or 4 lbs. At this point, both dog genders should be 12 to 15 inches in height. With that said, a puppy that weighs 3 to 4 kg 6 to 8 lbs less than expected is probably not fed correctly, the same goes for the other side. Training If you are wondering, you indeed can train such a young puppy, although it can learn much fewer tricks than an adult dog would. Mainly what you want to focus on is bite inhibition, as random biting is an extremely often problem throughout all individual German Shepherds. Other tricks may include: The give paw command. Quite easy to teach and simple to learn, especially for a German Shepherd. It would be a good idea to teach a puppy these tricks, as they may be necessary for further training in the future. Without it, the dog may be overly aggressive in the future. So be careful. It is obvious, that leaving a dog without care would be equal to abandoning it. So, it is fully up to you to feed, groom, heal and play with that German Shepherd of yours. On the bright side of things, the said puppy is much more independent than before and will help you care for itself. Pay attention! Analise that information and fix the diet if needed. The amount of things you have to worry about is increased. Additionally, the pet at this point actively learns from its environment. And, finally, good luck with your 9 week old German Shepherd, and thank you for reading!

If you would like to have the puppy held for you, make a deposit online. You are certainly welcome to select your puppy this way without a deposit, but please note that availability may change on a daily basis. If you come and see the puppy, make your purchase and take the puppy home if the puppy is 8 weeks old or older. Skip to 6, unless you need to arrange travel for your pup. Connect with us and we will get the right information to deliver the puppy to you and set up the exact date and time. Enjoy the new puppy that you have adopted into your family. If you have any questions, please reach out to the breeder for help! How much is a Golden Retriever puppy, and why do the prices on the website vary? The price depends on the credentials of the parents and the number of puppies available at the time. This allows you to set up an appointment that fits both your schedule and that of our breeders. Our golden retriever puppies are all raised by families in the Northeast Ohio area, conveniently located about an hour and a half from both Cleveland and Columbus. This makes it easy to come visit our puppies and spend time playing with them in a home environment. How can I get puppy travel arranged if I am out of state? A little-known fact about golden retriever puppies is that they actually do very well with travel. Check out our puppy travel page here to find out more about how we go the extra mile. How do you raise your dogs? When buying a golden retriever puppy, the people who bred and raised them can have a big impact on the health and sociability of the dog! Because of this, we are dedicated to choosing caring, dedicated golden retriever breeders in Ohio who will get your pup started on the right track. Our small network of breeders in Ohio all are dedicated to the same principles. This starts by providing carefully-planned breedings to ensure the best pedigree for our pups. They raise healthy, socialized pups that can make a smooth transition to a new home. Most of our breeders actually have young children at home who help raise the puppies and play with them so they can become socially adjusted. How do I leave a review of my Golden Retriever experience? Many pet owners, especially those who are the lucky recipients of a golden retriever's love, make sure to honor their birthdays as well. And what are some ideas on how to throw a golden retriever birthday party? Imagination is the key. A sense of humor goes a long way. But most of all, recognizing your golden retriever's special day is much like planning a human birthday party! The most important thing to do when planning a party for your golden retriever and his or her golden retrievergie friends, is to find a secure area. Area where DOGS won't run the risk of getting away from owners, lost or confused. Don't invite every friend in your Golden retriever birthday party. Don't invite every friend and neighbor who has a DOG to your Golden retriever birthday party. But invite only the DOGS that your own pooch is familiar with. No sense in testing fate, so keep it simple and golden retrievergie-friendly for the special birthday boy or girl. Remember to keep the size of your birthday area in mind when inviting other DOGS as well as their owners to your party. Other ideas of throwing a golden retriever birthday party encompass decorations and food to be served at this special event. When decorating with lights, crepe paper or ribbons, streamers or balloons, keep such items away from DOGS that may want to eat them. Some DOGS love to pop balloons. So you may want to keep a few extra balloons blown up for the games portion of the party. But make sure that you retrieve plastic discards as soon as possible. This will prevent DOGS from eating or chewing on plastic or rubber parts and strings. Remove items that you don't want damaged before the golden retriever birthday party. Remember, as with human children, DOGS can make a mess, so make sure you remove items that you don't want damaged from the 'play area' before the golden retriever birthday party. When DOGS start playing, everything in their path is fair game. So take a look through the area beforehand to save yourself frustration or grief. Remember, this was your idea, so don't leave anything to chance. This is a special day for your golden retriever and guests. So no one should be punished if anything gets broken. Guests may even take turns with Frisbees and other activities in birthday golden retriever party. DOGS are easy to entertain, and guests may even take turns with Frisbees, tennis balls and other activities for the birthday golden retriever party. In summertime, a small wading pool provides plenty of amusing entertainment for DOGS and people alike. But be forewarned that when they shake, you may get drenched. Dont forget the golden retriever birthday cake. The birthday golden retriever and guests, as well as human counterparts, are likely to be hungry, so make sure you have food for both available. If you wish, bake your golden retriever birthday cake made of various, DOG friendly ingredients. But remember to avoid chocolate Chocolate is poisonous for Golden retriever dogs. And keep plenty of water on hand for the thirsty participants. No matter what, have fun, make sure that your golden retriever and guests are safe, and enjoy the celebration!

Some of these you can help prevent, while others are out of your immediate control. If your GSD carries the genes for ears that lie down, instead of standing erect, then more than likely they will have floppy ears. This means they may have ears that never stand up and are floppy for life. Breeding Some breeders choose to pair parents that both have large, erect ears. And some buyers and owners prefer this larger style of ears for show or aesthetic purposes. But, there is some theory that breeding a German Shepherd with larger and larger ears might contribute to ears that stay flopped over. Always see the parents of the puppy you buy from the breeder on the premises to see their appearance. Physical Damage or Accidents Puppies are active and mischievous and can get into plenty of trouble. This includes physical damage or accidents that have the cartilage or muscles in their ears. If this happens their ears may suffer long-term damage and not stand up naturally on their own. So watch out for a rough play that might lead to ear damage. And, if your pup has been in an accident that hurt their ears, take them immediately to the vets. Improper and Poor Nutrition German Shepherds need balanced nutrition during crucial growing stages, including vitamins and minerals that aid in cartilage and muscle development of their ears. You should ensure your dog gets the right nutrition from the start to avoid any issues. Along with Vitamin D, calcium helps strengthen the cartilage to aid in building a strong foundation for the ears to stand up later. Neglecting Ear Cleaning Puppies still need ear cleaning when dirt and build-up are overly present. Dirty ears that become neglected can inhibit proper growth and cause discomfort for your dog, causing them to excessively scratch their ears which can cause damage. This could cause them more harm! Instead, wipe away the dirt from the skin of the ear with a warm, damp washcloth or use special ear cleaning wipes. A dog with one floppy ear and one ear upright is totally normal. Occasionally, your German Shepherd might have one floppy ear and one ear standing upright. If they are a small puppy then they are most likely growing and the one ear down still needs time to go upright naturally. These are some of the best techniques that will help their ears to stand up. They only need to sit inside the ear enough to support cartilage growth. Make sure you check for any creases or folds in their ears before moving on to the next step. Repeat in the other ear. Make a Popsicle Support Now, take the popsicle sticks and place them at the top of the foam rollers both ears should have foam rollers in them at this point. You might need another pair of hands to help with this, so ask your family or friends to help. Take the self-adhering waterproof tape and place a medium-size piece across and around the two foam rollers and popsicle sticks. This ensures even and symmetrical growth. Make a bridge across their ears instead. If your German Shepherd puppy is 9 months old and their ears still flop over, please see your vet for further assistance. When in doubt, get your vet to show you what to do for their ears. Your puppy might become annoyed with the tape on their ears, so they may need close supervision and even some distraction during the taping process. There is absolutely nothing wrong with a German Shepherd that has floppy ears and putting them at risk to have any unnecessary surgery to get their ears to stand up can cause them pain. Speak to your vet about the side effects and pain associated with ear implants. You can help prevent floppy ears in your dog by taking the appropriate steps to keep them healthy. The top ways to help a GSD with floppy ears include: 1. Feed them a high-quality food Giving your dog the proper nutrition for optimum growth is a necessity, especially when they are puppies and growing rapidly. Choose a puppy food with the correct ratio of nutrients and vitamins to ensure they get the correct building blocks for development. When you choose to give them treats, pick ones from this list of the best healthy dog treats for German Shepherd puppies. Provide them with the proper chew toys Chewing helps to strengthen the muscles that surround the ears. Or worse… Injure them. Learn to play and discipline a German Shepherd puppy the right way to avoid accidental ear injuries or damage. German Shepherds with ears that are floppy are a joy to own, no matter their age! Floppy ears are adorable and give your dog even more character. Go on, and find out what makes your companion the happiest dog on the planet! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. It commonly occurs anywhere from eight weeks to six months. So, any German Shepherd parent would know that these adorable dogs have floppy ears when they are just puppies. However, stronger cartilage will be developed as you give them the proper nutrients. It might mostly occur as a response to your call or noise in the surrounding area. It can be a result of poor nutrition or slow development. Your German Shepherd needs abundant vitamin D, calcium, and protein. Lacking these nutrients in their diet will result in weak cartilage. Switch to better food or visit the vet for a checkup. They are still incredibly cute, anyway! If you want to ensure that you have a pooch with perky ears, make sure to look for parents with standing ears. Do all German Shepherd ears stand up? Even if you have already, you can know whether your pooch will have floppy or perky ears when it grows. It can compromise their health and adversely affect their growth, including strengthening the cartilage. Regular checkups and fecal exams can help prevent or abate that problem. Your vet can give your dog deworming medicines to see that your growing furry friend is free from parasites. Any traumatic injury to the ears can cause permanent damage and prevent the ears from growing strong enough to stand. It can be caused by a child pulling its ears and rough play among its littermates. Regularly monitor your pup and keep anyone from playing with its ears when they are in its developmental stage. But there are things you can do to help it get strong and healthy ears. These steps will also protect the ears from possible damage. Get high-quality food for your puppy to boost their development. Cheap foods usually have more fillers that contain negligible nutrients. Keep the puppy away and safe from other puppies that play bite with their ears. Educate your children and everyone else at home on how to handle the puppy carefully and gently. Giving your puppy chew toys will give their head, jaw, and surrounding muscles some exercise. It can lead to better ear development. Make sure to buy durable ones, as German Shepherd pups are stronger than you think! Clean their ears gently if you notice dirt. Keep your dog happy! A happy dog is a healthy dog. It will have fewer or no health problems if you keep the dog fit. Using the tape too early or during its growing stage can harm its natural development. However, the 7th to 8th month might be a little too late. But that may not be true for all, as some German Shepherds are just built differently. Their looks come second when you experience how good of a companion they can make. But the young ones carry cute floppy ears that eventually stand up. Some take longer. Remember that floppy ears do not affect their health negatively. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. Aug 18, Share German Shepherds have a distinctive look that includes alert, erect ears. For most pups, the ear cartilage begins to harden around week 20, or when the pup is finished teething. At that point, it can take up to 20 weeks for the ears to stand up fully. This can vary by the individual, however. Like human ears, dog ears are made of cartilage. As they grow and gain nutrition, German Shepherds develop stronger and stronger cartilage to support those ears. Typically, puppies at weeks will have floppy ears that occasionally stand up but quickly fall back down. Around week 20, or 5 months, your pup is done teething and its ears will begin to harden and stand. Your vet may have some suggestions to help the process along. If your pup reaches 8 months and still has floppy ears, the chance of them standing on their own is slim. Some breeders try to breed for larger ears, leading to ears that are too heavy to stand up. If strong, alert ears are important to you, be sure to look for a pup with parents that have erect ears. If the ears sustain trauma during that time, it can cause permanent damage to the cartilage. If your puppy gets parasites, it can impact healthy development, which includes the hardening of its ear cartilage. Be sure to take your puppy to the vet regularly and have routine fecal exams to check for worms and other parasites. Your vet can recommend an appropriate deworming protocol for your growing puppy and treat parasites if they occur. However, if you want your puppy to have strong, alert ears, you can help the process along in a number of ways. In an effort to move ear development along, some owners will add supplements like calcium. Chew toys are also good for teething and keeping your puppy occupied. German Shepherds are strong, even as pups, so be sure to choose solid, durable chew toys that are safe and appropriate for your puppy. It should only be used as a last resort, however. If you use tape too early, it can hinder natural development. That said, if you wait until the seventh or eighth month, it may be too late to help. Glue the ends of the popsicle stick to the tape on both ears, horizontally. Once a week, remove the popsicle stick, foam, and tape. If the ears stand on their own, leave them. Related Reads:. I get a lot of emails about taping German Shepherd puppy ears. The majority of these emails come from people who are jumping the gun and worrying too much. By that, I mean their pups are 3 or 4 months old and they are starting to panic because their puppy's ears are not standing. I tell these people that they need patience, they need to wait until their pup has finished teething. I caution these people not to jump the gun and tape the dog's ears too early or in the wrong way. I know people who have screwed their dog's ears up for life by doing this. I have had puppy customers who go ballistic on me and panic. So I issue a word of caution here. With that said, the other side of the spectrum of taping ears is something that many people do not take seriously until it's too late. When ears are taped at 7 and 8 months, there is very little chance of it working. This is an unfortunate fact of life. German Shepherd puppy ears can come up between 8 weeks and 6 months. If they are not up when the dog is through teething this varies from dog to dog but in general between 16 weeks and 20 weeks of age , I tell my puppy customers to get very interested in their ears. While it's not time to panic, it is time to sit up and take notice. The first thing to do is make sure that your puppy is in good health. This means no intestinal parasites. Take a stool sample to your vet to have it analyzed. It's also important to make sure the pup is getting good quality food. We feed and recommend a raw diet but if you do feed a commercial diet, I strongly recommend researching all the options available and feeding the highest-quality food you can afford. View our list of all-natural kibble alternatives. In fact, a lot of times, a pup will have both ears up and all of a sudden, they will come back down when the pup starts to teeth. Many owners panic when this happens. But not to worry, I have never seen a pup whose ears did not go back up when this happens. If a pup does not have his ears up by 5 months, I strongly recommend that you get involved with taping your dog's ears. Use the thin white surgical tape the kind that's paper-thin and tears easily. The 3M Micropore tape, 2" wide, works well. I like to use women's hair rollers. Take the plastic out of them and just use the foam. Wrap the ear around the foam and tape them into a tight roll. In a vertical position. Take a popsicle stick and attach it to the top part of both ears. In a horizontal position. The pup is going to tear the tape or stick off the ears several times. The key is to continue to re-tape the ears. Sooner or later, the pup will forget the tape and ignore it. About once a week, take the tape off and see if the ears will stand on their own. Continue to re-tape until the ears stand. If the ears are not up by 7 or 8 months, they are not going to come up. The ears should look like this once taped. The same dog with ears now up. I have seen ears that did not stand, which in my opinion would have stood had they been taped. So this process is not something to take lightly. I also need to say that many ears will be a little weak right after taping but with time, they will strengthen. So when an ear does not stand perfectly after taping don't panic. Just have patience and see what happens. You will really not have an idea exactly what you have until the pup is 12 months old. When ears do not stand, there are ear implants that can be surgically added. I have no experience with this and do not know anything about them. If you are unlucky enough to have a dog whose ears will not stand, I would point you toward a vet that has some experience in this area. I don't think it's something that normal small animal vets know how to do well. In my opinion, too young to tape. The material to use to tape German Shepherd Ears The pup with its ears taped I prefer taping German Shepherd Dogs ears after the dog has finished teething. This usually means the dog is older than 4 - 6 months. Maybe waiting another month would have been a better idea for this puppy. Especially during the first six months, be extra careful not to aggressively clean their ears. They will be more prone to lesions in the ear cartilage at this time. Yet it would be understandable if you are reading this and feel dismay or even horror. How can that possibly be a good thing? But understand we are not talking about doing anything harmful or invasive. The techniques you are about to read about will not harm or hurt your German Shepherd puppy at all. They will simply support the ears to grow into the upright position without having to work so hard to get there — or stay there. You want to give your pup enough time to try to do this naturally. But you also want to intervene before the cartilage in the ears starts to harden usually around seven to eight months old , leaving the ear flaps in the wrong position. You will need the following supplies: Some type of surgical tape NOT duct tape or any super-adhesive tape. Foam roller inserts or foam pipe insulation cut to size. Two plain popsicle sticks or unsharpened pencils. Wrap the surgical tape around the outside of the ear to hold the insert in place. Be prepared for your puppy to find a way to paw off this strange contraption several times before they finally get used to it and forget about it. You want to leave this in place for a week and then remove it to check the ear position. You may notice the ears start to stand a little straighter week by week. But if you see them flop over again, you need to re-tape them until they are strong enough to stand up on their own. Ear gluing Another option you can try is puppy ear gluing. This is actually not nearly as awful as it sounds and is far easier to do than the ear taping method. Another perk of puppy ear gluing over taping is that you are not going to cut off any air circulation to the inner ear canal. The key is to pick some kind of fabric glue do NOT use super glue or super-bonding glue that may not come off. What you need to do for this method is to add a dab of glue to the outside of the inner ear flap about two-thirds of the way down from the ear tip point. Then press the two ear flaps together for 30 seconds to allow the glue to set. Wherever possible, if you have multiple dogs in your household, try to keep your German Shepherd puppy from playing rough games with the other dogs. Rowdy playtime can easily cause the ears to separate. The glue will wear off on its own after a while and you can observe if the ears are able to remain upright and erect when this occurs. If you need to, keep reapplying the glue until the ears are strong and stable to remain in the correct position without glue. It may take a few weeks or longer for this to occur. Do not worry if the ears are not in a perfect position. As long as they stay upright, the inner muscles and tissues will naturally self-correct over time. Surgery Certain situations may even require surgical implants, like when ear cartilage damage occurs. Massage the Ears Massaging the ears helps by increasing blood flow to the ears, helping your form strong ear: Muscles Cartilage Chew Toys Chew toys are not only great for keeping your pup occupied, but they can also be great sources of collagen. This will help build strong ear cartilage capable of holding the ears in the upright position. Chew toys also work the ear muscles. This will strengthen the surrounding tissues. This is especially true for dogs prone to health issues, like German Shepherds. Foods rich in nutrients like calcium and glucosamine will help your dog form strong and healthy ears. These nutrients are vital for developing sturdy ear cartilage. Stimulation Dogs communicate a lot with their ears. Just think of German Shepherds that are alert and focused on something, like an odd noise they heard outside. Chances are, their ears will be standing erectly. Stimulation like this encourages the use of the ear muscles. There are two areas where you will definitely want to pay closer attention. Bath time and during playtime with other dogs. Keeping water out of the ears will reduce infections and head shaking. Using a headband is an easy way to do this, and can also prevent injuries when playing with other dogs. What causes German Shepherds to have floppy ears? The most common ones include breeding issues, teething, cartilage development issues, trauma, and poor nutrition or hygiene. Breeding Pointy German Shepherd ears are among the top distinct features of the breed. Unfortunately, this can sometimes lead to improper breeding practices. Teething Floppy ears are a common occurrence when the dog is teething. Developing cartilage German Shepherd puppies are born with floppy ears. As their bodies develop, their ear cartilage and muscles also develop up to the point that they are able to support the weight of the ears, keeping them upright. German Shepherd ears typically start to perk up when the dog is about 6 to 10 weeks old. They can also sometimes flop back down while the dog is teething only to stand up again. Trauma Trauma is a common reason for floppy ears in German Shepherds. Physical trauma caused by an accident or injury to the ears can cause one or both of them to drop. If you suspect trauma, visit your vet to address any wounds and prevent infection. However, their ears need to be kept clean in order to prevent infections that could cause their ears to drop. Dogs not getting enough calcium and vitamin D during puppyhood may have trouble keeping their ears up as their skeletal support structure is not developed properly. They should be well-aligned, symmetrical namely just as wide as they are tall , and carried upright. However, not all dogs will have perfectly standard ears and some may have ears that are too large, too small, too high, too low, or just ears that point in the wrong direction. In fact, there are at least 12 different German Shepherd ear shapes , each with their own distinct characteristics. German Shepherd ears will usually stand up at around 4 months of age. But this can happen as early as the 1-month mark, or as late as the 6-month mark when teething finishes. But more than anything, they tell you how the dog is feeling at any given time. The ears really are the window to the soul for not just GSDs, but all dogs. During this time, more calcium is being directed to the growing teeth, and away from the ear cartilage. When teething is over, and more calcium can be directed back to the ears, they will most likely stand back up again. This is especially true if your pup has sustained an ear injury in the past, and broke the ear cartilage as a result. German Shepherd puppies are especially prone to this during the first 6 to 8 months, since their ears are still developing. These injuries can occur during rowdy play with other dogs and people, or from excessive scratching. This will help their ears develop faster and stronger, and will help prevent ear injuries in the future. But in most cases, if you act fast enough, even the floppiest German Shepherd ears are capable of being corrected. Ear development can vary from puppy to puppy. If they stand up when the puppy is scared or excited or when they bark, you can expect to see fully erect years by the time they are six months old. Will my German Shepherd mix ears stand up? Depending on the genes they inherited, your German Shepherd mix may have erect ears or not. You can support their ear development by giving them chew toys, massaging the base of their ears, and giving them calcium and vitamin D supplements. The ear flap is the outermost ear and is often called the pinna plural is pinnae. A dog has two pinna — one for each ear. Each pinna can work independently of the other, which is part of what gives dogs such keen hearing. This is the same reason all German Shepherd puppies are born with their ears down and floppy. It takes time for the cartilage to form, thicken and then harden into the characteristic erect ear position of the German Shepherd. The ears might pop up as early as four weeks old only to flop back down around four months old. Not only is the cartilage in the outer ears still forming and hardening, but the many muscles, tendons, ligaments, and tissues that help the ears move and function are still getting coordinated as well. This is why it is wise not to get concerned about ear position or stability until after your German Shepherd puppy has finished teething. There is just too much growing going on to expect your little puppy to look like a full-grown adult dog yet. This video gives you some unique tips to help their ears get stronger and stand up without human assistance like some of the tips you read about in this article. This is generally within a time frame of months. However, we recommend waiting until your puppy has finished teething. This usually occurs at around the age of 6 months. During the teething process, it is likely that some of the calcium that is normally channeled towards the ears is being diverted to promote the growth of its teeth. While it is important to make sure that sure that your GSD puppy has an adequate calcium intake, do not give your puppy calcium supplements. Giving your GSD puppy calcium supplements can cause long-term problems such as: bone spurs arthritis joint problems Instead of calcium supplements, it is perfectly fine and we even encourage you to provide your puppy with a tablespoon of cottage cheese or yogurt mixed into each meal. As always, however, please consult with your veterinarian to make sure your individual puppy will not have any digestive issues associated with this supplementation to its diet. Keeping Your Puppy in Good Health The overall health of your German Shepherd puppy will play in important role in the strength and development of his ears. Also, make sure that your puppy has been de-wormed on schedule. Overlooking these simple things can not only lead to delayed or improper ear development in your puppy, but they can lead to more serious and irreversible, or even fatal health problems down the road. In addition to making sure that your puppy is caught up on his vaccinations and de-worming, it is also important to make sure that your puppy is eating a well-balanced and high quality food. Never feed your puppy a generic dog food, or a blend that is intended for adult dogs. Royal Canin produces a mix that is crafted specifically for GSD puppies , but you can opt for any number of other reputable brands. Just make sure that it is a large breed, puppy specific mix. Try things like whistling, clapping your hands, squeezing a squeaky toy — you get the idea. As your puppy chews on these things, the chewing motion works to strengthen the muscles at the base of the ear. This, in turn, will work to give the ears a stable muscle foundation upon which to stand straight up on their own. Pay attention to how your puppy sleeps, especially if he sleeps in a crate. Sometimes puppies will sleep with their ears propped up against the side of the crate that they are in. If you do notice that this is happening with your puppy, then try waking your puppy up. Make a noise or even reach in the crate to pet him. Another behavior to watch out for may be prevalent if you have another dog in the house — especially another puppy. So if you have more than one dog in the house, or even if you allow your dog to play with others which you should , make sure to keep a close eye on how they are playing together. Your awareness is crucial here, and it is your responsibility to intervene if you witness this type of play happening. High-quality ear cleaning solutions, such as Pet MD Ear Cleaner Wipes is available online, and the instructions are rather straight forward. Should you have any questions, do not hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian for guidance. We strongly discourage you from doing this. This will sometimes work as a last resort. Also, reach out to your breeder. There is a strong likelihood that they will eventually do so without the need for taping or other means of intervention. Make sure that your puppy is properly vaccinated, de-wormed on schedule, fed a healthy diet, and is not engaging in behaviors that may be damaging to his ears.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. This gene determines how soft the coat will be. Furnishings are facial hair. This trait test is a breeder's best indication for shedding. Hair, Fleece or Wool? Labradoodles can have coats that shed a lot, shed a little, and that do not shed at all. There are differences you should be aware of to help you determine which coat would be better suited for you and your family. It can be difficult for a breeder to predict coat-types for first and second generation F1 or F1b labradoodles. Some pups are wavy when born and have produced very fleece type coats when they got older. Some pups are straighter haired when born and end up with a beautiful fluffy non shedding coat. Then there are some pups that appear like they have a wavy coat, but end up shedding, or a pup that looks wavy but ends up curly as an adult. The only way to know for sure what coat you are getting from an F1b litter, is to have the coats DNA tested. Doodle Sweethearts includes this in their breeding program using Paw Print Genetics! The fleece coat is low to non shedding, depending on 1 or 2 furnishings; tends to look shaggier than wool and it hangs in silky, light, loose locks which flow and ripple when the dog moves. Some feel this is the ultimate labradoodle coat or teddy bear coat. Puppy coat is easy to care for, but during transition to the adult coat, it can become very high maintenance due to matting. The final adult coat may or may not be easy care after puppy transition has been completed. Mostly non-shedding, but some have been known to shed minimally. Should be fairly allergy friendly Should be no doggie odour. Typically seen in F1B labradoodles or second generation and multigen lines. There are different types of fleece coats as well, some fine or thick, some wavy, curly or straight. As a puppy this sometimes can be hard to differentiate between a fleece coat or a wool as an adult, but with DNA coat testing, this can be determined. Fleece and wool coats can be kept short or long depending on your lifestyle but generally need to be clipped times a year every wks Weekly brushing is required to clear any mattes Curly Soft Wool Coat What is a Curly Soft Wool Coat? Wool is generally non shedding; it is denser and thicker, curlier and soft.Fleece and wool coats can be kept short or long depending on your lifestyle but generally need to be clipped times a year every wks Weekly brushing is required to clear any mattes Unlike some other breeds, dogs with fleece and wool coats shed very little dander skin cells a common cause of allergies in humans which makes them excellent for households with allergies. Proudly created with Wix. You may be wondering how dogs within the same breed can have coats that differs so much. Your dogs genetic line ultimately determines the type of coat they will have. First generation Labradoodles, the litter of a Poodle and Labrador parent, typically have a non shedding coat that is wavy with loose curls. A F1B Labradoodle, the direct result of one Labradoodle parent one Poodle parent, generally have wavy or fleece fur. Both F1 Labradoodles and F1B generation Labradoodles are recommended for those families with allergy sufferers. In saying this, non-allergenic hair coated Labradoodles, are the most common in the first generation breeds. A hair coated Labradoodle does not look similar in appearance to their fleece and wool coated brothers and sisters. A hair coated Labradoodle often referred to as having a straight coat looks more like their Labrador parent. Often these Labradoodles look scruffy in appearance. The muzzle area of a hair coated Labradoodle will be smooth and straight. They do not have the typical fluffy teddy appearance that the typical Labradoodle sports. While a hair coated Labradoodle sheds, their coat can be easily maintained. These dogs are great for families that are time poor for daily grooming although they are not suited to families that have allergies. A hair coated Labradoodle is often only the result in a first generation litter. The hair coated Labradoodles are less desirable by breeders due to the fact their hair coat sheds often. The hair coat feels wiry to touch. Furthermore, the coat of a fleece Labradoodle is said to be the easiest to maintain. This low shedding coat generally a non-shedding coat should be brushed out at least once a week. Fleece coated Labradoodles should feel soft to touch. The curls within the fleece can be slightly wavy to noticeably wavy. Kemp a course hair is often found around the eyes of a fleece coated Labradoodle. The tightness of the curl purely depends on the Labradoodles genetics. While some wool coated Labradoodles have tight curls that appear similar to the coat of their Poodle parent, others have a loose curled coat. If you own a curly coated Labradoodle, it is recommended that you groom your dog once a day. Alternatively, you may opt to shave your dogs coat shorter so that it can be easily maintained. The coat of a curly Labradoodle can almost be guaranteed to be non-shedding. Mats in a Labradoodles fur make it uncomfortable for them to run and lead an active lifestyle. It is recommended to take wool coated Labradoodles to a professional groomer every six weeks to maintain a healthy coat. A wool coated Labradoodle feels soft to touch and has a coat similar to that of a lamb. The wool coat of a Labradoodle should hang with hollow spiral when groomed appropriately. Often wool coated Labradoodles have dense and thick fur. Allowing your dogs coat to grow excessively leads to matting and in turn pain for your Labradoodle. The shedding coat is not desirable in this breed which is generally the result of a hair coated Labradoodle. In terms of grooming your Labradoodle, it is recommended to book them in to see a trained dog groomer every 6 to 8 weeks. This applies to any coat type. Although hair coats do not require as much maintenance, the hair inside your dogs ears should be plucked regularly to avoid infection and build up. Furthermore, your dogs nails will need to be clipped regularly especially if you only have grass and no concrete. Regularly home grooming should be performed to keep your Labradoodles coat in pristine condition without matting. Ensure you purchase a pet grooming brush recommended for long and thick hair while you Labradoodle is still a puppy. Related posts:. Labradoodle Puppy -Will a Labradoodle be easy to look after? Karen has been grooming Labradoodles since she introduced the first litter of doodle puppies in BC Australian Labradoodle with a fine wool coat, Lexi The Labradoodle Wool Coat The coats are identified by their feel rather than their look. The wool coat is one that I love because I live with severe allergies and asthma. This coat is most like a poodle coat and although the wool coats of our dogs are very soft they feel like poodle coats and are very curly. These coats absolutely do not shed. Even during the change from puppy coat to adult coat they shed very little. Our Aussi has a curly wool coat. He is clipped so that he can lead his very active life style. Lilyanna has an unusually soft curly wool coat that waves when it is long. The Labradoodle Wool Coat The coats are identified by their feel rather than their look. The Labradoodle Fleece Coat The fleece coat is wavy rather than tightly curled. It is a very desirable coat because it is slightly easier to look after than the wool coat and it has a lovely silken feel. Although we have not had a shedding fleece dog there is the possibility of some light shedding when they change from a puppy to adult coat. The fleece coat does need to be brushed but it is much more easily kept long than a wool coat. The puppy and adult dog will need regular grooming because the face will need trimming as will the bum and beneath the ears to prevent matting. Somewhere between nine and fourteen months of age the adult coat will grow in. At this transition time the coat will need lots of attention in order to keep the length. Brush right to the skin with a stiff brush or rake. If the dog mats at this point she will have to clipped short by your groomer. Hair Coat The hair coat feels very similar to the hair on your head. It is unlike the feel of wool or fleece. The hair coat will shed. It requires little attention. Puppies will often look like they are going to have a fleece coat until the hair comes through the puppy coat at about eight or nine weeks of age. The doodle with a hair coat has the same wonderful temperament and personality as the doodle with the non shedding coat but is not good for a person with allergies or for a family that has chosen the doodle because of his non-shedding qualities. It is hard to get a brush through the curls if you leave it too long. Without this regular brushing right down to the skin mats will form next to the skin. Mats make it very uncomfortable for the dog to walk and run and play. We keep our wool coated dogs clipped short because we live with fields of weeds and burrs. It is quite possible to keep a wool coated dog with a long coat, it simply is a matter of keeping up with the brushing and keeping feet, faces and bums clipped. This would be a trip to the groomer at least every second month. Every six weeks keeps dogs in both long and short coats looking and feeling like movie stars. Grooming For Every Doodle No matter what the doodle coat there is grooming required. This can either be done by an interested family member or your groomer. Ears Fur grows out of the ears of a labradoodle. It begins its journey deep in the ear canal. If ears are not keep clean and dry dirt and wax can lead to severe ear infections. You can tell when the doggie has hot ears that there is a problem and a trip to the vet will be in order. Some doodles love to dig and have very thick fur in their ears. This means it could be a good idea to pluck the fur from deep in the ear. It is not difficult to take tweezers or better still a hemostat and pluck out the fur on a regular basis. I must say I almost swooned the first time I did it myself but it does get easier. Unless you are an expert it is a two person job, one to hold the dog and promise treats, the other to pluck. Your vet can recommend an ear drying powder which will keep the ears in good health. Of course, your groomer will do the ear plucking for you. If you take your dog every six weeks she should be fine. Nails Unless dogs travel on a stone river bed a couple of kilometers every single day they need their nails trimmed. Our Labradoodles have dew claws and they will always need attention. Nail trimming should be done every few weeks. It is however another wonderful thing your professional groomer will do. Our doodle girls have fuzzy feet and so have to be content with a simple nail trim. Little Bottoms All long coated dogs need a trim around their little bottoms for ease of toilette. He is enjoying his new summer doo as he loves water sports. This boy always stops to smell the roses or dandelions. Contact Us. As you might have guessed, this dog is a cross between poodle and Labrador parents — and the result is an adorable bundle of joy with a sweet, gentle personality. Labradoodle puppy coats come in a range of colors and textures, so labradoodle owners are spoiled for choice when choosing their fur baby. Read on to discover more about Labradoodles and labradoodle coat types. What Are Hypoallergenic Dog Coats? Hypoallergenic dogs have less of a thick coat than many other breeds. A highly shedding coat presents a higher risk to allergy sufferers than non-shedding dogs like a labradoodle puppy. As a dog with one of the most allergy-friendly coats , there are a few practicalities to keep in mind when it comes to your labradoodle pooch and its coat. Pretty much every labradoodle puppy goes through a coat change, which is separate from a shedding coat. The puppy coat is eventually replaced by an adult coat, which comes with more grooming requirements. Types of Labradoodle Puppy Coats One of the best things about labradoodle dogs is the wide range of choices with regard to appearance. Wool Coat You can determine if your Labradoodle puppy has a fleece coat. You can identify fleece coats by the way the fur sits between the eyes, as this area starts to get curly first. This is the curliest coat type, but it still comes in a variety of types. Some dogs with a curly coat have a cotton-type coat, which is the softest but also incredibly high maintenance. Labradoodle puppies with wool Labradoodle puppy coats are mainly non-shedding and can make great companions for pet owners with allergies. Fleece Coat Doodles with a fleece coat require a little less maintenance than the other types of doodles, but they still need weekly brushing and plenty of TLC. A fleece-coated labradoodle is the result of combining a curly wool coat gene with the gene for a straight coat. Areas such as the ears and collar are particularly prone to getting matted, so be sure to pay close attention to these areas when you brush your fleece-coated labradoodle once or twice per week. Hair Coat A labradoodle with a straight coat has inherited most of its fur genes from its Labrador retriever parent. Something interesting about Labradoodles is that their Labradoodle puppy coats change as they get older, so your hair-coated labradoodle might get a wave to its fur as it gets older. While you can also take it to a professional groomer on a weekly basis, this can incur hefty grooming costs. Most labradoodle owners opt to take their dog to a groomer once a month or two and do regular adult coat maintenance themselves. Use the correct type of dog brush and be sure to get all the way down to the skin. Give your dog a brush before and after bath time. All puppies eventually lose their puppy coat to make way for their adult coat, this goes the same with Labradoodle puppy coats. You might find the new type of coat is totally different from the old coat. Coats and Generational Differences The amount of hair your dog sheds varies between puppies, but generational differences can also play a role. First-generation doodles shed slightly more than second-generation doodles, with multigenerational Labradoodles shedding even less. We genetically test each breeding parent to make sure the shedding genes are not passed on to the puppies in our training program. We adore the breed and have a wide range of Labradoodle puppies for sale to choose from, with different color and type of Labradoodle puppy coats. We can even deliver a fully trained doodle puppy direct to your door if you like! Straight, double layered coat. Most similar to the Labrador parent. Moderate to high shedding. Wavy coat, most often single layer. Somewhere between the two parents. Low to moderate shedding. Very curly or corded fur, single layer. Most similar to the Poodle parent. Low shedding but the highest grooming needs. The above table explains the most common Labradoodle hair types at a glance. What Determines Labradoodle Hair Types? However, in later generations, breeders can increase the likelihood of certain traits, like a curly, low shedding coat. Australian Labradoodles can have genetic influence from up to 6 different breeds. So, they will often have fleece or wool coats that are single layered and low shedding, like the Poodle. Some breeders will specialize in certain hair types. By backcrossing a Labradoodle to a Poodle, for instance, they can increase the change of curly fur, resulting in fleece or wool type puppies. A first generation f1 mix is the most likely to have the hair type coat, since they often have the largest amount of Labrador influence. They will have a double layered coat with a straight top layer. Hair Labradoodles tend to feel quite coarse to the touch. Their double coat helps to regulate their temperature, but will also protect their skin from scrapes and cuts, just like the Labrador coat. The hair coat Labradoodle will shed the most, just like their Labrador parent. During the hot months, they shed heavily, thinning out their dense undercoat. For the rest of the year, they will shed moderately. But, this can be somewhat controlled with regular grooming. Groom them once a week in low shedding periods, and up this to two or three times a week during those hot months. It can also help to groom your hair coat Labradoodle outside, to avoid getting loose hairs in your home! Fleece Coat Labradoodle A fleece coat Labradoodle will usually look like the perfect mix between the Labrador and the Poodle! They will have a wavy coat, or very gentle curls that feel soft to the touch. In fact, many owners describe this hair type as feeling like angora wool. Some fleece Labradoodles may have an undercoat, but the majority will only have one layer. If left to grow long, their coat will develop a shaggy appearance. This type of Labradoodle is the most popular, and the one referred to by the term teddy bear Doodle! But, they can still be moderate shedders at worst. It will vary from one Doodle to another. They will need more grooming than a hair coat Labradoodle, as the waves and curls in their fur will be more prone to tangles and knots. You will need to groom a fleece Doodle a few times each week, if not every day. Their fur will either have very tight ringlet curls, or will be corded, like dreadlocks. Individual strands of fur will feel very coarse to the touch, much like the hair type. But, the wool coat only comes in a single layer. This coat type is extremely low shedding. But, this means that regular grooming is much more important, as tangles and knots are more likely. If left alone, their fur can become matted , which is painful and often requires shaving to fix it. Wool coat Labradoodles must be groomed at least once a day. Which Labradoodle Hair Type is Hypoallergenic? Wool and fleece coat Labradoodles can be low shedding, but no Labradoodle is hypoallergenic. In fact, no dog breed is completely hypoallergenic! So, a wool or fleece coat Labradoodle could still trigger your allergy symptoms. If you suffer from dog allergies, there are a few precautions you can take. Firstly, spend some time with a Labradoodle before committing. See if you react to their allergens, or if you can tolerate them. All dogs are different! So, one might not trigger you as much as others have in the past. Secondly, maintain a good cleaning regime. Ask another family member to groom your dog for you, and make sure they do so outside. You can take your Labradoodle to a professional groomer, but they will still need brushing in between trips. Fleece coat Labradoodles are the most popular variety of Doodle. This is because they are often low shedding and feel very soft to the touch, but they have slightly lower grooming needs than the wool coat Labradoodle. If you suffer from very strong allergies, you may be better suited to the wool coat Labradoodle, as long as there is someone else at home who can help you with grooming your dog every day. Labradoodle Hair Types — A Summary Though the three Labradoodle hair types are quite distinct, they can all come in a wonderful shade of Labradoodle colors. Wool and fleece coat dogs are usually better for owners that suffer from allergies. But, hair coats require less maintenance. So, choosing the right coat type for you will entirely depend on your lifestyle and needs! Which Labradoodle coat type is your favorite? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments! Readers Also Liked. They get their coat colors from their parent. Whatever coat color they end up with is the result of either a dominant or a recessive gene. Sound confusing? Every Labradoodle puppy has two coat-color genes. They get one from each parent. Dominant genes are stronger than recessive genes. In order to have a recessive gene stronger, you would need two recessive genes — one from each parent. The actual genes are more important than the color. For instance, you may think that a black male and a black female would have a black puppy, but that may not be the case. The puppy can be brown if both of the black parents had a brown recessive gene. Since their coats were black, their second gene, the dominant gene, would have been black. Some colors, like black and red are dominant genes while brown and silver tend to be recessive genes. Some breeders are very dedicated to creating Labradoodles of certain coat color. This dog should not have its body shaved. What type of brush should you use? All Doodle dogs, regardless of coat type, will benefit from a slicker brush. Simply push a button, and hair trapped in the brush just falls out. As far as combs are concerned, a dual-purpose steel comb, like this one , is ideal. One side has thin, closely spaced teeth for detail work around the face and legs, and the other side has thicker, more widely spaced teeth for whole-body combing. The normal fleece should be brushed times per week and trimmed a times a year possibly more depending on the desired look. The super-soft microfine fleeced dog should be brushed regularly to prevent it from matting and to keep its asthma and allergy-friendly attributes. A coat that gets longer than 3 inches becomes more difficult to properly maintain. The original wool, which is soft like a lamb, needs to be brushed or combed thoroughly at least once a week and trimmed three or four times a year. The cotton wool coat has a softer texture than the original and is super dense. It requires a thorough brushing at least once a week and a haircut four times a year. You can bathe all Labradoodles as often as every week or as seldom as once every three months depending on how much time the dog spends outside. Be sure to use a high-quality shampoo so their coat stays healthy. This soap-free shampoo is our favorite hands down. It smells fabulous and does a super job of gently cleansing the coat without drying out the skin. The hair-coated Labradoodle generally needs the most frequent bathing to avoid odors. Labradoodle are adorable dogs regardless of their coat type. However, some coat types have advantages while others pose disadvantages. Hair coats are the easiest to maintain, whereas wool coats require combing once or twice a week. One drawback to the hair coated Labradoodle is that they tend to shed. HAIR: Again, easier to maintain but tends to shed. Failure to comb all the way through the hair will result in it becoming matted. Like the wool coat, the fleece coat must be thoroughly combed to prevent matting. This is especially important when they are shedding their puppy coat. Even if you keep the hair short, it will still need to be combed frequently. Come to find out, the coat closest to the skin has started to form mats. Mats are painful for the pup and can be avoided with regular and proper brushing. In fact, experienced breeders deliberately breed one generation to another generation just to bring out certain qualities. Using the knowledge of genetics and correct usage of dominant and recessive genes, breeders can breed specific dogs to get desirable colors. In generational breeding, you have F1, F2, F3, and multi-generational breeding. We explain these breedings more fully and share whether or not there are advantages in opting for a multi-generational Labradoodle in this article. With experience and research, breeders can create Labradoodles with a certain coat type. When you mix two purebred dogs of the same breed with the same coat type, your chances of getting the same kind of pups are good. Here is where the F generation breeding comes into play, and the generation chart looks like this. They generally will take an F1 and mix it with an F2 or F3 in an attempt to fine-tune it and bring out certain attributes and characteristics. Related Questions: Do Labradoodles have dander in their fur? Experts on dogs and allergies state that all dogs have dander and allergens, and that there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog. However, Labradoodles have the least amount of dander, and many allergy sufferers have found success having a Labradoodle as a dog. How often do Labradoodles need to be brushed? Labradoodles should be brushed anywhere from daily to once a week or so. The amount of brushing depends on the type of coat as well as the type of activities the dog does on a daily basis. However, the joy this loving, loyal, and intelligent pet provides makes it more than worthwhile. The most important thing you can do for your dog is to become as knowledgeable as possible. Related Posts:. Also, your fleece coats, while, overall, are softer than your wool coats in texture, still have some texture variation within the fleece coat type. The Australian Labradoodle requires varying degrees of grooming depending on their coat type. A light trimming might be required with scissors but usually not. However, we do not have any hair coat in Sunset Hills, because our puppies are all multi-gen. This coat usually requires trimming once or twice a year. This coat also requires trimming about three-four times a year. All allergy and asthma friendly labradoodles have a coat change from puppy to adult usually between months of age. During their coat change, it is recommended that you groom them daily. The coat change can last anywhere from a week to several weeks. This is usually the time when owners decide that their beautiful furry doodle needs a shorter look. Note: Not all Labradoodles are Allergy and Asthma friendly. We do recommend that if you have the opportunity to meet one of these wonderful dogs in person that you should check to see if you have any reactions before you make your decision in purchasing your new puppy. We recommend that any family or person who suffers from dog related severe allergies or asthma should look into a Wool coated labradoodle as they have the highest success rate. For labradoodle sizes, please go to our Size link. For pictures and definitions of the colours of the Australian Labradoodle, please go to our Colours link. For the information on grooming, please go to our Resource link. Each looks and feels very different, so it is important to understand the differences between them. Australian Labradoodles are known for being non-shedding and whilst most of them are due to their wool and fleece coats, the hair-coated dogs do shed to varying degrees, just like Early Generation Labradoodles. The good news is that any experienced breeder worth their salt will be able to tell you nice and early on if any of the litter have hair coats - it is usually pretty obvious by 4 weeks old. It is also worth noting here that we do not make any guarantee that any puppy will be non-shedding. We do our best to produce non-shedding dogs and we give our honest advice and opinion on our puppies coats, but we do not have a crystal ball and nature can do funny things. No breeder can genuinely guarantee that any dog will be non-shedding. Hover over each image to find out more about each coat type. Hover over each image below to find out more about each coat type. Wool Coat The wool coat is coarse in texture and very curly. It is sprung and therefore sits up off the dog's back giving the illusion the dog is bigger. This coat is very like that of the Poodle. It is non-shedding and is generally very compatible with allergy and asthma sufferers. Curly Fleece Coat The curly fleece is soft in texture with loose curls. It is not sprung, so it tends to straighten out a little when it grows longer. This coat type is what most people think of as the typical Australian Labradoodle look. It blows in the wind or when the dog runs! Hair Coat The hair coat is quite coarse in texture and feels like typical dog hair. It is usually short and flat and will not ever grow particularly long. It does shed to varying degrees and therefore is generally not compatible with allergy and asthma sufferers, Wool Coat The wool coat is coarse in texture and very curly. It is sprung and therefore sits up off the dogs back giving the illusion the dog is bigger. Curly Fleece Coat The curly fleece coat is soft in texture with loose curls. Hair Coat The hair is quite coarse in texture and feels like typical dog hair. It does shed to varying degrees and therefore is generally not compatible with allergy and asthma sufferers. Popular Links.

The Avidog Adventure Box is a wildly popular developmental tool that when used appropriately will help your puppies become more confident and stable. We believe strongly that every litter should be raised with an Adventure Box that we not only sell the box, we give the plans away! If you are a true do-it-yourselfer you can make your own Adventure Box. Our box is designed with safety in mind first so choose items that will not only keep your puppies safe but will develop their brains and bodies. It's not just about cute! Get your plans today - just fill out the form below. By downloading this free ebook you are also giving us permission to email you with information about our new products, courses, sales and other free ebooks! We treat your privacy with the same respect we want our privacy treated! Read our Privacy Policy for more details. If you find that the link we send you does not work, please let us know by email sending it to marcy at avidog. We hope to have this problem resolved shortly, but since you likely need this book now we do not want you to wait. Add an Adventure Box to their play area, and watch massive learning take place while you sit back and enjoy the fun! An Avidog's Adventure Box is a fun way to introduce your next litter to a world of sights, sounds, touch, and motion! Are you a Do-It-Yourself kind of person? Scroll down the linked page, and give them your name and email address. Click for your free plans Worldwide NOTE - If any of the above links are not working or the freebies or coupons no longer available, please post a blog comment below and I'll edit it! Category: DIY , dog toys , make your own , make-your-own , pets About Catherine: I have been writing frugal tips since , when I was a young divorced mom of two - for my baby product company, Born to Love. I am now mom to three sons, who are all grown up - and re-married to a wonderful man. We have rescued two little dogs, Denny and Dexter - and Bella, the cat. Email me at catherine at frugal-freebies. Check out our Frugal Freebies Deal groups for more fun, frugal tips, freebies and money-saving deals! Read my disclosure policy. Please Note: I make every effort to check the validity of all outgoing links at the time of posting, but I am not responsible for any content outside of this website. Please browse carefully. Tweet Socializing puppies should begin in the breeders home. Puppy socializing really turns a corner once the puppies are between weeks old. This is a critical period where confidence can grow or be crushed. People: men, women, children of as many ethnicities, heights, sizes, voice ranges, physical challenges, activity levels and or weird hats you can find. Behaviourist Ian Dunbar has a great suggestion to try and have your puppy meet 50 men, 50 women and 50 children a week during their critical socialization period. Environments: Footing as many surfaces as you can find…be sure to include polished surfaces where the puppy can see their reflection as they walk. I like to include elevators, escalators and of course stairs. The environment will also include various noises from door bells to back fires as well as sights from all directions including stimulation from above as in balloons or birds. Things: This is a catch all…everything from bicycles to garbage bags sitting out on the street. I will suggest you discuss that with your veterinarian. There are risks. She agreed with me that that it was worth the risk. How much stress this puppy has already been exposed to. It could very well be that exposing a puppy to a new environment prior to having any vaccines at 8 weeks of age is better than vaccinating them prior to exposing them. However, that is an immunological discussion I am not going to get into. The point is, what I am about to describe is taking a health risk. You need to discuss the risks and benefits of such good socialization with your own veterinarian prior to taking any action. For the rest of the blog, I am only going to address the benefits of proper socializing and habituating to behavioural development of your puppy. In particular, I am going to share with you an outing I had this week with four puppies from our most recent litter. The fact we are on a flight path to an airport which is only 15 minutes from us was also a great benefit to all of my puppies. However, the truth is we live on 28 acres at the end of the road. We have no other house within a half a mile from us. Our closest neighbour is a acre golf course. Remember I mentioned that the key in all socializing is confidence? Well raising a singleton I was able to see how fragile that confidence can be. When Swagger was about 5 weeks old we were outside, at the foot of the stairs when a flock of Canadian Geese flew squawking overhead. Swagger panicked. He bolted up the stairs and frantically clawed at the front door, crying for his mother and trying to get back inside. There was no littermate there to show him how to act appropriately. There was no brave sibling who would try to chase those birds. There was only one frightened puppy whose confidence was shattered. It took me literally months to help Swagger recover from that experience. Most of the time a new puppy is on their own learning to deal with new stimuli as a way of life. Sometimes it is a success and confidence grows, sometimes it is a disaster and confidence is crushed. Why leave this up to chance? You can see a puppy who otherwise might be shy of a person in a wheelchair or a crying baby being pushed in a stroller or the rumbling of a big truck be transformed by the proximity of other puppies. It was strategically planned and not even by me, but by one of my students who has one of my puppies. Canty lives in Toronto and was keen to participate! Doing a P. This is how our day went. The tug helped the puppies to habituate to the traffic noise without ever having to really look at it or notice it. Tug games start further away from the street as close to the buildings as we can get and move closer with confidence. Total time for round one was about 5 minutes. First adventure for the puppies on an elevator! We carried them for the first round and let them walk on while on leash for every trip afterwards. The pups have been separated from each other for about four days. The sounds, smells and even sites of the city could be taken in by the puppies but all while a l-o-n-g distance away. Fun times were had by all. Total time was about 30 minutes. Round Five: High Distraction Next, we jumped back into the elevator and walked to the first busy corner. Time spent here on the corner was about 10 minutes. We spied a smaller patch of grass and spent a few moments allowing the puppies to relieve themselves before heading off two more blocks to the park. Some of the time the puppies where carried, sometimes we did tug games and sometimes they just walked on leash taking it all in. Actually, a lot of Toronto was dog-crazy…hungry anyone? Of course, a trip to Toronto would not be complete without a stop at a pet store! We got to two of them all on our short walk. Here the tuckered puppies decide to catch a nap…well all except one :. Eventually, Momentum DID lay down but it did take a while. We ordered and ate our lunch, but not wanting to disturb the sleeping puppies we hung around for about an hour before heading home. As you can image, four gorgeous sleeping puppies did draw a crowd…along with a few offers from those hoping we were selling ;. Socializing puppies can take on many forms. If you are going to plan your own P.

Get mini goldendoodle puppies here! This is the price you can expect to pay for the German Shepherd breed without breeding. Puppy litters and dogs for sale, including trained dogs. This location is about 60 miles west of Tulsa and 60 miles north east of Oklahoma City, sitting right between them. I also have full working line German Shepherd puppies for sale that would do well in a working job, SCH, agility, therapy dog, search and rescue, or as a very energetic family member. If you are interested in one of my puppies please call me at home or my cell is .To speak with one of our Family Advi. Dogs and Puppies. Male s and Female s Age: 10 Weeks Old. Serendipity German Shepherd Dog Rescue is a state licensed, incorporated, all-volunteer, c 3 non-profit rescue organization founded in .Free online listings of cute German Shepherds. Americanlisted has classifieds in Springfield, Missouri for dogs. Below you will find all our German Shepherd puppy and litter information - these are the puppies we are expecting shortly, available for the right loving family or person! I fly my puppies on Tuesdays. Join millions of people using Oodle everyday to find unique listings that cannot be found anywhere else. German shepherd dogs puppies for sale 1 - 24 of ads German shepherd dogs puppies for sale Sort by Save your search 3 Pictures German shepherd puppies for sale Pretoria, Gauteng R 2 German shepherd puppies for sale junkmail. Puppies for Sale. This is the price you can expect to pay for the German Shepherd breed without breeding rights. Pet dog obedience also available for lessons or drop-off training. Transportation to Springfield, MO available. Areas United States Missouri Springfield. Nora is one of 7 German Shepherd puppies whelped and available for sale in her litter. Located near Springfield MO. Blakely: German Shepherd puppy for sale near Springfield, Missouri. We are a small family owned farm that is dedicated to breeding, raising and training our family of European German Shepherds. Find German Shepherd puppies in Missouri for sale today. Find Puppies and Breeders in your area and helpful information. What started out as a way to introduce our dogs to you has grown into an extensive. Springfield, MO. Join millions of people using Oodle to find dogs and puppies for adoption and sale. They were bred as a working breed and still carry this work ethic and energy. Talk to us today about our German shepherd puppies for sale. Located in Springfield, MO area. They are quick to learn and can become loyal companions with regular obedience training. Mother became ill while pregnant and had 8 pups. Pomona, MO .Call us at. This beautiful breed is very friendly and affectionate, and they make wonderful pets and family members. One hundred forty-six out of of the animal shelters within Missouri are no-kill shelters. Tags: German Shepherd puppies Colorado Colorado puppies German shepherd puppy near denver adoption puppies German shepherds. Missouri saved 91, dogs and cats during .Find German Shepherd puppies for sale. My husband and I have had German Shepherds for over 30 years. These dogs are very intelligent and you will likely find them loyal as well. German Shorthaired Pointer Puppies. Brandon: German Shepherd puppy for sale near Springfield, Missouri. Our puppies are very socialized, around farmFind home health agencies in Springfield, MO. You will find German Shepherd Dog dogs and puppies for adoption in our Missouri listings. We have German Shepherd puppies and adult-trained dogs for sale. My name is Marnie and I'm a charming sable German Shepherd puppy. The percentage of no-kill shelters is. Browse thru our ID Verified puppy for sale listings to find your perfect puppy in your area. Learn more Breed standard View non-standard puppies available. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since. Pure bred Australian Shepherd female puppy born and raised on our farm. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy. Our giant German Shepherds are taller with a straight back , deeper chest, and larger bone structure. Don't miss what's happening in your neighborhood. Private lessons available in tracking obedience, and protection. We have dedicated our lives to. WindLaufer German Shepherds is situated on 21 acres. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. Showing 1 - 19 of 25, results. The puppies in the litter were born on Thursday, November 03, .The results are a big German. Welcome to TeMar German Shepherds. Call or private message me for details. I always enjoy meeting and talking to people that are interested in German Shepherd dogs, as I am. Adults Puppies are capable of learning basic commands, and smart German Shepherd. The cost depends on the lineage of the puppy, breed lines, popularity, pedigree, and much more. Working Line German Shepherds from imported lines available to approved homes German shepherd puppies available to good loving homes. Quality puppies from healthy working line dogs with solid structures. Mother is a black and tan Stockhaar and father a black medium Stockhaar. Dad is registered and his sire is a full German import from the old eastern lines. Moms parents are registered with a combination of the old eastern lines. Both parents have amazing temperaments and are great family protectors with proven working lines in their pedigrees. The puppies are being raised inside our home with our family and we would like for them to continue being indoor dogs. Puppies only available to approved homes where they will be part of the family and not locked away as a guard dog. They have been raised on Royal Canin Maxi puppy food. R 5 per puppy. If you require any further information please do not hesitate to contact me via gumtree or call after hours. Please note these are active companions and need a home that can keep them stimulated and understand the breed.