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I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. Free Bulldog Puppy Starter Kit! Fawn, red, fallow, and white are their typical hues, but they are also available in a variety of unique hues and many tri-colors. As a result of their rarity relative to the breed's more prevalent bi-color varieties, tri-color English Bulldogs are typically more expensive. As their name implies, Tri-color English Bulldogs have coats with three different colors in distinctive patterns distributed on particular points all over the dog's body. Except for a few areas with a third color, their coats are primarily bicolored tan. The body hue is solid in fawn or red with white, and tan tips are the most typical. Even if your dog does not exhibit particular colors and combinations, you can perform a genetic test to find out whether they do. No two English bulldogs are alike in terms of personality and appearance. Some have completely white coats, whereas others have red spots all over their bodies. Some even come in three different colors. These English bulldogs, also referred to as tricolors, are stunning. A tri-colored English bulldog is one with three distinct hues in its coat. Given that most English bulldogs seem to be either single or double two colors, this is a rather unusual occurrence. In a tricolored dog, the third color will only be visible as "points" in specific spots and can range from gentle fawn to golden brown. English bulldogs with three colors exist in a wide variety. The third color can come in a variety of hues in addition to appearing in other bodily parts. The lilac tri color is the rarest of the six basic tri-colored designs. There is no reason to be concerned that the English Bulldog might behave differently because of their coat because their placement on their coat does not indicate any alterations in their attitude and general demeanor. Other well-known dog breeds have tri-colored coats; however, they are less common than with English Bulldogs. Although tri-colored coats were not initially offered on English Bulldogs, they are a welcome and aesthetically charming variation. After being born and beginning to develop, the tri-colored English Bulldog will undergo the same changes as other Bulldogs. Early on in the development of their fur color, a tri-color English bulldog puppy might decide on one or two predominant hues. They may evolve along the process, adding to their uniqueness and specialness. One of the rarest breeds of English bulldogs is the lilac tricolored kind. No one gene specifically generates the lilac color, but two dominant genes; one for blue and one for chocolate; must coexist for it to manifest. As a result, a puppy can only be lilac in hue when its parents carry the dominant chocolate and blue genes. This is why lilac-tri English bulldogs are so rare. Points of tan can be seen on the face, chest, or legs, similar to the various tri-color patterns. A Lilac tri Bulldog's eye color often ranges from light green to azure blue. Although some English bulldogs might experience health problems at some point in their lives, it is never because of their color. You may rest assured that the English bulldog puppy will be as healthy as any other puppies if you acquire a lilac-colored one. Blue eyes are sure in English bulldogs with lilac coats. Extremely rare, blue eyes in dogs are often caused by a recessive gene beyond the control of the best bulldog breeders. Some dog owners worry that a dog with blue eyes would ultimately become blind, deaf, or experience another hereditary disorder. Chocolate Tri English Bulldog One of the popular varieties of tri-colored English Bulldogs is the chocolate tri Bulldog, which has some white patches mixed in on its dark brown coat. Along with the brown patches, you will see some tan areas on the face, chest, and legs. Bulldogs with a chocolate tricolor coat are incredibly popular and adorable. They are recognized as stylish pets thanks to their adorable brown noses, tan boots, and brown coats. The piercing blue eyes serve to sell them further. Tan spots frequently emerge on the shoulders, cheeks, tail, paws, and eyes, which resemble coffee-colored eyebrows. Several other genes may cover them up, but they nearly always appear in a pure chocolate tri-color. If for nothing else reason than the fact that they offer the dog personality, keep an eye out for those tan points. Blue Tri English Bulldog It is hardly surprising that the breed's blue tri-coated English Bulldog variety is so well-liked, given how uncommon blue English Bulldogs are. Their cheeks, chests, and legs have small tan markings to complement their predominantly blue, almost silvery coats. Typically, their eyes are either blue or green. With their delicate silver coats, the bluish-green eyes shine out. On the chest and eyes, you will observe tan points that resemble Doberman points but are smaller and wrinkled. Before being completely neutralized mostly by the blue [dd] gene, black dogs are the ancestors of blue bulldogs. When you rub some animals' fur in the wrong direction, their undercoat turns fawn. They all have blue-gray paws, eyebrows, and noses. A pure blue tri would never have these in black. The silver coats of blue tri bulldogs are renowned for being extremely glossy. The dog should seem gray when held in the sunlight. The seal gene, which may give its coat a maroon tinge, is present in many blue tri bulldogs. The black tri is the most popular of the four tri-color variations, accompanied by the blue chocolate tri. Due to its precise and challenging breeding requirements, the lilac tri is undoubtedly the rarest and most expensive. Ranges of prices for tri-color English Bulldogs vary greatly depending on the color of their coat, and they are nearly always considerably more expensive than dogs with other typical or uncommon colors. Their high-cost results from the careful research into breeding them to produce a tri-color coat, particularly when lilac is included. The merle color variant of the English Bulldog is still being bred in relatively small numbers and is a comparatively new color type. Hence, lilac tri puppies are frequently regarded as the most pricey breed type, next to some merle variations of the breed. Final Thoughts Tri-color English Bulldogs are identical to other breed varieties save for more color on their coats. They are adorable, quirky loads of joy who would love to have all of you and your household to themselves. Just be sure you are prepared to accept every medical issue they could develop, which can be quite expensive. Shannon Cutts As a freelance pet writer and blogger, Shannon is passionate about crafting knowledge-based, science-supported articles that foster healthy bonds of love and respect between people and animals. But her first and very most important job is as a dog auntie and cockatiel, tortoise, and box turtle mama. We are compensated for referring traffic and business to Amazon and other companies linked to this site. Their coats are mostly bi-colored except for some points that have a third color tan. These tan markings are often found on the cheeks, above the eyes, on the sides of the chest, and the inner parts of the legs. They can follow different patterns, such as a full-coated color scheme with a little bit of white or a majority white coat with a tri piebald pattern. They boast primarily blue, almost silvery, coats with large patches of white and some tan points on their legs, chest, and face. Their eyes are usually either green or blue. Their eyes are often green or hazel and their noses are usually brown. Their base coat is chocolate with a bit of blue mixed in that gives it a more champagne shade. As with the other tri-color patterns, there are points of tan on the legs, chest, or face. Lilac tri Bulldogs usually have bright-colored eyes ranging from aqua blue to light green. According to the Veteran Centers of America VCA , despite the various different coat colors that dogs can potentially develop, it all boils down to two pigments: eumelanin and phaeomelanin. Both are forms of melanin, with the former being responsible for black colors, while the latter dictates red. Eumelanin, for example, is a black pigment that can be altered by genes to produce other color variants, such as blue or lilac. Through selective breeding, breeders can match up several lines of English Bulldogs with the right Agouti genes in order to increase the likelihood of producing an offspring of the desired tri-color coat. According to the AKC standard for English Bulldogs, the acceptable colors are red, white, fawn, fallow, or any two of the aforementioned combined. They may include certain patterns and masks but other colors or markings are considered a disqualification. Expectedly, the black tri is the most common of the four tri-color variants, followed by the blue tri and the chocolate tri. The lilac tri is easily the rarest and priciest of them all on account of how meticulous and difficult they are to breed. So if you find yourself charmed by a lilac coat, you should be prepared to spend quite a bit. Photo from markom16 IG Tri-color English Bulldogs, like regular English Bulldogs or most dog breeds for that matter, commonly undergo slight changes in coat color as they transition into adulthood. They generally seek affection from people and are courageous enough that they make fine watchdogs. Tri-color English Bulldogs generally live between eight to ten years, though some elite breeders have managed to breed dogs that have consistently lived till the ripe age of .This can be exacerbated by various factors such as obesity, humidity, temperature, and exercise. Hip Dysplasia: English Bulldogs have a fairly odd stature, making them prone to several joint and bone issues such as Canine Hip Dysplasia — a condition that causes the hip joint to fit loosely. This can cause inflammation in the joints and may lead to lameness or the dog walking awkwardly. Dermatitis: This is a common issue in dogs who have a lot of folds. Treatment should be done soon in order to alleviate discomfort and avoid further complications. What makes them so expensive is the thorough planning that goes into the breeding process in order to achieve a tri-color coat, especially when lilac is involved. Here is a table showing how much each tri-color variant could potentially cost: Tri-Color Variant. The term Tri color aks tri-color , when used to describe the coloring of an English Bulldog, refers to the fairly rare three-color pattern. These points are usually light fawn to a deep golden brown and are found just above the eyes, on the cheeks, both sides of the upper chest, and on the inner, front area of each leg. They can be solid or brindle and can sometimes be covered by white, a more dominant pigment. Black Tri is the most common of this rare color pattern, but there are other variations. Tri color English Bulldogs can be found almost entirely full coated, with only a small amount of white, to a more piebald pattern, with the majority of the coat being white, with small spots or patches of black, blue, chocolate, or lilac. The tri-color English Bulldog will change as much as any Bulldog does after he is born and starts to grow. A Tri-color English bulldog puppy may choose one or two main colors very early on in their fur color. They may change along the way which only makes them more special and unique. Colors And Prices Of Bulldog Puppies As compared to the more prevalent bi-color versions of the breed, tri-color English Bulldogs are notoriously more difficult to find and, on average costlier. The prices given below for tri color bulldogs are only estimates. The price may be more or less, depending on the breeder. Blue Sable You can tell a blue sable by its red base and the silver-colored cast on its coats. Blue Tri One of the most popular tri-colored bulldogs is the Blue Tri. They come with silver-colored coats and tan spots on their legs, chest, and eyes. Most of them come with green or blue eyes. Lilac Tri The Lilac tri is a rare one to produce and a top favorite in the Bulldog world. They come with a chocolate base coat and bright glowing eyes that are either blue or green. Chocolate Tri The chocolate tri is very popular among tri-colored bulldogs and highly requested. They have a mostly dark brown coat with tan spots around their eyes, legs, and face. Red Sable The red sable is considered the standard color for English bulldogs. Their eyes are usually brown. Either one or both eyes are blue. Sometimes they will have brindle on their legs, chest area, and face. Their eyes are brown in color. Usually, the chocolate and blue brindle have unique eye colors. As of the writing of this article, the tri color bulldog is not recognized officially by the AKC American Kennel Club. The official statement from them is as follows: Colors are red, white, fawn, fallow, or any combination of the foregoing. Patterns and markings may include brindle, piebald, ticking, black masks, black tipping, and a minimal amount of solid black in piebalds. All other colors or markings are a disqualification. Popular Posts.

You can use the information on dog.Show more How much grooming does a German Shepherd need? German Shepherds have thick coats so they shed a lot. You'll typically need to brush your short or long-haired German Shepherd a few times a week. German Shepherds may also need professional grooming. To hel.What size crate do you need for a German Shepherd? When inside their crate, your dog should have plenty of space to: sit and stand up at their full height turn around without touching the sides lie down fully stretched out.To find out more about potential health i.Are German Shepherds easy to train? You can teach any breed of dog new tricks! Find out what your dog loves so you can use this to reward them after a success. Just like you, every dog is an individual with their own personality and prior experiences. As dogs grow from puppies, they learn all about the world. They develop their own likes and dislikes and learn to respond to.Show more Are German Shepherds good with children? Every dog has their own unique personality that has been shaped by their own experiences of the world. However, there are som.Show more. Adopt a new best friend. By choosing to adopt, you participate in a statewide effort to provide homes for deserving and loyal German Shepherds. We cover all vet expenses and will purchase all needed supplies for your foster dog while they are in your care. Adopt a Dog Help us help future dogs. Donate your time. Campaign for fundraising. Transport dogs to their destinations. Make a difference in the German Shepherd community. Apply to volunteer with us and provide care for German Shepherds that truly need it. Apply to Volunteer We have found homes for hundreds of happy German Shepherds. Below is a list of German Shepherds that have successfully found a new home. German Shepherd adoption has changed our lives, and it can change yours, too. Bodie A friendly German Shepherd with a lovely black coat. Bodie was a lovely, personable German Shepherd that was finally adopted by a loving family after a long battle with homelessness. She also loves engaging in friendly play with cats! Jill Adopted in , Jill became a playful and positive addition to her family. Jill had previously completed behavioral training prior to adoption, making her an asset to any home. Now, she enjoys daily walks to local parks. Mesaba Once abandoned by his previous owner, Mesaba found a loving family in Georgia, who named him Mesaba after their Minnesotan roots. Mesaba now enjoys walks in the park, play time with friends, and a loving family. Giroux After previous domestic issues with cats, Giroux found a home with one of our volunteers. He now enjoys cheering up his new owner, who has previously lost a German Shepherd to age-related difficulties. Abbie After a history of neglect, Abbie was able to recover from her past trauma and find a loving and accepting home in .She now enjoys playing hide-and-find with new toys, playing in the local pond, and being part of her new family. Fletcher After abandonment from his previous owners, Fletcher was finally able to join his new and supportive family. He now enjoys long walks, lots of attention and plenty of space for personal recreation. Matilda Matilda was shy before reaching out shelter - but after some training, she was finally able to come out of her shell! She now spends time with her new family, receiving more love than she could ever imagine! Queen Adopted in , Queen is a playful and positive addition to any family. Queen had previously completed behavioral training prior to adoption, making her an asset to any home. Ike Ike is the life of the party. We are pleased to announced that after years of neglect, Ike was finally able to join a family of his own. Now, Ike enjoys playing with his new owners and enjoying a life of abundant love and affection. She was once abandoned by her previous owners, but with some care and rehabilitation, Lady was able to relocate to a loving family of her own! Schatzi Talk about playful! Schahtzi is a lovely German Shepherd that was able to join a loving family after a past of neglect. Now, she enjoys lots of exercise and good memories with his new family. See More Alumni Give in memoriam. To us, a dog is family. Every pet has a story, how they were rescued and what they meant to us. Tell us your story. History Where are German Shepherd Dogs from? Perhaps never in the history of any breed has such concerted effort been put into improving a dog, mostly due to the formation in of the Verein fur Deutsche Scharferhunde SV, an organization in Germany devoted to overseeing the breeding of the German Shepherd. Breeders sought to develop not only a herding dog but also one that could excel at jobs requiring courage, athleticism, and intelligence. During World War I, they were the obvious choice for a war sentry. The Wolfdog was later dropped as it caused many people to fear the dogs. How big do German Shepherd Dogs get? The double-coat, with a thick undercoat that sheds twice annually, loses hair continuously but can be maintained with regular brushing one or two times weekly. What are the German Shepherd Dog colors? Black, tan, solid black and solid sable. How long do German Shepherd Dogs live? Lifespan: 10—12 years What are some German Shepherd Dogs facts and information? The German Shepherd held the number one spot in American popularity for many years. Although presently it has dropped from the top spot, the German Shepherd remains as one of the most versatile dogs ever created, serving as a police dog, war dog, guide dog, search-and-rescue dog, narcotics- or explosives-detecting dog, show dog, pet—and even shepherd. Related Content.

Social media has provided dog enthusiasts with an opportunity to engage with other Pug lovers, while providing an intriguing glimpse into life with one of these dogs. Once we trawled through social media to get an idea of some popular Pug names, we continued our research online through news articles and other content. Famous Pugs on Instagram and TikTok Pug is checked over by vet Photo: Adobe Stock Pugs are a hugely popular breed on social media thanks to their goofy and loving personalities. One of the most popular Pug accounts is Doug The Pug who was one of the original dog influencers. With millions and millions of followers across all platforms, Doug is a bona fide superstar. Doug itsdougthepug is one of the driving factors behind the popularity of the breed in the s, creating fun videos and quirky photoshoots as well as posing with other A-listers. This handsome chap has over , followers on Instagram alone. Did you know that Pugs can make expert surfers? You can get your pug fill on this account along with , others. Jeremy Veach jeremyveach has an account with a twist! He lives in a converted bus with his pug Norm. If you want to see what life is like on the road with a pug or see their adventures along the Oregon Coast, you should check out their Instagram page! Pug Names Do you wonder what's a great name for a Pug dog? This breed is so unique looking, he or she's just gotta have a really cool name! Do you want to see if the name you chose is on our Exclusive List for this breed? Have a great suggestion for a name that fits the breed? Then you came to the right place! Most of the following names have been submitted by Pug owners. The most popular names are those that begin with the letter P, however others such as Mugsy and Mopsy are often chosen as well. Have fun as you read all of the cool names that owners have thought of and see below on how to submit your dog's name if it is not on this list. Choosing a Name in Multiple Dog Households When you have more than one dog, it's best to choose names for your dogs that do not start with the same sound. Canines often only pay attention to the first syllable that humans speak. If both dogs have names that begin the same way, they may become confused. An example would be "Roxanne" and "Rocky"; both Pugs may run to you when either name is called out. There are 2 things that owners should do: 1 Say the name a lot. Be sure to say it along with all of the "come here" commands. Look at your puppy and get his attention when you say it. You want your pup to associate the name with something good.So don't say it if your pup has an accident, is chewing apart your shoe or does anything else that may cause frustration. Be sure to say, "No" and show your Pug what you do want him or her to do, but refrain from using his or her name at these times Pug Names Starting with A Ab - Ad.

Our breeding program has earned the the highest level of accomplishments that a kennel in the United States can achieve. Nadelhaus breeds purebred German Shepherds year round and we also import both German Shepherd puppies and adults direct from Europe for our clients. Long-haired German Shepherds are technically called a long coat German Shepherd, while a short-haired German Shepherd is called a normal coat or stock coat German Shepherd. Dogs with either coat have the same physiological structure and both have double coats: an undercoat and a top coat. The only difference between the two is the top coat. The long haired German Shepherd will have a heavier top coat than the undercoat. The double coat of a German Shepherd is an important feature of the breed. The double coat weathers and insulates the dogs—it protects them from the cold in the winter and the heat in the summer. The length of the coat of a German Shepherd has no impact on its ability as a working dog. What does a long haired German Shepherd look like? The skeleton and structure of a long-haired German Shepherd will be the same as a short-haired German Shepherd. Both dogs will have an undercoat, but the difference is that the top coat of a long-haired German Shepherd will be longer. The long coat GSD has longer and silkier hair on the chest, back, face, tail, and on the backside of its legs. Short on the head, including the inside of the ears, on the front side of the legs, on the paws and toes, somewhat longer and more strongly covered in hair on the neck, almost forming a mane. On the back side of the legs the hair extends to the carpal joint or the hock and forms clear trousers on the back side of the haunches. Historically, German Shepherds originated in Germany and were native sheepdogs. He firmly believed that the standard of the German Shepherd breed should not include dogs with long hair. Throughout the s, long haired German Shepherds were considered unsuitable and unacceptable for breeding. It is important to note that long-haired German Shepherds are the result of natural genetic diversity and not a separate breed. Their long coats are an inherited trait that can occur when both parents carry the recessive long-hair gene. This gene manifests as a more luxurious and abundant coat, offering a striking contrast to the traditional short-haired German Shepherd appearance. The breeding of long-haired German Shepherds follows the same rigorous standards and principles as their short-haired counterparts. The focus remains on maintaining the breed's exceptional temperament, working abilities, and overall health. Over time, breeders recognized the value of long-haired German Shepherds and began selectively breeding them to maintain and enhance their unique characteristics. Through careful pairings and strategic breeding programs, the long-haired variety established itself as a distinct and cherished branch of the German Shepherd breed. How big do long-haired German Shepherds get? Long-haired German Shepherds are structurally the same as short-haired German Shepherds, therefore they can both grow to similar sizes. Males: inches tall, pounds Females: inches tall, pounds Since both German Shepherds are physiologically the same, they also have the same temperaments: loyal, intelligent, energetic, courageous and protective. German Shepherds are ranked 2 on the AKC Breed Popularity list and make for wonderful family companions and working dogs. How can I identify a long-haired German Shepherd puppy? In the photo below are two litter mates from a recent Nadelhaus litter. The puppy on the left is a long coat and the puppy on the right is a normal coat. The long coat has wispier hair on the chest, back, face, tail, and on the backside of its legs. Long-hair female German Shepherd next to short-hair male German Shepherd. Genetically in German Shepherds, the short hair gene is dominant and the long hair gene is recessive. This means if two short-haired German Shepherds are mated, but neither carries the recessive long hair gene, then no long haired puppies can be produced. However, if two short-haired German Shepherds are mated and both carry the recessive gene, then long-haired German Shepherd puppies can be produced. Long-haired German Shepherds are considered a less common variant of the breed, adding to their allure and exclusivity. While short-haired German Shepherds dominate the breed standard, enthusiasts of long-haired Shepherds appreciate their unique beauty and elegant appearance. Due to their rarity, finding a reputable breeder or rescue organization specializing in long-haired German Shepherds may require some research and patience. However, the joy of owning one of these beautiful dogs is well worth the effort for those who appreciate their longer coats and exceptional qualities. Do long-haired German Shepherds shed more than short-haired German Shepherds? No, this is a common misconception. Although they shed less than short haired German Shepherds, their coats still require regular maintenance. They will need regular brushing and grooming, especially if you enjoy hiking or outdoor activities with your GSD. While it is a rare occurrence for a long-haired GSD to not have an undercoat, most of them do have undercoats. And just like short-haired GSDs, their undercoats will shed more or less throughout the year depending on the season. Should I trim my long haired German Shepherd's coat? The decision to trim a long haired German Shepherd comes down to personal preference, but it is not a necessity. Trimming can help make for more manageable living around the house. If you choose to trim, you can trim around the backs of the ears, on the back of the legs both front and back and then thin the bushy tail. Shaving a German Shepherd on the other hand is never recommended. Their double coats help keep them warm in the winter and cool in the summer. What are long haired German Shepherds called? Regular brushing: Long-haired German Shepherds require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangles. Aim for at least a few brushing sessions per week to keep their coat in good condition. Finish your brushing session with a gentle dog brush to clean up loose hairs. Bathing and drying: It's important to bathe your long-haired German Shepherd as needed, using a dog-specific shampoo. Be sure to thoroughly rinse out all the shampoo to prevent any residue. After bathing, use a high-velocity dryer or a cool air dryer to dry their coat thoroughly, as moisture trapped in the fur can lead to skin issues. Professional grooming: Consider taking your long-haired German Shepherd to a professional groomer for occasional trimming and coat maintenance. A groomer can help keep the fur around sensitive areas, such as the paws and ears, tidy and reduce the chances of matting. Watch for seasonal shedding: Like all German Shepherds, long-haired ones will undergo shedding seasons. Be prepared for increased shedding during these times and brush your dog more frequently to remove loose hair. A de-shedding tool can be helpful in managing shedding and keeping their coat healthy. Remember, each dog is unique, and the specific care requirements may vary. Does Nadelhaus sell long haired German Shepherd puppies? Nadelhaus breeds German Shepherds puppies year round and while the majority of puppies we sell are short hair, we do have occasionally have long haired puppies. We breed all our German Shepherds in the black and red color. If you are looking for a long haired adult German Shepherd, we can also import long-haired German Shepherds direct from Europe. Contact us for more information. Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article.

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click on a link and purchase the item. This comes at no extra cost to you. A five-month-old Golden is approaching the end of the puppy stage and is about to enter the next developmental phase: canine adolescence. Around six months of age is when puppies typically hit the teenage phase. Life has gotten so much easier than when they were a two-month or three-month-old pup. Your hard work training your puppy has paid off and you may even be surprised by how well they listen to you. But you might also see some hints of adolescent behavior creeping in. The bad news: Canine adolescence typically starts around six months of age, so you may be seeing some of the changes this stage brings with your five-month-old. Just like humans, puppies become teenagers as they undergo the process of growing up into an adult. Like every other age, your puppy needs patient guidance and support, consistent management to set them up for success, and positive training to educate them on how to behave. You might even notice their color change a bit as they lose that puppy coat. Plus, they might look like a kindergartener with some of their teeth missing! More on teething later. Continue giving them positive experiences with the things, environments, and situations that they will be in as an adult dog. Most Goldens tend to be highly social, and need help learning that not every person and dog is their next best friend. More about exercising your pup later. Each puppy is unique though, so there might be some that are above or below that range. The most important thing is that your puppy is a healthy weight for their size. A more petite Golden might weigh less and be perfectly healthy, just like a tall and heavy-boned Golden might weigh more but still be at an appropriate weight. Always consult your vet to make sure your puppy is developing properly. Even though your puppy is getting bigger, they still need lots of sleep. Adequate sleep is so important to ensuring that your puppy is physically and behaviorally healthy. Overly tired puppies can act like unhinged hooligans who are really unpleasant to be around. Helping them stay asleep by confining them in a quiet location is a good idea. You might find that giving your puppy something to chew, such as a frozen kong or toppl , can help transition them from awake to asleep, as chewing and licking are naturally soothing behaviors for dogs. Oliver playing with his favorite keys toy at 5 months old. As mentioned previously, you likely will see an increase in energy around this time. That leisurely stroll in the neighborhood that used to wipe your puppy out is now just putting a dent in their energy reserves. One of the absolute best ways to exercise a five-month-old Golden Retriever is to hit a local trail or natural space with your puppy in a harness and 15 or foot leash. They were originally bred to hunt in the wilderness and this taps into the heart and soul of a Golden much more than a typical neighborhood walk on a 6-foot leash ever could. They love being in nature, getting to sniff around and move their bodies with more freedom. The longer leash gives them more space to explore, while still keeping them safe. If you have a yard, there are some fun ways you can utilize that space to offer your pup some exercise. Most Goldens love playing with a flirt pole toy , where they can chase and grab the toy on the end of the bungee. Keep it light and fun by dragging the flirt pole in a circle or gentle curves to protect their growing body. Hide and seek can also be a super fun game to burn some of that puppy energy, while also making them use their brain to find their human. One person can hold onto the pup, another person can hide, and then release them to go on a search and rescue mission. Some pups are better at this than others, so the hidden person can also make some noise to help the puppy out. Playing some of these games before you attempt a walk in your neighborhood can help set your five-month-old Golden up for more success on the leash. Walking on a leash is actually pretty unnatural for dogs. For one thing, their typical gait is usually a trot, which is faster than our walking gait. Dogs also naturally zig-zag around and do not move in long straight lines, which is what we usually are asking them to do when walking in our neighborhoods. Burning off some energy before you take them out on leash can help them walk without pulling or tying you up in the leash. If they need a break, let them take one. Training a Five-Month-Old Golden Retriever Puppies do not come pre-programmed with all the skills and knowledge they need to live alongside humans peacefully. This is why training is so important! Training is an ongoing process, but so worth the commitment. The great thing is that training is super fun and an amazing way to build a positive bond with your puppy. As you raise your puppy, there are two principles to keep in mind: 1 — Reward behavior you want to see more of. What gets rewarded gets repeated, so keep your eyes open for all the good behavior your puppy does and reinforce them for it! Keeping treats easily accessible in little ramekins around the house makes it easier for you to reward your pup when they make good choices. Puppy kept their feet on the ground while you were carrying plates full of human food to the table? Give your puppy a treat! Puppy laid calmly as the cat sauntered by? The simple act of rewarding behavior you like can go a long way to build good behavior that develops into lifelong habits. On the flipside, your puppy will likely make some poor choices if you let them. Thinking proactively helps your puppy be successful and prevents them from developing frustrating habits. Then work on training skills your puppy needs to handle those exciting situations, such as keeping feet on the ground while greeting guests and settling on a mat while you watch the kids play outside. Continue to give your puppy plenty of opportunities to potty outside. In addition, you can also work on:. Share 0 Shares Time has flown by these past few months, and now your Golden Retriever pup is five months old! It probably seems like it went by in a blur and they were a handful just a few weeks ago. Now your pup is rapidly approaching the point where they transition from their puppy phase into canine adolescence, which is like the teenage years for dogs, and it starts at around 6 months of age. Your cute little puppy is about to become a teenager! How much does a five-month-old Golden Retriever sleep? Your pup is likely doing very well with potty training , and they probably sleep comfortably through each night. Because of your devotion to training, your pup is paying attention to you and learning from you. This phase will eventually end. Puppies follow a similar growth pattern as humans: puppy, teenager, adult. They experience behavioral, physical, and social development during these phases. And your pup will require consistent training using positive reinforcement. What was once a ball of fluff is now a tall and lanky pup. Your golden will probably have long legs that seem out of place with the rest of its body. Some of their teeth will probably be missing, as well. Keep taking your pup out and letting them have positive experiences with different places, people, and animals. Image source: Oscar. On average, 5-month-old goldens weigh lbs. This is because Golden Retrievers are prone to health problems like hip dysplasia and other joint issues. Five-month-old puppies should get around 18 hours of shut-eye per day. This is a little deceptive. This can actually overstimulate them and leave them overly tired, which will cause them to act up, bark, bite and bounce off the walls. So, to avoid an overly- tired and wild puppy, you should help them to take a nap and get the rest they need. You may want to give your pup a soft chew toy to chew on as they drift off to sleep. Another tip to help your pooch fall asleep more comfortably is to eliminate outside distractions. These may sound like unnecessary measures, but they go a long way to help ensure that your pup goes to and stays asleep. Your pup is able to take a 5 or 10 minutes walk and still have energy left over, when they would have been completely exhausted from a small walk when they were younger. Your pup will love getting out in nature, so take your pup to hiking trails, parks, or really anywhere you can let them enjoy the great outdoors. Put them on a long leash 15 or 20 feet so that they can run and play, getting the exercise they need. There are so many more things to sniff at and explore! Heck, even an empty parking lot will give your pup a safe place to run around and explore. Get a flirt pole toy for your pup. These are poles with toys attached to them with an elastic string. Instead, use gentle motions like circles. You can also play hide-and-seek with your pup. It engages their big brains and makes them think and get creative while also giving them a chance to exercise. This requires two people. One needs to hold the puppy while the other hides, and once the person has chosen their hiding spot the person holding the puppy can let them loose to find their owner. Some golden puppies are hide-and-seek masters, while others really suck at the game. They usually trot or gallop, while we walk more slowly, so they have to slow down to match our pace. They also typically zig and zag around, which is a lot different from walking in a straight line on a leash. So they frequently stop to sniff and investigate things. Of course, no matter which sort of exercise you choose, you should pay attention to your pup and let them decide what they can handle. If your pup flops down to take a break, let them. It can be one of the activities that make your pup form the strongest bonds with you, and it can be fun, too. They like treats! For instance, if your puppy is jumping on people when they come into your house, then put your puppy in their crate or behind a gate before you answer the door. After a bit, you can work with your pup to eliminate these behaviors by doing things like teaching your puppy to go lay down when you answer the door or playing more gently with kids. By this age, your pup is likely at least familiar with the idea. Maybe there was something distracting in their environment. Maybe your pup was too tired to properly learn something right then. Just try to enjoy the ride and make it fun for both you and your pup. If you have questions about how much you should feed your pup throughout the day, or think your pup may not be getting enough to eat, then you should ask your veterinarian. Some goldens are prone to food sensitivities, and their poop is a good way to find out if your pup is having issues. If you think you may need to switch foods, talk to your veterinarian. You can check out the post for the best puppy food for your golden pup. Your puppy is losing their puppy teeth, which makes their gums really painful and uncomfortable, which is what causes them to chew and bite. Make sure you have lots of chew toys around for your pup during this time. It may make your home look a bit messy, but having a ton of toys and chewing sticks or bones all over the floor is better than having your puppy chewing up inappropriate things. So, find a big soft toy for them to fall in love with. If you find that your puppy likes to chew on things that make a crinkly noise, find them some toys that crinkle. I signed up for Bark Box for my dogs and they love all the treats and toys that come in it each month. They generally send a good combination of soft toys that squeak and toys that crinkle, as well as puzzle toys to keep their minds occupied. When you leave, you should put your pup either in their pen or in a crate. But you should keep going anyway. Your reward will be a well-adjusted and fully- developed and grown dog that will make an awesome lifelong companion! If you get discouraged, find a way to have fun with your puppy. It will not only lift your mood but teach your pup to trust you. Your new furry friend has a lot of growing to do, and you probably have a lot of questions. Your Golden Retriever puppy will go through a number of developmental stages throughout their first twelve weeks. Male Golden Retrievers generally weigh between 65 and 75 pounds and stand from 23 to 24 inches tall. Females are generally smaller weighing between 55 to 65 pounds, and will grow to stand .At 4 months, your Golden Retriever puppy will reach about half their adult height. When it comes to mental development, it can take even longer than that before the Golden Retriever is fully mature. However, every puppy is a unique individual, and these are merely milestone guidelines. Disparities exist between the working and show Goldens, as well as between males and females. Golden Retriever puppy growth can also be quite sporadic. As an overall average, many Golden Retriever puppies will weigh just approximately 1. Golden Retrievers are classified as a gundog breed, and these dogs are often divided into those bred for show and those meant for work. However, the body of the show Golden is typically larger, taller, heavy-boned, and fuller in the chest. Small Parents Like people, puppies inherit physical traits from their parents. And even puppies from the same litter can vary in size. Neither of these scenarios is healthy for a puppy. Larger breeds like the Golden Retriever are more at risk for growth disorders than small breed dogs. This article will give you a lot more information on how much to feed, what to feed, and how often to feed a Golden Retriever puppy. Illness and Puppy Growth If a puppy has been seriously ill for a prolonged period, it may affect their ability to grow normally. However, once the puppy is free of worms, they should continue to grow at a normal rate. The best way to determine if your puppy is too thin or too fat is by how he looks and feels. When looking at your puppy from above, he should have a noticeable waistline. Another way to tell is by putting your hands on either side of his ribcage. You should be able to feel his ribs using a gentle pressure. But if his ribs are visible, he could be underweight. Obesity is a huge problem for many dog breeds. Although there are ways to make your puppy grow bigger, this is not something you should attempt. It could also mean you end up with a fat puppy. One of the best ways to ensure your puppy has a long, healthy life is to ensure he stays at an optimal weight. Hip and elbow dysplasia and other musculoskeletal disorders are associated with excess weight in larger breeds. Having your dog neutered at a young age can also cause them to grow taller. The problem is, this can also cause abnormalities in joint formation. Neutering also makes Golden Retrievers more at risk for certain types of cancers. Typically it will take approximately 18 months for your Golden Retriever to become an adult dog. Even though they can reach their full height at anywhere from 9 to 12 months, it will usually take them longer to fill out to their full weight. Remember that there are wide variations in size within the Golden Retriever breed. If this is the case, you should contact your veterinarian to seek advice. Beginning the puppy development stages before birth Puppy development stages week by week Amazingly, in a way the puppy development stages begin before your dog is even born. Your puppy spends approximately 9 weeks developing inside his Mom. The mother dog has a womb or uterus, that has two long tubes, and the puppies grow in a row along each tube rather like peas in a pod. The puppies are joined to their mother by a placenta which provides all the nourishment they need for those few weeks. To begin with, the puppies have plenty of room to move but they grow fast and as the time for birth draws near they are packed in quite tightly. The one week old puppy Your puppy is born fully furred but with his eyes and ears closed so he cannot hear or see. His front feet are strong and he can pull himself towards his mother with them. He can cry if he is uncomfortable and his mother will respond to his cries by moving him towards her and licking him. Your puppy spends most of his time sleeping or suckling. He cannot regulate his own body temperature and needs his mother for heat, or an artificial heat source. In the first week to ten days of his life your puppy grows rapidly and will double his birth weight. His forelegs are getting much stronger. She licks the puppies bottoms to stimulate a bowel or bladder movement and eats the result. There is no cleaning up for the breeder to do yet. The breeder will begin to handle the puppies more though, and get them used to human contact. She will worm the puppies for the first time at the end of this week. Puppies begin to get their personalities. Your puppy can stand and sit up by the end of the week. Tails can be wagged, ears will be completely open and puppies start play growling and interacting with their littermates. Your puppy can regulate his body temperature more effectively and will start to cut his first teeth in preparation for weaning. The front teeth, canines and incisors are cut first. Toward the end of the week he may have his first tiny taste of puppy food. They also start to move away from the sleeping area to empty their bowels and bladder. They may try to climb out of the whelping box. If she lives indoors, she may rejoin the family for more of each day. Your puppy will cut his back teeth and the breeder will get weaning underway this week and by the end of it, your puppy will be getting quite a bit of his nourishment from puppy food. She will also worm the puppies a second time. If the mother is allowed near the puppies after she has been fed, she may regurgitate her dinner for them. This is completely natural and normal. He is a proper little dog. Rolling around with his brothers and sisters and playing with toys. Teething toys, puppy Kongs, balls and rope toys are big favorites with puppies. He can bark too and some puppies can be quite noisy at this age! He chases after his mother whenever she appears and suckles hungrily, but she is starting to get fed up with it, and may be reluctant to feed her brood for very long. His mother is teaching him not to bite too hard. If he lives in outdoor kennels he should spend part of each day indoors with the family. By the end of the sixth week, most are fully weaned, and eating five or six little meals of puppy food each day. Socialization must begin in earnest. He is now two months old and ready for his new life. It is the time during which they become fearful of anything unfamiliar and need to be thoroughly socialized. This is also the time during which most puppies get to grips with house-training, learning to wait before eliminating and start sleeping through the night without a potty break. It is a busy time for new puppy owners. Your puppy will have his vaccinations during this month. Biting can be a big problem during this stage and you need to be patient and consistent in order to teach the puppy not to hurt people when he plays. Provided you use force free methods, this is a great time to get puppy training under way, and especially to teach a puppy recall, and to get your puppy used to working with food. So, for a 2. You can do the same calculation for medium pups at sixteen weeks and large breed pups at 20 weeks — just divide his weight by his age in weeks before you multiply by .Medium to large pups will reach about half their adult height by the end of the month. If the weather is warm you can get your puppy swimming now. He should be able to come when he is called, in and around your home, provided there are not too many distractions. It all depends on what you have taught him. He may still be chewing a lot and biting too. Use frozen Kongs to help him and give your furniture and fingers a break. Puppies can go for short walks now. By the end of this month your puppy could have a twenty minute walk each day. He may also enjoy fetching a ball and playing with other dogs, but take care to stop before he gets very tired. Less dependence This is the month during which some puppies start to become less dependent on their humans for security. Keep your puppy close to you outdoors by changing direction frequently so that you puppy has to keep coming to find you. And engaging him in games. The foundations of a great recall are often build or spoilt during this month. If your puppy knows how to sit or lie down at home, start some simple proofing exercises with him in public places. A healthy puppy can usually manage on two meals a day from around six months. During this month a Retriever, Spaniel or GSD puppy will reach around two thirds of his adult weight. A Great Dane and other large breeds will have reached about half their final weight and little dogs will have almost completed their growth. Some female dogs will come on heat for the first time during this month, or the next, so keep an eye open now for swelling of her vulva and any discharge. Your dog will become increasingly confident over the next few months so practice, practice and practice that recall! Make it a habit he cannot break. And be generous with your rewards. Small breed pups may now be more or less mature. Your puppy will enjoy half hour off lead walks now, and should be able to walk on a loose lead for short periods with plenty of encouragement and rewards. Keep practicing that recall! These help to slow his growth further and to build his confidence. Make sure you practice good outdoor management on walks to maintain the good recall you have built and work hard on thoroughly proofing all his obedience skills. Read up on neutering before you take this important step, for dogs of either sex. Once your dog is a year old he can participate in more strenuous activities and sports. Now is the time to think about the kinds of activities you would like to do with him — go jogging together for example — and if necessary, to start to get him fit. Puppy development stages — Summary There is huge variation in the way in which dogs develop and mature. The puppy development stages and ages outlined above are a rough guide. We hope you enjoyed them and found the information interesting. When it comes to training, you get out what you put in. Your progress depends as much if not more on you rather than your puppy. If you train your puppy five times a day, six days a week he will learn many, many times faster than a puppy that is trained once a day at the weekend. Enjoy watching your puppy grow and develop. And have fun!

Fortunately, this breed is remarkably easy to train and responds well to positive reinforcement and redirection. Your Shepherd-Husky puppy needs at least two hours of exercise each day, and this should be done in conjunction with supervised play sessions. This can include a walk in the neighborhood, playing tug-of-war , or even catching a ball. However, be careful not to push your puppy too far in his activity routine. While German Shepherd Husky mix puppies can be easy to train, they do have their unique personalities and may require some training. Though intelligent, German Shepherd Husky mix puppies are also difficult to train because of their tendency to chew on things in the house and to try to escape from enclosed spaces. Fortunately, obedience classes can help you train your German Shepherd Husky mix and make them more reliable and well-behaved as they grow older. Early socialization is very important for these puppies. If you socialize them from a young age, they will learn how to behave. These hybrid dogs are very smart and can easily pick up on the training from a young age. A few of the first things to do with a new puppy is to set up feeding and potty schedules. Then, start socializing your puppy early with exposure to other dogs and people. Here are some tips on how to discipline a puppy. While these schedules are not the only thing to worry about when training your new puppy, they will be helpful in helping your new family member adjust to their new home. A schedule will also help you determine when your puppy needs to relieve itself. Once you have a schedule in place, your puppy will be more likely to follow it. As a general rule, puppies need 20 hours of sleep a day. You can begin to schedule meals based on this time. Also, start taking your puppy out for walks at the same time every day. Huskies and GSDs have very different personalities and can be quite aggressive. This is because Huskies are pack animals, while GSDs are more reserved and can be aggressive. A well-socialized Gerberian Shepsky will usually get along with new people and be comfortable in a wide range of social situations. You can socialize your German Shepherd Husky Mix puppy as early as eight weeks of age, but ideally before that. When he performs the command on cue, he should be rewarded with treats. It is also useful to punish him when he does not perform the command on cue. But remember to be consistent. Rewarding your puppy only when he does something right is not enough. He needs a balance between positive reinforcement and punishment. In order to prevent your Husky puppy from biting, you should follow the same rules as the breed. You can get a soft bone to give it as a chew toy and reward it with praise when it does something right. To call your puppy, simply use a happy tone to distract him and make him turn toward you. Pair this action with a treat or clicker to reward a successful training session. Huskies and German Shepherds are highly intelligent animals. They tend to learn a command or two quickly and often on the first try. Some huskies are quick to jump up when they see you, while others may be shy and nervous around you. While some owners may not mind it, this could be problematic if you have guests visiting. If you are not comfortable with your puppy jumping up to greet visitors, use a different method. This mixed breed of German Shepherd and Husky requires daily exercise and training. A strong trainer is necessary to handle these powerful, intelligent dogs. You must be patient and consistent in training your pet. Your Gerberian Shepsky will learn to obey gentle commands from a dominant pack leader. But you must be prepared for some mischief. Use Leash to Tame The Hunter In Your Puppy If you want to prevent your puppy from digging up your yard, make sure you train her to walk on a leash from an early age. A strong prey drive is inherent in German Shepherds and Siberian Huskies. These two breeds are known to be aggressive, and you can teach them not to do it until they are ready to meet people. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. These days I have two adorable fuzzy rascals around me, that ensures I get plenty of exercise and laughter throughout my day! Legal Information The owner of this site, LabradoodleHome. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Labradoodle Home does not intend to provide veterinary advice. All articles and posts are aimed at giving users a better understanding of their dogs. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Amazon OneLink. Some ways to assert your leadership are: You and your family should always eat meals before your pup. When walking, always be in control. Never allow your shepsky to lead you. Do not allow your pup to jump on you. This is never good especially when guests are visiting. It is never good to let your shepsky sleep in your bed. This shows that you and your pup are equals. You should always be above them. The pack leader is always the highest. Begin early Begin training as soon as your Gerberian shepsky sets its little paws in your home. They are quick to learn as a puppy and especially to pick up on what is considered good and bad behavior. Socialization Socialization should have begun in their last few weeks at the breeders and you should continue this very important aspect of their training. Your German shepherd husky mix needs to become acclimated to people, places, different experiences, and other dogs. This will make them less likely to be overly excited and too exuberant with people and also show aggression. Positivity With training, always use positive reinforcement. This is done by rewarding good behavior, when they are playing nicely, following commands,s or greeting you in a gentle way without acting hyper. Correct bad behavior or in some cases ignore it. This gives them no attention and this is what they are sometimes seeking. You only want to give your pup positive attention for good behavior. Short and sweet but direct The commands you give your shepsky should be short but direct. Also, keep training sessions short and no longer than ten or fifteen minutes. Puppies have a shorter attention span. They do get tired and need their naps too! To treat or not to treat? Praise, exuberance, and positivity are the best way to train. If you want your pup to come to you quickly in a dangerous situation, you may not have a treat handy to bribe them. This is why they need to learn commands well and without treats, if possible. Treats also contain empty calories which can lead to weight gain if used in excess. Treat Husky Puppy image by Pixabay. Following are some steps to help with potty training. Have a designated outdoor area specifically for potty purposes and familiarize your shepsky with this spot. Take your pup out to their designated area every twenty to thirty minutes when they are small so they can get the hang of things. Being vigilant will pay off. Also, take your shepsky out after eating. Give plenty of exciting praise when your pup is successful. Your Gerberian shepsky will have accidents in your home at first, so be prepared. If you see your pup circling or sniffing, quickly whisk them up and take them outside to their area. Any leftover smells can lead to another accident in the same area. There are many safe cleaners on the market specifically for this purpose. Consistency is the key to success and before you know it they will be letting you know when they need to go out, with a bark, howl, or whimper. Always have patience and use positive reinforcement or redirect bad behavior. Scold if necessary, but never yell or use physical punishment. This will just create problems. If you are unsure of training, seek out a professional or enroll you and your pup in obedience classes. Gerberian shepsky puppy training does not have to be overwhelming. With consistency and a lot of love, your shepsky will be a well-mannered and fun-loving adult in no time. Recent Posts. For those that are new to the Gerberian Shepsky or Shepsky in short , this is a medium to large mixed breed that stems from the German Shepherd and Siberian Husky. This mixed breed is affectionately coined as a hybrid of two of the most popular dog breeds and two very close relatives of the wolf. Just like the GSD, the Shepsky is well-known for being an energetic and extremely intelligent dog that has the potential to be an extraordinary family pet if they are socialized and trained properly. They are easy to train and can be a perfect pet dogs for families with children. What type of basic training does a German Shepherd Husky mix need? Some dog breeds can get by with minimal training but not a German Shepherd Husky Mix. Recall training: This will be one of the most critical training steps since your dog will have a high prey drive and attempt to chase other animals. Check out how well Shepsky can behave and follow commands in this video: Early socializing is important for training German Shepherd Husky mix Socializing your German Shepherd Husky mix early on will become key to any further training you might need. This mixed breed typically takes longer to warm up to other people and pets, making it difficult to bring them into situations with crowds. When training your German Shepherd Husky mix, you must take advantage of strangers, dogs, and distractions to form a stronger bond with your dog. Socialization will also make taking your dog to the vet, dog park, or training facilities easier. Managing the prey drive of your German Shepherd Husky mix German Shepherds and Huskies both have a potentially high prey drive. And when you mix them, you get a larger prey drive. Thus, training your Shepsky to manage its prey drive is essential. Early socialization will help with managing their prey drive. Allowing them to meet new dogs and people while watching you interact with them can help them learn what is expected of them. Your German Shepherd Husky mix will take cues from you and learn the difference between a threat and a non-threat based on how you act. What important commands does your German Shepherd Husky mix need to know? Basic obedience training will become your best friend with your German Shepherd Husky mix. Important commands like sit, stay, and leave it will help in numerous situations your dog could get put in. Come: Get your dog to come when called. Training your Shepsky with positive reinforcement Positive reinforcement is the best way to train your German Shepherd Husky mix. Find what your dog loves and use it as a reward. You want to keep your training to short increments and sentences they will understand. Consistency is vital for your German Shepherd Husky mix to be successful and not confused. How training can help with your German Shepherd Husky mix energy levels German Shepherd Husky mixes are naturally high-energy dogs. This means you need to provide it with an ample amount of activities and training to maintain that energy. Using training and breaking the training up into small segments will help burn off that energy throughout the day. Use games like fetch, tug-of-war, or even a snuffle mat to help get rid of energy. This will help your dog become easier to train, socialize, and be tired by the end of the night. Why training a German Shepherd Husky can be challenging? A German Shepherd Husky mix is an intelligent dog, and with that comes a dog that will love to challenge everything you do. You can put all the time and work into training your dog, and you still might need to call in reinforcements. When dealing with a hard-headed dog, the key is to break it down into pieces. Shortening your training sessions and allowing the dog more play time to work out its energy might be the key to success. What does success in training your German Shepherd Husky look like? As a dog owner, you may wonder what success looks like when training your German Shepherd Husky mix. According to Mainedogtraing. Similar to people, your dog is its own individual self and will learn in its own way. When it comes to success, there are a few things you want to look for. Duration: How long can your dog hold the command you ask? This will take a lot of time and work with continual repetitions. One day your dog will stay down until you ask it to come up. Distance: How far can you walk away while your dog holds the command? Your distance will need to be built with time. Distraction: How many different environments and distractions can your dog work reliably through without issue? This will take time, socialization and patience. It will take countless hours and days for your dog to master your training. Tools to help train your German Shepherd Husky mix Investing in training tools to help yourself successfully train your German Shepherd Husky mix is important. The below items are all critical to ensuring you can train your dog efficiently. These are some tools you should have. Clickers are often used to mark desired behaviors with your dog. Target sticks can be used to help teach a dog to walk nicely on a leash and used for tricks. Treats are an integral part of your training. And it is used with positive reinforcement and to reward your dog for the desired behavior. A portable mat is a great place to train your dog to settle and be a safe spot to relax. Conclusion German Shepherd Husky mixes can be easy to train. At times, these dogs will love to challenge you. But with time and patience, training them will be a fun and rewarding experience. Tami is a freelance journalist out of California. Her passion is writing about animals and sharing her knowledge with the world so every dog owner can live their best life with their furry friends. Post navigation. Both the German Shepherd and Siberian Husky have some shared traits that can make early training a challenge. For example, both dog breeds have a high prey drive and a high natural energy level. Both are also extremely intelligent and can be independent-minded the Husky in particular. This means you will need to use only positive reinforcement training methods. Your training must include early and ongoing socialization with unfamiliar people and animals to help your dog learn how to be a part of a family and community. From this video, it is easy to see just how smart this hybrid dog breed truly is and also how well these dogs respond to positive reinforcement-based praise-based training methods. While no dog alive today responds innately well to negative reinforcement punishment-based training, very intelligent and people-focused dog breeds like the GSD and the Husky may actively rebel unless they are given a lot of praise from their trainers. A hybrid dog breed is a confusing topic in the world of modern dog breeding. Some people think that crossing two purebred dog breed lines is simply a dilution of breed genetics that has taken generations to build. For our purposes in this article, a hybrid dog breed is a dog that has two different purebred dog parents. There are some definite benefits that can come from crossing purebred breed lines. Among the most important are the health benefits that can come when adding genetic diversity to any breed line. This is one of the primary reasons some breeders are pursuing hybrid dog breeding today. Another common benefit, and the one that has prompted so many breeders to undertake to create a new dog breed, is the opportunity to combine desirable personality, temperament, and other traits together in a new dog breed. However, in the early stages of developing a hybrid dog breed, in particular, there can be some unpredictability in terms of which traits a puppy will inherit from either purebred dog parent. The Siberian Husky is best known for the trait of being a people-loving and intensely hard-working dog breed. The German Shepherd dog is best known for its work ethic as a herding and livestock guarding dog and, later, a protection and military K.Understanding the German Shepherd and Siberian Husky Personality and Temperament As we mentioned briefly in a previous section here, a key to getting the most out of each training session with your German Shepherd Husky mix puppy is taking the time to first understand the personality and temperament of this unique hybrid dog breed. This is despite the fact that the GSD, as many owners call this dog breed, is a particularly intense dog breed with a high prey drive and extremely strong guarding and protective instincts. At face value, these definitely sound like assets to have in a companion canine. But the truth is that the GSD is not the easiest dog to train and socialize with, especially if you are new to dog ownership and your GSD comes from a working breed line. The German Shepherd is very bonded with their people and really needs to be at the center of home and family life. These dogs cannot tolerate being left alone — even in the company of other dogs. This means that the German Shepherd has a very high energy level and high activity needs. So a German Shepherd puppy is going to need lots of daily activity and exercise along with early training and socialization to be able to get along in a community where encountering new people and animals will be a daily occurrence. Siberian Husky dog breed personality and temperament The Siberian Husky hails from a long line of sled dogs that were originally bred by the Chukchi people of Asia in incredibly cold and difficult weather conditions. Today, the Siberian Husky is the 14th most popular companion canine breed out of American Kennel Club-registered dog breeds in the United States. These dogs are not well-suited to be guard dogs. They are accustomed to living in a pack situation with other Siberian Huskies and groups of people. They are very social but also independent-minded as befits their job of pulling sleighs with a dog team. This means a Siberian Husky puppy will need a different type of training and socialization to the German Shepherd. For starters, unlike the German Shepherd, it is rare to find a Siberian Husky that can ever be let off-leash safely. Their instinct to run and run is simply too strong. When you breed two dogs that both have the same strong prey drive, the instinct will just become stronger in the puppies. Managing the prey drive with proper training The best way to manage such a strong prey drive in a German Shepherd Husky mix puppy is to start the day you bring your new puppy home by introducing them to new people and animals. Your dog needs to learn right away how to tell the difference between a friend and a potential threat. Your dog will take their cues from you, so by introducing your dog to friends and neutral unknown people, your puppy will learn how you act in non-threatening situations and start to learn the difference between a threat and a non-threat. Managing intelligent stubbornness with proper training The best way to manage independent intelligence or intelligence stubbornness in a German Shepherd Husky mix puppy is to always use positive reinforcement training methods and to be incredibly firm and consistent in those training methods. These two do not have to be mutually exclusive. You can use positive reinforcement training and still assert that your dog must mind you at all times. The key is to show your dog that you can be trusted to give consistent guidance every single day. Managing a high energy level with proper training The German Shepherd is considered a true large breed dog. These dogs can easily weigh anywhere from 50 to 90 pounds in adulthood, according to VetStreet. And as VetStreet explains, the Siberian Husky falls into the medium to large dog breed category, with an average weight of between 35 and 60 pounds at maturity. For large breed dogs, in particular, it is vitally important not to over-exercise them too early in life before the growth plates in the bones have closed and fused permanently. Dogs that are given too much intense exercise, like long runs or hikes, too early in life may have irreversible bone, muscle, or ligament damage. This can really be a problem when you are dealing with a naturally high-energy German Shepherd Husky puppy! Your puppy will also be facing several difficult periods of growth, including teething, growing pains, and coat transition from puppyhood to adulthood. The more activity you can provide, the less likely your puppy will be to burn off steam by chewing your household furniture or digging up your yard. The key to helping your naturally energetic, active, and playful puppy safely burn off steam is to break training sessions up into several shorter interactive training sessions. Try to use playtime as much as possible as a training reward for your dog to keep them moving but in short, safe spurts. You could throw a ball and play fetch, do a tug-of-war session, play an interactive puzzle game, or even offer a puzzle feeder or snuffle mat that contains treats to give your dog something to do to burn up that energy. Understand the Limits of Any Dog Training for a German Shepherd Husky Mix As Canine Weekly explains, the goal of a high-quality positive reinforcement-based training program is to help your dog feel confident living life in a family and community. It is not to train the innate character, personality, and temperament traits of your dog. You can count on your puppy having a strong prey drive, a love of running and chasing, some level of protective instinct, and a need to be with you for the majority of each day. How much of each trait your German Shepherd Husky mix puppy dog inherits can be hard to predict, especially in breeding programs that cross two purebred dogs, versus two-hybrid breed dogs. Because of this, you will need to plan for everything. For example, you will need to provide your dog with an escape-proof yard this includes digging , climbing, and jumping since the German Shepherd Husky mix is known to be an accomplished escape artist. You will also need to take as much time training kids how to interact with your German Shepherd Husky mix as you will in training your dog to do the same. Finally, the more you can do to provide your Shepador with a daily job, the happier and more well-adjusted your dog is likely to be. A well-trained Shepador is more likely to be a confident and happy Shepador who is a joy to live with. How you do that is extremely important as it will affect how well your hybrid furry friend adapts to the family and how happy his life will be. Here are seven easy ways to train your German Shepherd Husky mix puppy. Setting up a schedule works perfectly in house training as your self-willed Shepsky puppy will learn what to do and when and where to do it. For example, train your puppy in the routine of going out every time it needs to relieve itself. You can set the routine of taking the puppy out at distinct times, such as: First thing in the morning Before bed After every meal After play or training sessions Set a feeding schedule as well, preferably three or four small meals during the day, and avoid a free-feeding approach. That will help your puppy also predict the bathroom moments. Because both Siberian Huskies and German Shepherds have a strong prey drive and will readily chase smaller animals or bark at strangers, socializing them early is non-negotiable. As early as eight weeks of age, when you bring your Shepsky puppy home, and especially before week 12, begin to teach your puppy the difference between human and animal friends and possible threats. Also, teach the art of safe play with other pets and people without becoming aggressive. You can use these ways to socialize your Gerberian Shepsky: Introduce your Shepsky puppy to unknown friendly persons so he can learn to be calm in novel non-threatening situations. Allow your Shepsky puppy to play with other puppies, dogs, and cats and correct aggressive behavior like biting and growling by removing the puppy from the playmates when it happens. Allow other family members and visitors both children and adults to play with your Shepsky puppy. You can have them reward good behavior with treats so your puppy learns to associate people with positive experiences. A recent study confirmed that training your puppy with positive reinforcement is more effective in targeting specific dog behavior and general obedience training. Besides, positive reinforcement promotes overall dog welfare and increases the quality of the owner-dog relationship. Using positive reward-based training with your puppy recognizes that dogs are capable of experiencing emotions, such as pleasure and suffering. This is known as animal sentience. Your friendly Gerberian Shepsky will appreciate a reward for good behavior. So, capitalize on positive reinforcement by praising your puppy when they obey commands, go to the bathroom at prescribed spots, or stop a behavior when you command it. Reward the puppy as soon as it turns towards you. Repeat the process several times during the day and in different situations when playing or watching TV. Instead, use friendly methods like: Clapping your hands or tapping your fingers to stop your pup from soiling your carpet instead of yelling. Additionally, the Husky is known for its tendency to dig and escape. To tame the hunter instinct in your Gerberian Shepsky puppy, teach your pup to walk on a leash. Letting your Shepsky puppy off-leash in parks is not advised, especially if complete obedience training has not been done. I advocate you stick with the positive reward-based training and follow these two steps to train your Shepsky puppy to walk on a leash: Step 1. Start Indoors Start by letting your Gerberian Shepsky puppy wear a leash or harness inside the house before going outdoors. Using the leash during play or training time when you give treats will make the pup associate the leash with positive outcomes. Alternatively, use the leash for short periods during the day and reward the puppy every time he walks around for a while with the leash or comes to you when you call. Ensure to get the most comfortable harness for your young puppy because being comfortable will work in favor of your Shepsky training. Easy to fit with a choice of styles and colors. Step 2. Proceed to the Outdoors The outdoor step in teaching your Shepsky puppy to walk on a leash is going to be challenging because the sights, smells, and sounds can be a great distraction for your pup. Notice any attempts to pull or lunge and use the verbal cues you have taught your puppy to draw its attention. Reward the puppy every time it responds to a cue. It would help if you stayed still any time your Shepsky puppy tried to pull the leash and give the same verbal reward and treats you use indoors any time your puppy stops pulling. The question of how to train a German Shepherd Husky mix puppy is common among new owners. Begin by learning the inheritable qualities of parent breeds that can make your Shepsky offspring more or less trainable. Luckily, the intelligence, high energy, and the need for mental stimulation make a Gerberian Shepsky highly trainable. However, an inherited dose of stubbornness or self-will can require a bit of patience and persistence from your side. Use positive reward-based training with your friendly Gerberian Shepsky always, and you are sure to have an enjoyable training time with your pup. Related Posts You May Like:. But some of the larger dogs are also being cross-bred. The Gerberian Shepsky is one of those new mixes, Lilly, 46lbs at 18 months. The result is often striking, a large, thick-coated dog with piercing blue or brown or one of each eyes. Personality traits of Shepherd-Husky mixes can be difficult to predict, as these dogs can have any percentage of the best or worst of either breed. For this reason, training mixed breeds can be a challenge, especially in the case of the Shepherd-Husky , which blends two very dominant and assertive breeds. Zeus, A Husky-Shepherd Mix Puppy Socializing the Shepard-Husky Mix Because both German Shepherds and Huskies have very high prey-drives, you will need to socialize your mix at a young age to ensure that other animals—or people—are not seen as prey to them. Socializing essentially means teaching your puppy to play well with others—friendly to people and other animals, without displaying any signs of aggression or fear. If possible, this process should begin prior to 12 weeks of age. Shepherd-Husky puppies should meet as many people and animals as possible before this time. Take your puppy to supervised play dates with other puppies, adult dogs, and friendly cats. Respond to any inappropriate behavior, such as growling or biting , by immediately removing your puppy from the area and the other animal. Reward good, gentle play behavior with positive reinforcement -a friendly voice and a pat on the head. If possible, feed your puppy together with other dogs or cats so that they do not become food aggressive. In addition to learning to play correctly with other animals, your Shepherd-Husky mix should also learn to play nicely with adults and children. While your puppy is going through socialization training you should have guests of all ages over to your home as often as possible. Encourage your visitors to pet your puppy, pick them up, play with them, and talk to them, just as you would. Give visitors high-value treats to distribute so that new people are associated with good things. If done on a regular basis, your Shepherd-Husky puppy should grow up to be a friendly, well-adjusted adult dog. This does not mean inflicting corporal punishment on your dog—you should take the alpha role in a non-threatening, non-aggressive way. Let them know that they can trust you to manage situations. Never leave them to eat freely. Food should be set down for meal times, and removed once your dog is finished eating. If there are other humans in your home, each one should take turns feeding so that your Shepherd-Husky understands that everyone has access to his food. Never force this! Another idea is to gently place your hand on the back of his knees to help guide them forward, allowing his slowly go into a sit. Repeat this each time your dog responds to your command. Leash-free dog parks are not recommended for this breed, no matter how well-trained and well-behaved your Sheperd-Husky is. Accidents happen, and breed-profiling is prevalent, so chances are that your dog will not be given the benefit of the doubt in cases of bites or nips. Keeping your pup on a leash will keep playmate dogs, your dog and other humans safe. If your pooch is not allowed on the furniture, this means all the time. Any lull in enforcing this will result in your Shepherd-Husky testing the boundaries even further. Your dog should understand that you are his leader, and that all good things come from you, but will also be taken away by you if proper behavior is not shown. Un-doing — bad habits or some aggressive behaviors if left for too long can be extremely difficult, so taking the time to get professional training for your dog may be the best option. Whether you pick up on dog training techniques easily or require the assistance of a professional, socialization and obedience training are important parts of responsible Shepherd-Husky ownership. If done early and properly, your dog will be a well-behaved, friendly, and trust-worthy companion. We recommend this amazingly durable toy for your Husky-Shep, and feeding them a balanced healthy diet! Their intelligence, independence and willingness to learn and please their owners can be extraordinary, but without appropriate training and socialization, these very traits can also be problematic. These clever pups are easily bored, and can become distracted easily by more interesting things around them. Before you start training your Gerberian Shepsky , here are a few guidelines to help you learn how to positively motivate your pup to learn and work together with you. Focus on rewarding the behavior you want, instead of punishing your pooch for undesirable actions. Be confident and consistent! Each dog is an individual; for some, their greatest motivator is food, while for others, it may be a specific toy, praise, or even the freedom to play with other dogs. Keep training simple and fun! Learning is hard work, so let your dog blow off steam with a game of tug or fetch afterwards. Always end training sessions on a positive note, even if it means getting your dog to do something super easy that they already know how to do. Once your Gerberian Shepsky has had their first vaccines, get them out and about to puppy-safe places for some social time! Enroll them in a beginner obedience class, take them to visit friends and neighbors, arrange meet and greets with other friendly dogs and puppies. Since these pups can be sensitive to some sounds as adults, make an audio track with different noises like bells, sirens, whistles, thunder, fireworks and engine sounds and play it at a low to moderate volume in your home while your pup is eating or playing. Teaching your Gerberian Shepsky to be a good canine citizen will not only make them a friendlier, more well-rounded pooch, but also helps to further positive perceptions of these pups as fantastic companion dogs. One of the main ways to help curb bad behavior is to make sure that your dog is getting enough exercise, in fact! Mouthing and Biting Puppies tend to explore the world with their mouth and teeth, and some Gerberian Shepskies tend to take more after their more orally-oriented Husky parents — ouch! Many dog owners have been on the wrong end of a sharp set of puppy teeth used in play or exploration. Luckily, these perceptive pups can easily be taught what types of toothy tricks are unacceptable. Recall Although Gerberian Shepskies learn very quickly, one of the most essential commands for them to master is a solid recall; they have a highly ingrained motivation to run and chase than many other breeds, and if distracted enough, can run dangerously far! When they catch up to you, give them lots of treats and praise! Training with respect, understanding and positivity, however, not only builds a fantastic bond between you and your furry best friend, but is the best way to end up with a happy healthy companion for years to come. While herding dogs were being bred in Germany throughout the 19th century, the first formally recognized German Shepherd was registered by Max von Stephanitz in .The dog, named Horand von Grafrath, was the result of several generations of selective breeding to create a working dog ideal for herding sheep. The German Shepherd has a very forceful bite, and they are often mischaracterized as aggressive and likely to harm humans. However, while German Shepherds are responsible for a large number of canine attacks on humans, this is largely due to their popularity as pets and how abundant they are rather than any natural, breed-specific aggression. German Shepherds are actually considered great family pets, and they are known to be very good with children, though they can also be somewhat overprotective. .The Siberian Husky, in contrast, comes from Northeastern Asia where they were bred by the Chukchi people of Siberia to pull sleds. The result is an active breed with a lot of endurance that just loves to run. These dogs do very well in cold climates, and they were introduced to Alaska around as part of the Alaskan Nome Gold Rush. While you will still find these dogs working in some frozen terrains, they are now popular household pets. While they are energetic, friendly, and excellent with children, they are also troublemakers if not trained and socialized properly. They enjoy digging, chewing, jumping, and generally escaping any kind of confined space. Both dogs are of a similar size and have a wolf-like appearance, which is part of what made them prime candidates for crossbreeding. What Are Crossbred Dogs? It is worth noting that crossbred dogs, sometimes called designer dogs, are dogs that have been intentionally bred by mixing two or more recognized breeds. It is not a term for dogs bred accidentally or without purebred ancestors. However, crossbred dogs are not recognized as separate breeds in their own right, so their behavior and characteristics are not as predictable as purebred dogs. One of the advantages of purebred dogs is that it is relatively easy to predict their size, appearance, and temperament. Gerberian Shepsky Appearance As both German Shepherds and Siberian Huskies are medium-sized dogs with a wolf-like appearance, you can expect similar traits from their offspring. German Shepherds tend to be considered medium-to-large-sized dogs. Males typically measure 24 to 26 inches in height at the withers, and the females are usually a bit smaller at 22 to 24 inches. However, both sexes tend to look bigger than other dogs of a similar height, as they have very long necks. Siberian Huskies are a bit smaller, measuring between 19 and 24 inches and weighing between 35 and 60 pounds on average. The females are at the smaller end of the spectrum, and the males are at the larger end. As a result, you can expect Shepskies to be around the smaller range for German Shepherds, with males ranging from 22 to 25 inches and females ranging from 20 to 24 inches in height. When it comes to their weight, males tend to be between 50 to 80 pounds, while females weigh a bit less at 40 to 70 pounds. Shepsky puppies tend to have a distinctive wolf-like appearance, with pointed ears and long noses inherited from both parents. Their eyes will either be brown or blue, and some individuals might have the distinctive dual eye color often associated with huskies. Both parent breeds have a coat ideal for colder climates, so this is something that can be expected from their offspring. They typically have a dual coat with a dense, soft undercoat and another layer of more durable guard hairs on top. As German Shepherds can have either medium-to-long outer coats, the same is true of their Gerberian Shepsky offspring. They are almost never one solid color and will almost always be a mix of at least two different colors. One thing you can expect from all Shepsky coats is that they will be high shedding. Anyone with an allergy to dog hair should be wary about adopting a Shepsky! Gerberian Shepsky Temperament German Shepherds are highly intelligent dogs, and they are also highly motivated to please, which makes them one of the most trainable dog breeds out there. This quality is also why they are such good working dogs. Siberian Huskies are also very intelligent, but they are far more independent. They have been bred to make challenging decisions while running across dangerous arctic territories, so problem-solving is a necessary skill. As a result, while your Shepsky will almost certainly be a very intelligent dog, they might be a bit more troublesome to train than a German Shepherd. Alternatively, they might choose to entertain themselves by digging or chewing. Both breeds were created to spend a lot of time with humans, with Huskies often staying indoors with their families for warmth. This means they tend to bond quickly with their people and are very good with smaller family members though very small children should never be left unsupervised with any dog. While German Shepherds tend to have guard dog-like protective instincts, Huskies are pack animals and enjoy the company of other dogs. So, it is difficult to predict whether your Shepsky crossbreed will display more alpha-like behavior or be more submissive and play well with other pets. Remember, proper socialization training can go a long way when it comes to ensuring that they play well with others regardless of their temperament. Neither parent breed tends to bark excessively, but your Shepsky will get vocal if they want to alert you to a threat. Huskies tend to howl rather than bark, so keep in mind you might end up with a Shepsky with an adorable howl that may disturb the neighbors. If you do find yourself with a barker, read our guide on dealing with excessive or nuisance barking. Overall, expect your dog to be high energy, combining the herding instinct of a German Shepherd with the running mandate of a Siberian Husky. Caring For A German Shepherd Husky Mix Shepskies tend to be highly trainable, so an experienced dog owner should be able to train them at home using basic positive reinforcement training. Shepskies do best when they have a large backyard where they can spend their energy. Remember, they can be escape artists, which means they need a space that is securely fenced. Fences at least six feet tall are recommended. In addition to having plenty of space, Shepskies need a lot of exercise. They should be taken outside at least twice a day for a minimum of minutes at a time. Dog parks where they can run around off-leash are ideal, as it lets them stretch their legs and burn off excess energy. Just make sure they have been properly socialized before letting them loose. They are not ideal pets for people who spend most of the week in the office or traveling for work. Expect your Shepsky to engage in destructive behavior when they are feeling the stress of abandonment. Shepskies tend to have fairly dry coats. Huskies do not have oily coats, and they will often pass this trait down to their crossbred children. Avoid excessive washing to prevent drying them out further. Regular brushing is advisable to remove shedding hair, since these dogs tend to shed a lot. This is both for their comfort and to make cleanup around the home a little more manageable for you. Shepsky Health Concerns Shepskies have a relatively long lifespan for dogs of their size, and you can expect them to live for around 10 to 14 years. Shepskies can develop joint conditions, particularly in their elbows and hips, which can lead to pain and discomfort moving as they age. Adequate exercise and an orthopedic bed that allows them to take the pressure off their joints are both useful tools in preventing these issues. This unique crossbreed can also be prone to developing eye conditions such as canine glaucoma, corneal dystrophy, juvenile cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy. Losing at least some of their eyesight in later life is a common concern. German Shepherd Husky mixes are also slightly more susceptible to developing epilepsy than most other breeds, though the condition is still relatively rare. Medications exist to help manage this condition. This can be prevented with regular cleaning and maintenance. You might be able to find a Gerberian Shepsky in a local shelter to adopt for a small fee, or you can opt to find a dedicated Shepsky breeder. Do Gerberian Shepskies shed a lot? Yes, German Shepherd Husky mixes shed a lot, and there is no getting around it. Both parent breeds have a thick winter coat that is prone to shedding, so this is a common characteristic in their offspring. If you are looking for a medium-sized low shedding dog, consider something with the Poodle breed in the mix, such as a Labradoodle or Goldendoodle. Poodles have a low-shedding coat that they typically pass on to their crossbred offspring. Do German Shepherd Husky mixes smell? Many Huskies pass on their low-oil coat to their crossbred offspring. If you do adopt a Shepsky, remember not to bathe your dog too regularly. The lack of oil can make them prone to having dry skin, and excessive washing can exacerbate this problem. Do Shepskies get cold? Siberian Huskies were bred to deal with extreme cold, and German Shepherds also have a thick coat to deal with colder temperatures. This means their offspring are very well insulated against the cold, and you will almost never have to worry about them being uncomfortable in colder temperatures. Overheating, however, can be an issue, so always carry water when you go out. You will probably find that your Shepsky prefers to relax in cool, shady areas. What is an Alusky? This is a very popular designer breed, as they often have distinctive black and white patterning as well as an overall wolf-like appearance. What dog breeds are commonly mixed with Huskies? As well as German Shepherds, you will find a number of other dog breeds that make a good mix with a Husky. The Verdict On Shepskies If you are looking for a fun and energetic dog that will make a great addition to a boisterous and adventurous family, then a German Shepherd Husky mix can be a great choice. Shepskies are very family-friendly pets that are loyal and highly trainable, but they also need lots of love and attention to keep them healthy and happy. They have a distinctive wolf-like appearance, but are far from aggressive and are generally very good with children. However, they are known for their delightful wolf-like howl. Remember that crossbreed dogs are always somewhat unpredictable in their appearance and temperament, so ensure that you meet the dog you plan on adopting first before deciding whether to add them to your family. Shepskies are best for people who have quite a bit of space for their dog to play and usually have someone to keep them company at home. You will enjoy training your Shepsky yourself if you have a bit of experience with dogs, but steer clear if you have allergies, as they are big shedders! Do you have any experience raising a German Shepherd Husky mix? Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist.

How does the Labradoodle growth chart work? The following numbers are estimates based on the litter of a Labrador Retriever crossed with a standard Poodle. If your pup's Poodle parent is a toy size, then they are likely to be significantly smaller than these estimates. Their health is what matters most, so if you have questions or concerns about your puppy's development, reach out to your veterinarian. At what age is a Labradoodle fully grown? Labradoodles typically need 12 to 18 months to reach their full size, especially if their parents were on the heavier side of the average weight spectrum. Large breeds grow slower and take longer to reach their full size compared to small and medium-sized dog breeds, which usually reach maturity within nine to 11 months. How big should a 6-month-old Labradoodle be? A 6-month-old Labradoodle may weigh anywhere between 40 and 55 pounds. As a general rule, male Labradoodles weigh more than their female counterparts. In terms of height, a 6-month-old Labradoodle puppy will stand around 14 to 18 inches tall at the shoulders, but this varies based on their genetic makeup. Pro Tip: Download our new puppy checklist for tips on how to set up a vaccination schedule, essential pet care supplies, and more. How much bigger will my Labradoodle get? There are a few ways you can estimate how much more your Labradoodle may grow. Most Labradoodles need anywhere from 12 to 18 months to reach their full size. If your pup is younger than a year old, they are likely still growing. Refer to our Labradoodle weight chart to estimate how many more pounds they might put on as they mature into adulthood. If they look oversized compared to their limbs, then they're probably still filling out. Oversized paws are a classic puppy feature indicating that your pup still has more growth underway. Lastly, if you purchased your puppy from a breeder, you can contact them about your Labradoodle's weight. Alhough the breed varies greatly in size, knowing the weight of your puppy's parents and those of previous litters can help you predict your Labradoodle's adult size. What is the size of a full-grown Labradoodle? As a hybrid dog breed, Labradoodles vary significantly in size based on their geneology. Per Agape Labradoodles , adult Labradoodles typically weigh over 45 pounds, with some Labradoodles weighing as much as pounds. However, most Labradoodles will weigh between 50 and 90 pounds. In [terms of height], Labradoodles stand 21 to 24 inches tall when measured from paw to shoulder, or approximately two feet excluding their neck and crown of the head. How do I make sure my Labradoodle is healthy? Our Labradoodle puppies are important, cherished family members who we want the best for. One of the best ways to help your Labradoodle thrive is by taking them to regular veterinary appointments to have them routinely checked out and evaluated. Prevention is always better than treatment, and regular veterinary exams provide your veterinarian with the opportunity to screen your Labradoodle for disease. Your puppy will need to see the veterinarian several times in their first six months of life for core vaccinations against things like Rabies, and then at least once a year as an adult for annual health check-ups. Like their parents, Labradoodles are also more susceptible to hip dysplasia , a common orthopedic condition that occurs when the hip joint forms improperly. Hip dysplasia can lead to pain in their back legs, impaired mobility, and even lameness if not treated - fortunately, the condition is treatable with surgery. When over 20, pet parents were surveyed, only .As loving pet parents, it can be devastating to think that our four-legged friend could develop a painful disease that requires expensive treatment. This is where pet insurance comes in. Most pet parents opt for accident and illness pet insurance plans as they cover both injuries and most illnesses, such as hip dysplasia or eye diseases. Pet wellness plans can be added to your insurance coverage to help you pay for preventive veterinary care, like your regular vet exams, x-rays , dental cleanings , vaccinations, and more. Like humans, dogs are living longer, which creates an even bigger need for excellent veterinary care so that our dogs can live their happiest and healthiest lives. Pet insurance helps alleviate the financial strain that's often caused by vet visit costs. If your Labradoodle puppy gets sick or hurt, you and your veterinarian can work together to provide your pup with the best treatment plan - without worrying about how much it might cost. Key Takeaways Adult Labradoodles weigh pounds on average. The parent Poodle breed has toy and standard size variations that impact the size of the offspring, along with other genetic factors. Most Labradoodles grow until months of age. The breed is known for several congenital health disorders, and is especially prone to hip dysplasia. Pet insurance can protect your puppy and provide a financial safety net for vet costs throughout their life. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Labradoodle is a mixed breed between the Poodle and Labrador retriever. This designer dog breed is becoming quite popular due to its unique and affectionate personality. The Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia originally bred the Labradoodle to be hypoallergenic guide dogs for dog lovers who suffer from allergies. However, the outcome is not yet entirely satisfying. Many people still get allergies from Labradoodles, and they still seem to shed a lot. The Labradoodles inherited the energy and affectionate personality of the Labrador retriever. At the same time, they inherited the intelligent and playful nature of the Poodles. Thus, the Labradoodles, with their smart and friendly characteristics, have won the hearts of many as family dogs. Also, their lovable and playful nature proves to be a versatile therapy dog as well. Labradoodle Full Grown Size Like any other dog breed, the Labradoodle size will depend on the size of their parents. Since Labradoodle is a crossbreed between the Labrador retriever and Poodle, there is variation in the Labradoodle size. The size of the poodle parent can have a significant impact on the size of a full grown Labradoodle. Standard size Labradoodle A standard size Poodle is approximately between 15 to 22 inches tall, and the size of a full-grown Labrador retriever can be between 21 to 24 inches. Hence, a Labradoodle can have a size of 21 to 24 inches. Generally, standard Labradoodle females are smaller with 21 to 23 inches than male Labradoodle, whose size varies from 22 to 24 inches. Medium size Labradoodle An adult medium size Labradoodle is often 17 to 20 inches tall. Medium Labradoodles are a mixed breed of medium-sized Poodle that is approximately 15 to 20 inches and a Labrador retriever 21 to 24 inches. Usually, the male Labradoodle is taller and falls between 18 to 20 inches, while the female Labradoodle ranges from 17 to 19 inches. Medium size Labradoodle is the ideal size dog. You can carry a medium size Labradoodle in your lap, and they are perfect for playing catch as they are active and loves to play. Miniature size Labradoodle Miniature size Labradoodle is the smallest of all the Labradoodle. They are a mixed breed of miniature Poodle, usually around 11 to 15 inches tall, and Labrador retriever, whose size is between 21 to 24 inches. Therefore, the miniature size full-grown Labradoodle will be approximately 14 to 16 inches tall. Miniature Labradoodle is the ideal dog size for people who live in small apartments and houses. They are perfect for carrying in your lap. Families with children prefer the miniature size Labradoodle as they are safe around children. However, the weight of the dog will vary depending upon the size of the poodle parent. Therefore, when choosing a Labradoodle, it is essential to know the size of the poodle parent as it will give you a rough idea of how big your full grown Labradoodle will weigh. Standard Labradoodle Weight A standard Labradoodle full grown will weigh around 50 to 65 lbs. Therefore, you can classify the standard Labradoodle as a large dog breed. They are very active and playful dogs that love running. Also, it is not suitable for apartment buildings and compact houses because of their size and weight. Medium Labradoodle weight The medium Labradoodle can be a great companion for a walk, a game of fetch, or for you to cuddle on the couch. This furry friend will weigh around 30 to 45 lbs. Besides, their lovable personality is a bonus as they will shower you with a lot of affection. Miniature Labradoodle weight The smallest of them all is the miniature or toy breed Labradoodle. The full-grown miniature Labradoodle will weigh only around 15 to 25 lbs. Their size and weight make them the perfect lap dog. Also, they are ideal for people who travel a lot since they can easily fit in the luggage or pet carrier. Labradoodle Growth The growth of the Labradoodle differs from one other. It mainly depends on the weight and breed size of the dog. Once your dog reaches the age of four months, you can check the weight, double it and then add 10 pounds. This is the most common and popular formula to calculate how quickly your dog will grow. Regular checkups will help your dog grow moderately, and we recommend you to buy food based on their breed size. For example, a miniature Labradoodle should eat food that is best for the smaller breed, and a standard breed eats food that is good for bigger breeds. When is a Labradoodle Full Grown? Like any other dog breed, all Labradoodle will not grow at the same rate. The miniature Labradoodle will grow much faster than the standard Labradoodle. This is because the larger dog breed has bigger bones and joints that need more time to grow and develop. Moreover, the standard Labradoodle will need an extra diet and exercise routine compared to the medium and miniature Labradoodle. Since small breeds grow up pretty quickly, the miniature Labradoodle will be fully grown by the time they reach 6 to 8 months. And the medium Labradoodle will grow slightly faster than the miniature Labradoodle. They will reach the adult size when they are around 12 months of age. On average, a standard size Labradoodle may take 12 to 18 months to be fully grown. Thus, the age at which your Labradoodle will be fully grown depends on whether your dog is a miniature, medium, or the standard size. Labradoodle puppies will grow in three different sizes depending on the size of the Poodle parent. The three sizes are miniature Labradoodle, medium Labradoodle, and standard Labradoodle. The DNA test result will give you accurate results and help you understand exactly how much your Labradoodle will grow. How to choose a Labradoodle size? It is crucial that you choose the perfect size Labradoodle for your family. There are many things to consider while selecting the size of a Labradoodle. A few of them are given below. Size of your house Before choosing the size of your Labradoodle, you should first consider the size of your house. If you live in an apartment building or a small home without a yard, a miniature Labradoodle will be a perfect choice. Their small body size will adapt well to your small space. However, if you have spacious rooms with a yard, the medium or standard size Labradoodle will be a great choice. The standard Labradoodle requires extra space and exercise since they are a large dog breed. Family with or without Children Another essential factor you should consider is whether you have children in your house. Labradoodles are affectionate and intelligent dogs. However, the standard Labradoodle can unintentionally hurt small children as they are large and can be very playful. So, if you have children below five years of age, you should choose a medium or miniature size Labradoodle. However, a senior citizen or a teenager will probably prefer a standard size Labradoodle as they can be a great companion. Other pets in the house Labradoodles are usually good with other dogs since they are friendly dogs. However, if you have other pets like cats or rabbits, a miniature Labradoodle may be a better fit concerning the size. A large dog may be intimidating to your other small pets. Likewise, if you already own a bigger pet, particularly guard dogs, it will be wise to bring home a standard size Labradoodle. Your Lifestyle Your lifestyle is another factor you should consider while choosing the size of your pets. If you are an active person, the standard Labradoodle can be your running or jogging companion. However, if you enjoy going for an evening stroll, a medium or miniature will be your ideal match. Besides, you should remember that all Labradoodle, regardless of their size, needs at least thirty minutes of physical exercise daily. Your Preferences Some people prefer large dog breeds, while others prefer toy breeds. So, your choice of preference is the ultimate factor in choosing the size of your pets. And the good news is, no matter what size you prefer, Labradoodle has it all. From large breeds to the teacup size Labradoodle, you can pick any size you want. Different breeders have crossbred Labrador retrievers with various sizes of Poodles to get the variation in the Labradoodle size. As a result, Labradoodles come in a variety of sizes. Conclusion Labradoodles are gaining popularity among dog lovers. Even though they are a crossbreed, many people love and adore them because of their affectionate nature. Besides, they are highly intelligent and eager to please, which makes them easily trainable. However, there is no consistency with the offspring of the Labradoodle. The breeders initially developed the Labradoodle as hypoallergenic guide dogs. However, many Labradoodles are stuck in pet mills because many irresponsible breeders try to replicate the designer hybrid. Moreover, unlike the Poodles, the Labradoodles seem to shed a lot. If you ever plan to bring a Labradoodle home, we recommend that you get it from a reputable breeder. Also, make sure to take your Labradoodle puppy for regular checkups and vaccination. Besides, consult your vet about your Labradoodle size and ask your vet to prescribe a proper diet plan. Having a Labradoodle in your house will brighten up your life. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. Depending on the size of the Poodle parent used for the first-generation breeding, labradoodles come in three size variations. The three sizes are Standard, Medium, and Miniature. According to the AKC breed standard, the size of a Labradoodle fully grown can range between cm or inches tall and kg or lbs in weight. The size of an adult standard size Poodle is between cm at the withers. The size of an adult Labrador can be anywhere from cm tall. From these figures the size of a full-grown standard Labradoodle varies from cm or inches tall. To be more specific, the standard Labradoodle females are generally cm or inches, while the males fall between cm or inches tall. The weight of a full-grown standard Labradoodle, with a standard Poodle parent can vary from kg or lbs. The majority of this breed when fully grown will measure cm or inches tall. The males of this breed tend to be on the taller end of the scale ranging from cm or inches tall whereas females are cm or 17 to 19 inches tall. Very true to its name, this is a medium sized dog that can range from kg or lbs. This variation of the Labradoodle breed can still be the perfect lap dog but also a great companion for a morning walk or a game of throw and catch. Loved for its hypoallergenic fur but also the fact it is miniature in size. When fully grown, a miniature Labradoodle will measure cm or inches high at the wither. In terms of weight, these dogs will should be no heavier than 13 kg or 28 lbs. When fully grown they will weigh between kg or lbs. Within any given litter there will inevitably be a huge variance in size. Different pups will take after different parents, and some will land somewhere in the middle. Mini Labradoodles can also get as big as cm or 21—24 inches if there is a lot of Labrador genes mixed in it. Weight A smaller Mini Labradoodle will be between kg or 15—24 lbs. A lager Mini Labradoodle will weigh between kg or 50—65 lbs. A Labradoodle is a cross between a Labrador and any of the three sizes of Poodle. All of its heritage can be traced back to these two breeds. A Labradoodle can be F1, F2, F3, multigeneration, etc. On the other hand, an Australian Labradoodle is slightly different. The early Labrador-Poodle crosses in Australia produced large dogs, but they were often stubborn and willful with high energy levels. Weight: 23 kg to 30 kg 51 to 66 lbs. The ideal size for the female is 53 to 58 cm or 21 to 23 inches and the male is 56 to 61 cm or 22 to 24 inches. Medium Australian Labradoodle Size Height at wither: 43 cm to 52 cm 17 to 20 inches. Weight: 13 kg to 20 kg 29 to 44 lbs. The ideal size for the female is 43 to 48 cm or 17 to 19 inches and the male is 46 to 51 cm or 18 to 20 inches. Miniature Australian Labradoodle Size Height at wither: 35 cm to 42 cm 14 to 16 inches. Weight: 7 kg to 13 kg 15 to 28 lbs. Labradoodle f1b Size F1, F1b, F2, etc. An F1 or first generation is a Poodle bred to a Labrador Retriever. In this case, an F1 is bred back to a Poodle. So, any of the above will apply to F1B Labradoodles. Full Labradoodle Size Chart. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Labradoodle Highlights Friendly and intelligent: Labradoodles are known for being friendly and intelligent dogs. They are good with children and other animals, and they are easy to train. Hypoallergenic: Labradoodles are often considered to be hypoallergenic, which means that they do not shed as much as other dogs. This makes them a good choice for people with allergies. Active and playful: Labradoodles are active dogs that need regular exercise. They enjoy playing fetch, going for walks, and swimming. Loyal and devoted: Labradoodles are loyal and devoted dogs that make great companions. They are always happy to see their owners and they love to cuddle. Versatile: Labradoodles are versatile dogs that can be trained for a variety of tasks, including therapy work, obedience, and agility. They can be expensive to purchase and maintain. They require regular grooming, especially if they have a curly coat. They are prone to some health problems, such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Overall, Labradoodles are wonderful dogs that make great companions for people of all ages. If you are looking for a friendly, intelligent, and hypoallergenic dog, a Labradoodle may be a good choice for you. Labradoodle History Wally Conron, who was in charge of the breeding program for the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia, purposefully crossbred a Standard Poodle and Labrador Retriever in to develop the Labradoodle as a hypoallergenic guide dog. The first cross produced Sultan, a dog with a hypoallergenic coat, aptitude, intelligence, and personality suitable for being an effective guide dog. Sultan worked successfully with a woman in Hawaii. Other breeders saw the merit of crossing these two breeds, and the Labradoodle quickly rose in popularity like its Labrador Retriever parent. These dogs are often produced by crossing a Labrador Retriever with a Poodle, but multigenerational breeding has begun in an attempt to produce a viable and recognizable breed. The Australian Labradoodle Association and the International Australian Labradoodle Association are taking steps to move this designer breed into registered breed status in the next few years. These groups have made great efforts to bring breeders together so that they are working to achieve the same standards through multigenerational breeding. Labradoodle Size The Labradoodle comes in three size variations, depending on the size of the Poodle used for the first-generation breeding. The three sizes are Standard, Medium, and Miniature. The Standard Labradoodle should be 22 to 24 inches in height for a male and 21 to 23 inches in height for a female, while both can range in weight from 50 to 65 pounds. The Medium Labradoodle should be 18 to 20 inches high for a male and 17 to 19 inches high for a female, with both weighing from 30 to 45 pounds. The average size for a Miniature Labradoodle is between 14 to 16 inches and 15 to 25 pounds. All of that said, there is a lot of variation in Labradoodle sizes. Some can be smaller or larger than expected. Labradoodle Personality The Labradoodle is an intelligent dog who can make the ideal family pet if properly trained. They are friendly and accept and treat everyone like their best friend. They can be gentle, but they can also be joyful, showing their happiness through exuberant jumping and playing. They also tend to be easygoing, since the Labradoodle was bred not to be aggressive. Temperament is affected by a number of factors, including heredity, training, and socialization. Puppies with nice temperaments are curious and playful, willing to approach people and be held by them. Meeting siblings, parents, or other relatives of the dog is also helpful for evaluating what a puppy will be like when they grow up. Socialization helps ensure that your Labradoodle puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Enrolling them in a puppy kindergarten class is a great start. Inviting visitors over regularly, and taking them to busy parks, stores that allow dogs, and on leisurely strolls to meet neighbors will also help them polish their social skills. Here are a few conditions to watch out for: Ear Infections: These can plague Labradoodles because of their floppy ears. The ears trap moisture and should be regularly checked. X-ray screening is the most certain way to diagnose the problem. Either way, arthritis can develop as the dog ages. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Elbow Dysplasia : Similar to hip dysplasia, this is also a degenerative disease. The disease varies in severity: the dog could simply develop arthritis, or they could become lame. Treatment includes surgery, weight management, medical management, and anti-inflammatory medication. It can cause mild or severe seizures that may show themselves as unusual behavior—such as running frantically as if being chased, staggering, or hiding—or even by falling down, limbs rigid, and losing consciousness. Seizures are frightening to watch, but the long-term prognosis for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy is generally very good. Allergies: Allergies are a common ailment in dogs, and the Labradoodle is no exception. Treatment varies according to the cause and may include dietary restrictions, medications, and environmental changes. Diabetes Mellitus: This is a disorder in which the body cannot regulate blood sugar levels. The dog will lose weight because food is not being used efficiently. Symptoms of diabetes are excessive urination and thirst, increased appetite, and weight loss. Diabetes can be controlled by diet and the administration of insulin. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA : This is a family of eye diseases that involves the gradual deterioration of the retina. Early in the disease, affected dogs become night-blind; they lose sight during the day as the disease progresses. Many affected dogs adapt well to their limited or lost vision, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Hypothyroidism : This is a disorder of the thyroid gland. It is treated with medication and diet. They require about 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day and would do better with a fenced yard in which to expel some energy. Some Labradoodles, especially in the first generation, can require even more exercise. The Labradoodle makes an excellent jogging companion but also needs some time off-leash to burn off steam. The Labradoodle is an intelligent and eager-to-please dog. Training should be easy as long as consistency and positive reinforcement are the methods. Socialize them from puppyhood, since they tend to hurl themselves headlong into canine situations without regard to the feelings of other dogs. This can lead to some problems if the unknown dog is aggressive. Despite their activity levels, a Labradoodle can adjust to living in suburban or city environments and can do well in rural settings. A crate is also a place where they can retreat for a nap. Crate training at a young age will help your Labradoodle accept confinement if they ever needs to be boarded or hospitalized. Never stick your Labradoodle in a crate all day long, however. Labradoodle Feeding Recommended daily amount: 1 to 2. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on their size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. Keep your Labradoodle in good shape by measuring their food and feeding them twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at them. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on their back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see their ribs without having to press hard. For more on feeding your Labradoodle, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Labradoodle Coat Color And Grooming Although a Labradoodle can have one of a range of coat types, the desired length is four to six inches. They have a single coat with hair ranging from straight to loose curls. There are three types of texture: The Hair coat, which is similar to fur in shedding breeds, is the least popular. Hair coats shed and usually have a normal doggy odor. This coat is seen in first generations, although breeders try to avoid it. The Fleece coat has a silky texture often described as an Angora goat texture. This coat ranges from straight to wavy. Labradoodles are considered to be non- to low shedders, especially those with a Fleece or Wool coat. Hair coats tend to shed just as they do in other breeds, ranging from very low to average shedding. The Labradoodle comes in a wide variety of colors. They can also have parti-colored coats, which consist of brindles, phantom, patched, or sable colors. Grooming requirements vary depending on the length and type of coat the dog has. Generally speaking, you can expect to brush a Labradoodle about once or twice per week. Some can be clipped or trimmed every six to eight weeks to keep the coat easy to maintain. Like Labs, Labradoodles can be prone to ear infections, so take a little extra time caring for their ears. Dry and clean them after a swim, and check them once a week for dirt, redness, or a bad odor that can indicate an infection. Then wipe them out weekly with a cotton ball dampened with gentle, pH-balanced ear cleaner to prevent problems. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Dog toenails have blood vessels in them, and if you cut too far you can cause bleeding—and your dog may not cooperate the next time they see the nail clippers come out. Handle their paws frequently—dogs are touchy about their feet—and look inside their mouth. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. Labradoodle Children And Other Pets The Labradoodle does well with children and can be an affectionate and gentle companion for any child. They can also be exuberant and might knock down smaller children, but they will love them with all their heart. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Labradoodles usually get along well with other dogs and pets. Like most dogs, they need training and socialization for optimum success at living with and visiting other animals. Labradoodle Rescue Groups Labradoodles are often brought home without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. Many end up in the care of shelters or rescues because of this. It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Labradoodles because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Labrador Retriever or Poodle breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have both health and behavioral issues. More Info For You. December 2, Fact Checked The Labradoodle is a relatively new breed in the history of domesticated dogs, having only made its debut in the s, and thus far without AKC acknowledgement. Initially developed in Australia by combining the strength, loyalty, and intelligence of a Labrador Retriever with the low-shed coat of a Standard Poodle, this breed was originally intended to produce an allergy-friendly guide dog. Today, these dogs have moved well beyond their initial plan to become beloved household pets throughout the world. For first-time Labradoodle owners, research almost always includes questions on size. So what should a potential Labradoodle parent expect of a labrador full grown? Crossbreeding Surprises The practice of dog breeding as a whole has the same process, regardless of breed: selecting a parental pair with the highest level of positive characteristics and the lowest level of undesirable ones. While labs as a whole are considered medium-sized dogs, the poodle has more available size variance built into its breeding bloodlines. Labradoodles are bred according to three size guidelines per the Australian Labradoodle Association: Miniature Labradoodles have a height between 14 and 17 inches. Medium Labradoodles have a height between 22 and 17 inches. Standard Labradoodles have a height of at least 22 inches. Because the difference in height between two sizes is relatively minor e. On average, Labradoodles weigh around 50 to 65 pounds and do have consistent exercise and interaction needs. They do best with a yard they can run and play in, as well as pet parents that can give them simulation with love, treats, and training on a regular basis. Since labradoodles are crosses between two different breeds they tend to be less prone to breed specific health problems. However, they are not immune to developing health issues. Feeding your favorite CBD dog treats to your labradoodle can help manage their pet pains that come along with getting older. When Do Labradoodles Stop Growing? Generally speaking, most Labradoodles stop growing at around 12 to 18 months. While they may reach their full height, they still tend to fill out and continue to gain weight past this age. Genetics are the sole determining factor of how large a Labradoodle puppy will get. Depending on his parents and the particular mix of genes he inherits, he may be miniature, medium, or standard. He will generally be tall enough to enjoy head pats with only a minor stoop, if any, required of his parent. While Labradoodles are widely touted and sold as hypoallergenic dogs, their cross-bred origins mean that this property can vary from dog to dog. Most allergies are triggered not by fur or hair from a dog, but from canine skin dander that is sloughed off along with the hair follicle itself. Curly-coated Labradoodles will also need brushing to remove dirt, debris, and mats from their coat, or else it may become painfully tangled. While he may be a bit larger than a lapdog on average, the Labradoodle is a fantastic size for home and family life. He will fit into standard collars, leashes, and dog beds without a problem, although he will likely require a large-sized dog door, if one is being used. Accessed October 16, .Their adorable curly fur and expressive faces make you want to cuddle them — and these little guys love nothing more than a good squish. All this and more makes our labradoodle puppies for sale one the most in-demand in our center. Activity-loving families adore these dogs for their propensity towards sports, and anyone who prefers low-shedding pooch benefits from their wooly or fleecy fur. Labradoodle puppies for sale are so cute and come in such a wide range of colors that it makes choosing your new best friend super-hard! While spearheading the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia breeding program, he conducted the crossbreeding of a standard poodle and Labrador retriever in view of it being a hypoallergenic guide dog for blind people. The first example of this type of dog, called Sultan, went to live with a lady in Hawaii, where other breeders saw him as an inspiration and this is how Australian Labradoodle puppies started. Both the International Australian Labradoodles Association and the Australian Labradoodles Association of America are working hard to incorporate more intergenerational breeding so these dog breeders can register this type of dog as a purebred dog. Its gentle, obedient and intelligent personality combined with a hypoallergenic coat make it ideal for family members with allergies, but it also makes an excellent service or therapy dog. Labradoodle Puppies Lifespan When properly taken care of, healthy dogs tend to live anywhere from 10 to 13 years. The lifespan of our Labradoodle puppies for sale is slightly above average at 12 to 14 years. Here are the life stages of multigenerational Australian Labradoodles: Puppyhood: First five months Adolescence: Between five months and two years Adulthood: Between two and three years Middle age: Between seven years and 10 years Senior: Over 10 years Labradoodles need the most attention and care in the first and last stages of their life. During puppyhood, their minds are highly impressionable, which is ideal for training. During their senior years, Labradoodles are more susceptible to health problems, which means owners need to keep a watchful eye. Labradoodle Size The size of labradoodle puppies for sale directly relates to the size of their parents and which generation of breed Labradoodle breeders chose. The larger the puppies, the larger the adult dog will be, and the faster their growth will be coming out of the puppy stage. A standard labradoodle puppy will weigh from pounds by the time it reaches two months of age. By a year old, it will have grown dramatically to up to 80 pounds, depending on the size of its parents. Medium Labradoodles occupy a spectrum of sizes between standard and mini Labradoodles, with the specifics depending heavily on the details of the breeding pair that birthed them and the breeding program they come from. Labradoodle Puppies Temperament While Labradoodle breeders originally bred the Australian Labradoodles as therapy dogs, their fun, friendly personalities made them popular pets. Now you can find these sociable dogs in homes across the globe. Here are some of the top personality traits of our Labradoodle puppies for sale. They tend to do best in active households where they can work off all that pent-up energy. You can fulfill their needs through the following activities: Walks or jogs: Labradoodles make great walking companions and can even keep up with you during a jog. Playing in the yard: Enjoy a game of fetch with your furry friend in the yard or just let it loose on its own. Dog sports: If you stay active through sports, consider making your labradoodle a part of your routine. Bring it on bike rides, go for a run together or kick a ball around in the yard. Obstacle courses: Set up an obstacle course for your dog using household items. Scavenger hunt: Creating a scavenger hunt for your canine is a great way to exercise its body and brain. In general, Labradoodles need anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes of exercise a day. You can also enroll them later at a Labradoodle puppy alumni school for proper training. Friendliness What makes Labradoodles the perfect puppy compare to other dog breeds is their ability to get along with just about anyone. They inherit this trait from their Labrador retriever parent, a breed also known for its outgoing nature. You can trust your labradoodle to form friendships with everyone, from children and older adults to strangers and other puppies. Thanks to their affectionate, sociable personalities, Labradoodles make great pets for first-time owners, families, or anyone looking for a companion. Intelligence Thanks to their poodle parent breeds, Labradoodles are incredibly intelligent dogs. Because Labradoodles are intelligent, they often crave mental stimulation. Labradoodle Puppies Grooming Our Labradoodle puppies for sale have a variety of coat textures that dog owners enjoy, but in general, their low shedding coat needs brushing at least twice a week. Not only does this keep them tangle-free but it also removes excess debris from their coat, keeping them fresh and hygienic. Regularly trim the hair around their eyes and in between their paws to prevent these problem areas from causing irritation. Pooches with fleece coats tend to have longer fur and benefit the most from going to a professional groomer — although every dog loves getting pampered once in a while. At Pride and Prejudoodles, we send a can and a bag of the foods we use for free with your hand-delivered bundle of joy. If you need to change it for any reason, it must be done gradually to avoid stomach upsets. Just bear in mind that a diet is such a crucial aspect of wellness that feeding them good quality food will add years to their lives compared to opting for low-quality feed. Pride and Prejudoodles is here to help. We hope you found our guide informative. Please contact us with any other questions you have about our Labradoodle puppies for adoption. But, a full grown mini Labradoodle will still be larger than a toy Poodle, thanks to the Lab parent influence. Some are sturdy and solid like the Labrador, and others are slim and elegant like the Poodle. Australian Labradoodle Size The above sizes tend to refer to the full grown Australian Labradoodle, according to the breed standard of the Australian Labradoodle Association of America. The Australian Labradoodle can include more than just Poodle and Labrador genetics. Since American Labradoodles tend to only be Labrador Poodle mixes, their sizes will be a little less predictable. They could be anywhere between the sizes of their two parents. When Do Labradoodles Stop Growing? Generally, the smaller a dog breed is, the faster it reaches its adult size. So, a full grown miniature Labradoodle can reach its adult height within its first year of life. But, a large Labradoodle can take longer — more like 18 months. But, not all Labradoodle puppies will grow up to have the same coat type. An adult Labradoodle can have one of three coats: Wool: slightly coarse, very curly, low shedding Fleece: soft and low shedding, different degrees of curl Hair: Coarse and dense with moderate shedding The hair type is the most similar to the Labrador parent. But, the wool type is most similar to the purebred Poodle parent. Choosing an f1b Labradoodle, or a later generation, will increase your chances of finding a puppy with a wool or fleece coat. What Does a Labradoodle Look Like? Other than their size and fur type, Labradoodles can come in a huge range of colors. As well as solid colors, Labradoodles can have parti coats, and more unusual markings like phantom and sable. Some Labradoodle puppies can fade in color as they grow older. This fading is caused by Poodle genes. Light colored puppies will have little to no fading. How you raise your puppy is important! But, what can you generally expect from a full size Labradoodle? Labradoodles are famous for their friendly, affectionate, and playful natures. Chances are, your sweet Labradoodle puppy will grow into an equally sweet Labradoodle adult. Especially if you take the time to train and socialize them from a young age. Labradoodles do well with active adults and families with children of all ages. Without enough mental and physical stimulation, an adult Labradoodle can show a lot of destructive, unwanted behaviors! How Long Do Labradoodles Live? But, some breeders predict this lifespan can stretch as high as 16 years. Either way, many Labradoodles will be with you for over a decade, often reaching their teens. Full Grown Labradoodle Health The Labradoodle breed can inherit health issues from any of its parent breeds. A good breeder will health test dogs to eliminate serious issues from their breeding stock. But, potential owners should still be aware of the most common problems, so they can recognise signs early on. It takes traits from both breeds, and new puppy owners will quickly see this combination was chosen intentionally. The Labrador retriever is an intelligent, loyal breed with an excellent temperament for nearly any family or living situation. Unfortunately, these dogs also shed a lot, which can be a hassle. It also makes a Labrador a poor choice for public social situations, such as outdoor dining at dog-friendly patios. Instead, the coat traps dirt, allergens, loose hair and other debris inside it. This means less shedding but also means daily brushing is required. The poodle is also an intelligent breed that makes a perfect addition to most homes since it was bred to be a companion animal. Any puppy is a lifelong commitment. Understanding what to expect at every life stage will help you prepare to give your cute little puppy a long, prosperous, happy life. A normal-sized labradoodle will live an average of 12 to 14 years. Smaller labradoodles resulting from a miniature or toy poodle crossbreed will generally live a little longer. However, you must remember that this lifespan is only an average. There are plenty of labradoodles who live into their late teens. A healthy diet, regular exercise and periodic vet visits are crucial to your labradoodle puppy living a long, healthy life. These main life stages include puppyhood, adolescence, adulthood, middle-aged and senior. Each life stage is discussed in more detail below. Puppyhood If you adopt a labradoodle puppy, this will be the first stage you get to witness. A labradoodle puppy will remain in this life stage from birth until five or six months. Birth to 7 Weeks From birth until about seven weeks of age, labradoodle puppies stay close to their mother. They spend all their time eating, sleeping, growing and cuddling with their littermates. As they get closer to seven weeks of age, they may begin exploring their world a little. Around seven weeks of age, a labradoodle puppy will start becoming more interested in people. This is also when it begins forming bonds with you and other humans in the home or family. These adorable puppies will become more playful and curious at about eight weeks old. Instead, you want to create only positive experiences during this time to ensure it grows into a secure young adult dog. This is the perfect time to start positive training techniques. Teaching your labradoodle puppy about action and reward now will benefit its lifelong training. During this stage of puppy development, socialization is crucial. Now is the perfect time to take it to new places, introduce it to new people and provide it with new experiences. The most important part of this stage of puppy development is that your pup becomes a free and independent thinker. With its curiosity at an all-time high, this is the perfect time to bring your new companion everywhere. Socialization and bonding are other vital aspects of this stage of puppy development. Pet owners will find their puppy wants to be with them all the time and may become mildly anxious when separated from them. Most of its time will be spent eating, sleeping or getting into trouble. Your growing canine should have lost its baby teeth, have all its adult teeth and be out of the biting stage it may have had during puppyhood. Thanks to the Labrador genes, your labradoodle will always love to chew. You can stop destructive chewing behaviors by providing a chew toy or two or 20 to keep it occupied. It may become territorial, but regular socialization can help ease these issues. Your labradoodle will also begin showing quite a bit of strength, so continuing its training during this time is crucial. Acting out, wandering and even behaving aggressively are all normal during this time. Adulthood For a labradoodle, adulthood starts somewhere between two or three years of age and lasts until around its seventh birthday. During adulthood, labradoodles are at their prime. Their adult coat will grow in, which may be thicker or denser than their puppy coat. This breed is very intelligent and easy to train, so if you want to keep teaching it new tricks, you can. Weight Management Your labradoodle will reach its adult size between two and three years old. They can tell you if your dog is a normal size or needs diet and exercise. Middle-Aged Your doodle puppy will turn middle-aged around seven years old. This life stage is relatively brief and only lasts until the dog turns nine or .During middle age, most dogs are still active and overall healthy. It may exercise less and sleep a little more as it transitions between adulthood and its golden years. A middle-aged dog may begin to develop some health problems, especially as it gets closer to its senior years. The primary issues of concern are obesity, joints and teeth. The teeth and joints will become especially vulnerable during this stage, so you must take your dog for regular teeth cleaning and wellness visits. In addition, your vet may recommend supplements to protect the joints. Extra weight will also place unnecessary additional stress on the joints and heart of your dog. Senior Your dog will officially be considered a senior from around nine to 10 years of age until the end of its life. During their golden years, your labradoodle will require extra care and attention. Health problems are most likely to occur during these years, and your vet may suggest two annual well visits instead of only one. After 10 years of age, your dog will likely encounter issues staying warm. You might consider a heating blanket in their bed, keeping the house slightly warmer during winter or providing extra blankets to snuggle under. Your dog may also have problems with its eyesight. The most common issue for senior labradoodles is their joints, which tend to ache as they get older. In addition, they may have mobility problems caused by sore and stiff joints. For example, consider a ramp to help it get into the car or up your porch steps. Developing one or more health problems could mean a shorter lifespan for your labradoodle. A few of the most common health problems affecting labradoodle puppies or adults include: Allergies usually to food Ear infections which can lead to hearing loss after repeat infections Epilepsy.

Top Picks For Our Dogs Preparing Your Home For A Puppy You should treat the preparation of your home for the arrival of a new puppy in much the same way as you would for the arrival of a baby because the process is almost identical. You must be ready to provide every little thing your puppy needs in life, making sure they have water, are fed, comfortable, happy, catered for and safe. To achieve this there are 4 main things that you need to do: Go shopping for equipment and supplies Puppy proof your home and garden to make sure your puppy stays safe Set up an area for your puppy to sleep and spend time in when you cannot supervise them Decide on the rules and routines required to successfully raise a puppy Without such preparation, things will be difficult. A Nutritious Puppy Food The most important supply needed for a new puppy is a highly nutritious puppy food. Hopefully your puppy came from a responsible breeder who was feeding them a high quality, complete and nutritious food. If so, you should ask what they were feeding, stock up on and continue feeding this if possible. If not, then puppies are incredibly active, growing fast and developing bone, muscle and more every day. Because of this they need almost double the calories, more protein and have different nutritional needs to mature adult dogs. Furthermore, they have far smaller mouths than adult dogs so puppy food comes in smaller chunks more suited to their size. Click here to see our recommendations for the best puppy food for labs Bowls for Food And Water There is a bewildering array of dog bowl choices out there so choosing the best can be difficult. Looks and design aside, I recommend going for stainless steel bowls because they are long-lasting, cannot be chewed and are very easy to clean. I also recommend buying bowls with heavy rubber bottoms so they stay rooted to the spot and are harder to spill or flip over. Unless of course you buy bowls in a stand, then these problems are already solved. A Puppy Crate And Bedding A good crate is one of the most beneficial things you can provide for the good of yourself and your puppy. First of all, supply some bedding to place inside for your puppy to sleep on. My recommendation for this is VetBed. Many puppies can chew and ingest normal bedding which can result in medical emergencies and VetBed is the most durable bedding on the market. During these times you need to provide a larger, but still safe enclosure to confine your puppy. You might also like to buy a plastic sheet and some puppy pads or use lots of old newspaper for them to use as a potty in your absence. Puppy Chew Toys Puppies chew. A lot. And they seem to prefer chewing phones, footwear and TV remotes more than anything else. Just make sure whatever toys you do buy are suitable for a puppy as many will be too large for their little mouths to begin with. Interactive Puppy Toys So you can play games with your puppy, provide exercise and mental stimulation, you will want to buy a few toys that encourage the two of you to interact. Balls for throwing and chasing, soft toys and ropes for playing tug, other toys for fetch, there are many available. You will also need a collar to provide a place to attach an all important ID tag. ID Tag An ID tag is an essential means to be reunited with your puppy should the worst happen and you somehow lose them or they run away. Clicker A clicker is an extremely useful tool used during training as a reward marker that dramatically improves the timing of communication between you and your puppy when you want to reward a behavior. Although not essential, I do highly recommend you use one. Puppy Training Treats Tasty food treats are the go-to reward used during training so you will want to make sure you always have a good stock at hand. They need to feel happy with being bathed, happy having their coat and teeth brushed, their feet touched, nails clipped and having their eyes and ears inspected. To do so, you should fake going the process, getting them used to being handled, the sight and feel of the tools and so on. To achieve this, you will need to buy and get them used to the following items: Dog shampoo Combs and brushes suitable for a Labrador Scissors Cotton balls Toothbrush Use these tools right away and often, and give your puppy praise and tasty treats as you go so they form positive associations with grooming. Puppy Proof Your Home and Garden The process of puppy proofing your home is very much like baby proofing before the arrival of a child. Except a puppy is far more curious, active and destructive and can get themselves into far more trouble. A puppy is a new-born. Everything is a toy and they will run and pounce and jump and chew on anything in their environment. So before you bring your puppy home you simply must make it safe for them. For things you cannot move skirting boards, table legs etc. To keep them safe while still providing an area for them to play in and stretch their legs, you want to restrict their access to a single room, or otherwise create an enclosed space for them. To do so, either buy a pet barrier or baby gate that goes across a doorway to restrict them to an easy to clean and safe room, or buy an exercise pen puppy pen to create an enclosed space in another room. I also strongly recommend buying a crate for many reasons, but initially, mostly just to provide the perfect place for them to sleep. I shall discuss crate training a little later in this article. All of this must be decided BEFORE you get your puppy home because consistency is a key part of raising a puppy successfully. Everyone must enforce and live by the same rules for your puppy to thrive. Initially they have no idea how you want them to behave, or how and when they can expect the things they want and need in life. The more consistent everybody is with the puppy, the quicker they will learn all this stuff and the happier everyone will be. So decide and write down if necessary when your puppy will have all their needs met, make sure everybody knows who is responsible for each task and make sure everybody knows the rules. You might think the collection and journey home with your new puppy is no big deal, but there are many things can go wrong. Therefore, you should never take a puppy before 8 weeks old. During the first 8 weeks, a puppy learns a lot from their mother and litter-mates: Bite inhibition, canine body language, acceptable play and interaction with other dogs and how to accept discipline. Things you will find it very hard to teach them later yourself. The flip side of this is that the 7 to 14 week stage is the most impressionable for a puppy, where they bond strongest with people and must be socialized to all the sights, sounds and smells of the world so they grow up confident and comfortable with their surroundings. So anyway, for the journey home there a few things you need to consider: Safety in the car, the need for water and toilet breaks and the possibility your puppy will be sick. Having a loose puppy in the car presents a very real danger of leading to a crash, they can easily climb out of a box and now is not the time to use a harness and car safety belt. If the crate is small enough you can place it on a front or rear passenger seat and secure it with the seat-belt, or you may have to place it in the trunk of your car. Fully line the crate with absorbent paper in case there are any accidents, this will keep most of the mess off your puppy and make cleaning easier. And finally, place a chew toy or two in the crate to keep your puppy occupied. If you have another person to help you, your puppy can ride home in their lap if the journey is short. They must be under your passengers control. They will also need to potty every half or so. Therefore, you should plan breaks along the way every 30 minutes or so. Stop the car, allow them to drink, then wait for them to wee before setting off again. When you stop, make sure your puppy is on leash and tightly held by someone before letting them out of the car. And as an extra precaution, carry your puppy and only put them down to do their business, then carry them back into the car. Take with you some towels, plastic bags, kitchen roll and deodorizer to take care of any accidents. And when driving, take all corners slowly, and accelerate and brake gently. If your puppy is on a passengers lap, they will be able to see some warning signs that puppy is about to be sick: Their lips will curl, they will excessively salivate and then eventually start to heave. When your passenger spots these signs, they can place a thick towel beneath the puppy to catch everything and avoid a mess in your vehicle. When bringing home a new puppy, make sure you collect them and then drive straight home. Your puppy is having the most stressful day of their short life so far, try not to make it harder than it already is by taking them to strange places and passing them around to strangers to say hello. You want to get them home quickly so they can start the process of settling in as soon as possible. Whether this is inside on paper, or a spot outside, as soon as you arrive home carry them there, set them down and wait for them to do their business before doing anything else. This might take 30 seconds or it might take 10 minutes, but patiently wait and when they go, praise them profusely. Well done! Shut them in another room away from the puppy as things are intense enough as it is. Explain they have to be calm and gentle during the first introductions. Let them sniff and look around, getting used to the area and their new little world. You can now let people come and say hello. Have people sit or kneel to greet them. Once everybody has said hello, you should stay with your puppy, show interest but stay calm. Allow Your Puppy To Sleep After all the excitement, stress, massive change and huge amount of mental stimulation your puppy has just been through, they will likely need to sleep soon after arriving at your home. So as soon as they either start to look tired, or the introductions to their new living space and family have ended whichever comes first put them to bed for a short while. On the other hand they might feel completely overwhelmed, retreat into themselves and show reluctance to explore. They might slink into a corner silently and sit there watching their new world with wonder but apprehension, before falling asleep for hours. And when it comes to the first night they might sleep right through, or they might cry and whine the whole night. As your puppy begins to get used to everything, their character will start to shine through and you will begin to see their true personalities. Exactly what this will be is different for every puppy…it will be fun for you to find out! And by being the provider of everything they need in life, giving them all that is good, it will only take 2 or 3 days for your puppy to learn to love you and get excited and happy to see you when you turn up. So your task is to set up and stick to these schedules, begin training your puppy and help them to learn how you want them to behave and when they can expect the things they need in life. What should you feed your puppy You should feed your puppy the same food they had at the breeders because an abrupt change in diet almost always leads to stomach upset. Complete and balanced means it has everything a puppy needs, and in the right quantities. So seek out this kind of wording and check the internet for other owners reviews. Puppies need to eat a lot because their rate of growth is very high. For puppies up to 12 weeks, you should divide their daily requirement into 4 portions, for puppies 12 to 26 weeks, feed them 3 times per day and from 26 weeks on feed them twice per day. You should also aim to feed them as close as you can to the same times every day and evenly spaced throughout the day. This will help their body clocks fall into a pattern and will help your house training immensely because they then potty the same times every day. For example: 8 to 12 weeks old, 4 times a day at AM, AM, PM and PM 12 to 26 weeks old, 3 times a day at AM, PM and PM 26 weeks old and ongoing, 2 times a day at and Obviously you can adjust these times to take into account when you get out of bed and to fit around your life. Also… The first few nights have the crate or exercise pen your puppy sleeps in placed in your bedroom. One night move the crate next to the bedroom door. The next night move it outside the door, but leave the door open so they can still see you. The next night further into the hallway. Finally to their eventual resting place. They might take to sleeping on their own OK, they might whine and cry. NEVER go to them to comfort them if they cry, you must only get up to take them to potty and then silently and without fuss put them back into the crate. Rewarding silence and ignoring noise is the only way they will eventually learn to be quiet at night themselves. Any time you cannot closely supervise them, you have to confine them, either in their crate, an exercise pen or a puppy proofed room secured with a barrier across the doorway. The point of confining them as a puppy is so they can enjoy all the freedom in the world once they are an adult. By confining them with treat dispensing chew toys they get rewarded for chewing the right things and develop a chew toy obsession. Confine them now, they form a good chew toy obsession and have no chance of developing bad chewing habits. Then once they are over their adolescent chewing stage you slowly open up the house to them and eventually they can have free roam and be completely trusted. A little sacrifice when young for a better life later. And a second hugely important reason for confining your puppy when you cannot supervise them is for speedier house training. In fact if you read my comments from earlier, you will see you start the very first moment you finish the journey home. In essence, house training is about creating good habits while avoiding bad ones and for the speediest success you want to start immediately. Wherever your puppy is able to potty has the chance of becoming their favored toilet spot for many weeks or months to come. So you want to prevent them pottying inside, and encourage them to potty outside. The main ingredients of a successful house training program are preventing mistakes and praising heavily for doing the right thing. Achieving this is all about schedules, supervision and confinement. Now, your puppy will need to potty anywhere from every 15 to 45 minutes. So to start with, take them outside every 30 minutes and adjust this schedule to suit their natural rhythm. You must also take them outside immediately after they wake up from any sleep, after any eating or drinking, after play and after any heightened excitement. These are times that often lead to a puppy needing to potty so take them outside at these times and you will avoid many mistakes while taking advantage of predictable opportunities to praise them for doing the right thing. In the first week or so, you will likely find your puppy almost instantaneously leaks with little warning. Simply do your best to take them out to potty extremely often so they go in the right place as often as possible. And confine them to a single enclosed room or in an exercise pen for the first week or so to protect your carpets. Crate training goes hand in hand with house training, being one of the best tools to help speed up the process. Therefore, you want to start crate training very early on, after just a few days of getting puppy home, and I personally aim for 9 weeks old to start. I prefer to wait a week or so to avoid them pottying in the crate as much as possible, doing the most I can to preserve their instinct not to soil where they sleep, the instinct that helps most when using a crate for house training. But by all means sleep them in their crate at night if you wish and I do. For more information on crate training your puppy and using it for house training purposes, please see the links below:. Andorra and Spain Well, to some extent, you have to suck it and see. Many dogs are absolutely fine with a new addition. On the other hand, mine absolutely hated our new puppy with a vengeance. I'm pretty sure there would have been some serious harm done if I had let it happen. So the pup stayed in a puppy pen when the other dogs were in the same room - I spent a lot of time in that puppy pen for the first couple of months! My older dogs 2 years at the time were fine with her outside, so we spent a lot of time in the garden so they could get used to her and, when she was old enough to start little walks, I would take one other dog along for some of that so that they could learn to co-exist. It was seriously hard work, especially as I was alone in a different country away from my husband! It took about two to two and a half months before they started to accept her but they absolutely adore her now. Luckily, she was a very respectful puppy who never jumped on them at all. Even if your boy is good with the puppy, though, you need to give him plenty of time away from it, and make sure he gets plenty of attention. I would always recommend a puppy pen, baby gates or similar to help with this. We recently brought an 8 week old Labrador puppy. I've lived with Labradors all my life and really wanted my daugjter 16 months to have that experience. I was so excited to finally be getting my own. I did all the research, thought I knew exactly what I was getting into. Now I think I might be losing my mind. If we put her on the floor on her bed in our room she just runs around and plays, which is very loud on a hardwood floor. If we put her on our bed she wiggles around all over the place and then settles on my legs, so I can't move for the rest of the night. She wakes me up at five to go out, and she does go outside like she's supposed to sometimes. But then she'll wait until we've got back upstairs and go again, or just won't settle back to sleep and wants to play. She's also started completely ignoring me when I call her, or correct her for doing something I don't want her to. So now I'm terrified she's decided I'm not the boss and she doesn't have to listen to me. Because of the lack of sleep I find myself really short tempered, and have to really try not to lose my temper with her or my daughter. I've considered crating her during the night she has an extra large crate in our living room but worry about her crying and waking my daughter. My husband and I have had some pretty big rows since getting her. He's more or less abdicated responsibility for her to me because I'm the one who wanted a puppy. I feel like such a terrible person for saying this, but I sometimes wonder if I've done the right thing or if I should have waited until my daughter was older. I desperately don't want to be a failed puppy owner, this was not a decision I rushed into by any means, we've been discussing it for years. But I feel like I'm not coping at all and am completely lost for what to do for the best. How does it feel to be a new puppy parent? You must be chuffed. Take a look at these first few articles. All the ingredients you need for a happy home. But for now, beside your bed is the best place for your puppy to sleep — it will help them feel safe. Puppies like their crates rather cave-like; we suggest covering it with a blanket to block out light, but keep the front open so that they can see outwards. Make sure to make it snug inside with something like a vet bed or a blanket, or why not take it up a notch with a heat pad or hot water bottle to recreate the feeling of their mother. Nothing feels more comforting than that. Before you head to bed, take your puppy out for one last round of loo-going. Set your bedtime at a later time too — midnight sounds about right. Come back calmly, and place your puppy in the crate and turn out the light. Stuff you should know about Sleep Training your Labrador Your puppy will wake up several times in the night and will need the bathroom at least once! Be prepared for not-so-deep sleeps and tired mornings — just for the first few weeks. Having them sleep next to you is only temporary. Consistency is key! As for you, full nights of sleep will start getting closer and closer. Alone Training How can I teach my Labrador puppy to be ok on their own? Start by feeding your puppy in their crate during meal times. If they seem worried by you leaving, stay in view, and just pop right outside their confinement area. Keep it short and sweet: No need to stay away for long, 60 seconds tops will do for now. Repeat: Do this at least once a day to make progress go steady and smoothly. Socialization Exercises To Do this week Letting your Labrador puppy explore the yard Besides the gnomes and questionable yard furniture you may have, letting your puppy explore your own yard is a great and safe way to start showing them the sounds, lights and wonders of the outside world. Exploring different surfaces exercise Make sure that the surfaces you use are safe — nothing too crazy just yet. Gather surfaces such as An oven tray with a small layer of water A piece of astro turf A carpet tile A large piece of tin foil, cardboard or something crinkly PRO TIP: Set up for this exercise in the room your puppy spends most of their time in — it will help them to feel safe and confident. Pop the surfaces out safely on the floor and allow your puppy to investigate them. Nobody has ever enjoyed walking on those. Remember to be patient! Lucky for you — teaching them their name is easy peasy. Say their name in a happy jolly tone and reward with a treat. Repeat five times, 5 and take a break. Practice this 2 or 3 times a day so they get the hang of it. Teach your puppy to sit Teaching your puppy how to sit is a popular one. The first two are far more common though. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow it up with a food reward. In puppy logic, stinky means yummy. How to do it Start at home; where there are no distractions. Just make sure to shut off Gogglebox in the background. Recall — How to teach our Labrador puppy to come back when called Your puppy already knows their name at this point, so this should be a walk in the park. How to do it Treats and a cheerful voice will be what works here. Do these exercises before meal times so your puppy is more motivated. Practice this 5 times a day and in 3 different places in your house and yard to get them used to coming to you in all settings. How to do it Show your puppy that you have their favorite toy, and start to get them excited about it. When they show interest, throw it a little bit away from you. They will likely follow it and pick it up. If they do, encourage them back to you with your voice, so remember to sound happy! Swap the toy for a treat or another toy and do the process again. Repeat this about 5 times. Instead create more distance and excitement sounds to get them to come to you — spaniels like to show off, so they will likely want to parade what they have! Always swap the toy for something when they have it, this could be a treat or another toy. Resource guarding occurs when we force puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. For breeds like Labradors who are designed to want to hold things in their mouths, this is pretty important! Resource guarding is when a dog protects a resource from being taken by someone else — dog or human. For some reason, there is a solid list of things puppies find irresistible: Socks. Print We recently brought home Bubba, a female chocolate lab puppy. Bubba is already sold as one of our Custom Trained Retrievers, so it is our responsibility to train her and raise her until she has progressed to the level of training the owner has requested. That means Bubba will be with for almost a year and a half. We train one or two of these puppies each year, and over the years we have gotten pretty good at it. We also train adult dogs for hunting and competition, so we see a lot of dogs come into our program. Dogs that have each been raised differently. There are some definite training tips that can help you help your lab grow up to be the best version of himself. Training and socialization for very young Labrador puppies — week one The first week of a puppy being away from its litter is very stressful for the puppy. Most often, the first two days, the puppy will sleep a lot! The pup is adjusting to all the changes, and they need time to do that. After the first couple days you may notice a spike of energy. This is your sign that the puppy is adjusting well and is ready to be exposed to a few more things. Labrador puppy training that first week home Here are the things we work on during week one. A nylon adjustable one is usually best since puppies grow quickly. It often takes the puppy a few days to adjust to having a collar on. Intro crate We introduce our puppies to a crate on day one. Literally the day we bring them home. Most puppies will cry, bark or howl while in the crate the first few or many times. Ignore it, it does not hurt the puppy at all. Always wait until the puppy settles down and is quiet, even if that quiet only lasts for just a minute or two. Learn more about crate training. Intro to housebreaking Another day one lesson and one that will last for a few weeks or months. We introduce housebreaking day one by allowing the puppy to run around an enclosed area under close supervision. If your puppy then goes potty outside, great! The thing to remember about housebreaking, is that your puppy should never be allowed to roam the house or a room without supervision. The only way to housebreak a dog is for them to get caught in the middle of an accident. That is how they learn that what they are doing is not right. Learn more about housebreaking. Intro leash We introduce a leash to our puppies around day three of being home. But once they start getting more energy and get more inquisitive, we use a Flexi-lead attached to the nylon collar to take the puppy outside. This accomplishes two goals. The gentle tugs on the leash and pressure when the puppy strains against the leash are great training for handling pressure as they get older. Intro to pressure and correction The last thing we introduce to our new puppy during the first week home is pressure and correction. This is an often-missing element to training that can severely handicap a dog that you want to be a hunting companion or competition dog. The kind of pressure I am talking about is very mild such as saying NO to the puppy when they are chewing up your shoes or scratching through the carpet. This is the way mama dogs carry their puppies and it does not hurt them at all. This does not hurt the puppy; it is exactly what a mama dog does to teach her puppies. Learn more about introducing pressure and correction. Commands to start using that first week home The first week there are some commands we start using so that the puppy will associate the words we use with actions. Puppies play and explore with their mouths, and often they will think it is great fun to bite your hands and feet. If this does not curb the behavior, I grab her lower jaw, wrapping her gums around her teeth and squeeze. I have found this to be very effective, especially if you start this the first week you have the puppy home. The longer you wait to start, the harder it becomes to stop this behavior. It takes very little pressure to stop a 7-week-old puppy from biting. Learn more about how to stop your Lab puppy from biting you. Off command The OFF command is also started day one. The OFF command is used to stop a puppy or dog from jumping on you. It can also be used to keep a dog off a sofa or other furniture. Starting day one, I gently use my knee to push down the puppy each time they jump on me. I say OFF when I do this. Usually, a gentle push with the knee is all it takes with a very small puppy. They learn this command very quickly. If your puppy is a bit more energetic or stubborn and tries to jump on you despite your gentle pushes, then you may need to use a little more force. Even if you were to knock your puppy backwards onto her back, that is not going to hurt her seriously. But it will likely make a good impression and cause her to think twice before jumping on you again. With jumping, consistency is important. You must knock your puppy off every time she jumps on you. Learn more about how to stop your Lab from jumping on you. We use this as a que when we are taking the puppy outside to go potty. We use this while the puppy is on a leash, and we are pulling them toward us. I only use this command for very young dogs. Your goal is to get the puppy to rest in your arms and not move. But if you keep at it, you will see your dog settle for longer and longer periods of time. Introduction to retrieving Lastly, since all our puppies are retrievers, we start introducing the puppy to retrieving. The first few times are simply throwing a toy a few feet and if the puppy runs out and gets it and comes back to you, great. Then take the item and throw it again. If the puppy does not come back or does not even run out to get the item, then stop for the day. Just let the retrieving develop naturally. Next week we will start more formal retrieving training. Final thoughts on what you should do that first week with your new Labrador puppy As you can see, there is a lot of training that you can do with your seven- or eight-week-old puppy. And while you can wait for training, your puppy is ready and able to learn quickly right now. I will be posting weekly on the training we are doing with Bubba, so you can get a week-by-week snapshot of how we raise and train a puppy up to be a excellent, responsive hunting or competition dog as well as a well-mannered family dog. If you are struggling or need additional help with your new puppy, you can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time, happy retrieving. However, a healthy six-month-old labrador will grow significantly in size. Some of them can weigh up to 50 pounds. For a more balanced diet at six months, you can shift from feeding your puppy three smaller meals per day to two meals a day. To counteract this, you can drop the amount of food and gradually increase it. Setting Your Lab Puppy Up for Successful Potty Training Training an animal to control their bladders until you get outside is no different than potty-training for toddlers. In other words, crate training speeds up the potty-training process for your pet. Effective crate training depends on two things: Praising and rewarding your puppy for relieving itself outside. They come to understand this as a desirable behavior. Preventing your puppy from going to the toilet within the home. So, why is using a crate to train your puppy to go outside so effective? Initially, this should be every hour or so. As labs grow older, you can reduce the frequency as they learn to hold and release independently. Step 2: House Training a Lab Puppy Housetraining or potty-training small labs can be, well, frustrating. As a pet owner, there are simple ways to train your puppy to understand ideal behavior quickly. Instead, they simply forget that they should control it. This helps avoid any issues early on. Keep small labrador puppies off the carpet. How to Feed Your Dog for Optimal Growth Feeding your labrador puppy a balanced diet could be an entire guide all on its own. It can feel overwhelming because you do have many options when it comes to feeding your dog. For example, if you work from home, it would be easy to feed your dog homemade dog food. Similarly, you might work a and yet want to reap the health-related benefits of a raw diet. Make sure to speak to your vet first. You do have choices for what to feed your puppy and you can mix and match these. Popular feeding options for any animal include kibble, wet food, raw food, and home-cooked food. Remember, a puppy is still growing, and they need a complete profile of nutrients and minerals to support their development. There are many commercial brands of dry food or kibble to choose from and you can adjust what you buy based on the ingredients. Do your research and find a brand you trust, with as much bioavailable nutritional content as is helpful. These can harm your puppy. In order to maintain good health and prevent simple ailments, your puppy can also benefit from taking a supplement. Some families choose to mix scraps or raw food with kibble to provide moisture and decrease the amount of food versus the calories consumed. Any veterinarian will tell you that a hard and fast rule is not necessarily the type of food but the amount. Obesity is a condition that can lead to many health issues for this breed. Over-exertion, especially for a puppy, is possible. This includes activities like playing fetch or tug and release. However, breeds that worked as a hunting companion for humans love to be active. Again, this goes back to the strengths of the breed. Keeping up with your puppy could be a task-and-a-half, so in the first months of life, you should be keeping them in your backyard or playing with them at home. As they become house trained and get all their vaccinations, you can turn walks into light jogs or runs if you want. In the long-term, exercise will help keep dogs healthy and disease-free. However, early dog training can eliminate common problems with puppy temperament and help make sure that your fur friend is always as friendly and happy as possible through the years. Puppy socialization simply means making your puppy open to and familiar with new experiences. You want to provide stimulation and encounters with experiences that they will probably face as adults. The window of opportunity to make sure your puppy is always a happy and friendly pooch closes around 14 weeks. Pre-Vaccination Lab Puppy Socialization Any veterinarian will tell you that a puppy is all done with their vaccinations after 12 weeks of age. The main point is to keep your puppy away from other dogs who may not yet be vaccinated or the excrement and markings of other animals that could carry data diseases. You can head to an off-leash dog park to allow them to explore and meet other fur friends. You can also take them beyond your backyard to the countryside to enable them to swim or set up obstacle courses and play with them. Another thing that people forget about is spaying or neutering their dogs. Spaying or neutering your dog could help with behavioral issues and can also reduce the onset of certain health conditions. At the same time, spaying or neutering a puppy too early may also lead to health issues. For many people, this is a worthwhile and even enjoyable trade-off. A happy, sociable dog is always the result of consistent training. Training your dog is a significant aspect of their early years. The different stages include: Get it — Using positive reinforcement, trainers will help your dog carry out actions without commands. Teach it — This stage harnesses the progress you made in the previous stages. Your dog now knows the word and the action that goes with it. Proof it — Proofing is where many people get stuck. Your dog will learn to listen and obey commands at this stage even when they are engaged in other things. Maintain it — Consistently using the techniques you learned to keep your dog following the same desirable behavior. All breeds of dogs respond best when you train them. Every labrador retriever relies on their human taking control and showing them how to respond in any situation. You can be sure that if you follow these tips that you will be taking proper care of your new puppy and will be able to make sure that your puppy will live a long and healthy life. Share on.

What is a Goldendoodle? Background the influences training Goldendoodle Training Tips The key to enjoying your dog is to train them early or as soon as possible. After all, training your new puppy in socialization is part of their essential needs. Training your dog is a big undertaking, though. One that may seem daunting. Rest assured, though, you can do it yourself without expensive obedience classes. The first thing you need to do is build a strong foundation for training. Goldendoodle Training Timeline Infographic The infographic showing the Goldendoodle training timeline. Goldendoodle Puppy Training at Home First 30 days Puppies are born blind and deaf and cannot see or hear for the first ten to twenty days. However, they have a fantastic scent and touch abilities. Puppies are also aware of the temperature. If the mother is unavailable, humans can step in to help. Training sessions for newborns are short and to the point. These sessions consist of Bio-Sensor training, where they are stimulated with swabs like Q-Tips. Exercises can be performed along with exposing them to minor temperature changes. This will stimulate the brain and help them deal with stress. Mother dogs stimulate the senses from birth by licking and cleaning the puppies. This helps them develop. Wavy coat Goldendoodles are typically low shedding. Wavy coat Goldendoodles come in all sizes from standard right down to Teacup Goldendoodles. Since dogs have scent receptors twenty-five times better than ours, they can smell things several hundred feet away. You should expose them to calming scents and daily scents of rain, grass, and other things outdoors. Then, their ears will open, and they will need to be introduced to sound. Dogs learn by association, so only play soothing sounds. As their eyes start to focus, you should start with colors. This will help build confidence. Goldendoodle Puppy Preschool and Earliest Socialization months of age At around three months of age, your Goldendoodle is full of energy and ready to play. But remember that they are still a baby — just an infant animal. It is so essential you practice positive reinforcement with your puppy and avoid punishment altogether. This is also the age your Goldendoodle is ready to learn basic commands. The first thing you should do is pick a definite marker. A positive marker is a word, sound, or phrase used to tell your dog they have done something right. Use the same marker every time. Also, you should follow it up with positive reinforcement in the form of a treat, playtime, or affection. Do Goldendoodles Smell? Reward your puppy often and early, so they associate the treat with the behavior. Negative reinforcement or punishment will likely do nothing but scare your puppy. Puppies will chew things and have accidents in the house. However, you should remember they are still learning, and any punishment is counterproductive. Simply correct the mistake and praise them when they do something right. The most important thing is to be consistent. Your puppy learns by doing, and repetition is the best thing for them. This is also the age where socialization is a critical part of their development. All this begins once the Goldendoodle has the all-clear from the Veterinarian to socialize in public. .During this age, your Goldendoodle should be exposed to new people, places, and animals every day. If your puppy shows fear or anxiety, take a step back. This is when you should begin doing gradual exposure. Safe introduction to different sizes and temperament dogs is important early If you introduce a dog to a household with cats , extra care needs to be taken early to ensure a long-term relationship of tolerance. Predicting Goldendoodle coat types is tricky. Goldendoodle Training for Safety and Basic Commands 3 months to one year At around four months old, your puppy will begin to develop preferences. Your job is to make them feel safe and secure in any environment. This way, your puppy will grow up to be confident, kind, and ready to take on anything. Positive reinforcement techniques are especially important during this stage. Any harsh punishment can have adverse effects on the Goldendoodles psyche. Since your puppy has had all his shots, they are ready to go to the dog park, daycare, and puppy training classes. This will help with socialization. Keep in mind that forcing your puppy to interact with others can hurt the bond you have with them. Always make sure your dog is enjoying the experience and is safe. Allow him to explore the world at his own pace. This I the time to start introducing your Goldendoodle to water. Early and frequently exposure will make taking your Goldendoodle to the pool or even the beach a breeze. Learning Commands Additionally, this is when puppies can begin learning commands like sit and stay. Teach them to sit before exiting with treats. Lure them into a sit by the door and begin to open it. If they get up too quickly, close the door. Keep up this game until the dog remains seated and patiently waits for the door. When they do, give them a treat. Most puppies are highly motivated by treats and food. If they anxiously await each meal or immediately pounce on the food bowl when it is set down, this is an excellent opportunity to work on self-control. Before every meal, have your Goldendoodle wait to eat. Place the food down and say stay. If they lunge for the bowl, take it away for five minutes. Start with a five-second wait and gradually increase it by five-second increments. This will allow their self-control to get better. Another great Goldendoodle training tip is the Four on the Floor for those puppies that jump on anyone entering your home. Practicing this technique can stop the puppy from jumping up on unsuspecting bystanders and knocking over kids. When you come home, and your Goldendoodle is happy to see you, make him sit before saying hello. Give an ear rub or greeting only when all four paws are on the ground. Training a Goldendoodle to Enjoy Grooming All ages Start grooming your puppy at a young age and practice handling with this Goldendoodle training tips: Work when your puppy is relaxed and not hyper. Keep grooming sessions short like a few brush strokes or clipping a few toenails. Use a quality slicker brush that will not hurt your Goldendoodle Practice frequently, like weekly. Pair it with a treat. Lightly touch-sensitive spots like between the paws or on the ears from an early age Consider buying a grooming table early so your Goldendoodle can get used to it if you are going to be DIY grooming your Goldendoodle at home. See the best grooming tables specifically for Goldendoodles. Advanced Goldendoodle Training Options 12 months plus, agility, and advanced classes The American Kennel Club, or AKC, says that once dogs learn basic commands, they can move on to advanced training or sports. You may opt to teach them scent training. Treibball, a German dog sport not just for herding breeds , is when the dog drives eight oversized inflatable balls into a goal. They can also do obstacle courses and test their agility. Scent training is also a fantastic way to mentally enrich your dog and stimulate their brain daily. Scent training starts as simple as a muffin tin game at home. Then advanced courses do wonders and can result in some very complicated tricks and habits forming. While they vary in size depending on their parents since Poodles range from mini to medium , they almost always have hypoallergenic hair and rarely shed. You can see which types of Goldendoodle shed the least in our Goldendoodle Coat Prediction article. Goldendoodles are highly intelligent and lovable dogs that are ideal for families with children or other pets. Goldendoodles typically weigh anywhere from forty-five to pounds. Still, they can weigh as little as fifteen pounds if a parent was a miniature Poodle. The smallest Goldendoodles are Teacup and Toy Goldendoodles. They have a height of thirteen to twenty-six inches with a curly coat in red, black, gold, cream, brown, white, or grey. Goldendoodles are very friendly, affectionate, playful, and trainable. Goldendoodles became popular in the s for their hypoallergenic , non-shedding Poodle-like fur and having the temperament of a Golden Retriever, the most popular dog breed in the U. They have been used as pets, agility dogs, therapy dogs, guide dogs, diabetic dogs, and search and rescue dogs. Goldendoodles are in the top five of the smartest dog breeds. When you choose a Goldendoodle, rest assured you are getting an intelligent, athletic, loving companion, the whole family can enjoy. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. And when is the best time to start training them? Naturally, the sooner your start with training, the easier it will be. Moreover, you have to remember that you are responsible for your pup. You need to show consistency in your own behavior. Your Doodle will have an easier time adjusting to his new home and family if you start from day one. Establish a Proper Routine Firstly, you should establish a proper routine for your Doodle. This includes meal times, bathroom breaks, playtime, naps, and bedtime. Keep in mind that consistency is key in Goldendoodle training. A structured routine gives dogs a sense of security. It will also help your new Goldendoodle puppy understand how you want them to behave. Routine is also an important part of housetraining , as consistent feeding times will also beget consistent potty times. If you have other family members living with you, make sure you all follow the exact same routine. It is usually recommended that puppies younger than six months of age eat three meals per day. Socialize Your Puppy Secondly, all dogs, and especially Goldendoodles, are social creatures. They enjoy spending time with their families and meet other dogs at the dog park. Early socialization is important for your Goldendoodle pup to get used to new people, pets and situations. Goldendoodle Training Sample Routine Goldendoodle puppy behavior is very much your responsibility. Puppies usually need to use the bathroom first thing in the morning. Tip 2: Feed your pup at the same time every day. This is a great way for your puppy to socialize with you and your family. Tip 3: Potty time around 30 to 60 minutes after each meal. Tip 4: Playtime or exercise after potty time. Playing with toys and shorter walks are perfect for baby Doodles. Tip 5: Puppies usually need to relieve themselves after exercise, as well. Puppies can sleep up to hours every day! Make sure no one distracts their sleep, as they need to rest. Tip 7: After naptime or being in their crate, take your pup for a bathroom break. Tip 8: Bedtime every day around the same time is also very useful to enforce a consistent routine. Remember that puppies around weeks of age need smaller portions and more frequent meals. Therefore, they will also need to go potty more frequently. And as we already said, all dogs and puppies are unique. This is a rough guideline that most Doodle owners find useful. Well, all dogs are unique, so there is no one size fits all approach in Goldendoodle training. However, there are a few main training methods that most dog owners find useful when training a Goldendoodle puppy. Of course, the younger your puppy is, the shorter their attention span. Usually, the general guideline is to start formal training at four to six months of age. However, keep in mind that first you should build a relationship and bond with your pup. Clicker Training Clicker training is one of the most popular Goldendoodle training methods that professional dog trainers use. It combines reward training with a small hand-held clicker that you will click every time you reward your pup for good behavior or when following a command. Your puppy will soon start associating the clicking sound with a reward. Therefore, your pup will also associate it with good behavior. Best for Clicker Training Compare Products 2. Positive Reinforcement Your behavior and attitude has a huge impact on your Goldendoodle pup. Always use positive reinforcement and do not scold or punish your pup for accidents. Remember, your puppy is still learning and growing. Instead, it will just make them fearful of you. Whenever you want your Goldendoodle puppy to do something, always keep a positive and enthusiastic attitude. If your pup has completed the task, always give plenty of praise and a nice little treat or a toy. Some dogs respond better to reward with food and others respond better to toys. However, always use these rewards together with lots of praise and enthusiasm. Crate Training Crate training is another very popular Goldendoodle training method. Crate training can take a few days or a few weeks, but the results are worth it. Keep in mind that you should only leave your pup in the crate in hours equal to the age in months that they are. See Also: Click the image 4. Mirror Training Mirror training method uses positive reinforcement and a clicker to teach a dog how to follow your lead. As your pup is looking up to you, they will naturally want to mimic your behavior and attitude. A great way to keep this from happening is to keep your kitchen counters clean and tidy at all times. Do not store food on counters longer than you prepare your meals. Surely you enjoy a clean kitchen, as well! Another tip is to put your pup in a crate or away from the kitchen while you prepare your meals. Jumping One of the very first things that you can start teaching your Goldendoodle puppy is to sit to be greeted. This will teach your puppy that they will only get attention once they sit. If you reward them, they will continue doing it. Barking With every common behavioral problem, the key is to think about what you want your puppy to do instead. How would you like them to react when someone is knocking on the door, or how should act when you have guests over? For instance, you can train your dog to sit still in a designated place when the doorbell rings. Leash Pulling When your puppy starts to pull the leash, immediately stop walking. Once your puppy has stopped pulling, you can start walking again. Doing this continuously will teach your puppy good leash manners. No-pull harnesses and headcollars can also be great tools for training your pup not to pull on the leash. See Also: Click the image 5. Make sure your pup has enough interesting toys and provide them plenty of playtime and exercise. Biting and Mouthing Biting is a completely natural behavior for dogs. As with any other behavioral problem, biting also can stem from your pup wanting your attention. Also, biting and mouthing might indicate that your pup needs more playtime. See Also: Click the image 7. We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at anytime. Most puppy owners ask about the best age when they can start training their Goldendoodle. Basic Dog Obedience Training can happen at any age — but the earlier, the better. You can even train a four months old puppy or change the behavior of a five-year-old dog. In both cases, you will need commitment. With rigorous training, your golden doodles can turn out to become guide dogs, therapy dogs, service dogs, and sniffer dogs, thanks to their extraordinary alertness and agility. Some can even perform more challenging tasks, such as helping the disabled and taking part in complex rescue missions, thanks to how they are trained. Therefore we see no reason that a dog owner should leave flaws in basic obedience training. The high level of intelligence they inherit does not mean that they will start acting smartly as soon as you bring them home. No doubt, they have a strong genetic makeover for intelligence and sharp wits, which they take from both the golden retriever and the Poodle. Extensive training is required to polish their intelligence and make them brilliant. When you fail to establish your leadership over your Goldendoodle, it concludes itself as a superior or equal to you. When you allow your golden doodle to sleep on your bed or run on your sofa, or you let it sit on your dining table to feed, you are giving indirect permission to become your leader. Like most other dogs, they have a nature to live in packs, following a leader. Now assume that your family is their pack and you are their leader. When around a golden doodle, you should behave as a firm leader and never show nervousness or uneasiness in controlling your golden doodle. Goldendoodles are perfect observers. Your behavior influences their behavior. To reinforce your supremacy, you can adopt a few techniques. Giving in to what your dog wants will give them a signal that they can do whatever and whenever they want. In any case, it is essential to establish your authority over your Goldendoodle. Every dog owner must bear in mind that keeping a dog at home requires plenty of time that you can dedicate to training. Here are some basic principles that you must be aware of before you start training your Goldendoodle. Word commands are enough. Dogs are animals, and their brains do not process long sentences as human brains do. They will make mistakes. But with consistency and patience, you can make them learn everything you want them to learn. They learn what they see. Therefore it is necessary to demonstrate only acceptable behavior. Praise immediately when the Goldendoodle does something good, acceptable, and appreciable. They start associating praise and good behavior with each other. Do not get frustrated or angry with your Goldendoodle when they do something wrong while training. Keep your calm to make them comfortable with the training process. When your tone is affirmative yet firm, the dog takes it as a command. Praise is identified by a happy, affectionate tone which gives a hint of excitement. It is a positive approach and helps the Goldendoodle in learning things faster. A frustrated and angry tone will cause them to perform poorly and have difficulty in learning. Your positive and negative reactions serve as a guide for them during their behavior training. As a rule of thumb, training a Goldendoodle should base on constructive reinforcement and a positive attitude. Yelling, hitting, scolding, or screaming never produce the desired training outcomes in Goldendoodles. For example, when you pat the head often, the dogs get a lot of appreciation. On the other hand, you cannot teach anything by hitting or kicking the Goldendoodle. A Goldendoodle can easily recognize your rewarding and scolding behaviors by just listening to your voice. Physical punishment will do more harm than good. Dogs that are trained through physical punishments develop two types of undesirable behaviors. They develop a fear of admonishing, and this makes them timid. Dogs may also develop the habit of biting to take out their fear and frustration. Goldendoodles are very non-aggressive, loving canines, but if they develop aggression, it means they are not treated in the way they should have been. Whether or not you can hold the Goldendoodle by scruff if the dog misbehaves is still a debate among dog trainers. This type of touch is only beneficial if practiced immediately after the undesirable behavior. Using this method even minutes after the action loses its effectiveness. They cannot comprehend why one action is acceptable at one time and why not at the other. Here is how you can teach them how to listen to your commands. Now you can control the Goldendoodle whenever it becomes hyperactive. Your Goldendoodle will learn to respond without even the trigger of the leash. HEEL Walking by your side without going ahead or lagging is yet another lesson your Goldendoodle has to learn. For this training, you will require a short leash and a link-chain training collar. Here the dog is likely to lag or go ahead. A little bit of learning deserves Praise. If you lose your temper during command practice, your dog will start hating the commands. This unpleasant training experience makes the dogs disobey your commands. Remember that obedience is a gradual process that takes a lot of time and effort from both the owner and the Goldendoodle, and there is no shortcut to it. The success of training a Goldendoodle lies in making the process more and more pleasurable for both of you. None of you should be avoiding or hating it. Goldendoodle Training Tip No 8: Consider Taking Professional Assistance If you feel that you lack the temperament or your dog is not learning well, consider taking help from professional dog trainers. They are experts and use various methods for training dogs. More often, you will meet trainers who make use of their hands for training dogs. It means that your Goldendoodle will become accustomed to watching your hand signs for taking instructions. Doodle behavior specialists may come to your home or call you in your office for further consultation. Blaming oneself for a failed dog training further elevates frustration in the doodle owner, which results in more undesirable dog behavior. Goldendoodle Training Tip No 9: Use the Most Common Training Methods The training methods most commonly used by dog trainers include the following: Clicker Training Professional dog trainers use the clicker training method for Goldendoodle. Often the dog trainers use it in combination with reward training. They click the clicker to encourage and appreciate the dogs. Within a few days, your Goldendoodle will start associating the click sound with acceptable behavior. Positive Reinforcement: Dogs are sensitive to pleasant and unpleasant emotions. If you feel that you are getting angry with your fur baby, immediately seek help from dog training professionals. Dogs do not understand why they are getting punished. Instead of learning positive behavior, they may develop aggressive behavior. They learn fast when they receive praise, rewards, and positive encouragement. It will also prevent the doodle from running all around the house and causing annoyance to the family members. You must never use the crate as a form of punishment. Otherwise, the puppy will develop a negative association with it. Mirror Training The mirror training procedure involves positive reinforcement and a clicker to make the dog accept you as a leader. The mirror method symbolizes how the Goldendoodle will start following your actions. Goldendoodle Training Tip No Focus On Eliminating Most Common Undesirable Behaviors Here is a list of some habits that sometimes seem cute on a puppy, but if not controlled right from the beginning, they become a nightmare for the dog owner. The best way to prevent your dog from licking around the house, especially in the kitchen, is to maintain cleanliness. Secondly, it is essential to develop a habit of staying in their crate while preparing and eating your meals. Jumping Golden doodles often get excited when you come home from the office. In this excitement, it will try to jump into your lap. This is because they love cuddling and seeking your attention. They may also jump on your guests, which is undesirable behavior. You need to train your puppy to understand that they will get attention and reward if they keep sitting calmly. Barking Barking is their way to express their excitement or fear when someone comes to your home. Training is necessary to teach them the right way of welcoming the guests. Goldendoodle must know how to sit at a place quietly unless they are allowed to roam around or interact with guests. Only rigorous training can help them in staying calm. Leash Pulling Sometimes Goldendoodle pup will pull the leash. In such a scenario, it is better to stop walking. When this occurs repeatedly, they will learn appropriate leash manners. Reward them even when they learn a little. Digging Goldendoodles take out their extra energy by digging. Providing them an ample amount of exercise or playtime consumes their extra energy and distracts them from digging. Biting and Mouthing Like any other dog, biting is an instinct in Goldendoodles. Alternatively, you should provide them with good quality chew toys to satisfy their teeth and gums in a healthy way. Chewing Socks and other non-food items Puppies love to bite anything that comes in their access. You can reward them with chewable toys. Potty Training Potty training a puppy requires vigilance. You need to check for the signs when your puppy has the urge to go the bathroom. They often start barking, whining, circling, or scratching the door at that time. So with a little bit of attention, they quickly learn appropriate bathroom manners. Goldendoodle Training Tip No Socialize Your Goldendoodle Goldendoodles are social animals, and they are delighted when they are around people. To ensure that your Goldendoodle develops a social personality, expose them to several other dogs and humans. A regular walk routine ensures optimum exposure to noises, sounds, and sights necessary to build up confidence in your dog. Make sure that their dogs are well-behaved and calm. Final Words Training a puppy is a great responsibility. However, it may turn out a pleasant experience with a little bit of effort and patience. The bond that develops between you and your Goldendoodle lasts for a lifetime. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. If there is a behavior your puppy exhibits that you may think is cute while your puppy is small, you need to think ahead and determine if this behavior will be acceptable from an adult dog. Consistency is the most important tool for training a puppy in their first year and beyond. Each family member needs to use the same techniques and commands so as not to confuse your puppy. It is important to remember that a puppy associates a reward or a disciplinary action with its behavior in the past 3 seconds. Waiting longer than 3 seconds to reward or discipline is very confusing to a puppy. You cannot stop this behavior, but you can certainly direct your puppy to chew upon acceptable items until this phase passes at about a year of age. The only way puppies know how to play is the typical wrestling, biting, chasing, tackling, pulling, and nipping they do with littermates. In the absence of littermates, you and your family suddenly become the littermates. Repeat this same disciplinary action a total of three times in a row. Every now and then, a particularly feisty puppy will become more excited by this disciplinary action and need a more distinct disciplinary measure. This next action needs to be initiated quickly. This will be uncomfortable for your puppy. When behavior meets with uncomfortable consequences, the behavior will stop. With all this being said, the absolute best remedy is for you to arrange daily play dates with other puppies or young dogs. The bottom line is that your puppy needs to have active playtime each day. Jumping — Your puppy will jump on you to get your attention. This may seem innocent while your puppy is small, but Grandma may not appreciate being knocked over by the full grown untrained dog. Make sure you do not reward the puppy for the act of getting down as this will enforce the behavior of jumping up only to be told to get down for a reward. This is not a sign of aggression unless you allow this to go undisciplined over time. You need to actively discourage any and all growling directed at you. If your puppy growls at you when you get close to the food bowl, immediately remove the food bowl and feed the puppy out of your hand. Do not stop brushing until the puppy accepts this without growling. Each puppy needs to learn its place in the pecking order of a family. Obviously, they need to be the lowest on the totem pole. If allowed to be boss, growling is a normal thing for a puppy to exhibit when showing its dominance. Each family member must establish they are boss. This includes young children who are timid or fearful of the puppy. Remember that any behavior you allow as a puppy is then extremely difficult to curb later in life. If you do not wish to have your adult dog on the furniture, do not sit on the sofa holding your puppy. If you do not want your grown dog to grab your pant leg, etc. Leash Training — Training your Goldendoodle puppy to walk on a leash without pulling will take some time. Be patient and read our complete guide to leash training here. Buying a Trained Puppy — You can opt to have your puppy purchased at Fox Creek Farm trained by a professional trainer. Buying a trained puppy can save you a lot of time and benefit the entire family. Please visit our board and train services page for more information. Pet Insurance — We always recommend that any dog owner have a good quality pet insurance. Choosing the best pet insurance will take you a bit of time to learn about the coverages and fees associate with the brand and your particular dog. Spend some time with our blog articles on pet insurance linked above to determine what is right for you and your furry friend. The Labradoodle is a gorgeous cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, and the Goldendoodle is an adorable mix between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. Characteristics and traits can vary significantly because these pups are a hybrid breed, but they are usually incredibly people-focused, laid back, and playful, making Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training an enjoyable moment. Doodles make awesome pets, especially if their owners fully comprehend the importance of training from a young age. The type of adult dog breed you end up with depends a little bit on their personality and a lot on how you take care of them. Before you begin Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training, it helps to decide exactly what kind of dog you want to have. Do Plenty of Research It is vital that you have an understanding of canine learning theory because dogs learn very differently from people. A puppy does whatever it can to get what it desires the most at that moment. There are plenty of online resources that can teach you about methods to get the best out of your training. It may be helpful to consult a puppy training professional or spend some time at doggy school to get a headstart and pick up tips from experts. Your pup is a blank slate — with your guidance, they can develop the traits and learn the behaviors that you value the most. Labradoodle and Goldendoodle puppies are curious and they love exploring their new home as they make it their own. Getting it right during the early stages sets a precedent for the rest of their life. Spending as much time as you can with them helps build the foundation for a happy, confident and well-behaved dog. Form a Bond and Gain Trust With Your Doodle Before you do anything, you will need to develop a strong bond with your new pal to make sure they trust you. Try to keep your own energy as calm as possible — they bounce off you. While it may be tempting to get excited by their cuteness and mirror their enthusiasm, this makes it more difficult for them to listen to you and regulate their own behavior. Teach your furry friend what to expect from the moment they get into the home to stop them from getting confused. Use Positive Reinforcement Intimidation or fear tactics are never the best way to build a loving and secure bond between you and your fur baby. To make the most of this method, reward your pooch for good behavior and ignore bad behavior. Treats, verbal praise, and clicker training reward them for a job well done. This also helps them to make positive associations with you and training time. Everyone has their own list of priorities and yours will depend on factors such as whether you have children or other pets. Potty training is a straightforward, formulaic process that your new puppy will adapt to. A consistent routine is the key to getting them toilet trained as efficiently and effectively as possible. Let them outside at the same time each day, and take them to the same spot. In the early days, it may be difficult for them to make it all the way through the night, so try to make provisions for this stage. Select a word for them to associate with potty training and repeat it over and over whenever you take them to the toilet. Every time they do their business outside, give them lots of cuddles and praise, treat them and play one of their favorite games. There will be setbacks — getting it right takes time! If they mess in the wrong place, take them outside to their toileting spot and give them the chance to relieve themselves. We cannot emphasize the importance of praising them when they get it right enough! Crate Training Not everyone opts to crate train their puppy, but it can be useful for the earliest stages of Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training. The crate gives them a safe place they can call their own. Be sure to make the time they spend in the crate a positive experience, and never leave them in there for more hours than their age in months plus one hour. For example, a three-month-old puppy can be kept in their crate for no more than four hours. Socialization Dogs are social animals, and Goldendoodles and Labradoodles, in particular, are happiest when they spend time pleasing people and playing. However, building confidence takes effort and guidance from their pet parent. If you want to ensure they grow up to have a balanced personality, you need to expose them to plenty of dogs, people and different situations. Take them out and about as much as possible to help them become accustomed to a range of noises, sights and sounds. Bring them to a local dog park to get them used to spending time around other dogs. Manners Your adorable little pup has the potential to develop a host of bad habits, but these behaviors can be nipped in the bud. Temperament and Dealing with Small Children There are several steps to take while getting your canine cutie used to being a member of a family with children. Both pup and child will need to have clear boundaries mapped out for them so they can build mutual trust and be kind to each other. Let the child practice with a toy before they pick up or cuddle the pup. Ensure the child sits down when they play with the dog; this helps to prevent the pup from getting overexcited. Teach the child to do small tasks to help care for the dog, such as filling the bowl or helping with grooming. Knowing what to expect according to the time of day helps them to settle and feel reassured. Always wake them up at the same time, feed and walk them around the same time and do training exercises at a set time. Patience Is Everything! The best piece of advice for Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training is to have patience. Spend lots of time bonding and playing with your pooch so you can make training something fun that you both enjoy. Goldendoodles have a great desire to please. Teaching them what it takes to please you sets them up for happiness. In this blog, we are going to cover how to train your Goldendoodle puppy. Having a well-trained dog around is appreciated by all other humans that encounter your dog as well. The training you administer to your puppy will pay off in spades as he continues to use the skills you have taught to please you and your guests throughout life. Being isolated and not included in family activities will cause stress, anxiety, and overactive behavior to become the norm for the untrained dog. Are you a pushover? Do you give in and reward inappropriate behavior? Do you scold without giving direction on what you want to see in place of that behavior? Without giving consistent queues, you will easily confuse a young puppy or even an adult dog. You must dedicate yourself to always rewarding good behavior and redirecting unwanted behavior. While it is easy to forgive a puppy for exhibiting their love in a rambunctious way, you are doing the little fellow a disservice by not expecting good behavior always. Once he is an adult, you will look back and wish you had curbed that undesirable behavior when he was a small puppy. You also need to help the children in the home to understand how and why they should not promote undesirable behaviors as well. Are Goldendoodles Easy to Train? A hybrid with Golden Retriever and Poodle genes, Goldendoodles are always fast learners and easy to train. Golden Retrievers are, by nature, extremely loyal dogs and are always eager to make their owners happy. They tend to have a happy demeanor whereas Poodles tend to have a more sophisticated air about them. While all dogs can learn, some dogs have shorter attention spans than others. Training in a busy home with loud and active children can affect the attention span too. Make sure in the beginning to work on commands with no distractions like other dogs, traffic, children, or wildlife. Setting expectations is vital in establishing the groundwork before you begin your dog training. It is always best to start with a clean slate vs. Set boundaries such as no jumping from day one. Take advantage of this innocent period where you have no bad habits that have been set. Obedience training is essential to living a harmonious life with your dog and the amount of time it takes to train a good behavior will take less than half the time it will take to change a bad behavior. Because puppies have a short attention span, training sessions should be only minutes in length but can be repeated once an hour. Positive Reinforcement Using positive reinforcement convinces your puppy that behaving accordingly or following instructions will merit them a reward in the form of food, verbal praise, or petting. While it is easier to instill fear in your puppy or punish them for inappropriate behavior, this method will never result in consistent positive behavior. A dog that behaves out of fear will eventually retaliate. Positive reinforcement training provides your puppy with an incentive to behave correctly. A treat will keep them seated quietly even when they are overly excited to meet your guests. Once a command is mastered, the food rewards can be rotated with pets or positive words each time the command is successfully followed. Over time, they will need fewer and fewer food rewards and be happy to oblige for a simple pat on the head or verbal praise. The timing is critical so that the puppy associates not only the click but also the reward as a positive reaction to their behavior. A clicker helps your puppy identify the very instant that they are doing what you want them to do making their learning process quicker. On the other hand, shock training is one of the most detrimental training methods you can utilize on your Goldendoodle puppy. This is a training method that makes use of punishment through the use of shock collars which subjects your puppy to pain as a result of unwanted behavior. This method may result in aggression or fear-based behavior. We advise you to give them positive reinforcements and train them with love and care. It is always best for your puppy to want to please you rather than to be afraid to displease you. Training Basics We love dogs who can perform a fun trick, but learning the basics of obedience first is important. Before we ask them to roll over, sit up on their haunches, or heal without a leash, it is crucial that they first learn the basics. You have to ensure they have already mastered the basic commands of sit, down, stay, and place as they will be the building blocks for all other commands. Some people choose to send their puppy to board and training, to get a jump start from a professional. Dog Socialization Dogs are very sociable and Goldendoodles are one of the friendliest breeds. Taking them out to dog parks or the mall or just letting them interact with your family members or other dogs helps them learn how to handle themselves around unfamiliar people or pets. Little by little, through guided socialization, they will learn not to be rattled by unexpected circumstances or guests. Keep in mind that until a puppy is fully vaccinated, he needs to avoid exposure to areas of high traffic of other dogs. Therefore, until the puppy reaches 16 weeks of age the age of full vaccination , he needs to play only with other fully vaccinated dogs in areas such as your backyard. Carrying them in public places such as Home Depot and Tractor Supply will allow safe exposure. Your Goldendoodle puppy must meet as many as new people a week. Be consistent, and tolerant, and offer positive reinforcement when necessary. The time and effort you put in now will pay off in the long run. It is beneficial to purchase a crate for your puppy and use it when you are not able to directly observe him. Doing so will give him a safe and secure place to stay and will also help in the housetraining process, as dogs have an instinct not to soil their sleeping area. The crate will teach your pup to control their urge to eliminate until the appropriate time. It is important to ensure that everyone in the family follows the same rules for potty training a pup. Find an area in the yard that the pup can use as their designated elimination spot and take them there on a leash when it is time to go. The smell of this spot will act as a reminder to the pup that this is where they should go to do their business. Developing a consistent verbal cue during the toileting process will help to create a language between you and your canine companion. Have patience as your dog may need multiple attempts to go and may not always do so immediately. Focus on the task at hand, not on socialization. Reward them with positive reinforcement when they have completed the job. Once your puppy has completed their business, bring them inside to enjoy some quality time. Dogs are creatures of habit; they like to eat, sleep, and relieve themselves on a regular schedule. Creating a consistent routine for your puppy can be a simple process and it will become more straightforward as they age. Take note of when your pup usually does their business, such as in the morning, evening, or after meals, and then adjust your schedule accordingly to accommodate these needs. In case you miss it, just tidy up the area and acknowledge your unavailability. Avoid reprimanding the puppy. As soon as you notice him behaving restlessly, sniffing around, circling, or attempting to leave unnoticed, immediately pick him up and take him outside, as these are clear indications that he needs to eliminate. Crate Training Your Goldendoodle puppy should be placed in the crate during any unsupervised time. When your puppy is 8 weeks old, it should be treated like a one-year-old human toddler. To ensure their safety, they should not be allowed to roam freely around the house or be left unsupervised for any length of time. If an accident does occur, avoid scolding the pup and instead reprimand yourself, as the puppy only learns if the reprimand is given at the time of the accident. Each accident is a setback in the training process and should be avoided. A puppy should not be allowed access to the floor unless it has gone potty outside within the last 45 minutes. This will help to avoid accidents. If the playtime reaches an hour, the puppy should be taken outside to potty again. In the crate, the limit is 3 hours, but outside the crate, the limit is one hour. Every month, the crate time limit can be increased by one hour. Food is an easy motivation for our furry friends to follow commands and instructions and works wonders when associated with a command or routine you want them to remember. Rich treats like liver or hotdog bits can cause stomach issues and should be used only in very small quantities. A properly carried-out routine is the most consistent form of puppy training you can provide. From meal times, bathroom breaks, and playtime to naps and bedtime, a structured list of activities will give your Goldendoodle a rhythm that they will grow to expect. Feeding your puppy around the same time daily also gives you consistent potty time. Professional Trainers Are Always an Option Not all dog owners have the time to train their puppies personally. Although this could be a rewarding experience, some of us may be too busy with work or other matters that may not allow consistency which is very important for retention and behavior formation. Some trainers will do board and train which means they keep your puppy for a designated amount of time to work one on one with your puppy to teach housebreaking and basic commands. Others will work with you and your puppy together which involves you in the process and this is typically a one-a-day-a-week lesson. In summary, Goldendoodles are great dogs, but they are the best when they are properly trained. If you emphasize their training from puppyhood on, you will be assured a polite, mannerly adult dog that is enjoyed by the family members and all others that come in contact with your Goldendoodle. Special Content Step-by-step guide on how to train your Goldendoodle puppy Hello fellas, nice to have you here on our Goldendoodle blog page! Some say they got their adorableness from their retriever side; others say they got their intelligence from their Poodle side. In any case, the fact remains that they combined the best of both breeds and took none of their fluffs. However, it is important to establish a simple fact here and right now. But in order to get them to materialize their sharp-wits and brilliance, there is a need to TRAIN them. So how do you go about that? Steps to train a Goldendoodle I know the feeling of wanting to begin the training of your cute little canine on the first day you bring him home. But guess what? Young puppies have short attention spans, and as such, any command you serve them or words you try to teach them on that first day might just fall on deaf ears. And that is per the guidelines from the Veterinary Centers of America. However, thanks to Goldendoodles' innate smartness, you can expect your pup to be ripe for full-blown training earlier than this. The four types of dog training methods: Obedience training based on positive reinforcement and association Clicker training When it comes to training your doodles on how to obey commands, the most popular approach adopted by many dog training experts and pro pet owners is the clicker training method. This method involves the use of a hand-held device that creates a clicking sound. In this method, you give a command to your pup, which could be a "sit" "fetch" or "stay" command. Once the dog obeys the command, you give them a reward, which could be a treat, a toy, or a praise reward. But when serving this reward, you'll pair it with a clicking sound. Over time, the pup will begin to associate the clicking sound with the reward. And whenever he hears the sound of the clicks, he knows immediately that a praise reward is around the corner. In case you don't have a clicker around, you can purchase one from a pet store or check them out on Amazon. Food rewards While the clicker training has to be served consistently to achieve a reliable result, food reward training is only needed occasionally. In the aspect of food and treats, Goldendoodles are just like every other dog. They remain as overly motivated by the sound or smell of food as your regular Poodle or Golden Retriever pup. As a result of this innate love for food, you can expect the food reward technique to work wonders on their obedience response. A typical food reward can consist of regular dog treats such as cold cuts, veggies, hot dog bits, snacks, pieces of cheese, baby carrots, or any other high-value food. Scented item training You can teach your doodles to seek out toys, fetch balls, and perform other simple tasks by simply taking them through the scented item training course. But, of course, this method doesn't always apply to every doodle. The reason is that if you haven't been playing together before using that toy or ball, it might be difficult for the dog to attach any importance to the toy when it sees it. But since a doodle is a food-driven breed, like other dogs, you can scent the toys with a portion of food or treats you know they like and kick the toy away, while you ask them to fetch it. Over time, the learning dog will learn to detect and appreciate the toys when he sees it because he knows what the item represents. Praise reward training Dogs are quite like humans in this regard. And your Goldendoodle is no exception. They love to be praised, and they enjoy it when their praises are being sung. The praise reward approach is good for a doodle because this breed is very much people-oriented, and their rapport with humans is second to none. When you want to reward your cute little doodle for good behavior, especially when they've obeyed a command or done something impressive, you can use a praise reward coupled with the food reward you're giving to them. And, of course, crate training works too Crate training is another interesting approach that you can apply to your Goldendoodles. This technique is used to teach your dog or to get them in a routine. On the teaching aspect, it teaches them that they do not go to the bathroom where you sleep since dogs do not like soil their beds. And on the routine aspect, you can use their time non-crate time to put them through some basic commands, teach them to dance, snuggle, and take a walk. Conclusion In conclusion, consistency is key when it comes to training a Goldendoodle, so you just have to choose a training method and stay consistent with it. Related Tags. There is so much your little guy needs to learn to be a polite, lifelong family companion — where do you even begin? We are here to give you a broad overview of some basic tips of where to start with teaching your new buddy. Follow these three steps to begin training your 8 week old doodle puppy. The good news is if you welcome a JLDD puppy, we have already done some of the hard work with crate training for you. At JLDD we introduce all of our puppies to the crate at weeks of age! First, they are first placed in a crate with another littermate. As they get older, they begin to spend small amounts of individual time in the crate each day. We give our pups an excellent head start, but as the owner, it is up to you to follow through with structured crate time even if your pup objects at first. The first few days can be extremely difficult, but your consistency will pay off. Many owners find it difficult to be consistent because of their worry that their dog is miserable with crate training and, true enough, the puppies can sound really pitiful in there. But stay strong and remember that you are actually helping them in the long run to have a safe place when they must be left alone. A good crate training foundation will be very helpful in curbing separation anxiety and will make traveling, boarding, grooming, etc. Once the pup accepts the crate as his personal space, he will often go there on his own to rest. Keeping a routine is key so your pup knows what to expect. Allow pup to settle for about five minutes before you let him or her out. The only time this does not apply is in the middle of the night. Potty Training When people ask what they need to know before buying a doodle , this is the big one! And it can be very intimidating for owners. Bring all your consistency and patience! Keep in mind most puppies will not be fully potty trained until at least weeks. We start our young pups on puppy pad training so puppy pads can be a helpful stepping stone to outdoor potty training when you first bring your dood home. Keeping the area small and puppy pads easily accessible will help your pup stay consistent. Many owners find it is an easy transition to slowly move the puppy pads to the designated outdoor area closer to the door, then right outside the door, etc. Other owners prefer to jump straight into outdoor potty training. Here are a few basic tips: Frequent potty breaks. When your doodle is awake and playing, taking him out as frequently as every 30 minutes is important when they are young. When pup does potty, immediately praise and reward him with a treat. Always use the same exit to take your puppy out. This will help them learn where to head when the urge strikes! Eagle Eye. Scolding your pup for an accident after the fact is generally ineffective as he will not connect the discipline to the moment of the accident. We work on basic obedience and conditioning as early as weeks with our pups at JLDD by waiting until the pups sit to give their food and treats. Remember that basic obedience is critical for establishing the owner-dog relationship early on. It teaches your doodle that he must look to you for direction and when treats are involved that looking to the human for direction is lots of fun! Doodle puppies are extremely clever and can easily learn the basics such as sit, stay, down and come in their first couple weeks at home with you. Stay positive and keep training sessions short. End the session if you find yourself feeling frustrated for any reason. Furthermore, doodles are a sensitive breed and generally highly trainable so most respond quite well to positive training methods. Typically, simply ignoring unwanted behavior and rewarding the desired behavior will produce the intended results. If you're looking for a fully trained doodle to bring home, JLDD provides an awesome course for new puppies. We hope the advice in this article helps aid the teaching of your dog! Be sure to share your best tips with us at contact jennaleedoodles. Post not marked as liked4 Recent Posts.