labrador retriever puppy food

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Poodles often times start with fluffier hair that somewhat resembles a cotton ball and as they grow older it will become curlier. Intelligent Poodles are arguably the second smartest dog. This combined with the fact they are viewed as an allergy friendly dog with loving personalities makes them an ideal dog for cross breeding. Many of the "designer dog" breeds are crossed with poodles, including the Labradoodle. Labradoodles are a cross between the Labrador Retriever and the Poodle and are often considered to be the seventh smartest dog. As a result the Labradoodle breed is recognized as a cross between two "top ten" dog breeds and was first created to fill the need for a better service dog, and has continued to be used for this purpose even today. Health While Poodles and Labradoodles can naturally be a healthier breed than some dogs, even they are not exempt from the possibility of some diseases. That is why at Lovely Little Labradoodles we genetically test all of our dogs to assure they are free from common diseases. We also go a step farther and offer a two-year health guarantee on all of our puppies. Friendly Poodles and Labradoodles are friendly, devoted, playful and all-around good-natured pets that get along well with both people of all ages and other animals. But just like any dog the key is proper socialization. Lovely Little Labradoodles starts that process early, introducing our puppies to a variety of people and experiences to assist in providing our fur baby families with well-adjusted puppies. Activity Levels Both Poodles and Labradoodles are generally moderate to high energy dogs depending on the individual personality and age of the dog. These dogs need human interaction and stimuli to keep them busy. They are good pets for both families and individuals because they thrive off love and affection think puppy cuddle time and they adore games and activities. With basic exercise both breeds are ideal for people who live in apartments. Grooming Poodles and Labradoodles have various grooming needs depending on coat type, Lovely Little Labradoodles is here to help every family pick the right puppy for their lifestyle. Lovely Little Labradoodles These breeders are small-scale breeders who operate from their homes in the mountains of east Tennessee. Their puppies are well cared for and come from their own family dogs. The puppy parents have been genetically health tested and are OFA health certified. These Labradoodle puppies in Tennessee have been fully vaccinated and receive regular health checkups at the vet. They are all F1 Labradoodle puppies that have been genetically tested for health risks. Each puppy is brought up with much love and has been socially exposed to other animals and humans. They also house train the puppies before they are made available. In addition, the Labradoodle puppies have been acclimated to various sounds and sights of urban life. Operating since , these breeders are quite new, but they have some amazing reviews on their website, and they post content on their social media pages and their youtube channel. They care about the health and happiness of these Labradoodle puppies in each Tennessee. They are definitely not the cheapest option on the market, but they ensure healthy standard Labradoodle puppies in Tennessee. Their goal is to get you a puppy who will be a healthy, lifelong family member. The deposit can be used for a future litter if required, but it is non-refundable. The final payment will be made at the time of adoption. At this time, you will receive a starter package along with your new little furry friend. Puppies sold are only pets; further inquiries will need to be made if you want breeding rights for the dogs. The dogs they breed have the best temperaments for family dogs and are great with people and kids. They can also be further trained as therapy dogs. These breeders specifically specialize in therapy dogs. This started because the family required a therapy dog after a family member suffered a stroke. They found so much comfort through this Labradoodle that they decided to work on this project with passion. Now, they aim to provide the perfect Labradoodles for companionship and care. They make available puppies in Tennessee that are not only super friendly, but they have the softest coats and are very cuddly and loving. The Labradoodles are raised with the utmost care. Each puppy is brought up in a secure, home environment. Each puppy has been socialized by contact with dogs and humans. The puppies are also genetically tested and receive regular vet checkups. All of this is to ensure happy and healthy Labradoodles. If you wish to get a Labradoodle puppy in Tennessee, Calypso Breeze is a great option. You can easily fill out their online application form and put in a deposit for an available Labradoodle puppy. These puppies will not be shipped to your home. However, other options for pick up are available. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Knoxville Tennessee and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted.

We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. It's taking care of your new family member, which can be challenging but rewarding. This is a unique dog breed, and owning one isn't an easy task and might not be what you are looking for. Instead, you should learn more about the breed, how they act, and what is required to own one before adoption. Owning a Black F1b Labradoodle is a lot of fun because they have the temperament and energy of a Labrador and the coat and hypoallergenic coat of a poodle. This is ideal for dog owners because they love families, are high energy, and love activity. But you can expect more grooming needs too. This guide is a complete and detailed look into the life of a Black F1b Labradoodle and what it's like to own one. We include critical details about the breed, how rare they are, temperament, grooming, benefits, and how to care for them correctly. All data and research about this breed have been gathered from verified sources. This information also comes from fellow F1B Labradoodle owners to ensure we know exactly what to expect with this dog. This is because they are an easy breed to match, making them popular to breed and adopt. Black Labradoodles are lovely dogs, but they are high-energy and active pups. You should ensure that you can provide a suitable amount of attention and care to your Labradoodle. Before adopting a Labradoodle, ensure you have a suitable living space and house. Make sure your neighbors are okay with a high-energy dog in your neighborhood. Make sure you have plenty of time and energy to take care of a Labradoodle. They are adorable, intelligent, and active dogs that require lots of attention and care. What Is An F1b Labradoodle? This breed has one F1 Labradoodle parent and a purebred parent. Because of this, many breeders prefer to use this combination, and owners like it too. This breed also has gained the nickname of the Hypoallergenic Labrador Retriever because of this. We will look at the pros and cons of the F1b Labradoodle below, along with other key characteristics and details about the breed and owning one. Are Black Labradoodles Rare? Black F1B Labradoodles are not a rare breed but one of the most common Labradoodle generations. This blend is called a Backcross, which is why the B was added to the generation name. The first generation is an F1, and this next generation is the F1B Labradoodle. In general, you shouldn't have an issue finding this breed around you. Most Labradoodle breeders will have plenty of black F1B puppies for adoption. The standard size of an F1B Labradoodle depends on the dog's genes and gender. Generally, a Black F1b Labradoodle is about pounds, and a male can get as big as 80 pounds. A standard height for a male F1B Labradoodle is between 22 and 25 inches, and they will weigh about 65 to 80 pounds. Female F1b Labradoodles typically are between 20 and 23 inches tall and weigh less between 50 and 65 pounds. Overall, the F1b Labradoodle is smaller and weighs less than your average Labrador but is larger than the standard poodle. The temperament of this dog is a mix of the Labrador Retriever and the Poodle. The Labradoodle can be described as a friendly, social, intelligent, loyal, and gentle dog. All the good things you know about a Labrador come with this breed, like the extra energy, enthusiasm for exercise, friendliness, and overall active personality. The loyalty of this breed is also excellent. They have plenty of intelligence so training them is not a problem. However, this can change slightly depending on the breed. Most F1B Labradoodle breeds will have a thick curly, or wavy coat style with less shedding and allergies. You will see a coat resembling the traditional poodle coat with this breed type. Because of the minimal shedding, coat maintenance is required and tends to need more attention than a traditional Labrador. The coat also grows long, so regular grooming and combing are required too. This curly or wavy coat type with a thicker length is preferred for families, and the black fur is ideal due to the minimal shedding. Are F1b Labradoodles Hypoallergenic? Labradoodles have been bred hypoallergenic, which means they don't cause allergies in humans. However, as with any other dog, Labradoodles can still cause allergies in some people. No dog is entirely hypoallergenic, but in general, this specific breed is a top recommendation for anybody with allergies. However, the risk of allergies can rise in this breed if there is a more dominant presence of the Labrador genes than the poodle genes. Grooming is an integral part of the care that you give your dog. F1B Labradoodles are known to be gentle and intelligent. However, they need grooming and care just like other dogs. And you can expect more grooming requirements because of their unique coat type. Any more than this would likely be excessive. Combing To maintain a healthy coat, you should comb your Labradoodle at least once a week. You can use a particular brush that is designed for the breed. This will help detangle their fur and keep them healthy. Haircuts You should get a haircut for your Labradoodle for about 2 inches of fur removed twice per year. This will vary based on where you live, and a shorter coat in the summer is preferred because it can get quite hot. They are friendly and playful dogs who love cuddling and attention. This breed is also brilliant and loves learning new tricks and training. So why exactly should you own a black F1B Labradoodle? Let us explain. Black Labradoodles are excellent companions for families, children, and seniors. They are great dogs for first-time dog owners as well. Owning a black Labradoodle is a unique experience. These pups are cuddly, playful, and affectionate dogs who love their owners dearly. If you want to add a special dog to your family, you should consider owning a black Labradoodle. None Or Minimal Shedding If anybody in your family struggles with allergies or you want to avoid cleaning up tons of fur around the house, the F1b Labradoodle is perfect for you. They are affectionate and loyal dogs who love to play and hang out with their owners. You will not regret owning this dog because they get along well with children. This is why they are the perfect family dog breed. Here are some reasons you shouldn't own an F1b Labradoodle too. It can be a hassle for some, whether this is the added haircuts or increased combing requirements. This can lead to separation anxiety, needing more attention than some other breeds might. Typically a Black Poodle is bred with a Black Lab, but since black is a dominant color, sometimes another color of poodle red, chocolate, etc , can still have black puppies. Black Labradoodles have become wildly popular for their sweet, lovable nature, familiar black color, low-shedding and hypoallergenic coat characteristics. Labradoodles come in other colors, such as chocolate, yellow, cream, parti-colors, and occasionally red, but some people love the sweet nature of a Black Labradoodle. Many first generation Black Labradoodles f1 will shed. We recommend getting an F1b Black Labradoodle if you're worried about shedding or have dog allergies. Friendly Black Labradoodles One of the most desirable characteristics of the Black Labradoodle is their deep love of people. A Black Labradoodle is the happiest when they are surrounded by people that they love. They are highly intelligent and trainable, Black Labradoodles enjoy the stimulation of training and are eager to please their loved ones so they pick up on the cues very quickly. Some Black Labradoodle puppies receive many of the Poodle characteristics of being reserved, having a coat that is very fine and needs regular trimming. While other Black Labradoodles receive the excitable and almost immature nature of the Labrador Retrievers. As the Black Labradoodle becomes more common and breeders are crossing them with more consistency the discrepancies are becoming less of an issue and the breed is becoming more consistent. It is important to realize that the AKC does not yet recognize Black Labradoodles as an official breed, though most other registrations recognize them. The AKC actually does not yet recognize any of the doodles. Most families that want a wonderful dog, and are not concerned about show events do not care that the AKC does not officially recognize the Black Labradoodle currently. Black Labradoodle Best Breeders The best way to avoid the inconsistencies of the Black Labradoodle breed is to adopt from a reputable breeder. Avoid puppy mills at all cost and make sure that the breeder you buy from is caring for the health and wellness of your Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy from before conception until you take your Black Labradoodle home with you. A Black Labradoodle should have a sleek, black coat with no sprinklings of any other color and have a black nose. Talk to your breeder about silver and blue Labradoodles as they often appear black as puppies. Some people prefer the looks of a silver or blue Labradoodle to a Black Labradoodle. A Blue Labradoodle, for instance, will start out looking like a Black Labradoodle, but as it grows its coat will come in a beautiful "blue" color. Although the color is called "blue" in the dog world it is almost a gun metal gray. Silver Labradoodles are a lighter silver color than a Blue Labradoodle. Finding a healthy black Labradoodle puppy. A lot comes into play when breeders attempt to create a specifically black Labradoodle. That is because both the purebred Labrador retriever and the purebred poodle come in three different color varieties. Genetics are difficult to control, and sometimes it takes a few generations for breeders to get the desired color of a Labradoodle right. Especially when working with a first generation F1 black Labradoodle. Where Do They Come From? The Labradoodle craze is believed to have begun in Australia. Enthusiastic breeders went on a mission to create an intelligent, friendly and responsive service dog that had all the desirable traits of the Poodle and the Lab. Still, because the Labradoodle is a newer generation crossbreed, there is a lot of speculation regarding the majority of his roots. The Labrador is an ancient breed who hails from Newfoundland, Canada. The Standard Poodle is of German descent and is believed to be over years old. Both breeds were used as waterdogs for fishing and duck hunting, and were renowned for their intelligence and retrieving abilities. Defining Characteristics of the Black Labradoodle Just about the only thing you can guarantee about what your black Labradoodle will look like will be his color. This is because he is a crossbreed. For that reason, his coat texture, size, weight and more will be left up to chance. Despite having similar temperamental traits, the poodle and the Labrador are very different looking dogs. Both the Labrador and the poodle come in three color varieties. The Lab, for example, comes in chocolate, black and yellow, while the poodle comes in black, brown and apricot. Both breeds are athletically built water dogs, however. So a prospective black Labradoodle owner can expect this crossbreed to be similarly built, with a long tail, floppy ears, and a sweet, expressive face. How Big Is a Black Labradoodle? An adult Labradoodle size is going to depend on several factors. Because he is a crossbreed, your Labradoodle full grown will vary in size. This will be based not only on which genetic traits he inherits from his purebred parents, but also how big each parent breed is. On average, the black Standard Labradoodle is around 15 to .Black Labradoodle Grooming and General Care While the Poodle is considered to be a hypoallergenic dog who hardly sheds and produces very little allergy-inducing dander in his coat, the Labrador sheds heavier twice a year during shedding season. For this reason, grooming maintenance could vary when it comes to your black Labradoodle mix. They might also shed. On the other hand, if the black Labradoodle has a coat more like his Poodle parent, his fur could be prone to matting and will need brushing a bit more frequently. However, your black Labradoodle will need an occasional bath every few weeks. He will also need his nails trimmed regularly to keep them from breaking and his ears cleaned to keep them from developing infection due to waxy build up. But these are claims based mostly on biased and superstitions, with little to no evidence supporting them. Truth be told, a black Labradoodle is still just a Labradoodle. And he will carry whichever temperamental traits he inherits from his purebred parents. As previously mentioned, the Labrador and the poodle have very similar temperamental traits. They are both family-oriented breeds who do well with children and are incredibly intelligent. However, they are also both highly energetic and athletic. For this reason, a black Labradoodle will more likely than not require a lot of time and patience when it comes to training and exercise. The black Labradoodle is the crossbreed offspring of two very intelligent and active breeds. He could therefore be prone to boredom and becoming destructive if left to his own devices without doggy jobs or activates. For this reason, we recommend early socialization and obedience training beginning in puppyhood. This will help to ensure the black Labradoodle is a well-adjusted and happy dog. Can You Show a Black Labradoodle? The black Labradoodle makes an excellent family pet and service animal when properly trained and socialized. However, he is a newer generation crossbreed and is still not officially recognized by official clubs and organizations, like the American Kennel Club. For those interested in show dogs, purebreds are the best and safest bet. Still, there are purebred standards that dogs used for show require. This means their black Labradoodle offspring is likely going to be similar. A dog with smarts and energy will require a lot of exercise. Anyone considering getting a black Labradoodle crossbreed should prepare to spend an adequate amount of time every day providing this dog with what he needs to be happy and healthy. But what kind of exercise do they require? Daily walks, jogs, hikes and swimming can all serve as excellent exercise outlets. Your black Labradoodle will also enjoy games of fetch, chase, and Frisbee in a large, fenced-in backyard. Keep in mind that the Labradoodle is the crossbreed offspring of two dogs who were bred for hunting. Make sure that you spend plenty of time working on your recall. Now, what about training? The Labrador and the Poodle are both very smart breeds, but with intelligence comes independent thinking. For the most part, the Lab and the Poodle are eager to please and make loyal, hard-working students. So long as the training sessions are kept fun, positive and rewarding for them. This means that your Labradoodle should be simple to train. Health and Lifespan A Labrador Poodle mix is likely to live into their teens. Provided the dog is well treated and that both parents have been fully health tested. F1b Labradoodle puppies Have you seen an F1b Labradoodle for sale or adoption, and wondered what the extra letters stand for? What is an F1b Labradoodle? What does F1b stand for? The number following the F describes how many generations separate a puppy from their most recent purebred ancestor. F1 means that a puppy has at least one purebred parent. F2 means that they have purebred grandparents, but mixed breed parents, and so on. Back crossing is when you mate a mixed breed dog to a pedigree dog from one of their ancestral breeds. But you can also get F2b Labradoodles and so on. What about an F1bb Labradoodle? They have one purebred parent, three purebred grandparents, and eight purebred great grandparents. Important note F1, F1b, F1bb etc all refer to mixed breed dogs. They are ways of describing the pattern of mixing that took place. But why do breeders pursue such elaborate permutations of mixed breeding? Does it actually produce better puppies? Why breed F1b dogs? Breeders use back crossing to increase the probability of puppies inheriting specific traits. The reason is to increase the probability of the F1b generation having non-shedding coats. F1b Mini Labradoodle litters are more likely to be small, assuming Miniature Poodles were used for each generation. They will inherit genes governing coat length, texture and shedding from both of their parents, and they may or may not shed. Their Labradoodle parent will also provide copies of half of their own genes, selected at random. Importantly, their Labrador inheritance could still result in them having a shedding coat. How big do F1b Labradoodles get? Size is one of the most potentially variable Labradoodle qualities of all. In theory a first generation Labradoodle can weigh anything from 40 to 80 pounds, which is a pretty wide range! Since Poodles are smaller on average than Labradors, creating an F1b Labradoodle generation increases the odds of the puppies falling at the top or bottom of that range, depending on whether a Labrador or Poodle parent is used. What about an F1b Mini Labradoodle? Mini Labradoodles are increasingly popular. They are the result of crossing a Labrador Retriever with a Miniature Poodle. Mini Poodles usually weigh between 10 and 15 pounds, which means the potential weight range for an F1 Miniature Poodle is staggeringly wide. But, crossing a petite F1 Mini Labradoodle with another Miniature Poodle greatly increases the probability of reliably small F1b Mini Labradoodle puppies. This is desirable for breeders and puppy buyers because most people prefer to know in advance how big their puppy is likely to get! What is an F1b Labradoodle like as a pet — temperament and training Creating an F1b generation can also increase the odds of a Labradoodle having a very Labrador-y or Poodle-ish personality. For Standard Labradoodles, this might not actually make much difference. Labradors and Poodles were both originally gundogs, and they are both active, clever, open to meeting new people, and responsive to training, If anything the Poodle may be slightly less keen to socialize with other dogs, and slightly more likely to display watchdog behaviors at home for example barking at visitors and passers by. However, Miniature Poodle temperament is distinctly different from Labrador and Standard Poodle temperament in several ways. They are more likely to display non-social fear for example of vehicles, thunder or fireworks be touch sensitive suffer separation anxiety and behave aggressively or threateningly to other dogs in the same household dog rivalry. So creating an F1b generation of Mini Labradoodle puppies increases the odds of dogs with these traits. Are F1b Labradoodles hypoallergenic? In fact, there is no convincing evidence that any breed of dog is truly hypoallergenic, including pedigree Poodles and other non-shedding breeds. So how do some people with allergies tolerate Labradoodles? Well, the allergenic proteins in their saliva, sweat and urine are actually a family of proteins called Can F 1 proteins. And there is a lot of subtle variation in the exact molecular composition of the Can F 1 proteins individual dogs produce. Likewise, there is lots of subtle variation in the immune systems of dog-allergic people. Unfortunately designer dogs like Labradoodles are very vulnerable to exploitation by puppy farms. Ultimately, the exact size, coat, and temperament of either generation is less consistent than that of a purebred Lab or Poodle. If something like size, a non-shedding coat, or particular character traits is important to you, how do you spot the puppy which has inherited that perfect combination? Unfortunately, puppy behavior is a very poor predictor of adult F1b dog temperament. Lots of factors, like the environment the breeder raises them in, the age they leave mom, how much you socialize them before 12 weeks old , and training will also shape their grown up personality. Puppies are born with a soft puppy coat which is replaced by a coarser adult coat at about 6 months old. How do I find F1b Labradoodle puppies for sale near me? Puppy farmers keep breeding dogs and their puppies in poor conditions, but charge high prices, to achieve maximum profit. Puppies raised on puppy farms often have hereditary diseases which could have been avoided by genetic testing of their parents. They are also more likely to come home with parasitic infections. Behavioral problems resulting from a lack of socialization or being sold too young are commonplace too. Look for breeders who have been recommended by someone you know, or who can provide references from previous puppy buyers. Ask lots of questions about how their puppies are raised. And insist on seeing the results of health tests for both parents. A good breeder will be aware of the dangers facing Labradoodles from puppy farms, and be happy that you care too. This article can help you spot a bad breeder and give them a wide berth. February 10, Table of Contents The Labradoodle is next to the Goldendoodle the most well-known type of Doodle dog. A cross of Labrador Retriever and Poodle, he is a large, goofy and always happy dog. While this Doodle mix can come in a variety of colors, the most popular one by far is black. Today we want to look at black Labradoodles in particular. How much can you expect to pay for a black Labradoodle? Are they hypoallergenic? Do they turn grey with age? Origin The black Labradoodle comes — like Labradoodles of all colors — from a pairing of Labrador and Poodle. The Poodle parent is typically a Standard Poodle. Labradors themselves come in three distinct colors: Black, yellow and chocolate. Poodles have a larger color variety: They can be black, apricot, brown, grey, silver, white … and also have irregular patterns, such as in the Phantom Poodle or Parti Poodle. Color genetics can be complicated. The best way to guaranteed get black Labradoodle puppies is to cross a black Labrador and a black Poodle. In such a litter, most of the puppies should be black. Are Black Labradoodles hypoallergenic? If you have spent any time researching Doodle breeds yet, you know that this is not an easily answered question. On the one hand, there is no such thing as a guaranteed hypoallergenic dog. On the other hand, chances are that your Labradoodle will be a lot more hypoallergenic than most other dogs out there. Whether your Labradoodle is black or a different color does not play a big role when it comes to their coat qualities — a black Labradoodle will be as hypoallergenic as a yellow Labradoodle. Training Labradoodles require consistent and positive training in order to turn into well-behaved companions, regardless of their color! As very energetic and outgoing dogs, it is crucial to teach them to be calm and focused in public and have good leash manners. Since these dogs become invisible at night due to their color, it is advisable to walk them on an LED collar in the dark. Coming when called is a very important skill to add to the list, as well as politely sitting and greeting visitors. You should not delay getting started in training your Labradoodle — the early you begin, the faster your dog will learn. Labradoodles are typically very food-driven. Use high-quality treats and food for your Labradoodle , and he will happily learn any trick you want to teach him! Do Black Labradoodles shed? As a Doodle breed, Labradoodles will not shed — or only shed minimally. If you are not a fan of dog hair around the house, a black Labradoodle certainly fits the bill. This is not true! You can either buy some clippers and groom your dog at home or take him to a local groomer. It goes without saying that this will be tied to daily brushing and monthly baths with a good shampoo. Do not let it mat or your dog will suffer from painful skin sores! Here you can find our recommendations for the best brushes for Labradoodles. Do Black Labradoodles turn gray? You might have gotten a black Labradoodle puppy, but within the first year he seems to become more and more grey. This dilute gene can be passed on without being expressed. Dilute puppies often look black when first born and start to lighten during the first year of their life. This might appear as if your black Labradoodle is turning grey — but in fact, he was just a grey Labradoodle all along who looked to be darker as a young puppy. If you have a true genetically black Labradoodle, he might start to get grey and white hair around his muzzle in his older years. Do they get hot in the sun? If you live in a hot climate you should consider keeping your dog in a short coat. Both the Labrador and the Poodle are waterdogs — meaning that your Labradoodle will probably gladly cool off in any kind of pool, puddle, pond or stream he can find. By wetting him down frequently you can prevent him from overheating in the sun. Remember that dogs cannot sweat and panting can only regulate their body temperature so much. Providing shade and cool water is crucial for keeping your black Labradoodle happy and healthy in the sun. How much is a black Labradoodle? Black Labradoodles will cost around the same as brown or cream Labradoodles. Yes — they are not cheap. However, it is really important that you do not price-shop when looking for a puppy! It is impossible to breed and raise healthy, well-mannered puppies with a good temperament for low prices. Labradoodles are prone to inheritable conditions such as hip dysplasia, and you need to make absolutely sure that your breeder tested both parents for potential issues. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day. I went to meet Mike to talk about an upcoming litter and Bailey was sitting by herself. I pretty much changed my mind and wanted her immediately. She was introduced to a 6 year old cocker spaniel with and IVDD condition and they became best friends. Great Temperament, Incredibly smart and absolutely beautiful addition to my family. Mike has been following up since I got her checking to see if I had any issues. His training packet was detailed and if you follow the crate training and feeding regiment you will have no problems. Angelica I brought home an F2 labradoodle from here. My pups has already learned several commands within a few weeks of having him. The breeder has plenty of space for the pups and you can tell that there is a lot of care put into the environment. My dog has a great temperament and deals with people well. Upon the first meeting my pups was excited to greet people you can tell he had been socialized well. Mike does well with communication and answers any questions. Highly recommended! Javier Sanchez Got my black lab from Mike trained. He is very good and is comfortable with a crate, walking and great temperament. Overall an awesome dog from a great breeder! Maura Eaton My 12 year old son did all the research on Mike and his company. He had 5 star reviews across the board. Once we saw the picture of Zoey, a Chocolate Labradoodle, we knew we had to meet her. Mike's business is clean, the dogs are all loved by him and well trained. Zoey was Stage 1 trained. This is my first dog as an adult and Mike was excellent in providing advice and recommendations. After we adopted Zoey, Mike would periodically check-in on how Zoey was adjusting to her new family and home. As you can see in the pictures, she is very happy. Mike knew her personality well - smart, sweet and social. A perfect fit and addition to our family. He worked on training with the puppy before we brought him home, which was a big help in the adjustment! I would recommend Mike to anyone looking for a labradoodle puppy. Our puppy has been the best addition to our family and we have enjoyed working with Mike. John Schmadeke We were looking for a labradoodle puppy from a reputable and experienced breeder. Mike was super helpful, and we really appreciated that he cared so much about things like genetics and DNA testing for the dogs. Mike has always been available to answer our questions and to give advice. Tom Riniker We found Mike to be very professional, knowledgeable, and helpful when we purchased a puppy from him. His kennels are clean and organized, and his puppies are well cared for. He really loves his career and it shows! He has followed up with us on numerous occasions regarding the health and well-being of our puppy, and I always know I can reach him if I have questions. Thanks for everything, Mike! Yunhua Chen I have bought a stage 2 F1 labradoodle from Mike. His name is Zen, and just like his name, he is a well-behaved and well-trained little man. He only cried about 15 - 30 minutes during the first few nights and later he was sound asleep. I highly recommend Mike as a breeder because not only he deeply cares about the dogs, but also he has the expertise to make the dog the perfect match for you. Michelle Balchunas Mike was absolutely wonderful to deal with and very helpful with adding a new puppy to our family. If you are looking for a lab to add to your family we would highly recommend working with Mike. Charles Arnold Mike was a great help with our new puppy, Archie. Great experience… and a great dog. Junie is gentle, kind and very loving. She's also extremely athletic and smart. Working with Mike was a very smooth process and his "dog siting" service has proved helpful as I do travel on occasion. Having someone I could trust to care for Junie is super helpful. Mike James I recently had the fortunate privilege of working with Mike to find my next pup. For multiple reasons, the breed is perfect for me - the temperament, lifestyle often on the water , and hypoallergenic fits a tough lifestyle. I without hesitation recommend you work with Mike if you are looking for an amazing pup and great support network. Charlie is so gentle. He was just outside getting petted by his fan club, the neighbors. He licks. I got him the week of July 4th he was outside during that noise. He looks at noise. One of his other puppies was the same way, gentle. Day one he knew the trail through the woods back to our house. Charlie is a beautiful Chocolate lab with the softest hair. I got him at 16 weeks. You have no idea how helpful that is. Of course you want a healthy dog. Took the shots like a champ. The Vet remarked how firm his joints were. Yes he lets you brush his teeth! He goes to the door when he has to go. Another reason I wanted a 16 week pup. Peanut butter to continue gentle licks on my fingers. He always gets small chicken or liver for COME. You should see him come. Is Charlie gentle because some hunting dogs have a gentle mouth or is he gentle because Mike treated him right? Oh do exactly as Mike says on the take home instructions, he knows his dogs! Highly recommend! We brought our pup home with all the documentation of his superior genetics. Mike also sends several handouts which help prepare you for puppy ownership and ensure a smooth transition for your pup to his new home! In addition to his exceptional breeding he is exceptionally well-trained. We opted for a stage 2 puppy and not only does he sit, lay down, stay, he has an incredibly calm demeanor and his additional exposure to other dogs was also incredible. He is so well-tempered and well-behaved due to his additional training. We are so happy and in love with our sweet boy! Brent Viditz-Ward We were looking for a chocolate lab puppy for a long time from a reputable breeder and our experience with Mike was wonderful. He took time to get to know us and make sure that the dog was going to a good home and is always available to answer questions, give advice, etc. I highly recommend Mike and his puppies! M Fowkes Mike is a fantastic breeder. We got an F1 puppy from Mike. She is a sweet beautiful girl. Before she was born Mike knew what the puppies would look like generally, and was really easy to communicate with. He is very responsive when I had a lot of questions. He is like that even now that my puppy is 4 months old…available to answer questions and be supportive. Josie Palma-Aurelio We stumbled on this website when we were looking for our next fur baby. All the reviews speak truthful about Mike. He calls us to check on Nala for updates and gives us pointers on how to take care of her. Nala is such a lovable puppy and we are so happy to have her. We highly recommend! Juan Tellez Mike was a great helping my family and puppy get adjusted to our home. You can tell Mike has a lot of dedication and love towards his dogs. Snoop has been a great addition to our family! We are first time pet owners and Mike handheld us through the entire adoption process. His reference material, responsiveness and his genuine care for the puppies has helped us navigate the critical period of 12 weeks smoothly. The puppy is super smart outwitted me in a game of hide n seek when he was 10 weeks old! He is a bundle of joy! We are first time pet owners and had a lot of questions! He is always enthusiastic in answering any questions we have and supporting us before and after getting the pup! He cares about his dogs and pups and it shows in the research he has done and the knowledge he has about them! He has a lot of information on his website about the breed, food, toys and snacks! He also gives a couple of handouts when we book a pup with him and some when we take them home! Those helped a lot in the preparation for our pup! When you take them home, he also gives you details about the breed, vaccination records, and DNA testing done for the litter! Our girl, Shuri, is very energetic and curious! She does really well when we train her and has already learnt so much! For anyone looking for a labradoodle, Mike is the best! Jocelyn I highly recommend Mike. We are first time dog owners and he made the process so easy for us. Our labradoodle has made an excellent addition to our family!

Life Span Did You Know? The Boxador is a designer mixed dog breed that is a cross between a Boxer and a Labrador Retriever. They are sometimes also called a Boxer Lab Mix, although Boxador tends to be a more popular term. Because this is not an established purebred dog, the Boxador is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, but they are still recognized by other official organizations. With mixed breed puppies, you can get any combination of the physical characteristics and character traits of the parent breeds. A Boxador puppy could take completely after their Boxer parent or their Lab parent or could be some combination of both. In general, Boxadors tend to be intelligent, friendly, energetic, and loving. Overall, these dogs tend to make a great addition to a family. Both the Boxer and the Labrador are known for their happy-go-lucky, friendly temperament. They also have a playful spirit and are known for getting along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. In general, the Boxador tends to have a similar temperament. Playtime with small children should be supervised as these dogs will grow into large, energetic dogs and small children can be knocked over by their excitedly wagging tails and energetic play. They tend to be loyal, friendly, and playful and love spending time with their families. Due to the hunting instinct in the parent breeds, a Boxador may have a high prey drive and enjoy chasing things. Boxadors tend to be highly adaptable dogs. They do tend to be a better fit for larger homes with a fenced-in backyard where they can run. However, as long as they receive plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and attention, they can adapt well to apartment living. As with many dog breeds, they are sensitive to extreme heat and can be sensitive to cold. But, overall, this dog breed does well in just about any climate. They love to be around their families and have a high energy level, so they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. Mixed dog breeds can inherit some, all, or none of the potential health issues present in their parent breeds. When it comes to the Boxador, they are a relatively healthy breed. Some of the potential health conditions to be aware of include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, cataracts, and heart conditions. Asking the breeder about the genetic history of the parent breeds and to see any relevant health clearances can help allay potential concerns about health you may have. Both the Boxer and the Lab are highly intelligent dog breeds that are eager to please their owners, which makes them both highly trainable. You can expect your Boxador to be highly trainable as well. These dogs respond well to positive training techniques and are a good fit for owners of any experience level. Although it tends not to be necessary with this breed, enrolling in puppy training and obedience classes is an added bonus and can offer some extra opportunities for socialization. Boxadors usually have a short and dense coat. They will shed moderately year-round and more heavily twice a year as the seasons change. Generally, brushing their coat a few times a week is sufficient. This will help keep your dog more comfortable and will keep some of the loose fur contained to the brush instead of all of around your house. In terms of bathing, these dogs only require the occasional bath or more often as needed if they have gotten dirty or have been swimming. Dental care for dogs is especially important. Both of the parent breeds of this designer dog breed are high-energy, so you should expect your Boxador to have a high energy level as well. In addition to regular daily walks and playtime, your Boxador may enjoy running with you, going for a swim, going hiking with you, and taking trips to the dog park. They also are a good fit for several canine sports like dock diving, agility, and more. Their joints are still developing before this age and can be damaged by strenuous exercise. A fully-grown Boxador will usually stand 20 to 25 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 55 to 80 pounds. A Boxador generally lives 10 to 14 years. Boxador Puppies for Sale. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Medium to large in size and full of life, the boxer Lab mix is an increasingly popular designer dog with active people and families with children. Developed by crossing a purebred Labrador retriever and a purebred boxer, this mix has a lot to offer to the right home. If you are looking for a devoted, outgoing, and smart canine companion, the boxerlab is a great choice! Energetic and playful, these dogs prefer an active lifestyle and need regular exercise to stay happy and thrive. A spacious home with a fenced backyard is ideal for this mix, but not a requirement. If you are an outdoorsy person and can keep your pooch exercised, the boxerlab will make a great apartment dweller. When left alone a lot, this mix is prone to separation anxiety and might become bored and destructive. Whether you are looking for a canine playmate for your kids or an exercise partner, the laboxer might just be the perfect dog for you! Keep on reading to learn everything you need to know about this adorable crossbreed. Boxer Lab Mix Dog Overview Size — 23 to 25 inches tall at the shoulder, weighs between 50 and pounds Coat — Short shiny coat, color varies Shedding — Moderate shedding Lifespan — 12 to 15 years Temperament — Energetic, eager to please, friendly, devoted Trainable — Very trainable, but might be stubborn at times Activity — Very active needs at least 30 minutes of exercise every day Best For — Active people, families with children, homes with outdoor space What Is A Boxador? The boxador dog is a crossbreed developed by mixing a purebred boxer and a purebred Labrador retriever. Although both parent breeds are officially recognized by the AKC, the boxer Lab mix has the status of a designer breed. Boxadors have several different names and are also known as laboxers, boxerlabs, and boxerdors. While some boxerlabs take more after one parent than the other, others are a perfect blend of both parent breeds. Generally speaking, most inherit a boxer-like frame but are sizably built like their Labrador retriever parents. Although their appearance is unpredictable, there are a few traits you can expect to see when it comes to size, coat, and color. Size Being a cross between a Labrador retriever and a boxer, boxerlabs tend to be medium to large size dogs. Most are between 23 and 25 inches high at the shoulder and can weigh anywhere from 50 to pounds when fully grown. And males tend to be larger than females. Color The Labrador retriever comes in three colors — yellow, chocolate , and black. On the other hand, the boxer also comes in three different colors — white, fawn, and brindle. Keeping this in mind, it comes as no surprise that the Lab boxer mix can come in many different coat colors. The most commonly seen colors in this mix are brown, black, brindle, and white. Coat While a Lab has a short, double water-resistant coat, the boxer is a short-haired breed with a smooth and silky single coat. Most laboxers inherit the short, silky, and smooth coat of their boxer parents; however, some can have a denser coat of a Labrador. Since your boxerlab will inherit character traits from both its parent breeds, you should meet both the Lab and the boxer parents. Since both boxers and Labrador retrievers are friendly, playful, loving, and devoted companions, chances are that their mix will be too. Although boxer Labs can act as either of their parent breeds, they are generally extremely playful and energetic. Depending on how much your mix takes after its boxer parent, they might act goofy and cheerful most of the time. Boxerlabs form strong bonds with their people and do best in large families that have the time and energy to interact and play with them several times during the day. People-oriented and loving, this mix craves companionship and tends to develop separation anxiety when left alone a lot. If they are forced to stay home alone while you are at work, boxerlabs can easily become bored and destructive. Activity Level As an offspring of two very energetic working breeds, the laboxer is a very active dog with high exercise needs. Being such an active and athletic dog, your mix will need at least 30 minutes of exercise every day in addition to two walks. Activities such as running, hiking, swimming, or agility are all great ways to keep your pooch exercised and in excellent shape. Since boxerlabs love to play, games such as fetch, flyball, Frisbee, hide and seek, and tug-of-war are ideal ways to interact with your pooch and keep them entertained and exercised at the same time. Having a securely fenced backyard can be a big bonus when owning this mix. This way, you can keep your laboxer exercised and in great shape without leaving the comforts of your home. This mix craves companionship and is happiest when involved in all family activities. But, besides love and affection, you should also pay attention to: Exercise As mentioned previously, the lab boxer mix needs at least 30 minutes of vigorous activity every day. In addition to two regular daily walks, you should take your dog for a run, hike, or swim to burn excess energy and stay in good shape. Fun-loving, playful, and goofy, this mix loves games and will enjoy having a variety of interactive dog toys that will stimulate their curious mind. Games such as fetch or hide and seek are also a form of exercise that will also keep your pooch entertained and mentally stimulated. Intellectual Stimulation In addition to being highly energetic, laboxers are also intelligent dogs that can easily become bored without mental stimulation. If left to their own devices without interactive toys, your mix will chew and rifle through your belongings just to have some fun. And when you are at home, interact and play with your pooch as much as you can to stave off boredom and encourage good behavior. Companionship True to their parent breeds, boxadors are outgoing, people-loving, and easy-going dogs that form strong bonds with their owners and families. Bred to be loving companions, laboxers are delighted when they are involved in all family activities and are best suited for large families. This mix craves affection and company and can easily develop separation anxiety and other behavioral problems if left at home alone a lot. Ideally, a boxador dog should live in a large family where they will have company at all times. Grooming Most boxerlabs have short glossy coats that are easy to keep clean and are a fairly low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. Brushing your pooch once or twice a week is enough to remove loose hair and dander and keep their coat clean. In addition to regular brushing, you will also need to bathe your dog once every two months or as needed. Diet An ideal diet for a Lab boxer mix should be formulated for medium to large-sized breeds with high energy. Make sure the food you are feeding to your pooch is rich in protein and reinforced with all essential vitamins and minerals. Like their Labrador retriever parents, this mix has a tendency to gain weight easily and can become obese in no time. To prevent weight gain and all health problems associated with it, feed your dog two times a day and stick to a regular feeding schedule. Known Health Problems The boxerlab is considered a healthy breed, but they are predisposed to some of the same health problems that boxers and Labrador retrievers face. The most common health issues seen in this designer breed are: Hip and elbow dysplasia: Both boxers and Labrador retrievers are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, so boxerlabs can develop it too. Allergies: Like people, dogs can develop food or environmental allergies. Itching is the most common symptom associated with allergies. However, some dogs also exhibit respiratory problems and might cough, sneeze, wheeze, or have a runny discharge from their eyes or nose. Hypothyroidism: This is a relatively common endocrine problem in dogs caused by an underactive thyroid gland. Dogs suffering from hypothyroidism usually experience symptoms of lethargy, weight gain, and changes to the skin and coat. Life Expectancy The Labrador boxer mix has an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years. But, when cared for properly and taken to regular veterinary check ups, this mix can live longer. Highly intelligent and eager to please, most laboxers are fairly easy to house train, and learn basic obedience. Boxerlabs, like all other dogs, react the best to positive reinforcement training techniques and reward-based training. The idea behind this approach is to reward good behavior using treats or praise and to ignore bad behavior. This type of training has been proven to give the best results and is highly effective even if you are dealing with an extremely willful dog. Besides training, laboxers can also benefit from early socialization and should be exposed to many different people, situations, sounds, and sights from a young age. Early socialization can help your laboxer puppy get used to other people and pets and grow into a friendly and well-rounded dog. Who Should Own A Boxador? Bred to be a loyal and devoted companion, the Lab boxer mix is best suited for active people and families with children. This friendly mix craves companionship and is best suited for large homes and families who can spend time and play with their dog every day. Buying A Boxer Lab Mix Puppy Spend some time researching reputable Lab boxer mix breeders before you decide to welcome a laboxer puppy into your home. Since this is a fairly new designer breed, be prepared to spend more time researching and tracking down a reputable breeder. Once you locate a breeder you like, schedule an appointment to meet the puppies and the mother and to inspect the facilities they are kept in. If by any chance the breeder refuses to show you the conditions the puppies are kept in, walk away and look for another breeder. A reputable breeder will be more than happy to answer all of your questions and will also be able to provide health certificates for both parents and all puppies. However, you may end up paying more, depending on the breeder, your location, lineage, and gender. History Of The Breeds Boxer Originating in Germany, the boxer is a medium to a large-size working dog breed that was used as a guard dog. Although they might seem intimidating, boxers are goofy and mischievous canines that make great family companions. Highly energetic, easy to groom, and loving, the boxer is a great choice if you are looking for a loyal family pet that can also double as a guard dog. Easy to train, friendly, gentle, and affectionate, Labs make great family pets and companions to people of all ages including children. Due to their amazing temperament and high trainability, Labrador retrievers are often used as service dogs for people with disabilities and make great guide dogs. Boxerlabs make amazing pets for active people or large families with children. This loyal, energetic, playful, and friendly mix forms strong bonds with its people and likes to be involved in all family activities. If you are active and have enough time to interact and play with your dog every day, the Lab boxer mix will be a great pet. Are Boxer Labs aggressive? However, they form strong bonds with their owners and are naturally suspicious of strangers. Therefore, early socialization is a must if you want your mix to grow into a friendly and well-behaved dog. Conclusion Medium to large in size and highly energetic, the boxer Lab mix is a fairly new designer breed on the block. Amiable and devoted to their people, this pooch forms strong bonds with its owners and prefers to be involved in all family activities. If so, tell us more about your pooch in the comment section below! Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Chopped carrots or celery make great little healthy treats. Your vet can help you develop a care routine. Boxadors love to eat and will rapidly gain weight if they are allowed to free feed. Pick a high quality dog food and stick to a feeding schedule; two feedings per day could be ideal to keep this pooch happy. They also need an exercise schedule. A 30 minute hike, walk, or game of fetch, plus an hour of active running around a yard will help burn off pent up energy. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. Keeping them clean and dry is the best way to avoid doctor visits. If your dog develops a pungent aroma or is scratching their ears excessively, they may have an ear infection and will require a vet exam. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. You should brush their teeth a minimum of three times a week. Clean your dogs eyes as you would your own. You can use a cloth or your fingers to wipe away discharge or debris that collects in the corners. Boxador Feeding An ideal Boxador diet should be formulated for an active, medium- to large-sized breed. Limit their amount of treats, as well. The main colors of Boxadors are; black, brown, brindle, and white. Rarely solid, their coats typically have a blend of two or more colors. Luckily, their coats are very easy to groom. A good brushing per week will probably do. They may self groom and are considered a pretty clean dog. Always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any tail pulling or biting on the part of either party. No dog should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Learn more about this pup by reading about their parent breeds, the Boxer and Labrador Retriever. Boxador Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed specific rescue for Boxadors because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Boxer or Labrador Retriever breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Medium Best For Labrador Retrievers are best for large homes with plenty of indoor and outdoor space, and with pet parents who are ready for an active and adventure-filled life. Labrador Retriever Temperament Cheerful and animated, this large dog breed has stamina and energy to spare, able to keep up with your family and all your activities. And thanks to their high intelligence, learning commands and tricks com.And thanks to their high intelligence, learning commands and tricks come relativity easy for them. Labrador dogs love having a job to do and excel at things like agility courses and, just like their name implies, retrieving items. In fact, their superior intelligence is why they often make great assistance dogs, working as therapy or service animals. A people-pleaser, Labrador Retrievers have a pleasant personality and love interacting with humans. Get ready to be showered with lots of affection! Slow and controlled introductions to other family pets will help make the transition go smoothly. Addressing any biting issues early on, providing proper socialization when they are puppies aka safely exposing them to lots of new people, places and things and working with a professional dog trainer can help avoid behavioral issues when they get older. Labrador Retriever Traits. Lifespan Sociability Despite the popularity of both parent breeds, the Boxador remains relatively uncommon. This may be because the size of the dog means that they are not suitable for all families and may not settle into life in an apartment. Their size also means that the average litter size is between 4 and 7 puppies, which is far fewer than other breeds. Breeders may not consider them profitable enough to breed. Many owners are known to prefer smaller breeds, although the Labrador retains its spot as the most popular dog breed in the USA. When choosing a puppy, you should buy through a reputable breeder. They will be able to show health screening results for the puppy and his parents, and they should have no issue letting you meet the parents. Puppies get a lot of their habits and characteristics from their parents, giving you a clue of their likely temperament and even appearance. The Labrador has a loving nature and dotes on its owner or handler. It is also intelligent and considered easy to train, although you should start training early. This combination means that the breed is very popular as a service dog for people with disabilities. They are also used as police dogs, are enlisted in the Armed Forces, and they are used to sniff out survivors after natural disasters. This breed gets his popularity thanks to his playful nature, and he loves nothing more than to play with toys or to rough house with his owner. His name, Boxer, comes from the action of standing on his back legs and boxing with his front legs, which he will do whenever given the opportunity. Whether your Boxador puppy inherits any of these traits will depend on which of the parent breeds is dominant. He may get the flat-faced look of the Boxer and the mild-mannered loving nature of the Labrador. However, both parent breeds are chosen for their family-loving nature. They will usually get along with anybody, can mix with other dogs and family pets, and the Labrador is not only considered loving but has an innate gentle quality that makes him the perfect companion for children. However, families with very small children should always take care to ensure that dogs and children are supervised and not left alone together. Small children tend to grab ears and tails, and other parts, and this can hurt the dog, potentially even leading to nipping. The size of the Boxador means that they may cause injury by accident, especially if they are having a mad moment and playing with you. They love to have fun, so if you have older children, your Boxador is likely to shadow them, present them with toys, and encourage them to give some playtime. The Labrador is a gentle dog, but while the Boxer would not usually intentionally cause harm to their owners, they are big and can be a bit daft, which means that they might cause accident harm to you or your family. Both breeds are considered highly intelligent and are easy to train, hence their use as service and police dogs. Start training early and use positive reinforcement and you should be able to encourage any of the parent traits of the parent breeds. Although very friendly, the Boxador can make a good guard dog. They will not usually display aggression, but they are a large size and some dogs of this breed may bark at strangers that they believe are getting close to the house. They are not a naturally vocal dog, but their desire to protect will push them to bark if they feel that their owner needs warning of potential dangers. Are Boxadors Good for Families? They are playful and loving and do not usually display any aggressive tendencies. They will gladly bring their own ball to any playtime and they will tug on a rope or other toy for hours on end, given the opportunity. They will also play without the aid of toys, so be prepared for the occasional play fight. It is worth noting that the Boxador can suffer from separation anxiety , such is the level of love they have for their human owners. If left alone for too long, they can get bored, and when this happens, they will invent new ways to entertain themselves — for example, emptying bins, shredding sofas, and other unwanted displays. They will usually want to meet any dog or other animal that they see. They get on with other dogs of the same breeds, as well as other breeds. They can also be introduced to cats, but this is best done when both the dog and the cat are young. Boxadors can get on very well with cats, assuming a proper introduction. Things to Know When Owning a Boxador The Boxador is a good family pet, is ideal for active individuals looking for a walking or running companion, and they can make good guard dogs as well. They train easily, want to please their owners, and they also love attention and affection. However, potential owners should always ensure that they choose a breed that is right for their lifestyle. The Boxador is a big dog with a reasonable amount of energy, and this may mean that they are not the best option for all families and owners. Expect to feed your dog between four and five cups of good quality food every day. This can be given in two meals, and they will enjoy the routine of having set meal times. Labradors are famed for their appetite, and while this can be troublesome when you are eating your own meals or when your child has a chocolate bar whipped out from under their noses, it also gives you a great way to train your puppy. They will respond to tasty, healthy treats, and will look for ways in which to receive more. They are not lap dogs and will expect and appreciate regular exercise. Even a quick five-minute run around the yard will not be enough, so if you are looking for a dog with minimal exercise requirements, you should look elsewhere. Whether you enjoy long walks or even runs, you could have your new companion dog, although you should also expect to have to stop while he says hello to everybody you pass. Give your dog at least an hour of exercise a day, on top of the time you spend in the garden throwing and chasing a ball. Another reason that the Boxador makes a great family pet is that having multiple people to play and exercise them means that they are more likely to have their exercise requirements met. Both breeds are good at agility classes. They will pick up the moves and skills they need in order to get around an agility course, especially if you use healthy treats as an incentive. Agility classes are a very good way for your dog to burn off energy in a controlled environment, and they usually also appreciate the opportunity to meet and mingle with other people and other animals. Boxers can be easy to train, as well, but their attention is more likely to wander, which means that you will have to keep training sessions shorter and ensure that they are fun, if you want to enjoy the best training results. Puppy classes are a good idea. They teach you how to train your dog, while also teaching the basic commands that a dog will need. They are also a good opportunity to socialize your puppy in a safe environment where everybody is in the same boat. People in the park might be less excited about a Boxador jumping up at them, but other puppy owners will understand. Labradors are led by their stomach, but they are also very keen to please their owners. This makes for a convenient and relatively easy way to train a dog. Use positive reinforcement techniques to encourage good behavior. Use treats and lavish praise on your dog when they get it right, and they will soon learn what is expected of them. Also bear in mind that this breed will not respond well to being scolded. The hair is easy to care for, although this breed will normally shed twice a year and will need brushing for a few minutes every day during these periods. Brushing a dog when they are shedding helps to remove the stray hairs, keeps them cool, prevents matting, and has your dog looking their best. Only bathe your dog when it is absolutely necessary, which might be more often if yours likes to swim and run around in the water. Bathing a dog strips their coat of natural protective oils. Boxers and Labradors can have a problem with weepy eyes. Use a damp cloth or tissue to wipe away the gunk. This helps protect the teeth and gums, which is important throughout their life, but especially important when they age. Finally, as an active dog, your Boxador should do a reasonably good job of maintaining their own nails. They grind down on hard surfaces like concrete. But, with that said, if you tend to walk your dog on grass and you hear their nails scraping on the floor then you should trim them to keep them short. As with all hybrid breeds, we have to look at the parent breeds to determine any likely health problems. Boxers are prone to cancer, heart disease, and Boxer Cardiomyopathy, which is more common in males and in dogs over 10 years old. Labradors suffer from joint dysplasia, although this is a complaint that is common in a lot of dog breeds and not specific to Labradors. Hip dysplasia can lead to arthritic pain and even lameness and symptoms should be treated as soon as they are spotted. Minor Conditions. The boxador is an active dog who's affectionate and loyal to her entire family. As a mix of two highly intelligent breeds , she has earned a reputation for being easy to train and eager to join any family adventure. But she also comes from two high-energy breeds and needs to be kept busy. As a hybrid dog , the boxador can vary in size depending on which parent breed she takes after the most. She will likely stand about 2 feet tall and weigh between 50—80 pounds. At her best, every inch of the boxador is filled with exuberance and love. She will need an active owner who can match her endless stamina, and she will be happiest when kept close to her people. Appearance The boxador is perpetually ready to play. Her toned, muscular body is frequently in motion, often chasing a ball or trying to start a friendly game of tug-of-war. Even if she has the longer snout of the Labrador retriever, she will likely still have droopy jowls. Because of this, she might be prone to drooling —especially when she gets excited. Both of her parent breeds are large dogs , so your boxador will grow up into a big bundle of energy. The boxador is expressive with her eyes and ears, often looking at you with a longing glance and perked up ears to tell you she's ready to go for a long walk. If she takes after her boxer side, her coat will be short and won't shed much. However, because a Labrador's coat can range from short to medium in length, a boxador will likely experience seasonal shedding. The boxador can come in a mix of colors, with the dominant shades being fawn, brown, black, or brindle. And while it's not guaranteed, the boxador often has a white patch on her chest and a muzzle of black fur. This means the mixed breed is ideal for many on-the-go families, as long as you make sure you have time to play with your boxador every day. Bored dogs are not good dogs because they're going to chew on belongings. They need families that are going to be active and keep them busy. She gets along incredibly well with children and other dogs, especially if she is well-socialized as a puppy. Boxadors are motivated by praise and affection, so owners should train her using positive reinforcement training and give her plenty of attention when she does something correctly. She will be highly motivated to learn different games alongside you. Both parent dogs are known for their intelligence and ability to communicate exactly what they need with their owners. So pay attention when your boxador is whining or nudging you—that probably means she needs to go outside or just wants some more playtime. You need to get them all kinds of games and activities. Take them on a jog or play fetch, all of that good stuff. She's not going to want to entertain herself in a fenced-in yard ; she wants you to play with her. While she is a well-tempered dog, the boxador should not be left at home for hours alone. If left by herself, the boxador can be prone to make her own entertainment think: chewing decorative pillows or pulling over houseplants to keep herself entertained. Loretta Moraco, a director at Chelsea's Hope Boxer Rescue that works with boxers and boxer mixes in the Northeast, says many people don't understand the energy level these dogs bring to a household. By training your boxador that her crate is a safe, comfortable space, she will feel more secure there whenever her owners do need to leave her alone for a short period of time. Crate training can also limit undesirable behavior that can happen when boxadors get bored. The boxer side is mischievous and curious, and you don't want them eating something they shouldn't when left alone. As a general rule, boxador owners should be prepared for a dog that wants to run and play 99 percent of the time. While there are some exceptions, boxador owners need to be ready to take their new pet on long, daily walks. She is exceptionally friendly thanks to her Labrador side, and she will thrive when socializing with other humans and dogs. They need doggy daycare and activities and games outside. They're literally like a toddler for a really long time, that's the best I can describe it. Keep them busy, and don't let them get bored. It's a good idea to get her used to regular teeth brushing as a puppy because her boxer side can be prone to dental issues. If she has face folds particularly around her mouth , you'll want to keep them clean with regular bathing in order to avoid any bacteria buildup. Health A healthy boxador can live between 10—12 years, but they are likely to experience health issues in their lifetime. Owners should consider investing in pet insurance if they bring home a boxador because both breeds are prone to certain health conditions that can become expensive in their older years. A boxador's health largely depends on what genetics she inherits from her parents and grandparents. The Labrador side often experiences elbow and hip dysplasia , according to the Labrador Retriever Club. These issues can be addressed with joint supplements recommended by your veterinarian. They can also experience certain heart disorders, as well as a condition called exercise-induced collapse. The boxer parent's genes can make boxadors predisposed to cancers that often impact the brain, thyroid, or spleen, according to the American Boxer Club. They can also be at risk for hereditary heart diseases , including arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy or Aortic Stenosis. They could experience discomfort with her hindquarters later in life if they inherit the boxer's predisposition to degenerative myelopathy. The popularity of boxer hybrids including the boxer-Lab mix in recent years has actually been, in part, an effort to mitigate some of the more heartbreaking health conditions that impact the purebred dogs. They are great with kids, smart, and goofy. And a lot of people who love the boxer breed are now looking for a hybrid dog because they are hoping it eliminates some of the health issues. While many boxadors live long and healthy lives, being aware of the potential health issues is the best way to ensure she is kept comfortable and happy. History As a hybrid dog, the boxador's origin is murky. Mixed breeds are not registered by the American Kennel Club, so their history is undocumented unlike purebred dogs whose history goes back for centuries. The most likely explanation for the boxador is that breeders sought to combine the best traits of the two beloved, active breeds. Especially for owners who worry about the health issues surrounding the boxer breed, the Labrador retriever—as the nation's most popular dog—makes an optimal pairing to offset some of the boxer's health risks. While the boxador's history is largely speculation, she comes from very famous parents. The Labrador retriever originated in Canada as a loyal waterfowl dog before gaining a reputation as a loving family dog. The boxer is the product of breeders in Germany and Belgium who wanted a strong hunting dog. Eventually, the boxer became a farming dog who enjoyed spending time with her family. Because the boxador can be prone to certain health issues, it's especially important that potential owners get health records for the dog they are adopting. If you are bringing home a puppy from a boxador breeder, take steps to avoid a puppy mill scam by working with individuals who are transparent about health screenings and allow you to meet the puppy on-site so you can ensure she was raised in a good home. Fun Facts While the boxer-Labrador retriever mix is most commonly referred to as a boxador, the dogs can also be called a boxerlab or Laboxer. In , the Labrador retriever was named the most popular dog breed for the 30th year in a row. The same year, the boxer was named the 14th most popular dog breed in the United States. A rescued boxador named Wesson is the frequent star on the popular TikTok account willandwesson. Was this page helpful? Temperament: Active, Friendly, People-Pleasing Generally, these dogs make excellent but active family pets. They are best for families that like to go on adventures and partake in strenuous activities. They love to run, fetch, and participate in canine sports of all sorts. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. However, a few breeders breed these dogs, though it is usually on the side and not their primary breed. You may be able to find one in your area. Alternatively, you can sometimes find some puppies at rescues. These dogs tend to be happy accidents, which means they are often unwanted and turned over to the local shelter. You may be able to find this breed if you keep an eye on your local shelter and other rescues. However, statistically, the odds of this exact mixed breed showing up are slim. When you bring home a Boxer Lab, be ready to have a friendly and loving dog by your side. They are very energetic dogs, so make sure they have plenty of space to run around in. They are very people-oriented and love to be around their family and strangers alike. Most of them are pretty friendly towards strangers. They can be pretty good with children as long as they are socialized early. Due partially to their high activity level, they are pretty playful. They enjoy just about any game, including fetch, water retrieval, and disc catching. These dogs are well-known for getting along with other pets, as long as they are socialized correctly. Their high prey drive often means that they will chase just about everything that runs. This means cats, rabbits, and other small pets. The Boxer Lab mix is pretty happy and content most of the time. Generally, they are pretty well behaved inside and outside alike. They are pretty intelligent. This makes them pretty easy to train. However, it also means that this mixed breed needs regular mental stimulation. If they are not kept entertained, they are prone to destructive and problematic behavior. They will find ways to entertain themselves, which often causes them to get into trouble. The best ways to keep them entertained involve obedience training, dog sports, and puzzle toys. They need regular interaction to stay happy and healthy. They thrive the most in active, large families that will keep them entertained. Due to their high exercise and mental stimulation, they require quite a lot of care and attention. This is best accomplished in larger families, with multiple people to look after the dog. These canines are pretty good with children as long as they are entertained early. Most of the time, dogs are aggressive towards children due to their fear. Children can be pretty unpredictable, and some smaller dogs may be fearful. Because the Boxador is so large, they are generally not fearful of children. However, they still need regular socialization with children to get along with them. Puppies that grow up with children are typically just fine interacting with them. Families that adopt this dog need plenty of extra time and attention when compared to other dogs. For this reason, they are not best for families that are gone for much of the day. This breed is excellent with dogs in most cases. Their friendly, playful nature makes them a perfect match for similar dogs. However, older, laidback dogs may find their constant ask to play a bit annoying. The Boxer Lab mix does not have any territorial tendency, which allows them to get along with most dogs quickly. This is even true for dogs of the same gender. However, you still need to socialize these dogs from an early age to understand how to interact with other dogs. Otherwise, their social skills may not be up to par, which can cause problems when they do interact with other dogs. We recommend puppy classes, which should fulfill their need for socialization and mental stimulation. They have a decently high prey drive and will chase just about everything. This includes cats, bunnies, ferrets, and other small pets. They may act perfectly fine with a cat for years, only for their hunting instincts to kick in one day and lead to disaster. We do not recommend ever allowing these dogs to be alone with a cat or other small animal. They are large and active, so they may need more calories than you would initially expect. Instead, base their food amounts on their body condition. If they are a bit on the skinnier side, they may need some extra calories These dogs are typically very food-driven, so they tend to overeat. Obesity can cause serious problems, especially since they are already prone to joint issues. Instead, two or three carefully measured meals a day are often sufficient. You also need to be very careful when feeding your puppy. The ball and socket of the joint end up misaligning, causing extra wear. Often, this leads to arthritis at an early age. How you feed your puppy has a significant effect on how they grow. If they are fed too much, they will grow faster than they naturally should, which will lead to severe problems with their joints. For this reason, you should avoid overfeeding puppies. It is common for puppies to act hungry all the time, especially when they are as food-driven as this breed. These are one of the most active dogs around. They are very high-energy, so they should only be adopted by active families. They are not going to sit around and cuddle all day. This is especially true when they are puppies, as they are typically more hyperactive when younger. These dogs benefit from a backyard that they can run around in. They enjoy just about any canine game out there, including fetch, retrieval, coursing, and just about everything else. If you like to run or hike, this dog is highly suitable. However, you should aim to keep their exercise low-impact for the first two years while their hips are still forming. This will help prevent hip dysplasia later on. Never force your dog to exercise, especially as a puppy. Puppies are prone to growing pains and can often not perform as athletically as an adult. Short, frequent exercise sessions are often best for puppies. A quick game of fetch in the backyard a few times a day may be all the time they need to stay healthy and worn out. This makes them generally easy to train. They are not prone to any behavioral problems, except for occasional bouts of separation anxiety. You must teach your puppy how to be alone from an early age so that they are comfortable without anyone else around. Without the proper treatment early on, your puppy can quickly revert to nervous behaviors when left alone. This can cause destructive behaviors and barking, which many dogs find anxiety-relieving. Chewing is often a big problem among dogs with separation anxiety. These dogs are usually well-behaved, especially when they are adequately trained. You should ensure that your dog is adequately exercised and mentally stimulated. A bored and hyperactive dog will often look for things to do, including chewing, getting into cabinets, and similar problem behaviors. For this reason, you should plan on being incredibly patient and expect puppy behaviors from them for a while. Their coat is usually short and dense. They do shed moderately year-round, so we recommend a regular brushing session weekly. This will help keep them clean and remove loose hairs that would end up on your floor otherwise. They may shed more during season changes. Once their coat stops shedding quite as much, you can decrease the sessions back to once a week. They keep themselves cleaned quite easily, except when they roll in mud or swim in swampy water. We recommend keeping their bathing to a minimum, or you may end up stripping them of their natural oils. This can cause problems on their skin and coat, such as irritation. They will also need their ears and nails taken care of. Like all dogs, you should plan on trimming their nails as needed. You can do this yourself at home or visit a groomer. Many of them provide walk-in appointments for nail clippings that are very inexpensive. Their ears are typically not in need of regular care. However, they can get dirty, which can lead to ear infections. Keep your eye out for dirt and debris in the ear and clean them with a wet cotton ball when necessary. They inherit genes from a vast gene pool, which means that they are less likely to inherit genetic conditions. They are still prone to a few problems. The most severe problem that the Boxer Lab mix often develops is hip dysplasia. Typically, it is caused by excess wear and tear. This can be due to genetics alone, though it is often caused by improper feeding and exercising when they are puppies. Because this mixed breed is likely to be large, they may be at an increased risk of bloat. This is a life-threatening condition that comes on suddenly. Within only a few hours, the dog goes into shock and eventually dies. Male vs. Female There is no significant difference between males and females. Because this breed is so diverse, it is difficult to tell similarities and differences between genders. They are incredibly active. These are some of the most active dogs on the planet. Their parents were bred to work all day, so this mixed breed is often ready to do the same. For this reason, they are only recommended for active families that are willing to commit an hour or two a day to their exercise. Boxer Lab Mixes are pretty intelligent. Boxer Lab mixes are one of the more intelligent dogs out there. For this reason, they can quickly learn most commands. They also require quite a bit of mental stimulation, though. This is best accomplished through obedience training or canine sports. Often, dogs will outgrow regular obedience training at some point and then must continue to be stimulated through other means. These dogs vary quite a bit. Because they are a mixed breed, these dogs vary quite a bit. They can inherit any traits from either of their parents. Some may act like Boxers but look like Labs. Others may be somewhere in between. This mixed breed is highly active and requires a lot of exercise, making them inappropriate for families that would rather cuddle on the couch. You should expect to exercise this dog for hours each day. Due to their high intelligence and people-pleasing nature, these dogs are pretty trainable. However, they also require a lot of mental stimulation. Plan on meeting this need through obedience training, puzzle toys, and canine sports, or you may end up with a bored and destructive dog. A Canadian expat, Nicole now lives on a lush forest property with her Kiwi husband and new baby daughter in New Zealand. She has a strong love for all animals of all shapes and sizes and particularly loves a good interspecies friendship and wants to share her animal knowledge and other experts' knowledge with pet lovers across the globe.Read more Advertisement.

Did You Know? How big do GSDs get? The German Shepherd is a large breed of dog. GSD males are ideally 24'' to 26'', weighing between 70 to 90 pounds, and females 22'' to 24'', weighing between 50 to 70 pounds. German Shepherd Coat? GSDs have an inner and an outer coat. Indeed, they shed heavily at times, but quick daily grooming with a coat "rake" helps greatly! GSDs make superior family pets. Great with adults, children, and infants alike. GSDs typically live 12 to 14 years. Guarding Skills GSDs are of the shepherding class of dogs and are thus inclined to protect the home and family. Many of my customers decide on a German Shepherd because of their renowned loyalty. They became familiar with the breed when they were growing up either with one in the home or through a neighbor or friend that had one. The fore legs are parallel and straight, while the rear legs are placed one more forward, and the other further back. This causes the head to be high, and the rump lower, looking at readiness and nobility. The stack pose is used in the show ring to exaggerate the dog's overall structure and is not the normal stance or position of the show line dogs. In short, it is an ordered examination of a dog's abilities in the disciplines of tracking, obedience, and protection, while Kkl is an abbreviated form of the German word "koerklasse. It is the final evaluation of many tests and trials to determine one simple thing about the dog.A dog with a Kkl rating of "passed" is deemed worthy to pass on its traits to the next generation. Call us to learn more about our puppies. Any puppies that qualify as a German Shepherd Mix are a cross between a German Shepherd and another dog breed. In a mixed breed, you can get any mix of characteristics in the parent breeds. German Shepherds tend to be strong-willed, intelligent, playful, and loyal. To get a full idea of what to expect in your puppy, be sure to ask the breeder about the other dog breed in the cross and check out the mother dog in-person to get a general idea about size and temperament. On the German Shepherd side, you have an independent dog with high intelligence and a playful spirit. German Shepherds make great family pets and are born protectors. Because of their protective instinct, they can be suspicious of strangers. Socialization early and often can help curb this suspicion and make them more open to new people and situations. German Shepherds also tend to be loving and have a lively personality. The German Shepherd Mix can have any or all of these characteristics plus any characteristics from the other parent breed in the mix. Before buying a German Shepherd Mix puppy and bringing them home, be sure to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed. If the puppies are being family-raised around children, you should be able to get an idea of how they will do in a family setting that includes children. The German Shepherd is a moderately adaptable working dog that was bred to guard, work, and herd. They do not tend to do well in apartments and are best-suited for houses with yards. GSDs prefer to be with their families and do not like to be alone. They also tend to prefer cooler climates as they are sensitive to heat. With a German Shepherd Mix, you could get a moderately adaptable dog that is just like a purebred German Shepherd. You could also end up with a dog that is more like the other parent breed. Talking with the breeder about the other parent breed can give you a good idea of what to expect. German Shepherds can be prone to elbow and hip dysplasia. You will need to ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the cross to get an idea of any other health concerns to be aware of in your German Shepherd Mix. Health screenings, clearances, and the genetic history of the parents can help allay concerns about potential health conditions. On the German Shepherd side, training and obedience classes are highly recommended for novice dog owners. Although GSDs are highly intelligent, pick up on things quickly, and train fairly easily, they can be stubborn with an independent streak. Regardless of the other parent breed in the cross, you should be prepared to enroll in obedience and training classes with your German Shepherd Mix. The experience will be beneficial to both you and your puppy and will also offer some opportunities for socialization. You will still want to ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the cross to get an understanding of what to expect during the training process. Professional grooming a few times a year and the occasional bath is also recommended. Regardless of the coat type, your German Shepherd Mix will need to have their nails trimmed monthly and their teeth brushed regularly. Not every dog will allow you to do this, so try to get a tooth brushing session in at least a few times a week to reduce tartar buildup. This will help prevent dental problems like tooth decay and gum disease. Plus, it will help cut down on bad breath! German Shepherds tend to have a high activity level. They were bred to run, herd, guard, and protect, so they are used to working and having a job to do. They are definitely not a lazy dog breed! Be sure to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix. You will still want to go in prepared for a high energy dog with the understanding that your German Shepherd Mix puppy may have an activity level closer to the other breed in the cross. If both are high energy dogs breeds, expect to end up with a high energy dog. A German Shepherd is a large dog breed that generally weighs between 55 and 90 pounds. They also usually stand between 22 and 26 inches tall at the shoulders. The other dog breed in the cross could result in a smaller or larger German Shepherd Mix. A German Shepherd generally lives for years. You should be able to expect a similar range in your German Shepherd Mix, but the other dog breed in the cross could affect this range. Featured German Shepherd Mix Article. Questions about German Shepherd puppies for sale in Pennsylvania? We have answers. How much do your German Shepherd puppies for sale in Pennsylvania cost? The cost of online German Shepherd puppies will vary depending on a number of factors. Pedigree German Shepherd mix puppies for sale in PA , breeder experience and coat color black and silver German Shepherd puppies for sale in PA can all influence the price of dogs you find online. But if not, no problem—our partners are professionals when it comes to making travel arrangements for your puppy, and you can meet your friend at your nearest airport, too. How do you vet German Shepherd puppies in PA? A big difference is that tons of pet store dogs are coming directly from backyard breeders and puppy mills, especially for German Shepherd puppies PA. Dogs bred in these conditions often suffer from genetic and behavioral issues, and are more likely to die young. Because we never work with puppy mills, you can be sure that your new best friend was bred and raised with love. Do you have long haired German Shepherd puppies for sale in PA right now? Because Uptown only works with passionate breeders, businesses and dog-lovers, we have a stellar track record of helping families find great puppies all across the United States. How can I guarantee Uptown Puppies is ethical? Unlike pet stores and puppy mills, our main focus is helping connect the right families with the right puppies.

Adoption Form We are now reviewing our waiting list and collecting down-payments. To get on the list for Molly's litter of purebred golden retrievers, please read the Adoption Policy below and then go to the Adoption Form link provided. We will contact you and begin the process. Adoption Policy We feel that the correct placement of our puppies is important. We want to be assured that Molly's puppies are best suited to you and your home environment. We therefore reserve the right to refuse any adoption. Puppies will be lovingly nurtured by our family and Molly. They will receive a lot of socialization. They will have their DAP vaccination and two de-wormings. Starting at about 6 weeks, the puppies learn some good life lessons from mom. For this reason, we recommend the puppies leave at 8 weeks we do not let puppies go before 7 weeks. You will receive some papers to finalize your puppy's registration if you wish. All of our puppies must be spayed or neutered, unless otherwise agreed upon. For more information, text, call, or email, Dennis Ryckman, , dennis factor.They are both AKC registered golden retrievers. They are both healthy, agile, and loving. Molly is a lighter cream color. She loves attention, is a great family dog, and comes from a strong hunting background. Koda is a darker color. He has a mild manner and is an excellent hunting dog. His picture was after a haircut. Puppy Care and Training When bringing home your puppy, it is good to plan ahead and be prepared. Start training your puppy right away. Pheasant Run Tree Farm Golden Retrievers are one of the friendliest , cutest, and most playful dogs on the planet. They are high on energy and are a bundle of love and affection. They are quick learners and can adapt to any situation easily. Golden Retrievers also gel well with other dogs and kids. This makes them easy-going family pets. Here we list the top 6 breeders in the state to help you find a healthy, happy pup. Read on. They actively breed healthy pups and currently have puppies available. All the Goldie pups at the farm are well-socialized. So they will easily get along with your family. They are also always ready to learn. Most importantly, pups receive their vaccination shots on time and are microchipped. Get home a pup today and enjoy lifelong friendship and love. So you can be sure of getting ethically and responsibly bred pups from here. If you wish to get a Goldie pup from Golden Penny Kennels, you need to fill in the Pup Interest Form on the website and send it to the email address mentioned below. If you want to get a Goldie, get in touch with the kennel. They will be able to recommend other certified and licensed breeders in the state. David, Penny, Derek, and Tara run it. Golden Field Kennels first started as a dog boarding center. Later, the team got its first two female Golden Retrievers for breeding. Their parent dogs all have health clearances and are certified for breeding. The objective of the kennel is to breed high-quality, healthy, pedigreed Golden Retriever pups. In addition, the pups come with health guarantees and are well-socialized. The kennel also offers canine grooming services, including baths, brushing, grooming , nail trimming, and so on. The kennel is in a beautiful country setting. Certainly, the breeders raise the pups here and train them to hunt and retrieve in a fun and gentle way. The owners also get the pups checked by a vet, vaccinated, and registered with the AKC. R Place Kennel also provides pet boarding and obedience training solutions to pet owners. The Humane Society and also many local veterinarians recommend their services. To stay updated on upcoming puppy litters, contact the kennel or follow its Facebook page. It raises healthy, purebred Golden Retrievers. The owners make sure to socialize the pups at an early age. The pups also get vaccinated DAP and dewormed. The breeders allow the pups at the kennel to go to their new homes once they are 7 or 8 weeks old. To get a Goldie pup from here, you need to fill out the Adoption Form on their website and get added to their waitlist. The owners will contact you as and when new litters are available. If you liked our article, do share it with other pet parents or prospective pet owners who may enjoy reading it as well.

Breeds The link has been copied! Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. As an admirer of one of these lovely furry companions, you may question how much it costs to buy and own a Labrador Retriever. We'll explore the upfront price of purchasing a puppy and the routine costs associated with pet ownership. We'll also cover various factors that can impact the cost of a Lab and provide tips on how to reduce the cost of owning one. The cost of a Lab can vary depending on several factors such as its age, color, purpose show or field , whether it's a purebred, and more. Routine Care Expenses Owning a Labrador Retriever requires some routine care expenses, which should be taken into account when considering the overall cost of having a pet. One of the essential expenses is veterinary care, which includes routine check-ups, vaccinations, and emergency medical care. Labs are prone to specific health issues, such as hip dysplasia , eye problems, and skin allergies, which may require additional medical attention and expenses. Another routine care expense for Labs is feeding. As they are a somewhat larger breed, they require a substantial amount of food to maintain their weight and energy levels. Additionally, treats, chews, and supplements can also be added to their diet, increasing the overall cost of nutrition. Proper grooming and hygiene are essential to keep a Lab healthy and comfortable. Remember that training and behavioral classes may be necessary to ensure your Lab is well-behaved and socialized, which can also be costly. These expenses should be considered when determining if a Lab is the right breed for you and your budget. How much a Labrador Retriever puppy costs depends on multiple factors, such as the breeder's reputation, the location of the pup, the bloodline, and more. Additionally, the cost may increase if the puppy comes with additional services such as health certificates, microchipping , or first vaccinations. Your pup will also need feeding, grooming, and bathing factored into their expenses, as well as beds, toys, chews, leashes, collars, harnesses, and much more. Consider the following: Buying From a Breeder vs. While adopting a Lab may be less expensive, it is essential to note that some shelters may have restrictions and requirements that need to be met before adoption. Keep in mind that the price of a Labrador based on color may vary by region and how popular that specific color is in that location. However, buyers should be cautious and avoid buying from dishonest breeders who may be selling mixed-breed dogs as purebreds. Breeders Reputation Reputable breeders who prioritize health, temperament, and breed standards usually charge more for their puppies. It's crucial to research the breeder thoroughly and ensure that they follow ethical breeding practices before making a purchase. This includes checking their breeding practices, requesting health certificates and pedigrees, and visiting their facilities in person if possible. Buyers should also be cautious of breeders who offer extremely low prices, as that might be a sign of unethical practices. Estimated Size The estimated size of an adult Labrador retriever is around about .Average Price To Buy A Lab Puppy From A Breeder The average price to buy a Lab puppy from a breeder is different from one person to the next, according to the reputation the breeder has in the community, the dog's bloodline, and their location. Again, the color of the Lab plays a significant factor as well. In addition to the cost of the puppy, there are also other expenses associated with owning a Lab. This includes routine care costs such as food, toys, grooming supplies, and veterinary visits for vaccinations and check-ups. Owners should also budget for unexpected expenses such as emergency veterinary care or unexpected illnesses. Remember that a reputable breeder may charge more for their puppies, but they are more likely to provide you with a healthy, well-socialized puppy from a good bloodline. Average Cost To Adopt A Lab Puppy Adopting a Lab puppy is generally less expensive than buying one from a breeder, but the costs can still vary widely. However, it's crucial to research adoption agencies thoroughly to ensure that they are reputable and the dogs are healthy and well-cared for before making a decision. You don't want to bring a sickly pup into your home, just to end up spending more on medical bills than you had anticipated. However, the costs don't stop there. Once you have your furry friend, ongoing expenses include food, vet bills, grooming, and more. In addition, Labs are known for their love of exploration and adventure, which means they have a penchant for getting lost. You don't want to get a new puppy with the understanding that the breed may be high maintenance, and then you lose track of your dog. The collar uses GPS and cellular technology to track your dog's location in real-time, so you can quickly locate your pet if they ever wander off. The collar also includes additional features such as activity monitoring and geofencing to alert you if your dog leaves a designated area. While the initial cost of the collar may seem high, it can save you money in the long run by preventing the loss or theft of your beloved Lab. Labrador Retriever Breed Guide Labrador Retrievers are outgoing and generally have a friendly disposition toward others. They are loyal, affectionate and make excellent family pets. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which makes them great for first-time dog owners. Due to their friendly nature, they also make excellent therapy dogs and are often used in service roles. Labrador Retrievers generally come in three colors: black, chocolate, and yellow. The coat is short, dense, and water-resistant, which makes them excellent swimmers. Labs can be medium to large dogs that weigh about 55 to 80 pounds on average, with the males usually outweighing the females by ten pounds. Typically, they're around two feet tall inches , and the males will have about a one-inch height advantage over the females. The average lifespan for a Labrador Retriever is around 12 years, although some can live up to 14 years. They are all around healthy, but like all dogs, there are specific ailments that you're more likely to encounter with a Lab, like obesity, ear infections, and hip dysplasia. As for lifetime care costs, they can vary depending on factors such as food, vet bills, and grooming expenses. There are several ways to reduce the cost of owning a Labrador Retriever. One option is to adopt a dog from a local shelter or rescue organization. Adopting a dog from a shelter is usually less expensive than buying a puppy from a breeder. Typically, dog shelters will include initial vaccinations, any spaying or neutering services needed, along with essential veterinary care up front. That helps cut down on some of the initial costs that owners usually spend when they first bring a puppy home. However, it's not uncommon that breeders will also at least include the first vaccinations for the pup upon its release to your family. Another option to reduce the cost of owning a Lab is to consider adopting an older dog instead of a puppy. Older dogs may already be trained and require less attention and socialization than a puppy, which can save on training costs and time. Moreover, older dogs may have lower veterinary bills since they may not require as many check-ups or preventative care as a puppy. Finally, another way to save money on the lifetime costs of owning a Labrador Retriever is to invest in preventative care. This includes regular exercise, a healthy diet, and regular veterinary check-ups to catch potential health issues early on. While preventive care may require an upfront investment, it can ultimately save money by avoiding expensive medical bills down the line. Final Thoughts: The Cost of Owning a Labrador Retriever Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds to own, but they can be somewhat high maintenance after you bring them into your home. However, there are ways to reduce costs, such as adopting from a shelter or rescue organization, buying an older dog instead of a puppy, and being mindful of routine care costs. Regardless of the price, it's important to protect your Labrador Retriever with a GPS-tracking dog collar like the one offered by Fi, which can provide peace of mind and ensure the safety of your Lab. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. The link has been copied! You might also like. This considerably reduces the breeding cost of the puppy and hence, the cheaper selling price. His online resource contains Hundreds of Excellent Dog Training Videos that will take you step-by-step through the process of developing a healthy, happy well-behaved dog. The breeder should normally give you the papers of both parents of your Lab puppy so you can register him with the AKC. Both parents should already be registered with the AKC as well. Some breeders fail to register the parents in the AKC or simply choose not to do so, but they continue breeding anyway. This gives you a good idea of the genetic and physical conditions you should be expecting or not expecting from your puppy. It may seem that purchasing a lab puppy without papers is a good bargain. Initially, it definitely seems like it. However, your puppy may or may not develop some health issues as he grows up. You may end up paying much more money than you saved when initially buying the Lab puppy. The AKC registration ensures that any participating dog is a perfect example of its breed. The decision is yours in the end but we recommend against it. For one, having a pedigree is important to make sure that your puppy has healthy parents and grandparents. Secondly, many issues could happen during the breeding process which could cause health problems for the puppy. With that in mind, you can rest assured that a registered Lab puppy is often a healthy one. The AKC even provides a day trial of pet insurance once you register your puppy with them. Unpredictability is the main issue with the absence of papers. You may end up with a perfectly healthy puppy that develops no health conditions at all. However, the chances of that happening are unlikely. It should be no different for your dog. But you need to help him. The Ultimate Guide to Dog Health is the answer. This handy guide will help you recognize the symptoms of the health problems above. Get the knowledge to stay ahead of these terrible issues that can rob your lovely dog from vigor and life. What if I Still Want the Puppy? We get it. Your heart might just latch to that one puppy. Try to make sure that both parents are physically and mentally healthy if you can. You may even ask if someone bought one of the parents and pay them a visit to see the parent. The score for each hip ranges from 0 to .The lower the score is, the better. The total score for both hips should range from 0 to .A good hip score for each hip ranges between 0—3. Paul S. Paul has been creating content for the dog niche for many years. The information he shares comes his first hand experience growing up in dog lovers household and then owning multiple dog breeds of his own as an adult. Paul enjoys doing the hard research to collect, analyze and present our dogtemperament. Check out our. Since the Labrador could grow to a hefty size, its yearly upkeep still falls within the expected price range of other big dogs. Always take your puppy to regular vet checkups, even if it looks like the very picture of health. Though these things are not high on the priority list, consider them nice-to-haves once the budget allows. Besides, we all want the best for our four-legged friends, and that alone is reason enough for most of us! Boarding Kennels: This service is a lifesaver for owners who have to travel for days or weeks at a time and cannot bring their dog along with them. Professional Grooming: As we said earlier, Labrador Retrievers shed a lot, so an afternoon at the groomer will help keep your pooch looking clean and tidy. You can put off spending on these things until the budget allows. However, give some serious thought to investing in an emergency fund, as this would take a big worry off your mind in case of any unexpected trips to the vet. Though it is tempting to buy a dog from pet stores or backyard breeders because of their low puppy prices, getting Lab puppies from a reputable source is still a more responsible and ethical choice. Here is a list of responsible breeders where you can find Labrador puppies for sale: Rhumbline Retrievers — This New York-based kennel has been breeding quality Labrador Retriever puppies since , and a good number of their dogs have participated in agility, obedience, and hunting tests at the national level. Due to their commitment to only breed dogs of the highest quality, they have limited puppies for sale at a time; thus, expect a long waitlist. All their puppies are tested for genetic disorders such as elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. They raise show-quality Labs and have championship bloodline puppies as well. For a more comprehensive list of reputable Labrador Retriever breeders, take a peek at our 10 best Labrador breeders article. All their dogs are fostered and given medical care before being turned over to their new family. Based in Colorado and licensed by the Pet Animal Care Facilities, they foster and provide medical care to Labs until they can get adopted. American Lab Rescue — This organization makes use of foster homes to rehabilitate and care for their rescued dogs. For your adoption application to be approved, they will require a fenced-in yard and will also do a home visit to your place before releasing a dog. Alternatively, you can also check out our top 10 picks of Labrador Retriever Rescues and our dog adoption guide. The Labrador Retriever is popular for its great temperament and personality. Unfortunately, most people fail to expect its high energy level as well, which is why some Labs find themselves in animal shelters. That said, doing your research about the Labrador Retriever before buying or adopting a puppy is necessary to make sure that the Lab is the best dog for you. Money-Saving Tips for Labrador Retriever Owners We all want to give our dog the best life possible, and if we can do that without breaking the bank, then even better! The trick is finding the right balance on which expenses to let go of and which ones to keep. To help you achieve this, here are some money-saving tips for Labrador Retriever owners: DIY dog food and treats. Not only is this a more practical option, but this is also healthier for your dog. Practice your grooming skills. Watch a good tutorial and practice your skills on your pooch. Invest in high-quality supplies. You may want to scrimp on supplies such as food and water bowls, but investing in high-quality and durable essentials will save you more money in the long run. Training Labrador Retrievers is a fairly easy task, even for novice dog owners. A lot of great tutorials can be found on the internet, and being the intelligent dogs that they are, they will learn all their tricks in no time! Like pet insurance, regular vet visits will save you from procedures and medications that could cost thousands of dollars later. Pet quality pups are affordable and budget-friendly to most people who are looking for an intelligent and well-tempered canine companion. However, like most dogs, their lifetime cost would still require you to spend considerable money. As such, think long and hard about the commitment and financial implications of taking in a dog. These canines make great family pets, even for those looking for their first dog. So, if your budget is enough to shoulder the price and long-term costs of the Labrador Retriever, then it might just be the pooch for you! Tell us in the comment box below! My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. The costs will be a bit higher at first while you get your dog the shots it requires and pay for the frequent visits to the vet. We also recommend getting your dog spayed or neutered unless you are a professional breeder, and it might even be required as part of your contract if you purchase from a breeder. Once your dog is an adult, it will not require as many vet visits and will only need booster shots every few years, so the average monthly costs will be much lower. Experts recommend getting all of the shots, but your dog is only legally required to get the rabies shot. We recommend purchasing a high-quality brand with real meat like chicken, turkey, or salmon listed as the first ingredient. The protein in meat will help build muscle and provide the energy your dog needs to stay healthy. High protein diets will also help your dog stay full longer, and it will be less likely to come looking for food. Foods with corn as the top ingredient are mostly empty calories that will leave your pet feeling hungry and looking for more food, potentially causing it to become obese. During the shedding seasons of spring and fall, you will likely need to increase the brushing to several times a week to help keep the fur off your furniture and floor. Professional grooming can also help with teeth brushing and nail clipping. This medication can also help prevent heartworm. Spot Pet Insurance offers customizable plans that you can adapt to your breed's specific needs. Many people forgo pet insurance, but it can be a great way to protect yourself from a huge expense while making sure your Labrador Retriever has the best healthcare possible. Accidents and serious illnesses can occur at any time, and many procedures can cost thousands of dollars which makes the price of insurance more than worth it, especially if you get it while your dog is still a puppy. It can chew up stuffed animals quickly, so they can get expensive, but there are plenty of options for a chewing dog, like the Lab. Another option is to purchase a subscription to a monthly service like the Bark Box that sends your dog new toys and activities for as long as you keep up your subscription. A full-grown dog only requires food and flea and tick medication to stay healthy, a few toys to play with, and treats here and there. Additional Costs to Factor In If you like to go on long vacations, you might need to factor in the additional costs of traveling with a dog. Many rental cars do not allow pets or will charge you extra, and the same is true for hotels. Owning a Labrador Retriever on a Budget Your Labrador Retriever will be relatively inexpensive once you get the medical things out of the way. A high-quality food may seem more expensive, but it will help keep your dog full so that it will eat less. Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock Saving Money on Labrador Retriever Care The best way to save money on healthcare when raising your Labrador Retriever is to keep it a healthy weight by following portion recommendations on the food you serve and by helping them get enough exercise. Obesity can lead to heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues that can shorten the lifespan of your pet. After the initial cost of the puppy , you will need to pay a few hundred dollars to get it spayed or neutered and get the shots it needs. After that, you will only need to provide food and shelter with the occasional booster shot. We hope you have enjoyed reading over this guide, and that it has helped answer your questions. If we have helped you create a budget that allows you to get one of these amazing pets, please share this guide on how much it costs to own a Labrador Retriever on social media. Featured Image Credit: scott, Pixabay Contents. How Much Does a Labrador Cost? And, this is just the upfront cost of the puppy. This includes the cost of food, veterinary bills, grooming, bedding, and so on. Labrador puppy costs depend on a few factors. Quality of the breeder Quality of the parent dogs Type of Labrador eg. For instance, puppy prices tend to be higher before Christmas, so buy a puppy in the spring, instead. Originally, black Labs were favored above other colors. Brown and yellow Labs were extremely uncommon, and were not at all desirable. Over time, this opinion changed and brown and yellow Labs became more accepted. Shooting communities still tend to prefer the black Lab, but yellow Labs are very common in other working roles, like as therapy dogs and guide dogs. On the whole, each official Labrador color will cost a similar amount. But, yellow and brown Labs may cost slightly more than black Labs, since the genes that cause their coloring are recessive and therefore are less common. Non-Standard Colors Labrador costs can be hugely increased or reduced by non standard colors or patterns. For instance, dilute shades or mismarks. Dilute coloring is recessive and highly controversial in the Labrador community. The genes that cause these shades will dilute pigmentation, turning black Labs into charcoal Labs, chocolate Labs into silver Labs, and yellow Labs into champagne Labs. Some believe this color results from cross-breeding. But, others believe the recessive genes simply remained hidden over generations, like original yellow and chocolate coloring. Dilute colors are not accepted in the official breed standard. So, many breeders will not adjust their price, and may even lower it for unexpected dilute puppies. The same is the case with mismarks. Mismarks can include white patches and spots, brindling, and even tan markings. Extensive mismarks will disqualify a Lab from show. Show type Labs are bred to fit the Labrador breed standard. They are usually slightly stockier and less active than field types. Field types are more often bred for their working ability than for any specific appearance. Labradors cost more when they are bred to show standards. Field Labs tend to be cheaper than Labradors bred for show. But, you should consider which type is best for you, rather than just going for the cheapest Labrador you can find. Field type Labs can be much more energetic and active than show types. First time owners may find the English Lab slightly easier to raise and train! Conversely, Labrador costs can be highest with field trial champion bred dogs that are likely to win awards. Labrador Costs From Breeders vs Shelters Labrador puppies from reputable breeders will cost more than dogs from a rescue center. Whilst Labs from breeders can cost thousands of dollars, Labradors from rescue centers can only be a few hundred dollars. A major difference between Labs from a breeder and Labs from a rescue center is the history of the dogs. Puppies from a breeder will stay with their mom and siblings until 8 weeks old. At 8 weeks, puppies can go to their new home. Rescue center dogs can have unknown histories, or even histories that involve abuse. Labs from rescue centers are usually older, and have often lived with other families. However, many Labs are given up for non-behavioral reasons. They can be just as wonderful pets as puppies from a breeder. And, many dogs from rescue centers will have basic training, including house training, obedience, and potentially recall. Why Are Breeders So Expensive? Reputable breeders tend to cost more than any other puppy source. Breeders have to spend a lot when breeding a litter, and all of this will lower their profit margins. Labrador breeding costs include: Health testing and certificates. Are they good family dogs? Labrador Dog Price — The Costs Involved Buying a Labrador is not just a question of the purchase price of a Lab puppy, though of course that is important. There are other costs involved, both financial, emotional and in terms of time and effort. So we need to look at those too. You may be wondering whether you will have the time for a dog, and if you have the space and energy for a large and lively breed? But this page will take you back to the fundamental considerations, to help you to make the right choice for you and your family. Do you have time for a dog? Can you afford a dog? What about your lifestyle? Will a dog fit in with your family? Is a Labrador the right dog for you? These questions all apply regardless of the type of Labrador you are looking for. The needs of a black Lab, yellow Lab or chocolate Lab are all the same in these respects. The same goes for an English or American Labrador too. Dogs need space, both indoors and outside. Even small breeds need room to stretch their legs and run about. And Labradors as fairly large and lively dogs need quite a lot of space. This means you need a decent sized backyard if you plan on buying a Labrador puppy. Somewhere that your Lab dog can run around, play and enjoy training sessions with you. Labradors can be quite silly during adolescence, bouncing and cavorting in the home. Their tails are long and thick, easily knocking any fragile decorations you might have from shelves. If you have lots of ornaments then you will need to move them to higher shelves to avoid them getting damaged. You will also need to move anything that could be easily damaged by chewing. With small puppies this will be very often indeed. Perhaps every 15 to 20 minutes during their first few days with you. If you live in a flat, or do not have a garden, this will be difficult for you. These are helpful but do take up a lot of space. Although this will take up a lot of space indoors, it can work very well for larger apartments with no easy outside access. Ideally however you do need to have a garden, and a part of the garden which your dog can use as a bathroom, along with a good system for clearing up after him hygienically. Space is key for a Lab dog! The right space for a Labrador includes large clear rooms in the house, with no breakable or fragile objects within his grasp. And ideally access to a garden where they can easily be let out to the bathroom and have room to play. Keeping a single Labrador permanently outside however is not usually a good idea, even with adequate shelter and security. Labs are very sociable dogs and prone to separation anxiety if they lack company. This means your dog may be both sad and noisy. It is always sad to hear from new puppy owners that are struggling to juggle the needs of a puppy with their need to work. These articles will help you to deal with this common issue. Even with a visit at lunch time. An older dog may cope with being left for up to four hours in row on a regular basis, but puppies need more attention than this. Contented Labradors are fairly quiet dogs and unlikely to disturb your neighbors. Nor are they very good guard dogs. However, lonely dogs bark and wreck things. If you work all day, can you afford to pay someone to come in and let him out to stretch his legs and empty himself? Or do you have a relative or friend that would be prepared to do this on a regular basis. Bear in mind that this is quite a lot to ask of anyone in the long term. The biggest long term time commitment in owning a dog is in the form of training and exercise. Training Takes Time All dogs need training in order that they can rub along in human society without being a complete nuisance. This means a regular daily commitment of ten to twenty minutes from you, in addition to your regular interaction with the dog. Training cannot be saved up for the weekend, your dog will have forgotten most of what he learnt the weekend before, and he does not have the attention span to concentrate on you for an hour and a half. You can find out more about training your Labrador puppy here. Staying Fit Exercise is required on a regular basis, for some breeds of dog this means at least an hour a day of walking or jogging to keep your dog fit and healthy. You can find out more about the exercise requirements of a Labrador puppy here. Whilst your dog will not come to any harm if you miss a day occasionally, a daily routine is often the best way to ensure that you build this important habit. Can You Afford A Dog? Dogs can be quite expensive to run. You need to consider not only how much a Labrador will cost you to buy, but also how much it will cost you to keep. How much do Labradors cost from breeders? The price of a Labrador puppy will vary from breeder to breeder, and from place to place. Perhaps you know a friend that has a litter of puppies and they are going to let you have one for free. However, the purchase price of a dog is almost irrelevant. It is such a small part of the final cost. The cost of keeping a Labrador The reality is, you are also going to need to fork out a chunk of your wages each week on keeping your pooch happy and healthy. Obviously you will have taken the cost of a good brand of Labrador puppy food into consideration. It is a good idea to budget for veterinary insurance too. Not because it is unreasonably priced, but simply because it is now so advanced. You can fix a lot of problems these days. We can do open heart surgery, mend complex fractures, treat cancer with radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Pretty much anything you can treat in a human, you can now treat in a dog. And the catch? It costs. The more comprehensive your insurance package the more it will cost. Watch out for very cheap deals, as they may not provide continuing cover for long term ailments. You will also need to vaccinate your dog against common canine illness , and this will probably need to be done each year too. Especially if you are wanting to occasionally leave them in boarding kennels when you go away, as they require up to date vaccination certificates. Labrador Puppy Costs There will be a few other one-off costs such as a puppy crate and puppy play pen for your home for when your dog is young, another for your car if you have one. Then there are bowls, bedding, collar, leash etc. But you may be able to borrow a crate or get one second hand. Here are some of the items you will need for your new Labrador puppy, and reviews on the best options for Labradors:.

Gallery Pine Winds Pine Winds Labradoodles, located 25 miles north of Kansas City, Missouri, began with one dog and the desire to volunteer as an animal partner therapy team. I retired from teaching after 34 years and with all three children grown I decided to pursue this adventure by purchasing my first labradoodle. Marley joined our home as a puppy, became a Canine Good Citizen, and continued on to pass her evaluation enabling her to be registered as a therapy dog with Pet Partners. Occasionally she was bred and produced puppies with exceptional temperaments, several becoming therapy dogs as well. Most importantly the puppies have become excellent fur members of families. Mia, my second dog, is a puppy from the breeding of Marley to another labradoodle who was a registered therapy dog. Mia became a registered therapy dog as well. Poppy, Mias offspring, is now my registered therapy dog. My dogs are working dogs whether they are visiting, enrolled in agility classes or taking refresher obedience training. Mia, Poppy and Rosie are proven to represent the best of temperaments and mind set a labradoodle should possess. I have two breeding dogs so I am able to spend quality time working with each puppy. I search out the best males with exceptional traits that I can find to breed my dogs to, hoping to continue with a lineage of therapy partners. Raising a litter of puppies is hard work but seeing them with their families certainly makes it worthwhile! Check to see if they are members of the ALAA or any other recognized body, as these organizations have high standards for breeding. The health and well-being of the parents are paramount in producing healthy, happy Labradoodle puppies! You can also go on Meetup to discover local dog owners who have Labradoodles in your area so that you can meet them in person! They are also very friendly and outgoing, making great family dogs! If you want a dog that will help you stay active, look no further than the Labradoodle! As you can see, there are a lot of great alternatives in Missouri when it comes to Labradoodle breeders. They go above and above to ensure the puppy comes first and is properly cared for and nurtured. 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. All of our Labradoodle puppies are meticulously cared for from the moment they are born and treated like a member of our family. Australian Labradoodles are loyal, beautiful and rewarding family companions. With a docile disposition, magnificent appearance and extraordinary health, Australian Labradoodles from Heartland Labradoodles are a perfect addition to any family, from new couples to singles to young families or retired couples. Our exceptional Labradoodle girls and boys give their puppies the best health traits and the best physical characteristics of the breed, as well as a winning personality. This helps our Labradoodle puppies grow up happy, healthy and handsome. Choose from chocolate, jet black, cream, apricot and shades in between to breed your own champion Labradoodles or find the perfect color. See our available puppies and find the new addition to your family or call Heartland Labradoodles for more information. For the safety of our puppies, we deliver to neighboring communities within a maximum of a four-hour drive, including areas in Illinois, Nebraska, Minnesota, Missouri, Wisconsin and our home state of Iowa. Puppy Spotlight. The Labradoodles and Goldendoodles in our breeding program live with us in our home, not a kennel. Our puppies are whelped in our home and exposed to daily family life. At Blessed Day Doodles one of our top priorities is that our doodles are part of our family and receive daily love and attention. Our breeding dogs live with amazing and carefully chosen guardian families. Guardian homes allow our breeding dogs to be part of a forever family and receive the love and attention every dog deserves. Why Blessed Day Doodles? Labradoodle and Goldendoodle Health The Australian Labradoodle is a hybrid between the poodle, labrador retriever, and cocker spaniel. Miniature goldendoodles are a hybrid between the poodle and golden retriever. Our breeding dogs must pass extensive health testing to become part of our program. Labradoodle and Goldendoodle Temperaments Goldendoodles and Australian Labradoodles are incredibly social, intelligent, and equally loving. Doodles love people and animals alike, coupled with their low to non-shed qualities, it makes them the perfect family pet. Because of their social nature it would be a punishment to leave a doodle alone for long periods of time without human contact. Furthermore, we encourage you to consider that dogs, like humans, are happiest with a mate, so in their case…another dog. With this in mind, you may want to consider having two dogs so they can keep one another company. We humans are great company but dogs are happiest with another canine companion.

If you notice any symptoms or changes to their appetite, mood, or energy levels, make an appointment with your vet. As a large mixed breed, New Sheps may tend to grow and develop rapidly. This can cause bone and joint issues in the long run. This is often a higher quality food that is lower in calories. It is important for this food to contain high-quality ingredients and to be free of any fillers, preservatives, or additives that will unnecessarily add calories to the food. Always measure out the appropriate amount for each meal. As a puppy, it is best to restrict treats and snacks too. Even as a puppy, your New Shep will require regular exercise. As mentioned, though, these pups are at higher risk of bone and joint issues since they grow so rapidly from the age of four to seven months. You need to be careful with how you exercise your puppy for this period. Steer clear of hard pavements and surfaces — anything that can be tough on their bones or joints. In particular, prevent them from jumping around on such surfaces. It is fine for them to play on grass and similarly soft surfaces. If your pup takes after their Newfoundland parent, they will love to swim, so this is an activity that you can try. Swimming is a great way for your pup to get a workout without putting too much stress on their joints. For high-energy dogs, break this up into two sessions. A brisk walk is the easiest physical activity. Frisbee and fetch are great for keeping things interesting. A good way to decide how much exercise your dog needs is to give them about 30 minutes and take note of their energy levels. If they seem content and not overly tired, you have hit the right time limit. If your pup still seems to have a lot of energy, slowly increase their playtime until they are satisfied. You should be aware that some New Sheps can be a bit lazy when it comes to exercise. Despite this, your dog should get a minimum of 30 minutes of physical activity a day. You may need to be a bit firm about taking them outside. If your pooch is on the smaller side and takes after their German Shepherd more, they may also enjoy agility training. On the other hand, make sure that you schedule a regular swimming session if your New Shep takes after their Newfoundland parent a bit more. You can expect quite a bit of shedding with this mixed breed. The best way to minimize this is to brush them regularly. Make it a point to brush your dog at least three times a week to reduce loose fur around the house. You will need to use a slicker brush and an undercoat rake as your dog has a double coat. It will make all the difference. If your New Shep has a coat that is more similar to Newfoundland, you should be aware that it will attract dirt, grit, and burrs. This means that your dog needs to be brushed whenever you take them out to a wooded area or a dog park. Failing to do so can leave the fur matted and dirty. Your dog will likely blow their coat a couple of times a year and the shedding will reach peak levels at this point. During this period, you should brush them out every day and use the undercoat rake more regularly. You will also have to add a de-shedding brush to the routine. Once every month or two is more than enough unless your dog gets dirty. Bathing them too often can dry out their skin and damage their coat. It should be noted that their coat can be rather overwhelming to the groom. This is why owners will often hire groomers to handle this task. They are best suited to cool or cold climates. They should always be kept indoors when the sun is out. It is best if they are close to a fan or air conditioning. Keep a close eye on your pooch to make sure that they are as cool as possible. Avoid taking your dog out during the hottest parts of the day as they can overheat quickly. Give them exercise early in the morning or later in the evening. New Sheps are far too big for apartments. They need a lot of space so they will work better in larger homes. In smaller spaces, they may be prone to knocking things over. If your New Shep is of the high energy variety, though, having access to a yard can help them to burn off some excess energy. These dogs love human companionship , so never leave them alone in the yard for a long period. Instead, give them the option of coming in and out so that they can spend time with you when they want. Newfoundland German Shepherds are highly trainable. They have a great work ethic and are intelligent to pick up a wide variety of commands and instructions. You should start their training from the moment you bring your pup home. They can be difficult to control as they get bigger so starting young can help to avoid a lot of issues. These dogs are people pleasers so use positive reinforcement to get them to learn tricks more readily. You will need to find a breeder that specializes in this particular mix. Look for one that has tracked the health of both parent breeds, going back several generations. This can help to prevent various diseases in your pup. This is a rare mixed breed and is a designer one to boot. You may not always find one in a shelter, but looking at German Shepherd or Newfoundland-specific shelters may help. These dogs can grow as tall as 28 inches and weigh over lbs and might need to be classified as an extra-large breed. They are excellent family dogs and are great with children and other pets. This wraps up our guide to Newfoundland German Shepherds. With this information, you can now decide whether this pup is a good fit for you. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. They should be fed about 3 cups several times throughout the day with a high-quality kibble. Because of their large size, they will not be as suitable for apartments, but they love being in the water , which will allow them to burn off some of their excess energy. The Newfoundland part of the New Shep makes them excellent at water sports, hauling such as sleds or small carts and they have the potential to become exceptional therapy dogs. The undercoat tends to be dense and will be prone to tangles and matting. Particular attention should be paid during the spring and the summer when they start shedding. Dog skin differs from human skin and using the wrong shampoo might create skin problems for the dog. The ears of the New Shep might be erect like the German Shepherd or folded over like the Newfoundland. The Newfoundland is also susceptible to cataracts but also abnormal eyelid and lower eyelid droop. The vet will run allergy, skin and eye tests to screen your dog for any possible inherited health conditions from its parents. Your vet will run hip, elbow and cardiac tests as well as DNA tests and a full physical exam on your dog. Your New Shep is a hybrid, which means it might inherit some of these conditions from its parents, but it is less likely. Male vs. Female Female and male dogs tend to differ in size, with the female usually smaller and lighter. The male can be 25—28 inches and weigh — pounds and the female might be 23—26 inches and weigh 80— pounds. As previously mentioned, these dogs can actually weigh as much as pounds. Obviously, female and male dogs also differ biologically. If you decide to have your female dog spayed, the surgery is a little more challenging than neutering the male dog. This comes at a slightly higher expense and a longer recovery time for the dog. Some believe that there are personality differences between males and females. Generally speaking, males are thought of as being more aggressive than females. In contrast, the females are thought to be more affectionate. However, there are debates on this subject. The most important thing to consider in the male versus female dog debate is that the primary source of their personalities will come from how you train and socialize them when they are puppies. Final Thoughts When you combine the intelligence and the energy of the German Shepherd with the calm and affectionate Newfoundland, you might just end up with the perfect dog for your family. The New Shep is a beautiful, large dog that loves the water and will make an excellent watchdog but without the aggression. New Shep puppies are not easy to find so you might want to begin by speaking to breeders of German Shepherds and Newfoundland dogs. Attending dog shows and talking to rescue societies as well as local and national dog clubs could also prove helpful. Last of all, posting messages on social media will help you spread the world to a much bigger audience. The New Shep requires a fairly vigorous brushing routine, but otherwise, you will end up with a loyal and loving gentle giant that will become a beloved member of your family. See Also:. The Newfoundland dog is loving, gentle, and are also famous for their loyalty and strength. Whereas, the German Shephard is recognized for its protective nature and courage despite being loyal. Now let us see, what are the traits of the mixed breed of these two dogs, the Newfoundland German shepherd mix. Newfoundland German shepherd mix physical appearance: The Newfoundland German Shepherd cross is a giant, sturdy and athletic dog with a strong and heavy bone structure. Both the parent dogs have strong and straight backs usually, whereas in some cases, the back of German Shephard is slightly sloped whereas that of Newfoundland is leveled. The chest of Newfoundland is deep while the skull is broad. Looking at the muzzle, it is more tapered and long in the case of a German Shepherd. Both the breeds have commonly pointed ears and brown eyes. The nose of the New Shep Breed dog is either brown or black. In short, the Newfoundland dog German Shepherd Mix can have traits of any of its parents. Lastly, the average lifespan of the dog is 10 years. Newfoundland German shepherd cross temperament and personality: Mostly, the New Shep hybrids are a combination of the personality of the parent breeds so, both of them are good-mannered as well as confident. If not trained properly, they can develop aggressive and anxious temperament so, train them patiently. They are playful and happy among children, but their immense size can harm them so, keep the younger ones away. They are fun, calm, and easy with the family members as well. Although the dog is intelligent, you will surely have to put some effort to train this dog. Newfoundland German shepherd mix for sale: There are two options for having a purebred New Shep Breed dog, one you can buy it from a reputable breeder, and the second adopt it from a shelter, former owner, or rescue. But it is not always the truth so, be sure about the health and lineage of your dog before purchasing it from a breeder making false claims. The only difference between these two methods is that adoption will cost you very little as compared to purchasing it. Newfoundland German shepherd mix puppy coat: The Newfoundland German shepherd mix puppy has a slightly dense coat that is wavy in texture and medium in length. The coat of this dog breed is more likely to catch dust, debris, and other particles. Also, their hair gets tangles frequently and heavy shedding is common in New Shep breed dogs. So, purchase a de-shedder, comb, brush, and de-matter for maintaining the coat of the dog. There are many possibilities of the coat color including sable, black, white, blue, brown, grey, cream, red, and silver. Newfoundland dog German shepherd mix training: If you have a good experience with dogs, then start training them with patience after purchasing it. As the Newfoundland and German Shepherd Mix dog is intelligent, so they pick up things easily. Be aware of the little obstinate nature of the dog and handle it with patience rather than behaving harshly or aggressively. If you are unable to control and train the dog, then take it or group training sessions. Also, hiring a personal trainer will help you a lot in this regard but then get ready to pay a little more training price than usual. Newfoundland and German shepherd mix grooming: As discussed, the coat of the Newfoundland German shepherd mix dog is dense and tangles easily so, daily brushing is necessary to maintain the look of the dog. Usually, the coat sheds in the summer and spring season, so maintaining the coat in these seasons is a challenge. Excessive or cheap shampoo can damage the skin of your dog resulting in skin irritation so, only give it a bath when there is a dire need to remove the dirt. Keep on clipping the nails once a month and visit a professional groomer 3 to 6 times a year. Make sure you are providing a hygienic and quality diet to your dog. Usually, a New shep dog eats 3 cups of kibble every day. Well, if you observe any disturbance in the health of the dog, immediately consult your vet. New shep breed health concerns: Just like every other dog breed, purebred or mix, the New shep dog also has some common health concerns. Some of the minor concerns include bloating, gastric dilation volvulus, subaortic stenosis, degenerative myelopathy, perianal fistulas, and hip or elbow dysplasia. Whereas if we talk about some serious health conditions that can be fatal for the new shep breed dog, then these include pyoderma, mitral valve dysplasia, urolithiasis, pannus, cherry eye, cataracts, exocrine pancreatic, footpad disorder, insufficiency, progressive renal atrophy, persistent right aortic arch and many more. To prevent these conditions, keep a healthy track of the diet and physical activity of your dog. Male and female Newfoundland German shepherd mix puppies for sale: The height of a male Newfoundland dog German shepherd mix is 25 to 28 inches whereas that of a female dog is 23 to 26 inches. The weight of a female New Shep dog is 75 to 95 lbs while a male dog weighs 95 to lbs. The temperament of the dog depends on socialization and training rather than gender. Also, spaying of the female New shep dog is a bit complicated than neutering the male dog as spaying requires a little more time to recover. Newfoundland Mixes are very friendly dogs, known to be affectionate with both its own family as well as other dogs and children. Their gentle nature often makes them friendly towards strangers, which makes them a great pup to take to the local park. While their fur makes them great at handling colder weather, it does give them a hard time in warmer climates. Newfie Mixes can be prone to the same health issues as both parent breeds. On the Newfoundland side, this means that they are typically a moderately healthy breed, but do have their own set of risks involved typical to the large and giant dog breeds. They are known to have issues, especially later in life, concerning their joints and eyes. Talking to the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents is a great way to find out what to expect with your Newfoundland Mix. Considered very easy to train and highly intelligent, a Newfoundland Mix is a great dog for anyone who has had experience training a pup before. Because of their large size and thick coat, a Newfoundland Mix will shed a significant amount. To counteract this, they require regular grooming. Daily brushing also goes a long way in cutting down on shedding, removing tangles to prevent mats, and helping your pup be more comfortable. Their flat, water-resistant double coat tends to mat, but is extremely useful in inclement weather. But, droopy ears are more prone to ear infections because they tend to trap dirt and moisture more often than ears that stick straight up. Dental diseases like gum disease and tooth decay are one of the most common health issues in dogs. Vet-approved dental hygiene chews or treats and a special dental care diet can help supplement your efforts. These Newfie Mixes tend to have moderate energy levels that require regular play or walks, but nothing overly rigorous. They tend to be very playful though, and love to chase when they play. A Newfoundland Mix typically tends to be between 24 and 27 inches at their shoulder. This may shift slightly depending on the other breed involved in the mix. This dog breed typically lives up to 10 years. Featured Newfoundland Mix Article.

German Shepherd Rescue German Shepherd Rescue For years I was very active in rescuing, fostering and placing German Shepherds in my region who for whatever reason needed a new home. Why Do we Do It? I had a nice yard. I had some nice toys. I had a nice family. I thought they loved me, I thought they cared. I thought for me they would always be there. One day they moved, and sent me away. And in my heart, I wanted to stay. Locked up in a cage, that god-awful shelter, I wished for a home…with a girl and a boy. Then one day I found, I was to be put away. I begged for a family… I begged and I prayed. Then POOF, right out of nowhere a nice little lady who took me somewhere. She took me away, from the barking and shouts, to a place the angels must know about. She gave me a treat, and she gave me friends. I thought and I knew this love would never end. Then some nice people, they did come along. They wanted to adopt me for so very long. I wagged my tail and greeted them with pleasure. Such happiness my heart could not measure. Tribute to Chance Several years ago a trucker found an emaciated elderly German Shepherd running along the Interstate near Great Falls. He picked him up and brought him to the Animal Shelter here in Sheridan. Instead, they called me and I raced down to take him. When I led him outside, he stopped and looked up at the sky, looked down at the green grass, looked all around, as if he had known his planned fate and thought never to see any of that again. As I drove him to the foster home he eagerly gazed at children playing, people walking, life going by. He had been so starved that we could trace every bone in his body, and food just went right through him. We had him for several weeks, long enough to get his digestive system working again and some padding on those old bare bones. Eventually, a good friend in Spokane, who was waiting for one of my puppies, saw him on this rescue page and called to say she would take him. It was love at first sight for Debbi, a tentative and slow love for Chance, and a few months later, a fantastic buddy relationship with the pup Kobi Celhaus Faraoh when he joined the household. Chance died last January from mesenteric torsion, perhaps induced by his previous starved condition. Amazingly, two months later, I got a call from the Animal Shelter. Blessings upon you, Debbi, for giving joy at last to the two elderly German Shepherds, who were so bewildered and betrayed by the fickleness of their owners who should have cosseted them in their old age. You are his life, his love, his leader. He will be yours, faithful and true, to the last beat of his heart. You owe it to him to be worthy of such devotion. Unfortunately when you have a popular breed, you often have many who do not fit in with the families which acquire them, ending up abandoned at animal shelters or worse, euthanasia, when their owners tire of them. As a breeder of German shepherds, I do all I can to ensure that none of my puppies end up such a situation. And I also try to help needy German Shepherds find loving homes for the rest of their lives, where they are appreciated and treasured. German Shepherds Must Have: 1. Exercise for their minds some kind of training 2. Exercise for their bodies—at least 30 minutes vigorous exercise daily on a schedule regular enough that they can depend on it 3. They NEED a job; if not given one, they invent one often one undesirable to people. They also NEED to spend most of their time with people. The German Shepherd is the premier working dog in the world. Some breeds are specialist, starring in one type of work, but the GSD is a generalist, able to do a great variety of kinds of work well. They excel in Schutzhund and tracking. They make great Therapy Dogs. The list is almost endless. They are NOT couch potatoes. They also NEED at least 30 minutes of vigorous exercise daily, whether it be hiking, retrieving a ball, whatever. A sedate walk around the block on leash is not sufficient! Their exercise MUST be on a regular schedule. I can get away with a shortened session occasionally if the weather is foul or I have to be at work unusually early, but it better not happen too often! I might come home to find hoses or the drip system chewed, or the yard rearranged. I try to take them for hikes in the hills summer or in town winter , and if weather forbids that, we play games or learn tricks. Bad habits resulting from frustrations when the above needs are not met. Or a family member turns out to be allergic to dog hair. German Shepherd puppies are the cutest things imaginable, but they soon lose that puppy charm and become very large and busy. Sometimes the problem is the high prey drive and energy level that makes them too much dog for the people to handle but would have made them superb working dogs, given a chance. Abuse or neglect. God forbid, but it does happen all too frequently. Hear our humble prayer, O God, for our friends the animals, especially for animals who are suffering; for any that are hunted or lost, or deserted or frightened or hungry; for all that must be put to death. We entreat for them all thy mercy and pity and for those who deal with them we ask a heart of compassion and gentle hands and kindly words. Make us, ourselves, to be true friends to animals and so to share the blessings of the merciful. Usually I have no foster homes which can accept a needy dog and give it a home until a permanent home can be found for them. I take calls from people wanting to place their dogs, meet and evaluate the dog, then spread the word. Generally the dogs must stay in their homes until I can locate a suitable adopter except in cases of abuse or neglect, when we find a safe place for them as soon as possible. Many breeders do, and that should be the first call anyone with a problem dog should make. Few people call asking for help finding a dog, but enough do to keep my hopes up. We definitely need more people willing to give a dog a second chance!! A rescued dog can be incredibly grateful to its new owners, and bond deeply because it appreciates FINALLY being loved and appreciated. We also need more people willing to foster a rescued dog and begin its rehabilitation. We also need some way to educate people that a living animal is not something to throw away as you would an empty pop can. German Shepherds are legendary in their loyalty to their owners; somehow we need to help people realize that they are called to an equal devotion and loyalty to their dog. A person who is unwilling to put effort into training and exercising his German Shepherd should get a different pet—perhaps a goldfish would be best! He who is cruel to animals becomes hard also in his dealings with man. We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals. Immanuel Kant People seldom realize that rescue workers are all volunteers and generally work a demanding full-time job. Resolve to get your dog into some good training classes, to begin regular exercise and to focus on good bonding time and activities. If all these fail, contact one of us. But remember to give us time. Some larger metropolitan areas have rescue groups who can take dogs and foster them long enough to fix the problems. Many of us cannot. Even those larger groups are often overwhelmed by he numbers and have to give first change to dogs in danger of being killed. I check my e-mail daily. If I do not answer you right away, I might be researching options for you. Or else my work schedule has me temporarily buried. But never fear, I will do my best to help you—whether it is to find your dog a loving home, or to help you find a new, loyal friend with which to spend your life. For this is a person all the animals know about. As they have waited for their loved one s , they have told the story of their rescue from loneliness, neglect and impending death, and the wonderful people who helped them until a special loved one could be found. O special friend of animals, you have been spotted, and all the dogs and other animal friends will run over the fields to thank the person who has enabled so many to have had good lives and memories. Then, will they all walk to the gate of St. Very few people even recognize my name. But today I helped place an animal! I helped find it a loving home. It now has contentment and an abundance of love. A warm place to sleep and plenty to eat. Two little girls have a warm and playful new friend who will give them unending affection and teach them about responsibility and love. A wife and mother has a new free spirit to cuddle, nurture and care for. A husband and father has a furry friend to sit in his lap at the end of a hard day of work and help him relax and enjoy life. And a sense of satisfaction, that when he is gone all day at work, that there is a gentle spirit in his home keeping watch over his family. But today, I made a difference! Little Pieces by Grace Saalsaa Written for those who foster Melissa sat on the floor, unable to sit straight and tall like her mother had always admonished her to do when she was a child. Today, it would be impossible. And tomorrow…. Her mind was too busy thinking about the dog that lay across her lap. When he came to be with her, he had no name. She remembered that day very well. The first sight of him was enough to break her heart into little pieces. The woman, who had taken this dog from the rough streets where he had lived, had tried to save him because she was unable to watch this young dog find his own food in a dumpster outside the crack house where he lived. Nobody cared that he was gone. His fur was very thick; so thick that she had to wiggle her fingers down to feel his bony body. And as she pulled her fingers away again, they were coated in old dirt. Black and white, he was supposed to be. But on that day he was beige and dust. He sat motionless, waiting and limp. But the thing that was the most disturbing was the look in his eyes. They were quiet eyes, sunken into his head — and they watched her. They were alive with thought. She gave him one of the little broken pieces of her heart. She reached out to stroke his head and he instinctively squinched his eyes shut and dropped his head, waiting for the heavy hand. With that little bit of movement she gave him another one of the broken pieces of her heart. She took him home and gave him a bath. She toweled him dry and brushed some order back into his coat. For that, he was grateful and even though his own heart was loaded with worms, he accepted yet another piece of her heart, for it would help to heal his own. He drank it up happily. He had been dehydrated for a long time and she knew it would take him most of the week to re-hydrate. He wanted more water — but it was gone. But he was grateful for what he had been able to get. The heart full of worms was replaced piece by piece with little bits of her loving heart. And each little piece worked a very special kind of magic. When the warmth of love and gentle caresses are added, the little broken pieces knit together again and heal the container it resides in. That container becomes whole again. She watched each little broken piece fill a gap in the gentle dog until his quiet eyes radiated the light from the little pieces. You see, kind words gently spoken turn the little pieces into illumination for the spirit that resides within. He rested beside her, happy to be with her always. Never had he known such kindness, such gentle caresses; such love. Now his heart was full. The healing was complete. It was time to go. There was another person who had another heart that was meant to be shared with him. So she sat shapeless on the floor because all the broken pieces of her heart were with the dog. It is difficult to sit tall when your heart is not with you. She wrapped her arms around the dog that sat with tall, proud ears for her. Lean on me, he said. And she gave him one last thing that would keep him strong; that would keep the pieces of her heart together long after he had gone on to live his new life. She gave him her tears and bound them to the pieces with a simple statement made from the ribbons of her heart. Melissa sat on the floor, straight and tall like her mother had always admonished her to do when she was a child. Today, it would be possible. Because her mind was busy thinking about this, the next dog that lay across her lap. Where did she get the heart to help yet another dog, you ask? They always bring a little bit of heart with them. And when the rescuer breathes in that little bit of heart, it quickly grows and fills the void left by the last dog. Wyoming is a shepherd mix — approximately 3 years old Wyoming has been in a wonderful GSROC foster home and has come a long way from when he was first rescued. He is housebroken and socialized. He loves to play with other dogs and ignores the cats in the home. Wyoming is a a shepherd mix, a great medium sized dog with a beautiful sable colored coat. He takes time to warm-up to anything new — new people and new situations. A gentle, quiet home will be ideal for this sweet boy. Wyoming loves playing with other dogs, and should be in a home either with his big brothers Nevada or Dakota or other playful dogs. He would love a home with multiple dog friends, and he gets along with all of his foster siblings, including a chihuahua. He plays well with other dogs, and is dog friendly. Wyoming is around cats at his foster home, but does not have close interaction with them. He would be appropriate in a home with cats, but not left alone with them to be safe as he does have a play drive. He would thrive in a home with a regular schedule, and would be fine with a family that is at work during the day once he was comfortable as long as he had a safe yard to play in and dog friends with him. Wyoming loves to go on long walks, and has really great leash-walking skills. He walks very easy on leash, unless he gets startled. Wyoming should not be let off leash as he is startled easily and will run in fear. He is learning how to have fun now that he knows he is safe, loved and cared for! Are you looking for a special, gentle dog that needs your love and patience? If you are looking for a dog that will blossom with patience and love, please complete the online application and an adoption counselor will contact you. 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. House-trained, Story Introducing Thor, the big and friendly dog with a heart of love! This squishy pup is a great companion for anyone who loves big, playful dogs. Thor is a natural social butterfly and loves spending time with other dogs. Making him a great fit for households with multiple pets. He loves being in the house and quick to make himself at home. Thor is a dog who's always up for an adventure, and he particularly loves car rides. He jumps into the car with ease and settles in for the ride. This makes him the perfect companion for road trips and outings with the family. Thor is also a well-trained pup who knows how to sit and walks well on a leash. He's always eager to learn new things and is a quick study. With his love of learning and eagerness to please, Thor is a great candidate for obedience training or other dog sports, agility training anyone? He does like to explore, we recommend a high fence for this big boy. In short, Thor is a big and friendly dog who's always ready for fun and adventure. If you're looking for a loyal and playful companion who's great with other pets and loves car rides, then Thor is the perfect fit for you! You can text unlimited questions to Petcademy and they'll respond within 24 hours Monday-Friday. We only adopt in the USA. We are open to adopting in other states, except in Massachusetts. There are quarantine laws for MA and until these laws change, we are not able to adopt into MA.